bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of High‐Density Lipoprotein Function in Patients With Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated With Methotrexate Monotherapy or Combination Therapies in a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Charles‐Schoeman Christina , Yin Lee Yuen , Shahbazian Ani , Wang Xiaoyan , Elashoff David , Curtis Jeffrey R. , Navarro‐Millán Iris , Yang Shuo , Chen Lang , Cofield Stacey S. , Moreland Larry W. , Paulus Harold , O'Dell James , Bathon Joan , Bridges S. L. , Reddy Srinivasa T.
Published: August 2016

Objective

Abnormal function of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) has been implicated as a potential mechanism for the increased incidence of cardiovascular (CV) disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study was undertaken to evaluate changes in HDL function and HDL‐associated proteins over 2 years of follow‐up in patients with early RA receiving either methotrexate (MTX) monotherapy, MTX + etanercept (ETN) combination therapy, or MTX + sulfasalazine (SSZ) + hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) triple therapy in the Treatment of Early Aggressive Rheumatoid Arthritis (TEAR) trial.

Methods

The antioxidant capacity of HDL, paraoxonase 1 (PON‐1) activity, and levels of HDL‐associated haptoglobin (Hp), HDL‐associated apolipoprotein A‐I (Apo A‐I), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were measured in 550 TEAR participants at 4 time points (time 0 [pretreatment] and at 24, 48, and 102 weeks of treatment). Repeated‐measures analysis using mixed‐effects linear models with an autoregressive covariate structure was performed to model the within‐subject covariance over time.

Results

Mixed‐effects models, which were controlled for traditional CV risk factors, treatment regimen, prednisone use, and statin use, demonstrated significant associations between RA disease activity, measured using the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or C‐reactive protein level, and the profile of HDL function over time. Specifically, decreases in RA disease activity over time were associated with increases in PON‐1 activity and levels of HDL‐associated Apo A‐I, and decreases in the HDL inflammatory index and levels of MPO and HDL‐associated Hp.

Conclusion

Reduced disease activity in patients with early RA treated with MTX monotherapy, MTX + ETN combination therapy, or MTX + SSZ + HCQ triple therapy in the TEAR trial was associated with improvements in the HDL function profile. Additional studies are warranted to evaluate abnormal HDL function as a potential mechanism and therapeutic target for CV risk in patients with RA.
Assessing and tracing the outcomes and impact of research infrastructures
Authors: Mayernik Matthew S. , Hart David L. , Maull Keith E. , Weber Nicholas M.
Published: August 2016

Recent policy shifts on the part of funding agencies and journal publishers are causing changes in the acknowledgment and citation behaviors of scholars. A growing emphasis on open science and reproducibility is changing how authors cite and acknowledge “research infrastructures”—entities that are used as inputs to or as underlying foundations for scholarly research, including data sets, software packages, computational models, observational platforms, and computing facilities. At the same time, stakeholder interest in quantitative understanding of impact is spurring increased collection and analysis of metrics related to use of research infrastructures. This article reviews work spanning several decades on tracing and assessing the outcomes and impacts from these kinds of research infrastructures. We discuss how research infrastructures are identified and referenced by scholars in the research literature and how those references are being collected and analyzed for the purposes of evaluating impact. Synthesizing common features of a wide range of studies, we identify notable challenges that impede the analysis of impact metrics for research infrastructures and outline key open research questions that can guide future research and applications related to such metrics.
Bio‐based propylene production in a sugarcane biorefinery: A techno‐economic evaluation for Brazilian conditions
Authors: Machado Pedro Gerber , Walter Arnaldo , Cunha Marcelo
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a techno‐economic evaluation of potential Greenfield projects of integrated first‐ and second‐generation sugarcane biorefineries, in which ethanol is converted to bio‐based propylene through metathesis of ethylene with 2‐butene. Two scenarios were tested, considering improvements both in first‐ and second‐generation ethanol production: with and without pentoses fermentation, which increases the amount of ethanol produced. The viability of the proposed propylene production facility was studied through Minimum Bio‐Propylene Selling Price (MBSP), and sensitivity and risk analysis were performed. Results show that, compared to the average propylene prices in recent years, the MBSP (based on the average estimates) would be no more than 85‐90% higher than the price of the conventional fossil‐fuel based product. In addition, three aspects were further assessed: (i) scaling of production plants, (ii) learning effects, and (iii) policies that would result lower capital costs. The results show that the cumulative effect would lead a substantial reduction of the MBSP, leading to a competitive price of 1347 US$/t. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Structure–activity relationships and action mechanisms of collagen‐like antimicrobial peptides
Authors: Masuda Ryo , Dazai Yui , Mima Takehiko , Koide Takaki
Published: August 2016

An antimicrobial triple‐helical peptide, R3, was previously obtained from a collagen‐like combinatorial peptide library. In this research, based on structure–activity relationship studies of R3, a more potent peptide, RR4, with increased positive net charge and charge density relative to R3, was developed. RR4 exhibited antimicrobial activity against both Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacterial strains, including multidrug‐resistant strains. Its action could be attributed to entry into cells and interactions with intercellular molecules such as DNA/RNA that inhibited cell division rather than increasing bacterial membrane permeability. Furthermore, RR4 exhibited remarkable stability in serum and low cytotoxicity.
Study on the Heating Behavior of Fe3O4‐Embedded Thermoplastic Polyurethane Adhesive Film via Induction heating
Authors: Bae Duck Hwan , Shon Min Young , Oh Sang Taek , Kim Gu Ni
Published: August 2016

The heating behavior of thermoplastic polyurethane adhesive (TPU) embedded by nanometer or micrometer Fe3O4 particle is examined by induction heating. The effects of the size and the amount of Fe3O4 particle, TPU film thickness, and input power of the induction heater were examined on heating behaviors of TPU. The quantity of heat generated in the TPU films increased with the amount of Fe3O4 particles, film thickness, or input power. On the other hand, the quantity of heat generation of TPU is decreased with increasing Fe3O4 size. We confirmed that the mechanism of hysteresis led to heat loss in the nanometer and micrometer‐sized Fe3O4 particles, and it was the key controller of the quantity of heat generated in the Fe3O4 particle‐embedded TPU films by induction heating.
Layer‐by‐Layer Gold–Ceramic Nanoparticulate Electrodes for Electrocatalysis
Authors: Celebanska Anna , Opallo Marcin
Published: August 2016

Film electrodes prepared from oppositely charged silicate sub‐microparticles and gold nanoparticles were applied for electrocatalysis. Mesoporous silicate sub‐microparticles with sulfonate functionalities were prepared by the sol–gel method. They were immobilized on an indium tin oxide film surface together with imidazolium‐functionalized gold nanoparticles by the layer‐by‐layer method, that is, alternating immersion into their suspensions. As shown by scanning electron microscopy, the deposited silicate sub‐microparticles were covered by gold nanoparticles. The nanoparticulate film was found to be stable, and its electroactive surface was determined to be significantly larger than that of the electrode substrate. It exhibited some cation accumulation behavior. After activation, a gold–ceramic nanoparticulate electrode exhibited catalytic properties towards the reduction dioxygen and the oxidation of hydrazine, SO32−, and NO2−.
Ligand Displacement Reaction Paths in a Diiron Hydrogenase Active Site Model Complex
Authors: Blank Jan H. , Moncho Salvador , Lunsford Allen M. , Brothers Edward N. , Darensbourg Marcetta Y. , Bengali Ashfaq A.
Published: August 2016

The mechanism and energetics of CO, 1‐hexene, and 1‐hexyne substitution from the complexes (SBenz)2[Fe2(CO)6] (SBenz=SCH2Ph) (1‐CO), (SBenz)2[Fe2(CO)5(η2‐1‐hexene)] (1‐(η2‐1‐hexene)), and (SBenz)2[Fe2(CO)5(η2‐1‐hexyne)] (1‐(η2‐1‐hexyne)) were studied by using time‐resolved infrared spectroscopy. Exchange of both CO and 1‐hexyne by P(OEt)3 and pyridine, respectively, proceeds by a bimolecular mechanism. As similar activation enthalpies are obtained for both reactions, the rate‐determining step in both cases is assumed to be the rotation of the Fe(CO)2L (L=CO or 1‐hexyne) unit to accommodate the incoming ligand. The kinetic profile for the displacement of 1‐hexene is quite different than that for the alkyne and, in this case, both reaction channels, that is, dissociative (SN1) and associative (SN2), were found to be competitive. Because DFT calculations predict similar binding enthalpies of alkene and alkyne to the iron center, the results indicate that the bimolecular pathway in the case of the alkyne is lower in free energy than that of the alkene. In complexes of this type, subtle changes in the departing ligand characteristics and the nature of the mercapto bridge can influence the exchange mechanism, such that more than one reaction pathway is available for ligand substitution. The difference between this and the analogous study of (μ‐pdt)[Fe(CO)3]2 (pdt=S(CH2)3S) underscores the unique characteristics of a three‐atom S−S linker in the active site of diiron hydrogenases.
Vapor‐Phase Deposition and Modification of Metal–Organic Frameworks: State‐of‐the‐Art and Future Directions
Authors: Stassen Ivo , De Vos Dirk , Ameloot Rob
Published: August 2016

Materials processing, and thin‐film deposition in particular, is decisive in the implementation of functional materials in industry and real‐world applications. Vapor processing of materials plays a central role in manufacturing, especially in electronics. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of nanoporous crystalline materials on the brink of breakthrough in many application areas. Vapor deposition of MOF thin films will facilitate their implementation in micro‐ and nanofabrication research and industries. In addition, vapor–solid modification can be used for postsynthetic tailoring of MOF properties. In this context, we review the recent progress in vapor processing of MOFs, summarize the underpinning chemistry and principles, and highlight promising directions for future research.
Enhancement of TbIII–CuII Single‐Molecule Magnet Performance through Structural Modification
Authors: Heras Ojea María José , Milway Victoria A. , Velmurugan Gunasekaran , Thomas Lynne H. , Coles Simon J. , Wilson Claire , Wernsdorfer Wolfgang , Rajaraman Gopalan , Murrie Mark
Published: August 2016

We report a series of 3d–4f complexes {Ln2Cu3(H3L)2Xn} (X=OAc−, Ln=Gd, Tb or X=NO3−, Ln=Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er) using the 2,2′‐(propane‐1,3‐diyldiimino)bis[2‐(hydroxylmethyl)propane‐1,3‐diol] (H6L) pro‐ligand. All complexes, except that in which Ln=Gd, show slow magnetic relaxation in zero applied dc field. A remarkable improvement of the energy barrier to reorientation of the magnetisation in the {Tb2Cu3(H3L)2Xn} complexes is seen by changing the auxiliary ligands (X=OAc− for NO3−). This leads to the largest reported relaxation barrier in zero applied dc field for a Tb/Cu‐based single‐molecule magnet. Ab initio CASSCF calculations performed on mononuclear TbIII models are employed to understand the increase in energy barrier and the calculations suggest that the difference stems from a change in the TbIII coordination environment (C4v versus Cs).
6‐Azido‐6‐deoxy‐l‐idose as a Hetero‐Bifunctional Spacer for the Synthesis of Azido‐Containing Chemical Probes
Authors: Hamagami Hiroki , Kumazoe Motofumi , Yamaguchi Yoshiki , Fuse Shinichiro , Tachibana Hirofumi , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: August 2016

The design of 6‐azido‐6‐deoxy‐l‐idose for use as a hetero‐bifunctional spacer is reported. The hemiacetal at one terminus is an equivalent of an aldehyde and can react with nucleophiles, such as amino groups and electron‐rich aromatics. The azido group at the other terminus bio‐orthogonally undergoes a Hüisgen [3+2] cycloaddition with an acetylene. The idose derivative exhibited a higher level of reactivity towards oxime formation than a corresponding glucose derivative. The 13C NMR spectrum of the uniformly 13C‐labeled 6‐azido‐idose indicated that the acyclic forms of the sugar totaled 0.3 % of all the isomers, whereas those of glucose totaled 0.01 %. The larger population of the acyclic forms of the idose derivative would result in higher reactivity towards electrophilic addition in comparison with glucose derivatives. Finally, we prepared a C‐idosyl epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that bears an azido group through C‐glycosylation of EGCG with 6‐azido‐idose. This glycosyl form of the C‐idosyl EGCG exhibited a cytotoxicity against U266 cells that was comparable to that of EGCG. These results suggested that the EGCG derivative could be used as an effective chemical probe for the elucidation of EGCG biological functions.
Mesoporous Carbon Materials with Functional Compositions
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Zhang Jinshui , Dai Sheng
Published: August 2016

Since the 1990s, there has been rapidly expanding development of solid materials with mesoporous structure, of which mesoporous carbons are an important family. Toward the design of functional materials, mesoporous carbons with various compositions have been prepared for specific uses, such as catalysts, adsorbents, and electrode materials. Some of those novel materials indeed show promising performance in several fields, such as nitrogen‐doped mesoporous carbon for oxygen reduction reactions in fuel cells and mesoporous carbon nitride for photocatalysis. This Minireview summarizes recent advances in the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of mesoporous carbons with functional compositions and briefly discusses next‐generation mesoporous carbons.
Engineering safety into the design
Authors: Scantlebury Peter
Published: August 2016

Safety by design is Amec Foster Wheeler's systematic approach to engineering safety into the design. It is a five‐step approach to engineering design which results in the ability to demonstrate that hazards to people, the environment, assets, and reputation have been systematically and comprehensively identified, and eliminated or controlled during the design phase of the facility/system or equipment.

As a result of the safety by design process, the overall risks of a design are minimized by eliminating hazards or applying the right hazards controls to minimize the right hazards. Furthermore, the design elements to control or eliminate the hazards are identified and designed early in the design process when the implementation cost is at a minimum.
Adaptive cluster synchronization in directed networks with nonidentical nonlinear dynamics
Authors: Wang Yi , Ma Zhongjun , Cao Jinde , Alsaedi Ahmed , Alsaadi Fuad E.
Published: August 2016

In this article, the problem of cluster synchronization in the complex networks with nonidentical nonlinear dynamics is considered. By Lyapunov functional and M‐matrix theory, some sufficient conditions for cluster synchronization are obtained. Moreover, the least number of nodes which should be pinned is given. It is shown that when the root nodes of all the clusters are pinning‐controlled, cluster synchronization with adaptive coupling strength can be achieved. Different from the constraints of many literatures, the assumption is that each row sum for all diagonal submatrices of the Laplacian matrix is equal to zero. Finally, a numerical simulation in the network with three scale‐free subnetwork is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 380–387, 2016
A Semantic Corpus Comparison Analysis of Couple‐Focused Interventions for Problematic Alcohol Use
Authors: Soriano Emily C. , Rentscher Kelly E. , Rohrbaugh Michael J. , Mehl Matthias R.
Published: August 2016

Incorporating spouses into interventions for problematic alcohol use is associated with increased efficacy; yet, little is known about the therapeutic processes that may explain these effects. In a study of partner language use during couple‐focused alcohol interventions, we utilized a linguistic corpus comparison tool, Wmatrix, to identify semantic themes that differentiated couples with successful and unsuccessful treatment outcomes and may therefore also reflect potential change processes. Thirty‐three couples participated in a randomized control trial of Family Systems Therapy (FST) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Linguistic comparisons of partners' speech during the therapy sessions suggested that drinks and alcohol was a significant differentiating semantic theme. Specifically, patients and spouses in FST with successful outcomes used more language related to drinks and alcohol than patients and spouses in FST with unsuccessful outcomes. Post‐hoc analyses of context suggested that, in FST, successful spouses spoke less about the patient's drinking and more about alcohol in general (without reference to an individual) than unsuccessful spouses. Conversely, spouses in CBT with successful outcomes used less language related to drinks and alcohol than spouses in CBT with unsuccessful outcomes. In CBT, successful spouses spoke more about the patient's and couple's drinking and less about the spouse's and other people's drinking than unsuccessful spouses. Results emphasize the role of spouse behaviour—in this case indexed via language use—in alcohol treatment outcomes. Findings also suggest potentially distinct therapeutic processes in FST and CBT and highlight the utility of linguistic corpus comparison methods in couple‐focused intervention research. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Incorporating spouses into interventions for problematic alcohol use is associated with increased efficacy; yet, little is known about the specific therapeutic processes that may explain these effects.

Findings from this study suggest that semantic themes such as drinks and alcohol in partner speech during therapy sessions differentiate successful and unsuccessful treatment outcomes among couples participating in two couple‐focused interventions for problematic alcohol use.

In addition, the context in which partners used alcohol‐related language differed by intervention type and treatment outcome, which suggests potential therapeutic processes that are unique to the two interventions (Family Systems versus Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
The converse to Bergmann's rule in bumblebees, a phylogenetic approach
Authors: Ramírez‐Delgado Víctor Hugo , Sanabria‐Urbán Salomón , Serrano‐Meneses Martin A. , Cueva del Castillo Raúl
Published: August 2016

Two patterns commonly emerge when animal body size is analyzed as a function of latitudinal distribution. First, body size increases with latitude, a temperature effect known as Bergmann's rule, and second, the converse to Bergmann's rule, a pattern in which body size decreases with latitude. However, other geographic patterns can emerge when the mechanisms that generate Bergmann's and the converse to Bergmann's clines operate together. Here, we use phylogenetic comparative analysis in order to control for phylogenetic inertia, and we show that bumblebees exhibit the converse to Bergmann's rule. Bumblebee taxa are distributed worldwide in temperate and tropical regions. The largest species are found in places with high water availability during the driest time of the year. Nonetheless, large body size is constrained by extreme temperatures. Bumblebees’ body size could be related to a higher extent to the size of food rewards to be harvested than to the energetic advantages of thermoregulation. Moreover, we found that the body size of eusocial and cuckoo species responded in the same way to environmental variables, suggesting that they have not diverged due to different selective pressures.
Population attenuation in zooplankton communities during transoceanic transfer in ballast water
Authors: Ghabooli Sara , Zhan Aibin , Paolucci Esteban , Hernandez Marco R. , Briski Elizabeta , Cristescu Melania E. , MacIsaac Hugh J.
Published: August 2016

Successful biological invasion requires introduction of a viable population of a nonindigenous species (NIS). Rarely have ecologists assessed changes in populations while entrained in invasion pathways. Here, we investigate how zooplankton communities resident in ballast water change during transoceanic voyages. We used next‐generation sequencing technology to sequence a nuclear small subunit ribosomal DNA fragment of zooplankton from ballast water during initial, middle, and final segments as a vessel transited between Canada and Brazil. Operational taxonomic unit (OTU) diversity decreased as voyage duration increased, indicating loss of community‐based genetic diversity and development of bottlenecks for zooplankton taxa prior to discharge of ballast water. On average, we observed 47, 26, and 24 OTUs in initial, middle, and final samples, respectively. Moreover, a comparison of genetic diversity within taxa indicated likely attenuation of OTUs in final relative to initial samples. Abundance of the most common taxa (copepods) declined in all final relative to initial samples. Some taxa (e.g., Copepoda) were represented by a high number of OTUs throughout the voyage, and thus had a high level of intraspecific genetic variation. It is not clear whether genotypes that were most successful in surviving transit in ballast water will be the most successful upon introduction to novel environments. This study highlights that population bottlenecks may be common prior to introduction of NIS to new ecosystems.
Genetic connectivity across marginal habitats: the elephants of the Namib Desert
Authors: Ishida Yasuko , Van Coeverden de Groot Peter J. , Leggett Keith E. A. , Putnam Andrea S. , Fox Virginia E. , Lai Jesse , Boag Peter T. , Georgiadis Nicholas J. , Roca Alfred L.
Published: August 2016

Locally isolated populations in marginal habitats may be genetically distinctive and of heightened conservation concern. Elephants inhabiting the Namib Desert have been reported to show distinctive behavioral and phenotypic adaptations in that severely arid environment. The genetic distinctiveness of Namibian desert elephants relative to other African savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana) populations has not been established. To investigate the genetic structure of elephants in Namibia, we determined the mitochondrial (mt) DNA control region sequences and genotyped 17 microsatellite loci in desert elephants (n = 8) from the Hoanib River catchment and the Hoarusib River catchment. We compared these to the genotypes of elephants (n = 77) from other localities in Namibia. The mtDNA haplotype sequences and frequencies among desert elephants were similar to those of elephants in Etosha National Park, the Huab River catchment, the Ugab River catchment, and central Kunene, although the geographically distant Caprivi Strip had different mtDNA haplotypes. Likewise, analysis of the microsatellite genotypes of desert‐dwelling elephants revealed that they were not genetically distinctive from Etosha elephants, and there was no evidence for isolation by distance across the Etosha region. These results, and a review of the historical record, suggest that a high learning capacity and long‐distance migrations allowed Namibian elephants to regularly shift their ranges to survive in the face of high variability in climate and in hunting pressure.
Integrated foundation–structure seismic assessment through non‐linear dynamic analyses
Authors: Figini R. , Paolucci R.
Published: August 2016

This paper aims at clarifying the role of dynamic soil–structure interaction in the seismic assessment of structure and foundation, when the non‐linear coupling of both subsystems is accounted for. For this purpose, the seismic assessment of an ideal set of bridge piers on shallow foundations is considered. After an initial standard assessment, based on capacity design principles, the evaluation of the seismic response of the piers is carried out by dynamic simulations, where both the non‐linear responses of the superstructure and of the foundation are accounted for, in the latter case through the macro‐element modeling of the soil–foundation system. The results of the dynamic simulations point out the beneficial effects of the non‐linear response of the foundation, which provides a substantial contribution to the overall energy dissipation during seismic excitation, thus allowing the structural ductility demand to decrease significantly with respect to a standard fixed‐base or linear‐elastic base assessment. Permanent deformations at the foundation level, such as rotation and settlement, turn out to be of limited amount. Therefore, an advanced assessment approach of the integrated non‐linear system, consisting of the interacting foundation and superstructure, is expected to provide more rationale and economic results than the standard uncoupled approach, which, neglecting any energy dissipation at the foundation level, generally overestimates the ductility demand on the superstructure. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Marginal abatement cost curve for wind power in China: a provincial‐level analysis
Authors: Xiong Weiming , Yang Yuanzhe , Wang Yu , Zhang Xiliang
Published: August 2016

Wind power has seen a remarkable growth in China since the Renewable Energy Law came into force in the beginning of 2006. However, the contribution and the economic cost of wind power development to reduce carbon emission at the provincial level are still unclear. This research combined geographic information system analysis and levelized production cost calculation to provide provincial‐level supply curve of carbon dioxide (CO2) mitigation by wind power in China. The results showed that wind power could be a very competitive mitigation option in China, with a potential to contribute 500 million tons of CO2 emission mitigation at an average abatement cost of 75 RMB/t of CO2 mitigation. The emission abatement cost and the potential to reduce carbon emission in different provinces may be used for national planning as well as for the allocation of investments.
Multicategory Purchase Incidence Models for Partitions of Product Categories
Authors: Hruschka Harald
Published: August 2016

We analyze multicategory purchases of households by means of heterogeneous multivariate probit models that relate to partitions formed from a total of 25 product categories. We investigate both prior and post hoc partitions. We search model structures by a stochastic algorithm and estimate models by Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation. The best model in terms of cross‐validated log‐likelihood refers to a post hoc partition with two groups; the second‐best model considers all categories as one group. Among prior partitions with at least two category groups a five‐group model performs best. Effects on average basket value differ for the model with five prior category groups from those for the best‐performing model in 40% and 24% of the investigated categories for features and displays, respectively. In addition, the model with five prior category groups also underestimates total sales revenue across all categories by about 28%. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Co‐optimization of CO2‐EOR and storage processes in mature oil reservoirs
Authors: Ampomah William , Balch Robert S. , Grigg Reid B. , McPherson Brian , Will Robert A. , Lee Si‐Yong , Dai Zhenxue , Pan Feng
Published: August 2016

This paper presents an optimization methodology for CO2enhanced oil recovery in partially depleted reservoirs. A field‐scale compositional reservoir flow model was developed for assessing the performance history of an active CO2flood and for optimizing both oil production and CO2storage in the Farnsworth Unit (FWU), Ochiltree County, Texas. A geological framework model constructed from geophysical, geological, and engineering data acquired from the FWU was the basis for all reservoir simulations and the optimization method. An equation of state was calibrated with laboratory fluid analyses and subsequently used to predict the thermodynamic minimum miscible pressure (MMP). Initial history calibrations of primary, secondary and tertiary recovery were conducted as the basis for the study. After a good match was achieved, an optimization approach consisting of a proxy or surrogate model was constructed with a polynomial response surface method (PRSM). The PRSM utilized an objective function that maximized both oil recovery and CO2storage. Experimental design was used to link uncertain parameters to the objective function. Control variables considered in this study included: water alternating gas cycle and ratio, production rates and bottom‐hole pressure of injectors and producers. Other key parameters considered in the modeling process were CO2purchase, gas recycle and addition of infill wells and/or patterns. The PRSM proxy model was ‘trained’ or calibrated with a series of training simulations. This involved an iterative process until the surrogate model reached a specific validation criterion. A sensitivity analysis was first conducted to ascertain which of these control variables to retain in the surrogate model. A genetic algorithm with a mixed‐integer capability optimization approach was employed to determine the optimum developmental strategy to maximize both oil recovery and CO2storage. The proxy model reduced the computational cost significantly. The validation criteria of the reduced order model ensured accuracy in the dynamic modeling results. The prediction outcome suggested robustness and reliability of the genetic algorithm for optimizing both oil recovery and CO2storage. The reservoir modeling approach used in this study illustrates an improved approach to optimizing oil production and CO2storage within partially depleted oil reservoirs such as FWU. This study may serve as a benchmark for potential CO2–EOR projects in the Anadarko basin and/or geologically similar basins throughout the world. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Romosozumab Compared With Teriparatide on Bone Density and Mass at the Spine and Hip in Postmenopausal Women With Low Bone Mass
Authors: Genant Harry K , Engelke Klaus , Bolognese Michael A , Mautalen Carlos , Brown Jacques P , Recknor Chris , Goemaere Stefan , Fuerst Thomas , Yang Yu-Ching , Grauer Andreas , Libanati Cesar
Published: August 2016

Romosozumab, a monoclonal antibody that binds sclerostin, has a dual effect on bone by increasing bone formation and reducing bone resorption, and thus has favorable effects in both aspects of bone volume regulation. In a phase 2 study, romosozumab increased areal BMD at the lumbar spine and total hip as measured by DXA compared with placebo, alendronate, and teriparatide in postmenopausal women with low bone mass. In additional analyses from this international, randomized study, we now describe the effect of romosozumab on lumbar spine and hip volumetric BMD (vBMD) and BMC at month 12 as assessed by QCT in the subset of participants receiving placebo, s.c. teriparatide (20 µg once daily), and s.c. romosozumab (210 mg once monthly). QCT measurements were performed at the lumbar spine (mean of L1 and L2 entire vertebral bodies, excluding posterior processes) and hip. One year of treatment with romosozumab significantly increased integral vBMD and BMC at the lumbar spine and total hip from baseline, and compared with placebo and teriparatide (all p < 0.05). Trabecular vertebral vBMD improved significantly and similarly from baseline (p < 0.05) with both romosozumab (18.3%) and teriparatide (20.1%), whereas cortical vertebral vBMD gains were larger with romosozumab compared with teriparatide (13.7% versus 5.7%, p < 0.0001). Trabecular hip vBMD gains were significantly larger with romosozumab than with teriparatide (10.8% versus 4.2%, p = 0.01), but were similar for cortical vBMD (1.1% versus –0.9%, p = 0.12). Cortical BMC gains were larger with romosozumab compared with teriparatide at both the spine (23.3% versus 10.9%, p < 0.0001) and hip (3.4% versus 0.0%, p = 0.03). These improvements are expected to result in strength gains and support the continued clinical investigation of romosozumab as a potential therapy to rapidly reduce fracture risk in ongoing phase 3 studies. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The Application of Positive Psychotherapy in Mental Health Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Walsh Sophie , Cassidy Megan , Priebe Stefan
Published: August 2016

Objective

Positive psychotherapy (PPT) stems from the positive psychology movement and is a multicomponent model promoting therapeutic change by developing engagement, pleasure, and meaning. There is some evidence it is effective for depression. PPT is recommended as a flexible model that can be applied to other patient groups alongside other treatments approaches. However, it remains unclear which of the many components are applied. The study aimed to identify how PPT is applied in mental health care.

Method

We systematically searched online databases, including Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, British Nursing Index, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Applied Health, and Cochrane registers (CENTRAL), and completed complementary hand and citation searches. Narrative synthesis was used for analysis.

Results

A total of 12 papers (from 9 studies) widely applied some PPT components (e.g., blessings journal, character strengths) and scarcely applied others (e.g., satisficing plan or family strengths tree). However, papers poorly described the intervention and rationale for applying components.

Conclusion

Given the lack of rationale for applying PPT, further research is needed to establish which components are acceptable and feasible for use in different patient groups and settings.
Field Flow Fractionation for the Size, Molar Mass, and Gel Content Analysis of Emulsion Polymers for Water‐Based Coatings
Authors: Makan Ashwell C. , Williams Ryan P. , Pasch Harald
Published: August 2016

In the present investigation, styrene‐acrylic and pure acrylic emulsions used in water‐based decorative coatings are characterized by size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and asymmetric flow field‐flow fractionation (AF4). Both the separation techniques are coupled online to multiangle laser light scattering (MALLS) and refractive index detection to investigate the molar mass properties during the course of the free radical polymerization reaction. For the acrylic emulsion, kinetic samples are taken from the reactor at fixed time intervals and analyzed. In SEC‐MALLS, unusual elution behavior is observed which is found previously for highly branched polymer species. In contrast, the AF4 fractograms indicate normal mode elution without any unusual behavior as compared to the SEC analyses. The molar masses obtained by AF4 are significantly higher compared to the SEC results. Further, AF4 is used to determine the gel contents of the kinetic samples of the acrylic emulsion and for both the acrylic and styrene‐acrylic emulsions, AF4 proves to be a robust and feasible tool allowing for improved correlations of the molecular and materials properties of water‐based polymer emulsions.

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Group classification of systems of diffusion equations
Authors: Kontogiorgis Stavros , Sophocleous Christodoulos
Published: August 2016

Group classification of a class of systems of diffusion equations is carried out. Arbitrary elements that appear in the system depend on two variables. All forms of the arbitrary elements that provide additional Lie symmetries are determined. Equivalence transformations are used to simplify the analysis. Examples of similarity reductions are presented. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The threshold of a non‐autonomous SIRS epidemic model with stochastic perturbations
Authors: Ji Chunyan , Jiang Daqing
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we investigate a stochastic non‐autonomous SIRS (susceptible‐infected‐recovered‐susceptible) model. The extinction and the prevalence of the disease are discussed, and so, the threshold is given. Especially, we show there is a positive nontrivial periodic solution. At last, some examples and simulations are provided to illustrate our results. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An hp‐adaptive Newton‐Galerkin finite element procedure for semilinear boundary value problems
Authors: Amrein Mario , Melenk Jens Markus , Wihler Thomas P.
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we develop an hp‐adaptive procedure for the numerical solution of general, semilinear elliptic boundary value problems in 1d, with possible singular perturbations. Our approach combines both a prediction‐type adaptive Newton method and an hp‐version adaptive finite element discretization (based on a robust a posteriori residual analysis), thereby leading to a fully hp‐adaptive Newton–Galerkin scheme. Numerical experiments underline the robustness and reliability of the proposed approach for various examples. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diffusion tensor imaging and histology of developing hearts
Authors: Abdullah Osama M. , Seidel Thomas , Dahl MarJanna , Gomez Arnold David , Yiep Gavin , Cortino Julia , Sachse Frank B. , Albertine Kurt H. , Hsu Edward W.
Published: August 2016

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has emerged as a promising method for noninvasive quantification of myocardial microstructure. However, the origin and behavior of DTI measurements during myocardial normal development and remodeling remain poorly understood. In this work, conventional and bicompartmental DTI in addition to three‐dimensional histological correlation were performed in a sheep model of myocardial development from third trimester to postnatal 5 months of age. Comparing the earliest time points in the third trimester with the postnatal 5 month group, the scalar transverse diffusivities preferentially increased in both left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV): secondary eigenvalues D2 increased by 54% (LV) and 36% (RV), whereas tertiary eigenvalues D3 increased by 85% (LV) and 67% (RV). The longitudinal diffusivity D1 changes were small, which led to a decrease in fractional anisotropy by 41% (LV) and 33% (RV) in 5 month versus fetal hearts. Histological analysis suggested that myocardial development is associated with hyperplasia in the early stages of the third trimester followed by myocyte growth in the later stages up to 5 months of age (increased average myocyte width by 198%, myocyte length by 128%, and decreased nucleus density by 70% between preterm and postnatal 5 month hearts.) In a few histological samples (N = 6), correlations were observed between DTI longitudinal diffusivity and myocyte length (r = 0.86, P < 0.05), and transverse diffusivity and myocyte width (r = 0.96, P < 0.01). Linear regression analysis showed that transverse diffusivities are more affected by changes in myocyte size and nucleus density changes than longitudinal diffusivities, which is consistent with predictions of classical models of diffusion in porous media. Furthermore, primary and secondary DTI eigenvectors during development changed significantly. Collectively, the findings demonstrate a role for DTI to monitor and quantify myocardial development, and potentially cardiac disease. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The control of the discrimination between dNTP and rNTP in DNA and RNA polymerase
Authors: Yoon Hanwool , Warshel Arieh
Published: August 2016

Understanding the origin of discrimination between rNTP and dNTP by DNA/RNA polymerases is important both for gaining fundamental knowledge on the corresponding systems and for advancing the design of specific drugs. This work explores the nature of this discrimination by systematic calculations of the transition state (TS) binding energy in RB69 DNA polymerase (gp43) and T7 RNA polymerase. The calculations reproduce the observed trend, in particular when they included the water contribution obtained by the water flooding approach. Our detailed study confirms the idea that the discrimination is due to the steric interaction between the 2′OH and Tyr416 in DNA polymerase, while the electrostatic interaction is the source of the discrimination in RNA polymerase. Proteins 2016; 84:1616–1624. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pharmacological characterization of cebranopadol a novel analgesic acting as mixed nociceptin/orphanin FQ and opioid receptor agonist
Authors: Rizzi Anna , Cerlesi Maria Camilla , Ruzza Chiara , Malfacini Davide , Ferrari Federica , Bianco Sara , Costa Tommaso , Guerrini Remo , Trapella Claudio , Calo' Girolamo
Published: August 2016

The aim of the study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological profile of cebranopadol, a novel agonist for opioid and nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptors (NOP). In vitro cebranopadol was assayed in calcium mobilization studies in cells coexpressing NOP or opioid receptors and chimeric G‐proteins and in a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assay for studying receptor interaction with G‐protein and β‐arrestin 2. The mouse tail withdrawal and formalin tests were used for investigating cebranopadol antinociceptive properties. In calcium mobilization studies cebranopadol showed the following rank order of potency NOP = mu > kappa ≥ delta. In BRET studies, cebranopadol promoted NOP and mu receptors interaction with G‐protein with similar high potency and efficacy. However, cebranopadol did not stimulated NOP–β‐arrestin 2 interactions and displayed reduced potency at mu/β‐arrestin 2. In vivo, cebranopadol exhibits highly potent and extremely long‐lasting antinociceptive effects. The effects of cebranopadol in the tail withdrawal assay were sensitive to both SB‐612111 and naloxone. Collectively the present results confirm and extend previous finding demonstrating that cebranopadol, by acting as mixed NOP/opioid receptor agonist, elicits robust analgesic effects in different pain models.
Trans‐oral robotic surgery (TORS) for the treatment of lingual tonsillitis. When conventional therapies fail
Authors: Montevecchi Filippo , Cammaroto Giovanni , Meccariello Giuseppe , D'Agostino Giovanni , Hsu Ying‐Shuo , Galletti Bruno , Vicini Claudio
Published: August 2016

Background

Lingual tonsillitis is an underestimated but serious health problem. This paper describes the feasibility and efficacy of the trans‐oral robotic surgical approach in cases of lingual tonsillitis.

Materials and Methods

From February 2012 to April 2014, 10 patients affected by lingual tonsillitis resistant to medical treatments underwent transoral robotic lingual tonsillectomy at the authors’ Institution.

Results

The surgical robotic procedure was completed in all cases and there was no need to change the operative approach once started. The mean set‐up time was 13.2 ± 5.2 min, while mean operating time was 28 ± 12 min. The mean amount of tissue removed was 16.5 ± 13 cm3. No major intra‐operative and post‐operative complications were registered. After 15.2 ± 12 months of follow‐up, no relapses were reported and patients did not complain of any further symptoms.

Conclusion

Lingual tonsillitis seems to be safely and effectively managed by trans‐oral robotic surgery. The data are encouraging and worthy of further evaluation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A note on the random greedy independent set algorithm
Authors: Bennett Patrick , Bohman Tom
Published: August 2016

Let r be a fixed constant and let be an r‐uniform, D‐regular hypergraph on N vertices. Assume further that for some . Consider the random greedy algorithm for forming an independent set in . An independent set is chosen at random by iteratively choosing vertices at random to be in the independent set. At each step we chose a vertex uniformly at random from the collection of vertices that could be added to the independent set (i.e. the collection of vertices v with the property that v is not in the current independent set I and contains no edge in ). Note that this process terminates at a maximal subset of vertices with the property that this set contains no edge of ; that is, the process terminates at a maximal independent set.

We prove that if satisfies certain degree and codegree conditions then there are vertices in the independent set produced by the random greedy algorithm with high probability. This result generalizes a lower bound on the number of steps in the H‐free process due to Bohman and Keevash and produces objects of interest in additive combinatorics. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 49, 479–502, 2016
Remote sensing of species dominance and the value for quantifying ecosystem services
Authors: Pau Stephanie , Dee Laura E.
Published: August 2016

Remote sensing (RS) is a powerful tool to measure and monitor Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs) and their environmental drivers. Despite this potential, stronger integration between remote sensing experts and the ecological community could better support biodiversity initiatives. Here we highlight opportunities to harness remote sensing technology to better understand biodiversity patterns, ecological processes and the consequences for ecosystem services (ESs). We argue that tracking many EBVs using remote sensing should prioritize the monitoring of dominant species, a scalable property across multiple EBV classes, for several reasons. First, a few dominant species in an ecological community disproportionately contribute to the satellite spectral signature. Second, a focus on dominance would enable a stronger links to ecological research, as dominance reflects the ecological community context (i.e. relative abundance of coexisting species). For example dominant species should be especially important contributors to many ecosystem functions and services that rely on abundance or biomass, such as carbon storage or nutrient cycling, because of their greater representation in a community. Furthermore, global change impacts on communities may be reflected in changing dominance structure before the losses of species, thus tracking dominance provides an early‐warning sign of community change for EBVs. Finally, focusing on dominant species should improve understanding of spatial and temporal dynamics of dominance‐driven ESs through RS mapping. Given the importance of dominant species to ecological communities and ESs, monitoring dominance under changing environmental conditions and human impacts should be a global priority.