bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scalable intraband wavelet‐based coding scheme for irregular meshes
Authors: Toueti Marouen , Ouled Zaid Azza
Published: August 2017

This paper describes a novel scalable 3D triangular mesh coding method based on wavelet transform and successive approximation quantization. The algorithm efficiently exploits the intracorrelations between wavelet coefficients independently in each subband. Non‐significant wavelet coefficients are clustered, in a per bit‐plane manner, by using an octree‐based approach. An hierarchical bitstream is then generated allowing to gradually decode the 3D mesh at the desired quality or resolution representation. Our proposal can be executed on arbitrary topology meshes by using irregular wavelet decomposition. Objective and subjective quality evaluation on representative 3D meshes shows that the proposed codec provides competitive compression results when compared to the state‐of‐the‐art. Furthermore, it fits well to applications that require fast interactive handling of highly detailed 3D meshes, over networks with limited and/or variable bandwidth.
Absence of Notch1 in murine myeloid cells attenuates the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by affecting Th1 and Th17 priming
Authors: Fernández Miriam , Monsalve Eva M. , López‐López Susana , Ruiz‐García Almudena , Mellado Susana , Caminos Elena , García‐Ramírez José Javier , Laborda Jorge , Tranque Pedro , Díaz‐Guerra María José M.
Published: August 2017

Inhibition of Notch signalling in T cells attenuates the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. Growing evidence indicates that myeloid cells are also key players in autoimmune processes. Thus, the present study evaluates the role of the Notch1 receptor in myeloid cells on the progression of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)35‐55‐induced EAE, using mice with a myeloid‐specific deletion of the Notch1 gene (MyeNotch1KO). We found that EAE progression was less severe in the absence of Notch1 in myeloid cells. Thus, histopathological analysis revealed reduced pathology in the spinal cord of MyeNotch1KO mice, with decreased microglia/astrocyte activation, demyelination and infiltration of CD4+ T cells. Moreover, these mice showed lower Th1 and Th17 cell infiltration and expression of IFN‐γ and IL‐17 mRNA in the spinal cord. Accordingly, splenocytes from MyeNotch1KO mice reactivated in vitro presented reduced Th1 and Th17 activation, and lower expression of IL‐12, IL‐23, TNF‐α, IL‐6, and CD86. Moreover, reactivated wild‐type splenocytes showed increased Notch1 expression, arguing for a specific involvement of this receptor in autoimmune T cell activation in secondary lymphoid tissues. In summary, our results reveal a key role of the Notch1 receptor in myeloid cells for the initiation and progression of EAE.
B33– and B34–: Aromatic Planar Boron Clusters with a Hexagonal Vacancy
Authors: Chen Qiang , Li Wei‐Li , Zhao Xiao‐Yun , Li Hai‐Ru , Feng Lin‐Yan , Zhai Hua‐Jin , Li Si‐Dian , Wang Lai‐Sheng
Published: August 2017

Systematic experimental and theoretical studies have shown that anionic boron clusters (Bn–) possess planar or quasi‐planar (2D) structures in a wide range of cluster size. The 2D structures consist of B3 triangles often decorated with tetragonal and pentagonal defects. As n increases, hexagonal vacancies appear to be a key structural feature, which underlies the stability of borophenes. The correlation of the defects with cluster size is important to understand the stability and structural evolution of boron clusters. Here we report an investigation of the structures and chemical bonding of B33– and B34– using photoelectron spectroscopy (PES) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Global minimum searches reveal that the potential landscapes of B33– and B34– are dominated by 2D isomers. Comparisons between experiment and theory confirm that their global‐minimum structures are both 2D with a hexagonal vacancy (Cs B33–) and (C1 B34–), the latter being a chiral cluster. Bonding analyses indicate that the Cs B33– cluster possesses ten delocalized π bonds, analogous to those in the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon C19H11–. Bonding analyses on the equivalent closed‐shell B342– species show that its 12 delocalized π bonds consist of two separate aromatic systems: nine exterior and three interior π bonds.
Catalytic Reduction of Bisulfite by Myoglobin/Surfactant Films
Authors: Abdelatty Radalla , Rahman Md. Hafizur , Ryan Michael D.
Published: August 2017

The voltammetry of bisulfite at a film formed with myoglobin was studied in aqueous solutions. A broad wave was observed for the reduction of bisulfite. Using controlled potential electrolysis, the reduction at potentials positive of the FeII/FeI wave formed dithionite exclusively. As the potential approached the region for the FeII/FeI reduction, bisulfite was reduced primarily to HS−. Even at the negative potentials, some dithionite was still formed, which could then be electrochemically reduced to thiosulfate. Analysis of the formation of HS−, dithionite and thiosulfate during the electrolysis was consistent with the parallel formation of HS− and dithionite, the latter of which was reduced to thiosulfate. Thiosulfate was verified by chemical analysis of the products from controlled potential electrolysis of the solution, and dithionite was observed spectroscopically using spectroelectro−chemistry.
Photocatalytic activity of erbium‐doped CeO2 enhanced by reduced graphene Oxide/CuO cocatalyst for the reduction of CO2 to methanol
Authors: Shi Sheng‐Jie , Zhou Shan‐Shan , Liu Shou‐Qing , Chen Zhi‐Gang
Published: August 2017

A series of erbium‐doped CeO2 composites loaded with reduced graphene oxide (rGO, denoted as Er‐doped CeO2/rGO) were prepared via a hydrothermal method. The crystal structures, morphological characteristics, and surface physicochemical properties of the as‐prepared Er‐doped CeO2/rGO composites were characterized through X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activities of the composite samples were further evaluated by reducing CO2 to methanol. Results show that erbium (III) doping caused a red shift of the response spectrum from 392 nm to 451 nm, and that rGO loading induced a response spectrum shift to 467.9 nm. The corresponding reduction yields of CO2 to methanol approached 42.5 and 135.6 μmol g−1cat h−1 for Er‐doped CeO2/CuO and Er‐doped CeO2/rGO/CuO catalysts under similar conditions in 5 h, respectively. Accordingly, rGO enhances significantly the yield of the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to methanol. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 655–662, 2018
Potable water production using two solar stills having different cover materials and fabrication costs
Authors: Riahi Ali , Wan Yusof Khamaruzaman , Isa Mohamed Hasnain , Singh Mahinder Singh Balbir , Mustaffa Zahiraniza , Ahsan Amimul , Ul Mustafa Muhammad Raza , Sapari Nasiman , Zahari Noor Atieya Munni
Published: August 2017

Solar stills are very cost‐effective technologies used in producing potable water. This work aims to investigate the productivity of two passive double sloped solar stills fabricated with different cover materials with similar shapes; polythene film (PSS) and glass (GSS). The first solar still was made of a transparent polythene film, PVC pipes and a black painted stainless steel trough as cover, frame and basin, respectively. The second one was fabricated using glass as cover, with similar basin material. Experimental outputs indicated that GSS had 1%–5% higher yield than PSS throughout the experiment. The fabrication cost of PSS was 5 times less than the cost of the GSS. The thermal energy efficiencies of PSS and GSS were obtained as 34.05% and 35.50%, respectively. A mathematical model for each solar still was developed using the relationships of heat and mass transfer and their calculated and experimental productivities were in good agreement. Water quality parameters tested showed that water produced from both solar stills met the WHO standards for drinking purposes. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 584–596, 2018
Assimilation efficiency of sediment-bound PCBs ingested by fish impacted by strong sorption
Authors: Fadaei Hilda , Williams Ernest , Place Allen R. , Connolly John P. , Ghosh Upal
Published: August 2017

Uptake of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) by fish is controlled by the bioavailability of ingested PCBs in the gut and the freely dissolved concentration in the water moving across the gills. The prediction of bioaccumulation in fish relies on models that account for these exposure routes; however, these models typically do not account for incidental ingestion of sediment by fish, which is not well studied. The literature values for the PCB assimilation efficiency in the gut have been reported for compounds in food matrices and not associated with sediment particles. It is also unclear how mitigation strategies that alter PCB bioavailability in sediments affect predictions made by the bioaccumulation models when sediment ingestion is involved. To test the bioavailability of PCBs from treated and untreated sediments, dietary assimilation efficiencies were measured for 16 PCB congeners in mummichogs (Fundulus heteroclitus) that were fed 4 experimental diets. Diets consisted of PCB-spiked earthworms, spiked untreated sediment mixed with earthworms, spiked activated carbon-treated sediment mixed with earthworms, and spiked activated carbon mixed with earthworms. Assimilation efficiencies were determined by calculating the ratio of PCB mass in the fish tissue to the PCB mass in the food after a pulse feeding experiment. Assimilation efficiencies of PCBs associated with earthworm diet were similar to the values reported in the literature. Fish that were fed the PCB-spiked untreated sediment and activated carbon particles exhibited the highest and lowest assimilation efficiencies, respectively, over a wide KOW range. Assimilation efficiencies of sediment-bound PCBs were significantly reduced (31–93% reduction for different congeners) after amendment with activated carbon. The present study indicates that assimilation of PCBs can be reduced by sorption to black carbon. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:3480–3488. © 2017 SETAC
No evidence that kin selection increases the honesty of begging signals in birds
Authors: Bebbington Kat , Kingma Sjouke A.
Published: August 2017

Providing plausible mechanisms to explain variation in the honesty of information communicated through offspring begging signals is fundamental to our understanding of parent–offspring conflict and the evolution of family life. A recently published research article used comparative analyses to investigate two long-standing hypotheses that may explain the evolution of begging behavior. The results suggested that direct competition between offspring for parental resources decreases begging honesty, whereas indirect, kin-selected benefits gained through saving parental resources for the production of future siblings increase begging honesty. However, we feel that evidence for a role of kin selection in this context is still missing. We present a combination of arguments and empirical tests to outline alternative sources of interspecific variation in offspring begging levels and discuss avenues for further research that can bring us closer to a complete understanding of the evolution of offspring signaling.
Support aspects of tunnels in fault zones
Authors: Schubert Wulf , Blümel Manfred , Staudacher Robert , Brunnegger Stefan
Published: August 2017

Special considerations are required for the support of tunnels in fault zones. On the one hand, standard support elements are not compatible with the imposed displacements. On the other hand, local shearing can cause damage to the lining already at rather small displacements magnitudes. Cracks in the lining frequently are observed, when the geometry of the tunnel changes, or at the intersection with cross passages. As strengthening of the lining in many cases cannot prevent damage, temporarily leaving an open gap in the primary lining. Implementing yielding elements into the lining is as well feasible, as economical increasingly replaces the traditional method of leaving open gaps. This results in a better utilization of the lining's capacity and a considerable reduction of displacements. As the lining with integrated yielding elements develops considerable thrust, a transfer of the loads via the construction joints is required. Thus, careful construction of those joints is essential. Another problem can be the bond between bolt, grout, and rock mass, as the bolts are installed, when the displacement rate is highest, and the strength of the grout still low. This paper deals only with phenomena caused by discontinuities and large displacements, and does not address other hazards, like flowing ground.
Checking the system behaviour using a numerical model
Authors: Brandtner Markus , Lenz Gerold
Published: August 2017

The Semmering Base Tunnel with a total length of approx. 27 km is being driven through a complex system of fault zones. During the investigation period, technically demanding site investigations were carried out to obtain information on geological and hydrological conditions including the determination of the strength and stiffness of the faulted zones. The results formed the basis for the geotechnical design, performed according to the Guideline for the Geotechnical Design of Underground Structures with Conventional Excavation published by the Austrian Society for Geomechanics. According to the regulations, the system behaviour must already be tested against the designed support measures during the design stage. In this case the behaviour was assessed using a complex 3D Finite Element model. The expected and therefore predicted system behaviour represents the baseline for the observational method.
Interpretation of above‐zone pressure influence time to characterize CO2 leakage
Authors: Zeidouni Mehdi , Tran Nam H. , Munawar Muhammad D.
Published: August 2017

Pressure transient analysis has long been used to characterize underground geological formations. Pressure is monitored for evaluating the containment of injected CO2 in the target formations in CO2 geological storage. Pressure interference testing in a permeable zone overlying the storage zone can determine migration of CO2 from the target reservoir. This study focuses on interpretation of interference tests in the above‐zone to obtain information on the plume size from pressure influence time. We define a conceptual model with idealization of the CO2 leakage scenario into a 3‐region linear composite system. For each region of this system, the governing pressure diffusivity equations and corresponding initial and boundary conditions are presented. An analytical solution is derived by sequentially transforming the equation system into Laplace and Fourier domains. The analytical solution is verified by comparing to numerical simulation results and a limiting analytical solution. Next, the ability of the analytical solution to predict the pressure influence time for an interference test is evaluated. It is shown that the pressure influence time is independent of the plume shape and depends only on the plume size on the line connecting the two interference test wells. This suggests that the measured pressure influence time can be inverted using our analytical solution to obtain the leaked plume size. The influence time is used for an example field application to obtain the plume volume percentage. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remodeling the model for end‐stage liver disease for predicting mortality risk in critically ill patients with cirrhosis and acute kidney injury
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Dong , Chen Qin‐Fen , Sun Dan‐Qin , Zheng Chen‐Fei , Liang Dong‐Jie , Zhou Jian , Wang Song‐Jie , Liu Wen‐Yue , Van Poucke Sven , Wang Xiao‐Dong , Shi Ke‐Qing , Huang Wei‐Jian , Zheng Ming‐Hua
Published: August 2017

Serum creatinine measurement demonstrates a poor specificity and sensitivity for the early diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with cirrhosis. The existing model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score reveals multiple pitfalls in critically ill patients with cirrhosis and acute kidney injury (CAKI). The aim of this study was to re‐evaluate the role of creatinine values in the existing MELD score and to develop a novel score for CAKI, named the “acute kidney injury–model for end‐stage liver disease score” (AKI‐MELD score). We extracted 651 CAKI from the Multiparameter Intelligent Monitoring in Intensive Care database. A time‐dependent Cox regression analysis was performed for developing remodeled MELD scores (Reweight‐MELD score, Del‐Cr‐MELD score, and AKI‐MELD score). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve provided the discriminative power of scoring models related to outcome. The hazard ratio of creatinine was 1.104 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.945‐1.290; P = 0.211). Reweight‐MELD score and Del‐Cr‐MELD score (decreasing the weight of creatinine) were superior to the original MELD score (all P < 0.001). The new AKI‐MELD score consists of bilirubin, the international normalized ratio, and the ratio of creatinine in 48 hours to creatinine at admission. It had competitive discriminative ability for predicting mortality (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.720 [95% CI, 0.653‐0.762] at 30 days, 0.688 [95% CI, 0.630‐0.742] at 90 days, and 0.671 [95% CI, 0.612‐0.725] at 1 year). Further, AKI‐MELD score had significantly higher predictive ability in comparison with MELD score, MELD‐Na score, and Updated MELD score (all P < 0.001). Conclusion: The predictive value of creatinine for CAKI should be re‐evaluated. AKI‐MELD score is a potentially reliable tool to determine the prognosis for mortality of CAKI. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:748–756)
Accuracy of on‐site tests to detect anemia during prenatal care
Authors: Sobhy Soha , Rogozinska Ewelina , Khan Khalid S.
Published: August 2017

Background

Anemia is a substantial contributor to poor pregnancy outcomes in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Access to laboratory facilities is limited; therefore, on‐site testing warrants attention.

Objectives

To determine the accuracy of on‐site tests to detect anemia in pregnancy.

Search strategy

MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from inception until March 2016, with no language restrictions, using the terms “pregnancy,” “an(a)emia,” and “h(a)emoglobin.”

Selection criteria

Studies that evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of on‐site hemoglobin tests versus laboratory‐based reference tests during pregnancy were included.

Data collection and analysis

Study characteristics and true positive, true negative, false positive, and false negative rates were extracted. Sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, and post‐test probabilities were calculated. Anemia was defined as a hemoglobin level of less than 110 g/L.

Main results

Ten studies (4239 participants) were assessed. Copper sulfate provided 97% sensitivity (95% confidence interval [CI] 88%–100%) and 71% specificity (95% CI 55%–85%); the Sahli method provided 86% sensitivity (95% CI 75%–94%) and 83% specificity (95% CI 68%–93%); and HemoCue provided 85% sensitivity (95% CI 79%–90%) and 80% specificity (95% CI 76%–83%).

Conclusions

Some on‐site tests are accurate and should be made widely available to improve detection of anemia in pregnancy.
Development of a high‐performance liquid chromatography procedure to identify known and detect novel C‐13 oligosaccharide moieties in diterpene glycosides from Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni (Asteraceae): Structure elucidation of rebaudiosides V and W
Authors: Perera Wilmer H. , Ghiviriga Ion , Rodenburg Douglas L. , Carvalho Raquel , Alves Kamilla , McChesney James D.
Published: August 2017

As an aid for structure elucidation of new steviol glycosides, reversed‐phase C18 high‐performance liquid chromatography method was developed with several previously characterized diterpene glycosides, to identify known and detect novel aglycone‐C13 oligosaccharide moieties and indirectly identify C‐19 interlinkages. Elution order of several diterpene glycosides and their aglycone‐C13 oligosaccharide substituted with different sugar arrangements were also summarized. Comparison of the retention time of a product obtained after alkaline hydrolysis with the aglycone‐C‐13 portions of known compounds reported herein allowed us to deduce the exact positions of the sugars in the C‐13 oligosaccharide portion. The elution position of several steviol glycosides with an ent‐kaurene skeleton was helpful to describe an identification key. Two previously uncharacterized diterpene glycosides together with two known compounds were isolated from a commercial Stevia rebaudiana leaf extract. One was found to be 13‐[(2‐O‐β‐d‐xylopyranosyl‐3‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl)oxy]ent‐kaur‐16‐en‐19‐oic acid‐(2‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl) ester (rebaudioside V), whereas the other was determined to be 13‐[(2‐O‐β‐d‐xylopyranosyl‐3‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl)oxy]ent‐kaur‐16‐en‐19‐oic acid‐(2‐O‐α‐l‐rhamnopyranosyl‐3‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl) ester (rebaudioside W). Previously reported compounds were isolated in gram quantities and identified as rebaudioside J and rebaudioside H. In addition, a C‐19 sugar‐free derivative was also prepared from rebaudioside H to afford rebaudioside H1. Chemical structures were partially determined by the high‐performance liquid chromatography method and unambiguously characterized by using one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance experiments.
Photon Correlations from the Mollow Triplet
Authors: López Carreño Juan Camilo , del Valle Elena , Laussy Fabrice P.
Published: August 2017

Photon correlations between the photoluminescence peaks of the Mollow triplet have been known for a long time, and recently hailed as a resource for heralded single‐photon sources. Here, we provide the full picture of photon‐correlations at all orders (we deal explicitly with up to four photons) and with no restriction to the peculiar frequency windows that enclose the peaks. We show that a rich multi‐photon physics lies between the peaks, due to transitions involving virtual photons, and thereby much more strongly correlated than those transiting through the real states. Specifically, we show that such emissions occur in bundles of photons rather than as successive, albeit correlated, photons. We provide the recipe to frequency‐filter the emission of the Mollow triplet to turn it into a versatile and tunable photon source, allowing in principle all scenarios of photon emission, with advantages already at the one‐photon level, i.e., providing more strongly correlated heralded single‐photon sources than those already known.
Metabolites and microbial composition of stool of women with fecal incontinence: Study design and methods
Authors: Arya Lily A. , Richter Holly E. , Jelovsek Eric , Gantz Marie , Cichowski Sara , Zyczynski Halina , Dyer Keisha , Siddiqui Nazema , Carberry Cassandra , Broeckling Corey , Morrow Casey , Kashyap Purna , Meikle Susie
Published: August 2017

Aims

This paper aims to report the rationale, design, and the specific methodology of an ongoing nested observational study that will determine the association of the metabolite and microbial composition of stool with fecal incontinence (FI).

Methods

Eligible cases are participants with FI enrolled in the Controlling Anal Incontinence in women by Performing Anal Exercises with Biofeedback or Loperamide (CAPABLe) trial, a Pelvic Floor Disorders Network trial across eight clinical centers in the United States. Women of similar age without FI in the last year served as controls. All subject collected stool samples at the baseline and 24‐week visit at home using a standardized collection method. Samples were shipped to and stored at centralized laboratories.

Results

Specimen collection commenced December 2014 and was completed in May 2016. Fecal water and DNA has been extracted and is currently being analyzed by targeted metabolic profiling for stool metabolites and 16S rRNA gene sequencing for stool microbiota.

Conclusions

This article describes the rationale and design of a study that could provide a paradigm shift for the treatment of FI in women.
The Effect of Nonnutritive Sweeteners Added to a Liquid Diet on Volume and Caloric Intake and Weight Gain in Rats
Authors: Bissonnette David J. , List Samantha , Knoblich Penny , Hadley M.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Long‐term effects of diet beverage consumption on the regulation of caloric intake is unclear. The goal of this study was to investigate whether the chronic intake of a liquid diet with nonnutritive sweeteners (NNS) would lead to greater appetite and weight gain.

Methods

Wistar rats were fed a liquid diet (Osmolite) sweetened with nutritive sweetener (NS; sucrose) and NNS (stevia and saccharin) or a nonsweetened control. Intakes and weight gain were measured. Phases 1 and 2 investigated sweetness preference, phase 3 used diets with or without sweeteners, and phase 4 measured the effect on volume of food and caloric intake of alternating between NNS, NS, and control diets.

Results

In phase 1, rats preferred: stevia, 0.10%; saccharin, 0.20%; and sucrose, 15%. In phase 2, rats preferred the sweetened diet over the control. In phase 3, rats fed the NS diet consumed less volume and more calories but gained less weight. In phase 4, when altering diet from NNS to NS, no differences were observed in appetite or weight gain.

Conclusions

Using sucrose‐sweetened diet as a control, increased weight gain with the ingestion of NNS was observed. However, using a nonsweetened control, neither increased caloric intake nor weight gain occurred with NNS intake. Alternating diets between NNS, NS, and control did not affect the appetite.
An MPC‐based position controller for a tilt‐rotor tricopter VTOL UAV
Authors: Prach Anna , Kayacan Erdal
Published: August 2017

This study presents a novel framework, namely, the fusion of a conventional controller and a linear model predictive controller, for the position control of a tilt‐rotor tricopter. While the conventional controller in the outer loop is responsible for the position control, the inner‐loop model predictive control–based controller handles the angular dynamics and vertical body velocity. Furthermore, a novel control allocation algorithm for the proposed controller is introduced. In addition, this study also covers mathematical modeling and trim analysis of the tilt‐rotor tricopter dynamics. An evaluation of the designed control system is accomplished with a nonlinear 6‐degree‐of‐freedom simulation model of the tilt‐rotor tricopter in which realistic actuator limitations are considered. The efficiency of the proposed control algorithm is elaborated for a trajectory tracking problem where basic surveillance operation is considered. The simulation results show that the proposed model predictive controller is able to provide a satisfactory trajectory tracking performance under the realistic actuator limits.
The Effects of Prenatal Iron Deficiency and Risperidone Treatment on the Rat Frontal Cortex:  A Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Farrelly Lorna , Rosato‐Siri Maria Victoria , Föcking Melanie , Codagnone Martin , Reines Analia , Dicker Patrick , Wynne Kieran , Farrell Michael , Cannon Mary , Cagney Gerard , Pasquini Juana Maria , Cotter David R.
Published: August 2017

Prenatal iron deficiency (pID) has been described to increase the risk for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia; however, the precise molecular mechanisms are still unknown. Here, we utilized high‐throughput MS to examine the proteomic effects of pID in adulthood on the rat frontal cortex area (FCA). In addition, the FCA proteome was examined in adulthood following risperidone treatment in adolescence to see if these effects could be prevented. We identified 1501 proteins of which 100 were significantly differentially expressed in the FCA at postnatal day 90. Pathway analysis of proteins affected by pID revealed changes in metabolic processes, including the tricyclic acid cycle, mitochondrial dysfunction, and P13K/Akt signaling. Interestingly, most of these protein changes were not present in the adult pID offspring who received risperidone in adolescence. Considering the link between pID and several neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia these presented results bring new perspectives to understand the role of iron in metabolic pathways and provide novel biomarkers for future studies of pID.
Physical activity and exercise self‐regulation in cancer survivors: A qualitative study
Authors: Tsai Edward , Robertson Michael C. , Lyons Elizabeth J. , Swartz Maria C. , Basen‐Engquist Karen
Published: August 2017

Objective

Despite the benefits of physical activity, many cancer survivors do not adhere to clinically recommended levels. This qualitative study investigated factors of self‐regulation contributing to survivor physical activity patterns.

Methods

Participants attended focus groups with prompts on exercise habits and self‐regulation on the basis of social cognitive theory, self‐determination theory, and self‐regulation theory. Content analysis with a priori codes was conducted to identify emergent themes.

Results

Participants (n = 35) were predominately older (63.7 y ± 10.8), female (69%), white (71%), and breast cancer (60%) survivors, with 41% not meeting activity guidelines. Emergent themes included exercise goal development, selection, and attainment; exercise planning; and self‐reward. Participants tended to develop values‐based, general goals rather than action‐based, measurable goals. Goal attainment success emerged as a facilitator of future goal performance; completing a current goal facilitated subsequent goal attainment, while failure hindered future goal completion. Rather than having deliberate intentions to schedule exercise, participants exercised if expedient in the context of normal daily activities. Food consumption emerged as a major mechanism for self‐reward.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that values‐based goals, unplanned activity, influence from previous goal attempts, and self‐reward were important factors related to self‐regulation. Interventions designed to improve self‐regulation may consider facilitating development of autonomous, value‐based goals, assisting in development of strategies for future goals if current goals are not met, endorsing exercise as a scheduled activity, and introducing healthy self‐reward alternatives.
Epigenetic risk score improves prostate cancer risk assessment
Authors: Van Neste Leander , Groskopf Jack , Grizzle William E. , Adams George W. , DeGuenther Mark S. , Kolettis Peter N. , Bryant James E. , Kearney Gary P. , Kearney Michael C. , Van Criekinge Wim , Gaston Sandra M.
Published: August 2017

Background

Early detection of aggressive prostate cancer (PCa) remains crucial for effective treatment of patients. However, PCa screening remains controversial due to a high rate of overdiagnosis and overtreatment. To better reconcile both objectives, more effective methods for assessing disease severity at the time of diagnosis are needed.

Methods

The relationship between DNA‐methylation and high‐grade PCa was examined in a cohort of 102 prospectively enrolled men who received standard 12‐core prostate biopsies. EpiScore, an algorithm that quantifies the relative DNA methylation intensities of GSTP1, RASSF1, and APC in prostate biopsy tissue, was evaluated as a method to compensate for biopsy under‐sampling and improve risk stratification at the time of diagnosis.

Results

DNA‐methylation intensities of GSTP1, RASSF1, and APC were higher in biopsy cores from men diagnosed with GS ≥ 7 cancer compared to men with diagnosed GS 6 disease. This was confirmed by EpiScore, which was significantly higher for subjects with high‐grade biopsies and higher NCCN risk categories (both P < 0.001). In patients diagnosed with GS ≥ 7, increased levels of DNA‐methylation were present, not only in the high‐grade biopsy cores, but also in other cores with no or low‐grade disease (P < 0.001). By combining EpiScore with traditional clinical risk factors into a logistic regression model, the prediction of high GS reached an AUC of 0.82 (95%CI: 0.73‐0.91) with EpiScore, DRE, and atypical histological findings as most important contributors.

Conclusions

In men diagnosed with PCa, DNA‐methylation profiling can detect under‐sampled high‐risk PCa in prostate biopsy specimens through a field effect. Predictive accuracy increased when EpiScore was combined with other clinical risk factors. These results suggest that EpiScore could aid in the detection of occult high‐grade disease at the time of diagnosis, thereby improving the selection of candidates for Active Surveillance.
Quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) directed the discovery of 3‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)benzenesulfonamide derivatives as novel herbicidal agents
Authors: Xie Yong , Peng Wei , Ding Fei , Liu Shu‐Jie , Ma Hong‐Juan , Liu Chang‐Ling
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Agrochemicals have been crucial to the production of food, and the need for the development of novel agrochemicals continues unceasing owing to the loss of existing produces via the growth of resistance and the desire for products with more propitious environmental and toxicological patterns.

RESULTS

The results of both CoMFA and CoMSIA models indicated that biological activity can effectively be improved through the structural optimisation and molecular design of these synthetic compounds from the aspects of steric, electrostatic, hydrophobic, hydrogen bond donor and acceptor fields. Data of postemergence herbicidal activity in the greenhouse explained that most new 3‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)benzenesulfonamide derivatives (4c–4 t) could control highly effectively against barnyardgrass, foxtail, vetleaf, and youth and old age (herbicidal activity ≥90%); for example, compounds 4q–4 t exhibit excellent biological activity equivalent/superior to commercial saflufenacil/sulcotrione at the low concentration of 37.5 g a.i./ha, and in particular, the herbicidal activity of compound 4 t for four experimental plant species is found to be notably greater than saflufenacil (3.75 g a.i./ha). Meanwhile, compound 4 t also has good crop selectivity for weed control in maize.

CONCLUSION

The novel compounds such as 4 t have remarkable biological activity after the structural optimisation utilising the constructed 3D‐QSAR models, i.e. such QSAR models have great accuracy. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Adaptive tracking control of MIMO nonlinear nonminimum phase system with unknown input nonlinearity
Authors: Hu Xiaoxiang , Wu Ligang , Si Xiaosheng , Hu Changhua
Published: August 2017

This paper proposes a nonlinear adaptive control for output tracking of multi‐input multi‐output nonlinear nonminimum phase system with input nonlinearity. The parameters of the input nonlinearity are assumed to be unknown. This problem is challenging, not only because of the unstable internal dynamics of nonminimum phase system, but also the existence of the unknown input nonlinearity. The partially linearized model of the original system is obtained through input/output linearization, and a states tracking model is constructed based on the computed ideal internal dynamics. A nonlinear adaptive controller, which can guarantee the bounded of output tracking error in the existence of unknown input nonlinearity, is proposed. Finally, a numerical simulation on vertical takeoff and landing aircraft is given to show the effectiveness of the proposed control methods.
Effect of reactive oxygen species generated with ultraviolet lamp and plasma on polyimide surface modification
Authors: Kondo Takahiro , Watanabe Ryota , Shimoyama Yuta , Shinohe Kazuho , Kulinich Sergei A. , Iwamori Satoru
Published: August 2017

Understanding the effect of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as singlet oxygen molecule and atomic oxygen, on polyimide (PI) film properties, such as wettability, morphology, and chemical bonding state, is essential for further development of PI‐based surfaces. We investigated the effect of different ROS generated during ultraviolet (UV) and plasma treatment in oxygen gas on surface modification of Kapton PI. Different surface modification techniques, UV and plasma treatment, are known to generate different ROS. In this work, we demonstrate the effect of different ROS on PI surface modification. From the diagnostics of ROS by means of electron spin resonance and optical emission spectroscopy, we confirmed that during UV treatment, excited singlet oxygen molecules are the main ROS, while plasma treatment mainly generated atomic oxygen. The wettability of PI surface treated by UV and plasma resulted in hydrophilic PI surfaces. XPS results show that the wettability of PI samples is mainly determined by their surface O/C ratio. However, chemical bonding states were different: while UV treatment tended to generate C=O bonds, while plasma treatment tended to generate both C―O and C=O bonds. Singlet oxygen molecules are concluded to be the main oxidant during UV treatment, and their main reaction with PI was concluded to be of the addition type, leading to an increase of C=O groups on the surface of PI film. Meanwhile, atomic oxygen species were the main oxidant during plasma treatment, reacting with the PI surface through both etching and addition reaction, resulting in a wider variety of bonds, including both C―O and C=O groups.
A Domino Approach for the Synthesis of α‐Iodo‐β‐dicarbonyl Compounds from α‐Epoxycarbonyls
Authors: Mahato Sachinta , Chatterjee Rana , Santra Sougata , Zyryanov Grigory V. , Hajra Alakananda , Majee Adinath
Published: August 2017

A series of α‐iodo‐β‐dicarbonyl compounds have been synthesized from α‐epoxycarbonyl compounds through a consecutive reaction by ring opening of epoxide followed by the oxidation in presence of NH2OH⋅HCl and NaIO4. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time report for the use of α‐epoxycarbonyls as a key starting material for the synthesis of α‐iodo‐β‐dicarbonyl compounds. Various functional groups are well tolerated under the present reaction conditions. The epoxy carbonyl compound containing alkyl part is also effective for this conversion. The reactions were carried out in open atmosphere and are not sensitive to air and moisture. All of the synthesized compounds have been characterized by spectral and analytical data. The potential synthetic applicability of this method was investigated on a gram scale using the model reaction. The advantages of the present method are operational simplicity, short reaction time, general applicability, good tolerance to scale‐up synthesis, as well as readily available reagents. A plausible mechanism has been proposed on the basis of an intermediate isolated from the reaction mixture.
Phosphatase Mimicking Activity of Two Zinc(II) Schiff Base Complexes with Zn2O2 Cores: NBO Analysis and MEP Calculation to Estimate Non‐Covalent Interactions
Authors: Basak Tanmoy , Bhattacharyya Anik , Das Mithun , Harms Klaus , Bauzá Antonio , Frontera Antonio , Chattopadhyay Shouvik
Published: August 2017

Two zinc(II) complexes, [Zn2(L1)2(N3)2] (1) (HL1= [2‐((2‐(dimethylamino)ethylimino)methyl)phenol] and [Zn2(L2)2(NCO)2] (2) (HL2= [1‐(1‐(2‐(dimethylamino)ethylimino)ethyl)naphthalen‐2‐ol] have been synthesized and characterized by X‐ray crystallography. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been employed to estimate the contribution of various non‐covalent interactions in the formation of self assembly using several theoretical models. Excellent phosphatase mimicking activities {kcat =135 h−1 (for 1) and 190 h−1 (for 2) at 298 K} on disodium 4‐nitrophenylphosphate hexahydrate substrate have been exhibited by both complexes. The phosphatase mimicking activity has been evaluated by monitoring the increase in absorbance at 427 nm (spectrophotometrically) indicating gradual release of p‐nitrophenolate by the hydrolysis of 4‐nitrophenylphosphate ester with time.
Technology beats algorithms (in exact string matching)
Authors: Tarhio Jorma , Holub Jan , Giaquinta Emanuele
Published: August 2017

More than 120 algorithms have been developed for exact string matching within the last 40 years. We show by experiments that the naïve algorithm exploiting SIMD instructions of modern CPUs (with symbols compared in a special order) is the fastest one for patterns of length up to about 50 symbols and extremely good for longer patterns and small alphabets. The algorithm compares 16 or 32 characters in parallel by applying SSE2 or AVX2 instructions, respectively. Moreover, it uses loop peeling to further speed up the searching phase. We tried several orders for comparisons of pattern symbols, and the increasing order of their probabilities in the text was the best.
Implications of the Changing Status of English for Instructional Models of English: A Study of Vietnamese ELT Teachers’ Reflections
Authors: Phan Ngan Le hai
Published: August 2017

English language teaching (ELT) in Vietnam has been influenced mostly by the native speaker model through the communicative language approach (Pham, ). With the spread of globalisation, however, English as an international language has undergone major demographic, geographic, and structural changes. The current roles and status of English require a reexamination of ELT teaching models and methodologies, especially in countries employing traditional methods (Sharifian, ). Although scholars have researched theoretical examinations and the resulting teaching implications, teachers’ perspectives have not been extensively studied. Jenkins (, p. 492) says it is not academics’ place “to tell teachers what to do.” Therefore, teachers’ voices in discussions of the current status of English and its impacts on their teaching are important. This empirical study addresses this gap in the literature and explores teachers’ thoughts about the recent changes in the role of English for their teaching practices. The data, collected from focus groups of English teachers in Vietnam, show that teachers’ responses to the diversity of English ranged from a preference for the native speaker model to a desire to include varieties of English in the classroom. Based on their reflections, the article discusses several pedagogical directions for ELT in Vietnam and similar expanding circle contexts.
Numerical and Physical Study on a Cylindrical Tundish Design to Produce a Swirling Flow in the SEN During Continuous Casting of Steel
Authors: Ni Peiyuan , Wang Dongxing , Jonsson Lage Tord Ingemar , Ersson Mikael , Zhang Ting-an , Jönsson Pär Göran
Published: August 2017

A new tundish design was investigated using both water model experiments and numerical simulations. The results show that the Reynolds Stress Model simulation results agree well with the Particle Image Velocimetry-measured results for water model experiments. A strong swirling flow in the Submerged Entry Nozzle (SEN) of the new tundish was successfully obtained, and the tangential velocity in the region near SEN inlet could reach a value of around 3.1 m/s. A high value of the shear stress was found to exist on the SEN wall, due to the strong swirling flow inside the SEN. This large shear stress leads to the dissipation of the rotational momentum of the steel flow. Thus, the maximum tangential velocity of the steel flow decreases from 3.1 m/s at around the SEN inlet to 2.2 m/s at a location close to the SEN outlet. In addition, the near-wall region has a high pressure, which is larger than the atmospheric pressure, due to the centrifugal effect. The calculated swirl number, with the value of around 1.6 at SEN inlet, illustrates that the current design can produce a similar strong swirling flow compared to the swirl blade method and the electromagnetic stirring method, while this is obtained by simply changing the steel flow path in tundish instead of using additional device to influence the flow.
Status of Antenatal Detection of Congenital Heart Defects in a Northern Indian Population and Factors Influencing it
Authors: Nair Anupama , Radhakrishnan Sitaraman
Published: August 2017

Objective To evaluate the antenatal detection rate (ADR) of congenital heart defects (CHDs) in the northern part of India and also to assess the factors affecting the same.

Methods This was a prospective study performed at a tertiary referral center for pediatric cardiac care in northern India and included 200 consecutive infants (including neonates). A detailed history was obtained from the parents based on a protocol which included antenatal, birth and postnatal details including age at CHD detection. Patients with postnatal diagnosis of atrial septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus, partial anomalous pulmonary venous return, coronary and vascular ring anomalies and coarctation of aorta were excluded.

Results Median age of detection of CHD was 1 mo (range = 1 d–11 mo). Fetal echocardiography (FE) was done in 23 (11.5%) patients; CHD was detected in 21 of them, giving an overall antenatal detection rate (ADR) of CHD as 10.5%. Fifteen of them were referred to a pediatric cardiologist for FE while in 8 patients, FE was performed by sonologist or fetal medicine specialist. Median gestational age at referral to a regional pediatric cardiologist for FE was 24 wk (range = 18–36 wk). Most important factor affecting the ADR was total number of ultrasounds during pregnancy, with ADR being higher in those having four or more ultrasound examinations.

Conclusions Antenatal detection rate for CHD was very low. Referral for a focused fetal echocardiography during pregnancy is poor and those referred are done at very late stages of pregnancy. Measures that can help in improving the detection include following a strict protocol for cardiac screening, extending the screening to include the outflow tracts and early referral to fetal or pediatric cardiologists in case of minimal suspicion.