bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EARLY REGULATION IN CHILDREN WHO ARE LATER DIAGNOSED WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER. A LONGITUDINAL STUDY WITHIN THE DANISH NATIONAL BIRTH COHORT
Authors: Lemcke Sanne , Parner Erik T. , Bjerrum Merete , Thomsen PER H. , Lauritsen Marlene B.
Published: February 2018

Studies have shown that children later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in their first years of life might show symptoms in main developmental areas and that these signs might be sensed by the parents. The present study investigated in a large birth cohort if children later diagnosed with ASD had deviations at 6 and 18 months in areas such as the ability to self‐regulate emotions, feeding, and sleeping. The study was based on prospective information collected from 76,322 mothers who participated in the Danish National Birth Cohort. When the children reached an average age of 11 years, 973 children with ASD and a control group of 300 children with intellectual disability (IDnoASD) were identified via Danish health registries. Associations were found between short periods of breast‐feeding and the children later diagnosed with ASD and IDnoASD as well as associations at 18 months to deviations in regulation of emotions and activity. The similarities in these associations emphasize how difficult it is to distinguish between diagnoses early in life.
Mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling is involved in nonylphenol‐induced proinflammatory cytokines secretion by BV2 microglia
Authors: Gu Weijia , Wang Yi , Qiu Zhenmin , Dong Jing , Wang Yuan , Chen Jie
Published: February 2018

Microglia (MG) are the key cells involved in the innate immune response in the central nervous system, and their activation has been linked to inflammation and neurotoxicity by the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Recently, researchers have found that nonylphenol (NP), a ubiquitous endocrine disrupting chemical, could impair neurodevelopment and cognitive memory performance. However, whether NP affects the inflammatory responses of MG remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of NP on the inflammatory responses of BV2 MG and the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that NP increased the secretion of interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐1β in BV2 MG. Increased phosphorylation of Akt, JNK and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase and decreased phosphorylation of ERK were observed in NP‐treated MG. The inflammatory transcription factor activator protein 1 was also activated in NP‐treated BV2 MG. These results suggest that NP may activate Akt/mitogen‐activated protein kinase/activator protein 1 signaling in MG and subsequently increase IL‐6 and IL‐1β secretion.
Comparing different estimated glomerular filtration rate equations in assessing glomerular function in children based on creatinine and cystatin C
Authors: Conkar Seçil , Mir Sevgi , Karaslan Fatma Nur , Hakverdi Gülden
Published: February 2018

Background

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is the best marker used to assess renal function. Estimated GFR (eGFR) equations have been developed, and the ideal formula is still under discussion. We wanted to find the most practical and reliable GFR in eGFR formulas. We compared serum creatinine (Scr)‐ and cystatin C (cysC)‐based eGFR formulas in the literature. We also aimed to determine the suitability and the reliability of cysC for practical use in determining GFR in children.

Methods

We have enrolled 238 children in the study. Measurement of 24‐hour creatinine clearance was compared with eGFR equations which are based on Scr, cysC, and creatinine plus cysC.

Results

Of the patients (n = 238), 117 were males (49.2%), and 121 (50.8%) were females with a median age of 9.0 years. The areas under the ROC curves of Counahan‐Barratt and Bedside Schwartz were equal and 0.89 (with a 95% CI 0.80‐0.97). The areas under the ROC curves were not significantly different in all cystatin C‐based eGFR equations. The highest AUC values for differentiating normal vs abnormal renal functions according to CrCl24 were for the CKiD‐cysC and CKiD‐Scr‐cysC equations.

Conclusions

In our study, compared with creatinine‐based ones, the cystatin C‐based formulas did not show much superiority in predicting eGFR. Still, we think Bedside Schwartz is a good formula to provide ease of use because, in this equation, the constant k is same for all age groups. However, the most valuable equations in determining chronic kidney disease are the CKiD‐cysC and CKiD‐Scr‐cysC equations.
Engaging critical community resilience praxis: A qualitative study with Mapuche communities in Chile facing structural racism and disasters
Authors: Atallah Devin G. , Contreras Painemal Carlos , Albornoz Lorena , Salgado Flavio , Pilquil Lizama Elizabeth
Published: February 2018

Mapuche are the largest indigenous group in Chile and have survived histories of colonialism, socionatural disasters, and more recently, increasing conflicts with the Chilean state. This study aimed to engage critical theories and examine resilience processes from indigenous perspectives while exploring the impact of racism, intersecting adversities, and ongoing decolonial struggles in Mapuche communities. Decolonial qualitative methods, situational analysis, and community‐engaged participatory approaches were utilized in application of a critical community resilience praxis (CCRP). First, an interagency collaborative entitled Mapuche Equipo Colaborativo para la Investigación de la Resiliencia (MECIR) was established. MECIR involved partnerships between a Chilean national research center for disasters, a nongovernmental organization of indigenous advocates/researchers, and a Mapuche community health center. MECIR completed semistructured interviews with 10 participants (N = 10) in addition to ethnographic observations. Four themes of resilience emerged: newen, “strength and spiritual life‐nature force”; azmapu, “ancestral systems of social organization and tribal law”; nietun, “cultural revitalization”; and marichiweu, “resistance.” Findings contribute to reconceptualizations of resilience from Mapuche perspectives while identifying culturally meaningful strategies for promoting racial justice and mental health equity. Results show benefits of CCRP in community psychology research in an international setting.
Inequality in outcomes for adolescents living with perinatally acquired HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa: a Collaborative Initiative for Paediatric HIV Education and Research (CIPHER) Cohort Collaboration analysis
Authors:   CIPHER Global Cohort Collaboration
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Eighty percent of adolescents living with perinatally and behaviourally acquired HIV live in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), a continent with marked economic inequality. As part of our global project describing adolescents living with perinatally acquired HIV (APH), we aimed to assess whether inequality in outcomes exists by country income group (CIG) for APH within SSA.

Methods

Through the CIPHER cohort collaboration, individual retrospective data from 7 networks and 25 countries in SSA were included. APH were included if they entered care at age <10 years (as a proxy for perinatally acquired HIV) and had follow‐up at age >10 years. World Bank CIG classification for median year of first visit was used. Cumulative incidence of mortality, transfer‐out and loss‐to‐follow‐up was calculated by competing risks analysis. Mortality was compared across CIG by Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

A total of 30,296 APH were included; 50.9% were female and 75.7% were resident in low‐income countries (LIC). Median [interquartile range (IQR)] age at antiretroviral therapy (ART) start was 8.1 [6.3; 9.5], 7.8 [6.2; 9.3] and 7.3 [5.2; 8.9] years in LIC, lower‐middle income countries (LMIC) and upper‐middle income countries (UMIC) respectively. Median age at last follow‐up was 12.1 [10.9; 13.8] years, with no difference between CIG. Cumulative incidence (95% CI) for mortality between age 10 and 15 years was lowest in UMIC (1.1% (0.8; 1.4)) compared to LIC (3.5% (3.1; 3.8)) and LMIC (3.9% (2.7; 5.4)). Loss‐to‐follow‐up was highest in UMIC (14.0% (12.9; 15.3)) compared to LIC (13.1% (12.4; 13.8)) and LMIC (8.3% (6.3; 10.6)). Adjusted mortality hazard ratios (95% CI) for APH in LIC and LMIC in reference to UMIC were 2.50 (1.85; 3.37) and 2.96 (1.90; 4.61) respectively, with little difference when restricted only to APH who ever received ART. In adjusted analyses mortality was similar for male and female APH.

Conclusions

Results highlight probable inequality in mortality according to CIG in SSA even when ART was received. These findings highlight that without attention towards SDG 10 (to reduce inequality within and among countries), progress towards ensuring healthy lives and promoting wellbeing for all at all ages (SDG 3) will be hampered for APH in LIC and LMIC.
Shortening the decade‐long gap between adult and paediatric drug formulations: a new framework based on the HIV experience in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Penazzato Martina , Lewis Linda , Watkins Melynda , Prabhu Vineet , Pascual Fernando , Auton Martin , Kreft Wesley , Morin Sébastien , Vicari Marissa , Lee Janice , Jamieson David , Siberry George K
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Despite the coordinated efforts by several stakeholders to speed up access to HIV treatment for children, development of optimal paediatric formulations still lags 8 to 10 years behind that of adults, due mainly to lack of market incentives and technical complexities in manufacturing. The small and fragmented paediatric market also hinders launch and uptake of new formulations. Moreover, the problems affecting HIV similarly affect other disease areas where development and introduction of optimal paediatric formulations is even slower. Therefore, accelerating processes for developing and commercializing optimal paediatric drug formulations for HIV and other disease areas is urgently needed.

Discussion

The Global Accelerator for Paediatric Formulations (GAP‐f) is an innovative collaborative model that will accelerate availability of optimized treatment options for infectious diseases, such as HIV, tuberculosis and viral hepatitis, affecting children in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). It builds on the HIV experience and existing efforts in paediatric drug development, formalizing collaboration between normative bodies, research networks, regulatory agencies, industry, supply and procurement organizations and funding bodies. Upstream, the GAP‐f will coordinate technical support to companies to design and study optimal paediatric formulations, harmonize efforts with regulators and incentivize manufacturers to conduct formulation development. Downstream, the GAP‐f will reinforce coordinated procurement and communication with suppliers. The GAP‐f will be implemented in a three‐stage process: (1) development of a strategic framework and promotion of key regulatory efficiencies; (2) testing of feasibility and results, building on the work of existing platforms such as the Paediatric HIV Treatment Initiative (PHTI) including innovative approaches to incentivize generic development and (3) launch as a fully functioning structure.

Conclusions

GAP‐f is a key partnership example enhancing North‐South and international cooperation on and access to science and technology and capacity building, responding to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17.6 (technology) and 17.9. (capacity‐building). By promoting access to the most needed paediatric formulations for HIV and high‐burden infectious diseases in low‐and middle‐income countries, GAP‐f will support achievement of SDG 3.2 (infant mortality), 3.3 (end of AIDS and combat other communicable diseases) and 3.8 (access to essential medicines), and be an essential component of meeting the global Start Free, Stay Free, AIDS Free super‐fast‐track targets.
Fluid and stable: Dynamics of team action patterns and adaptive outcomes
Authors: Uitdewilligen Sjir , Rico Ramón , Waller Mary J.
Published: February 2018

The current study draws on work in the areas of team adaptation, team compilation, and small groups as complex systems to predict and test relationships between time, taskwork team mental models, team action patterns, and team effectiveness. Three‐person teams performed 9 scenarios of a firefighting simulation distributed over 3 days with discontinuous task changes introduced in the fourth and seventh scenarios (N = 41 teams; 123 individuals). We applied pattern detection algorithm software to the behavioral data to identify emergent performative patterns in the team members' task‐oriented actions. We also used discontinuous growth modeling to track the development of these team action patterns and their dynamic relation to team effectiveness. The results indicate that pattern emergence increased over time. This was particularly true for teams with similar taskwork mental models, and these teams also showed a more acute decrease in action patterns after a task change. In addition, team action patterns became increasingly positively related to team effectiveness over time, but this effect was reset after the occurrence of a task change. Overall, our research provides practical guidance to managers by illustrating the value of teams having highly shared taskwork team mental models and of enhancing the effects of teams' action patterns on team adaptive outcomes.
What's Wrong with Creativity Testing?
Authors: Sternberg Robert J.
Published: February 2018

Creativity testing as it is now done is often based on a defective assumption that different kinds of creativity can be compressed into a single unidimensional scale. There is no reason to believe that the different kinds of creativity represent, simply, different amounts of a single unidimensional construct. The article shows how three different ways of viewing creativity lead to different ways of measuring creativity, all at variance with current unidimensional models. The point of view presented here does not suggest that current creativity tests are invalid, but rather, that care must be taken in the nature of claims made for them. Moreover, many of the same arguments could be applied to the measurement of intelligence and even wisdom as well.
Material processed with 58,000‐year‐old grindstones from Sibudu (KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa) identified by means of Raman microspectroscopy
Authors: Wojcieszak Marine
Published: February 2018

Despite their high potential for understanding past human behaviours, the study of grindstones is limited in the literature compared with other forms of lithic tools. This paper reports the combination of optical microscopy and Raman microspectroscopy for understanding the uses of a selection of six grindstones from the post‐Howiesons Poort layers at Sibudu, South Africa, dating to 58,000 years ago. Five of the specimens exhibit numerous red haematite stains which imply red ochre processing. Nevertheless, each artefact seems to have been used for a specific task. For example, the smallest grindstone was used for a combination of tasks—ochre, bone, and organic matter processing. The distinction between use residues, sediment contamination, secondary mineral formation, modern contamination, and components included in the sandstone that the grindstones are made from is discussed.
A comparison of pulsed and continuous lasers for high‐temperature Raman measurements of anhydrite
Authors: Kirtley John , Leichner Victoria , Anderson Benjamin R. , Eilers Hergen
Published: February 2018

Oxygen carrier particles (OCPs) serve as fuel oxidant in emerging chemical looping combustion systems. However, chemical looping combustion process optimization is hindered by the lack of online sensors for measurements of OCP oxidation states at temperatures up to 1,000 °C and pressures up to 10 atm. We are investigating Raman spectroscopy as a potential solution, as this technique is known for its ability to provide noninvasive, molecularly specific information in real time in a wide variety of applications. As a case study, Raman spectra from high‐temperature (>1,000 °C) anhydrite, a potential OCP, are presented using pulsed and continuous wave excitation at 532 nm. When pulsed excitation is coupled with time‐gated detection, background signal from thermal radiation can be significantly reduced from single pulse spectra, outperforming results using an ungated detector. Also, laser heating of the sample is not observed but laser‐induced breakdown spectra increasingly appear with increasing temperature and pulse intensity. Compared with pulsed excitation, continuous wave excitation with longer acquisition time, offers higher signal to noise and avoids the risk for laser‐induced breakdown spectra but demonstrates minor sample heating. Finally, the data demonstrate practical utility by (a) providing a calibration of anhydrite's ν1 (1,017 cm−1) Raman temperature‐dependent band position and by (b) providing estimates of temperature using the ratios of the Stokes/anti‐Stokes ν1 integrated intensities. These results demonstrate the first high‐temperature, pulsed Raman spectra from anhydrite while evaluating challenges associated with high‐temperature, Raman measurements of OCP materials in general.
Quinoa bitterness: causes and solutions for improving product acceptability
Authors: Suárez‐Estrella Diego , Torri Luisa , Pagani Maria Ambrogina , Marti Alessandra
Published: February 2018

Awareness of the several agronomic, environmental, and health benefits of quinoa has led to a constant increase in its production and consumption not only in South America, where it is a native crop, but also in Europe and the USA. However, producing wheat or gluten‐free based products enriched with quinoa alters some quality characteristics, including sensory acceptance. Several anti‐nutritional factors such as saponins are concentrated in the grain pericarp. These bitter and astringent substances may interfere with the digestion and absorption of various nutrients. Developing processes to decrease or modify the bitterness of quinoa can enhance palatability, and thus consumption, of quinoa. In addition to the production of sweet varieties of quinoa, other processes have been proposed. Some of them (i.e. washing, pearling and the combination of the two) have a direct effect on saponins, either by solubilization and/or the mechanical removal of seed layers. Others, such as fermentation or germination, are able to mask the bitterness with aroma compounds and/or sugar formation. This review presents the major sources of the undesirable sensory attributes of quinoa, including bitterness, and various ways of counteracting the negative characteristics of quinoa. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of nano‐scaled rabbit bone powder on physicochemical properties of rabbit meat batter
Authors: Li Shaobo , He Zhifei , Li Hongjun
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

To explore a new method of deep processing and to improve the value of rabbit bone, we prepared a nano‐scaled rabbit bone powder by dry ball milling and compared the effect of different particle sizes of rabbit bone powder [fine‐scaled (236.01 ± 5.99 μm), superfine‐scaled (65.92 ± 1.71 μm), nano‐scaled (502.52 ± 11.72 nm)] on the nutritional characteristics, pH, color, water‐holding capacity, textural and rheological attributes of rabbit meat batter.

RESULTS

The rabbit bone powder significantly affected nutritional characteristics of meat batters; in particular, the contents of calcium were increased, regardless of particle size. Additionally, the rabbit meat batter, which contained 20 g kg–1 nano‐scaled rabbit bone, had the lowest centrifugal and cooking losses among the treatments.

CONCLUSION

Based on the textural and rheological attributes of the rabbit meat batters, the addition of 20 g kg–1 nano‐scaled rabbit bone was the best treatment. This represents an important finding with respect to the deep processing of rabbit bone in the rabbit meat industry. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Systematic investigation for extraction and separation of polyphenols in tea leaves by magnetic ionic liquids
Authors: Feng Xueting , Zhang Wei , Zhang Tenghe , Yao Shun
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Magnetic separation has become a mature industrial technique in many fields and its application in the food and agricultural fields is expected for further extension. Furthermore, there has been little application of magnetic ionic liquids in the preparation of bioactive products. In the present study, 0.8 mol L–1 C3MIMFeCl4 in its aqueous solution was found to be ideal for the extraction of active constituents from tea leaves. After extraction, polyphenols, caffeine and ionic liquid were also satisfactorily separated from the crude extract by various easy operations.

RESULTS

The average extraction efficiency of tea polyphenols could reach up to 185.38 g kg–1 and the recovery percent of the magnetic ionic liquid was 99.8% through an external magnetic field. The extraction process was more consistent with a pseudo‐second order kinetic model. Moreover, C3MIMFeCl4 had no effect on the stability of tea polyphenols, which was very different from ordinary ferric salt. The presence of magnetic ionic liquid had a positive effect on the antioxidant activity of the product.

CONCLUSION

The developed method had a good performance for selective extraction together with separation of tea polyphenols and caffeine, which is expected in the preparation of more similar active components from food and agricultural resources as a useful multifunctional solvent. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Number of nodes in sentinel lymph node biopsy for breast cancer: Are surgeons still biased?
Authors: Percy Dean B. , Pao Jin‐Si , McKevitt Elaine , Dingee Carol , Kuusk Urve , Warburton Rebecca
Published: February 2018

Background and Objectives

The purpose of this study was to assess the number of lymph nodes removed at SLNB, and what factors might bias a surgeon's decision to remove additional nodes.

Methods

A prospectively maintained database was reviewed. All patients that had SLNB for primary treatment of breast cancer between January 2012 and March 2016 were identified. Clinicopathologic factors were used to compare the number of LNs and rates of node positivity.

Results

One thousand six hundred and three patients were included. The average number of SLNs, non‐SLNs, and total LNs was 2.53, 0.54, 3.08, respectively. Significantly more LNs were removed in age <40 versus age >40 (3.73, 3.04 P < 0.01), invasive versus DCIS (3.13, 2.73 P < 0.001), Grade III versus Grade II (3.42, 2.99 P < 0.01), T2 versus T1 (3.40, 2.96 P < 0.01), and ER‐ versus ER+ (3.45, 3.05 P < 0.05). SLN positivity was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in invasive versus DCIS (27%, 4%), T2 versus T1 (30%. 17%), Grade II versus Grade I (42%, 18%), and ILC versus IDC (38%, 26%).

Conclusions

There was a significant difference in the number of lymph nodes removed at SLNB in certain groups however; node positivity was not necessarily higher in these groups. Surgeons must be cognizant of potential bias when performing SLNB.
In transit sentinel node drainage as a prognostic factor for patients with cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Brandão Paulo H. D. M. , Bertolli Eduardo , Doria‐Filho Eduardo , Santos Filho Ivan D. A. O. , de Macedo Mariana P. , Pinto Clovis A. L. , Duprat Neto João P.
Published: February 2018

Background

Minor basin or in transit node drainage can be found in patients with cutaneous melanoma who undergo sentinel node biopsy. Its clinical impact is still unclear. Our objective is to evaluate clinical outcomes in patients who presented with in transit sentinel node (ITN) drainage.

Material and Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent sentinel node biopsy (SNB) in a single Brazilian institution between 2000 and 2015.

Results

Our cohort comprised 1223 SNB. There were 64 patients (5.2%) with ITN. Melanoma of the limbs (OR 10.61, P < 0.0001) and acral subtype (OR 3.49, P < 0.0001) were associated with ITN drainage. Among these 64 patients, 14 (21.9%) had a positive SNB. The ITN was positive for metastases in five patients, four in a popliteal basin and one on the trunk. Regarding completion node dissection (CND), two patients had positive non‐sentinel nodes (NSN), both in major basins. In patients who developed recurrence, time to recurrence was shorter (mean time 18 vs 31.4 months, P = 0.001) and time to death was shorter (mean time 31.6 vs 40 months, P = 0.039) in those who had ITN drainage.

Conclusion

ITN drainage was associated with earlier recurrences and deaths from melanoma.
Determination of ultraviolet filter compounds in environmental water samples using membrane‐protected micro‐solid‐phase extraction
Authors: Vosough Maryam , Hassanbeigi Zahra , Salemi Amir
Published: February 2018

A method based on membrane‐protected micro‐solid‐phase extraction coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry was developed for the determination of six ultraviolet filter compounds in various aqueous media. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes as the sorbent were encapsulated in a sealed polypropylene membrane packet and immersed in the sample to extract the analytes, and then dichloromethane was used for desorption purpose. The method was sensitive enough for quantitative analysis of the target analytes, with limits of quantification between 0.01 and 0.06 μg/L, and produced a linear response (R2 > 0.991) over the calibration range (0.05–6 μg/L). The obtained reproducibility was practically suitable with relative standard deviation values of less than 14% in pure water (spiked at 0.20/μg L) and less than 15% in real samples. The optimized method was applied for the analysis of real water samples with varying matrix complexity: tap, river, and dam water; geothermal spa; and sewage treatment plant effluent. Various levels and patterns of contamination were observed in the examined samples, while the sample from spa was the most contaminated, regarding the target analytes. Matrix spikes and matrix spike replicates were also analyzed to validate the technique for analysis of real aqueous samples, and satisfactory results were achieved.
Chemometrics comparison of gas chromatography with mass spectrometry and comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry Daphnia magna metabolic profiles exposed to salinity
Authors: Parastar Hadi , Garreta‐Lara Elba , Campos Bruno , Barata Carlos , Lacorte Silvia , Tauler Roma
Published: February 2018

The performances of gas chromatography with mass spectrometry and of comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry are examined through the comparison of Daphnia magna metabolic profiles. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry and comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometry were used to compare the concentration changes of metabolites under saline conditions. In this regard, a chemometric strategy based on wavelet compression and multivariate curve resolution–alternating least squares is used to compare the performances of gas chromatography with mass spectrometry and comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry for the untargeted metabolic profiling of Daphnia magna in control and salinity‐exposed samples. Examination of the results confirmed the outperformance of comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry over gas chromatography with mass spectrometry for the detection of metabolites in D. magna samples. The peak areas of multivariate curve resolution–alternating least squares resolved elution profiles in every sample analyzed by comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry were arranged in a new data matrix that was then modeled by partial least squares discriminant analysis. The control and salt‐exposed daphnids samples were discriminated and the most relevant metabolites were estimated using variable importance in projection and selectivity ratio values. Salinity de‐regulated 18 metabolites from metabolic pathways involved in protein translation, transmembrane cell transport, carbon metabolism, secondary metabolism, glycolysis, and osmoregulation.
Stabilized biomass ash as a sustainable substitute for commercial P‐fertilizers
Authors: Pasquali Michela , Zanoletti Alessandra , Benassi Laura , Federici Stefania , Depero Laura E. , Bontempi Elza
Published: February 2018

The reuse of biomass ash as a fertilizer is generally recognized as good practice with several environmental benefits. However, the possible presence of leachable heavy metals in this ash limits the potential extent of its application and the implementation of an appropriate legal framework. For the first time, a method to stabilize wood ash based on the use of other by‐products (coal fly ash and rice husk ash) is presented. No commercial chemicals are employed in the procedure. The results show that despite the initial presence of leachable heavy metals in the ash, the final obtained material is stable. In addition, the lowering of pH (from 13.5 to approximately 7.5) due to carbonation reactions and the addition of Ca‐rich ash increases the phosphorous availability compared with the starting wood ash and makes the obtained material suitable for use in soil fertilization. The sustainability of the new proposed technology is quantitatively discussed with regard to the differences in embodied energy and CO2 footprint of phosphorous between raw materials and stabilized wood ash. This work shows that the prospects for energy saving and CO2 footprint reduction using stabilized wood ash as a substitute for inorganic commercial P‐fertilizers are significant and offer a new way to reach these objectives. The simplicity of the method and the general availability of the by‐products employed in the stabilization also render the procedure suitable for applications in developing countries.
Evaluating the new soil erosion map of Hungary—A semiquantitative approach
Authors: Waltner István , Pásztor László , Centeri Csaba , Takács Katalin , Pirkó Béla , Koós Sándor , László Péter
Published: February 2018

Soil erosion by water is one of the most significant forms of soil degradation globally, especially in Europe. A new soil erosion risk map of Hungary has been compiled and published recently, using the combined outputs of the Universal Soil Loss Equation and Pan‐European Soil Erosion Risk Assessment models. Our study aimed at providing evaluation of the map by using semiquantitative validation data obtained from the Hungarian Soil Degradation Subsystem of the National Environmental Information System. The Soil Degradation Subsystem database contained information at farm level as well as indicators based on laboratory data for 5‐ha representative plots. On the basis of the semiquantitative analysis, the map results align well with the farm‐based degradation data and provide viable information not only at the regional scale but also at the farm scale. However, indicators from representative plots did not support model results, indicating possible conflict between farm‐ and plot‐level data. Cross‐comparison of these indicators showed only limited correlation between farm‐ and plot‐level indicators.
Optimizing maleic anhydride microcapsules size for use in self‐healing epoxy‐based coatings for corrosion protection of aluminum alloy
Authors: Njoku Chigoziri N. , Arukalam Innocent O. , Bai Weichen , Li Ying
Published: February 2018

Due to the significance of self‐healing coatings in recent years, there has been increasing desire to optimize process parameters for effective control of functions of the coatings for durable application. Among various approaches for achieving desired optimized properties, the use of central composite design (CCD) of the response surface methodology (RSM) remains an effective and reliable technique. Thus, the objective of this study was to develop an appropriate model for optimization of size of microcapsule to be used in synthesis of maleic anhydride‐based microcapsules for self‐healing function in defective epoxy coating. In this regard, a model was generated to estimate the effect of two process parameters (stirring speed and reaction time at constant temperature). The average size of microcapsules obtained experimentally (24.46 μm) was closely comparable to 25.27 μm obtained by the theoretical technique. Microcapsules were prepared based on these optimized size of microcapsule and the synthesized microcapsules were characterized. Also, effectiveness of these microcapsules in coatings was characterized by studying their adhesion performance, self‐healing functions under salt spray corrosion test, and anti‐corrosion by use of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Successful self‐healing function has been demonstrated by reason of anti‐corrosion effectiveness of maleic anhydride‐filled microcapsules.
Low Density, Thermally Stable, and Intrinsic Flame Retardant Poly(bis(benzimidazo)Benzophenanthroline‐dione) Sponge
Authors: Zhu Jian , Jiang Shaohua , Hou Haoqing , Agarwal Seema , Greiner Andreas
Published: February 2018

Low density (≤13.9 mg cm−3), compressible poly(bis(benzimidazo)benzophenanthroline‐dione) (BBB) sponges with high temperature resistance are reported. The processing of BBB is limited due to its insolubility in organic solvents and infusibility. Therefore, the sponges are made in two steps: first, the BBB fibers are prepared by electrospinning the starting monomers with a template polymer followed by polycondensation of monomers on solid fibers at high temperature. In the second step, the BBB fibers are mechanically cut and self‐assembled from a dispersion during freeze‐drying. The use of poly(vinyl alcohol) is critical in getting self‐assembled hierarchically double‐pore‐structured, mechanically stable sponges. The sponges show very high pyrolytic stability, high compressibility (more than 92% recovery after 50% compression), very low thermal conductivity (0.028–0.038 W mK−1), and high oil absorption capacity.
Biologically active quinoline and quinazoline alkaloids part II
Authors: Shang Xiao‐Fei , Morris‐Natschke Susan L. , Yang Guan‐Zhou , Liu Ying‐Qian , Guo Xiao , Xu Xiao‐Shan , Goto Masuo , Li Jun‐Cai , Zhang Ji‐Yu , Lee Kuo‐Hsiung
Published: February 2018

To follow‐up on our prior Part I review, this Part II review summarizes and provides updated literature on novel quinoline and quinazoline alkaloids isolated during the period of 2009‒2016, together with the biological activity and the mechanisms of action of these classes of natural products. Over 200 molecules with a broad range of biological activities, including antitumor, antiparasitic and insecticidal, antibacterial and antifungal, cardioprotective, antiviral, anti‐inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anti‐asthma, antitussive, and other activities, are discussed. This survey should provide new clues or possibilities for the discovery of new and better drugs from the original naturally occurring quinoline and quinazoline alkaloids.
Graph‐theoretic method on the periodicity of multipatch dispersal predator‐prey system with Holling type‐II functional response
Authors: Zhang Chunmei , Guo Ying , Chen Tianrui
Published: February 2018

We study the periodicity of multipatch dispersal predator‐prey system with Holling type‐II functional response in this paper. By providing a new method, we overcome the difficulty to get the priori bounds estimation of unknown solutions of operator equation Lu=λNu. Graph theory with coincidence degree theory is used, and a sufficient criterion for the periodicity of the system is obtained. The criterion presented in this paper is closely related with topological structure of dispersal network and can be verified easily. Finally, a numerical example is also provided to verify the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Exact results for discrete dynamical systems on a pair of contours
Authors: Buslaev Alexander P. , Tatashev Alexander G.
Published: February 2018

The study of discrete model of movement on a single contour, equivalent to CA 184 in terms of Wolfram cellular automata classification, was conducted in the late 1990s and early 2000s. In similar formulations of problems for contour networks, conflicts of movement take place in nodes. These problems have been poorly studied so far. However, they are very interesting for scientific and research applications relating to the flow theory (traffic, development of new materials, energy metabolism in the body). In this paper, results are obtained for the simplest contour network. This network is a pair of contours with common node. The supporter of the system consists of 2 contours with a common point (node). Particles move on their contour in accordance with rule 184 or 240 of Wolfram cellular automata. We consider the system with a common cell (simple node) or common point between 2 cells on each contour (alternating node). We have developed approaches to the study of two‐contour system such that these approaches can be used to the study of contour networks with more complex architecture. We have obtained the following criterion of that the system comes to the state of free movement (self‐organization). The criterion of self‐organization is inequality ρ1+ρ2≤1/2 in the case of rule CA 184 and simple node and inequality ρ1+ρ2≤1 in the case of rule CA 240 and alternating node. In the general case, presence of self‐organization depends on the initial state of the system. Velocities of particles have been found for different rules of movement. Prospects of future research and possible application are outlined.
Forced oscillation of sublinear impulsive differential equations via nonprincipal solution
Authors: Mostepha Naceri , Özbekler Abdullah
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we give new oscillation criteria for forced sublinear impulsive differential equations of the form

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4823:mma4823-math-0001
where γ∈(0,1), under the assumption that associated homogenous linear equation

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4823:mma4823-math-0002
is nonoscillatory.
Locally acting ACE‐083 increases muscle volume in healthy volunteers
Authors: Glasser Chad E. , Gartner Michael R. , Wilson Dawn , Miller Barry , Sherman Matthew L. , Attie Kenneth M.
Published: February 2018

Introduction: ACE‐083 is a locally acting follistatin‐based therapeutic that binds myostatin and other muscle regulators and has been shown to increase muscle mass and force in neuromuscular disease mouse models. This first‐in‐human study examined these effects. Methods: In this phase 1, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐ranging study in healthy postmenopausal women, ACE‐083 (50–200 mg) or placebo was administered unilaterally into rectus femoris (RF) or tibialis anterior (TA) muscles as 1 or 2 doses 3 weeks apart. Results: Fifty‐eight postmenopausal women were enrolled, 42 ACE‐083 and 16 placebo. No serious adverse events (AE), dose‐limiting toxicities, or discontinuations resulting from AEs occurred. Maximum (mean ± SD) increases in RF and TA muscle volume were 14.5% ± 4.5% and 8.9% ± 4.7%, respectively. No significant changes in mean muscle strength were observed. Discussion: ACE‐083 was well tolerated and resulted in significant targeted muscle growth. ACE‐083 may have the potential to increase muscle mass in a wide range of neuromuscular disorders. Muscle Nerve 57: 921–926, 2018
Testing the evidence integration triangle for implementation of interventions to manage behavioral and psychological symptoms associated with dementia: Protocol for a pragmatic trial
Authors: Resnick Barbara , Kolanowski Ann , Van Haitsma Kimberly , Galik Elizabeth , Boltz Marie , Ellis Jeanette , Behrens Liza , Flanagan Nina M. , Eshraghi Karen J. , Zhu Shijun
Published: February 2018

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) include aggression, agitation, resistiveness to care, depression, anxiety, apathy, and hallucinations. BPSD are common in nursing home residents and can be ameliorated using person‐centered approaches. Despite regulatory requirements, less than 2% of nursing homes consistently implement person‐centered behavioral approaches. In a National Institute of Nursing Research‐funded research protocol, we are implementing a pragmatic cluster randomized clinical trial designed to enable staff in nursing homes to reduce BPSD using behavioral approaches while optimizing function, preventing adverse events, and improving quality of life of residents. The implementation is based on use of the Evidence Integration Triangle (EIT), a parsimonious, community‐engaged participatory framework that is well suited to the complexity and variability in the nursing home environment. A total of 50 nursing home communities will be randomized to EIT‐4‐BPSD or education only. Primary Aim 1 is to determine if communities exposed to EIT‐4‐BPSD demonstrate evidence of implementation evaluated by the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE‐AIM) criteria. Primary Aim 2 is to evaluate the feasibility, utility, and cost of the EIT approach in EIT‐4‐BPSD communities.
Delineation of human prostate cancer evolution identifies chromothripsis as a polyclonal event and FKBP4 as a potential driver of castration resistance
Authors: Federer‐Gsponer Joël R , Quintavalle Cristina , Müller David C , Dietsche Tanja , Perrina Valeria , Lorber Thomas , Juskevicius Darius , Lenkiewicz Elisabeth , Zellweger Tobias , Gasser Thomas , Barrett Michael T , Rentsch Cyrill A , Bubendorf Lukas , Ruiz Christian
Published: February 2018

Understanding the evolutionary mechanisms and genomic events leading to castration‐resistant (CR) prostate cancer (PC) is key to improve the outcome of this otherwise deadly disease. Here, we delineated the tumour history of seven patients progressing to castration resistance by analysing matched prostate cancer tissues before and after castration. We performed genomic profiling of DNA content‐based flow‐sorted populations in order to define the different evolutionary patterns. In one patient, we discovered that a catastrophic genomic event, known as chromothripsis, resulted in multiple CRPC tumour populations with distinct, potentially advantageous copy number aberrations, including an amplification of FK506 binding protein 4 (FKBP4, also known as FKBP52), a protein enhancing the transcriptional activity of androgen receptor signalling. Analysis of FKBP4 protein expression in more than 500 prostate cancer samples revealed increased expression in CRPC in comparison to hormone‐naïve (HN) PC. Moreover, elevated FKBP4 expression was associated with poor survival of patients with HNPC. We propose FKBP4 amplification and overexpression as a selective advantage in the process of tumour evolution and as a potential mechanism associated with the development of CRPC. Furthermore, FKBP4 interaction with androgen receptor may provide a potential therapeutic target in PC. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Natural cellulose fiber‐reinforced polyamide 6 thermoplastic composites prepared via in situ anionic ring‐opening polymerization
Authors: Kashani Rahimi Shahab , Otaigbe Joshua U.
Published: February 2018

Thermoplastic polyamide 6 composites reinforced with flax fiber fabric and kraft pulp cellulose mat were prepared by anionic in situ ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) using a special vacuum‐assisted resin infusion process. The effects of the polymerization initiator, fiber alkali pre‐treatment, fiber type, polymerization temperature, and surface modification of fibers with organosilane coupling agents on the ROP reaction, polymer conversion and the physical and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. The results showed that a combination of alkali pre‐treatment and the use of relatively less reactive magnesium bromide based anionic initiator gave a successful ROP reaction and high polymer conversion. Analysis of the physical and mechanical properties of the composite panels showed that optimal mechanical properties could be achieved by using a polymerization temperature of 150°C while polymerization at higher temperatures lowered both the flexural and tensile properties due to generation of more internal microvoids, as well as, decreased crystallinity of the matrix. In addition, it was found that optimal mechanical properties of the composites could be obtained using 2 wt% aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS) coupling agent while higher APS concentrations negatively impacted the interfacial adhesion, resulting in lower mechanical properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1104–1116, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mode I and Mode II interlaminar fracture behavior of E‐glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites modified with reduced exfoliated graphite oxide
Authors: Bhanuprakash Lokasani , Ali Abins , Mokkoth Rashad , Varghese Soney
Published: February 2018

In this article, Mode I and Mode II interlaminar fracture toughness, interlaminar shear strength, flexural strength and the flexural modulus of continuous unidirectional E‐glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites modified with three different graphite oxide (GO) fillers were investigated. GO was prepared through modified Hummers' method followed by thermal exfoliation at 200°C to produce exfoliated GO (EGO). Further, EGO was chemically reduced to result in reduced EGO (rEGO). Incorporation of GO and EGO fillers exhibited significant improvement in the mechanical properties of the composites. Remarkable enhancement in mechanical properties was observed with rEGO fillers, where Mode I and Mode II fracture toughness values of composites were increased by 65% (0.5 wt%) and 54% (0.25 wt%), respectively. Studies on nanofillers distribution in the matrix resin and the examination of fracture surfaces of specimens were carried out with field emission scanning electron microscopy. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2506–E2518, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Noncytotoxic silver and gold nanocomposite hydrogels with enhanced antibacterial and wound healing applications
Authors: Chitra G. , Franklin D.S. , Sudarsan S. , Sakthivel M. , Guhanathan S.
Published: February 2018

A study about an emerging approach to enhance the biological properties by incorporating nanoparticles within the hydrogel networks using citric acid, diethyleneglycol, and indole‐3‐acetic acid a three component hydrogels prepared by polycondensation. A stable and uniformly distributed silver and gold nanoparticles have been introduced successfully in hydrogel network resulted in nanocomposite hydrogels. The surface morphology of silver and gold hydrogel have been compared using scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis and transmission electron microscopy techniques and thermal stability was studied by thermogravimetric analysis. The swelling studies have also been carried out for nanocomposite hydrogels at various pH solution. The nanocomposite hydrogels have exhibited antibacterial activity and nontoxic nature confirmed by the cytotoxicity effect. The results of the study indicated that the nanocomposite hydrogels may be recommended for wound healing applications. Comparatively, silver nanocomposite hydrogel was better performance than gold nanocomposite hydrogel. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:2133–2142, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers