bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predation risk and abiotic habitat parameters affect personality traits in extremophile populations of a neotropical fish (Poecilia vivipara)
Authors: Sommer‐Trembo Carolin , Petry Ana Cristina , Gomes Silva Guilherme , Vurusic Sebastijan Martin , Gismann Jakob , Baier Jasmin , Krause Sarah , Iorio Julia de Araujo Cardoso , Riesch Rüdiger , Plath Martin
Published: July 2017

Understanding whether and how ambient ecological conditions affect the distribution of personality types within and among populations lies at the heart of research on animal personality. Several studies have focussed on only one agent of divergent selection (or driver of plastic changes in behavior), considering either predation risk or a single abiotic ecological factor. Here, we investigated how an array of abiotic and biotic environmental factors simultaneously shape population differences in boldness, activity in an open‐field test, and sociability/shoaling in the livebearing fish Poecilia vivipara from six ecologically different lagoons in southeastern Brazil. We evaluated the relative contributions of variation in predation risk, water transparency/visibility, salinity (ranging from oligo‐ to hypersaline), and dissolved oxygen. We also investigated the role played by environmental factors for the emergence, strength, and direction of behavioral correlations. Water transparency explained most of the behavioral variation, whereby fish from lagoons with low water transparency were significantly shyer, less active, and shoaled less than fish living under clear water conditions. When we tested additional wild‐caught fish from the same lagoons after acclimating them to homogeneous laboratory conditions, population differences were largely absent, pointing toward behavioral plasticity as a mechanism underlying the observed behavioral differences. Furthermore, we found correlations between personality traits (behavioral syndromes) to vary substantially in strength and direction among populations, with no obvious associations with ecological factors (including predation risk). Altogether, our results suggest that various habitat parameters simultaneously shape the distribution of personality types, with abiotic factors playing a vital (as yet underestimated) role. Furthermore, while predation is often thought to lead to the emergence of behavioral syndromes, our data do not support this assumption.
A High‐Frequency Cycloconverter Based on a Phase‐Shift Control Method
Authors: KOMEDA SHOHEI , FUJITA HIDEAKI
Published: July 2017

This paper proposes a new control method for a high‐frequency cycloconverter consisting of two half‐bridge inverters and a series–resonant circuit. This cycloconverter acts as an ac‐to‐ac direct power conversion circuit without any dc stage. This circuit does not require a diode bridge rectifier, and thus, can be used to reduce forward voltage drops and power losses in the diodes. A new phase‐shift control method is proposed to regulate the capacitor voltage in each half‐bridge inverter and to achieve zero‐voltage switching. The proposed phase‐shift control is theoretically discussed and is also verified by an experimental circuit consisting of superjunction power MOSFETs. As a result, the proposed high‐frequency cycloconverter exhibits a good power conversion efficiency as high as 97.7% at the rated power of 1.3 kW.
Data privacy management and data quality monitoring in the German Centre for Cardiovascular Research's multicentre TranslatiOnal Registry for CardiomyopatHies (DZHK‐TORCH)
Authors: Schwaneberg Thea , Weitmann Kerstin , Dösch Andreas , Seyler Claudia , Bahls Thomas , Geidel Lars , Stahl Dana , Lee Mahsa , Kraus Monika , Katus Hugo A. , Hoffmann Wolfgang
Published: July 2017

Aims

The multicentric TranslatiOnal Registry for CardiomyopatHies (TORCH) of the German Centre for Cardiovascular Research aims to recruit 2300 patients with non‐ischemic cardiomyopthies.

Methods and results

The investigations were performed after standard operating procedures. The data are collected in standardized electronic case report forms provided by the data holding of the central data management of the German Centre for Cardiovascular Research using secuTrial (interActive Systems GmbH, Berlin, Germany). The personal‐identifying data and informed consent are collected, stored, and quality‐checked by the independent Trusted Third Party in Greifswald. The quality management of the medical data is performed by the data and quality centre Greifswald. In December 2014, the recruitment for TORCH has started. Currently, data and biomaterial from about 1397 patients and more than 74 500 biomaterial aliquots were collected. Regular study centre‐specific quality reports address completeness and plausibility of data and provide detailed information about current missing or implausible data entries to improve the data quality by using a query management in addition.

Conclusions

A regular quality control and reporting improve the data quality in TORCH and will support high‐quality data analysis and the translation of research results into routine care.
Highly Sensitive Dopamine Detection Using a Bespoke Functionalised Carbon Nanotube Microelectrode Array
Authors: Clark James , Chen Ying , Hinder Steven , Silva S. Ravi P.
Published: July 2017

Understanding how the brain works requires developing advanced tools that allow measurement of bioelectrical and biochemical signals, including how they propagate between neurons. The introduction of nanomaterials as electrode materials has improved the impedance and sensitivity of microelectrode arrays (MEAs), allowing high quality recordings of single cells in situ using electrode diameters of ≤20 μm. MEAs also have the potential to measure electroactive biological molecules in situ, such as dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the nervous system. Thus, this work focused on fabricating a functionalised carbon nanotube (CNT)‐based MEA to demonstrate its potential for future measurement of small signals generated from excitable cells. To this end, the functionalised CNT MEA has recorded one of the lowest electrochemical interfacial impedances available in the literature, 2.8±0.2 kΩ, for an electrode of its geometric surface area. Electrochemical detection of dopamine revealed again one of the best sensitivity values per area available in the literature, 9.48 μA μM−1 mm−2. Additionally, a limit of detection of 7 nM was recorded for dopamine using the functionalised CNT MEA, with selectivity against common electrochemical interferents such as ascorbic acid. These results indicate improvement beyond currently available MEAs, along with the feasibility of using these devices for multi‐site detection of physiologically relevant electroactive biomolecules.
Nanoporous Gold Microelectrode: A Novel Sensing Platform for Highly Sensitive and Selective Determination of Arsenic (III) using Anodic Stripping Voltammetry
Authors: Jaramillo Darío Xavier Orellana , Sukeri Anandhakumar , Saravia Lucas P.H. , Espinoza‐Montero Patricio Javier , Bertotti Mauro
Published: July 2017

A home‐made gold microelectrode (Au‐μE) was fabricated and its surface was modified with nanoporous gold structures via a facile electrochemical approach (anodization followed by electrochemical reduction method). The fabricated nanoporous Au microelectrode (NPG‐μE) was used as a sensor probe for the determination of As(III) in 1.0 mol L−1 HCl solution using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV) technique. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) and cyclic voltammetry were used to characterize the surface morphology and assess the electrochemical surface area and the roughness factor of the NPG‐μE. SWASVs recorded with the NPG‐μE in As(III) solutions indicated linear behaviour in the concentration ranges of 10–200 μg L−1 and 2–30 μg L−1, with regression coefficients of 0.996 and 0.999 at a deposition time of 120 s, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 0.62 μg L−1 with high sensitivity of 29.75 μA (μg L−1)−1 cm−2. Repeatability and reproducibility were also examined and values were determined as 3.2 % and 9.0 %. Negligible interference from major interfering copper ion was noticed, revealing the excellent anti‐interference property of the proposed sensing platform. The developed NPG‐μE was successfully used for As(III) determination in tap water samples.
A new pancryptodiran turtle from the Late Jurassic of Poland and palaeobiology of early marine turtles
Authors: Szczygielski Tomasz , Tyborowski Daniel , Błażejowski Błażej
Published: July 2017

Although Western Europe has yielded numerous Jurassic turtle taxa, several represented by cranial material or complete skeletons, the fossil record of the Jurassic turtles remains scarce to the north and east from Germany. Although some Late Jurassic testudinates were historically described from Poland, they were, thus far, represented by fragmentary remains that never were properly figured or described in detail. Therefore, very little is known about the mid‐Mesozoic diversity of turtles in that region of the continent. A new pancryptodiran turtle genus and species, Owadowia borsukbialynickae, is described from the uppermost Jurassic (Tithonian, ca. 148 Ma) carbonate sediments of the Kcynia Formation in Owadów‐Brzezinki Quarry, near Tomaszów Mazowiecki in central Poland. The lower jaw morphology and palaeoecological setting inhabited by the new genus and species, together with the trophic relationships of the Jurassic pancryptodiran turtles, are discussed in an attempt to determine the potential range of mode of life of O. borsukbialynickae. We propose that the new specimen belongs to a new durophagous pancryptodiran turtle taxon. O. borsukbialynickae might have spent considerable time in the marine environment and specialized on eating hard‐shelled invertebrates like bivalves and decapod crustaceans, common to that setting.
Designing Networked Improvement in a Small‐College Context
Authors: Rachford Jennifer L. , Brown Travis M. , Sambolin Hector L. , Seligman Lenny
Published: July 2017

This chapter demonstrates the complexity of pedagogical and curricular change as it unfolds through several overlapping phases of increasingly coordinated reflection and action around STEM initiatives at Pomona College. It argues for a networked model of research and practice, drawing on theory and lessons from improvement science and highlighting the role of institutional research in supporting change initiatives.
Leveraging a Community Participatory Framework To Move Climate Survey Data Into Action at a Small College
Authors: Peters C. Ellen , Benitez Michael
Published: July 2017

A participatory framework in conducting research and implementing decisions can engage multiple constituents throughout a college community. At a small college, it is especially relevant, because nonmajority groups are especially vulnerable because of a smaller critical mass.
Impacting Student Success: Intervention Effectiveness and Policy Development at Small Colleges
Authors: Brown Narren J. , Shelley Mack C.
Published: July 2017

This chapter puts forth a model of student‐success–focused policy development at small colleges that elucidates the role of the institutional research (IR) professional, highlighting how the breadth of roles and responsibilities that IR professionals serve at these institutions intersect with traditional training and background.
A new nonempirical tuning scheme with single self‐consistent field calculation: Comparison with global and IP‐tuned range‐separated functional
Authors: Borpuzari Manash Protim , Kar Rahul
Published: July 2017

System‐dependent nonempirical tuning of range‐separated functional provides a way to minimize the delocalization error of the system. However, existing nonempirical tuning method requires the computation of several ΔSCF calculations to determine the optimal μ value. In this article, we have defined a scheme to evaluate the optimal μ value with single self‐consistent field calculation. Our method is based on the evaluation of the spherically symmetric average Electron localization function (ELF) region. According to this scheme, the radius of the spherically symmetric average ELF region gives is a measure of the distance at which the long‐range part of the range‐separated functional becomes dominant. Numerical results indicate that our method improves the reproduction of HOMO energies and HOMO‐LUMO gap in comparison to global and IP‐tuned range‐separated functional. Moreover, in case of HOMO energies, maximum error of the ELF‐tuned functional is considerably smaller than the global and IP‐tuned functional. Furthermore, our method gives considerably smaller deviation of HOMO energies from ΔSCF IP than global range‐separated functional. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiplex PCR scheme for variant plasmid mediated class C β‐lactamase typing
Authors: Chuong Le Van , Prachayasittikul Virapong , Isarankura Na Ayudhya Chartchalerm , Lawung Ratana
Published: July 2017

Background

An increasing of prevalence and diversification of plasmid‐mediated AmpC (pAmpC) has been emerged worldwide. The incidence of pAmpC resulted in increasing β‐lactamase production and conferred resistance to almost all β‐lactam antibiotics excluding carbapenems. The lack of standard method for pAmpC identification and classification exert a challenge in epidemiological surveillance and infection control practices.

Methods

A robust, single tube multiplex PCR has been developed to classify six different pAmpC groups including CIT (CMY‐2 like, LAT and CFE), ECB (ACT, MIR), MOX & CMY‐1 like, DHA, ACC, and FOX. The developed method was optimized and validated by testing of sensitivity and specificity.

Results

Developed method can detect crude extracted DNA template at nano‐scale (2.5 ηg) and has high discriminatory power as compared to phenotypic and commercial genotypic method.

Conclusion

The developed method can be utilized for tracking the changes of clinically important resistance patterns and further investigation of occurrence and distribution of plasmid‐mediated AmpC types.
Cyanidin suppresses autophagic activity regulating chondrocyte hypertrophic differentiation
Authors: Cao Zhen , Huang Song , Dou Ce , Xiang Qiang , Dong Shiwu
Published: July 2017

Cartilage is a kind of special connective tissue which does not contain neither blood vessels nor lymphatics and nerves. Therefore, the damage in cartilage is difficult to be repaired spontaneously. Constructing tissue engineered cartilage provides a new technique for cartilage repairing. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess a unique capability of self‐renew and can differentiate into pre‐chondrocytes which are frequently applied as seed cells in tissue engineering. However, in regenerated cartilage the chondrocytes derived from MSCs can hardly maintain homeostasis and preferentially present hypertrophic like phenotype. We investigated the effects of cyanidin, a natural organic compound, on chondrogenic and subsequent hypertrophic differentiation of MSCs in order to seek approaches to inhibit chondrocyte hypertrophy. We evaluated the effects of cyanidin on expression of chondrogenic and hypertrophic marker genes through RT‐PCR, Western blot, alcian blue staining, and immunocytochemistry. The results showed that both chondrogenic related genes Sox9, Col2a1, and hypertrophic marker genes Runx2, Col10a1 were inhibited by cyanidin. In addition, we found that cyanidin promoted Nrf2 and p62 expression and suppressed LC3B expression during chondrogenic stage of MSCs. Meanwhile phosphorylation of IκBα and autophagosome related protein LC3B were inactivated by cyanidin during chondrocyte hypertrophic stage. Furthermore, rapamycin, an autophagy activator, abrogated the inhibitory effect of cyanidin on chondrogenic, and hypertrophic differentiation of MSCs. In conclusion, one potential mechanism of cyanidin, by which the chondrogenic and hypertrophic differentiation of MSCs were inhibited, was due to decreased autophagy activity. Our results indicated that cyanidin was a potential therapeutic agent for keeping mature chondrocyte functions.
Development of a bedside viable ultrasound protocol to quantify appendicular lean tissue mass
Authors: Paris Michael T. , Lafleur Benoit , Dubin Joel A. , Mourtzakis Marina
Published: July 2017

Background

Ultrasound is a non‐invasive and readily available tool that can be prospectively applied at the bedside to assess muscle mass in clinical settings. The four‐site protocol, which images two anatomical sites on each quadriceps, may be a viable bedside method, but its ability to predict musculature has not been compared against whole‐body reference methods. Our primary objectives were to (i) compare the four‐site protocol's ability to predict appendicular lean tissue mass from dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry; (ii) optimize the predictability of the four‐site protocol with additional anatomical muscle thicknesses and easily obtained covariates; and (iii) assess the ability of the optimized protocol to identify individuals with low lean tissue mass.

Methods

This observational cross‐sectional study recruited 96 university and community dwelling adults. Participants underwent ultrasound scans for assessment of muscle thickness and whole‐body dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scans for assessment of appendicular lean tissue. Ultrasound protocols included (i) the nine‐site protocol, which images nine anterior and posterior muscle groups in supine and prone positions, and (ii) the four‐site protocol, which images two anterior sites on each quadriceps muscle group in a supine position.

Results

The four‐site protocol was strongly associated (R2 = 0.72) with appendicular lean tissue mass, but Bland–Altman analysis displayed wide limits of agreement (−5.67, 5.67 kg). Incorporating the anterior upper arm muscle thickness, and covariates age and sex, alongside the four‐site protocol, improved the association (R2 = 0.91) with appendicular lean tissue and displayed narrower limits of agreement (−3.18, 3.18 kg). The optimized protocol demonstrated a strong ability to identify low lean tissue mass (area under the curve = 0.89).

Conclusions

The four‐site protocol can be improved with the addition of the anterior upper arm muscle thickness, sex, and age when predicting appendicular lean tissue mass. This optimized protocol can accurately identify low lean tissue mass, while still being easily applied at the bedside.
“The difference being a woman made” Untold Lives in personal and intellectual context
Authors: Rutherford Alexandra , Milar Katharine
Published: July 2017

To mark the 30th anniversary of the publication of Scarborough and Furumoto's classic work Untold Lives, and to honor the intellectual legacy of Elizabeth Scarborough (1935–2015), we introduce this special issue devoted to the histories of women, gender, and feminism in psychology. We provide a short biographical sketch of Elizabeth, highlighting her own marriage‐career dilemma, then contextualize the publication of Untold Lives within the historiography on women in psychology at that time. We conclude by discussing intersectionality as an analytic framework for the history of psychology as a way to extend and enrich this historiography.
ENSO influence on the interannual variability of the Red Sea convergence zone and associated rainfall
Authors: Dasari Hari Prasad , Langodan Sabique , Viswanadhapalli Yesubabu , Vadlamudi Brahmananda R. , Papadopoulos Vassilis P. , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: July 2017

The Red Sea convergence zone (RSCZ) is formed by opposite surface winds blowing from northwest to southeast directions at around 18°–19°N between October and January. A reverse‐oriented, low‐level monsoon trough at 850 hPa, known as the Red Sea trough (RST), transfers moisture from the southern Red Sea to RSCZ. The positions of the RSCZ and RST and the intensity of the RST have been identified as important factors in modulating weather and climatic conditions across the Middle East. Here, we investigate the influence of the El Niño southern oscillation (ENSO) on the interannual variability of RSCZ, RST, and regional rainfall during winter months. Our results indicate that El Niño (warm ENSO phase) favours a shift of the RSCZ to the north and a strengthening of the RST in the same direction. Conversely, during November and December of La Niña periods (cold ENSO phase), the RSCZ shift to the south and the RST strengthens in the same direction. During El Niño periods, southeasterly wind speeds increase (20–30%) over the southern Red Sea and northwesterly wind speeds decrease (10–15%) over the northern Red Sea. Noticeable increases in the number of rainy days and the intensity of rain events are observed during El Niño phases. These increases are associated with colder than normal air intrusion at lower levels from the north combined with warm air intrusion from the south over the RSCZ. Our analysis suggests that during El Niño winters, warmer sea surface temperatures and higher convective instability over the Red Sea favour local storms conditions and increase rainfall over the Red Sea and adjoining regions.
Graded replacement of maize grain with molassed sugar beet pulp modulated ruminal microbial community and fermentation profile in vitro
Authors: Münnich Matthias , Khol‐Parisini Annabella , Klevenhusen Fenja , Metzler‐Zebeli Barbara U , Zebeli Qendrim
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Molassed sugar beet pulp (Bp) is a viable alternative to grains in cattle nutrition for reducing human edible energy input. Yet little is known about the effects of high inclusion rates of Bp on rumen microbiota. This study used an in vitro approach and the quantitative polymerase chain reaction technique to establish the effects of a graded replacement of maize grain (MG) by Bp on the ruminal microbial community, fermentation profile and nutrient degradation.

RESULTS

Six different amounts of Bp (0–400 g kg−1), which replaced MG in the diet, were tested using the in vitro semi‐continuous rumen simulation technique. The increased inclusion of Bp resulted in greater dietary content and degradation of neutral detergent fibre (P < 0.01). Further, Bp feeding enhanced (P < 0.01) the abundance of genus Prevotella and shifted (P < 0.01) the short‐chain fatty acid patterns in favour of acetate and propionate and at the expense of butyrate. A total replacement of MG with Bp resulted in an increased daily methane production (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Results suggest positive effects of the replacement of MG by Bp especially in terms of stimulating ruminal acetate and propionate fermentation. However, high replacement rates of Bp resulted in lowered utilization of ammonia and higher ruminal methane production. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Physical compatibility between wax esters and triglycerides in hybrid shortenings and margarines prepared in rice bran oil
Authors: Doan Chi Diem , Tavernier Iris , Danthine Sabine , Rimaux Tom , Dewettinck Koen
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Wax esters contribute to the transformation of liquid oils into solid‐like oleogel systems, which can act as alternatives for trans‐ and/or saturated fats in food products. The use of solely waxes reduces the solid content, consistency and sensory quality in the final products. Therefore, a combination of sunflower wax and palm fat in rice bran oil was created to accomplish the hybrid low‐saturated shortenings and margarines with a compatible structure and lower amounts of saturated fats.

RESULTS

During cooling of the hybrid shortenings, sunflower wax crystallized first and acted as nucleation sites for the crystallisation of palm fat. At 5 °C, a mixture of different crystal morphologies (α, β', and β crystals) existed in the hybrid shortening. In margarine processing, the hybrid samples were subjected to a simultaneous cooling–emulsification, in which sunflower wax crystallised first at the interface and adsorbed onto the water droplets. Based on the hardness measurements, the maximum amount of palm fat replaceable by 1.0%wt sunflower wax was up to 40% in shortenings and 25% in margarines. A higher amount of sunflower wax (2.5%wt) reduced up to 40% of saturated fats in the hybrid emulsions.

CONCLUSION

The addition of 1.0%wt sunflower wax enhanced the solid content and network strength of hybrid palm‐based shortenings. Sunflower wax helped to stabilise the water droplets inside the wax‐based crystalline network without flocculation during shear‐cooling. This research provides fundamental insight into the structuring of hybrid systems containing waxes, which could be interesting for the production of low‐saturated fat products in the food industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Variation in particulate C : N : P stoichiometry across the Lake Erie watershed from tributaries to its outflow
Authors: Prater Clay , Frost Paul C. , Howell E. Todd , Watson Susan B. , Zastepa Arthur , King Sarah S. E. , Vogt Richard J. , Xenopoulos Marguerite A.
Published: July 2017

Human activities can cause large alterations in biogeochemical cycles of key nutrients such as carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P). However, relatively little is known about how these changes alter the proportional fluxes of these elements across ecosystem boundaries from rivers to lakes. Here, we examined environmental factors influencing spatial and temporal variation in particulate C : N : P ratios across the Lake Erie watershed from its tributaries to its outflow. Throughout the study, particulate nutrient ratios ranged widely (C : N 2.0–25.8, C : P 32–530, N : P 3.7–122.9), but mean values were generally lower than previous estimates from different aquatic environments. Particulate C : N ratios varied the least across all environments, but C : P and N : P ratios increased between tributaries and coastal areas and throughout the growing season in coastal environments. These ratios also differed temporally in offshore waters as particulate C : P and N : P were higher in the spring and summer and lower in the fall and winter. Particulate C : P ratios also increased between the western/central and eastern basins indicating differential nutrient processing across the lake. These stoichiometric changes were associated with unique environmental factors among ecosystems as tributary stoichiometry was related to terrestrial land use and land cover, coastal ratios were a product of mixing between riverine and offshore waters, and offshore patterns were influenced by differences in temperature and particulate nutrient loading among basins. Overall, by studying changes in particulate C : N : P ratios across the Lake Erie watershed, our study demonstrates the power of using mass balance principles to study nutrient transformations along the aquatic continuum.
Conjugated Side Chain Tuning Effect of Indacenodithieno[3,2‐b]thiophene and Fluoro‐Benzothiadiazole‐Based Regioregular Copolymers for High‐Performance Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Opoku Henry , Lee Ji Young , Cho Keun , Nketia‐Yawson Benjamin , Lim Bogyu , Noh Yong‐Young
Published: July 2017

Two regioregular indacenodithieno[3,2‐b]thiophene and fluoro‐benzothiadiazole‐based donor–acceptor (D–A) type copolymers with different conjugated side chains of hexyl‐phenyl or hexyl‐thienyl are designed and synthesized to study the effects of the side chain on performance of organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs). The effect of the different conjugated side chains on the energy levels, optoelectronic properties, film morphology, and transistors performance as well as the solvent effect on the performance of both D–A copolymers are thoroughly studied. Top‐gate/bottom‐contact OFETs with a hexyl‐thienyl substituted polymer show higher hole mobility up to 0.211 cm2 V−1 s−1 than 0.086 cm2 V−1 s−1 observed for the polymer with hexyl‐phenyl side chains. In addition, the hexyl‐thienyl substituted side chain polymer shows relatively better stability under bias stress compared to hexyl‐phenyl conjugated side chain. This result sheds light on the impact of conjugated side chain engineering on the performance and stability of OFETs with D–A copolymers.
Fundamental solution of the time‐fractional telegraph Dirac operator
Authors: Ferreira M. , Rodrigues M. M. , Vieira N.
Published: July 2017

In this work, we obtain the fundamental solution (FS) of the multidimensional time‐fractional telegraph Dirac operator where the 2 time‐fractional derivatives of orders α∈]0,1] and β∈]1,2] are in the Caputo sense. Explicit integral and series representation of the FS are obtained for any dimension. We present and discuss some plots of the FS for some particular values of the dimension and of the fractional parameters α and β. Finally, using the FS, we study some Poisson and Cauchy problems.
Multiscale seamless‐domain method for solving nonlinear problems using statistical estimation methodology
Authors: Suzuki Yoshiro
Published: July 2017

This article presents a nonlinear solver combining regression analysis and a multiscale simulation scheme. First, the proposed method repeats microscopic analysis of a local simulation domain, which is extracted from the entire global domain, to statistically estimate the relation(s) between the value of a dependent variable at a point and values at surrounding points. The relation is called regression function. Subsequent global analysis reveals the behavior of the global domain with only coarse‐grained points using the regression function quickly at low computational cost, which can be accomplished using a multiscale numerical solver, called the seamless‐domain method. The objective of the study is to solve a nonlinear problem accurately and at low cost by combining the 2 techniques. We present an example problem of a nonlinear steady‐state heat conduction analysis of a heterogeneous material. The proposed model using fewer than 1000 points generates a solution with precision similar to that of a standard finite‐element solution using hundreds of thousands of nodes. To investigate the relationship between the accuracy and computational time, we apply the seamless‐domain method under varying conditions such as the number of iterations of the prior analysis for statistical data learning.
Fabrication and characterization of functional graded polyurethane foam (FGPUF)
Authors: Esmailzadeh Mojtaba , Danesh Manesh Habib , Zebarjad S. Mojtaba
Published: July 2017

In this study, functionally graded polyurethane foams (FGPUFs) were produced using a layer‐by‐layer casting technique. Discontinuous FGPUFs were fabricated by this method. The scanning electron microscopy was used to study the morphology of all specimens. The mechanical properties of the polyurethane foams (PUFs) were evaluated by compression, indentation force deflection, drop weight tests, and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs taken from different zones of functionally graded material showed the variation of the morphology of cells as well as the suitable interfaces between the layers of PUF. Investigation of mechanical properties suggested that FGPUF specimens have an optimum behavior between other specimens in compression and indentation force deflection tests. The results of drop weight test showed that FGPUF samples behaved like an energy absorber (14.31 KN) in comparison to other PUFs. The results of dynamic mechanical thermal analysis data showed an improvement in glass transition temperature (Tg) to −47.2°C and stability of modulus of FGPUFs as temperature increases.
Optical and physical properties of iridescent photonic crystals obtained by self‐assembled polymethyl methacrylate nanospheres within graphene oxide nanoplatelets
Authors: Haddadine Nabila , Agoudjil Karima , Abouzeid Khaled , Castano Carlos E. , Bouslah Naima , Benaboura Ahmed , Samy El‐Shall M.
Published: July 2017

Opal photonic crystals prepared by vertical templating of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) nanospheres in aqueous graphene oxide (GO) solutions were successfully obtained. The results show that increasing the PMMA nanospheres' size leads to the modification of the d‐spacing in GO nanoplatelets, inducing brilliant iridescence colors that span the entire visible electromagnetic spectrum. Scanning electron microscopy study shows a uniform distribution of GO nanoplatelets on the surface and the bulk of the opal photonic crystals. The reflectance spectra exhibit a significant red shift from 385 to 660 nm when the nanospheres' size increases from 160 to 306 nm, respctively. The Raman spectra show a systematic decrease in the intensity ratio of the D to G bands of GO (ID/IG), suggesting a partial reduction of graphene oxide with decrasing the extent of defects in the partially reduced GO nanoplatelets. This finding is confirmed by the significant decrease observed in the intensity of the hydroxyl band in the attenuated total reflectance mode‐Fourier transform infrared spectra of the photonic crystals. The results provide the first demonstrated example of intercalated assemblies of polymer nanospheres within GO nanosheets, leading to photonic crystals with brilliant iridescence colors that span the entire visible electromagnetic spectrum and can be tuned only by varying the size of the PMMA nanospheres.
Sisal fiber‐reinforced green composites: Effect of ecofriendly fiber treatment
Authors: Chaitanya Saurabh , Singh Inderdeep
Published: July 2017

This research endeavor explores the effect of economical and environment‐friendly treatment of sisal fibers, prior to their incorporation into poly‐lactic acid (PLA). Biocomposites incorporating sisal fibers (30% [w:w]) treated with sodium bicarbonate (10% [w:v]) aqueous solution for varying time periods (24, 72, 120, and 168 h) were developed using extrusion‐injection molding process. Thermogravimetric analysis, morphological examination, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and lignocellulosic composition analysis of raw and treated sisal fibers established a gradual removal of hemicellulosic content from fiber surface with increasing treatment time. Biocomposites incorporating sisal fibers treated for 72 h exhibited optimum tensile, flexural, and compressive properties. While in case of impact testing, biocomposites incorporating sisal fibers treated for 24 h exhibited maximum impact strength. The optimum results were found comparable to sodium hydroxide treated sisal fiber‐reinforced biocomposites. Hence, considering commercialization of biocomposites, sodium bicarbonate treatment offers huge potential to substitute ecologically hazardous sodium hydroxide treatment ensuring good mechanical properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4310–4321, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Validating activity indices from camera traps for commensal rodents and other wildlife in and around farm buildings
Authors: Lambert Mark , Bellamy Fiona , Budgey Richard , Callaby Rebecca , Coats Julia , Talling Janet
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Indices of rodent activity are used as indicators of population change during field evaluation of rodenticides. We investigated the potential for using camera traps to determine activity indices for commensal rodents living in and around farm buildings, and sought to compare these indices against previously calibrated survey methods.

RESULTS

We recorded 41 263 images of 23 species, including Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus Berk.) and house mice (Mus musculus L.). We found a positive correlation between activity indices from camera traps and activity indices from a method (footprint tracking) previously shown to have a linear relationship with population size for Norway rats. Filtering the camera trap data to simulate a 30‐s delay between camera trigger events removed 59.9% of data and did not adversely affect the correlation between activity indices from camera traps and footprint tracking. The relationship between activity indices from footprint tracking and Norway rat population size is known from a previous study; from this, we determined the relationship between activity indices from camera traps and population size for Norway rats living in and around farm buildings.

CONCLUSION

Systematic use of camera traps was used to determine activity indices for Norway rats living in and around farm buildings; the activity indices were positively correlated with those derived from a method previously calibrated against known population size for this species in this context. © 2017 Crown copyright. Pest Management Science © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Resistivity of Weyl semimetals NbP and TaP under pressure
Authors: Einaga M. , Shimizu K. , Hu J. , Mao Z. Q. , Politano A.
Published: July 2017

The resistivity of Weyl semimetals NbP and TaP has been investigated as a function of pressure and temperature. The behaviour of the resistivity as a function of pressure and temperature is closely correlated to the location of the Weyl points compared to the Fermi energy. The rapid increase of the resistivity in TaP and NbP under the application of 4.5 and 8.0 GPa is related with the shift of Weyl points, which affords a finite density of states near the Fermi energy. Specifically, we find that under pressure the Weyl points are situated above the Fermi energy. As regards the temperature behaviour, we detect a nonmonotonous behaviour of resistivity in TaP at 8.7 and 9.8 GPa as a function of temperature, whereas in the case of NbP the behaviour is more complicate.
Modified Double‐Layer Anastomosis for Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy: An Effective Way to Prevent Leakage and Stricture
Authors: Yuan Yong , Zeng Xiao‐Xi , Zhao Yong‐Fan , Chen Long‐Qi
Published: July 2017

Background

Anastomotic leakage and stricture contribute to a large number of mortality and morbidity after esophagectomy. The aim of this work is to evaluate the outcome of modified double‐layer hand‐sewn esophagogastric anastomosis during minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

Methods

The clinicopathological data of 176 consecutive esophageal cancer patients who underwent cervical esophagogastric anastomosis using modified double‐layer hand‐sewn technique after radical esophagectomy were retrospectively reviewed. Total minimally invasive approach, including thoracoscopic surgery for thoracic procedure and laparoscopic approach for abdominal procedure, was implemented during the radical Mckeown esophagectomy. Patients were followed up for the assessment of postoperative anastomotic complications including anastomotic leakage and stricture, being the primary outcome measures for this study.

Results

Anastomotic leakage occurred in 2 of 176 patients (1.1%); both of the patients experienced only minor leakage and were treated conservatively. There was no significant difference in leakage between patients with and without major comorbidity (p = 0.331). After a mean follow‐up of 21.3 months, four patients (4/176, 2.3%) developed benign anastomotic strictures, including those 2 patients experienced postoperative leakage. Symptoms for stricture were improved by endoscopic dilatations in all 4 patients. Besides, there was one case (1/176, 0.6%) of gastric necrosis in this cohort, who was also successfully managed by conservative therapy with no operative mortality.

Conclusion

This modified double‐layer hand‐sewn anastomosis is a highly safe and stable technique for esophagogastrostomy, which is an effective way to prevent both anastomotic leakage and stricture.
Robustness of newt heads in condition of co-existence: a case of the Carpathian newt and the alpine newt
Authors: Kaczmarski Mikołaj , Kubicka Anna Maria , Hromada Martin , Tryjanowski Piotr
Published: July 2017

Co-existence between potentially competing newt species can lead to niche differentiation (e.g., in terms of diet shifts). This may cause adaptive responses involving changes in head shape. Here, we tested the hypothesis: the head shape of Lissotriton montandoni is different in conditions of co-occurrence with Ichthyosaura alpestris than in conditions in which other newt species are absent. We analysed images depicting head shape of specimens of I. alpestris and L. montandoni from a museum collection. All specimens of I. alpestris originated in a habitat where L. montandoni also occurred, whereas specimens of L. montandoni derived from populations that cohabited with I. alpestris and populations in which the presence of another newt species was not recorded. In each image, landmarks and semilandmarks were digitised. Females of L. montandoni from the population where I. alpestris also occurred were characterised by more massive heads and longer mouths in lateral views than females from sites where no other newt species occurred. Significant differences in head shape were also found when analysing ventral views between these species when they occupied the same habitat. We confirmed that the head shape of female L. montandoni differs between conditions of co-occurrence and absence of I. alpestris; no differences were found for males. A differently shaped head may be an adaptation to diet; L. montandoni females with longer mouths and more robust basal parts of the head can feed on larger invertebrates and compete more effectively with I. alpestris. The co-existence of newt species should be taken into account in future ecomorphological studies.
Phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system modification increases the conversion rate during l-tryptophan production in Escherichia coli
Authors: Liu Lina , Chen Sheng , Wu Jing
Published: July 2017

Escherichia coli FB-04(pta1), a recombinant l-tryptophan production strain, was constructed in our laboratory. However, the conversion rate (l-tryptophan yield per glucose) of this strain is somewhat low. In this study, additional genes have been deleted in an effort to increase the conversion rate of E. coli FB-04(pta1). Initially, the pykF gene, which encodes pyruvate kinase I (PYKI), was inactivated to increase the accumulation of phosphoenolpyruvate, a key l-tryptophan precursor. The resulting strain, E. coli FB-04(pta1)ΔpykF, showed a slightly higher l-tryptophan yield and a higher conversion rate in fermentation processes. To further improve the conversion rate, the phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system (PTS) was disrupted by deleting the ptsH gene, which encodes the phosphocarrier protein (HPr). The levels of biomass, l-tryptophan yield, and conversion rate of this strain, E. coli FB-04(pta1)ΔpykF/ptsH, were especially low during fed-batch fermentation process, even though it achieved a significant increase in conversion rate during shake-flask fermentation. To resolve this issue, four HPr mutations (N12S, N12A, S46A, and S46N) were introduced into the genomic background of E. coli FB-04(pta1)ΔpykF/ptsH, respectively. Among them, the strain harboring the N12S mutation (E. coli FB-04(pta1)ΔpykF-ptsHN12S) showed a prominently increased conversion rate of 0.178 g g−1 during fed-batch fermentation; an increase of 38.0% compared with parent strain E. coli FB-04(pta1). Thus, mutation of the genomic of ptsH gene provided an alternative method to weaken the PTS and improve the efficiency of carbon source utilization.
Targeting MET in cancer therapy
Authors: Mo Hong‐Nan , Liu Peng
Published: July 2017

MET encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase c‐MET for hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). The specific combination of c‐MET and HGF activates downstream signaling pathways to trigger cell migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis. MET exon 14 alterations and MET gene amplification play a critical role in the origin of cancer. Several monoclonal antibodies and small‐molecule inhibitors of c‐MET have been evaluated in clinical trials. In patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer, cabozantinib and crizotinib showed clear efficacy with a generally tolerable adverse events profile. In gastrointestinal cancers, most phase III trials of MET inhibitors showed negative results. In hepatocellular carcinoma, based on the encouraging results of some phase II studies, a series of phase III trials are currently recruiting patients to access the efficacy and safety of MET inhibitors.
Serum concentrations of vitamin E and carotenoids are altered in Alzheimer's disease: A case‐control study
Authors: Mullan Kathryn , Williams Michael A. , Cardwell Chris R. , McGuinness Bernadette , Passmore Peter , Silvestri Giuliana , Woodside Jayne V. , McKay Gareth J.
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We investigated associations between serum levels of lipophilic antioxidants and AD.

Methods

Serum concentrations of retinol, two forms of vitamin E (α‐ and γ‐tocopherol) and six carotenoids were quantified by high‐performance liquid chromatography from patients with AD (n = 251) and cognitively intact controls (n = 308) and assessed by regression analyses.

Results

Serum levels of α‐tocopherol and all six carotenoids were significantly lower in patients with AD compared with cognitively intact controls (P < .001). In contrast, γ‐tocopherol was significantly higher in the serum of patients with AD (odds ratio = 1.17 [confidence intervals: 1.05–1.31]).

Discussion

Our findings implicate compromised serum antioxidant defenses in AD pathogenesis and differing biological roles for vitamin E isoforms. This highlights the need for improved understanding in the balanced upregulation of exogenous antioxidants related to dietary intake or supplement use in future nutritional intervention studies.
Effectiveness of community outreach and engagement in recruitment success for a prebirth cohort
Authors: Tigges Beth B. , Kaar Jill L. , Erbstein Nancy , Silberman Pamela , Winseck Kate , Lopez-Class Maria , Burbacher Thomas M.
Published: July 2017

Introduction

We describe the effectiveness of community outreach and engagement in supporting recruitment for the US National Children’s Vanguard Study between 2009 and 2012.

Methods

Thirty-seven study locations used 1 of 4 strategies to recruit 18–49-year-old pregnant or trying to conceive women: (1) Initial Vanguard Study used household-based recruitment; (2) Direct Outreach emphasized self-referral; (3) Enhanced Household-Based Recruitment enhanced Initial Vanguard Study strategies; and (4) Provider-Based Recruitment recruited through healthcare providers. Outreach and engagement included advance letters, interactions with healthcare providers, participation in community events, contacts with community organizations, and media outreach.

Results

After 1–2 years, 41%–74% of 9844 study-eligible women had heard about the National Children’s Vanguard Study when first approached. Women who heard were 1.5–3 times more likely to consent. Hearing via word-of-mouth or the media most frequently predicted consent. The more sources women heard from the higher the odds of consent.

Conclusions

We conclude that tailored outreach and engagement facilitate recruitment in cohort studies.