bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green tea polyphenols require the mitochondrial iron transporter, mitoferrin, for lifespan extension in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Lopez Terry E. , Pham Hoang M. , Nguyen Benjamin V. , Tahmasian Yerazik , Ramsden Shannon , Coskun Volkan , Schriner Samuel E. , Jafari Mahtab
Published: October 2016

Green tea has been found to increase the lifespan of various experimental animal models including the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. High in polyphenolic content, green tea has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in part by its ability to bind free iron, a micronutrient that is both essential for and toxic to all living organisms. Due to green tea's iron‐binding properties, we questioned whether green tea acts to increase the lifespan of the fruit fly by modulating iron regulators, specifically, mitoferrin, a mitochondrial iron transporter, and transferrin, found in the hemolymph of flies. Publicly available hypomorph mutants for these iron regulators were utilized to investigate the effect of green tea on lifespan and fertility. We identified that green tea could not increase the lifespan of mitoferrin mutants but did rescue the reduced male fertility phenotype. The effect of green tea on transferrin mutant lifespan and fertility were comparable to w1118 flies, as observed in our previous studies, in which green tea increased male fly lifespan and reduced male fertility. Expression levels in both w1118 flies and mutant flies, supplemented with green tea, showed an upregulation of mitoferrin but not transferrin. Total body and mitochondrial iron levels were significantly reduced by green tea supplementation in w1118 and mitoferrin mutants but not transferrin mutant flies. Our results demonstrate that green tea may act to increase the lifespan of Drosophila in part by the regulation of mitoferrin and reduction of mitochondrial iron.
Entwicklung eines neuartigen Konzeptes zur In‐situ‐Messung von g‐Werten an komplexen Verglasungssystemen
Authors: Hauer Martin , Pfluger Rainer
Published: October 2016

Der Beitrag beschreibt Konzept und Funktionsweise eines neuartigen Messverfahrens zur In‐situ‐Bestimmung des Gesamtenergiedurchlassgrades (g‐Wert) von komplexen Verglasungssystemen mit integrierten Lamellensystemen. Die Vorteile dieses Messprinzips gegenüber einer stationären Vermessung unter konstanten Einstrahlbedingungen liegen vor allem in der besseren Abbildung des realen Betriebs. Die praktische und mobile Anwendbarkeit vor Ort ist deshalb eines der Zielkriterien, welche bei der Entwicklung des Gerätes neben bestmöglicher Messgenauigkeit erreicht werden sollen. Neue Methoden für die Arbeit in der Qualitätssicherung im Baubereich oder in der Sanierung zur thermischen Analyse von Bestandsgebäuden stünden dadurch zur Verfügung. Ausgehend vom aktuellen Stand der Technik wird die neue Messmethodik erläutert. Die Arbeit zeigt in Form einer theoretischen Machbarkeitsstudie mittels theoretischer FE‐Wärmestromanalyse das Geräteverhalten auf und rundet mit Messergebnissen des ersten Prototyps ab.

Development of a new concept for in‐situ g‐value measurement of complex glazing systems. The publication describes the concept and operation mode of a new measurement method for in‐situ determination of the total solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of complex glazing systems with integrated venetian blinds. The advantages of such measuring principle with respect to a stationary measurement under constant irradiation conditions are mainly determined by a better determination of the real operation. The development of a practical and mobile application on site is therefore one of the major objective criteria that will be achieved in addition to sufficient accuracy. New possibilities for quality assurance work in the construction sector or in thermal analysis on existing buildings for renovation purposes would thus be available. Based on the current state of the art, the new measurement methodology is explained. A simultaneous heat flow analysis on the design concept of the device gives insight in the system behavior and rounds with measurement results of a first prototype.
Einfluss von Erntefaktor und Dämmindex auf die aus gesamtenergetischer Sicht maximal sinnvolle Dämmdicke
Authors: Jochum Patrick
Published: October 2016

Die aktuelle Debatte um die “richtige” Dämmstoffdicke bei der Dämmung opaker Bauteile der thermischen Hülle von Gebäuden unterliegt unterschiedlichen Intentionen diverser Marktteilnehmer. Seit der Einführung der ersten Wärmeschutzverordnung bzw. der Energieeinsparverordnung wurde diese direkt oder indirekt definiert und gefordert. Betrachtet man allerdings die Langfristszenarien für den Gebäudebestand bis 2050, so wird sehr schnell deutlich, dass wir an die Grenzen der sinnvollen Dämmdicken stoßen. Es bedarf eines genaueren Blicks auf die Frage des Nutzens hoher Dämmdicken. Dies liegt zudem berechtigterweise im fundamentalen Interessenfokus der auf den Erhalt historischer Fassaden bedachten Architekten. In diesem Beitrag wird ein rechnerischer Ansatz vorgestellt, um die aus gesamtenergetischer Sicht maximal sinnvolle Dämmdicke zu bestimmen und damit den energetischen Nutzen von Dämmungen zu bilanzieren.

How energy returned on energy invested and insulation index affect the maximum insulation thickness justified from an overall energy perspective. The current debate about the 'right' thickness for insulation on opaque elements of the building's thermal envelope involves various players on the market, with various agendas. Since Germany introduced the first Thermal Insulation Ordinance (WSVO) and since the Federal Energy Saving Ordinance (EnEV), there have been either direct or indirect definitions and requirements for this thickness. Yet if we look at the long‐term scenarios for our building stock to 2050, it soon becomes apparent that we are reaching the upper limits of insulation thickness in terms of what is worthwhile. A more precise look is therefore required into the question of using thicker insulation. This will also understandably be of fundamental interest to architects concerned with conserving historic façades. The approach we applied was arithmetical, to determine the maximum thickness of insulation that is justifiable given the overall energy used, and therefore weigh up the energy benefits of insulation.
Comprehensive reconstruction and in silico analysis of Aspergillus niger genome‐scale metabolic network model that accounts for 1210 ORFs
Authors: Lu Hongzhong , Cao Weiqiang , Ouyang Liming , Xia Jianye , Huang Mingzhi , Chu Ju , Zhuang Yingping , Zhang Siliang , Noorman Henk
Published: October 2016

Aspergillus niger is one of the most important cell factories for industrial enzymes and organic acids production. A comprehensive genome‐scale metabolic network model (GSMM) with high quality is crucial for efficient strain improvement and process optimization. The lack of accurate reaction equations and gene‐protein‐reaction associations (GPRs) in the current best model of A. niger named GSMM iMA871, however, limits its application scope. To overcome these limitations, we updated the A. niger GSMM by combining the latest genome annotation and literature mining technology. Compared with iMA871, the number of reactions in iHL1210 was increased from 1,380 to 1,764, and the number of unique ORFs from 871 to 1,210. With the aid of our transcriptomics analysis, the existence of 63% ORFs and 68% reactions in iHL1210 can be verified when glucose was used as the only carbon source. Physiological data from chemostat cultivations, 13C‐labeled and molecular experiments from the published literature were further used to check the performance of iHL1210. The average correlation coefficients between the predicted fluxes and estimated fluxes from 13C‐labeling data were sufficiently high (above 0.89) and the prediction of cell growth on most of the reported carbon and nitrogen sources was consistent. Using the updated genome‐scale model, we evaluated gene essentiality on synthetic and yeast extract medium, as well as the effects of NADPH supply on glucoamylase production in A. niger. In summary, the new A. niger GSMM iHL1210 contains significant improvements with respect to the metabolic coverage and prediction performance, which paves the way for systematic metabolic engineering of A. niger. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 685–695. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Body mass index, weight change, and risk of second primary breast cancer in the WECARE study: influence of estrogen receptor status of the first breast cancer
Authors: Brooks Jennifer D. , John Esther M. , Mellemkjær Lene , Lynch Charles F. , Knight Julia A. , Malone Kathleen E. , Reiner Anne S. , Bernstein Leslie , Liang Xiaolin , Shore Roy E. , Stovall Marilyn ,   WECARE Study Collaborative Group, Bernstein Jonine L.
Published: October 2016

Studies examining the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and risk of contralateral breast cancer (CBC) have reported mixed findings. We previously showed that obese postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor (ER)‐negative breast cancer have a fivefold higher risk of CBC compared with normal weight women. In the current analysis, we reexamined this relationship in the expanded Women's Environmental Cancer and Radiation Epidemiology (WECARE) Study, focusing on the impact of menopausal status and ER status of the first breast cancer. The WECARE Study is a population‐based case–control study of young women with CBC (cases, N = 1386) and with unilateral breast cancer (controls, N = 2045). Rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to assess the relationship between BMI and risk of CBC stratified by menopausal and ER status. Positive associations with obesity and weight gain were limited to women who became postmenopausal following their first primary breast cancer. Among those with an ER‐negative first breast cancer, obesity (vs. normal weight) at first diagnosis was associated with an increased risk of CBC (RR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.02, 3.4). Also, weight gain of ≥10 kg after first diagnosis was associated with an almost twofold increased risk of CBC (RR = 1.9, 95% CI: 0.99, 3.8). These results suggest that women with an ER‐negative first primary cancer who are obese at first primary diagnosis or who experience a large weight gain afterward may benefit from heightened surveillance. Future studies are needed to address the impact of weight loss interventions on risk of CBC.
Air‐Blown Entrained‐Flow Gasification of Biocoal from Hydrothermal Carbonization
Authors: Briesemeister Ludwig , Kremling Michael , Fendt Sebastian , Spliethoff Hartmut
Published: October 2016

Hydrothermal carbonization was used to convert green waste into a high‐quality biocoal that was applied to an air‐blown entrained‐flow gasifier. Fuel‐specific operating parameters are required to achieve complete fuel conversion and operate the gasifier at high efficiency. Therefore, different air‐to‐fuel equivalence ratios and steam addition were applied to investigate effects on gasifier performance. Fuel and carbon conversion were determined by char‐particle analysis. The syngas composition and cold gas efficiencies were determined and the solid‐phase adsorption method was used for tar measurements. It was shown that owing to high conversion rates and comparably low tar loading, biocoal is very applicable for entrained‐flow gasification. Higher gas preheating temperatures would improve the process.
Boiler Design with Solid‐Gaseous Fuel Staging to Reduce NOx Emissions and Optimize Load Flexibility
Authors: Meiller Martin , Daschner Robert , Walberer Julian , Hornung Andreas
Published: October 2016

Stricter emission limits and low prices for fossil fuels are considerable challenges for biomass combustion technologies. Solutions are provided with an innovative boiler concept developed within the last years. Due to its design, the boiler can be operated in different modes as a combi‐boiler for solid and gaseous fuels. In the standard mode, solid biomass is used as fuel. Switching to the fuel staging mode enables the reduction of higher NOx emissions. The experiments demonstrate that reduction rates of up to 50 % are possible. In low load times or if it makes sense from an economic point of view, the boiler can also be operated with gas only. Mainly the results from combustion experiments in fuel staging mode are discussed. Based on these results, a model has been designed to develop a control unit and to support the upscaling process.
Integrated Electrostatic Precipitator for Small‐Scaled Biomass Boilers
Authors: Berhardt Alexander , Lezsovits Ferenc , Groß Bodo
Published: October 2016

With the intention of developing an electrostatic precipitator (ESP) for small‐scaled biomass boilers, several laboratory and field tests were carried out to transfer the theoretical design criteria and approaches into practice. The precipitator can be applied both, as a direct integrated version or as an adaptive precipitation box. Another main aim was the application of alternative fuels. The approaches, ESP design criteria, and the different setups which were used during the development are described. The obtained field test results for standard and alternative biomass fuels are discussed and compared to theory. In addition, physical and chemical analyses of the precipitated filter ashes were performed.
Rational Control of Conformational Distributions and Mixed‐Valence Characteristics in Diruthenium Complexes
Authors: Gluyas Josef B. G. , Gückel Simon , Kaupp Martin , Low Paul J.
Published: October 2016

The electronic characteristics of mixed‐valence complexes are often inferred from the shape of the inter‐valence charge transfer (IVCT) band, which usually falls in the near infrared (NIR) region, and relationships derived from Marcus‐Hush theory. These analyses typically assume one single, dominant molecular conformation. The NIR spectra of the prototypical delocalised (Class III Robin–Day mixed‐valence) complexes [{Ru(pp)Cp’}2(μ‐C≡C−C≡C)]+ ([1]+: Cp’=Cp, pp=(PPh3)2; [2]+: Cp’=Cp, pp=dppe; [3]+: Cp’=Cp*, pp=dppe) feature a ‘two‐band’ pattern, which complicates band‐shape analysis using these traditional methods. In the past, the appearance of sub‐bands within or near the IVCT transition has been attributed to vibronic effects or localised d‐d transitions. Quantum‐chemical modelling of a series of rotational conformers of [1]+–[3]+ reveals the two components that contribute to the NIR absorption band envelope to be a π‐π* transition and an MLCT transition. The MLCT components only gain appreciable intensity when the orientation of the half‐sandwich ruthenium ligand spheres deviates from idealised cis (Ω P−Ru−Ru−P=0°) or trans (Ω P−Ru−Ru−P=180°) conformations. The increased steric demand of the supporting ligands, together with some underlying inter‐phosphine ligand T‐shaped CH⋅⋅⋅π stacking interactions across the series [1]+ to [2]+ to [3]+ results in local minima biased towards such non‐idealised conformations of the metal‐ligand fragments (Ω P−Ru−Ru−P=33–153°). Experimentally, this is indicated by appearance of multiple bands within the IR
(C≡C) band envelopes and increasing intensity of the higher‐energy MLCT transition(s) relative to the π‐π* transition across the series, and the appearance of a pronounced ‘two‐band’ pattern in the experimental NIR absorption envelopes. These conformational effects and the methods of analysis presented here, which combine analysis of IR and NIR spectra with quantum‐chemical calculations on a range of energetically similar conformational minima, are expected to be quite general for mixed‐valence systems.
An Anionic Interpenetrated Zeolite‐Like Metal–Organic Framework Composite As a Tunable Dual‐Emission Luminescent Switch for Detecting Volatile Organic Molecules
Authors: Xie Wei , He Wen‐Wen , Li Shun‐Li , Shao Kui‐Zhan , Su Zhong‐Min , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: October 2016

The luminescent MOF [(CH3)2NH2]2[(Zn2O)L]⋅5 DMF (NENU‐519, NENU=Northeast Normal University) with a zeolite BCT topology was successfully synthesized. It is a rare example of a two‐fold interpenetrated framework with a zeolite topology. NENU‐519 demonstrates the ability to selectively adsorb cationic dyes. Furthermore we developed Rh6@NENU‐519 (Rh6=Rhodamine 6G) as a dual‐emitting sensor for probing different volatile organic molecules (VOMs) due to an energy transfer between L and the dye. The composite can be used to distinguish the isomers of o‐, m‐, and p‐xylene and ethylbenzene using the emission‐peak‐height ratios of L to the dye as detectable signals, in which the readout signals are involved in the interactions between the dye@MOF composite and the guest analytes. Moreover, Rh6@NENU‐519 can serve as a luminescent switch for the detection of different aromatic compounds, like benzene, benzene substituted with different groups, and pyridine. In other words, the Rh6@NENU‐519 composite can be used as molecular decoder of the structural information of different VOMs into recognizable luminescent signals. Hopefully this work will open a new corridor to develop luminescent guest@MOF composites as sensors for practical applications.
Cerebral Cortex Electroporation to Study Projection Neuron Migration
Authors: Pacary Emilie , Guillemot François
Published: October 2016

Brain electroporation is a rapid and powerful approach to study neuronal development. In particular, this technique has become a method of choice for studying the process of radial migration of projection neurons in the embryonic cerebral cortex. This method has considerably helped to describe in detail the different steps of radial migration and to characterize the molecular mechanisms controlling this process. Delineating the complexities of neuronal migration is critical to our understanding not only of normal cerebral cortex formation but also of neurodevelopmental disorders resulting from neuronal migration defects. Here, we describe in detail the protocols to perform in utero or ex vivo electroporation of progenitor cells in the ventricular zone of the cerebral cortex with the aim of studying the process of radial migration of projection neurons during embryonic development. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Trajectory control of manipulator fed by power packets
Authors: Mochiyama Shiu , Takahashi Ryo , Hikihara Takashi
Published: October 2016

The conventional power supply is based on a continuous flow of electricity. Electrically driven independent systems face the limitations of flexibility and efficiency of power management in a network consisting of power sources, converters, and loads. The power packet dispatching system, where electricity is transferred in a discretized form with information, is expected to remove the limitations. The system realizes a dynamic arrangement of power‐line connection between power sources and loads. In this paper, we focus on its application to a manipulator. This is an example of electro‐mechanical actuation in independent systems. We verify the trajectory control of the manipulator fed by power packets numerically and experimentally. The results indicate that power packets as a discretized transfer of electricity can be applied to the electro‐mechanical actuation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validity of Exercise Measures in Adults with Anorexia Nervosa: The EDE, Compulsive Exercise Test and Other Self‐Report Scales
Authors: Young Sarah , Touyz Stephen , Meyer Caroline , Arcelus Jon , Rhodes Paul , Madden Sloane , Pike Kathleen , Attia Evelyn , Crosby Ross D. , Wales Jackie , Hay Phillipa
Published: October 2016

Objective

Compulsive exercise is a prominent feature for the majority of patients with Anorexia Nervosa (AN), but there is a dearth of research evaluating assessment instruments. This study assessed the concurrent validity of the exercise items of the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) and Eating Disorder Examination‐Questionnaire (EDE‐Q), with the Compulsive Exercise Test (CET) and other self‐report exercise measures in patients with AN. We also aimed to perform validation of the CET in an adult clinical sample.

Methods

The sample consisted of 78 adults with AN, recruited for the randomized controlled trial “Taking a LEAP forward in the treatment of anorexia nervosa.” At baseline, participants completed the EDE, EDE‐Q, CET, Reasons for Exercise Inventory (REI), Commitment to Exercise Scale (CES) and Exercise Beliefs Questionnaire (EBQ). Correlational and regression analyses were performed.

Results

EDE exercise days and exercise time per day were positively correlated with each other and with all CET subscales (except Lack of exercise enjoyment), CES mean, EBQ total and REI total. Exercise time per day was associated with a higher EDE global score. The CET demonstrated good concurrent validity with the CES, the REI and the EBQ. Of the self‐reports, the CET explained the greatest variance in eating disorder psychopathology and demonstrated good to excellent reliability in this sample.

Discussion

The EDE and EDE‐Q demonstrated good concurrent validity with the CET. Further research is required to evaluate the CET's factor structure in a large clinical sample. However, the CET has demonstrated strong clinical utility in adult patients with AN. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.(Int J Eat Disord 2017; 50:533–541)
Grazers structure the bacterial and algal diversity of aquatic metacommunities
Authors: Birtel Julia , Matthews Blake
Published: October 2016

Consumers can have strong effects on the biotic and abiotic dynamics of spatially‐structured ecosystems. In metacommunities, dispersing consumers can alter local assembly dynamics either directly through trophic interactions or indirectly by modifying local environmental conditions. In aquatic systems, very little is known about how key grazers, such as Daphnia, structure the microbial diversity of metacommunities and influence bacterial‐mediated ecosystem functions. In an outdoor mesocosm experiment with replicate metacommunities (two 300 L mesocosms), we tested how the presence and absence of Daphnia and the initial density of the microbial community (manipulated via dilution) influenced the diversity and community structure of algae and bacteria, and several ecosystem properties (e.g., pH, dissolved substances) and functions (e.g., enzyme activity, respiration). We found that Daphnia strongly affected the local and regional diversity of both phytoplankton and bacteria, the taxonomic composition of bacterial communities, the biomass of algae, and ecosystem metabolism (i.e., respiration). Diluting the microbial inoculum (0.2–5 μm size fraction) to the metacommunities increased local phytoplankton diversity, decreased bacteria beta‐diversity, and changed the relative abundance of bacterial classes. Changes in the rank abundance of different bacterial groups exhibited phylogenetic signal, implying that closely related bacteria species might share similar responses to the presence of Daphnia.
Recent Advances in Iminium‐Salt‐Catalysed Asymmetric Epoxidation
Authors: Day David P. , Sellars Philip B.
Published: October 2016

Epoxides are important functional groups that are present in bioactive natural products and serve as useful building blocks for the formation of more complex molecular architectures. While asymmetric epoxidation methods have been known for four decades, in recent years there has been a drive to carry out transformations using organocatalysts. In this review we will discuss the application of iminium salts as organocatalysts in asymmetric epoxidation reactions, which has received a lot of attention over the last decade. We pay particular attention to the use of dihydroisoquinolinium salts and iminium salts based on binaphthyl and biphenyl systems in the asymmetric epoxidation of a broad range of olefin substrates.
Simplified procedure for the estimation of local inelastic deformation demands for seismic performance assessment of buildings
Authors: Araújo Miguel , Castro José Miguel
Published: October 2016

The implementation of performance‐based design and assessment procedures in seismic codes leads to the need for an accurate estimation of local component demands. According to Part 3 of Eurocode 8 safety checks should be always conducted in terms of plastic rotations, even when linear elastic methods of analysis are used. This paper demonstrates that linear analysis fails to predict inelastic deformation demands at the member level. Therefore, a simplified procedure that allows for the estimation of beam inelastic deformation demands using linear elastic methods of analysis in a simple and conservative way is presented herein. A number of moment‐resisting steel frames designed according to different criteria and exhibiting different column‐to‐beam strength ratios were analysed and used for the derivation of the proposed procedure. A comparative study between alternative methods of quantifying inelastic deformation demands using linear analysis is also carried out. The results obtained allow concluding about the efficiency and conservativeness of the proposed procedure which makes it attractive to be employed in engineering practice. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Copy number profiling of tumor suppressor genes in head and neck cancer
Authors: Yalniz Zubeyde , Demokan Semra , Karabulut Burak , Ulusan Murat , Suoglu Yusufhan , Dalay Nejat
Published: October 2016

Background

Sensitive and reliable new biomarkers are needed in head and neck cancer to predict the outcome and for therapy that is more effective. Copy number alterations are frequent and play a critical role in cancer.

Methods

Copy number alterations of 24 tumor suppressor genes in head and neck cancer were analyzed simultaneously in matched tumor and normal samples from 93 patients using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA).

Results

Chromosomes 3p and 9p displayed the most common alterations. The gene displaying most frequent losses was the mutL homolog 1 (MLH1) gene, followed by the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) and CDKN2B genes. A significant correlation was observed between the CDKN2A and CDKN2B genes. The tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)3 gene alterations were observed in 8 tumors.

Conclusion

Our data confirm previous observations and suggest that losses of the MLH1 and CDKN2 genes and alterations of the TIMP3 gene play an important role in head and neck carcinogenesis. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 341–346, 2017
Weight loss after head and neck cancer: A dynamic relationship with depressive symptoms
Authors: Van Liew Julia R. , Brock Rebecca L. , Christensen Alan J. , Karnell Lucy Hynds , Pagedar Nitin A. , Funk Gerry F.
Published: October 2016

Background

Weight loss and depressive symptoms are critical head and neck cancer outcomes, yet their relation over the illness course is unclear.

Methods

Associations between self‐reported depressive symptoms and objective weight loss across the year after head and neck cancer diagnosis were examined using growth curve modeling techniques (n = 564).

Results

A reciprocal covariation pattern emerged–changes in depressive symptoms over time were associated with same‐month changes in weight loss (t [1148] = 2.05; p = .041), and changes in weight loss were associated with same‐month changes in depressive symptoms (t [556] = 2.43; p = .015). To the extent that depressive symptoms increased, patients lost incrementally more weight than was lost due to the passage of time and vice versa. Results also suggested that pain and eating‐related quality of life might explain the reciprocal association between depressive symptoms and weight loss.

Conclusion

In head and neck cancer, a transactional interplay between depressive symptoms and weight loss unfolds over time. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 370–379, 2017
Causes and consequences of biotic homogenization in freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Petsch Danielle Katharine
Published: October 2016

Biotic homogenization goes beyond the increase in taxonomic similarity among communities. It also involves the loss of biological differences in any organizational level (e.g., populations or communities) in terms of functional, taxonomic or genetic features. There are many ways to measure biotic homogenization, and the results depend on temporal and spatial scales, the biological group, and the richness of the communities. In freshwater ecosystems, the main investigated causes of biotic homogenization correspond to the introduction of non‐native species, damming, and changes in land use. However, other natural and anthropogenic causes also increase similarity among aquatic biota, such as climatic change, changes in productivity, and flood and drought events. The consequences of biotic homogenization in freshwater ecosystems are less explored than its causes, despite its severe implications, such as lesser resistant/resilient communities, loss of ecosystem functions, and higher vulnerability to diseases. Finally, biotic homogenization is a complex process that requires attention in conservation strategies, especially because forecasts suggest that freshwater biotas will continue to become more homogeneous in the future.
Evaluation of a preliminary method to examine antecedent and consequent contributions to noncompliance
Authors: Majdalany Lina M. , Wilder David A. , Allgood Jesse , Sturkie Latasha
Published: October 2016

We evaluated a preliminary method for examining the antecedent and consequent contributions to noncompliance exhibited by two children with disabilities. In Phase 1, we assessed whether noncompliance was a result of a skill deficit. For one participant, we then conducted a functional analysis to determine the variables maintaining noncompliance in Phase 2. In Phase 3, we conducted a treatment evaluation to increase compliance for each participant. We identified the antecedent and consequent variables responsible for noncompliance and developed an effective intervention for both participants.
Complexes of a Zn‐metalloenzyme binding site with hydroxamate‐containing ligands. A case for detailed benchmarkings of polarizable molecular mechanics/dynamics potentials when the experimental binding structure is unknown
Authors: Gresh Nohad , Perahia David , de Courcy Benoit , Foret Johanna , Roux Céline , El‐Khoury Lea , Piquemal Jean‐Philip , Salmon Laurent
Published: October 2016

Zn‐metalloproteins are a major class of targets for drug design. They constitute a demanding testing ground for polarizable molecular mechanics/dynamics aimed at extending the realm of quantum chemistry (QC) to very long‐duration molecular dynamics (MD). The reliability of such procedures needs to be demonstrated upon comparing the relative stabilities of competing candidate complexes of inhibitors with the recognition site stabilized in the course of MD. This could be necessary when no information is available regarding the experimental structure of the inhibitor–protein complex. Thus, this study bears on the phosphomannose isomerase (PMI) enzyme, considered as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of several bacterial and parasitic diseases. We consider its complexes with 5‐phospho‐d‐arabinonohydroxamate and three analog ligands differing by the number and location of their hydroxyl groups. We evaluate the energy accuracy expectable from a polarizable molecular mechanics procedure, SIBFA. This is done by comparisons with ab initio quantum‐chemistry (QC) calculations in the following cases: (a) the complexes of the four ligands in three distinct structures extracted from the entire PMI‐ligand energy‐minimized structures, and totaling up to 264 atoms; (b) the solvation energies of several energy‐minimized complexes of each ligand with a shell of 64 water molecules; (c) the conformational energy differences of each ligand in different conformations characterized in the course of energy‐minimizations; and (d) the continuum solvation energies of the ligands in different conformations. The agreements with the QC results appear convincing. On these bases, we discuss the prospects of applying the procedure to ligand‐macromolecule recognition problems. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MicroRNA‐494 Activation Suppresses Bone Marrow Stromal Cell‐Mediated Drug Resistance in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Tian Chen , Zheng Guoguang , Zhuang Hongqing , Li Xubin , Hu Dongzhi , Zhu Lei , Wang Tengteng , You Mingjian James , Zhang Yizhuo
Published: October 2016

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is not sensitive to chemotherapy partially because of the protection of AML cells by mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Our previous studies found that MSCs protected AML cells from apoptosis through the c‐Myc‐dependent pathway. However, the mechanism by which MSCs regulate c‐Myc in AML cells is still unknown. To elucidate the mechanism, we performed microRNA array analysis of AML cell lines and validated by TaqMan realtime PCR. The results showed that the expression of microRNA‐494 (miR‐494) in AML cells after coculture with MSCs was downregulated. Reporter gene analysis confirmed miR‐494 as one of the regulators of c‐Myc. In the coculture system, activation of miR‐494 in AML cells suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis of AML cells in vitro. After addition of mitoxantrone to the coculture system, the proliferation of AML cells with miR‐494 activation was suppressed more than that of control cells. After subcutaneous injection of AML cell lines in combination with MSC, tumor growth was suppressed in mice injected with miR‐494‐overexpressing AML cells. The rate of tumor formation was even lower after mitoxantrone treatment in the miR‐494 overexpressing group. Moreover, miR‐494 activation resulted in a decrease of leukemic cell counts in peripheral blood (PB) and bone marrow, and prolonged survival in mice injected with miR‐494‐overexpressing AML cellls and MSCs compared to the control mice. Our results indicate that miR‐494 suppresses drug resistance in AML cells by downregulating c‐Myc through interaction with MSCs and that miR‐494 therefore is a potential therapeutic target. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1387–1395, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Response of saliva Na/K ratio to changing Na supply of lactating cows under tropical conditions
Authors: Thiangtum Wandee , Schonewille J Thomas , Verstegen Martin WA , Arsawakulsudhi Supot , Rukkwamsuk Theera , Hendriks Wouter H
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Factorial determination of the sodium (Na) requirement of heat‐stressed lactating cows is hindered by accurate estimates of the Na losses through sweat. Direct studies, therefore, may be needed requiring information on the time course of healthy animals to become Na depleted and the subsequent rate of repletion. The rate of Na depletion and subsequent rate of Na repletion with two levels of dietary Na to lactating dairy cows housed under tropical conditions were investigated using the salivary Na/K.

RESULTS

The 12 lactating cows (salivary Na/K ratio 14.6) rapidly developed clinical signs of Na deficiency, including pica, polyuria and polydipsia, reduced body weight and reduced milk yield when fed a low‐Na ration (0.33 g kg−1 dry matter (DM)) for 3 weeks. Deficiency symptoms were associated with a rapid decrease in salivary Na/K ratio to <4.3 from 7 to 21 days. Subsequent repletion of the cows with NaCl to a ration concentration of 1.1 or 1.6 g Na kg−1 DM for 5 weeks did not restore salivary Na/K ratio to values of >6.

CONCLUSION

A daily Na intake of heat‐stressed lactating cows to a ration intake of 1.6 g Na kg−1 DM was insufficient to restore Na deficiency. One week was sufficient to deplete heat‐stressed lactating cows of Na, allowing for rapid dose–response studies utilizing the salivary Na/K ratio as a parameter for Na status of cows under tropical conditions. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Combining rheology and MRI: Imaging healthy and tumorous brains based on mechanical properties
Authors: Kofahl Anna‐Lisa , Theilenberg Sebastian , Bindl Jakob , Ulucay Deniz , Wild Judith , Napiletzki Sylvia , Schu‐Schätter Birgit , Vohlen Alexandra , Pintea Bogdan , Finsterbusch Jürgen , Hattingen Elke , Urbach Carsten , Maier Karl
Published: October 2016

Purpose

It is well known that pathological changes in tissue alter its mechanical properties. This holds also true for brain tissue. In case of the brain, however, obtaining information about these properties is hard due to the surrounding cranial bone. In this paper a novel technique to create an imaging contrast based on the aforementioned properties is presented.

Methods

The method is based on an excitation of the brain induced by a short fall. The response of the brain tissue is measured using a motion sensitive MRI sequence.

Results

The new method is tested by measurements on phantom material as well as on healthy volunteers. In a proof of principle experiment the capability of the approach to identify local alterations in the mechanical properties is shown by means of measurements on meningioma patients.

Conclusion

The presented results show the feasibility of the novel method. Even in this early state of the proposed method, comparisons of measurements on meningioma patients with intraoperative palpation suggest that meningioma tissue responds differently to the excitation depending on their mechanical properties. Magn Reson Med 78:930–940, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
A semiautomatic method for rapid segmentation of velocity‐encoded myocardial magnetic resonance imaging data
Authors: Espe Emil K. S. , Skårdal Kristine , Aronsen Jan Magnus , Zhang Lili , Sjaastad Ivar
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To develop a semiautomatic method for rapid segmentation of myocardial tissue phase mapping (TPM) data.

Methods

Manual segmentation of the myocardium was performed at end‐diastole and end‐systole. The points in both user‐defined masks were then automatically tracked over the entire cardiac cycle using temporal integration of the velocity field. Paths that failed to visit both masks at the expected times were excluded, after which masks for all time points were generated automatically from the accepted paths. Midventricular and basal phase contrast TPM slices from 12 rats were segmented using the proposed method and fully manual segmentation. The results were compared using Dice's metric and Bland–Altman analysis, and interobserver variability was assessed.

Results

The semiautomatic method reduced the average user input time from 21 min to 1 min per slice. The Dice metrics between the methods were 0.88 ± 0.03 (midventricular) and 0.83 ± 0.06 (basal), and Bland–Altman limits of agreement of peak systolic and diastolic regional velocities were: midventricular: 0.05 ± 0.65 cm/s, −0.02 ± 0.42 cm/s, and −0.03 ± 0.40 cm/s (radial, tangential, longitudinal); basal: −0.04 ± 0.73 cm/s, 0.03 ± 0.60 cm/s, and −0.04 ± 0.48 cm/s (radial, tangential, longitudinal). Interobserver variability following semiautomatic segmentation was lower than for manual segmentation.

Conclusion

The proposed method reduced the segmentation time substantially and exhibited well‐preserved data quality and excellent interobserver limits of agreement. Magn Reson Med 78:1199–1207, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
A modular extrusion die design to produce continuous glass fibers reinforced PVC‐wood composite profiles
Authors: Mohammad Taheri Hossein , Behravesh Amir Hossein , Kargar Mahmoud
Published: October 2016

This paper presents design and manufacture of a modular die to produce profiles of wood plastic composites (WPCs) reinforced with continuous glass fibers. As the strength and fracture toughness of WPCs are not convincing for load bearing applications, strengthening WPC profiles with continuous fibers could provide sufficient strength to meet the requirements. In this study, a modular profile die with various cross sections, i.e., I‐, U‐, and rectangular‐shaped was designed and manufactured. The approach to balance the flow for the various sections was to implement a flow restricting mechanism along the melt flow path. Impregnated glass rovings (IMGRs) were introduced continuously into the flow to reinforce the profiles through specially designed guides. Experimentations indicated the sound performance of the designed and implemented modular die. Three point bending tests were carried out to evaluate the flexural properties. Improvements in flexural strength and modulus were noticeable. The highest improvement in bending strength with four glass fibers was observed to be 23%, 38%, and 58% for I‐, U‐, and rectangular‐shaped profiles, respectively. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2268–2276, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Polyaniline/silver decorated‐MWCNT composites with enhanced electrical and thermal properties
Authors: Hussain Tajamal , Jabeen Sobia , Shehzad Khurram , Mujahid Adnan , Ahmad Mirza Nadeem , Farooqi Zahoor H. , Raza Muhammad Hamid
Published: October 2016

Conducting polyaniline (PANI) composites reinforced with pristine Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and silver decorated MWCNTs (Ag‐MWCNTs) were fabricated via in situ polymerization method. These composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐Vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), conductivity measurements and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). FTIR and UV‐Vis spectra confirmed the successful polymerization of aniline on the surface of Ag‐MWCNTs. SEM showed uniform dispersion of MWCNTs into PANI matrix with a few coarse patches. Studies of electrical conductivity revealed that Ag‐MWCNT, as filler, is more effective in enhancing the electrical conductivity of PANI. The maximum conductivity of PANI/Ag‐MWCNTs composites was almost two times, i.e., 11.9 Scm−1 for composites having only 2% fillers as compared to that of PANI/MWCNTs having 4% filler, i.e., 5.7 Scm−1. Thus, PANI/Ag‐MWCNTs composites are thermally more stable than PANI/MWCNTs composites due to better interaction between PANI and Ag‐MWCNTs. The results of TGA suggest that PANI‐MWCNTs composites showed 12 to 15% higher weight loss than that of PANI/Ag‐MWCNTs composites. Also, PANI had lower thermal stability than its composites with MWCNTs and Ag‐MWCNTs. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1346–E1353, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Progress in thin film CIGS photovoltaics – Research and development, manufacturing, and applications
Authors: Feurer Thomas , Reinhard Patrick , Avancini Enrico , Bissig Benjamin , Löckinger Johannes , Fuchs Peter , Carron Romain , Weiss Thomas Paul , Perrenoud Julian , Stutterheim Stephan , Buecheler Stephan , Tiwari Ayodhya N.
Published: October 2016

This review summarizes the current status of Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 (CIGS) thin film solar cell technology with a focus on recent advancements and emerging concepts intended for higher efficiency and novel applications. The recent developments and trends of research in laboratories and industrial achievements communicated within the last years are reviewed, and the major developments linked to alkali post deposition treatment and composition grading in CIGS, surface passivation, buffer, and transparent contact layers are emphasized. Encouraging results have been achieved for CIGS‐based tandem solar cells and for improvement in low light device performance. Challenges of technology transfer of lab's record high efficiency cells to average industrial production are obvious from the reported efficiency values. One section is dedicated to development and opportunities offered by flexible and lightweight CIGS modules. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural instability and superconductivity in the solid solution SrNi2(P1−xGex)2
Authors: Hlukhyy Viktor , Hoffmann Andrea V. , Grinenko Vadim , Scheiter Juliane , Hummel Franziska , Johrendt Dirk , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: October 2016

The solid solution SrNi2(P1−xGex)2 with ThCr2Si2‐type structure has been synthesized over the whole composition range by high‐temperature solid state reactions. Structure investigations were performed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) methods. In addition, in situ temperature‐dependent powder XRD measurements down to 10 K were carried out for two SrNi2(P1−xGex)2 samples with x = 0.110(3) and 0.212(3), which indicate a temperature‐induced collapse of the structure of the first compound around 200 K. For both samples, superconductivity was detected above 1.8 K by magnetic, resistivity, and heat capacity measurements (TC ∼ 3.0 and 2.4 K, respectively). The crystal chemistry and the chemical bonding in the superconducting compounds are discussed in terms of linear muffin‐tin orbital (LMTO) band structure calculations including density of states (DOS), crystal orbital Hamilton populations (COHPs), and a topological analysis using the electron localization function (ELF).
CuNi binary alloy catalyst for growth of nitrogen‐doped graphene by low pressure chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Papon Remi , Sharma Kamal P. , Mahayavanshi Rakesh D. , Sharma Subash , Vishwakarma Riteshkumar , Rosmi Mohamad Saufi , Kawahara Toshio , Cline Joseph , Kalita Golap , Tanemura Masaki
Published: October 2016

The CuNi binary alloy can be significant as a catalyst for nitrogen‐doped (N‐doped) graphene growth considering controllable solubility of both carbon and nitrogen atoms. Here, we report for the first time the possibility of synthesizing substitutional N‐doped bilayer graphene on the binary alloy catalyst. Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analysis confirm the growth of bilayer and few‐layer graphene domains. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis shows the presence of around 5.8 at% of nitrogen. Our finding shows that large N‐doped bilayer graphene domains can be synthesized on the CuNi binary alloy.

magnified image

Synthesis of substitutional N‐doped bilayer graphene domains on the CuNi binary alloy catalyst. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bulk δ15N measurements of organic‐rich rock samples by elemental analyzer/isotope ratio mass spectrometry with enhanced oxidation ability
Authors: Han Wennian , Feng Lianjun , Li Hongwei , Liu Wei
Published: October 2016

Rationale

Elemental analyzer/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA/IRMS) has been widely used for nitrogen isotope ratio determination in various organic and inorganic samples. However, the extent of the redox reaction in the EA reaction tube can greatly affect the accuracy and precision of measurements, especially in the case of complex geological samples. It is therefore necessary to determine the appropriate reaction conditions to reach a high recovery of nitrogen by complete combustion or thermal decomposition and quantitative reduction.

Methods

The conventional Dumas dual‐inlet method was used to determine the bulk nitrogen isotope composition of SGR‐1 (an organic‐rich standard sample), which then was analyzed by EA/IRMS under different EA reaction conditions to study the influence of the redox environment on the δ15N measurements. The measured data together with the results reported by previous researchers were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the nitrogen extraction for organic‐rich rock samples.

Results

Our results demonstrated that with the Dumas dual‐inlet method more oxidizing agent (CuO) addition to SGR‐1 would yield a higher nitrogen content of 0.91% than the recommended content (0.81%) although a δ15N value of 17.39 ± 0.09‰ was consistent with the recommended value by USGS. Using EA/IRMS, when more O2 was injected in the reaction tube, a high nitrogen content (0.92 ± 0.01%) and a δ15N value (17.43 ± 0.17‰) close to that of the Dumas dual‐inlet method were obtained. The addition of V2O5 or CuO in a continuous‐flow system of EA/IRMS could not effectively enable the complete combustion of SGR‐1.

Conclusions

When measuring the nitrogen isotope composition of organic‐rich rock sample dominated by reduced substances with EA/IRMS, greater O2 injection will enable more complete combustion to obtain reliable nitrogen yields compared with the addition of V2O5 or CuO. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.