bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling connectivity to identify current and future anthropogenic barriers to movement of large carnivores: A case study in the American Southwest
Authors: McClure Meredith L. , Dickson Brett G. , Nicholson Kerry L.
Published: April 2017

This study sought to identify critical areas for puma (Puma concolor) movement across the state of Arizona in the American Southwest and to identify those most likely to be impacted by current and future human land uses, particularly expanding urban development and associated increases in traffic volume. Human populations in this region are expanding rapidly, with the potential for urban centers and busy roads to increasingly act as barriers to demographic and genetic connectivity of large‐bodied, wide‐ranging carnivores such as pumas, whose long‐distance movements are likely to bring them into contact with human land uses and whose low tolerance both for and from humans may put them at risk unless opportunities for safe passage through or around human‐modified landscapes are present. Brownian bridge movement models based on global positioning system collar data collected during bouts of active movement and linear mixed models were used to model habitat quality for puma movement; then, a wall‐to‐wall application of circuit theory models was used to produce a continuous statewide estimate of connectivity for puma movement and to identify pinch points, or bottlenecks, that may be most at risk of impacts from current and future traffic volume and expanding development. Rugged, shrub‐ and scrub‐dominated regions were highlighted as those offering high quality movement habitat for pumas, and pinch points with the greatest potential impacts from expanding development and traffic, although widely distributed, were particularly prominent to the north and east of the city of Phoenix and along interstate highways in the western portion of the state. These pinch points likely constitute important conservation opportunities, where barriers to movement may cause disproportionate loss of connectivity, but also where actions such as placement of wildlife crossing structures or conservation easements could enhance connectivity and prevent detrimental impacts before they occur.
The contractile adaption to preload depends on the amount of afterload
Authors: Schotola Hanna , Sossalla Samuel T. , Renner André , Gummert Jan , Danner Bernhard C. , Schott Peter , Toischer Karl
Published: April 2017

Aims

The Frank–Starling mechanism (rapid response (RR)) and the secondary slow response (SR) are known to contribute to increases contractile performance. The contractility of the heart muscle is influenced by pre‐load and after‐load. Because of the effect of pre‐load vs. after‐load on these mechanisms in not completely understood, we studied the effect in isolated muscle strips.

Methods and results

Progressive stretch lead to an increase in shortening/force development under isotonic (only pre‐load) and isometric conditions (pre‐ and after‐load). Muscle length with maximal function was reached earlier under isotonic (Lmax‐isotonic) compared with isometric conditions (Lmax‐isometric) in nonfailing rabbit, in human atrial and in failing ventricular muscles. Also, SR after stretch from slack to Lmax‐isotonic was comparable under isotonic and isometric conditions (human: isotonic 10 ± 4%, isometric 10 ± 4%). Moreover, a switch from isotonic to isometric conditions at Lmax‐isometric showed no SR proving independence of after‐load. To further analyse the degree of SR on the total contractile performance at higher pre‐load muscles were stretched from slack to 98% Lmax‐isometric under isotonic conditions. Thereby, the SR was 60 ± 9% in rabbit and 51 ± 14% in human muscle strips.

Conclusions

This work shows that the acute contractile response largely depends on the degree and type of mechanical load. Increased filling of the heart elevates pre‐load and prolongs the isotonic part of contraction. The reduction in shortening at higher levels of pre‐load is thereby partially compensated by the pre‐load‐induced SR. After‐load shifts the contractile curve to a better ‘myofilament function’ by probably influencing thin fibers and calcium sensitivity, but has no effect on the SR.
Synthetic Route to 4,4a‐ and 3,4‐Dihydroxanthones through [4+2] Cycloaddition and Base‐Assisted Sigmatropic Rearrangement
Authors: Chernov Nikita M. , Shutov Roman V. , Sharoyko Vladimir V. , Kuz'mich Nikolay N. , Belyakov Alexander V. , Yakovlev Igor P.
Published: April 2017

The [4+2] cycloaddition of chromone‐fused dienes with enamines was found to be an efficient method for the synthesis of 4,4a‐ and 3,4‐dihydroxanthone derivatives. Either product type could be obtained by choosing the proper conditions [reaction time and addition of La(NO3)3 as a Lewis acid]. Calculations using density functional theory and Møller–Plesset perturbation theory showed that the isomerization of 4,4a‐dihydroxanthones to 3,4‐dihydroxanthones occurred through a base‐assisted sigmatropic rearrangement. The described reaction provides a convenient route to a natural‐product‐inspired group of 4,4a‐dihydroxanthones with cytotoxic activity.
Diffusiophoresis of a charged particle in a microtube
Authors: Chiu Han C. , Keh Huan J.
Published: April 2017

The diffusiophoresis of a charged sphere along the axis of a circular microtube filled with an electrolyte solution is studied theoretically. The tube wall may be either nonconductive and impermeable or prescribed with a linear electrolyte concentration distribution. The electric double layers at the solid surfaces are thin, but the diffuse‐layer polarization effect over the particle surface is considered. The general solutions to the electrokinetic differential equations are expressed in spherical and cylindrical coordinates, whereas the boundary conditions at the particle surface are satisfied by a collocation technique. The collocation solutions for the diffusiophoretic velocity of the particle, which are in good agreement with the asymptotic formula derived from a reflection method, are obtained for various values of the radius ratio and zeta potential ratio between the particle and the microtube and of other relevant parameters. The contributions from the diffusioosmotic flow along the tube wall and wall–corrected diffusiophoretic driving force to the particle velocity can be superimposed due to the linearity. Although the diffusiophoretic velocity in an uncharged microtube is in general a decreasing function of the particle–to–tube radius ratio and can reverse its direction, it can increase with increases in this ratio due to the competition of the wall effects of possible electrochemical enhancement and hydrodynamic retardation to the particle motion. When the zeta potentials associated with the tube and particle are equivalent, the diffusioosmotic flow induced by the tube wall dominates the diffusiophoretic motion.
Goodness‐of‐fit tests for copula‐based spatial models
Authors: Durocher Martin , Quessy Jean‐François
Published: April 2017

There has been a growing interest recently for the modeling of spatial data using multivariate copulas. Such an approach allows for the modeling of spatial dependence independently of the marginal distributions at each site and enables for spatial structures that go beyond the extensively used Gaussian random field. In this context, the choice of an appropriate family of copulas for a given spatial dataset is a crucial issue, in particular when one is interested in accurate spatial interpolations. This paper develops and investigates formal goodness‐of‐fit methodologies for spatial copula models when only one replicate of an isotropic random field is available at a finite number of sites; this setup is standard in geostatistics. Because of the limited information that is available, it is suggested that groups of random pairs sharing similar lag distances be created and that traditional goodness‐of‐fit statistics for bivariate copula families be computed for each group. These statistics are then combined into a global test statistic whosepvalue is approximated from a suitably adapted parametric bootstrap. The performance of the proposed tests in terms of size and power is investigated in an extensive simulation study. The newly introduced tools are then illustrated on zinc concentration measurements near the Meuse river and on snowfall data in Canada.
Evidence of warm climate during late Sakmarian–early Artinskian in Posht‐e Badam Block, Central Iran and its paleogeographic implication
Authors: Arefifard Sakineh
Published: April 2017

Examination of the geochemical data, faunal associations, and bauxite/laterite horizons in the Khan Formation, in Kalmard area, Posht‐e Badam Block, Central Iran are presented. The data provide insights on the paleogeographic position of Central Iran as part of the Cimmerian during the late Sakmarian–early Artinskian time. Bauxite/laterite as valuable warm and humid paleoclimate proxies are observed in all studied sections of the mixed siliciclastic‐carbonate Khan Formation and are meters to tens of meters thick. The warm and humid climate is also verified by the previous studies of Khan Formation sandstones yielding high chemical weathering and highly mature quartz grains. Plant fossils recovered from these sandstones are further evidence of the warm and wet climate. The results of the geochemical studies of the Khan Formation carbonates are in robust agreement with the inferred paleoclimate condition from bauxite/laterite horizons and sandstone studies of the Khan Formation. The bivariate plot of major and minor elements shows that aragonite as an indicator of warm water conditions was the major carbonate mineralogy of the Khan Formation limestones. Temperature calculation based on the heaviest oxygen isotope value of the least‐altered sample indicates that the temperature was around 36 and 29 °C for dolomites and limestones of the Khan Formation, respectively. The skeletal grains of the Khan Formation limestones are representative of a photozoan association with fusulinids, smaller foraminifers, calcareous algae, and common crinoids, brachiopods and bryozoans and also ooids and peloids as non‐skeletal grains. Therefore, the results of this study are not in agreement with previous fusulinid‐based paleogeographic interpretations, which suggested a high‐latitude paleoposition for the Posht‐e Badam Block and its separation from other Central Iran terrains during the late Sakmarian–early Artinskian. These data indicate that Posht‐e Badam Block was part of Central Iran during the late Sakmarian–early Artinskian, and its paleoposition was at a low paleolatitude.
Can functional emotion regulation protect children's mental health from war trauma? A Palestinian study
Authors: Diab Marwan , Peltonen Kirsi , Qouta Samir R. , Palosaari Esa , Punamäki Raija‐Leena
Published: April 2017

Effective emotion regulation (ER) is expected to protect mental health in traumatic stress. We first analysed the protective (moderator) function of different ER strategies and the associations between ER and mental health. Second, we tested gender differences in the protective function of ER and the associations between ER strategies and mental health. Participants were 482 Palestinian children (girls 49.4%; 10–13 years,M= 11.29,SD= .68) whose ER was assessed by the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and mental health by post‐traumatic stress (Children's Impact Event Scale), depressive, and psychological distress (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) symptoms, and by psychosocial well‐being (Mental Health Continuum‐Short Form). War trauma involved 42 events. Results showed, first, that none of the ER strategies could protect a child's mental health from negative impact of war trauma, but self‐focused ER was associated with low depressive symptoms, and other‐facilitated ER with high psychological well‐being. However, controlling of emotions formed a comprehensive risk for children's mental health. Second, gender differences were found in the protective role of ER, as self‐focused and distractive ER formed a vulnerability among boys. The results are discussed in the context of emotional and regulative demands of war and life‐threat.
Triosephosphate isomerase tyrosine nitration induced by heme–NaNO2–H2O2 or peroxynitrite: Effects of different natural phenolic compounds
Authors: Gao Wanxia , Zhao Jie , Li Hailing , Gao Zhonghong
Published: April 2017

Peroxynitrite and heme peroxidases (or heme)–H2O2–NaNO2 system are the two common ways to cause protein tyrosine nitration in vitro, but the effects of antioxidants on reducing these two pathways‐induced protein nitration and oxidation are controversial. Both nitrating systems can dose‐dependently induce triosephosphate isomerase (TIM) nitration, however, heme–H2O2–NaNO2 was less destructive to protein secondary structures and led to more nitrated tyrosine residue than 3‐morpholinosydnonimine hydrochloride (SIN‐1, a peroxynitrite donor). Both of desferrioxamine and catechin could inhibit TIM nitration induced by heme–H2O2–NaNO2 and SIN‐1 and protein oxidation induced by SIN‐1, but promoted heme–H2O2–NaNO2‐induced protein oxidation. Moreover, the antagonism of natural phenolic compounds on SIN‐1‐induced tyrosine nitration was consistent with their radical scavenging ability, but no similar consensus was found in heme–H2O2–NaNO2‐induced nitration. Our results indicated that peroxynitrite and heme–H2O2–NaNO2‐induced protein nitration was different, and the later one could be a better model for anti‐nitration compounds screening.
miR‐34b Modulates Skeletal Muscle Cell Proliferation and Differentiation
Authors: Tang Zhixiong , Qiu Huiling , Luo Lan , Liu Nian , Zhong Jiasheng , Kang Kang , Gou Deming
Published: April 2017

Myogenesis involves myoblast proliferation and differentiation to myocytes, followed by fusion and hypertrophy to form myotubes during muscle development. Increasing evidence showed that microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the regulation of myogenesis. We have previously revealed that miR‐34b is steadily increased during this process. This miRNA regulates differentiation in various cell types, though its function in myogenesis remains to be elucidated. In this study, we show that miR‐34b represses muscle cell proliferation and promotes myotube formation. Our quantitative iTRAQ‐based proteomic analysis reveals 97 proteins are regulated by miR‐34b in mouse myoblast C2C12. We identified that miR‐34b targets 14‐3‐3 protein gamma, adenosylhomocysteinase and nucleolin by binding to their 3′UTR. Further analysis of these proteins expression patterns show that nucleolin is a cognate target of miR‐34b during myogenic differentiation. Here, we proved that a moderate reduction of nucleolin in cells enhanced the myotube formation. However, nucleolin is required for myogenesis, as cells with low levels of nucleolin reduced cell proliferation rate and are unable to differentiate. Our data demonstrated that nucleolin regulates myogenesis in a protein‐abundance‐dependent manner. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4285–4295, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recovery of PEGylated and native lysozyme using an in situ aqueous two‐phase system directly from the PEGylation reaction
Authors: Mejía‐Manzano Luis Alberto , Mayolo‐Deloisa Karla , Sánchez‐Trasviña Calef , González‐Valdez José , González‐González Mirna , Rito‐Palomares Marco
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Purification of PEGylated proteins from reactions is still a challenge due to the formation of isomers. In this work, the recovery of PEGylated lysozyme was studied in a novel integrative approach called in situ aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPS). The excess of PEG in the lysozyme PEGylation reaction (LPR) was used as part of the phase forming chemicals with different polymer (UCON, ficoll, dextran) and salt (sodium phosphate, potassium sulphate, sodium sulphate, ammonium sulphate, sodium carbonate) solutions.

RESULTS

The best option for the in situ ATPS formation was the addition of a 4 mol L−1 ammonium sulphate in 20 mmol L−1 Tris–HCl (pH 7.0) solution to the PEGylation reaction. PEGylated conjugates of lysozyme exhibited a preferential partition to the top (PEG‐rich) phase while native protein was partitioned to the bottom (salt‐rich) phase. Di‐PEGylated lysozyme partitioned entirely to the top phase (recovery of 100%), while the mono‐PEGylated protein presented a recovery yield of 56% in the top phase. On its part, 97.7% of the native lysozyme was concentrated in the bottom phase.

CONCLUSION

The proof‐of‐concept presented in this work allows the recovery of PEGylated proteins directly from a PEGylation reaction. It is the first time that PEGylated proteins have been fractionated using a PEG–ammonium sulphate system taking advantage of the unreacted PEG left in a PEGylation reaction. Based on reaction engineering, in situ ATPS are a potential mechanism for PEGylation control, a good alternative for ‘packed‐bed’ or on‐column PEGylation processes and a pioneer strategy in the development of phase transfer catalysis in PEGylation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Medicalization: A historical perspective
Authors: Birrer Richard B. , Tokuda Yasuharu
Published: April 2017

The spectrum of human condition is bell shaped, and an area around the midpoint has been chosen arbitrarily to define as the norm. Physically and mentally maladaptive outliers have been treated as diseases and fell into the realm of medicine. Many “nondisease” states can creep up into medicine and with time become medicalized through medicalization because of redefining many conditions long considered social or psychological phenomena as disease states. Processes regarded as natural but also maladaptive are now looked at as diseases. Major factors in the evolution of medicalization include wellness obsession, pharmaceutical industry, statistical and research saturation, media, Internet, and litigation. Unnecessary medicalization leads to huge social and financial cost as well as increased anxiety and risk for complication from further workups for incidental or clinically unimportant findings. In this special article, our concrete steps are provided to facilitate demedicalization based on professionalism of physicians.
Systemic tumor‐targeted sodium iodide symporter (NIS) gene therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma mediated by B6 peptide polyplexes
Authors: Urnauer Sarah , Klutz Kathrin , Grünwald Geoffrey K. , Morys Stephan , Schwenk Nathalie , Zach Christian , Gildehaus Franz‐Josef , Rödl Wolfgang , Ogris Manfred , Wagner Ernst , Spitzweg Christine
Published: April 2017

Background

Nonviral polymer‐based gene transfer represents an adaptable system for tumor‐targeted gene therapy because various design strategies of shuttle systems, together with the mechanistic concept of active tumor targeting, lead to improved gene delivery vectors resulting in higher tumor specificity, efficacy and safety.

Methods

Using the sodium iodide symporter (NIS) as a theranostic gene, nonviral gene delivery vehicles based on linear polyethylenimine (LPEI), polyethylene glycol (PEG) and coupled to the synthetic peptide B6 (LPEI‐PEG‐B6), which specifically binds to tumor cells, were investigated in a hepatocellular carcinoma xenograft model for tumor selectivity and transduction efficiency.

Results

In vitro incubation of three different tumor cell lines with LPEI‐PEG‐B6/NIS resulted in significant increase in iodide uptake activity compared to untargeted and empty vectors. After establishment of subcutaneous HuH7 tumors, NIS‐conjugated nanoparticles were injected intravenously followed by analysis of radioiodide biodistribution using 123I–scintigraphy showing significant perchlorate‐sensitive iodide accumulation in tumors of LPEI‐PEG‐B6/NIS‐treated mice (8.0 ± 1.5% ID/g 123I; biological half‐life of 4 h). After four cycles of repetitive polyplex/131I applications, a significant delay of tumor growth was observed, which was associated with markedly improved survival in the therapy group.

Conclusions

These results clearly demonstrate that systemic in vivo NIS gene transfer using nanoparticle vectors coupled to B6 tumor targeting ligand is capable of inducing tumor‐specific radioiodide uptake. This promising gene therapy approach opens the exciting prospect of NIS‐mediated radionuclide therapy in metastatic cancer, together with the possibility of combining several targeting ligands to enhance selective therapeutic efficacy in a broad field of cancer types with various receptor expression profiles.
Fusion of a family 20 carbohydrate‐binding module (CBM20) with cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase of Geobacillus sp. CHB1 improves catalytic efficiency
Authors: Jia Xianbo , Guo Yonghua , Lin Xinjian , You Minsheng , Lin Chenqiang , Chen Longjun , Chen Jichen
Published: April 2017

Cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase) is an important industrial enzyme for production of cyclodextrins (CDs) from starch by intramolecular transglycosylation. CGTase consists of five domains labeled A to E. For optimizing catalytic activity of CGTase, CGTase of Geobacillus sp. was fused with the family 20 carbohydrate‐binding module (CBM) of the Bacillus circulans strain 251 CGTase. The CBMbc251 that has a low binding free energy with maltohexaose, was selected by in silico design. Then the fusion enzyme, CGTΔE‐CBMbc251, was constructed by fusing the CBMbc251 to the C‐terminal region of CGTΔE. The fusion enzyme displayed an even greater enhancement of total α‐cyclization activity (40.2%) and γ‐cyclization activity (181.58%). Optimal reaction pH range was wilder and the thermal stability was better under 50 and 60 °C. Compared to the wild‐type CGTase, the fusion enzyme showed a remarkable decrease in Km and a slight alteration in Vmax. The enhancement of soluble starch catalytic efficiency might be due to the changes of substrate binding ability in the critical substrate binding sites between the CBM and starch granule.
Characterization of the binding capacity of mercurial species in Lactobacillus strains
Authors: Alcántara Cristina , Jadán‐Piedra Carlos , Vélez Dinoraz , Devesa Vicenta , Zúñiga Manuel , Monedero Vicente
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Metal sequestration by bacteria has been proposed as a strategy to counteract metal contamination in foodstuffs. Lactobacilli can interact with metals, although studies with important foodborne metals such as inorganic [Hg(II)] or organic (CH3Hg) mercury are lacking. Lactobacilli were evaluated for their potential to bind these contaminants and the nature of the interaction was assessed by the use of metal competitors, chemical and enzymatical treatments, and mutants affected in the cell wall structure.

RESULTS

Lactobacillus strains efficiently bound Hg(II) and CH3Hg. Mercury binding by Lactobacillus casei BL23 was independent of cell viability. In BL23, both forms of mercury were cell wall bound. Their interaction was not inhibited by cations and it was resistant to chelating agents and protein digestion. Lactobacillus casei mutants affected in genes involved in the modulation of the negative charge of the cell wall anionic polymer lipoteichoic acid showed increased mercury biosorption. In these mutants, mercury toxicity was enhanced compared to wild‐type bacteria. These data suggest that lipoteichoic acid itself or the physicochemical characteristics that it confers to the cell wall play a major role in mercury complexation.

CONCLUSION

This is the first example of the biosorption of Hg(II) and CH3Hg in lactobacilli and it represents a first step towards their possible use as agents for diminishing mercury bioaccessibility from food at the gastrointestinal tract. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
An integral‐imaging‐based head‐mounted light field display using a tunable lens and aperture array
Authors: Huang Hekun , Hua Hong
Published: April 2017

A head‐mounted light field display based on integral imaging is considered as one of the promising methods that can render correct or nearly correct focus cues and address the well‐known vergence‐accommodation conflict problem in head‐mounted displays. Despite its great potential, it still suffers some of the same limitations of conventional integral imaging‐based displays such as low spatial resolution and crosstalk. In this paper, we present a prototype design using tunable lens and aperture array to render 3D scenes over a large depth range while maintaining high image quality and minimizing crosstalk. Experimental results verify and show that the proposed design could significantly improve the viewing experience.
Crosslinker Effects on Properties of Hydroxyethylacryl Chitosan/Sodium Alginate Hydrogel Films
Authors: Treenate Pitchaya , Monvisade Pathavuth
Published: April 2017

The aim of this research is to investigate the effects of Ca2+ and Zn2+ ions on the swelling behavior, mechanical property and antibacterial activity of hydroxyethylacryl chitosan (HC)/ sodium alginate (SA) hydrogel films. The hydrogel films composed of HC and SA in different proportions (75:25, 50:50 and 25:75 w/w) were prepared by dipping method using calcium chloride as a single crosslinking agent and both calcium chloride and zinc sulfate as a couple crosslinking agent. The structures of the films were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). It was found that Ca2+ ions could only crosslink with SA through the formation of ionic bonds while Zn2+ ions could crosslink both HC through the formation of coordinate bonds and SA through the formation of partially ionic or coordinate bonds. The swelling behaviors of the films in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were investigated. The results showed relatively high stability for the crosslinked films with the couple crosslinking agent. The mechanical properties of the hydrogel films were also tested. It was found that the mechanical properties of the calcium‐zinc crosslinked films were greater than calcium crosslinked films. The values of tensile strength and elongation at break of the calcium‐zinc crosslinked films in the fully hydrated state were up to 12.9 MPa and 67%, respectively. Additionally, the calcium‐zinc crosslinked films evidenced better antibacterial activity to Staphylococcus aureus than calcium crosslinked films. Moreover, all of prepared hydrogel films exhibited no cytotoxicity for Vero cells. The comprehensive results suggest their potential as a wound dressing.
Responsive Hydrogels Based Lens Structure with Configurable Focal Length for Intraocular Lens (IOLs) Application
Authors: Li Yifan , Wang Ding , Richardson Jack , Xu Ben Bin
Published: April 2017

Stimuli‐responsive hydrogel has attracted wide interests in bio‐applications, especially in bio‐optical systems that need tuning and adjustment of their optical performances. In this paper, we have investigated the materials and structural designs for the potential intraocular Lens (IOLs) design by studying swelling induced morphology changes and subsequently optical properties of ionic responsive Poly (Acrylamide‐co‐sodium acrylate) hydrogel. The equilibrium swelling ratio and swelling kinetics of gel were measured under both free standing and confined conditions. The Poly (Acrylamide‐co‐sodium acrylate) hydrogel has shown reversible swelling response to the ion concentration. Autonomous focusing of the gel lens was demonstrated under the certain ionic stimulus. Initial optical results have been presented with designable stimuli‐responsive focal length shifting under structural confinement.
Propagation and localization of wave in multi‐span Timoshenko beams on elastic foundations under moving harmonic loads
Authors: Ding L. , Wu L. , Zhu H.‐P.
Published: April 2017

Wave propagation and localization in ordered and disordered multi‐span beams on elastic foundations due to moving harmonic loads are investigated by using the transfer matrix methodology. The transfer matrix, as a function of the frequency and velocity of the moving harmonic load, of the periodic beam is formulated in a coordinate system moving with the load. The expressions of critical velocities, cut‐off frequency of an associated uniform beam without discrete spaced supports, are determined through the analysis of the wavenumbers, and the dynamic responses of the beam are also examined. For the ordered and disordered case, the propagation constants and localization factors are respectively employed to identify the velocity and frequency pass bands and stop bands in order to examine whether the perturbation can propagate along the structure or not. The effects of the periodicity, disorder level, excitation frequency, and moving velocity are studied in detail. The validity of the obtained results is confirmed by evaluating the transverse deformation of the beams through the finite element simulations. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CRAN, H‐CRAN, and F‐RAN for 5G systems: Key capabilities and recent advances
Authors: Guizani Zeineb , Hamdi Noureddine
Published: April 2017

The world of telecommunication is witnessing a swift metamorphosis towards fifth generation cellular networks. Particularly, the rapid shift from a user centric to a device centric communication has created a tremendous impact on service complexity and network requirements. The future networks present requisite needs in ubiquitous throughput, low latency, and high reliability. They are also envisioned to provide energy efficiency, spectrum reuse, network scalability, and robustness as well as improved quality of user experience, which proves to be of ultimate importance. Accordingly, government, academic, and industrial institutions are working together to fulfill these challenging goals. Their research efforts have been extensively reported in various topics and directions, such as heterogeneous small cell networks, millimeter wave communication, massive multiple input multiple output, network function virtualization, software‐defined network, and device‐to‐device communication. More interestingly, a revolutionary network architecture based on cloud computing and centralized processing is adopted as one of the best candidates for fifth generation. It is denoted Cloud Radio Access Network (CRAN) and (H‐CRAN) in heterogeneous networks. An upgraded version, namely, Fog RAN (F‐RAN), with caching and fog computing capabilities is also presented. Environmental friendly, it ensures flexibility and scalability with reduced expenditures. This paper presents the aforementioned key technological functionalities and surveys the benefits and challenges of CRAN, H‐CRAN, and F‐RAN.
Nitrato Functionalized Polymers for High Energy Propellants and Explosives: Recent Advances
Authors: Gayathri S. , Reshmi S.
Published: April 2017

Future propellants and explosive research focus on developing compositions with less vulnerability without compromising performance. This has provided impetus for research in the area of high energy materials and compounds free from pollution, for safe handling, high performance, reliability and reproducibility. The energetic oxidizers and energetic binders are being developed in this scenario for use in composite propellants and explosives. In a propellant, the binder holds together the matrix containing solid oxidizer particles and finely divided metal particles. It provides structural integrity and aid the combustion of the propellant. Any new development in this area wherein the binder can contribute to the energetic is of immense importance. This can be achieved by incorporation of energetic groups such as nitrato (−ONO2), azide (−N3) or flurodinitro CF(NO2)2 as side chain or on to the existing polymer backbone. Among these, nitrato functionalized energetic binders can find application in myriad areas like boosters, plastic bonded explosives, gas generators and pyrogen igniters. The present article is a concise review on various types of nitrato binders; their synthesis, properties and their propellant studies. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymeric materials for lithium‐ion cells
Authors: John Bibin , Cheruvally Gouri
Published: April 2017

Lithium‐ion (Li‐ion) cells have gained considerable attention in recent years as a power source for various applications owing to their high voltage, high energy density, low self‐discharge, and excellent cycle life. Polymeric materials play a pivotal role in the processing, performance, and safety of Li‐ion cells. The polymeric materials used in Li‐ion cells include: binder for electrode processing, separator, electrolyte, and electrode active material. Active research is being pursued in all of these areas to improve the energy density, power density, cycle life, and safety of Li‐ion cells. This review article gives an overview of the various polymeric materials used in Li‐ion cells and the recent advances in these materials. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Note: Effect of gamma‐irradiation sterilization on the physical and mechanical properties of a hybrid wound dressing
Authors: Mazor Eytan , Zilberman Meital
Published: April 2017

The article from this special issue was previously published in Polymers for Advanced Technologies, Volume 28, Issue 1, 2017. For completeness we are including the title page of the article below. The full text of the article can be read in Issue 28:1 on Wiley Online Library: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pat.3854/full
Note: Simulation of novel soy protein‐based systems for tissue regeneration applications
Authors: Knani Dafna , Barkay‐Olami Hilla , Alperstein David , Zilberman Meital
Published: April 2017

The article from this special issue was previously published in Polymers for Advanced Technologies, Volume 28, Issue 4, 2017. For completeness we are including the title page of the article below. The full text of the article can be read in Issue 28:4 on Wiley Online Library: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pat.3918/full
Preparation and properties of redox responsive modified hyaluronic acid hydrogels for drug release
Authors: Zhang Renyi , Li Xian , He Kewen , Sheng Xueying , Deng Shuang , Shen Yueqin , Chang Guanjun , Ye Xu
Published: April 2017

A series of oxidized hyaluronic acid (oxi‐HA)/3,3′‐dithiobis (propionohydrazide) (DTP) redox responsive hydrogels by Schiff base reaction under physiological conditions were designed and prepared. The influence of the concentration of oxi‐HA and DTP on rheological properties, equilibrium swelling ratio, and degradation rate were investigated. All oxi‐HA/DTP hydrogels exhibited good rheological properties, high equilibrium swelling ratio, low degradation rate, and sustainable drug release properties, and the comprehensive performance of oxi‐HA5/DTP6 hydrogel was better than that of others. The redox responsiveness was evaluated by means of degradation and in vitro bovine serum albumin release behavior investigation with the stimulus of different concentration of dithiothreitol as reducing agent. The intelligent hydrogels could be potentially applied in the fields of drug delivery system, tissue engineering, or cell scaffold materials. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of pyridoxine‐based eagle‐shaped asymmetric star polymers through seATRP
Authors: Chmielarz Paweł
Published: April 2017

The vitamin B6‐based macroinitiator was prepared for the first time by the transesterification reaction of pyridoxine with 2‐bromoisobutyryl bromide. A pyridoxine‐based star‐shaped block copolymer with a hydrophilic pyridoxine core and a dual hydrophilic poly(2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)‐block‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) arms was synthesized for the first time via a simplified electrochemically mediated atom transfer radical polymerization, utilizing only 20 ppm of catalyst complex. The rate of the polymerizations was controlled by applying appropriate potential/current values during electrolysis to prevent the possibility of intermolecular coupling of the polymer stars. The asymmetric star polymers showed narrow molecular weight distribution (Đ = 1.09–1.13). 1H NMR spectral results confirm the formation of star‐like block (co)polymers. These new vitamin B6‐based eagle‐shaped star (co)polymers may find biomedical and biosensor applications as pH‐sensitive and thermo‐sensitive drug delivery systems. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome during maintenance therapy of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia is associated with continuous asparaginase therapy and mercaptopurine metabolites
Authors: Toksvang Linea Natalie , De Pietri Silvia , Nielsen Stine N. , Nersting Jacob , Albertsen Birgitte K. , Wehner Peder S. , Rosthøj Steen , Lähteenmäki Päivi M. , Nilsson Daniel , Nystad Tove A. , Grell Kathrine , Frandsen Thomas L. , Schmiegelow Kjeld
Published: April 2017

Background

Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) during treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has mainly been associated with 6‐thioguanine. The occurrence of several SOS cases after the introduction of extended pegylated asparaginase (PEG‐asparaginase) therapy in the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO) ALL2008 protocol led us to hypothesize that PEG‐asparaginase, combined with other drugs, may trigger SOS during 6‐thioguanine‐free maintenance therapy.

Procedure

In children with ALL treated in Denmark according to the NOPHO ALL2008 protocol, we investigated the risk of SOS during methotrexate (MTX)/6‐mercaptopurine (6MP) maintenance therapy that included PEG‐asparaginase until week 33 (randomized to two‐ vs. six‐week intervals), as well as alternating high‐dose MTX or vincristine/dexamethasone pulses every four weeks.

Results

Among 130 children receiving PEG‐asparaginase biweekly, 29 developed SOS (≥2 criteria: hyperbilirubinemia, hepatomegaly, ascites, weight gain ≥2.5%, unexplained thrombocytopenia <75 × 109 l–1) at a median of 30 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 17–66) into maintenance (cumulative incidence: 27%). SOS cases fulfilling one, two, or three Ponte di Legno criteria were classified as possible (n = 2), probable (n = 8), or verified (n = 19) SOS, respectively. Twenty‐six cases (90%) occurred during PEG‐asparaginase treatment, including 21 (81%) within 14 days from the last chemotherapy pulse compared with the subsequent 14 days (P = 0.0025). Cytotoxic 6MP metabolites were significantly higher on PEG‐asparaginase compared to after its discontinuation. Time‐dependent Cox regression analysis showed increased SOS hazard ratio (HR) for erythrocyte levels of methylated 6MP metabolites (HR: 1.09 per 1,000 nmol/mmol hemoglobin increase, 95% confidence interval: 1.05–1.14). Six‐week PEG‐asparaginase intervals significantly reduced SOS‐specific hazards (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

PEG‐asparaginase increases cytotoxic 6MP metabolite levels and risk of SOS, potentially interacting with other chemotherapy pulses.
Is motor imagery different in catatonic schizophrenia?
Authors: Zaytseva Yuliya , Morozova Alexandra , Bendova Marie , Garakh Zhanna
Published: April 2017

Catatonic schizophrenia, a rare subtype in this disease group, is characterized by motor disturbances. The current study investigated the reactivity of electroencephalographic mu rhythm in a motion imagery task in two single cases of first‐episode catatonic schizophrenia, assuming they would show less mu rhythm reduction compared to paranoid schizophrenic patients and healthy controls.
Monitoring the film formation process of polystyrene/poly acrylamide (PS/PAAm) composite films annealed by IR heating
Authors: Gelir Ali , Yargi Onder , Sarli Berkay , Sahinturk Utkan , Aksakal Baki
Published: April 2017

In this study, UV‐visible (UVV) technique was used to probe the evolution of optical transmission during the film formation from composites of polystyrene (PS) latex particles and poly acrylamide (PAAm) films annealed by the infrared radiative heating (IRH) and convectional heating. Activation energies corresponding to the void closure and the interdiffusion stages were calculated. It was shown that the activation energy for the void closure processes of viscous flow from the composite films decreased considerably in IRH annealing technique. It was observed that IRH heating speeds up the film formation process and the decrease the required energy. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:353–360, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
CRISIS PREPAREDNESS IN SCHOOLS: EVALUATING STAFF PERSPECTIVES AND PROVIDING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BEST PRACTICE
Authors: Olinger Steeves Rachel M. , Metallo Sarah A. , Byrd Shelby M. , Erickson Megan R. , Gresham Frank M.
Published: April 2017

The current study investigated the content of school crisis plans and perceptions of crisis preparedness among school staff in six public elementary schools. Surveys were administered to 72 teachers, administrators, and other school staff members measuring their perceptions of crisis preparedness and performance of activities related to crisis response (i.e., trainings, familiarity with crisis plans, etc.). Respondents indicated positive perceptions of preparedness for the occurrence of a crisis at each of their schools; however, they reported lower participation in preparedness activities and provided inconsistent answers on response procedures. Regression analyses found that reading the crisis plan was a significant predictor of feelings of preparedness for fire, death, suicide, and extreme weather events. Researchers additionally found that school crisis plans lacked many of the components recommended by best practice. These findings and implications for educators are discussed.
Smoking increased the risk of prostate cancer with grade group ≥ 4 and intraductal carcinoma in a prospective biopsy cohort
Authors: Tang Bo , Han Cheng‐Tao , Gan Hua‐Lei , Zhang Gui‐Ming , Zhang Cui‐Zhu , Yang Wei‐Yi , Shen Ying , Zhu Yao , Ye Ding‐Wei
Published: April 2017

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between smoking and different prostate cancer (PCa) pathological subtypes incidence in Chinese men.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We prospectively included 1795 patients who underwent prostate biopsies in one tertiary center between March 2013 and April 2016. Clinical data and biopsy outcomes were collected. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between cigarette smoking and PCa incidence.

RESULTS

A total of 737 men, 480 men and 58 men were diagnosed with PCa, high‐grade PCa (HGPCa, grade group ≥ 4 as accepted by the 2014 ISUP) and intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDC‐P), respectively. Current smokers had a significantly higher risk of HGPCa than never smokers (OR = 1.89, 95%CI: 1.44‐2.48). No such association was observed for low‐grade disease and cigarette smoking (OR = 0.84, 95%CI: 0.61‐1.16). In a sub‐analysis, men who had smoked longer than 30 years had a higher risk of HGPCa, compared with men who had smoked fewer than 30 years (OR = 1.50, 95%CI: 1.09‐2.06). Current smokers were more likely to develop IDC‐P than never smokers (OR = 2.29, 95%CI: 1.14‐4.59).

CONCLUSION

Among men in this Chinese biopsy cohort, current smoking was associated with highly malignant PCa incidence, such as HGPCa and IDC‐P. The duration of smoking may be associated with HGPCa.
A decade of leafminer invasion in China: lessons learned
Authors: Gao Yulin , Reitz Stuart , Xing Zhenlong , Ferguson Scott , Lei Zhongren
Published: April 2017

Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess) is a highly invasive species that has become established in agricultural and ornamental crops throughout the world. L. trifolii was first recorded in China in 2005 in Guangdong Province. Subsequently, its known distribution in China has rapidly expanded to another 11 provinces (Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Fujian, Guangxi, Shandong, Hainan, Hebei, Henan, Hubei and Anhui), where it is currently causing considerable damage and economic losses. Experimental research and field surveys have contributed to our understanding of the ecology of L. trifolii and particularly the process of invasion and its interactions with other established, exotic Liriomyza leafminer species. A number of factors have contributed to the successful establishment of L. trifolii and displacement of interspecific competitors. In China, L. trifolii has become a particularly devastating pest in areas with intensive farming with extensive monocultures and a reliance on insecticide use. Integrated pest management incorporating judicious applications of insecticide combined with biological and cultural controls is likely to provide the best long‐term management strategy for L. trifolii. We provide information regarding 10 years of L. trifolii invasion in China and discuss areas of future research to enhance our overall understanding of the biology and ecology of L. trifolii and to improve management programmes for this widespread invasive insect pest. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Paroxetine and transient ischemic attack
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: April 2017

Use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is widespread, related in part to their relatively benign side‐effect profile and a good safety record, even in overdose cases. Although the SSRIs as a group are commonly used for the treatment of depression in elderly patients, the SSRI paroxetine recently was identified as a potentially inappropriate medication to be used in this population, in part because of its greater anticholinergic properties. The following study evaluated the risk of mortality associated with the use of paroxetine versus other SSRIs in elderly nursing home residents with depression.
Structural and Magnetic Characterization of Two Tetranuclear Cu(II) Complexes with Closed‐Cubane‐Like Core Framework
Authors: Manna Subal Chandra , Manna Soumen , Paul Aparup , Zangrando Ennio , Figuerola Albert , Dolai Samar , Das Kalipada
Published: April 2017

Two novel tetranuclear closed‐cubane like core framework complexes [Cu4(L1)4]⋅3(H2O) (1) and [Cu4(H2L2)4(H2O)4] (2) (H2L1=(E)‐2‐((1‐hydroxybutan‐2‐ylimino)methyl)phenol; H4L2=2‐((2‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzylidene)amino)‐2‐hydroxymethylpropane‐1,3‐diol) were synthesized and structurally characterized. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate an overall weak antiferromagnetic exchange coupling in 1, while ferromagnetic exchange coupling in 2. In agreement with their closed‐cubane structure, the magnetic behavior of the two complexes have been studied by employing the isotropic spin Hamiltonian of type H=J1 (S1S3 + S1S4 + S2S3 + S2S4) ‐ J2 (S1S2 + S3S4) (J1 describes the magnetic exchange coupling between the four Cu(II) pairs with short Cu⋅⋅⋅Cu distances, while J2 characterizes the magnetic exchange coupling between the remaining two intermetallic pairs with long distances). The PHI program was used to study their magnetic behavior. A good agreement between the experimental and fitted curves was found with the following parameters: g=2.14, J1=‐20.3 cm−1 and J2=0 cm−1 for 1 and g=2.10, J1=101.1 cm−1 and J2=‐51.5 cm−1 for 2.
Selective Oxidative Coupling of 3H‐Pyrazol‐3‐ones, Isoxazol‐5(2H)‐ones, Pyrazolidine‐3,5‐diones, and Barbituric Acids with Malonyl Peroxides: An Effective C‐O Functionalization
Authors: Terent'ev Alexander O. , Vil' Vera A. , Gorlov Evgenii S. , Rusina Olga N. , Korlyukov Alexander A. , Nikishin Gennady I. , Adam Waldemar
Published: April 2017

Oxidative functionalization of 3H‐pyrazol‐3‐ones, isoxazol‐5(2H)‐ones, pyrazolidine‐3,5‐diones, and barbituric acids by malonyl peroxides results exclusively in C−O coupling products. Traditional hydroxylation, formation of carbonyl groups, or oxidative destruction of the heterocyclic ring are not observed. Under optimized reactions conditions – fluorinated alcohols as activating medium and at room temperature (20 – 25 °C) – the selective C−O coupling proceeds in high yields (up to 94 %). The oxidative insertion into the enolizable C−H bond of the substrate is mechanistically viewed as a nucleophilic attack by the heterocycle onto the electrophilically activated malonyl peroxides. For heterocyclic substrates with an active methylene group ‐ 3H‐pyrazol‐3‐ones, isoxazol‐5(2H)‐ones, and barbituric acids ‐ both C−H bonds are oxidized to afford double oxidative C−O coupling products in good yields (up to 72 %).