bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal sensitivity and the role of behavior in driving an intertidal predator–prey interaction
Authors: Monaco Cristián J. , Wethey David S. , Helmuth Brian
Published: August 2016

Environmental stress models (ESM) provide a useful framework to study the direct and indirect ecological drivers of community diversity and resilience.ESMs make predictions about the relative importance of structuring processes (e.g., predation) based on the relative stress suffered by consumers and prey. Their practical application, i.e., determining the conditions under which consumers and prey performance is more negatively affected, has been limited because the roles of behavior and physiology are not usually considered. We examined the role of thermal sensitivity and behavior on the thermal performance of the rocky intertidal predatorPisaster ochraceusand its main preyMytilus californianus. We propose a novel framework that merges thermal performance curves (TPC) with observations of microhabitat use to provide a realistic perspective of the relative physiological conditions of predator and prey. First, by deriving aquatic and aerialTPCs for both species and from two sites, we found differences in parameter values that in some cases correspond to the individuals’ origins. Second, we calculated realized thermal performance in the field by combiningTPCs with body temperatures recorded with biomimetic sensors. Notably, thermal performance ofPisasterwas higher than that forMytilus(i.e., prey‐stress model), contrary to previous expectations based on caging experiments. Third, these estimates of thermal performance corresponded loosely with a measured indicator of overall physiological condition (body mass index,BMI) and a marker for extreme thermal stress (heat‐shock proteins 70 kDa), suggesting that environmental drivers other than temperature, such as food supply, must be considered. We found no evidence thatPisastermovement significantly influences thermal performance under typical conditions, suggesting instead that its preference for sheltered microhabitats provides a mechanism for avoiding exposure to extreme environmental conditions. Through the application ofTPCs andESMs, this study provides a unique perspective on the importance of physiology and behavior in driving the sensitivity of species interactions to environmental change. Crucially, this framework allowed clarifying that this system behaves as a prey‐ instead of consumer‐stress model, which may also apply to many other ectotherm species interactions.
Bioactive Phloroglucinyl Heterodimers: The Tautomeric and Rotameric Equlibria of Arzanol
Authors: Rastrelli Federico , Bagno Alessandro , Appendino Giovanni , Minassi Alberto
Published: August 2016

Arzanol (1) exemplifies a large number of heterodimeric bioactive natural products based on an alkylidene‐bridged β‐dicarbonyl‐acylphloroglucinyl structural motif. The NMR spectra of these compounds are complicated by tautomeric and rotational equilibria that, despite growing synthetic and biomedical interest in the area, have not been systematically investigated. By combining information from NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations, we have comparatively characterized the solution structures and conformations of the anti‐inflammatory agent arzanol (1), its inactive monomethyl derivative 4, and its corresponding homodimers [helipyrone (5) and demethylmallotojaponin C (6)]. The results highlight the relevance of a network of intramolecular hydrogen bonds for the tautomeric and rotameric equilibria of these compounds, with arzanol (1) existing in two almost equally populated rotameric forms of a 2‐pyrone tautomer, and its phloroglucinyl homodimer 6 in four major forms. Conversely, the monomethyl derivative 4 of arzanol and its dipyrone homodimer 5 exist in essentially a single solution form. Interestingly, this conformational bias was associated with a marked decrease of bioactivity.
Multiplex identification of drug‐resistant Gram‐positive pathogens using stuffer‐free MLPA system
Authors: Chung Boram , Park Chulmin , Cho Sung‐Yeon , Shin Sun , Yim Seon‐Hee , Jung Gyoo Yeol , Lee Dong‐Gun , Chung Yeun‐Jun
Published: August 2016

Early detection of pathogens from blood and identification of their drug resistance are essential for sepsis management. However, conventional culture‐based methods require relatively longer time to identify drug‐resistant pathogens, which delays therapeutic decisions. For precise multiplex detection of drug‐resistant Gram‐positive pathogens, we developed a method by using stuffer‐free multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) coupled with high‐resolution CE single‐strand conformation polymorphisms (CE‐SSCP) system. We designed three probe sets for genes specific to Gram‐positive species (Staphylococcus aureus: nuc, Enterococcus faecium: sodA, and Streptococcus pneumoniae: lytA) and two sets for genes associated with drug resistance (mecA and vanA) to discriminate major Gram‐positive pathogens with the resistance. A total of 94 different strains (34 reference strains and 60 clinical isolates) were used to validate this method and strain‐specific peaks were successfully observed for all the strains. To improve sensitivity of the method, a target‐specific preamplification step was introduced and, consequently, the sensitivity increased from 10 pg to 100 fg. We also reduced a total assay time to 8 h by optimizing hybridization time without compromising test sensitivity. Taken together, our multiplex detection system can improve detection of drug‐resistant Gram‐positive pathogens from sepsis patients’ blood.
Predicting reach‐specific properties of fluvial terraces to guide future fieldwork. A case study for the Late Quaternary River Allier (France) with the FLUVER2 model
Authors: Veldkamp Tom , Schoorl Jeroen M. , Viveen Willem
Published: August 2016

Numerical models have not yet systematically been used to predict properties of fluvial terrace records in order to guide fieldwork and sampling. This paper explores the potential of the longitudinal profile model FLUVER2 to predict testable field properties of the relatively well‐studied, Late Quaternary Allier system in France. For the Allier terraces an overlapping 14C and U‐series chronology as well as a record of 10Be erosion rates exist. The FLUVER2 modelling exercise is focused on the last 50 ka of the upper Allier reach because for this location and period the constraints of the available dating techniques are tightest. A systematic calibration based on terrace occurrence and thicknesses was done using three internal parameters related to (1) the sediment erodibility; (2) the sediment transport distance; and (3) the sediment supply derived from the surrounding landscape. As external model inputs, the best available, reconstructed, tectonic, climatic and base‐level data were used. Calibrated model outputs demonstrate a plausible match with the existing fluvial record. Validation of model output was done by comparing the modelled and measured timing of aggradation and incision phases for the three locations. The modelled range of landscape erosion rates showed a reasonably good match with existing erosion rate estimates derived from 10Be measurements of fluvial sands. The quasi‐validated model simulation was subsequently used to make new testable predictions about the timing and location of aggradation and erosion phases for three locations along the Allier river. The validated simulations predict that along the Allier, reach‐specific dynamics of incision and aggradation, related to the variations in sediment supply by major tributaries, cause relevant differences in the local fluvial terrace stratigraphy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Platinum Nanoparticles Anchored on TiO2/C Nanowires as a High Performance Catalyst for Hydrogen Peroxide Eletroreduction
Authors: Cai Z. , Zhang D. , Cheng K. , Song C. , Li Y. , Ye K. , Yan P. , Cao D. , Wang G.
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we employed the as‐prepared TiO2/C core/shell nanoarrays (TiO2/C) obtained by a facile thermal evaporation method as a three‐dimensional (3D) architecture to support Pt nanoparticles through an optimized electrodeposition process. The morphology and structure of the as‐prepared electrode are characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Its catalytic performance towards H2O2 electroreduction in basic medium is evaluated by linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and chronoamperometry (CV). Results revealed that the electrode exhibits significantly high catalytic activity. The current density reached –0.172 A cm−2 in 1 mol dm−3 NaOH and 0.5 mol dm−3 H2O2 at –1.1 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). This high performance might be due to the 3D electrode architecture inheriting the high electronic conductivity from carbon shell and providing a short pathway for the ion diffusion, and the using of Pt owning an excellent catalytic activity.
Voltammetric Methods for Hydrogen Crossover Diagnosis in a PEMFC Stack
Authors: Génevé T. , Turpin C. , Régnier J. , Rallières O. , Verdu O. , Rakotondrainibe A. , Lombard K.
Published: August 2016

Fuel cell diagnosis is a key point for a large scale development of this technology. Gas crossover through the membrane is one of the most crucial faults that have to be detected. Several methods of crossover estimation exist, but this work focuses on voltammetry. The main purpose is to provide a method of stack diagnosis that can be deployed in an industrial context for in situ measurements. The method has to detect accurately which cell is damaged, and how high the gas crossover is. Two voltammetric methods are compared on different stacks. First, cyclic voltammetry is applied to every cell of the stack (cell CV), cell after cell. Then potential is applied to the entire stack with an equivalent sweep rate (stack cyclic voltammetry – stack CV). Results show that with stack CV, one cannot strictly access the crossover current of a cell, as cell voltages are indeed not homogeneous along the stack and the current is common for all cells. However, an empirical law that links cell voltages during a stack CV and their crossover currents can be built. It can be used as an abacus to diagnose the crossover of each individual cell with a single stack CV.
Is green tea still ‘green’?
Authors: Li Yong , Zheng Xunhua , Fu Xiaoqing , Wu Yanzheng
Published: August 2016

The contemporary tea industry in China is associated with high tea production and high nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, due to the application of large quantities of nitrogen (N) fertilisers, and the intrinsic characteristics of tea field soils. In total, the Chinese tea plantations may have emitted 40.9 Gg N year–1 of N2O for 2013, accounting for 85% of emissions from global tea plantations. Such emissions are significant, unneglectable and need to be incorporated into the national greenhouse gas inventory. The current average N2O emission rate and emission intensity of tea plantations in China are as high as 16.6 kg N2O‐N ha–1 year–1 and 21.3 g N2O‐N per kg tea production (several times greater than in other croplands), respectively, severely damaging the ‘green’ signature of Chinese green teas. To reduce the risk of a sudden collapse of the currently booming tea industry, due to the dramatic decline of economic profit in the event of an agricultural carbon tax scheme being implemented in the near future, investigations of the mechanisms for the high rate of N2O emissions and the effective N2O mitigation practices in tea plantations are urgently needed. Of the counties with large tea plantations, only China, India and Japan have contributed data. The measurement and research of N2O emissions from other large tea plantations in Africa, South and Central Asia should be alerted by this report to close the global gap of N2O emissions from tea plantations.
Indium‐promoted Conversion of Allylic Bromide to Alcohol Moiety and Synthesis of Pipermethystine Skeletons
Authors: Liou Bo‐Sian , Chou Shang‐Shing Peter
Published: August 2016

Dihydropyridone bromide (2) was converted to the corresponding alcohol (1) by reaction with indium in air or with indium followed by treatment with a sulfonyloxaziridine. The alcohol (1) was transformed in four steps to a phenylsulfone‐substituted pipermethystine derivative (10). Reductive cleavage of the phenylsulfone did not yield the pipermethystine natural product. Several new pyridone derivatives were synthesized.
Mild Aerobic Exercise Training Hardly Affects the Diaphragm of mdx Mice
Authors: Morici Giuseppe , Frinchi Monica , Pitruzzella Alessandro , Di Liberto Valentina , Barone Rosario , Pace Andrea , Di Felice Valentina , Belluardo Natale , Cappello Francesco , Mudò Giuseppa , Bonsignore Maria R.
Published: August 2016

In the mdx mice model of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), mild endurance exercise training positively affected limb skeletal muscles, whereas few and controversial data exist on the effects of training on the diaphragm. The diaphragm was examined in mdx (C57BL/10ScSn‐Dmdmdx) and wild‐type (WT, C57BL/10ScSc) mice under sedentary conditions (mdx‐SD, WT‐SD) and during mild exercise training (mdx‐EX, WT‐EX). At baseline, and after 30 and 45 days (training: 5 d/wk for 6 weeks), diaphragm muscle morphology and Cx39 protein were assessed. In addition, tissue levels of the chaperonins Hsp60 and Hsp70 and the p65 subunit of nuclear factor‐kB (NF‐kB) were measured in diaphragm, gastrocnemius, and quadriceps in each experimental group at all time points. Although morphological analysis showed unchanged total area of necrosis/regeneration in the diaphragm after training, there was a trend for larger areas of regeneration than necrosis in the diaphragm of mdx‐EX compared to mdx‐SD mice. However, the levels of Cx39, a protein associated with active regeneration in damaged muscle, were similar in the diaphragm of mdx‐EX and mdx‐SD mice. Hsp60 significantly decreased at 45 days in the diaphragm, but not in limb muscles, in both trained and sedentary mdx compared to WT mice. In limb muscles, but not in the diaphragm, Hsp70 and NF‐kB p65 levels were increased in mdx mice irrespective of training at 30 and 45 days. Therefore, the diaphragm of mdx mice showed little inflammatory and stress responses over time, and appeared hardly affected by mild endurance training. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2044–2052, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adeno‐associated virus‐mediated colonic secretory expression of HMGB1 A box attenuates experimental colitis in mice
Authors: Zheng Xiaoyan , Lv Yifei , Li Shuang , Zhang Qiannan , Zhang Xueting , Hao Zhiming
Published: August 2016

Background

Extracellular high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is crucially implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). A box domain of HMGB1 has been identified as a specific antagonist of HMGB1. In the present study, we tested the effects of adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐mediated colonic secretory expression of HMGB1 A box on murine experimental colitis.

Methods

Self‐complementary AAV‐2 carrying mouse immunoglobin Gκ leader‐human HMGB1 A box (AAV‐HMGB1 A box) was constructed. The effects of intracolonically administered AAV‐HMGB1 A box on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐ and 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)‐induced colitis were assessed by the disease activity index (DAI), colon length, macroscopic and histological scoring, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and epithelial apoptosis and complementary proliferation. Colonic immune cell infiltrates, mucosal malondialdehyde content and superoxide dismutase activity, colonic tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐10 levels, serum HMGB1 concentration, and colonic HMGB1 release were determined to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Results

Intracolonically administered AAV‐HMGB1 A box efficiently mediated secretory expression of HMGB1 A box and led to significant decreases in DAI, macroscopic and histological scores and colonic epithelial apoptosis in both DSS‐ and TNBS‐treated mice. Modulating inflammation‐associated cytokines, such as inhibiting colonic TNF‐α and IL‐1β expression, decreasing HMGB1 release, and restoring colonic IL‐10 levels, and thereby inhibiting inflammatory cell infiltration and alleviating oxidant damage, might be the underlying mechanism.

Conclusions

Intracolonic application of AAV‐HMGB1 A box is effective in alleviating murine colitis and has therapeutic potential in human IBDs.
Synthesis, Photochromism, and Thermal Stability of Two New Diarylethenes Based On Spirobifluorene
Authors: Li Caihua , Zeng Heping
Published: August 2016

Two novel spirobifluorene‐diarylethenes compounds with furan (9a) and thiophen (8a) as heterocyclic aryl groups were successfully synthesized, and their structures were fully characterized with FTIR, NMR, mass spectra (MS), and elemental analysis. Their photochromic properties were examined. The results indicated that they showed good photochromic behaviors in hexane and acetonitrile. The fluorescence emission was quenched along with the photochromism from open ring to closed ring. Large fluorescence emission blue‐shift was clearly observed in polar solvents. Furthermore, the thermal stability of 8a and 9a was greatly improved by introducing spirobifluorene group into the molecules. The 5% loss weight temperature of 9a was 59°C higher than that of 10a without spirobifluorene.
Topography of microglial activation in sensory‐ and affect‐related brain regions in chronic pain
Authors: Taylor Anna M.W. , Mehrabani Sadaf , Liu Steve , Taylor Alison J. , Cahill Catherine M.
Published: August 2016

Microglial activation in the spinal cord plays a central role in the development and maintenance of chronic pain after a peripheral nerve injury (PNI). There has not yet been a thorough assessment of microglial activation in brain regions associated with pain and reward. To this end, this study uses a mouse model of neuropathic pain in which the left sciatic nerve of male C57Bl/6J mice is loosely constricted (chronic constriction injury) to assess microglial activation in several brain regions 2 weeks after injury, a time point at which pain hypersensitivity is well established. We found significant microglial activation in brain regions associated with sensory pain transmission and affect, including the thalamus, sensory cortex, and amygdala. Activation was consistently most robust in brain regions contralateral to the side of injury. Brain regions not directly involved in either sensory or affective dimensions of pain, such as the motor cortex, did not display microglial activation. This study confirms that PNI induces microglial activation in regions involved with both sensory and affective components of pain. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Annurca (Malus pumila Miller cv. Annurca) apple as a functional food for the contribution to a healthy balance of plasma cholesterol levels: results of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Tenore Gian Carlo , Caruso Domenico , Buonomo Giuseppe , D'Urso Emanuela , D'Avino Maria , Campiglia Pietro , Marinelli Luciana , Novellino Ettore
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

Recent human studies have evaluated the effect of daily apple consumption on plasma cholesterol level, which is recognized as an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nevertheless, slightly significant effects have been generally registered although consuming more than two apples a day for several weeks.

RESULTS

This study describes the influence of daily consumption of Annurca apples on the cholesterol levels of mildly hypercholesterolaemic healthy subjects. A monocentric, randomized, parallel‐group, placebo‐controlled, 4‐month study was conducted. The subjects (n = 250) were randomly assigned to five treatment groups (each one of 50 subjects: 28 men and 22 women). Four groups were administered one apple per day among the following: Red Delicious, Granny Smith, Fuji, Golden Delicious. The fifth group was asked to consume two Annurca apples per day, since the weight of this cultivar is on average half that of the commercial ones considered in this study. Comparing results, Annurca led to the most significant outcome, allowing a reduction in total and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 8.3% and 14.5%, respectively, and an increase in high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 15.2% (all P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our data would reasonably indicate Annurca apple as a useful tool to contribute to the prevention of CVD risk through normal diet. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Exploring Network Formation of Tough and Biocompatible Thiol‐yne Based Photopolymers
Authors: Oesterreicher Andreas , Gorsche Christian , Ayalur‐Karunakaran Santhosh , Moser Andreas , Edler Matthias , Pinter Gerald , Schlögl Sandra , Liska Robert , Griesser Thomas
Published: August 2016

This work deals with the in‐depth investigation of thiol‐yne based network formation and its effect on thermomechanical properties and impact strength. The results show that the bifunctional alkyne monomer di(but‐1‐yne‐4‐yl)carbonate (DBC) provides significantly lower cytotoxicity than the comparable acrylate, 1,4‐butanediol diacrylate (BDA). Real‐time near infrared photorheology measurements reveal that gel formation is shifted to higher conversions for DBC/thiol resins leading to lower shrinkage stress and higher overall monomer conversion than BDA. Glass transition temperature (Tg), shrinkage stress, as well as network density determined by double quantum solid state NMR, increase proportionally with the thiol functionality. Most importantly, highly cross‐linked DBC/dipentaerythritol hexa(3‐mercaptopropionate) networks (Tg ≈ 61 °C) provide a 5.3 times higher impact strength than BDA, which is explained by the unique network homogeneity of thiol‐yne photopolymers.

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Highly linear reconfigurable UWB filters with independently controlled dual bandnotch
Authors: Ahmad Waqas , Budimir Djuradj
Published: August 2016

This letter proposes a high‐linearity reconfigurable lower ultra‐wideband (3.1–5.25 GHz) filter with independently controlled dual bandnotch at WiMAX 3.5 GHz band and satellite communication systems 4.2 GHz band. Reconfigurability has been achieved by the implementation of Graphene based switches (simulation only) and PIN diodes (measurements). The simulation and measurement results in OFF state show an entire bandpass response from 3.1 GHz to 5.25 GHz and with a very low insertion loss. In ON state, the results show that sharp rejections at 3.5 GHz and 4.2 GHz are achieved, with a low passband insertion loss. The two bandnotch operate independently of each other; thus allowing to control the behaviour of the required bandnotch. The third order intermodulation products were also measured in OFF and ON states and the linearity results have been presented. The filter is able to achieve a high performance with good linearity and no significant loss. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 58:2639–2643, 2016
Correlation between microwave properties and compressive strength of engineered cementitious mortar
Authors: Chung Kwok L. , Song Chuanwang , Li Yansheng , Zhang Chunwei
Published: August 2016

This article presents an application of microwave near‐field technique into the cement‐based material, which is designated as engineered cementitious mortar in civil material engineering. Parallel measurements of microwave near‐field probing and conventional compression test were undertaken. The objective of this interdisciplinary research is to develop correlations of compressive strengths with electrical properties at microwave frequencies. First‐order exponential regressions were applied to the measurement data. Simple yet accurate correlation models have been developed for strength prediction. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 58:2696–2699, 2016
Von der Muschel zum Autolack
Authors: Döhler Diana , Binder Wolfgang
Published: August 2016

Selbstheilung ist die Wiederherstellung von Materialeigenschaften nach mechanischer oder chemischer Beschädigung. Dabei werden Wissenschaftler häufig von Selbstheilungsprinzipien der Natur inspiriert – beispielsweise von Muscheln zu Wasserstoffbrückenbindungen als Klebstoff.
Zwei‐Photonen‐Absorption auf Umwegen
Authors: Liu Nai‐Wei , Manolikakes Georg
Published: August 2016

Die Photoredoxkatalyse ist dadurch eingeschränkt, dass die Energie aus absorbiertem Licht nicht vollständig für Redoxprozesse zur Verfügung steht. Neue Reaktionskonzepte wie chemoselektive Reaktionen und Reaktionen im Gel überwinden dies.
Nie wieder Risse in Brücken und Straßen
Authors: Osterath Brigitte
Published: August 2016

Lebendes Gewebe heilt nach Verletzungen. Wäre doch praktisch, wenn Beton und Asphalt das auch tun würden, dachten sich Wissenschaftler und begannen, selbstheilende Baumaterialien zu entwickeln.
Local stress‐constrained and slope‐constrained SAND topology optimisation
Authors: Munro Dirk , Groenwold Albert
Published: August 2016

We study the alternative ‘simultaneous analysis and design’ (SAND) formulation of the local stress‐constrained and slope‐constrained topology design problem. It is demonstrated that a standard trust‐region Lagrange–Newton sequential quadratic programming‐type algorithm—based, in this case, on strictly convex and separable approximate subproblems—may converge to singular optima of the local stress‐constrained problem without having to resort to relaxation or perturbation techniques. Moreover, because of the negation of the sensitivity analyses—in SAND, the density and displacement variables are independent—and the immense sparsity of the SAND problem, solutions to large‐scale problem instances may be obtained in a reasonable amount of computation time. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhanced goal‐oriented error assessment and computational strategies in adaptive reduced basis solver for stochastic problems
Authors: Serafin Kevin , Magnain Benoît , Florentin Eric , Parés Núria , Díez Pedro
Published: August 2016

This work focuses on providing accurate low‐cost approximations of stochastic finite elements simulations in the framework of linear elasticity. In a previous work, an adaptive strategy was introduced as an improved Monte‐Carlo method for multi‐dimensional large stochastic problems. We provide here a complete analysis of the method including a new enhanced goal‐oriented error estimator and estimates of CPU (computational processing unit) cost gain. Technical insights of these two topics are presented in details, and numerical examples show the interest of these new developments. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictive factors for resolution of childhood immune thrombocytopenia: Experience from a single tertiary center in Thailand
Authors: Chotsampancharoen Thirachit , Sripornsawan Pornpun , Duangchoo Sarapee , Wongchanchailert Malai , McNeil Edward
Published: August 2016

Background

Initial clinical factors that can reliably predict a successful within‐1‐year resolution of childhood immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) are still unclear. This study aimed to determine factors associated with within‐12‐month resolution of newly diagnosed childhood ITP.

Methods

The hospital records of 417 consecutive children aged less than 15 years with ITP were reviewed retrospectively and data related to the initial presentation were noted. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine which presenting features were associated with a favorable outcome within 12 months.

Results

Significant clinical and laboratory predictors for resolution of newly diagnosed childhood ITP within 12 months were abrupt onset less than 14 days, age less than 5 years, and platelet count at 4 weeks postdiagnosis of at least 100 × 109 l–1. With these three significant predictors, the rate of within‐1‐year recovery was more than 97.2%, with a positive predictive value of 97.8% for newly diagnosed childhood ITP.

Conclusion

Age less than 5 years, onset of bleeding less than 14 days, and follow‐up platelet count at 4 weeks of at least 100 × 109 l–1 are significant predictive factors for disease resolution among children with newly diagnosed ITP.
Online Steady State Detection Based on Rao‐Blackwellized Sequential Monte Carlo
Authors: Hou Yuxing , Wu Jianguo , Chen Yong
Published: August 2016

Online detection of whether a data stream has reached the steady state is known to be an important problem in many applications such as process control, data reconciliation and fault detection. This paper introduces a novel online steady state detection algorithm under the Bayesian framework based on a multiple change‐point state space formulation and the sequential Monte Carlo methods. A Rao‐Blackwellization technique is proposed to substantially reduce the variance of Monte Carlo estimation and greatly enhance the computational efficiency. In addition, a resampling scheme called the Optimal Resampling is used for eliminating duplicate samples and the robustness of steady state detection is significantly improved by using the information of the particles more efficiently. Numerical studies based on simulated signals and application to a real data set are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed method and compare with other existing methods from the literature. The proposed method is shown to establish a more robust performance than other methods. And it is much more computationally efficient than the standard sequential Monte Carlo method. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
De novo assembly of plant body plan: a step ahead of Deadpool
Authors: Kareem Abdul , Radhakrishnan Dhanya , Sondhi Yash , Aiyaz Mohammed , Roy Merin V. , Sugimoto Kaoru , Prasad Kalika
Published: August 2016

While in the movie Deadpool it is possible for a human to recreate an arm from scratch, in reality plants can even surpass that. Not only can they regenerate lost parts, but also the whole plant body can be reborn from a few existing cells. Despite the decades old realization that plant cells possess the ability to regenerate a complete shoot and root system, it is only now that the underlying mechanisms are being unraveled. De novo plant regeneration involves the initiation of regenerative mass, acquisition of the pluripotent state, reconstitution of stem cells and assembly of regulatory interactions. Recent studies have furthered our understanding on the making of a complete plant system in the absence of embryonic positional cues. We review the recent studies probing the molecular mechanisms of de novo plant regeneration in response to external inductive cues and our current knowledge of direct reprogramming of root to shoot and vice versa. We further discuss how de novo regeneration can be exploited to meet the demands of green culture industries and to serve as a general model to address the fundamental questions of regeneration across the plant kingdom.
Service delivery models of cloud computing: security issues and open challenges
Authors: Iqbal Salman , Kiah Miss Laiha Mat , Anuar Nor Badrul , Daghighi Babak , Wahab Ainuddin Wahid Abdul , Khan Suleman
Published: August 2016

Cloud computing represents the most recent enterprise trend in information technology and refers to the virtualization of computing resources that are available on demand. Cloud computing saves cost and time for businesses. Moreover, this computing process reflects a radical technological revolution in how companies develop, deploy, and manage enterprise applications over the Internet. Virtualized cloud computing mainly offers cloud‐computing delivery models such as software as a service, platform as a service, and infrastructure as a service. Security and privacy are presently considered critical factors in the adaptation of any cloud‐service delivery model. Cloud computing leverages several technologies; in the process, this model can inherit potential security threats. Thus far, security issues in cloud computing have rarely been addressed at the service delivery level. Key security concerns include Web application security, network security, data security, integration, vulnerabilities in the virtualized environment, and physical security.

The aim of this research is to comprehensively present the security threats with respect to their cloud service deliver models. This study also determines how service delivery models differ from existing enterprise applications, classify these models, and investigate the inherent security challenges. This study primarily focuses on the security concerns of each layer of the cloud‐service delivery model, as well as on existing solutions and approaches. In addition, countermeasures to potential security threats are also presented for each cloud model. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Progressive secret image sharing scheme using meaningful shadows
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Hui , Di Ya‐Feng , Li Jianjun , Chang Chin‐Chen , Liu Hui
Published: August 2016

This paper proposes a novel secret image sharing scheme, which progressively hides a secret image into multiple different meaningful cover (or host) images by utilizing a magic matrix. The produced shadows are high visual quality, meaningful images that differ from each other. As a result, they are not easy to cause the suspicion by the attackers. Moreover, the secret image in the proposed scheme can be recovered progressively via different numbers of shadows. The more shadows used, the better the quality of the secret image. The experimental results demonstrate the aforementioned advantages of the proposed scheme. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental and Mechanistic Exploration of Zn‐Catalyzed Sonogashira–type Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Thankachan Amrutha P. , Abi Thoppilan G. , Sindhu Kallikkakam S. , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: August 2016

One of the most straightforward methods for the synthesis of disubstituted alkynes is the transition metal catalyzed Sonogashira‐type cross‐coupling reactions. Herein we report a detailed study of our recent research on the first Zn‐catalyzed protocol for C(sp2)–C(sp) cross‐coupling reaction of aryl iodides with terminal alkynes. A wide range of functional groups were tolerated in the reaction and both functionally and structurally diverse diaryl acetylenes were prepared efficiently using this protocol. The reaction mechanism for the Zn‐catalyzed Sonogashira‐type coupling reaction was investigated by means of density functional theory (DFT) methods on a model system. The calculations were performed using hybrid Becke Perdew Functional (BPV86) in conjugation with LANL‐2DZ basis set and found that the reaction pathway involves oxidative addition and reductive elimination mechanism.
Theoretical Studies on the Origins of the Regio‐ and Stereoselectivities of Nickel Catalyzed Intermolecular [2+2] Cycloaddition of Conjungated Enynes with Alkenes
Authors: Guo Chenchen , Jiao Mingyang , Wang Huiqun , Li Yajie , Chen Bo‐Zhen
Published: August 2016

We have investigated the nickel catalyzed [2+2] cycloaddition of conjugated enynes with the cyclic and acyclic alkenes using DFT B3LYP and M06‐L methods. The calculation results show that the cycloaddition includes the formation of the C‐enolate intermediate and the reductive elimination to form the cyclobutene. The electron‐withdrawing substituent should be the key structure leading to the regioselectivity in the reaction of the conjugated enyne with the cyclic alkene. The stereoselectivity of the cycloaddition between Z/E ‐alkenes and enynes is attributed to the isomerization from Z‐alkenes to E‐alkenes after they coordinate to the nickel. Besides, the conjugated structure in enynes plays an essential role in the [2+2] cycloaddition and in the absence of it the reductive coupling will be more favorable than the cycloaddition.
Selective Recognition of Zn2+ Ion Using 2,4‐Bis(2‐pyridyl)‐5‐(4‐pyridyl)imidazole: Spectra and Molecular Structure
Authors: Behera Nibedita , Manivannan Vadivelu
Published: August 2016

A trisubstituted imidazole, 2,4‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐5‐(4‐pyridyl)imidazole (LH) in presence of other cations, selectively binds Zn2+ ion by exhibiting characteristic absorption and fluorescence spectral behaviors. Upon gradual addition of ZnCl2 to DMSOsolution of LH, intensity of peak at 318 nm decreased. A new peak appeared at 364 nm along with an isosbestic point at 337 nm. The DMSOsolution of LH upon irradiation with λ=320 nm exhibited an emission peak at 391 nm, which decreased gradually with increase in Zn2+ ion concentrations. A new emission peak also appeared at 445 nm along with a quasi isoemissive point at 413 nm. The HEPES buffered aqueous DMSO solution (2:8 v/v, pH=7.4) of free LH, upon excitation with 320 nm radiation gave emission at 396 nm which shifted to 445 nm during incremental additions of Zn2+ ion. The red shift is due to binding of Zn2+ ion to LH. The binding is accompanied by deprotonation of acidic hydrogen in imidazole ring and orientation of two 2‐pyridyl rings in near‐planarity with imidazolate ring. The Zn2+ ion can be detected with a calculated limit of 6.5×10−7 M. The Job's plot revealed that ligand binds Zn2+ ion in 1:2 ratios and was further confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction method.
Design of Multifunctional IridiumIII Compounds as a Potential Therapeutic Agents from Basic Molecular Scaffolds
Authors: Gajera Sanjay B. , Mehta Jugal V. , Patel Mohan N.
Published: August 2016

Complexes of the type [(η5‐C5Me5)Ir(XY)Cl]Cl [XY= bipyrazoles (4a‐b), pyrimidin‐2‐amine (5a‐b) and triazolopyrimidine (6a‐b)] have been synthesized and characterized by IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, ESI‐MS (Electrospray ionisation) and elemental analysis. Interaction of the complexes with Calf Thymus DNA (CT‐DNA) have been explored by electronic absorption titration, binding constants (Kb) for the interaction of complexes with DNA have been observed in the range of 0.151 ± 0.015 × 105 M−1 ‐ 1.446 ± 0.059 × 105 M−1. Molecular docking attests π‐π stacking interactions have been observed between receptor and ligands. The nucleolytic cleavage activity of compounds has been carried out on pUC19 DNA by gel electrophoresis experiments, potency has been ascribed to a multitarget mechanism of action of the compounds. Interestingly, the chelation of ligands with IrIII led to a remarkable enhancement of antibacterial activity against arbitrarily selected two Gram +ve and three Gram –ve bacterial stains. The complexes of triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines have been proved the most cytotoxic compounds and show enhanced percentage viability on S. pombe compared to pyrazole incorporated heterocyclic frameworks. All complexes showed potent cytotoxicity as compared to ligands, with IC50 values ranging from 64 to 199 μM toward A549 human lung cancer cells.
Synthesis of 3,3′′,5,5′′‐Tetraphenyl‐4,4′′‐terphenoquinone and Its Reductive Disproportionation Reaction
Authors: Hossain Md. Awlad , Akiyama Kazuhiko , Sugiura Ken‐ichi
Published: August 2016

Based on our recent reinvestigation of the disproportionation reaction of 3,3′,5,5′‐tetraphenyl‐4,4′‐biphenoquinone, which exhibited drastic color change, we performed the synthesis and characterization of 3,3′′,5,5′′‐tetraphenyl‐4,4′′‐terphenoquinone with the aim of obtaining enhanced physical properties, such as lower reduction potentials and bathochromic shift in light absorption, and realizing a disproportionation reaction at a lower temperature. To construct the terphenyl and/or terphenoquinone skeletons, the Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling, which involves coupling between 1,4‐diiodobenzene and the boronic acid ester with phenyl and oxygen moieties attached was carried out. The subsequent hydroquinone formation reaction and oxidation reaction yielded a brilliant ultramarine‐blue terphenoquinone. The quinone showed properties typical of π‐expanded quinones, namely, positively shifted reduction potential, small on‐site Coulomb repulsion, and lower excitation energy. DSC measurement of this product showed an exothermic process at 212.5 °C and this temperature was much lower than that of the corresponding biphenoquinone, 289.5 °C. The products of this reaction were similar to those of the biphenoquinone reaction, i. e., two benzofurans and the corresponding hydroquinone.
Synthesis of NiCo2S4 Nanocages as Pseudocapacitor Electrode Materials
Authors: Wang Zhenghua , He Bowen , Kong Wei , Lu Chenchen
Published: August 2016

In this work, NiCo2S4 nanocages are successfully fabricated by a template‐engaged route for pseudocapacitor applications. The NiCo2S4 nanocages exhibit a high capacitance (1635 F g−1 at 1 A g−1) and a good rate capability (50 % capacitance retention at 16 A g−1). The superior electrochemical performances can be attributed to the high conductivity of NiCo2S4 as well as the hollow structure. This effective strategy shows the feasibility of designing and fabricating metal sulfides with hollow structures as electrode materials for high‐performance supercapacitors.
Invitro Bioactivity and Osteogenic Activity Study of Solid State Synthesized Nano‐Hydroxyapatite using Recycled Eggshell Bio–waste
Authors: Ingole Vijay H. , Hussein Kamal H. , Kashale Anil A. , Gattu Ketan P. , Dhanayat Swapnali S. , Vinchurkar Aruna , Chang Jia‐Yaw , Ghule Anil V.
Published: August 2016

Research on hydroxyapatite is experiencing a remarkable increase during the recent years due to its potential biological and biomedical applications. Herein, we have synthesized nano‐hydroxyapatite (HAp) by solid state reaction (SSR), wherein recycled eggshell bio‐waste as Ca precursor on processing is reacted with synthetic ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate to form hydroxyapatite (SSHAp). The solid state synthesis reaction is studied by thermogravimetric analysis. The morphology and crystal structure of SSHAp nanoparticles is characterized and found to be spherical and free of aggregation with average crystallite size ∼ 10 nm. The SSHAp nanoparticles show large surface area (9.64 m2g−1). Furthermore, the invitro bioactivity and osteogenic activity of SSHAp is investigated. The osteogenic activity is evaluated by incubating the SSHAp with hFOB cells. The SSHAp is observed to promote appreciable cell attachment and proliferation unlike in control material. While hFOB cells is found to express higher level of osteocalcin, osteopontin, collagen I, osteonectin, BMP‐2 and GAPDH on the SSHAp bone graft. The results show that SSHAp nanoparticles graft is bioactive, nontoxic and osteogenic, and has the potential to promote bone therapy applications. The HAp is synthesized using recycled bio‐waste contributing to green chemistry, addressing the environmental concerns of recycle and reuse.
Gender and Facebook motives as predictors of specific types of Facebook use: A latent growth curve analysis in adolescence
Authors: Frison Eline , Eggermont Steven
Published: August 2016

Despite increasing evidence that specific types of Facebook use (i.e., active private, active public, and passive Facebook use) are differently related to adolescents' well‐being, little is known how these types function over the course of adolescence and whether gender and Facebook motives may predict the initial level and changes in these types over time. To address these gaps, Flemish adolescents (ages 12–19) were questioned at three different time points, with six months in between (NTime1 = 1866). Latent growth curve models revealed that active private Facebook use increased over the course of adolescence, whereas public Facebook use decreased. Passive Facebook use, however, remained stable. In addition, gender and Facebook motives were related to initial levels of specific types of Facebook use, and predictive of dynamic change in specific types of Facebook use over time. The discussion focuses on the understanding and implications of these findings.
Captopril pretreatment protects the lung against severe acute pancreatitis induced injury via inhibiting angiotensin II production and suppressing Rho/ROCK pathway
Authors: Yu Qi‐Hong , Guo Jie‐Fang , Chen Yan , Guo Xiao‐Rong , Du Yi‐Qi , Li Zhao‐Shen
Published: August 2016

Acute pancreatitis (AP) usually causes acute lung injury, which is also known as acute pancreatitis associated lung injury (APALI). This study aimed to investigate whether captopril pretreatment was able to protect lung against APALI via inhibiting angiotensin II (Ang II) production and suppressing Rho/ROCK (Rho kinase) pathway in rats. Severe AP (SAP) was introduced to rats by bile–pancreatic duct retrograde injection of 5% sodium taurocholate. Rats were randomly divided into three groups. In the sham group, sham operation was performed; in the SAP group, SAP was introduced; in the pre‐cpl + SAP group, rats were intragastrically injected with 5 mg/kg captopril 1 hour prior to SAP induction. Pathological examination of the lung and pancreas, evaluation of pulmonary vascular permeability by wet/dry ratio and Evans Blue staining, detection of serum amylase, Western blot assay for Ang II receptor type 1 (AT1), RhoA, ROCK (Rho kinase), and MLCK (myosin light chain kinase) were performed after the animals were sacrificed at 24 hours. After the surgery, characteristic findings of pancreatitis were observed, accompanied by lung injury. The serum amylase, Ang II, and lung expression of AT1, RhoA, ROCK, and MLCK increased dramatically in SAP rats. However, captopril pretreatment improved the histological changes, reduced the pathological score of the pancreas and lung, inhibited serum amylase and Ang II production, and decreased expression of AT1, RhoA, ROCK, and MLCK in the lung. These findings suggest that captopril pretreatment is able to protect the lung against APALI, which is, at least partially, related to the inhibition of Ang II production and the suppression of the Rho/ROCK pathway.
Profiling the dynamics of CSF and plasma Aβ reduction after treatment with JNJ‐54861911, a potent oral BACE inhibitor
Authors: Timmers Maarten , Van Broeck Bianca , Ramael Steven , Slemmon John , De Waepenaert Katja , Russu Alberto , Bogert Jennifer , Stieltjes Hans , Shaw Leslie M. , Engelborghs Sebastiaan , Moechars Dieder , Mercken Marc , Liu Enchi , Sinha Vikash , Kemp John , Van Nueten Luc , Tritsmans Luc , Streffer Johannes Rolf
Published: August 2016

Objectives

Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of a novel β‐site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) inhibitor, JNJ‐54861911, were assessed after single and multiple dosing in healthy participants.

Methods

Two randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind studies were performed using single and multiple ascending JNJ‐54861911 doses (up to 14 days) in young and elderly healthy participants. Regular blood samples and frequent CSF samples, up to 36 hours after last dose, were collected to assess the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (Aβ, sAPPα,β,total levels) profiles of JNJ‐54861911.

Results

JNJ‐54861911 was well‐tolerated, adverse events were uncommon and unrelated to JNJ‐54861911. JNJ‐54861911 showed dose‐proportional CSF and plasma pharmacokinetic profiles. Plasma‐ and CSF‐Aβ and CSF‐sAPPβ were reduced in a dose‐dependent manner. Aβ reductions (up to 95%) outlasted exposure to JNJ‐54861911. APOE ε4 carrier status and baseline Aβ levels did not influence Aβ/sAPPβ reductions.

Conclusion

JNJ‐54861911, a potent brain‐penetrant BACE1 inhibitor, achieved high and stable Aβ reductions after single and multiple dosing in healthy participants.
Frontiers of Power and Prosperity: Explaining Provincial Boundary Disputes in Postapartheid South Africa
Authors: Mavungu Eddy Mazembo
Published: August 2016

Territorial reforms in South Africa, undertaken in order to address the legacy of apartheid, have proven to be a contested terrain. This article considers three case studies and argues that in order to understand these territorial disputes, it is important to pay attention to the material conditions of the affected communities, disparities between provinces in terms of resources and governance efficiency, and perceptions that the preferred province is better positioned to serve the interests of the community. The article highlights the role of party political interests and also reflects on the relevance of the South African experience to other African countries.