bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy of Methylcyanodiacetylene (CH3C5N)
Authors: Szczepaniak Urszula , Turowski Michał , Custer Thomas , Gronowski Marcin , Kerisit Nicolas , Trolez Yann , Kołos Robert
Published: June 2016

A spectroscopic study combining IR absorption and Raman scattering is presented for methylcyanodiacetylene (CH3C5N). Gas‐phase, cryogenic matrix‐isolated, and pure solid‐phase substance was analyzed. Out of 16 normal vibrational modes, 14 were directly observed. The analysis of the spectra was assisted by quantum chemical calculations of vibrational frequencies, IR absorption intensities, and Raman scattering activities at density functional theory and ab initio levels. Previous assignments of gas‐phase IR absorption bands were revisited and extended.
State of circuit components in the behavioral framework
Authors: Sommariva Antonino M.
Published: June 2016

A general, rigorous but reasonably simple, and meaningful approach to the concept of state for circuit components is proposed in the behavioral framework. First, some basic notions of the behavioral setting (e.g., trajectory, event, universum of trajectories, admissible trajectory, and behavior) are recalled. Then, using the notion of trajectory concatenation, the forwards and backwards concatenation sets of an admissible trajectory are introduced, and the class of components with well‐ordered behavior is defined. Finally, for these components, the concept of state is established as the parametrization that rules the time‐dependent partition of the component behavior whose sets are closed under trajectory concatenation. To provide a clear and significant illustration of the theory, the state investigation of the class of the two‐terminal components whose behavior is generated by means of an ordinary differential relation of any order, linear, and with constant coefficients, is carried out in all details. This class includes, in particular, all compound one‐ports of the Classical Circuit Theory, that is, those made of customary resistors, capacitors, and inductors, coupled or not. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Screened Effective Interaction Potential for Two‐Component Plasmas
Authors: Arkhipov Yu.V. , Ashikbayeva A.B. , Askaruly A. , Davletov A.E. , Dubovtsev D.Yu. , Tkachenko I. M.
Published: June 2016

The linear density response formalism is used to analytically obtain an effective pairwise interaction potential of charged particles that simultaneously takes into account quantum mechanical and quantum statistical effects in weakly and moderately non‐ideal plasmas at thermal equilibrium. The static dielectric function is obtained by interpolating long ‐ and short wavelength asymptotic forms of the dielectric function in the random‐phase approximation. The exchange effects are neglected in the micropotential, while the quantum‐statistical effects are accounted for in the screening. The effective potential constructed in such a way takes a finite value at the origin and proves to be screened at large distances. The thermodynamic properties of two‐component plasmas are then calculated and comparison is made with some data available in the literature. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Genetic reconstruction of a bullfrog invasion to elucidate vectors of introduction and secondary spread
Authors: Kamath Pauline L. , Sepulveda Adam J. , Layhee Megan
Published: June 2016

Reconstructing historical colonization pathways of an invasive species is critical for uncovering factors that determine invasion success and for designing management strategies. The American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) is endemic to eastern North America, but now has a global distribution and is considered to be one of the worst invaders in the world. In Montana, several introduced populations have been reported, but little is known of their sources and vectors of introduction and secondary spread. We evaluated the genetic composition of introduced populations at local (Yellowstone River floodplain) and regional (Montana and Wyoming) scales in contrast to native range populations. Our objectives were to (1) estimate the number of introductions, (2) identify probable native sources, (3) evaluate genetic variation relative to sources, and (4) characterize properties of local‐ and regional‐scale spread. We sequenced 937 bp of the mitochondrial cytochrome b locus in 395 tadpoles collected along 100 km of the Yellowstone River, from three additional sites in MT and a proximate site in WY. Pairwise ΦST revealed high divergence among nonnative populations, suggesting at least four independent introductions into MT from diverse sources. Three cyt b haplotypes were identical to native haplotypes distributed across the Midwest and Great Lakes regions, and AMOVA confirmed the western native region as a likely source. While haplotype (Hd = 0.69) and nucleotide diversity (π = 0.005) were low in introduced bullfrogs, the levels of diversity did not differ significantly from source populations. In the Yellowstone, two identified haplotypes implied few introduction vectors and a significant relationship between genetic and river distance was found. Evidence for multiple invasions and lack of subsequent regional spread emphasizes the importance of enforcing legislation prohibiting bullfrog importation and the need for continuing public education to prevent transport of bullfrogs in MT. More broadly, this study demonstrates how genetic approaches can reveal key properties of a biological invasion to inform management strategies.
Woody expansion facilitates liana expansion and affects physical structure in temperate coastal communities
Authors: Bissett Spencer N. , Zinnert Julie C. , Young Donald R.
Published: June 2016

Coastal ecosystems in general, and barrier islands in particular, offer unique opportunities to observe ecological patterns and processes in spatially and temporally compressed settings. Harsh abiotic conditions and frequent disturbances limit the number of resident species, and highly dynamic geomorphology may result in a space‐for‐time substitution as young shoreward communities give way to more developed later‐successional interior communities. We investigated relationships between lianas and woody plants at barrier island sites in Virginia (Hog Island) and North Carolina (Duck FRF), to evaluate whether liana proliferation accelerates or delays succession from the dominant woody community, Morella shrub thicket, to the historic climax community, maritime forest. Using aerial imagery, Lidar data, community surveys, and edaphic sampling, we found a correlative relationship between abiotic environmental variables and woody community structure, and also between woody community distribution and liana success. Environmental variables demonstrated little predictive ability for liana distribution, but there was evidence of an association between lianas and the prominent woody species at Hog Island, though patchiness of the community and abiotic homogeneity prevented these associations from establishing at Duck FRF. We suggest that trends of woody plant expansion, compounded with current and predicted global change effects on growth and success of lianas, may contribute to a delay or prevention of further successional development at these and other temperate coastal sites.
Efficacy and safety of edoxaban compared with warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure: insights from ENGAGE AF‐TIMI 48
Authors: Magnani Giulia , Giugliano Robert P. , Ruff Christian T. , Murphy Sabina A. , Nordio Francesco , Metra Marco , Moccetti Tiziano , Mitrovic Veselin , Shi Minggao , Mercuri Michele , Antman Elliott M. , Braunwald Eugene
Published: June 2016

Aims

In the ENGAGE AF‐TIMI 48 trial, edoxaban, a factor Xa inhibitor, was not found to be inferior to warfarin for the prevention of stroke or systemic embolic events (SEE) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and was associated with significantly less bleeding. The higher‐dose edoxaban regimen (HDER; 60 mg dose‐reduced to 30 mg once daily) has been approved in various countries in Europe, the USA, and Japan. Among patients treated with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), symptomatic heart failure (HF) is an independent risk factor for lower time‐in‐therapeutic range, which reduces the efficacy and safety of VKA therapy. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of edoxaban compared with warfarin across the spectrum of HF severity in the ENGAGE AF‐TIMI 48 trial.

Methods and results

Of 14 071 patients randomized to well‐controlled warfarin or the HDER, 5926 (42%) had no history of HF, 6344 (45%) were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class I–II, and 1801 (13%) were in NYHA class III–IV. The efficacy of edoxaban compared with warfarin in preventing stroke/SEE was similar in patients without and with HF regardless of the severity of HF; [HDER vs. warfarin: No‐HF: hazard ratio (HR) 0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69–1.11; NYHA class I–II: HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.69–1.12; NYHA class III–IV: HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.55–1.25; Pinteraction = 0.97]. Compared with warfarin, HDER was consistently associated with lower risk of major bleeding (No‐HF: HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.68–0.99; NYHA class I–II: HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.65–0.96; NYHA class III–IV: HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.54–1.17; Pinteraction = 0.96).

Conclusion

The relative efficacy and safety of HDER compared with well‐managed warfarin in AF patients with HF were similar to those without HF.
Dehydrogenative Coupling of a Tertiary Silane Using Wilkinson's Catalyst
Authors: Azpeitia Susan , Fernández Belén , Garralda María A. , Huertos Miguel A.
Published: June 2016

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Miguel A. Huertos at Universidad del País Vasco, San Sebastián, Spain. The cover image shows the dehydrocoupling of a tertiary silane catalyzed by Wilkinson's catalyst. The hydrosilane used as substrate in this reaction has two thioether moieties, which help synthesize an active species in the catalytic cycle, such as the silylhydridorhodium(III) complex also shown.
Brain structural changes in patients with chronic myofascial pain
Authors: Niddam D.M. , Lee S.‐H. , Su Y.‐T. , Chan R.‐C.
Published: June 2016

Background

Myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are a highly prevalent source of musculoskeletal pain. Prolonged ongoing nociceptive input from MTrPs may lead to maladaptive changes in the central nervous system. It remains, however, unknown whether pain from MTrPs is associated with brain atrophy. In addition, stress, which may contribute to the formation of MTrPs, is also known to affect brain structures. Here, we address whether structural brain changes occur in patients with chronic pain originating from MTrPs and whether such changes are related to pain or stress.

Methods

Voxel‐based morphometry was used to compare grey‐matter (GM) volumes in 21 chronic pain patients, with MTrPs in the bilateral upper trapezius muscles, with 21 healthy controls. Hyperalgesia was assessed by pressure pain thresholds, and stress was assessed by cortisol levels and anxiety questionnaires.

Results

Patients exhibited normal stress levels but lowered pain thresholds. GM atrophy was found in dorsal and ventral prefrontal regions in patients. The GM density of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex correlated with pain thresholds in patients, i.e. the more atrophy, the lower pain threshold. GM atrophy was also found in the anterior hippocampus, but the atrophy was neither related to pain nor stress.

Conclusions

Patients with chronic myofascial pain exhibit GM atrophy in regions involved in top‐down pain modulation and in processing of negative affect. The relationship between the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and pain thresholds suggests the presence of pain disinhibition. No evidence was found for the involvement of stress. It remains unclear whether the observed atrophy contributes to the development of the chronic pain state or is caused by the ongoing nociceptive input.

Significance

Chronic myofascial pain, caused by myofascial trigger points, is associated with localized brain atrophy in areas involved in pain processing and modulation, among others. These findings extend previous knowledge about peripheral and spinal changes to the supraspinal level.
Exploring REACH as a potential data source for characterizing ecotoxicity in life cycle assessment
Authors: Müller Nienke , de Zwart Dick , Hauschild Michael , Kijko Gaël , Fantke Peter
Published: June 2016

Toxicity models in life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) currently only characterize a small fraction of marketed substances, mostly because of limitations in the underlying ecotoxicity data. One approach to improve the current data situation in LCIA is to identify new data sources, such as the European Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) database. The present study explored REACH as a potential data source for LCIA based on matching reported ecotoxicity data for substances that are currently also included in the United Nations Environment Programme/Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (UNEP/SETAC) scientific consensus model USEtox for characterizing toxicity impacts. Data are evaluated with respect to number of data points, reported reliability, and test duration, and are compared with data listed in USEtox at the level of hazardous concentration for 50% of the covered species per substance. The results emphasize differences between data available via REACH and in USEtox. The comparison of ecotoxicity data from REACH and USEtox shows potential for using REACH ecotoxicity data in LCIA toxicity characterization, but also highlights issues related to compliance of submitted data with REACH requirements as well as different assumptions underlying regulatory risk assessment under REACH versus data needed for LCIA. Thus, further research is required to address data quality, pre-processing, and applicability, before considering data submitted under REACH as a data source for use in LCIA, and also to explore additionally available data sources, published studies, and reports. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:492–500. © 2016 SETAC
Novel IGH and MYC Translocation Partners in Diffuse Large B‐Cell Lymphomas
Authors: Otto Claudia , Scholtysik René , Schmitz Roland , Kreuz Markus , Becher Claudia , Hummel Michael , Rosenwald Andreas , Trümper Lorenz , Klapper Wolfram , Siebert Reiner , Küppers Ralf ,   for the “Molecular Mechanisms in Malignant Lymphomas” Network Project
Published: June 2016

Chromosomal translocations involving an immunoglobulin (IG) locus and a proto‐oncogene play a major role in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) pathogenesis. Recurrent IG translocation partners in DLBCL are the BCL6, BCL2, and MYC genes, but other rare translocation partners are also known. We studied 20 DLBCL with fluorescence in situ hybridization‐based evidence for IG heavy chain (IGH) locus‐associated translocations not involving BCL6, BCL2, MALT1, or MYC by long distance inverse PCR to identify the translocation partners. Moreover, we studied eight DLBCL with MYC translocations not involving IG or known non‐IG loci as translocation partner to search for novel MYC translocations. We identified three novel IGH‐associated translocations. Chromosomal breakpoints involved the IMMP2L gene in 7q31, the BCAS2 gene in 1p13, and the PVRL2 gene in 19q13. The latter gene, which is recurrently translocated in T‐cell lymphomas, is significantly higher expressed in the biopsy with the translocation compared to cases without this genetic aberration, indicating a pathogenetic role of PVRL2 also in DLBCL. In one case with a MYC break we obtained a novel MYC‐SOCS1 translocation representing an unusual translocation of a proto‐oncogene with a tumor suppressor gene. Indeed, we demonstrate that the oncogene was deregulated and the tumor suppressor gene inactivated. As both genes undergo aberrant somatic hypermutation in the region of the chromosomal breakpoints, this translocation likely happened as a byproduct of the hypermutation process. Overall, our study suggests that chromosomal translocations in DLBCL are more heterogeneous than previously known. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mesozoic and Cenozoic accretionary orogenic processes in Borneo and their mechanisms
Authors: Wang P. C. , Li S. Z. , Guo L. L. , Jiang S. H. , Somerville I. D. , Zhao S. J. , Zhu B. D. , Chen J. , Dai L. M. , Suo Y. H. , Han B.
Published: June 2016

The Borneo Accretionary Orogen (BAO) is located in a central position of SE Asia, surrounded by the long‐lived westward subduction of the Pacific Plate, northward subduction of the Indian Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate and a passive continental margin of the South China Sea. Based on the previous studies in stratigraphy, structural geology and geophysics, a number of tectonic models on the BAO have been proposed, but these models do not perfectly match all of the geological facts. A field‐based structural analysis of the rocks of Sabah in Malaysia has recognized that the deformation in Sabah can be divided into four episodes (D1‐D4). The D1 deformation developed complete displacement foliation (S1) and NNE‐trending thrusts. Then D1 structures were reworked by the subsequent D2 deformation. D2 deformation resulted in WNW‐ or NW‐striking thrusts, followed by NNW–SSE‐trending thrusts and folds (D3). Some NNE‐trending sinistral strike‐slip faults and WNW‐trending dextral tension‐shear faults (D4) offset the D3 structures. D1 is related to the collisional event in the Sabah Orogeny during 23‐16 Ma, and D2 corresponds to the formation of the Deep Regional Uncomformity (DRU) at 16 Ma. D3 is related to the Shallow Regional Uncomformity (SRU) at 10 Ma. D4 is associated to the NW–SE‐trending extension after the multi‐stage collisional events. Analysis of the sedimentary and magmatic data reveals that the BAO is a Mesozoic and Cenozoic accretionary orogeny, represented by the intensely deformed Rajang‐Crocker Group Accretionary prism, ophiolites and calc‐alkaline igneous rocks. The accretionary orogen is related to the evolution of the Proto‐South China Sea Ocean (PSCS). The PSCS continuously subducted under the Borneo Block and closed in the Late Eocene–Early Miocene time. The subduction zone of the PSCS retreated to the north in the Mesozoic and Cenozoic and migrated to the present‐day Nansha Trough. The BAO is still active, as represented by a series of thrusting and subduction of the Dangerous Grounds under the Borneo Block. The NNE‐trending subduction‐related faults are considered as transform faults, rotating to the present‐day NW‐trending faults due to the anti‐clockwise rotation of the entire Borneo Block. In particular, the previous NNE‐trending Tinjar Fault is regarded as a major boundary in sedimentation and magmatism. To the NE of the fault, the strata and igneous rocks are Oligocene–Early Miocene, but to the SW of the fault, the strata and igneous rocks developed during the Cretaceous–Late Eocene interval. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glycogen distribution in the microwave‐fixed mouse brain reveals heterogeneous astrocytic patterns
Authors: Oe Yuki , Baba Otto , Ashida Hitoshi , Nakamura Kouichi C. , Hirase Hajime
Published: June 2016

In the brain, glycogen metabolism has been implied in synaptic plasticity and learning, yet the distribution of this molecule has not been fully described. We investigated cerebral glycogen of the mouse by immunohistochemistry (IHC) using two monoclonal antibodies that have different affinities depending on the glycogen size. The use of focused microwave irradiation yielded well‐defined glycogen immunoreactive signals compared with the conventional periodic acid‐Schiff method. The IHC signals displayed a punctate distribution localized predominantly in astrocytic processes. Glycogen immunoreactivity (IR) was high in the hippocampus, striatum, cortex, and cerebellar molecular layer, whereas it was low in the white matter and most of the subcortical structures. Additionally, glycogen distribution in the hippocampal CA3‐CA1 and striatum had a ‘patchy’ appearance with glycogen‐rich and glycogen‐poor astrocytes appearing in alternation. The glycogen patches were more evident with large‐molecule glycogen in young adult mice but they were hardly observable in aged mice (1–2 years old). Our results reveal brain region‐dependent glycogen accumulation and possibly metabolic heterogeneity of astrocytes. GLIA 2016;64:1532–1545
Dynamic functional connectivity shapes individual differences in associative learning
Authors: Fatima Zainab , Kovacevic Natasha , Misic Bratislav , McIntosh Anthony Randal
Published: June 2016

Current neuroscientific research has shown that the brain reconfigures its functional interactions at multiple timescales. Here, we sought to link transient changes in functional brain networks to individual differences in behavioral and cognitive performance by using an active learning paradigm. Participants learned associations between pairs of unrelated visual stimuli by using feedback. Interindividual behavioral variability was quantified with a learning rate measure. By using a multivariate statistical framework (partial least squares), we identified patterns of network organization across multiple temporal scales (within a trial, millisecond; across a learning session, minute) and linked these to the rate of change in behavioral performance (fast and slow). Results indicated that posterior network connectivity was present early in the trial for fast, and later in the trial for slow performers. In contrast, connectivity in an associative memory network (frontal, striatal, and medial temporal regions) occurred later in the trial for fast, and earlier for slow performers. Time‐dependent changes in the posterior network were correlated with visual/spatial scores obtained from independent neuropsychological assessments, with fast learners performing better on visual/spatial subtests. No relationship was found between functional connectivity dynamics in the memory network and visual/spatial test scores indicative of cognitive skill. By using a comprehensive set of measures (behavioral, cognitive, and neurophysiological), we report that individual variations in learning‐related performance change are supported by differences in cognitive ability and time‐sensitive connectivity in functional neural networks. Hum Brain Mapp 37:3911–3928, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Likelihood‐Based Inference and Prediction in Spatio‐Temporal Panel Count Models for Urban Crimes
Authors: Liesenfeld Roman , Richard Jean‐François , Vogler Jan
Published: June 2016

We develop a panel count model with a latent spatio‐temporal heterogeneous state process for monthly severe crimes at the census‐tract level in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Our dataset combines Uniform Crime Reporting data with socio‐economic data. The likelihood is estimated by efficient importance sampling techniques for high‐dimensional spatial models. Estimation results confirm the broken‐windows hypothesis whereby less severe crimes are leading indicators for severe crimes. In addition to ML parameter estimates, we compute several other statistics of interest for law enforcement such as spatio‐temporal elasticities of severe crimes with respect to less severe crimes, out‐of‐sample forecasts, predictive distributions and validation test statistics. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using the gini coefficient to measure the chemical diversity of small‐molecule libraries
Authors: Weidlich Iwona E. , Filippov Igor V.
Published: June 2016

Modern databases of small organic molecules contain tens of millions of structures. The size of theoretically available chemistry is even larger. However, despite the large amount of chemical information, the “big data” moment for chemistry has not yet provided the corresponding payoff of cheaper computer‐predicted medicine or robust machine‐learning models for the determination of efficacy and toxicity. Here, we present a study of the diversity of chemical datasets using a measure that is commonly used in socioeconomic studies. We demonstrate the use of this diversity measure on several datasets that were constructed to contain various congeneric subsets of molecules as well as randomly selected molecules. We also apply our method to a number of well‐known databases that are frequently used for structure‐activity relationship modeling. Our results show the poor diversity of the common sources of potential lead compounds compared to actual known drugs. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impacts of the Madden‐Julian oscillation on intraseasonal precipitation over Northeast Brazil
Authors: Valadão Cati E. A. , Carvalho Leila M. V. , Lucio Paulo S. , Chaves Rosane R.
Published: June 2016

The impacts of the Madden‐Julian oscillation (MJO) on precipitation over Northeast Brazil (NEB, also known as Nordeste) are evaluated based on daily raingauge data from 492 stations over 30‐year period (1981–2010). Composites of precipitation, outgoing longwave radiation and moisture‐flux anomalies are performed for each phase of the MJO, and over all four seasons, based on the Jones–Carvalho MJO index. To distinguish the MJO signal from other patterns of climate variability, daily data are filtered using a 20–90 day band‐pass filter; only days classified as MJO events are considered in the composites. The results show strong seasonality of the MJO's impact on precipitation. The most spatially coherent signals of precipitation anomalies occur in the austral summer, when about 80% of the raingauge stations showed increased precipitation in phases 1–2 and suppressed precipitation in phases 5–6 of the oscillation. Although the MJO impacts precipitation on intraseasonal timescales in all seasons in most locations, these impacts vary in magnitude and depend on the phase of the oscillation. Precipitation anomalies over NEB are explained by the interaction of convectively coupled Kelvin‐Rossby waves with the dominant climatic features in each season. During the austral summer and spring, westerly regimes increase precipitation over most NEB. In the austral winter and fall, precipitation anomalies exhibit more complex spatial variability. In these seasons, precipitation anomalies in coastal areas depend on the strength of the South Atlantic anticyclone, which is largely modulated by Rossby waves. The strengthening of the anticyclone intensifies the convergence of the trade winds in coastal areas and precipitation windward of the coastal range. Conversely, the intensification of the subsidence is responsible for precipitation deficits in the lee side of the range. These conditions are typically observed when easterly regimes dominate over tropical South America and NEB decreasing moisture flow from the Amazon.
Coloration mechanisms of Ag deposition‐based multicolor electrochromic device investigated by morphology of Ag deposit and its optical properties
Authors: Onodera Ryou , Tsuboi Ayako , Nakamura Kazuki , Kobayashi Norihisa
Published: June 2016

Electrochromism, phenomenon of reversible color change induced by electrochemical redox reactions, is one of the prime candidates for full‐color electronic paper. Recently, we reported Ag‐deposition based multicolor electrochromic device showing color change between three primary colors of cyan, magenta, and yellow. These observed spectra include both absorbing and reflectance components. Therefore, it is necessary to separate these components in order to analyze coloration mechanism of the device. In this paper, coloration mechanisms of Ag deposition‐based multicolor electrochromic device were investigated in terms of measurement of the actual absorption and actual reflection of the device. Morphologies of the deposited Ag nanoparticles were also investigated by FE‐SEM, and then relationship between optical properties and deposited Ag morphologies was examined. As the results, color appearances of magenta and yellow state of the device were mainly dominated by absorption component of localized surface plasmon resonance of the deposited Ag nanoparticles. On the other hand, cyan state of the device was based on absorption as well as reflection component induced by thin film structure of the Ag deposit.
Global exponential stability for interval general bidirectional associative memory (BAM) neural networks with proportional delays
Authors: Xu Changjin , Li Peiluan , Pang Yicheng
Published: June 2016

This paper is concerned with interval general bidirectional associative memory (BAM) neural networks with proportional delays. Using appropriate nonlinear variable transformations, the interval general BAM neural networks with proportional delays can be equivalently transformed into the interval general BAM neural networks with constant delays. The sufficient condition for the existence and uniqueness of equilibrium point of the model is established by applying Brouwer's fixed point theorem. By constructing suitable delay differential inequalities, some sufficient conditions for the global exponential stability of the model are obtained. Two examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results. This paper ends with a brief conclusion. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Food combination based on a pre‐hispanic Mexican diet decreases metabolic and cognitive abnormalities and gut microbiota dysbiosis caused by a sucrose‐enriched high‐fat diet in rats
Authors: Avila‐Nava Azalia , Noriega Lilia G. , Tovar Armando R. , Granados Omar , Perez‐Cruz Claudia , Pedraza‐Chaverri José , Torres Nimbe
Published: June 2016

Scope

There is few information about the possible health effects of a food combination based on a pre‐hispanic Mexican diet (PMD). This diet rich in fiber, polyphenols, a healthy ratio of omega 6/omega 3 fatty acids, and vegetable protein could improve carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, gut microbiota and cognitive function.

Methods and results

We examined the effect of a PMD in a sucrose enriched high‐fat model. The PMD contains corn, beans, tomato, nopal, chia and pumpkin seeds in dehydrated form. Following induction of obesity, rats were fed PMD. PMD consumption decreased glucose intolerance, body weight gain, serum and liver triglycerides and leptin. In addition, PMD decreased the size of the adipocytes, and increased the protein abundance of UCP‐1, PPAR‐α, PGC1‐α and Tbx‐1 in white adipose tissue. Finally, the PMD significant decreased hepatic levels of ROS, oxidized proteins and GSSG/GSH ratio and an increase in the relative abundance of Bifidobacteria and the improvement of cognitive function.

Conclusion

Consumption of a PMD decreased the glucose intolerance and the biochemical abnormalities caused by the obesity by increasing the abundance of proteins involved in fatty acid oxidation, decreasing the oxidative stress and modifying the gut microbiota.
New Tchebyshev‐Galerkin operational matrix method for solving linear and nonlinear hyperbolic telegraph type equations
Authors: Abd‐Elhameed W. M. , Doha E. H. , Youssri Y. H. , Bassuony M. A.
Published: June 2016

The telegraph equation describes various phenomena in many applied sciences. We propose two new efficient spectral algorithms for handling this equation. The principal idea behind these algorithms is to convert the linear/nonlinear telegraph problems (with their initial and boundary conditions) into a system of linear/nonlinear equations in the expansion coefficients, which can be efficiently solved. The main advantage of our algorithm in the linear case is that the resulting linear systems have special structures that reduce the computational effort required for solving them. The numerical algorithms are supported by a careful convergence analysis for the suggested Chebyshev expansion. Some illustrative examples are given to demonstrate the wide applicability and high accuracy of the proposed algorithms. © 2016Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 32: 1553–1571, 2016
A comprehensive study of serum odd‐ and branched‐chain fatty acids in patients with excess weight
Authors: Mika Adriana , Stepnowski Piotr , Kaska Lukasz , Proczko Monika , Wisniewski Piotr , Sledzinski Maciej , Sledzinski Tomasz
Published: June 2016

Objective

While small amounts of odd‐chain fatty acids (OCFAs) and branched‐chain fatty acids (BCFAs) were known to be present in mammals, it was quite recently that they were shown to play an important role in human health. However, still little is known on OCFA and BCFA profiles in subjects who have obesity. The aim of this study was to verify whether obesity is associated with changes in serum OCFA and BCFA profiles.

Methods

Serum content of fatty acids was determined by gas chromatography‐mass spectroscopy in 23 patients with excess weight and 21 nonobese controls.

Results

Six OCFAs and six BCFAs (three iso‐BCFAs and three anteiso‐BCFAs) were found in sera from the examined subjects. Patients with excess weight presented with significantly lower serum iso‐BCFA levels than the controls. Total serum content of iso‐BCFAs correlated inversely with serum insulin, triglycerides, and 18:1/18:0 desaturation index. Both OCFA and iso‐BCFA levels correlated inversely with C‐reactive protein concentration.

Conclusions

Lower iso‐BCFA content in patients with excess weight may be involved in elevation of serum concentration of triglycerides and inflammation. Decreased contents of iso‐BCFAs in subjects with have obesity, and established anti‐inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties of these fatty acids, point to potential beneficial effects of an iso‐BCFA‐rich diet.
Melt polycondensation approach for reduction degradable helical polyester based on l‐cystine
Authors: Anantharaj Santhanaraj , Jayakannan Manickam
Published: June 2016

Melt polycondensation approach is developed for new classes of reduction responsive disulfide containing functional polyesters based on l‐cystine amino acid resources under solvent free process. l‐Cystine was converted into multi‐functional ester‐urethane monomer and subjected to thermoselective transesterification at 120 °C with commercial diols in the presence of Ti(OBu)4 to produce polyesters with urethane side chains. The polymers were produced in moderate to high molecular weights and the polymers were found to be thermally stable up to 250 °C. The β‐sheet hydrogen bonding interaction among the side chain urethane unit facilitated the self‐assembly of the polyester into amyloid‐like fibrils. The deprotection of urethane unit into amine functionality modified the polymers into water soluble cationic polyester spherical nanoparticles. The reduction degradation of disulfide bond was studied using DTT as a reducing agent and the high molecular weight polymers chains were found be chopped into low molecular weight oligomers. The cytotoxicity of cationic disulfide nanoparticle was studied in MCF‐7 cells and they were found to be biocompatible and non‐toxic to cells upto 50 μg/mL. The custom designed reduction degradable and highly biocompatible disulfide polyesters from l‐cystine are useful for futuristic biomedical applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2864–2875
Two‐step cavitation in semi‐crystalline polymer during stretching at temperature below glass transition
Authors: Chen Ran , Lu Ying , Zhao Jiayi , Jiang Zhiyong , Men Yongfeng
Published: June 2016

Cavitation behavior in poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene) upon stretching below glass transition temperature was investigated by in situ ultra‐small angle X‐ray scattering technique. Strong stress‐whitening was observed indicating an extensive occurrence of cavitation in the material during tensile deformation below Tg. The X‐ray scattering patterns suggest oriented disc‐shaped cavities with normal mostly parallel to the stretching direction occurred. Structural parameters of such cavities such as thickness, radius, and tilting angle of the normal of the disc with respect to the stretching direction have been successfully calculated using a model fitting procedure. The results exhibited a two‐step process of cavitation that small amount of large cavities appeared first and then small cavities were triggered extensively in the samples at larger strains. This two‐step cavitation phenomenon can be weakened after the quenched sample was annealed or the sample was prepared by slow cooling. This peculiar two‐step cavitation process can be understood as a result of high frozen in internal stress in quenched sample that led to local failure of the materials. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 2007–2014
Ostwald ripening in segregated SixN/SiyN multilayers
Authors: Jiang Xiaofan , Ma Zhongyuan , Yu Jie , Ren Sheng , Yang Huafeng , Li Wei , Xu Jun , Xu Ling , Chen Kunji , Huang Xinfan , Feng Duan
Published: June 2016

In this study, we investigate the microstructure and formation of segregated silicon nanocrystals (nc‐Si) from annealed Si‐rich SixN/SiyN multilayers. It is found the nc‐Si are separated and arranged in every sublayer with two different grain sizes. Through XPS and Raman analysis, it is discovered that Si atoms diffuse from the SiyN sublayers with smaller nc‐Si to the SixN sublayers with larger nc‐Si during annealing. Meanwhile, the grain size of SixN sublayers increase and that of SiyN sublayers decrease, compared to single layer sample. It is suggested that the atomic diffusion with grain size change phenomenon is ascribed to coalescence‐like growth followed by Ostwald ripening process, which eventually results in Si atoms transport from small Si clusters in SiyN sublayers to large Si cluster in SixN sublayers and forms the segregated nc‐Si multilayers. This work gives us better understanding of the nc‐Si growth and atomic diffusion in annealed Si‐rich multilayers.
Microstructural analysis of the cementation process during soiling on glass surfaces in arid and semi‐arid climates
Authors: Ilse Klemens , Werner Martina , Naumann Volker , Figgis Benjamin W. , Hagendorf Christian , Bagdahn Jörg
Published: June 2016

To investigate the soiling behavior of solar energy systems like photovoltaics or concentrated solar power, glass samples were exposed to outdoor conditions in Doha, Qatar for one month. Soil formation on the glass was characterized at microstructural level using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Further, elemental analysis of the crust was done with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). Small fibrous structures were found on the glass surface and dust particles, providing evidence of a cementation process leading to a strong adhesion of airborne dust particles. In contrast to the common perception, that cementation occurs via the precipitation of salt (sodium chloride) these needle structures were found to be mainly composed of oxides of Si, Mg and Al. This indicates that cementation processes in desert regions are enhanced by the growth of fibrous clay minerals.

Cross section of cemented dust particle, connected via small needles to the glass surface.

magnified image

Cross section of cemented dust particle, connected via small needles to the glass surface.
Group sequential monitoring based on the weighted log‐rank test statistic with the Fleming–Harrington class of weights in cancer vaccine studies
Authors: Hasegawa Takahiro
Published: June 2016

In recent years, immunological science has evolved, and cancer vaccines are now approved and available for treating existing cancers. Because cancer vaccines require time to elicit an immune response, a delayed treatment effect is expected and is actually observed in drug approval studies. Accordingly, we propose the evaluation of survival endpoints by weighted log‐rank tests with the Fleming–Harrington class of weights. We consider group sequential monitoring, which allows early efficacy stopping, and determine a semiparametric information fraction for the Fleming–Harrington family of weights, which is necessary for the error spending function. Moreover, we give a flexible survival model in cancer vaccine studies that considers not only the delayed treatment effect but also the long‐term survivors. In a Monte Carlo simulation study, we illustrate that when the primary analysis is a weighted log‐rank test emphasizing the late differences, the proposed information fraction can be a useful alternative to the surrogate information fraction, which is proportional to the number of events. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quality of Life Among Primary Family Caregivers of Patients with Heart Failure in Southwest China
Authors: Hu Xiaolin , Hu Xiuying , Su Yonglin , Qu Moying
Published: June 2016

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to investigate the quality of life (QOL) and to identify the factors (characteristics of patients and caregivers, caregiver burden, self-efficacy, and social support) related to QOL among family caregivers of patients with heart failure (HF) in Southwest China.

Design:

The study had a cross-sectional descriptive design.

Methods:

Patients and their family caregiver dyads (N = 251) in three hospitals in Chengdu were recruited from April 2013 to September 2014. Data were collected by in-person interviews. Multivariate analyses were used to identify the factors associated with physical and mental QOL of caregivers.

Findings:

The median scores of physical and mental QOL were 70 and 60, respectively. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that higher New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification, more caregiving hours per day, more readmissions in the last 6 months, higher caregiver burden, and lower social support were associated with poorer physical and mental QOL. Lower self-efficacy was also associated with poorer physical QOL. The variances of physical (73%) and mental (70%) QOL of caregivers were explained by these identified significant factors.

Conclusions:

The caregivers of patients with HF in Southwest China had perceived reduced QOL and experienced more seriously impaired mental health than physical health.

Clinical Relevance:

Early assessments, strategies, and policy supports developed particularly for caregivers in undeveloped areas are necessary to identify caregivers who are at a high risk of reduced QOL and to improve their well-being.
Ultrasonic monitoring to assess the impacts of forest conversion on Solomon Island bats
Authors: Davies Tammy E. , Ruzicka Filip , Lavery Tyrone , Walters Charlotte L. , Pettorelli Nathalie
Published: June 2016

Paleotropical islands are experiencing extensive land‐use change, yet little is known about how such changes are impacting wildlife in these biodiversity hotspots. To address this knowledge gap, we characterized bat responses to forest conversion in a biodiverse, human‐threatened coastal rainforest habitat on Makira, Solomon Islands. We analysed ~200 h of acoustic recordings from echolocating bats in the four dominant types of land use on Makira: intact forest, secondary forest, food gardens and cacao plantations. Bat calls were identified to the species level using a supervised classification model (where labelled data are used to train the system). We examined relative activity levels and morphological traits across habitats. Relative activity levels were highest in intermediately disturbed habitats and lowest in the most heavily disturbed habitat, although these differences were not significant. There were significant differences in the mean forearm length of bat assemblages across habitats, with the highest mean forearm length found in the most open habitat (Cacao). Overall, our study constitutes the first detailed exploration of anthropogenic effects on mammalian diversity in the Solomon Islands and includes the first acoustic and morphological information for many bat species in Melanesia. We use our experience to discuss the challenges of acoustic monitoring in such a remote and poorly studied region.
Hyaluronan Upregulates Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Reduces Adenoside Triphosphate Production for Efficient Mitochondrial Function in Slow-Proliferating Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Solis Mairim Alexandra , Wei Yau-Huei , Chang Chiung-Hsin , Yu Chen-Hsiang , Kuo Pao-Lin , Huang Lynn L.H.
Published: June 2016

Hyaluronan-coated surfaces preserve the proliferation and differentiation potential of mesenchymal stem cells by prolonging their G1-phase transit, which maintains cells in a slow-proliferative mode. Mitochondria are known to play a crucial role in stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. In this study, for the first time, the metabolic mechanism underlying the hyaluronan-regulated slow-proliferative maintenance of stem cells was investigated by evaluating mitochondrial functions. Human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PDMSCs) cultured on hyaluronan-coated surfaces at 0.5, 3.0, 5.0, and 30 µg/cm2 were found to have an average 58% higher mitochondrial mass and an increase in mitochondrial DNA copy number compared to noncoated tissue culture surfaces (control), as well as a threefold increase in the gene expression of the mitochondrial biogenesis-related gene PGC-1α. Increase in mitochondrial biogenesis led to a hyaluronan dose-dependent increase in mitochondrial membrane potential, ATP content, and oxygen consumption rate, with reactive oxygen species levels shown to be at least three times lower compared to the control. Although hyaluronan seemed to favor mitochondrial function, cell entry into a hyaluronan-regulated slow-proliferative mode led to a fivefold reduction in ATP production and coupling efficiency levels. Together, these results suggest that hyaluronan-coated surfaces influence the metabolic proliferative state of stem cells by upregulating mitochondrial biogenesis and function with controlled ATP production. This more efficiently meets the energy requirements of slow-proliferating PDMSCs. A clear understanding of the metabolic mechanism induced by hyaluronan in stem cells will allow future applications that may overcome the current limitations faced in stem cell culture.
Practical formulas towards distortional buckling failure analysis for steel–concrete composite beams
Authors: Zhou Wang‐Bao , Li Shu‐Jin , Yan Wang‐Ji
Published: June 2016

As the most predominant type of failure for steel–concrete composite beams (SCCBs) in negative moment area, distortional buckling is significantly impacted by the interaction effect between the applied loading and the torsional–lateral restraint stiffness of the bottom flange, which is termed as loading–restraint interaction here for short. Recently, a modified elastic foundation beam method capable of considering the interaction effect properly was proposed to calculate critical buckling moment for SCCBs under negative uniform moment. As a sequel to such development, a functional relationship between two dimensionless auxiliary parameters (i.e. equivalent slenderness ratio and equivalent moment coefficient) is discovered in this study. On the basis of the close association between the pair of dimensionless parameters, empirical formulas are derived in a remarkably simply explicit form to evaluate the critical buckling moment for SCCBs under negative uniform moment or moment gradient. These formulas are simple, user‐friendly and of practical use. Compared with conventional approaches without considering the loading–restraint interaction effect, the practical approach developed in this paper can achieve higher accuracy and is more easy‐implemented. The study lays a foundation for determining the ultimate bearing capacity of SCCBs considering moment gradient effect rapidly. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Defeating Objection to Dynamic Block Theories of Time
Authors: Lee Barry ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: June 2016

McTaggart’s argument against the reality of the A series (or some variation on that argument) poses a serious problem for the moving-now block theory of time (MNBT). A defender of MNBT can respond along lines suggested by Broad: by denying that we should understand ‘e was present’ as saying that e is present at some past moment t. There is, however, a serious—plausibly defeating—objection to this type of response: it implicitly denies a non-negotiable platitude about time. As a result, MNBT is not tenable. Growing block theories are also defeated by a similar objection.