bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Illumination correction of dyed fabrics method using rotation forest‐based ensemble particle swarm optimization and sparse least squares support vector regression
Authors: Zhou Zhiyu , Gao Xu , Zhu Zefei , Hu Xudong
Published: August 2018

Different illuminations adversely affect color difference evaluation of textile images in dyed fabrics. To address the problem, we propose a rotation forest (RF)‐based ensemble particle swarm optimization and sparse least squares support vector regression (RF‐PSO‐SLSSVR) for building an accurate illumination correction model. In our algorithm, grey‐edge is first used to extract the statistics characteristics of the textile image. Second, as the standard LSSVR cannot yield a sparse solution, we develop sparse LSSVR (SLSSVR) by calculating the maximal independent subset in the extracted feature space. Then, SLSSVR is embedded into RF by substituting for the regression tree which is the base learner in the original RF, and the PSO technique is employed to obtain the optimal regularization parameter γ and kernel parameter σ. The final model is obtained by fusing the predictions of the different trees through a weighted average method and RF‐PSO‐SLSSVR is constructed to learn the textile illumination estimation model. To verify the effectiveness of our algorithm, we carry out the experiments on the real dyed fabric images by comparison to several related methods and the performance is measured by the different criterions, including the chromaticity error, the angle error, and the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test. Compared with the traditional SVR and ELM algorithm, the results show that the RF‐PSO‐SLSSVR method reduces ~13.6% and 10.6% over the angle RMSE.
Imaging Membrane Repair in Single Cells Using Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy
Authors: Croissant Coralie , Bouvet Flora , Tan Sisareuth , Bouter Anthony
Published: August 2018

Many cells possess the ability to repair plasma membrane disruption in physiological conditions. Growing evidence indicates a correlation between membrane repair and many human diseases. For example, a negative correlation is observed in muscle where failure to reseal sarcolemma may contribute to the development of muscular dystrophies. Instead, a positive correlation is observed in cancer cells where membrane repair may be exacerbated during metastasis. Here we describe a protocol that combines laser technology for membrane damage, immunostaining with gold nanoparticles and imaging by fluorescence microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which allows the characterization of the molecular machinery involved in membrane repair. Fluorescence microscopy enables to determine the subcellular localization of candidate proteins in damaged cells while TEM offers high‐resolution ultrastructural analysis of the µm²‐disruption site, which enables to decipher the membrane repair mechanism. Here we focus on the study of human skeletal muscle cells, for obvious clinical interest, but this protocol is also suitable for other cell types. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The content and determinants of greenhouse gas emission disclosure: Evidence from Indonesian companies
Authors: Faisal Faisal , Andiningtyas Erika Dwi , Achmad Tarmizi , Haryanto Haryanto , Meiranto Wahyu
Published: August 2018

This paper examined the content and determinants of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission disclosure practices. This study found that the number of firms disclosed is increased from 42.9% in 2011 to 48.1% in 2014. The assessment of risks and opportunities of climate change theme is the most disclosed item. Miscellaneous industries disclosed more GHG emission information compared with any other industry. The results also show that profitability, leverage, company size, and industry are significant determinants that can explain the extent of GHG emission disclosure. The findings of this study indicated that GHG emission disclosures are used as a mechanism to reduce pressures from stakeholders. This study contributes to the GHG emission disclosure literature by providing patterns and determinants of companies' GHG emission disclosure in an emerging country.
Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenation Using Biomass as Hydrogen Source
Authors: Manna Srimanta , Antonchick Andrey P.
Published: August 2018

We developed an operationally simple method for the direct use of biomass‐derived chemical entities in a fundamentally important process, such as hydrogenation. Various carbohydrates, starch, and lignin were used for stereoselective hydrogenation. Employing a transition metal catalyst and a novel catalytic system, the reduction of alkynes, alkenes, and carbonyl groups with high yields was demonstrated. The regioselective hydrogenation to access different stereoisomers was established by simple variations in the reaction conditions. This work is based on an unprecedented catalytic system and represents a straightforward application of biomass as a reducing reagent in chemical reactions.
When green marketing meets reality: selected facts about sustainable house building
Authors: Pohl Sebastian
Published: August 2018

Since 2012, Life Cycle Engineering Experts (LCEE) have carried out a series of comprehensive studies into the sustainability of market‐relevant (also potentially) construction methods in German housing ([1] to [4]). The methodical basis was a systematic application of the sustainability assessment approach of the Deutsches Gütesiegel Nachhaltiges Bauen (DGNB) applied to representative model buildings from the detached house and apartment building sectors (see Figs. 1 and 2).

The key findings have been compressed into themed fact sheets intended to ensure appropriate knowledge and information transfer to various recipients. As a contribution to less marketing and more reality, the following paper outlines the lessons learnt from selected example fact sheets concerning sustainable housing.
The development of building activity in Germany
Authors: Rast Ronald
Published: August 2018

In the last five years, the number of housing units completed in Germany has risen by around 50 %. In 2012, around 200 000 residential units were completed, and by 2017 there will be around 100 000 more. Nevertheless, this increase in residential construction activity continues to be less than the demand. What political framework conditions must the new Federal Government create for demand‐oriented housing construction? What part will building materials and construction methods play in this development? This article provides answers to these questions.
Investigation of the seismic performance of modern masonry buildings during the Emilia Romagna earthquake series
Authors: Rosin Julia , Butenweg Christoph , Cacciatore Pamela , Boesen Niklas
Published: August 2018

The article presents the investigation of the seismic behaviour of a modern URM building located in the municipality of Finale Emilia in province of Modena, Northern Italy. The building is situated in the centre of the series of the 2012 Northern Italy earthquakes and has not suffered any damage during the earthquake series in 2012. The observed earthquake resistance of the building is compared with predicted resistances based on linear and nonlinear design approaches according to Eurocode. Furthermore, probabilistic analyses based on nonlinear calculation models taking into account scattering of the most relevant input parameters are carried out to identify their influence to the results and to derive fragility curves.
Necessary changes in the residential building sector to achieve the climate protection aims for 2030/2050
Authors: Holm Andreas H. , Stolte Christian , Oschatz Bert
Published: August 2018

The aims of German energy and climate policy are ambitious: by 2050, emissions of greenhouse gases should be reduced by at least 80 %, ideally by 95 % compared to 1990. In addition, there are the decisions of the Paris Climate Accord, which intends to limit global warming to considerably less than 2°, better to 1.5°. The building sector as is known plays an important role in the energy transition. The transformation of the building industry and its thermal consumption is of decisive importance for the energy transition as a whole. A study recently commissioned by the alliance for building energy efficiency (geea), the German energy agency (dena) and further industry associations with the title ”Scenarios for a market‐based climate and resources policy 2050 in the building sector“ [1] shows clearly that the ”business as usual“ strategy will not suffice in order to even near the climate protection aims in the building sector. The scientific processing was undertaken by the ewi Energy Research & Scenarios, the institute for building services Dresden (ITG Dresden) and the research institute for thermal insulation (FIW Munich). The scope of this article only deals with the share of residential buildings.
Balancing of constructional sound insulation according to DIN 4109:2016‐07 for residential buildings of lightweight concrete
Authors: Krechting Andreas
Published: August 2018

Music, talking, traffic noise: even supposedly slight noise nuisance can harm health in the long term. Permanent exposure to normal domestic noise, for example, can lead to a disruption of concentration – loud traffic noise can even lead to an increased risk of heart and circulation complaints. Constructional sound insulation is one of the most important protection aims in building. Improvement of the verification of sound insulation was the main aim of the revision of the DIN 4109:2016‐07 ”Sound insulation in buildings“. Particularly building with lightweight concrete offers several advantages in sound insulation, which have now also been covered in the standard.
Genomic islands of divergence in the Yellow Tang and the Brushtail Tang Surgeonfishes
Authors: Bernardi Giacomo , Nelson Peter , Paddack Michelle , Rulmal John , Crane Nicole
Published: August 2018

The current ease of obtaining thousands of molecular markers challenges the notion that full phylogenetic concordance, as proposed by phylogenetic species concepts, is a requirement for defining species delimitations. Indeed, the presence of genomic islands of divergence, which may be the cause, or in some cases the consequence, of speciation, precludes concordance. Here, we explore this issue using thousands of RAD markers on two sister species of surgeonfishes (Teleostei: Acanthuridae), Zebrasoma flavescens and Z. scopas, and several populations within each species. Species are readily distinguished based on their colors (solid yellow and solid brown, respectively), yet populations and species are neither distinguishable using mitochondrial markers (cytochrome c oxidase 1), nor using 5193 SNPs (pairwise Φst = 0.034). In contrast, when using outlier loci, some of them presumably under selection, species delimitations, and strong population structure follow recognized taxonomic positions (pairwise Φst = 0.326). Species and population delimitation differences based on neutral and selected markers are likely due to local adaptation, thus being consistent with the idea that these genomic islands of divergence arose as a consequence of isolation. These findings, which are not unique, raise the question of a potentially important pathway of divergence based on local adaptation that is only evident when looking at thousands of loci.
Variability in leaf wettability and surface water retention of main species in semiarid Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Xiong Peifeng , Chen Zhifei , Jia Zhao , Wang Zhi , Palta Jairo A. , Xu Bingcheng
Published: August 2018

Leaf wettability, adhesion or repulsion of water drops, varies greatly among species and plays an important role in plant–soil hydrological relations. This study aimed to examine the variability in leaf wettability among species in different habitats and growth periods, and their relationships with plant surface water retention in the semiarid Loess Plateau of China. The leaf adaxial and abaxial contact angles, the surface water retention of leaves and individual plants, and general plant traits of 68 species belonging to 28 families were examined from May to August in 2017. Results showed that leaf water contact angles ranged from 27.3° to 133.4° and leaves with higher contact angles normally had lower variation coefficients. Leaf wettability was affected by internal properties (including leaf side, family, and leaf age) and external conditions (growth period), whereas the life form and slope aspect did not show significant effects. There were 47 species having higher contact angles on adaxial than abaxial surfaces, and the differences were significant in 23 species. Gramineous and leguminous species were more unwettable than compositae and rosaceous species. New leaves were more unwettable than old leaves. Surface wettability increased from May–June to July–August period. Leaf wettability was positively correlated with leaf surface water retention and was the best predictor of individual plant surface water retention compared with other plant traits. Leaf wettability showed interspecific differences associated with family and growth stage and can be a considerable variable in predicting canopy interception and evaluating vegetation hydrological function in drought environments.
Coupling of interfacial soil properties and bio‐hydrological processes: The flow cell concept
Authors: Krueger Jiem , Heitkötter Julian , Leue Martin , Schlüter Steffen , Vogel Hans‐Jörg , Marschner Bernd , Bachmann Jörg
Published: August 2018

By applying the newly developed flow cell (FC) concept, this study investigated the impact of small‐scale spatial variations (millimetre to centimetre) in organic matter (OM) composition (diffusive reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy), biological activity (zymography), and wettability (contact angle [CA]) on transport processes (tracer experiments, radiography). Experiments were conducted in five undisturbed soil slices (millimetre apart), consisting of a sandy matrix with an embedded loamy band.

In the loamy band increased enzyme activities and OM (10 mm apart) were found compared with the sand matrix, with no interrelations although spatial autocorrelation ranges were up to 7 cm. CAs were increased (0–110°) above the loamy band and were negatively correlated with acid phosphatase. Missing correlations were probably attributed to texture variations between soil slices. A general correlation between CA and C content (bulk) were confirmed. Variability in texture and hydraulic properties led to the formation of heterogeneous flow patterns and probably to heterogeneously distributed interfacial properties.

The new FC concept allows process evaluation on the millimetre scale to analyse spatial relations, that is, between small‐scale textural changes on transport processes and biological responses. The concept has been proved as a versatile tool to analyse spatial distribution of biological and interfacial soil properties in conjunction with the analysis of complex micro‐hydraulic processes for undisturbed soil samples. The concept may be improved by additional nondestructive imaging methods, which is especially challenging for the detection of small‐scale textural changes.
The formation of marine kin structure: effects of dispersal, larval cohesion, and variable reproductive success
Authors: D'Aloia Cassidy C. , Neubert Michael G.
Published: August 2018

The spatial distribution of relatives has profound effects on kin interactions, inbreeding, and inclusive fitness. Yet, in the marine environment, the processes that generate patterns of kin structure remain understudied because larval dispersal on ocean currents was historically assumed to disrupt kin associations. Recent genetic evidence of co‐occurring siblings challenges this assumption and raises the intriguing question of how siblings are found together after a (potentially) disruptive larval phase. Here, we develop individual‐based models to explore how stochastic processes operating at the individual level affect expected kinship at equilibrium. Specifically, we predict how limited dispersal, sibling cohesion, and variability in reproductive success differentially affect patterns of kin structure. All three mechanisms increase mean kinship within populations, but their spatial effects are markedly different. We find that (1) when dispersal is limited, kinship declines monotonically as a function of the distance between individuals; (2) when siblings disperse cohesively, kinship increases within a site relative to between sites; and (3) when reproductive success varies, kinship increases equally at all distances. The differential effects of these processes therefore only become apparent when individuals are sampled at multiple spatial scales. Notably, our models suggest that aggregative larval behaviors, such as sibling cohesion, are not necessary to explain documented levels of relatedness within marine populations. Together, these findings establish a theoretical framework for disentangling the drivers of marine kin structure.
Plant‐soil feedbacks on free‐living nitrogen fixation over geological time
Authors: Winbourne Joy B. , Houlton Benjamin Z.
Published: August 2018

Free‐living heterotrophic nitrogen fixation (FNF) is a widespread nitrogen input pathway in terrestrial ecosystems. However, questions remain over the relative influence of co‐occurring controls on patterns of heterotrophicFNFactivity, especially across generalized stages of primary succession, from biomass accumulation to retrogressive phases. Here, we experimentally test two alternative hypotheses regardingFNFrates during ecosystem development: (H1) site (i.e., changes in soil fertility during succession) is the primary driver of leaf‐litterFNFrates, vs. (H2) leaf‐litter chemistry is the primary determinant ofFNFactivity across a broad range of ecosystem conditions. We evaluated these hypotheses across a well‐studied soil chronosequence in California (i.e., the Ecological Staircase), which spans ~1 million years of ecosystem development and displays extreme ranges in plant‐soil nutrient conditions, culminating in the nutrient depleted and stunted Pygmy forest. Across this successional gradient, we implemented a reciprocal leaf‐litter transplant and a common garden litter bag decomposition experiment with senesced needles ofPinus muricata. Our results support H1: rates ofFNFwere similar for all leaf‐litter types decomposed at the same site regardless of initial leaf‐litter C and nutrient contents.FNFrates sharply declined from the maximal to retrogressive stage of succession. Trends in P dynamics during decomposition suggest an important role of P in regulatingFNF. For example,P. muricatalitter collected from the infertile Pygmy site displayed substantially higherFNFrates when decomposed at the fertile site, in part by immobilizing significant quantities of P from the soil at the fertile site. Conversely,P. muricatalitter collected from the fertile site decomposed more slowly at the Pygmy site, with concomitant declines inFNFrates that matched those of Pygmy site litter decomposed in situ. These results are consistent with the idea that, over millennia, long‐term declines in P availability feedback to constrainFNFrates, in part explaining the emergence of extremely nutrient‐poor and retrograded ecosystems.
Empagliflozin reduces Ca/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II activity in isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes
Authors: Mustroph Julian , Wagemann Olivia , Lücht Charlotte M. , Trum Maximilian , Hammer Karin P. , Sag Can Martin , Lebek Simon , Tarnowski Daniel , Reinders Jörg , Perbellini Filippo , Terracciano Cesare , Schmid Christof , Schopka Simon , Hilker Michael , Zausig York , Pabel Steffen , Sossalla Samuel T. , Schweda Frank , Maier Lars S. , Wagner Stefan
Published: August 2018

Aims

The EMPA‐REG OUTCOME study showed reduced mortality and hospitalization due to heart failure (HF) in diabetic patients treated with empagliflozin. Overexpression and Ca2+‐dependent activation of Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II (CaMKII) are hallmarks of HF, leading to contractile dysfunction and arrhythmias. We tested whether empagliflozin reduces CaMKII‐ activity and improves Ca2+‐handling in human and murine ventricular myocytes.

Methods and results

Myocytes from wild‐type mice, mice with transverse aortic constriction (TAC) as a model of HF, and human failing ventricular myocytes were exposed to empagliflozin (1 μmol/L) or vehicle. CaMKII activity was assessed by CaMKII–histone deacetylase pulldown assay. Ca2+ spark frequency (CaSpF) as a measure of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ leak was investigated by confocal microscopy. [Na+]i was measured using Na+/Ca2+‐exchanger (NCX) currents (whole‐cell patch clamp). Compared with vehicle, 24 h empagliflozin exposure of murine myocytes reduced CaMKII activity (1.6 ± 0.7 vs. 4.2 ± 0.9, P < 0.05, n = 10 mice), and also CaMKII‐dependent ryanodine receptor phosphorylation (0.8 ± 0.1 vs. 1.0 ± 0.1, P < 0.05, n = 11 mice), with similar results upon TAC. In murine myocytes, empagliflozin reduced CaSpF (TAC: 1.7 ± 0.3 vs. 2.5 ± 0.4 1/100 μm−1 s−1, P < 0.05, n = 4 mice) but increased SR Ca2+ load and Ca2+ transient amplitude. Importantly, empagliflozin also significantly reduced CaSpF in human failing ventricular myocytes (1 ± 0.2 vs. 3.3 ± 0.9, P < 0.05, n = 4 patients), while Ca2+ transient amplitude was increased (F/F0: 0.53 ± 0.05 vs. 0.36 ± 0.02, P < 0.05, n = 3 patients). In contrast, 30 min exposure with empagliflozin did not affect CaMKII activity nor Ca2+‐handling but significantly reduced [Na+]i.

Conclusions

We show for the first time that empagliflozin reduces CaMKII activity and CaMKII‐dependent SR Ca2+ leak. Reduced Ca2+ leak and improved Ca2+ transients may contribute to the beneficial effects of empagliflozin in HF.
The detrimental potential of arrhythmia‐induced cardiomyopathy
Authors: Eiringhaus Jörg , Hamer Okka W. , Hollemann David , Brochhausen Christoph , Vollmann Dirk , Maier Lars S. , Sossalla Samuel
Published: August 2018

Here we discuss a case of arrhythmia‐induced cardiomyopathy (AIC) with consecutive severe multiple organ failure. In relation to this imposing case, we discuss the significance of this potentially underestimated cause of newly occurred left‐ventricular systolic dysfunction and concomitant arrhythmia. We further delineate the diagnostic algorithm and differential diagnoses of AIC.
Pressure pain thresholds: Subject factors and the meaning of peak pressures
Authors: Melia Michael , Geissler Britta , König Jochem , Ottersbach Hans Jürgen , Umbreit Matthias , Letzel Stefan , Muttray Axel
Published: August 2018

Background

The assessment of pressure pain has become an integral part in pain research. The distribution of pressure under a plunger can be uneven. However, measurements based on conventional devices show the applied force or mean pressure, failing to take local pressure peaks into account. Our main question was whether peak pressures under the probe are responsible for pain onset.

Methods

A force‐controlled algometer was fitted with a newly developed pressure‐indicating film. Pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) of 100 healthy subjects (57 men, age 18–66 years) were assessed at 29 sites across the body. Each site was measured three times, nonconsecutively and presented in randomized order. Forty subjects were manual labourers.

Results

Pressure distributions on hard tissue (bone) were more heterogeneous and showed more prominent peaks beneath the probe when reaching the PPT. Soft tissue (e.g. muscle) created a distinct distribution, with higher pressure especially around the corners of the probe. A high variability of PPTs between subjects and different measurement sites was observed. Men as well as manual labourers had comparatively higher adjusted pressure pain thresholds (force and pressure).

Conclusions

Peak pressures could be relevant for pain onset and should be accounted for in mechanical pain studies. The probe, indentation depth and tissue properties have a major impact on pressure distributions and may therefore affect the perception of pressure pain. Due to higher intra‐individual differences regarding peak pressures at the spinous processes, breastbone, forehead and abdomen caution are needed when interpreting those sites.

Significance

This study adds some important considerations for the use of pressure algometers. It was found that during pressure pain thresholds readings distinct peak pressure profiles could arise, which may influence the perception of pain. Peak pressure could be another contributing factor, which may explain some of the high variability in pressure pain readings.
Energy‐Efficient Methanol to Dimethyl Ether Processes Combined with Water‐Containing Methanol Recycling: Process Simulation and Energy Analysis
Authors: Zhang Chundong , Jun Ki‐Won , Kwak Geunjae , Kim Sungtak
Published: August 2018

Two methanol‐to‐dimethyl ether (MTD) process scenarios were proposed to develop new MTD processes with improved energy efficiency by recycling water‐containing methanol to the MTD reactor. In both scenarios, a water‐tolerant K‐modified H‐ZSM‐5 was used in the MTD reactor as the methanol dehydration catalyst. Process modeling was implemented by using Aspen Plus to obtain the quantitative energy analysis results. Both scenarios are mainly comprised of a methanol preheating unit, a methanol dehydration unit, a DME separation unit, a methanol separation unit, and a methanol recycling unit. The two modelled scenarios have differing flow paths of the methanol recycle stream. That is, in option 1, after separating DME, a portion of the water‐containing methanol was recycled directly to the MTD reactor without entering the methanol separation unit. Whereas, in option 2, all of the water‐containing methanol was sent to the methanol separation unit. However, the less‐purified methanol was obtained and recycled. The process performance of both proposed scenarios was investigated by varying the recycle ratio or the recycled methanol purity in scenarios 1 and 2, respectively. Compared with the conventional γ‐Al2O3 based MTD process, both of the proposed scenarios were found to be more beneficial in saving both energy and capital cost, which can be seen from the high energy saving rate and smaller equipment size of the separation units in the newly proposed MTD process scenarios 1 and 2.
EdgeCloudSim: An environment for performance evaluation of edge computing systems
Authors: Sonmez Cagatay , Ozgovde Atay , Ersoy Cem
Published: August 2018

Edge computing is a fast growing field of research that covers a spectrum of technologies bringing the cloud computing services closer to the end user. Growing interest in this area yields many edge computing approaches that need to be evaluated and optimized. Experimenting on the real cloud environments is not always feasible due to the operational cost and the scalability. Despite increasing research activity, this field lacks a simulation tool that supports the modeling of both computational and networking resources to handle the edge computing scenarios. Existing network simulators can model the network behavior at different levels of granularity. The cloud computing simulators support the modeling and simulation of the computational infrastructures and services efficiently. Starting from the available simulators, a significant programming effort is required to obtain a simulation tool meeting the actual needs. On the other hand, designing a new edge computing tool has many challenges such as the scalability, extensibility, and modeling the mobility, network, and virtualized resources. To decrease the barriers, a new simulator tool called EdgeCloudSim streamlined for the edge computing scenarios is proposed in this work. EdgeCloudSim builds upon CloudSim to address the specific demands of edge computing research and support the necessary functionalities. To demonstrate the capabilities of EdgeCloudSim, an experiment setup based on different edge architectures is simulated. In addition, the effect of the edge server capacity and the mobility on the overall system performance are investigated.
Parallel genetic adaptation across environments differing in mode of growth or resource availability
Authors: Turner Caroline B. , Marshall Christopher W. , Cooper Vaughn S.
Published: August 2018

Evolution experiments have demonstrated high levels of genetic parallelism between populations evolving in identical environments. However, natural populations evolve in complex environments that can vary in many ways, likely sharing some characteristics but not others. Here, we ask whether shared selection pressures drive parallel evolution across distinct environments. We addressed this question in experimentally evolved populations founded from a clone of the bacterium Burkholderia cenocepacia. These populations evolved for 90 days (approximately 600 generations) under all combinations of high or low carbon availability and selection for either planktonic or biofilm modes of growth. Populations that evolved in environments with shared selection pressures (either level of carbon availability or mode of growth) were more genetically similar to each other than populations from environments that shared neither characteristic. However, not all shared selection pressures led to parallel evolution. Genetic parallelism between low-carbon biofilm and low-carbon planktonic populations was very low despite shared selection for growth under low-carbon conditions, suggesting that evolution in low-carbon environments may generate stronger trade-offs between biofilm and planktonic modes of growth. For all environments, a population's fitness in a particular environment was positively correlated with the genetic similarity between that population and the populations that evolved in that particular environment. Although genetic similarity was low between low-carbon environments, overall, evolution in similar environments led to higher levels of genetic parallelism and that genetic parallelism, in turn, was correlated with fitness in a particular environment.
Concentration of pistachio hull extract antioxidants using membrane separation and reduction of membrane fouling during process
Authors: Seifzadeh Negin , Sahari Mohammad Ali , Barzegar Mohsen , Ahmadi Gavlighi Hasan
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this study was to concentrate the polyphenolic compounds in pistachio hull extract as a rich source of natural antioxidants using the membrane process and the reduction of membrane fouling during the process. After the optimization of the membrane performance includes chamber pressure and stirring rate by monitoring flux and membrane fouling, pectinase and tannase enzymes were compared in order to reduce fouling. Pectinase showed a better potential in decreasing membranous fouling. Enzyme concentration was optimized, and treatment with 17.4 (U) was selected. The permeate obtained from optimized membrane condition and enzyme level treatment was enriched in total phenol (120.31 ± 0.35 mgGAE/g) and flavonoid (34.54 ± 0.09 mgCE/g), while the amount of anthocyanin was not remarkable.
Optimization of the extraction of natural antioxidants from Coffea robusta leaves and evaluation of their ability to preserve palm olein from oxidation during accelerated storage
Authors: Teboukeu Gires Boungo , Djikeng Fabrice Tonfack , Klang Mathilde Julie , Karuna Mallampalli Sri Lakshmi , Womeni Hilaire Macaire
Published: August 2018

Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the extraction of phenolic antioxidants of Coffea robusta leaves and to evaluate the effect of optimized extract and storage time on the stability of palm olein. The optimization of the extraction process was conducted, and the total polyphenol value of 127.06 mg GAE/g and scavenging activity of 90.65% were obtained under optimal extraction conditions. The phenolic antioxidants of the optimized extract and their thermal stability were determined using HPLC‐DAD (high‐performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detector) and Rancimat test, respectively. The effect of concentration of the optimized extract and storage time on the stability of palm olein was also evaluated. Results showed that the optimized extract contains gallic acid, vanillic acid, cafeic acid and was efficient in retarding palm olein oxidation during 32 months at room temperature. Coffea robusta can be recommended as good source of antioxidants for stabilization of palm olein.
Heavy metal and microbial safety assessment of raw and cooked pumpkin and Amaranthus viridis leaves grown in Abakaliki, Nigeria
Authors: Azi Fidelis , Odo Micheal O. , Okorie Peter A. , Njoku Helen A. , Nwobasi Veronica N. , David Esther , Onu Theresa C.
Published: August 2018

In this study, heavy metal and microbial safety assessment of raw and cooked pumpkin and Amaranthus viridis leaves grown in Abakaliki, Nigeria, was examined. The levels of lead (Pb), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) were evaluated using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The microbial cells were counted and further identified to species level using 16S rDNA and ITS rDNA sequencing analysis at CABI microbial identification services United Kingdom (UK). The results showed that the heavy metal concentrations of lead (10.5, 12.0), arsenic (7.5, 8.5), chromium (0.9, 0.1), and mercury (13.1, 14.0) in the pumpkin and A. viridis leaves, respectively, were above maximum acceptable limit according to relevant national and international food regulatory agencies (Tables and ). Cooking significantlyreduced the concentrations of the heavy metals at (p > 0.05) to or below, lead (6.8, 8.4), arsenic (5.1, 6.1), chromium (0.6.0.1), and mercury (9.5, 11.4) in the pumpkin and A. viridis leaves, respectively, but still not to international safe limit. The result of the microbial safety assessment showed that the microbial load of both the pumpkin and Amaranthus viridis leaves were above acceptable limit and the contaminating organisms were identified as Escherichia coli (504743), Klebsiella pneumonia (504744b), and Aspergillus flavus (504740).This study therefore shows that the vegetables (pumpkin and A. viridis leaves) contain unacceptable levels of toxic heavy metals and potentially dangerous pathogenic microorganisms, thus present significant health risk for the consumers.
Economic research relating to a 200 MWe oxy‐fuel combustion power plant
Authors: Haibo Wu , Zhaohui Liu
Published: August 2018

Oxy‐fuel combustion is one of the most promising technologies for large‐scale CO2 capture and storage in power plants. This flexible technology can be used in new power plants and in existing plant retrofits, with no technological barriers to its implementation. In this paper, economic research was conducted into a 200 MW power plant using oxy‐fuel combustion. The paper has important implications for the large‐scale application of oxy‐fuel combustion. Different combustion modes (conventional combustion, and oxy‐fuel combustion including dry and wet recycling) were considered. Several factors were taken into account, including the operation parameters of equipment and the parameters of the flue gas. The dynamic investment cost, the annual cost, the non‐taxable electricity price, energy consumption, and other data were obtained. It was concluded that, with a CO2 capture efficiency of 90%, the CO2 emission reduction cost of 200 MW under an oxy‐fuel combustion system is about 413 yuan/t. This research can provide accurate cost information for specific projects, and provide economic and cost references for other oxy‐fuel combustion projects. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Better together: How multinationals come together with business groups in times of economic and political transitions
Authors: Bucheli Marcelo , Salvaj Erica , Kim Minyoung
Published: August 2018

Research Summary: This article studies two interrelated questions. First, why did business groups in emerging markets thrive and prevail after pro‐market reforms were implemented in their countries? And, second, what type of adaptation strategies can multinational corporations develop in order to be competitive in economies dominated by business groups? By conducting an archive‐based historical network analysis of business groups in Chile during periods of major economic and political transitions, we maintain that business groups were created in periods of protectionism as a way to navigate economies with strong state participation or inefficient markets. In this process, these groups endogenously created an economy with market imperfections resulting from the dominance of these business groups. This means that the transition toward more open markets did not necessarily create more competitive environments and that elites in emerging economies were unwilling to abandon the advantages of having links between their businesses. Multinationals entering this economy adapted by becoming business groups themselves and creating links with other business groups. In sum, strategies devised as means to reduce market imperfections created new imperfections that incentivized the business groups to retain their structure and forced multinationals to become business groups.

Managerial Summary: Large diversified conglomerates known as business groups dominate the markets of emerging economies. These groups have survived important changes taking place in their own countries, including the abandonment of an import substitution industrialization model for an open market one or changes from military regimes to democratic ones. This article explores two aspects related to these transitions most emerging economies have gone through. First, why did some business groups survive despite the fact that many of them were created and grew during protectionist times? And, second, what strategies have multinational corporations developed when operating in economies dominated by those powerful business groups? We show, first, that some business groups survived the transition by rearranging the type of links they had with each other, and, second, that multinationals competing in economies dominated by those business groups opted for becoming business groups themselves.
Structural network topology correlates of microstructural brain dysmaturation in term infants with congenital heart disease
Authors: Schmithorst Vincent J. , Votava‐Smith Jodie K. , Tran Nhu , Kim Richard , Lee Vince , Ceschin Rafael , Lai Hollie , Johnson Jennifer A. , De Toledo Joan Sanchez , Blüml Stefan , Paquette Lisa , Panigrahy Ashok
Published: August 2018

Neonates with complex congenital heart disease (CHD) demonstrate microstructural brain dysmaturation, but the relationship with structural network topology is unknown. We performed diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in term neonates with CHD preoperatively (N = 61) and postoperatively (N = 50) compared with healthy term controls (N = 91). We used network topology (graph) analyses incorporating different weighted and unweighted approaches and subject‐specific white matter segmentation to investigate structural topology differences, as well as a voxel‐based analysis (VBA) to confirm the presence of microstructural dysmaturation. We demonstrate cost‐dependent network inefficiencies in neonatal CHD in the pre‐ and postoperative period compared with controls, related to microstructural differences. Controlling for cost, we show the presence of increased small‐worldness (hierarchical fiber organization) in CHD infants preoperatively, that persists in the postoperative period compared with controls, suggesting the early presence of brain reorganization. Taken together, topological microstructural dysmaturation in CHD infants is accompanied by hierarchical fiber organization during a protracted critical period of early brain development. Our methodology also provides a pipeline for quantitation of network topology changes in neonates and infants with microstructural brain dysmaturation at risk for perinatal brain injury.
Androgen Receptor Enhances Hepatic Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Gene Transcription After Hepatitis B Virus Integration or Point Mutation in Promoter Region
Authors: Li Chiao‐Ling , Li Chen‐Yu , Lin You‐Yu , Ho Ming‐Chih , Chen Ding‐Shinn , Chen Pei‐Jer , Yeh Shiou‐Hwei
Published: August 2018

The gender disparity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is most striking in hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related cases. The majority of such HCC cases contain integrated HBV, and some hotspot integrations, such as those in the telomerase reverse transcriptase gene (TERT) promoter, activate gene expression to drive carcinogenesis. As the HBV genome contains both androgen‐responsive and estrogen‐responsive motifs, we hypothesized that the integrated HBV DNA renders a similar regulation for downstream gene expression and thus contributes to male susceptibility to HCC. To test this hypothesis, the HBV integration sites and the common mutations in the TERT promoter and tumor protein P53 (TP53) coding region were analyzed in 101 HBV‐related HCC cases using a capture‐next‐generation sequencing platform. The results showed that both HBV integration and –124G>A mutation in the TERT promoter region, occurring in a mutually exclusive manner, were more frequent in male than in female patients with HCC (integration: 22/58 male patients with HCC, 6/36 female patients with HCC, P = 0.0285; –124G>A: 17/62 male patients with HCC, 3/39 female patients with HCC, P = 0.0201; in combination, 39/62 male patients with HCC, 9/39 female patients with HCC, P < 0.0001). The effects of sex hormone pathways on the expression of TERT with both genetic changes were investigated using a reporter assay. HBV integration in the TERT promoter rendered the TERT transcription responsive to sex hormones, with enhancement by androgen receptor (AR) but suppression by estrogen receptor, both of which were dependent on hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha. Besides, AR also increased TERT expression by targeting TERT promoter mutations in a GA binding protein transcription factor subunit alpha–dependent manner. Conclusion: TERT elevation by AR through integrated HBV and point mutation at the TERT promoter region was identified as a mechanism for the male dominance of HBV‐related HCCs; telomerase and AR thus may be targets for intervention of HCC.
Immune Alterations in Patients With Type 1 Autoimmune Hepatitis Persist Upon Standard Immunosuppressive Treatment
Authors: Renand Amédée , Habes Sarah , Mosnier Jean‐François , Aublé Hélène , Judor Jean‐Paul , Vince Nicolas , Hulin Philippe , Nedellec Steven , Métairie Sylvie , Archambeaud Isabelle , Brouard Sophie , Gournay Jérôme , Conchon Sophie
Published: August 2018

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare disease characterized by an immune attack of the liver. This study consists of a comprehensive analysis of immune alterations related to AIH at diagnosis, and during remission phase under treatment. A total of 37 major lymphocyte populations were analyzed from the peripheral blood of new‐onset AIH patients (AIHn; n = 14), AIH patients with controlled disease (n = 11), and healthy subjects (n = 14). Liver biopsy analyses were performed to complete the blood phenotypic analysis. Four blood lymphocyte populations were significantly altered in AIHn patients at diagnosis compared with healthy subjects. Levels of mucosal‐associated invariant T cells (MAIT), Type 1/Type 17 helper (Th1/ Th17) cells, clusters of differentiation (CD4) T cells, and invariant natural killer T cells were decreased, whereas MAIT granzyme B+ (GrB) cells were increased. A trend toward an increase of CD8+CD161+GrB+ cells was also observed. These alterations were not restored with standard immunosuppressive treatments. In the liver of AIHn patients, CD4, forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), and MAIT cell markers were enriched in the portal tract, and CD8, CD161, and GrB markers were enriched in the hepatic lobule. During remission, the hepatic lobule was clear of infiltrating T cells, but residual CD4 and MAIT cells were found in the portal tract, where Foxp3 was decreased, as previously described. In vitro, MAIT cells were functionally altered in AIH patients. Ex vivo MAIT cell activity (GrB) was linked to severe fibrosis. Conclusion: Our work proposes a global view of the lymphocyte alterations from diagnosis to remission phase in AIH patients. The absence of blood immune homeostasis restoration and the persistence of a CD4 infiltrate in the liver under standard immunosuppression could form the basis of the high risk of relapse observed in AIH. (Hepatology Communications 2018; 00:000‐000)
Sun protection and young female beachgoers: A formative theory‐based approach to identifying key sun safe beliefs
Authors: White Katherine M. , Zhao Xiang , Sutton Louise C. Starfelt , Robinson Natalie G. , Hamilton Kyra
Published: August 2018

Issue addressed

The prevalence of skin cancer remains at a high level in Australia. Young female Australian beachgoers are an at‐risk population of skin cancer. Research on sun‐protective beliefs held by this at‐risk group is limited.

Methods

Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), we conducted a formative study to understand key sun safe messages among young female beachgoers in Queensland, including an elicitation study (Phase 1; N = 21, Mage = 24.30 years) and a two‐wave questionnaire survey (Phase 2; N = 140, Mage = 23.96 years).

Results

Following content analysis and regression analyses, three key beliefs were identified: “be uncomfortable and/or unstylish” (behavioural belief), “friends and peers” (normative belief) and “lack of motivation to reapply sunscreen” (control belief).

Conclusions

The results highlight the influences of friends and peers on beachgoers’ sun‐protective behaviour for this young female adult cohort. Compared to previous findings among the general population, discrepancies in beliefs suggest interventions targeting this cohort should specifically focus on fashionable sun safe images and motivation to reapply sunscreen.

So what?

Future health promotion and public education should utilise various strategies according to specific groups given the discrepancies identified in beliefs. For female beachgoers, sun safe images and motivations should be the primary foci.
Understanding user requirements to improve adoption of influenza diagnostics in clinical care within Metro Manila
Authors: Gerth‐Guyette Emily , Malacad Carol C. , Demonteverde Ma Paz , Faulx Dunia , Lochhead Michael J. , Lupisan Socorro P. , Leader Brandon T. , Tallo Veronica L.
Published: August 2018

Background and aim

Influenza diagnostics play a critical role informing in clinical management decisions and defining the global epidemiology of the disease to support public health responses. Use of influenza diagnostics within most low‐income and middle‐income countries remains limited, including in the Philippines, where they are currently used only for epidemiologic surveillance. The aim of this study was to define key considerations, including product characteristics, which may influence future adoption, uptake, and integration of influenza diagnostics into public and private clinical settings in this emerging Asian market.

Methods

Our study was conducted using a convenience sample of public and private hospital laboratories in Metro Manila. A usability assessment was conducted that included interviews with decision‐makers and direct observation of laboratory end users using 2 platforms representative of emerging diagnostic products: (1) a point‐of‐care antigen‐based rapid immunoassay diagnostic test paired with a reader and (2) a molecular diagnostic platform intended for decentralized use. Data were analyzed to assess user errors and device failure modes with each platform and to determine key considerations related to product adoption and uptake.

Results

The most difficult test step for most users on both platforms involved sample preparation. When deciding to adopt a new test, priority product attributes include performance, potential volume of demand from clinicians, equipment cost, and ease of use. Demand for new tests is likely going to be driven by clinicians, and policies and guidelines will be needed to support the introduction of new products.

Conclusion

Adoption of influenza diagnostics in Metro Manila is feasible but will require affordable products capable of satisfying needs for use in both epidemiologic surveillance and clinical management.