bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Birth seasonality studies in a large Prader–Willi syndrome cohort
Authors: Butler Merlin G. , Kimonis Virginia , Dykens Elisabeth , Gold June Anne , Tamura Roy , Miller Jennifer L. , Driscoll Daniel J.
Published: June 2019

Prader‐Willi syndrome (PWS) is generally due to sporadic paternal deletions of the chromosome 15q11‐q13 region followed by maternal disomy 15. Advanced maternal age is more commonly seen in those with maternal disomy 15. Environmental factors (e.g., drug use, occupational chemical exposure, infectious agents, and irradiation) could account for chromosome changes. Previous evidence of differences in male and female gametogenesis could suggest an environmental role in the causation of the paternal 15q11‐q13 deletion seen in PWS. Certain occupations such as hydrocarbon‐exposing occupations (e.g., landscaping, farming, and painting) and viral exposure (e.g., human coronavirus 229E causing upper respiratory infections in adults with an incorporation site in the human genome at chromosome 15q11) can be seasonal in nature and contribute to chromosome damage. To assess, we reviewed birth seasonality data in a large cohort of individuals with PWS recruited nationally (N = 355) but no significant differences were seen by month between those with the 15q11‐q13 deletion compared with maternal disomy 15 when analyzing quarterly seasonal patterns. Although early evidence supported birth seasonality differences in PWS, a larger number of individuals in our recent study using advanced genetic testing methods did not find this observation.
Neutral Organic Super Electron Donors Made Catalytic
Authors: Rohrbach Simon , Shah Rushabh S. , Tuttle Tell , Murphy John A.
Published: June 2019

Neutral organic super electron donors (SEDs) display impressive reducing power but, until now, it has not been possible to use them catalytically in radical chain reactions. This is because, following electron transfer, these donors form persistent radical cations that trap substrate‐derived radicals. This paper unlocks a conceptually new approach to super electron donors that overcomes this issue, leading to the first catalytic neutral organic super electron donor.
Neuer stofflicher Nutzungspfad von Treberpresswasser aus Biertreber unter Einsatz von Membrantrenntechnik in Lebens‐ oder Nahrungsergänzungsmitteln
Authors: Grahl Franz , Beitlich Nicole , Fechter Michael , Speer Karl , Herdegen Volker , Eßlinger Michael , Haseneder Roland , Repke Jens‐Uwe
Published: June 2019

Für Biertreber, das mengenmäßig größte Nebenprodukt im Brauprozess, soll als Zwischenstand eines laufenden Forschungsprojekts ein über den bekannten Stand der bisherigen Trebernutzung hinausgehender Verwertungspfad vorgestellt werden. Der Fokus liegt hierbei auf einer anpassbaren, selektiven Abtrennung der noch enthaltenen Wertstoffe aus dem Treberpresswasser. Es werden Versuche zur gezielten Abtrennung der Inhaltsstoffe für eine spätere stoffliche Nutzung mittels Mikro‐, Ultra‐ und Nanofiltration vorgestellt. Die Eignung verschiedener Membranen wird dabei basierend auf der erreichten Permeabilität sowie dem Rückhalt von Wertkomponentenklassen wie Proteinen und Polyphenolen bewertet. Es konnte u. a. gezeigt werden, dass bei der Mikrofiltration mithilfe einer rotierenden Membran Permeatflüsse im Bereich der kommerziellen Bierfiltration erreichbar sind.
Highly Sensitive and Selective Dopamine Detection Utilizing Nitrogen‐Doped Mesoporous Carbon Prepared by a Molten Glucose‐Assisted Hard‐Template Approach
Authors: Liu Sen , Gao Shang , Fei Teng , Zhang Tong
Published: June 2019

Nitrogen‐doped mesoporous carbons (N‐MCs) are promising materials for electrochemical sensors or biosensors. However, facile and effective methods for the preparation of N‐MCs for electrochemical detection of dopamine (DA) are required. A molten‐glucose‐assisted hard‐template approach has been developed to synthesize N‐MC materials by in situ introduction of nitrogen precursors, including ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA), dicyandiamide, and melamine. The combined characterization of X‐ray diffraction (XRD), N2 sorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicate the successful preparation of N‐MC materials. Most importantly, after detailed examination by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), N‐MC obtained by using melamine as precursor (designated as N‐MC‐MA) displays good catalytic activity for electrochemical oxidation of DA. The N‐MC‐MA‐based DA sensor shows a linear range from 0.2–8 μm with a detection limit of 0.05 μm in the presence of ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA), thus showing excellent sensitivity and selectivity for electrochemical DA detection.
Photochromic Room Temperature Ionic Liquids Based on Anionic Diarylethene Derivatives
Authors: Jordão Noémi , Ferreira Pedro , Cruz Hugo , Parola A. Jorge , Branco Luís C.
Published: June 2019

Two photochromic room‐temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) based on anionic diarylethene derivative (DTE) were synthesized and characterized. Photochemical (quantum yields for ring closure and opening) and electrochemical (cyclic voltammetry) properties of the [ALIQUAT]2[DTE] and [P6,6,6,14]2[DTE] compounds as amorphous salts have been investigated. All compounds (including the di‐acid precursor and two RTILs) were studied in solution, in their intrinsically pure forms (RTIL as unique media) and in the solid state (BaSO4 support). Combination with larger organic cations can stabilize the closed‐ring form, apparently avoiding the formation of by‐products without photodegradation. It is observed that the closed‐ring reaction is faster in the case of RTILs comparing to the di‐acid starting material. The coloration switches between transparent (initial state) to purple ([ALIQUAT]2[DTE]) or pink ([P6,6,6,14]2[DTE]). The novel diarylethene‐based RTILs as multi‐coloured photochromic materials can open attractive perspectives for materials science applications.
For common community phylogenetic analyses, go ahead and use synthesis phylogenies
Authors: Li Daijiang , Trotta Lauren , Marx Hannah E. , Allen Julie M. , Sun Miao , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S. , Guralnick Robert P. , Baiser Benjamin
Published: June 2019

Should we build our own phylogenetic trees based on gene sequence data, or can we simply use available synthesis phylogenies? This is a fundamental question that any study involving a phylogenetic framework must face at the beginning of the project. Building a phylogeny from gene sequence data (purpose‐built phylogeny) requires more effort, expertise, and cost than subsetting an already available phylogeny (synthesis‐based phylogeny). However, we still lack a comparison of how these two approaches to building phylogenetic trees influence common community phylogenetic analyses such as comparing community phylogenetic diversity and estimating trait phylogenetic signal. Here, we generated three purpose‐built phylogenies and their corresponding synthesis‐based trees (two from Phylomatic and one from the Open Tree of Life, OTL). We simulated 1,000 communities and 12,000 continuous traits along each purpose‐built phylogeny. We then compared the effects of different trees on estimates of phylogenetic diversity (alpha and beta) and phylogenetic signal (Pagel's λ and Blomberg's K). Synthesis‐based phylogenies generally yielded higher estimates of phylogenetic diversity when compared to purpose‐built phylogenies. However, resulting measures of phylogenetic diversity from both types of phylogenies were highly correlated (Spearman's  > 0.8 in most cases). Mean pairwise distance (both alpha and beta) is the index that is most robust to the differences in tree construction that we tested. Measures of phylogenetic diversity based on the OTL showed the highest correlation with measures based on the purpose‐built phylogenies. Trait phylogenetic signal estimated with synthesis‐based phylogenies, especially from the OTL, was also highly correlated with estimates of Blomberg's K or close to Pagel's λ from purpose‐built phylogenies when traits were simulated under Brownian motion. For commonly employed community phylogenetic analyses, our results justify taking advantage of recently developed and continuously improving synthesis trees, especially the Open Tree of Life.
Study on catalytic cracking of toluene as the model compound of tar by different catalysts
Authors: Zhang Kaidi , Jiang Meng , Cheng Qunpeng , Song Guangsen , Fan Guozhi
Published: June 2019

In this work, three catalysts (Ni‐based catalyst, Ni/Fe‐based catalyst, and Ni/Ce‐based catalyst) were developed for catalytic cracking of toluene as a model compound of tar in a fixed bed reactor. The characteristic of catalysts were determined by XRD, EDX, and BET. Meanwhile, the effects of calcination temperature and reaction temperature on syngas yield and toluene conversion rate were also studied. The results showed that the BET surface area was decreased with the rise of calcination temperature, while the content of hydrogen and syngas yield were decreased with the rise of calcination temperature. The three catalysts showed a promising application in catalytic reforming of toluene for hydrogen production. The catalytic performance of three catalysts was ordered as Ni/Ce > Ni/Fe > Ni > thermal cracking. The maximum syngas yield (1.44 L/g toluene) and toluene conversion rate (96.4%) were obtained for Ni/Ce‐based catalyst, which indicated the effectiveness of the Ni/Ce‐based catalyst.
Sofosbuvir and Ribavirin Therapy for Children Aged 3 to <12 Years With Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 2 or 3 Infection
Authors: Rosenthal Philip , Schwarz Kathleen B. , Gonzalez‐Peralta Regino P. , Lin Chuan‐Hao , Kelly Deidre A. , Nightingale Scott , Balistreri William F. , Bansal Sanjay , Jonas Maureen M. , Massetto Benedetta , Brainard Diana M. , Hsueh Chia‐Hsiang , Shao Jiang , Parhy Bandita , Davison Suzanne , Feiterna‐Sperling Cornelia , Gillis Lynette A. , Indolfi Giuseppe , Sokal Etienne M. , Murray Karen F. , Wirth Stefan
Published: June 2019

Currently, the only approved hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment for children aged <12 years is pegylated interferon plus ribavirin. In an open‐label study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of sofosbuvir plus ribavirin for 12 weeks in children aged 3 to <12 years chronically infected with genotype 2 or for 24 weeks in patients with genotype 3. Patients aged 3 to <6 years weighing <17 kg received sofosbuvir 150 mg, and patients aged 3 to <6 years weighing ≥17 kg and all patients aged 6 to <12 years received sofosbuvir 200 mg once daily. Intensive pharmacokinetic sampling conducted in each age group confirmed the appropriateness of sofosbuvir doses. For all patients, ribavirin dosing was determined by baseline weight (up to 1,400 mg/day, two divided doses). The primary efficacy endpoint was sustained virologic response 12 weeks after therapy (SVR12). Fifty‐four patients were enrolled (41 aged 6 to <12 years and 13 aged 3 to <6 years). Most were treatment naïve (98%) and infected perinatally (94%). All but one patient achieved SVR12 (53/54, 98%; 95% confidence interval, 90%‐100%). The patient who did not achieve SVR12 was a 4‐year‐old who discontinued treatment after 3 days because of “abnormal drug taste.” The most commonly reported adverse events in patients aged 6 to <12 years were vomiting (32%) and headache (29%), and those in patients aged 3 to <6 years were vomiting (46%) and diarrhea (39%). One 3‐year‐old patient had a serious adverse event of accidental ribavirin overdose requiring hospitalization for monitoring; this patient completed treatment and achieved SVR12. Conclusion: Sofosbuvir plus ribavirin was well tolerated and highly effective in children aged 3 to <12 years with chronic HCV genotype 2 or 3 infection.
Exome Sequencing in Clinical Hepatology
Authors: Vilarinho Sílvia , Mistry Pramod K.
Published: June 2019

The clinical relevance of the Human Genome Project and next‐generation sequencing technology was demonstrated for the first time in 2009, when whole‐exome sequencing (WES) provided the definitive diagnosis of congenital chloride diarrhea in an infant with presumed renal salt‐wasting disease. Over the past decade, numerous studies have shown the utility of WES for clinical diagnosis as well as for discovery of novel genetic disorders through analysis of a single or a handful of informative pedigrees. Hence, advances in improving the speed, accuracy, and computational analysis combined with exponential decrease in the cost of sequencing the human genome is transforming the practice of medicine. The impact of WES has been most noticeable in pediatric disorders and oncology, but its utility in the liver clinic is recently emerging. Here, we assess the current status of WES for clinical diagnosis and acceleration of translation research to enhance care of patients with liver disease.
Histone deacetylases 1 and 2 inhibition suppresses cytokine production and osteoclast bone resorption in vitro
Authors: Algate Kent , Haynes David , Fitzsimmons Tracy , Romeo Ornella , Wagner Florence , Holson Edward , Reid Robert , Fairlie David , Bartold Peter , Cantley Melissa
Published: June 2019

The regulation of epigenetic factors is an emerging therapeutic target of immune function in a variety of osteolytic pathologies. Histone deacetylases (HDAC) modify core histone proteins and transcriptional processes, in addition to nonhistone protein activity. The activated immune response in rheumatoid arthritis, periodontitis, and prosthetic implant particle release stimulates the catabolic activity of osteoclasts. In this study, we investigated the effects of novel therapeutic agents targeting HDAC isozymes (HDAC 1, 2, and 5), previously shown to be upregulated in inflammatory bone disorders, in cytokine‐stimulated human monocytes and osteoclasts in vitro. Inhibiting HDAC 1 and 2 significantly reduced gene expression of IL‐1β, TNF, MCP‐1, and MIP‐1α in TNF‐stimulated monocytes, while suppressing secretions of IL‐1β, IL‐10, INF‐γ, and MCP‐1 (P < .05). Osteoclast formation and bone resorption were also significantly diminished with HDAC 1 and 2 inhibition, through reduced NFATc1 expression and osteoclast specific target genes, TRAF6, CTR, TRAP, and Cathepsin K (P < .05). Similar trends were observed when inhibiting HDAC 1 and to a lesser extent, HDAC 2, in isolation. However, their combined inhibition had the greatest anti‐inflammatory and antiosteoclastic effects. Targeting HDAC 5 had minimal effects on these processes investigated in this study, whereas a broad acting HDACi, 1179.4b, had widespread suppressive outcomes. This study demonstrates that targeting HDACs is a potent and effective way of regulating the inflammatory and catabolic processes in human monocytes and osteoclasts. It also demonstrates the importance of targeting individual HDACs with an overall aim to improve efficiency and reduce any potential off target effects.
Silencing of PTGS2 exerts promoting effects on angiogenesis endothelial progenitor cells in mice with ischemic stroke via repression of the NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Zhou Zheyi , Lu Changjun , Meng Shuhui , Dun Linglu , Yin Nannan , An Hongwei , Xu Hong , Liu Guocheng , Cai Yefeng
Published: June 2019

The objective of the current study is to investigate the effect of PTGS2 on proliferation, migration, angiogenesis and apoptosis of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in mice with ischemic stroke through the NF‐κB signaling pathway. Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was established in mice. EPCs were identified, in which ectopic expression and depletion experiments were conducted. The mRNA and protein expression of related factors in tissues and cells were measured. Besides, proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and apoptosis, as well as cell cycle distribution, of cells were determined. MCAO mice showed overexpression of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐17, and IL‐23, and increased positive protein expression of PTGS2, as well as expression of PTGS2, nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), tumor suppressor region 1 (TSP‐1) and Bcl‐2‐associated X protein (Bax), but underexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), S‐phase kinase associated protein 2 (Skp2), and B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2). Moreover, ectopic expression of tumor necrosis factor‐α significantly elevated the expression of PTGS2, NF‐κB, TSP‐1, and Bax, as well as cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, but decreased the expression of VEGF, Skp2, and Bcl‐2, as well as proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of EPCs, and the PTGS2‐siRNA group showed an opposite trend. Taken together, we conclude that the specific knockdown of PTGS2 expression could repress the NF‐κB signaling pathway, thereby inhibits apoptosis and promotes proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of EPCs, providing protective effect on mice with ischemic stroke.
Elevated urine oxalate and renal calculi in a classic galactosemia patient on soy‐based formula
Authors: Sabatino Julia A. , Starin Danielle , Tuchman Shamir , Ferreira Carlos , Regier Debra S.
Published: June 2019

Classic galactosemia results from a deficiency in the galactose‐1‐phosphate uridylyltransferase (GALT) enzyme, which is essential for galactose metabolism. Treatment focuses on lactose restriction and is achieved with a soy‐based diet. Previously, renal calculi have not been documented in galactosemia patients. We present a patient with galactosemia nutritionally dependent on soy‐based formula via G‐tube, who developed renal calculi. Analysis of urinary stone risk factors revealed elevated urine oxalate levels and stone analysis confirmed calcium oxalate composition. Initiation of lactose‐ and soy‐free elemental formula returned urine oxalate level to normal. Given the presence of a metabolic pathway for the conversion of galactose to oxalate, and the high content of oxalate in soy‐based formula, there is the potential for elevated urine oxalate and a resulting risk of urinary calculi formation in patients with classic galactosemia. This potential can be effectively managed with a lactose and soy‐free elemental diet. This report describes the clinical course and novel findings of calcium oxalate urinary calculi in a classic galactosemia patient dependent upon soy‐based formula, with a discussion regarding the multiple factors leading to increased stone formation in this patient.
Halal holidays: How is value perceived by Muslim tourists?
Authors: Rodrigo Padmali , Turnbull Sarah
Published: June 2019

This study explored the perceived values considered by Muslims when undertaking a halal holiday. The data for the study were gathered via 21 semistructured interviews conducted among Sri Lankan Muslims. Incorporating the theory of consumption values developed by Sheth, thematic analysis was used explore the key perceived consumption values that Muslim travellers associated with halal tourism. The findings of the study demonstrate that the perceived value associated with halal holidays is multidimensional, comprising both consumption and Islamic religious values such as Iman (faith), which refers to the conscience, and suggest that “Muslims should act within the Sharia (Islamic Law), and only choose what is halal and remember Allah when making decisions”. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on consumer perceived values by emphasizing that in the context of halal holidays, Islamic values captured by Iman play a significant role in customer expectations regarding perceived consumption values. Thus, tourism and hospitality organizations need to develop products and services that are Sharia‐compliant. Such initiatives would enable tourism and hospitality firms to demonstrate their responsiveness to specific cultural needs.
Otopathology Findings in Otosclerosis With Lateral Semicircular Canal Fenestration
Authors: Dewyer Nicholas A. , Rosowski John J. , Nadol Joseph B. , Quesnel Alicia M.
Published: June 2019

A study of clinical records and temporal bone histopathology from a woman with bilateral otosclerosis who was treated with lateral semicircular canal fenestration procedures as well as stapedectomy.
Overcoming Kinetic Trapping for Morphology Evolution during Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly
Authors: Li Dan , Huo Meng , Liu Lei , Zeng Min , Chen Xi , Wang Xiaosong , Yuan Jinying
Published: June 2019

Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) is a powerful technique to synthesize assemblies with various morphologies. However, PISA mediated by long, stabilizing chains usually produces kinetically trapped spheres; thus, the morphology evolution remains a challenge. Here, a convenient and general strategy for facilitating the morphological evolution by the copolymerization of solvophilic monomers is reported. With the incorporation of only 7% (molar ratio) solvophilic 3‐(triethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (TESPMA) into poly(N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate)‐b‐poly(benzyl methacrylate) (PDMA‐b‐PBzMA) spheres, PDMA‐b‐P(BzMA‐co‐TESPMA) assemblies evolve from spheres to worms, octopi‐like and jellyfish‐like structures, vesicles, and large compound vesicles. This non‐specific effect is further confirmed by the copolymerization of BzMA with other solvophilic monomers, including N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMA), N,N‐diethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DEA), and 2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA). This work provides a convenient approach to promote morphology evolution and develops the formulations design of PISA.
SDN‐based architecture for providing quality of service to high‐performance distributed applications
Authors: Oliveira Alexandre T. , Martins Bruno José C. A. , Moreno Marcelo F. , Gomes Antônio Tadeu A. , Ziviani Artur , Borges Vieira Alex
Published: June 2019

The specification of quality of service (QoS) requirements in most of the existing networks is still challenging. In part, traditional network environments are limited by their high administrative cost, although software‐defined networks (SDNs), a newer network paradigm, simplify the management of the whole network infrastructure. In fact, SDN provides a simple way to effectively develop QoS provisioning mechanisms. In this sense, we explore the SDN model and its flexibility to develop a QoS provisioning architecture. Through the use of our new architecture, network operators are able to specify QoS levels in a simple way. Each individual data flow can be addressed, and the architecture we propose also negotiates the QoS requirements between the network controller and applications. On the other hand, the network controller continuously monitors the network environment. Then, it allocates network elements resources and prioritizes traffic, adjusting the network performance. We evaluate the feasibility of our QoS provisioning mechanism by presenting three experimental setups under realistic scenarios. For example, for a given scenario where we evaluate file transfers, our results indicate that the additional SDN modules present negligible overhead. Moreover, for a given setup, we observe a reduction of up to 82% in the file transfer times.
Synthesis of Functionalized Azobiphenyl‐ and Azoterphenyl‐ Ditopic Linkers: Modular Building Blocks for Photoresponsive Smart Materials
Authors: Grosjean Sylvain , Hodapp Patrick , Hassan Zahid , Wöll Christof , Nieger Martin , Bräse Stefan
Published: June 2019

Modular synthesis of structurally diverse functionalized azobiphenyls and azoterphenyls for the realization of optically switchable materials has been described. The corresponding synthesis of azobiphenyls and azoterphenyls by stepwise Mills/Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction, proceeds with high yields and provides facile access to a library of functionalized building blocks. The synthetic methods described herein allow combining several distinct functional groups within a single unit, each intended for a specific task, such as 1) the −N=N− azobenzene core as a photoswitchable moiety, 2) aryls and heteroaryls, functionalized with carboxylic acids or pyridine at its peripheries, as coordinating moieties and 3) varying substitution, size and length of the backbone for adaptability to specific applications. These specifically designed azobiphenyls and azoterphenyls provide modular bricks, potentially useful for the assembly of a variety of polymers, molecular containers and coordination networks, offering a high degree of molecular functionality. Once integrated into materials, the azobenzene system, as a side group on the organic linker backbone, can be exploited for remotely controlling the structural, mechanical or physical properties, thus being applicable for a broad variety of ‘smart’ applications.
A simulation study of the statistical power and signaling characteristics of an early season sequential test for influenza vaccine safety
Authors: Forshee Richard A. , Hu Mao , Arya Deepa , Perez‐Vilar Silvia , Anderson Steven A. , Lo An‐Chi , Swarr Madeline , Wernecke Michael , MaCurdy Tom , Chu Steve , Kelman Jeffrey
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The US Food and Drug Administration monitors the risk of Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) following influenza vaccination using several data sources including Medicare. In the 2017 to 2018 season, we transitioned our near real‐time surveillance in Medicare to more effectively detect large GBS risk increases early in the season while avoiding false positives.

Methods

We conducted a simulation study examining the ability of the updating sequential probability ratio test (USPRT) to detect substantially elevated GBS risk in the 8‐ to 21‐day postvaccination versus 5× to 30× the historical rate. We varied the first testing week (weeks 5‐8) and the null rate (1×‐3×) and evaluated power. We estimated signal probability and the risk ratio (RR) after signaling when high‐risk seasons were rare.

Results

Applying fixed alternatives, we found >80% power to detect a risk 30× the historical rate in week 5 for the 1× null and in week 6 for the 1.5× to 3× nulls. Nearly all testing schedules had >80% power for a 5× risk by week 11. To test the robustness of USPRT, we further simulated seasons where 1% were true high‐risk seasons. Using a 1× null led to 10% of seasons signaling by week 11 (median RR approximately 1.4), which decreased to approximately 1% with the ≥2.5× null (median RR approximately 16.0).

Conclusions

On the basis of the results from this simulation and subsequent consultations with experts and stakeholders, we specified USPRT to test continuously from weeks 7 to 11 using the null hypothesis that the observed GBS rate was 2.5× the historical rate. This helped improve the ability of USPRT to provide early detection of GBS risk following influenza vaccination as part of a multilayered system of surveillance.
Effect of oligo(spiroorthocarbonate)s on the volume shrinkage of epoxides during crosslinking by sulfonium salt‐initiated cationic polymerization of epoxides
Authors: Mori Yasuyuki , Sudo Atsushi , Endo Takeshi
Published: June 2019

Oligo(spiroorthocarbonate)s 1, which were synthesized by the polycondensation of pentaerythritol derivatives with tetraethylorthocarbonate, were employed as comonomers in the cationic polymerization of epoxide initiated by sulfonium salt. In the copolymerization, the spiroorthocarbonate moiety of 1 underwent double ring‐opening reaction, leading to the efficient diminution of the volume shrinkage upon the copolymerization. Thermal properties of the resulting networked polymers were evaluated by TGA. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1564–1568
The Dependence of N2 Carrier Gas Flow Rate on Deposition Rate and Density Changes of Porous Silica Preform Synthesized by Eco‐Friendly Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane
Authors: Lee Tae Kyun , Choi Jinseok , Lee Ga Hyoung , Jeon Hyung Jin , An Sung Jin
Published: June 2019

A porous silica preform for the fabrication of optical fibers is generally synthesized by flame hydrolysis deposition (FHD). To synthesize the porous silica preform, SiCl4 containing chlorine (Cl) is normally used. However, the Cl generated through the FHD process is highly reactive and generates toxic substances, which seriously affect the environment. In this study, the porous silica preform with a radius of more than 250 mm is synthesized using vaporized octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (OMCTS), which does not contain the Cl. In addition, the effect of the N2 carrier gas flow rate on the deposition rate of the silica soot and the density of the porous silica preform are investigated. As the carrier gas flow rate increases, the deposition rate decreases and the density of the porous silica preform tends to increase. This result may be due to the difference in the substrate and flame temperature gradients depending on the carrier gas flow rate. The characteristics of the porous silica preform are investigated at the top, middle, and bottom positions. Regardless of the position, the porous silica preform is composed of spherical silica particles with the size of 100–200 nm.
Enhanced Performance of In(Ga)As QD Based Optoelectronic Devices through Improved Interface Quality between QD and Matrix Material
Authors: Panda Debiprasad , Chatterjee Arka , Saha Jhuma , Das Debabrata , Singh Sandeep Madhusudan , Pal Samir Kumar , Chakrabarti Subhananda
Published: June 2019

The interface quality in InAs/GaAs and In0.5Ga0.5As/GaAs quantum dot (QD) heterostructures are elucidated through the phonon‐assisted vibrational modes and is found better in the latter case. The strain‐induced formation of interface defects and lattice deformations in each self‐assembled QDs have been analyzed by means of room temperature Raman spectroscopy (RS). This study provides an insight into the inter‐dot migration and thermalization process of carriers in both QD families with the aid of steady‐state and time‐resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) measurements. The longer‐wavelength PL peak observed for InGaAs QD demonstrates the maximum strain‐relaxation, thereby facilitating the formation of larger coherent QDs with higher In‐content, lower interface defects and lower optical bandgap. Moreover, formation of smoother interface during the growth of self‐assembled QDs in InGaAs‐based photodetector and solar cell would open up the possibility of narrower spectral response and enhanced light harvesting in infrared regime.
Controlling autocorrelated data in multistage manufacturing processes with an application to textile industry
Authors: Keshavarz Maryam , Asadzadeh Shervin , Niaki Seyed Taghi Akhavan
Published: June 2019

In recent years, much attention has been given to monitoring multistage processes in order to effectively improve the product reliability. To this end, the output of the process is investigated under special circumstances, and the values corresponding to reliability‐related quality characteristic are measured. However, analyzing reliability data is quite complicated because of their unique features such as being censored and obeying nonnormal distributions. A more sophisticated picture arises when the observations of the process are autocorrelated in some cases, which makes the application of previous control procedures futile. In this paper, the accelerated failure time (AFT) regression models have been modified in order to account for autocorrelated data. Then, a cumulative sum (CUSUM) control chart and an exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) control chart based on conditional expected values have been proposed to monitor the quality variable with Weibull distribution while taking the effective covariates into consideration. Extensive simulation studies reveal that the CUSUM control chart outperforms its counterpart in detecting out‐of‐control conditions. Finally, a real case study in a textile industry has been provided to investigate the application of the CUSUM control scheme.
How does the pH influences the Ru‐NO coordination compounds?
Authors: Orenha Renato P. , Galembeck Sergio E.
Published: June 2019

The pH influence has important role in the bioavailability of coordination compounds. fac‐[Ru(NO)Cl2(κ3N4,N8,N11[1‐carboxypropyl]cyclam)]+, 1, and the species found at different pHs, 2‐4, were investigated. One series of computational methodologies has been used to investigate these compounds. One special highlight is to interacting quantum atoms method, where the total interaction energy, , between two atoms has been used as base to estimate the chemical bonds strength. The deprotonation of ‐CO2H, 1➔2 (pKa = 3.3), creates a hydrogen bond in the complex 2, N(3)‐H⋯ ·OCO−, with a more favorable than the presents in 1, N(3)‐H⋯ ·OCOH. There are no changes in in Ru‐NO bond. The second deprotonation occurs in the N(2) atom of the cyclam group, 2➔3 (pKa = 8.0). It promotes an increase in the covalent character of Ru‐N(2). In contrast, there is no changes in Ru‐N(5)O bond. For higher pHs, there is a 3➔4 equilibrium (pKa = 11.5) and the conversion of Ru‐N(5)O for Ru‐N(5)O2. The Ru‐N(5) of 4 shows a larger ionic character than 3. Thus, Ru‐NO in 1‐4 has worthy stability about a large pH range, showing potential application as NO scavengers.
Trivalent chromium conversion coating on AA2024‐T3 used in aeronautical and aerospace industry
Authors: Proença C. Sofia , Pereira A. Marisa , Cabral A.M. , Pigliaru L. , Rohr T. , Araújo M. Eduarda M. , Correia Jorge
Published: June 2019

Significant research has been conducted to replace the chromium(VI)‐based surface treatments, and some commercial substitute systems are now available and needs to be tested to evaluate their performance and to know how they comply with the required specifications. The anticorrosion properties provided by a commercially available trivalent chromium‐based product—PreCoat A32—when applied to AA2024‐T3 aluminium alloy substrates were evaluated in this work and compared with those obtained with a chromium(VI)‐based pretreatment well‐recognized reference (Alodine 1200S). The morphology and elemental composition of the conversion coatings were investigated by high‐resolution microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis, respectively, being the wettability of the modified surface measured by contact angle goniometry. The data obtained reveal that PreCoat A32–treated surfaces are more apt to receive aqueous paint schemes than those healed with Alodine 1200S. The corrosion resistance of the treated samples was monitored by potentiodynamic polarisation assays and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis, revealing that PreCoat A32 coatings provide improved corrosion protection for AA2024‐T3. The corrosion resistance effectiveness of PreCoat A32 was also confirmed in trials realised in salt‐spray chamber, humidity tests, and thermal cycling assays, where more severe exposure conditions were simulated. The gathered data clearly indicate that the PreCoat A32 brings together the mandatory qualities to successfully substitute the conventional and undesirable chromium(VI)‐based treatments, in aeronautical and aerospace industry.
Deepening the Valance Band Edges of NiOx Contacts by Alkaline Earth Metal Doping for Efficient Perovskite Photovoltaics with High Open‐Circuit Voltage
Authors: Ge Bing , Qiao Hong Wei , Lin Ze Qing , Zhou Zi Ren , Chen Ai Ping , Yang Shuang , Hou Yu , Yang Hua Gui
Published: June 2019

Organometallic halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are rapidly evolving as the promising photovoltaic technologies with high record efficiency over 24%. The inorganic p‐type semiconductor NiOx is extensively used as important hole transport layers for the realization of stable and hysteresis‐free solar cells due to their good electronic properties, facile fabrication, and excellent chemical endurance. However, the critical issues of NiOx films including poor intrinsic conductivity and mismatched band alignment limit further improvement of the device performance. Herein, it is demonstrated that a versatile alkaline earth metal (Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba) doping strategy can effectively engineer the electronic properties of NiOx contacts in inverted planar PSCs. Alkaline earth metal doping can deepen valence band maximum and enhance the hole conductivity of NiOx films, which better aligns the energy band in solar cells. The champion device based on Sr‐doped NiOx films attains a power conversion efficiency of 19.49% with a high open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.14 V for NiOx‐based CH3NH3PbI3 devices. The resulted device shows negligible hysteresis and high stability as well. This finding provides a systematic doping strategy to further improve the performance of inverted planar PSCs.
Effects of restrictive harvest criteria on antler size of hunter‐harvested male white‐tailed deer and hunter opportunity
Authors: Gulsby William D. , Killmaster Charlie H. , Bowers John W. , Miller Karl V.
Published: June 2019

Antler‐based selective harvest criteria (SHC; e.g., number of points) are a commonly used and effective method of limiting harvest of 1.5‐year‐old male white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). However, previous research has shown SHC that allow disproportionate harvest of young males with large antlers may reduce average antler size within older (≥2.5‐yr) age classes. We used hunter‐harvest data collected from 10 wildlife management areas in Georgia, USA, during 2003–2013 to compare cohort antler size and other factors among areas with varying or no SHC. Three of the areas restricted harvest to males with one antler beam ≥41 cm long or an antler spread ≥38 cm (BS), and another 3 restricted harvest to males with ≥4 antler points on one side (4OS). Any male with visible antlers was eligible for harvest on the remaining areas. There was no evidence that either BS or 4OS criteria led to a decrease in antler size of harvested males ≥2.5 years old. Both SHC protected ≥96% of 1.5‐year males from harvest. There was also evidence to suggest the BS criteria increased mean antler size of harvested males and annual harvest rates of 3.5‐year males. However, the 4OS criteria protected 49%, 16%, and 9% of 2.5, 3.5, and ≥4.5‐year males, respectively. The BS criteria protected 77%, 33%, and 10% of the same age classes. These findings suggest restrictive SHC can prevent decline in antler size of harvested males and increase opportunity for hunters to harvest older males with larger antlers, with the added biological benefit of increasing the population age structure. However, restrictive SHC may unintentionally protect a significant proportion of ≥2.5‐year males from harvest. As previously suggested, managers interested in SHC should carefully research site‐ and age‐specific antler size to avoid implementation of criteria that are either too restrictive or permissive. © 2019 The Wildlife Society
Assessment of excreta collection methods to estimate true metabolizable energy of waterfowl foods in wild ducks
Authors: Lancaster Joseph D. , McClain Sarah E. , Gross Margaret C. , Jacques Christopher N. , Masto Nicholas M. , Kaminski Richard M. , Hagy Heath M.
Published: June 2019

True metabolizable energy (TME) of waterfowl foods is commonly estimated for use in energetic carrying capacity models in association with conservation planning efforts under the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. Researchers define and estimate TME as the net energy from excreta collected from an individual after feeding a precise quantity of a food item compared with excreta collected during a fasted control. We evaluated an alternative excreta collection method for use in TME assays for comparison with traditional excreta collection methodology for waterfowl. We fed widgeongrass (Ruppia maritima) to wild‐caught mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) during autumn 2016 at Forbes Biological Station, Havana, Illinois, USA, and quantitatively collected excreta using a harness‐style excreta collection method and a traditional basin‐style collection method. We were unable to find support for a difference in total excreta energy, mass loss, and TME estimates between collection methods, but high variation in TME among samples prohibited our ability to consider the collection methods similar. Time required for processing harness samples was 60–175 minutes less per sample than for basin samples. The basin method has been the standard for TME trials on waterfowl, but we found the harness method to be much more efficient and potentially allow for better animal husbandry practices. We suggest the harness method be tested further with increased sample sizes or alternate foods prior to widespread application, but researchers conducting TME assays of waterfowl foods should consider using this method in the future. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Aquaponics and Global Food Challenges
Authors: Goddek Simon , Joyce Alyssa , Kotzen Benz , Dos-Santos Maria
Published: June 2019

As the world’s population grows, the demands for increased food production expand, and as the stresses on resources such as land, water and nutrients become ever greater, there is an urgent need to find alternative, sustainable and reliable methods to provide this food. The current strategies for supplying more produce are neither ecologically sound nor address the issues of the circular economy of reducing waste whilst meeting the WHO’s Millennium Development Goals of eradicating hunger and poverty by 2015. Aquaponics, a technology that integrates aquaculture and hydroponics, provides part of the solution. Although aquaponics has developed considerably over recent decades, there are a number of key issues that still need to be fully addressed, including the development of energy-efficient systems with optimized nutrient recycling and suitable pathogen controls. There is also a key issue of achieving profitability, which includes effective value chains and efficient supply chain management. Legislation, licensing and policy are also keys to the success of future aquaponics, as are the issues of education and research, which are discussed across this book.
Fish Diets in Aquaponics
Authors: Robaina Lidia , Pirhonen Juhani , Mente Elena , Sánchez Javier , Goosen Neill
Published: June 2019

Fish and feed waste provide most of the nutrients required by the plants in aquaponics if the optimum ratio between daily fish feed inputs and the plant growing area is sustained. Thus, the fish feed needs to fulfil both the fish’s and plant’s nutritional requirements in an aquaponic system. A controlled fish waste production strategy where the nitrogen, phosphorus and mineral contents of fish diets are manipulated and used provides a way of influencing the rates of accumulation of nutrients, thereby reducing the need for the additional supplementation of nutrients. To optimize the performance and cost-effectiveness of aquaponic production, fish diets and feeding schedules should be designed carefully to provide nutrients at the right level and time to complement fish, bacteria and plants. To achieve this, a species-specific tailor-made aquaponic feed may be optimized to suit the aquaponic system as a whole. The optimal point would be determined based on overall system performance parameters, including economic and environmental sustainability measures. This chapter thus focuses on fish diets and feed and reviews the state of the art in fish diets, ingredients and additives, as well as the nutritional/sustainable challenges that need to be considered when producing specific aquaponic feeds.
Commercial Aquaponics: A Long Road Ahead
Authors: Turnšek Maja , Morgenstern Rolf , Schröter Iris , Mergenthaler Marcus , Hüttel Silke , Leyer Michael
Published: June 2019

Aquaponic systems are often designated as sustainable food production systems that are still facing various challenges, especially when they are considered as a commercial endeavour that needs to compete on the market. The early stages of the aquaponics industry have witnessed a number of unrealistic statements about the economic advantageousness of aquaponics. This chapter deals with these topics and discusses them critically. The latest scientific literature and current personal experiences of European commercial aquaponics farmers are taken into account on three levels: The horticulture side of production, the aquaculture side of production and the early data on the market response to aquaponics, emphasising the marketing issues and public acceptance of aquaponics. In summary, the chapter does not provide an “off-the-peg” solution to evaluate the economic performance of a particular aquaponics system. Instead it provides a broad database that enables an estimation of the efficiency of a planned system more realistically, pointing to challenges that the commercial aquaponics early adopters faced that are important lessons for future aquaponic endeavours, particularly in Europe.
Aquaponics: Closing the Cycle on Limited Water, Land and Nutrient Resources
Authors: Joyce Alyssa , Goddek Simon , Kotzen Benz , Wuertz Sven
Published: June 2019

Hydroponics initially developed in arid regions in response to freshwater shortages, while in areas with poor soil, it was viewed as an opportunity to increase productivity with fewer fertilizer inputs. In the 1950s, recirculating aquaculture also emerged in response to similar water limitations in arid regions in order to make better use of available water resources and better contain wastes. However, disposal of sludge from such systems remained problematic, thus leading to the advent of aquaponics, wherein the recycling of nutrients produced by fish as fertilizer for plants proved to be an innovative solution to waste discharge that also had economic advantages by producing a second marketable product. Aquaponics was also shown to be an adaptable and cost-effective technology given that farms could be situated in areas that are otherwise unsuitable for agriculture, for instance, on rooftops and on unused, derelict factory sites. A wide range of cost savings could be achieved through strategic placement of aquaponics sites to reduce land acquisition costs, and by also allowing farming closer to suburban and urban areas, thus reducing transportation costs to markets and hence also the fossil fuel and CO2 footprints of production.
Regulatory Frameworks for Aquaponics in the European Union
Authors: Reinhardt Tilman , Hoevenaars Kyra , Joyce Alyssa
Published: June 2019

This chapter provides an overview of the regulatory framework for aquaponics and the perspectives for European Union (EU) policy. Using Germany as an example, we analyze the specific regulations concerning construction and operation of aquaponic facilities and the commercialization of aquaponic products. We then show how aquaponics fits in with different EU policies and how it might contribute to EU sustainability goals. In the end, we provide some recommendations on how institutional conditions could be improved for aquaponics as an emerging technological innovation system.
Aquaponics in the Built Environment
Authors: Proksch Gundula , Ianchenko Alex , Kotzen Benz
Published: June 2019

Aquaponics’ potential to transform urban food production has been documented in a rapid increase of academic research and public interest in the field. To translate this publicity into real-world impact, the creation of commercial farms and their relationship to the urban environment have to be further examined. This research has to bridge the gap between existing literature on growing system performance and urban metabolic flows by considering the built form of aquaponic farms. To assess the potential for urban integration of aquaponics, existing case studies are classified by the typology of their building enclosure, with the two main categories being greenhouses and indoor environments. This classification allows for some assumptions about the farms’ performance in their context, but a more in-depth life cycle assessment (LCA) is necessary to evaluate different configurations. The LCA approach is presented as a way to inventory design criteria and respective strategies which can influence the environmental impact of aquaponic systems in the context of urban built environments.