bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Site‐Selective Catalysis of a Multifunctional Linear Molecule: The Steric Hindrance of Metal–Organic Framework Channels
Authors: Zhang Weina , Zheng Bing , Shi Wenxiong , Chen Xinyi , Xu Zhiling , Li Shuzhou , Chi Yonggui Robin , Yang Yanhui , Lu Jun , Huang Wei , Huo Fengwei
Published: April 2018

The site‐selective reaction of a multifunctional linear molecule requires a suitable catalyst possessing both uniform narrow channel to limit the molecule rotation and a designed active site in the channel. Recently, nanoparticles (NPs) were incorporated in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with the tailorable porosity and ordered nanochannel, which makes these materials (NPs/MOFs) highly promising candidates as catalytic nanoreactors in the field of heterogeneous catalysis. Inspired by a “Gondola” sailing in narrow “Venetian Canal” without sufficient space for a U‐turn, a simple heterogeneous catalyst based on NPs/MOFs is developed that exhibits site‐selectivity for the oxidation of diols by restricting the random rotation of the molecule (the “Gondola”) in the limited space of the MOF channel (the narrow “Venetian Canal”), thereby protecting the middle functional group via steric hindrance. This strategy is not limited to the oxidation of diols, but can be extended to the site‐selective reaction of many similar multifunctional linear molecules, such as the reduction of alkadienes.
New 2,3‐Bis(5‐arylthiophen‐2‐yl)quinoxaline Derivatives: Synthesis and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Moshkina Tatyana N. , Nosova Emiliya V. , Lipunova Galina N. , Valova Marina S. , Charushin Valery N.
Published: April 2018

A series of V‐shaped luminophores containing electron‐withdrawing quinoxaline core and arylthienyl donor fragments at positions 2 and 3 has been successfully synthesized. Their photophysical properties in two solvents as well as halochromism have been studied, and the ability of 4‐diethylaminophenyl derivative to function as colorimetric and luminescent pH sensor has been demonstrated with significant color changes and luminescence switching upon the introduction of acid.
Implementation of a Wisconsin Division of Public Health Surgical Site Infection Prevention Champion Initiative
Authors: Borlaug Gwen , Edmiston Charles E.
Published: April 2018

Approximately 900 surgical site infections (SSIs) were reported to the Wisconsin Division of Public Health annually from 2013 to 2015, representing the most prevalent reported health care–associated infection in the state. Personnel at the Wisconsin Division of Public Health launched an SSI prevention initiative in May 2015 using a surgical care champion to provide surgical team peer‐to‐peer guidance through voluntary, nonregulatory, fee‐exempt onsite visits that included presentations regarding the evidence‐based surgical care bundle, tours of the OR and central processing areas, and one‐on‐one discussions with surgeons. The surgical care champion visited 10 facilities from August to December 2015, and at those facilities, SSIs decreased from 83 in 2015 to 47 in 2016 and the overall SSI standardized infection ratio decreased by 45% from 1.61 to 0.88 (P = .002), suggesting a statewide SSI prevention champion model can help lead to improved patient outcomes.
Success of a Colorectal Surgical Site Infection Prevention Bundle in a Multihospital System
Authors: Harris Jeanette
Published: April 2018

Surgical site infections, readmissions, and extended hospital stays are risks for patients undergoing colon surgeries. These procedures are often urgent, and patients may have multiple comorbidities. Preoperative and postoperative steps to reduce the number of complications provide substantial benefits clinically, economically, and psychologically. We used a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to identify best practices when developing and implementing a standardized approach to the management of patients undergoing elective colon surgery. Interventions included nutrition supplements and preoperative and postoperative protocols. Our management project showed a 74.6% reduction in readmissions, a 22.73% reduction in length of stay, an 85% reduction in colon surgical site infections measured by incidence (84.5% reduction) and standard infection ratio (54.55% reduction), and 95% compliance with the use of both order sets during an 18‐month period. Applying standardized order sets for assessing and addressing patient comorbidities before colorectal surgery can result in a substantial and sustainable reduction in complications.
At the crossroads: An uncertain future facing the electricity‐generation sector in South Korea
Authors: Hong Sanghyun , Brook Barry W.
Published: April 2018

Nuclear energy has provided a major source of clean electricity for South Korea over decades. However, the South Korean Government announced an energy transition roadmap aiming to reduce nuclear shares and increase renewable shares. However, given the nation's high population density, the maximum share of renewable sources for electricity generation in South Korea is constrained. The roadmap was silent on how to fill the gap between a reduced nuclear output and the limited renewable potentials. The tacit alternatives are fossil fuels, and their deployment will become the key determining factor on how South Korea approaches the problem of greenhouse gas emissions reductions. We used scenario analysis to investigate two fossil‐intensive cases, alongside a hypothetical renewable case. On the basis of the comparison of the three scenarios with other countries, we provide an insight into the feasibility and limitations of the nonnuclear options and propose the techno‐economic requirements for avoiding the worst outcomes.
A New Residual Evaluation Function Based Fault Diagnosis for a Kind of Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Liu Hai , Zhong Maiying , Liu Yang
Published: April 2018

In this paper, a new residual evaluation function (EF) is proposed for theHi/H∞fault detection filter (FDF). Residuals are projected into the direction of fault, then energy of this projection is adopted as the new EF. Compared with the traditional EF, improvement in FD ability of the new EF is demonstrated rigorously, and a recursive way to calculate it is also proposed under the assumption that fault is slowly time varying. Furthermore, application of this new EF for fault isolation (FI) is discussed, which finally leads to a systematic FDI scheme for a kind of nonlinear systems. Simulations with a nonlinear unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) model validate the proposed method.
Mitochondrial Outer Membrane Channels: Emerging Diversity in Transport Processes
Authors: Becker Thomas , Wagner Richard
Published: April 2018

Mitochondrial function and biogenesis depend on the transport of a large variety of proteins, ions, and metabolites across the two surrounding membranes. While several specific transporters are present in the inner membrane, transport processes across the outer membrane are less understood. Recent studies reveal that the number of outer membrane channels and their transport mechanisms are more diverse than originally thought. Four protein‐conducting channels promote transport of distinct sets of precursor proteins across and into the outer membrane. The voltage‐dependent anion channel (VDAC) forms the major channel for small hydrophilic molecules. In addition, three channels with yet unknown substrate specificity exist in the outer membrane. In this review, we outline the emerging functional diversity, selectivity, and regulation of mitochondrial outer membrane channels. The presence of several channel‐forming proteins challenges the traditional view that the outer membrane forms an unspecific size‐exclusion filter for the flux of small hydrophilic molecules.
Meta-analysis comparing upfront surgery with neoadjuvant treatment in patients with resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Versteijne E , Vogel J A , Besselink M G , Busch O R C , Wilmink J W , Daams J G , van Eijck C H J , Groot Koerkamp B , Rasch C R N , van Tienhoven G
Published: April 2018

Background

Studies comparing upfront surgery with neoadjuvant treatment in pancreatic cancer may report only patients who underwent resection and so survival will be skewed. The aim of this study was to report survival by intention to treat in a comparison of upfront surgery versus neoadjuvant treatment in resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies reporting median overall survival by intention to treat in patients with resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic cancer treated with or without neoadjuvant treatment. Secondary outcomes included overall and R0 resection rate, pathological lymph node rate, reasons for unresectability and toxicity of neoadjuvant treatment.

Results

In total, 38 studies were included with 3484 patients, of whom 1738 (49·9 per cent) had neoadjuvant treatment. The weighted median overall survival by intention to treat was 18·8 months for neoadjuvant treatment and 14·8 months for upfront surgery; the difference was larger among patients whose tumours were resected (26·1 versus 15·0 months respectively). The overall resection rate was lower with neoadjuvant treatment than with upfront surgery (66·0 versus 81·3 per cent; P < 0·001), but the R0 rate was higher (86·8 (95 per cent c.i. 84·6 to 88·7) versus 66·9 (64·2 to 69·6) per cent; P < 0·001). Reported by intention to treat, the R0 rates were 58·0 and 54·9 per cent respectively (P = 0·088). The pathological lymph node rate was 43·8 per cent after neoadjuvant therapy and 64·8 per cent in the upfront surgery group (P < 0·001). Toxicity of at least grade III was reported in up to 64 per cent of the patients.

Conclusion

Neoadjuvant treatment appears to improve overall survival by intention to treat, despite lower overall resection rates for resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42016049374.
Improved Capacity Retention of Metal Oxide Anodes in Li‐Ion Batteries: Increasing Intraparticle Electronic Conductivity through Na Inclusion in Mn3O4
Authors: Palmieri Alessandro , Yazdani Sajad , Kashfi‐Sadabad Raana , Karakalos Stavros G. , Ng Benjamin , Oliveira Alexandra , Peng Xiong , Pettes Michael T. , Mustain William E.
Published: April 2018

In this work, we significantly improve the cyclability of Mn3O4 anodes in Li‐ion batteries by enhancing its intraparticle electronic conductivity by doping with Na. Na was selected because, unlike typical transition‐metal dopants, it is non‐surface redox active in the potential window where the metal oxide conversion reaction occurs, and hence is more electrochemically stable during charge/discharge cycling. This work presents the first time that Na has been used as a dopant in metal oxide anodes, and the result is excellent capacity retention and rate capability. More specifically, Na was added to Mn3O4 (to achieve a Mn/Na ratio of ca. 9 : 1), impregnated onto a carbon nanotube matrix. The concentration of Na considering the entire composition of the anode material was 0.5 at %. These electrodes were able to achieve a capacity of approximately 750 mAh/g at a 1C rate, and retain over 99 % of that capacity over 500 cycles. They were also able to provide nearly twice the theoretical capacity of conventional graphite anodes under high rate discharge (609 mAh/g @ 5C), as well as achieve a higher capacity at 10C (ca. 350 mAh/g) than conventional graphite electrodes can at 1C.
Zweidimensionale NMR‐Spektroskopie
Authors: Friebolin Horst , Schilling Gerhard
Published: April 2018

Zur Strukturermittlung von Molekülen in Lösung werden mittlerweile auch zweidimensionale NMR‐Techniken routinemäβig angewandt.
The relative importance of employee green behavior for overall job performance ratings: A policy‐capturing study
Authors: Bohlmann Clarissa , van den Bosch Jeroen , Zacher Hannes
Published: April 2018

Organizational researchers and practitioners are increasingly interested in the topic of employee pro‐environmental or ‘green’ behavior. In this study, we examine the relative importance of employee green behavior to overall job performance ratings compared with task performance, organizational citizenship behavior and counterproductive work behavior. We used an experimental policy‐capturing design, which involves participants rating the job performance of several hypothetical employees who vary in their work behaviors. Thirty‐eight managers from the Netherlands each rated 36 scenarios describing employee behaviors (1368 ratings in total). Results showed that employees' task performance contributed most to overall job performance ratings, followed by counterproductive work behavior, organizational citizenship behavior and employee green behavior. More broadly, findings suggest that employee green behavior makes an independent positive contribution to overall job performance ratings, but its influence is weaker than that of other forms of work behavior. Implications for future research and green human resource management are discussed.
Secure sharing of mobile personal healthcare records using certificateless proxy re‐encryption in cloud
Authors: Bhatia Tarunpreet , Verma A. K. , Sharma Gaurav
Published: April 2018

The ubiquitous and timely access to personal health records help physicians to take critical decisions and save lives. Cloud computing has a potential to provide ubiquitous and on‐demand instant access to common pool of shared resources and services to various stakeholders involved in electronic healthcare industry such as patients, healthcare professionals, insurance companies, etc. The speedy evolution and adoption of cloud computing in electronic healthcare systems have inevitably raised concerns enveloping outsourced data in a myriad of safety issues. In this paper, cryptanalysis of Qin's scheme is performed breaching confidentiality of their scheme. We further proposed a lightweight and pairing free single‐hop unidirectional certificateless proxy re‐encryption scheme based on elliptic curves for secure sharing of mobile personal health records with public cloud competent for low‐power mobile devices. In certificateless proxy re‐encryption, patients encrypt the data with their public keys before outsourcing to the cloud and cloud resident semitrusted proxy further re‐encrypts into ciphertext under intended recipient's public key without learning anything about encrypted message. We prove its security through formal analysis against chosen ciphertext attack in the random oracle model. Our proposed scheme is more efficient and suitable for low‐power mobile devices in comparison with existing schemes.
A novel strategy and kinetics analysis of half‐fractional high cell density fed‐batch cultivation of Zygosaccharomyces rouxii
Authors: Li Zhijiang , Zhou Yanan , Yang Hongzhi , Zhang Dongjie , Wang Chengtao , Liu Hong , Li Xin , Zhao Jing , Wei Chunhong
Published: April 2018

Zygosaccharomyces rouxii is an important microorganism for aroma production in traditional fermented foods. Using Z. rouxii as the original strain, the batch was split after glucose depletion in the culture medium. Half of the volume of the culture medium was released, and fresh culture medium was fed in. The exponential culture kinetics and the formula for the half‐fractional fed‐batch cultivations were determined to achieve a new strategy for high cell density culturing of Z. rouxii. Based on a full cultivation, three half‐fractional fed‐batch cultivations were performed after every 10 hr of culture. The specific growth rates of Z. rouxii at the different stages were in the order μX0>μX1>μX2>μX3 (0.525 to 0.229 hr−1). The glucose substrate consumption rates gradually decreased following the order μS0>μS1>μS2>μS3 (−1.165 to −0.722, g/g). The equation models for cell growth and glucose substrate consumption showed typical exponential behavior. The total cell yield was 1.78‐fold higher than the yield from a full cultivation, and this continuous subculture strategy also indicated a higher efficiency than traditional full cultivation. A new strategy for highly efficient culturing of Z. rouxii was achieved in a pilot scale. A foundation with data support for the production and application of Z. rouxii was developed.
Institutional Reform in the Irrigation Sector in China
Authors: Li Yuanhua
Published: April 2018

Irrigation development relies on sustainable water use and sound irrigation facilities. Participatory irrigation management (PIM) is advantageous because it increases irrigation water efficiency, strengthens construction and maintenance of irrigation facilities, improves irrigation service and capacity building, and increases the sense of responsibility for farmers to protect irrigation systems and their sense of being in charge of improving their own irrigation management. However, there remain some issues that have not yet been addressed in practice. This paper summarizes the experiences and lessons from the practice of institutional reform in the irrigation sector in China and discusses the incentives for farmers to participate in irrigation management and the requirements for a well‐functioning water users' association (WUA). Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Upregulated lncRNA ADAMTS9‐AS2 suppresses progression of lung cancer through inhibition of miR‐223‐3p and promotion of TGFBR3
Authors: Liu Chao , Yang Zuozhang , Deng Zhiyong , Zhou Youjun , Gong Quan , Zhao Ruilian , Chen Ting
Published: April 2018

In this study, we aimed at investigating effects of lncRNA ADAMTS9‐AS2 on lung cancer progression through regulating miR‐223‐3p and TGFBR3 expressions. Expressions of ADAMTS9‐AS2 in lung cancer tissues and cell lines were determined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). TargetScan and miRcode were used to predict the targeting relationships, respectively. The luciferase reporter system was used to verify that the relationship among ADAMTS9‐AS2, TGFBR3 and miR‐223‐3p. Western blot assay tested the protein level changes in TGFBR3. Cell proliferation was determined by CCK‐8 assay. Cell cycle and cell apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry assay, and migration and invasion were determined by transwell assay. Tumor xenograft model was developed to study the influence of ADAMTS9‐AS2 on tumor growth in vivo. qRT‐PCR results demonstrated that lncADAMTS9‐AS2 was lowly expressed in lung cancer tissues. High expression of ADAMTS9‐AS2 in lung cancer cells significantly reduced proliferation ability and inhibited migration, as well as elevating their apoptosis rate. In vivo assay found that ADAMTS9‐AS2 suppressed the lung tumor growth. Bioinformatics predicted that miR‐223‐3p bound directly to the ADAMTS9‐AS2 and TGFBR3, which was later confirmed by luciferase reporter system. ADAMTS9‐AS2 transfection increased TGFBR3 mRNA and protein expressions in lung cancer cells, but miR‐223‐3p transfection significantly decreased them. Besides, our results showed that miR‐223‐3p induced cellular apoptosis while TGFBR3 group showed the complete opposite effect. It was proved that ADAMTS9‐AS2 and TGFBR3 were the direct genes of miR‐223‐3p. MiR‐223‐3p promotes proliferation, migration and invasion of lung cancer cells by targeting TGFBR3. Therefore, ADAMTS9‐AS2, miR‐223‐3p and TGFBR3 may provide potential targets for the treatment of lung cancer patients. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(6):536–546, 2018
Telomerase reverse transcriptase suppression inhibits cell proliferation and promotes cell apoptosis in hepatocellular cancer
Authors: Shen Yanfeng , Xi Feng , Li Haibin , Luo Yin , Chen Cheng , Wang Lei
Published: April 2018

We aimed to investigate the role of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) in hepatocellular cancer (HCC) cells. R software was used for differential expressed gene analysis. Western blot and quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), respectively, were used to detect protein expression and mRNA level of TERT in tumor cell lines. Real‐time quantitative telomeric repeat amplification protocol assay, MTT assay, colony formation assay, and flow cytometry (FCM) assay were used to analyze the telomerase activity, viability, proliferation, cell cycle progression and apoptosis of HCC cells. The proliferation ratio of HCC cells transfected with TERT‐siRNA was significantly decreased compared with control group. Plate clone results suggested that the number of colonies also decreased in TERT‐siRNA group. FCM results showed that more cells were arrested in G0/G1 phase and apoptosis rate increased in TERT‐siRNA group compared with control group. TERT suppression inhibited cell proliferation but promoted cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(7):642–648, 2018
Total Parenteral Nutrition During Pregnancy in a Patient Requiring Long‐Term Nutrition Support
Authors: Mamel Jay J. , Kuznicki Margaret , Carter Margaret , Witt Deborah , Barrett Jeffery M.
Published: April 2018

Background: Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) has been used successfully in preventing intrauterine growth retardation, premature labor, and perinatal morbidity and mortality associated with poor maternal nutrition. Parenteral nutrition support is provided in most instances for short intervals during pregnancy when oral intake is compromised, eg, hyperemesis gravidarum or during complications from comorbid conditions that develop or are exacerbated during pregnancy. Few reports describe continuous parenteral nutrition support from conception through labor and delivery. Objective: To support successfully a 19‐year‐old woman on long‐term TPN since age 8 years because of short bowel syndrome complicated by chronic pancreatitis. Methods: Estimated energy requirements were based on indirect calorimetry and current recommendations for maternal weight gain for optimal fetal growth and development. A strategy was formulated to improve her low maternal weight during early pregnancy. Results: The fetus grew normally throughout pregnancy. There were no significant metabolic or obstetric complications as a result of the parenteral support. Conclusions: Patients on long‐term TPN can conceive successfully and carry a pregnancy to term without any adverse outcome for the mother or the fetus. TPN feeding during pregnancy and recommendations for maternal weight gain are reviewed.
Methods of Restoring Patency to Occluded Feeding Tubes
Authors: Frankel Eric H. , Enow Nicholas B. , Jackson Kenneth C. , Kloiber Lydia L.
Published: April 2018

Obstruction of enteral tubes places clinicians at a therapeutic crossroad. One must either remove the current device and replace it, or remove the obstruction from the tube. The following article addresses issues related to clogged or obstructed enteral feeding tubes, and methods used to restore patency to these devices. Additionally, the article describes the approach the Nutritional Support Service at St. Mary of the Plains Hospital uses in restoring patency to occluded enteral feeding tubes.
A Comparison of Outcomes in Demand Versus Schedule Formula‐Fed Premature Infants
Authors: Waber Brenda , Hubler Eileen Gillis , Padden Mary L.
Published: April 2018

This qualitative short‐term study was designed to determine if preterm infants who are fed in response to their own feeding cues, gain weight at a faster rate than infants fed on a schedule that may not correspond with these cues. Self‐regulatory feeding behaviors have been studied by several previous investigators, and growing interest in neurobehavioral development of premature infants led to the hypothesis that ability to exhibit feeding cues is enhanced when premature infants are demand fed as opposed to being fed on a schedule. Furthermore, it was hypothesized that demand‐fed premature infants may have a decreased length of stay when compared with schedule‐fed infants. Results indicated that demand feeding may shorten hospital stay (31 days for the study group versus 33 days for the control group) and increase a premature infant's ability to exhibit feeding cues (demand‐fed infants demonstrated and average of 10.5 feeding cues per day versus 4.6 feeding cues per day for the schedule‐fed infants).
Hybrid minimally invasive technique with the bidirectional rotational Evolution® mechanical sheath for transvenous lead extraction: A collaboration between electrophysiologists and cardiac surgeons
Authors: Migliore Federico , Cavalli Giacomo , Bottio Tomaso , Testolina Martina , De Lazzari Manuel , Bertaglia Emanuele , Iliceto Sabino , Gerosa Gino
Published: April 2018

We report a case of a 63‐year‐old man referred for lead extraction with the bidirectional rotational Evolution® RL mechanical sheath because of systemic infection. As it was judged a “high‐risk” procedure, we opted for a “hybrid,” minimally invasive approach consisting in a minithoracotomic access. This technique is a feasible approach, and it might be a potential safer alternative in the most challenging transvenous lead extraction procedures.
High‐resolution 3D mapping of epicardial conduction during Marshall bundle‐related atrial tachycardia
Authors: Hojo Rintaro , Fukamizu Seiji , Miyazawa Satoshi , Kawamura Iwanari
Published: April 2018

A 73‐year‐old woman was admitted for atrial tachycardia (AT) ablation. The activation map and pacing study indicated that the AT propagated around the left pulmonary vein and that the Marshall bundle (MB) bypassed the scar area of the left pulmonary vein ridge and mitral isthmus. The Rhythmia Mapping System revealed double potentials propagated along the assumed position of the MB. The mapping system includes a confidence mask that can be used to visually identify low‐confidence areas of the map based upon extremely low‐voltage signals. Given the low‐voltage area in the endocardial side, the epicardial conduction was emphasized.
A simple method for combining binomial counts or proportions with hazard ratios for evidence synthesis of time‐to‐event data
Authors: Watkins Claire , Bennett Iain
Published: April 2018

In studies with time‐to‐event data, outcomes may be reported as hazard ratios (HR) or binomial counts/proportions at a specific time point. If the intent is to synthesise evidence by performing a meta‐analysis or network meta‐analysis (NMA) using the HR as the measure of treatment effect, studies that only report binomial data cannot be included in the network.

Methods for converting binomial data to HRs were investigated, so that studies reporting binomial data only could be included in a network of HR data. Estimating the log HR is relatively straightforward under the assumptions of proportional hazards and minimal censoring at the binomial data time point. Estimating the standard error of the log HR is harder, but a simple method based on using a Taylor series expansion to approximate the variance is proposed. Thus, we have 2 easy‐to‐calculate equations for the log HR and variance.

The performance of the method was assessed using simulations and data from a NMA of multiple sclerosis treatments. In the simulation, our binomial method produced very similar HRs to those from survival analysis when censoring rates were low, and also when censoring rates were high but the event rate was low. In all situations, it outperformed using relative risk to approximate the HR. In the NMA, results were consistent between reported HRs and HRs derived from binomial data for studies that reported both types of data.

This method may be useful for easily incorporating trials reporting binomial data into an evidence synthesis of HR data, under certain assumptions.
Ultrasonographic and Mammographic Findings of Male Breast Disease
Authors: Kim Su Hong , Kim Young‐Seon
Published: April 2018

Most male breast diseases are benign, although malignancies can also occur. Gynecomastia, the most common abnormality in the male breast, has characteristic imaging findings differentiating it from cancer. Fewer than 1% of patients with breast cancer are men, but the incidence of male breast cancer is increasing worldwide. Additionally, breast cancer often presents at a more advanced stage in men than in women due to delayed diagnosis. Understanding imaging features of male breast disease is important for an accurate diagnosis and optimal care. This article reviews ultrasonography and mammography findings of benign and malignant diseases of the male breast.
Impact of CO2 on the elemental composition of the particulate and dissolved organic matter of marine diatoms emerged after nitrate depletion
Authors: Sugie Koji , Yoshimura Takeshi , Wakita Masahide
Published: April 2018

Although the dissolved inorganic carbon concentration, pH, and nutrient regimes of seawater dramatically change in coastal regions, the synergistic effects of changes in the CO2 and nutrient levels on the elemental dynamics of the particulate and dissolved organic matters (DOMs) produced by diatoms are rarely investigated. Here, we investigated the impacts of four different CO2 levels (180, 380, 600, and 1000 μatm partial pressure of CO2 : pCO2) on the allocation of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and silicon between the particulate matter (PM) and DOM in two cosmopolitan coastal diatoms, Chaetoceros affinis and Ditylum brightwellii, under nutrient‐replete and nitrate‐depleted conditions. Under nutrient‐replete conditions, the specific growth rates of both species were positively correlated with pCO2 levels. The elemental compositions of the exponentially growing diatoms were stable under the different pCO2 conditions. After nitrate depletion, the particulate organic carbon to particulate nitrogen ratio and biogenic silica content per unit biomass in both species were positively correlated with the pCO2 value. Factors affecting the pCO2 dependent change in elemental composition were the variations in the partitioning of organic carbon between PM and DOM in C. affinis, and the physiological uncoupling of intracellular carbon and nitrogen and the intracellular silicon and nitrogen, as well as resting spore formation in D. brightwellii. Under high‐CO2 conditions, the faster growth rates of both diatom species could lead to their dominance in a phytoplankton community; their blooms could modify the first‐order processes in the biogeochemical cycling of bioelements after nitrate depletion.
Precision Sulfonic Acid Polyolefins via Heterogenous to Homogenous Deprotection
Authors: Gaines Taylor W. , Bell Michael H. , Trigg Edward B. , Winey Karen I. , Wagener Kenneth B.
Published: April 2018

Polyolefins containing precisely spaced sulfonic acid functionality are made. First, precision ethyl sulfonate ester diene monomers are synthesized, which then are converted to acyclic diene metathesis polymers using Grubbs' catalysis. Subsequently, the poly(ethyl sulfonate esters) are deprotected post‐polymerization via two successful routes, both using a concept of “heterogenous to homogenous deprotection.” The resulting poly(sodium sulfonate) salts are then converted to precise poly(sulfonic acids), where the sulfonic acid functionality is placed either at every ninth or 21st carbon. For comparison, random versions of poly(sulfonates), their salts, and sulfonic acid polymers are synthesized via copolymerization of the “9” sulfonate monomer with 1,9‐decadiene. Precision placement of sulfonic acid functionality could lead to materials of potential utility.
Proteolysis to Identify Protease Substrates: Cleave to Decipher
Authors: Bhagwat Sonali R. , Hajela Krishnan , Kumar Amit
Published: April 2018

Proteolysis is an irreversible post‐translational modification process, characterized by highly precise yet stable cleavage of proteins. Downstream events in signaling processes are reliant on proteolysis triggered by the protease activity. Studies indicate that abnormal proteolytic activity may lead to the manifestation of diseased conditions. Therefore, characterization of proteases may provide clues to understand their role in fundamental cellular processes like cellular growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and survival. The relevance of proteases and their substrates as clinical targets are being studied. Understanding the mechanism of proteolytic activity, the identity, and the role of repertoire of its substrates in a physiological pathway has opened avenues for novel drug designing. However, only a limited knowledge of protease substrates is currently available. In this review, the authors recapitulate the library screening, proteomics, and bioinformatics based approaches that have been employed for the identification of protease substrates.
Shock Wave and Detonation Properties of Pressed Hydrazine Nitrate
Authors: Utkin Alexander V. , Mochalova Valentina M.
Published: April 2018

In this work, the structure of the steady‐state detonation waves, the critical diameter, detonation parameters and the dependence of detonation velocity on the charge diameter for pressed hydrazine nitrate (HN) charges in the density range of 1.40–1.68 g/cm3 were investigated by VISAR interferometer. It was found that the critical diameter drops with the initial density decrease. Under steady‐state detonation conditions at a maximum initial density of 1.68 g/cm3, a high detonation velocity of 8.92 km/s is realized in HN charges. The change of the detonation velocity with variation of the initial density is not monotonic, but has a characteristic s‐shape. Experiments on the determination of Hugoniot data and initiation of detonation under shock wave action for HN were carried out with samples of maximum density. The results of the conducted experiments show the low shock wave sensitivity, which is much lower than that of TNT. A noticeable reaction rate behind the front of the initiating shock wave in charges of maximum density is observed only at a pressure above 20 GPa.
Pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of the 2‐ and 3‐direct‐acting antiviral combination of AL‐335, odalasvir, and simeprevir in healthy subjects
Authors: Kakuda Thomas N. , McClure Matthew W. , Westland Christopher , Vuong Jennifer , Homery Marie‐Claude , Poizat Gwendoline , Viguerie Laure , Denot Caroline , Patat Alain , Zhang Qingling , Hui James , Apelian David , Smith David B. , Chanda Sushmita M. , Fry John
Published: April 2018

This Phase I, open‐label, two‐group, fixed‐sequence study evaluated the pharmacokinetics and safety of AL‐335, odalasvir, and simeprevir in healthy subjects. Group 1 (n = 16) received AL‐335 800 mg once daily (QD) (days 1‐3, 11‐13, and 21‐23), simeprevir 150 mg QD (days 4‐23), and odalasvir 150 mg (day 14) followed by 50 mg QD (days 15‐23). Group 2 (n = 16) received the same AL‐335 regimen as in Group 1 plus odalasvir 150 mg (day 4) followed by 50 mg QD (days 5‐23) and simeprevir 150 mg QD (days 14‐23). Blood samples were collected to determine plasma concentrations of AL‐335 (prodrug) and its metabolites, ALS‐022399 (monophosphate precursor) and ALS‐022227 (parent nucleoside), odalasvir, and simeprevir. Thirty‐two subjects were enrolled. Odalasvir and simeprevir given alone, or in combination, increased AL‐335 area under plasma concentration‐time curve over 24 hours (AUC0‐24 h) 3‐, 4‐, and 7‐ to 8‐fold, respectively; ALS‐022399 AUC0‐24 h increased 2‐, 2‐, and 3‐fold, respectively. Simeprevir had no effect on ALS‐022227 AUC0‐24 h, whereas odalasvir with/without simeprevir increased ALS‐022227 AUC0‐24 h 1.5‐fold. AL‐335 had no effect on odalasvir or simeprevir pharmacokinetics. Odalasvir and simeprevir AUC0‐24 h increased 1.5‐ to 2‐fold for both drugs when coadministered irrespective of AL‐335 coadministration. Study medications were well tolerated with no serious adverse events. One subject prematurely discontinued study drugs (unrelated event). This study defined the preliminary pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of the combination of AL‐335, odalasvir, and simeprevir in healthy subjects. These data support the further evaluation of this combination for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection.
Pharmacological properties of revefenacin (TD‐4208), a novel, nebulized long‐acting, and lung selective muscarinic antagonist, at human recombinant muscarinic receptors and in rat, guinea pig, and human isolated airway tissues
Authors: Hegde Sharath S. , Pulido‐Rios M. Teresa , Luttmann Mark A. , Foley James J. , Hunsberger Gerald E. , Steinfeld Tod , Lee TaeWeon , Ji Yuhua , Mammen Mathai M. , Jasper Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2018

Revefenacin (TD‐4208) is a novel, long‐acting, and lung‐selective muscarinic cholinergic receptor (mAChR) antagonist in development as a nebulized inhalation solution for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. This study evaluated the pharmacology of revefenacin at human recombinant mAChRs and in airway tissues from rats, guinea pigs, and humans. At human recombinant mAChRs, revefenacin displayed high affinity (pKI = 8.2‐9.8) and behaved as a competitive antagonist (pKI, apparent = 9.4‐10.9) at the five human recombinant mAChRs. Kinetic studies demonstrated that revefenacin dissociated significantly slower from the hM3 (t1/2 = 82 minutes) compared to the hM2 (t1/2 = 6.9 minutes) mAChR at 37°C, thereby making it kinetically selective for the former subtype. Similarly, in functional studies, revefenacin‐mediated antagonism of acetylcholine (ACh)‐evoked calcium mobilization responses were reversed less rapidly at hM3 compared to the hM2 mAChR. In isolated tracheal tissues from rat and guinea pig and isolated bronchial tissues from humans, revefenacin potently antagonized mAChR‐mediated contractile responses. Furthermore, the antagonistic effects of revefenacin in rat, guinea pig, and human airway tissues were slowly reversible (t1/2 of 13.3, >16, and >10 hours, respectively). These data demonstrate that revefenacin is a potent, high affinity, and selective functional mAChR antagonist with kinetic selectivity for the hM3 receptor and produces potent and long‐lasting antagonism of mAChR‐mediated contractile responses in rat, guinea pig, and human airway tissue. These data suggest that revefenacin has the potential to be a potent once‐daily dosed inhaled bronchodilator in COPD patients.
Tb/Ni/TiN Stack for Ultralow Contact Resistive Ni‐Tb‐InGaAs Alloy to n‐In0.53Ga0.47As Layer
Authors: Li Meng , Lee Jeongchan , Oh Jungwoo , Lee Hi‐Deok
Published: April 2018

This paper presents a Tb/Ni/TiN stack that can act as a metallic contact for n‐In0.53Ga0.47As layer with lower specific contact resistivity. Tb/Ni/TiN layers are deposited sequentially on n‐In0.53Ga0.47As via sputtering and Ni(Tb)‐InGaAs alloy is formed using rapid thermal annealing. The ultralow specific contact resistivity (ρc) of 7.98 × 10−9 Ω cm2 is obtained between Ni(Tb)‐InGaAs and n‐In0.53Ga0.47As layers, which is more than two orders of magnitude lower than that of a control sample with a Ni/TiN stack. The increased dopant concentration in the Ni‐InGaAs alloy and the lowered barrier height between Ni‐InGaAs and n‐In0.53Ga0.47As are considered to be possible reasons for the improved contact resistance. The Tb/Ni/TiN stack is promising as a metallic contact for metal‐oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MOSFETs) based on n‐In0.53Ga0.47As layer.
The moist parcel‐in‐cell method for modelling moist convection
Authors: Dritschel David G. , Böing Steven J. , Parker Douglas J. , Blyth Alan M.
Published: April 2018

We describe a promising alternative approach to modelling moist convection and cloud development in the atmosphere. Rather than using a conventional grid‐based approach, we use Lagrangian “parcels” to represent key dynamical and thermodynamical variables. In the prototype model considered, parcels carry vorticity, mass, specific humidity, and liquid‐water potential temperature. In this first study, we ignore precipitation, and many of these parcel “attributes” remain unchanged (i.e. are materially conserved). While the vorticity does change following the parcel motion, the vorticity tendency is readily computed and, crucially, unwanted numerical diffusion can be avoided. The model, called “Moist Parcel‐In‐Cell” (MPIC), is a hybrid approach which uses both parcels and a fixed underlying grid for efficiency: advection (here moving parcels) is Lagrangian whereas inversion (determining the velocity field) is Eulerian. The parcel‐based representation of key variables has several advantages: (a) it allows anexplicitsubgrid representation; (b) it provides a velocity field which isundampedby numerical diffusion all the way down to the grid scale; (c) it does away with the need for eddy viscosity parametrizations and, in their place, it provides for a natural subgrid parcel mixing; (d) it isexactly conservative(i.e. there can be no net loss or gain of any theoretically conserved attribute); and (e) it dispenses with the need to have separate equations for each conserved parcel attribute; attributes are simply labels carried by each parcel. Moreover, the latter advantage increases as more attributes are added, such as the distributions of microphysical properties, chemical composition and aerosol loading.
A Noble‐Metal‐Free CdS/Ni3S2@C Nanocomposite for Efficient Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalysis
Authors: Cui Yu , Pan Yun‐Xiang , Qin Haili , Cong Huai‐Ping , Yu Shu‐Hong
Published: April 2018

Searching for highly efficient noble‐metal‐free visible‐light‐driven photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution has attracted much attention. Herein, a facile method for synthesis of a noble‐metal‐free CdS/Ni3S2@C nanocomposite by dispersing CdS quantum dots (≤5 nm) on urchin‐like Ni3S2 coated by a 5‐nm‐thick carbon layer is reported. It can be used for highly efficient visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic H2 production from H2O. The H2 production rate on CdS/Ni3S2@C (1164.7 µmol h−1) is about 3.5 times higher than that on the noble‐metal‐based CdS/Pt (325.2 µmol h−1). The CdS–carbon and carbon–Ni3S2 interfaces are favorable for charge separation and the improved visible light absorbance could be the origin for the enhanced photocatalytic activity of CdS/Ni3S2@C. This work provides a model system for rationally designing efficient noble‐metal‐free photocatalysts for visible‐light‐driven photocatalysis.
Optimising lameness detection in dairy cattle by using handheld infrared thermometers
Authors: Lin Yi‐Chun , Mullan Siobhan , Main David C. J.
Published: April 2018

Lameness is one of the most serious economic and welfare issues in the dairy industry. Early detection of lameness can be difficult, but provision of early treatment is crucial. Previous studies have used infrared thermography to show that increased foot temperature (FT) is associated with lameness and foot lesions. However, poor accuracy has limited the management application potential. This study analysed ambient‐temperature (AT)‐adjusted foot‐surface temperatures and temperature differences between the hind feet of individual cows to enhance lameness detection. Cow FTs were recorded on a 990‐cow farm using an infrared thermometer fortnightly for 6 months. Additionally, mobility level was scored using the AHDB Dairy 4‐point scale. The averages of FTs and ATs were 23.83 ± 0.03°C and 13.99 ± 1.60°C, respectively. The FT of cows with lameness was significantly higher than that of cows without lameness (P < 0.001). Increases in FTs correlated with the mobility score (MS) (P < 0.001). According to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the optimal threshold based on actual FTs was 23.3°C with 78.5% sensitivity and 39.2% specificity. However, the ROC curve for the AT‐adjusted FT and FT difference parameters showed minimal improvements over the FT in detecting lameness. In conclusion, the infrared thermometer results demonstrated the association between elevated FTs and lameness, but further improvements to this detection technique will be required before it can be implemented as a management tool for detecting cows that could benefit from treatment. With additional validation, the technique could be used as a screening device to identify cows in need of further assessment.
Ice halos in history and superstition plus fire halos
Authors: Zinkova Mila
Published: April 2018

It is a well‐known fact that sometimes a halo display heralds an approaching cyclone, but could a halo display be an indicator of the presence of wildfire smoke and poor air quality? This article presents a few examples of unusual solar halos that formed over altocumulus clouds and were probably associated with the smoke created by wildfires burning in California. The article also discusses why superstitions associated with relatively common ice halos have persisted for centuries.
A survey of game theoretic approach for adversarial machine learning
Authors: Zhou Yan , Kantarcioglu Murat , Xi Bowei
Published: April 2018

The field of machine learning is progressing at a faster pace than ever before. Many organizations leverage machine learning tools to extract useful information from a massive amount of data. In particular, machine learning finds its application in cybersecurity that begins to enter the age of automation. However, machine learning applications in cybersecurity face unique challenges other domains rarely do—attacks from active adversaries. Problems in areas such as intrusion detection, banking fraud detection, spam filtering, and malware detection have to face  challenges of adversarial attacks that modify data so that malicious instances would evade detection by the learning systems. The adversarial learning problem naturally resembles a game between the learning system and the adversary. In such a game, both players would attempt to play their best strategies against each other while maximizing their own payoffs. To solve the game, each player would search for an optimal strategy against the opponent based on the prediction of the opponent's strategy choice. The problem becomes even more complicated in settings where the learning system may have to deal with many adversaries of unknown types. Applying game‐theoretic approach, robust learning techniques have been developed to specifically address adversarial attacks and the preliminary results are promising. In this review, we summarize these results.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Machine Learning

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Key Design Issues in Data Mining
Constraining slepton and chargino through compressed top squark search
Authors: Konar Partha , Mondal Tanmoy , Swain Abhaya Kumar
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We examine the compressed mass spectrum with sub-TeV top squark

$$ \left(\tilde{t}\right) $$

t
˜

as lightest colored (s)particle in natural supersymmetry (SUSY). Such spectra are searched along with an additional hard jet, not only to boost the soft decay particles, also to yield enough missing transverse momentum. Several interesting kinematic variables are proposed to improve the probe performance for this difficult region, where we concentrate on relatively clean dileptonic channel of the top squark decaying into lightest neutralino (χ
1
0
), which is also the lightest supersymmetric particle. In this work, we investigate the merit of these kinematic variables, sensitive to compressed mass region extending the search by introducing additional states, chargino and slepton (sneutrino) having masses in between the

$$ \tilde{t} $$

t
˜

and χ
1
0
. Enhanced production and lack of branching suppression are capable of providing a strong limit on chargino and slepton/sneutrino mass along with top squark mass. We perform a detailed collider analysis using simplified SUSY spectrum and found that with the present LHC data

$$ {M}_{\tilde{t}} $$

M

t
˜

can be excluded up to 710 GeV right away for

$$ {M}_{\upchi_1^0} $$

M

χ
1
0

of 640 GeV for a particular mass gap between different states.