bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Ratio Non‐Isolated DC–DC Converter for Hydrogen Battery Using a 50 kW PEM Fuel Cell
Authors: Videau N. , Fontes G. , Flumian D. , Gateau G. , Meynard T. , da Silva J. L. , Verdu O.
Published: September 2016

This paper proposes a DC–DC converter dedicated to high efficiency and high voltage conversion ratio, which is well suited for fuel cell applications. At high voltage conversion ratio the proposed converter, named here mirror boost converter, has a better ratio of active/freewheeling times which, compared with conventional structures, reduces the penalty on efficiency induced by the high conversion ratio. This converter also uses eight interleaved coupled‐inductors, which reduces the current and voltage ripple and makes possible to use of smaller passive components. Coupling all phases with an inter‐cell transformer (ICT) also improves the power density, volume and losses of the magnetic component compared to separate inductors. A comparison with a classical double boost converter is realized using the same material. The proposed converter reaches a peak efficiency of 96.5% at 17 kW and 95.3% at 42 kW for a voltage conversion ratio around 10. The mirror boost converter has about half the losses of the double boost converter at same fuel cell power and delivers 69% more power at the maximum measured current phase.
Derivatives Valuation Based on Arbitrage: The Trade is Crucial
Authors: Figlewski Stephen
Published: September 2016

Derivatives valuation has strong theoretical support because models are derived from the principle that arbitrage between the derivative and its underlying will eliminate riskless profits and drive the market price to the model value. “No‐arbitrage” is invoked routinely whenever a new pricing model is developed. But real world market prices are determined by trades, not by theories. In this talk, I discuss how different the arbitrage trade is for different markets and different models and I review articles from the literature that illustrate how limits to the arbitrage trade have affected the way derivatives theory gets into prices in practice. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 37:316–327, 2017
Berechnung des Erdruhedrucks – verschiedene analytische Ansätze für beliebige Neigungen von Gelände und Wand
Authors: Goldscheider Michael
Published: September 2016

Der Erdruhedruck wird als ein statisch unbestimmtes Spannungs‐Verformungs‐Problem definiert. Die gewöhnlich angewendeten und in DIN 4085 empfohlenen Gleichungen zur Abschätzung des Erdruhedruckbeiwerts für normalkonsolidierte und für vorbelastete Böden werden aufgrund von übergeordnetem, in Versuchen beobachtetem Materialverhalten begründet. Die Gleichungen zur Berechnung des Erdruhedrucks bei horizontaler Geländeoberfläche an einer beliebig geneigten Wand werden aus den Gesetzmäßigkeiten der Spannungstransformation abgeleitet. Bei gleichmäßig geneigter Geländeoberfläche werden die Gleichungen des Spannungsfelds unter Verwendung eines charakteristischen Koordinatensystems mit den Achsen parallel und senkrecht zur Geländeoberfläche formuliert. Dadurch reduzieren sich die Gleichgewichtsgleichungen von einem Paar partieller auf zwei gewöhnliche, einfach lösbare Differenzialgleichungen, die es ermöglichen, den vom Geländeneigungswinkel β abhängigen Erdruhedruckbeiwert einzuführen. Dieser Beiwert wird durch Interpolation zwischen dem Wert für β = 0 und dem Grenzwert bei β = φ (Reibungswinkel) bestimmt. Die Interpolationsformel ist die einzige Annahme bei dieser Berechnung. Auf der Grundlage dieser Gleichungen wird der Erdruhedruck an einer Wand mit beliebiger Neigung in geneigtem Gelände analog zum Fall mit horizontalem Gelände durch Spannungstransformation bestimmt. Berechnungsbeispiele werden vorgeführt. Ein in der Praxis übliches vereinfachtes Berechnungsverfahren wird erklärt und diskutiert; für seine Anwendung auf geneigte Wände in geneigtem Gelände wird ein Korrekturfaktor aus dem genaueren Verfahren entwickelt.
So Much More than Salary: Outcomes Research in the Liberal Arts
Authors: Rowen Cate
Published: September 2016

This chapter explores case studies from four private liberal arts colleges with different approaches to expanding the college “value proposition” to include the values of a liberal education.
Electrochemical Investigations of Mn and Al Co‐doped Li2FeSiO4/C Cathodes for Li‐Ion Battery
Authors: Li Ting , Jiang Xiao‐Tao , Gao Kun , Wang Chen‐Yi , Li Shu‐Dan
Published: September 2016

Few studies on orthosilicate cathodes co‐doped with two cations have been reported until now. Here, we report the synthesis of Mn and Al co‐doped Li2Fe0.8−xMn0.2AlxSiO4 (x = 0.05 and 0.1) by a solid‐state reaction route and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), galvanostatic charge/discharge tests, and capacity intermittent titration technique (CITT), as compared to the single‐doped Li2Fe0.8Mn0.2SiO4. Though the co‐doping leads to a slight decreased capacity owing to the increased impurity and Al3+ inertia, a better cycling performance is obtained as expected. Especially when x is 0.05, the modified sample (Li2Fe0.75Mn0.2Al0.05SiO4) shows an initial discharge capacity of 159.3 mAh/g and high capacity retention of 78% after 50 charge/discharge cycles. The present work indicates that a synergistic effect of Mn and Al co‐substitution at the Fe site could partly make up the disadvantage of single Mn doping, and might provide an effective guide for the dopant incorporation to Li2FeSiO4 systems.
Comparison of acute kidney injury between ABO‐compatible and ABO‐incompatible living donor liver transplantation: A propensity matching analysis
Authors: Jun In‐Gu , Lee Byungdoo , Kim Seon‐Ok , Shin Won‐Jung , Bang Ji‐Youn , Song Jun‐Gol , Song Gi‐Won , Lee Sung‐Gyu , Hwang Gyu‐Sam
Published: September 2016

The anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab has significantly decreased the prevalence of antibody‐mediated rejection of ABO‐incompatible (ABOi) living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). However, little is known about acute kidney injury (AKI) following ABOi LDLT. The aim of this study was to identify the incidence of AKI in ABOi LDLT and compare it with that of ABO‐compatible (ABOc) LDLT. We retrospectively collected and analyzed the data of 1617 patients who underwent liver transplant surgery from November 2008 to December 2014. Risk factors for AKI were investigated using multivariate regression analysis. In 271 ABOi LDLTs, AKI occurred in 184 (67.9%) according to Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes criteria. After propensity score matching, the incidence of AKI was significantly higher after ABOi LDLT than after ABOc LDLT (67.0% versus 48.2%; P < 0.001). Furthermore, the intensive care unit stay (P = 0.01) was significantly prolonged, but there were no significant differences in mortality (P = 0.74), graft failure (P = 0.32), and postoperative dialysis (P = 0.74) between the 2 groups. Hemoglobin level and operation time were independent risk factors for AKI following ABOi LDLT. In conclusion, the incidence of AKI is higher in ABOi LDLT than ABOc LDLT. However, the impact of AKI on postoperative outcomes was not marked in our study. Therefore, ABOi LDLT in selected patients is promising with apparent good graft and survival outcomes. Liver Transplantation 22 1656–1665 2016 AASLD.
Galvanic corrosion of the seam weld in Zn–Al coated steel pipes manufactured by electric resistance welding
Authors: Andreatta F. , Bellezze T. , Lanzutti A. , Roventi G. , Fedrizzi L.
Published: September 2016

Severe corrosion attack at the seam weld was observed in Zn–Al coated steel pipes of a closed heating system. This system was operating with tap water at about 70 °C and in the presence of an unknown amount of oxygen due to water reintegration. The corroded pipes showed a preferential corrosion of the seam weld along the longitudinal direction of the pipe. In order to investigate the cause of this attack, the electrochemical behavior of the seam weld was studied by means of an electrochemical micro‐cell. This technique was used for the characterization of non‐corroded and corroded pipe samples. The study proves that the damage mechanism is due to Zn–Al coating depletion at the seam weld and the potential coupling reversal between the coating and the steel substrate under service conditions. This caused strong galvanic corrosion between the steel exposed along the seam weld and the Zn–Al coating leading to the failure of the pipes.
Application of aluminum diffusion coatings to mitigate the KCl‐induced high‐temperature corrosion
Authors: Kiamehr S. , Lomholt T. N. , Dahl K. V. , Christiansen T. L. , Somers M. A. J.
Published: September 2016

Pack cementation was used to produce Fe1−xAl and Fe2Al5 diffusion coatings on ferritic‐martensitic steel P91 and a Ni2Al3 diffusion coating on pure nickel. The performance of diffusion coatings against high‐temperature corrosion induced by potassium chloride (KCl) was evaluated by exposing the samples at 600 °C for 168 h in static lab air under KCl deposit. In addition, a salt‐free experiment was performed for comparison. Microstructure, chemical and phase composition of the samples were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) before and after the exposures. It was found that all the diffusion coatings formed protective oxides under salt‐free exposure in air. Under the salt deposit, Fe1−xAl showed local failure while on large parts of the sample a protective layer had formed. Fe2Al5 was attacked over the entire surface and the dominant mode of attack was selective aluminum removal. Ni2Al3 showed excellent performance and no sign of attack was observed anywhere on the sample.
Oxidation behavior of T91 steel in flowing oxygen‐containing lead‐bismuth eutectic at 500 °C
Authors: Tian S. J. , Jiang Z. Z. , Luo L.
Published: September 2016

T91 is considered as a possible structural material for lead‐bismuth eutectic (LBE) cooled reactors. However, one of the main issues is the compatibility of T91 with LBE. In this work, the corrosion tests of T91 were performed in flowing (1 m/s) oxygen‐controlled LBE (1–3 × 10−6 wt% O) at 500 °C for up to 5000 h. The results show that a three‐layer oxide scale forms at the interface of T91 and LBE, consisting of Fe3O4 (magnetite), Fe‐Cr spinel and an internal oxidation zone (IOZ). The growth kinetics of the oxide scale follows a parabolic dependence (). The rate constants (kp) of Fe3O4, Fe‐Cr spinel, and IOZ are 0.052, 0.040, and 0.0057 μm2/h, respectively. In addition, the growth model of the oxide scale is established under consideration of the exfoliation process. This model clarifies the growth direction of each oxide layer and the transformation of Fe‐Cr spinel to magnetite.
Tribocorrosion behavior of 410SS in artificial seawater: effect of applied potential
Authors: Zhang B.‐B. , Wang J.‐Z. , Zhang Y. , Han G.‐F. , Yan F.‐Y.
Published: September 2016

In this work, a series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of applied potential on the tribocorrosion behavior of 410SS using a tribometer integrated with an electrochemical workstation. Results show that tribocorrosion rate of 410SS varies with applied potential and reaches a maximum at −0.1 V. By applying potential pulse method, it indicates that the repassivation kinetics of 410SS is much slower than general stainless steels. The XPS results reveal great changes in the composition of tribocorrosion products, which are enriched in Fe3O4 and Fe(OH)2 in the lower potential range while become Fe2O3, FeOOH, and Fe(OH)3 at more positive potential. The characteristics of tribocorrosion products depend on surface chemistry which varies in compliance with applied potential, and thus, alters the tribocorrosion rate of 410SS. Moreover, the synergistic effect between wear and corrosion was quantified, showing that pure mechanical wear and corrosion‐induced wear were the main reasons for the degradation of 410SS.
Murine MTHFD1‐synthetase deficiency, a model for the human MTHFD1 R653Q polymorphism, decreases growth of colorectal tumors
Authors: Lévesque Nancy , Christensen Karen E. , Van Der Kraak Lauren , Best Ana F. , Deng Liyuan , Caldwell Don , MacFarlane Amanda J. , Beauchemin Nicole , Rozen Rima
Published: September 2016

The common R653Q variant (∼20% homozygosity in Caucasians) in the synthetase domain of the folate‐metabolizing enzyme MTHFD1 reduces purine synthesis. Although this variant does not appear to affect risk for colorectal cancer, we questioned whether it would affect growth of colorectal tumors. We induced tumor formation in a mouse model for MTHFD1‐synthetase deficiency (Mthfd1S+/−) using combined administration of azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in male and female wild‐type and Mthfd1S+/− mice. Tumor size was significantly smaller in MthfdS+/− mice, particularly in males. A reduction in the proliferation of MthfdS+/− mouse embryonic fibroblast cell lines, compared with wild‐type lines, was also observed. Tumor number was not influenced by genotype. The amount of inflammation observed within tumors from male Mthfd1S+/− mice was lower than that in wild‐type mice. Gene expression analysis in tumor adjacent normal (pre‐neoplastic) tissue identified several genes involved in proliferation (Fosb, Fos, Ptk6, Esr2, Atf3) and inflammation (Atf3, Saa1, TNF‐α) that were downregulated in MthfdS+/− males. In females, MthfdS+/− genotype was not associated with these gene expression changes, or with differences in tumor inflammation. These findings suggest that the mechanisms directing tumor growth differ significantly between males and females. We suggest that restriction of purine synthesis, reduced expression of genes involved in proliferation, and/or reduced inflammation lead to slower tumor growth in MTHFD1‐synthetase deficiency. These findings may have implications for CRC tumor growth and prognosis in individuals with the R653Q variant. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Downregulation of long non‐coding RNA MEG3 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chak Wing‐Po , Lung Raymond Wai‐Ming , Tong Joanna Hung‐Man , Chan Sylvia Yat‐Yee , Lun Samantha Wei‐Man , Tsao Sai‐Wah , Lo Kwok‐Wai , To Ka‐Fai
Published: September 2016

In our previous whole‐transcriptome sequencing analysis, downregulation of a long non‐coding RNA, maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3), was identified in NPC samples. This finding suggests the possible role of MEG3 as a tumor suppressor in this distinctive disease. In the present study, two MEG3 variants, AF119863 (MEG3‐AF) and BX247998 (MEG3‐BX), were found abundantly expressed in a normal nasopharyngeal epithelial cell line, NP69. Significant downregulation of MEG3‐AF was further verified in a panel of NPC samples including xenografts and primary biopsies. MEG3 is an imprinted gene located within chromosome 14q32, a common deleted region in NPC. Both DNA copy number loss and aberrant promoter methylation contributed to MEG3 inactivation. Interestingly, MEG3 expression could successfully be rescued by the treatment of a demethylation agent. Besides, ectopic expression of MEG3 in NPC cell lines resulted in considerable repression of in vitro anchorage‐independent growth and in vivo tumorigenicity, in addition to significant inhibition in cell proliferation, colony formation, and induction of cell cycle arrest. Finally, we revealed the association between MEG3 activity and the p53 signaling cascade. Our findings characterize MEG3 as a tumor suppressive long non‐coding RNA in NPC and encourage the development of precise long non‐coding RNA‐targeted epigenetic therapy against this malignancy. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrashort echo time magnetization transfer (UTE‐MT) imaging and modeling: magic angle independent biomarkers of tissue properties
Authors: Ma Ya‐Jun , Shao Hongda , Du Jiang , Chang Eric Y.
Published: September 2016

MRI biomarkers such as T2, T2* and T1rho have been widely used, but are confounded by the magic angle effect. The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of the two‐dimensional ultrashort echo time magnetization transfer (UTE‐MT) sequence for potential magic angle independent MR biomarkers. Magnetization transfer was investigated in cadaveric Achilles tendon samples using the UTE‐MT sequence at five MT powers and five frequency offsets ranging from 2 to 50 kHz. The protocol was applied at five sample orientations ranging from 0 to 90° relative to the B0 field. The results were analyzed with a two‐pool quantitative MT model. Multiple TE data were also acquired and mono‐exponential T2* was calculated for each orientation. Macromolecular proton fractions and exchange rates derived from UTE‐MT modeling did not appreciably change between the various orientations, whereas the T2* relaxation time demonstrated up to a sixfold increase from 0° to 55°. The UTE‐MT technique with two‐pool modeling shows promise as a clinically compatible technique that is resistant to the magic angle effect. This method provides information on the macromolecular proton pool that cannot be directly obtained by other methods, including regular UTE techniques.
Effect of sepiolite nanoparticles on the properties of novel poly(sulfone ether imide)
Authors: Abbasi Farideh , Mehdipour‐Ataei Shahram , Tabatabaei‐Yazdi Zahra , Babanzadeh Samal , Abouzari‐Lotf Ebrahim
Published: September 2016

A new poly(sulfone ether imide) was prepared, and related nanocomposites were produced through introduction of sepiolite nanoparticles into the matrix of polymer. Inherent viscosity, thermal and mechanical features of pristine poly(sulfone ether imide), and nanocomposite samples were evaluated and compared. The crystallinity was also investigated. Dispersion and distribution behaviors of nanocomposite samples and cross‐sectional morphology of nanocomposite films were also studied. Also, the optimized amounts of sepiolite nanoparticles in the matrix of polymer were determined by microscopic techniques (scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope). By introduction of 3 wt% of sepiolite, superior thermal and mechanical properties were observed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of the pH‐dependence of dye‐doped protein–protein interactions
Authors: Nudelman Roman , Gloukhikh Ekaterina , Rekun Antonina , Richter Shachar
Published: September 2016

Proteins can dramatically change their conformation under environmental conditions such as temperature and pH. In this context, Glycoprotein's conformational determination is challenging. This is due to the variety of domains which contain rich chemical characters existing within this complex. Here we demonstrate a new, straightforward and efficient technique that uses the pH‐dependent properties of dyes‐doped Pig Gastric Mucin (PGM) for predicting and controlling protein–protein interaction and conformation. We utilize the PGM as natural host matrix which is capable of dynamically changing its conformational shape and adsorbing hydrophobic and hydrophilic dyes under different pH conditions and investigate and control the fluorescent properties of these composites in solution. It is shown at various pH conditions, a large variety of light emission from these complexes such as red, green and white is obtained. This phenomenon is explained by pH‐dependent protein folding and protein–protein interactions that induce different emission spectra which are mediated and controlled by means of dye–dye interactions and surrounding environment. This process is used to form the technologically challenging white light‐emitting liquid or solid coating for LED devices.
Effect of ultrasonic treatment on the defect structure of the Si‐SiO2 system
Authors: Kropman D. , Seeman V. , Dolgov S. , Medvids A.
Published: September 2016

The effect of ultrasonic treatment (UST) on the defect structure of the Si‐SiO2 system by means of electron spin resonance (ESR), metallography, MOS capacitance technique and secondary ions mass‐spectroscopy (SIMS) is presented. The non‐monotonous dependence of the defect densities on the US wave intensity has been observed. The influence of the UST frequency on the ESR signal intensity of the defect centres depended on the defects type and structure and may becaused by vibrational energy dissipation which are a functions of defect's centers type. The influence of the UST on the Si‐SiO2 interface properties depends on the oxide thickness and crystallographic orientation. The density of point defects and absorbed impurities at the Si–SiO2 interface can be reduced and its electrical parameters improved by an appropriate choice of the UST and oxidation conditions. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Detection of busulfan adducts on proteins
Authors: Acosta‐Martin Adelina E. , Antinori Paola , Uppugunduri Chakradhara Rao S. , Daali Youssef , Ansari Marc , Scherl Alexander , Müller Markus , Lescuyer Pierre
Published: September 2016

Rationale

Busulfan is a bifunctional alkyl sulfonate antineoplastic drug. This alkylating agent was described as forming covalent adducts on proteins. However, only limited data are available regarding the interaction of busulfan with proteins. Mass spectrometry and bioinformatics were used to identify busulfan adducts on human serum albumin and hemoglobin.

Methods

Albumin and hemoglobin were incubated with busulfan or control compounds, digested with trypsin and analyzed by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) on a Thermo Fisher LTQ Orbitrap Velos Pro. MS data were used to generate spectral libraries of non‐modified peptides and an open modification search was performed to identify potential adduct mass shifts and possible modification sites. Results were confirmed by a second database search including identified mass shifts and by visual inspection of annotated tandem mass spectra of adduct‐carrying peptides.

Results

Five structures of busulfan adducts were detected and a chemical structure could be attributed to four of them. Two were primary adducts corresponding to busulfan monoalkylation and alkylation of two amino acid residues by a single busulfan molecule. Two others corresponded to secondary adducts generated during sample processing. Adducts were mainly detected on Asp, Glu, and His residues. These findings were confirmed by subsequent database searches and experiments with synthetic peptides.

Conclusions

The combination of in vitro incubation of proteins with the drug of interest or control compounds, high‐resolution mass spectrometry, and open modification search allowed confirmation of the direct interaction of busulfan with proteins and characterization of the resulting adducts. Our results also showed that careful analysis of the data is required to detect experimental artifacts. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The gas‐phase ligand exchange of select magnesium and copper beta‐diketonate complexes
Authors: Fleming Kathleen M. , Pekar Jennifer C. , Leskiw Brian D.
Published: September 2016

Rationale

While much of the interest and application of beta‐diketonate complexes has focused predominately on the condensed phases, we report on the prevalence of gas‐phase ligand exchange reactions leading to the formation of novel species.

Methods

Gas‐phase ligand exchange reactions of Mg(eeac)2 and Mg(tftm)2 complexes with Cu(acac)2, Cu(tftm)2, Cu(dbm)2, and Cu(eeac)2 were investigated using a direct insertion electron impact triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The collision cell of the triple quadrupole mass spectrometer was also employed to examine the gas‐phase reactions between mass‐selected ions and specific neutral target compounds.

Results

The gas‐phase mixed ligand products of [Mg(acac)(eeac)]+, [Cu(acac)(eeac)]+, [Mg(eeac)(tftm)]+, [Cu(eeac)(tftm)]+, [Mg(acac)(tftm)]+, and [Mg(dbm)(tftm)]+ were formed following the co‐sublimation of hetero‐metal precursors and are reported herein for the first time. The corresponding fragmentation patterns of the precursor and mixed ligand species are also presented.

Conclusions

Several gas‐phase ligand exchange reactions were observed leading to the formation of both mixed and complete ligand exchange products. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bulk C, H, O, and fatty acid C stable isotope analyses for purity assessment of vegetable oils from the southern and northern hemispheres
Authors: Spangenberg Jorge E.
Published: September 2016

Rationale

The carbon, hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope composition (δ13C, δ2H, and δ18O values) of plants and their products is linked to photosynthetic fractionation, environmental factors and agricultural practices. Therefore, they contribute to determining the purity of commercial vegetable oils and may provide information on their geographical origin.

Methods

Maize, olive, sunflower, groundnut, soybean and rice oils differing in sites of growth in the southern and northern hemispheres were characterized by bulk oil stable isotope ratios (δ13Cbulk, δ2Hbulk, and δ18Obulk values), fatty acid (FA) concentrations and δ13CFA values using elemental analysis/isotope ratio mass spectrometry, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, gas chromatography/flame ionization detection and gas chromatography/combustion/isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Principal component analysis was applied to examine the inherent structure of the data.

Results

The δ13Cbulk values of maize oils (−18.4 to −14.9 ‰) are typical for C4 plants, and those of olive (−30.2 to −28.2 ‰), sunflower (−30.2 to −29.2 ‰), groundnut (−29.3 ‰), soybean (−30.6 ‰), and rice (−34.5 ‰) oils are typical for C3 plants. The δ2Hbulk values vary from −161 to −132 ‰ for maize oils and −171 to −109 ‰ for C3 oils. The δ18Obulk values of all oils vary between 15.2 and 38.9 ‰. The major δ13CFA differences (>5 ‰) within plant species render the inter‐C3‐species comparison difficult. These differences are explained in terms of variations in the lipid biosynthetic pathways and blend of vegetable oils of different FA composition and δ13CFA values. The samples from the southern hemisphere are generally enriched in 13C compared with those from the northern hemisphere. Differences between the southern and northern hemispheres were observed in δ2H (p < 0.001) and δ18Obulk (p = 0.129) values for all C3 oils, and in δ13C18:1 (p = 0.026) and δ18Obulk (p = 0.160) values for maize oils.

Conclusions

The results of this study show that combining bulk and molecular stable isotope ratios, FA compositions and their statistical analysis helps the characterization of the geographic origin of oils. This methodology can be used to detect and source impurities in valuable vegetable oils commercialized worldwide. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The compression chord capacity model for the shear design and assessment of reinforced and prestressed concrete beams
Authors: Cladera Antoni , Marí Antonio , Bairán Jesús Miguel , Ribas Carlos , Oller Eva , Duarte Noemí
Published: September 2016

A simplified mechanical model is presented for the shear strength prediction of reinforced and prestressed concrete members with and without transverse reinforcement, with I, T or rectangular cross‐section. The model, derived with further simplifications from a previous one developed by the authors, incorporates the contributions of the concrete compression chord, the cracked web, the dowel action and the shear reinforcement in a compact formulation. The mechanical character of the model provides valuable information about the physics of the problem and incorporates the most relevant parameters governing the shear strength of structural concrete members. The predictions of the model fit very well the experimental results collected in the ACI‐DAfStb databases of shear tests on slender reinforced and prestressed concrete beams with and without stirrups. Due to this fact and the simplicity of the derived equations it may become a very useful tool for structural design and assessment in engineering practice.
Fuzzy random cost–profit tradeoff location model for a vehicle inspection station with regional constraints
Authors: Tian Guangdong , Jia Hongfei , Li Zhongkai
Published: September 2016

Transportation facility and automotive service enterprise location is an interesting and important issue. In practice, such factors as customer demand, allocations, even locations of customers and facilities are usually changing, thus making facility location problematic with uncertainty. To account for it, some researchers have addressed stochastic/fuzzy models for locating an automotive service enterprise. However, probabilistic/fuzzy models are not suitable to describe all kinds of uncertainty, but only randomness or fuzziness. In fact, the uncertain environment of locating an automotive service enterprise is a mixed one with both randomness and fuzziness. To handle this issue in a practical manner, this work proposes fuzzy random tradeoff issues for it. Moreover, some regional constraints can greatly influence its location. By taking the vehicle inspection station as a typical example, this work presents new fuzzy random cost–profit tradeoff models of its location problem with regional constraints. A hybrid algorithm integrating fuzzy random simulation and genetic algorithms is adopted to solve the proposed models. Additionally, some risk factors have a great impact on decision making when faced with a location problem. This work thus conducts a risk performance analysis for locating an automotive service enterprise. Some numerical examples are given to illustrate the proposed models. © 2016 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Status and trends of dam removal research in the United States
Authors: Ryan Bellmore J. , Duda Jeffrey J. , Craig Laura S. , Greene Samantha L. , Torgersen Christian E. , Collins Mathias J. , Vittum Katherine
Published: September 2016

Aging infrastructure coupled with growing interest in river restoration has driven a dramatic increase in the practice of dam removal. With this increase, there has been a proliferation of studies that assess the physical and ecological responses of rivers to these removals. As more dams are considered for removal, scientific information from these dam‐removal studies will increasingly be called upon to inform decisions about whether, and how best, to bring down dams. This raises a critical question: what is the current state of dam‐removal science in the United States? To explore the status, trends, and characteristics of dam‐removal research in the U.S., we searched the scientific literature and extracted basic information from studies on dam removal. Our literature review illustrates that although over 1200 dams have been removed in the U.S., fewer than 10% have been scientifically evaluated, and most of these studies were short in duration (<4 years) and had limited (1–2 years) or no pre‐removal monitoring. The majority of studies focused on hydrologic and geomorphic responses to removal rather than biological and water‐quality responses, and few studies were published on linkages between physical and ecological components. Our review illustrates the need for long‐term, multidisciplinary case studies, with robust study designs, in order to anticipate the effects of dam removal and inform future decision making. WIREs Water 2017, 4:e1164. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1164

This article is categorized under:

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness

Engineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of Water

Water and Life > Stresses and Pressures on Ecosystems
Osimertinib-induced interstitial lung disease after treatment with anti-PD1 antibody
Authors: Mamesaya Nobuaki , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Katsumata Mineo , Nakajima Takashi , Endo Masahiro , Takahashi Toshiaki
Published: September 2016

We report a case of a 38-year-old woman who was diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma, harboring an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) L858R mutation on exon 21 and a T790 M mutation on exon 20. The patient was treated with osimertinib, a third-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) following treatment with nivolumab, an anti-Programmed Cell Death 1 (anti-PD1) antibody. After initiating osimertinib treatment, the patient began to complain of low-grade fever and shortness of breath without hypoxemia, and her chest radiograph and a CT scan revealed a remarkable antitumor response, although faint infiltrations were observed in the bilateral lung field. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid mainly contained lymphocytes (CD4+/CD8+ ratio of 0.3), and a transbronchial lung biopsy specimen showed lymphocytic alveolitis with partial organization in several alveolar spaces. Therefore we diagnosed the patient with osimertinib-induced interstitial lung disease (ILD) after treatment with anti-PD1 antibody. We considered anti-PD1 therapies may be the risk factor of EGFR-TKI-induced ILD.
Stoichiometry of leaf nitrogen and phosphorus of grasslands of the Inner Mongolian and Qinghai‐Tibet Plateaus in relation to climatic variables and vegetation organization levels
Authors: Fan Jiangwen , Harris Warwick , Zhong Huaping
Published: September 2016

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are most commonly the limiting essential elements that affect the functioning of plants and ecosystems. However, their stoichiometry in relation to climatic variables and vegetation organization levels has not been comprehensively characterized. N and P concentrations were measured for 329 leaf samples collected at 132 sites along the 5000 km long China Grassland Transect that traverses the Inner Mongolian and Qinghai‐Tibet Plateaus. The patterns of these measurements were analyzed with reference to climate factors, plant species, plant functional groups, grassland communities and grassland ecosystems. The aim was to explore whether geographical patterns of plant leaf elements are related to zonal climatic variables, and at which vegetation organization levels changes of plant leaf N and P stoichiometric characteristics and pattern occur. Results showed that interspecific differences of N and P concentrations were most significant for the three vegetation organization levels of species, community and ecosystem. Plant leaf N and P concentrations were higher, coefficients of variation of N and P lower, and N/P, C/N and C/P ratios were also lower for leaf samples from the cold high altitude Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau than for those from the relatively lower altitude and warmer Inner Mongolian Plateau. Correlation of N and P for Inner Mongolian grassland was higher than that for the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau. The study indicates plant species are the most basic unit influencing plant stoichiometric geographic patterns, and that climatic variables affect leaf element concentrations mainly through their effect on changes of plant species composition of vegetation.
Effect of Sodium Carbonate on the Cloud Point in Alkyl Ether/Brine Systems: Apparent Relation with Dynamic Interfacial Tension Minimum
Authors: Hadji Moundher , Aoudia Mohamed , Al‐Rubkhi Adil , Al‐Maamari Rashid S. , Hadj‐Ziane‐Zafour Amel
Published: September 2016

The effect of Na2CO3 on the cloud point in Na2CO3/surfactant/brine was investigated using two series of nonionic surfactants, C13EOx and C17EOx. The cloud point, Tcp, was found to decrease linearly with increasing Na2CO3 concentration. This was attributed to Na+ and particularly to CO32−salting‐out effect. The slope a = dTcp/d[Na2CO3] became more and more negative as the degree of ethoxylation is increased, suggesting that the higher the number of ethylene oxide (EO) groups the stronger is the cloud point depression for a given increment in Na+and CO32−ions in solution. This was also illustrated by the linear variation of ΔTcp = Tcp,0 − Tcp,[Na2CO3] with the surfactant degree of ethoxylation.
Clinical relevance of central blood pressure - a critical review
Authors: Kostapanos Michael , McEniery Carmel M. , Wilkinson Ian B.
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Vital organs are exposed to the central rather than the brachial blood pressure. To date, central blood pressure can be assessed noninvasively through the use of several devices. In this review, we critically discuss the clinical relevance of central blood pressure assessment. Considerable evidence suggests that central blood pressure is a better predictor of end-organ damage than brachial blood pressure. However, there is still uncertainty concerning the value of central pressure for predicting cardiovascular outcomes, as the existing studies are underpowered to address this issue. A full synthesis of the available data is needed in this regard. Among the different antihypertensive drug classes, beta-blockers appear to lower central blood pressure less than brachial blood pressure. This difference may, at least in part, explain the reduced efficacy of beta-blockers in the prevention of cardiovascular outcomes compared with the other antihypertensive drug classes, which may lower central and brachial blood pressure to a similar extent. Nevertheless, this differential effect might not be relevant to the newer beta-blockers with vasodilating properties, including nebivolol, celliprolol and carvedilol. However, whether a preferential reduction of central blood pressure results in better outcomes should be further assessed by appropriately powered clinical trials. Other emerging challenges include the assessment of the potential predictive value of central blood pressure variability and the development of new antihypertensive medications based on central blood pressure rather than brachial blood pressure.
Macrophage polarization and MRSA infection in burned mice
Authors: Nishiguchi Tomoki , Ito Ichiaki , Lee Jong O , Suzuki Sumihiro , Suzuki Fujio , Kobayashi Makiko
Published: September 2016

Mortality associated with Staphylococcus aureus infection remains high during the sub‐acute phase of burn injury. In this study, we aimed to improve antibacterial resistance of sub‐acutely burned mice through macrophage polarization. Sepsis did not develop in mice at the sub‐acute phase of 5% total body surface area (TBSA) burn after being infected with methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and M1 macrophages (interleukin (IL)‐10−IL‐12+ inducible nitric oxide synthase+ Mφ) were isolated from these mice. In contrast, predominantly M2b macrophages (C‐C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CCL1)+IL‐10+IL‐12− Mφ) were isolated from mice with >15% TBSA burn, and all of these mice died after the same MRSA infection. Comparing NOD scid gamma mice inoculated with Mφ with 25% TBSA burns, all mice treated with CCL1 antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) survived after MRSA infection, whereas all untreated mice given the same infection died within 4 days. CCL1 antisense ODN has been characterized as a specific polarizer of M2bMφ. M1Mφ were isolated from MRSA‐infected mice with 25% TBSA burn after treatment with CCL1 antisense ODN, and these mice were shown to be resistant against a lethal dose of MRSA infection. M1Mφ were also isolated from 25% TBSA‐burned mice infected with MRSA when the ODN was administered therapeutically, and subsequent sepsis was effectively controlled in these mice. These results indicate that the M2bMφ polarizer is beneficial for controlling MRSA infection in mice at the sub‐acute phase of severe burn injury.
ATRA mechanically reprograms pancreatic stellate cells to suppress matrix remodelling and inhibit cancer cell invasion
Authors: Chronopoulos Antonios , Robinson Benjamin , Sarper Muge , Cortes Ernesto , Auernheimer Vera , Lachowski Dariusz , Attwood Simon , García Rebeca , Ghassemi Saba , Fabry Ben , del Río Hernández Armando
Published: September 2016

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive malignancy with a dismal survival rate. Persistent activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) can perturb the biomechanical homoeostasis of the tumour microenvironment to favour cancer cell invasion. Here we report that ATRA, an active metabolite of vitamin A, restores mechanical quiescence in PSCs via a mechanism involving a retinoic acid receptor beta (RAR-β)-dependent downregulation of actomyosin (MLC-2) contractility. We show that ATRA reduces the ability of PSCs to generate high traction forces and adapt to extracellular mechanical cues (mechanosensing), as well as suppresses force-mediated extracellular matrix remodelling to inhibit local cancer cell invasion in 3D organotypic models. Our findings implicate a RAR-β/MLC-2 pathway in peritumoural stromal remodelling and mechanosensory-driven activation of PSCs, and further suggest that mechanical reprogramming of PSCs with retinoic acid derivatives might be a viable alternative to stromal ablation strategies for the treatment of PDAC.
Accelerated Echo Planer J-resolved Spectroscopic Imaging of Putamen and Thalamus in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Sarma Manoj K. , Macey Paul M. , Nagarajan Rajakumar , Aysola Ravi , Harper Ronald M. , Thomas M. Albert
Published: September 2016

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) leads to neurocognitive and autonomic deficits that are partially mediated by thalamic and putamen pathology. We examined the underlying neurochemistry of those structures using compressed sensing-based 4D echo-planar J-resolved spectroscopic imaging (JRESI), and quantified values with prior knowledge fitting. Bilaterally increased thalamic mI/Cr, putamen Glx/Cr, and Glu/Cr, and bilaterally decreased thalamic and putamen tCho/Cr and GABA/Cr occurred in OSAS vs healthy subjects (p < 0.05). Increased right thalamic Glx/Cr, Glu/Cr, Gln/Cr, Asc/Cr, and decreased GPC/Cr and decreased left thalamic tNAA/Cr, NAA/Cr were detected. The right putamen showed increased mI/Cr and decreased tCho/Cr, and the left, decreased PE/Cr ratio. ROC curve analyses demonstrated 60–100% sensitivity and specificity for the metabolite ratios in differentiating OSAS vs. controls. Positive correlations were found between: left thalamus mI/Cr and baseline oxygen saturation (SaO2); right putamen tCho/Cr and apnea hypopnea index; right putamen GABA/Cr and baseline SaO2; left putamen PE/Cr and baseline SaO2; and left putamen NAA/Cr and SaO2 nadir (all p < 0.05). Negative correlations were found between left putamen PE/Cr and SaO2 nadir. These findings suggest underlying inflammation or glial activation, with greater alterations accompanying lower oxygen saturation. These metabolite levels may provide biomarkers for future neurochemical interventions by pharmacologic or other means.
Combining Statistical Tools and Ecological Assessments in the Study of Biodeterioration Patterns of Stone Temples in Angkor (Cambodia)
Authors: Caneva G. , Bartoli F. , Savo V. , Futagami Y. , Strona G.
Published: September 2016

Biodeterioration is a major problem for the conservation of cultural heritage materials. We provide a new and original approach to analyzing changes in patterns of colonization (Biodeterioration patterns, BPs) by biological agents responsible for the deterioration of outdoor stone materials. Here we analyzed BPs of four Khmer temples in Angkor (Cambodia) exposed to variable environmental conditions, using qualitative ecological assessments and statistical approaches. The statistical analyses supported the findings obtained with the qualitative approach. Both approaches provided additional information not otherwise available using one single method. Our results indicate that studies on biodeterioration can benefit from integrating diverse methods so that conservation efforts might become more precise and effective.
Quantum correlation dynamics subjected to critical spin environment with short-range anisotropic interaction
Authors: Guo J. L. , Zhang X. Z.
Published: September 2016

Short-range interaction among the spins can not only results in the rich phase diagram but also brings about fascinating phenomenon both in the contexts of quantum computing and information. In this paper, we investigate the quantum correlation of the system coupled to a surrounding environment with short-range anisotropic interaction. It is shown that the decay of quantum correlation of the central spins measured by pairwise entanglement and quantum discord can serve as a signature of quantum phase transition. In addition, we study the decoherence factor of the system when the environment is in the vicinity of the phase transition point. In the strong coupling regime, the decay of the decoherence factor exhibits Gaussian envelop in the time domain. However, in weak coupling limit, the quantum correlation of the system is robust against the disturbance of the magnetic field through optimal control of the anisotropic short-range interaction strength. Based on this, the effects of the short-range anisotropic interaction on the sudden transition from classical to quantum decoherence are also presented.
Even harmonic generation in isotropic media of dissociating homonuclear molecules
Authors: Silva R. E. F. , Rivière P. , Morales F. , Smirnova O. , Ivanov M. , Martín F.
Published: September 2016

Isotropic gases irradiated by long pulses of intense IR light can generate very high harmonics of the incident field. It is generally accepted that, due to the symmetry of the generating medium, be it an atomic or an isotropic molecular gas, only odd harmonics of the driving field can be produced. Here we show how the interplay of electronic and nuclear dynamics can lead to a marked breakdown of this standard picture: a substantial part of the harmonic spectrum can consist of even rather than odd harmonics. We demonstrate the effect using ab-initio solutions of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation for "Equation missing" and its isotopes in full dimensionality. By means of a simple analytical model, we identify its physical origin, which is the appearance of a permanent dipole moment in dissociating homonuclear molecules, caused by light-induced localization of the electric charge during dissociation. The effect arises for sufficiently long laser pulses and the region of the spectrum where even harmonics are produced is controlled by pulse duration. Our results (i) show how the interplay of femtosecond nuclear and attosecond electronic dynamics, which affects the charge flow inside the dissociating molecule, is reflected in the nonlinear response, and (ii) force one to augment standard selection rules found in nonlinear optics textbooks by considering light-induced modifications of the medium during the generation process.
CLARITY-compatible lipophilic dyes for electrode marking and neuronal tracing
Authors: Jensen Kristian H. R. , Berg Rune W.
Published: September 2016

Fluorescent lipophilic dyes, such as DiI, stain cellular membranes and are used extensively for retrograde/anterograde labeling of neurons as well as for marking the position of extracellular electrodes after electrophysiology. Convenient histological clearing techniques, such as CLARITY, enable immunostaining and imaging of large volumes for 3D-reconstruction. However, such clearing works by removing lipids and, as an unintended consequence, also removes lipophilic dyes. To remedy this wash-out, the molecular structure of the dye can be altered to adhere to both membranes and proteins so the dye remains in the tissue after lipid–clearing. Nevertheless, the capacity of such modified dyes to remain in tissue has not yet been tested. Here, we test dyes with molecular modifications that make them aldehyde-fixable to proteins. We use three Dil–analogue dyes, CM-DiI, SP-DiI and FM 1–43FX that are modified to be CLARITY-compatible candidates. We use the challenging adult, myelin-rich spinal cord tissue, which requires prolonged lipid–clearing, of rats and mice. All three dyes remained in the tissue after lipid–clearing, but CM-DiI had the sharpest and FM 1–43FX the strongest fluorescent signal.