bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Underwater Mechanically Robust Oil‐Repellent Materials: Combining Conflicting Properties Using a Heterostructure
Authors: Meng Xiangfu , Wang Miaomiao , Heng Liping , Jiang Lei 
Published: January 2018

AbstractThe development of underwater mechanically robust oil‐repellent materials is important due to the high demand for these materials with the increase in underwater activities. Based on the previous study, a new strategy is demonstrated to prepare underwater mechanically robust oil‐repellent materials by combining conflicting properties using a heterostructure, which has a layered hydrophobic interior structure with a columnar hierarchical micro/nanostructure on the surface and a hydrophilic outer structure. The surface hydrophilic layer imparts underwater superoleophobicity and low oil adhesion to the material, which has oil contact angle of larger than 150° and adhesion of lower than 2.8 µN. The stability of the mechanical properties stemming from the interior hydrophobic‐layered structure enables the material to withstand high weight loads underwater. The tensile stress and the hardness of such a heterostructure film after 1 month immersion in seawater and pH solution are in the range from 83.92 ± 8.22 to 86.73 ± 7.8 MPa and from 83.88 ± 6.8 to 86.82 ± 5.64 MPa, respectively, which are superior to any underwater oil‐repellent material currently reported.
Marketing contracts and risk management for cereal producers
Authors: Roussy Caroline , Ridier Aude , Chaib Karim , Boyet Marie 
Published: January 2018

AbstractFrench specialized durum wheat farmers are subject to market risks (price volatility), production risks (fluctuating quality and yields), and an increasingly restrictive regulatory environment (limits on inputs). The purpose of this paper is to gain a more in‐depth understanding of the strategies used by those farmers to manage these risks by analysing portfolio strategies in marketing methods and in production decisions. The findings show that three main categories of marketing methods can be adopted in different proportions: forward contracts, average price contracts and spot market selling. A hundred farmers are surveyed in South‐West France. An empirical analysis of the determinants of their marketing methods show that risk perceptions and the farmer's level of education influence the choice to sign a preharvest contract for part of their production. In addition, agricultural diversification is negatively correlated with the choice to use forward contracts to hedge against market risk. [EconLit citations: Q13, L24, C24].
Age difference between parents influences parity and number of sons
Authors: Kuna Berenika , Galbarczyk Andrzej , Klimek Magdalena , Nenko Ilona , Jasienska Grazyna 
Published: January 2018

AbstractObjectivesAmong couples, women usually prefer slightly older men, and men tend to choose much younger partners. Age difference between partners has been shown to influence their parity; however, results of previous studies are inconsistent. This study analyzed relationships between husband and wife age difference and their total number of children, and number of daughters and sons in a contemporary, rural Polish population.MethodsDemographic and reproductive data were collected from 384 postmenopausal women from rural Poland who were married only once. Regression models were used to evaluate the impact of the age gap between partners on total number of children and on number of daughters and sons. Women's age, age at marriage (as an indicator of reproductive value), and years of education were used in analyzes as potential confounders.ResultsThere was an inverted U‐shape association between parental age difference and number of children and also the number of sons. The highest number of children and sons was observed when men were approximately 6.5 years older than their wives. There was no significant relationship between parental age difference and number of daughters.ConclusionsAge difference between partners is important for reproductive success (with younger wives having higher reproductive potential) and is also related to number of sons. Older husbands might provide more resources for the family, thus facilitating production of well‐nourished male offspring. Future research should evaluate not only number of children but also their biological condition, health, and lifetime achievements in relation to the age difference between their parents.
Cross‐sectional and longitudinal analysis of nutritional status of school‐children from Bumbire Island (United Republic of Tanzania)
Authors: Comandini Ornella , Carmignani Gabriele , Cipriano Alessandro , Carmignani Giovanni , Tiba Deodatus , Marini Elisabetta 
Published: January 2018

AbstractObjectiveTo analyze the nutritional status of schoolchildren from Bumbire Island (Tanzania) from cross‐sectional and longitudinal perspectives.MethodsDuring 2014 and 2015, we collected anthropometric measurements in a sample of 437 schoolchildren (226 males, 211 females; 5–16 years). A sub‐sample of 126 children were measured in both surveys. Socio‐demographic data have been taken and dietary habits investigated. The accuracy of age data was checked. Malnutrition prevalence was calculated according to the WHO references and the z‐score criteria.ResultsThe prevalence of undernutrition was high (stunting: 30.7%; underweight: 12.9%; thinness: 4.5%), while overweight was rare (2.4%). The prevalence of stunting was higher in males and in older children. The one‐year longitudinal analysis indicated that stunting prevalence increased.ConclusionsUndernutrition is affecting Bumbire Island children, likely due to micronutrient deficiencies. The effects of linear growth deficit continue to accumulate throughout childhood and adolescent years.
Numerical simulation of two consecutive nasal respiratory cycles: toward a better understanding of nasal physiology
Authors: de Gabory Ludovic , Reville Nicolas , Baux Yannick , Boisson Nicolas , Bordenave Laurence 
Published: January 2018

BackgroundComputational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations have greatly improved the understanding of nasal physiology. We postulate that simulating the entire and repeated respiratory nasal cycles, within the whole sinonasal cavities, is mandatory to gather more accurate observations and better understand airflow patterns.MethodsA 3‐dimensional (3D) sinonasal model was constructed from a healthy adult computed tomography (CT) scan which discretized in 6.6 million cells (mean volume, 0.008 mm3). CFD simulations were performed with ANSYS©FluentTMv16.0.0 software with transient and turbulent airflow (k‐ω model). Two respiratory cycles (8 seconds) were simulated to assess pressure, velocity, wall shear stress, and particle residence time.ResultsThe pressure gradients within the sinus cavities varied according to their place of connection to the main passage. Alternations in pressure gradients induced a slight pumping phenomenon close to the ostia but no movement of air was observed within the sinus cavities. Strong movements were observed within the inferior meatus during expiration contrary to the inspiration, as in the olfactory cleft at the same time. Particle residence time was longer during expiration than inspiration due to nasal valve resistance, as if the expiratory phase was preparing the next inspiratory phase. Throughout expiration, some particles remained in contact with the lower turbinates. The posterior part of the olfactory cleft was gradually filled with particles that did not leave the nose at the next respiratory cycle. This pattern increased as the respiratory cycle was repeated.ConclusionCFD is more efficient and reliable when the entire respiratory cycle is simulated and repeated to avoid losing information.
A Diazido Mannose Analogue as a Chemoenzymatic Synthon for Synthesizing Di‐N‐acetyllegionaminic Acid‐Containing Glycosides
Authors: Santra Abhishek , Xiao An , Yu Hai , Li Wanqing , Li Yanhong , Ngo Linh , McArthur John B. , Chen Xi 
Published: January 2018

AbstractA chemoenzymatic synthon was designed to expand the scope of the chemoenzymatic synthesis of carbohydrates. The synthon was enzymatically converted into carbohydrate analogues, which were readily derivatized chemically to produce the desired targets. The strategy is demonstrated for the synthesis of glycosides containing 7,9‐di‐N‐acetyllegionaminic acid (Leg5,7Ac2), a bacterial nonulosonic acid (NulO) analogue of sialic acid. A versatile library of α2‐3/6‐linked Leg5,7Ac2‐glycosides was built by using chemically synthesized 2,4‐diazido‐2,4,6‐trideoxymannose as a chemoenzymatic synthon for highly efficient one‐pot multienzyme (OPME) sialylation followed by downstream chemical conversion of the azido groups into acetamido groups. The syntheses required 10 steps from commercially available d‐fucose and had an overall yield of 34–52 %, thus representing a significant improvement over previous methods. Free Leg5,7Ac2 monosaccharide was also synthesized by a sialic acid aldolase‐catalyzed reaction.
Is current floodplain management a cause for concern for fish and bird conservation in Bangladesh's largest wetland?
Authors: Galib Shams M. , Lucas Martyn C. , Chaki Nipa , Fahad Foyzul H. , Mohsin A.B.M. 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Worldwide, water regulatory structures have impacts on aquatic ecological connectivity. This study determined the effects of current sluice management on the fish community in the Baral River, a major connection to the largest wetland (Chalan Beel) in Bangladesh. It also examines wider problems for biodiversity conservation (particularly waterbirds) in that wetland, which has shrunk to 30% of its former dry‐season size in 50 years.
During the flood period, the peak breeding time for native floodplain fishes, sluices were in undershot operation (open by 16–60% of water depth). During this time, fish abundance and species richness were 229% and 155% higher respectively at sites upstream of the sluices, despite similar habitat upstream and downstream. Outside this period, when sluices were fully open, abundance and species richness were similar upstream and downstream.
Fish samples were dominated by fry, which are susceptible to damage by sluices. Twenty (41.7%) of 48 fish species captured in this study are classed as threatened in Bangladesh and their abundance was significantly lower downstream of the sluices. Two alien species, Aristichthys nobilis and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, were recorded, probably escapees from local aquaculture activities.
Twenty‐five species of wetland birds were recorded in the Chalan Beel. From interviews, 64% of these species appear to have decreased in the last 20 years, together with 11 more species that may have become locally extinct over this period. This suggests that widespread ecological disruption is occurring.
Improved water management (e.g. gate opening height and duration) or modification (e.g. fish pass) of the Baral sluices is needed, to meet biodiversity and fisheries needs, rather than just for flood control and crop production. Improved hydrological and ecological connectivity and habitat protection are needed, as are a cessation of destructive fishing and seasonal fish ranching practices that currently provide synergistic pressures.
Isatin, an endogenous nonpeptide biofactor: A review of its molecular targets, mechanisms of actions, and their biomedical implications
Authors: Medvedev Alexei , Buneeva Olga , Gnedenko Oksana , Ershov Pavel , Ivanov Alexis 
Published: January 2018

AbstractIsatin (indole‐2,3‐dione) is an oxidized indole. It is widely distributed in mammalian tissues and body fluids, where isatin concentrations vary significantly from <0.1 to > 10 µM. Isatin output is increased under conditions of stress. Exogenously administered isatin is characterized by low toxicity, mutagenicity, and genotoxicity in vivo. Cytotoxic effects of isatin on various cell cultures are usually observed at concentrations exceeding 100 µM. Binding of [3H]isatin to rat brain sections is consistent with its physiological concentrations. Proteomic analysis of mouse and rat brain isatin‐binding proteins revealed about 90 individual proteins, which demonstrated significant interspecies differences (rat versus mouse). Certain evidence exist that redox state(s) and possibly other types of posttranslational modifications regulate affinity of target proteins to isatin. Recent data suggest that interacting with numerous intracellular isatin binding proteins, isatin can act as a regulator of complex protein networks in norm and pathology. Physiological concentrations of isatin in vitro inhibit monoamine oxidase B and natriuretic peptide receptor guanylate cyclase, higher (neuroprotective) concentrations (50–400 μM) cause apoptosis of various (including malignant tumor) cell lines and influence expression of certain apoptosis‐related genes. Being administered in vivo, isatin exhibits various behavioral effects; it attenuates manifestations of MPTP‐induced parkinsonism and tumor growth in experimental animal models. © 2017 BioFactors, 44(2):95–108, 2018
Organizational Sustainability Determinants in Different Cultural Settings: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Horak Sven , Arya Bindu , Ismail Kiran M 
Published: January 2018

AbstractSince the link between organizations’ sustainability initiatives and effects from the societal environment has not been consistently established in the literature, this paper provides a conceptual framework to demonstrate the antecedents to the levels of sustainability initiatives undertaken by firms. Taking insights from institutional theory, it proposes that the relationship between the sustainability determinants and the level of sustainability initiatives is mediated by coercive, mimetic and normative isomorphic pressures. Moreover, it suggests that culture plays a significant role in moderating the extent to which the various types of isomorphic pressure on firms may influence the levels of firms’ sustainability initiatives. The implications of the framework are discussed in the light of encouraging sustainability initiatives and overall sustainable development in various cultural settings as well as undertaking future research to enhance the framework and its applicability. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome mimicking mitochondrial disease
Authors: Rojnueangnit Kitiwan , Descartes Maria 
Published: January 2018

Key Clinical MessageLater‐onset congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (LO‐CCHS) does not present only breathing problems but can be present as episodic multiple organs involvement. Our unique case demonstrated LO‐CCHS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mitochondrial diseases and having nontypical polysomnography result.
Mapping of Activity through Dichotomic Scores (MADS): A new chemoinformatic approach to detect activity‐rich structural regions
Authors: Todeschini Roberto , Consonni Viviana , Ballabio Davide , Grisoni Francesca 
Published: January 2018

AbstractA new chemoinformatic approach, called Mapping of Activity through Dichotomic Scores, is introduced. Its goal is the supervised projection of molecules, represented with strings of binary digits expressing the presence or absence of selected structural features, onto a novel 2‐dimensional space, which highlights regions of active (inactive) molecules of interest. At the same time, variables are projected onto a second 2‐dimensional space, which highlights those structural features that are more related to the molecular activity of interest. Unlike the classical weighting schemes used in substructural analysis, which consider the substructures independently of each other, the Mapping of Activity through Dichotomic Scores approach considers the interactions between pairs of substructures, that is, their frequencies of cooccurrence in the molecules. In this work, the theory is presented and elucidated, with an example dataset and in comparison with a benchmark fragment‐based scoring scheme.
Signalling transduction events involved in agonist‐induced PGE2/EP4 receptor externalization in cultured rat dorsal root ganglion neurons
Authors: Ma W. , St‐Jacques B. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractBackgroundProstaglandin E2 (PGE2) enriched in inflamed tissues contributes to chronic pain by sensitizing nociceptive dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons (nociceptors). Of four PGE2 receptors (EP1–4), EP4 plays a major role in PGE2‐induced nociceptor sensitization. We have previously reported that PGE2 or EP4 agonists stimulated EP4 externalization in cultured DRG neurons and this event contributes to nociceptor sensitization. However, the signalling transduction events governing this event remain unknown.MethodsIn this study, using antibody‐based externalization assay, we examined EP subtypes and multiple signalling transduction events involved in PGE2‐induced EP4 externalization in cultured DRG neurons.ResultsIn addition to EP4 agonist, EP2 agonist, to a lesser extent, also induced EP4 externalization while EP1 and EP3 agonists had no effect. The extracellular and intracellular calcium chelators, the inhibitors of CaMKII, cAMP, PKA, PKC, PKCε, PLC, MAPKs, PI3K and Akt suppressed agonist‐induced EP4 externalization. The activator of AC, two PKA‐specific cAMP analogues and one Epac‐specific cAMP analogue also induced EP4 externalization. ELISA showed that double sequential exposures to EP4 agonists induced a greater release of pain peptide CGRP from cultured DRG neurons than a single exposure, an event blocked by the inhibitor of anterograde transport from ER/Golgi complex to cell surface.ConclusionsTaken together, these data suggest that mobilization of extracellular and intracellular calcium as well as the activation of CaMKII, cAMP/PKA, cAMP/Epac, PKC/PKCε, MAPKs, PI3K‐Akt and PLC signalling transduction pathways are involved in agonist‐induced EP4 externalization. Agonist‐enhanced EP4 externalization increases EP4 cell surface abundance and activity, thus enhancing nociceptor sensitization.SignificanceThis study adds mechanistic information regarding signalling transduction events involved in agonist‐induced EP4 cell surface trafficking. EP4 and EP2 (to lesser extent) receptors, extra‐ and intracellular Ca++, CaKMII, cAMP, PKA, PKC, PKCε, PLC, MAPK, PI3K and Akt are involved in this event. Agonist‐induced EP4 externalization contributes to enhanced nociceptor sensitization.
Subcritical water extraction of amino acids from Mars analog soils
Authors: Noell Aaron C. , Fisher Anita M. , Fors‐Francis Kisa , Sherrit Stewart 
Published: January 2018

AbstractFor decades, the Martian regolith has stymied robotic mission efforts to catalog the organic molecules present. Perchlorate salts, found widely throughout Mars, are the main culprit as they breakdown and react with organics liberated from the regolith during pyrolysis, the primary extraction technique attempted to date on Mars. This work further develops subcritical water extraction (SCWE) as a technique for extraction of amino acids on future missions. The effect of SCWE temperature (185, 200, and 215°C) and duration of extraction (10–120 min) on the total amount and distribution of amino acids recovered was explored for three Mars analog soils (JSC Mars‐1A simulant, an Atacama desert soil, and an Antarctic Dry Valleys soil) and bovine serum albumin (as a control solution of known amino acid content). Total amounts of amino acids extracted increased with both time and temperature; however, the distribution shifted notably due to the destruction of the amino acids with charged or polar side chains at the higher temperatures. The pure bovine serum albumin solution and JSC Mars 1A also showed lower yields than the Atacama and Antarctic extractions suggesting that SCWE may be less effective at hydrolyzing large or aggregated proteins. Changing solvent from water to a dilute (10 mM) HCl solution allowed total extraction efficiencies comparable to the higher temperature/time combinations while using the lowest temperature/time (185°C/20 min). The dilute HCl extractions also did not lead to the shift in amino acid distribution observed at the higher temperatures. Additionally, adding sodium perchlorate salt to the extraction did not interfere with recoveries. Native magnetite in the JSC Mars‐1A may have been responsible for destruction of glycine, as evidenced by its uncharacteristic decrease as the temperature/time of extraction increased. This work shows that SCWE can extract high yields of native amino acids out of Mars analog soils with minimal disruption of the distribution of those amino acids, even in the presence of a perchlorate salt.
The ejector loop reactor: Application for microbial fermentation and comparison with a stirred‐tank bioreactor
Authors: Ughetti Manuel , Jussen Daniel , Riedlberger Peter 
Published: January 2018

AbstractEjector loop reactors (ELR) are successfully used in industrial chemical processes for gas/liquid reactions. They achieve higher mass transfer rates compared to the stirred‐tank reactor (STR) at comparable specific power input. Insufficient oxygen transport and shear stress induced growth inhibition are limiting parameters during microbial fermentation. Due to its better mass transfer characteristics, the ELR was expected to have beneficial effects on biomass and recombinant protein production. One concern, however, was whether the ELR's shear stress characteristics would have a negative effect. This study evaluated the suitability of using the Buss‐Loop® Reactor (BLR), one of the most advanced ELR technologies, as a bioreactor. The well‐studied STR was used as a reference. A lab scale BLR was adapted for microbial fermentation. Mass transfer rates and specific power inputs were within the same order of magnitude in the ELR and the reference STR. Maximum values of 207 and 205 h−1 at power inputs of 6.9 and 9.7 W/L were measured in the ELR and STR, respectively. During batch fermentation of Escherichia coli K12 MG1655, maximum cell densities were higher in the ELR (OD600 of 22) than in the STR (OD600 of 18). Green fluorescence protein (GFP) production with pGS1 was comparable; however, more GFP was released into the media in the ELR. This indicates higher cell disruption compared to the STR. Despite this drawback of the first prototype, our work clearly demonstrates the potential of the ELR as a system for microbial fermentations.