bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new nano‐sized mononuclear Cu (II) complex with N,N‐donor Schiff base ligands: sonochemical synthesis, characterization, molecular modeling and biological activity
Authors: Zare Nahid , Zabardasti Abedien
Published: November 2018

A new, simple Cu2+ nano‐structure Schiff base complex in methanol medium has been synthesized by the ultrasonic method. Structure of the compound was confirmed by FT‐IR, GC‐Mass and other spectroscopic techniques. The copper oxide (CuO) was achieved from the copper nano‐structure Schiff base complex as the raw material after calcination for 3 hr at 600 °C. According to results Cu2+ gives a complex with mole ratio 1:2 of metal to ligand (ML2) with Schiff base which a distorted square planer is the most probable geometry for it. The calculations results from XRD patterns propose the nano‐sized complexes. The SEM images show morphology of both the copper complex and the CuO powder were plate‐like. The metal chelates of Cu2+ in two states of bulk and nano have been screened for their in vitro antibacterial activity against four bacteria, gram‐positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram‐negative (Escherichia coli) and three strains of fungus (Aspergillus flavus). The nano metal chelates were shown to possess more antibacterial activity than the bulk chelate. Finally, the empirical parameters of Schiff base compounds showed a good agreement with theoretical ones.
Understanding the spatial disparities and vulnerability of population aging in China
Authors: Cheng Yang , Gao Siyao , Li Shuai , Zhang Yuchao , Rosenberg Mark
Published: November 2018

Understanding the regional pattern of population aging in China enables rational policy making to address the challenges of inequity in social welfare and care resources among the east–central–west regions and rural–urban areas of China. This study uses census data in 2000 and 2010, and aging population ratios, annual increase rates, and spatial autocorrelation analysis to examine spatial disparities in population aging in China. The results show that the population is more aged and aging more rapidly in rural areas than in urban areas. Spatial clusters of population aging expanded from the east coastal region in 2000, to inland provinces such as Sichuan and Chongqing in 2010. The vulnerable regions in terms of population aging, health status of the elderly population, and economic level at the prefectural level were also identified.
Dual‐IR Window/Electrode Operando Attenuated Total Reflection‐IR Absorption Spectroscopy for Battery Research
Authors: Ataee‐Esfahani Hamed , Chen De‐Jun , Tong YuYe J.
Published: November 2018

We report a novel dual‐IR window/electrode operando infrared (IR) spectroscopy method for battery research. In addition to keeping all the features of the in‐situ/operando IR spectroscopic methodologies for batteries reported in the literature so far, the dual‐IR window/electrode configuration reported herein offers a unique advantage of accessing both, anode and cathode processes quasi‐simultaneously by rotating the dual‐window/electrode IR battery cell 180° step‐wise in the same operando real‐battery‐like cell. The proof‐of‐concept studies demonstrated clearly its investigative advantages in gaining broader insights into the chemistry of batteries during charging/discharging and beyond.
INH14, a Small‐Molecule Urea Derivative, Inhibits the IKKα/β‐Dependent TLR Inflammatory Response
Authors: Drexel Meinrad , Kirchmair Johannes , Santos‐Sierra Sandra
Published: November 2018

N‐(4‐Ethylphenyl)‐N′‐phenylurea (INH14) is a fragment‐like compound that inhibits the toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2)‐mediated inflammatory activity and other inflammatory pathways (i.e., TLR4, TNF‐R and IL‐1R). In this study, we determined the molecular target of INH14. Overexpression of proteins that are part of the TLR2 pathway in cells treated with INH14 indicated that the target lay downstream of the complex TAK1/TAB1. Immunoblot assays showed that INH14 decreased IkBα degradation in cells activated by lipopeptide (TLR2 ligand). These data indicated the kinases IKKα and/or IKKβ as the targets of INH14, which was confirmed with kinase assays (IC50 IKKα=8.97 μm; IC50 IKKβ=3.59 μm). Furthermore, in vivo experiments showed that INH14 decreased TNFα formed after lipopeptide‐induced inflammation, and treatment of ovarian cancer cells with INH14 led to a reduction of NF‐kB constitutive activity and a reduction in the wound‐closing ability of these cells. These results demonstrate that INH14 decreases NF‐kB activation through the inhibition of IKKs. Optimization of INH14 could lead to potent inhibitors of IKKs that might be used as antiinflammatory drugs.
Counting‐based cell‐free DNA screening test fails to identify triploidy—A case report
Authors: Park Ji E. , Park Ji K. , Kang Min Y. , Cho In A. , Baek Jong C.
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical Message

Although noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a good test with high sensitivity and specificity for trisomy 21, 18, and 13, it remains a screening test and cannot be used for diagnostic purposes. It is important to consider the outcomes of this test and interpret the results and offer consultation accordingly.
Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma presenting as acute pancreatitis: A rare occurrence
Authors: Pitlick Mitchell M. , Abeykoon Jithma P. , Dao Linda N. , Thompson Carrie A.
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical Message

Lymphoma often presents with extranodal manifestations. However, pancreatic involvement resulting in pancreatitis is rare. CD20‐negative variants of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma are also rare and are more likely to present with extranodal involvement. Lymphoma should be considered in patients presenting with pancreatitis without traditional risk factors.
Extremely Photostable Electron‐Deficient Phthalocyanines that Generate High Levels of Singlet Oxygen
Authors: Furuyama Taniyuki , Miyaji Yusuke , Maeda Kazuya , Maeda Hajime , Segi Masahito
Published: November 2018

A robust lead‐mediated synthetic procedure for the generation of phthalocyanines substituted with electron‐withdrawing groups has been developed. The free‐base phthalocyanine and various metal complexes were prepared without discernible degradation of the peripheral electron‐withdrawing substituents. Upon irradiation with red light, some of the thus‐obtained metal complexes generated high levels of singlet oxygen. In particular, a palladium complex exhibited attractive photostability upon exposure to singlet oxygen as a bleaching agent. The photostability of such complexes that may manifest concomitantly to the generation of high levels of singlet oxygen was attributed to the presence of the electron‐withdrawing groups, which results in energetically low‐lying highest occupied molecular orbitals.
Performance of Low‐temperature SCR of NO with NH3 over MnOx/Ti‐based catalysts
Authors: Niu Yanqing , Zhang Xiaolu , Zhang Hao , Liang Yang , Li Shuaifei , Yao Qi , Wang Denghui , Hui Shi'en
Published: November 2018

The effects of Mn loadings and precursors, catalyst preparation methods, incineration durations and temperatures, and the addition of Co and Ce on NO‐reduction efficiency and selectivity (N2O formation) during the preparation of MnOx/Ti‐based catalysts were studied by micropore‐size analysis (XRD, XPS, SEM, and FTIR), while considering changeable parameters. Meanwhile, the performance of low‐temperature SCR of NO with NH3 over the designed catalysts was tested under various gas hourly space velocities (GHSVs), NH3/NO molar ratios, and contents of NO, NH3, O2, H2O, and SO2 in a lab‐scale reactor. Overall, the Mn(0.3)Ce(0.1)/Ti catalyst, which had high NO‐reduction efficiency and selectivity (low N2O formation), was recommended, with the following preparation methods: ultrasonic impregnation; manganese acetate precursor; and incineration at 500 °C. Appropriate textural properties (high surface area and small pore and crystallite sizes), well‐dispersed amorphous manganese (rather than crystalline) on the anatase surface (rather than rutile), abundant active sites, and long residence time are essential for high NO‐reduction efficiency. In practice, NO‐reduction efficiency decreased with increasing GHSV and the NH3 and NO contents; however, it initially increased and then became saturated with an increasing NH3/NO molar ratio and O2 content. Water deactivated the catalyst to a recoverable state, whereas SO2 resulted in unrecoverable deactivation.
Effectiveness of metacognitive interventions for mental disorders in adults—A systematic review and meta‐analysis (METACOG)
Authors: Philipp Rebecca , Kriston Levente , Lanio Jana , Kühne Franziska , Härter Martin , Moritz Steffen , Meister Ramona
Published: November 2018

We evaluated the effectiveness and acceptability of metacognitive interventions for mental disorders. We searched electronic databases and included randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials comparing metacognitive interventions with other treatments in adults with mental disorders. Primary effectiveness and acceptability outcomes were symptom severity and dropout, respectively. We performed random‐effects meta‐analyses. We identified Metacognitive Training (MCTrain), Metacognitive Therapy (MCTherap), and Metacognition Reflection and Insight Therapy (MERIT). We included 49 trials with 2,609 patients. In patients with schizophrenia, MCTrain was more effective than a psychological treatment (cognitive remediation, SMD = −0.39). It bordered significance when compared with standard or other psychological treatments. In a post hoc analysis, across all studies, the pooled effect was significant (SMD = −0.31). MCTrain was more effective than standard treatment in patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder (SMD = −0.40). MCTherap was more effective than a waitlist in patients with depression (SMD = −2.80), posttraumatic stress disorder (SMD = −2.36), and psychological treatments (cognitive–behavioural) in patients with anxiety (SMD = −0.46). In patients with depression, MCTherap was not superior to psychological treatment (cognitive–behavioural). For MERIT, the database was too small to allow solid conclusions. Acceptability of metacognitive interventions among patients was high on average. Methodological quality was mostly unclear or moderate. Metacognitive interventions are likely to be effective in alleviating symptom severity in mental disorders. Although their add‐on value against existing psychological interventions awaits to be established, potential advantages are their low threshold and economy.
Non‐linear effect of sea ice: Spectacled Eider survival declines at both extremes of the ice spectrum
Authors: Christie Katherine S. , Hollmen Tuula E. , Flint Paul , Douglas David
Published: November 2018

Understanding the relationship between environmental factors and vital rates is an important step in predicting a species’ response to environmental change. Species associated with sea ice are of particular concern because sea ice is projected to decrease rapidly in polar environments with continued levels of greenhouse gas emissions. The relationship between sea ice and the vital rates of the Spectacled Eider, a threatened species that breeds in Alaska and Russia and winters in the Bering Sea, appears to be complex. While severe ice can impede foraging for benthic prey, ice also suppresses wave action and provides a platform on which eiders roost, thereby reducing thermoregulation costs. We analyzed a 23‐year mark‐recapture dataset for Spectacled Eiders nesting on Kigigak Island in western Alaska, and tested survival models containing different ice and weather‐related covariates. We found that much of the variation in eider survival could be explained by the number of days per year with >95% sea ice concentration at the Bering Sea core wintering area. Furthermore, the data supported a quadratic relationship with sea ice rather than a linear one, indicating that intermediate sea ice concentrations were optimal for survival. We then used matrix population models to project population trajectories using General Circulation Model (GCM) outputs of daily sea ice cover. GCMs projected reduced sea ice at the wintering area by year 2100 under a moderated emissions scenario (RCP 4.5) and nearly ice‐free conditions under an unabated emissions scenario (RCP 8.5). Under RCP 4.5, stochastic models projected an increase in population size until 2069 coincident with moderate ice conditions, followed by a decline in population size as ice conditions shifted from intermediate to mostly ice‐free. Under RCP 8.5, eider abundance increased until 2040 and then decreased to near extirpation toward the end of the century as the Bering Sea became ice‐free. Considerable uncertainty around parameter estimates for survival in years with minimal sea ice contributed to variation in stochastic projections of future population size, and this uncertainty could be reduced with additional survival data from low‐ice winters.
New Cobalt(II) Field‐Induced Single‐Molecule Magnet and the First Example of a Cobalt(III) Complex with Tridentate Binding of a Deprotonated 4‐Amino‐3,5‐bis(pyridin‐2‐yl)‐1,2,4‐Triazole Ligand
Authors: Váhovská Lucia , Bukrynov Oleksandr , Potočňák Ivan , Čižmár Erik , Kliuikov Andrii , Vitushkina Svitlana , Dušek Michal , Herchel Radovan
Published: November 2018

From Co(NO3)2·6H2O ‐ NaN3 ‐ abpt reaction system, a mononuclear complex [Co(abpt)2(N3)2] (abpt = 4‐amino‐3,5‐bis(pyridin‐2‐yl)‐1,2,4‐triazole) (1) and a dinuclear complex [Co2(abpt)(µ‐abpt‐H)2(N3)4]·1.12H2O (2) were obtained. The presence of neutral abpt, as well as azido ligands was proved by IR spectroscopy. X‐ray crystallography shows that 1 is a molecular CoII complex with two azido ligands coordinated in trans‐positions, while 2 is a dinuclear CoIII complex bridged by two abpt‐H ligands. π–π stacking interactions between pyridyl rings of abpt and N‐H···N and C‐H···N hydrogen bonds in 1 and 2 stabilize their structures by creating a 3D supramolecular network. The analysis of the magnetic properties of 1 revealed negative zero‐field splitting parameter D = –24.1 cm–1 supported also by CASSCF/NEVPT2 and CASSCF/CASPT2 theoretical calculations. The X‐band electron paramagnetic resonance also gives an evidence for a strong rhombic character of the anisotropy. The investigation of the ac susceptibility measurements identified 1 as a field‐induced single‐molecule magnet, in which direct, Raman and Orbach relaxation processes are present.
Sedimentary processes at ice sheet grounding‐zone wedges revealed by outcrops, Washington State (USA)
Authors: Demet Brian P. , Nittrouer Jeffrey A. , Anderson John B. , Simkins Lauren M.
Published: November 2018

Grounding‐zone wedges (GZWs) mark the grounding terminus of flowing marine‐based ice streams and, in the presence of an ice shelf, the transition from grounded ice to floating ice. The morphology and stratigraphy of GZWs is predominantly constrained by seafloor bathymetry, seismic data, and sediment cores from deglaciated continental shelves; however, due to minimal constraints on GZW sedimentation processes, there remains a general lack of knowledge concerning the production of these landforms. Herein, outcrop observations are provided of GZWs from Whidbey Island in the Puget Lowlands (Washington State, USA). These features are characterized by prograded diamictons bounded by glacial unconformities, whereby the lower unconformity indicates glacial advance of the southern Cordilleran Ice Sheet and the upper unconformity indicates locally restricted ice advance during GZW growth; the consistent presence of an upper unconformity supports the hypothesis that GZWs facilitate ice advance during landform construction. Based on outcrop stratigraphy, GZW construction is dominated by sediment transport of deformation till and melt‐out of entrained basal debris at the grounding line. This material may be subsequently remobilized by debris flows. Additionally, there is evidence for subglacial meltwater discharge at the grounding line, as well as rhythmically bedded silt and sand, indicating possible tidal pumping at the grounding line. A series of GZWs on Whidbey Island provides evidence of punctuated ice sheet movement during retreat, rather than a rapid ice sheet lift‐off. The distance between adjacent GZWs of 102–103 m and the consistency in their size relative to modern ice stream grounding lines suggests that individual wedges formed over decades to centuries. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local production and imitations of Late Roman pottery from a well in the Roman necropolis of Cuma in Naples, Italy
Authors: Germinario Chiara , Cultrone Giuseppe , Cavassa Laetitia , De Bonis Alberto , Izzo Francesco , Langella Alessio , Mercurio Mariano , Morra Vincenzo , Munzi Priscilla , Grifa Celestino
Published: November 2018

Archaeological excavations performed in a funerary complex in Cuma (Campania region, Italy) unearthed excellently preserved common wares dated to the third century A.D. Archaeometric analyses were focused on Campanian pitchers, Aegean‐like cooking pots, and pyriform pitchers, the latter recorded for the first time in an Italian context. The local pitchers were manufactured with a high‐CaO clay (CaO = ca. 12 wt.%) and local volcanic temper, fired at ca. 800–850°C, as suggested by the presence of calcite. The Aegean‐like pots and the pyriform pitchers were made with low‐CaO clay (CaO ≤ 4.0 wt.%) mixed with a calcite‐bearing temper, along with volcanic and siliciclastic grains, and fired at 800–950°C. The comparison with raw materials inferred that local vessels were made with low‐CaO basinal clays which outcrop in the northern Campania region, and sands from the shoreline north of Cuma where carbonate, siliciclastic and volcanic phases mix together. Our results suggest that the Phlegraean Late Roman workshops produced their traditional vases along with imitations of Aegean‐like pottery. Thus, microregional production responded to a market demand requiring shapes and styles similar to imports from the eastern Mediterranean, with which commercial trade was still quite active.
Integrated epigenomic and transcriptomic analysis reveals TP63 as a novel player in clinically aggressive chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Papakonstantinou Nikos , Ntoufa Stavroula , Tsagiopoulou Maria , Moysiadis Theodoros , Bhoi Sujata , Malousi Andigoni , Psomopoulos Fotis , Mansouri Larry , Laidou Stamatia , Papazoglou Despoina , Gounari Maria , Pasentsis Konstantinos , Plevova Karla , Kuci‐Emruli Venera , Duran‐Ferrer Marti , Davis Zadie , Ek Sara , Rossi Davide , Gaidano Gianluca , Ritgen Matthias , Oscier David , Stavroyianni Niki , Pospisilova Sarka , Davi Frederic , Ghia Paolo , Hadzidimitriou Anastasia , Belessi Chrysoula , Martin‐Subero Jose I , Pott Christiane , Rosenquist Richard , Stamatopoulos Kostas
Published: November 2018

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) stereotyped subsets #6 and #8 include cases expressing unmutated B cell receptor immunoglobulin (BcR IG) (U‐CLL). Subset #6 (IGHV1‐69/IGKV3‐20) is less aggressive compared to subset #8 (IGHV4‐39/IGKV1(D)‐39) which has the highest risk for Richter's transformation among all CLL. The underlying reasons for this divergent clinical behavior are not fully elucidated. To gain insight into this issue, here we focused on epigenomic signatures and their links with gene expression, particularly investigating genome‐wide DNA methylation profiles in subsets #6 and #8 as well as other U‐CLL cases not expressing stereotyped BcR IG. We found that subset #8 showed a distinctive DNA methylation profile compared to all other U‐CLL cases, including subset #6. Integrated analysis of DNA methylation and gene expression revealed significant correlation for several genes, particularly highlighting a relevant role for the TP63 gene which was hypomethylated and overexpressed in subset #8. This observation was validated by quantitative PCR, which also revealed TP63 mRNA overexpression in additional nonsubset U‐CLL cases. BcR stimulation had distinct effects on p63 protein expression, particularly leading to induction in subset #8, accompanied by increased CLL cell survival. This pro‐survival effect was also supported by siRNA‐mediated downregulation of p63 expression resulting in increased apoptosis. In conclusion, we report that DNA methylation profiles may vary even among CLL patients with similar somatic hypermutation status, supporting a compartmentalized approach to dissecting CLL biology. Furthermore, we highlight p63 as a novel prosurvival factor in CLL, thus identifying another piece of the complex puzzle of clinical aggressiveness.
Oxymatrine ameliorates diabetes‐induced aortic endothelial dysfunction via the regulation of eNOS and NOX4
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Xinliang , Zhang Yanqi , Huang Yongpan , Zhang Yinzhuang , Ma Qilin
Published: November 2018

Aim

Oxymatrine (OMT) is the major quinolizidine alkaloid extracted from the root of Sophora ﬂavescens Ait (the Chinese herb Kushen) and exhibits diverse pharmacological actions. In this study, we investigated the effects of OMT on diabetes‐associated aortic endothelial dysfunction in a rat model of diabetes and its mechanisms.

Methods

Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: control, diabetic rats, diabetic rats treated with OMT (60, 120 mg/kg per day, by gavage), and diabetic rats treated with metformin (20 mg/kg per day, by gavage). The serum fasting blood glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and nitric oxide (NO) levels were determined with commercial kits. Biochemical indices reflecting oxidative stress, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) were analyzed with commercial kits. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species 2′,7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH‐DA) was measured by fluorescence microscopy. Histological analyses were conducted to observe morphological changes. Western blot analysis was applied to detect the expression levels of eNOS and NOX4. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the expressions of eNOS and NOX4 messenger RNA (mRNA).

Results

The diabetic rats exhibited markedly reduced body weight and increased plasma glucose levels. Moreover, the diabetic rats showed oxidative stress (significantly increased MDA and decreased SOD, CAT, GSH‐Px, and serum NO levels). Hyperglycemia caused significant endothelial injury and dysfunction, including vasodilative and histologic changes in the diabetic rats. The expressions of phospho‐eNOS protein and mRNA were significantly decreased, while the NOX4 protein expression was increased in the aortas of the diabetic rats. All of these diabetes‐induced effects were reversed by OMT in the diabetic rats.

Conclusion

The OMT treatment ameliorates diabetic endothelial dysfunction through enhanced NO bioavailability by upregulating eNOS expression and downregulating expression of NOX4.
TMEM106A inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and induces apoptosis of lung cancer cells
Authors: Liu Juncai , Zhu Hongjing
Published: November 2018

Transmembrane protein 106A (TMEM106A) has been found to function as tumor suppressor in gastric and renal cancer. However, the role of TMEM106A in nonsmall‐cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) has not been investigated. In this study, we evaluated the expression profile of TMEM106A in NSCLC tissues and cell line, and explored the roles of TMEM106A in NSCLC cell lines. Our results showed that TMEM106A expression was significantly decreased in human NSCLC tissues. In vitro assays showed that TMEM106A expression in NSCLC cell lines was much lower than that in the bronchial epithelial cell line. Besides, overexpression of TMEM106A reduced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while induced cell apoptosis in NSCLC cells. TMEM106A overexpression repressed epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), which was illustrated by increased E‐cadherin expression and decreased the expressions of N‐cadherin, and vimentin. In addition, TMEM106A overexpression suppressed the activation of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/protein kinase B/nuclear factor‐κB (PI3K/Akt/NF‐κB) signaling pathway in NSCLC cells. Our results indicated that TMEM106A acted as a tumor suppressor in NSCLC, and could be a therapeutic target for the management of NSCLC.
The sleep environment and its association with externalizing behaviors in a sample of low‐income adolescents
Authors: Rubens Sonia L. , Miller Molly A. , Zeringue Megan M.
Published: November 2018

This study examined the sleep environment and its association with externalizing problems in adolescents attending an alternative high school. Participants included 114 students (56% female, 91% Black, mean age = 18.03, standard deviation [SD] = 1.49) from an alternative high school in a southeastern city. Most participants reported sleeping in a bed (83%) and at their house (72%) for 7 nights in the past week. Participants reported an average of 2.34 (SD = 1.86) past‐week ambient sleep disruptions. Sleeping fewer nights in their own home and experiencing higher levels of ambient sleep disruptions were associated with delinquency engagement. Fewer nights sleeping in a bed and higher levels of ambient sleep disruptions were associated with a significant arrest history. The sleep environment is important to consider when assessing sleep problems, particularly among low‐income adolescents living in urban environments. This information may inform comprehensive interventions to address behavioral health concerns.
Steel sharpens steel: A review of multilevel competition and competitiveness in organizations
Authors: Swab R. Gabrielle , Johnson Paul D.
Published: November 2018

Competition between individuals permeates people's lives as they strive for limited resources, services, and status. However, research on competition and competitiveness in organizations is limited despite its relevance to relational dynamics (e.g., rivalry), individual differences (e.g., traits and gender), social factors (e.g., competitive climate), and organizational outcomes (e.g., work performance and unethical behavior). In this article, we propose a multilevel model of competition and competitiveness that includes the individual, the group, and the situation. By providing a holistic overview of research across a broad array of disciplines, we organize the field and create a usable framework to advance knowledge of competition and competitiveness. In doing so, we identify what we know, what we still need to discover, and provide direction for future research. The article closes with an assessment of methods and measures used in studying competition. In conclusion, this review establishes a multilevel and integrative structure that incorporates individual and team competitiveness with competitive situations that prompt competitive processes and important organizational outcomes.
Improved method for removing siderite byin situacidification before elemental and isotope analysis of soil organic carbon
Authors: Vindušková Olga , Jandová Kateřina , Frouz Jan
Published: November 2018

Siderite (FeCO3) is an iron carbonate mineral commonly found in sediments and soils. Similarly to other carbonates, such as calcite or dolomite, it may substantially affect the quantification of organic carbon (C) as well as determination of C isotope ratio of soil organic matter. Both analyses require effective removal of siderite by pretreatment with acid. However, little is known about the siderite removal efficiency of the acid pretreatment methods which have been previously proposed in the literature.

In our study, we tested three previously proposed carbonate removal methods for siderite removal in siderite‐containing soils. Furthermore, we tested whether siderite C content in a soil sample can be detected as CO2evolved after H3PO4addition which would allow organic C determination from the difference between total and inorganic C.

None of the three tested pretreatment methods led to sufficient removal of siderite C when applied on siderite alone. Therefore, we developed a new protocol for a 4‐day treatment with 10% HCl at 25°C. At siderite content of up to 10 wt.%, the removal efficiency of our method (99–100%) was sufficient both for organic C as well as for C isotope analyses. This was further confirmed with tests on siderite‐containing soils. These showed that the method ofLarsonet al. () developed for sediments is also suitable. However, the new protocol provides advantage in terms of less microplate manipulation, capsule overflow and oven use. We found that CO2is not evolved 2 minutes after H3PO4addition from siderite in contrast to calcite and dolomite. This fact can be used for separate quantification of inorganic C from calcite/dolomite and siderite,e.g., in studies of their different role in soil development. We showed that siderite‐containing soils require special pretreatment procedure before organic C and13C/12C analyses. We recommend using our protocol if techniques such as XRD or SEM‐EDS indicate the presence of siderite in soil.
Recent developments and applications of capillary and microchip electrophoresis in proteomics and peptidomics (2015–mid 2018)
Authors: Štěpánová Sille , Kašička Václav
Published: November 2018

This review summarizes recent developments and applications of capillary and microchip electroseparation methods in proteomic and peptidomic analyses since the year 2015 to ca. mid 2018. Sample preparation procedures for the removal of interfering components or for pre‐fractionation and preconcentration of proteins and peptides of interest are discussed. The innovations in coupling of capillary or microchip electroseparation methods with different modes of mass spectrometry detection are covered. In addition, significant recent applications of capillary electromigration methods in both bottom‐up and top‐down proteomics as well as in determinations of post‐translational modifications of proteins are presented. Moreover, several examples of the utilization of capillary electromigration methods coupled with mass spectrometry detection for clinical proteomics and peptidomics are described.
Spatial distribution of band recoveries of black brant
Authors: Leach Alan G. , Ward David H. , Sedinger James S. , Riecke Thomas V. , Hupp Jerry W. , Ritchie Robert J.
Published: November 2018

On average, band recovery rates of adult black brant (Branta bernicla nigricans) more than doubled between the 2000s and 2010s. However, the spatial distribution of band recoveries of black brant has not been reported. Our objective was to describe the spatial distribution of band recoveries of black brant since 1990. We found that Alaska, California, and Mexico accounted for ≥89% of band recoveries for black brant released from the Arctic and the Tutakoke River Colony in southwestern Alaska, in each decade studied. Although recovery rates increased in each major harvest region from the 1990s to 2010s, increases were not even. For brant released from the Arctic, the recovery rate in Alaska has gone up 7‐fold, whereas the recovery rate in Mexico has increased 1.3‐fold since the 1990s. For brant banded in the Arctic, the increased recovery rates in Alaska resulted largely from a rise in recoveries from the Izembek Lagoon area. For brant banded at the Tutakoke River Colony, the recovery rate in Alaska increased 4.8‐fold, whereas recovery rates in Mexico increased 1.6‐fold. Despite the reduced relative contribution of Mexico to band recoveries in the 2010s, Bahia San Quintin, Mexico, still contributes more recoveries than any other wintering estuary. Because 57–60% of black brant band recoveries occur at the localities of Izembek Lagoon, Alaska; Humboldt Bay, California; and Bahia San Quintin, it is likely that accurate annual estimates of the black brant population using Lincoln's method could be derived from hunter bag checks at these 3 areas. If population managers are interested in managing harvest rates of black brant, they could focus efforts on the main hunting areas we highlight in this paper. Finally, it is unclear if the recent increases in band recovery rates are the result of increased harvest, a declining population, or both; therefore, we suggest refinement of population monitoring programs and continued monitoring of band recovery rates. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Genetic polymorphisms of diabetes‐related genes, their interaction with diabetes status, and breast cancer incidence and mortality: The Long Island Breast Cancer Study Project
Authors: Parada Humberto , Cleveland Rebecca J. , North Kari E. , Stevens June , Teitelbaum Susan L. , Neugut Alfred I. , Santella Regina M. , Martinez Maria E. , Gammon Marilie D.
Published: November 2018

To examine 143 diabetes risk single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), identified from genome‐wide association studies, in association with breast cancer (BC) incidence and subsequent mortality. A population‐based sample of Caucasian women with first primary invasive BC (n = 817) and controls (n = 1021) were interviewed to assess diabetes status. Using the National Death Index, women with BC were followed for >18 years during which 340 deaths occurred (139 BC deaths). Genotyping was done using DNA extracted from blood samples. We used unconditional logistic regression to estimate age‐adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for BC incidence, and Cox regression to estimate age‐adjusted hazard ratios and CIs for all‐cause and BC‐specific mortality. Twelve SNPs were associated with BC risk in additive genotype models, at α = 0.05. The top three significant SNPs included SLC30A8‐rs4876369 (P = 0.0034), HHEX‐rs11187146 (P = 0.0086), and CDKN2A/CDKN2B‐rs1333049 (P = 0.0094). Diabetes status modified the associations between rs4876369 and rs2241745 and BC incidence, on the multiplicative interaction scale. Six SNPs were associated with all‐cause (CDKAL1‐rs981042, P = 0.0032; HHEX‐rs1111875, P = 0.0361; and INSR‐rs919275, P = 0.0488) or BC‐specific (CDKN2A/CDKN2B‐rs3218020, P = 0.0225; CDKAL1‐rs981042, P = 0.0246; and TCF2/HNF1B‐rs3094508, P = 0.0344) mortality in additive genotype models, at α = 0.05. Genetic polymorphisms that increase the risk of developing diabetes may also increase the risk of developing and dying from BC.
Coherent full duplex radio over fiber system with multiple signal transmission
Authors: Chandrasenan Archa , Zacharias Joseph
Published: November 2018

In this paper, a cost‐effective and simple full duplex RoF (radio over fiber) system is developed from a simplex coherent RoF. At the transmitter, utilizing the magnitude and phase of the vector carrier, four different information are encoded simultaneously on the carrier light wave. Dividing the total carrier power into two branches, enable the transmitter to modulate two distinct information on each branch. The working of the system is described in two main sections namely uplink section and downlink section. In the first section, encoding of uplink transmitting information and decoding downlink information at the central office (CO) is described. In the second section, modulating downlink transmitting information and demodulating coherently the uplink receiving information at the base station (BS) are described. An algorithm based on fast Fourier transform is described for effectively canceling the phase noise (PN) at the BS. Considering the cost of optical components, the source used to coherently detect the uplinked transmitted information, is again used as the carrier for downlink. Altogether, this system enables to transmit three different information on uplink and are faithfully received at the BS with an average of log(BER) value −23 dB. And for downlink, one information is transmitted and is successfully received at the CO with log(BER) of −9 dB. About 10 dB decrease in log(BER) values was found after the cancellation of PN.
Increased risk of melanoma in C9ORF72 repeat expansion carriers: A case–control study
Authors: Tábuas‐Pereira Miguel , Almendra Luciano , Almeida Maria Rosário , Durães João , Pinho André , Matos Anabela , Negrão Luis , Geraldo Argemiro , Santana Isabel
Published: November 2018

Introduction: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) are considered part of the same pathological spectrum. There is an increased risk of ALS in patients who have had melanoma. The risk of FTLD in melanoma (or cancer) patients is unknown. We aimed to study if C9ORF72 expansion is linked to a higher prevalence of melanoma. Methods: We selected patients with a diagnosis in the ALS‐FTLD spectrum who were tested for pathogenic mutations. Medical history was reviewed, to identify those with pathologically documented melanomas. Results: We included 189 patients. Sixty‐two had identified pathogenic mutations (39 C9ORF72). C9ORF72 carriers had a significantly higher risk of melanoma (odds ratio = 24.709; P < 0.007). There was no association with phenotype. Conclusions: These findings suggest that patients with a history of melanoma may have an increased probability of carrying a C9ORF72 repeat expansion. ALS or FTLD carriers of C9ORF72 should undergo surveillance for skin changes. Muscle Nerve 59:362–365, 2019
Fitting algorithms and baseline correction influence the results of non‐invasive in vivo quantitation of 2‐hydroxyglutarate with 1H‐MRS
Authors: Wenger Katharina J. , Hattingen Elke , Harter Patrick N. , Richter Christian , Franz Kea , Steinbach Joachim P. , Bähr Oliver , Pilatus Ulrich
Published: November 2018

1H‐MRS enables non‐invasive detection of 2‐hydroxyglutarate (2‐HG), an oncometabolite accumulating in gliomas carrying mutations in the isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) genes. Reliable 2‐HG quantitation requires reproducible post‐processing, deployment of fitting algorithms and quantitation methods. We prospectively enrolled 38 patients with suspected or recently diagnosed gliomas (IDH mutated n = 26). The MRI protocol included a 1H single voxel PRESS sequence with volumes of usually 8 mL or more (20 × 20 × 20 mm3) at TE = 97 ms and 180° pulse spacing. Our aim was to evaluate the reliability of 2‐HG quantitation comparing two frequently used software tools and their respective options of baseline correction (jMRUI with the time domain methods AQSES and QUEST, and LCModel, which analyzes the frequency domain data). For AQSES, degrees of freedom for baseline correction constrains were varied. For LCModel, baseline correction was obtained with and without correction of the unknown background term (predefined macromolecules, lipids). Tissue concentrations were calculated based on the phantom replacement method. Quantitation of 2‐HG levels showed similar mean 2‐HG tissue concentrations for IDH mutated tumors (2.65mM, range 3.06–2.20) for all methods. Bland–Altman plots (difference plots) did not reveal a systematic bias (fixed bias) for any of the algorithms tested, and we were able to show a significant correlation regarding 2‐HG concentration at the same echo time with few statistical outliers (parametric correlation). However, evaluation of outliers suggested that in vivo quantitation of 2‐HG is affected not only by the fitting domain (time or frequency), but also by the baseline correction, which is a major contributing factor to the result of 2‐HG fitting. Clinical application of 2‐HG quantitation as a prognostic or predictive biomarker, particularly in multicenter trials, requires standardized use of fitting methods and baseline correction procedures.
Designing Self‐Assembled Rosettes: Why Ammeline is a Superior Building Block to Melamine
Authors: Petelski Andre Nicolai , Fonseca Guerra Célia
Published: November 2018

In supramolecular chemistry, the rational design of self‐assembled systems remains a challenge. Herein, hydrogen‐bonded rosettes of melamine and ammeline have been theoretically examined by using dispersion‐corrected density functional theory (DFT‐D). Our bonding analyses, based on quantitative Kohn–Sham molecular orbital theory and corresponding energy decomposition analyses (EDA), show that ammeline is a much better building block than melamine for the fabrication of cyclic complexes based on hydrogen bonds. This superior capacity is explained by both stronger hydrogen bonding and the occurrence of a strong synergy.
Influence of biodegradation on crystallization of poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate)
Authors: Svoboda Petr , Dvorackova Marie , Svobodova Dagmar
Published: November 2018

The biodegradation of aromatic‐aliphatic biodegradable polyester poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) was studied under mesophilic (37°C) and thermophilic (55°C) anaerobic conditions. Anaerobic sludge from municipal wastewater treatment plant was utilized as an inoculum. Non‐isothermal crystallization kinetics of PBAT before and after biodegradation was explored by differential scanning calorimetry. Under mesophilic anaerobic conditions (37°C), the biodegradation after 126 days was only 2.2%, molecular weight changed from 93 000 to 25 500 g/mol, and the crystallization behavior was changed only slightly. However, biodegradation under thermophilic anaerobic conditions (55°C) caused much bigger changes: biodegradation according to biogas production reached after 126 days 8.3%, molecular weight changed from 93 000 to 9430 g/mol, and the crystallization behavior was changed significantly. While Tm increased only slightly, Tc on the other hand increased significantly for the sample after biodegradation at 55°C. Also, the crystallization rate was slower (particularly at lower cooling rates), but crystallinity was slightly higher. The diffraction pattern was observed by X‐ray diffraction.
Multiscale physicochemical characterization of a short glass fiber–reinforced polyphenylene sulfide composite under aging and its thermo‐oxidative mechanism
Authors: Zuo Peiyuan , Tcharkhtchi Abbas , Shirinbayan Mohammadali , Fitoussi Joseph , Bakir Farid
Published: November 2018

In this paper, the thermo‐oxidation for a short glass fiber–reinforced polyphenylene sulfide (PPS/GF) composite was experimentally and theoretically studied by a wide range of physicochemical and mechanical techniques. The accelerated thermal aging temperatures were fixed at 100°C, 140°C, 160°C, 180°C, and 200°C. Firstly, the results of weight loss under aging indicate the formation of volatile products because of chain scission of end groups. Also, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results suggest that the formation and accumulation of carbonyl group arising from the formation of hydroperoxides in oxidative propagation process. In all cases of different thermal oxidation temperatures, it is hard to observe some significant change about the concentration of carbonyl group during the induction time. This induction time depends inversely on the oxidation temperature. Moreover, the cross‐linking and chain scissions exist together according to the results of rheological results and it is easier to see the cross‐linking phenomenon at the beginning of oxidation while the chain scissions are more pronounced, with the oxidation process developing further. In aspect of mechanical properties, σmax increases at the beginning of oxidation because of cross‐linking, and subsequently, the σmax always decreases because of thermo‐oxidation of the PPS matrix. In addition, the detailed thermo‐oxidation processes are fully discussed in the end of this study. A mechanistic schema has been proposed to present different oxidation reactions of PPS polymer and then a kinetic model has been extracted from this mechanism. Afterwards, the model has been verified by experimental results at different temperatures.
Zooming in on Cryopreservation of hiPSCs and Neural Derivatives: A Dual-Center Study Using Adherent Vitrification
Authors: Kaindl Johanna , Meiser Ina , Majer Julia , Sommer Annika , Krach Florian , Katsen-Globa Alisa , Winkler Jürgen , Zimmermann Heiko , Neubauer Julia C. , Winner Beate
Published: November 2018

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are an important tool for research and regenerative medicine, but their efficient cryopreservation remains a major challenge. The current gold standard is slow-rate freezing of dissociated colonies in suspension, but low recovery rates limit immediate post-thawing applicability. We tested whether ultrafast cooling by adherent vitrification improves post-thawing survival in a selection of hiPSCs and small molecule neural precursor cells (smNPCs) from Parkinson’s disease and controls. In a dual-center study, we compared the results by immunocytochemistry (ICC), fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis, and RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq). Adherent vitrification was achieved in the so-called TWIST substrate, a device combining cultivation, vitrification, storage, and post-thawing cultivation. Adherent vitrification resulted in preserved confluency and significantly higher cell numbers, and viability at day 1 after thawing, while results were not significantly different at day 4 after thawing. RNA-seq and ICC of hiPSCs revealed no change in gene expression and pluripotency markers, indicating that physical damage of slow-rate freezing disrupts cellular membranes. Scanning electron microscopy showed preserved colony integrity by adherent vitrification. Experiments using smNPCs demonstrated that adherent vitrification is also applicable to neural derivatives of hiPSCs. Our data suggest that, compared to the state-of-the-art slow-rate freezing in suspension, adherent vitrification is an improved cryopreservation technique for hiPSCs and derivatives. Stem Cells Translational Medicine  2019;8:247&259
Tourism, Nation-Building, and Magazines
Authors: Lindsay Claire
Published: November 2018

In two sections, this chapter examines, first, the correspondence between tourism and nation-building in conceptual and material terms and, second, the magazine as a paradigmatic expression in print culture of that concurrence. The first section, drawing on recent scholarship in tourism and Latin American studies, situates the book’s focus on Mexico within the country’s remarkable emergence from the Revolution during the 1920s and onwards, contextualizing that significant juncture within the history of organized tourism there since the late nineteenth century to the present day. The second section, drawing on examples from the book’s corpus of magazines, elucidates the unparalleled properties of the periodical as an object of study within those contexts and considers ensuing methodological issues.
Mapping Capital in Mexico This Month (1955–1971)
Authors: Lindsay Claire
Published: November 2018

This chapter, based on original archival work on Mexico/This Month, responds to Susannah Glusker’s invitation to undertake ‘an analysis of [its] contribution … in promoting Mexico’ (Glusker 1998: 15), with a particular focus on cartography and capital. The chapter, through a close reading of its trademark Explorers’ Maps series, and drawing on pertinent work on cartography from a range of disciplines, suggests that Mexico This Month visually and discursively mapped a fantasy of capital that is related to, yet destabilized by, a second, more problematic fantasy of conquest. The chapter also enquires into the impact of capital on the magazine’s external periodical code, that is, the relation between the conditions of its state funding and its endurance as a material artifact over its lifetime.