bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser‐Triggered Small Interfering RNA Releasing Gold Nanoshells against Heat Shock Protein for Sensitized Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Wang Zhaohui , Li Siwen , Zhang Min , Ma Yi , Liu Yuxi , Gao Weidong , Zhang Jiaqi , Gu Yueqing
Published: October 2016

The resistance of cancer cells to photothermal therapy is closely related to the overexpression of heat shock proteins (HSPs), which are abnormally upregulated when cells are under lethal stresses. Common strategies that use small molecule inhibitors against HSPs to enhance hyperthermia effect lack spatial and temporal control of drug release, leading to unavoidable systemic toxicity. Herein, a versatile photothermal platform is developed which is composed of a hollow gold nanoshell core densely packed with small interfering RNAs against heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70). Upon near infrared light irradiation, the small interfering RNAs can detach from gold surface specifically and escape from endosomes for Hsp70 silencing. Meanwhile, the temperature increases for hyperthermia therapy due to the high photothermal efficiency of the nanoshells. Efficient downregulation of Hsp70 after light activation is achieved in vitro and in vivo. Ultimately, the light‐controlled dual functional nanosystem, with the effects of Hsp70 silencing and temperature elevation, results in sensitized photothermal therapy in nude mice model under mild temperature. This strategy smartly combines the localized photothermal therapy with controlled Hsp70 silencing, and has great potential for clinical translation with a simple and easily controlled structure.
Spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia Omani type: CHST3 mutation spectrum and phenotypes in three Indian families
Authors: Srivastava Priyanka , Pandey Himani , Agarwal Divya , Mandal Kausik , Phadke Shubha R.
Published: October 2016

We describe three consanguineous Indian families with a distinct form of spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia (SED Omani type). It is an autosomal recessive disorder due to mutation in CHST3 gene. CHST3 gene encodes the enzyme chondroitin 6‐O‐sulfotransferase‐1 (C6ST‐1) which mediates the sulfation of proteoglycans, (chondroitin sulfate), in the extracellular matrix of cartilage. CHST3 gene was sequenced in probands from three different families with SED. In two families missense mutations (c.904G>C predicting the substitution D302H) and c.491C>T (P164L) were identified. A frameshift (insertion) mutation (c.533_534ins G predicting the substitution A179Rfs*) was found in the third family. SNP micrarray in the family 2 helped to localize the common areas of homozygosity and identified the candidate gene. The confirmation by molecular diagnosis will be useful in the management and in the counseling of affected patients and their families. The presence of sclerosis of cranial sutures adds to the phenotypic spectrum of the disorder. Severe cardiac valvular disease in a case and triangular epiphyses of knees are other features which are highlighted in this report. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Implication of LRRC4C and DPP6 in neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Maussion Gilles , Cruceanu Cristiana , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Bell Scott C. , Jollant Fabrice , Szatkiewicz Jin , Collins Ryan L. , Hanscom Carrie , Kolobova Ilaria , de Champfleur Nicolas Menjot , Blumenthal Ian , Chiang Colby , Ota Vanessa , Hultman Christina , O'Dushlaine Colm , McCarroll Steve , Alda Martin , Jacquemont Sebastien , Ordulu Zehra , Marshall Christian R. , Carter Melissa T. , Shaffer Lisa G. , Sklar Pamela , Girirajan Santhosh , Morton Cynthia C. , Gusella James F. , Turecki Gustavo , Stavropoulos Dimitri J. , Sullivan Patrick F. , Scherer Stephen W. , Talkowski Michael E. , Ernst Carl
Published: October 2016

We performed whole‐genome sequencing on an individual from a family with variable psychiatric phenotypes that had a sensory processing disorder, apraxia, and autism. The proband harbored a maternally inherited balanced translocation (46,XY,t(11;14)(p12;p12)mat) that disrupted LRRC4C, a member of the highly specialized netrin G family of axon guidance molecules. The proband also inherited a paternally derived chromosomal inversion that disrupted DPP6, a potassium channel interacting protein. Copy Number (CN) analysis in 14,077 cases with neurodevelopmental disorders and 8,960 control subjects revealed that 60% of cases with exonic deletions in LRRC4C had a second clinically recognizable syndrome associated with variable clinical phenotypes, including 16p11.2, 1q44, and 2q33.1 CN syndromes, suggesting LRRC4C deletion variants may be modifiers of neurodevelopmental disorders. In vitro, functional assessments modeling patient deletions in LRRC4C suggest a negative regulatory role of these exons found in the untranslated region of LRRC4C, which has a single, terminal coding exon. These data suggest that the proband's autism may be due to the inheritance of disruptions in both DPP6 and LRRC4C, and may highlight the importance of the netrin G family and potassium channel interacting molecules in neurodevelopmental disorders. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interim evaluation of efficacy or futility in group‐sequential trials with multiple co‐primary endpoints
Authors: Asakura Koko , Hamasaki Toshimitsu , Evans Scott R.
Published: October 2016

We discuss group‐sequential designs in superiority clinical trials with multiple co‐primary endpoints, that is, when trials are designed to evaluate if the test intervention is superior to the control on all primary endpoints. We consider several decision‐making frameworks for evaluating efficacy or futility, based on boundaries using group‐sequential methodology. We incorporate the correlations among the endpoints into the calculations for futility boundaries and sample sizes as a function of other design parameters, including mean differences, the number of analyses, and efficacy boundaries. We investigate the operating characteristics of the proposed decision‐making frameworks in terms of efficacy/futility boundaries, power, the Type I error rate, and sample sizes, while varying the number of analyses, the correlations among the endpoints, and the mean differences. We provide an example to illustrate the methods and discuss practical considerations when designing efficient group‐sequential designs in clinical trials with co‐primary endpoints.
Wal und Mensch
Authors: Holm Patricia , Holm Fynn J. , Holm Jürgen
Published: October 2016

Die Geschichte der Wal‐Mensch‐Beziehung ist wechselreich. Die großen Meeressäuger liefern auch heute noch reichlich Stoff für Märchen und Mysterien. Die übermäßige Bejagung hat jedoch vor allem im letzten Jahrhundert fast zum Aussterben vieler Walarten geführt. Beim Walfang wird kommerzieller, wissenschaftlicher und Eingeborenen‐Walfang unterschieden. Seit dem Walfang‐Moratorium der Internationalen Walfang‐Kommission 1986 haben sich die Bestände der Großwale unterschiedlich entwickelt. Wir geben Einblick in die Geschichte des Walfangs und zeigen heutige Bedrohungen auf, wie Beifang, Verstrickung in Netzen, Kollisionen mit Schiffen, Unfälle, Meeresverschmutzung und Klimawandel. Walbeobachtungstourismus ist eine stetig wachsende Branche, die für die Wale nicht harmlos ist.
Recent Advances in Cascade Reactions Initiated by Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Faisca Phillips Ana Maria , Pombeiro Armando J. L. , Kopylovich Maximilian N.
Published: October 2016

In this review, we attempt to answer the question: how can we construct complex functionalized molecules with significant added value from cheap and readily available alcohols in the simplest and most efficient manner? Accordingly, recent developments (mainly from the last five years) in the field of one‐pot multiple transformations of alcohols are overviewed in terms of process simplification and optimization; sustainability; and atom, bond, step, and redox economy. Particular attention is paid to chemo‐ and stereoselective transformations with specific formation of particular bonds and configurations, leaving other parts of substrates unchanged.
Thiomaltol‐Based Organometallic Complexes with 1‐Methylimidazole as Leaving Group: Synthesis, Stability, and Biological Behavior
Authors: Hackl Carmen M. , Legina Maria S. , Pichler Verena , Schmidlehner Melanie , Roller Alexander , Dömötör Orsolya , Enyedy Eva A. , Jakupec Michael A. , Kandioller Wolfgang , Keppler Bernhard K.
Published: October 2016

Thiomaltol, a potential S,O‐coordinating molecule, has been utilized for the complexation of four different organometallic fragments, yielding the desired RuII, OsII, RhIII, and IrIII complexes having a “piano‐stool” configuration. In addition to the synthesis of these compounds with a chlorido leaving group, the analogous 1‐methylimidazole derivatives have been prepared, giving rise to thiomaltol‐based organometallics with enhanced stability under physiological conditions. The organometallic compounds have been characterized by NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and X‐ray diffraction analysis. Their behavior in aqueous solution and their interactions with certain amino acids have been studied by ESI mass spectrometry. Their pH‐dependent stability has been investigated by 1H NMR in aqueous solution, and their cytotoxicity against three different cancer cell lines has been investigated. Furthermore, their capacity as topoisomerase IIα inhibitors as well as their effect on the cell cycle distribution and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation have been elucidated.
Control of the DNA‐Binding and Antiproliferative Properties of Hydroxybenzo[b]quinolizinium Derivatives with pH and Light
Authors: Schäfer Katy , Ihmels Heiko , Porcù Elena , Viola Giampietro
Published: October 2016

The interactions of 8‐hydroxybenzo[b]quinolizinium and 9‐hydroxybenzo[b]quinolizinium with DNA are investigated in detail. Specifically, spectrophotometric and spectrofluorimetric titrations, thermal DNA‐denaturation experiments as well as CD‐ and LD‐spectroscopic analysis show that a pH shift by just one or two orders of magnitude has a significant impact on the interactions of the acidic ligands with the nucleic acid. Both ligands bind with high affinity to DNA at pH 6 (Kb≈105 m−1). At pH 7 or 8, however, the binding interactions are much weaker because of the formation of the corresponding charge‐neutral conjugate bases, the affinity to DNA of which is reduced because of the resulting lack of a positive charge. Notably, the variation of DNA affinity occurs in a range that corresponds to the fluctuations of pH values under physiological conditions, so that these ligands may be employed to target DNA in tissue with particular pH values, especially, cancer cells. The antiproliferative activity of the title compounds under different conditions is also investigated. In the absence of irradiation, both compounds show only a modest cytotoxicity toward cancer cells. However, upon irradiation, even at low UV‐A doses, a significant reduction of cell viability of tumor cell lines is induced by the ligands.
Mesoporous Assembled Mn3O4 Nanoparticle Networks as Efficient Catalysts for Selective Oxidation of Alkenes and Aryl Alkanes
Authors: Skliri Euaggelia , Papadogiorgakis Stelios , Lykakis Ioannis N. , Armatas Gerasimos S.
Published: October 2016

The design of nanoscale materials has been considered important for enhancing their surface properties for catalysis. Metal oxide nanoparticles have a large number of exposed surface active sites, but they suffer from low reactivity and poor stability resulting from excessive aggregation into less active microscopic structures. Herein, the synthesis of mesoporous Mn3O4 nanoparticle assemblies by polymer‐assisted self‐assembly is presented and their catalytic activity is demonstrated in the oxidation of various saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons, including aromatic alkenes and aryl alkanes, in the presence of tert‐butyl hydroperoxide as a mild oxidant. It is also shown through comparative studies that the high catalytic activity and stability of these Mn3O4 assemblies arise from the unique three‐dimensional open‐pore structure, high internal surface area (90 m2 g−1) and uniform mesopores (≈6.6 nm in size).
Controller design for network‐based Markovian jump systems with unreliable communication links
Authors: Shen Wei , Su Xiaoyu
Published: October 2016

This article is concerned with observer and controller design for networked control systems, where the considered plant refers to a class of discrete‐time communication delay Markovian jump systems. In the study, random packet losses and output quantization are considered simultaneously. The packet losses considered here includes sensor to controller and controller to actuator sides, which are modeled as two Bernoulli distributed white sequences, respectively. An observer‐based control scheme is developed to stabilize the closed‐loop systems. Finally, an illustrative example is provided to show the applicability of the proposed control method. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 623–634, 2016
Novel psychoactive substances: What educators need to know
Authors: Patterson ZR , Young MM , Vaccarino FJ
Published: October 2016

Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are synthetic, psychoactive drugs that are generally not under international regulatory control. NPS are frequently sold as alternatives to classic “street drugs” such as ecstasy or LSD. However, little is known about their pharmacology and toxicity and they therefore pose unknown health risks. Further, risk for harms are elevated because users often do not know what they are taking, and therefore cannot predict dose, potency, or other potential properties.
Charge‐ and Size‐Selective Molecular Separation using Ultrathin Cellulose Membranes
Authors: Puspasari Tiara , Yu Haizhou , Peinemann Klaus‐Viktor
Published: October 2016

Invited for this month′s cover are Klaus‐V. Peinemann and his co‐workers at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). The image shows the separation performance of a 10 nm thin cellulose membrane. The Communication itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.201600791.
Bracing systems in masonry buildings / Aussteifungssysteme im Mauerwerksbau
Authors: Sommerlade Kai , Seim Werner
Published: October 2016

In this article, an FE analysis model suitable in engineering practice for masonry bracing walls acting as deep beams without tensile strength is compared with simple models based on trusses. The results of both processes are compared through the example of a four‐storey building of Poroton masonry.
Longitudinal compressive strength of masonry – Simplified calculation approach / Längsdruckfestigkeit von Mauerwerk – Vereinfachter Berechnungsansatz
Authors: Saenger Dorothea , Brameshuber Wolfgang
Published: October 2016

For the structural analysis of the bending compression zone of masonry building elements, which are loaded under bending compression parallel to the bed joints, the longitudinal compressive strength of the masonry is required. According to the code, this value has until now been determined in laborious tests on masonry building elements or calculated analogously to the approach for the determination of the compressive strength perpendicular to the bed joints. In such a way, the actual failure mechanisms of masonry under compression loading parallel to the bed joints and relevant influential parameters for the longitudinal compressive strength however remain unconsidered. The article presents a proposal for the determination of minimum values of the longitudinal compressive strength of masonry in a simplified form for structural design purposes, which include consideration of both the relevant failure cases and also the significant influential parameters.
Perceptual learning and face processing in infancy
Authors: Galati Ashley , Hock Alyson , Bhatt Ramesh S.
Published: October 2016

Configural information (spacing between features) contributes to face‐processing expertise in adulthood. We examined whether infants can be “trained” to process this information. In Experiment 1, 3.5‐month‐olds failed to discriminate changes in the spacing between facial features. However, in Experiments 2 and 3, infants processed the same information after being primed with faces in which the spacing was repeatedly altered. Experiment 4 found that priming was not effective with inverted faces or with faces depicting changes in features but not relations among features, indicating that the priming exhibited in Experiments 2 and 3 was specific to upright faces depicting spacing changes. Thus, even young infants who do not readily process facial configural information can be induced to do so through priming. These findings suggest that learning to encode critical structural information contributes to the development of face processing expertise.
Charge Transfer and Structural Anomaly in Stoichiometric Layered Perovskite Sr2Co0.5Ir0.5O4
Authors: Mikhailova Daria , Hu Zhiwei , Kuo Chang‐Yang , Oswald Steffen , Mogare Kailash M. , Agrestini Stefano , Lee Jyh‐Fu , Pao Chin‐Wen , Chen Shin‐An , Lee Jenn‐Min , Haw Shu‐Chih , Chen Jin‐Ming , Liao Yen‐Fa , Ishii Hirofumi , Tsuei Ku‐Ding , Senyshyn Anatoliy , Ehrenberg Helmut
Published: October 2016

A layered Sr2Co0.5Ir0.5O4 (space group I4/mmm) perovskite of the K2NiF4 structure type was synthesized as a single‐phase sample. Neutron powder diffraction measurements revealed full site occupancy of oxygen atoms. The Co3+/Ir5+ valence states were evaluated by a combination of X‐ray absorption and X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy as well as by magnetization measurements, and thus the differences to the parent compounds Sr2CoO4 and Sr2IrO4 with similar structures were confirmed. Co‐K edge EXAFS studies indicated a long average Co–O distance of 1.967 Å suggesting a high‐spin state of the Co3+ ion in Sr2Co0.5Ir0.5O4. No long‐range magnetic ordering down to 4 K was detected by neutron powder diffraction, probably hindered by the random distribution of Co and Ir cations in the Sr2Co0.5Ir0.5O4 structure. High‐pressure synchrotron powder diffraction studies showed stability of the Sr2Co0.5Ir0.5O4 structure up to at least 27 GPa at room temperature. A maximum in the c/a ratio at 10 GPa together with an anomaly in the pressure dependence of the unit‐cell volume could be a sign of a change in the spin state of the Co ions under pressure.
Highly multiplex and sensitive SNP genotyping method using a three‐color fluorescence‐labeled ligase detection reaction coupled with conformation‐sensitive CE
Authors: Choi Woong , Jung Gyoo Yeol
Published: October 2016

For the development of clinically useful genotyping methods for SNPs, accuracy, simplicity, sensitivity, and cost‐effectiveness are the most important criteria. Among the methods currently being developed for SNP genotyping technology, the ligation‐dependent method is considered the simplest for clinical diagnosis. However, sensitivity is not guaranteed by the ligation reaction alone, and analysis of multiple targets is limited by the detection method. Although CE is an attractive alternative to error‐prone hybridization‐based detection, the multiplex assay process is complicated because of the size‐based DNA separation principle. In this study, we employed the ligase detection reaction coupled with high‐resolution CE‐SSCP to develop an accurate, sensitive, and simple multiplex genotyping method. Ligase detection reaction could amplify ligated products through recurrence of denaturation and ligation reaction, and SSCP could separate these products according to each different structure conformation without size variation. Thus, simple and sensitive SNP analysis can be performed using this method involving the use of similar‐sized probes, without complex probe design steps. We found that this method could not only accurately discriminate base mismatches but also quantitatively detect 37 SNPs of the tp53 gene, which are used as targets in multiplex analysis, using three‐color fluorescence‐labeled probes.
Furfural production from corncobs using thiourea as additive
Authors: Xu Wenjuan , Zhang Suping , Lu Junjie , Cai Qinjie
Published: October 2016

Furfural production from the conversion of corncob was investigated using sulfuric acid as catalyst and thiourea as additive. The effects of acid concentration, temperature and thiourea on furfural yield were investigated. A furfural yield of 61.04% is achieved using thiourea as additive compared with 33.78% using H2SO4 alone without additive, under the optimum conditions of liquid–solid ratio of 2:1, temperature of 170°C and sulfuric acid of 0.5M. The effect of thiourea on furfural degradation rate was also evaluated. The reaction kinetic of furfural degradation shows that the activation energy is increased by 21.02% with thiourea as additive, which confirms that thiourea has effect on inhibiting the furfural degradation to some extent. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 690–695, 2017
A Comparison Between Bonobos and Chimpanzees: A Review and Update
Authors: Gruber Thibaud , Clay Zanna
Published: October 2016

Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and bonobos (P. paniscus) are our closest living relatives, with the human lineage diverging from the Pan lineage only around five to seven Mya, but possibly as early as eight Mya.1–2 Chimpanzees and bonobos even share genetic similarities with humans that they do not share with each other.2 Given their close genetic relationship to humans, both Pan species represent crucial living models for reconstructing our last common ancestor (LCA) and identifying uniquely human features. Comparing the similarities and differences of the two Pan is thus essential for constructing balanced models of human evolution.3
Packaging methods and storage duration affect essential oil content and composition of lemon verbena (Lippia citriodora Kunth.)
Authors: Ebadi Mohammad‐Taghi , Sefidkon Fatemeh , Azizi Majid , Ahmadi Noorollah
Published: October 2016

Changes in essential oils (EOs) content and composition of lemon verbena leave at different packaging methods (packaged with air, nitrogen, or under vacuum) and during storage period (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 months) were determined. All the samples were hydrodistilled every 2 months during storage for EO content evaluation. EO composition was determined by gas chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The results showed that by extending the storage period in all packaging methods, EO content was significantly decreased. Parallel to the increase in the storage duration in all packaging methods, citral content was decreased, whereas the amounts of limonene and 1,8‐cineole were increased. Packaging of lemon verbena leaves with nitrogen preserved the highest EO content during 8 months of storage and achieved the desired amounts of citral, limonene, and 1,8‐cineole. This investigation also showed camphene may be a useful marker for the indication of storage duration of lemon verbena.
Natural Gas Is “Jack Bauer” of Fuels—Struggle With Controversy and Uncertainty
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: October 2016

Six or seven years ago, as shale gas was coming to the fore as radically changing the natural gas industry, I wrote here that natural gas was the “Melanie Griffith of fuels.”
Rabies virus‐mediated oligodendrocyte labeling reveals a single oligodendrocyte myelinates axons from distinct brain regions
Authors: Osanai Yasuyuki , Shimizu Takeshi , Mori Takuma , Yoshimura Yumiko , Hatanaka Nobuhiko , Nambu Atsushi , Kimori Yoshitaka , Koyama Shinsuke , Kobayashi Kenta , Ikenaka Kazuhiro
Published: October 2016

Oligodendrocytes myelinate neuronal axons during development and increase conduction velocity of neuronal impulses in the central nervous system. Neuronal axons extend from multiple brain regions and pass through the white matter; however, whether oligodendrocytes ensheath a particular set of axons or do so randomly within the mammalian brain remains unclear. We developed a novel method to visualize individual oligodendrocytes and axon derived from a particular brain region in mouse white matter using a combinational injection of attenuated rabies virus and adeno‐associated virus. Using this method, we found that some populations of oligodendrocytes in the corpus callosum predominantly ensheathed axons derived from motor cortex or sensory cortex, while others ensheathed axons from both brain regions, suggesting heterogeneity in preference of myelination toward a particular subtype of neurons. Moreover, our newly established method is a versatile tool for analyzing precise morphology of each oligodendrocyte in animal models for demyelinating disorders and addressing the role of oligodendrocyte in higher brain functions. GLIA 2016. GLIA 2017;65:93–105
Chinese MNEs' Outward FDI and Home Country Productivity: The Moderating Effect of Technology Gap
Authors: Li Mei , Li Dan , Lyles Marjorie , Liu Shichang
Published: October 2016

Plain language summary

Today, more than ever, Chinese multinational enterprises (MNEs) are investing abroad in search of advanced technology and managerial knowledge. Our study aims to understand whether Chinese MNEs' overseas investments benefit their home productivity. Focusing on provinces as the unit of analysis, we capture both direct and indirect effects of overseas investment on the parent company and other related actors. We find that such benefits occur only when local firms have the capability to learn from their MNE neighbors. When the technology gap between a home province and MNEs' host countries is too large, local firms and the economy cannot capture the benefits of reverse knowledge spillover. The identification of many Chinese provinces still not capturing the benefits offers broad implications for both local managers and policy makers.

Technical summary

This article adds to the literature investigating how emerging economy MNEs' outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) affects domestic productivity and the moderating role of technology gap on reverse spillovers. Considering provinces as the unit of analysis, our research captures both direct and indirect effects of Chinese MNEs' OFDI on the parent company and other related actors and finds that the effects of Chinese MNEs' OFDI on a province's productivity are contingent upon the level of technology gap between that location and host countries. Our estimation reveals a double‐threshold model that groups Chinese provinces into three categories based on their technology gap relative to the host countries. Most provinces are within the middle‐level and low‐level categories, indicating the potential for significant effects of Chinese MNEs' OFDI on domestic productivities. Copyright © 2016 Strategic Management Society.
RELEASE, REFRAME, REFOCUS, AND RESPOND: A PRACTITIONER TRANSFORMATION PROCESS IN A REFLECTIVE CONSULTATION PROGRAM
Authors: Harrison Mary
Published: October 2016

This article presents findings from a qualitative research study exploring the experiences of early intervention practitioners in a reflective consultation program. Fifteen licensed early childhood special education teachers and speech, occupational, and physical therapists as well as a psychologist from an urban school district participated in interviews discussing their work stressors and involvement with monthly reflective consultation groups. They described a loosely temporal, iterative process which transformed how they thought and felt about both themselves as practitioners and the children and families with whom they worked. These practitioners also shared ways that their participation in reflective consultation changed some of their intervention strategies with young children and families. Analysis of themes from their descriptions led to the creation of a change process model defined as release, reframe, refocus, and respond. These findings contribute the practitioners’ voices and experiences in a structured way to a growing body of evidence about the efficacy of reflective supervision and consultation.
Intravital excitation increases detection sensitivity for pulmonary tuberculosis by whole‐body imaging with β‐lactamase reporter enzyme fluorescence
Authors: Nooshabadi Fatemeh , Yang Hee‐Jeong , Cheng Yunfeng , Durkee Madeleine S. , Xie Hexin , Rao Jianghong , Cirillo Jeffrey D. , Maitland Kristen C.
Published: October 2016

Tuberculosis is a pulmonary disease with an especially high mortality rate in immuno‐compromised populations, specifically children and HIV positive individuals. The causative agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), is a very slow growing and difficult organism to work with, making both diagnosis and development of effective treatments cumbersome. We utilize a fiber‐optic fluorescence microendoscope integrated with a whole‐body imaging system for in vivo Mtb detection. The system exploits an endogenous enzyme of Mtb (β‐lactamase, or BlaC) using a BlaC‐specific NIR fluorogenic substrate. In the presence of BlaC, this substrate is cleaved and becomes fluorescent. Using intravital illumination of the lung to excite this probe, sensitivity of the optical system increases over trans‐ and epi‐illumination methods of whole‐body fluorescence imaging. We demonstrate that integration of these imaging technologies with BlaC‐specific fluorescent reporter probe improves the level of detection to ∼100 colony forming units, a 100× increase in sensitivity in comparison to epi‐illumination and a 10× increase in sensitivity in comparison to previous work in intravital excitation of tdTomato‐expressing Mtb. This lower detection threshold enables the study of early stage bacterial infections with clinical strains of Mtb and longitudinal studies of disease pathogenesis and therapeutic efficacy with multiple time points in a single animal.

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Quantitative phase‐filtered wavelength‐modulated differential photoacoustic radar tumor hypoxia imaging toward early cancer detection
Authors: Dovlo Edem , Lashkari Bahman , soo Sean Choi Sung , Mandelis Andreas , Shi Wei , Liu Fei‐Fei
Published: October 2016

Overcoming the limitations of conventional linear spectroscopy used in multispectral photoacoustic imaging, wherein a linear relationship is assumed between the absorbed optical energy and the absorption spectra of the chromophore at a specific location, is crucial for obtaining accurate spatially‐resolved quantitative functional information by exploiting known chromophore‐specific spectral characteristics. This study introduces a non‐invasive phase‐filtered differential photoacoustic technique, wavelength‐modulated differential photoacoustic radar (WM‐DPAR) imaging that addresses this issue by eliminating the effect of the unknown wavelength‐dependent fluence. It employs two laser wavelengths modulated out‐of‐phase to significantly suppress background absorption while amplifying the difference between the two photoacoustic signals. This facilitates pre‐malignant tumor identification and hypoxia monitoring, as minute changes in total hemoglobin concentration and hemoglobin oxygenation are detectable. The system can be tuned for specific applications such as cancer screening and SO2 quantification by regulating the amplitude ratio and phase shift of the signal. The WM‐DPAR imaging of a head and neck carcinoma tumor grown in the thigh of a nude rat demonstrates the functional PA imaging of small animals in vivo. The PA appearance of the tumor in relation to tumor vascularity is investigated by immunohistochemistry. Phase‐filtered WM‐DPAR imaging is also illustrated, maximizing quantitative SO2 imaging fidelity of tissues.

Oxygenation levels within a tumor grown in the thigh of a nude rat using the two‐wavelength phase‐filtered differential PAR method.

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Oxygenation levels within a tumor grown in the thigh of a nude rat using the two‐wavelength phase‐filtered differential PAR method.
Financial Reporting of Nonfinancial Information: The Role of the Auditor
Authors: Murphy Luke , Hogan Robert
Published: October 2016

This study examines the increasing role of nonfinancial information within the scope of financial reporting and the role of the auditor. As social responsibility and sustainability become more of a mainstay in corporate culture, the reporting of nonfinancial information rises. We discuss the requirements and pressures placed on the auditors as the amount of nonfinancial information that is included in the financial reports increases. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How to Ensure Your Coaching Program Pays Off
Authors: Toterhi Tim , Recardo Ronald J.
Published: October 2016

To improve productivity, accelerate professional development, and reduce turnover of key talent, many organizations have established in‐house coaching programs to supplement their other training offerings. Though well intentioned, many of these initiatives fail to produce a quantifiable return on investment. Worse yet, in some cases their efficacy is never measured at all. By first understanding the value, purpose, and limitations of coaching and then developing a measurable strategy and targeted application for its use, organizational leaders can dramatically increase the chances that their efforts will produce tangible benefits. To be effective while keeping costs in check, a coaching model should be based on performance and align the needs of the organization with those of its employees.
Addressing Differences Between Inbound and Outbound Agents for Effective Call Center Management
Authors: Echchakoui SaÏD
Published: October 2016

To contribute to the management of blended call centers, researchers explored the moderating effects of personality traits and organizational identification on the turnover intention of inbound and outbound agents in a Canadian call center. The results reveal that the level of organizational identification among inbound agents is lower than it is among outbound agents. Contrary to previous research, however, turnover intention among inbound employees was found to be lower than that among outbound employees. The results also illustrate that openness to experience, which serves to reduce turnover intention, is a trait common to both types of call center agents. The finding that two personality traits—conscientiousness and emotional stability—have a positive impact on organizational identification for both inbound and outbound call center agents can be used to improve recruitment selection processes at call centers of all types.
The Impact of Corporate Emotional Intelligence on Innovation: Observations from China
Authors: Yang Xiaodong
Published: October 2016

Inspired by Daniel Goleman's work on emotional intelligence in individuals, research was conducted to determine whether and how his theories might be applied to organizations. Motivated by an ongoing campaign in China to promote innovation, the researcher created a model of corporate emotional intelligence and assessed its influence on innovation in 65 companies in China, ranging from startups to multinationals. Designed to show how this model could be used to interpret companies’ innovation capabilities, the study found that the surveyed firms struggle with the unstructured aspects of innovation. The model presented here can be used to obtain insights into the strengths and weaknesses of organizations of all sizes in any country.
Generation of Large‐Scale DNA Hydrogels with Excellent Blood and Cell Compatibility
Authors: Stoll Heidi , Steinle Heidrun , Stang Katharina , Kunnakattu Silju , Scheideler Lutz , Neumann Bernd , Kurz Julia , Degenkolbe Ilka , Perle Nadja , Schlensak Christian , Wendel Hans Peter , Avci‐Adali Meltem
Published: October 2016

Hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility of biomaterials codetermine the success of tissue engineering applications. DNA, the natural component of our cells, is an auspicious biomaterial for the generation of designable scaffolds with tailorable characteristics. In this study, a combination of rolling circle amplification and multiprimed chain amplification is used to generate hydrogels at centimeter scale consisting solely of DNA. Using an in vitro rotation model and fresh human blood, the reaction of the hemostatic system on DNA hydrogels is analyzed. The measurements of hemolysis, platelets activation, and the activation of the complement, coagulation, and neutrophils using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays demonstrate excellent hemocompatibility. In addition, the cytocompatibility of the DNA hydrogels is tested by indirect contact (agar diffusion tests) and material extract experiments with L929 murine fibroblasts according to the ISO 10993‐5 specifications and no negative impact on the cell viability is detected. These results indicate the promising potential of DNA hydrogels as biomaterials for versatile applications in the field of regenerative medicine.

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Acid‐Cleavable Unimolecular Micelles from Amphiphilic Star Copolymers for Triggered Release of Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Zhang Shan , Xu Jianbin , Chen Heng , Song Zhangfa , Wu Yalan , Dai Xingyi , Kong Jie
Published: October 2016

In this contribution, amphiphilic star copolymers (H40‐star‐PCL‐a‐PEG) with an H40 hyperbranched polyester core and poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐a‐poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer arms linked with acetal groups are synthesized using ring‐opening polymerization and a copper (I)‐catalyzed alkyne‐azide cycloaddition click reaction. The acid‐cleavable acetal groups between the hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments of the arms endow the amphiphilic star copolymers with pH responsiveness. In aqueous solution, unimolecular micelles can be formed with good stability and a unique acid degradability, as is desirable for anticancer drug carriers. For the model drug of doxorubicin, the in vitro release behavior, intracellular release, and inhibition of proliferation of HeLa cells show that the acid‐cleavable unimolecular micelles with anticancer activity can be dissociated in an acidic environment and efficiently internalized by HeLa cells. Due to the acid‐cleavable and biodegradable nature, unimolecular micelles from amphiphilic star copolymers are promising for applications in intracellular drug delivery for cancer chemotherapy.

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Targeting aberrant expression of Notch‐1 in ALDH+ cancer stem cells in breast cancer
Authors: Pal Deeksha , Kolluru Venkatesh , Chandrasekaran Balaji , Baby Becca V. , Aman Masarath , Suman Suman , Sirimulla Suman , Sanders Mary Ann , Alatassi Houda , Ankem Murali K. , Damodaran Chendil
Published: October 2016

We have previously reported that high aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) enzyme activity in breast cancer cells results in breast cancer stem cell (BCSC) properties by upregualting Notch‐1 and epithelial mesenchymal markers. This results in chemoresistance in breast cancer. Here, we examined the functional and clinical significance of ALDH expression by measuring the ALDH levels in breast cancer tissues by immunohistochemistry. There was a significantly higher ALDH expression in higher grade breast cancer tumor tissues (Grade‐ II and III) versus normal breast tissues. Injection of BCSC (ALDH+ and CD44+/CD22−) cells resulted in aggressive tumor growth in athymic mice versus ALDH− cells. The ALDH+ and CD44+/CD22− tumors grow rapidly and are larger than ALDH− tumors which were slow growing and smaller. Molecularly, ALDH+ tumors expressed higher expression of Notch‐1 and EMT markers than ALDH− tumors. Oral administration of the naturally occurring Psoralidin (Pso, 25 mg/kg of body weight) significantly inhibited the growth in ALDH+ and ALDH− tumors as well. Psoralidin inhibited Notch‐1 mediated EMT activation in ALDH+ and ALDH− tumors‐this confirms our in vitro findings. Our results suggest that Notch‐1 could be an attractive target and inhibition of Notch‐1 by Psoralidin may prevent pathogenesis of breast cancer as well as metastasis. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Unique solvability of a non‐local problem for mixed‐type equation with fractional derivative
Authors: Karimov Erkinjon T. , Berdyshev Abdumauvlen S. , Rakhmatullaeva Nilufar A.
Published: October 2016

In this work, we investigate a boundary problem with non‐local conditions for mixed parabolic–hyperbolic‐type equation with three lines of type changing with Caputo fractional derivative in the parabolic part. We equivalently reduce considered problem to the system of second kind Volterra integral equations. In the parabolic part, we use solution of the first boundary problem with appropriate Green's function, and in hyperbolic parts, we use corresponding solutions of the Cauchy problem. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maximising Skeletal Data Collection in Commercial Archaeology
Authors: Průchová E. , Chroustovský L. , Kacl P.
Published: October 2016

This paper explores the application of quick, simple and low‐cost procedures for data collection in commercial‐driven ‘salvage’ archaeology. In large‐scale cemetery contexts, the collection of a meaningful data set is often under extreme time and cost constraints. This requires the application of tailored field techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration between archaeologists, anthropologists and developers in order to maximise results. The authors examine procedures recently utilised to document and preserve skeletal data in three post‐mediaeval cemeteries in Prague, and evaluate their efficacy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Family factors that characterize adolescents with severe obesity and their role in weight loss surgery outcomes
Authors: Zeller Meg H. , Hunsaker Sanita , Mikhail Carmen , Reiter‐Purtill Jennifer , McCullough Mary Beth , Garland Beth , Austin Heather , Washington Gia , Baughcum Amy , Rofey Dana , Smith Kevin ,   for the TeenView Study Group and in collaboration with the Teen‐LABS Consortium
Published: October 2016

Objective

To comprehensively assess family characteristics of adolescents with severe obesity and whether family factors impact weight loss outcomes following weight loss surgery (WLS).

Methods

Multisite prospective data from 138 adolescents undergoing WLS and primary caregivers (adolescent: Mage = 16.9; MBMI= 51.5 kg/m2; caregiver: Mage = 44.5; 93% female) and 83 nonsurgical comparators (NSComp: adolescent: Mage = 16.1; MBMI = 46.9 kg/m2; caregiver: Mage = 43.9; 94% female) were collected using standardized measures at presurgery/baseline and at 1 and 2 years.

Results

The majority (77.3%) of caregivers had obesity, with rates of caregiver WLS significantly higher in the WLS (23.8%) versus NSComp group (3.7%, P < 0.001). Family dysfunction was prevalent (≈1 in every two to three families), with rates higher for NSComp than the WLS group. For the WLS group, preoperative family factors (i.e., caregiver BMI or WLS history, dysfunction, social support) were not significant predictors of adolescent weight loss at 1 and 2 years postoperatively, although change in family functioning over time emerged as a significant correlate of percent weight loss.

Conclusions

Rates of severe obesity in caregivers as well as family dysfunction were clinically noteworthy, although not related to adolescent weight loss success following WLS. However, change in family communication and emotional climate over time emerged as potential targets to optimize weight loss outcomes.
Animal models of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: current perspectives and recent advances
Authors: Lau Jennie Ka Ching , Zhang Xiang , Yu Jun
Published: October 2016

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a continuous spectrum of diseases characterized by excessive lipid accumulation in hepatocytes. NAFLD progresses from simple liver steatosis to non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis and, in more severe cases, to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Because of its growing worldwide prevalence, various animal models that mirror both the histopathology and the pathophysiology of each stage of human NAFLD have been developed. The selection of appropriate animal models continues to be one of the key questions faced in this field. This review presents a critical analysis of the histopathology and pathogenesis of NAFLD, the most frequently used and recently developed animal models for each stage of NAFLD and NAFLD‐induced HCC, the main mechanisms involved in the experimental pathogenesis of NAFLD in different animal models, and a brief summary of recent therapeutic targets found by the use of animal models. Integrating the data from human disease with those from animal studies indicates that, although current animal models provide critical guidance in understanding specific stages of NAFLD pathogenesis and progression, further research is necessary to develop more accurate models that better mimic the disease spectrum, in order to provide both increased mechanistic understanding and identification/testing of novel therapeutic approaches. © 2016 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
High‐performance imitation precious wood from low‐cost poplar wood via high‐rate permeability of phenolic resins
Authors: Li Jiongjiong , Zhang Aibin , Zhang Shifeng , Gao Qiang , Chen Hui , Zhang Wei , Li Jianzhang
Published: October 2016

Precious wood has high performances, but has limited availability, increasingly rising cost, and requires a long growth cycle. Imitation precious wood was prepared from low‐cost and fast‐growing poplar wood using the method of wood polymer composites (WPCs). Poplar wood was impregnated with phenol formaldehyde (PF) resins in the presence of surfactants as osmotic agents to achieve efficient PF permeability. The effects of formaldehyde/phenol (F/P) molar ratio, surfactant type, and surfactant amount on the performances of PF resins and the modified woods were investigated in detail. The wetting process of PF resins on wood surface and its molecular weight distribution were observed by contact angle measurement and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS), respectively. The physical and mechanical properties of the resultant WPCs were also evaluated. The poplar wood treated with PF‐DTAB‐0.8% resin (F/P = 1.6) exhibited lower viscosity (23.9 mPa s), lower molecular distribution and better permeability. The weight percent gains (WPG) of the treated material reached 104.82%, and its hardness reached 66.86 shore D. overall, this approach has the potential to make a wood product that can partially substitute for precious wood. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2431–2440, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Positive magnetoconductance and dephasing in strongly localized black phosphorus
Authors: Lee Tae‐Ho , Hwang Euyheon , Choi Jung‐Bum , Bae Myung‐Ho
Published: October 2016

We study the magnetoconductance and dephasing in a strongly localized regime in black phosphorus (BP) devices. The phase coherence length, lφ obtained from the magnetoconductance follows a temperature dependence of T–1/3 in the strongly localized regime with kFle < 1 (ξ < lφ) based on the Ioffe–Regel criterion. Here kF, le and ξ are the Fermi wave vector, mean free path and localization length, respectively. The conductance behavior as a function of temperature confirms that the transport regime of our BP is in a variable‐range‐hopping regime, which results in the strongly localized regime.