bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Resource Identification Initiative: a cultural shift in publishing
Authors: Bandrowski Anita , Brush Matthew , Grethe Jeffery S. , Haendel Melissa A. , Kennedy David N. , Hill Sean , Hof Patrick R. , Martone Maryann E. , Pols Maaike , Tan Serena C. , Washington Nicole , Zudilova‐Seinstra Elena , Vasilevsky Nicole ,   RINL Resource Identification Initiative
Published: December 2015

A central tenet in support of research reproducibility is the ability to uniquely identify research resources, that is, reagents, tools, and materials that are used to perform experiments. However, current reporting practices for research resources are insufficient to identify the exact resources that are reported or to answer basic questions such as “How did other studies use resource X?” To address this issue, the Resource Identification Initiative was launched as a pilot project to improve the reporting standards for research resources in the methods sections of papers and thereby improve identifiability and scientific reproducibility. The pilot engaged over 25 biomedical journal editors from most major publishers, as well as scientists and funding officials. Authors were asked to include Research Resource Identifiers (RRIDs) in their manuscripts prior to publication for three resource types: antibodies, model organisms, and tools (i.e., software and databases). RRIDs are assigned by an authoritative database, for example, a model organism database for each type of resource. To make it easier for authors to obtain RRIDs, resources were aggregated from the appropriate databases and their RRIDs made available in a central web portal ( http://scicrunch.org/resources). RRIDs meet three key criteria: they are machine readable, free to generate and access, and are consistent across publishers and journals. The pilot was launched in February of 2014 and over 300 papers have appeared that report RRIDs. The number of journals participating has expanded from the original 25 to more than 40 with RRIDs appearing in 62 different journals to date. Here, we present an overview of the pilot project and its outcomes to date. We show that authors are able to identify resources and are supportive of the goals of the project. Identifiability of the resources post‐pilot showed a dramatic improvement for all three resource types, suggesting that the project has had a significant impact on identifiability of research resources.
Survival among patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma in the pretargeted versus targeted therapy eras
Authors: Li Pengxiang , Wong Yu‐Ning , Armstrong Katrina , Haas Naomi , Subedi Prasun , Davis‐Cerone Margaret , Doshi Jalpa A.
Published: December 2015

Between December 2005 and October 2009, FDA approved six targeted therapies shown to significantly extend survival for advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients in clinical trials. This study aimed to examine changes in survival between the pretargeted and targeted therapy periods in advanced RCC patients in a real‐world setting. Utilizing the 2000–2010 SEER Research files, a pre–post study design with a contemporaneous comparison group was employed to examine differences in survival outcomes for patients diagnosed with advanced RCC (study group) or advanced prostate cancer (comparison group, for whom no significant treatment innovations happened during this period) across the pretargeted therapy era (2000–2005) and the targeted therapy era (2006–2010). RCC patients diagnosed in the targeted therapy era (N = 6439) showed improved survival compared to those diagnosed in the pretargeted therapy era (N = 7231, hazard ratio (HR) for all‐cause death: 0.86, P < 0.01), while the change between the pre–post periods was not significant for advanced prostate cancer patients (HR: 0.97, P = 0.08). Advanced RCC patients had significantly larger improvements in overall survival compared to advanced prostate cancer patients (z = 4.31; P < 0.01). More detailed year‐to‐year analysis revealed greater survival improvements for RCC in the later years of the posttargeted period. Similar results were seen for cause‐specific survival. Subgroup analyses by nephrectomy status, age, and gender showed consistent findings. Patients diagnosed with advanced RCC during the targeted therapy era had better survival outcomes than those diagnosed during the pretargeted therapy era. Future studies should examine the real‐world survival improvements directly associated with targeted therapies.
Your ethnic model speaks to the culturally connected: Differential effects of model ethnicity in advertisements and the role of cultural self‐construal
Authors: Hesapci Ozlem , Merdin Ezgi , Gorgulu Sahika
Published: December 2015

This paper examines self‐construal and consumer self‐referencing as a mechanism for explaining ethnicity effects in advertising. Data were collected from a 2 (participant ethnicity: Turkish versus Kurdish) × 2 (model ethnicity: Turkish versus Kurdish) × 2 (self‐construal: independent versus interdependent) experiment. Results show that (i) individuals with interdependent self‐construal display more positive evaluations towards an in‐group ethnic ad model than do individuals with independent self‐construal; (ii) ethnic minority individuals (Kurdish people) self‐referenced more advertising portrayals of models of a similar ethnicity than models of a different ethnicity, as did ethnic majority individuals (Turkish people); (iii) ethnic minority individuals who experienced high levels of self‐referencing exhibited more favourable attitude towards the advertisement, attitude towards the brand and a higher purchase intention than ethnic minority individuals who experienced low levels of self‐referencing; and (iv) self‐referencing is found to partially mediate the relationship between culturally constructed self‐concept (self‐construal) and ethnicity on consumer evaluations for interdependent subjects. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of lesion location on procedural and acute angiographic outcomes in patients with critical limb ischemia treated for peripheral artery disease with orbital atherectomy: A CONFIRM registries subanalysis
Authors: Lee Michael S. , Mustapha Jihad , Beasley Robert , Chopra Paramjit , Das Tony , Adams George L.
Published: December 2015

Objectives

This analysis compares the procedural and acute angiographic outcomes in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) treated with orbital atherectomy in above‐the‐knee (ATK)/popliteal (POP) lesions versus below‐the‐knee (BTK) lesions.

Background

Lesion location affects the procedural outcomes and the opportunity for limb salvage in patients with CLI suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Methods

The CONFIRM registry series was analyzed and includes 1109 real‐world patients (1544 lesions) suffering from CLI treated with orbital atherectomy. The rates of dissection, perforation, slow flow, vessel closure, spasm, embolism, and thrombus formation were compared between CLI patients with ATK/POP lesions and BTK lesions.

Results

Patients with ATK/POP lesions had a higher final residual stenosis (10 vs. 9%; P = 0.004) and use of more adjunctive therapies (e.g. balloons and stents; 1.3 vs. 1.1%; P < 0.001) compared to patients with BTK lesions. Patients with BTK had higher incidence of perforation (1.5 vs. 0.2%; P = 0.005), slow flow (7.7 vs. 5.0%; P = 0.03) and spasm (10.3 vs. 4.2%; P < 0.001) but lower incidence of embolism (0.4 vs. 5.1%; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Plaque modification with orbital atherectomy was successful in CLI patients regardless of lesion location. BTK lesions were associated with increased rates of perforation, slow flow and spasm which may be explained by more challenging procedural characteristics in these patients such as smaller vessel size and tortuosity. The higher incidence of emboli in ATK/POP lesions is most likely attributed to the higher prevalence of severe calcium observed in this cohort. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enlarging mediastinal/hilar lymphadenopathy with calcification
Authors: Adachi Takashi , Nakahata Masashi , Moritani Suzuko , Iida Hiroatsu , Ogawa Kenji
Published: December 2015

Key Clinical Message

A 77‐year‐old man was referred to our hospital due to enlarging mediastinal/hilar lymphadenopathy with calcification. Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) and bone marrow aspiration were performed. Subsequently, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) associated with mediastinal amyloidosis was diagnosed. We hereby report a case in which EBUS‐TBNA led to a successful diagnosis of amyloidosis.
Warfarin treatment and antifungal agent caspofungin for severe fungal infection in a patient previously treated with radiotherapy for oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Vedtofte Thomas , Thisted Camilla Heyn , Friis‐Hansen Lennart
Published: December 2015

Key Clinical Message

Drug–Drug interactions is important when caring for warfarin‐treated patients. We examined the impact on INR with coadministration of warfarin and caspofungin and showed no affect on the INR. Coadministrations of fluconazole lead to a marked increase in INR. We concluded that administration of caspofungin and warfarin was safe.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Cross Metathesis of β‐Myrcene and its Derivatives with Methyl Acrylate
Authors: Behr Arno , Johnen Leif , Wintzer Andreas , Gümüş Çetin Arzu , Neubert Peter , Domke Lutz
Published: December 2015

The reaction of β‐myrcene with methyl acrylate produces 3‐methylenecyclopent‐1‐ene in the presence of the Ru catalyst Neolyst M2 by ring‐closing metathesis in the first step. In the second step, the generated methylidene unit reacts with methyl acrylate to give the corresponding unsaturated cyclic ester by cross metathesis. Under the optimized reaction conditions (80 °C, Neolyst M2, 16 equivalents of methyl acrylate), derivatives of β‐myrcene, myrcenol, myrcenyl acetate, and β‐ocimene, react to yield functionalized acyclic esters.
Polymer‐Based Spherical Activated Carbon as Easy‐to‐Handle Catalyst Support for Hydrogenation Reactions
Authors: Klefer Heiko , Munoz Macarena , Modrow Antje , Böhringer Bertram , Wasserscheid Peter , Etzold Bastian J. M.
Published: December 2015

The application of polymer‐based spherical activated carbon (PBSAC) as catalyst support offers unprecedented advantages in the handling of the catalyst in all stages of its application due to its superior fluid dynamic properties and dust‐free character, minimizing post processing times and facilitating catalyst recycling. The preparation of PBSAC‐based Pd catalysts has been addressed using PBSAC of different particle sizes and degrees of activation. Prior to Pd deposition, the support was oxidized in nitric and sulfuric acidic media under different operating conditions in order to introduce surface charges for the ion exchange. This method was successfully applied as, even for the mildest functionalization conditions, full deposition of Pd was achieved. The synthesized Pd‐PBSAC catalysts were successfully employed in the hydrogenation of cinnamic acid achieving its complete conversion at an optimum effective rate constant of 0.122 m3 kgPd−1 s−1.
Reactivity and Selectivity of Bowl‐Shaped Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Relationship to C60
Authors: García‐Rodeja Yago , Solà Miquel , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , Fernández Israel
Published: December 2015

The Diels–Alder reactivity of different bowl‐shaped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (namely, corannulene, cyclopentacorannulene, diindenochrysene, hemifullerene, and circumtrindene) has been explored computationally within the DFT framework. To this end, both the increase in reactivity with the size of the buckybowl and complete [6,6]‐regioselectivity in the process have been analyzed in detail by using the activation strain model of reactivity in combination with the energy decomposition analysis method. These results have been compared with the parent C60 fullerene, which also produces the corresponding [6,6]‐cycloadduct exclusively. The behavior of the buckybowls considered herein resembles, in general, that of C60. Whereas the interaction energy between the deformed reactants along the reaction coordinate mainly controls the regioselectivity of the process, it is the interplay between the activation strain energy and the transition‐state interaction that governs the reactivity of the system.
Kinetic modelling of enzymatic biodiesel production from castor oil: Temperature dependence of the Ping Pong parameters
Authors: Zarejousheghani Fatemeh , Kariminia Hamid‐Reza , Khorasheh Farhad
Published: December 2015

Biodiesel is considered an alternative replacement for petroleum diesel, and enzymatic reaction is one method for biodiesel production. Understanding the kinetics of this reaction is important to achieve higher production rates. The kinetics of transesterification of castor oil using Novozym 435 was investigated in this study. The genetic algorithm was employed for estimation of kinetic parameters including Vmax, KmTG, and KmA in the Ping Pong kinetic model at different temperatures. In most enzymatic reactions that follow the Ping Pong mechanism, inhibition by alcohol has been taken into consideration. Here, we examined a competitive inhibition mechanism and found no inhibition effect at high alcohol‐to‐oil molar ratios of 12.6, 15.6, and 18.9 mol/mol. Arrhenius expressions were used to fit the kinetic parameters for reaction temperatures of 30–50 °C. An acceptable agreement with experimental data at 45 °C was observed when biodiesel yields were predicted using the temperature‐dependent parameters, thus validating the proposed model.
A heuristic approach for the allocation of resources in large‐scale computing infrastructures
Authors: Lee Kevin , Buss Georg , Veit Daniel
Published: December 2015

An increasing number of enterprise applications are intensive in their consumption of IT but are infrequently used. Consequently, either organizations host an oversized IT infrastructure or they are incapable of realizing the benefits of new applications. A solution to the challenge is provided by the large‐scale computing infrastructures of clouds and grids, which allow resources to be shared. A major challenge is the development of mechanisms that allow efficient sharing of IT resources. Market mechanisms are promising, but there is a lack of research in scalable market mechanisms. We extend the multi‐attribute combinatorial exchange mechanism with greedy heuristics to address the scalability challenge. The evaluation shows a trade‐off between efficiency and scalability. There is no statistical evidence for an influence on the incentive properties of the market mechanism. This is an encouraging result as theory predicts heuristics to ruin the mechanism's incentive properties. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Role of Order in the Amplification of Light‐Energy Conversion in a Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell Coupled to a Photonic Crystal
Authors: Fayad Remi , Halaoui Lara
Published: December 2015

We investigate the cause of amplification of light‐energy conversion when coupling a nc‐TiO2 film to a TiO2 inverse opal by comparing it to an inverse TiO2 glass (i‐TiO2‐g) fabricated with the exact monodisperse air–hole size as an inverse opal with a stop band at 600 nm (600‐i‐TiO2‐o). A significant twofold average gain in the photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency is measured to the red of the stop band at the 600‐i‐TiO2‐o/nc‐TiO2 bilayer under front‐wall and back‐wall illumination, greater than the gain within the stop band. A smaller amplification is measured under front‐wall illumination—and no gain is measured under back‐wall illumination—for i‐TiO2‐g/nc‐TiO2 at these energies. The photonic crystal therefore causes trapping of light through the bilayer, not only within the gap but also to the red, at frequencies within its dielectric band. This light‐trapping effect is found to be dependent on structural order, as a highly disordered inverse glass film with the same air–hole size and thickness does not yield the same gain. A drop in the transmission of light is measured within the same frequencies to the red of the stop band upon adding nc‐TiO2 to 600‐i‐TiO2‐o, consistent with light trapping in the bilayer.
Bacterial vaginosis and inflammatory response showed association with severity of cervical neoplasia in HPV‐positive women
Authors: de Castro‐Sobrinho Juçara Maria , Rabelo‐Santos Silvia Helena , Fugueiredo‐Alves Rosane Ribeiro , Derchain Sophie , Sarian Luis Otávio Z , Pitta Denise R , Campos Elisabete A , Zeferino Luiz Carlos
Published: December 2015

Vaginal infections may affect susceptibility to and clearance of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and chronic inflammation has been linked to carcinogenesis. This study aimed to evaluate the association between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and inflammatory response (IR) with the severity of cervical neoplasia in HPV‐infected women. HPV DNA was amplified using PGMY09/11 primers and genotyping was performed using a reverse line blot hybridization assay in 211 cervical samples from women submitted to excision of the transformation zone. The bacterial flora was assessed in Papanicolaou stained smears, and positivity for BV was defined as ≥20% of clue cells. Present inflammatory response was defined as ≥30 neutrophils per field at 1000× magnification. Age higher than 29 years (OR:1.91 95% CI 1.06–3.45), infections by the types 16 and/or 18 (OR:1.92 95% CI 1.06–3.47), single or multiple infections associated with types 16 and/or 18 (OR: 1.92 CI 95% 1.06–3.47), BV (OR: 3.54 95% CI 1.62–7.73) and IR (OR: 6.33 95% CI 3.06–13.07) were associated with severity of cervical neoplasia (CIN 2 or worse diagnoses), while not smoking showed a protective effect (OR: 0.51 95% CI 0.26–0.98). After controlling for confounding factors, BV(OR: 3.90 95% CI 1.64–9.29) and IR (OR: 6.43 95% CI 2.92–14.15) maintained their association with the severity of cervical neoplasia. Bacterial vaginosis and inflammatory response were independently associated with severity of cervical neoplasia in HPV‐positive women, which seems to suggest that the microenvironment would relate to the natural history of cervical neoplasia. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:80–86. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of role‐differentiated bimanual manipulation in infancy: Part 3. Its relation to the development of bimanual object acquisition and bimanual non‐differentiated manipulation
Authors: Babik Iryna , Michel George F.
Published: December 2015

This third paper in a series of three related developmental trajectories of bimanual object acquisition and non‐differentiated bimanual manipulation (NDBM) to patterns of role‐differentiated bimanual manipulation (RDBM) development to help identify the sequence of events that might predict (and potentially facilitate) the development of RDBM skill. Ninety infants were tested monthly from 6 to 14 months of age for object acquisition, and from 9 to14 months for NDBM and RDBM. The results did not support the hypothesis proposing that the onset of RDBM would require decoupling of the hands in unimanual acquisition, but supported the prediction that coupling of the hands in bimanual acquisition would predict increasing expertise in the RDBM skill. The relation between the bimanual object acquisition and RDBM was found to be mediated by NDBM, which prompts the hypothesis that bimanual acquisition of objects facilitates the development of NDBM, which, in its turn, facilitates the development of the RDBM skill. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 58: 268–277, 2016.
Oligodendroglial defects during quakingviable cerebellar development
Authors: Myers Kenneth R. , Liu Guanglu , Feng Yue , Zheng James Q.
Published: December 2015

The selective RNA‐binding protein Quaking I (QKI) has previously been implicated in RNA localization and stabilization, alternative splicing, cell proliferation, and differentiation. The spontaneously‐occurring quakingviable (qkv) mutant mouse exhibits a sharply attenuated level of QKI in myelin‐producing cells, including oligodendrocytes (OL) because of the loss of an OL‐specific promoter. The disruption of QKI in OLs results in severe hypomyelination of the central nervous system, but the underlying cellular mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. In this study, we used the qkv mutant mouse as a model to study myelination defects in the cerebellum. We found that oligodendroglial development and myelination are adversely affected in the cerebellum of qkv mice. Specifically, we identified an increase in the total number of oligodendroglial precursor cells in qkv cerebella, a substantial portion of which migrated into the grey matter. Furthermore, these mislocalized oligodendroglial precursor cells retained their migratory morphology late into development. Interestingly, a number of these presumptive oligodendrocyte precursors were found at the Purkinje cell layer in qkv cerebella, resembling Bergman glia. These findings indicate that QKI is involved in multiple aspects of oligodendroglial development. QKI disruption can impact the cell fate of oligodendrocyte precursor cells, their migration and differentiation, and ultimately myelination in the cerebellum. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 76: 972–982, 2016
Same school, different conduct: rates of multiple paternity vary within a mixed‐species breeding school of semi‐pelagic cichlid fish (Cyprichromisspp.)
Authors: Anderson Caleb , Werdenig Alexandra , Koblmüller Stephan , Sefc Kristina M.
Published: December 2015

Mating system variability is known to exist between and within species, often due to environmental influences. An open question is whether, vice versa, similar environmental conditions entail congruent mating behavior, for example in terms of multiple paternity, in species or populations sharing largely comparable breeding modes. This study employed microsatellite markers to investigate the incidence of multiple paternity inCyprichromis coloratusandCyprichromis leptosoma, two sympatric, closely related, mouthbroodingLakeTanganyika cichlids with similar ecological and behavioral characteristics including the formation of open‐water schools. Mouthbrooding females of both species were collected from the same mixed‐species breeding school at the same time, minimizing environmental variation during courtship and mating. InC. coloratus, four of 12 broods had more than one sire, with a mean of 1.33 reconstructed sires per brood.C. leptosomaexhibited multiple paternity in 18 of 22 broods, with a mean of 2.59 or 2.86 reconstructed sires per brood according to the programsgerudandcolony, respectively. In addition, two broods were found to contain offspring transplanted from another brood. There was no significant difference in brood size between species, but mean sire number did differ significantly. Hence, substantial similarity in reproductive behavior along with shared environmental conditions during courtship and spawning did not lead to equal rates of polyandry or sneaking in the two species.
Longer wings for faster springs – wing length relates to spring phenology in a long‐distance migrant across its range
Authors: Hahn Steffen , Korner‐Nievergelt Fränzi , Emmenegger Tamara , Amrhein Valentin , Csörgő Tibor , Gursoy Arzu , Ilieva Mihaela , Kverek Pavel , Pérez‐Tris Javier , Pirrello Simone , Zehtindjiev Pavel , Salewski Volker
Published: December 2015

In migratory birds, morphological adaptations for efficient migratory flight often oppose morphological adaptations for efficient behavior during resident periods. This includes adaptations in wing shape for either flying long distances or foraging in the vegetation and in climate‐driven variation of body size. In addition, the timing of migratory flights and particularly the timely arrival at local breeding sites is crucial because fitness prospects depend on site‐specific phenology. Thus, adaptations for efficient long‐distance flights might be also related to conditions at destination areas. For an obligatory long‐distance migrant, the common nightingale, we verified that wing length as the aerodynamically important trait, but not structural body size increased from the western to the eastern parts of the species range. In contrast with expectation from aerodynamic theory, however, wing length did not increase with increasing migration distances. Instead, wing length was associated with the phenology at breeding destinations, namely the speed of local spring green‐up. We argue that longer wings are beneficial for adjusting migration speed to local conditions for birds breeding in habitats with fast spring green‐up and thus short optimal arrival periods. We suggest that the speed of spring green‐up at breeding sites is a fundamental variable determining the timing of migration that fine tune phenotypes in migrants across their range.
Cocoa flavanols reduce N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: De Palma Rodney , Sotto Imelda , Wood Elizabeth G. , Khan Noorafza Q. , Butler Jane , Johnston Atholl , Rothman Martin T. , Corder Roger
Published: December 2015

Aims

Poor prognosis in chronic heart failure (HF) is linked to endothelial dysfunction for which there is no specific treatment currently available. Previous studies have shown reproducible improvements in endothelial function with cocoa flavanols, but the clinical benefit of this effect in chronic HF has yet to be determined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the potential therapeutic value of a high dose of cocoa flavanols in patients with chronic HF, by using reductions in N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) as an index of improved cardiac function.

Methods and results

Thirty‐two patients with chronic HF, stable on guideline‐directed medical therapy, were randomized to consume 50 g/day of high‐flavanol dark chocolate (HFDC; 1064 mg of flavanols/day) or low‐flavanol dark chocolate (LFDC; 88 mg of flavanols/day) for 4 weeks and then crossed over to consume the alternative dark chocolate for a further 4 weeks. Twenty‐four patients completed the study. After 4 weeks of HFDC, NT‐proBNP (mean decrease % ± standard deviation) was significantly reduced compared with baseline (−44 ± 69%), LFDC (−33 ± 72%), and follow‐up (−41 ± 77%) values. HFDC also reduced diastolic blood pressure compared with values after LFDC (−6.7 ± 10.1 mmHg).

Conclusions

Reductions in blood pressure and NT‐proBNP after HFDC indicate decreased vascular resistance resulting in reduced left ventricular afterload. These effects warrant further investigation in patients with chronic HF.
Grancalcin (GCA) modulates Toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR9) mediated signaling through its direct interaction with TLR9
Authors: Kim Tae Whan , Hong Seunghee , Talukder Amjad H , Pascual Virginia , Liu Yong‐Jun
Published: December 2015

Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) are playing important roles in stimulating the innate immune response and intensifying adaptive immune response against invading pathogens. Appropriate regulation of TLR activation is important to maintain a balance between preventing tumor activation and inhibiting autoimmunity. Toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR9) senses microbial DNA in the endosomes of plasmacytoid dendritic cells and triggers myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88) dependent nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) pathways and type I interferon (IFN) responses. However, mechanisms of how TLR9 signals are mediated and which molecules are involved in controlling TLR9 functions remain poorly understood. Here, we report that penta EF‐hand protein grancalcin (GCA) interacts and binds with TLR9 in a yeast two‐hybrid system and an overexpression system. Using siRNA‐mediated knockdown experiments, we also revealed that GCA positively regulates type I IFN production, cytokine/chemokine production through nuclear localization of interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7), NF‐κB activation, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Our results indicate that heterodimerization of GCA and TLR9 is important for TLR9‐mediated downstream signaling and might serve to fine tune processes against viral infection.
Alpha‐methylacyl‐CoA racemase deletion has mutually counteracting effects on T‐cell responses, associated with unchanged course of EAE
Authors: Tafferner Nadja , Barthelmes Julia , Eberle Max , Ulshöfer Thomas , Henke Marina , deBruin Natasja , Mayer Christoph A. , Foerch Christian , Geisslinger Gerd , Parnham Michael J. , Schiffmann Susanne
Published: December 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Altering the metabolism of immune cells is an attractive strategy to modify their activity during autoimmunity in MS. We investigated the effect of modulating fatty acid metabolism in an animal model of MS, EAE. Alpha‐methylacyl‐CoA racemase (AMACR) converts R‐configuration branched fatty acids into the S‐configuration, thereby preparing them for β‐oxidation. We observed a significant, disease‐dependent elevation of AMACR expression in monocytes and T cells from blood, draining lymph nodes and spleen of EAE mice during the preclinical phase. In vitro analysis revealed that the proliferation of T cells was inhibited in AMACR KO mice, but T‐cell polarization was switched toward a pathogenic state involving the production of more IFN‐γ and IL‐17, but less IL‐4. These opposing effects appeared to cancel out each other in vivo, because AMACR KO EAE mice showed a marginal increase in the severity of early clinical symptoms. AMACR was not regulated in the white blood cells of MS patients. Our data show that AMACR is regulated in immune cells during EAE, but it is not a suitable target for the treatment of MS due to its opposing effects.
Bad‐Metal‐Layered Sulfide Oxide CsV2S2O
Authors: Valldor Martin , Merz Patrick , Prots Yurii , Schnelle Walter
Published: December 2015

Through a solid‐state reaction between stoichiometric amounts of a mixed cesium oxide Cs2O1.3, VS, S, and V2O5, a polycrystalline powder of CsV2S2O was obtained. Small single crystals could be grown in a CsCl melt by allowing Cs2SO4, V metal and S powders to react. The crystals have a plate‐like morphology, consistent with the tetragonal crystal‐structure symmetry [P4/mmm, a = 3.9455(1), c = 7.4785(1) Å]. Magnetic measurements suggest that CsV2S2O is a temperature‐independent paramagnet, and resistivity data concur with a bad metal. The mixed oxidation state of V on one crystallographic site offers a tentative explanation of the electronic properties of the title compound.
A Vanadium Chalcogenide Dicubane
Authors: Li Tianyang , Baum Zachary J. , Goldberger Joshua E.
Published: December 2015

The discovery of novel transition metal cubane clusters with different electron counts and topologies is of considerable importance due to the prevalence of this structure type in catalytic proteins. Here, we report the solvothermal synthesis and full characterization of [V7S8Cl2(en)8]Cl4 (en = ethylenediamine), the first early transition metal dicubane cluster. Electron paramagnetic resonance and magnetic susceptibility measurements show that the cluster has one unpaired electron localized on a single V4+, which according to DFT simulations is the central bridging vanadium. The remaining V3+ atoms feature significant metal–metal bonding.
Synthesis of 5‐Substituted 1,2,3‐Triazolyl‐4‐phosphonate through Cross‐Coupling Reactions of 5‐Iodo‐1,2,3‐triazolyl‐4‐phosphonate
Authors: Thiery Emilie , You Vanny , Mora Anne‐Sophie , Abarbri Mohamed
Published: December 2015

Two methods for the preparation of 5‐iodo‐1,2,3‐triazolyl‐4‐phosphonate were explored. This compound was then functionalized by Suzuki and Stille cross‐coupling reaction to obtain 5‐aryl‐, 5‐heteroaryl‐ or 5‐alkenyl‐1,2,3‐triazolyl‐4‐phosphonates.
Social identities promote well‐being because they satisfy global psychological needs
Authors: Greenaway Katharine H. , Cruwys Tegan , Haslam S. Alexander , Jetten Jolanda
Published: December 2015

Social identities are known to improve well‐being, but why is this? We argue that this is because they satisfy basic psychological needs, specifically, the need to belong, the need for self‐esteem, the need for control and the need for meaningful existence. A longitudinal study (N = 70) revealed that gain in identity strength was associated with increased need satisfaction over 7 months. A cross‐sectional study (N = 146) revealed that social identity gain and social identity loss predicted increased and reduced need satisfaction, respectively. Finally, an experiment (N = 300) showed that, relative to a control condition, social identity gain increased need satisfaction and social identity loss decreased it. Need satisfaction mediated the relationship between social identities and depression in all studies. Sensitivity analyses suggested that social identities satisfy psychological needs in a global sense, rather than being reducible to one particular need. These findings shed new light on the mechanisms through which social identities enhance well‐being.
Oxidation of Flavonols in an Electrochemical Flow Cell Coupled Online with ESI‐MS
Authors: Kummer Sina , Ruth Wolfgang , Kragl Udo
Published: December 2015

Flavonols, a class of flavonoids, are jointly responsible for antioxidant activities as free radical acceptors in flowers, fruits and vegetables. Due to their electroactive behaviour, the oxidation of chrysin, flavonol, kaempferol, morin, quercetin and myricetin in methanol was performed in an electrochemical flow cell with glassy carbon as the working electrode. This flow cell was coupled online with electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry to identify the possible oxidation products. Based on these experiments, it was concluded that when certain structural requirement are present, the initial electrode reaction of flavonols involves an electron delivery electrochemical step followed by a chemical step via methanol addition. The redox activity of the selected species explains the number of observed multiple methoxylation. Moreover, we identified a second two‐electron, two‐proton oxidation of the formed oxidation products of quercetin and myricetin for the first time.
Dynamic drag force based on iterative density mapping: A new numerical tool for three‐dimensional analysis of particle trajectories in a dielectrophoretic system
Authors: Knoerzer Markus , Szydzik Crispin , Tovar‐Lopez Francisco Javier , Tang Xinke , Mitchell Arnan , Khoshmanesh Khashayar
Published: December 2015

Dielectrophoresis is a widely used means of manipulating suspended particles within microfluidic systems. In order to efficiently design such systems for a desired application, various numerical methods exist that enable particle trajectory plotting in two or three dimensions based on the interplay of hydrodynamic and dielectrophoretic forces. While various models are described in the literature, few are capable of modeling interactions between particles as well as their surrounding environment as these interactions are complex, multifaceted, and computationally expensive to the point of being prohibitive when considering a large number of particles. In this paper, we present a numerical model designed to enable spatial analysis of the physical effects exerted upon particles within microfluidic systems employing dielectrophoresis. The model presents a means of approximating the effects of the presence of large numbers of particles through dynamically adjusting hydrodynamic drag force based on particle density, thereby introducing a measure of emulated particle–particle and particle–liquid interactions. This model is referred to as “dynamic drag force based on iterative density mapping.” The resultant numerical model is used to simulate and predict particle trajectory and velocity profiles within a microfluidic system incorporating curved dielectrophoretic microelectrodes. The simulated data are compared favorably with experimental data gathered using microparticle image velocimetry, and is contrasted against simulated data generated using traditional “effective moment Stokes‐drag method,” showing more accurate particle velocity profiles for areas of high particle density.
Virtual Storages as Theoretically Motivated Demand Response Models for Enhanced Smart Grid Operations
Authors: Waczowicz Simon , Reischl Markus , Klaiber Stefan , Bretschneider Peter , Konotop Irina , Westermann Dirk , Hagenmeyer Veit , Mikut Ralf
Published: December 2015

Additional flexibilities on the demand side can be obtained by using price signals to change the consumption behavior of household electricity customers. The present contribution proposes a new theoretically motivated demand response model type called virtual storage. First, the basic model structure of several virtual storage models is introduced. All of these models are based on a system of difference equations that describe load reductions/increases in response to price signals. The virtual storage models differ thereafter in how past or prognosis‐based future price information is considered. After a description of a proposed model validation strategy, the model behavior of several virtual storage models is compared with some of the common demand response model types and with real customer responses to a price signal. Thus, a model comparison is performed on the basis of a real smart meter data set (Olympic Peninsula Project).
Fuzzy ARTMAP and GARCH‐based hybrid model aided with wavelet transform for short‐term electricity load forecasting
Authors: Takiyar Swati , Upadhyay K. G. , Singh Vivek
Published: December 2015

With the evolution of the electricity market into a restructured smart version, load forecasting has emerged as an eminent research domain. Many forecasting models have been proposed by researchers for electricity price and load forecasting. This state of art introduces a load time series modeled with a hybrid technique culminating from the logical amalgamation of GARCH, a conventional hard computing method, Fuzzy ARTMAP, an artificial intelligence‐based soft computing technique, and wavelet transform, for treating the load time series. The study investigates into the ability of the proposed hybrid model in tackling the electricity load time series forecasting problems. The work under this study also includes comparisons drawn among models which use either one or two of the mentioned techniques and the model proposed. Results certify the efficacy and effectiveness of the model over others.
Thickness and material selection of polymeric passive samplers for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in water: Which more strongly affects sampler properties?
Authors: Belles Angel , Alary Claire , Mamindy-Pajany Yannick
Published: December 2015

Three configurations of single-phase polymer passive samplers made of polyoxymethylene (POM), silicone rubber, and polyethylene (PE) were simultaneously calibrated in laboratory experiments by determining their partitioning coefficients and the POM diffusion coefficients and by validating a kinetic accumulation model. In addition, the performance of each device was evaluated under field conditions. With the support of the developed model, the device properties are discussed with regard to material selection and polymer thickness. The results show that a sampler's properties, such as its concentration-averaging period and ability to sample a large amount of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, are widely affected by material selection. Sampler thickness also allows modulation of the properties of the device but with a much lower magnitude. Selection of the appropriate polymer and/or thickness allows samplers to be adapted either for quick equilibration or for the kinetic accumulation regime and promotes either membrane or water boundary layer control of the kinetic accumulation. In addition, membrane-controlled or equilibrated compounds are quantified with greater accuracy because they are not corrected by the performance reference compounds approach. However, the averaged concentrations cannot be assessed when compounds reach equilibrium in the sampler, whereas membrane-controlled devices remaining in the kinetic accumulation regime provide averaged concentrations without requiring performance reference compound correction; detection limits are then increased because of the higher mass transfer resistance of the membrane. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1708–1717. © 2015 SETAC
Juvenile zebrafish in the vitellogenin blank period as an alternative test organism for evaluation of estrogenic activity of chemicals
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhao Fei , Shan Ruihou , Tian Hua , Wang Wei , Ru Shaoguo
Published: December 2015

The present study aimed to determine the suitable development period for zebrafish to evaluate estrogenic activities accurately. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was developed and used to detect the vitellogenin (Vtg)-derived yolk proteins and newly produced Vtg, and 9 d to 56 d posthatching was determined as the Vtg-blank period. Juveniles in this period were found to have lower baseline Vtg levels than adult males and were considered an alternative test organism for detecting environmental estrogens. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1783–1787. © 2015 SETAC
Anosognosia increases caregiver burden in mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Kelleher Mary , Tolea Magdalena I. , Galvin James E.
Published: December 2015

Objective

Our aim is to determine the clinical correlates of impaired insight in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) by examining its impact on cognition, functional status, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and caregiver burden.

Methods

The study involved 75 patients with MCI and their caregivers. Patients and caregivers underwent a comprehensive evaluation including the Clinical Dementia Rating, memory tests, and the Functional Assessment Questionnaire. Behavioral symptoms were assessed by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory, caregiver burden by the Zarit Burden Inventory, and insight by comparing self‐report on the AD8 dementia screening tool to informant collateral. Patients were asked about their perceptions of their memory, and answers were compared with informants' responses. Patient mood was assessed with the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale.

Results

There was a significant difference in AD8 scores among patients who retained versus lacked insight. Zarit Burden Inventory scores showed a significant rise as patient insight declined; the burden appeared greater on spouse versus non‐spouse caregivers. Patients with poor insight had significantly worse ratings in Clinical Dementia Rating domains of personal care and judgment, while patients who retained insight had significantly higher depression and anxiety. Insight impairment was associated with worse caregiver mood.

Conclusions

Decreased patient awareness for cognitive problems was significantly associated with higher caregiver burden, independent of neuropsychiatric symptoms, functional abilities, and cognition. Personal care, judgment, and problem‐solving skills could contribute to caregiver burden. Increased awareness seemed a source of patient depression and anxiety. The research highlights the need to focus on the needs of MCI caregivers and to incorporate psychosocial assessments of caregiver–patient dyads into office visits.
Preparation, characterisation, and in vitro evaluation of electrically conducting poly(ɛ‐caprolactone)‐based nanocomposite scaffolds using PC12 cells
Authors: Gopinathan Janarthanan , Quigley Anita F. , Bhattacharyya Amitava , Padhye Rajiv , Kapsa Robert M. I. , Nayak Rajkishore , Shanks Robert A. , Houshyar Shadi
Published: December 2015

In the current study, we describe the synthesis, material characteristics, and cytocompatibility of conducting poly (ɛ‐caprolactone) (PCL)‐based nano‐composite films. Electrically conducting carbon nano‐fillers (carbon nano‐fiber (CNF), nano‐graphite (NG), and liquid exfoliated graphite (G)) were used to prepare porous film type scaffolds using modified solvent casting methods. The electrical conductivity of the nano‐composite films was increased when carbon nano‐fillers were incorporated in the PCL matrix. CNF‐based nano‐composite films showed the highest increase in electrical conductivity. The presence of an ionic solution significantly improved the conductivity of some of the polymers, however at least 24 h was required to absorb the simulated ion solutions. CNF‐based nano‐composite films were found to have good thermo‐mechanical properties compared to other conducting polymer films due to better dispersion and alignment in the critical direction. Increased nano‐filler content increased the crystallisation temperature. Analysis of cell viability revealed no increase in cell death on any of the polymers compared to tissue culture plastic controls, or compared to PCL polymer without nano‐composites. The scaffolds showed some variation when tested for PC12 cell attachment and proliferation, however all the polymers supported PC12 attachment and differentiation in the absence of cell adhesion molecules. In general, CNF‐based nano‐composite films with highest electrical conductivity and moderate roughness showed highest cell attachment and proliferation. These polymers are promising candidates for use in neural applications in the area of bionics and tissue engineering due to their unique properties. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 853–865, 2016.
Suppression of p38α MAPK Signaling in Osteoblast Lineage Cells Impairs Bone Anabolic Action of Parathyroid Hormone
Authors: Thouverey Cyril , Caverzasio Joseph
Published: December 2015

Intermittent parathyroid hormone administration (iPTH) increases bone mass and strength by stimulating osteoblast number and activity. PTH exerts its anabolic effects through cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway in mature osteoblasts and osteocytes. Here, we show that inactivation of the p38α MAPK-encoding gene with the use of an osteocalcin-cre transgene prevents iPTH bone anabolic action. Indeed, iPTH fails to increase insulin-like growth factor 1 expression, osteoblast number and activity, and bone formation in mice lacking p38α in osteoblasts and osteocytes. Moreover, iPTH-induced expression of receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and subsequent increased bone resorption are suppressed in those mice. Finally, we found that PTH activates p38α MAPK downstream of cAMP/PKA signaling pathway in mature osteoblasts. Our findings identify p38α MAPK as a key component of PTH signaling in osteoblast lineage cells and highlight its requirement in iPTH osteoanabolic activity. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Advances in cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cells and restoration of male fertility
Authors: Aliakbari Fereshte , Yazdekhasti Hosein , Abbasi Mehdi , Hajian Monfared Mahdieh , Baazm Maryam
Published: December 2015

Spermatogenesis is a highly complicated process which initiated by spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs are the only cell type that can restore fertility in infertile recipient after SSCs transplantation. SSCs damage during cancer diagnosis and therapy and their depletion may be cause of male infertility in cancer survivors. In this review, used experimental methods regarding SSCs and testis tissue cryopreservation have been reviewed with a special focus on animal models and human which have generated the majority of data about SSCs and the cryopreservation process. Microsc. Res. Tech. 79:122–129, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.