bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrospun carbon nanofiber web electrode: Supercapacitor behavior in various electrolytes
Authors: Ismar Ezgi , Karazehir Tolga , Ates Murat , Sarac A. Sezai
Published: September 2017

Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) draw great interest due to their noticeable mechanical, electrochemical, and physical properties. In this study, polyacrylonitrile‐based CNFs are obtained via electrospinning technique. Thermal oxidation and low temperature (950 °C) carbonization are applied to the electrospun web in order to achieve CNF. Through the process, Fourier transform infrared‐attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopic results are investigated. The electrochemical properties of the self‐standing CNF webs are examined with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. In addition, various electrolyte solutions are studied to investigate the capacitive behavior of CNF webs. Electrolyte type variation has a significant effect on the capacitance results and high capacitance values are achieved in aqueous solution. According to the differing electrolyte types, specific capacitance values (Csp) are recorded between 204 and 149 F g−1 where maximum specific capacitance is obtained in 0.5 M H2SO4 as 204 F g−1. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45723.
Local adaptation studies and conservation: Parasite–host interactions between the endangered freshwater mussel Unio crassus and its host fish
Authors: Schneider Lea D. , Anders Nilsson P. , Höjesjö Johan , Martin Österling E.
Published: September 2017

Parasite–host interactions can involve strong reciprocal selection pressure, and may lead to locally adapted specializations. The highly threatened unionoid mussels are temporary parasites on fish, but local adaptation has not yet been investigated for many species.

Patterns of local adaptation of one of Europe's most threatened unionoids, the thick‐shelled river mussel (Unio crassus) were investigated. Eurasian minnows (Phoxinus phoxinus) from two rivers (separate drainage areas) were cross‐infested in the laboratory with sympatric and allopatric mussel larvae, while bullheads (Cottus gobio), inhabiting only one of the rivers, were infested with sympatric or allopatric mussel larvae. Larval encystment, juvenile mussel excystment and survival were measured.

For one river, but not the other, juvenile excystment from P. phoxinus was highest when infested with sympatric mussels. The opposite pattern was found for C. gobio in this river, where juvenile excystment and post‐parasitic juvenile survival from allopatric C. gobio were highest. The results thus cannot confirm local adaptation of U. crassus to P. phoxinus in the study rivers, as excystment was not consistently higher in all sympatric mussel–host combinations, whereas there were potential maladaptive signs of U. crassus in relation to C. gobio. There was no loss of encysted larvae 3 days after infestation until juvenile excystment. Most juveniles were excysted between 17 and 29 days after infestation, and the numbers of excysted juveniles increased with fish size.

The results have implications for parasite–host ecology and conservation management with regard to unionoid propagation and re‐introduction. This includes the need to (1) test suitability and adaptation patterns between U. crassus and multiple host fish species, (2) evaluate the suitability of certain unionoids and host fish strains after more than 3 days, and (3) determine whether large fish produce more juvenile mussels than smaller fish.
Human‐induced gradients of reef fish declines in the Hawaiian Archipelago viewed through the lens of traditional management boundaries
Authors: Friedlander Alan M. , Donovan Mary K. , Stamoulis Kostantinos A. , Williams Ivor D. , Brown Eric K. , Conklin Eric J. , DeMartini Edward E. , Rodgers Kuulei S. , Sparks Russell T. , Walsh William J.
Published: September 2017

Large declines in reef fish populations in Hawai‘i have raised concerns about the sustainability of these resources, and the ecosystem as a whole. To help elucidate the reasons behind these declines, a comprehensive examination of reef fish assemblages was conducted across the entire 2500 km Hawaiian Archipelago.

Twenty‐five datasets were compiled, representing >25 000 individual surveys conducted throughout Hawai‘i since 2000. To account for overall differences in survey methods, conversion factors were created to standardize among methods.

Comparisons of major targeted resource species (N = 35) between the densely populated main (MHI) and remote north‐western Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) revealed that 40% of these species had biomass in the MHI below 25% of NWHI levels. In total, 54% of the species examined had biomass <50% of NWHI biomass.

The moku or district was a basic unit of resource management in pre‐contact Hawai‘i and was used as a unit of spatial stratification for comparisons within the MHI. Biomass of resource species was negatively correlated with human population density within moku boundaries, with extremely low biomass in areas with highest human population densities. No such relationship was found for species not targeted by fishing.

A number of remote areas with small human populations in the MHI still support high standing stock of fished species, and these areas are likely important refugia for maintaining fisheries production and biodiversity functioning.

These results highlight the large gradient of human impacts on fish assemblages across the Hawaiian Archipelago and the potential in using landscape and seascape units, such as those that are watershed and bio‐physically‐based, when managing in part based on a framework of traditional ecological knowledge.
Maternal Medicaid Recipient Status and Congenital Malformations among New York State Live Births in 2010
Authors: Richardson Sandra D. , Josberger Raina E.
Published: September 2017

Background

Congenital malformations are a leading cause of infant mortality in the United States, and risk for some congenital malformations varies by socioeconomic status (SES). Medicaid provides health insurance for people with low income, and covers approximately half of all live births in the United States. Income level is one aspect of SES. Studies have shown relationships between SES and some congenital malformations.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined associations between maternal Medicaid recipient status and 46 congenital malformations in New York State for birth year 2010. The impact of Medicaid continuous enrollment (CE) status was evaluated in a sub‐analysis of Medicaid recipients. Logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The study cohort included 240,721 live births, 3778 infants with one or more congenital malformation of interest, and 118,631 maternal Medicaid recipients at the time of the infant's birth. Odds ratios for cleft lip with or without cleft palate and rectal atresia or stenosis were increased for Medicaid recipients compared with non‐Medicaid recipients. However, odds ratios for cleft lip with or without cleft palate and rectal atresia or stenosis were decreased for CE compared with non‐CE Medicaid recipients.

Conclusion

Maternal Medicaid recipient status was associated with few of the 46 congenital malformations evaluated. However, some associations found were modified by CE in Medicaid. Birth Defects Research 109:1460–1470, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhancement of the luminescence properties of Sr3(PO4)2:Dy3+,Li+ white‐light‐emitting phosphors by charge compensator Li+ co‐doping
Authors: Li Yuhang , Dai Siyi , Zhang Wentao , Zhang Peicong , Qiu Kehui
Published: September 2017

Sr3(PO4)2:Dy3+,Li+ phosphors were prepared using a simple high temperature solid method for luminescence enhancement. The structures of the as‐prepared samples agreed well with the standard phase of Sr3(PO4)2, even when Dy3+ and Li+ were introduced. Under ultraviolet excitation at 350 nm, the Sr3(PO4)2:Dy3+ sample exhibited two emission peaks at 483 nm and 580 nm, which were due to the 4F9/2 → 6H15/2 and 4F9/2 → 6H13/2 transitions of Dy3+ ions, respectively. A white light was fabricated using these two emissions from the Sr3(PO4)2:Dy3+ phosphors. The luminescence properties of Sr3(PO4)2:Dy3+,Li+ phosphors, including emission intensity and decay time, were improved remarkably with the addition of Li+ as the charge compensator, which would promote their application in near‐ultraviolet excited white‐light‐emitting diodes.
Creating Oxidase–Peroxidase Fusion Enzymes as a Toolbox for Cascade Reactions
Authors: Colpa Dana I. , Lončar Nikola , Schmidt Mareike , Fraaije Marco W.
Published: September 2017

A set of bifunctional oxidase–peroxidases has been prepared by fusing four distinct oxidases to a peroxidase. Although such fusion enzymes have not been observed in nature, they could be expressed and purified in good yields. Characterization revealed that the artificial enzymes retained the capability to bind the two required cofactors and were catalytically active as oxidase and peroxidase. Peroxidase fusions of alditol oxidase and chitooligosaccharide oxidase could be used for the selective detection of xylitol and cellobiose with a detection limit in the low‐micromolar range. The peroxidase fusions of eugenol oxidase and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural oxidase could be used for dioxygen‐driven, one‐pot, two‐step cascade reactions to convert vanillyl alcohol into divanillin and eugenol into lignin oligomers. The designed oxidase–peroxidase fusions represent attractive biocatalysts that allow efficient biocatalytic cascade oxidations that only require molecular oxygen as an oxidant.
Use of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor in the treatment of methimazole‐induced agranulocytosis: a case report
Authors: Birmingham Asha , Mancuso Carissa , Williams Craig
Published: September 2017

Key Clinical Message

A comparison of this case to previously published reports suggests that granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor may be associated with improved prognosis in severe antithyroid drug‐induced neutropenia, and that weight‐based doses could be an appropriate strategy.
Biliopancreatic limb obstruction after laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass: a rare and potentially fatal condition
Authors: Saurabh Shireesh
Published: September 2017

Key Clinical Message

Biliopancreatic limb obstruction after laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass is a challenging diagnosis as the symptoms are very nonspecific. CT scan is the optimal study for evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.
Terminal Alkyne Coupling on a Corrugated Noble Metal Surface: From Controlled Precursor Alignment to Selective Reactions
Authors: Lin Tao , Zhang Liding , Björk Jonas , Chen Zhi , Ruben Mario , Barth Johannes V. , Klappenberger Florian
Published: September 2017

Surface‐templated covalent coupling of organic precursors currently emerges as a promising route to the atom‐precise fabrication of low‐dimensional carbon materials. Here, we investigate the adsorption and the coupling reactions of 4,4′′‐diethynyl‐1,1′:4′,1′′‐terphenyl on Au(110) under ultra‐high vacuum conditions by using scanning tunneling microscopy combined with density functional theory and kinetic Monte Carlo calculations. Temperature treatment induces both 1,2,4‐asymmetric cyclotrimerization and homocoupling, resulting in various reaction products, including a previously unreported, surface‐templated H‐shaped pentamer. Our analysis of the temperature‐dependent relative product abundances unravels that 1,2,4‐trimerization and homocoupling proceed via identical intermediate species with the final products depending on the competition of coupling to a third monomer versus dehydrogenation. Our study sheds light on the control of coupling reactions by corrugated surfaces and annealing protocols.
Regioregular Phthalocyanines Substituted with Bulky Donors at Non‐Peripheral Positions
Authors: Yamamoto Satoshi , Kuribayashi Kengo , Murakami Takuro N. , Kwon Eunsang , Stillman Martin J. , Kobayashi Nagao , Segawa Hiroshi , Kimura Mutsumi
Published: September 2017

Three regioregular phthalocyanines (1–3) were synthesized selectively by the cyclic tetramerization of phthalonitriles bearing a bulky diarylamine substituent at the next position of nitrile. The steric repulsion at the tetramerization of bulky phthalonitriles allowed for the selective formation of regioregular phthalocyanines as confirmed by NMR and single crystal X‐ray structural analyses. The absorption spectrum of 1 substituted with di(4‐tert‐butylphenyl)amine groups at the non‐peripheral positions showed a non‐split Q‐band at 764 nm, which was redshifted by 83 nm compared with that of metal free phthalocyanine (H2Pc). The TD‐DFT calculation and electrochemical studies prove that the substitution of diarylamine groups at the α‐positions effectively destabilizes the HOMO energy level, which causes a large redshift of the Q‐band. Moreover, 1 can generate a one‐electron oxidation species through chemical oxidation. The Q‐band position of 2 bearing 4,4′‐dimetoxyphenylamine units was further shifted by 10 nm compared with that of 1. In addition, 3 having carbazole units showed a small redshift of the Q‐band relative to H2Pc. The hole‐mobility of 2 in thin film was determined to be 1.1×10−5 cm V−1 s−1 by using a space charge limited current method. A perovskite solar cell employing 2 as a hole‐transporting layer gave an efficiency of 5.1 % under standard global 100 Wcm−2 AM 1.5 G illumination.
High Oxidation State Molybdenum N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Alkylidyne Complexes: Synthesis, Mechanistic Studies, and Reactivity
Authors: Koy Maximilian , Elser Iris , Meisner Jan , Frey Wolfgang , Wurst Klaus , Kästner Johannes , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: September 2017

The first synthetic protocol to high oxidation state molybdenum(VI) N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) alkylidyne complexes (NHC=1,3‐diisopropylimidazol‐2‐ylidene, 1,3‐dimethyl‐4,5‐R2‐imidazol‐2‐ylidene, R2=H, Cl, CN) is reported. Steric limitations of the NHCs and the benzylidyne are described. All novel complexes were characterized by single crystal X‐ray diffraction and solution NMR techniques. It was shown that all complexes presented here show activity in the self‐metathesis of 1‐phenyl‐1‐propyne at room temperature. To identify mechanistic differences, an experimental sequence to detect dissociation of ligands was developed. Results reveal dissociation of less electron‐donating NHCs in course of the reaction. Mechanistic and reactivity differences were attributed to electronic and steric effects through Tolman's electronic parameter and the percentage of buried volume. Furthermore, Mo‐1 containing the 1,3‐dimethylimidazol‐2‐ylidene ligand showed good activity in self‐metathesis reactions of p‐substituted 1‐phenyl‐1‐propynes with electron‐donating moieties at room temperature.
Ultrathin Anionic Tungstophosphite Molecular Wire with Tunable Hydrophilicity and Catalytic Activity for Selective Epoxidation in Organic Media
Authors: Zhang Zhenxin , Sadakane Masahiro , Hara Michikazu , Ueda Wataru
Published: September 2017

The extended 1D tungstophosphite molecular wire is obtained by connection of polyoxometalates. Self‐assembly of a triangular PIIIO3 unit with tungstate produces a hexagonal [HPIIIW6O21]2− building block, which then connects linearly to form the molecular wire. The surface property of the molecular wire is tuned to hydrophobic using organoammonium cations, and the surface‐modified material disperses easily in organic media. The multifunctional material, which possesses nanostructure, hydrophobicity, and redox properties simultaneously, is suitable for olefin epoxidation in organic solvent.
Influence of the swirling jet on pulverized coal gasification performance based on CFD simulation
Authors: Zhang Yue , Sang Lei , Li Ping , Li Zhuangmei , Fan Jianjiang , Ran Xiaowen
Published: September 2017

In order to study the influence of the swirling jet of the gasification agent on coal gasification performance, the gasification process of Ningdong pulverized coal inside a GSP gasifier (2000 t/d) was simulated under hot conditions, and the results were compared with actual industrial parameters. A three‐dimensional steady multi‐phase turbulent flow model was established by ANSYS Fluent. The coupling effect of turbulent chemistry was considered by Species Transport model. The realizable k‐ϵ model was used for the gas phase flow. The P‐1 model was implemented for radiation heat transfer. The heterogeneous reactions were irreversible surface reactions and the gas phase reactions were to reach equilibrium. The numerical results showed detailed information of flow field under direct jet and swirling jet. It indicated the swirling jet had a significant influence on coal gasification performance by analyzing the characteristics of flame, species, and gas‐solid distribution. In other words, the swirling jet promotes the reaction efficiency between coal particles and gas phase, increases the residence time of pulverized coal, and temperature and species concentration distribution are more well‐distributed. Furthermore, this work can better predict coal gasification behaviour under different conditions, so as to provide the theoretic support for subsequent sulphur removal and optimal design of the gasifier.
Cre‐expressing neurons in visual cortex of Ntsr1‐Cre GN220 mice are corticothalamic and are depolarized by acetylcholine
Authors: Sundberg Sofie Charlotte , Lindström Sarah Helen , Sanchez Gonzalo Manuel , Granseth Björn
Published: September 2017

The Ntsr1‐Cre GN220 mouse expresses Cre‐recombinase in corticothalamic (CT) neurons in neocortical layer 6. It is not known if the other major types of pyramidal neurons in this layer also express this enzyme. By electrophysiological recordings in slices and histological analysis of the uptake of retrogradely transported beads we show that Cre‐positive neurons are CT and not corticocortical or corticoclaustral types. Furthermore, we show that Ntsr1‐Cre‐positive cells are immuno‐positive for the nuclear transcription factor Forkhead box protein P2 (FoxP2). We conclude that Cre‐expression is limited to a specific type of pyramidal neuron: CT. However, it appears as not all CT neurons are Cre‐expressing; there are indications that the penetrance of the gene is about 90%. We demonstrate the utility of assigning a specific identity to individual neurons by determining that the CT neurons are potently modulated by acetylcholine acting on both nicotinic and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. These results corroborate the suggested function of these neurons in regulating the gain of thalamocortical transfer of sensory information depending on attentional demand and state of arousal.
Homogeneous Water Oxidation by Half‐Sandwich Iridium(III) N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes with Pendant Hydroxy and Amino Groups
Authors: Mahanti Bani , González Miera Greco , Martínez‐Castro Elisa , Bedin Michele , Martín‐Matute Belén , Ott Sascha , Thapper Anders
Published: September 2017

Herein, we report three IrIIICp* complexes with hydroxy‐ or amino‐functionalized N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands that catalyze efficient water oxidation induced by addition of ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN). The pendant hydroxy or amino groups are very important for activity, and the complexes with heteroatom‐functionalized NHC ligands show up to 15 times higher rates of oxygen evolution in CAN‐induced water oxidation than a reference IrIIICp* complex without heteroatom functionalization. The formation of molecular high‐valent Ir intermediates that are presumably involved in the rate‐determining step for water oxidation is established by UV/Vis spectroscopy and ESI‐MS under turnover conditions. The hydroxy groups on the NHC ligands, as well as chloride ligands on the iridium center are proposed to structurally stabilize the high‐valent species, and thereby improve the catalytic activity. The IrIII complex with a hydroxy‐functionalized NHC shows the highest catalytic activity with a TON of 2500 obtained in 3 h and with >90 % yield relative to the amount of oxidant used.
Cognitive–behavioral therapy for eating disorders in primary care settings: Does it work, and does a greater dose make it more effective?
Authors: Rose Charlotte , Waller Glenn
Published: September 2017

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) for eating disorders can be effective in a routine, primary care clinical setting, and to assess dose response.

Method

The participants were 47 patients who commenced treatment with a publicly‐funded primary care eating disorder service. They attended 7–33 sessions of individual CBT (mean = 17), using an evidence‐based approach. Routine measures were collected pre‐ and post‐therapy.

Results

Three‐quarters of the patients completed treatment. Using intention to treat analysis (multiple imputation), the patients showed substantial improvements in eating attitudes, bulimic behaviors, and depression. However, there was no association between the level of improvement and the length of therapy past the 8th to 12th session.

Discussion

The level of effectiveness shown here is comparable to that previously demonstrated by more specialist services in secondary and tertiary care. The nonlinear association between number of sessions and recovery highlights the importance of early change, across the eating disorders.
Resiliency in masting systems: Do evolved seed escape strategies benefit an endangered pine?
Authors: Peters Vernon S. , Gelderman Matthew S. , Visscher Darcy R.
Published: September 2017

Satiation of predispersal seed predators by mast years has been demonstrated in many intact ecosystems. When disease causes mortality of seed‐bearing trees in an ecosystem, the abundance of food sources may alter seed predator behavior and abundance, and the ecosystem services derived from mutualistic seed dispersers. We used the endangered limber pine (Pinus flexilis) to examine whether the benefits of interannual variation in cone production vary depending on the severity of white pine blister rust (Cronartium ribicola) infections, the abundance of seed predator populations, and stand characteristics. We compared infection level, cone production, cone predation, and abundance of red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) in 17 stands over two mast years and two nonmast years. Stands were selected from a southern and northern ecosystem within Alberta's montane ecoregion, with varying forest composition and history of blister rust infection. Considerable variability in interannual cone production, and proportionately greater cone escape (those remaining in stands) in the 2010 mast year led to 10 times greater cone escape overall in the mast year than in nonmast years. Model selection using Akaike's information criterion (AIC) suggests that both cone escape and proportion cone escape from seed predators depended primarily on temporal variability in cone production among mast vs. nonmast years, basal area of canopy trees within stands, squirrel abundance, and ecosystem differences. Several two‐way and three‐way interactions between masting, ecosystems, and predator abundance were selected by AIC for inclusion into the best model of the a priori candidate set for both the cone escape model and proportion cone escape model. Our study suggests that masting confers temporal resiliency in seed escape in declining limber pine ecosystems, even under varying disease and seed predator threats. These findings also suggest that evolved seed escape strategies may be resilient to a variety of ecological conditions, including low reproductive capacity. Nonetheless, proximate ecological conditions may determine the fate of declining species, as predator behavior differed between ecosystems, and greater net cone escape in favorable stands may be necessary to attract mutualistic seed dispersers.
Influence of neighboring plants on the dynamics of an ant–acacia protection mutualism
Authors: Palmer Todd M. , Riginos Corinna , Damiani Rachel E. , Morgan Natalya , Lemboi John S. , Lengingiro James , Ruiz‐Guajardo Juan C. , Pringle Robert M.
Published: September 2017

Ant–plant protection symbioses, in which plants provide food and/or shelter for ants in exchange for protection from herbivory, are model systems for understanding the ecology of mutualism. While interactions between ants, host plants, and herbivores have been intensively studied, we know little about how plant–plant interactions influence the dynamics of these mutualisms, despite strong evidence that plants compete for resources, that hosting ants can be costly, and that host‐plant provisioning to ants can therefore be constrained by resource availability. We used field experiments in a semiarid Kenyan savanna to examine interactions between the ant‐plant Acacia drepanolobium, neighboring grasses, and two species of symbiotic acacia‐ants with divergent behaviors: Crematogaster mimosae, an aggressive symbiont that imposes high costs to host trees via consumption of extrafloral nectar, and Tetraponera penzigi, a less‐protective symbiont that imposes lower costs because it does not consume nectar. We hypothesized that by competing with acacias for resources, neighboring grasses (1) reduce hosts’ ability to support costly C. mimosae, while having little or no effect on the ability of hosts to support low‐cost T. penzigi, and (2) reduce sapling growth rates irrespective of ant occupant. We factorially manipulated the presence/absence of grasses and the identity of ant occupants on saplings and evaluated effects on colony survivorship and sapling growth rates over 40 weeks. Contrary to prediction, the high‐cost/high‐reward nectar‐dependent mutualist C. mimosae had higher colony‐survival rates on saplings with grass neighbors present. Grasses appear to have indirectly facilitated the survival of C. mimosae by reducing water stress on host plants; soils under saplings shaded by grasses had higher moisture content, and these saplings produced more active nectaries than grass‐removal saplings. Consistent with prediction, survival of low‐cost/low‐reward T. penzigi did not differ significantly between grass‐removal treatments. Saplings occupied by low‐cost/low‐reward T. penzigi grew 100% more on average than saplings occupied by high‐cost/high‐reward C. mimosae, demonstrating that mutualist‐partner identity strongly and differentially influences demographic rates of young plants. In contrast, contrary to prediction, grass neighbors had no significant net impact on sapling growth rates. Our results suggest that neighboring plants can exert strong and counterintuitive effects on ant–plant protection symbioses, highlighting the need to integrate plant–plant interactions into our understanding of these mutualisms.
Recent Advances in Organocatalytic Glycosylations
Authors: Williams Ryan , Galan M. Carmen
Published: September 2017

Carbohydrates play a pivotal role in biological systems and present an opportunity to develop potent carbohydrate‐derived therapeutics and diagnostic tools for the treatment and detection of disease. To better comprehend the biological functions of carbohydrates, access to pure and structurally defined oligosaccharides is needed. Oligosaccharides are commonly synthesized by chemical means; however, despite progress in glycosylation chemistry, the efficient and stereoselective formation of glycosidic bonds by mild, nontoxic and low‐cost methods remains a challenge. Organocatalysis is an exciting field that utilizes small organic molecules to effect chemical transformation where traditionally transition metal catalysis would be required. This microreview presents recent advances in the application of organocatalysis to carbohydrate chemistry and in particular to the stereoselective synthesis of oligosaccharides.
The benefits of being understood: The role of ethnic identity confirmation in knowledge acquisition by expatriates
Authors: Fan Shea X. , Cregan Christina , Harzing Anne‐Wil , Köhler Tine
Published: September 2017

In this article, we propose that the concept of ethnic identity confirmation (EIC), the level of agreement between how expatriates view the importance of their own ethnic identity and how local employees view the importance of expatriates' ethnic identity, can explain why expatriates who are ethnically similar to host‐country employees are sometimes less effective than expected when working overseas. Multinationals often choose ethnically similar expatriates for international assignments, assuming these expatriates can more effectively acquire knowledge from local employees. Thus, understanding the specific challenges that endanger the realization of this potential is crucial.

Our survey, administered to a sample of 128 expatriate–local employee dyads working in China, reveals that both ethnically similar and ethnically different expatriates acquire more local knowledge when EIC is high. However, the association between ethnic (dis)similarity and knowledge acquisition is direct for ethnically different expatriates, whereas for ethnically similar expatriates it is indirect via their perception of local employees' trustworthiness. We discuss this study's important implications and provide recommendations for multinationals on how to provide tailored support to expatriates who face different identity challenges.
Patterned semiconductor structures modulate neuronal outgrowth: Implication for the development of a neurobionic interface
Authors: Völker Johannes , Kohm Fabian , Jürgens Lukas , Scherzad Agmal , Schendzielorz Philipp , Schraven Sebastian P. , Mlynski Robert , Radeloff Andreas , Hagen Rudolf , Rak Kristen
Published: September 2017

Auditory implants stimulate the neurons by broad electrical fields, which leads to a low number of spectral channels. A reduction in the distance between the electrode and the neuronal structures might lead to better electrical transduction. The use of microstructured semiconductors offers a large number of contacts, which could attract neurons and stimulate them individually. To investigate the interaction between neurons and semiconductors, differentiated neuronal precursor cells were cultured on silicon wafers. Different structures were added on the wafers by electron beam lithography, and deep reactive ion etching in different depths (2 and 7 µm). Grooved surfaces guided the neurons and resulted in straight oriented axons, but neuronal outgrowth was impaired by the 7 µm grooves. Within the 7 µm structures, the neuronal cell body was totally encased and the nuclei were deformed from a round to an elliptical shape. On both square and cylindrical structures neuronal bridging could be detected in different forms, either between the tops of the structures or between the bottom and the top. Furthermore, neuronal bridges were established on the lateral part of the structures, and change in direction of neuronal growth was induced by the structure. Finally, it could be shown that neuronal growth cones were particularly attracted by the top of the cylinders, which might allow for the stimulation of neurons via this structure. In conclusion, study results indicate that structured semiconductors can modulate neuronal growth and its direction, offering a novel method for the development of new implants with improved neuronal stimulation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 65–72, 2018.
Bone‐healing capacity of conditioned medium derived from three‐dimensionally cultivated human mesenchymal stem cells and electrical stimulation on collagen sponge
Authors: Hwang Soon Jung , Cho Tae Hyung , Lee Beomseok , Kim In Sook
Published: September 2017

Continuing from our previous study, we hypothesized that combining electrical stimulation (ES) and three‐dimensional (3D) culture would be a useful strategy to obtain more bioactive factors in conditioned medium (CM) derived from human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). Our aim in this study was to investigate the bone‐healing capacity of CM derived from hMSC after 4 days of culture on a collagen sponge‐exposed (CM‐ES) or unexposed (CM‐control; CM‐CON) to ES in comparison with that of hMSC implantation. A cytokine assay of both CMs revealed the presence of cytokines, growth factors, and trophic factors. In vitro evaluation of both CMs showed increased cell growth and alkaline phosphatase activity of the hMSC, with little difference between CMs. We investigated the bone‐healing effect using two bone disease models: bone defect and inflammatory bone loss. The calvaria defect was implanted with whole CM or 3D‐precultured hMSC unexposed to ES. Microcomputed tomography analysis after 4 weeks indicated a twofold greater bone volume in the CM‐CON and CM‐ES groups than in the hMSC and vehicle groups, though we found no difference between the CM groups. However, CM‐ES enhanced the bone healing of interleukin‐1‐induced bone loss to a level comparable with hMSC, whereas CM‐CON did not. These results show that 3D‐cultured CM had a greater or similar capacity for bone healing as treatment using hMSC transplantation, and CM‐ES was especially effective against inflammatory bone loss. Thus, 3D‐cultured CM with or without ES presents an encouraging alternative to MSC‐based bone healing. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 311–320, 2018.
Response of umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells to varying titanium topographical signals
Authors: Lauria Ines , Höner Miriam , Kant Sebastian , Davtalab Roswitha , Weik Thomas , Sternberg Katrin , Fischer Horst
Published: September 2017

A wide variety of titanium implant modifications have been developed to improve tissue– or cell–material interactions including bone bonding, implant failure, and contact osteogenesis. Osteogenesis can be stimulated by mechanobiological signals such as topography though translation of in vivo reactions to in vitro bioactivity and stem cell culture data, and vice versa, is challenging. We hypothesized that a systematic in vitro approach comparing clinically well‐accepted implant surface topographical modifications could shed light on potential cell biological mechanisms provoked by submicron‐, micron‐ or macrostructured surfaces. In this study, we investigated the response of umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stromal cells (UC‐MSCs) to anodized, particle blasted, and plasma sprayed highly porous Plasmapore surfaces, which is known to promote bony ingrowth in vivo. After 21 days, UC‐MSCs undergo a morphological shift from a 2D to 3D behavior on micro‐ or macrostructures visualized by actin–vinculin fluorescence and are able to fill the porous surfaces completely. Cell viability after 7 days was significantly decreased on the micro‐ and macrostructured surfaces particle blasted and Plasmapore, compared to polished controls. The analysis of osteogenic differentiation under noninduced conditions revealed a significantly elevated ALP activity on Plasmapore, indicating a beneficial effect of this macrostructured surface toward osteogenic differentiation supported by late elevated gene expression of osteopontin evaluated by qPCR. Mineralization as well as in vitro bioactivity was pronounced on anodized surfaces. Our findings point to synergistic implant modification strategies allowing early contact osteogenesis and bone ingrowth for future implant designs. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 180–191, 2018.
Association BetweenCYP2C19*17Alleles and pH Probe Testing Outcomes in Children With Symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux
Authors: Franciosi James P. , Mougey Edward B. , Williams Andre , Gomez‐Suarez Roberto A. , Thomas Cameron , Creech Christa L. , George Katherine , Corao Diana , Lima John J.
Published: September 2017

Esophageal pH monitoring remains a primary diagnostic tool for detecting gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD that is refractory to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medications may be related toCYP2C19variants. Current PPI dosing practices in children do not take into accountCYP2C19allelic variants, which may lead to underdosing and subsequently to a misperception of PPI therapy failure. We hypothesized that pH probe acid exposure outcomes associate withCYP2C19*17alleles among children with clinical concern for GERD. We identified a retrospective cohort of 74 children (age range 0.71‐17.1 years, mean 8.5, SD 4.6) with stored endoscopic tissue samples and who had also undergone esophageal pH testing while on PPI therapy. These individuals were genotyped for commonCYP2C19alleles and were dichotomized to eitherCYP2C19*17allelic carriers without corresponding loss of function alleles as cases vs controls. Associations between pH probe acid exposure outcomes andCYP2C19*17alleles were investigated. Compared to controls, children who carryCYP2C19*17alleles without corresponding loss‐of‐function alleles demonstrated statistically significant longer times with pH < 4 (76.46 vs 33.47 minutes,P= .03); and higher percent of time with pH < 4.0 (5.71 vs 2.67 minutes,P = .04). These findings remained statistically significant using multiple‐regression modeling with test duration, PPI dose, and race as confounding variables. PPI therapy in children with *17alleles may be better optimized withCYP2C19genotype‐guided dosing prior to pH probe testing.
Synthesis and Antioxidant Activity of a New Class of Pyridinylcarbamoylmethyl Pyrrolyl/Pyrazolylcarboxamides
Authors: Gudi Yamini , Gundala Sravya , Venkatapuram Padmavathi , Adivireddy Padmaja , Chippada Appa Rao , Allagadda Rajasekhar
Published: September 2017

A new class of pyridinylcarbamoylmethyl pyrrolyl/pyrazolylcarboxamides was prepared from the synthetic intermediate pyridinylcarbamoylmethyl cinnamamide adopting simple and versatile synthetic methodologies. All the synthesized compounds were evaluated for antioxidant activity. Among all the tested compounds, the methoxy‐substituted pyrazolyl pyridines displayed significant antioxidant activity in all the three methods when compared with the standard ascorbic acid. Moreover, compounds having more number of electron‐donating groups exhibited greater activity.
Extensive study on physicochemical properties of polychlorinated biphenyls in a commercial ion trap mass spectrometer, relevance in analytical and environmental chemistry
Authors: Narizzano R. , Risso F. , Magherini A. , Cordone G. , Ottonelli M. , Smirnova E. , Nadotti S. , Rivara L. , La Rocca R. , Magi E. , Lottici S. , Maggiolo S. , Pepe C.E. , Garbarino M.
Published: September 2017

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) exist as 209 congeners, consisting of biphenyl molecules, where the number and substitution positions of halogen atoms are known to affect industrial uses, environmental transport mechanisms, distribution, fate, and toxicity. The complexity of the problem requires accurate physicochemical studies of an increasing number of congeners in order to understand the environmental and biological processes at play. This work presents a systematic study on the thermodynamic and kinetic properties of PCBs by quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometry. A clear relationship between structure and behavior of PCBs in mass spectrometry experiments has been observed. Overall data demonstrate that di‐ortho congeners show lower thermodynamic stability and higher fragmentation rate than non/mono‐ortho. Congeners follow different fragmentation mechanisms according to the number of chlorine atoms in ortho position of the biphenyl system. Experimental kinetic curves of mono/non‐ortho and di‐ortho congeners show a strong similarity with classical first‐order kinetics curves; in particular, di‐ortho congeners follow a first‐order consecutive reaction, while mono/non‐ortho follow a first‐order parallel reaction. For each studied congener, the kinetic constant of reaction (fragmentation) has been determined. Data support environmental levels and biochemical transformations described in literature. The general picture of the PCB behavior inside a quadrupole ion trap provides the basis for the development of reliable and cost‐effective analytical methods to the determination of ultra‐low level trace of PCB congeners.
Epidemiological and molecular analysis of hepatitis B virus infection in manicurists in Central Brazil
Authors: Cavaretto Larissa , Motta‐Castro Ana R.C. , Teles Sheila A. , Souza Fernanda Q. , Cardoso Wesley M. , de Rezende Grazielli R. , Tanaka Tayana S.O. , Bandeira Larissa M. , Cesar Gabriela A. , Puga Marco A.M. , Nepomuceno Bruna B. , Lago Bárbara V. , Fernandes‐Fitts Sonia M.
Published: September 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the serological and molecular prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in 514 manicurists/pedicurists and identify the risk factors related with this infection. Samples were tested for HBV serological markers, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Anti‐HBc‐positive samples were tested to investigate occult hepatitis B by PCR. HBsAg‐positive samples were genotyped and the viral loads of HBV‐DNA positive samples were quantified. The overall HBV prevalence was 5.6% (29/514) and of HBsAg was 0.4% (2/514). One case of occult hepatitis B was found. The genotypes A1 and F2 were identified in two HBsAg‐positive samples. Low level of education, not being born in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul and working in the central region of the city were associated with the HBV infection. No single manicurist/pedicurist was infected by HCV or HIV. These findings suggest that despite the exposure to blood contact, this occupation was not associated to an increased risk of acquiring HBV, HCV, and HIV infections.
Impact of different types of ENSO conditions on seasonal precipitation and streamflow in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Wang Hui , Asefa Tirusew
Published: September 2017

Recent advancement in climate sciences has discovered two different types of El Niño events, namely the eastern Pacific El Niño (EP‐El Niño) and central Pacific El Niño (CP‐El Niño). Identifying how watershed responses to different El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events, including both El Niño and La Niña conditions, is critical in understanding how the oceanic teleconnections possibly affect local precipitation and streamflow. In this study, 70 watersheds with minimum human impact during the period 1950–2010 in the Southeastern United States (SEUS) were selected to examine whether streamflow exhibits different patterns in EP‐ and CP‐El Niño conditions, and La Niña events. Similar analyses were applied to 187 precipitation stations in SEUS. Analyses reveal that for the peak season of both EP‐El Niño and CP‐El Niño years, December–January–February (DJF), seasonal average streamflow and precipitation is higher than long‐term average. CP‐El Niño, however, weakens the wetting effect brought by traditional EP‐El Niño, leading to smaller percentage of increases in seasonal precipitation/streamflow for most stations in the SEUS. In the decaying season March–April–May (MAM) of ENSO signals, streamflow for both EP‐ and CP‐El Niño is higher than its corresponding climatology. The increased amplitude is even greater in MAM compared to that of the DJF season. During La Niña events, reduced precipitation and streamflow are observed for large portion of stations in SEUS, especially for the DJF and MAM season. The use of ENSO in water resources management is often limited to boreal winter season for the SEUS, as its signal is well reflected in hydrological responses. This study finds that for the June–July–August (JJA) season followed by the decay of ENSO signals in MAM, there is striking difference in the magnitude of precipitation and streamflow for EP‐El Niño and CP‐El Niño events.
Sclerostin antibody enhances bone formation in a rat model of distraction osteogenesis
Authors: McDonald Michelle M. , Morse Alyson , Birke Oliver , Yu Nicole Y. C. , Mikulec Kathy , Peacock Lauren , Schindeler Aaron , Liu Min , Ke Hua Z. , Little David G.
Published: September 2017

Neutralizing monoclonal sclerostin antibodies are effective in promoting bone formation at a systemic level and in orthopedic scenarios including closed fracture repair. In this study we examined the effects of sclerostin antibody (Scl‐Ab) treatment on regenerate volume, density, and strength in a rat model of distraction osteogenesis. Surgical osteotomy was performed on 179 Sprague Dawley rats. After 1 week, rats underwent distraction for 2 weeks, followed by 6 weeks for consolidation. Two treatment groups received biweekly subcutaneous Scl‐AbIII (a rodent form of Scl‐Ab; 25 mg/kg), either from the start of distraction onward or restricted to the consolidation phase. These groups were compared to controls receiving saline. Measurement modalities included longitudinal DXA, ex vivo QCT, and microCT, tissue histology, and biomechanical four‐point bending tests. Bone volume was increased in both Scl‐Ab treatments regimens by the end of consolidation (+26–38%, p < 0.05), as assessed by microCT. This was associated with increased mineral apposition. Importantly, Scl‐Ab led to increased strength in united bones, and this reached statistical significance in animals receiving Scl‐Ab during consolidation only (+177%, p < 0.01, maximum load to failure). These data demonstrate that Scl‐Ab treatment increases bone formation, leading to regenerates with higher bone volume and improved strength. Our data also suggest that the optimal effects of Scl‐Ab treatment are achieved in the latter stages of distraction osteogenesis. These findings support further investigation into the potential clinical application of sclerostin antibody to augment bone distraction, such as limb lengthening, particularly in the prevention of refracture. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1106–1113, 2018.
Overt hepatic encephalopathy impairs learning on the EncephalApp stroop which is reversible after liver transplantation
Authors: Acharya Chathur , Wade James B. , Fagan Andrew , White Melanie , Gavis Edith , Ganapathy Dinesh , Gilles HoChong , Heuman Douglas M. , Bajaj Jasmohan S.
Published: September 2017

After an initial exposure, patients can develop test‐taking/learning strategies called the “test sophistication effect.” Patients with cirrhosis with prior overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) could have persistent learning impairments. The aim was to define learning/test sophistication on EncephalApp (downloadable application) in OHE patients compared with patients without prior overt hepatic encephalopathy (no‐OHE) patients and controls cross‐sectionally and longitudinally. The EncephalApp Stroop App consists of 2 sections: the easier “Off” run assesses psychomotor speed while the difficult “On” run assesses cognitive flexibility. For the cross‐sectional analysis, outpatients with cirrhosis with/without controlled OHE and healthy controls underwent EncephalApp testing, which requires 5 Off and 5 On runs. We studied the difference in time required between completing trial 1 compared with trial 5 (delta 1‐5) in both the On and Off runs in controls, all patients with cirrhosis, and between prior OHE/no‐OHE patients with cirrhosis. For the longitudinal analyses, 2 groups of patients with cirrhosis were studied; 1 was administered the EncephalApp ≥ 2 weeks apart, and the second was administered before and 6 months after liver transplantation. The study included 89 controls and 230 patients with cirrhosis (85 prior OHE; Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease, 11) with similar age (64 versus 61 years; P = 0.92). Patients with cirrhosis had impaired EncephalApp total times and impaired learning on the On runs compared with controls. OHE patients had worse EncephalApp times and learning with the On runs compared with no‐OHE patients, which persisted in the longitudinal cohort. No differences in learning were seen in the Off runs. After transplant, there was restoration of learning capability with the On runs in the OHE patients. In conclusion, cognitive flexibility tested by the EncephalApp On runs improves over time in healthy controls and no‐OHE but not prior OHE. Psychomotor speed remains similar over time. The learning impairment manifested by patients with cirrhosis with OHE is restored after transplant. Liver Transplantation 23 1396–1403 2017 AASLD.