bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bis(quinoxaline‐dithiolato)nickel(III) Complexes [Bu4N][NiIII(6,7‐qdt)2] and [Ph4P]­[NiIII(Ph26,7‐qdt)2]·CHCl3 (6,7‐qdt = Quin­oxaline‐6,7‐dithiolate; Ph26,7‐qdt = Diphenylquinoxaline‐6,7‐dithiolate): Synthesis, Spectroscopy, Electrochemistry, DFT Calculations, Crystal Structures and Hirshfeld Surface Analysis
Authors: Naik Indravath Krishna , Sarkar Rudraditya , Das Samar K.
Published: November 2015

Two bis(quinoxaline‐dithiolato)nickel(III) complexes [Bu4N][NiIII(6,7‐qdt)2] (1; 6,7‐qdt = quinoxaline‐6,7‐dithiolate) and [Ph4P][NiIII(Ph26,7‐qdt)2]·CHCl3 (2; Ph26,7‐qdt = diphenylquinoxaline‐6,7‐dithiolate) have been synthesized from their NiII analogues by iodine oxidation. Compounds 1 and 2 have been characterized by routine spectral analysis and single‐crystal X‐ray structure determination. Nickel(III) complexes 1 and 2 exhibit redshifted absorption bands compared with their NiII analogues; the electronic absorption spectral studies have been corroborated by DFT calculations. Electrochemical studies on 1 and 2 are consistent with those of their NiII analogues. Electron spin resonance (ESR) studies confirm that nickel is present in both 1 and 2 in its +3 oxidation state. This is also consistent with the fact that only one cation (Bu4N+ for 1 and Ph4P+ for 2) is present in the respective crystal structures. The crystal structures of both compounds are characterized by C–H···S and C–H···N hydrogen‐bonding interactions. Hirshfeld surface analyses have been studied to gain deep insight into the hydrogen‐bonding interactions around/among the coordination complex anions.
A Dimetallic Osmium(II) Complex as a Potential Phototherapeutic Agent: Binding and Photocleavage Studies with Plasmid DNA
Authors: Swavey Shawn , Li Kaiyu
Published: November 2015

A new dimetallic OsIIcomplex bridged by (4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)diphenanthropyrromethane [{Os(bpy)2php}2van](PF6)4has been synthesized and characterized by UV/Vis spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and elemental analysis. The spectroscopic properties are similar to those of [Os(bpy)3]2+with ligand‐centered π–π* transitions in the UV region of the spectrum and three metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer (1MLCT) transitions in the visible region. A broad3MLCT is observed stretching from 550 to 700 nm with modest intensity. Binding studies with calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) show binding constants as high as 105M–1indicating a strong interaction of the complex with DNA. When aqueous solutions of the complex and plasmid DNA are irradiated with low‐energy light for brief periods of time complete photocleavage of the DNA is observed. Studies indicate that the mechanism of this photoreaction requires molecular oxygen and results from both the formation of1O2and oxygen radicals offering multiple modes for DNA destruction.
Capillary electrochromatography and nano‐liquid chromatography coupled to nano‐electrospray ionization interface for the separation and identification of estrogenic compounds
Authors: D'Orazio Giovanni , Hernández‐Borges Javier , Asensio‐Ramos María , Rodríguez‐Delgado Miguel Ángel , Fanali Salvatore
Published: November 2015

Nano‐LC and CEC were coupled to MS through a nanospray or a pressurized liquid‐junction interface for the simultaneous separation and determination of 11 estrogenic compounds. Different stationary phases, that is, phenyl, C18, and C18 bidentate silica hydrate, were studied. For both techniques, the phenyl stationary phase was the best option, considering separation efficiency, selectivity, and resolution. Under the optimized conditions, the baseline separation of the target compounds (including estradiol and zearalanol epimers) was achieved in less than 20 min in nano‐LC‐MS and less than 13 min in CEC‐MS. Molecular imprinted polymer SPE was used for extracting the target compounds from mineral water samples with the analysis of nano‐LC‐MS. The whole molecular imprinted polymer SPE nano‐LC‐MS method was validated through a recovery study at two levels of concentration. Sensitivity was improved by on‐column focusing technique obtaining LODs in the range 1.4–55.4 ng/L.
A high‐order discontinuous Galerkin solver for low Mach number flows
Authors: Klein B. , Müller B. , Kummer F. , Oberlack M.
Published: November 2015

In this work, we present a high‐order discontinuous Galerkin method (DGM) for simulating variable density flows at low Mach numbers. The corresponding low Mach number equations are an approximation of the compressible Navier–Stokes equations in the limit of zero Mach number. To the best of the authors'y knowledge, it is the first time that the DGM is applied to the low Mach number equations. The mixed‐order formulation is applied for spatial discretization. For steady cases, we apply the semi‐implicit method for pressure‐linked equation (SIMPLE) algorithm to solve the non‐linear system in a segregated manner. For unsteady cases, the solver is implicit in time using backward differentiation formulae, and the SIMPLE algorithm is applied to solve the non‐linear system in each time step. Numerical results for the following three test cases are shown: Couette flow with a vertical temperature gradient, natural convection in a square cavity, and unsteady natural convection in a tall cavity. Considering a fixed number of degrees of freedom, the results demonstrate the benefits of using higher approximation orders. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Relative Predictability of Stock Markets in the Americas
Authors: Smith Graham , Dyakova Aneta
Published: November 2015

The degree of return predictability is measured for seven Latin American stock markets and those in Canada and the United States using three finite‐sample variance ratio tests. Daily data for the period beginning in February 1994 and ending in December 2011 are used in a fixed‐length rolling window to capture short‐lived predictability, track changes in predictability through time and rank markets by relative predictability. Overall, the degree of return predictability varies widely. The most predictable are those located in Chile and Peru; the least predictable are in Argentina and Brazil. Predictability has decreased for all of those stock markets examined, except those located in Ecuador and the United States. Predictability largely coincides with times of crisis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optical reprogramming of human cells in an ultrashort femtosecond laser microfluidic transfection platform
Authors: Uchugonova Aisada , Breunig Hans Georg , Batista Ana , König Karsten
Published: November 2015

Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPS cell) technology can be used to produce unlimited numbers of functional cells for both research and therapeutic purposes without ethical controversy. Typically, viruses are applied for efficient intracellular delivery of genes/transcription factors to generate iPS cells. However, the viral genomic integration may cause a risk of mutation as well as tumor formation therefore limits its clinical application.

Here we demonstrate that spatially shaped extreme ultrashort laser pulses of sub‐20 femtoseconds induce transient membrane permeabilisation which enables contamination‐free transfection of cells in a microfluidic tube with multiple genes at the individual cell level in order to achieve optical reprogramming of large cell populations. We found that the ultrashort femtosecond laser‐microfluidic cell transfection platform enhanced the efficacy of iPS‐like colony‐forming following merely a single transfection.

Illustration of the spatially shaped femtosecond laser‐assisted microfluidic cell transfection platform for production of iPS cell colonies.

magnified image

Illustration of the spatially shaped femtosecond laser‐assisted microfluidic cell transfection platform for production of iPS cell colonies.
Macrophages: Their Emerging Roles in Bone
Authors: Sinder Benjamin P , Pettit Allison R , McCauley Laurie K
Published: November 2015

Macrophages are present in nearly all tissues and are critical for development, homeostasis, and regeneration. Resident tissue macrophages of bone, termed osteal macrophages, are recently classified myeloid cells that are distinct from osteoclasts. Osteal macrophages are located immediately adjacent to osteoblasts, regulate bone formation, and play diverse roles in skeletal homeostasis. Genetic or pharmacological modulation of macrophages in vivo results in significant bone phenotypes, and these phenotypes depend on which macrophage subsets are altered. Macrophages are also key mediators of osseous wound healing and fracture repair, with distinct roles at various stages of the repair process. A central function of macrophages is their phagocytic ability. Each day, billions of cells die in the body and efferocytosis (phagocytosis of apoptotic cells) is a critical process in both clearing dead cells and recruitment of replacement progenitor cells to maintain homeostasis. Recent data suggest a role for efferocytosis in bone biology and these new mechanisms are outlined. Finally, although macrophages have an established role in primary tumors, emerging evidence suggests that macrophages in bone support cancers which preferentially metastasize to the skeleton. Collectively, this developing area of osteoimmunology raises new questions and promises to provide novel insights into pathophysiologic conditions as well as therapeutic and regenerative approaches vital for skeletal health. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Multiphoton imaging with a novel compact diode‐pumped Ti:sapphire oscillator
Authors: König Karsten , Andersen Peter , Le Tuan , Breunig Hans Georg
Published: November 2015

Multiphoton laser scanning microscopy commonly relies on bulky and expensive femtosecond lasers. We integrated a novel minimal‐footprint Ti:sapphire oscillator, pumped by a frequency‐doubled distributed Bragg reflector tapered diode laser, into a clinical multiphoton tomograph and evaluated its imaging capability using different biological samples, i.e. cell monolayers, corneal tissue, and human skin. With the novel laser, the realization of very compact Ti:sapphire‐based systems for high‐quality multiphoton imaging at a significantly size and weight compared to current systems will become possible. Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:1154–1158, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Elucidation of the effect of aptamer immobilization strategies on the interaction between cell and its aptamer using atomic force spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Qing , Luo Bianxia , Yang Xiaohai , Wang Kemin , Liu Lin , Du Shasha , Li Zhiping
Published: November 2015

The immobilization strategy of cell‐specific aptamers is of great importance for studying the interaction between a cell and its aptamer. However, because of the difficulty of studying living cell, there have not been any systematic reports about the effect of immobilization strategies on the binding ability of an immobilized aptamer to its target cell. Because atomic force spectroscopy (AFM) could not only be suitable for the investigation of living cell under physiological conditions but also obtains information reflecting the intrinsic properties of individuals, the effect of immobilization strategies on the interaction of aptamer/human hepatocarcinoma cell Bel‐7404 was successively evaluated using AFM here. Two different immobilization methods, including polyethylene glycol immobilization method and glutaraldehyde immobilization method were used, and the factors, such as aptamer orientation, oligodeoxythymidine spacers and dodecyl spacers, were investigated. Binding events measured by AFM showed that a similar unbinding force was obtained regardless of the change of the aptamer orientation, the immobilization method, and spacers, implying that the biophysical characteristics of the aptamer at the molecular level remain undisturbed. However, it showed that the immobilization orientation, immobilization method, and spacers could alter the binding probability of aptamer/Bel‐7404 cell. Presumably, these factors may affect the accessibility of the aptamer toward its target cell. These results may provide valuable information for aptamer sensor platforms including ultrasensitive biosensor design. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evolution and mutations of hepatitis B virus quasispecies in genotype B and C during vertical transmission
Authors: Wu Quanxin , Xu Cheng , Li Junnan , Li Li , Yan Guohua , Yue Liangliang , Zeng Yi , Huang Hongfei , Deng Guohong , Wang Yuming
Published: November 2015

Evolution patterns of HBV QS between genotype B and C during vertical transmission are not well understood. In this study, we enrolled 10 HBV infected mother‐infant pairs (four pairs with genotype B, four pairs with genotype C, and two with co‐infection) without anti‐viral therapy. Serum HBV DNA of mothers and infants were sequenced, HBV QS complexity and diversity were analyzed, polymorphisms and mutation sites were recorded, and phylogenetic trees were performed. Our result showed that the QS complexities in P (amino acid), C/PreC (amino acid), and PreS1 (nucleotide) gene were significantly higher in mothers than in infants in pairs with genotype C (P < 0.05), however, full‐length and other genes showed non‐significant differences (P > 0.05). Unlike genotype C, QS complexity of P gene (nucleotide) was significantly higher in infants than in mothers (P < 0.05) in pairs with genotype B, similarly, QS complexities of full‐length and other genes (except Pre S2) were also higher in infants than in mothers but without significant differences (P > 0.05). QS diversities of full‐length and most genes in genotype B were comparable between mothers and their infants (P > 0.05), in pairs with genotype C, dS of P, X, RT genes, genetic distance of Pre S1 gene (amino acid) and dN of Pre S1 gene were significant higher in mothers than in infants (P < 0.05). Several HBV mutations correlated with immune escape, e antigen loss and drug resistance were observed in infants. The results indicated that differences of HBV QS evolution patterns between genotype B and C during vertical transmission might contribute to distinct prognosis. J. Med. Virol. 88:1018–1026, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lung Function Testing On and Off Dopaminergic Medication in Parkinson's Disease Patients With and Without Dysphagia
Authors: Sawan Tareq , Harris Mary Louise , Kobylecki Christopher , Baijens Laura , van Hooren Michel , Michou Emilia
Published: November 2015

Background

Swallowing function in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) can be negatively affected by dopaminergic medication with associated inhibition of brainstem reflexes. Three different “swallowing‐safety” profiles of PD patients were previously observed, classified according to swallowing safety on and off levodopa.

Methods

Here, we investigated the effects of l‐dopa on pulmonary function tests (PFTs) on 26 individuals with PD from the three different swallowing‐safety profiles. PFTs results were compared to predicted values and direct comparisons between the groups with or without dysphagia were performed with nonparametric statistical tests (i.e., Kruskal–Wallis).

Results

A short (12‐hour) withdrawal from l‐dopa did not result in any significant changes in PFTs, and no differences on PFTs results were observed between the different dysphagic groups the on and off l‐dopa state. No correlation was observed between the PFTs results with swallowing safety profiles of PD patients.

Conclusions

Although deglutition seems to be at least partially affected by dopaminergic repletion, dopaminergic mechanisms do not seem to be responsible for PD patients' performance in PFTs.
Remark on energy‐critical NLS in 5D
Authors: Cheng Xing , Gao Yanfang , Zheng Jiqiang
Published: November 2015

We reprove global well‐posedness and scattering for the defocusing energy‐critical nonlinear Schrödinger equation in five dimensions. Inspired by the recent work of Killip and Visan, we adapt the Dodson's strategy ‘long‐time Strichartz estimate’ used in the work on mass‐critical nonlinear Schrödinger equation sets. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A two‐surface thermomechanical model for saturated clays
Authors: Hong P. Y. , Pereira J. M. , Cui Y. J. , Tang A. M.
Published: November 2015

This paper presents an advanced thermomechanical model – TEAM in the framework of two‐surface plasticity for saturated clays, with emphasis put on some important thermomechanical features of natural clays evidenced experimentally such as the limited thermomechanical elastic zone, the smooth transition from elastic to plastic behavior. Two plastic mechanisms are introduced in the model: one is to reproduce the thermoplasticity involving thermal expansion and contraction observed at high over‐consolidation ratios and the second one describes the temperature effect on the yield behavior. The model adopts additional yield surfaces, namely inner yield surfaces that are associated with the two proposed plastic mechanisms to account for the plastic behavior inside the existing conventional thermomechanical yield surface namely yield surfaces. The general expressions of the yield surfaces and plastic potentials in p′–q–T space are introduced. A progressive plastic hardening mechanism associated with the inner yield surface is defined, enabling the plastic modulus to vary smoothly during thermomechanical loadings inside the yield surfaces. Several tests on natural Boom clay along different thermomechanical loading paths have been simulated by TEAM, and results show its relevance in describing the thermomechanical behavior of saturated clays. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibitory effects of retigabine, a Kv7 channel activator, on mechanosensitive primary bladder afferent activities and nociceptive behaviors in rats
Authors: Aizawa Naoki , Wakamatsu Daisuke , Kida Jun , Otsuki Takeya , Saito Yasuho , Matsuya Hidekazu , Homma Yukio , Igawa Yasuhiko
Published: November 2015

Aims

Kv7 voltage‐gated potassium channels have been suggested to modulate mechano‐afferent transduction and nociception in the bladder. We investigated the effects of retigabine, a Kv7 channel activator, on rhythmic bladder contractions (RBCs), and single‐unit afferent activities (SAAs) of the primary bladder mechanosensitive afferent nerve fibers in urethane‐anesthetized rats. In addition, the effects of pretreatment with retigabine on the nociceptive behaviors provoked by an intravesical instillation of resiniferatoxin (RTX) were evaluated in the conscious condition.

Methods

Female Sprague–Dawley rats were used. Under urethane anesthesia, saline was instilled into the bladder until RBCs were induced reproducibly. Then, the effects of intravenous, cumulative administrations of retigabine (0.1–3 mg/kg) or vehicle (saline) on RBCs were assessed. In separate animals, SAAs of Aδ‐ and C‐fibers were identified by electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerve and by bladder distention with saline. After baseline recording, vehicle or retigabine (0.01–1 mg/kg) was administered intravenously and further recordings were performed. Under pretreatment with vehicle or retigabine (3 mg/kg intraperitoneally), the frequencies of lower abdominal licking and freezing were counted and scored as the bladder nociceptive behaviors induced by intravesical RTX instillation (3 µM, 0.3 ml).

Results

Retigabine dose‐dependently decreased both the frequency and the amplitude of RBCs and SAAs of both Aδ‐ and C‐fibers. The effect on RBCs was more potent on the frequency than the amplitude. Retigabine inhibited the RTX‐induced abdominal licking, but not freezing.

Conclusion

Kv7 channels are likely to be implicated in inhibition of bladder mechano‐ and nociceptive sensory transduction. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:280–285, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A locally anisotropic fluid–structure interaction remeshing strategy for thin structures with application to a hinged rigid leaflet
Authors: Auricchio Ferdinando , Lefieux Adrien , Reali Alessandro , Veneziani Alessandro
Published: November 2015

An immersed finite element fluid–structure interaction algorithm with an anisotropic remeshing strategy for thin rigid structures is presented in two dimensions. One specific feature of the algorithm consists of remeshing only the fluid elements that are cut by the solid such that they fit the solid geometry. This approach allows to keep the initial (given) fluid mesh during the entire simulation while remeshing is performed locally. Furthermore, constraints between the fluid and the solid may be directly enforced with both an essential treatment and elements allowing the stress to be discontinuous across the structure. Remeshed elements may be strongly anisotropic. Classical interpolation schemes – inf–sup stable on isotropic meshes – may be unstable on anisotropic ones. We specifically focus on a proper finite element pair choice. As for the time advancing of the fluid–structure interaction solver, we perform a geometrical linearization with a sequential solution of fluid and structure in a backward Euler framework. Using the proposed methodology, we extensively address the motion of a hinged rigid leaflet. Numerical tests demonstrate that some finite element pairs are inf–sup unstable with our algorithm, in particular with a discontinuous pressure. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trends in rates of acetaminophen‐related adverse events in the United States
Authors: Major Jacqueline M. , Zhou Esther H. , Wong Hui‐Lee , Trinidad James P. , Pham Tracy M. , Mehta Hina , Ding Yulan , Staffa Judy A. , Iyasu Solomon , Wang Cunlin , Willy Mary E.
Published: November 2015

Purpose

The goal of this study is to summarize trends in rates of adverse events attributable to acetaminophen use, including hepatotoxicity and mortality.

Methods

A comprehensive analysis of data from three national surveillance systems estimated rates of acetaminophen‐related events identified in different settings, including calls to poison centers (2008–2012), emergency department visits (2004–2012), and inpatient hospitalizations (1998–2011). Rates of acetaminophen‐related events were calculated per setting, census population, and distributed drug units.

Results

Rates of poison center calls with acetaminophen‐related exposures decreased from 49.5/1000 calls in 2009 to 43.5/1000 calls in 2012. Rates of emergency department visits for unintentional acetaminophen‐related adverse events decreased from 58.0/1000 emergency department visits for adverse drug events in 2009 to 50.2/1000 emergency department visits in 2012. Rates of hospital inpatient discharges with acetaminophen‐related poisoning decreased from 119.8/100 000 hospitalizations in 2009 to 108.6/100 000 hospitalizations in 2011. After 2009, population rates of acetaminophen‐related events per 1 million census population decreased for poison center calls and hospitalizations, while emergency department visit rates remained stable. However, when accounting for drug sales, the rate of acetaminophen‐related events (per 1 million distributed drug units) increased after 2009. Prior to 2009, the rates of acetaminophen‐related hospitalizations had been slowly increasing (p‐trend = 0.001).

Conclusions

Acetaminophen‐related adverse events continue to be a public health burden. Future studies with additional time points are necessary to confirm trends and determine whether recent risk mitigation efforts had a beneficial impact on acetaminophen‐related adverse events. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Stable chlorine isotope analysis of chlorinated acetic acids using gas chromatography/quadrupole mass spectrometry
Authors: Miska Milena E. , Shouakar‐Stash Orfan , Holmstrand Henry
Published: November 2015

Rationale

The environmental occurrence of chlorinated acetic acids (CAAs) has been extensively studied, but the sources and transport are still not yet fully understood. A promising approach for source apportionment and process studies is the isotopic characterization of target compounds. We present the first on‐line stable chlorine isotope analysis of CAAs by use of gas chromatography/quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC/qMS).

Methods

Following approved procedures for concentration analysis, CAAs extracted into MTBE were methylated to GC‐amenable methyl esters (mCAAs). These mCAAs were then analyzed by GC/qMS for their stable chlorine isotope composition using a sample/standard‐bracketing approach (CAA standards in the range δ37Cl −6.3 to −0.2 ‰, Standard Mean Ocean Chloride).

Results

Cross‐calibration of the herein presented method with off‐line reference methods (thermal ionization and continuous‐flow GC isotope ratio mass spectrometry; TI‐MS and CF‐GC/IRMS, respectively) shows good agreement between the methods (regression slope for GC/qMS vs reference method data sets: 0.92 ± 0.29). Sample amounts as small as 10 pmol Cl can herewith be analyzed with a precision of 0.1 to 0.4 ‰.

Conclusions

This method should be useful for environmental studies of CAAs at ambient concentrations in precipitations (<0.06 to 100 nmol L–1), surface waters (<0.2 to 5 nmol L–1) and soil (<0.6 to 2000 nmol kg–1 dry soil) where conventional off‐line methods cannot be applied. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attack on Chen et al.'s certificateless aggregate signature scheme
Authors: Zhang Jianhong , Zhao Xubing , Mao Jian
Published: November 2015

Certificateless aggregate signature can provide an efficient way to verify a large amount of signatures from different users. This feature makes it very useful in the environments with low bandwidth communication, low storage, and low computability. Recently, Chen et al. proposed a new certificateless aggregate signature scheme. They claim that their scheme is provably secure under the computational Diffie–Hellman problem. Unfortunately, this paper shows that Chen et al.'s scheme is insecure, it cannot resist Type I and Type II adversaries, and the corresponding attacks are given. Furthermore, we also show their scheme exists a more powerful attack, namely, anyone can forge a certificateless signature on an arbitrary message in this attack. Finally, we discuss the reason to produce such attacks and give the corresponding suggestions to resist such attacks. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High Satisfaction and Low Distress in Breast Cancer Patients One Year after BRCA‐Mutation Testing without Prior Face‐to‐Face Genetic Counseling
Authors: Sie Aisha S. , Spruijt Liesbeth , van Zelst‐Stams Wendy A. G. , Mensenkamp Arjen R. , Ligtenberg Marjolijn J. L. , Brunner Han G. , Prins Judith B. , Hoogerbrugge Nicoline
Published: November 2015

According to standard practice following referral to clinical genetics, most high risk breast cancer (BC) patients in many countries receive face‐to‐face genetic counseling prior to BRCA‐mutation testing (DNA‐intake). We evaluated a novel format by prospective study: replacing the intake consultation with telephone, written and digital information sent home. Face‐to‐face counseling then followed BRCA‐mutation testing (DNA‐direct). One year after BRCA‐result disclosure, 108 participants returned long‐term follow‐up questionnaires, of whom 59 (55 %) had previously chosen DNA‐direct (intervention) versus DNA‐intake (standard practice i.e., control: 45 %). Questionnaires assessed satisfaction and psychological distress. All participants were satisfied and 85 % of DNA‐direct participants would choose this procedure again; 10 % would prefer DNA‐intake and 5 % were undecided. In repeated measurements ANOVA, general distress (GHQ‐12, p = 0.01) and BC‐specific distress (IES‐bc, p = 0.03) were lower in DNA‐direct than DNA‐intake at all time measurements. Heredity‐specific distress (IES‐her) did not differ significantly between groups. Multivariate regression analyses showed that choice of procedure did not significantly contribute to either general or heredity‐specific distress. BC‐specific distress (after BC diagnosis) did contribute to both general and heredity‐specific distress. This suggests that higher distress scores reflected BC experience, rather than the type of genetic diagnostic procedure. In conclusion, the large majority of BC patients that used DNA‐direct reported high satisfaction without increased distress both in the short term, and 1 year after conclusion of genetic testing.
Predicting conversion to dementia in a memory clinic: A standard clinical approach compared with an empirically defined clustering method (latent profile analysis) for mild cognitive impairment subtyping
Authors: McGuinness Bernadette , Barrett Suzanne L. , McIlvenna John , Passmore Anthony Peter , Shorter Gillian W.
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has clinical value in its ability to predict later dementia. A better understanding of cognitive profiles can further help delineate who is most at risk of conversion to dementia. We aimed to (1) examine to what extent the usual MCI subtyping using core criteria corresponds to empirically defined clusters of patients (latent profile analysis [LPA] of continuous neuropsychological data) and (2) compare the two methods of subtyping memory clinic participants in their prediction of conversion to dementia.

Methods

Memory clinic participants (MCI, n = 139) and age‐matched controls (n = 98) were recruited. Participants had a full cognitive assessment, and results were grouped (1) according to traditional MCI subtypes and (2) using LPA. MCI participants were followed over approximately 2 years after their initial assessment to monitor for conversion to dementia.

Results

Groups were well matched for age and education. Controls performed significantly better than MCI participants on all cognitive measures. With the traditional analysis, most MCI participants were in the amnestic multidomain subgroup (46.8%) and this group was most at risk of conversion to dementia (63%). From the LPA, a three‐profile solution fit the data best. Profile 3 was the largest group (40.3%), the most cognitively impaired, and most at risk of conversion to dementia (68% of the group).

Discussion

LPA provides a useful adjunct in delineating MCI participants most at risk of conversion to dementia and adds confidence to standard categories of clinical inference.
A priori collaboration in population imaging: The Uniform Neuro‐Imaging of Virchow‐Robin Spaces Enlargement consortium
Authors: Adams Hieab H.H. , Hilal Saima , Schwingenschuh Petra , Wittfeld Katharina , van der Lee Sven J. , DeCarli Charles , Vernooij Meike W. , Katschnig‐Winter Petra , Habes Mohamad , Chen Christopher , Seshadri Sudha , van Duijn Cornelia M. , Ikram M. Kamran , Grabe Hans J. , Schmidt Reinhold , Ikram M. Arfan
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Virchow‐Robin spaces (VRS), or perivascular spaces, are compartments of interstitial fluid enclosing cerebral blood vessels and are potential imaging markers of various underlying brain pathologies. Despite a growing interest in the study of enlarged VRS, the heterogeneity in rating and quantification methods combined with small sample sizes have so far hampered advancement in the field.

Methods

The Uniform Neuro‐Imaging of Virchow‐Robin Spaces Enlargement (UNIVRSE) consortium was established with primary aims to harmonize rating and analysis (www.uconsortium.org). The UNIVRSE consortium brings together 13 (sub)cohorts from five countries, totaling 16,000 subjects and over 25,000 scans. Eight different magnetic resonance imaging protocols were used in the consortium.

Results

VRS rating was harmonized using a validated protocol that was developed by the two founding members, with high reliability independent of scanner type, rater experience, or concomitant brain pathology. Initial analyses revealed risk factors for enlarged VRS including increased age, sex, high blood pressure, brain infarcts, and white matter lesions, but this varied by brain region.

Discussion

Early collaborative efforts between cohort studies with respect to data harmonization and joint analyses can advance the field of population (neuro)imaging. The UNIVRSE consortium will focus efforts on other potential correlates of enlarged VRS, including genetics, cognition, stroke, and dementia.
Impacto de la responsabilidad social empresarial en el comportamiento de compra y disposición a pagar de consumidores bogotanos
Authors: Reficco Ezequiel , Marquina Feldman Percy
Published: November 2015

Las investigaciones publicadas no son concluyentes sobre la influencia de la responsabilidad social empre- sarial (RSE) sobre el comportamiento de los consumidores. Esta investigación examina la relación entre la RSE y habilidades empresariales (HE) para los consumidores de Bogotá. Asimismo, se estimó su disposición a pagar generada por la presencia de cada una de estas variables en la gestión de la empresa responsable del producto. Se llevó a cabo un diseño experimental por medio de un modelo de elección discreta, para poner a prueba la relación entre la RSE y las HE en la intención de compra de los consumidores, y establecer su disposición a pagar (DAP) por la presencia de determinados atributos sociales. A partir de lo anterior se encontró que algunas iniciativas de RSE, junto con algunas HE, tuvieron un impacto significativo sobre las decisiones de consumo socialmente responsable y la DAP de los consumidores.
Russia's Defense Spending and the Economic Decline
Authors: Oxenstierna Susanne
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this article is to explore the development of Russian military spending in light of weak and negative growth of the Russian economy and to look at the reasons for the economic decline that has developed after the economic crisis in 2009 and is due to long-term internal structural factors that have existed since the mid-2000s. The confidence crisis resulting from Russia's aggression against Ukraine 2014, Western sanctions and falling oil prices has further aggravated these tendencies and the economy is now contracting. The main conclusions are that the share of the defense budget in GDP has risen substantially, but there is still a trade-off between defense and other public spending in the budget. Political reform would be necessary to implement market institutions and revive the economy.
Kazakhstan's economic soft balancing policy vis-à-vis Russia: From the Eurasian Union to the economic cooperation with Turkey
Authors: Nurgaliyeva Lyailya
Published: November 2015

What has been the reaction of Kazakhstan toward the rising power and influence of Russia since 1994? This paper uses the concept of soft-balancing, specifically analyzing economic issues using Stephen Walt's balance of threats approach, in an analysis of Kazakhstan's relationship with Russia. It examines instances of Kazakhstan's internal and external economic soft balancing efforts vis-à-vis Russia to explain how it used economic tools to protect its energy security from Russia.

After 1991, which marked the collapse of the Soviet Union, the newly independent countries of the former Soviet Union – the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), including Kazakhstan, needed to create an institution that could tackle economic and energy problems in the region. I argue that the Eurasian Union idea promoted by the president of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, was a skillful attempt to simultaneously maintain a close cooperation with Russia and to soft balance against Russia's influence through collaboration with other CIS countries. However, that initiative failed and did not have the intended economic soft balancing effect.

When Russia started asserting its economic and political power over the Central Asian and Caspian regions, Nazarbayev once again resorted to the economic soft balancing policy, but this time by relying on outside players. Part 2 of this article discusses two cases of such external economic soft balancing efforts: participation in the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline project, and the economic cooperation with Turkey as part of a free trade zone. The BTC pipeline project and the close economic cooperation with Turkey ended up being a more productive soft balancing effort than the earlier Eurasian Union initiative.
Roles of LIM kinases in central nervous system function and dysfunction
Authors: Cuberos H. , Vallée B. , Vourc'h P. , Tastet J. , Andres C.R. , Bénédetti H.
Published: November 2015

We finally present the existence of a cofilin‐independent pathway also involved in neuronal function. A better understanding of the differences between both LIMKs and of the precise molecular mechanisms involved in their mode of action and regulation is now required to improve our understanding of the physiopathology of the neuronal diseases associated with LIMKs.
Motoric cognitive risk syndrome and risk of mortality in older adults
Authors: Ayers Emmeline , Verghese Joe
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Cognitive impairment is associated with increased mortality. We examined the association between motoric cognitive risk (MCR) syndrome, a predementia syndrome characterized by slow gait and cognitive complaints, and survival.

Methods

A total of 11,867 nondemented participants aged >65 years from three established cohort studies in the United States and Europe were screened for MCR. Mortality risk of MCR was assessed with Cox and logistic regression models.

Results

At baseline, 836 (7.0%) participants had MCR. Over a median follow‐up of 28 months, 1603 participants died (758 in first 2 years). MCR was associated with increased mortality overall (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.46–1.96) and 2‐year mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.50–2.38). The association remained after accounting for established mortality risk factors as well as baseline gait speed and memory performance.

Discussion

MCR is associated with increased mortality. Older adults should be screened for MCR to identify at‐risk individuals for dementia and death.
Interarm differences in systolic blood pressure and the risk of dementia and subclinical brain injury
Authors: Pase Matthew P. , Beiser Alexa , Aparicio Hugo , DeCarli Charles , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Murabito Joanne , Seshadri Sudha
Published: November 2015

Introduction

This study examined whether interarm differences in systolic blood pressure (IDSBP) ≥10 mm Hg were associated with the risk of incident dementia and subclinical brain injury.

Methods

Between 1992 and 1998, 2063 participants of the Framingham Heart Study underwent assessment of IDSBP with results related to the 10‐year risk of incident dementia including clinically characterized Alzheimer's disease. Secondary outcomes included markers of subclinical brain injury on magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

High IDSBP were associated with a greater risk of incident dementia (hazard ratio [HR] 1.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09–3.40) and Alzheimer's disease (HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.29–4.18), but only in those who carried an apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele. IDSBP also predicted lower total brain volumes and more prevalent silent brain infarcts in those who were APOE ε4 positive.

Discussion

High IDSBP were associated with an increased risk of dementia, including clinical Alzheimer's disease, and subclinical brain injury in those who were APOE ε4 positive.
Ultrasound Evaluation of the Lower Trapezius in Adolescent Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Hellem Aaron R. , Hollman John H. , Sellon Jacob L. , Pourcho Adam , Strauss Jeffrey , Smith Jay
Published: November 2015

Background

Biomechanical studies have demonstrated that the lower trapezius (LT) facilitates normal shoulder function, and given its potential role in causing and/or perpetuating dysfunction, clinicians have begun to evaluate and rehabilitate the LT in the context of comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation programs. Although some studies have compared side‐to‐side differences in LT thickness among nonthrowers, no studies have been performed to examine the normal ultrasound appearance of the LT in the adolescent throwing population.

Objectives

To examine whether LT thickness and cross‐sectional area (CSA) differ between dominant and nondominant sides in adolescent baseball pitchers and to determine the inter‐rater and intrarater reliability of the sonographically measured parameters.

Study Design

Observational, repeated measures study.

Setting

Hospital‐based outpatient practice.

Participants

Thirty asymptomatic male baseball pitchers aged 13‐18 years with at least 3 years of pitching experience from a convenience sample in the Rochester, Minnesota, area.

Methods

LT thickness and CSA were measured at the T8 and T5 vertebral levels at rest, and thickness was measured again in active prone T‐ and Y‐pose positions by multiple investigators. Side‐to‐side differences in thickness and CSA were examined, and inter‐rater and intrarater measurement reliability coefficients were estimated.

Main Outcome Measurements

Thickness and cross‐sectional area were measured. For reliability, we calculated intraclass correlation coefficients along with the standard error of measurement and the minimal detectable change.

Results

Resting LT thickness was 0.064 cm greater on the dominant side than on the nondominant side (P = .001). During contraction, LT thickness was 0.084 and 0.097 cm greater on the dominant side in the T and Y poses (P = .036 and P = .001, respectively). The CSA at the T5 level was 0.36 cm2 greater on the dominant side than on the nondominant side (P < .001). Inter‐rater and intrarater reliability coefficients exceeded 0.898 across all levels of measurement.

Conclusion

Asymptomatic adolescent pitchers have greater resting and contracted LT thickness and resting CSA on the dominant versus the nondominant side, although the quantitative differences are small. These differences suggest that structural changes and asymmetry can manifest at young ages; however, clinically, the nondominant arm can be used as a control in the adolescent pitching population. Ultrasound provides a noninvasive way to reliably evaluate LT thickness and CSA in adolescent pitchers.
Late Pleistocene galls from the La Brea Tar Pits and their implications for cynipine wasp and native plant distribution in southern California
Authors: Holden Anna R. , Erwin Diane M. , Schick Katherine N. , Gross Joyce
Published: November 2015

Thirteen intact cynipine galls (Cynipidae) are identified from the significant late Pleistocene locality of Rancho La Brea, mostly within the range of approximately 30,000 to 48,000 14C yr BP. Late Cenozoic cynipids have a poor fossil record; it is thus of great interest that the provisional dates for this fossil gall collection establish that these insects and their hosts were an important part of the late Pleistocene ecosystem in and around Rancho La Brea. Cynipine host specificity both verifies, as well as augments, the proportionally low record of plants recovered at Rancho La Brea in comparison to records of mammals, birds, and other fauna. Because galler and hosts represent extant species, their climate and habitat restrictions offer a good basis for making paleoecological inferences. In particular, they imply that many of the diverse habitats found in California today, or, at least plant associations with similar environmental restrictions, some presently a distance from the Rancho La Brea Tar Pits, existed in the vicinity of this locality during the late Pleistocene. This material also includes previously undescribed species, several of which are morphologically similar to extant comparative material that exhibits a “jumping” behavior, previously believed to be unique to Neuroterus saltatorius Edwards.
Direct numerical simulation of turbulent channel flow over porous walls
Authors: Rosti Marco E. , Cortelezzi Luca , Quadrio Maurizio
Published: November 2015

We perform direct numerical simulations (DNS) of a turbulent channel flow over porous walls. In the fluid region the flow is governed by the incompressible Navier–Stokes (NS) equations, while in the porous layers the volume-averaged Navier–Stokes (VANS) equations are used, which are obtained by volume-averaging the microscopic flow field over a small volume that is larger than the typical dimensions of the pores. In this way the porous medium has a continuum description, and can be specified without the need of a detailed knowledge of the pore microstructure by independently assigning permeability and porosity. At the interface between the porous material and the fluid region, momentum-transfer conditions are applied, in which an available coefficient related to the unknown structure of the interface can be used as an error estimate. To set up the numerical problem, the velocity–vorticity formulation of the coupled NS and VANS equations is derived and implemented in a pseudo-spectral DNS solver. Most of the simulations are carried out at$Re_{{\it\tau}}=180$and consider low-permeability materials; a parameter study is used to describe the role played by permeability, porosity, thickness of the porous material, and the coefficient of the momentum-transfer interface conditions. Among them permeability, even when very small, is shown to play a major role in determining the response of the channel flow to the permeable wall. Turbulence statistics and instantaneous flow fields, in comparative form to the flow over a smooth impermeable wall, are used to understand the main changes introduced by the porous material. A simulation at higher Reynolds number is used to illustrate the main scaling quantities.
Lift and drag in two-dimensional steady viscous and compressible flow
Authors: Liu L. Q. , Zhu J. Y. , Wu J. Z.
Published: November 2015

This paper studies the lift and drag experienced by a body in a two-dimensional, viscous, compressible and steady flow. By a rigorous linear far-field theory and the Helmholtz decomposition of the velocity field, we prove that the classic lift formula $L=-{\it\rho}_{0}U{\it\Gamma}_{{\it\phi}}$, originally derived by Joukowski in 1906 for inviscid potential flow, and the drag formula $D={\it\rho}_{0}UQ_{{\it\psi}}$, derived for incompressible viscous flow by Filon in 1926, are universally true for the whole field of viscous compressible flow in a wide range of Mach number, from subsonic to supersonic flows. Here, ${\it\Gamma}_{{\it\phi}}$ and $Q_{{\it\psi}}$ denote the circulation of the longitudinal velocity component and the inflow of the transverse velocity component, respectively. We call this result the Joukowski–Filon theorem (J–F theorem for short). Thus, the steady lift and drag are always exactly determined by the values of ${\it\Gamma}_{{\it\phi}}$ and $Q_{{\it\psi}}$, no matter how complicated the near-field viscous flow surrounding the body might be. However, velocity potentials are not directly observable either experimentally or computationally, and hence neither are the J–F formulae. Thus, a testable version of the J–F formulae is also derived, which holds only in the linear far field. Due to their linear dependence on the vorticity, these formulae are also valid for statistically stationary flow, including time-averaged turbulent flow. Thus, a careful RANS (Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes) simulation is performed to examine the testable version of the J–F formulae for a typical airfoil flow with Reynolds number $Re=6.5\times 10^{6}$ and free Mach number $M\in [0.1,2.0]$. The results strongly support and enrich the J–F theorem. The computed Mach-number dependence of $L$ and $D$ and its underlying physics, as well as the physical implications of the theorem, are also addressed.