bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical pain increases interpersonal trust in females
Authors: Wang C. , Gao J. , Ma Y. , Zhu C. , Dong X‐W.
Published: September 2017

Background

People behave and interact with others differently when experiencing physical pain. Pain has dramatic effects on one's emotional responses, cognitive functions and social interaction. However, little has been known about whether and how physical pain influences interpersonal trust in social interaction. In the present study, we examined the influence of physical pain on trusting behaviour.

Methods

A total of 112 healthy participants were recruited and assigned to physical pain condition (induced by Capsaicin) and control condition (with hand cream), respectively. Thirty minutes after pain induction, three decision‐making tasks were conducted to measure behaviours in social interaction, including trust and trustworthiness (trust game), non‐social risk‐taking (risk game) and altruism (dictator game).

Results

Results showed that physical pain increased interpersonal trust among females, but not among males. Pain did not influence non‐social risk‐taking, altruism or trustworthiness, as evaluated by monetary transfers in those tasks. Moreover, the effect of physical pain on interpersonal trust was fully mediated by expectation of monetary profit.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate an effect of pain on interpersonal trust and suggest a reciprocity mechanism that the effect may be driven by self‐interest rather than altruistic motivation. The pain effect on trust was evident only in females, implying distinct pain coping strategies used by both genders.

Significance

The present work highlights the social component of pain and extends our understanding of mutual interactions between pain and social cognition.
Preparation of aroma microcapsules with sodium alginate and tetradecylallyldimethylammonium bromide (TADAB) and its potential applications in cosmetics
Authors: Song Jia , Chen Hongling
Published: September 2017

The formation of apple aroma microcapsules was achieved by sodium alginate (SA) and tetradecylallydimethylammonium bromide (TADAB) as shells based on complex coacervation‐emulsion polymerization. Alkyl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether was employed as emulsifier. Pentaerythritol tetraacrylate (PETRA) was used as a crosslinking agent and methyl methacrylate (MMA) was applied as comonomer to copolymerize with TADAB. The aroma microcapsules were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results showed that the aroma microcapsules prepared under optimal conditions were core‐shell structure. The aroma microcapsules were sphere‐like shape with particle size between 20 to 50 μm. FT‐IR analysis results showed that the electrostatic interactions and polymerization occurred assuredly. TG‐DTA study indicated that the thermal stability of the aroma microcapsules crosslinked with MMA shell was improved, and the thermal resistant temperature was up to 110°C. Moreover, the encapsulation efficiency of aroma microcapsules was measured by ultraviolet–visible near‐infrared spectrophotometer. In the surfactant solution, the release of aroma was quick during the first 8 hours, losing ca. 10.8% aroma encapsulated, however, there was no more else aroma dissolving out from the 9th hour. In open conditions, the encapsulation efficiency of the aroma microcapsules kept 66.57% after 48 hours, compared with the encapsulation efficiency going down alone if the microcapsules were milled.
Volatile components as chemical markers of the botanical origin of Corsican honeys
Authors: Yang Yin , Battesti Marie‐José , Costa Jean , Dupuy Nathalie , Paolini Julien
Published: September 2017

In accordance with the national Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée and the European Protected Designation of Origin labels, Corsican honeys can be classified into six ranges (spring, spring maquis, honeydew maquis, chestnut grove, summer maquis and autumn maquis). Toward proposing a new and faster method for performing honey quality assessments, an headspace‐solid phase microextraction (HS‐SPME)/Gas Chromatography (GC)/GC‐Mass Spectrometry (MS) method with multivariate data analysis – principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis (CA), partial lest square (PLS) – was developed using 269 Corsican samples, for which the volatile compositions were established a priori. Corsican honeydew and blossom honey could be differentiated by the richness of 3‐furaldehyde in the category of “honeydew maquis”. This approach also allowed identification of chemical markers of the botanical origins of blossom honeys, including 2‐aminoacetophenone, p‐anisaldehyde, 4‐n‐propylanisole, isophorone, and isomers of lilac aldehyde. Therefore, characterization of the volatile fraction of Corsican honeys combined with chemometric analysis may be useful for detecting the nectar contribution of plant species in honeys with complex nectariferous origins.
The more you test, the more you find: The smallest P‐values become increasingly enriched with real findings as more tests are conducted
Authors: Vsevolozhskaya Olga A. , Kuo Chia‐Ling , Ruiz Gabriel , Diatchenko Luda , Zaykin Dmitri V.
Published: September 2017

The increasing accessibility of data to researchers makes it possible to conduct massive amounts of statistical testing. Rather than follow specific scientific hypotheses with statistical analysis, researchers can now test many possible relationships and let statistics generate hypotheses for them. The field of genetic epidemiology is an illustrative case, where testing of candidate genetic variants for association with an outcome has been replaced by agnostic screening of the entire genome. Poor replication rates of candidate gene studies have improved dramatically with the increase in genomic coverage, due to factors such as adoption of better statistical practices and availability of larger sample sizes. Here, we suggest that another important factor behind the improved replicability of genome‐wide scans is an increase in the amount of statistical testing itself. We show that an increase in the number of tested hypotheses increases the proportion of true associations among the variants with the smallest P‐values. We develop statistical theory to quantify how the expected proportion of genuine signals (EPGS) among top hits depends on the number of tests. This enrichment of top hits by real findings holds regardless of whether genome‐wide statistical significance has been reached in a study. Moreover, if we consider only those “failed” studies that produce no statistically significant results, the same enrichment phenomenon takes place: the proportion of true associations among top hits grows with the number of tests. The enrichment occurs even if the true signals are encountered at the logarithmically decreasing rate with the additional testing.
Organic‐walled microfossils from the Ediacaran–Cambrian boundary stratotype section, Chapel Island and Random formations, Burin Peninsula, Newfoundland, Canada: Global correlation and significance for the evolution of early complex ecosystems
Authors: Palacios Teodoro , Jensen Sören , Barr Sandra M. , White Chris E. , Myrow Paul M.
Published: September 2017

Although a variety of trace and body fossils have been described from the Cambrian strata in the stratotype section (global stratotype section and point) of the Precambrian–Cambrian boundary in the Burin Peninsula, Newfoundland, a detailed analysis of its organic‐walled microfossils has been missing. The basal CambrianTreptichnus pedumIchnozone of the Chapel Island Formation is dominated by leiosphaerids and filamentous sheaths. The appearance ofGranomarginataapproximates the base of the overlyingRusophycus avalonensisIchnozone. Common process‐bearing acritarchs, represented by smallAsteridiumandComasphaeridium, first appear in the middle of the overlying Random Formation, and a more diverse acritarch assemblage at its top. The Random Formation also yields small carbonaceous metazoan fossils, the first report of this type of fossil in this formation. The initial low diversity of phytoplankton in the basal Cambrian strata, a holdover from Ediacaran extinctions, indicated that they have limited potential for precise global correlation of the global stratotype section and point. The pattern of increasing diversity of acritarchs through the lower Fortunian strata lagged behind and was potentially a response to the Cambrian radiation of metazoans, as most clearly represented by ichnofossils. The timing of phytoplankton radiation reflects a dynamic lag driven by metazoan‐induced changes in early Cambrian food webs.
Controlled JAGGED1 delivery induces human embryonic palate mesenchymal cells to form osteoblasts
Authors: Ndong Jean De La Croix , Stephenson Yvonne , Davis Michael E. , García Andrés J. , Goudy Steven
Published: September 2017

Osteoblast commitment and differentiation are controlled by multiple growth factors including members of the Notch signaling pathway. JAGGED1 is a cell surface ligand of the Notch pathway that is necessary for murine bone formation. The delivery of JAGGED1 to induce bone formation is complicated by its need to be presented in a bound form to allow for proper Notch receptor signaling. In this study, we investigate whether the sustained release of JAGGED1 stimulates human mesenchymal cells to commit to osteoblast cell fate using polyethylene glycol malemeide (PEG‐MAL) hydrogel delivery system. Our data demonstrated that PEG‐MAL hydrogel constructs are stable in culture for at least three weeks and maintain human mesenchymal cell viability with little cytotoxicity in vitro. JAGGED1 loaded on PEG‐MAL hydrogel (JAGGED1‐PEG‐MAL) showed continuous release from the gel for up to three weeks, with induction of Notch signaling using a CHO cell line with a Notch1 reporter construct, and qPCR gene expression analysis in vitro. Importantly, JAGGED1‐PEG‐MAL hydrogel induced mesenchymal cells towards osteogenic differentiation based on increased Alkaline phosphatase activity and osteoblast genes expression including RUNX2, ALP, COL1, and BSP. These results thus indicated that JAGGED1 delivery in vitro using PEG‐MAL hydrogel induced osteoblast commitment, suggesting that this may be a viable in vivo approach to bone regeneration. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 552–560, 2018.
Silencing HMGN5 suppresses cell growth and promotes chemosensitivity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Xiaoping , Ma Weiping , Yan Yanli , Wu Suge
Published: September 2017

Previous study has demonstrated that high mobility group nucleosome‐binding domain 5 (HMGN5) is involved in tumorigenesis and the development of multidrug resistance in several human cancers. However, the role of HMGN5 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unclear. Here, we showed that HMGN5 was significantly upregulated in ESCC cells. Knockdown of HMGN5 significantly inhibited cell growth and induced cell apoptosis of ESCC cells. Moreover, knockdown of HMGN5 increased the sensitivity of ESCC cells towards cisplatin. By contrast, overexpression of HMGN5 showed the opposite effects. Further experiments demonstrated that HMGN5 regulated the expression of multidrug resistance 1, cyclin B1, and Bcl‐2. Overall, our results reveal that HMGN5 promotes tumor progression of ESCC and is also an important regulator of chemoresistance. Our study suggests that inhibition of HMGN5 may be a potential strategy for improving effectiveness of ESCC treatment.
The Impact of Life Transition on Emerging Adult Attachment, Social Support, and Well‐Being: A Multiple‐Group Comparison
Authors: Lane Joel A. , Leibert Todd W. , Goka‐Dubose Emiko
Published: September 2017

Life transitions can induce distress for emerging adults. This study compared a model of the attachment, social support, and well‐being of emerging adults in transition with a model of those not in transition (N = 378). The transition sample reported less life satisfaction and environmental mastery and higher attachment avoidance than the nontransition sample. The transition sample showed weaker mediating effects of social support, suggesting that attachment accounted for additional unique variance for this group. Counseling implications are provided.
Loneliness as Moderator Between Trauma and Posttraumatic Growth
Authors: Zeligman Melissa , Bialo Jacquelyn A. , Brack Jane L. , Kearney Moriah A.
Published: September 2017

This study investigated the association between loneliness, trauma symptomatology, and posttraumatic growth (PTG) in undergraduate students (N = 362). The study also explored whether loneliness moderated the relationship between experiences of trauma and PTG. The results demonstrated that both loneliness and trauma symptoms predicted levels of PTG, and loneliness moderated the relationship between trauma and PTG. Limitations, directions for future research, and implications for counseling are discussed.
Cloning, expression pattern analysis, and subcellular localization of Capra hircus SCD1 gene with production of transgenic mice
Authors: Zuo Qisheng , Jin Kai , Song Jiuzhou , Zhang Yani , Li Bichun
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to clone the Stearoyl‐CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) gene derived from Xuhuai goat (Capra hircus), and analyze the sub‐cellular localization in cells and tissues. The cDNA was cloned by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). pEGFP‐SCD1 vector was constructed to detect sub‐cellular localization and tissue distribution. pEGFP‐SCD1 was transfected into NIH‐3T3 cells using polyethylene imine (PEI) and observed under fluorescence inversion microscope system 48 h after transfection. The expression level of SCD1 was detected by RT‐PCR. Testicular injection was used to produce transgenic mice with goat SCD1 gene. DNA and protein were extracted from the tail tissue of F1 mice. The expression of exogenous gene in the F1 generation was detected in both DNA and protein. The results showed that the coding sequence (CDS) fragments of C. hircus SCD1 gene was 1074 bp and encodes 360 amino acids. RT‐PCR results showed that SCD1 could be expressed successfully in NIH‐3T3 cells in vitro. Sub‐cellular localization analysis showed that pEGFP‐SCD1 fusion protein located in the cytoplasm. It can be concluded that transgenic mice with goat SCD1 expressed in sperm and tail tissue was successfully produced in the F1 mice generation.
MicroRNA‐410 is involved in mitophagy after cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury by targeting high‐mobility group box 1 protein
Authors: Yang Fan , Li Tong , Dong Zhihuan , Mi Rui
Published: September 2017

Mitochondrial dysfunction has emerged as a critical pathophysiological factor of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. A thorough understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction during I/R at the molecular level is urgently needed. One prominent microRNA, miR‐410, was previously reported to be dynamically regulated in diverse cardiomyopathies, but its mechanism is unclear. In the present study, in a cardiac I/R injury mice model, the expression of miR‐410 was significantly upregulated, accompanied with decreased mitochondrial function and mitophagy deficit. After an unbiased search for downstream messenger RNA targets of miR‐410, effects of the target gene in mitochondrial dysfunction during I/R injury and the underlying mechanism were further explored in cultured human adult cardiac myocytes (HACMs). The results showed that MitoTracker Red‐labeled HACMs mitochondria overlapped with GFP‐LC3‐labeled autophagosomes, suggesting the presence of mitophagy. MiR‐410 expression was significantly increased in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)‐stimulated HACMs. MiR‐410 overexpression further inhibited cell viability, ATP production, mitochondrial membrane potential and mitophagy level, and increased caspase‐3 activity, Bax expression and cytochrome c release. Conversely, inhibition of miR‐410 attenuated these effects. We found that miR‐410 directly interacted with the 3′‐untranslated region of the suppressor of high‐mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) by Dual‐Luciferase assay. Moreover, pcDNA3.1‐HMGB1 pretreatment effectively reduced the inhibition effects of cell viability and mitophagy brought by H/R, while all those effects can be attenuated by pretreatment with HSPB1 siRNA transfection. Taken together, our results suggest that miR‐410 may inhibit mitophagy after cardiac I/R injury by modulating HSPB1 activity via directly targeting HMGB1.
Haloperidol Versus 5‐HT3 Receptor Antagonists for Postoperative Vomiting and QTc Prolongation: A Noninferiority Meta‐Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Singh Preet Mohinder , Borle Anuradha , Makkar Jeetinder Kaur , Trikha Anjan , Fish David , Sinha Ashish
Published: September 2017

Haloperidol is an antipsychotic with well‐known antiemetic potential. It is underutilized for postoperative nausea vomiting due to reported corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation. This meta‐analysis evaluates its safety and efficacy as an antiemetic in the perioperative period. Trials comparing haloperidol to 5‐HT3‐receptor antagonists (5‐HT3‐RA) for 24 postoperative vomiting incidences published up to May 2017 were searched in the medical database. Comparisons were made for antiemetic efficiency variables (vomiting incidence, rescue antiemetic need, and patients with complete response) during early (until 6 hours) and late postoperative phases. Eight randomized controlled double‐blinded trials were included in the final analysis. Twenty‐four‐hour vomiting incidence was similar in groups (fixed effects, P = 0.52, I2 = 0%). Trial‐sequential analysis confirmed noninferiority of haloperidol over 5‐HT3‐RAs (α = 5%, β = 20%, δ = 10%), with “information size” being 859 (required > 812). Pooled results did not demonstrate superiority/inferiority of 5‐HT3‐RAs over haloperidol in all other antiemetic efficacy variables (early and delayed). Negligible heterogeneity was found in all the comparisons made. Pooled Mantel Haenszel odds ratio for QTc prolongation was equivalent in both groups (fixed effects, P = 0.23, I2 = 0%). The mean dose of haloperidol used was 1.34 mg, and no trial reported extrapyramidal side effects. Trial‐sequential analysis showed statistical equivalence (α = 5%, β = 20%, δ = 10%), with information size being 745 (required > 591). Publication bias was unlikely (Egger test, X‐intercept = 2.07, P = 0.10). We conclude that haloperidol is equivalent to the well‐established 5‐HT3‐RAs in preventing vomiting during the first day after surgery. The incidence of QTc prolongation with haloperidol is statistically equivalent to 5‐HT3‐RAs and thus should not be the factor that discourages its use for treatment/prophylaxis of postoperative nausea vomiting.
Burrowing with a kinetic snout in a snake (Elapidae: Aspidelaps scutatus)
Authors: Deufel Alexandra
Published: September 2017

Of the few elongate, fossorial vertebrates that have been examined for their burrowing mechanics, all were found to use an akinetic, reinforced skull to push into the soil, powered mostly by trunk muscles. Reinforced skulls were considered essential for head‐first burrowing. In contrast, I found that the skull of the fossorial shield‐nosed cobra (Aspidelaps scutatus) is not reinforced and retains the kinetic potential typical of many non‐fossorial snakes. Aspidelaps scutatus burrows using a greatly enlarged rostral scale that is attached to a kinetic snout that is independently mobile with respect to the rest of the skull. Two mechanisms of burrowing are used: (1) anteriorly directed head thrusts from a loosely bent body that is anchored against the walls of the tunnel by friction, and (2) side‐to‐side shovelling using the head and rostral scale. The premaxilla, to which the rostral scale is attached, lacks any direct muscle attachments. Rostral scale movements are powered by, first, retractions of the palato‐pterygoid bar, mediated by a ligament that connects the anterior end of the palatine to the transverse process of the premaxilla and, second, by contraction of a previously undescribed muscle slip of the m. retractor pterygoidei that inserts on the skin at the edge of the rostral scale. In derived snakes, palatomaxillary movements are highly conserved and power prey capture and transport behaviors. Aspidelaps scutatus has co‐opted those mechanisms for the unrelated function of burrowing without compromising the original feeding functions, showing the potential for evolution of functional innovations in highly conserved systems.
Evaluation of summer precipitation from EURO‐CORDEX fine‐scale RCM simulations over Norway
Authors: Dyrrdal Anita Verpe , Stordal Frode , Lussana Cristian
Published: September 2017

Regional climate models represent a valuable tool in climate impact analyses. Their ability to accurately estimate current and future climate conditions is increasingly important. In Norway precipitation is of special interest. Heavy precipitation, particularly over short durations, is responsible for enormous damages to infrastructure such as roads and railways, hence information on a fine spatial and temporal scale is crucial. We evaluate the ability of seven regional climate model simulations of 0.11° resolution from the CORDEX ensemble in reproducing 3‐h and 24‐h accumulated summer precipitation characteristics in Norway. The two‐step evaluation includes comparison of modelled precipitation to gridded observation‐based datasets and to station measurements in terms of the following indices: summer maxima, summer wet event frequency, and total summer precipitation. We find a general overestimation by the models for all indices, with only few exceptions. Country‐wide spatial averages show, however, that simulated summer maxima are mainly within the uncertainty interval of the gridded reference dataset. This might also be true for summer wet event frequency, although the comparison to station measurements indicates that the positive bias is significant. We find the largest deviation between models in the evaluation of summer totals. The spatial distribution of the different precipitation indices is fairly well simulated, although the precipitation gradients evident in observation‐based datasets appear weak in the models. We believe the high spatial resolution improves the simulations of extreme precipitation in Norway, especially in areas of orographic enhancement.
Applications of Raman spectroscopy in graphene‐related materials and the development of parameterized PCA for large‐scale data analysis
Authors: Campos João Luiz Elias , Miranda Hudson , Rabelo Cassiano , Sandoz‐Rosado Emil , Pandey Sugandha , Riikonen Juha , Cano‐Marquez Abraham G. , Jorio Ado
Published: September 2017

A methodology for the structural analysis of graphene‐related materials using parameterized principal component analysis (PCA), ideal for large‐scale data treatment, is introduced. First, we review different aspects of Raman spectroscopy for structural and functional characterization of sp2‐bonded carbon materials, which are important for understanding the problem. The parameterized PCA is then introduced and applied to 2 different scenarios: to identify different sp2 carbon structures and to identify graphene samples with different numbers of layers. Automating these Raman spectroscopy analysis techniques is desired for large‐scale industrial applications. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On semi‐isogenous mixed surfaces
Authors: Cancian Nicola , Frapporti Davide
Published: September 2017

Let C be a smooth projective curve and G be a finite subgroup of whose action is mixed, i.e. there are elements in G exchanging the two isotrivial fibrations of . Let be the index two subgroup . If G0 acts freely, then is smooth and we call it semi‐isogenous mixed surface. In this paper we give an algorithm to determine semi‐isogenous mixed surfaces with given geometric genus, irregularity and self‐intersection of the canonical class. As an application we classify irregular semi‐isogenous mixed surfaces with and geometric genus equal to the irregularity; the regular case is subjected to some computational restrictions. In this way we construct new examples of surfaces of general type with . We provide an example of a minimal surface of general type with and .
Alterations of c‐di‐GMP turnover proteins modulate semi‐constitutive rdar biofilm formation in commensal and uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Cimdins Annika , Simm Roger , Li Fengyang , Lüthje Petra , Thorell Kaisa , Sjöling Åsa , Brauner Annelie , Römling Ute
Published: September 2017

Agar plate‐based biofilm of enterobacteria like Escherichia coli is characterized by expression of the extracellular matrix components amyloid curli and cellulose exopolysaccharide, which can be visually enhanced upon addition of the dye Congo Red, resulting in a red, dry, and rough (rdar) colony morphology. Expression of the rdar morphotype depends on the transcriptional regulator CsgD and occurs predominantly at ambient temperature in model strains. In contrast, commensal and pathogenic isolates frequently express the csgD‐dependent rdar morphotype semi‐constitutively, also at human host body temperature. To unravel the molecular basis of temperature‐independent rdar morphotype expression, biofilm components and c‐di‐GMP turnover proteins of seven commensal and uropathogenic E. coli isolates were analyzed. A diversity within the c‐di‐GMP signaling network was uncovered which suggests alteration of activity of the trigger phosphodiesterase YciR to contribute to (up)regulation of csgD expression and consequently semi‐constitutive rdar morphotype development.
Onset and Remission of Psychosis in Parkinson's Disease: Pharmacologic and Motoric Markers
Authors: Hinkle Jared T. , Perepezko Kate , Bakker Catherine C. , Broen Martijn P. G. , Chin Kathleen , Dawson Ted M. , Johnson Vanessa , Mari Zoltan , Marvel Cherie L. , Mills Kelly A. , Pantelyat Alexander , Pletnikova Olga , Rosenthal Liana S. , Shepard Melissa D. , Stevens Daniel A. , Troncoso Juan C. , Wang Jiangxia , Pontone Gregory M.
Published: September 2017

Background

Psychosis is among the most disabling complications of Parkinson's disease (PD). The chronicity of PD psychosis remains understudied, and the relative importance of dopaminergic therapy versus the disease process itself in engendering psychosis remains unclear. The objective of this study was to examine pharmacologic and motoric correlates of PD psychosis onset and remission in a longitudinally monitored PD cohort.

Methods

We analyzed data from 165 participants enrolled in a longitudinal PD study through the Morris K. Udall Parkinson's Disease Research Center of Excellence at Johns Hopkins University. Evaluations included formal psychiatric assessment and were conducted at 2‐year intervals. Regression with generalized estimated equations was used to produce unadjusted and adjusted estimates for time‐varying longitudinal associations between psychosis and putative risk factors.

Results

Sixty‐two participants (37.6%) were diagnosed with psychosis during at least 1 evaluation. Of 49 participants with psychosis who were followed over multiple evaluations, 13 (26.5%) demonstrated remission despite a significant increase in Hoehn & Yahr stage (P = 0.009); 2 of these individuals later relapsed. Multivariable regression with generalized estimated equations identified dementia diagnosis, akinesia‐rigidity, anticholinergic usage, and levodopa‐carbidopa dose as significantly associated with psychosis, whereas disease duration was not. A subanalysis of 30 incident psychosis cases suggested that the dopamine agonist dose was lowered after psychosis onset with a compensatory increase in the levodopa‐carbidopa dosage.

Conclusion

The current findings suggest that, in the context of standard therapy, PD‐related psychotic disorder can remit at a frequency of approximately 27%. In addition, akinetic‐rigid motor impairment was more strongly associated with psychosis than disease duration, independent of cognitive impairment and medications.
Chemical degradation of reinforced epoxy‐cement composites under CO2‐rich environments
Authors: Schütz Marta K. , Baldissera Alessandra F. , Coteskvisk Patrícia M. , Vecchia Felipe Dalla , Menezes Sonia C. , Miranda Cristiane R. , Einloft Sandra
Published: September 2017

Long‐term wellbore integrity is crucial to prevent leakage of CO2 and to ensure performance and safety of carbon geologic storage. One of the concerns is the degradation of Portland cement due to its exposure to CO2. In this study, Portland cement paste composed of three reinforced‐epoxy resins (talc, agalmatolite, and montmorillonite clay as filler) was compared to unmodified cement paste with respect to CO2 resistance. CO2 degradation experiments were conducted with aqueous CO2 at elevated pressure (50 bar) and temperature (70°C) in order to mimic wellbore conditions. Epoxy cement composites were characterized by phenolphthalein test, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and mechanical compression test. The preparation method of the composites is the parameter likely to affect the CO2 resistance than curing conditions (natural and thermal). Addition of up to 5% of montmorillonite clay reinforced‐epoxy resins provides an improvement in CO2 resistance over unmodified Portland cement paste, showing to be a promising alternative to obtain suitable materials for use in wellbores in CO2 sequestration reservoirs. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2234–E2244, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Good practices for real‐world data studies of treatment and/or comparative effectiveness: Recommendations from the joint ISPOR‐ISPE Special Task Force on real‐world evidence in health care decision making
Authors: Berger Marc L. , Sox Harold , Willke Richard J. , Brixner Diana L. , Eichler Hans‐Georg , Goettsch Wim , Madigan David , Makady Amr , Schneeweiss Sebastian , Tarricone Rosanna , Wang Shirley V. , Watkins John , Daniel Mullins C.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Real‐world evidence (RWE) includes data from retrospective or prospective observational studies and observational registries and provides insights beyond those addressed by randomized controlled trials. RWE studies aim to improve health care decision making.

Methods

The International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) and the International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology (ISPE) created a task force to make recommendations regarding good procedural practices that would enhance decision makers' confidence in evidence derived from RWD studies. Peer review by ISPOR/ISPE members and task force participants provided a consensus‐building iterative process for the topics and framing of recommendations.

Results

The ISPOR/ISPE Task Force recommendations cover seven topics such as study registration, replicability, and stakeholder involvement in RWE studies. These recommendations, in concert with earlier recommendations about study methodology, provide a trustworthy foundation for the expanded use of RWE in health care decision making.

Conclusion

The focus of these recommendations is good procedural practices for studies that test a specific hypothesis in a specific population. We recognize that some of the recommendations in this report may not be widely adopted without appropriate incentives from decision makers, journal editors, and other key stakeholders.
Who does (not) benefit from entrepreneurship programs?
Authors: Lyons Elizabeth , Zhang Laurina
Published: September 2017

Research Summary

We evaluate a technology entrepreneurship training program by comparing career decisions among applicants accepted into the program with unaccepted applicants who are program finalists. We find that program participation is associated with an increased likelihood of subsequent entrepreneurship but that this is not uniform across participants; the estimated relationship between program participation and subsequent entrepreneurial activity is disproportionately lower for applicants with ex‐ante resources and capabilities in entrepreneurship, measured by prior entrepreneurship experience. Moreover, we only observe this reduced impact of the program on subsequent entrepreneurial activity for participants that have prior experience in founding a technology company as opposed to other forms of entrepreneurial activity. This suggests the program is more effective for individuals that have otherwise limited access to technology entrepreneurship opportunities.

Managerial Summary

Given the increasingly competitive landscape for entrepreneurship education programs, it is important to understand when and for whom they have the greatest impact. Using 5 years of data from a technology entrepreneurship training program, we show that individuals with a higher predisposition toward the type of entrepreneurship being taught by the program, measured by prior technology entrepreneurship experience, are less likely to benefit from training. Our findings imply that individuals who enter programs with the skill set being taught benefit less from the program at the margin, and that individuals without prior experience can be trained in entrepreneurship. These patterns have implications for entrepreneurial program strategy, individuals considering entry into entrepreneurial careers, and firms deciding whether to develop entrepreneurial capabilities in‐house or acquiring them externally.
An Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Patient Specific Model of Complement Factor H (Y402H) Polymorphism Displays Characteristic Features of Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Indicates a Beneficial Role for UV Light Exposure
Authors: Hallam Dean , Collin Joseph , Bojic Sanja , Chichagova Valeria , Buskin Adriana , Xu Yaobo , Lafage Lucia , Otten Elsje. G. , Anyfantis George , Mellough Carla , Przyborski Stefan , Alharthi Sameer , Korolchuk Viktor , Lotery Andrew , Saretzki Gabriele , McKibbin Martin , Armstrong Lyle , Steel David , Kavanagh David , Lako Majlinda
Published: September 2017

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of blindness, accounting for 8.7% of all blindness globally. Vision loss is caused ultimately by apoptosis of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and overlying photoreceptors. Treatments are evolving for the wet form of the disease; however, these do not exist for the dry form. Complement factor H polymorphism in exon 9 (Y402H) has shown a strong association with susceptibility to AMD resulting in complement activation, recruitment of phagocytes, RPE damage, and visual decline. We have derived and characterized induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines from two subjects without AMD and low-risk genotype and two patients with advanced AMD and high-risk genotype and generated RPE cells that show local secretion of several proteins involved in the complement pathway including factor H, factor I, and factor H-like protein 1. The iPSC RPE cells derived from high-risk patients mimic several key features of AMD including increased inflammation and cellular stress, accumulation of lipid droplets, impaired autophagy, and deposition of “drüsen”-like deposits. The low- and high-risk RPE cells respond differently to intermittent exposure to UV light, which leads to an improvement in cellular and functional phenotype only in the high-risk AMD-RPE cells. Taken together, our data indicate that the patient specific iPSC model provides a robust platform for understanding the role of complement activation in AMD, evaluating new therapies based on complement modulation and drug testing.
Combined shear and flexure performance of prestressing concrete T‐shaped beams: Experiment and deterministic modeling
Authors: Strauss Alfred , Krug Bernhard , Slowik Ondrej , Novak Drahomir
Published: September 2017

The development of a nonlinear numerical computational model for the detailed description of destructive tests generally requires a multiple‐stage, strategic model updating procedure. In this contribution, a model updating procedure is applied to the simulation of prestressed reinforced concrete (RC) beams. The combined ultimate shear and flexure capacity of the beams is affected by many complex phenomena, such as the multi‐axial state of stress, the anisotropy induced by diagonal concrete cracking, the interaction between concrete and reinforcement (bond), and the brittleness of the failure mode. In this research, a series of material, small‐scale component fracture tests were carried out by two collaborating laboratories. These tests provided advanced statistical identification of the fracture‐mechanical parameters of the optimized concrete mixtures for the prestressed laboratory‐tested beams mentioned above (with a span of 5.00 m) and associated field‐tested, long‐span concrete TT roof elements (with a span of 30.00 m). Ten scaled laboratory‐tested beams with heights of 0.30, 0.45, and 0.60 m were used in a procedure for the comprehensive updating of the nonlinear numerical model with respect to shear resistance performance. The objectives of this research are, in addition to the analysis, the effective development of an updating process for nonlinear numerical modeling which is based on the information from different monitoring systems. Hence, this contribution focuses on the presentation of a comprehensive updating procedure for the shear capacity of nonlinear numerical models of prestressed beam elements using information about fracture‐mechanical material parameters gained from (a) different monitoring systems and (b) code‐based methods.
Seismic retrofitting of old‐type RC columns with different lap splices by NSM GFRP and steel bars
Authors: Seifi Ali , Hosseini Abdollah , Marefat Mohammad Sadegh , Khanmohammadi Mohammad
Published: September 2017

This paper describes the experimental results from flexural strengthening of old‐type concrete columns reinforced with plain bars and different lap splices constructed before the 1970s. Nine half‐scale column specimens were tested under combined constant axial and quasi‐static cyclic lateral loads. The specimens included 3 control specimens and 6 other specimens strengthened via near surface mounted technique with glass‐fiber reinforced plastic and steel bars. The effect of different longitudinal bar lap splices of columns and the type of strengthening materials were also investigated. The results indicated that the proposed strengthening method significantly increases the flexural strength and improves the seismic parameters, for example, energy dissipation and hysteresis damping. The specimens strengthened with steel bars presented higher strength, ductility, and hysteresis damping compared to those strengthened with glass‐fiber reinforced plastic bars. The formation of struts at the control specimen with hooked lap splices caused severe damages at the spliced region; if appropriate wrapping is done at the column end, these damages will be constrained. Using steel bars as near surface mounted reinforcement, utilizing epoxy resins as bonding agent, and installing fiber‐reinforced polymer wrapping at the end of column will all make a more effective strengthening method. Finally, an analytical work was presented for predicting the capacity of test specimens, and the comparison between experimental results and theoretical predictions showed a good agreement.
“I Mean I'm Kind of Discriminating My Own People:” A Chinese TESOL Graduate Student's Shifting Perceptions of China English
Authors: Nuske Kyle
Published: September 2017

World Englishes has become a robust field of inquiry as scholars pursue more nuanced understandings of linguistic localization and multilinguals’ negotiations of language differences. Yet research demonstrates that teachers and learners of English as a foreign language continue, albeit in a partially conflicted way, to believe that prestigious native speaker varieties are the sole acceptable targets of instruction. Thus, there is a need for further inquiries into the factors that influence individuals’ attitudes toward localized Englishes and the efficacy of classroom interventions in modifying these. Utilizing a qualitative case study approach, the present study traces one ChineseTESOLgraduate student's journey from harshly repudiating China English to vindicating its use. Drawing from semistructured interviews conducted over approximately 3 years, the study illustrates how the participant's language attitudes were bound up with her emotional understandings of significant life experiences. It also explicates how the complex ramifications of a blunt provocation from one of her instructors and a sense of alienation arising from studying alongside U.S. native speakers ultimately led her to defend China English outside the classroom. The article concludes with practical recommendations forTESOLprograms that seek to instill more tolerant dispositions toward linguistic differences while avoiding superficial inscriptions of Western discourses.
Synthesis of pentaerythritol stearate ester‐based zinc alkoxide and its synergistic effect with calcium stearate and zinc stearate on PVC thermal stability
Authors: Liu Hao , Li Degang , Li Ruijiao , Sun Hongqi , Zhang Yali , Zhang Lipeng , Zhao Pingping
Published: September 2017

A novel pentaerythritol stearate ester‐based zinc alkoxide (PSE‐Zn) was synthesized through a two‐step method. Zinc ethoxide was first prepared from zinc acetate and ethanol, and then with ethanol as the solvent, the obtained zinc ethoxide ester was heated together with pentaerythritol stearate to produce PSE‐Zn. PSE‐Zn could be used as a promising poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) thermal stabilizer. Conductivity tests, thermal aging tests, and UV‐visible spectroscopy were used to study the thermal stabilization performance of the thermal stabilizers of PSE‐Zn on PVC. The results showed that, with a lower melting point and a good compatibility with PVC, PSE‐Zn presented a significant improvement in maintaining the initial color of PVC. However, the color of PVC stabilized with pure PSE‐Zn began to degrade when the sample was heated at 180°C for 60 min indicating the unsatisfactory long‐term thermal stability presented by PSE‐Zn on PVC. So, some commercial thermal stabilizers, for example, calcium stearate (CaSt2), zinc stearate (ZnSt2), or CaSt2/ZnSt2were employed along with PSE‐Zn to further improve the stabilizing performance. The results showed that there was a synergistic effect that was between 2 phr PSE‐Zn and 2 phr CaSt2and made the stabilized PVC possess the best thermal stability. Because of the presence of free hydroxyl in PSE‐Zn, which could chelate ZnCl2, PSE‐Zn can then restrain “zinc‐burning” phenomenon when PSE‐Zn and ZnSt2were used together. It was also found that PVC stabilized with 3 phr PSE‐Zn and 1 phr CaSt2/ZnSt2had the best color stability. The mechanism of thermal stability of PSE‐Zn was also discussed. As a metal alkoxide, PSE‐Zn is readily to neutralize HCl. In addition, PSE‐Zn is able to replace the allyl chloride to terminate the dehydrochlorination of PVC. Moreover, because of the stearate radicals, PSE‐Zn had a very low melting point, a better compatibility with PVC, and a lubrication action. With these excellent properties, PSE‐Zn would be able to make PVC achieve an excellent initial color and a long‐term stability. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:314–323, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Retracted: Enhanced protective properties and UV stability of poly(lactic acid)/poly(vinyl acetate)/ZnO microcapsule nanocomposite
Authors: Zhang Bin , Han Jian
Published: September 2017

Zhang, B. and Han, J. (2019), Enhanced protective properties and UV stability of poly(lactic acid)/poly(vinyl acetate)/ZnO microcapsule nanocomposite. J Vinyl Addit Technol, 25: 68‐75. doi:10.1002/vnl.21604.

The above article from the Journal of Vinyl & Additive Technology, published online on 15 September 2017 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement by the authors, the Journal Editor‐in‐Chief Alan Lesser, and Wiley Periodicals, Inc. The retraction has been agreed upon following the explanation by corresponding author Bin Zhang that this article contained irreproducible results. After efforts to replicate and adjust the enlarge test, the authors found misleading scientific content in Figures 2b, 4, 6, 8, 9b, and 11c‐d based on incorrect comparisons to prior work in the journal Fibers & Polymers as follows: Zhang B, Han J. Preparation and UV‐protective property of PVAc/ZnO and PVAc/TiO2microcapsules/poly(lactic acid) nanocomposites. Fibers and Polymers, 2016, 17(11):1849‐1857. DOI 10.1007/s12221‐016‐6,679‐1.
Antimicrobial and biodegradable food packaging applications of polycaprolactone/organo nanoclay/chitosan polymeric composite films
Authors: Cesur Serap , Köroğlu Cansu , Yalçın Hüsniye Tansel
Published: September 2017

Biodegradable and antimicrobial polymeric food packaging materials are very important because of environmental problems, for quality, and the shelf life of the product. The aim of this paper is to produce antimicrobial and biodegradable food packaging films with polycaprolactone (PCL). Using the amount of PCL (w/w) as the basis and to control the degradation time and to give antimicrobial properties, 0.4 wt% of organo nano clay (C) and 25, 50, and 75 wt% chitosan (K), and the use of glycerol monooleate (GMO) or oleic acid (OA) as a plastifier (5, 10, 20, and 30 wt%) are added and 12 polymeric composite films were prepared. The samples were coded as PCL (P), organo nanoclay (C), oleic acid (O), and glycerol monooleate (G). For example, P_C0.4_G5 refers to the PCL composite film containing 0.4 wt% clay and 5 wt% glycerol monooleate (G). The disc diffusion procedure with Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, and Candida albicans test microorganisms were used to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of the films. PCL_C0.4_O5, PCL_C0.4_G5, PCL_C0.4_G10_K25, PCL_C0.4_O10_K25, and PCL_C0.4_O20_K50 and neat chitosan films have antimicrobial properties. A small amount of organo nano clay, 0.4 wt%, has an antimicrobial effect on C. albicans. The PCL_C0.4_G10_K25 composite film has an antimicrobial effect on E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans. Mechanical tests were performed, and it was observed that the mechanical properties of PCL composite films decrease with the addition of chitosan. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:376–387, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Perspectives of Women Considering Bilateral Prophylactic Mastectomy and their Peers towards a Telephone‐Based Peer Support Intervention
Authors: St‐Pierre D. , Bouchard K. , Gauthier L. , Chiquette J. , Dorval Michel ,   on behalf of Centre ROSE
Published: September 2017

Prophylactic mastectomy is an effective strategy to reduce the risk of breast cancer for women carrying aBRCA1/2germline mutation. This decision is complex and may raise various concerns. Women considering this surgery have reported their desire to discuss the implications of this procedure with women who have undergone prophylactic mastectomy. We conducted a qualitative study to describe the topics covered during a telephone‐based peer support intervention between women considering prophylactic mastectomy (recipients) and women who had undergone this surgery (peers), and to explore their perspectives regarding the intervention. Thirteen dyads were formed and data from participant logbooks and evaluation questionnaires were analyzed using a thematic content analysis. Three main dimensions emerged: physical, psychological, and social. The most frequent topics discussed were: surgery (92%), recovery (77%), pain and physical comfort (69%), impacts on intimacy and sexuality (54%), cancer‐related anxiety (54%), experience related to loss of breasts (46%). Peers and recipients report that sharing experiences and thoughts about prophylactic mastectomy and the sense of mutual support within the dyad contributed significantly to their satisfaction. Special attention should be paid to the similarities between personal and medical profiles in order to create harmonious matches.