bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigator Sensitivity to Alibi Witness Inconsistency after a Long Delay
Authors: Price Heather L. , Dahl Leora C.
Published: February 2017

In two studies, mock investigators conducted a computer‐based investigation of a crime involving an alibi witness who varied in the consistency of his statements taken 5 years apart. Investigators showed evidence of skepticism of alibi witness statements in which major contradictions (activity, location) were present, and some skepticism of statements in which minor (activity) details were contradictory. Entirely consistent statements were judged favorably, and reduced perceptions of suspect guilt (Study 2). The age of the alibi witness did not impact judgments of suspect guilt when children (6 years) and adults (25 years) were compared (Study 1, N = 254), or when children of different ages were compared (6, 8, 11 years; Study 2, N = 234). The present data suggest that investigators were relatively more sensitive to considerations of accuracy than honesty. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Paracrine effect of CXCR4‐overexpressing mesenchymal stem cells on ischemic heart injury
Authors: Wu Shi‐Zheng , Li Ying‐Lan , Huang Wei , Cai Wen‐Feng , Liang Jialiang , Paul Christian , Jiang Lin , Wu Zhi‐Chao , Xu Meifeng , Zhu Ping , Wang Yigang
Published: February 2017

It has been reported that CXCR4‐overexpressing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCCX4) can repair heart tissue post myocardial infarction. This study aims to investigate the MSCCX4‐derived paracrine cardio‐protective signaling in the presence of myocardial infarction. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were divided into 3 groups: MSC only, MSCCX4, and CXCR4 gene‐specific siRNA‐transduced MSC. Mesenchymal stem cells were exposed to hypoxia, and then MSCs‐conditioned culture medium was incubated with neonatal and adult cardiomyocytes, respectively. Cell proliferation–regulating genes were assessed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). In vitro: The number of cardiomyocytes undergoing DNA synthesis, cytokinesis, and mitosis was increased to a greater extent in MSCCX4 medium‐treated group than control group, while this proproliferative effect was reduced in CXCR4 gene‐specific siRNA‐transduced MSC–treated cells. Accordingly, the maximal enhancement of vascular endothelial growth factor, cyclin 2, and transforming growth factor‐β2 was observed in hypoxia‐exposed MSCCX4. In vivo: MSCs were labeled with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and engrafted into injured myocardium in rats. The number of EGFP and CD31 positive cells in the MSCCX4 group was significantly increased than other 2 groups, associated with the reduced left ventricular (LV) fibrosis, the increased LV free wall thickness, the enhanced angiogenesis, and the improved contractile function. CXCR4 overexpression can mobilize MSCs into ischemic area, whereby these cells can promoted angiogenesis and alleviate LV remodeling via paracrine signaling mechanism.
Proton‐Coupled Electron Transfer from Hydrogen‐Bonded Phenols to Benzophenone Triplets
Authors: Amorati Riccardo , Valgimigli Luca , Viglianisi Caterina , Schmallegger Max , Neshchadin Dmytro , Gescheidt Georg
Published: February 2017

Phenols with intramolecular hydrogen bond between a pendant base and the phenolic OH group react differently in polar and non‐polar environments with electron/proton acceptors. This was demonstrated by using time resolved chemically induced dynamic nuclear polarization (TR CIDNP) and theoretical calculations. In benzene, those phenols undergo a concerted electron–proton transfer (EPT) that yields neutral ketyl and phenoxyl radicals. In polar acetonitrile, the reaction mechanism turns into an electron transfer from the phenol to the triplet ketone, accompanied by the shift of a proton from the phenolic OH group to the nitrogen atom of the pendant base to form a distonic radical cation. This behavior is similar to that of tyrosine H‐bonded to basic residues in some radical enzymes. This solvent‐induced mechanism switch in proton‐coupled electron transfers is important in different biological systems, in which the same metabolites and intermediates can react differently depending on the specific local environments.
Silver Nanoparticle Generators: Silicon Dioxide Microspheres
Authors: Liu Yan , Li Yingdi , Kang Yanlei , Shen Qihui , Liu Xiaoyang , Zhou Jianguang
Published: February 2017

A green and simple approach has been developed to synthesize un‐coated Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) in situ on the surface of thiol‐group‐functionalized silica dioxide microspheres (TSMs) in the aqueous solution. As soon as the Ag+ ions attach onto the surface of TSMs, nucleation and growth of AgNPs can spontaneously complete within one minute without other reducing agents or capping agents. The main reason is that the self‐assembled silane‐layer formed by mercaptosilane molecules could reduce the Ag0 formation energy, transport electrons efficiently, improve the nucleation density, and protect AgNPs against oxidation. Thus, the supported AgNPs show excellent chemical/photochemical stability in air and solution. Meanwhile, the size of as‐prepared AgNPs could be controlled by tuning the concentration of Ag+ ions. This process provides a general route to generate bare AgNPs on the surface of silica dioxide in situ, which might be extended to other materials and is promising in developing novel methodologies for making supported noble metal NPs with desired structure and properties.
Young Investigator Challenge: Building an ultrasound‐guided FNA clinic—our 5‐year experience: From project to practice
Authors: Rafael Oana C. , Klein Melissa , Serbonich Melissa M. , Vadalia Bhumika , Das Kasturi , Gimenez Cecilia E.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

The authors' fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) clinic opened in 2010, allowing cytopathologists to increase their proficiency and experience in FNA performance. Here, they report their 5‐year experience.

METHODS

The FNA clinic log book and the institution's database were retrospectively reviewed to record patients' demographics, the number of FNAs performed per year by each cytopathologist, the number of passes, rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) and diagnosis, adequacy‐diagnosis concordance, and follow‐up histology when available. The numbers and types of cases per year and variations among cytopathologists were compared.

RESULTS

In total, 474 cases were identified within a 5‐year time‐frame. The discrepancy rate between the on‐site and final diagnoses decreased progressively, from 4.4% to 2.4%. The nondiagnostic rate decreased from 2011 to 2015, with the exception of 2014, when an increase was noted, possibly because of a lower number of cases. Cytopathologists' performance was assessed over a 3‐year period. The number of passes for each FNA decreased over time. The cytology‐histology concordance was 100% over time for all cytopathologists. There was a diagnostic discrepancy between the ROSE and final diagnoses for 3 of 104 cases in 2013 and for 3 of 124 cases in 2015. The total number of passes was not consistently recorded until 2014, when a final report template was instituted. The technique improved over time because of accumulated experience, constant practice with phantoms, and attending the College of American Pathologists' training in ultrasound‐guided FNA.

CONCLUSIONS

FNAs performed by cytopathologists have a high‐rate of ROSE/adequacy and a low diagnostic discrepancy rate. Cytopathologists as interventionalists provide optimal care and excellent patient satisfaction. Cancer Cytopathol 2017;125:161–168. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Design and FPGA implementation of multiplierless comb filter
Authors: Barsainya Richa , Agarwal Meenakshi , Rawat Tarun Kumar
Published: February 2017

The main objective of this paper is to design and implement minimum multiplier, low latency structures of a comb filter. Multipliers are the most area and power consuming elements; therefore, it is desirable to realize a filter with minimum number of multipliers. In this paper, design of comb filters based on lattice wave digital filters (LWDF) structure is proposed to minimize the number of multipliers. The fundamental processing unit employed in LWDF requires only one multiplier. These lattice wave digital comb filters (LWDCFs) are realized using Richards' and transformed first‐order and second‐order all‐pass sections. The resulting structural realizations of LWDCFs exhibit properties such as low coefficient sensitivity, high dynamic range, high overflow level, and low round‐off noise. Multiplier coefficients of the proposed structures are implemented with canonic signed digit code (CSDC) technique using shift and add operations leading to multiplierless implementation. This contributes in reduction of number of addition levels which reduces the latency of the critical loop. A field programmable gate array (FPGA) platform is used for evaluation and testing of the proposed LWDCFs to acquire advantages of the parallelism, low cost, and low power consumption. The implementation of the proposed LWDCFs is accomplished on Xilinx Spartan‐6 and Virtex‐6 FPGA devices. By means of examples, it is shown that the implementations of the proposed LWDCFs attain high maximum sampling frequency, reduced hardware, and low power dissipation compared with the existing comb filter structures. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cytological findings of langerhans cell sarcoma in a case of quintuple cancer
Authors: Tabata Satomi , Murata Masaki , Takasawa Akira , Fukuda Atsushi , Ogasawara Jun , Koseki Takayuki , Nakano Katsuhiko , Segawa Keiko , Morita Rena , Hasegawa Tadashi , Sawada Norimasa
Published: February 2017

Langerhans cell sarcoma (LCS) and quintuple cancers are extremely rare. In this report, a case of quintuple cancers including LCS was described. An 80‐year‐old man had squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal skin, colon and rectum adenocarcinomas, and T‐cell/histiocyte‐rich large B‐cell lymphoma. As swelling of multiple submental lymph nodes was observed, fine‐needle aspiration was carried out. Many large cells with high‐grade nuclear atypia and abundant cytoplasm were observed. Lymphocytes and eosinophils were observed in the background. Although a malignant tumor was suspected, a definite diagnosis could not be made. In a biopsy sample, the tumor cells were positive for vimentin, CD68, S‐100, CD1a, and CD163 and negative for epithelial, lymphocyte, and melanoma markers in immunohistochemistry. A diagnosis of LCS was made from the immunohistochemical findings and high mitotic rate with atypical forms. The patient died about 2 months after the first medical examination. Metastasis of LCS was confirmed in many organs by autopsy. LCS has a poor prognosis. In cases with the above‐described cytological findings, LCS should be added to the list of differential diagnosis. The cytological findings presented here may be useful for determining appropriate clinical management such as staging of the disease and follow‐up of the neoplasm. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2017;45:441–445. © 2017 The Authors Diagnostic Cytopathology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A portfolio approach to managing ecological risks of global change
Authors: Aplet Gregory H. , Mckinley Peter S.
Published: February 2017

The stressors of global environmental change make it impossible over the long term for natural systems to maintain their historical composition. Conservation's new objective must be to maintain the building blocks of future systems (e.g., species, genes, soil types, and landforms) as they continuously rearrange. Because of the certainty of change, some biologists and managers question continued use of retrospective conservation strategies (e.g., reserves and restoration) informed by the historical range of variability. Prospective strategies that manage toward anticipated conditions have joined the conservation toolbox alongside retrospective conservation. We argue that high uncertainty around the rates and trajectories of climate and ecological change dictate the need to spread ecological risk using prospective and retrospective strategies across conservation networks in a systematic and adaptively managed approach. We term this a portfolio approach drawing comparisons to financial portfolio risk management as a means to maximize conservation benefit and learning. As with a financial portfolio, the portfolio approach requires that management allocations receive minimum temporal commitments to realize longer‐term benefits. Our approach requires segregation of the strategies into three landscape zones to avoid counterproductive interactions. The zones will be managed to (1) observe change, (2) resist change, and (3) facilitate change. We offer guidelines for zone allocation based on ecological integrity. All zones should follow principles of conservation design traditionally applied to reserves. Comparable to financial portfolios, zone performance is monitored to facilitate learning and potential reallocation for long‐term net minimization of risk to the building blocks of future ecosystems.
Crystal Growth and Characterization of the Mixed‐Cation Rb+/[XeF5]+ and Cs+/[XeF5]+ Salts
Authors: Mazej Zoran , Goreshnik Evgeny
Published: February 2017

Reactions between ASbF6 (A = Rb, Cs) and [XeF5][SbF6] in anhydrous HF in 1:1 molar ratios yielded isotypic A[XeF5][SbF6]2 compounds upon crystallization. The A[XeF5][SbF6]2 (A = Rb, Cs) salts crystallize in two crystal modifications at low (α phase, 150 K) and ambient (β phase, 296 K) temperatures. Similar reactions between CsBiF6 and [XeF5][SbF6] (1:1) yielded mixed‐cation/mixed‐anion compounds Cs[XeF5][BixSb1–xF6]2 (x = 0.37–0.39). One of the two crystallographic positions of the pnictogen atoms is randomly occupied with both Bi (ca. 40 %) and Sb (ca. 60 %) atoms. The simultaneous presence of both [SbF6]– and [BiF6]– has been confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. The low‐ and high‐temperature phases of Bi/Sb mixed‐anion compounds are isotypic with the corresponding A[XeF5][SbF6]2 (A = Rb, Cs) phases. No reactions were observed in the AAsF6 (A = Rb, Cs)/[XeF5][AsF6], ASbF6 (A = K, [H3O]+)/[XeF5][SbF6], and KBF4/[XeF5][SbF6] systems. In the CsBF4/[XeF5][SbF6] system, a metathetical reaction occurred, leading to [XeF5][BF4] (orthorhombic at 150 K, Pbca space group) and CsSbF6. The latter reacted further with [XeF5][SbF6], yielding Cs[XeF5][SbF6]2. A double‐displacement reaction also proceeded between Cs2MnF6 and [XeF5][SbF6] to give [XeF5]2[MnF6] and CsSbF6. The reaction between CsPF6 and [XeF5][SbF6] proceeded with the displacement of the weaker Lewis acid, PF5, with the stronger one, SbF5, resulting in [Xe2F11][SbF6] and CsSbF6, which reacted with [XeF5][SbF6] to yield Cs[XeF5][SbF6]2.
Palladium–Bis(carbene) Catalysts for the Bisalkoxycarbonylation of Olefins to Succinic Diesters
Authors: Cho Yu Jin , Lim Yu Na , Yoon Woojin , Yun Hoseop , Jang Hye‐Young
Published: February 2017

A series of Pd‐bis(NHC) (NHC = N‐heterocyclic carbene) complexes possessing various anions and substituents were used in the bisalkoxycarbonylation of olefins (α‐olefins and ethylene) to afford industrially useful succinic diesters in modest to good yields. The influence of different ligands and counteranions of the Pd complexes on their catalytic activity was assessed, and it was found that dimeric Pd–bis(NHC)Br was the best catalyst for the bisalkoxycarbonylation reactions. The structure of dimeric Pd–bis(NHC)Br was confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic analysis.
Synthesis and Optical Properties of Unsymmetrically Substituted Triarylamine Hexaazatrinaphthalenes
Authors: Larsen Christopher B. , Barnsley Jonathan E. , van der Salm Holly , Fraser Michael G. , Lucas Nigel T. , Gordon Keith C.
Published: February 2017

We report herein the synthesis and optical properties of unsymmetrically substituted hexaazatrinaphthalene (HATN) systems, and the influence of donor additivity on the electronic properties of the material. The hexaazatrinaphthalenes have been studied by means of electrochemical, electronic absorption and emission, FT Raman and resonance Raman methodologies coupled with DFT calculations. The optical spectra are dominated by low‐energy charge‐transfer states, which show a redshift of excitation energy of around 0.1 eV and an increase in ε of around 125 % as the number of donors is increased. The emission spectra exhibit significant solvatochromism, with Lippert–Mataga analysis yielding Δµ values between 34 and 60 D.
Synthetic Routes to Isomeric Imidazoindoles by Regioselective Ring‐Opening of Activated Aziridines Followed by Copper‐Catalysed C–N Cyclization
Authors: Sayyad Masthanvali , Wani Imtiyaz Ahmad , Tiwari Deo Prakash , Ghorai Manas K.
Published: February 2017

Two new synthetic routes that deliver substituted imidazoindoles in high yields with excellent ee values have been developed. The reactions proceed through ring‐opening of activated aziridines with 2,2‐dibromovinylanilines or 2‐bromoindoles, followed by a Cu‐catalysed domino C–N,C–N‐cyclization, or a C–N cyclization, respectively. The first route gives rise to one regioisomer, and the second route gives the other.
Communicating geomorphology: an empirical evaluation of the discipline's impact and visibility
Authors: Clarke Lucy , Schillereff Daniel , Shuttleworth Emma
Published: February 2017

Concern among geomorphologists that the discipline's visibility and impact are becoming suppressed are reflected in a series of recent Earth Surface Exchanges (ESEX) commentaries by Tooth et al. This paper from the British Society for Geomorphology (BSG) Communicating Geomorphology Fixed‐Term Working Group (FTWG) reports initial findings from an online survey of BSG members alongside an empirical assessment of the term's prominence in academic output: international peer‐reviewed journals, undergraduate Geoscience degrees in world‐leading institutions and the UK Research Excellence Framework (REF) impact statements. Our observations indicate the scientific standing of the discipline has been retained but the term itself is less widely utilised and we offer a series of suggestions actionable by the geomorphology community. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
‘Out with the Old?’ Why coarse spatial datasets are still useful for catchment‐scale investigations of sediment (dis)connectivity
Authors: Lisenby Peyton E. , Fryirs Kirstie A.
Published: February 2017

The increasing popularity of remote sensing techniques has created numerous options for researchers seeking spatial datasets, especially digital elevation models (DEMs), for geomorphic investigations. This yields an important question regarding what DEM resolution is most appropriate when answering questions of geomorphic significance. The highest possible resolution is not always the best choice for a particular research aim, and DEM resolution should be tailored to fit both the scale of investigation and the simplicity/complexity of modelling processes applied to the dataset. We find that DEM resolution has a significant effect on a simple model of bed load sediment connectivity in the Lockyer Valley, Queensland. We apply a simple bed load transport threshold to catchment DEMs at three different resolutions – 1 m, 5 m, and 25 m. We find that using a 1 m resolution DEM generates numerous disconnections along tributary channel networks that underestimates the sediment contributing area, i.e. effective catchment area (ECA), of seven tributary basins of Lockyer Creek. Utilizing a coarser (lower‐resolution) DEM helps eliminate erroneous disconnections, but can reduce the detail of stream network definition. We find that the 25 m resolution DEM provides the best measure of ECA for comparing sediment connectivity between tributary catchments. The utility of simple models and coarse‐resolution datasets is important for undertaking large, catchment‐scale geomorphic investigations. As catchment‐scale investigations are becoming increasingly entwined with river management and rehabilitation efforts, scientists need not embrace an ‘out with the old’ philosophy. Simple models and coarse‐resolution datasets can help better integrate geomorphic research with management strategies and provide inexpensive and quick first‐order insights into catchment‐scale processes that can help focus future management efforts. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecasting key US macroeconomic variables with a factor‐augmented Qual VAR
Authors: Gupta Rangan , Olson Eric , Wohar Mark E.
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we first extract factors from a monthly dataset of 130 macroeconomic and financial variables. These extracted factors are then used to construct a factor‐augmented qualitative vector autoregressive (FA‐Qual VAR) model to forecast industrial production growth, inflation, the Federal funds rate, and the term spread based on a pseudo out‐of‐sample recursive forecasting exercise over an out‐of‐sample period of 1980:1 to 2014:12, using an in‐sample period of 1960:1 to 1979:12. Short‐, medium‐, and long‐run horizons of 1, 6, 12, and 24 months ahead are considered. The forecast from the FA‐Qual VAR is compared with that of a standard VAR model, a Qual VAR model, and a factor‐augmented VAR (FAVAR). In general, we observe that the FA‐Qual VAR tends to perform significantly better than the VAR, Qual VAR and FAVAR (barring some exceptions relative to the latter). In addition, we find that the Qual VARs are also well equipped in forecasting probability of recessions when compared to probit models.
A pilot randomized trial of two cognitive rehabilitation interventions for mild cognitive impairment: caregiver outcomes
Authors: Cuc Andrea V. , Locke Dona E.C. , Duncan Noah , Fields Julie A. , Snyder Charlene Hoffman , Hanna Sherrie , Lunde Angela , Smith Glenn E. , Chandler Melanie
Published: February 2017

Objective

This study aims to provide effect size estimates of the impact of two cognitive rehabilitation interventions provided to patients with mild cognitive impairment: computerized brain fitness exercise and memory support system on support partners' outcomes of depression, anxiety, quality of life, and partner burden.

Methods

A randomized controlled pilot trial was performed.

Results

At 6 months, the partners from both treatment groups showed stable to improved depression and anxiety scores, while partners in an untreated control group showed worsening depression and anxiety over 6 months. There were no statistically significant differences on quality of life or burden outcomes in this small pilot trial; however, effect sizes were moderate, suggesting that the sample sizes in this pilot study were not adequate to detect statistical significance.

Conclusion

Either form of cognitive rehabilitation may help partners' mood or anxiety, compared with providing no treatment. However, effect size estimates related to other partner outcomes (i.e., burden, quality of life) suggest that follow‐up efficacy trials will need sample sizes of at least 30–100 people per group to accurately determine significance. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An extended Bayesian sediment fingerprinting mixing model for the full Bayes treatment of geochemical uncertainties
Authors: Cooper Richard J. , Krueger Tobias
Published: February 2017

Recent advances in sediment fingerprinting research have seen Bayesian mixing models being increasingly employed as an effective method to coherently translate component uncertainties into source apportionment results. Here, we advance earlier work by presenting an extended Bayesian mixing model capable of providing a full Bayes treatment of geochemical uncertainties. The performance of the extended full Bayes model was assessed against the equivalent empirical Bayes model and traditional frequentist optimisation. The performance of models coded in different Bayesian software (JAGS and Stan) was also evaluated, alongside an assessment of model sensitivity to reduced source representativeness and nonconservative fingerprint behaviour. Results revealed comparable accuracy and precision for the full and empirical Bayes models across both synthetic and real sediment geochemistry datasets, demonstrating that the empirical treatment of source data here represents a close approximation of the full Bayes treatment. Contrasts in the performance of models coded in JAGS and Stan revealed that the choice of software employed can impact significantly upon source apportionment results. Bayesian models coded in Stan were the least sensitive to both reduced source representativeness and nonconservative fingerprint behaviour, indicating Stan as the preferred software for future Bayesian sediment fingerprinting studies. Whilst the frequentist optimisation generally yielded comparable accuracy to the Bayesian models, uncertainties around apportionment estimates were substantially greater and the frequentist model was less effective at dealing with nonconservative behaviour. Overall, the effective performance of the extended full Bayes mixing model coded in Stan represents a notable advancement in source apportionment modelling relative to previous approaches. Both the mixing model and the software comparisons presented here should provide useful guidelines for future sediment fingerprinting studies.
Developmental change in emotion expression in frustrating situations: The roles of context and gender
Authors: Chaplin Tara M. , Klein Melanie R. , Cole Pamela M. , Turpyn Caitlin C.
Published: February 2017

Emotion expression is a central aspect of social–emotional functioning. Theorists assert that emotion expression undergoes significant changes in the preschool period. There is, however, limited observational evidence of those changes, which may vary by interpersonal context and gender. The present longitudinal study examined developmental changes in emotion expressions from ages 3 to 5 years in 120 children from rural economically strained families. Children's facial, vocal, and postural sadness, anger, and happiness expressions were observed in frustrating tasks in 3 social contexts (a perfect circles task with an experimenter, a toy wait task with mother, a locked box task when alone). Findings indicted that sadness expressions decreased with age in all 3 contexts. Anger expressions increased with age in the frustrating task with the experimenter and when alone but not with the mother. From age 4 to 5 years, happiness expressions decreased in the task with experimenter but increased when alone and increased marginally with mother. In terms of gender, girls expressed greater happiness (and lower sadness) than boys but only in the task with the experimenter. Findings suggest that sadness expressions decrease over the preschool years. Developmental changes in happiness and anger expressions (and gender differences) likely depend on context.

Highlights

The study examined developmental changes and gender differences in emotion expression from age 3–5 years in three frustrating interpersonal contexts.

Sadness decreased, anger increased with the experimenter and alone (but not with mother), and happiness decreased with the experimenter.

Findings suggest declines in sadness expressions, but that anger and happiness expressions are selectively expressed to fit contextual demands.
The endothelial border to health: Mechanistic evidence of the hyperglycemic culprit of inflammatory disease acceleration
Authors: Hansen Nina Wærling , Hansen Anker Jon , Sams Anette
Published: February 2017

The endothelial cell (EC) layer constitutes a barrier that controls movements of fluid, solutes and cells between blood and tissue. Further, the endothelial layer regulates vascular tone and directs local humoral and cellular inflammatory processes. The strategic position makes it an important player for maintenance of health and for development of a number of diseases.

Endothelial dysfunction is known to be an important component of type 2 diabetes, but is also assumed to be involved in many other diseases, for example, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases. We here suggest that the EC plays a pivotal role in disease pathophysiology through initiation, potentiation, and maintenance of several inflammatory mechanisms. Our contention is based on the observation that hyperglycemia—intermittent or sustained, local or systemic—is a major culprit for several endothelial dysfunctions. There is also mounting epidemiological evidence that dietary intake of refined sugars is important for the development of a number of diseases beyond obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Various diseases involving inflammatory and immunological components are accelerated by hyperglycemic events because the endothelium transduces “high glucose” signaling into significant pathophysiological phenomena leading to reduced endothelial barrier function, compromised vascular tone regulation and inflammation (e.g., cytokine secretion and RAGE activation). In addition, endothelial extracellular proteins form epitopes for potential specific antibody formation upon interactions with reducing sugars.

This paper reviews the endothelial metabolism, biology, inflammatory processes, physical barrier functions, and summarizes evidence that although stochastic in nature, endothelial responses to hyperglycemia are major contributors to disease pathophysiology.

We present molecular and mechanistic evidence that both biological and physical barriers, protein function, specific immunity, and inflammatory processes are compromised by hyperglycemic events and thus, hyperglycemic events alone should be considered risk factors for numerous human diseases. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(3):148–161, 2017
Profilin1 is expressed in osteocytes and regulates cell shape and migration
Authors: Lin Wanting , Izu Yayoi , Smriti Arayal , Kawasaki Makiri , Pawaputanon Chantida , Böttcher Ralph T. , Costell Mercedes , Moriyama Keiji , Noda Masaki , Ezura Yoichi
Published: February 2017

Osteocytes are the most abundant cells in bone and regulate bone metabolism in coordination with osteoblasts and osteoclasts. However, the molecules that control osteocytes are still incompletely understood. Profilin1 is an actin‐binding protein that is involved in actin polymerization. Osteocytes possess characteristic dendritic process formed based on actin cytoskeleton. Here, we examined the expression of profilin1 and its function in osteocytes. Profilin1 mRNA was expressed in osteocytic MLO‐Y4 cells and its levels were gradually increased along with the time in culture. With regard to functional aspect, knockdown of profilin1 by siRNA enhanced BMP‐induced increase in alkaline phosphatase expression levels in MLO‐Y4 cells. Profilin1 knockdown suppressed the levels of dendritic processes and migration of MLO‐Y4 cells. Since aging causes an increase in ROS in the body, we further examined the effects of hydrogen peroxide on the expression of profilin1. Hydrogen peroxide treatment increased the levels of profilin1 mRNA in MLO‐Y4 cells in contrast to the decline in alkaline phosphatase. Profilin1 was expressed not only in MLO‐Y4cells but also in the primary cultures of osteocytes. Importantly, profilin1 mRNA levels in primary cultures of osteocytes were higher than those in primary cultures of osteoblasts. To examine in vivo role of profilin1 in osteocytes, profilin1 was conditionally knocked out by using DMP1‐cre and profilin1 floxed mice. This conditional deletion of profilin1 specifically in osteocytes resulted in reduction in the levels of bone volume and bone mineral density. These data indicate that profilin1 is expressed in osteocytes and regulates cell shape, migration and bone mass.
Optimization of the composition of mixed entrainer for economic extractive distillation process in view of the separation of tetrahydrofuran/ethanol/water ternary azeotrope
Authors: Zhao Yongteng , Zhao Tingran , Jia Hui , Li Xin , Zhu Zhaoyou , Wang Yinglong
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

There are three binary azeotropes in the tetrahydrofuran/ethanol/water ternary system at atmospheric pressure. Ternary extractive distillation (ED) processes were studied to separate the ternary azeotropic mixture using two single component solvents and a mixed solvent as entrainer.

RESULT

Based on the sequential iterative optimization procedure, the minimal total annual costs (TACs) of the ternary extractive distillation process using ethylene glycol (EG), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and the mixture of DMSO and EG as entrainer were obtained. Compared with two single component entrainers DMSO and EG, the TAC of the extractive distillation process with mixed entrainer (60 mol% DMSO + 40 mol% EG) decreases by 6.55% and 31.88%, respectively. Furthermore, the reboiler heat duties of two extractive distillation columns (EDCs) with mixed entrainer were compared with two single component entrainers.

CONCLUSION

The results show that the optimal ED process using mixed entrainer performs better than that using single component entrainers from the perspective of economics. Moreover, there is a tradeoff between the reboiler heat duties of two EDCs, which can be adjusted by changing the entrainer performance in two EDCs. The use of mixed entrainer enhances the flexibility of the tradeoff because it only needs to change the composition of the mixed entrainer. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Conformational energy range of ligands in protein crystal structures: The difficult quest for accurate understanding
Authors: Peach Megan L. , Cachau Raul E. , Nicklaus Marc C.
Published: February 2017

In this review, we address a fundamental question: What is the range of conformational energies seen in ligands in protein‐ligand crystal structures? This value is important biophysically, for better understanding the protein‐ligand binding process; and practically, for providing a parameter to be used in many computational drug design methods such as docking and pharmacophore searches. We synthesize a selection of previously reported conflicting results from computational studies of this issue and conclude that high ligand conformational energies really are present in some crystal structures. The main source of disagreement between different analyses appears to be due to divergent treatments of electrostatics and solvation. At the same time, however, for many ligands, a high conformational energy is in error, due to either crystal structure inaccuracies or incorrect determination of the reference state. Aside from simple chemistry mistakes, we argue that crystal structure error may mainly be because of the heuristic weighting of ligand stereochemical restraints relative to the fit of the structure to the electron density. This problem cannot be fixed with improvements to electron density fitting or with simple ligand geometry checks, though better metrics are needed for evaluating ligand and binding site chemistry in addition to geometry during structure refinement. The ultimate solution for accurately determining ligand conformational energies lies in ultrahigh‐resolution crystal structures that can be refined without restraints.
Idiopathic Parkinson's disease patient‐derived induced pluripotent stem cells function as midbrain dopaminergic neurons in rodent brains
Authors: Kikuchi Tetsuhiro , Morizane Asuka , Doi Daisuke , Okita Keisuke , Nakagawa Masato , Yamakado Hodaka , Inoue Haruhisa , Takahashi Ryosuke , Takahashi Jun
Published: February 2017

Patient‐specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a promising source for cell transplantation therapy. In Parkinson's disease (PD) patients, however, their vulnerability and the transmission of pathological α‐Synuclein are possible drawbacks that may prevent PD‐specific iPSCs (PDiPSCs) from being used in clinical settings. In this study, we generated iPSCs from idiopathic PD patients and found that there was no significant vulnerability between dopaminergic (DA) neurons generated from healthy individuals and idiopathic PD patients. PDiPSC‐derived DA neurons survived and functioned in the brains of PD model rats. In addition, in the brains of α‐Synuclein transgenic mice, PDiPSC‐derived DA neurons did not cause pathological α‐Synuclein accumulation in the host brain or in the grafts. These results suggested that iPSCs derived from idiopathic PD patients are feasible as donor cells for autologous transplantation to treat PD. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fifty shades of green: How microfoundations of sustainability dynamic capabilities vary across organizational contexts
Authors: Strauss Karoline , Lepoutre Jan , Wood Geoffrey
Published: February 2017

Because making progress on sustainability‐related challenges will require organizational change for most organizations, understanding sustainability dynamic capabilities is of utmost importance. In this theoretical paper, we aim to identify the microfoundations of such sustainability dynamic capabilities on the one hand but, consistent with recent work in this research stream, we do so in a way that is sensitive to the dynamism of the organizational environment. We propose that the microfoundations of sustainability dynamic capabilities will take different forms in different contexts. We contrast moderately dynamic contexts characterized by frequent yet relatively predictable change with highly dynamic contexts in which changes are rapid and not predictable. Achieving sustainability in these different types of contexts poses different types of challenges, relies on different forms of employee behaviors, and is consequently enabled by different individual‐level characteristics and different organizational practices and processes. Our paper calls for a more serious consideration of context in investigating how employees' behaviors can affect sustainability at the organizational level, and outlines the implications for organizational policy and practice. We explore directions for future interdisciplinary research on sustainability that focuses on individuals and their interactions while also taking the environment within which organizations operate into account.
Effect of fortification of milk with omega‐3 fatty acids, phytosterols and soluble fibre on the sensory, physicochemical and microbiological properties of milk
Authors: Nagarajappa Veena , Battula Surendra Nath
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

The effect of the addition of flaxseed oil (FO), phytosterols (PS) and polydextrose (PDX) on the physicochemical and sensory properties of milk was investigated, as they are known to impart health benefits.

RESULTS

For incorporating PS, a hydrophobic substance, FO and milk fat (MF) as an oil source, an emulsifier (DATEM) and PDX solution as an aqueous medium were used for the preparation of emulsion. Three emulsion formulations A (8 g PS, 8 g FO, 20 g PDX, 6 g MF), B (10 g PS, 10 g FO, 20 g PDX, 4 g MF) and C (12 g PS, 12 g FO, 20 g PDX, 2 g MF) were prepared and added individually to milk at a level of 50 g kg−1. Based on sensory evaluation, formulation B was selected for fortification of milk. The fortified milk kept well at refrigerated temperature for 1 week, and changes in sensory, physicochemical and microbiological properties were comparable to those of control milk. The level of fortificants did not decrease in the milk after 1 week of storage.

CONCLUSION

An emulsion containing FO, PS and PDX could successfully serve as a potential delivery system for enhancing the nutritional and therapeutic potential of milk. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Assessment of calcium and zinc accumulation in cultivated and wild apples
Authors: Liao Liao , Fang Ting , Ma Baiquan , Deng Xianbao , Zhao Li , Han Yuepeng
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Apple is one of the staple fruits worldwide which are a good source of mineral nutrients. However, little is known about genetic variation for mineral nutrition in apple germplasm. In this study, the calcium and zinc contents in mature fruits of 378 apple cultivars and 39 wild relatives were assessed. Mineral concentrations were quantified using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS).

RESULTS

Both calcium and zinc accumulation showed great variation among accessions tested. Overall, wild fruits were significantly richer in zinc than cultivated fruits, while the average concentration of calcium was similar between cultivated and wild fruits. The difference in zinc concentration between wild and cultivated fruits may be an indirect result of artificial selection on fruit characteristics during apple domestication. Moreover, calcium concentration in fruit showed a decreasing trend throughout fruit development of apple, while zinc concentration in fruit displayed a complex variation pattern in the late stages of fruit development.

CONCLUSION

The finding of a wild genetic variation for fruit calcium and zinc accumulation in apple germplasm could be helpful for future research on genetic dissection and improvement of calcium and zinc accumulation in apple fruit. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of a revised indication for determining adult cochlear implant candidacy
Authors: Sladen Douglas P. , Gifford René H. , Haynes David , Kelsall David , Benson Aaron , Lewis Kristen , Zwolan Teresa , Fu Qian‐Jie , Gantz Bruce , Gilden Jan , Westerberg Brian , Gustin Cindy , O'Neil Lori , Driscoll Colin L.
Published: February 2017

Objective

To evaluate the use of monosyllabic word recognition versus sentence recognition to determine candidacy and long‐term benefit for cochlear implantation.

Study Design

Prospective multi‐center single‐subject design.

Methods

A total of 21 adults aged 18 years and older with bilateral moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss and low monosyllabic word scores received unilateral cochlear implantation. The consonant‐nucleus‐consonant (CNC) word test was the central measure of pre‐ and postoperative performance. Additional speech understanding tests included the Hearing in Noise Test sentences in quiet and AzBio sentences in +5 dB signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). Quality of life (QoL) was measured using the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit and Health Utilities Index.

Results

Performance on sentence recognition reached the ceiling of the test after only 3 months of implant use. In contrast, none of the participants in this study reached a score of 80% on CNC word recognition, even at the 12‐month postoperative test interval. Measures of QoL related to hearing were also significantly improved following implantation.

Conclusion

Results of this study demonstrate that monosyllabic words are appropriate for determining preoperative candidate and measuring long‐term postoperative speech recognition performance.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 127:2368–2374, 2017
Geophysical constraints for organic carbon sequestration capacity of Zostera marina seagrass meadows and surrounding habitats
Authors: Miyajima Toshihiro , Hori Masakazu , Hamaguchi Masami , Shimabukuro Hiromori , Yoshida Goro
Published: February 2017

To elucidate the factors determining the organic carbon (OC) sequestration capacity of seagrass meadows, the distribution of OC and the fraction of seagrass‐derived OC in sediments of the temperate cosmopolitan seagrass Zostera marina meadows and surrounding habitats were investigated in relation to physical properties of sedimentary materials. On average, seagrass meadow sediments showed OC levels twofold higher than other shallow nearshore habitats. However, offshore sediments often showed greater OC concentrations than average seagrass meadow sediments. According to estimations of OC sources based on carbon isotope ratios, 8–55% and 14–24% of OC in nonestuarine seagrass meadow sediments and < 30 m deep offshore sediments, respectively, were assigned to seagrass origin. The OC concentration in seagrass meadow and offshore sediments closely correlated to the specific surface area (SSA) of sediment (r2 = 0.816 and 0.755, respectively; p < 0.0001), with an average OC loading per sediment surface area of approximately 60 μmol m−2. In seagrass meadow sediments, the fraction of seagrass‐derived OC was also greater in samples with a larger SSA, and the seagrass‐derived OC occurred preferentially in sediment grains that had a specific gravity exceeding 2.0, namely, in a form closely associated with sediment minerals. The OC concentration, the fraction of seagrass‐derived OC, and the SSA were positively correlated to the logarithm of areal extent of individual seagrass meadows (p < 0.01). These findings suggest that the OC sequestration capacity of nearshore vegetated habitats is under the primary control of geophysical constraints such as sediment supply rate and depositional conditions.
Nickel‐aluminum‐bronze/Al2O3 surface nanocomposite produced by friction‐stir processing: Corrosion properties and microstructure
Authors: Abbasi‐Khazaei B. , Keshavarz S.
Published: February 2017

In this research, friction stir processing (FSP) was applied for fabricating nanosized particles of Al2O3 as a surface composite layer on nickel‐aluminum bronze alloy. In addition, the effect of nanosized Al2O3 on the microstructure, hardness, and corrosion resistance of the alloy surface was investigated. To study the microstructure of the FSP treated surface, optical and scanning electron microscopy were used. Moreover, the static immersion and electrochemically corrosion tests were employed to investigate the corrosion resistance of the FSP‐treated surface. The results indicated that using nanoparticles of Al2O3 to produce the surface nanocomposite layer led to fewer amounts of β transformation products. Furthermore, dynamic re‐crystallized sub‐grains were formed in α grains in the stir zone during severe plastic deformation. In addition, a significant improvement in the corrosion resistance of the alloy surface was observed in the friction stir processed nanocomposite sample in comparison to the one without nanoparticles.
Construction of Light‐Harvesting Polymeric Vesicles in Aqueous Solution with Spatially Separated Donors and Acceptors
Authors: Li Huimei , Liu Yannan , Huang Tong , Qi Meiwei , Ni Yunzhou , Wang Jie , Zheng Yongli , Zhou Yongfeng , Yan Deyue
Published: February 2017

This communication describes polymer vesicles self‐assembled from hyperbranched polymers (branched polymersomes (BPs)) as scaffolds, conceptually mimicking the natural light‐harvesting system in aqueous solution. The system is constructed with hydrophobic 4‐chloro‐7‐nitro‐2,1,3‐benzoxadiazole (NBD‐Cl) as donors encapsulated in the hydrophobic hyperbranched cores of the vesicles and the hydrophilic Rhodamine B (RB) as acceptors incorporated on the surface of the vesicles through the cyclodextrin (CD)/RB host–guest interactions, through which the donors and acceptors are spatially separated to effectively avoid the self‐quenching between donors. This vesicular light harvesting system has presented good energy transfer efficiency of about 80% in water, and can be used as the ink to write multiclolor letters. In addition, due to the giant dimension of BPs, the real‐time fluorescent images of the vesicles under an optical microscope can be observed to prove the light‐harvesting process. It is supposed that such a vesicular light‐harvesting antenna can be used to construct artificial photosynthesis systems in the future.

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Presenting features and imaging in childhood acute myeloid leukemia with central nervous system involvement
Authors: Ranta Susanna , Palomäki Maarit , Levinsen Mette , Taskinen Mervi , Abrahamsson Jonas , Hasle Henrik , Jahnukainen Kirsi , Heyman Mats , Harila‐Saari Arja ,   on behalf of the Nordic Society of Pediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO)
Published: February 2017

Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) can manifest as leukemic cells in the cerebrospinal fluid, a solid CNS tumor, or as neurological symptoms. We evaluated the presenting symptoms and neuroimaging findings in 33 of 34 children with AML and CNS involvement at diagnosis in the period 2000–2012 in Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. Imaging was performed in 22 patients, of whom 16 had CNS‐related symptoms. Seven patients, including all but two with facial palsy, had mastoid cell opacification, considered an incidental finding. The frequent involvement of the mastoid bone with facial palsy warrants evaluation in larger series.