bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
αRep A3: A Versatile Artificial Scaffold for Metalloenzyme Design
Authors: Di Meo Thibault , Ghattas Wadih , Herrero Christian , Velours Christophe , Minard Philippe , Mahy Jean‐Pierre , Ricoux Rémy , Urvoas Agathe
Published: May 2017

αRep refers to a new family of artificial proteins based on a thermostable α‐helical repeated motif. One of its members, αRep A3, forms a stable homo‐dimer with a wide cleft that is able to accommodate metal complexes and thus appears to be suitable for generating new artificial biocatalysts. Based on the crystal structure of αRep A3, two positions (F119 and Y26) were chosen, and independently changed into cysteine residues. A phenanthroline ligand was covalently attached to the unique cysteine residue of each protein variant, and the corresponding biohybrids were purified and characterized. Once mutated and coupled to phenanthroline, the protein remained folded and dimeric. Copper(II) was specifically bound by the two biohybrids with two different binding modes. Furthermore, the holo‐biohybrid A3F119NPH was found to be capable of enantioselectively catalyzing Diels–Alder (D‐A) cycloadditions with up to 62 % ee. This study validates the choice of the αRep A3 dimer as a protein scaffold and provides a promising new route for the design and production of new enantioselective biohybrids based on entirely artificial proteins obtained from a highly diverse library.
Oral anticoagulation management in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing cardiac implantable electronic device implantation
Authors: Black‐Maier Eric , Kim Sunghee , Steinberg Benjamin A. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Freeman James V. , Kowey Peter R. , Ansell Jack , Gersh Bernard J. , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Naccarelli Gerald , Hylek Elaine M. , Go Alan S. , Peterson Eric D. , Piccini Jonathan P. ,   for the Outcomes Registry for Better Informed Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation (ORBIT‐AF) Investigators
Published: May 2017

Background

Oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy is associated with increased periprocedural risks after cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation. Patterns of anticoagulation management involving non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have not been characterized.

Hypothesis

Anticoagulation strategies and outcomes differ by anticoagulant type in patients undergoing CIED implantation.

Methods

Using the nationwide Outcomes Registry for Better Informed Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation, we assessed how atrial fibrillation (AF) patients undergoing CIED implantation were cared for and their subsequent outcomes. Outcomes were compared by oral anticoagulant therapy (none, warfarin, or NOAC) as well as by anticoagulation interruption status.

Results

Among 9129 AF patients, 416 (5%) underwent CIED implantation during a median follow‐up of 30 months (interquartile range, 24–36). Of these, 60 (14%) had implantation on a NOAC. Relative to warfarin therapy, those on a NOAC were younger (70.5 years [range, 65–77.5 years] vs 77 years [range, 70–82 years]), had less valvular heart disease (15.0% vs 31.3%), higher creatinine clearance (67.3 [range, 59.7–99.0] vs 65.8 [range, 50.0–91.6]), were more likely to have persistent AF (26.7% vs 22.9%), and use concomitant aspirin (51.7% vs 35.2%). OAC therapy was commonly interrupted for CIED in 64% (n = 183 of 284) of warfarin patients and 65% (n = 39 of 60) of NOAC patients. Many interrupted patients received intravenous bridging anticoagulation: 33/183 (18%) interrupted warfarin and 4/39 (10%) interrupted NOAC patients. Thirty‐day periprocedure bleeding and stroke adverse events were infrequent.

Conclusions

Management of anticoagulation among AF patients undergoing CIED implantation is highly variable, with OAC being interrupted in more than half of both warfarin‐ and NOAC‐treated patients. Bleeding and stroke events were infrequent in both warfarin and NOAC‐treated patients.
Somatic driver mutations in melanoma
Authors: Reddy Bobby Y. , Miller David M. , Tsao Hensin
Published: May 2017

Melanoma has one of the highest somatic mutational burdens among solid malignancies. Although the rapid progress in genomic research has contributed immensely to our understanding of the pathogenesis of melanoma, the clinical significance of the vast array of genomic alterations discovered by next‐generation sequencing is far from being fully characterized. Most mutations prevalent in melanoma are simply neutral “passengers,” which accompany functionally significant “drivers” under transforming conditions. The delineation of driver mutations from passenger mutations is critical to the development of targeted therapies. Novel advances in genomic data analysis have aided in distinguishing true driver mutations involved in tumor progression. Here, the authors review the current literature on important somatic driver mutations in melanoma, along with the implications for treatment. Cancer 2017;123:2104‐17. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Genetically engineered mouse models of melanoma
Authors: Pérez‐Guijarro Eva , Day Chi‐Ping , Merlino Glenn , Zaidi M. Raza
Published: May 2017

Melanoma is a complex disease that exhibits highly heterogeneous etiological, histopathological, and genetic features, as well as therapeutic responses. Genetically engineered mouse (GEM) models provide powerful tools to unravel the molecular mechanisms critical for melanoma development and drug resistance. Here, we expound briefly the basis of the mouse modeling design, the available technology for genetic engineering, and the aspects influencing the use of GEMs to model melanoma. Furthermore, we describe in detail the currently available GEM models of melanoma. Cancer 2017;123:2089‐103. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Nogo‐B is the major form of Nogo at the floor plate and likely mediates crossing of commissural axons in the mouse spinal cord
Authors: Wang Liqing , Yu Chao , Wang Jun , Leung Peggy , Ma Ding , Zhao Hui , Taylor Jeremy S. H. , Chan Sun‐On
Published: May 2017

Using Nogo antibodies with defined binding specificity, Nogo‐B, but not Nogo‐A, was localized on radial glia in the floor plate of mouse embryos. The presence of Nogo‐B was confirmed in Nogo‐A knockout mice. In explant cultures of embryonic day (E) 11 and E12 spinal cord, blocking of NgR function with antagonist peptide NEP1‐40 reduced the crossing of newly arrived commissural axons, resulting in an accumulation of growth cones in the floor plate. Analysis of growth cone morphology demonstrated an increase in size of growth cones in the floor plate after peptide treatment, which was not detected in axons growing toward the midline. In knockout embryos, midline crossing was not affected by absence of Nogo‐A. In co‐culture experiments using collagen gel, floor plate showed a strong inhibitory effect on the extension of post‐commissural neurites from the spinal cord. This effect was abolished by NEP1‐40, and was observed neither in pre‐commissural neurites, nor in post‐commissural neurites grown with floor plate derived from Nogo‐A knockout embryo. Furthermore, western blot analysis of conditioned medium from floor plates showed a truncated form of Nogo with molecular weight of 37 kDa, which could mediate the diffusible effect to axon growth. We conclude that Nogo‐B is expressed in the floor plate of mouse embryo, which probably mediates axon crossing in the spinal cord by repelling axons out of the midline when they start upregulate NgR. Nogo acts on axon growth not only through a contact‐mediated mechanism, but also through a diffusible mechanism.
Multiple roles of color information in the perception of icon‐type images
Authors: Hsieh Tsuei‐Ju (Tracy)
Published: May 2017

Despite the ubiquity of icons in computing and mobile devices, the role of color in icon‐based interface design has yet to be fully elucidated. This study began by conducting a card sorting experiment to determine the importance of color in the perception of commercial icons, as opposed to the simpler icons typically used in a laboratory setting. The study also sought to ascertain the importance of color when considered alongside other visual attributes in the general perception of icons. Participants were then asked to answer preset questions as a means of determining the relationship between the known color properties (e.g., hue, saturation, and brightness) of icons and their functional meaning, effectiveness in conveying meaning, and visual attractiveness. Finally, the speed and accuracy was assessed by which participants recognized well‐known icons rendered using familiar and unfamiliar colors. The empirical results identified color as an important attribute in the process of sorting icons, far exceeding other visual attributes including shape, complexity, pictorial style, and orientation. Nonetheless, it appears that color is not necessarily dominant in the initial stages of sorting. The results also revealed that color is closely related to visual attractiveness but largely irrelevant to effectiveness in the conveyance of meaning. The study also confirmed that correct color information is crucial to naming accuracy and the speed at which icons are recognized. Finally, the results indicate that icons lacking a unique symbol as a cue to recognition rely heavily on their signature color for identification. This study opens up several avenues of research by which to enhance our understanding of the functional role of color in icon perception.
Experimental Polymer Mechanochemistry and its Interpretational Frameworks
Authors: Akbulatov Sergey , Boulatov Roman
Published: May 2017

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Roman Boulatov at the University of Liverpool. The image attempts to conceptualize the capacity of large‐scale mechanical loads to affect chemical reactivity that underlies the field of mechanochemistry. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cphc.201601354.
Variation‐aware widely tunable nanoscale design of CMOS active inductor‐based RF bandpass filter
Authors: Mehra Rishab , Kumar Vikash , Islam Aminul , Kaushik Brajesh Kumar
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a novel design methodology for realizing a variation‐aware widely tunable active inductor‐based RF bandpass filter (BPF). The inductor‐less filter is designed and implemented using voltage differencing transconductance amplifier (VDTA) as an active building block and a grounded capacitor, thereby validating its suitability for fully integrated circuit applications. Digital ‘coarse’ tuning and analog ‘fine’ tuning are employed to achieve better frequency coverage. The designed filter exhibits a tuning range of 1.65–3.015 GHz and a 3‐dB bandwidth of 1400–122 MHz which translates into a quality factor of 1.17–24.71. It offers a voltage gain of 0–22.91 dB, noise figure of 28.16–28.95 dB, has a 1‐dB compression point of 2.50–2.478 dBm and draws 0.065–0.232 mW power from 1‐V power supply. Our proposed design shows a figure‐of‐merit of 82.08–91.27 dB, which is higher as compared to its counterparts available in the literature. The filter is implemented in 45‐nm CMOS technology node using metal gate and strained silicon. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Provide effective professional development for a high‐performance culture
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2017

NEW ORLEANS — In a time when higher education is undergoing major changes, administrators need to be able to anticipate needs and make adjustments to programs and operations quickly. Developing leadership at all levels of the institution can help the institution be ready to act.
Afternoon cortisol provides a link between self‐regulated anger and peer‐reported aggression in typically developing children in the school context
Authors: Oberle Eva , McLachlan Kaitlyn , Catherine Nicole L.A. , Brain Ursula , Schonert‐Reichl Kimberly A. , Weinberg Joanne , Oberlander Tim F.
Published: May 2017

Aggression jeopardizes positive development in children and predicts social and academic maladjustment in school. The present study determined the relationships among anger dysregulation (a marker of emotion regulation), cortisol activity (a biomarker of stress), and peer‐nominated aggression in typically developing children in their everyday classroom setting (N = 151, Mean age = 10.86, SD =.74). Salivary cortisol was collected at 09:15, 11:45, and 14:45 hr across 4 consecutive days. Children provided self‐reports of anger regulation; peers reported proactive and reactive aggressive behaviors. Hierarchical linear regression analyses, followed by a bootstrapping analysis identified basal afternoon cortisol as a significant mediator between anger regulation and peer‐reported aggression. More dysregulated anger significantly predicted lower afternoon cortisol, which in turn predicted increased peer‐reported aggression. These results align with previous research on links among hypocortisolism, emotional regulation, and behavior, and suggest a possible meditational pathway between emotion and behavior regulation via decreased afternoon cortisol levels.
Preventing progression from gestational diabetes mellitus to diabetes: A thought‐filled review
Authors: Kasher‐Meron Michal , Grajower Martin M.
Published: May 2017

Women with a history of gestational diabetes are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. In studies with long periods of follow‐up, diabetes incidence of up to 70% has been reported.

The appropriate follow‐up of women following a pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes has not been studied. Published guidelines recommend that obstetrician/gynaecologists, who are often the de facto primary care physicians for these otherwise healthy young women, incorporate glucose monitoring in the post‐partum period into their annual examinations. In reality, reported rates of screening have been low.

There is also no clear evidence for any beneficial interventions to prevent diabetes in patients with prior history of gestational diabetes. Lifestyle intervention programmes for diabetes prevention among these patients yielded disappointing results. Metformin, pioglitazone, liraglutide, and bariatric surgery are possible options but based on inadequate data. There remains a need for randomized, placebo‐controlled studies to evaluate various pharmacologic treatments, with and without lifestyle interventions, to prevent type 2 diabetes mellitus in women with a history of gestational diabetes.
An evaluation of semi‐automated methods for collecting ecosystem‐level data in temperate marine systems
Authors: Griffin Kingsley J. , Hedge Luke H. , González‐Rivero Manuel , Hoegh‐Guldberg Ove I. , Johnston Emma L.
Published: May 2017

Historically, marine ecologists have lacked efficient tools that are capable of capturing detailed species distribution data over large areas. Emerging technologies such as high‐resolution imaging and associated machine‐learning image‐scoring software are providing new tools to map species over large areas in the ocean. Here, we combine a novel diver propulsion vehicle (DPV) imaging system with free‐to‐use machine‐learning software to semi‐automatically generate dense and widespread abundance records of a habitat‐forming algae over ~5,000 m2 of temperate reef. We employ replicable spatial techniques to test the effectiveness of traditional diver‐based sampling, and better understand the distribution and spatial arrangement of one key algal species. We found that the effectiveness of a traditional survey depended on the level of spatial structuring, and generally 10–20 transects (50 × 1 m) were required to obtain reliable results. This represents 2–20 times greater replication than have been collected in previous studies. Furthermore, we demonstrate the usefulness of fine‐resolution distribution modeling for understanding patterns in canopy algae cover at multiple spatial scales, and discuss applications to other marine habitats. Our analyses demonstrate that semi‐automated methods of data gathering and processing provide more accurate results than traditional methods for describing habitat structure at seascape scales, and therefore represent vastly improved techniques for understanding and managing marine seascapes.
Short‐term effect of elevated CO2 concentration (0.5%) on mitochondria in diploid and tetraploid black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.)
Authors: Xu Fuling , Jiang Mingquan , Meng Fanjuan
Published: May 2017

Recent increases in atmospheric CO2 concentration have affected the growth and physiology of plants. In this study, plants were grown with 0.5% CO2 for 0, 3, and 6 days. The anatomy, fluorescence intensity of H2O2, respiration rate, and antioxidant activities of the mitochondria were analyzed in diploid (2×) and tetraploid (4×) black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.). Exposure to 0.5% CO2 resulted in clear structural alterations and stomatal closure in the mitochondria. Reduced membrane integrity and increased structural damage were observed in 2× plants at 6 days. However, after 0.5% CO2 treatment, little structural damage was observed in 4× plants. Under severe stress, H2O2 and malondialdehyde were dramatically induced in both 2× and 4× plants. Proline remains unchanged at an elevated CO2 concentration in 4× plants. Moreover, the total respiration and alternative respiration rates decreased in both 2× and 4× plants. In contrast, the cytochrome pathway showed no decrease in 2× plants and even increased slightly in 4× plants. The antioxidant enzymes and nonenzymatic antioxidants, which are related to the ascorbate–glutathione pathway, were inhibited following CO2 exposure. These analyses indicated that 4× and 2× plants were damaged by 0.5% CO2 but the former were more resistant than the latter, and this may be due to increases in antioxidant enzymes and nonenzymatic antioxidants and stabilized membrane structure.
A novel method of caenophidian snake sex identification using molecular markers based on two gametologous genes
Authors: Laopichienpong Nararat , Tawichasri Panupong , Chanhome Lawan , Phatcharakullawarawat Rattanin , Singchat Worapong , Kantachumpoo Attachai , Muangmai Narongrit , Suntrarachun Sunutcha , Matsubara Kazumi , Peyachoknagul Surin , Srikulnath Kornsorn
Published: May 2017

Sex identification provides important information for ecological and evolutionary studies, as well as benefiting snake conservation management. Traditional methods such as cloacal probing or cloacal popping are counterproductive for sex identification concerning very small species, resulting in difficulties in the management of their breeding programs. In this study, the nucleotide sequences of gametologous genes (CTNNB1andWACgenes) were used for the development of molecular sexing markers in caenophidian snakes. Two candidate markers were developed with the two primer sets, and successfully amplified by a single band on the agarose gel in male (ZZ) and two bands, differing in fragment sizes, in female (ZW) of 16 caenophidian snakes forCTNNB1and 12 caenophidian snakes forWAC. Another candidate marker was developed with the primer set to amplify the specific sequence forCTNNB1W homolog, and thePCRproducts were successfully obtained in a female‐specific 250‐bpDNAbands. The three candidatePCRsexing markers provide a simple sex identification method based on the amplification of gametologous genes, and they can be used to facilitate effective caenophidian snake conservation and management programs.
Kobresia meadow degradation and its impact on water status
Authors: He Siyuan , Richards Keith
Published: May 2017

Alpine Kobresia meadows are valuable pasture resources on the central and eastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau that are also important in preserving local and regional water. Kobresia pygmaea is the dominant species forming a typical turf layer resistant to disturbance; however, overgrazing may have exceeded that resistance. An integrated approach, including field monitoring, soil sampling, stable isotope hydrology, and physical modelling, was used to evaluate the hydrological consequences of meadow degradation with respect to normal meadow, degraded crust, and bare soil. Multiple evidence confirms that the soil moisture condition worsens when the meadow degrades. Bare soil has the coarsest soil texture, rapid infiltration, and low soil moisture in the root zone, and soil evaporation rate is high compared to normal meadow especially in dry periods. Crusted meadow soil has the lowest surface infiltration and a larger exposure of the leaf surface because of low plant cover over a dark surface, which favours high transpiration. Crusted meadow also has a drier condition in the root zone. These suggest that degradation is a positive feedback process in which leaf and soil exposure to radiation strengthen water demand for transpiration and facilitate non‐productive water loss, leaving the root zone (0–20 cm) dry and subject to further soil erosion. This positive process suggests that recovery of the Kobresia meadow is a long‐term task which has to consider the different levels of degradation and the effects of local climate change, in order to adapt the rangeland management practices, to the needs of meadow conservation and restoration.
Effects of mechanical stressors caused by mean flow and turbulence on aquatic plants with different morphologies
Authors: Asaeda Takashi , Sanjaya Kelum , Kaneko Yasuko
Published: May 2017

Mean flow and turbulence are two significant factors that simultaneously affect aquatic plants. The tension from mean flow is unidirectional, whereas loads from turbulence fluctuate with the forces and pressures of different magnitude and direction. Our aim was to determine which water movement factor was most significant for habitat selection by submerged plants with different morphologies. The effects of mean flow and turbulence were tested with the whorled Elodea nuttallii, Potamogeton crispus, and leafy Vallisneria asiatica, controlling for other factors. A gradually constricted transparent pipe with plants in the middle was used in a recirculating tank to test the effects of the mean flow, and the effects of turbulence were examined by generating different turbulence levels in tanks with vertically oscillating grids. To determine plant response to these stressors, plant morphology, contents of cellulose, lignin, H2O2, pigments, indole acetic acid, and antioxidant activities were measured. Plant tissues were examined using transmission electron microscopy and light microscopy. At high turbulence levels, antioxidant activities and H2O2 concentrations were significantly higher than in plants affected by mean flow or in stagnant water; thus, the physiological stress from turbulence was significantly higher regardless of morphology. V. asiatica benefited from mean flow, whereas whorled E. nuttallii and P. crispus were more stressed than plants in stagnant water. To withstand vigorous motion, accumulations of lignin and cellulose were high and cell ultrastructure was altered in plants exposed to high turbulence levels. Therefore, the physiology of submerged plants was affected more by turbulent motion than by mean flow.
Effect of a semi‐permanent road on N, P, and CO2 dynamics in a poor fen on the Western Boreal Plain, Canada
Authors: Plach Janina M. , Wood Meagan E. , Macrae Merrin L. , Osko Terrance J. , Petrone Richard M.
Published: May 2017

Peatlands of the Western Boreal Plains are under stress from oil and gas development and associated infrastructure such as road construction and removal. An improved understanding of nutrient cycling and atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) exchange interactions in peatlands can assist in recommending best management practices to industry to minimize the ecohydrological disturbance footprint of road features. Peat nutrient (nitrogen, N, and phosphorus, P) supply, net mineralization, groundwater concentrations, and peatland‐atmosphere CO2 exchange rates were quantified within a poor fen bisected by a semi‐permanent road located in the Athabasca Oil Sands region of Alberta, Canada, over one growing season. Results demonstrate that the road impeded groundwater movement across the site; however, water table and moisture differences were minimal, likely due to the unusually wet season. No clear impacts of the road on nutrient dynamics were observed, but subtle differences in productivity and respiration resulted in significantly lower net CO2 sequestration (net ecosystem exchange) on the down‐flow side of the road. Differences in vegetation composition between sides of the road were apparent and likely indicate longer‐term moisture differences at the site. Elevated rates of productivity and respiration coincided with a seasonal change in the relative supplies of N and P (increased N : P ratios), suggesting that the relative availability of N versus P may be important to CO2 fluxes in Western Boreal Plains peatlands. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the need to capture interactions between hydrology, ecology and nutrient biogeochemistry when evaluating peatland carbon cycling response to road disturbances across this region.
Ecological niche model comparison under different climate scenarios: a case study ofOleaspp. in Asia
Authors: Ashraf Uzma , Peterson A. Townsend , Chaudhry Muhammad Nawaz , Ashraf Irfan , Saqib Zafeer , Rashid Ahmad Sajid , Ali Hassan
Published: May 2017

Ecological niche modeling (and the related species distribution modeling) has been used as a tool with which to assess potential impacts of climate change processes on geographic distributions of species. However, the factors introducing variation into niche modeling outcomes are not well understood: To this end, we used seven algorithms to develop models (Maxent,GARP,BIOCLIM, artificial neural networks, support‐vector machines, climate envelope, and environmental distance) to estimate the potential geographic distribution of olives (Olea europaeasensu lato, includingOlea ferruginea) under two climatic data sets (current 2000 and future 2050). Five general circulation models and two representative concentration pathway scenarios were used as predictor variables in future projections of the geographic potential of this species; models were fit at global extents (10′ spatial resolution) but transferred and interpreted for a region of particular interest in Central Asia, which largely avoids problems with truncation of niche estimates. We found marked differences among approaches in predicted distributions and model performance, as well as in the future distributional pattern reconstructed, from one algorithm to another. These general approaches, when model‐to‐model variation is managed appropriately, appear promising in predicting the potential geographic distribution ofO. europaeasensu lato and thus can be an effective tool in restoration and conservation planning for wild populations, as well as possible commercial plantations of this species.
Thioether Iron Complexes [(X‐SMe‐7,8‐C2B9H10)Fe(C6H6)] (X = 9 or 10) as Synthons of Neutral Ferracarborane Fragments
Authors: Vinogradov Mikhail M. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Corsini Maddalena , Fabrizi de Biani Fabrizia , Kudinov Alexander R. , Loginov Dmitry A.
Published: May 2017

The demethylation reactions of the cyclohexadienyl complexes [(η‐X‐SMe2‐7,8‐C2B9H10)Fe(η5‐C6H7)] {X = 9 (1a), 10 (1b); X is the number of the substituent position} with PhCH2SNa in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) and subsequent protonation by acetic acid lead to the iron–benzene complexes [(η‐X‐SMe‐7,8‐C2B9H10)Fe(η‐C6H6)] (2a and 2b). The visible‐light irradiation of 2a in the presence of tBuNC or [Cp*Fe(η‐cyclo‐P5)] (Cp* = pentamethylcyclopentadienyl) affords the neutral half‐sandwich complex [(η‐9‐SMe‐7,8‐C2B9H10)Fe(tBuNC)3] (3) or the triple‐decker complex [(η‐9‐SMe‐7,8‐C2B9H10)Fe(µ‐η:η‐cyclo‐P5)FeCp*] (4). The reaction of 2b with (THF)W(CO)5 (THF = tetrahydrofuran) selectively gives the iron–tungsten dinuclear complex [(η‐10‐SMe{W(CO)5}‐7,8‐C2B9H10)Fe(η‐C6H6)] (5). The structures of 2a, 4, and 5 were determined by X‐ray diffraction. Electrochemistry revealed that the redox processes of the SMe‐substituted ferracarboranes are cathodically shifted (by ca. 350 mV) with respect to the corresponding redox changes of the SMe2 analogs. The Fe–C6H6 bonding in 2a and the related benzene complexes [(η‐9‐SMe2‐7,8‐C2B9H10)Fe(η‐C6H6)]+ and [(η‐7,8‐C2B9H11)Fe(η‐C6H6)] was analyzed by energy‐decomposition analysis.
Magnetite Nanoparticles Bonded Carbon Quantum Dots Magnetically Confined onto Screen Printed Carbon Electrodes and their Performance as Electrochemical Sensor for NADH
Authors: Canevari Thiago C. , Cincotto Fernando H. , Gomes Delmarcio , Landers Richard , Toma Henrique E.
Published: May 2017

Hybrid magnetite/carbon quantum dots (MagNP/C‐dots) were prepared and their characterization performed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Because of their suitable magnetization and electrochemical properties, they were used as versatile electrode modifiers after magnetically confining onto screen printed carbon electrodes (SPE), with the aid of a miniature external magnet. The reported strategy introduces a convenient procedure for assembling modified electrodes, since the nanoparticles can be easily released by removing the magnet. The non‐enzymatic magnetic biosensor showed excellent performance in the determination of NADH at the concentration range 2×10−7 to 5×10−6 mol L−1, exhibiting a sensitivity of 0.15 μmol L−1 and detection limit of 20 nmol L−1. The MagNP/C‐dots/SPE sensor was also successfully applied for the determination of NADH in serum samples. The interference of typical biological molecules has also been investigated.
Simultaneous Detection of Dopamine and Uric Acid on Indium Tin Oxides Modified with Cost‐effective Gas‐phase Synthesized Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Khan Md. Mohibul Islam , Baek Geun Woo , Kim Kyuwon , Kwon Hyuck‐In , Jin Sung Hun
Published: May 2017

Cost‐effective gas‐phase synthesized single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were first employed for the surface modification of indium tin oxides (ITO) via electrostatic coating of poly‐l‐lysine (PLL). Compared with control substrates of bare ITO and SWCNT‐PLL‐slide glasses, SWCNT‐PLL‐ITO, with high catalytic properties associated with large surface areas, showed significant improvement of electro catalytic activity toward the oxidation of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA). The cyclic voltammetric (CV) peak separation of oxidation for both DA and UA was estimated to be ∼ 0.13 V, which renders them capable of simultaneously detecting DA and UA in a mixed solution. The differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) technique was further performed to obtain a linear detection range of DA from 1.0 μM to 100 μM, and a detection limit of 1.0 μM was confirmed in the mixed solution. Furthermore, the practical analytical ability of the method was finally confirmed by selective detection of both DA and UA in human urine samples without any preliminary treatment, implying the feasibility of applying bio‐sensors in a low‐cost manner.
Reduced Graphene Oxide Supported Cobalt Bipyridyl Complex for Sensitive Detection of Methyl Parathion in Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Govindasamy Mani , Sakthinathan Subramanian , Chen Shen‐Ming , Chiu Te‐Wei , Sathiyan Anandaraj , Merlin Johnson Princy
Published: May 2017

Herein, we are described a green route to prepare reduced graphene oxide supported cobalt inorganic complex nanocomposite (GRGO/[Co(bpy)3]) (bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine) through facile and wet chemical approach. The formation of the nanocomposite was confirmed through suitable physical and chemical characterization techniques. The GRGO/[Co(bpy)3] nanocomposite was coated on the pretreated glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The GCE/GRGO/[Co(bpy)3] modified electrode has excellent electrocatalytic ability towards methyl parathion reduction, while the overpotential drops drastically to –0.18 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). Moreover, the effect of concentration, scan rate and electrolyte pH were detail studied. Besides, the linear response range was 0.05‐1700 μM and the detection limit was 0.0029 μM (S/N=3) and the sensitivity was 1.8197 μA μM−1 cm−2. Moreover, the fabricated electrode has high level of selectivity, which delivers satisfactory repeatability, reproducibility and stability. The sensing method was successfully demonstrated in real samples such as, tomato and apple samples.
Capillarys 2 Flex Piercing: Analytical performance assessment according to CLSI protocols for HbA1c quantification
Authors: Doggui Radhouene , Abdelhafidh Sahli Chaïma , Aissa Wassef Lotfi , Hammami Maroua , Ben Sedrine Maha , Mahjoub Rahma , Zouaoui Khemais , Daboubi Rim , Siala Hajer , Messaoud Taieb , Bibi Amina
Published: May 2017

HbA1c is used for monitoring diabetic balance. In this paper we report an assessment of the analytical performances of Capillarys 2 Flex Piercing (C2FP) for HbA1c measurement using CE (Capillary Electrophoresis). CLSI (Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute) protocols are used for the evaluation of apparatus performances: precision, linearity, method comparison, trueness and common interferences. HbA1c CVs average in intra‐assay was 1.6% between run imprecision CV ranged from 0.1 to 1.8%. The linearity was demonstrated between 4.7 and 15.0%. The comparison study revealed that Bland Altman plot mean difference was equal to −0.03 (CI 95% (−0.05 to −0.0003)) and Passing‐Bablok regression intercept was −0.05, CI95%(−0.13 –  −0.05); slope: 1.00, CI95%[1.00–1.01]. A strong correlation (r > 0.99) was proved. No significant effects of hemoglobin variants were seen with CE on HbA1c measurement. No problem related to sample‐to‐sample carry over was noted. No interferences of LA1c and cHb were observed. CE allowed quantification of HbA1c even at low level of total hemoglobin (40 g/L) in contrast to HPLC. Furthermore, this analyzer offered the opportunity of quantifying the HbA2 simultaneously with HbA1c. This evaluation showed that C2FP is a convenient system for the control of diabetes and the detection of hemoglobinopathies.
Artificial neural network for bioprocess monitoring based on fluorescence measurements: Training without offline measurements
Authors: Paquet‐Durand Olivier , Assawarajuwan Supasuda , Hitzmann Bernd
Published: May 2017

The feasibility of using a feed‐forward neural network in combination with 2D fluorescence spectroscopy to monitor the state of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation was investigated. The main point is that for the backpropagation training of the neural network, no offline measurement value was used, which is the ordinary approach. Instead, a theoretical model of the process has been applied to simulate the process state (biomass, glucose, and ethanol concentration) at any given time. However, the kinetic parameters of the simulation model are unknown at the beginning of the training. It will be demonstrated that the kinetic parameters of the theoretical process model as well as the parameters of the feed‐forward neural network to predict the process state from 2D fluorescence spectra can be acquired from the 2D fluorescence spectra alone. Offline measurements are not actually required. The resulting trained neural network can predict the process state as accurate as a conventionally (with offline measurements) trained neural network. The calculated parameters result in a simulation model that is at least as accurate as a model with parameters acquired by least squares fitting to the offline measurements.
The Trump impact on international recruitment
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: May 2017

Since many of you reading this article have strategic plans that include, and even depend on, recruiting international students, I want to share with you how future international student recruitment may be impacted by proposed rules and regulations of the current administration.
Snapshot report shows state of international enrollment
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2017

In response to concerns from international educators that the political discourse about foreign nationals in the United States during the course of the 2016 presidential campaign could be damaging to international student recruitment, the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers released a snapshot survey on institutional and applicant perceptions.
Evaluation of Hybrid Anode Usability in Lithium Polysulfide Flow Batteries
Authors: Yang Liuqing , Li Jingfa , Jiang Xi , Li Guochun , Lee Jim Yang
Published: May 2017

The scalability of lithium‐sulfur batteries can be improved by implementing them as lithium polysulfide flow batteries (LPSFBs). However, a low specific capacity and rapid capacity fading are observed in these flow batteries. We discovered that this deficiency can be addressed by using a hybrid anode. The hybrid anode consists of a lithiated graphite felt and a Li metal. The former serves as the buffer in lithiation and delithiation to shift most of the parasitic reactions that normally occur on Li to lithiated graphite to result in an improved protection of the Li surface. Specifically, in a 0.4 m lithium polysulfide catholyte, a LPSFB with an activated hybrid anode could be cycled with a high Coulombic efficiency (≈100 %) and high energy efficiency (≈79.5 %) to deliver a high specific discharge capacity of 532.5 mAh g−1 at 1 mA cm−2 current density, of which 87.4 % of the capacity could be retained after 40 cycles. This represents a significant improvement in the cycle stability and sulfur utility of LPSFBs.
Proficiency‐testing scheme for essential oils
Authors: Messineo Elvire , Varfi Athina , Minziere Jonathan , Boubetra Abdelkader
Published: May 2017

BIPEA (http://www.bipea.org) organizes regular proficiency‐testing schemes (PTS) in many analytical domains, including the analysis of essential oils. As an example, in September and October 2015, two tests were conducted using essential pine oil, with respectively 27 and 32 participating laboratories. The first test was intended for routine quality‐control analyses (density, refractive index optical rotation, flash‐point, peroxide value, and acid value), whereas the second was intended for the analysis of the composition of this essential oil, by determination of its profile by gas chromatography with flame‐ionization detection (for 22 constituents of this particular essential oil). Participating laboratories were required to return their results on a dedicated website within a period of 1 month, and a statistical treatment of the data was as usually performed by BIPEA according to ISO 13528.1. Assigned (consensus) values were calculated from the participants' results, and the performances of the laboratories could then be evaluated individually and collectively according to ISO 17043. 2 These tests allow participating laboratories to draw up a general inventory of their analytical skills, and are a very useful tool to detect bias or non‐compliant results; they act as a warning signal for the implementation of corrective and/or curative actions in the laboratory.
Y2K and Great Recession Provided System Advances and Cloud
Authors: Wenke Steve
Published: May 2017

Many utility companies are currently looking to replace their Customer Information Software (CIS). To understand why, we go back to the year 1999, when Y2K hung over our economy like a dark cloud. To prevent the forecasted apocalypse, many companies hastily replaced their vulnerable CIS systems with new and improved—Y2K‐proof—models. Perhaps because of these precautions, Y2K came and went with barely a sign.
Offshore Wind Growing in Both Europe and United States
Authors: El‐Shahat Adel
Published: May 2017

Scientists are focusing on ways to achieve a sustainable energy supply with nonrenewable energy sources such as offshore wind energy. Most of the energy used in the world comes from conventional energy. Although offshore wind energy and traditional systems have both negatively impacted wildlife, they each are supported by power systems that have an abundant supply of resources that continuously provide energy throughout the world.
Downregulation of miR‐7116‐5p in microglia by MPP+ sensitizes TNF‐α production to induce dopaminergic neuron damage
Authors: He Qian , Wang Qing , Yuan Chao , Wang Yizheng
Published: May 2017

Activation of microglia resulting in exacerbated inflammation expression plays an important role in degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, how this enhanced inflammation is induced in microglia remains largely unclear. Here, in the mouse PD model induced by 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetra hydropyridine (MPTP), we found that miR‐7116‐5p in microglia has a crucial role in this inflammation. 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+) is uptaken by microglia through organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) to downregulate miR‐7116‐5p, an miRNA found to target tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α). Production of TNF‐α in microglia is specifically potentiated by MPP+ via downregulation of miR‐7116‐5p to elicit subsequent inflammatory responses. Furthermore, enhancement of miR‐7116‐5p expression in microglia in mice inhibits the production of TNF‐α and the activation of glia, and further prevents loss of DA neurons. Together, our studies suggest that MPP+ suppresses miR‐7116‐5p level in microglia and potentiates TNF‐α production and inflammatory responses to contribute to DA neuron damage.
Human Schwann cells exhibit long‐term cell survival, are not tumorigenic and promote repair when transplanted into the contused spinal cord
Authors: Bastidas Johana , Athauda Gagani , De La Cruz Gabriela , Chan Wai‐Man , Golshani Roozbeh , Berrocal Yerko , Henao Martha , Lalwani Anil , Mannoji Chikato , Assi Mazen , Otero P. Anthony , Khan Aisha , Marcillo Alexander E. , Norenberg Michael , Levi Allan D. , Wood Patrick M. , Guest James D. , Dietrich W. Dalton , Bartlett Bunge Mary , Pearse Damien D.
Published: May 2017

The transplantation of rodent Schwann cells (SCs) provides anatomical and functional restitution in a variety of spinal cord injury (SCI) models, supporting the recent translation of SCs to phase 1 clinical trials for human SCI. Whereas human (Hu)SCs have been examined experimentally in a complete SCI transection paradigm, to date the reported behavior of SCs when transplanted after a clinically relevant contusive SCI has been restricted to the use of rodent SCs. Here, in a xenotransplant, contusive SCI paradigm, the survival, biodistribution, proliferation and tumorgenicity as well as host responses to HuSCs, cultured according to a protocol analogous to that developed for clinical application, were investigated. HuSCs persisted within the contused nude rat spinal cord through 6 months after transplantation (longest time examined), exhibited low cell proliferation, displayed no evidence of tumorigenicity and showed a restricted biodistribution to the lesion. Neuropathological examination of the CNS revealed no adverse effects of HuSCs. Animals exhibiting higher numbers of surviving HuSCs within the lesion showed greater volumes of preserved white matter and host rat SC and astrocyte ingress as well as axon ingrowth and myelination. These results demonstrate the safety of HuSCs when employed in a clinically relevant experimental SCI paradigm. Further, signs of a potentially positive influence of HuSC transplants on host tissue pathology were observed. These findings show that HuSCs exhibit a favorable toxicity profile for up to 6 months after transplantation into the contused rat spinal cord, an important outcome for FDA consideration of their use in human clinical trials.
On the Use of Computer‐Aided Text Analysis in International Business Research
Authors: Belderbos Rene , Grabowska Marcelina , Leten Bart , Kelchtermans Stijn , Ugur Nazlihan
Published: May 2017

Research summary

This article demonstrates the potential of computer‐aided text analysis (CATA) as a technique to operationalize hard‐to‐measure constructs in international business research, provided that a rigorous set of validity tests is applied. CATA allows researchers to perform content analyses on large textual databases by constructing indicators using deductively and inductively derived keywords. We show the critical validity steps that have to be followed to arrive at valid CATA indicators. We illustrate the CATA technique through an application to the concept of global mind‐set, which has received substantial attention in the international business and strategy literature. We conclude that CATA analysis is a valuable method for international business research, but that its potential can be unleashed only with proper procedures and due attention to construct validity.

Managerial summary

With the increasing availability of large textual databases such as collections of press releases, newswire archives, and SEC filings, computer‐aided text analysis (CATA) creates new opportunities to analyze otherwise unobserved firm and managerial traits. CATA can be applied to a broad range of firm activities and industries across long time periods, while eschewing the low response rates typical for surveys. In this article, we demonstrate the critical validity steps that have to be followed to arrive at valid CATA indicators of firm and managerial traits, with an application to international business. As an empirical illustration, we build a keyword‐based indicator of firms' global mind‐sets using a large dataset of news articles. Copyright © 2017 Strategic Management Society.
What's the Use? Disparate Purposes of U.S. Federal Bioethics Commissions
Authors: Brian Jenny Dyck , Cook‐Deegan Robert
Published: May 2017

In the forty‐year history of U.S. bioethics commissions, these government‐sanctioned forums have often demonstrated their power to address pressing problems and to enable policy change. For example, the National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research, established in 1974, left a legacy of reports that were translated into regulations and had an enormous practical impact. And the 1982 report Splicing Life, by the President's Commission for the Study of Ethical Problems in Medicine and Biomedical and Behavioral Research, became the basis for the National Institutes of Health's Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee as well as for the Food and Drug Administration's developing “Points to Consider” when contemplating the introduction of recombinant DNA into human beings. Some efforts of bioethics commissions, however, are not tightly connected to policy change or to outcomes directly linked to a specific report. While direct policy impact is indeed a useful metric for government bioethics commissions, it is not their only legitimate utility. For instance, bioethics commissions can also be incubators for deliberation on a hot topic, giving policy‐makers time to think through options while the political heat has some time to dissipate. Or a bioethics commission may stake out a position that enables a politician to take action while not necessarily following its recommendations.
The Virtues of National Ethics Committees
Authors: Montgomery Jonathan
Published: May 2017

The United Kingdom has many bodies that play their part in carrying out the work of national ethics committees, but its nearest equivalent of a U.S. presidential bioethics commission is the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, established in 1991. The Council is charged with examining ethical questions raised by developments in biological and medical research, publishing reports, and making representations to appropriate bodies in order to respond to or anticipate public concern. It is a nongovernment organization with no defined or guaranteed channels of influence. It has no authority merely by virtue of the position it holds. Rather, it has established relational authority based on its reputation. Unlike the U.S. bioethics commission, it is not part of executive government, nor is it constituted to contribute to the legislative branch, as does the French Comité Consultatif National d'Ethique. Its nongovernmental status notwithstanding, the Nuffield Council's work affects the U.K. government and the British public, and the Council has achieved international recognition for its reports. I was the chairperson from 2012 to 2017 and draw on my experience in this piece to consider three key audiences: governments, publics, and the international community.