bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Board Gender Diversity, Network and Firms’ Performance in the Italian Listed Companies
Authors: Di Donato Francesca , Panaro Delio , Trucco Sara
Published: September 2016

The paper aims at analysing the effect of women serving on the boards of directors, especially after the introduction of gender minority (Law 120/2011 and Consob n. 18098/2012), and the network ties on boardrooms on the overall firms’ performance in the Italian context. Gender minority is defined as the percentage of women on the board of directors, whereas the network ties represent companies which are connected through shared board members. To do this, we selected a sample of industrial Italian listed companies during the period 2011-2013 and we downloaded the mandatory reports of corporate governance of each firm in our sample time period in order to extract the components of the board of directors and their characteristics. We performed a set of regression analysis to evaluate whether the participation of women in the firm’s board of directors and the presence of connections among boardrooms enhance the financial performance measured through Tobin’s Q and Return On Asset (ROA). Empirical results contribute to extend scientific literature about this topic and to provide interesting practical contributions on the role of gender minority and the connections among companies on firms’ performance. Parallel, this research develops topics related to text mining (that is the automatic extraction of quantitative information from text-documents) referring to all the firms’ disclosures, produced in the Italian language.
Periodontal Tissue Regeneration Using Syngeneic Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells in a Mouse Model
Authors: Lemaitre Mathieu , Monsarrat Paul , Blasco-Baque Vincent , Loubières Pascale , Burcelin Rémy , Casteilla Louis , Planat-Bénard Valérie , Kémoun Philippe
Published: September 2016

Current treatment of periodontitis is still associated with a high degree of variability in clinical outcomes. Recent advances in regenerative medicine by mesenchymal cells, including adipose stromal cells (ASC) have paved the way to improved periodontal regeneration (PD) but little is known about the biological processes involved. Here, we aimed to use syngeneic ASCs for periodontal regeneration in a new, relevant, bacteria-induced periodontitis model in mice. Periodontal defects were induced in female C57BL6/J mice by oral gavage with periodontal pathogens. We grafted 2 × 105 syngeneic mouse ASCs expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) (GFP+/ASC) within a collagen vehicle in the lingual part of the first lower molar periodontium (experimental) while carrier alone was implanted in the contralateral side (control). Animals were sacrificed 0, 1, 6, and 12 weeks after treatment by GFP+/ASC or vehicle graft, and microscopic examination, immunofluorescence, and innovative bio-informatics histomorphometry methods were used to reveal deep periodontium changes. From 1 to 6 weeks after surgery, GFP+ cells were identified in the periodontal ligament (PDL), in experimental sites only. After 12 weeks, cementum regeneration, the organization of PDL fibers, the number of PD vessels, and bone morphogenetic protein-2 and osteopontin expression were greater in experimental sites than in controls. Specific stromal cell subsets were recruited in the newly formed tissue in ASC-implanted periodontium only. These data suggest that ASC grafting in diseased deep periodontium, relevant to human pathology, induces a significant improvement of the PDL microenvironment, leading to a recovery of tooth-supporting tissue homeostasis.
TYPOLOGICAL TRANSFORMATION AMONG LATE PALEOLITHIC FLAKED CORE TOOLS IN VIETNAM: AN EXAMINATION OF THE PA MUOI ASSEMBLAGE
Authors: Nguyen Dong Truong , Clarkson Chris
Published: September 2016

This paper explores typological transformations among late Paleolithic pebble tools excavated from Pa Muoi site in the Northwestern mountainous region of Vietnam. The site contains approximately 1665 pebble choppers over an excavation area of 449 m2. An attribute analysis is undertaken to examine the time-ordering of dimensional and morphological changes as reduction proceeds.
A Comprehensive Review on the Management of III Nerve Palsy
Authors: Ganger Anita , Yadav Shikha , Singh Archita , Saxena Rohit
Published: September 2016

The third cranial nerve is a motor nerve chiefly involved in execution of movements of the eye. The paresis or paralysis of the one or more of these muscles due to oculomotor nerve palsy, leads to ptosis, anisocoria and ocular motility defects. This article highlights the origin and course from nuclear level to terminal branches along with associated clinical symptoms and signs that help in localizing the site of lesion and planning appropriate management.
Orbital Apex Syndrome with Central Retinal Artery Occlusion Following Tooth Extraction
Authors: Chakraborti Chandana , Barua Nabanita , Chishti Rosy , Kumar Sheuli
Published: September 2016

A 39-year-old male, known diabetic presented with drooping of upperlid and visual loss in the left eye (LE) along with pain in the eye and periorbital region. This was preceded by tooth extraction 2 days back. There was inaccurate projection of rays in the left eye along with complete ptosis, proptosis, relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) and limitations of ductions. Fundoscopy revealed features of papillitis with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). The examination of the right eye was within normal limits. Patient had high blood sugar levels. Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) scan of brain and orbit was suggestive of left paranasal sinusitis. The clinical and the radiological findings were suggestive of orbital apex syndrome with central retinal artery occlusion of the left eye (LE). The case was managed conservatively with systemic antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and injection human insulin. Pain, proptosis and conjunctival chemosis subsided within 2 days but other features remained static. Dentogenic cause of orbital apex syndrome is very rare. We intend to discuss clinical features and management of such case.
Facial Rejuvenation: An Evolving World
Authors: Goel Shubhra
Published: September 2016

The demand for facial rejuvenation has now spread from celebrites to common man. Complete facial rejuvenation not only refers to surgery, but also skin optimization. This is achieved via resurfacing to revitalize skin texture (using cosmoceuticals, lasers, chemical peels, dermabrasion), refilling depressions with fillers and fat transfer, and relaxing the muscles with botox to smooth wrinkles. The surgical component entails releasing and redraping descended facial tissues back to their original anatomical positions. In this article we shall discuss some of these minimally invasive modalities of facial rejuvenation.
Formation of the Sputnik Planum basin and the thickness of Pluto's subsurface ocean
Authors: Johnson Brandon C. , Bowling Timothy J. , Trowbridge Alexander J. , Freed Andrew M.
Published: September 2016

We simulate the formation of the large elliptical impact basin associated with Pluto's Sputnik Planum (SP; informal name). The location of SP suggests that it represents a large positive mass anomaly. To find the conditions necessary for SP to have a positive mass anomaly, we consider impacts into targets with a range of thermal states and ocean thicknesses. Assuming the basin evolves to its current‐day configuration, we calculate the mass and gravity anomalies associated with SP. We find that SP can only achieve a large positive mass anomaly if Pluto has a more than 100 km thick salty ocean. This conclusion may help us better understand the composition and thermal evolution of Pluto. Furthermore, our work supports the hypothesis that SP basin has an impact origin.
Variability, trends, and predictability of seasonal sea ice retreat and advance in the Chukchi Sea
Authors: Serreze Mark C. , Crawford Alex D. , Stroeve Julienne C. , Barrett Andrew P. , Woodgate Rebecca A.
Published: September 2016

As assessed over the period 1979–2014, the date that sea ice retreats to the shelf break (150 m contour) of the Chukchi Sea has a linear trend of −0.7 days per year. The date of seasonal ice advance back to the shelf break has a steeper trend of about +1.5 days per year, together yielding an increase in the open water period of 80 days. Based on detrended time series, we ask how interannual variability in advance and retreat dates relate to various forcing parameters including radiation fluxes, temperature and wind (from numerical reanalyses), and the oceanic heat inflow through the Bering Strait (from in situ moorings). Of all variables considered, the retreat date is most strongly correlated (r ∼ 0.8) with the April through June Bering Strait heat inflow. After testing a suite of statistical linear models using several potential predictors, the best model for predicting the date of retreat includes only the April through June Bering Strait heat inflow, which explains 68% of retreat date variance. The best model predicting the ice advance date includes the July through September inflow and the date of retreat, explaining 67% of advance date variance. We address these relationships by discussing heat balances within the Chukchi Sea, and the hypothesis of oceanic heat transport triggering ocean heat uptake and ice‐albedo feedback. Developing an operational prediction scheme for seasonal retreat and advance would require timely acquisition of Bering Strait heat inflow data. Predictability will likely always be limited by the chaotic nature of atmospheric circulation patterns.
Renal angiomyolipoma in Birt–Hogg–Dube syndrome: A case study supporting overlap with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Dow Eryn , Winship Ingrid
Published: September 2016

Birt–Hogg–Dube syndrome (BHD) is an autosomal dominant disease characterised by benign cutaneous lesions, pulmonary cysts, and an increased risk of renal tumors. This rare condition is due to a mutation in the folliculin (FLCN) gene on chromosome 17q11.2, which has a role in the mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway of tumorigenesis. This case illustrates a patient with BHD and a renal angiomyolipoma, a neoplastic lesion not usually associated with BHD but common in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). There is both clinical and molecular overlap between BHD and TSC, which may arise from similarities in function of the TSC and FLCN proteins in the mTOR pathway; this case further demonstrates this potential correlation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How many remnant gibbon populations are left on Hainan? Testing the use of local ecological knowledge to detect cryptic threatened primates
Authors: Turvey Samuel T. , Bryant Jessica V. , Duncan Clare , Wong Michelle H.G. , Guan Zhenhua , Fei Hanlan , Ma Changyong , Hong Xiaojiang , Nash Helen C. , Chan Bosco P.L. , Xu Yang , Fan Pengfei
Published: September 2016

For Critically Endangered “species of extreme rarity,” there is an urgent need to clarify the potential survival of remnant populations. Such populations can be difficult to detect using standard field methods. Local ecological knowledge (LEK) represents an important alternative source of information, but anecdotal reports of rare or possibly extinct species can contain uncertainty and error. The Hainan gibbon (Nomascus hainanus), the world's rarest primate species, is confirmed to only survive as a tiny remnant population in Bawangling National Nature Reserve, China, but unverified gibbon sightings have been reported from other forest areas on Hainan. We conducted a large‐scale community interview survey to gather new data on patterns of primate LEK from 709 respondents around seven reserves across Hainan, to investigate the possibility of gibbon survival outside Bawangling and assess whether LEK can provide useful information for conservation management of cryptic remnant populations. Comparative LEK data for gibbons and macaques are consistent with independent data on the relative status of these species across Hainan. Local awareness and experience of gibbons was low across Hainan, including at Bawangling, but we recorded recent anecdotal gibbon reports from most reserves. A follow‐up field survey at Limushan Provincial Nature Reserve did not detect gibbons, however, and documented intensive wildlife exploitation within this reserve. All other surveyed landscapes showed some statistically lower levels of respondent awareness, experience, or sighting histories of gibbons compared to Bawangling, and are therefore considered biologically unlikely to support gibbons. Unverified LEK data can provide important insights into the possible status of cryptic remnant populations when assessed carefully and critically in relation to data from known populations.
Mitochondrial DNA and two Y‐chromosome genes of common long‐tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis fascicularis) throughout Thailand and vicinity
Authors: Bunlungsup Srichan , Imai Hiroo , Hamada Yuzuru , Matsudaira Kazunari , Malaivijitnond Suchinda
Published: September 2016

Macaca fascicularis fascicularis is distributed over a wide area of Southeast Asia. Thailand is located at the center of their distribution range and is the bridge connecting the two biogeographic regions of Indochina and Sunda. However, only a few genetic studies have explored the macaques in this region. To shed some light on the evolutionary history of M. f. fascicularis, including hybridization with M. mulatta, M. f. fascicularis and M. mulatta samples of known origins throughout Thailand and the vicinity were analyzed by molecular phylogenetics using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), including the hypervariable region 1, and Y‐chromosomal DNA, including SRY and TSPY genes. The mtDNA phylogenetic analysis divided M. f. fascicularis into five subclades (Insular Indonesia, Sundaic Thai Gulf, Vietnam, Sundaic Andaman sea coast, and Indochina) and revealed genetic differentiation between the two sides of the Thai peninsula, which had previously been reported as a single group of Malay peninsular macaques. From the estimated divergence time of the Sundaic Andaman sea coast subclade, it is proposed that after M. f. fascicularis dispersed throughout Southeast Asia, some populations on the south‐easternmost Indochina (eastern Thailand, southern Cambodia and southern Vietnam at the present time) migrated south‐westwards across the land bridge, which was exposed during the glacial period of the late Pleistocene epoch, to the southernmost Thailand/northern peninsular Malaysia. Then, some of them migrated north and south to colonize the Thai Andaman sea coast and northern Sumatra, respectively. The SRY‐TSPY phylogenetic analysis suggested that male‐mediated gene flow from M. mulatta southward to M. f. fascicularis was restricted south of, but close to, the Isthmus of Kra. There was a strong impact of the geographical factors in Thailand, such as the Isthmus of Kra, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Phuket ranges and Sundaland, on M. f. fascicularis biogeography and their hybridization with M. mulatta.
Regioselective 5‐endo‐dig Electrophilic Iodocyclization of Enediynes: A Convenient Route to Iodo‐substituted Indenes and Cyclopenta‐Fused Arenes
Authors: Saunthwal Rakesh K. , Danodia Abhinandan K. , Patel Monika , Kumar Sushil , Verma Akhilesh K.
Published: September 2016

An efficient iodine‐mediated regioselective tandem approach for the synthesis of symmetric and asymmetric iodo‐substituted indenes and stereoselective cyclopenta [b]pyridine/thiophenes from easily accessible enediynes that proceeds by in situ formation of an iodonium intermediate followed by a regioselective 5‐endo‐dig cyclization has been described. The intramolecular electrophilic iodocyclization was selectively triggered by a distribution of electronic density along the alkyne bond. Subsequently, the iodo‐substituted indenes were diversified by employing palladium‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions and the coupled products were further confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic studies.
Assess social media threats to keep your students and campus safe
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: September 2016

PHOENIX — Your most effective tool for monitoring the behavior and potential threats from students or toward students on campus comes not from your on‐campus cameras but from the social media traffic generated by your students. According to a report by Common Sense Media, students visit social media sites on average 100 times per day. With the amount of traffic generated by those sites, your institution can't possibly catch all potential threats or incriminating posts.
Adopt the THINK campaign to encourage responsible social media use
Authors: Miles David
Published: September 2016

We live in a digital and technological age, and there are new ways to communicate without ever having to talk face to face to someone. It seems like just about every other day a new application is coming out for people to connect and communicate with others.
Synthesis of 3D Flower‐like Nanocomposites of Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Nanosheets Embedded with Hollow Cobalt(II,III) Oxide Nanospheres for Lithium Storage
Authors: Yang Qi , Zhao Zongbin , Dong Yanfeng , Liu Yang , Liu Xu , Tang Yongchao , Wang Yuwei , Wang Xuzhen , Qiu Jieshan
Published: September 2016

Despite a high theoretical specific capacity (890 mA h g−1) as an anode material for Li‐ion batteries, Co3O4 has not been used in practice due to its inferior mechanical stability and poor electrical conductivity. Herein, we synthesized three‐dimensional (3D) flower‐like nanocomposites consisting of nitrogen‐doped carbon nanosheets decorated with hollow Co3O4 nanospheres (H‐Co3O4@N‐CNSs) with an ultrahigh loading mass (83 wt %) of Co3O4. The H‐Co3O4@N‐CNSs exhibited excellent performance of 750 mA h g−1 at 500 mA g−1 and 700 mA h g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 after 400 cycles and a high capacity retention rate of 93.75 % at 500 mA g−1. This excellent electrochemical performance was attributed to a synergistic effect between the hollow Co3O4 nanospheres, the N‐doped carbon nanosheets, and the pores between adjacent carbon nanosheets. Our suggested fabrication strategy for creating a hierarchical structure has great potential for the design of high‐performance anode materials.
Exploring the Oxidative‐Addition Pathways of Phenyl Chloride in the Presence of PdIIAbnormal N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes: A DFT Study
Authors: Mondal Totan , De Sriman , Maity Bholanath , Koley Debasis
Published: September 2016

DFT calculations were performed to elucidate the oxidative addition mechanism of the dimeric palladium(II) abnormal N‐heterocyclic carbene complex2in the presence of phenyl chloride and NaOMe base under the framework of a Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. Pre‐catalyst2undergoes facile, NaOMe‐assisted dissociation, which led to monomeric palladium(II) species5,6, and7, each of them independently capable of initiating oxidative addition reactions with PhCl. Thereafter, three different mechanistic routes, path a, path b, and path c, which originate from the catalytic species5,7, and6, were calculated at M06‐L‐D3(SMD)/LANL2TZ(f)(Pd)/6–311++G**//M06‐L/LANL2DZ(Pd)/6–31+G* level of theory. All studied routes suggested the rather uncommon PdII/PdIVoxidative addition mechanism to be favourable under the ambient reaction conditions. Although the Pd0/PdIIroutes are generally facile, the final reductive elimination step from the catalytic complexes were energetically formidable. The PdII/PdIVactivation barriers were calculated to be 11.3, 9.0, 26.7 kcal mol−1(ΔΔ≠GLS‐D3) more favourable than the PdII/Pd0reductive elimination routes for path a, path b, and path c, respectively. Out of all the studied pathways, path a was the most feasible as it comprised of a PdII/PdIVactivation barrier of 24.5 kcal mol−1(ΔGLS‐D3). To further elucidate the origin of transition‐state barriers, EDA calculations were performed for some key saddle points populating the energy profiles.
Acidic Co‐Catalysts in Cationic Gold Catalysis
Authors: Barrio Pablo , Kumar Manish , Lu Zhichao , Han Junbin , Xu Bo , Hammond Gerald B.
Published: September 2016

A systematic study on the effects of Lewis or Brønsted acid co‐catalysts in gold‐catalyzed reactions was undertaken using representative reactions (O‐, N‐, and C‐nucleophilic additions to alkynes). Through these reactions, it was demonstrated that an acidic co‐catalyst can increase the catalyst turnover significantly, enabling practical reaction rates at competitive catalyst loadings (<1 mol %). Further investigation is currently underway to improve the understanding of the subtle principles underlying these experimental observations.
Photocontrol of Polar Aromatic Interactions by a Bis‐Hemithioindigo Based Helical Receptor
Authors: Guentner Manuel , Uhl Edgar , Mayer Peter , Dube Henry
Published: September 2016

The first example of a bis‐hemithioindigo (bis‐HTI)‐based molecular receptor was realized. Its folding and selective binding affinity for aromatic guest molecules can be precisely controlled by visible light and heat. The thermodynamically stable state of the bis‐HTI is the s‐shaped planar Z,Z‐configuration. After irradiation with 420 nm light only the E,Z‐configuration is formed in a highly selective photoisomerization. The E,Z‐isomer adopts a helical conformation because of the implementation of repulsive steric interactions. The E,Z‐configured helix is able to recognize electron‐poor aromatic guests exclusively through polar aromatic interactions and also distinguishes between regioisomers. After heating, the Z,Z‐configuration is completely restored and the aromatic guest molecule is efficiently released.
Copper‐Mediated Trifluoroacetylation of Arenediazonium Salts with Ethyl Trifluoropyruvate
Authors: Wu Wei , Tian Qinli , Chen Taotao , Weng Zhiqiang
Published: September 2016

A copper‐mediated trifluoroacetylation of various arenediazonium salts with ethyl trifluoropyruvate is reported. The reaction proceeded smoothly under mild conditions at room temperature giving trifluoromethyl aryl ketones in moderate to good yields. A variety of functional groups, including methoxy, hydroxy, ester, ketone, trifluoromethyl, and halide groups, were well tolerated. A possible reaction mechanism involving an aryl radical intermediate was proposed and supported by experimental evidence. This reaction provides a new route to trifluoromethyl aryl ketones, notable synthetic targets, from the corresponding anilines.
New Insights into the Reactivity of Cisplatin with Free and Restrained Nucleophiles: Microsolvation Effects and Base Selectivity in Cisplatin–DNA Interactions
Authors: de Cózar Abel , Larrañaga Olatz , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , San Sebastián Eider , Ortega‐Carrasco Elisabeth , Maréchal Jean‐Didier , Lledós Agustí , Cossío Fernando P.
Published: September 2016

The reactivity of cisplatin towards different nucleophiles has been studied by using density functional theory (DFT). Water was considered first to analyze the factors that govern the transformation of cisplatin into more electrophilic aquated species by using an activation‐strain model. It was found that the selectivity and reactivity of cisplatin is a delicate trade‐off between strain and interaction energies and that the second chloride is a worse leaving group than the first. When similar studies were carried out with imidazole, guanine (G), and adenine (A), it was found that in general the second nucleophilic substitution reactions have lower activation barriers than the first ones. Finally, simulations of the structural restrictions imposed by the DNA scaffold in intra‐ and interstrand processes showed that the geometries of the reaction products are nonoptimal with respect to the unrestrained A and G nucleophiles, although the energetic cost is not considerable under physiological conditions, which thus permits nucleophilic substitution reactions that lead to highly distorted DNA.
Early diagenetic evolution of Chalk in eastern Denmark
Authors: Moreau Julien , Boussaha Myriam , Nielsen Lars , Thibault Nicolas , Ullmann Clemens V. , Stemmerik Lars
Published: September 2016

The genesis of polygonal faults is an intriguing diagenetic phenomenon. This study discusses their origin in carbonate mudstones together with other associated diagenetic features. In the eastern Danish Basin, at the fringe of the Baltic Sea, the Stevns peninsula offers a unique opportunity to study the early diagenesis of Upper Cretaceous Chalk deposits, buried between 500 m and 1400 m. This paper combines data from onshore and offshore high‐resolution seismic reflection profiles, a fully cored borehole with high‐resolution wireline logs and quarry and coastal cliff outcrops to study early diagenetic features at different scales. Chalk is affected by an extensive polygonal fault system that is detected in onshore and offshore seismic data. Outcrop and core data provide a better understanding of the distribution of contraction‐related features like deformation bands (hairline fractures), stylolites and fluid escape structures. An original model of genetic relationships between these different diagenetic processes is documented for Chalk. The spatial relationships between stylolites and fractures suggest that pressure‐solution processes triggered shear failure that initiated the polygonal fault systems. The early diagenetic processes affect the reservoir properties of Chalk by creating compartments and vertical connections. Taking these features into account will allow for a more detailed understanding of early diagenesis and better models for exploiting drinking water or hydrocarbons hosted in Chalk.
Bimetallic Cu–Mn‐Catalyzed Synthesis of 2‐Arylquinazolin‐4(3H)‐ones: Aqueous Ammonia as Source of a Ring Nitrogen Atom
Authors: Sharma Rohit , Vishwakarma Ram A. , Bharate Sandip B.
Published: September 2016

A new method for the synthesis of 2‐arylquinazolin‐4(3H)‐ones that involves a three‐component coupling reaction of 2‐bromobenzamide, aryl aldehydes, and aqueous ammonia has been developed. This protocol employs Cu–Mn spinel oxide as a heterogeneous catalyst and does not require the presence of a ligand or external oxidant. Key features of the reaction include a recyclable catalyst, ligand‐free conditions, and a wide scope of possible substrates. The mechanism begins with the replacement of the bromine atom with NH2 from aqueous ammonia followed by imine formation, intramolecular ring cyclization (C–N bond formation), and aromatization.
Forecasting Inflation Across Euro Area Countries and Sectors: A Panel VAR Approach
Authors: Dées Stéphane , Güntner Jochen
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we adopt a panel vector autoregressive (PVAR) approach to estimating and forecasting inflation dynamics in four different sectors—industry, services, construction and agriculture—across the euro area and its four largest member states: France, Germany, Italy and Spain. By modelling inflation together with real activity, employment and wages at the sectoral level, we are able to disentangle the role of unit labour costs and profit margins as the fundamental determinants of price dynamics on the supply side. In out‐of‐sample forecast comparisons, the PVAR approach performs well against popular alternatives, especially at a short forecast horizon and relative to standard VAR forecasts based on aggregate economy‐wide data. Over longer forecast horizons, the accuracy of the PVAR model tends to decline relative to that of the univariate alternatives, while it remains high relative to the aggregate VAR forecasts. We show that these findings are driven by the event of the Great Recession. Our qualitative results carry over to a multi‐country extension of the PVAR approach. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Europe We Want
Authors: Strohschneider Peter
Published: September 2016

Research policy and research funding must not be allowed to lapse into the thought patterns that are currently gaining ground throughout the continent. Research and innovation for a Europe fully equipped for the challenges of tomorrow should be based not on economistic reductionism but solely on pluralism and freedom.
The Best of Both Worlds
Authors: Bienert Hans‐Dieter
Published: September 2016

In an enthusiastically received exhibition, the Metropolitan Museum of Art together with the National Museums in Berlin and other leading research museums presented the treasures of the Hellenistic world in New York. The DFG was also involved as the funding body of numerous excavation projects and co‐organiser of an accompanying symposium.
Love at Your Fingertips
Authors: Walter Anna‐Maria
Published: September 2016

Since 2006, even the remote mountains of northern Pakistan have been connected to the world through mobile phones. In a society with strict gender segregation, it is giving women new scope for communication. An anthropological study is obtaining new insights through participative observation.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for maxillary bone radiation‐induced injury: A 15‐year single‐center experience
Authors: Gavriel Haim , Eviatar Ephraim , Abu Eta Rani
Published: September 2016

Background

Although hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used to treat chronic radiation tissue injury, clinical evidence supporting its use in maxillary bone osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to report our results of collected patient outcomes from a single center's large experience using HBOT to treat maxillary bone ORN.

Methods

From 1999 to 2015, 21 patients received treatment for maxillary bone ORN at our center. The medical records were retrospectively reviewed for the following variables: age, sex, comorbidities, tumor stage and site, previous surgery, previous radiotherapy or chemoradiation therapy, HBOT data, response to treatment and further management.

Results

A positive clinical outcome from HBOT occurred in 85.7% of patients with ORN and was proven radiologically in 14 of 15 patients (93.3%). In 5 patients, reconstructive surgery was required thereafter.

Conclusion

Controversy exists regarding the management of ORN of the maxillofacial skeleton. Our large, single‐center experience probably supports the efficacy of HBOT for maxillary bone ORN. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 275–278, 2017
Concentration of radiocaesium in rice and irrigation water, and soil management practices in Oguni, Date, Fukushima
Authors: Tsukada Hirofumi , Ohse Kenji
Published: September 2016

The concentration of radiocaesium (134Cs and 137Cs) in brown rice collected from Oguni, Date, Fukushima in 2011 was over 500 Bq kg−1, which was the provisional regulation value in 2011, and rice cultivation was prohibited in 2012. Rice culture was resumed following the application of K fertilizer as a countermeasure in 2013. The concentration of 137Cs in soils and irrigation water in 2013 was in the range of 1200 to 4000 Bq kg−1 (n = 31) and 0.078 to 1.1 Bq L−1 (n = 7), respectively. The concentration of 137Cs in the dissolved fraction in irrigation water filtered with 0.45 µm pore-size membrane filter was a relatively constant at 0.019 to 0.038 Bq L−1 (n = 7). The concentration of 137Cs in brown rice cultivated in the paddy fields after implementing the countermeasure was 1.1 to 24 Bq kg−1 dry weight (n = 29), which was lower than the Standard Limits (100 Bq kg−1). However, the concentration of Cs in rice cultivated under a similar agricultural management as in 2011 and prior to the Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings' (TEPCO) Fukushima accident was over the Standard Limits. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:659–661. © 2016 SETAC
Fukushima's lessons from the blue butterfly: A risk assessment of the human living environment in the post-Fukushima era
Authors: Otaki Joji M
Published: September 2016

A series of studies on the pale grass blue butterfly that were carried out to assess the biological effects of the Fukushima nuclear accident teach 3 important lessons. First, it is necessary to have an environmental indicator species, such as the pale grass blue butterfly in Japan, that is common (not endangered), shares a living environment (air, water, and soil) with humans, and is amenable to laboratory experiments. The monitoring of such indicator species before and immediately after a nuclear accident likely reflects acute impacts caused by initial exposure. To assess transgenerational and chronic effects, continuous monitoring over time is encouraged. Second, it is important to understand the actual health status of a polluted region and comprehend the whole picture of the pollution impacts, rather than focusing on the selected effects of radiation alone. In our butterfly experiments, plant leaves from Fukushima were fed to larval butterflies to access whole-body effects, focusing on survival rate and morphological abnormalities (rather than focusing on a specific disease or biochemical marker). Our results revealed that ionizing radiation is unlikely to be the exclusive source of environmental disturbances. Airborne particulate matter from a nuclear reactor, regardless of its radioactivity, is likely equally important. Finally, our butterfly experiments demonstrate that there is considerable variation in sensitivities to nuclear pollution within a single species or even within a local population. Based on these results, it is speculated that high pollution sensitivity in humans may be caused not only by low levels of functional DNA repair enzymes but also by immunological responses to particulate matter in the respiratory tract. These lessons from the pale grass blue butterfly should be integrated in studying future nuclear pollution events and decision making on nuclear and environmental policies at the local and international levels in the postFukushima era. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:667–672. © 2016 SETAC
Societal and ethical aspects of the Fukushima accident
Authors: Oughton Deborah
Published: September 2016

The Fukushima Nuclear Power Station accident in Japan in 2011 was a poignant reminder that radioactive contamination of the environment has consequences that encompass far more than health risks from exposure to radiation. Both the accident and remediation measures have resulted in serious societal impacts and raise questions about the ethical aspects of risk management. This article presents a brief review of some of these issues and compares similarities and differences with the lessons learned from the 1986 Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant accident in Ukraine. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:651–653. © 2016 SETAC.
Characterization of the discriminative stimulus effects of lorcaserin in rats
Authors: Serafine Katherine M. , Rice Kenner C. , France Charles P.
Published: September 2016

Lorcaserin is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating obesity and is under consideration for treating substance use disorders; it has agonist properties at serotonin (5‐HT)2C receptors and might also have agonist properties at other 5‐HT receptor subtypes. This study used drug discrimination to investigate the mechanism(s) of action of lorcaserin. Male Sprague–Dawley rats discriminated 0.56 mg/kg i.p. lorcaserin from saline while responding under a fixed‐ratio 5 schedule for food. Lorcaserin (0.178‐1.0 mg/kg) dose‐dependently increased lorcaserin‐lever responding. The 5‐HT2C receptor agonist mCPP and the 5‐HT2A receptor agonist DOM each occasioned greater than 90% lorcaserin‐lever responding in seven of eight rats. The 5‐HT1A receptor agonist 8‐OH‐DPAT occasioned greater than 90% lorcaserin‐lever responding in four of seven rats. The 5‐HT2C receptor selective antagonist SB 242084 attenuated lorcaserin‐lever responding in all eight rats and the 5‐HT2A receptor selective antagonist MDL 100907 attenuated lorcaserin‐lever responding in six of seven rats. These results suggest that, in addition to agonist properties at 5‐HT2C receptors, lorcaserin also has agonist properties at 5‐HT2A and 5‐HT1A receptors. Because some drugs with 5‐HT2A receptor agonist properties are abused, it is important to fully characterize the behavioral effects of lorcaserin while considering its potential for treating substance use disorders.
Seasonal morphometry of the vomeronasal organ in the marsupial mouse, Antechinus subtropicus
Authors: Aland Rachel Claire , Gosden Edward , Bradley Adrian J.
Published: September 2016

The vomeronasal system consists of a peripheral organ and the connected central neuronal networks. The central connections are sexually dimorphic in rodents, and in some species, parameters of the vomeronasal organ (VNO) vary with sex, hormonal exposure, body size and seasonality. The VNO of the dasyurid marsupial mouse, Antechinus subtropicus is presumed to be functional. The unusual life history (male semelparity) is marked by distinct seasonality with differences in hormonal environments both between males and females, and in males at different time points. Body size parameters (e.g., length, weight) display sexual dimorphism and, in males, a pronounced weight gain before breeding is followed by a rapid decline during the single, short reproductive season. VNO morphometry was investigated in male and female A. subtropicus to identify possible life cycle associated activity. The overall length of the VNO is positively correlated with the size of the animal. The amount of sensory epithelium exhibits a negative correlation, decreasing with increasing size of the animal. The effects of sex and breeding condition are not obvious, although they do suggest that sensory vomeronasal epithelium mass declines in the breeding period. The VNO may be more important in A. subtropicus before breeding when it may participate in synchronising reproduction and in the development of the male stress response. J. Morphol. 277:1517–1530, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic value of occult tumor cells obtained by peritoneal lavage in patients with resectable pancreatic cancer and no ascites: A systematic review
Authors: Steen Willemijn , Blom Rachel , Busch Olivier , Gerhards Michael , Besselink Marc , Dijk Frederike , Festen Sebastiaan
Published: September 2016

The poor survival of patients with resectable pancreatic cancer might be related to the presence of occult peritoneal tumor cells (OPTC). This systematic review studies the prognostic value of cytology and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) by real‐time polymerase chain reaction in peritoneal fluid. The results suggest that presence of OPTC is related to a worse survival in patients with resectable pancreatic cancer. Future studies should investigate its possible role in selecting patients for specific treatment strategies. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:743–751. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determination and removal of sulfonamides and quinolones from environmental water samples using magnetic adsorbents
Authors: Wu Hao , Shi Yating , Guo Xiaozhen , Zhao Shuangli , Du Juanli , Jia Hongping , He Lina , Du Liming
Published: September 2016

In this study, the magnetic materials known as polymerized ionic liquid@3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate@Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized and utilized as potential adsorbents. First, these nanoparticles were applied to the analysis of sulfonamides and quinolones present in different water samples using magnetic solid phase extraction and high‐performance liquid chromatography. Under optimized conditions, the developed method showed excellent detection sensitivity, with limits of detection (S/N = 3) and quantification limits (S/N = 10) within 0.2–1.0 and 0.8–3.4 μg/L, respectively. The spiked recoveries of the SAs and QNs in environmental water samples ranged from 83.5 to 103.0%, with RSDs of less than 4.5%. In addition, the adsorbents effectively removed sulfamethoxazole and ofloxacin present in existing aquatic environments. The adsorption kinetics and isotherms of sulfamethoxazole and ofloxacin on the magnetic adsorbents were studied to assess removal performance. The results indicate that the adsorption process follows a pseudo‐second‐order mechanism, which reveals that the sorption mechanism is the rate‐limiting step and produces high qmax values (sulfamethoxazole = 70.35 mg/g and ofloxacin = 48.95 mg/g), thus demonstrating the enormous adsorption capacity of these magnetic adsorbents.
Temporal trends in inpatient pediatric sleep apnea surgery: 1993–2010
Authors: Smith David F. , Sa Ting , Fenchel Matthew , Cohen Aliza P. , Heubi Christine , Shott Sally R. , Gourin Christine G. , Ishman Stacey L.
Published: September 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

We sought to characterize changes in the patterns of inpatient surgical sleep care over time and ascertain if these changes were consistent with previously reported trends in adult surgical sleep care.

Study Design

Repeated cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Discharge data from the U.S. Nationwide Inpatient Sample for 125,691 nasal, palatal, or hypopharyngeal procedures in children for sleep‐disordered breathing or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) from 1993 to 2010 were analyzed using cross‐tabulations and multivariate regression modeling.

Results

Inpatient surgical sleep procedures increased from 45,671 performed in 1993 to 2000 (study period 1) to 80,020 in 2001 to 2010 (study period 2). Overall, patients were commonly male (61.3%), privately insured (46.8%), 2 to 6 years old (39.4%), and white (36.4%). Obesity was reported in 4.6% and 6.7% of children during study periods 1 and 2, respectively (P < .0001). Tonsillectomy (with and without adenoidectomy) was the most commonly performed procedure in both study periods. With the exception of uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and tracheostomy, all sleep procedures increased over time; however, multilevel surgery did not significantly increase (P = .28). Children who underwent sleep surgery during study period 2 were more likely to receive a supraglottoplasty (P = .0125) and to undergo procedures at high‐volume hospitals (P = .0311), and less likely to undergo a tracheostomy (P < .0001).

Conclusions

These data reflect changing trends in the surgical management of pediatric OSA, with significant increases in nasal and hypopharyngeal procedures, particularly lingual tonsillectomy and supraglottoplasty. Unlike the trend in adults, multilevel surgery in children with sleep disordered breathing or OSA has not yet been integrated into routine clinical practice.

Level of Evidence

2C Laryngoscope, 127:1235–1241, 2017
Critical airway obstruction in apparently asymptomatic neonates
Authors: Griffiths Benedict , Lee Geraint , Durward Andrew
Published: September 2016

Central airway obstruction (trachea and major bronchi) in neonates can be caused by malacia, stenosis, or compression by masses or vascular structures. These abnormalities may be present in the neonatal period but are typically not detected until at least 6 months of age. We present four patients (1.6–4.1 kg, 32–41 weeks gestation) with nonspecific symptoms (e.g., poor weight gain, difficulty weaning from CPAP) who underwent bronchoscopy in the neonatal period. Critical airway obstruction (>90%) was identified in these relatively asymptomatic neonates. We suggest a low threshold for investigation with bronchoscopy in high‐risk neonates. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:E15–E17. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Migrating persistent pulmonary consolidation in a child: A case of follicular bronchiolitis
Authors: Jeong Yeongsang , Bang Yong Hyun , Kim Yun‐Kyung
Published: September 2016

Migrating pulmonary lesions in children are uncommon, and most are caused by eosinophilic lung disease and parasite, fungus, and tuberculosis infections. A 12‐year‐old boy was referred to our hospital because of an abnormal chest x‐ray. Serial computed tomography scans performed over several months showed a migrating pulmonary consolidation in the left lung, although the patient remained asymptomatic. Finally, surgical biopsy was performed and follicular bronchiolitis was diagnosed. The consolidation disappeared 17 months later without treatment, and the patient has remained asymptomatic. Primary follicular bronchiolitis could be considered as one of the differential diagnosis in patients with pulmonary reticulo‐nodular consolidation. It should also be noted that follicular bronchiolitis can migrate. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:E22–E25. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Overexpression of TAT‐PTD–diapause hormone fusion protein in tobacco and its effect on the larval development of Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Zhou Zhou , Li Yongli , Yuan Chunyan , Doucet Daniel , Zhang Yongan , Qu Liangjian
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

The diapause hormone (DH) has been shown either to induce or to terminate diapause, depending on the insect species. In a previous study we demonstrated that the DH from Clostera anastomosis (caDH) has biological activity in Helicoverpa armigera, which prompted us to examine the potential growth‐inhibiting or antiherbivory effects of the TAT‐caDH fusion protein when expressed in transgenic plants.

RESULTS

In this study, we produced transgenic tobacco plants expressing either the TAT‐caDH protein or a TAT‐caDH–eGFP fusion version that allowed tracking of the fluorescent protein in plant tissues. Our results indicate that H. armigera larvae feeding on transgenic tobacco expressing TAT‐caDH exhibited a significantly reduced survival rate and weight gain. However, larvae feeding on transgenic tobacco expressing TAT‐caDH–eGFP were unaffected. While fusion of the eGFP gene influenced the bioactivity of caDH in larvae, TAT‐caDH–eGFP can still penetrate the insect midgut cell membrane.

CONCLUSION

TAT‐caDH increases DH stability in oral delivery. Our results may help in targeting DH‐dependent physiological processes in insects for improving herbivore tolerance in economically important crops. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Infrared, transient thermal, and electrical properties of silver nanowire thin films for transparent heaters and energy‐efficient coatings
Authors: Bobinger Marco , Angeli Diego , Colasanti Simone , La Torraca Paolo , Larcher Luca , Lugli Paolo
Published: September 2016

In this study, we investigate the infrared and electrical properties as well as the thermal response of transparent silver nanowire (AgNW) based thin‐film heaters, when subjected to Joule heating. Controlling the number of layers and hence the deposition time, our spray‐coating technique allows to modulate the thermal and electrical properties of the thin films in a precise manner. In addition, this technique enables the fabrication of homogeneous and large‐area heaters, which, in terms of their electro‐optical properties, nicely compare to the performances of state‐of‐the‐art AgNW transparent electrodes. The thermal response and the electrical properties are accurately reproduced by a purposely developed physical model, which shows that the temperature dependence of the AgNW film resistance is lowered by a factor of 2 compared to bulk silver, independently of the number of deposited layers. Compared to uncoated glass, the emissivity decreases by 58% at a coverage rate of 58%. At the same time, the AgNW film can sustain a transparency as high as 81.3%. Therefore, AgNW‐based thin films can be used as a low‐emissivity coating, for e.g., energy‐efficient window glazing applications. Finally, we accurately determine the fragmentation temperature of AgNWs, which sets the ultimate limitation of use for heating applications.