bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current challenges in second‐order calibration of hyphenated chromatographic data for analysis of highly complex samples
Authors: Vosough Maryam
Published: November 2017

Coupling of multiway and multiset modeling methods with hyphenated chromatographic data for second‐order calibration purposes allows the quantification of multiple target analytes in highly complex samples, which otherwise would be impossible or at least a very hard task using univariate calibration scenario. In this regard, there are some chromatographic challenges that complicate attaining the best quantification efficiency through the highlighted advantages such as increased sensitivity and selectivity and the well‐known second‐order advantage. The present paper tries to overview these issues and to address the most usable strategies for their handling with a special focus on the relevant recent studies in quantitation field.
Synthesis and characterization of mixed matrix membranes incorporated with hydrous manganese oxide nanoparticles for highly concentrated oily solution treatment
Authors: Doraisammy Vaan , Lai Gwo‐Sung , Kartohardjono Sutrasno , Lau Woei‐Jye , Chong Kok‐Chung , Lai Soon‐Onn , Hasbullah Hasrinah , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: November 2017

In this work, ultrafiltration (UF) mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) incorporated with hydrophilic hydrous manganese oxide (HMO) nanoparticles were synthesized and used for the treatment process of a highly concentrated oily solution. The MMMs were fabricated via a phase inversion process and were characterized with respect to physiochemical properties and filtration performances. The results showed that the MMMs demonstrated higher water flux and better oil rejection rates compared to the control membrane (without HMO incorporation) when tested at three different oily solutions with oil concentration in the range of 5000–15 000 ppm. The membrane incorporated with the highest amount of HMO (labelled as MMM‐2) in particular showed the best results even when subjected to 15 000 ppm oily solution filtration, recording water flux of 32.2 L/m2 · h · bar and oil rejection of 82 %. The enhanced performance can be attributed to improved surface hydrophilicity coupled with better structural integrity and higher porosity that contributed to lower degree of oil molecules deposition and greater water transport rate. It was also reported that with the use of a feed spacer during the filtration process, the degree of flux deterioration of MMMs could be further reduced without compromising rejection. The findings of this work indicated the potential of MMMs for the treatment of highly concentrated oily effluent produced from industries, by producing permeate of high quality at reasonably good water permeability.
The life‐saving power of policy: Lessons from Kentucky
Authors: Steliga Matthew A.
Published: November 2017

Data from Kentucky clearly link comprehensive smoke‐free ordinances to lower rates of lung cancer. Uniform smoke‐free policies protect nonsmokers from secondhand smoke, encourage cessation in those who are still smoking, and save lives.

See also pages 374‐80.
Driving Access to Medicines With a Totality of Evidence Mindset: An Opportunity for Clinical Pharmacology
Authors: Venkatakrishnan Karthik , Cook Jack
Published: November 2017

Access to Medicine (AtM) initiatives have traditionally focused on enabling continuous availability and affordability of medicines for patients in the developing world. A more holistic view of AtM across the discovery–development–regulation–utilization continuum would also include participation in the development and timely access to emerging therapies in diverse populations in the era of precision therapeutics, built upon foundational clinical pharmacology principles, leveraging a Totality of Evidence (ToE) mindset.
Emerging Clinical Importance of Hepatic Organic Cation Transporter 1 (OCT1) in Drug Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics, Pharmacogenetic Variability, and Drug Interactions
Authors: Zamek‐Gliszczynski Maciej J. , Giacomini Kathleen M. , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2017

Hepatic organic cation transporter 1 (OCT1) can be a determinant of drug clearance and distribution, which can impact drug exposure and response. OCT1 was shown recently to be the rate‐determining step in the clearance of several drugs in humans, and thereby a mechanism of pharmacogenetic variability and drug–drug interactions (DDIs). OCT1 mediates metformin distribution to the liver (key biophase). As OCT1 modulation impacts metformin response, but not pharmacokinetics (PK), metformin DDI studies require pharmacodynamic endpoint(s) to inform rational metformin dose adjustment.
Facilitating emotional reappraisal in conflict transformation
Authors: Friedman Victor J. , Arieli Daneilla , Aboud‐Armali Oriana
Published: November 2017

Today emotions are seen as an integral part of conflict and conflict resolution. Research, mostly experimental or simulation based, has shown that emotional “appraisal” or “self‐regulation” can have a positive effect on conflict transformation. Drawing on lessons learned from a case study of conflict transformation involving Jewish and Arab students in Israel, this paper illustrates how the “reappraisal” of difficult emotions can play a central role in creating more positive relationships. The findings suggest that reflexivity is a key part of emotional “reappraisal” and proposes a number of actions that can be taken to actively facilitate this process.
Comprehensive bandwidth utilization and polling mechanism for XGPON
Authors: Butt Rizwan Aslam , Idrus Sevia Mahdaliza , Zulkifli Nadiatulhuda , Waqar Ashraf M.
Published: November 2017

For an efficient utilization of the upstream bandwidth in passive optical network, a dynamic bandwidth assignment mechanism is necessary as it helps the service providers in provisioning of bandwidth to users according to the service level agreements. The scheduling mechanism of existing schemes, immediate allocation with colorless grant and efficient bandwidth utilization (EBU), does not assign the surplus bandwidth to a specific traffic class and only divides it equally among the optical network units (ONUs). This results in overreporting of ONU bandwidth demand to the optical line terminal and causes wastage of bandwidth and increase in delays at high traffic loads. Moreover, the EBU also assigns the unused bandwidth of lightly loaded ONU queues to the overloaded queues through an Update operation. This Update operation has a flaw that it borrows the extra bandwidth to a queue in the current service interval, if the queue report is higher than its service level agreement and refunds in next service interval. This borrow‐refund operation causes reduced bandwidth allocation to the lower priority classes and increases their delay and frame loss. This study improves both these weaknesses. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme uses bandwidth efficiently and reduces mean upstream delay of type‐2 (T2) traffic class by 38% and type‐3 (T3) up to 150% compared to immediate allocation with colorless grant at a cost of up to 10% higher delay for T2. However, T4 performance improves by 400% compared to EBU with slight increase in delay for T2 traffic class. Overall, it shows a balanced performance for all the traffic classes and minimizes the bandwidth waste per cycle as well as the frame loss rate.
Space–time clusters for early detection of grizzly bear predation
Authors: Kermish‐Wells Joseph , Massolo Alessandro , Stenhouse Gordon B. , Larsen Terrence A. , Musiani Marco
Published: November 2017

Accurate detection and classification of predation events is important to determine predation and consumption rates by predators. However, obtaining this information for large predators is constrained by the speed at which carcasses disappear and the cost of field data collection. To accurately detect predation events, researchers have used GPS collar technology combined with targeted site visits. However, kill sites are often investigated well after the predation event due to limited data retrieval options on GPS collars (VHF or UHF downloading) and to ensure crew safety when working with large predators. This can lead to missing information from small‐prey (including young ungulates) kill sites due to scavenging and general site deterioration (e.g., vegetation growth). We used a space–time permutation scan statistic (STPSS) clustering method (SaTScan) to detect predation events of grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) fitted with satellite transmitting GPS collars. We used generalized linear mixed models to verify predation events and the size of carcasses using spatiotemporal characteristics as predictors. STPSS uses a probability model to compare expected cluster size (space and time) with the observed size. We applied this method retrospectively to data from 2006 to 2007 to compare our method to random GPS site selection. In 2013–2014, we applied our detection method to visit sites one week after their occupation. Both datasets were collected in the same study area. Our approach detected 23 of 27 predation sites verified by visiting 464 random grizzly bear locations in 2006–2007, 187 of which were within space–time clusters and 277 outside. Predation site detection increased by 2.75 times (54 predation events of 335 visited clusters) using 2013–2014 data. Our GLMMs showed that cluster size and duration predicted predation events and carcass size with high sensitivity (0.72 and 0.94, respectively). Coupling GPS satellite technology with clusters using a program based on space–time probability models allows for prompt visits to predation sites. This enables accurate identification of the carcass size and increases fieldwork efficiency in predation studies.
Ocean acidification ameliorates harmful effects of warming in primary consumer
Authors: Pedersen Sindre Andre , Hanssen Anja Elise
Published: November 2017

Climate change‐induced warming and ocean acidification are considered two imminent threats to marine biodiversity and current ecosystem structures. Here, we have for the first time examined an animal's response to a complete life cycle of exposure to co‐occurring warming (+3°C) and ocean acidification (+1,600 μatm CO2), using the key subarctic planktonic copepod, Calanus finmarchicus, as a model species. The animals were generally negatively affected by warming, which significantly reduced the females’ energy status and reproductive parameters (respectively, 95% and 69%–87% vs. control). Unexpectedly, simultaneous acidification partially offset the negative effect of warming in an antagonistic manner, significantly improving reproductive parameters and hatching success (233%–340% improvement vs. single warming exposure). The results provide proof of concept that ocean acidification may partially offset negative effects caused by warming in some species. Possible explanations and ecological implications for the observed antagonistic effect are discussed.
Contrasting genetic metrics and patterns among naturalized rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in two Patagonian lakes differentially impacted by trout aquaculture
Authors: Canales‐Aguirre Cristian B. , Seeb Lisa W. , Seeb James E. , Cádiz María I. , Musleh Selim S. , Arismendi Ivan , Gajardo Gonzalo , Galleguillos Ricardo , Gomez‐Uchida Daniel
Published: November 2017

Different pathways of propagation and dispersal of non‐native species into new environments may have contrasting demographic and genetic impacts on established populations. Repeated introductions of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) to Chile in South America, initially through stocking and later through aquaculture escapes, provide a unique setting to contrast these two pathways. Using a panel of single nucleotide polymorphisms, we found contrasting genetic metrics and patterns among naturalized trout in Lake Llanquihue, Chile's largest producer of salmonid smolts for nearly 50 years, and Lake Todos Los Santos (TLS), a reference lake where aquaculture has been prohibited by law. Trout from Lake Llanquihue showed higher genetic diversity, weaker genetic structure, and larger estimates for the effective number of breeders (Nb) than trout from LakeTLS. Trout from LakeTLSwere divergent from Lake Llanquihue and showed marked genetic structure and a significant isolation‐by‐distance pattern consistent with secondary contact between documented and undocumented stocking events in opposite shores of the lake. Multiple factors, including differences in propagule pressure, origin of donor populations, lake geomorphology, habitat quality or quantity, and life history, may help explain contrasting genetic metrics and patterns for trout between lakes. We contend that high propagule pressure from aquaculture may not only increase genetic diversity andNbvia demographic effects and admixture, but also may impact the evolution of genetic structure and increase gene flow, consistent with findings from artificially propagated salmonid populations in their native and naturalized ranges.
Conservation planning for freshwater–marine carryover effects on Chinook salmon survival
Authors: Gosselin Jennifer L. , Zabel Richard W. , Anderson James J. , Faulkner James R. , Baptista António M. , Sandford Benjamin P.
Published: November 2017

Experiences of migratory species in one habitat may affect their survival in the next habitat, in what is known as carryover effects. These effects are especially relevant for understanding how freshwater experience affects survival in anadromous fishes. Here, we study the carryover effects of juvenile salmon passage through a hydropower system (Snake and Columbia rivers, northwestern United States). To reduce the direct effect of hydrosystem passage on juveniles, some fishes are transported through the hydrosystem in barges, while the others are allowed to migrate in‐river. Although hydrosystem survival of transported fishes is greater than that of their run‐of‐river counterparts, their relative juvenile‐to‐adult survival (hereafter survival) can be less. We tested for carryover effects using generalized linear mixed effects models of survival with over 1 million tagged Chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Walbaum) (Salmonidae), migrating in 1999–2013. Carryover effects were identified with rear‐type (wild vs. hatchery), passage‐type (run‐of‐river vs. transported), and freshwater and marine covariates. Importantly, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) index characterizing cool/warm (i.e., productive/nonproductive) ocean phases had a strong influence on the relative survival of rear‐ and passage‐types. Specifically, transportation benefited wild Chinook salmon more in cool PDO years, while hatchery counterparts benefited more in warm PDO years. Transportation was detrimental for wild Chinook salmon migrating early in the season, but beneficial for later season migrants. Hatchery counterparts benefited from transportation throughout the season. Altogether, wild fish could benefit from transportation approximately 2 weeks earlier during cool PDO years, with still a benefit to hatchery counterparts. Furthermore, we found some support for hypotheses related to higher survival with increased river flow, high predation in the estuary and plume areas, and faster migration and development‐related increased survival with temperature. Thus, pre‐ and within‐season information on local‐ and broad‐scale conditions across habitats can be useful for planning and implementing real‐time conservation programs.
Asymmetric reproductive interference: The consequences of cross‐pollination on reproductive success in sexual–apomictic populations of Potentilla puberula (Rosaceae)
Authors: Dobeš Christoph , Scheffknecht Susanne , Fenko Yulia , Prohaska Dagmar , Sykora Christina , Hülber Karl
Published: November 2017

Apomixis evolves from a sexual background and usually is linked to polyploidization. Pseudogamous gametophytic apomicts, which require a fertilization to initiate seed development, of various ploidy levels frequently co‐occur with their lower‐ploid sexual ancestors, but the stability of such mixed populations is affected by reproductive interferences mediated by cross‐pollination. Thereby, reproductive success of crosses depends on the difference in ploidy levels of mating partners, that is, on tolerance of deviation from the balanced ratio of maternal versus paternal genomes. Quality of pollen can further affect reproductive success in intercytotype pollinations. Cross‐fertilization, however, can be avoided by selfing which may be induced upon pollination with mixtures of self‐ and cross‐pollen (i.e., mentor effects). We tested for reproductive compatibility of naturally co‐occurring tetraploid sexuals and penta‐ to octoploid apomicts in the rosaceous species Potentilla puberula by means of controlled crosses. We estimated the role of selfing as a crossing barrier and effects of self‐ and cross‐pollen quality as well as maternal: paternal genomic ratios in the endosperm on reproductive success. Cross‐fertilization of sexuals by apomicts was not blocked by selfing, and seed set was reduced in hetero‐ compared to homoploid crosses. Thereby, seed set was negatively related to deviations from balanced parental genomic ratios in the endosperm. In contrast, seed set in the apomictic cytotypes was not reduced in hetero‐ compared to homoploid crosses. Thus, apomictic cytotypes either avoided intercytotype cross‐fertilization through selfing, tolerated intercytotype cross‐fertilizations without negative effects on reproductive success, or even benefitted from higher pollen quality in intercytotype pollinations. Our experiment provides evidence for asymmetric reproductive interference, in favor of the apomicts, with significantly reduced seed set of sexuals in cytologically mixed populations, whereas seed set in apomicts was not affected. Incompleteness of crossing barriers further indicated at least partial losses of a parental genomic endosperm balance requirement.
Copper‐Functionalized Metal–Organic Framework as Catalyst for Oxidant‐Controlled Partial Oxidation of Cyclohexene
Authors: Chotmongkolsap Pannapat , Bunchuay Thanthapatra , Klysubun Wantana , Tantirungrotechai Jonggol
Published: November 2017

Microwave irradiation is exploited for the facile, one‐step functionalization of Cu(acac)2 to –NH2 pendant groups of MIL‐53(Al)‐NH2, a metal–organic framework material, under mild reaction conditions and a short reaction time. PXRD, XPS, XAS, and EPR spectroscopy are used to investigate the structure and chemical nature of the copper species on the framework. The copper center exists in the +2 oxidation state with a square‐planar geometry and NO3 coordination environment. The copper complex is anchored to the framework by imine bond formation. This copper‐functionalized MIL‐53(Al)‐NH2 or MIL‐53[Cu] is employed in the catalytic oxidation of olefins using molecular oxygen (O2) or tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as the oxidant. The chemoselectivities of the oxidation products depend on the type of oxidant and substrate. When O2 is used as the oxidant and isobutyraldehyde as the co‐oxidant in the oxidation of cyclohexene with MIL‐53[Cu], cyclohexene oxide is the major product. However, when TBHP is employed as the oxidant, 2‐cyclohexen‐1‐one is the major product. Furthermore, the catalyst can be reused at least three times without a significant loss in activity.
Dinuclear Manganese(II), Cobalt(II), and Nickel(II) Aryl Phosphates Incorporating 4′‐Chloro‐2,2′:6′,2′′‐Terpyridine Coligands – Efficient Catalysts for Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Bhat Gulzar A. , Rajendran Antony , Murugavel Ramaswamy
Published: November 2017

The dinuclear cyclo(metallo)phosphates [M(dipp)(Cl‐terpy)]2 [M = Mn (1), Ni (2)] and the mononuclear cobalt phosphate [Co(dippH)(Cl‐terpy)(MeOH)(H2O)]·dippH (3) were synthesized through the reactions of 4′‐chloro‐2,2′:6′,2′′‐terpyridine (Cl‐terpy) and 2,6‐diisopropylphenyl phosphate (dippH2) with manganese, nickel, and cobalt acetates. The formation of 1–3 is supported by spectroscopic, thermogravimetric, and microanalytical data. The molecular structures of 1 and 3 were confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. Compounds 1 and 2 are dimeric and feature two octahedral metal centers bridged by dianionic dipp ligands. On the other hand, 3 exists as a monomer in the solid state, but dissolution in methanol converts it to a dimeric form similar to those of 1 and 2, as evidenced by ESI‐MS studies. Compounds 1–3 were employed as catalysts for alcohol oxidation reactions with tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as the oxidant. The manganese phosphate 1 exhibits better catalytic activity in terms of selectivity and substrate conversion compared with those of 2 and 3 under similar conditions.
Asymmetric Allylation of Carbonyl Compounds Catalyzed by a Chiral Phosphine–Silver Complex
Authors: Yanagisawa Akira , Yang Nan , Bamba Kentaro
Published: November 2017

A catalytic, asymmetric allylation reaction of aldehydes or ketones with allyltrimethoxysilane was achieved by using a BINAP·AgBF4 [BINAP = 2,2′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)‐1,1′‐binaphthyl] complex as the chiral precatalyst and triethylamine as the base precatalyst in the presence of 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol. Optically active homoallylic alcohols with up to 95 % ee were obtained in moderate to high yields through the in situ generated chiral allyl silver catalyst.
Highly Enantioselective Synthesis of Cyclic Aminals with a Cyclopentadiene‐Based Chiral Carboxylic Acid
Authors: Sui Yuebo , Cui Peng , Liu Sensheng , Zhou Yanmei , Du Peng , Zhou Haifeng
Published: November 2017

A highly enantioselective aminalization of 2‐aminobenzenesulfonamides and aldehydes catalyzed by a novel cyclopentadiene‐based chiral carboxylic acid has been realized. The cost‐effective and readily synthesized cyclopentadiene‐based chiral carboxylic acid was found to be a highly reactive Brønsted acid for this transformation, affording benzothiadiazine class of cyclic aminals with up to 98 % ee.
Carbon Hollow Fiber‐Supported Metal–Organic Framework Composites for Gas Adsorption
Authors: Lawson Shane , Rownaghi Ali A. , Rezaei Fateme
Published: November 2017

Supporting metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) on scalable contactors such as hollow fibers provides a practical way to expedite their use in large‐scale industrial applications. Here, the development of carbon‐hollow‐fiber‐supported MOFs as adsorbent composites for gas separation processes is reported. Moreover, this work provides an effective approach for the growth of MOFs on the surface of carbon hollow fibers that are successfully produced by pyrolysis of cross‐linked Torlon hollow fibers. To fabricate MOF/carbon composites, the carbon hollow fibers are functionalized in different media to increase the surface hydroxyl groups prior to MOF growth. The MOF incorporation is performed by growing MOF‐74 and UTSA‐16 in the pores and on the outer surface of hollow fibers using dip‐coating and layer‐by‐layer techniques. The MOF/carbon composites with relatively high MOF loadings (37–38 %) and porous structures are successfully fabricated, yielding film thicknesses as high as 10–15 μm. The MOF‐74/carbon and UTSA‐16/carbon composites exhibit surface areas of 266 and 211 m2 g−1, and pore volumes of 0.28 and 0.20 cm3 g−1, respectively. As a proof‐of‐concept, the CO2 adsorption performances are evaluated and the MOF/carbon composites are shown to have relatively good CO2 adsorption capacities of 2.0 and 1.2 mmol g−1 for UTSA‐16 and MOF‐74, respectively, at room temperature and 1 bar.
Novel local smoothness indicators for improving the third‐order WENO scheme
Authors: Liu Shengping , Shen Yiqing , Chen Bei , Zeng Fangjun
Published: November 2017

The local smoothness indicators play an important role in the performance of a weighted essentially nonoscillatory (WENO) scheme. Due to having only 2 points available on each substencil, the local smoothness indicators calculated by conventional methods make the third‐order WENO scheme too dissipative. In this paper, we propose a different method to calculate the indicators by using all the 3 points on the global stencil of the third‐order WENO scheme. The numerical results demonstrate that the WENO scheme with the new indicators has less dissipation and better resolution than the conventional third‐order WENO scheme of Jiang and Shu for both smooth and discontinuous solutions.
Sensory profiling and consumer acceptability of new dark cocoa bars containing Tuscan autochthonous food products
Authors: Cantini Claudio , Salusti Patrizia , Romi Marco , Francini Alessandra , Sebastiani Luca
Published: November 2017

A new set of cocoa bars named Toscolata® were developed containing top‐quality extra virgin olive oil, dried apples cultivars, and chestnut flour. The present work has been conducted to define the sensory profile of these products through tasting by trained experts and consumers to study the acceptability, preference, and quality perception. The four sensorial profiles of the bars differed in the level of persistence, bitterness, aromaticity, acidity, astringency, and tastiness. In particular, the sour attribute could be traced to the presence of dried apple. Bars containing apple and chestnut flour obtained higher acceptance ratings, compared to those with extra virgin olive oil. The bar with chestnut flour was preferred by consumers who considered it to be sweeter due to the presence of natural sugars, which lowered the bitter sensation of cocoa. These results showed that the selection of the preferred bar by consumers was mainly based on the level of bitterness and, in particular, elderly consumers expressed a strong preference for the sweetest product. As far as we know, this is the first study comparing the results of a panel of expert tasters with that of consumers in the tasting of dark chocolate.
Bioprospecting of powdered pineapple rind as an organic supplement of composted sawdust for Pleurotus ostreatus mushroom cultivation
Authors: Narh Mensah Deborah L. , Addo Peter , Dzomeku Matilda , Obodai Mary
Published: November 2017

Pineapple rind is a by‐product of the pineapple processing industry and contains nutrients and other compounds which must be utilized as a bioresource for socio‐economic benefits while preventing the potential problems of improper agroindustrial biomass disposal methods. Pleurotus ostreatus is an edible oyster mushroom with medicinal properties and can be cultivated on various agroindustrial biomass, including sawdust containing supplements. Pineapple rind was powdered and used as a supplement of composted sawdust at 2%, 5%, 10%, 12%, 15%, and 20% (w/w) on dry weight basis. A control treatment consisted of composted sawdust supplemented with rice bran at 12% (the most utilized composition in Ghana). P. ostreatus strain EM‐1 was cultivated on these treatments. Factors investigated included the spawn run period, yield, fruiting body weight and size, biological efficiency, and nutritional composition (proximate composition and Copper, Zinc and Lead content) of fruiting bodies harvested from selected high‐yielding treatments and the control treatment. Full colonization of all treatments occurred by the 34th day of incubation. Enhanced yield, fruiting body weight and size, and biological efficiency were generally recorded with supplementation at lower concentrations (2% and 5%) compared to treatments supplemented at higher concentrations. There was also a supplement concentration‐dependent alteration of the nutritional composition of the mushroom. Powdered pineapple rind can be utilized as an organic supplement at relatively low concentrations in composted sawdust for P. ostreatus strain EM‐1 cultivation. The use of lower concentrations of powdered pineapple rind in composted sawdust is advantageous as relatively less input will be required to produce higher P. ostreatus strain EM‐1 yields. Utilization of pineapple rind for mushroom cultivation will extend the pineapple plant value chain, intensify mushroom production in a sustainable way, and minimize agricultural losses.
Functional connectivity in dementia with Lewy bodies: A within‐ and between‐network analysis
Authors: Schumacher Julia , Peraza Luis R. , Firbank Michael , Thomas Alan J. , Kaiser Marcus , Gallagher Peter , O'Brien John T. , Blamire Andrew M. , Taylor John‐Paul
Published: November 2017

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a common form of dementia and is characterized by cognitive fluctuations, visual hallucinations, and Parkinsonism. The phenotypic expression of the disease may, in part, relate to alterations in functional connectivity within and between brain networks. This resting‐state study sought to clarify this in DLB, how networks differed from Alzheimer's disease (AD), and whether they were related to clinical symptoms in DLB. Resting‐state networks were estimated using independent component analysis. We investigated functional connectivity changes in 31 DLB patients compared to 31 healthy controls and a disease comparator group of 29 AD patients using dual regression and FSLNets. Within‐network connectivity was generally decreased in DLB compared to controls, mainly in motor, temporal, and frontal networks. Between‐network connectivity was mainly intact; only the connection between a frontal and a temporal network showed increased connectivity in DLB. Differences between AD and DLB were subtle and we did not find any significant correlations with the severity of clinical symptoms in DLB. This study emphasizes the importance of reduced connectivity within motor, frontal, and temporal networks in DLB with relative sparing of the default mode network. The lack of significant correlations between connectivity measures and clinical scores indicates that the observed reduced connectivity within these networks might be related to the presence, but not to the severity of motor and cognitive impairment in DLB patients. Furthermore, our results suggest that AD and DLB may show more similarities than differences in patients with mild disease.
Climate conditions, and changes, affect microalgae communities… should we worry?
Authors: Gimenez Papiol Gemma
Published: November 2017

Microalgae play a pivotal role in the regulation of Earth's climate and its cycles, but are also affected by climate change, mainly by changes in temperature, light, ocean acidification, water stratification, and precipitation-induced nutrient inputs. The changes and impacts on microalgae communities are difficult to study, predict, and manage, but there is no doubt that there will be changes. These changes will have impacts beyond microalgae communities, and many of them will be negative. Some actions are currently ongoing for the mitigation of some of the negative impacts, such as harmful algal blooms and water quality, but global efforts for reducing CO2 emissions, temperature rises, and ocean acidification are paramount for reducing the impact of climate change on microalgae communities, and eventually, on human well-being. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2018;14:181–184. © 2018 SETAC

Key Points

Microalgae, which include prokaryotes and eukaryotes, are among the oldest organisms on Earth, and are known to be able to adapt to environmental changes and polluted environments and also to play a pivotal role in the regulation of Earth's climate and its cycles. The role of microalgae in biophysicochemical cycles implies that any effect of climate change pressures on microalgae will also affect other biophysicochemical compartments, and vice versa. Global strategies for reducing CO2 emissions, the temperature increase and pH decrease, are urgently needed for the mitigation of changes in microalgae communities due to climate change, which will cause unpredictable, although likely negative, consequences.
Impact of African traditional worldviews on climate change adaptation
Authors: Sanganyado Edmond , Teta Charles , Masiri Busani
Published: November 2017

Recent studies show cultural worldviews are a key determinant of environmental risk perceptions; thus, they could influence climate change adaptation strategies. African traditional worldviews encourage harmony between humans and the environment through a complex metaphysical belief system transmitted through folklore, taboos, and traditional knowledge. However, African traditional worldviews hold a belief in traditional gods that was shown to have a low connectedness to nature and a low willingness to change. In Makueni District, Kenya, 45% of agropastoralists surveyed believed drought was god's plan and could not be changed. In contrast, traditional knowledge, which is shaped by African traditional worldviews, is often used to frame adaptive strategies such as migration, changing modes of production, and planting different crop varieties. Furthermore, traditional knowledge has been used as a complement to science in areas where meteorological data was unavailable. However, the role of African traditional worldviews on climate change adaption remains understudied. Hence, there is a need to systematically establish the influence of African traditional worldviews on climate change risk perception, development of adaptive strategies, and policy formulation and implementation. In this commentary, we discuss the potential impacts of African traditional worldviews on climate change adaptation. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2018;14:189–193. © 2018 SETAC

Key Points

Cultural worldviews influence risk perception. Folklore, traditional knowledge, and taboos help formulate adaptive strategies. Belief in a traditional god may lead to indifference or pessimism. African traditional worldviews are essential in designing adaptation policies.
United States news media and climate change in the era of US President Trump
Authors: Park David J
Published: November 2017

The Donald J Trump administration's strategy to disengage and downplay the Paris Climate Agreement will likely result in a slight decrease in the already low levels of US news media global warming coverage. This is because significant limitations with the news media's ability to adequately cover climate change predated the administration. First, studies indicate that advertising interests and editors have always challenged journalists’ abilities to adequately report on climate change issues. Instead of climate change stories, editors often prefer more sensational topics that garner higher ratings and approval with advertisers. Second, the journalistic norm of balance and the role of sourcing give climate skeptics exceptional media exposure, which creates a “false balance” or equivalency between skeptics and scientists. Third, the massive power and influence of the fossil fuel industry's public relations arm has also had a tremendous impact on public (mis)understanding of climate change. Fourth, a trend toward declining climate change coverage and “climate silence” in US media is developing. Media corporations have substantially eliminated the number of environmental journalists that cover climate change. The overall effect of these limitations distorts public understanding of climate change and delays potential government action. Moving away from a predominantly commercial media system to one with a substantial noncommercial component can improve US journalism, whereas using advertising to increase rates for environmentally unsound products and services may also help mitigate global warming. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2018;14:202–204. © 2018 SETAC

Key Points

The US news media's relationship with climate change information is important because citizens are largely dependent on news media for climate change information. Editors and advertising interests have always presented challenges for journalists’ abilities to adequately report on climate change issues. The journalistic norm of balance and the role of sourcing give climate skeptics exceptional media exposure. The massive power and influence of the fossil fuel industry's public relations arm has had a tremendous impact on public (mis)understanding of climate change.
Understanding Age-Induced Cortical Porosity in Women: The Accumulation and Coalescence of Eroded Cavities Upon Existing Intracortical Canals Is the Main Contributor
Authors: Andreasen Christina Møller , Delaisse Jean-Marie , van der Eerden Bram CJ , van Leeuwen Johannes PTM , Ding Ming , Andersen Thomas Levin
Published: November 2017

Intracortical bone remodeling normally ensures maintenance of the cortical bone matrix and strength, but during aging, this remodeling generates excessive porosity. The mechanism behind the age-induced cortical porosity is poorly understood and addressed in the present study. This study consists of a histomorphometric analysis of sections of iliac bone specimens from 35 women (age 16–78 years). First, the study shows that the age-induced cortical porosity reflects an increased pore size rather than an increased pore density. Second, it establishes a novel histomorphometric classification of the pores, which is based on the characteristics of the remodeling sites to which each pore is associated. It takes into consideration (i) the stage of the remodeling event at the level where the pore is sectioned, (ii) whether the event corresponds with the generation of a new pore through penetrative tunneling (type 1 pores) or with remodeling of an existing pore (type 2 pores), and (iii) in the latter case, whether or not the new remodeling event leads to the coalescence of pores. Of note, the advantage of this classification is to relate porosity with its generation mechanism. Third, it demonstrates that aging and porosity are correlated with: a shift from type 1 to type 2 pores, reflecting that the remodeling of existing pores is higher; an accumulation of eroded type 2 pores, reflecting an extended resorption-reversal phase; and a coalescence of these eroded type 2 pores into enlarged coalescing type 2 cavities. Collectively, this study supports the notion, that age-related increase in cortical porosity is the result of intracortical remodeling sites upon existing pores, with an extended reversal-resorption phase (eroded type 2 pores) that may likely result in a delayed or absent initiation of the subsequent bone formation. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
Therapeutic leukocytapheresis in infants and children with leukemia and hyperleukocytosis: A single institution experience
Authors: Thapa Namisha , Pham Robin , Cole Charles , Meinershagen Mitchell , Bowman Paul W. , Ray Anish
Published: November 2017

Background

Hyperleukocytosis, defined as white blood cell (WBC) count above 100 × 109/L, has high early morbidity and mortality from leukostasis‐related complications, namely intracranial hemorrhage and pulmonary distress. Initiating chemotherapy without prior leukocytoreduction may lead to tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). Therapeutic leukocytapheresis (TL) is used as one leukocytoreductive intervention; however, its safety and efficacy in pediatric leukemia has not been established. The purpose of this study is to evaluate safety of TL in pediatric patients and assess the efficacy of TL in reducing WBC count in pediatric leukemia.

Methods

Retrospective chart review was conducted on 14 patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and 5 with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who underwent TL during the period 2000‐2014 at a single institution.

Results

Mean WBC count of 19 patients who received TL was 483.2 × 109/L (547.1 in ALL, 304.3 in AML); a portion of patients presented with central nervous system symptoms (15%), respiratory symptoms (10%), or both (10%). TL reduced WBC count (mean 50.7% reduction after a single TL procedure; additional 17.1% reduction after a second TL procedure in 6 patients). Short‐term survival immediately following TL was 100% without any major procedural complication. Mean survival time in patients with AML was 1.5 years and with ALL was 6.5 years.

Conclusions

TL significantly reduces WBC number in pediatric leukemia patients as young as 22 days old. In our retrospective study, TL was not associated with any significant complications and suggests that TL is a safe initial procedure in pediatric leukemia.
Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling to Evaluate the Systemic Exposure of Gefitinib in CYP2D6 Ultrarapid Metabolizers and Extensive Metabolizers
Authors: Chen Yingxue , Zhou Diansong , Tang Weifeng , Zhou Wangda , Al‐Huniti Nidal , Masson Eric
Published: November 2017

Gefitinib is a selective inhibitor of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase and is used for the treatment of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with activating EGFR mutations. Gefitinib is metabolized by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. This analysis compared the systemic exposure of gefitinib after oral administration in CYP2D6 ultrarapid metabolizers (UM) vs extensive metabolizers (EM). Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling was conducted using a population‐based simulator. The model was calibrated using itraconazole‐gefitinib clinical drug‐drug interaction data and validated with gefitinib data in CYP2D6 EM vs poor metabolizers (PM). System components of the PBPK model were evaluated using published clinical metoprolol pharmacokinetic data in CYP2D6 UM, EM, and PM. Our PBPK model predicted a gefitinib geometric least‐squares mean area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) from time 0 to 264 hours (AUC(0‐264)) ratio in the presence vs absence of itraconazole of 1.85, similar to the ratio of 1.78 from clinical study data. Predicted and observed metoprolol geometric least‐squares mean AUC(0‐24) ratios in UM vs EM were also similar (0.46 and 0.55, respectively), suggesting that system components related to CYP2D6 in the PBPK model were properly established. In addition, the PBPK model also captured gefitinib pharmacokinetic profiles in CYP2D6 polymorphic populations. The final PBPK model predicted a decrease in gefitinib AUC of ∼39% in CYP2D6 UM vs EM. Such changes in exposure will have limited impact as the reduced exposure is still above gefitinib's in vitro IC90 for EGFR activating mutations in NSCLC patients.
9.4T and 17.6T MRI of Retinoblastoma: Ex Vivo evaluation of microstructural anatomy and disease extent compared with histopathology
Authors: de Jong Marcus C. , de Graaf Pim , Pouwels Petra J.W. , Beenakker Jan‐Willem , Jansen Robin W. , Geurts Jeroen J.G. , Moll Annette C. , Castelijns Jonas A. , van der Valk Paul , van der Weerd Louise
Published: November 2017

Background

Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular tumor in childhood with a good prognosis in terms of mortality, but detailed information about tumor morphology and disease extent in retinoblastoma is important for treatment decision making.

Purpose

To demonstrate ultrahigh‐field MRI tumor morphology and tumor extent in retinoblastoma correlating with in and ex vivo images with histopathology.

Study Type

Prospective case series.

Population

Six retinoblastoma patients (median age 5.5 months, range 2–14) were prospectively included in this study. Median time between diagnosis and enucleation was 8 days (range 7–19).

Field Strength/Sequence

In vivo pre‐enucleation at 1.5T MRI with a circular surface coil. Ex vivo imaging (FLASH T1‐weighted and RARE T2‐weighted) was performed at field strengths of 9.4T and 17.6T.

Assessment

After ex vivo imaging, the eyes were histopathologically analyzed and morphologically matched with MRI findings by three authors (two with respectively 14 and 4 years of experience in ocular MRI and one with 16 years of experience in ophthalmopathology).

Results

Small submillimeter morphological aspects of intraocular retinoblastoma were successfully depicted with higher‐resolution MRI and matched with histopathology images. With ex vivo MRI a small subretinal tumor seed (300 μm) adjacent to the choroid was morphologically matched with histopathology. Also, a characteristic geographical pattern of vital tumor tissue (400 μm) surrounding a central vessel interspersed with necrotic areas correlated with histopathology images. Tumor invasion into the optic nerve showed a higher signal intensity on T1‐weighted higher‐resolution MRI.

Data Conclusion

Higher‐resolution MRI allows for small morphological aspects of intraocular retinoblastoma and extraocular disease extent not visible on currently used clinical in vivo MRI to be depicted.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1487–1497.
Transcutaneous carbon dioxide application with hydrogel prevents muscle atrophy in a rat sciatic nerve crush model
Authors: Nishimoto Hanako , Inui Atsuyuki , Ueha Takeshi , Inoue Miho , Akahane Shiho , Harada Risa , Mifune Yutaka , Kokubu Takeshi , Nishida Kotaro , Kuroda Ryosuke , Sakai Yoshitada
Published: November 2017

The acceleration of nerve regeneration remains a clinical challenge. We previously demonstrated that transcutaneous CO2 application using a novel hydrogel increases the oxygen concentration in local tissue via an “artificial Bohr effect” with the potential to prevent muscle atrophy. In this study, we investigated the effect of transcutaneous CO2 administration on limb function after peripheral nerve injury in a rat sciatic nerve injury model. In total, 73 Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into a sham group, a control group (crush injury to sciatic nerve and no treatment) or a CO2 group (crush injury with transcutaneous CO2 application). CO2 was administered percutaneously for 20 min five times per week. Scores for the sciatic function index and pinprick test were significantly higher in the CO2 group than control group. The muscle wet weight ratios of the tibialis anterior and soleus muscles were higher in the CO2 group than control group. Electrophysiological examination showed that the CO2 group had higher compound motor action potential amplitudes and shorter distal motor latency than the control group. Histological examination of the soleus muscle sections at postoperative week 2 showed shorter fiber diameter in the control group than in the CO2 group. The mRNA expression of Atrogin‐1 and MuRF‐1 was lower, mRNA expression of VEGF and myogenin and MyoD was higher in CO2 group at postoperative week 2 compared to the control group. Clinical significance: Transcutaneous CO2 application has the therapeutic potential to accelerate the recovery of muscle atrophy in peripheral nerve injury. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1653–1658, 2018.
An integrative framework for collaborative forecasting in tourism supply chains
Authors: Zhang Xinyan , Song Haiyan
Published: November 2017

Tourism practitioners must often rely on each other in a tourism supply chain (TSC). Demand forecasting plays a key role in shaping the activities of TSC practitioners. In the past 4 decades, researchers have developed many techniques for advanced tourism demand forecasting, but practitioners have had little interest in them. To bridge this gap, we examine the nature of the forecasting tasks of TSC practitioners in Hong Kong and propose a collaborative TSC forecasting framework that not only integrates tourism demand forecasting methods with practitioners' knowledge, but also facilitates information sharing between TSC practitioners to increase industry collaboration and improve forecasting performance.