bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miR‐195a Inhibits Adipocyte Differentiation by Targeting the Preadipogenic Determinator Zfp423
Authors: Yun Ui Jeong , Song No‐Joon , Yang Dong Kwon , Kwon So‐Mi , Kim Kwangho , Kim Sunghwan , Jo Dong‐Gyu , Park Woo Jin , Park Kye Won , Kang Hara
Published: April 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play essential roles in various cellular processes including proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we identified miRNA‐195a (miR‐195a) as a regulator of adipocyte differentiation. Differential expression of miR‐195a in preadipocytes and adipocytes suggests its role in lipid accumulation and adipocyte differentiation. Forced expression of miR‐195a mimics suppressed lipid accumulation and inhibited expression of adipocyte markers such as PPARγ and aP2 in 3T3‐L1 and C3H10T1/2 cells. Conversely, downregulation of miR‐195a by anti‐miR‐195a increased lipid accumulation and expression of adipocyte markers. Target prediction analysis suggested zinc finger protein 423 (Zfp423), a preadipogenic determinator, as a potential gene recognized by miR‐195a. In line with this, mimicked expression of miR‐195a reduced the expression of Zfp423, whereas anti‐miR‐195a increased its expression. Predicted targeting sequences in Zfp423 3'UTR, but not mutated sequences fused to luciferase, were regulated by miR‐195a. Ectopic Zfp423 expression in 3T3‐L1 cells increased lipid accumulation and expression of adipocyte markers, consistent with the observation that miR‐195a targets Zfp423, resulting in suppressed adipocyte differentiation. In addition, miR‐195a and Zfp423 were inversely correlated in obese fat tissues, raising the possibility of miRNA's role in obesity. Together, our data show that miR‐195a is an anti‐adipogenic regulator, which acts by targeting Zfp423, and further suggest the roles of miR‐195a in obesity and metabolic diseases. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2589–2597, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Febuxostat improves outcome in a rat model of cancer cachexia
Authors: Konishi Masaaki , Pelgrim Loes , Tschirner Anika , Baumgarten Anna , von Haehling Stephan , Palus Sandra , Doehner Wolfram , Anker Stefan D. , Springer Jochen
Published: April 2015

Background

Activity of xanthine oxidase is induced in cancer cachexia, and its inhibition by allopurinol or oxypurinol improves survival and reduces wasting in the Yoshida hepatoma cancer cachexia model. Here, we tested the effects of the second‐generation xanthine oxidase inhibitor febuxostat compared with placebo in the same model as used previously by our group.

Methods

Wistar rats (~200 g) were treated daily with febuxostat at 5 mg/kg/day or placebo via gavage for a maximum of 17 days. Weight change, quality of life, and body composition were analysed. After sacrifice, proteasome activity in the gastrocnemius muscle was measured. Muscle‐specific proteins involved in metabolism were analysed by western blotting.

Results

Treatment of the tumour‐bearing rats with febuxostat led to a significantly improved survival compared with placebo (hazard ratio: 0.45, 95% confidence interval: 0.22–0.93, P = 0.03). Loss of body weight was reduced (−26.3 ± 12.4 g) compared with placebo (−50.2 ± 2.1 g, P < 0.01). Wasting of lean mass was attenuated (−12.7 ± 10.8 g) vs. placebo (−31.9 ± 2.1 g, P < 0.05). While we did not see an effect of febuxostat on proteasome activity at the end of the study, the pAkt/Akt ratio was improved by febuxostat (0.94 ± 0.09) vs. placebo (0.41 ± 0.05, P < 0.01), suggesting an increase in protein synthesis.

Conclusions

Febuxostat attenuated cachexia progression and improved survival of tumour‐bearing rats.
Effects of temperature and humidity on atomic force microscopy dimensional measurement
Authors: Wang Tian , Ma Chengfu , Chen Yuhang , Chu Jiaru , Huang Wenhao
Published: April 2015

The influence of environmental factors on dimensional measurements of atomic force microscopy (AFM) was investigated experimentally. Measurements were taken with environmental control over a whole AFM chamber and a local sample chamber to highlight the influence of working conditions on the instrument itself. Both temperature and humidity were found to have a significant impact on pitch measurements of a two‐dimensional grating. The effect of temperature on the behavior of the microscope itself is generally larger than the thermal expansion or contraction of the sample. The effect of humidity was further determined to be relevant to the scan direction and velocity. For precise AFM dimensional measurements, the possible influences of temperature and humidity must be carefully considered. Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:562–568, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparable outcome between endometrioid and non‐endometrioid tumors in patients with early‐stage high‐grade endometrial cancer
Authors: Reynaers E.A.E.M. , Ezendam N.P.M. , Pijnenborg J.M.A.
Published: April 2015

Background

Approximately 25% of endometrial cancer patients present with high‐grade tumors. Unlike the clearly defined work‐up for non‐endometrioid endometrial cancer, no consensus exists for surgical staging and adjuvant therapy in high‐grade endometrioid endometrial cancer. We compared the recurrence rate and disease‐related mortality (DRM) after treatment between endometrioid and non‐endometrioid endometrial cancer.

Methods

A total of 123 patients diagnosed with early‐stage high‐grade endometrial cancer at the Dutch Comprehensive Cancer Centre South (CCCS) between January 2005 and December 2011 were included. All patients underwent abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy. Patient and tumor characteristics, primary and adjuvant treatment, and outcome were analyzed.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 27.9 months, 27.6% (n = 34) of patients had recurrent disease. Distant recurrence rate was equal among endometrioid (14.5%), papillary serous (14.8%), and clear cell (15.4%) types. The total DRM was 15.4% (n = 19). The 5 year recurrence‐free survival was not significantly different between early‐stage high‐grade endometrioid versus non‐endometrioid endometrial cancer (P = 0.72).

Conclusion

Distant recurrence and DRM was high in patients with endometrial cancer regardless of histological type, suggesting the need for different therapies in early‐stage high‐grade non‐endometrioid and endometrioid tumors. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:790–794. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The influence of added carbon nanotubes on the properties of the carbon‐fiber‐reinforced paper‐based wet clutch friction materials
Authors: Wang Wen‐jing , Huang Jian‐feng , Li Wen‐bin , Jin Yu‐guang , Wei Fei
Published: April 2015

Different carbon nanotubes (CNT) content was used to investigate the influence on physical properties, microstructure, tribological behaviour and thermal endurance properties of the materials. Experimental results show that the bulk density of the specimens increase with the increase of the CNT content, and the open porosity of the samples gradually reduced, whereas the CNT content increases. When comparing the tribological properties of the specimens with different CNT content, specimens that contain 4 wt.% carbon nanotubes show the highest dynamic friction coefficient and the lowest variation coefficient of the dynamic friction coefficient. Moreover, the specimens exhibit more thermal stability and lower weight loss after adding the CNT. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Change Their Choice! Changing Behavior Using the CAN Approach and Activism Research
Authors: Wansink Brian
Published: April 2015

Most of our research on eating behavior has no impact on health or public policy. Part is due to the nontranslational way we often conduct our studies; part is due to us not having a useful framework that organizes our conclusions. This paper's first purpose is to offer an organizing framework that shows how nearly all effective interventions on food choice either make healthy choices more convenient (physically or cognitively), more attractive (comparatively or absolutely), or more normal (perceived or actual). This paper's second purpose is to introduce the notion of activism research—an approach to designing and executing studies in a way that makes consumer psychology research more actionable, useful, effective, and scalable. Together these two tools could help expand both the relevance and reach, and impact of what we do.
Nudging Consumers toward Better Food Choices: Policy Approaches to Changing Food Consumption Behaviors
Authors: Guthrie Joanne , Mancino Lisa , Lin Chung‐Tung Jordan
Published: April 2015

The high prevalence of obesity and its associated illnesses, such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes, has sparked interest in finding ways to encourage consumers to make healthier food choices. At the public level, providing information about why and how to choose a healthy diet has been the typical approach to encouraging behavioral change. Information can also influence food producers and marketers to develop and promote more healthful products, creating an environment in which it is easier for consumers to make healthier dietary choices. Nevertheless, information may not always be effective in improving food choices. One explanation is that nutrition information is complex and difficult to convey in a clear, actionable manner. Also, knowledge, while necessary, may not be sufficient to motivate behavior change. Even when consumers understand nutrition information, competing preferences for tastier, less expensive, or more convenient foods may lead them to make other choices. Findings from psychology, marketing, and behavioral economics research suggest approaches that may enhance the effectiveness of informational approaches and complement informational efforts. More research is needed to further develop these strategies and evaluate their effectiveness.
The Role of Perceived Variability and the Health Halo Effect in Nutritional Inference and Consumption
Authors: Sundar Aparna , Kardes Frank R.
Published: April 2015

When information is missing or unknown, consumers often form nutritional inferences based on perceived attribute variability across brands. Four experiments show that less favorable nutritional inferences are formed when perceived attribute variability is high as opposed to low. This effect occurs when two attributes differing in perceived variability are presented or when the attribute is held constant and perceived variability is manipulated through priming. However, this effect is reduced when a health halo label is present as opposed to absent. Furthermore, the presence of a health halo label increases the amount of a product that is actually consumed when perceived attribute variability is high (vs. low) and when consumers learn from experience. Together, the results suggest that perceived attribute variability and the health halo effect jointly influence inference and behavior.
A quantum waveguide with Aharonov–Bohm magnetic field
Authors: Najar H. , Raissi M.
Published: April 2015

In a previous study, we investigate the bound states of the Hamiltonian describing a quantum particle living on three dimensional straight strip of width d. We impose the Neumann boundary condition on a disk window of radius a and Dirichlet boundary conditions on the remained part of the boundary of the strip. We proved that such system exhibits discrete eigenvalues below the essential spectrum for any a > 0. In the present work, we study the effect of the presence of a magnetic field of Aharonov–Bohm type on this system. Precisely, we prove that in the presence of such field, there is some critical values of a0>0, for which we have absence of the discrete spectrum for
. We give a sufficient condition for the existence of discrete eigenvalues. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Boundedness in a two‐dimensional attraction–repulsion system with nonlinear diffusion
Authors: Li Xie
Published: April 2015

This paper is devoted to the attraction–repulsion chemotaxis system with nonlinear diffusion:

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma3477:mma3477-math-0001
where χ > 0, ζ > 0, αi>0, βi>0 (i = 1,2) and f(s)≤κ − μsτ. In two‐space dimension, we prove the global existence and uniform boundedness of the classical solution to this model for any μ > 0. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Vlasov–Maxwell–Fokker–Planck system in two space dimensions
Authors: Schaeffer Jack
Published: April 2015

We consider the Cauchy problem for the Vlasov–Maxwell–Fokker–Planck system in the plane. It is shown that for smooth initial data, as long as the electromagnetic fields remain bounded, then their derivatives do also. Glassey and Strauss have shown this to hold for the relativistic Vlasov–Maxwell system in three dimensions, but the method here is totally different. In the work of Glassey and Strauss, the relativistic nature of the particle transport played an essential role. In this work, the transport is nonrelativistic, and smoothing from the Fokker–Planck operator is exploited. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protein and genetic diagnosis of limb girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A: The yield and the pitfalls
Authors: Fanin Marina , Angelini Corrado
Published: April 2015

Limb girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A (LGMD2A) is the most frequent form of LGMD worldwide. Comprehensive clinical assessment and laboratory testing is essential for diagnosis of LGMD2A. Muscle immunoblot analysis of calpain‐3 is the most useful tool to direct genetic testing, as detection of calpain‐3 deficiency has high diagnostic value. However, calpain‐3 immunoblot testing lacks sensitivity in about 30% of cases due to gene mutations that inactivate the enzyme. The best diagnostic strategy should be determined on a case‐by‐case basis, depending on which tissues are available, and which molecular and/or genetic methods are adopted. In this work we survey the current knowledge, advantages, limitations, and pitfalls of protein testing and mutation detection in LGMD2A and provide an update of genetic epidemiology. Muscle Nerve 52: 163–173, 2015
The course and outcome of pregnancy in women with nondystrophic myotonias
Authors: Snyder Yuliya , Donlin‐Smith Colleen , Snyder Eric , Pressman Eva , Ciafaloni Emma
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Nondystrophic myotonias (NDM) are muscle channelopathies characterized by clinical and electrical myotonia. Little is known about pregnancy in NDM. The aim of this work was to assess pregnancy outcomes in women with NDM.

Methods

In this investigation, we utilized a cross‐sectional approach and obtained questionnaire data and medical record review information. Pregnancy outcomes were compared with U.S. national data.

Results

Twenty‐five women completed the study. There were 63 pregnancies with 53 live births, 8 miscarriages, 4 terminations, and 1 stillbirth. The infertility rate was 28% (above the U.S. average). Fetal distress was reported in 11.7% (U.S. average 3.6%) of the patients. NDM symptoms worsened in 62% of pregnancies. In those who worsened, symptoms usually resolved completely (66%) or partially (32%) after delivery in 2 days to 12 months, the majority (76%) within 3 months.

Conclusions

Most pregnancy outcomes were favorable. NDM worsened in nearly two‐thirds of pregnancies, but usually improved shortly after delivery. Incidences of infertility and fetal distress were higher than overall U.S. rates. Muscle Nerve 52: 1013–1015, 2015
Camptocormia as presenting manifestation of a spectrum of myopathic disorders
Authors: Ghosh Partha S. , Milone Margherita
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Camptocormia is the involuntary flexion of the thoracolumbar spine leading to an abnormal posture. Methods: We retrospectively identified patients with myopathy who manifested with camptocormia and were seen in our neuromuscular clinic. The diagnosis of myopathy was based on myopathic electromyographic changes, often accompanied by 1 or more of the following: elevated creatine kinase (CK); myopathic histopathological findings; and genetic confirmation. Results: Fifty‐two patients were identified; 35 had symptoms limited to camptocormia, but were found to have additional weakness of facial (8 patients), neck (11 patients), and limb muscles (17 patients). CK values were normal or mildly to moderately elevated. MRI/CT of the spine showed paraspinal muscle atrophy and fat replacement. Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy and sporadic inclusion body myositis were the most commonly identified myopathies in this cohort. Conclusions: Despite the difficulty in characterizing the myopathy in patients with camptocormia, a definitive diagnosis was possible in 54% of cases. The pattern of associated extra‐axial weakness may provide clues to the diagnosis. Muscle Nerve 52: 1008–1012, 2015
An improved implicit numerical integration of a non‐associated, three‐invariant cap plasticity model with mixed isotropic–kinematic hardening for geomaterials
Authors: Motamedi M. H. , Foster C. D.
Published: April 2015

The Sandia GeoModel is a continuum elastoplastic constitutive model that captures many features of the mechanical response for geological materials over a wide range of porosities and strain rates. Among the specific features incorporated into the formulation are a smooth compression cap, isotropic/kinematic hardening, nonlinear pressure dependence, strength differential effect, and rate sensitivity. This study attempts to provide enhancements regarding computational tractability, domain of applicability, and robustness of the model. A new functional form is presented for the yield and plastic potential functions. This reformulation renders a more accurate, robust, and efficient model as it eliminates spurious solutions attributed to the original form. In addition, we achieve a high‐performance implementation, because the local iterative method is allowed to recast residual vectors with a uniform dimensionality. The model is also furnished with a smooth, elliptical tension cap to account for the tensile yielding. Moreover, an efficient algorithm is introduced, which decreases the computational cost by differentiating the updated shear yield surface from the cap surface based on the trial relative stress state. Finally, various numerical examples including a large‐scale boundary value problem are presented to demonstrate the fidelity of the modified model and to analyze its numerical performance. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Minimal surface computation using a finite element method on an embedded surface
Authors: Cenanovic Mirza , Hansbo Peter , Larson Mats G.
Published: April 2015

We suggest a finite element method for finding minimal surfaces based on computing a discrete Laplace–Beltrami operator operating on the coordinates of the surface. The surface is a discrete representation of the zero level set of a distance function using linear tetrahedral finite elements, and the finite element discretization is carried out on the piecewise planar isosurface using the shape functions from the background three‐dimensional mesh used to represent the distance function. A recently suggested stabilized scheme for finite element approximation of the mean curvature vector is a crucial component of the method. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phosphorylation of HEXIM1 at Tyr271 and Tyr274 Promotes Release of P‐TEFb from the 7SK snRNP Complex and Enhances Proviral HIV Gene Expression
Authors: Mbonye Uri R. , Wang Benlian , Gokulrangan Giridharan , Chance Mark R. , Karn Jonathan
Published: April 2015

Efficient HIV transcription requires P‐TEFb, an essential co‐factor for Tat. In actively replicating cells, P‐TEFb is incorporated into the 7SK snRNP complex together with the repressor protein HEXIM1. Using an affinity purification‐tandem mass spectrometry approach to identify modification sites on HEXIM1 that regulate the sequestration of P‐TEFb by 7SK snRNP, we found that HEXIM1 can be phosphorylated on adjacent residues in a region immediately upstream of the coiled‐coil dimerization domain (Ser268, Thr270, Tyr271, and Tyr274). Phosphomimetic mutations of Tyr271 and Tyr274 disrupted the assembly of P‐TEFb and HEXIM1 into the 7SK snRNP complex. Although Y271E/Y274E did not adversely affect the nuclear localization pattern of HEXIM1, it induced the redistribution of the CDK9 subunit of P‐TEFb into the cytoplasm. By contrast, the Y271F/Y274F HEXIM1 mutant assembled normally with P‐TEFb within the 7SK snRNP complex but severely reduced proviral gene expression in T cells in response to activation signals and caused a severe growth defect of Jurkat T cells. Thus, Y271F/Y274F, which cannot be phosphorylated on these residues, appears to block the exchange of active P‐TEFb from the 7SK complex, thereby limiting the level of P‐TEFb below the threshold required to support transcription elongation of the HIV provirus and cellular genes.
Proteomic profiling of lysine acetylation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa reveals the diversity of acetylated proteins
Authors: Ouidir Tassadit , Cosette Pascal , Jouenne Thierry , Hardouin Julie
Published: April 2015

Protein lysine acetylation is a reversible and highly regulated post‐translational modification with the well demonstrated physiological relevance in eukaryotes. Recently, its important role in the regulation of metabolic processes in bacteria was highlighted. Here, we reported the lysine acetylproteome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa using a proteomic approach. We identified 430 unique peptides corresponding to 320 acetylated proteins. In addition to the proteins involved in various metabolic pathways, several enzymes contributing to the lipopolysaccharides biosynthesis were characterized as acetylated. This data set illustrated the abundance and the diversity of acetylated lysine proteins in P. aeruginosa and opens opportunities to explore the role of the acetylation in the bacterial physiology.
A benign initiating system for cationic polymerization of isobutyl vinyl ether: Silver salt/aryl(alkyl) halide/lewis base
Authors: Lin Li , Zhang Guangyou , Kodama Koichi , Yasutake Mikio , Hirose Takuji
Published: April 2015

Aryl(alkyl) halides and silver salts were studied as environmentally benign initiating systems for cationic polymerization of isobutyl vinyl ether (IBVE). The reactivity of the benzyl cations could be effectively controlled by using dimethyl sulfide (Me2S) as an additive, which was shown to be an effective Lewis base (LB), and diethyl ether as a reaction solvent. Detailed study of various benzyl cations and the order of addition of the reagents revealed that the reaction was controlled by the electronic and steric features of aryl(alkyl) halides, LBs, and IBVE, and a plausible reaction mechanism was presented. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2050–2058
Study of the synthesis of self‐ assembled tin disulfide nanoparticles prepared by a low‐cost process
Authors: Méndez‐López Arturo , Morales‐Acevedo Arturo , Acosta‐Silva Yuliana de Jesús , Katagiri Hironori , Matsumoto Yasuhiro , Zelaya‐Angel Orlando , Ortega‐López Mauricio
Published: April 2015

Oleylamine‐capped tin disulfide nanoparticles were prepared by the hot‐injection method using tin (II) chloride (SnCl2.5H2O) and thioacetamide as tin (II) and sulfur precursors, respectively. The as‐prepared nanoparticles were rinsed with ethanol or toluene, and their structural and morphological were assessed by X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The obtained nanoparticles were single‐phase SnS2 with hexagonal structure. These nanoparticles self‐assembled to produce spherical 40‐50 nm nanostructures after ethanol evaporation, whilst rhombohedral‐shaped nanostructures or round‐edge nanoribbons were produced after the toluene evaporation. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of surface treatment of CZTS absorber layer by ammonia solution
Authors: Miyazaki H. , Aono M. , Kishimura H. , Katagiri H.
Published: April 2015

In this work, we investigated the effect of surface treatment of the Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin films using ammonia solution. CZTS thin films were prepared by RF sputtering using single CZTS target with sulfurization process. In order to study the effect of surface treatment using ammonia solution, solution temperature was varied. Structural properties of the samples are almost same with and without ammonia surface treatment measured by XRD and Raman spectroscopy. From the measurement of the chemical composition, the Zn is dissolved by ammonia solution. In addition, the removal rate of oxygen and sodium is different between deionised water and ammonia solution. Ammonia could have prevented their removal from the surface to solution. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of Zingiber officinale Supplementation on Obesity Management with Respect to the Uncoupling Protein 1 ‐3826A>G and ß3‐adrenergic Receptor Trp64Arg Polymorphism
Authors: Ebrahimzadeh Attari Vahideh , Asghari Jafarabadi Mohammad , Zemestani Maryam , Ostadrahimi Alireza
Published: April 2015

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale) supplementation on some obesity‐associated parameters, with nutrigenetics approach. Accordingly, 80 eligible obese women (aged 18–45 years) were randomly assigned to receive either ginger (2‐g ginger rhizomes powder as two 1‐g tablets per day) or placebo supplements (corn starch with the same amount) for 12 weeks. Subjects were tested for changes in body weight, body mass index, waist and hip circumferences, body composition, appetite score, and dietary intake. Moreover, participants were genotyped for the ‐3826A>G and Trp64Arg polymorphisms of uncoupling protein 1 and ß3‐adrenergic receptor genes, respectively. Over 12 weeks, ginger supplementation resulted in a slight but statistically significant decrease in all anthropometric measurements and total appetite score as compared with placebo group, which were more pronounced in subjects with the AA genotype for uncoupling protein 1 and Trp64Trp genotype for ß3‐adrenergic receptor gene. However, there was no significant difference in changes of body composition and total energy and macronutrients intake between groups. In conclusion, our findings suggest that ginger consumption has potential in managing obesity, accompanying with an intervention–genotype interaction effect. However, further clinical trials need to explore ginger's efficacy as an anti‐obesity agent in the form of powder, extract, or its active components. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Score‐test‐based EWMA Control Chart for Detecting Prespecified Quadratic Changes in Linear Profiles
Authors: Zhang Yang , He Zhen , Zhang Min , Wang Qing
Published: April 2015

In profile monitoring, some methods have been developed to detect the unspecified changes in the profiles. However, due to the characteristics of a system or process, several prespecified changes may happen in some statistical process control applications, such as the typical form errors in cylindrical surface manufacturing processes. Hence, statistical process control is important and challenging for detecting changes away from the ‘normal’ profile toward one of several prespecified ‘bad’ profiles. A novel score‐test‐based EWMA control chart is proposed to detect the prespecified quadratic changes in linear profiles. Numerical simulation results show that the proposed chart is effective and robust when the vertex varies along one direction, and, in most cases, performs better than alternative methods in detecting small to moderate shifts. Finally, an example is given to illustrate the implementation of the proposed control chart. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The X1 family of methods that combines B3LYP with neural network corrections for an accurate yet efficient prediction of thermochemistry
Authors: Wu Jianming , Zhou Yuwei , Xu Xin
Published: April 2015

B3LYP is currently the most widely used density functional approximation, while the X1 family of methods, namely X1, X1s, and X1se, is a set of neural network‐based methods that systematically correct the B3LYP errors. The performance of the X1 family of methods in the prediction of heats of formation (HOFs), bond dissociation enthalpies (BDEs), heats of isomerization (HOIs), and so forth, is summarized against some well‐established benchmarking datasets. X1 significantly eliminates the notorious size‐dependent errors of B3LYP in prediction of HOFs for larger molecules. X1s further exhibits a significant improvement for BDE calculations. X1se continues to improve its predecessors on HOIs. Such a progressive improvement relies on the increasingly comprehensive descriptors. Limitations of the present approaches and the direction for future improvements are discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A DFT study of DMC formation on Rh‐doped Cu/AC surfaces
Authors: Ren Jun , Yang Jinzhou , Wang Wei , Guo Hailong , Zuo Zhijun , Lin Jianying , Li Zhong
Published: April 2015

The activity and selectivity of heterogeneous catalysts can be significantly improved by dispersion of another active component in the metal substrate. The impact of Rh promoter on the formation of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) via oxidative carbonylation of methanol on Cu–Rh/AC (activated carbon) catalyst was investigated by density functional theory calculations. The most stable configurations of reacting species (CO, OH, CH3O, monomethyl carbonate, and DMC) adsorbed on the Cu0(zero‐valent copper)/AC and Cu–Rh/AC surfaces were determined on the basis of the calculated results. The reaction energy and activation energy of the rate‐limiting steps on the Cu–Rh/AC and Cu0/AC surfaces were compared. The activation energies of the rate‐limiting step of CO insertion into dimethoxide are 206.3 and 304.8 kJ mol−1 on the Cu–Rh/AC and Cu0/AC surfaces, respectively. The activation energies of the rate‐limiting step of CO insertion into methoxide are 78.5 and 92.7 kJ/mol on the Cu–Rh/AC and Cu0/AC surfaces, respectively. The calculated results indicate that the addition of Rh atom has a significant effect on decreasing the active energy the main pathway for DMC formation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The inversion of aragonite to calcite during the sampling of skeletal archives: Implications for proxy interpretation
Authors: Waite Amanda J. , Swart Peter K.
Published: April 2015

Rationale

Understanding changes in Earth's oceans and climate requires the reliable application of paleo‐proxies. However, inconsistencies between individual δ18O records within biogenic specimens commonly have significant impacts on environmental reconstructions. This study addresses the stable isotope variability associated with sample milling from aragonitic organisms commonly used for paleoclimate studies.

Methods

Aragonite samples were hand‐ground and milled from sclerosponge, coral, and mollusc specimens using a computerized micromill. An X‐ray diffractometer was used to analyze sample mineralogy prior to measurement of δ18O and δ13C values via isotope ratio mass spectrometry of CO2 gases provided from the samples by a Kiel III device. Possible influences on the Sr/Ca ratios were assessed on a sclerosponge through paired elemental analysis by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry.

Results

Analyses revealed up to 36% inversion to calcite in milled samples that correlated with a decrease in the δ18O value of 0.02 ‰ per 1% inversion. Replicate sclerosponge transects yielded similar trends in δ13C values and Sr/Ca ratios, although the δ18O values showed irregular variations consistent with those measured for the inversion of individual organisms during milling.

Conclusions

While the δ13C values and Sr/Ca ratios of milled samples were largely consistent, the δ18O values co‐varied with the inversion of aragonite to calcite suggesting significant implications for the resulting temperature and salinity reconstructions from aragonitic archives. The effect appears to be density‐driven and, given that the skeletal density tends to vary seasonally in organisms such as corals, would subsequently mask temperature‐induced changes in skeletal δ18O values. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Click and Connect
Authors: Bowman Jo
Published: April 2015

The technology industry needs better links with the real‐world users of the devices and software it designs, Christian Heilmann tells Jo Bowman
One‐Pot Synthesis of Tunable Crystalline Ni3S4@Amorphous MoS2 Core/Shell Nanospheres for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Yu , Sun Wenping , Rui Xianhong , Li Bing , Tan Hui Teng , Guo Guilue , Madhavi Srinivasan , Zong Yun , Yan Qingyu
Published: April 2015

Transition metal sulfides gain much attention as electrode materials for supercapacitors due to their rich redox chemistry and high electrical conductivity. Designing hierarchical nanostructures is an efficient approach to fully utilize merits of each component. In this work, amorphous MoS2 is firstly demonstrated to show specific capacitance 1.6 times as that of the crystalline counterpart. Then, crystalline core@amorphous shell (Ni3S4@MoS2) is prepared by a facile one‐pot process. The diameter of the core and the thickness of the shell can be independently tuned. Taking advantages of flexible protection of amorphous shell and high capacitance of the conductive core, Ni3S4@amorphous MoS2 nanospheres are tested as supercapacitor electrodes, which exhibit high specific capacitance of 1440.9 F g−1 at 2 A g−1 and a good capacitance retention of 90.7% after 3000 cycles at 10 A g−1. This design of crystalline core@amorphous shell architecture may open up new strategies for synthesizing promising electrode materials for supercapacitors.
A new weighted likelihood approach
Authors: Biswas Adhidev , Roy Tania , Majumder Suman , Basu Ayanendranath
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we propose a new weighted likelihood procedure. Here, the weights are suitably calibrated functions of appropriately described residuals at each data point. The residuals describe the match (or mismatch) between the empirical distribution function and the model distribution function. If the match is high, the observation is considered to be a regular observation. But for large (in magnitude) residuals, there is a mismatch, and the corresponding likelihood score function may require downweighting in order to obtain a robust solution. As there is little or no downweighting for observations where there is no evidence of mismatch, asymptotically, we expect that there will be no downweighting under the pure model leading to highly efficient estimators. On the other hand, properly calibrated weight functions that penalize the observations with large residuals will lead to highly robust solutions under model misspecification and the presence of outliers. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Polar Organic Solvents on Self‐Aggregation of Some Cationic Monomeric and Dimeric Surfactants
Authors: Sinha Srishti , Tikariha Deepti , Lakra Jyotsna , Tiwari Amit K. , Saha Subit K. , Ghosh Kallol K.
Published: April 2015

Surface and micellization behavior of some cationic monomeric surfactants, viz., cetyldiethylethanolammonium bromide (CDEEAB), cetyldimethylethanolammonium bromide (CDMEAB), tetradecyldiethylethanolammonium bromide (TDEEAB) and dimeric surfactants, i.e., alkanediyl‐α, ω‐bis(dimethylhexadecylammonium bromide) (C16‐s‐C16, 2Br− where s = 4, 12), butanediyl‐1,4‐bis(dimethyldodecylammonium bromide (C12‐4‐C12, 2Br−) and 2‐butanol‐1,4‐bis(dimethyldodecylammonium bromide) (C12‐4(OH)‐C12, 2Br−), was studied in water‐organic solvents [10 and 20 % v/v ethylene glycol (EG) and diethylene glycol (DEG)] by conductivity, surface tension and steady‐state fluorescence methods at 300 K. The main focus of the present work is on the study of the effect of organic solvents on the critical micelle concentration (CMC), Gibbs free energy of micellization (ΔG°m), Gibbs free energy of transfer (ΔG°trans), Gibbs adsorption energy (ΔG°ads) and some interfacial parameters such as the surface excess concentration (Γmax), minimum area per surfactant molecule (Amin) and surface pressure (πCMC). The aggregation number (Nagg) and Stern‐Volmer quenching constant (KSV) were also determined by the steady‐state fluorescence method. It was observed that Nagg decreased with increasing volume percent of organic solvent. The results exhibited an increase in CMC in water‐organic solvents as compared to the respective surfactants in pure water. The negative values of ΔG°m and ΔG°ads indicate a spontaneous micellization process. The thermodynamics of micellization revealed that the micellization‐reducing efficiency of glycols increases with the concentration and the number of ethereal oxygens in the glycol.
Viscometric Study of the Inclusion Complex Between β‐Cyclodextrin and HTAC in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Chen Xiaoming
Published: April 2015

The inclusion complex formed by β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) with the cationic surfactant hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride (HTAC) was studied by viscometry using poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)–HTAC aggregates as a viscosity indicator. The relative viscosity of β‐CD in aqueous PEO–HTAC solution profiles shows that the formation of the β‐CD/HTAC inclusion complex causes HTAC molecules to be stripped off the PEO chains, resulting in a decrease of aqueous solution viscosity as a result of the decrease in electrostatic repulsion between polymer‐bound HTAC micelles. The viscosity minimum at Cβ‐CD/CHTAC = 0.5 indicates that the molecular ratio of host molecule to guest molecule is 1:2 in the β‐CD/HTAC inclusion complex.
Interesterification of Soybean Oil and Methyl Stearate Catalyzed by Guanidine‐Functionalized SBA‐15 Silica
Authors: Xie Wenlei , Yang Xinli , Zang Xuezhen
Published: April 2015

The main purpose of this study was to develop a heterogeneous interesterification catalyst for the modification of edible oils to enhance their physicochemical and functional performances. To achieve this, 1,3‐dicyclohexyl‐2‐octylguanidine was covalently immobilized on the SBA‐15 (Santa Barbara Amorphous 15) material and then used as solid catalysts for the interesterification between soybean oil and methyl stearate. The characterization of the guanidine‐functionalized SBA‐15 material included Fourier transform infrared spectra, scanning electron microscopy, elemental analysis, and nitrogen adsorption–desorption techniques. It was shown that the solid base catalyst could efficiently catalyze the interesterification reaction. After the interesterification, the fatty acid profiles and triacylglycerol compositions of interesterified products were substantially varied. The influence of interesterification parameters, such as the substrate ratio, reaction time, reaction temperature and catalyst loading, on the interesterification reaction was investigated regarding the percentage of stearic acid in interesterified triacylglycerols. The stearic acid percentage of 27.9 % was achieved at 100 °C within 4 h when the methyl stearate/soybean oil molar ratio of 6:1 was employed. The catalyst could be recovered easily by filtration and reused without significant loss of activity.
Protein phosphatase PP1‐NIPP1 activates mesenchymal genes in HeLa cells
Authors: Van Dessel Nele , Boens Shannah , Lesage Bart , Winkler Claudia , Görnemann Janina , Van Eynde Aleyde , Bollen Mathieu
Published: April 2015

The deletion of the protein phosphatase‐1 (PP1) regulator known as Nuclear Inhibitor of PP1 (NIPP1) is embryonic lethal during gastrulation, hinting at a key role of PP1‐NIPP1 in lineage specification. Consistent with this notion we show here that a mild, stable overexpression of NIPP1 in HeLa cells caused a massive induction of genes of the mesenchymal lineage, in particular smooth/cardiac‐muscle and matrix markers. This reprogramming was associated with the formation of actin‐based stress fibers and retracting filopodia, and a reduced proliferation potential. The NIPP1‐induced mesenchymal transition required functional substrate and PP1‐binding domains, suggesting that it involves the selective dephosphorylation of substrates of PP1‐NIPP1.
Phospho‐ΔNp63α‐responsive microRNAs contribute to the regulation of necroptosis in squamous cell carcinoma upon cisplatin exposure
Authors: Ratovitski Edward A.
Published: April 2015

This study shows that specific microRNAs differentially regulated by ΔNp63α in cisplatin‐sensitive and resistant squamous cell carcinoma (SSC) cells of larynx and tongue affect the expression of members of the necroptotic pathway CYLD, RIPK1, and MLKL. Different degrees of protein interaction between necroptotic signaling intermediates were also observed in SCC cells sensitive or resistant to cisplatin. Modulation of RIPK1 with miR‐101‐3p mimic or inhibitor, as well as with siRNA, or chemical inhibitors was shown to affect sensitivity of SCC cells to cisplatin. This is the first report showing the modulatory effect of ΔNp63α‐responsive microRNAs on the specific members of necroptotic pathway in SCC tumor cells variably responding to platinum chemotherapy.
Leaving the Home Turf: How Brands Can Use Webcare on Consumer-generated Platforms to Increase Positive Consumer Engagement
Authors: Schamari Julia , Schaefers Tobias
Published: April 2015

The level of brand-related consumer engagement is considered to be a key determinant of successful social media activities. However, due to the commonly high levels of consumers who merely consume instead of being actively engaged, companies seek strategies to increase consumer engagement. Additionally, a large part of consumers’ engagement does not occur on platforms controlled by the brand, but on consumer-generated platforms. Based on social learning theory we propose webcare as a reaction to positive engagement to be an effective marketing tool for reinforcing observing consumers’ engagement intentions, especially on consumer-generated platforms. In an experimental online study we reveal that webcare can be used to increase engagement intentions on consumer-generated platforms, and that consumers’ surprise explains this reinforcing effect. Moreover, we show that in these consumer-dominated spaces, personal webcare is more effective in driving consumer engagement intentions than impersonal webcare, and that this effect is explained by consumers’ perceptions of a brand's conversational communication style. The results indicate that brand managers should leave their home turf and use webcare on consumer-generated social media platforms outside of their direct control.
Florbetaben PET imaging to detect amyloid beta plaques in Alzheimer's disease: Phase 3 study
Authors: Sabri Osama , Sabbagh Marwan N. , Seibyl John , Barthel Henryk , Akatsu Hiroyasu , Ouchi Yasuomi , Senda Kohei , Murayama Shigeo , Ishii Kenji , Takao Masaki , Beach Thomas G. , Rowe Christopher C. , Leverenz James B. , Ghetti Bernardino , Ironside James W. , Catafau Ana M. , Stephens Andrew W. , Mueller Andre , Koglin Norman , Hoffmann Anja , Roth Katrin , Reininger Cornelia , Schulz‐Schaeffer Walter J. ,   Florbetaben Phase 3 Study Group
Published: April 2015

Background

Evaluation of brain β‐amyloid by positron emission tomography (PET) imaging can assist in the diagnosis of Alzheimer disease (AD) and other dementias.

Methods

Open‐label, nonrandomized, multicenter, phase 3 study to validate the 18F‐labeled β‐amyloid tracer florbetaben by comparing in vivo PET imaging with post‐mortem histopathology.

Results

Brain images and tissue from 74 deceased subjects (of 216 trial participants) were analyzed. Forty‐six of 47 neuritic β‐amyloid‐positive cases were read as PET positive, and 24 of 27 neuritic β‐amyloid plaque‐negative cases were read as PET negative (sensitivity 97.9% [95% confidence interval or CI 93.8–100%], specificity 88.9% [95% CI 77.0–100%]). In a subgroup, a regional tissue‐scan matched analysis was performed. In areas known to strongly accumulate β‐amyloid plaques, sensitivity and specificity were 82% to 90%, and 86% to 95%, respectively.

Conclusions

Florbetaben PET shows high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of histopathology‐confirmed neuritic β‐amyloid plaques and may thus be a valuable adjunct to clinical diagnosis, particularly for the exclusion of AD.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01020838.
The gene mutation in a Taiwanese family with X‐linked retinoschisis
Authors: Huang Chin‐Te , Chen Shee‐Ping , Tsai Rong‐Kung
Published: April 2015

X‐linked retinoschisis (XLRS) is one of the leading causes of macular degeneration in male children. The purpose of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics of a Taiwanese family with X‐linked retinoschisis (XLRS) and to investigate the genetic mutation in the retinoschisin 1 (RS1) gene. A total of four participants in this XLRS family were analyzed. Complete ophthalmic examinations were performed, including best corrected visual acuity, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and electroretinogram (ERG). Direct DNA sequence of the RS1 gene identified one affected male and one female carrier. The affected male, had a cartwheel‐like macular appearance and abnormal retinal pigment epithelium pigmentation in his bilateral eyes. The mixed scotopic ERG b‐wave was more reduced than a‐wave. OCT revealed typical macular microcystic schisis cavities. Direct DNA sequence analysis revealed a single base pair substitution in Exon 4, 304C > T, resulting in Arg102Trp. Our results show a RS1 (304C > T) mutation in a Taiwanese family with XLRS. This finding expands the clinical profiles of RS1 mutation and may help to further understand its pathogenesis.
MicroRNA‐135b regulates ERα, AR and HIF1AN and affects breast and prostate cancer cell growth
Authors: Aakula Anna , Leivonen Suvi-Katri , Hintsanen Petteri , Aittokallio Tero , Ceder Yvonne , Børresen-Dale Anne-Lise , Perälä Merja , Östling Päivi , Kallioniemi Olli
Published: April 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate a wide range of cellular signaling pathways and biological processes in both physiological and pathological states such as cancer. We have previously identified miR‐135b as a direct regulator of androgen receptor (AR) protein level in prostate cancer (PCa). We wanted to further explore the relationship of miR‐135b to hormonal receptors, particularly estrogen receptor α (ERα). Here we show that miR‐135b expression is lower in ERα‐positive breast tumors as compared to ERα‐negative samples in two independent breast cancer (BCa) patient cohorts (101 and 1302 samples). Additionally, the miR‐135b expression is higher in AR‐low PCa patient samples (47 samples). We identify ERα as a novel miR‐135b target by demonstrating miR‐135b binding to the 3′UTR of the ERα and decreased ERα protein and mRNA level upon miR‐135b overexpression in BCa cells. MiR‐135b reduces proliferation of ERα‐positive BCa cells MCF‐7 and BT‐474 as well as AR‐positive PCa cells LNCaP and 22Rv1 when grown in 2D. To identify other genes regulated by miR‐135b we performed gene expression studies and found a link to the hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) pathway. We show that miR‐135b influences the protein level of the inhibitor for hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF1AN) and is able to bind to HIF1AN 3′UTR. Our study demonstrates that miR‐135b regulates ERα, AR and HIF1AN protein levels through interaction with their 3′UTR regions, and proliferation in ERα‐positive BCa and AR‐positive PCa cells.
Cardinal Wolsey and Cambridge
Authors: Wabuda Susan
Published: April 2015

Cardinal Thomas Wolsey has seldom been associated with the University of Cambridge. But in a little-known episode, he was invited to follow John Fisher as chancellor of the University of Cambridge in 1514. Although Wolsey declined, his willingness to protect Cambridge’s evangelicals, even after he burned Martin Luther’s books in 1521, has been an overlooked phase in the history of the university and in the Reformation in England.