bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerosol removal and cloud collapse accelerated by supersaturation fluctuations in turbulence
Authors: Chandrakar K. K. , Cantrell W. , Ciochetto D. , Karki S. , Kinney G. , Shaw R. A.
Published: April 2017

Prior observations have documented the process of cloud cleansing, through which cloudy, polluted air from a continent is slowly transformed into cloudy, clean air typical of a maritime environment. During that process, cloud albedo changes gradually, followed by a sudden reduction in cloud fraction and albedo as drizzle forms and convection changes from closed to open cellular. Experiments in a cloud chamber that generates a turbulent environment show a similar cloud cleansing process followed by rapid cloud collapse. Observations of (1) cloud droplet size distribution, (2) interstitial aerosol size distribution, (3) cloud droplet residual size distribution, and (4) water vapor supersaturation are all consistent with the hypothesis that turbulent fluctuations of supersaturation accelerate the cloud cleansing process and eventual cloud collapse. Decay of the interstitial aerosol concentration occurs slowly at first then more rapidly. The accelerated cleansing occurs when the cloud phase relaxation time exceeds the turbulence correlation time.
Cosmic radio noise absorption in the high‐latitude ionosphere during solar wind high‐speed streams
Authors: Grandin M. , Aikio A. T. , Kozlovsky A. , Ulich T. , Raita T.
Published: April 2017

The effect of solar wind high‐speed streams (HSSs) on energetic particle precipitation at auroral and subauroral latitudes (L = 3.8–5.7) is studied by using cosmic noise absorption (CNA) data measured by the Finnish riometer chain during 95 HSS events occurring between 2006 and 2008. The data are divided into “long” and “short” HSS events, depending on whether the maximum solar wind speed is reached within 24 h or later after the arrival of the corotating interaction region (CIR) at the bow shock. We find that CNA is more frequent during long events and extends to subauroral latitudes, unlike during short events. CNA is observed for at least 4 days after the CIR arrival during long events, and only 3 days during short events. In addition, CNA is divided into three categories, depending on whether it is associated with local substorm activity, with ultralow frequency (ULF) wave activity, or neither of these. Substorm‐type CNA dominates in the 21–06 magnetic local time (MLT) sector, while ULF‐type CNA dominates from morning to afternoon and follows the daily SYM‐H index variations. This indicates the importance of having energetic (E > 30 keV) electrons available for interacting with the very low frequency (VLF) chorus waves, which may be modulated by ULF waves. Finally, we find a correlation between ULF‐type CNA on the dayside and substorm activity on the nightside with a 30 min delay, suggesting that substorm injections energize electrons, which then drift to the morning and dayside, where they precipitate into the ionosphere.
Radiation belt electron dynamics at low L (<4): Van Allen Probes era versus previous two solar cycles
Authors: Li X. , Baker D. N. , Zhao H. , Zhang K. , Jaynes A. N. , Schiller Q. , Kanekal S. G. , Blake J. B. , Temerin M.
Published: April 2017

Long‐term (>2 solar cycles) measurements reveal that MeV electron fluxes, solar wind speed, and geomagnetic activity have been extremely low during this current solar cycle, including years before and during the Van Allen Probes era. This study examines solar wind speed, the geomagnetic storm index (Dst), >2 MeV electrons at geostationary orbit, and ~2 MeV electrons across various L shells measured by Solar Anomalous Magnetospheric Particle Explorer in low Earth orbit (LEO) and by the Van Allen Probes/Relativistic Electron and Proton Telescope (REPT) in a geotransfer‐like orbit; the latter measurements are normalized to LEO based on comparison with Colorado Student Space Weather Experiment/Relativistic Electron and Proton Telescope integrated little experiment (REPTile) measurements in LEO. The average ratio of REPTile/REPT varies in a systematic manner with L, ~16% at L = 2.7, decreasing with L and reaching ~0.7% at L = 4.7, and increasing again with L though with greater uncertainty. We show that there have been no ~2 MeV electron enhancements inside L ~ 2.6 since 2006, prior to which numerous penetrations of ~2 MeV electrons into L < 2.5 were measured during periods of stronger solar wind conditions (in terms of high‐speed solar wind, magnitude of interplanetary magnetic field, B, and a sustained southward Bz) and thus stronger geomagnetic activity. We conclude that results from the Van Allen Probes, which have been providing the finest measurements but in operation during a quiet solar activity period, may not be representative of radiation belt dynamics, particularly for the inner edge of the outer belt, during other solar cycle phases.
Atmospheric scattering effects on ground‐based measurements of thermospheric vertical wind, horizontal wind, and temperature
Authors: Harding Brian. J. , Makela Jonathan J. , Qin Jianqi , Fisher Daniel J. , Martinis Carlos R. , Noto John , Wrasse Cristiano M.
Published: April 2017

Ground‐based Fabry‐Perot interferometers routinely observe large vertical winds in the thermosphere, sometimes reaching over 100 m/s. These observations, which use the Doppler shift of the 630.0 nm airglow emission to estimate the wind, have long been at odds with theory. We present a summary of 5 years of data from the North American Thermosphere‐Ionosphere Observing Network, showing that large apparent vertical winds are a persistent feature at midlatitudes during geomagnetic storms. We develop a radiative transfer model which demonstrates that these measurements can be explained as an artifact of the scattering of light in the troposphere. In addition to the example from midlatitudes, we apply the model to low latitudes, where we show that the postsunset vertical winds routinely measured over Brazil are explained in part by atmospheric scattering. Measurements of the horizontal wind and temperature are also affected, with errors reaching 400 m/s and 200 K in the most extreme cases.
Body frame size in school children is related to the amount of adipose tissue in different depots but not to adipose distribution
Authors: Guzmán‐de la Garza Francisco J. , González Ayala Alejandra E. , Gómez Nava Marisol , Martínez Monsiváis Leislie I. , Salinas Martínez Ana M. , Ramírez López Erik , Mathiew Quirós Alvaro , Garcia Quintanilla Francisco
Published: April 2017

Objectives

The main aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that body frame size is related to the amount of fat in different adipose tissue depots and to fat distribution in schoolchildren.

METHODS

Children aged between 5 and 10 years were included in this cross‐sectional study (n = 565). Body frame size, adiposity markers (anthropometric, skinfolds thickness, and ultrasound measures), and fat distribution indices were analyzed. Correlation coefficients adjusted by reliability were estimated and analyzed by sex; the significance of the difference between two correlation coefficients was assessed using the Fisher z‐transformation.

RESULTS

The sample included primarily urban children; 58.6% were normal weight, 16.1% overweight, 19.6% obese, and the rest were underweight. Markers of subcutaneous adiposity, fat mass and fat‐free mass, and preperitoneal adiposity showed higher and significant correlations with the sum of the biacromial + bitrochanteric diameter than with the elbow diameter, regardless of sex. The fat distribution conicity index presented significant but weak correlations; and visceral adipose tissue, hepatic steatosis, and the waist‐for‐hip ratio were not significantly correlated with body frame size measures.

CONCLUSIONS

Body frame size in school children was related to the amount of adipose tissue in different depots, but not adipose distribution. More studies are needed to confirm this relationship and its importance to predict changes in visceral fat deposition during growth.
Water as a Hydroxy Source in a RhIII‐Catalyzed Directed C−H Hydroxylation of 2‐Arylpyridines
Authors: Kim Kiseong , Hyun Jaeyong , Kim Jin , Kim Hyunwoo
Published: April 2017

A [RhIIICp*]‐catalyzed directed C−H hydroxylation of 2‐arylpyridines is described (Cp*=1,2,3,4,5‐pentamethylcyclopenta‐2,4‐dienyl), in which the combination of [(RhCp*Cl2)2]/AgF, PhI(OPiv)2, and water is used an effective catalytic system. According to our mechanistic studies, including 18O‐labeling experiments and X‐ray crystallographic analysis of an intermediate Rh complex, we demonstrate that water and PhI(OPiv)2 are required for Rh catalysis as the hydroxy source and the oxidant, respectively.
Time‐saving and fail‐safe dissection method for vestibulocochlear organs in gross anatomy classes
Authors: Suzuki Ryoji , Konno Naoaki , Ishizawa Akimitsu , Kanatsu Yoshinori , Funakoshi Kodai , Akashi Hideo , Zhou Ming , Abe Hiroshi
Published: May 2017

Because the vestibulocochlear organs are tiny and complex, and are covered by the petrous part of the temporal bone, they are very difficult for medical students to dissect and visualize during gross anatomy classes. Here, we report a time‐saving and fail‐safe procedure we have devised, using a hand‐held hobby router. Nine en bloc temporal bone samples from donated human cadavers were used as trial materials for devising an appropriate procedure for dissecting the vestibulocochlear organs. A hand‐held hobby router was used to cut through the temporal bone. After trials, the most time‐saving and fail‐safe method was selected. The performance of the selected method was assessed by a survey of 242 sides of 121 cadavers during gross anatomy classes for vestibulocochlear dissection. The assessment was based on the observation ratio. The best procedure appeared to be removal of the external acoustic meatus roof and tympanic cavity roof together with removal of the internal acoustic meatus roof. The whole procedure was completed within two dissection classes, each lasting 4.5 hr. The ratio of surveillance for the chorda tympani and three semicircular canals by students was significantly improved during 2013 through 2016. In our dissection class, “removal of the external acoustic meatus roof and tympanic cavity roof together with removal of the internal acoustic meatus roof” was the best procedure for students in the limited time available. Clin. Anat. 30:703–710, 2017. © 2017Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Schlafen family: complex roles in different cell types and virus replication
Authors: Liu Furao , Zhou Pingting , Wang Qian , Zhang Meichao , Li Dong
Published: May 2017

The Schlafen (slfn) gene family members express broadly, but the research has mainly focused on human slfn (h‐slfn) and mouse slfn (m‐slfn). The slfn members can be divided into three groups, and each group has its own characteristics and functions. Although the effects of slfns are still poorly understood, it has been confirmed that slfns are involved in the defense of immune system and regulate immune cells’ proliferation and differentiation. In some malignant tumors, the slfn proteins can inhibit the growth and invasion of cancer cells, promote cancer cells sensibility to chemotherapeutics, and can be a promising new therapeutic target. In addition, the slfn proteins also disturb replication and virulence of viruses. In this review, we summarize the characteristics of the Schlafen family's structures and functions with the aim to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of slfns.
MiR‐615‐3p inhibits the osteogenic differentiation of human lumbar ligamentum flavum cells via suppression of osteogenic regulators GDF5 and FOXO1
Authors: Yin Jichao , Zhuang Guihua , Zhu Yi , Hu Xinglv , Zhao Hongmou , Zhang Rongqiang , Guo Hao , Fan Xiaochen , Cao Yi
Published: May 2017

Ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) is a disease of heterotopic ossification in spinal ligaments. The key of the OLF pathogenesis is the differentiation of fibroblasts into osteoblasts. In this study, we explored the role of miR‐615‐3p in the osteogenic differentiation of human LF cells. The expression of miR‐615‐3p was detected during the osteogenic differentiation of hFOB1.19 human osteoblasts, human BMSCs, and human LF cells. The qPCR results showed that miR‐615‐3p was being decreased during the osteogenic differentiation of these cell lineages. Then, both gain‐ and loss‐function experiments, respectively performed by single‐strand miR‐615‐3p mimic and antagomir, revealed that miR‐615‐3p negatively regulated the osteogenesis of hLF cells, manifested by a lighter staining degree with Alizarin Red and a decreased level of osteogenic marker genes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), RUNX2, osterix (ostx), osteocalcin (OCN), and osteopontin (OPN). Subsequently, our data on bioinformatic analysis, 3′‐UTR luciferase activity assay, and protein level detection indicated that miR‐615‐3p directly targeted and suppressed the expression of FOXO1 and GDF5. Furthermore, knockdown of either FOXO1 or GDF5 could inhibit the osteogenic differentiation of hLF cells, which displayed a similar effect with the miR‐615‐3p mimic. In conclusion, miR‐615‐3p negatively regulates the osteogenic differentiation of hLF cells through post‐transcriptionally suppressing osteogenic regulators GDF5 and FOXO1. It can be regarded as a potential target for human OLF therapy.
Invasive plant species in the West Indies: geographical, ecological, and floristic insights
Authors: Rojas‐Sandoval Julissa , Tremblay Raymond L. , Acevedo‐Rodríguez Pedro , Díaz‐Soltero Hilda
Published: April 2017

The level of invasion (number or proportion of invasive species) in a given area depends on features of the invaded community, propagule pressure, and climate. In this study, we assess the invasive flora of nine islands in the West Indies to identify invasion patterns and evaluate whether invasive species diversity is related to geographical, ecological, and socioeconomic factors. We compiled a database of invasive plant species including information on their taxonomy, origin, pathways of introduction, habitats, and life history. This database was used to evaluate the similarity of invasive floras between islands and to identify invasion patterns at regional (West Indies) and local (island) scales. We found a total of 516 alien plant species that are invasive on at least one of the nine islands studied, with between 24 to 306 invasive species per island. The invasive flora on these islands includes a wide range of taxonomic groups, life forms, and habitats. We detected low similarity in invasive species diversity between islands, with most invasive species (>60%) occurring on a single island and 6% occurring on at least five islands. To assess the importance of different models in predicting patterns of invasive species diversity among islands, we used generalized linear models. Our analyses revealed that invasive species diversity was well predicted by a combination of island area and economic development (gross domestic product per capita and kilometers of paved roadways). Our results provide strong evidence for the roles of geographical, ecological, and socioeconomic factors in determining the distribution and spread of invasive species on these islands. Anthropogenic disturbance and economic development seem to be the major drivers facilitating the spread and predominance of invasive species over native species.
Sodium‐dependent Vitamin C transporter 2 deficiency impairs myelination and remyelination after injury: Roles of collagen and demethylation
Authors: Röhr Dominik , Halfter Hartmut , Schulz Jörg B. , Young Peter , Gess Burkhard
Published: April 2017

Peripheral nerve myelination involves rapid production of tightly bound lipid layers requiring cholesterol biosynthesis and myelin protein expression, but also a collagen‐containing extracellular matrix providing mechanical stability. In previous studies, we showed a function of ascorbic acid in peripheral nerve myelination and extracellular matrix formation in adult mice. Here, we sought the mechanism of action of ascorbic acid in peripheral nerve myelination using different paradigms of myelination in vivo and in vitro. We found impaired myelination and reduced collagen expression in Sodium‐dependent Vitamin C Transporter 2 heterozygous mice (SVCT2+/‐) during peripheral nerve development and after peripheral nerve injury. In dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explant cultures, hypo‐myelination could be rescued by precoating with different collagen types. The activity of the ascorbic acid‐dependent demethylating Ten‐eleven‐translocation (Tet) enzymes was reduced in ascorbic acid deprived and SVCT2+/‐ DRG cultures. Further, in ascorbic acid‐deprived DRG cultures, methylation of a CpG island in the collagen alpha1 (IV) and alpha2 (IV) bidirectional promoter region was increased compared to wild‐type and ascorbic acid treated controls. Taken together, these results provide further evidence for the function of ascorbic acid in myelination and extracellular matrix formation in peripheral nerves and suggest a putative molecular mechanism of ascorbic acid function in Tet‐dependent demethylation of collagen promoters.
CRISPR Editing Technology in Biological and Biomedical Investigation
Authors: White Martyn K. , Kaminski Rafal , Young Won‐Bin , Roehm Pamela C. , Khalili Kamel
Published: May 2017

The CRISPR or clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats system is currently the most advanced approach to genome editing and is notable for providing an unprecedented degree of specificity, effectiveness, and versatility in genetic manipulation. CRISPR evolved as a prokaryotic immune system to provide an acquired immunity and resistance to foreign genetic elements such as bacteriophages. It has recently been developed into a tool for the specific targeting of nucleotide sequences within complex eukaryotic genomes for the purpose of genetic manipulation. The power of CRISPR lies in its simplicity and ease of use, its flexibility to be targeted to any given nucleotide sequence by the choice of an easily synthesized guide RNA, and its ready ability to continue to undergo technical improvements. Applications for CRISPR are numerous including creation of novel transgenic cell animals for research, high‐throughput screening of gene function, potential clinical gene therapy, and nongene‐editing approaches such as modulating gene activity and fluorescent tagging. In this prospect article, we will describe the salient features of the CRISPR system with an emphasis on important drawbacks and considerations with respect to eliminating off‐target events and obtaining efficient CRISPR delivery. We will discuss recent technical developments to the system and we will illustrate some of the most recent applications with an emphasis on approaches to eliminate human viruses including HIV‐1, JCV and HSV‐1 and prospects for the future. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3586–3594, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fragmentation behavior of DOTA complexes under different activation conditions
Authors: Beck S. , Trog S. , Knizia S. , Linscheid M. W.
Published: April 2017

We have investigated the fragmentation behavior of a number of DOTA‐metal complexes under collision‐induced dissociation, infrared‐multiphoton dissociation and higher‐energy collisional dissociation activation conditions. Both, positive and negative ion mode electrospray ionization was applied. The results show that characteristic fragmentations were obtained for the metal‐complexes under the investigated conditions. All elemental compositions of fragment ions have been unambiguously identified by high resolution‐accurate mass measurements. Certain trends, for instance eliminations of carbon dioxide, alkyl and amine residues, were observed that coincide with the size of the metal and its location within the periodic table. Additionally, lanthanide, aluminium and indium species with even oxidation state or containing a radical have been detected. To further investigate the observed water capture during activation, deuterium labeling experiments have also been carried out. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular characterization of human respiratory syncytial virus detected from central India
Authors: Sahu Mahima , Shukla Mohan K. , Barde Pradip V.
Published: May 2017

Human Respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) is the major cause of respiratory tract infection in both children and adults, virtually all children acquire infection with hRSV by the age of 3 years. Two subgroups of the virus, hRSV‐A and hRSV‐B based on sequence variability of G protein gene are divided into 11 and 17 genotypes, respectively. Very limited data regarding circulating genotypes is available from India. This study aimed to detect and characterize the circulating genotype of hRSV from central India. Throat swabs collected from patient's having influenza like illness (ILI) were subjected to RT‐PCR for diagnosis, further sequencing and phylogenetic analysis was performed using primers specific for C‐terminal end of G gene. Out of 526 tested samples 62 (12%) were found positive, 90% cases were from children under 3‐year age children. Both hRSV‐A and hRSV‐B were detected in equal proportions. Sequence analysis of 15 samples revealed circulation of genotypes NA1, ON1 of hRSV‐A, and BA9 of hRSV‐B. We advocate molecular surveillance of hRSV for better patient management and epidemiological monitoring.
Coupling I‐125 permanent implant prostate brachytherapy Monte Carlo dose calculations with radiobiological models
Authors: Miksys Nelson , Haidari Mehan , Vigneault Eric , Martin Andre‐Guy , Beaulieu Luc , Thomson Rowan M.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To investigate the coupling of radiobiological models with patient‐specific Monte Carlo (MC) dose calculations for permanent implant prostate brachytherapy (PIPB). To compare radiobiological indices evaluated with different radiobiological models using MC and simulated AAPM TG‐43 dose calculations.

Methods

Three‐dimensional dose distributions previously computed using MC techniques with two types of patient models, TG43sim (AAPM TG‐43 water‐based conditions) and MCDmm (realistic tissues and interseed effects), for 613 PIPB patients are coupled with biological dose and tumour control probability (TCP) models. Two approaches and their extensions are considered to evaluate biological doses, biologically effective dose (BED) and isoeffective dose (IED), as well as two methods to evaluate TCP. Three novel extensions of equivalent uniform biologically effective dose (EUBED) are suggested which consider the spatial distribution of doses within the target volume. Adopted radiobiological model parameter values (α, β, etc) are those suggested by AAPM TG‐137, and sensitivity to parameter choice is discussed.

Results

MCDmm dose calculations can reveal low doses in the prostate target volume, due to tissue heterogeneities or inter‐seed effects; considering these low doses in EUBED calculations can lower TCP estimates by up to 70%, with largest differences in patients with calcifications. There are large variations in biological doses and TCPs evaluated over the 613 patient cohort for each radiobiological model considered, reflecting the spectrum of physical doses calculated for these patients with either MCDmm or TG43sim. Depending on the model details, BED, IED and EUBED are, on average, 6.0–9.8%, 7.4–9.2% and 1.8–15% higher, respectively, with TG43sim than MCDmm. TCP estimates computed using MCDmm dose distributions are much lower than expected based on past treatment outcome studies, suggesting a need to re‐assess model parameters when evaluating radiobiological indices coupled with heterogeneous tissue model‐based dose calculations.

Conclusions

Cohort average differences in biological dose and TCP estimates between radiobiological models are generally larger than differences for any one radiobiological model evaluated with TG43sim or MCDmm dose calculations. However, heterogeneous tissue dose calculations, like MCDmm, can identify clinically‐relevant low dose volumes, e.g., in patients with calcifications, which would otherwise be missed with TG‐43. In addition to affecting physical dose distributions, these low dose volumes can largely impact radiobiological dose and TCP estimates, which further motivates the clinical implementation of model‐based dose calculations for PIPB.
Formation of homogeneous nanocomposite films at ambient temperature via miniemulsion polymerization using graphene oxide as surfactant
Authors: Fadil Yasemin , Man S. H. C. , Jasinski Florent , Minami Hideto , Thickett Stuart C. , Zetterlund Per B.
Published: April 2017

A convenient and industrially scalable method for synthesis of homogeneous nanocomposite films comprising poly(styrene‐stat‐butyl acrylate) and nanodimensional graphene oxide (GO) or reduced GO (rGO) is presented. Importantly, the nanocomposite latex undergoes film formation at ambient temperature, thus alleviating any need for high temperature or high pressure methods such as compression molding. The method entails synthesis of an aqueous nanocomposite latex via miniemulsion copolymerization relying on nanodimensional GO sheets as sole surfactant, followed by ambient temperature film formation resulting in homogeneous film. For comparison, a similar latex obtained by physical mixing of a polymer latex with an aqueous GO dispersion results in severe phase separation, illustrating that the miniemulsion approach using GO as surfactant is key to obtaining homogeneous nanocomposite films. Finally, it is demonstrated that the GO sheets can be readily reduced to rGO in situ by heat treatment of the film. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 2289–2297
Deep‐blue light‐emitting polyfluorenes containing spiro[fluorene‐9,9′‐thioxanthene‐S,S‐dioxide] isomers
Authors: Peng Feng , Xu Jin , Zhang Yuhao , He Ruifeng , Yang Wei , Cao Yong
Published: April 2017

Blue light‐emitting polyfluorenes, PPF‐FSOs and PPF‐SOFs were synthesized via introducing spiro[fluorene‐9,9′‐thioxanthene‐S,S‐dioxide] isomers (2,7‐diyl and 2′,7′‐diyl) (FSO/SOF) into the poly[9,9‐bis(4‐(2‐ethylhexyloxy) phenyl)fluorene‐2,7‐diyl] (PPF) backbone, respectively. With the increasing contents of FSO and SOF moieties, the absorption and PL spectra of PPF‐FSOs show slight red shift, while that of PPF‐SOFs exhibit blue shift, respectively. The HOMO and LUMO levels reduce gradually with increasing SOF unit in PPF‐SOFs. The polymers emit blue light peaked around 430–445 nm and show an excellent spectral stability with the variation in current densities. The distinctly narrowing EL spectra were observed with the incorporation of isomers in the polymers. The full width at half maximum reduced by 15 nm for PPF‐SOFs, resulting in a blue shift with the CIE coordinates from (0.16, 0.11) to (0.16, 0.08). With a device configuration of ITO/PEDOT:PSS/EML/CsF/Al, a maximum luminance efficiency (LEmax) of 2.00 cd A−1, a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 3.76% with the CIE coordinates of (0.16, 0.08) for PPF‐SOF15 and a LEmax of 1.68 cd A−1, a EQEmax of 2.38% with CIE (0.16, 0.12) for PPF‐FSO10 were obtained, respectively. The result reveals that spiro[fluorene‐9,9′‐thioxanthene‐S,S‐dioxide] isomers are promising blocks for deep‐blue light‐emitting polymers. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 2332–2341
Graft polymer synthesis by RAFT transfer‐to
Authors: Foster Jeffrey C. , Radzinski Scott C. , Matson John B.
Published: April 2017

The synthesis of graft polymers via controlled polymerization techniques has enabled the facile modification of the surface properties of a variety of substrates. Three grafting methods are typically highlighted in the literature: grafting‐to, grafting‐from, and grafting‐through. However, a fourth method exists when grafting is conducted using reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, which we refer to as transfer‐to. Transfer‐to differs from the other grafting strategies in the types of structural defects and impurities that arise during polymerization. This review addresses important considerations when conducting RAFT transfer‐to, including RAFT chain transfer agent selection, monomer structure, and reaction conditions. In addition, we highlight key mechanistic differences between grafting‐from and transfer‐to and their effects on the structure and sample composition of the resulting graft polymers. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 2865–2876
Assessing the value and pest management window provided by neonicotinoid seed treatments for management of soybean aphid (Aphis glycines Matsumura) in the Upper Midwestern United States
Authors: Krupke Christian H , Alford Adam M , Cullen Eileen M , Hodgson Erin W , Knodel Janet J , McCornack Brian , Potter Bruce D , Spigler Madeline I , Tilmon Kelley , Welch Kelton
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

A 2‐year, multi‐state study was conducted to assess the benefits of using soybean seed treated with the neonicotinoid thiamethoxam to manage soybean aphid in the upper Midwestern USA and compare this approach with an integrated pest management (IPM) approach that included monitoring soybean aphids and treating with foliar‐applied insecticide only when the economic threshold was reached. Concentrations of thiamethoxam in soybean foliage were also quantified throughout the growing season to estimate the pest management window afforded by insecticidal seed treatments.

RESULTS

Both the IPM treatment and thiamethoxam‐treated seed resulted in significant reductions in cumulative aphid days when soybean aphid populations reached threshold levels. However, only the IPM treatment resulted in significant yield increases. Analysis of soybean foliage from thiamethoxam‐treated seeds indicated that tissue concentrations of thiamethoxam were statistically similar to plants grown from untreated seeds beginning at the V2 growth stage, indicating that the period of pest suppression for soybean aphid is likely to be relatively short.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that an IPM approach, combining scouting and foliar‐applied insecticide where necessary, remains the best option for treatment of soybean aphids, both in terms of protecting the yield potential of the crop and of break‐even probability for producers. Furthermore, we found that thiamethoxam concentrations in foliage are unlikely to effectively manage soybean aphids for most of the pests' activity period across the region. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Perspective: Coupled cluster theory for atoms and molecules in strong magnetic fields
Authors: Stopkowicz Stella
Published: April 2017

In this perspective, the theoretical treatment of atoms and molecules in strong magnetic fields is discussed. As this is a rather unexplored field, accurate predictions from theory are essential. This is particularly important in the context of astrophysics for the interpretation of observational spectra from white‐dwarf stars that can exhibit magnetic fields up to about 1 B0 (
235,000 T). A theoretical treatment beyond the pertubation limit requires methods that can deal with finite magnetic fields. Results obtained using coupled cluster (CC) as well as equation‐of‐motion CC theory are presented with a focus on a discussion of the so‐called “perpendicular paramagnetic bonding mechanism” as well as on the influence of electron correlation on total and binding energies. Additionally, the performance of functionals in current density functional theory is discussed. As exact results are completely unknown, highly accurate benchmarks are essential to assess the quality of density functional theory results. Finally, an outlook on future theoretical developments is given.
Donor-Dependent and Other Nondefined Factors Have Greater Influence on the Hepatic Phenotype Than the Starting Cell Type in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Hepatocyte-Like Cells
Authors: Heslop James A. , Kia Richard , Pridgeon Christopher S. , Sison-Young Rowena L. , Liloglou Triantafillos , Elmasry Mohamed , Fenwick Stephen W. , Mills John S. , Kitteringham Neil R. , Goldring Chris E. , Park B. Kevin
Published: April 2017

Drug-induced liver injury is the greatest cause of post-marketing drug withdrawal; therefore, substantial resources are directed toward triaging potentially dangerous new compounds at all stages of drug development. One of the major factors preventing effective screening of new compounds is the lack of a predictive in vitro model of hepatotoxicity. Primary human hepatocytes offer a metabolically relevant model for which the molecular initiating events of hepatotoxicity can be examined; however, these cells vary greatly between donors and dedifferentiate rapidly in culture. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) offer a reproducible, physiologically relevant and genotypically normal model cell; however, current differentiation protocols produce HLCs with a relatively immature phenotype. During the reprogramming of somatic cells, the epigenome undergoes dramatic changes; however, this “resetting” is a gradual process, resulting in an altered differentiation propensity, skewed toward the lineage of origin, particularly in early passage cultures. We, therefore, performed a comparison of human hepatocyte- and dermal fibroblast-derived iPSCs, assessing the impact of epigenetic memory at all stages of HLC differentiation. These results provide the first isogenic assessment of the starting cell type in human iPSC-derived HLCs. Despite a trend toward improvement in hepatic phenotype in albumin secretion and gene expression, few significant differences in hepatic differentiation capacity were found between hepatocyte and fibroblast-derived iPSCs. We conclude that the donor and inter-clonal differences have a greater influence on the hepatocyte phenotypic maturity than the starting cell type. Therefore, it is not necessary to use human hepatocytes for generating iPSC-derived HLCs.
Umbilical Cord Blood Transplantation: Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Ballen Karen
Published: April 2017

Since the first successful allogeneic transplants performed in Seattle 50 years ago, the field of transplantation has evolved considerably, with improvements in human leukocyte antigen typing, patient selection, reduced intensity regimens, and graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis. A major breakthrough has been the availability of more donor options, first via the National Marrow Donor Program—Be the Match [Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2008;14:2–7]. Then, in the 1990s, unrelated umbilical cord blood transplantation became available, first for children and then for adults [New Engl J Med 1996;35:157–166]. More recently mismatched unrelated transplants and haploidentical donor options became available [Blood 2011;118:282–288]. In 2017, there is a donor for almost every patient who needs a transplant. In this review, we will discuss the state of the science (and art) of cord blood transplant, focusing on successes, challenges, and future directions.
Renaissances
Authors: Mackenney Richard
Published: April 2017

This highly-illustrated book emphasizes above all the diversity of the Italian Renaissance in the period between the fourteenth and the seventeenth centuries: the enormously varied forms of cultural achievement and the different circumstances that prevailed in various contexts, both urban and courtly. Richard MacKenney examines why the great revival did not touch the whole of Italy or the majority of its people. He argues that, while the wonder and joy of classical rebirth remained vivid, there was also a dimension of anxiety, especially in the challenge that ancient cultures posed to Christian belief.
Simple and effective solution for diaphragm pacing by that uses the transvenous femoral approach in a patient treated with cardiac resynchronization‐defibrillator therapy: The wrapping method
Authors: Alper Ahmet Taha , Hayıroğlu Mert İlker , Tekkeşin Ahmet İlker , Türkkan Ceyhan
Published: April 2017

The use of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has become widespread in patients with heart failure who meet the criteria for implantation. Coronary sinus lead positioning is important to provide the intended biventricular stimulation. Diaphragm pacing is a lead‐related complication which occurs secondary to phrenic nerve stimulation. We present the case of a 58‐year‐old male patient who had diaphragm pacing after CRT with defibrillator implantation. The complication was resolved by using the transvenous femoral approach with the wrapping method.
Impact of baseline renal function on all‐cause mortality in patients who underwent cardiac resynchronization therapy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bazoukis G. , Letsas K.P. , Korantzopoulos P. , Thomopoulos C. , Vlachos K. , Georgopoulos S. , Karamichalakis N. , Saplaouras A. , Efremidis M. , Sideris A.
Published: May 2017

Background

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) improves both morbidity and mortality in selected patients with heart failure and increased QRS duration. However, chronic kidney disease (CKD) may have an adverse effect on patient outcome. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the existing data regarding the impact of baseline renal function on all‐cause mortality in patients who underwent CRT.

Methods

Medline database was searched systematically, and studies evaluating the effect of baseline renal function on all‐cause mortality in patients who underwent CRT were retrieved. We performed three separate analyses according to the comparison groups included in each study. Data were analyzed using Review Manager software (RevMan version 5.3; Oxford, UK).

Results

We included 16 relevant studies in our analysis. Specifically, 13 studies showed a statistically significant higher risk of all‐cause mortality in patients with impaired baseline renal function who underwent CRT. The remaining three studies did not show a statistically significant result. The quantitative synthesis of five studies showed a 19% decrease in all‐cause mortality per 10‐unit increment in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) [HR: 0.81, 95% CI (0.73–0.90), p<0.01, 86% I2]. Additionally, we demonstrated that patients with an eGFR<60 mL/min/1.73 m2 had an all‐cause mortality rate of 66% [HR: 1.66, 95% CI (1.37–2.02), p<0.01, 0% I2], which was higher than in those with an eGFR≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Conclusion

Baseline renal dysfunction has an adverse effect on‐all cause mortality in patients who underwent CRT.
Integrating Social Studies and Social Skills for Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Morris Thomas , McGuire Margit , Walker Bridget
Published: April 2017

Research indicates that academic growth and student behavior are inextricably linked. Schools that systematically address both academic and social/emotional learning (SEL) have shown increased student achievement when compared to schools that do not address both factors ( Elliott, Huai & Roach, 2007 ; Hawken, Vincent & Schumann, 2008 ). Even with this understanding, outcomes for students with emotional and behavioral disabilities (EBD) continue to be of concern ( Bradley, Doolittle & Bartolotta, 2008 ). This study explores the effectiveness of integrating SEL and social studies learning in the self-contained special education classroom for students with EBD using Storypath, an inquiry-based social studies curriculum. We hypothesized that the systematic integration of SEL opportunities into meaningful, well-planned and engaging academic instruction could provide students with an opportunity to authentically learn and practice key social and academic skills. Quantitative findings via an online survey and qualitative findings via interviews and observations indicate that students with EBD can successfully engage in less structured and more cognitively challenging academic activities and use SEL skills effectively in the context of these lessons.
Patient‐Reported Usefulness of Acute Cancer Rehabilitation
Authors: Ng Amy H. , Gupta Ekta , Fontillas Rhodora C. , Bansal Swati , Williams Janet L. , Park Minjeong , Liu Diane , Fu Jack B. , Yadav Rajesh R. , Bruera Eduardo
Published: April 2017

Background

Cancer survivors often have unmet needs, and cancer rehabilitation is becoming an integral part of the continuum of care. Understanding the needs and satisfaction of patients undergoing cancer rehabilitation is important for the development of effective programs.

Objective

To determine the overall perception of acute inpatient cancer rehabilitation usefulness.

Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Acute inpatient cancer rehabilitation unit at a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Participants

Patients admitted to the acute inpatient cancer rehabilitation unit from September 2014 to July 2015 were approached, and 200 patients enrolled with completed surveys.

Methods

Patients meeting study criteria were asked to complete a survey about their perception of the rehabilitation received; their attitudes and beliefs on their condition, treatment, functional independence; and their attitudes and beliefs on obtaining health information and psychosocial issues.

Main Outcome Measures

Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores, FIM efficiency, and results from an anonymous survey with a 22‐item Likert‐type scale at the end of patients' rehabilitation stay were analyzed.

Results

Of 327 patients admitted, 239 patients (73%) were approached, and 200 patients (84%) were enrolled with completed surveys. Patients agreed or strongly agreed that rehabilitation helped with improving physical function (n = 193, 97%), regaining physical independence (n = 181, 91%), and preparing to deal with self‐care tasks (n = 183, 94%). Patients agreed that rehabilitation improved hope (n = 187, 94%), mood (n = 176, 84%), anxiety (n = 180, 90%), and spirituality (n = 182, 94%). FIM score improvements (from admission to discharge) and FIM efficiency (change in FIM score / length of stay) were significant in all functional domains. Overall, respondents believed that their rehabilitation stay was extremely good (n = 128, 64%) or very good (n = 60, 30%).

Conclusions

Patients perceived their rehabilitation stay as beneficial in multiple respects. Significant improvements in FIM measurements were also found.

Level of Evidence

IV
Finding Sarah: 49-Year Reunion with the Chimpanzee of David Premack's Language Studies
Authors: Olson James N. , Montgomery Linda M.
Published: May 2017

Sarah the chimpanzee was the primary participant in David Premack's language studies initiated at University of California at Santa Barbara in 1967. The first author was an undergraduate assistant training Sarah from 1967 to 1969. This article describes some of the early work with Sarah and our recent search for her. Sarah's whereabouts during the intervening years, and subsequent reunion with her in 2016 at Chimp Haven, a chimpanzee sanctuary in Louisiana, are described. It was found that despite her illness, Sarah engaged with the first author and demonstrated that she remembered him and the mechanics of the communication procedure that served as the foundation for testing Sarah's cognitive reasoning abilities as they pertained to language. There was no evidence she remembered any of the 5 symbolic nouns that were presented during a matching-to-sample procedure. The authors expressed their gratitude to the staff at Chimp Haven for the excellent care of Sarah.
Metformin inhibits SUV39H1-mediated migration of prostate cancer cells
Authors: Yu T , Wang C , Yang J , Guo Y , Wu Y , Li X
Published: May 2017

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a leading cause of cancer-related death among men, largely due to incurable distant metastases. Metformin, the most common used anti-type-2 diabetes medicine, has been linked to reduced cancer risk and better diagnosis. We found that metformin was able to inhibit PCa cell migration, which correlates with tumor metastatic capability. The pathogenesis and progression of tumors are closely related to dysregulated gene expression in tumor cells through epigenetic alterations such as DNA methylation and histone modifications. We found that the level of SUV39H1, a histone methyltransferase of H3 Lys9, was reduced in metformin-treated PCa cells in a time-dependent manner. SUV39H1 overexpression increased PCa migration, whereas SUV39H1 depletion suppressed PCa cell migration. There is a positive correlation between SUV39H1 expression and PCa pathological stages. We further showed that both metformin treatment and SUV39H1 knockout in PCa cells can reduce integrin αV and β1 proteins, as well as their downstream phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (FAK) levels, which is essential for functional adhesion signaling and tumor cell migration. Taken together, metformin reduced SUV39H1 to inhibit migration of PCa cells via disturbing the integrin-FAK signaling. Our study suggests SUV39H1 as a novel target to inhibit PCa cell migration.
Facile synthesis of a MnFe2O4/rGO nanocomposite for an ultra-stable symmetric supercapacitor
Authors: Goljanian Tabrizi Amin , Arsalani Nasser , Mohammadi Abdolkhaled , Namazi Hassan , Saleh Ghadimi Laleh , Ahadzadeh Iraj
Published: May 2017

A symmetric supercapacitor based on a MnFe2O4/rGO nanocomposite prepared from expanded graphite.
High sensitivity cysteine detection using novel fluorescent Ag nanoclusters
Authors: Liu Hao Min , Mei Gang , Chen Shu , Long Yun Fei
Published: May 2017

Fluorescent Ag nanoclusters (AgNCs) stabilized by carboxymethyl dextran (CMD) were prepared by the photochemical reduction of a mixture of CMD and [Ag(NH3)2]+ under ultraviolet C (UVC) light irradiation.
Closed vessel microwave digestion of air filters for measurements of elemental iodine
Authors: Tiong L. Y. D. , Pong B. K. , Webster R. D.
Published: May 2017

An acid assisted closed vessel microwave digestion procedure was developed for the treatment of fine airborne particulate matter that allows elemental iodine to be solubilised simultaneously with other metallic elements.
Intracellular accumulation and immunological responses of lipid modified magnetic iron nanoparticles in mouse antigen processing cells
Authors: Qiao Chenmeng , Yang Jun , Chen Lei , Weng Jie , Zhang Xin
Published: May 2017

Lipid modified magnetic nanoparticles could enhance the intracellular accumulation and immune responses of mouse antigen processing cells.
Efficient visible light-driven in situ photocatalytic destruction of harmful alga by worm-like N,P co-doped TiO2/expanded graphite carbon layer (NPT-EGC) floating composites
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Xuejiang , Zhao Jianfu , Song Jingke , Zhou Lijie , Ma Rongrong , Wang Jiayi , Tong Xin , Chen Yongsheng
Published: May 2017

Preparation of N,P co-doped TiO2/expanded graphite carbon layer (NPT-EGC) composites for floating algaecides.
A hierarchical NiO/NiMn-layered double hydroxide nanosheet array on Ni foam for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Peng-Fei , Zhou Jiao-Jiao , Li Guo-Chang , Wu Meng-Ke , Tao Kai , Yi Fei-Yan , Zhao Wen-Na , Han Lei
Published: May 2017

A hierarchical NiO/NiMn-LDH nanosheet array on Ni foam was preparedviaa facile two-step approach and exhibited a high specific capacitance (937 F g−1at 0.5 A g−1) and good cycling stability (91% retention after 1000 cycles at 5 A g−1).
Synthesis of diketopyrrolopyrrole based conjugated polymers containing thieno[3,2-b]thiophene flanking groups for high performance thin film transistors
Authors: Peng Shih-Hao , Tu Wei-Yi , Gollavelli Ganesh , Hsu Chain-Shu
Published: May 2017

New D–A conjugate polymers based on 3,6-bis(2-bromothieno-[3,2-b]thiophen-5-yl)-2,5-bis(2-octyldodecyl)pyrrolo[3,4-c]-pyrrole-1,4-(2H,5H)-dione combined with bithiophene, di(2-thienyl)ethene, and di(selenophene-2-yl)ethene were synthesized.
Poly(benzofuran-co-arylacetic acid) – a new type of highly functionalized polymers
Authors: Nan A. , Bunge A. , Cîrcu M. , Petran A. , Hădade N. D. , Filip X.
Published: May 2017

A new type of polymer containing a number of functional groups with orthogonal reactivity, allowing linkage to several functionalities.