bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abusive and Enduring Leadership: A Book Review of Keltner, D. (2017). The Power Paradox: How We Gain and Lose Influence. New York, NY: Penguin
Authors: Perry Chad
Published: February 2019

At the University of California Berkeley, Keltner has researched power among social groups in the 21st century. He has claimed that a leader's power is no longer a Machiavellian individual's grab for power over others within a hierarchy; instead, a leader's power is given to him or her by others in the group. However, that power can corrupt many leaders and lead them to become “abusers” of those in their group. In contrast, uncorrupted leaders are “enduring” and remain committed to the greater good of their community. The current review aims to demonstrate how Keltner's book complements the work of other leadership researchers, such as those who study psychopathic leaders, and to investigate its many implications for researchers and leaders.
Effects of aprotic solvents on the stability of metal‐free superoxide dismutase probed by native electrospray ionization–ion mobility–mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhao Bing , Zhuang Xiaoyu , Bian Xinyu , Pi Zifeng , Liu Shu , Liu Zhiqiang , Song Fengrui
Published: February 2019

Considering that aprotic solvents are often used as cosolvents in investigating the interactions between small molecules and proteins, we assessed the effects of five aprotic solvents represented by dimethylformamide (DMF) on the structure stabilities of metal‐free SOD1 (apo‐SOD1) by native electrospray ionization–ion mobility–mass spectrometry (ESI‐IM‐MS). These aprotic solvents include DMF, 1,3‐dimethyl‐2‐imidazolidinone (DMI), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), acetonitrile (ACN), and tetrahydrofuran (THF). Results indicated that DMI, DMSO, and DMF at low percentage concentration could reduce the average charge and the dimer dissociation of apo‐SOD1. By contrast, ACN and THF at low concentration have no similar effect. DMF was selected as a representative solvent to further investigate the detailed effects on the structure stability of apo‐SOD1 by using collision‐induced dissociation and unfolding. The results reveal that the addition of minimal DMF to an aqueous protein solution can protect against the unfolding and dissociation of dimer, even under destabilizing conditions (such as low pH or high cone voltage). When the different percentage concentrations of DMF were added, the average collision cross section of apo‐SOD1 showed that apo‐SOD1 became compacted when the DMF concentration increased from 0% to 1% and eventually started extending when increased from 1% to 20%. The results indicated that DMF has similar effects to DMSO in native mass spectrometry (MS) and it can also be used as a cosolvent besides DMSO in investigating the stabilities of proteins and the interactions between small molecules and proteins.
Solvent effect on the initial structural dynamics of benzaldehyde in the S3(ππ*) state—Resonance Raman spectroscopic study
Authors: Chen Jia , Jiang Xuelian , Xue Jiadan , Wang Huigang , Zheng Xuming
Published: February 2019

The excited‐state structural dynamics of benzaldehyde (BA) after population to the S3(πH‐1πL*) light‐absorbing state were studied using resonance Raman spectroscopy and complete active space self‐consistent field (CASSCF) calculations. The C‐band absorption cross section and the corresponding absolute resonance Raman cross sections in cyclohexane and methanol were simulated using the time‐dependent wave‐packets formalism, respectively. The results indicate that the major structural dynamics of BA and the homogeneous broadening of the absorption spectrum in cyclohexane are similar to those of BA in methanol or acetophenone (AP) in cyclohexane, whereas the inhomogeneous broadening of BA in cyclohexane is significantly different from that in methanol. It is proposed that the initial decay pathway of BA upon the C‐band absorption is mostly towards S3S2 and partly to S3,min. The roles of hydrogen bonding and polar–polar interaction in the spectral broadenings are discussed.
Similar local recurrence but better function with curettage versus resection for bone giant cell tumor and pathological fracture at presentation
Authors: Tsukamoto Shinji , Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Tanzi Piergiuseppe , Leone Giulio , Righi Alberto , Akahane Manabu , Kido Akira , Honoki Kanya , Tanaka Yasuhito , Donati Davide Maria , Errani Costantino
Published: February 2019

Background

There are conflicting reports for the outcome of the patients with giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) and pathological fracture at presentation treated with curettage or resection. This study compared local recurrence, complications, and function after curettage versus resection for these patients.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively studied the files of 46 patients with histologically confirmed GCTB of the extremities admitted and treated from 1982 to 2015. The median follow‐up was 79.5 months (57.0‐125.5 months). We evaluated local recurrence and type of surgery‐related complications with imaging and function with the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score.

Results

Overall local recurrence was 6.5%. There were one patient with curettage and two patients with resection; local recurrence rate was similar between the two procedures but the time to local recurrence was shorter after curettage. MSTS score was significantly better after curettage. Complications occurred in two patients after curettage and in five patients after resection; because of the low number of patients with complications, a statistical comparison was not possible; however, by direct comparison of the numbers, complications were more common after resection compared with curettage.

Conclusion

Curettage is recommended for GCTB and pathological fracture at presentation because of similar local recurrence but better function compared with resection. The treating physicians should be aware and inform their patients for a shorter time to local recurrence after curettage and for more complications after resection.
Low dose radiotherapy is associated with local complications but not disease control in sacral chordoma
Authors: Houdek Matthew T. , Rose Peter S. , Hevesi Mario , Schwab Joseph H. , Griffin Anthony M. , Healey John H. , Petersen Ivy A. , DeLaney Thomas F. , Chung Peter W. , Yaszemski Michael J. , Wunder Jay S. , Hornicek Francis J. , Boland Patrick J. , Sim Franklin H. , Ferguson Peter C. ,   Other Members of the Sacral Tumor Society
Published: February 2019

Background

We reviewed the disease control and complications of the treatment of sacrococcygeal chordoma from four tertiary cancer centers with emphasis on the effects of radiotherapy in surgically treated patients.

Methods

A total of 193 patients with primary sacrococcygeal chordoma from 1990 to 2015 were reviewed. There were 124 males, with a mean age of 59 ± 15 years and a mean follow‐up of 7 ± 4 years. Eighty‐nine patients received radiotherapy with a mean total dose of 61.8 ± 10.9 Gy.

Results

The 10‐year disease‐free and disease‐specific survival was 58% and 72%, respectively. Radiation was not associated with local recurrence (hazard ratio [HR], 1.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.59‐2.17; P = 0.71), metastases (HR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.45‐1.91;
P = 0.85) or disease‐specific survival (HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.46‐2.00;
P = 0.91). Higher doses (≥70 Gy; HR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.20‐1.32;
P = 0.17) may be associated with reduced local recurrence. Radiotherapy was associated with wound complications (HR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.64‐4.82;,
P < 0.001) and sacral stress fractures (HR, 4.73; 95% CI, 1.88‐14.38;
P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this multicenter review, radiotherapy was not associated with tumor outcome but associated with complications. The routine use of radiotherapy with en‐bloc resection of sacrococcygeal chordomas should be reconsidered in favor of a selective, individualized approach with a radiation dose of ≥70 Gy.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of locoregional treatments for in‐transit melanoma
Authors: Read Tavis , Lonne Michael , Sparks David S. , David Michael , Wagels Michael , Schaider Helmut , Soyer H. Peter , Smithers B. Mark
Published: February 2019

Background and Objectives

In‐transit melanoma (ITM) metastases present a therapeutic challenge and management decisions can be difficult. There are multiple treatments available, with differing efficacy, and supported by different levels of evidence. The primary objective was to perform a systematic review and where suitable, a meta‐analysis of the literature reporting on the use of locoregional treatments for the management of ITM.

Methods

An independent review was conducted including a comprehensive search of the National Library of Medicine using PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. Key data were tabulated, synthesized and pooled to calculate relevant weighted effect sizes for each therapy using random‐effect models. The statistical heterogeneity was calculated using the Higgins' method.

Results

Of the initial 32 612 articles identified, 57 original articles satisfied eligibility criteria. Eight treatment modalities were identified comprising: amputation (7); hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion (15); isolated limb infusion (8); carbon dioxide laser (9); PV‐10 intralesional therapy (5); IL‐2 intralesional therapy (8); imiquimod (7); diphenylcyclopropenone (3). Only amputation and topical imiquimod were suitable for formal meta‐analysis.

Conclusions

All of the assessed therapies have significant selection bias. Variable levels of evidence support the ongoing use of locoregional treatments and these may significantly improve disease‐free survival.
Comparative analysis of the main active components and hypoglycemic effects after the compatibility of Scutellariae Radix and Coptidis Rhizoma
Authors: Cui Xiang , Shen Yu‐meng , Jiang Shu , Qian Da‐wei , Shang Er‐xin , Zhu Zhen‐hua , Duan Jin‐ao
Published: February 2019

In this study, a rapid and highly sensitive ultra high performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method with the mobile phase of acetonitrile and 0.1% aqueous formic acid was established and successfully applied to comparatively analyze main active components after their compatibility. Besides, the effects of Scutellariae Radix, Coptidis Rhizoma and combined extracts on type 2 diabetic rats induced by high‐fat diet along with low dose of streptozocin were investigated. Under the optimized chromatographic conditions, good separation of seven target components was achieved within 12 min. All calibration curves exhibited good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.999). The relative standard deviation of precision, repeatability and stability varied from 0.69 to 2.23, 0.98 to 2.56, and 0.92 to 2.57%, respectively. The recovery ranged from 91.11 to 105.35%. The contents of seven active components were notably reduced after compatibility; however, the hypoglycemic effect of combined extracts was stronger than single drug by decreasing the activities of fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase, glucose 6‐phosphatase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and increasing the activities of glucokinase, phosphofructokinase, pyruvate kinase. Accordingly, the established analytical method was accurate and sensitive enough for quantitative evaluation of seven investigated compounds. Moreover, the combined extract had definite effects on type 2 diabetes through multiple components against multiple targets.
Expansion of pinched hypersurfaces of the Euclidean and hyperbolic space by high powers of curvature
Authors: Kröner Heiko , Scheuer Julian
Published: February 2019

We prove convergence results for expanding curvature flows in the Euclidean and hyperbolic space. The flow speeds have the form , where and F is a positive, strictly monotone and 1‐homogeneous curvature function. In particular this class includes the mean curvature . We prove that a certain initial pinching condition is preserved and the properly rescaled hypersurfaces converge smoothly to the unit sphere. We show that an example due to Andrews–McCoy–Zheng can be used to construct strictly convex initial hypersurfaces, for which the inverse mean curvature flow to the power loses convexity, justifying the necessity to impose a certain pinching condition on the initial hypersurface.
Bioturbation of peanut worms Sipunculus nudus on the composition of prokaryotic communities in a tidal flat as revealed by 16S rRNA gene sequences
Authors: Li Junwei , Hu Ruiping , Guo Yongjian , Chen Suwen , Xie Xiaoyong , Qin Jian G. , Ma Zhenhua , Zhu Changbo , Pei Surui
Published: February 2019

To understand the impacts of peanut worms Sipunculus nudus on the prokaryotic community composition in a tidal flat, an onsite investigation was conducted in Suixi in the Beibu Gulf (109.82E, 21.35N) in the burrow sediments, non‐burrow sediments and the sediments without peanut worm disturbance (control). The16S rRNA gene Illumina MiSeq sequencing was used to investigate the microbial communities and their response to bioturbation by S. nudus in a sandy tidal flat. A total of 18 bacteria phyla were detected, and Proteobacteria and Cyanobacteria constituted the majority of the prokaryotic community in the samples. The distribution of the relative abundances of genera showed that approximately 6.99%–17% of the reads in the samples were classified into 25 known genera. Sulfate‐reducing bacteria (Desulfococcus and Desulfosarcina) were the most abundant taxa, followed by Thermodesulfovibrionaceae LCP‐6, indicating that sulfate reduction is the main process in the sandy tidal flat. The abundances of Desulfococcus, LCP‐6 and Cyanobacterium in the non‐burrow sediment were greater than in the burrow sediment, suggesting that the anoxic condition is more suitable for Desulfococcus and LCP‐6 when the activity of S. nudus is absent. The biomass of Cyanobacterium was decreased by the feeding bioturbation of S. nudus. Meanwhile, the relative abundance of the Bacteroidetes Luteimonas in the burrow sediments was significantly greater than in the non‐burrow sediment, and there was a strong relationship between S. nudus bioturbation and increased in oxygen contents and oxidation‐reduction potentials in the burrow sediment. The abundances of Desulfococcus and LCP‐6 were greater in the middle layer (20–30 cm) than in the top layer in the non‐burrow sediment. However, the middle and bottom layers (20–30, 30–40 cm) had higher abundances of these genera than did the upper layers (0–10, 10–20 cm) in the burrow sediments. The abundances of the Fusobacteria Propionigenium and the Spirochaetes Spirochaeta were greater in the middle and bottom layers (20–30 cm, 30–40 cm) than in the top layers (0–10, 10–20 cm) in the burrow sediment, but this phenomenon was not found in the non‐burrow sediment. This study demonstrates that bioturbation by S. nudus plays an important role in reshaping the bacterial community composition in intertidal regions.
Optimized culturing conditions for an algicidal bacterium Pseudoalteromonas sp. SP48 on harmful algal blooms caused by Alexandrium tamarense
Authors: Lyu Yi‐Hua , Zhou Yue‐Xia , Li Yi , Zhou Jin , Xu Yi‐Xiao
Published: February 2019

Bacteria play an important role in preventing algal blooms and reducing their harm to the environment. To improve the algicidal activity of Pseudoalteromonas SP48 which had an inhibition effect on dinoflagellate Alexandrium tamarense, its growth medium and fermentation conditions were optimized for this bacterium. In this study, we used two steps to establish the optimum conditions. First, the proper proportion of medium was selected based on an orthogonal design. Then, the fermentation conditions were further optimized through uniform design in an enlarged 5L bioreactor. To test the algicidal ability of Pseudoalteromonas SP48 under the optimum conditions, algal cell morphology was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). After the orthogonal design, we found that the optimum medium was [0.7% (m/v) tryptone, 0.2% (m/v) soluble starch, 0.2% (m/v) sucrose, 0.1% (m/v) FeSO4, and 1.2% (m/v) K2HPO4] for Pseudoalteromonas SP48 growth. Based on these results, optimum fermentation conditions were further explored in a 5L fermentation cylinder using a uniform design; the influence of variables such as incubation time, carbon type, and rotation speed were tested. The optimal fermentation conditions were fermentation time (42 hr), tryptone (1.1%), seeding volume (1.4 × 1013 cells), and rotation speed (250 r/min). Under these established optimum conditions, the biomass of strain SP48 increased by 79.2% and its lethal dose 50% (LD50) decreased by 54.0%, respectively. The TEM results showed that compared with the control group, the cell wall and cell membrane of A. tamarense were significantly damaged, and the structure and shape of the organelles were destroyed by algicidal bacteria of Pseudoalteromonas SP48. Overall, our results demonstrate that the optimized culture conditions could significantly enhance the algicidal activity of Pseudoalteromonas SP48 against a harmful dinoflagellate, such as A. tamarense. It will effectively provide a scientific foundation for both production of algicidal substances and HABs control.
Predicting diagnosis of Parkinson's disease: A risk algorithm based on primary care presentations
Authors: Schrag Anette , Anastasiou Zacharias , Ambler Gareth , Noyce Alastair , Walters Kate
Published: February 2019

Background

Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) is typically preceded by nonspecific presentations in primary care.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to develop and validate a prediction model for diagnosis of PD based on presentations in primary care.

Setting

The settings were general practices providing data for The Health Improvement Network UK primary care database.

Methods

Data from 8,166 patients aged older than age 50 years with incident diagnosis of PD and 46,755 controls were analyzed. Likelihood ratios, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for individual symptoms and combinations of presentations were calculated. An algorithm for risk of diagnosis of PD within 5 years was calculated using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Split sample analysis was used for model validation with a 70% development sample and a 30% validation sample.

Results

Presentations independently and significantly associated with later diagnosis of PD in multivariate analysis were tremor, constipation, depression or anxiety, fatigue, dizziness, urinary dysfunction, balance problems, memory problems and cognitive decline, hypotension, rigidity, and hypersalivation. The discrimination and calibration of the risk algorithm were good with an area under the curve of 0.80 (95% confidence interval 0.78‐0.81). At a threshold of 5%, 37% of those classified as high risk would be diagnosed with PD within 5 years and 99% of those who were not classified as high risk would not be diagnosed with PD.

Conclusion

This risk algorithm applied to routine primary care presentations can identify individuals at increased risk of diagnosis of PD within 5 years to allow for monitoring and earlier diagnosis of PD. © 2019 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Icariin inhibits chondrocyte apoptosis and angiogenesis by regulating the TDP‐43 signaling pathway
Authors: Huang He , Zhang Zhao‐Fei , Qin Feng‐Wei , Tang Wang , Liu Dong‐Hua , Wu Pei‐Yu , Jiao Feng
Published: February 2019

Background

This study focused on the mechanisms where icariin inhibited chondrocyte apoptosis and angiogenesis by regulating the TDP‐43 signaling pathway.

Methods

A rat osteoarthritis (OA) model was established by collagenase injection. Histological examination of the articular cartilage and synovial tissue was performed 6 weeks after operation. Cartilage cell line overexpressing TDP‐43 and mesenchymal stem cell line (TDP43‐MSCs) of the rat TDP43 gene were established.

Results

In OA rats transplanted with TDP43‐mMSCs, TDP43 was highly expressed in chondrocytes (TDP43‐HC), while TDP43 expression was low in HC and MSCs‐HC (p < 0.05). After the intervention of MSCs‐TDP43, high expression of TDP43 induced the apoptosis and death of chondrocytes. After the addition of icariin, late apoptosis and death of TDP43‐HC were significantly attenuated. Apoptosis and death of HC, MSCs‐HC, and TDP43‐HC cells were effectively controlled with icariin, and no apparent cell death was found. ELISA showed that the VEGF and HIF‐1 alpha were significantly higher in the rat OA model than the normal control rats.

Conclusion

TDP43‐MSC transplantation interfered with the expression of TDP43 in the articular chondrocytes of OA rats, which may impact on inducing apoptosis of chondrocytes as well as inhibiting the proliferation of chondrocytes. Additionally, TDP43‐MSCs appeared to promote the formation of neovascularization in the synovial tissue, which could be significantly attenuated by icariin.
High frame rate doppler ultrasound bandwidth imaging for flow instability mapping
Authors: Yiu Billy Y. S. , Chee Adrian J. Y. , Tang Guo , Luo Wenbo , Yu Alfred C. H.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Flow instability has been shown to contribute to the risk of future cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Nonetheless, it is challenging to noninvasively detect and identify flow instability in blood vessels. Here, we present a new framework called Doppler ultrasound bandwidth imaging (DUBI) that uses high‐frame‐rate ultrasound and Doppler bandwidth analysis principles to assess flow instability within an image view.

Methods

Doppler ultrasound bandwidth imaging seeks to estimate the instantaneous Doppler bandwidth based on autoregressive modeling at every pixel position of data frames acquired from high‐frame‐rate plane wave pulsing. This new framework is founded upon the principle that flow instability naturally gives rise to a wide range of flow velocities over a sample volume, and such velocity range in turn yields a larger Doppler bandwidth estimate. The ability for DUBI to map unstable flow was first tested over a range of fluid flow conditions (ranging from laminar to turbulent) with a nozzle‐flow phantom. As a further demonstration, DUBI was applied to assess flow instability in healthy and stenosed carotid bifurcation phantoms.

Results

Nozzle‐flow phantom results showed that DUBI can effectively detect and visualize the difference in Doppler bandwidth magnitude (increased from 2.1 to 5.2 kHz) at stable and unstable flow regions in an image view. Receiver operating characteristic analysis also showed that DUBI can achieve optimal sensitivity and specificity of 0.72 and 0.83, respectively. In the carotid phantom experiments, differences were observed in the spatiotemporal dynamics of Doppler bandwidth over a cardiac cycle. Specifically, as the degree of stenosis increased (from 50% to 75%), DUBI showed an increase in Doppler bandwidth magnitude from 1.4 kHz in the healthy bifurcation to 7.7 kHz at the jet tail located downstream from a 75% stenosis site, thereby indicating flow perturbation in the stenosed bifurcations.

Conclusion

DUBI can detect unstable flow. This new technique can provide useful hemodynamic information that may aid clinical diagnosis of atherosclerosis.
Reducing the computational cost of NMR crystallography of organic powders at natural isotopic abundance with the help of 13C‐13C dipolar couplings
Authors: Thureau Pierre , Sturniolo Simone , Zilka Miri , Ziarelli Fabio , Viel Stéphane , Yates Jonathan R. , Mollica Giulia
Published: February 2019

Structure determination of functional organic compounds remains a formidable challenge when the sample exists as a powder. Nuclear magnetic resonance crystallography approaches based on the comparison of experimental and Density Functional Theory (DFT)‐computed 1H chemical shifts have already demonstrated great potential for structure determination of organic powders, but limitations still persist. In this study, we discuss the possibility of using 13C‐13C dipolar couplings quantified on powdered theophylline at natural isotopic abundance with the help of dynamic nuclear polarization, to realize a DFT‐free, rapid screening of a pool of structures predicted by ab initio random structure search. We show that although 13C‐13C dipolar couplings can identify structures possessing long range structural motifs and unit cell parameters close to those of the true structure, it must be complemented with other data to recover information about the presence and the chemical nature of the supramolecular interactions.
Toward in vivo determination of peripheral nervous system immune activity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Schreiber Stefanie , Schreiber Frank , Garz Cornelia , Debska‐Vielhaber Grazyna , Assmann Anne , Perosa Valentina , Petri Susanne , Dengler Reinhard , Nestor Peter , Vielhaber Stefan
Published: February 2019

Introduction: We sought to identify patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who displayed suspected peripheral nervous system (PNS) inflammation to compare them to those with suspected PNS degeneration. Methods: We measured sonographic median and ulnar nerve cross‐sectional area (CSA) and cerebrospinal fluid albumin/serum albumin ratio (Qalb) in patients with ALS to classify them as having suspected PNS degeneration (small CSA/low Qalb) or inflammation (larger CSA/high Qalb). Results: Fifty‐seven percent of patients had suspected PNS degeneration, 21% had suspected PNS inflammation, and 21% displayed suspected “normal PNS state.” Suspected PNS degeneration was related to classic ALS, shorter disease duration, and a smaller hypoechoic nerve area. Suspected PNS inflammation was associated with men, longer disease duration, and a larger hypoechoic nerve area and was the dominant finding in superoxide dismutase 1 mutation carriers. Discussion: Our simple approach might aid in the in vivo differentiation of supposed ALS subtypes, those with suspected PNS degeneration vs. inflammation, for stratification in clinical trials. Muscle Nerve 59:567–567, 2019
Impact of labour productivity on structural transformation and economic growth: A state‐level analysis
Authors: Jose Annmary
Published: February 2019

During the 90th and 20th century, India underwent a remarkable phase of growth and employment generation. Unlike the usual pattern of structural shift, India experienced a shift away from agriculture to services, which become the backbone of India's growth trajectory. Using shift‐share analysis, this paper tries to find out the pattern of structural change in India's five Southern States and contribution of labour productivity towards this structural shift. I find that all the South Indian states witnessed a service lead growth with a high‐labour productivity growth. I also find that the main driver of productivity surge in all the Southern States of India was within‐sector productivity growth whereas sectorial reallocation effects being the important part of productivity growth.
The game of manifestos!
Authors: Pandey Ashish
Published: February 2019

This paper investigates, leveraging a simple two‐stage game with incomplete information, the motivation behind announcing unreasonable commitments in the manifesto by candidates and political parties. I analyse the expected communication pattern in an environment where legal costs are not imposed for broken promises and psychological costs related to lying are not incurred by candidates. I demonstrate that there is an absence of separation between a high‐type candidate and a low‐type candidate regarding the degree to which they indulge in “cheap talk.” This paper also analyses the introduction of a penalty for broken promises and establishes that an imposition of penalty has the potential to improve the behaviour of political parties by inducing separation.
Photo‐aligning of polyimide layers for liquid crystals
Authors: Song Yongzhi , Yuan Lili , Wang Zhiyuan , Yang Shiyong
Published: February 2019

A series of soluble and highly transparent semi‐alicyclic polyimides (PIs) with designed flexible linkages have been synthesized derived from an alicyclic aromatic dianhydride (1,2,3,4‐cyclobutanetetracarboxylic dianhydride, CBDA) and various aromatic ether‐bridged diamines. The semi‐alicyclic PIs were evaluated as the photo‐alignment layers of liquid crystal (LC) molecules in liquid crystal display (LCD). Experimental results indicate that the photo‐alignment characteristics of LC molecules induced by the photo‐aligned PI layers and the electro‐optical (EO) properties of the LC cell devices are closely related with PI backbone structures. The retardation of the photo‐aligned PI layers is correlated with the ultraviolet (UV) absorption intensity of PI at 220 to approximately 330 nm. The higher UV absorption intensity PI has, the higher retardation and lower pre‐tilt angle the photo‐aligned PI layer exhibits. The defect‐free and photo‐aligned PI layer could result into the uniform LC texture, which is highly desired for in‐plane switching (IPS) mode LCD devices. In comparison, PI layer containing trifluoromethyl moiety shows poor photo‐aligning performance because of the strong electronic withdrawing effect of the fluorinated linkage.
L‐PGDS‐derived PGD2 attenuates acute lung injury by enhancing endothelial barrier formation
Authors: Horikami Daiki , Toya Naoki , Kobayashi Koji , Omori Keisuke , Nagata Nanae , Murata Takahisa
Published: February 2019

Acute lung injury (ALI) is caused by various stimuli such as acid aspiration and infection, resulting in severe clinical outcomes with high mortality. Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) is a lipid mediator produced in the lungs of patients with ALI. There are two prostaglandin D synthases (PGDS), namely, lipocalin‐type PGDS (L‐PGDS) and hematopoietic PGDS (H‐PGDS). We previously reported the anti‐inflammatory role of H‐PGDS‐derived PGD2 in an endotoxin‐induced murine ALI model. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the role of L‐PGDS‐derived PGD2 in ALI in comparison to H‐PGDS‐derived PGD2. Intratracheal administration of HCl caused lung inflammation accompanied by tissue edema and neutrophil accumulation in mouse lungs. The deficiency of both L‐PGDS and H‐PGDS exacerbated HCl‐induced lung dysfunction to a similar extent. Furthermore, a detailed investigation revealed that L‐PGDS‐derived PGD2 inhibited lung edema, while H‐PGDS‐derived PGD2 inhibited neutrophil infiltration. Immunostaining showed that inflamed endothelial/epithelial cells express L‐PGDS, while macrophages and neutrophils express H‐PGDS. Hematopoietic reconstitution with WT bone marrow did not rescue the exacerbated lung edema in L‐PGDS deficient mice, indicating the importance of nonhematopoietic endothelial/epithelial cell‐expressing L‐PGDS for protection against ALI. A modified Miles assay showed that L‐PGDS deficiency accelerated vascular hyper‐permeability in the inflamed lung, which was suppressed by the stimulation of D prostanoid (DP) receptor, a PGD2 receptor. In vitro, DP agonism enhanced the barrier function of endothelial cells but not epithelial cells. Taken together, our results suggest that in the HCl‐induced murine ALI model PGD2 was produced locally by inflamed endothelial and epithelial L‐PGDS and this enhanced the endothelial barrier through the DP receptor. Copyright © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
N‐homocysteinylation of tau and MAP1 is increased in autopsy specimens of Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia
Authors: Bossenmeyer‐Pourié Carine , Smith A David , Lehmann Sylvain , Deramecourt Vincent , Sablonnière Bernard , Camadro Jean‐Michel , Pourié Grégory , Kerek Racha , Helle Deborah , Umoret Remy , Guéant‐Rodriguez Rosa‐Maria , Rigau Valérie , Gabelle Audrey , Sequeira Jeffrey M , Quadros Edward V , Daval Jean‐Luc , Guéant Jean‐Louis
Published: February 2019

The pathomechanisms that associate a deficit in folate and/or vitamin B12 and the subsequent hyperhomocysteinemia with pathological brain ageing are unclear. We investigated the homocysteinylation of microtubule‐associated proteins (MAPs) in brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease or vascular dementia, and in rats depleted in folate and vitamin B12, Cd320 KO mice with selective B12 brain deficiency and H19‐7 neuroprogenitors lacking folate. Compared with controls, N‐homocysteinylated tau and MAP1 were increased and accumulated in protein aggregates and tangles in the cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum of patients and animals. N‐homocysteinylation dissociated tau and MAPs from β‐tubulin, and MS analysis showed that it targets lysine residues critical for their binding to β‐tubulin. N‐homocysteinylation increased in rats exposed to vitamin B12 and folate deficit during gestation and lactation and remained significantly higher when they became 450 days‐old, despite returning to normal diet at weaning, compared with controls. It was correlated with plasma homocysteine (Hcy) and brain expression of methionine tRNAsynthetase (MARS), the enzyme required for the synthesis of Hcy–thiolactone, the substrate of N‐homocysteinylation. Experimental inactivation of MARS prevented the N‐homocysteinylation of tau and MAP1, and the dissociation of tau and MAP1 from β‐tubulin and PSD95 in cultured neuroprogenitors. In conclusion, increased N‐homocysteinylation of tau and MAP1 is a mechanism of brain ageing that depends on Hcy concentration and expression of MARS enzyme. Its irreversibility and cumulative occurrence throughout life may explain why B12 and folate supplementation of the elderly has limited effects, if any, to prevent pathological brain ageing and cognitive decline. Copyright © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Prospective Assessment of an Adjustable, Immediate Fit, Transtibial Prosthesis
Authors: Dillingham Timothy , Kenia Jessica , Shofer Frances , Marschalek Jim
Published: February 2019

Background

There exists a need for an adjustable socket to accommodate residual limb volume and shape changes. Further, limb loss rates globally are rising and there is a large unmet need for affordable and accessible prosthetic systems.

Objective

To assess the utility of an immediate fit modular prosthetic system (iFIT Prosthetics, LLC).

Design

Prospective feasibility study involving a 2‐week single‐group pre‐post intervention study.

Setting

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation gait laboratory.

Participants

Participants were at least 6 months post amputation and walking with a conventional prosthesis. They were free of skin wounds, other neurological disorders, and severe pain conditions.

Methods

Participants were fit with an immediate fit prosthesis and instructed to wear it for a 2‐week evaluation period. They were given a progressive wearing schedule and they completed outcome measurements at the 2‐week follow‐up.

Main Outcome Measurements

Self‐reported satisfaction, gait biomechanics, and intrasocket peak pressures.

Results

Twenty‐six participants entered the study, with 22 completing the single group pre‐post study. They averaged 50 years (SD ±10.2) of age; four were female. Sixteen were dysvascular and 10 were traumatic in etiology. Significant differences (P = .03) in self‐reported satisfaction were found in favor of the iFIT device 29.33 (SD ± 4.51) versus the conventional device 25.52 (SD ± 6.8). No falls or limb ischemia were reported. Gait biomechanics revealed no differences across any temporal characteristics. Intrasocket peak pressures were significantly lower for the iFIT prostheses overall (P = .0014), at the anterior tibia (P = .0002), and the lateral side of the residual limb (P = .013).

Conclusions

The iFIT transtibial prosthetic system appears to be safe in this short‐term single‐group pre‐post study. This study provided preliminary evidence to support the feasibility of the iFIT system. It compared favorably to participants' conventional prostheses across all outcome measures. With its cost, adjustability, and accessibility advantages, this device may prove useful for persons with transtibial amputations. A larger multicenter study is needed to confirm these results.

Level of Evidence

III
Probing interfacial interactions of nafion ionomer: Thermal expansion of nafion thin films on substrates of different hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity
Authors: Zhang Chi , Davies Michael , Karan Kunal
Published: February 2019

Interfacial interactions of Nafion ionomer with superhydrophilic (Pt, Au), hydrophilic (SiO2), and hydrophobic (graphene, octyltrichlorosilane [OTS]‐modified SiO2) is investigated, using in situ thermal ellipsometry, by quantification of substrate‐ and thickness‐dependent thermal properties of the ultrathin Nafion films of nominal thickness ranging 25–135 nm. For sub‐50 nm thin Nafion films, the thermal expansion coefficient of films decreased in the order of most hydrophobic to most hydrophilic substrate: OTS > graphene > SiO2 > Au > Pt, implying weaker interpolymer and polymer–substrate interactions for films on hydrophobic substrates. Expansion coefficient of films on SiO2, graphene, and OTS‐modified SiO2 decreased with thickness whereas that of films on Au and Pt substrates increased with thickness. Above ~100 nm of thickness, films on all substrates converged toward a common value representative of bulk Nafion. Thermal transition temperature was found to be higher for films on hydrophilic SiO2 than that for films on hydrophobic graphene and OTS‐modified SiO2 but was not discernible for films on Au and Pt substrates. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 343–352
Oncology patient preferences for depression care: A discrete choice experiment
Authors: Hobden Breanne , Turon Heidi , Bryant Jamie , Wall Laura , Brown Scott , Sanson‐Fisher Rob
Published: February 2019

Objective

Using a vignette‐style DCE in a sample of oncology patients, this study explored: (1) the relative influence of the patient's level of concern about their depression on preferences for care, (2) the relative influence of depression severity according to a mental health checklist on preferred treatment‐seeking options, and (3) whether patient age and gender were associated with depression care preference.

Methods

A discrete choice experiment (DCE) survey of cancer patients was conducted. Hypothetical vignettes to elicit care preferences were created using two attributes: the cancer patient's level of concern about depression (a little or a great deal) and results of a mental health checklist (not depressed or very depressed). Three response options for care preferences were presented, including a self‐directed approach, shared care approach, and clinician‐directed referral approach. Participants chose their most and least preferred options.

Results

A total of 281 cancer patients completed the survey. There was a significant association between level of concern and the most preferred option. Those with a great deal of concern about depression preferred to receive referral from their clinician more than those with a little concern about depression. Males were significantly more likely to select a self‐directed approach as their most preferred option.

Conclusions

An oncology patient's level of concern about depression may influence the type of care they want to receive from their cancer doctor for depression. This finding has implications for depression screening in clinical practice.
Mutagenesis of GPR139 reveals ways to create gain or loss of function receptors
Authors: Wang Lien , Lee Grace , Shih Amy , Kuei Chester , Nepomuceno Diane , Wennerholm Michelle , Fan Frances , Wu Jiejun , Bonaventure Pascal , Lovenberg Timothy W. , Liu Changlu
Published: February 2019

GPR139 is a Gq‐coupled receptor activated by the essential amino acids L‐tryptophan (L‐Trp) and L‐phenylalanine (L‐Phe). We carried out mutagenesis studies of the human GPR139 receptor to identify the critical structural motifs required for GPR139 activation. We applied site‐directed and high throughput random mutagenesis approaches using a double addition normalization strategy to identify novel GPR139 sequences coding receptors that have altered sensitivity to endogenous ligands. This approach resulted in GPR139 clones with gain‐of‐function, reduction‐of‐function or loss‐of‐function mutations. The agonist pharmacology of these mutant receptors was characterized and compared to wild‐type receptor using calcium mobilization, radioligand binding, and protein expression assays. The structure‐activity data were incorporated into a homology model which highlights that many of the gain‐of‐function mutations are either in or immediately adjacent to the purported orthosteric ligand binding site, whereas the loss‐of‐function mutations were largely in the intracellular G‐protein binding area or were disrupters of the helix integrity. There were also some reduction‐of‐function mutations in the orthosteric ligand binding site. These findings may not only facilitate the rational design of novel agonists and antagonists of GPR139, but also may guide the design of transgenic animal models to study the physiological function of GPR139.
Assessment of neuropeptide binding sites and the impact of biostable kinin and CAP2b analogue treatment on aphid (Myzus persicae and Macrosiphum rosae) stress tolerance
Authors: Alford Lucy , Marley Richard , Dornan Anthony , Pierre Jean‐Sébastien , Dow Julian AT , Nachman Ronald J , Davies Shireen A
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Neuropeptides are regulators of critical life processes in insects and, due to their high specificity, represent potential targets in the development of greener insecticidal agents. Fundamental to this drive is understanding neuroendocrine pathways that control key physiological processes in pest insects and the screening of potential analogues. The current study investigated neuropeptide binding sites of kinin and CAPA (CAPA‐1) in the aphids Myzus persicae and Macrosiphum rosae and the effect of biostable analogues on aphid fitness under conditions of desiccation, starvation and thermal (cold) stress.

RESULTS

M. persicae and M. rosae displayed identical patterns of neuropeptide receptor mapping along the gut, with the gut musculature representing the main target for kinin and CAPA‐1 action. While kinin receptor binding was observed in the brain and VNC of M. persicae, this was not observed in M. rosae. Furthermore, no CAPA‐1 receptor binding was observed in the brain and VNC of either species. CAP2b/PK analogues (with CAPA receptor cross‐activity) were most effective in reducing aphid fitness under conditions of desiccation and starvation stress, particularly analogues 1895 (2Abf‐Suc‐FGPRLa) and 2129 (2Abf‐Suc‐ATPRIa), which expedited aphid mortality. All analogues, with the exception of 2139‐Ac, were efficient at reducing aphid survival under cold stress, although were equivalent in the strength of their effect.

CONCLUSION

In demonstrating the effects of analogues belonging to the CAP2b neuropeptide family and key analogue structures that reduce aphid fitness under stress conditions, this research will feed into the development of second generation analogues and ultimately the development of neuropeptidomimetic‐based insecticidal agents. © 2019 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Farrerol attenuates MPP+‐induced inflammatory response by TLR4 signaling in a microglia cell line
Authors: Cui Bei , Guo Xiaqing , You Yanhui , Fu Rongli
Published: February 2019

Farrerol was found to possess neuroprotective effect; however, the mechanism remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of farrerol on MPP+‐induced inflammation in mouse microglial BV‐2 cells and to elaborate the underlying mechanism. MTT assay was performed to measure the cell viability. The pro‐inflammatory mediators and cytokines including interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α); inducible nitric oxide synthase; and cyclooxygenase 2 were measured. The expression of p‐p65, p‐IκBα, toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 were analyzed by western blot. We found that farrerol treatment improved cell viability in MPP+‐induced BV‐2 cells. MPP+‐induced upregulation of IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α was inhibited by farrerol treatment. Farrerol treatment also attenuated MPP+‐induced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase 2 as well as the activation of NF‐κB in BV‐2 cells. MPP+‐induced TLR4 signaling was markedly diminished by farrerol treatment. Knockdown of TLR4 attenuated MPP+‐induced inflammatory response in BV‐2 cells. In conclusion, farrerol treatment attenuated MPP+‐induced inflammatory response by inhibiting the TLR4 signaling pathway in BV‐2 cells. The results indicated that farrerol could be used as a therapeutic agent for preventing or alleviating the neuroinflammation‐related diseases, such as Parkinson's disease.
A case‐study of cold‐air pool evolution in hilly terrain using field measurements from COLPEX
Authors: Jemmett‐Smith Bradley C. , Ross Andrew N. , Sheridan Peter F. , Hughes John K. , Vosper Simon B.
Published: February 2019

A case‐study investigation of cold‐air pool (CAP) evolution in hilly terrain is conducted using field measurements made during IOP 16 of the COLd‐air Pool EXperiment (COLPEX). COLPEX was designed to study cold‐air pooling in small‐scale valleys typical of the UK (∼100–200 m deep, ∼1 km wide). The synoptic conditions during IOP 16 are typical of those required for CAPs to form during the night, with high pressure, clear skies and low ambient winds. Initially a CAP forms around sunset and grows uninterrupted for several hours. However, starting 4 hr after sunset, a number of interruptions to this steady cooling rate occur. Three episodes are highlighted from the observations and the cause of disruption attributed to (a) wave activity, in the form of gravity waves and/or Kelvin–Helmholtz (KH) instability, (b) increases in the above‐valley winds resulting from the development of a nocturnal low‐level jet (NLLJ), (c) shear‐induced mixing resulting from instability of the NLLJ. A weakly stable residual layer provides the conditions for wave activity during Episode 1. This residual layer is eroded by a developing NLLJ from the top down during Episode 2. The sustained increase in winds at hill‐top levels – attributed to the NLLJ – continue to disrupt the CAP through Episode 3. Although cooling is interrupted, the CAP is never completely eroded during the night. Complete CAP break‐up occurs some 3.5 hr after local sunrise. This case‐study highlights a number of meteorological phenomena that can disrupt CAP evolution even in ideal CAP conditions. These processes are unlikely to be sufficiently represented by current operational weather forecast models and can be challenging even for high‐resolution research models.
Coded transmissions for space links affected by solar scintillation: Baseband analysis
Authors: Baldi Marco , Chiaraluce Franco , Maturo Nicola , Ricciutelli Giacomo , Ardito Alessandro , Barbaglio Francesco , Finocchiaro Stefano , Simone Lorenzo , Abelló Ricard , De Vicente Javier , Mercolino Mattia
Published: February 2019

A thorough analysis of the behavior of error‐correcting codes over space links affected by solar scintillation is presented. The relevant channel parameters are fixed through the development of a model based on real missions' data. Both telecommand and telemetry links are considered in fast and slow fading conditions. Besides classical coherent modulation schemes, the possibility to use noncoherent modulation schemes is considered, to eliminate the problem of phase tracking. For the case of channels with very slow fading, the use of external interleavers or erasure coding is proposed to cope with error bursts.