bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On-demand provisioning strategy for inter-domain key services in multi-domain cross-protocol quantum networks
Authors: Chen Yue , Liu Chang-Jie , Zheng Yi-Jia , Cao Yuan , Guo Ming-Xuan , Zhu Jia-Li , Zhou Xing-Yu , Yu Xiao-Song , Zhao Yong-Li , Wang Qin ,   School of Communications and Information Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210003, China,   State Key Laboratory of Information Photonics and Optical Communications, Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Beijing 100876, China
Published: July 2024

Most of the existing metropolitan quantum networks are implemented based on a single quantum key distribution protocol, and interconnecting metropolitan quantum networks implemented by different protocols are the development trend of large-scale quantum networks, but there are still some problems in the provision of inter-domain key services, such as low possibility of success and mismatch between key supply and demand. To solve the above problems, this paper proposes two on-demand inter-domain key service provisioning strategies for multi-domain cross-protocol quantum networks, namely, on-demand provisioning strategy based on BB84 bypass first (BB84-BF) and on-demand provisioning strategy based on MDI bypass first (MDI-BF). Meanwhile, a service provisioning model for multi-domain cross-protocol quantum networks is constructed, and an on-demand inter-domain key service provisioning algorithm is designed. Moreover, numerical simulations and performance evaluation are carried out under two scenarios: high key rate demand and low key rate demand for two-domain and three-domain quantum network topologies. Simulation results verify that the proposed on-demand provisioning strategies have better applicability to different multi-domain quantum networks. In addition, for different key rate requirements, the MDI-BF strategy and BB84-BF strategys have different performance advantages under different performance indicators. For example, in terms of the success possibility of inter-domain key service requests, the MDI-BF strategy is more suitable for the low key rate requirements (~30% higher than the traditional strategies in two domain topologies), while the BB84-BF strategy is more suitable for the high key rate requirements (~19% higher than the traditional strategies under two domain topologies). In addition, compared with the traditional strategies, the proposed on-demand provisioning strategies can increase the balance degree between key supply and demand by more than one order of magnitude. Hence, the proposed strategies can reduce the cost of inter-domain key service provisioning and improve the realistic security level.
Direct observation of the neural computations underlying a single decision
Authors: Steinemann Natalie A , Stine Gabriel M , Trautmann Eric M , Zylberberg Ariel , Wolpert Daniel M , Shadlen Michael N
Published: July 2024

Neurobiological investigations of perceptual decision-making have furnished the first glimpse of a flexible cognitive process at the level of single neurons (Shadlen and Newsome, 1996; Shadlen and Kiani, 2013). Neurons in the parietal and prefrontal cortex (Kim and Shadlen, 1999; Romo et al., 2004; Hernández et al., 2002; Ding and Gold, 2012) are thought to represent the accumulation of noisy evidence, acquired over time, leading to a decision. Neural recordings averaged over many decisions have provided support for the deterministic rise in activity to a termination bound (Roitman and Shadlen, 2002). Critically, it is the unobserved stochastic component that is thought to confer variability in both choice and decision time (Gold and Shadlen, 2007). Here, we elucidate this drift-diffusion signal on individual decisions. We recorded simultaneously from hundreds of neurons in the lateral intraparietal cortex (LIP) of monkeys while they made decisions about the direction of random dot motion. We show that a single scalar quantity, derived from the weighted sum of the population activity, represents a combination of deterministic drift and stochastic diffusion. Moreover, we provide direct support for the hypothesis that this drift-diffusion signal approximates the quantity responsible for the variability in choice and reaction times. The population-derived signals rely on a small subset of neurons with response fields that overlap the choice targets. These neurons represent the integral of noisy evidence. Another subset of direction-selective neurons with response fields that overlap the motion stimulus appear to represent the integrand. This parsimonious architecture would escape detection by state-space analyses, absent a clear hypothesis.
GABA-ergic inhibition in human hMT+ predicts visuo-spatial intelligence mediated through the frontal cortex
Authors: Gao Yuan , Cai Yong-Chun , Liu Dong-Yu , Yu Juan , Wang Jue , Li Ming , Xu Bin , Wang Teng-Fei , Chen Gang , Northoff Georg , Bai Ruiliang , Song Xue Mei
Published: July 2024

The prevailing opinion emphasizes fronto-parietal network (FPN) is key in mediating general fluid intelligence (gF). Meanwhile, recent studies show that human MT complex (hMT+), located at the occipito-temporal border and involved in 3D perception processing, also plays a key role in gF. However, the underlying mechanism is not clear, yet. To investigate this issue, our study targets visuo-spatial intelligence, which is considered to have high loading on gF. We use ultra-high field magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to measure GABA/glutamate concentrations in hMT+ combined with resting-state fMRI functional connectivity (FC), behavioral examinations including hMT+ perception suppression test, and a gF subtest for its visuo-spatial component. Our findings show that both GABA in hMT+ and frontal-hMT+ functional connectivity significantly correlate with the performance of visuo-spatial intelligence. Further, serial mediation model demonstrates that the effect of hMT+ GABA on visuo-spatial
g
F is fully mediated by the hMT+ frontal FC. Together, our findings highlight the importance in integrating sensory and frontal cortices in mediating the visuospatial component of general fluid intelligence.
T-follicular helper cells are epigenetically poised to transdifferentiate into T-regulatory type-1 cells
Authors: Garnica Josep , Solé Patricia , Yamanouchi Jun , Moro Joel , Mondal Debajyoti , Fándos Cesar , Serra Pau , Santamaria Pere
Published: July 2024

Chronic antigenic stimulation can trigger the formation of IL-10-producing T-regulatory type 1 (TR1) cells
in vivo
. We have recently shown that T follicular helper (TFH) cells are precursors of TR1 cells and that the TFH-to-TR1 cell transdifferentiation process is characterized by the progressive loss and acquisition of opposing transcription factor gene expression programs that evolve through at least one transitional cell stage. Here, we use a broad range of bulk and single-cell transcriptional and epigenetic tools to investigate the epigenetic underpinnings of this process. At the single cell level, the TFH-to-TR1 cell transition is accompanied by both, downregulation of TFH cell-specific gene expression due to loss of chromatin accessibility, and upregulation of TR1 cell-specific genes linked to chromatin regions that remain accessible throughout the transdifferentiation process, with minimal generation of new open chromatin regions. By interrogating the epigenetic status of accessible TR1 genes on purified TFH and conventional T cells, we find that most of these genes, including
Il10
, are already poised for expression at the TFH cell stage. Whereas these genes are closed and hypermethylated in Tconv cells, they are accessible, hypomethylated and enriched for H3K27ac-marked and hypomethylated active enhancers in TFH cells. These enhancers are enriched for binding sites for the TFH and TR1-associated transcription factors TOX-2, IRF4 and c-MAF. Together, these data suggest that the TR1 gene expression program is genetically imprinted at the TFH cell stage.
Investigating working memory updating processes of the human subcortex using 7T MRI
Authors: Trutti Anne C , Sjoerds Zsuzsika , Boag Russell J , Walstra Solenn LY , Miletić Steven , Isherwood Scott SJ , Bazin Pierre-Louis , Hommel Bernhard , Habli Sarah , Tse Desmond HY , Håberg Asta K , Forstmann Birte
Published: July 2024

A growing body of research suggests that dopamine is involved in working memory updating and that the striatum takes up a critical role in the subprocess of working memory gating (Braver & Cohen, 2000; Cools & D’Esposito, 2011; D’Ardenne et al., 2012; Jongkees, 2020). In this study, we investigated subcortical–in particular, possible dopaminergic–involvement in working memory updating subprocesses using the reference-back task and ultra-high field 7 Tesla fMRI. Using a scanning protocol optimized for BOLD-sensitivity in the subcortex, we found no evidence of subcortical activation during working memory gate opening, predominantly activations in frontoparietal network regions, which challenges the idea of a striatal gating mechanism. However, during gate closing, subcortical activation was observed. Furthermore, a ready-to-update mode demonstrated large-spread subcortical activation, including basal ganglia nuclei, suggesting that the basal ganglia are engaged in general updating processes rather than specifically controlling the working memory gate. Moreover, substituting new information into working memory elicited activation in dopamine-producing midbrain regions along with the striatum, thalamus, and prefrontal cortex, indicating engagement of the basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical loop possibly driven by (potential) dopaminergic activity. These findings expand our understanding of subcortical regions involved in working memory updating, shifting the focus from gate opening to substitution as a midbrain-driven updating process.
Comparative Study on the Properties of Different Fiber-modified Asphalts
Authors: Zhang Jiusheng , Dong Xinyu
Published: July 2024

As a major cotton planting country, China has abundant green cotton straw resources. If these resources can be skillfully applied to the construction of asphalt pavement, it can not only significantly improve the performance of asphalt and reduce the life cycle cost, but also effectively solve the environmental pollution caused by straw burning and accumulation. The problem of high-value utilization of crop straw contributes to the construction of a sustainable transportation system. Therefore, the main research contents and conclusions are as follows: Fiber blending in asphalt can effectively improve asphalt performance, improve asphalt pavement life. Cotton straw fiber, basalt fiber and polyester fiber fiber were made into different kinds of modified asphalt, its softening point, penetration, ductility of a series of experimental research, compared with different kinds of 3% fiber dosage on the asphalt modification effect. The study proved that cotton straw fiber, basalt fiber and polyester fiber fiber are to a certain extent to enhance the performance of asphalt, the integrated degree of penetration, softening point, ductility data can be seen, cotton straw fiber straw fiber modified asphalt has a more excellent overall performance.
Enhancing Agricultural Production through Climate Change Adaptation: A Case of Bahi District, Tanzania
Authors: Ilomo Frida M. , Lyimo James G. , Mabhuye Edmund B.
Published: July 2024

This article assesses climate change adaptation strategies' contribution to agricultural production in Chipanga A, Chikola and Kigwe villages, Bahi district, Tanzania. The article used a quantitative method. Primary data collection methods include household interviews and field observations. Secondary data are obtained through a literature review, and meteorological data (rainfall and temperature) are sourced from the Tanzania Meteorological Agency. The research incorporated interviews with 254 households. Quantitative data analysis was done using SPSS version 20, which used Excel 2010 to create graphs and tables for descriptive data. Inferential data, aimed at assessing relationships between variables, were analysed through chi-square and t-tests. Smallholder farmers employed various adaptation strategies in the study area, including improved seeds (drought-tolerant and early-maturing crops), fertilizers, intercropping, mixed farming, crop diversification, and irrigation. These strategies exhibited statistical significance (p < 0.05). Notably, these adaptation strategies substantially impacted crop production, with 85% of respondents stating that these strategies significantly enhanced crop production (p < 0.001) within the study area. The study recommends the improvement of practical knowledge, improving agriculture extension services, provision of credible information on climate change adaptation strategies and quick assistance when needed by smallholder farmers, provision of capital and credit to farmers, as well as the construction of sound agricultural infrastructure system to enhance smallholder farmers’ capacity of adaptation hence increased of agrarian production.
Diversity and Relative Abundance of Insect Pests and Natural Enemies in Bacillus Treated Rice
Authors: Chaitanya M. , Mahendra K. R. , Manjunatha B. , Jayanth B. V.
Published: July 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Indian Institute of Rice Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad to decipher diversity and relative abundance of insect pests, Hemipteran predators and Hymenopteran parasitoids in Bacillus treated rice crop during Rabi, 2020. Yellow pan traps, visual count, yellow sticky traps, sweep net and D-net methods were used for collecting insect specimens. A total of 777 individuals of pests belonging to 11 families, 920 predators belonging to 14 families and 3587 parasitoids belonging to 15 families were collected. The highest relative abundances of pests, predator and parasitoids were reported for families Cicadellidae (34.36%), Miridae (66.96%) and Eulophidae (53.28%) respectively. Visual counting for pests (43%) and predators (38%) and yellow sticky traps for parasitoids (89.66%) were found to be most effective methods of collection. The total abundance of natural enemies was found far higher than the pest individuals, this suggesting natural control of pests in the Bacillus treated rice crop kept the pest population under check.
Optimization of Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata Nees.) Cultivation through Plant Spacing and Nutrient Management
Authors: U. B Anuradha , Patil M. G , Kurubar A. R. , Patil Shekharagouda , N Amaregouda , N Ananda
Published: July 2024

Kalmegh is being used form the immortal time for treating the cold, fever, snake bite, diabetics, liver diseases etc. An field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2019-2020 at Horticulture Farm, Main Agricultural Research Station, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India, to study the response of plant geometry and integrated nutrient management on growth and yield of kalmegh. The experiment was laid out in a spilt plot design with 15 treatments and 3 replications. The results revealed that spacing of 30cm x 45 cm with imposition of 50% RDN + 50% vermicompost equivalent to recommended N found to be significantly higher number of primary branches and leaves per plant, leaf area and dry matter accumulation over the other treatments. The fresh and dry herbage yield per hectare were resulted in the significantly higher in the spacing of 30cm x 15 cm with the application of 50% RDN + 50% vermicompost equivalent to recommended N.
The Correlation between Female Literacy and Juvenile Sex Ratio in Nashik District: A Geographical Perspective
Authors: Ahire Dhanraj Kalu
Published: July 2024

The present investigation aims to examine the geographical analysis of the correlation between female literacy and the juvenile sex ratio in Nashik district. The study is primarily based on secondary data collected from Nashik district's 2011 population census handbooks. The present paper is a major analysis of the female literacy rate, the juvenile sex ratio pattern, and its correlation with the study region. This research paper applies the literacy rate method, the juvenile sex ratio method, and the Pearson correlation coefficient technique. Nashik, Malegaon, Niphad, Yeola, and Deola tehsils showed high female literacy. In Dindori, Igatpuri, Baglan, Chandwad, Nandgoan, and Sinnar tehsils, there is moderate female literacy, while in highly concentrated tribal populations such as Surgana, Peint, Triembek, and Kalwan tehsils, there is low female literacy. Generally, developed regions exhibit high female literacy rates, while less developed regions, particularly tribal regions, display low female literacy rates. Only three tahsils, namely Peint, Trimbakshwar, and Surgana, exhibited a high juvenile sex ratio. Kalwan, Malegaon, Chandwad, Yeola, Baglan, Sinner, and Nandgaon had a moderate juvenile sex ratio, while Baglan, Chnadwad, Deola, Nandgaon, Niphad, Nashik, and Sinnar tehsil had the lowest. Tribal regions generally have the highest juvenile sex ratio, while urban areas have the lowest. The correlation analysis reveals a strong negative relationship between the female literacy rate and the juvenile sex ratio. Therefore, we can conclude that there is no significant relationship between the female literacy rate and the juvenile sex ratio level, and variations in the female literacy rate do not influence the juvenile sex ratio in the study region. The present paper gives a geographical analysis of the correlation between female literacy and the juvenile sex ratio in Nashik district.
Was there an original causeway across the Antonine Wall ditch at Rough Castle?
Authors: Hanson W S
Published: July 2024

It has long been accepted that the Antonine Wall ditch in front of the north gate of the fort at Rough Castle was provided with an undug causeway, implying that the existence of the fort was known at the time the ditch was dug. This has created problems for our understanding of the chronology of the Wall construction process because it contradicts other stratigraphic evidence that the fort was a later addition. The evidence for the existence of a primary causeway is challenged, based on an examination of archival photography and a re-assessment of the early excavation data supported by historical mapping and LiDAR data, concluding that it can no longer be sustained.
Secular changes in the thermosphere and ionosphere between two quiet Sun periods
Authors: Qian Liying , Solomon Stanley C. , Roble Raymond G.
Published: March 2014

The solar minimum period between solar cycles 23 and 24 was the longest since the beginning of space‐based measurements, and many manifestations of solar activity were unusually low. Thermospheric neutral density was about 30% lower than during the previous solar minimum, but changes in the ionosphere between the two solar minima are more controversial. Solar radiation, geomagnetic activity, and anthropogenic increases in greenhouse gases can all play a role in these changes. In this paper, we address the latter of these potential contributions the degree to which secular change driven by greenhouse gases, primarily CO2, could be responsible for the observed changes. New 3‐D model simulations find a global mean density decrease at 400 km of 5.8% between the two recent solar minima, which is larger than earlier 1‐D model results and in better agreement with observations. From these model simulations and from other observational work, we estimate that the contribution of secular change to global mean neutral density decrease between the two recent solar minima is less than ~6%. The contribution of secular change to the global average decrease of F region ionosphere peak density (NmF2) and altitude (hmF2), near midday, is estimated to be 1.5% and 1.5 km, respectively. However, secular changes in the ionosphere exhibit large variations with local time, geographic location, and season. The midday change of NmF2 seen in the model simulations ranged between +6% and −9% and the change of hmF2 ranged between +11 km and −11 km, depending on geographic location.
Annual distributions and sources of Arctic aerosol components, aerosol optical depth, and aerosol absorption
Authors: Breider Thomas J. , Mickley Loretta J. , Jacob Daniel J. , Wang Qiaoqiao , Fisher Jenny A. , Chang Rachel. Y.‐W. , Alexander Becky
Published: March 2014

Radiative forcing by aerosols and tropospheric ozone could play a significant role in recent Arctic warming. These species are in general poorly accounted for in climate models. We use the GEOS‐Chem global chemical transport model to construct a 3‐D representation of Arctic aerosols and ozone that is consistent with observations and can be used in climate simulations. We focus on 2008, when extensive observations were made from different platforms as part of the International Polar Year. Comparison to aircraft, surface, and ship cruise observations suggests that GEOS‐Chem provides in general a successful year‐round simulation of Arctic black carbon (BC), organic carbon (OC), sulfate, and dust aerosol. BC has major fuel combustion and boreal fire sources, OC is mainly from fires, sulfate has a mix of anthropogenic and natural sources, and dust is mostly from the Sahara. The model is successful in simulating aerosol optical depth (AOD) observations from Aerosol Robotics Network stations in the Arctic; the sharp drop from spring to summer appears driven in part by the smaller size of sulfate aerosol in summer. The anthropogenic contribution to Arctic AOD is a factor of 4 larger in spring than in summer and is mainly sulfate. Simulation of absorbing aerosol optical depth (AAOD) indicates that non‐BC aerosol (OC and dust) contributed 24% of Arctic AAOD at 550 nm and 37% of absorbing mass deposited to the snow pack in 2008. Open fires contributed half of AAOD at 550 nm and half of deposition to the snowpack.
Sediment dynamics in shallow tidal basins: In situ observations, satellite retrievals, and numerical modeling in the Venice Lagoon
Authors: Carniello L. , Silvestri S. , Marani M. , D'Alpaos A. , Volpe V. , Defina A.
Published: March 2014

The morphological evolution of shallow tidal systems strongly depends on gradients in transport that control sediment erosion and deposition. A spatially refined quantitative description of suspended sediment patterns and dynamics is therefore a key requirement to address issues connected with dynamical trends, responses, and conservation of these systems. Here we use a combination of numerical models of sediment transport dynamics, high temporal resolution point observations, and high spatial resolution remote sensing data to overcome the intrinsic limitations of traditional monitoring approaches and to establish the robustness of numerical models in reproducing space‐time suspended sediment concentration (SSC) patterns. The comparison of SSC distributions in the Venice Lagoon (Italy) computed with a numerical model with SSC retrievals from remote sensing data allows us to define the ability of the model to properly describe spatial patterns and gradients in the SSC fields. The use of point observations similarly allows us to constrain the model temporally, thus leading to a complete space‐time evaluation of model abilities. Our results highlight the fundamental control exerted on sediment transport intensity and patterns by the sheltering effect associated with artificial and natural intertidal landforms. Furthermore, we show how the stabilizing effect of benthic vegetation is a main control of sediment dynamics at the system scale, confirming a notion previously established in the laboratory or at small field scales.
Parameterization and sensitivity analysis of a process‐based terrestrial ecosystem model using adjoint method
Authors: Zhu Qing , Zhuang Qianlai
Published: March 2014

We developed an adjoint version of a process‐based biogeochemistry model, the Terrestrial Ecosystem Model (TEM). The adjoint model of TEM was then used to: (1) conduct sensitivity studies of net ecosystem production (NEP) for three terrestrial ecosystems: grassland, deciduous broadleaf forest and evergreen needle‐leaf forest; (2) rank the importance of parameters in controlling NEP; (3) optimize the model parameters by assimilating eddy flux data of NEP; and (4) evaluate parameterization by extrapolating optimal parameters to other sites that have the same plant functional type as the calibration sites. We found that: (1) the maximum rate of photosynthesis (CMAX) was the most important parameter in determining NEP, while the importance of the remaining parameters varied depending on plant functional type, suggesting that the same ecosystem process has different degrees of importance in modeling carbon fluxes; (2) the sensitivity of NEP toCMAXhad a significant seasonal variability and the control ofCMAXon NEP was much larger in growing season (defined as from April to October) than that in nongrowing season (defined as from December to March); and (3) after parameterization, TEM could reasonably reproduce carbon fluxes observed at eddy flux tower sites. This study provided an effective model‐data fusion framework of TEM, which could improve the future quantification of terrestrial ecosystem carbon fluxes at both site and regional levels.
Contribution of impervious surfaces to urban evaporation
Authors: Ramamurthy P. , Bou‐Zeid E.
Published: March 2014

Observational data and the Princeton urban canopy model, with its detailed representation of urban heterogeneity and hydrological processes, are combined to study evaporation and turbulent water vapor transport over urban areas. The analyses focus on periods before and after precipitation events, at two sites in the Northeastern United States. Our results indicate that while evaporation from concrete pavements, building rooftops, and asphalt surfaces is discontinuous and intermittent, overall these surfaces accounted for nearly 18% of total latent heat fluxes (LE) during a relatively wet 10 day period. More importantly, these evaporative fluxes have a significant impact on the urban surface energy balance, particularly during the 48 h following a rain event when impervious evaporation is the highest. Thus, their accurate representation in urban models is critical. Impervious evaporation after rainfall is also shown to correlate the sources of heat and water at the earth surface, resulting in a conditional scalar transport similarity over urban terrain following rain events.
You'd Better Ask an Expert: Mitigating the Comprehensibility Effect on Laypeople's Decisions About Science‐Based Knowledge Claims
Authors: Scharrer Lisa , Stadtler Marc , Bromme Rainer
Published: March 2014

Research shows that laypeople rely more on their capabilities to make decisions about science‐based knowledge claims after reading comprehensible compared with less comprehensible topic information. This can be problematic, because complex science‐based issues usually cannot be understood fully without experts' further advice. The present study investigated whether making readers aware of the ‘epistemic topic complexity’ of an issue (i.e., the extent of existing topic knowledge, the complexity of relationships between concepts, and the existence of multiple expert perspectives) can mitigate this influence of comprehensibility. Undergraduate students read comprehensible or less comprehensible health texts with topic knowledge being described as complex, uncomplex, or not described at all. They reported whether they agreed with the claim and would rely on their decision. Results showed that after reading comprehensible information, participants' reliance on their decision increased less when they considered topic knowledge to be complex. Practical implications of the findings are discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Finger Length Pattern as a Biomarker for Osteoarthritis and Chronic Joint Pain: A Population‐Based Study and Meta‐Analysis After Systematic Review
Authors: de Kruijf Marjolein , Kerkhof Hanneke J. M. , Peters Marjolein J. , Bierma‐Zeinstra Sita , Hofman Albert , Uitterlinden Andre G. , Huggen Frank J. P. M. , van Meurs Joyce B. J.
Published: March 2014

Objective

Type 3 finger length pattern (longer fourth digit than second digit) is influenced by prenatal androgens and has been studied previously as a biomarker for sexually dimorphic traits. Because osteoarthritis (OA) and chronic pain are known to be sexually dimorphic traits, we evaluated the association between finger length pattern and OA and chronic joint pain.

Methods

This study was part of the Rotterdam Study, a prospective population‐based cohort study. We examined 4,784 participants. Associations between type 3 finger length and radiologic knee, hip, and hand OA and chronic joint pain were analyzed using a logistic regression model. Our results for OA were combined with previously published data in a meta‐analysis.

Results

Participants with type 3 finger length pattern had an odds ratio of 1.64 for hand OA (P = 1.06 × 10−7). No associations with radiologic knee or hip OA were observed in the Rotterdam Study. The meta‐analysis of previously published data and our novel data showed a significant association between type 3 finger length pattern and clinical symptomatic knee OA, but no association was found with radiologic knee OA. In addition, within the Rotterdam Study, we observed an odds ratio of 1.41 for individuals having joint pain at multiple sites (P = 1.4 × 10−3).

Conclusion

Type 3 finger length pattern, as an indicator of prenatal androgen exposure, was associated with having symptomatic knee OA, chronic pain, and hand OA. Therefore, it may be applicable as an easy measurable biomarker to identify susceptible subjects for these traits.
Catalytic Enantioselective Synthesis of α‐Arylaminocyclobutanones
Authors: Aitken David J. , Caboni Pierluigi , Eijsberg Hendrik , Frongia Angelo , Guillot Régis , Ollivier Jean , Piras Pier Paolo , Secci Francesco
Published: March 2014

A catalytic enantioselective synthesis of α‐arylaminocyclobutanones from racemic α‐hydroxycyclobutanone and a selection of N‐alkylanilines has been established, via a tandem condensation/keto‐enol tautomerization process reminiscent of the Amadori and Heyns rearrangements.

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Price Volatility Transmission in Food Supply Chains: A Literature Review
Authors: Assefa Tsion Taye , Meuwissen Miranda P.M. , Oude Lansink Alfons G.J.M.
Published: March 2014

This paper reviews the literature on price volatility transmission in vertical food markets. The methods and major findings of the literature are discussed and avenues for future research are suggested. The literature review shows that price volatility is analyzed using a class of univariate and multivariate GARCH models. The reviewed studies conclude that price volatility transmits along food supply chains thereby exposing all chain actors to risk and uncertainty. Extension of the limited sample period, country, product, and chain stages coverage of the current literature are suggested as avenues for future research. A largely ignored aspect in the current literature is the identification and empirical testing of the role of contextual factors on the degree of price volatility transmission.
Cytosolic phospholipase A2 protein as a novel therapeutic target for spinal cord injury
Authors: Liu Nai‐Kui , Deng Ling‐Xiao , Zhang Yi Ping , Lu Qing‐Bo , Wang Xiao‐Fei , Hu Jian‐Guo , Oakes Eddie , Bonventre Joseph V. , Shields Christopher B. , Xu Xiao‐Ming
Published: March 2014

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate whether cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), an important isoform of PLA2 that mediates the release of arachidonic acid, plays a role in the pathogenesis of spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

A combination of molecular, histological, immunohistochemical, and behavioral assessments were used to test whether blocking cPLA2 activation pharmacologically or genetically reduced cell death, protected spinal cord tissue, and improved behavioral recovery after a contusive SCI performed at the 10th thoracic level in adult mice.

Results

SCI significantly increased cPLA2 expression and activation. Activated cPLA2 was localized mainly in neurons and oligodendrocytes. Notably, the SCI‐induced cPLA2 activation was mediated by the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase signaling pathway. In vitro, activation of cPLA2 by ceramide‐1‐phosphate or A23187 induced spinal neuronal death, which was substantially reversed by arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone, a cPLA2 inhibitor. Remarkably, blocking cPLA2 pharmacologically at 30 minutes postinjury or genetically deleting cPLA2 in mice ameliorated motor deficits, and reduced cell loss and tissue damage after SCI.

Interpretation

cPLA2 may play a key role in the pathogenesis of SCI, at least in the C57BL/6 mouse, and as such could be an attractive therapeutic target for ameliorating secondary tissue damage and promoting recovery of function after SCI. ANN NEUROL 2014;75:644–658
A Small‐Molecule Drug Conjugate for the Treatment of Carbonic Anhydrase IX Expressing Tumors
Authors: Krall Nikolaus , Pretto Francesca , Decurtins Willy , Bernardes Gonçalo J. L. , Supuran Claudiu T. , Neri Dario
Published: March 2014

Antibody–drug conjugates are a very promising class of new anticancer agents, but the use of small‐molecule ligands for the targeted delivery of cytotoxic drugs into solid tumors is less well established. Here, we describe the first small‐molecule drug conjugates for the treatment of carbonic anhydrase IX expressing solid tumors. Using ligand–dye conjugates we demonstrate that such molecules can preferentially accumulate inside antigen‐positive lesions, have fast targeting kinetics and good tumor‐penetrating properties, and are easily accessible by total synthesis. A disulfide‐linked drug conjugate with the maytansinoid DM1 as the cytotoxic payload and a derivative of acetazolamide as the targeting ligand exhibited a potent antitumor effect in SKRC52 renal cell carcinoma in vivo. It was furthermore superior to sunitinib and sorafenib, both small‐molecule standard‐of‐care drugs for the treatment of kidney cancer.
A Photo‐annealing Approach for Building Functional Polymer Layers on Paper
Authors: Qian Qiuping , Wang Jian , Yan Feng , Wang Yapei
Published: March 2014

A straightforward photo‐annealing approach was developed for building functional polymer layers on paper. Conducting polyaniline with the ability for photothermal conversion can be readily annealed by near‐infrared light. The annealed polymers become both insulating and hydrophobic. Selective photo‐annealing produces a functional layer with patterned conductive arrays. This material exhibits real‐time response to ammonium gas. Complete photo‐annealing preserves the porous structure but changes the wettability of the polyaniline‐nanofiber film.
Improvement of processing and mechanical properties of polyetherimide by antiplasticization with resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate)
Authors: Alexandrino Evandro M. , da Conceição Thiago F. , Felisberti Maria I.
Published: March 2014

This article describes the antiplasticization of a commercial polyetherimide ULTEM® series 1000 [poly(bisphenol A‐co‐4‐nitrophthalic anhydride‐co‐1,3‐phenylenediamine) by resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate)] (RDP) and its implications on the thermomechanical processing, namely extrusion and injection molding, as well as on the thermal and mechanical properties of the formulations. This antiplasticization effect allows the processing of polyetherimide formulations at lower temperatures in comparison with neat polymer due to the progressive decrease of the glass transition temperature with increased RDP concentration, as observed by differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis. The decrease of Tg occurs concomitantly with the overlap of the glass transition and β relaxation and with the shift of the γ relaxation to higher temperatures. These changes in the relaxation spectrum of polyetherimide formulations are possibly responsible for the increase of the tensile strength and Young's modulus and changes in the fracture mechanism, as observed by stress–strain tests and by scanning electron microscopy, respectively. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40619.
Progenitor cells of the distal lung and their potential role in neonatal lung disease
Authors: Collins Jennifer J.P. , Thébaud Bernard
Published: March 2014

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common adverse outcome in extreme preterm neonates (born before 28 weeks gestation). BPD is characterized by interrupted lung growth and may predispose to early‐onset emphysema and poor lung function in later life. At present, there is no treatment for BPD. Recent advances in stem/progenitor cell biology have enabled the exploration of endogenous lung progenitor populations in health and disease. In parallel, exogenous stem/progenitor cell administration has shown promise in protecting the lung from injury in the experimental setting. This review will provide an outline of the progenitor populations that have currently been identified in all tissue compartments of the distal lung and how they may be affected in BPD. A thorough understanding of the lung's endogenous progenitor populations during normal development, injury and repair may one day allow us to harness their regenerative capacity. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 100:217–226, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
EFFECTS OF AN INDEPENDENT GROUP CONTINGENCY SPECIAL ACTIVITY PROGRAM ON INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR IN A RESIDENTIAL SETTING
Authors: Sloman Kimberly N. , Reyes Jorge R. , Vollmer Timothy R.
Published: March 2014

Group contingencies targeting inappropriate behavior may be especially useful in residential settings where the staff to client ratio makes individualized behavior plan implementation difficult. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate an independent group contingency on inappropriate behavior in a secure residential facility for offenders with disabilities. The independent group contingency involved differential reinforcement of low rate and differential reinforcement of other behavior via access to a special activity (a catered weekly lunch). The group contingency was alternated with non‐activity weeks for a total of 48 weeks. Results were analyzed across and within residents and showed lower overall rates of inappropriate behavior on activity weeks than non‐activity weeks for the majority of residents. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preoperative assessment of retrorectal tumours
Authors: Sagar A J , Koshy A , Hyland R , Rotimi O , Sagar P M
Published: March 2014

Background

Retrorectal tumours present diagnostic and surgical challenges. This study aimed to identify whether preoperative imaging and/or biopsy provide diagnostic accuracy.

Methods

A consecutive series of patients who had undergone excision of a retrorectal tumour were identified from a database (2002–2013). Details of patient demographics, preoperative presentation, imaging, biopsy, surgical procedure, and gross and microscopic pathology were reviewed. Preoperative imaging and/or biopsies were compared with eventual pathology findings.

Results

In total, 76 patients were identified, all of whom had undergone preoperative cross-sectional imaging whereas only 22 had preoperative biopsy. Imaging correctly discriminated benign from malignant tumours in 72 of the 76 patients (specificity 97 per cent, sensitivity 88 per cent, positive predictive value 88 per cent and negative predictive value 97 per cent). The corresponding values for preoperative biopsy (benign versus malignant) were 100, 83, 100 and 93 per cent. None of the four patients who were assessed incorrectly as having benign or malignant disease on imaging would have undergone an alternative procedure had this been known before surgery. Preoperative biopsy did not significantly influence patient management, and the absence of preoperative biopsy had no detrimental effect; a definitive preoperative histological diagnosis would not have influenced subsequent management.

Conclusion

Preoperative imaging was accurate in the assessment of retrorectal tumours, whereas biopsy did not add to the surgical strategy.
Lactating and nonlactating rats differ to renal toxicity induced by mercuric chloride: the preventive effect of zinc chloride
Authors: Favero Alexandre M. , Oliveira Cláudia S. , Franciscato Carina , Oliveira Vitor A. , Pereira Juliana S. F. , Bertoncheli Claudia M. , da Luz Sônia C. A. , Dressler Valderi L. , Flores Érico M. M. , Pereira Maria E.
Published: March 2014

This study evaluated the effects of HgCl2 on renal parameters in nonlactating and lactating rats and their pups, as well as the preventive role of ZnCl2. Rats received 27 mg kg−1 ZnCl2 for five consecutive days and 5 mg kg−1 HgCl2 for five subsequent days (s.c.). A decrease in δ‐aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ‐ALA‐D) activity in the blood and an increase in urine protein content in renal weight as well as in blood and urine Hg levels were observed in lactating and nonlactating rats from Sal―Hg and Zn―Hg groups. ZnCl2 prevented partially the δ‐ALA‐D inhibition and the proteinuria in nonlactating rats. Renal Hg levels were increased in all HgCl2 groups, and the ZnCl2 exposure potentiated this effect in lactating rats. Nonlactating rats exposed to HgCl2 exhibited an increase in plasma urea and creatinine levels, δ‐ALA‐D activity inhibition and histopathological alterations (necrosis, atrophic tubules and collagen deposition) in the kidneys. ZnCl2 exposure prevented the biochemical alterations. Hg‐exposed pups showed lower body and renal weight and an increase in the renal Hg levels. In conclusion, mercury‐induced nephrotoxicity differs considerably between lactating and nonlactating rats. Moreover, prior exposure with ZnCl2 may provide protection to individuals who get exposed to mercury occupationally or accidentally. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
X‐ray magnetic resonance fusion modality may reduce radiation exposure and contrast dose in diagnostic cardiac catheterization of congenital heart disease
Authors: Abu Hazeem Anas A. , Dori Yoav , Whitehead Kevin K. , Harris Matthew A. , Fogel Mark A. , Gillespie Matthew J. , Rome Jonathan J. , Glatz Andrew C.
Published: March 2014

Background

Radiation exposure in the pediatric population may increase the risk of future malignancy. Children with congenital heart disease who often undergo repeated catheterizations are at risk. One possible strategy to reduce radiation is to use X‐ray Magnetic Resonance Fusion (XMRF) to facilitate cardiac catheterization.

Methods

Catheterization data of patients who underwent diagnostic XMRF procedures between January 1, 2009 and February 1, 2012 were reviewed. Cases were matched 1:1 to contemporary controls who did not undergo XMRF based on weight and diagnosis and were compared in radiation exposure, contrast dose, and procedural and anesthesia times.

Results

Forty‐four matched pairs were included. Baseline demographics were similar in both groups. Patients in the XMRF group had lower indices of radiation exposure measured by fluoroscopy time (14 vs. 16.4 vs. P = 0.047), dose‐area product from fluoroscopy (513.2 vs. 589.1 µGy·m2, P = 0.042), total dose‐area product (625.8 vs. 995.2 µGy·m2, P = 0.027), and total air kerma dose (94.5 vs. 153.8 mGy, P = 0.017). There was also a significant reduction in contrast dose (2 vs. 3.3 cc/kg, P <0.001). Procedural time tended to be shorter in the XMRF group but anesthesia time was significantly longer.

Conclusion

Select diagnostic cardiac catheterization cases that utilized XMRF used less radiation and contrast than similar cases where XMRF was not used. Future work is needed to determine whether similar benefits can be extended to other types of diagnostic and complex interventional procedures. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Supramolecular Clippers for Controlling Photophysical Processes through Preorganized Chromophores
Authors: Kumar Mohit , Ushie Onumashi Afi , George Subi J.
Published: March 2014

A novel supramolecular clipping design for influencing the photophysical properties of functional molecular assemblies, by the preorganization (clipping) of chromophores, is described. Several chromophores end functionalized with molecular recognition units were designed. These molecular recognition units serve as handles to appropriately position these systems upon noncovalent interactions with multivalent guest molecules (supramolecular clippers). Towards this goal, we have synthesized 1,5‐dialkoxynaphthalene (DAN) and naphthalenediimide (NDI) functionalized with dipicolylethylenediamine (DPA) motifs. These molecules could preorganize upon noncovalent clipping with adenosine di‐ or triphosphates, which resulted in preassociated excimers and mixed (cofacial) charge‐transfer (CT) assemblies. Chiral guest binding could also induce supramolecular chirality, not only into the individual chromophoric assembly but also into the heteromeric CT organization, as seen from the strong circular dichroism (CD) signal of the CT transition. The unique ability of this design to influence the intermolecular interactions by changing the binding strength of the clippers furthermore makes it very attractive for controlling the bimolecular photophysical processes.
Riboflavin‐Based Fluorogenic Sensor for Chemo‐ and Enantioselective Detection of Amine Vapors
Authors: Iida Hiroki , Miki Marie , Iwahana Soichiro , Yashima Eiji
Published: March 2014

A novel turn‐on fluorogenic chiral sensory system has been developed using a protonated riboflavin and riboflavin‐derived cationic polymer as a fluorophore precursor and a specific amine receptor, respectively, which enables the solid‐state chemo‐ and enantioselective fluorogenic visual detection of primary and secondary amine vapors.
Theoretical Investigation on Structures, Stabilities, and Hydrolysis Reactions of Small RuO2 Nanoclusters
Authors: Dong Hao , Zan Zhonghua , Zhou Xin
Published: March 2014

The geometric structures and relative stabilities of both neutral and ionic (RuO2)n (n=1–5) nanoclusters have been systematically investigated using density functional theory calculations. Differently from the crystal structure, ruthenium tends to adopt a 4‐fold coordination with either terminal RuO or bridging RuO bonds in gas phase clusters. Our calculations show that three‐dimensional compact structures are more preferred with the increase of the cluster size. For the low‐lying (RuO2)n clusters, the cluster formation energy per RuO2 unit and the electron affinity are found to increase whereas the ionization potential is computed to decrease with the cluster size. Based on the optimized lower‐energy structures of neutral and cationic (RuO2)n (n=1–5), the hydrolysis reactions of these clusters with water molecules have been further explored. The calculated results indicate that the adsorption of water molecules to the cationic species is much easier than the neutral ones. The overall hydrolysis reaction energies are more exothermic for the cationic clusters than for the neutral clusters. Our calculations indicate that thermodynamically, H2O can be more easily split on the cationic ruthenium oxide clusters than on the neutral clusters.
Should the thyroid AUS/FLUS category be further stratified by malignancy risk?
Authors: Nishino Michiya , Wang Helen H.
Published: March 2014

Is it time for subcategories within the atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) category in the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology? This editorial summarizes recent reports on risk stratification within the AUS/FLUS subcategory and its implications for patient management.