bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein‐stabilizing and cell‐penetrating properties of α‐helix domain of 30Kc19 protein
Authors: Ryu Jina , Kim Hyoju , Park Hee Ho , Lee Hong Jai , Park Ju Hyun , Rhee Won Jong , Park Tai Hyun
Published: July 2016

The protein‐stabilizing and cell‐penetrating activities of Bombyx mori 30Kc19 α‐helix domain (30Kc19α) are investigated. Recently, 30Kc19 protein has been studied extensively as it has both protein‐stabilizing and cell‐penetrating properties. However, it is unknown which part of 30Kc19 is responsible for those properties. 30Kc19 protein is composed of two distinct domains, an α‐helix N‐terminal domain (30Kc19α) and a β‐trefoil C‐terminal domain (30Kc19β). The authors construct and produce truncated forms of 30Kc19 to demonstrate their biological functions. Interestingly, 30Kc19α was shown to be responsible for both the protein‐stabilizing and cell‐penetrating properties of 30Kc19 protein. 30Kc19α shows even higher protein delivery activity than did whole 30Kc19 protein and has low cytotoxicity when added to cell culture medium. Therefore, based on its multifunctional properties, 30Kc19α can be developed as a novel candidate for a therapeutic protein carrier into various cells and tissues.
Depressive symptoms associated with concerns about falling in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Franzén Erika , Conradsson David , Hagströmer Maria , Nilsson Maria H.
Published: July 2016

Background

Concerns about falling, a construct related to fear of falling, is increased in people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and is recognized as a barrier for exercise, negatively affecting health‐related quality of life and participation.

Aim

To investigate modifiable factors associated with concerns about falling in elderly with mild‐to‐moderate PD.

Methods

Eighty‐nine elderly (39 females, mean age 73 years) with mild‐to‐moderate PD were recruited. Concerns about falling were assessed with the Falls Efficacy Scale‐international, that is, the dependent variable in multiple linear regression analysis. Independent variables included both motor (e.g., objective measures of physical activity and gait) and nonmotor aspects such as depressive symptoms.

Results

A model with three significant independent variables explained 33% of the variance in concerns about falling. According to the standardized regression coefficients (β), the strongest contributing factor was depressive symptoms (0.40), followed by balance performance (−0.25), and use of mobility devices (0.24).

Conclusions

The findings imply that factors associated with concerns about falling are a multifactorial phenomenon. For its management in elderly with mild‐to‐moderate PD, one should consider depressive symptoms, balance deficits, and mobility devices.
Perceived risk: an experimental investigation of consumer behavior when buying wine
Authors: Outreville J. François , Desrochers Jean
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this paper is to investigate differences in expressed attitude as a function of the manner in which information on perceived risk is communicated. The experiments are conducted through a choice‐based questionnaire to reflect the consumer‐oriented decision of the purchase of a bottle of wine based on posted prices. The experiments reported in this paper are based on questionnaires distributed to 323 participants in multiple samples and examine the behavior of people when faced with different information on the probability of loss. The present study demonstrates that changes in the manner in which information is presented, without any underlying change in problem structure, affects observed preferences when buying wine. The impact of perceived risk and character on the willingness to buy and to pay for a bottle is analyzed and show that price habits and perceived risk are the main factors affecting the willingness to pay for a bottle of wine. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Iterative O‐Methyltransferase Catalyzes 1,11‐Dimethylation of Aspergillus fumigatus Fumaric Acid Amides
Authors: Kalb Daniel , Heinekamp Thorsten , Schieferdecker Sebastian , Nett Markus , Brakhage Axel A. , Hoffmeister Dirk
Published: July 2016

S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine (SAM)‐dependent methyltransfer is a common biosynthetic strategy to modify natural products. We investigated the previously uncharacterized Aspergillus fumigatus methyltransferase FtpM, which is encoded next to the bimodular fumaric acid amide synthetase FtpA. Structure elucidation of two new A. fumigatus natural products, the 1,11‐dimethyl esters of fumaryl‐l‐tyrosine and fumaryl‐l‐phenylalanine, together with ftpM gene disruption suggested that FtpM catalyzes iterative methylation. Final evidence that a single enzyme repeatedly acts on fumaric acid amides came from an in vitro biochemical investigation with recombinantly produced FtpM. Size‐exclusion chromatography indicated that this methyltransferase is active as a dimer. As ftpA and ftpM homologues are found clustered in other fungi, we expect our work will help to identify and annotate natural product biosynthesis genes in various species.
Conjugation and Evaluation of Triazole‐Linked Single Guide RNA for CRISPR‐Cas9 Gene Editing
Authors: He Kaizhang , Chou Eldon T. , Begay Shawn , Anderson Emily M. , van Brabant Smith Anja
Published: July 2016

The CRISPR‐Cas9 gene editing system requires Cas9 endonuclease and guide RNAs (either the natural dual RNA consisting of crRNA and tracrRNA or a chimeric single guide RNA) that direct site‐specific double‐stranded DNA cleavage. This communication describes a click ligation approach that uses alkyne–azide cycloaddition to generate a triazole‐linked single guide RNA (sgRNA). The conjugated sgRNA shows efficient and comparable genome editing activity to natural dual RNA and unmodified sgRNA constructs.
Suppression of Deactivation Processes in Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2 Using Pulsed Light
Authors: Pschenitza Markus , Meister Simon , von Weber Alexander , Kartouzian Aras , Heiz Ueli , Rieger Bernhard
Published: July 2016

The one‐electron‐reduced (OER) species of rhenium‐based catalysts in the homogeneous photocatalytic reduction of CO2 represents the starting point of light‐induced deactivation processes, which lead to low catalyst activity and productivity. Herein, we report the suppression of these processes using pulsed light. Experimental parameters to avoid the irradiation of the OER species were estimated, leading us to conclude that pulse lengths shorter than 1 ns and repetition rates lower than 33 Hz should be employed. [Re(bpy)(CO)3X] (bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine; X=Cl (1), Br (3)) catalysts were employed in pulsed irradiation experiments using different light sources, pulse lengths and repetition rates. Pulsed irradiation experiments using LEDs revealed that a minimum average photon flux is necessary to enable CO2 conversion. Furthermore, pulsed laser light with a 10 ns pulse length partially prevented lightinduced deactivation processes, whereas efficient suppression was achieved using a 30 ps pulse length.
Analysis of Three‐Phase Catalytic Fuel Synthesis Reactors for Flexible Operation
Authors: Eilers Hilko , Schaub Georg
Published: July 2016

In future energy systems, flexible reactor operation may be needed if electricity produced from renewable sources is to be converted into chemical energy carriers (synfuels). Factors limiting the flexibility in a synfuel process can occur on different scales (catalyst, reactor, process). The present study addresses transient catalyst and reactor effects in three‐phase catalytic synthesis reactors with low‐temperature Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis as an example reaction. A method was developed based on lab‐scale experiments with step changes and periodic changes of inlet variables and mathematical models for experimental design and data analysis. Changes of inlet variables such as the feed‐gas flow, syngas H2/CO ratio, and temperature led, in some cases, to transient effects caused by catalyst changes or by reactor characteristics.
Furazans with Azo Linkages: Stable CHNO Energetic Materials with High Densities, Highly Energetic Performance, and Low Impact and Friction Sensitivities
Authors: Qu Yanyang , Zeng Qun , Wang Jun , Ma Qing , Li Hongzhen , Li Haibo , Yang Guangcheng
Published: July 2016

Various highly energetic azofurazan derivatives were synthesized by simple and efficient chemical routes. These nitrogen‐rich materials were fully characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, and high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Four of them were further confirmed structurally by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. These compounds exhibit high densities, ranging from 1.62 g cm−3 up to a remarkably high 2.12 g cm−3 for nitramine‐substituted azofurazan DDAzF (2), which is the highest yet reported for an azofurazan‐based CHNO energetic compound and is a consequence of the formation of strong intermolecular hydrogen‐bonding networks. From the heats of formation, calculated with Gaussian 09, and the experimentally determined densities, the energetic performances (detonation pressure and velocities) of the materials were ascertained with EXPLO5 v6.02. The results suggest that azofurazan derivatives exhibit excellent detonation properties (detonation pressures of 21.8–46.1 GPa and detonation velocities of 6602–10 114 m s−1) and relatively low impact and friction sensitivities (6.0–80 J and 80–360 N, respectively). In particular, they have low electrostatic spark sensitivities (0.13–1.05 J). These properties, together with their high nitrogen contents, make them potential candidates as mechanically insensitive energetic materials with high‐explosive performance.
Combustion Chemistry Diagnostics for Cleaner Processes
Authors: Kohse‐Höinghaus Katharina
Published: July 2016

Climate change, environmental problems, urban pollution, and the dependence on fossil fuels demand cleaner, renewable energy strategies. However, they also ask for urgent advances in combustion science to reduce emissions. For alternative fuels and new combustion regimes, crucial information about the chemical reactions from fuel to exhaust remains lacking. Understanding such relations between combustion process, fuel, and emissions needs reliable experimental data from a wide range of conditions to provide a firm basis for predictive modeling of practical combustion processes.
A Highly Stable Nonhysteretic {Cu2(tebpz) MOF+water} Molecular Spring
Authors: Grosu Yaroslav , Li Mian , Peng Yun‐Lei , Luo Dong , Li Dan , Faik Abdessamad , Nedelec Jean‐Marie , Grolier Jean‐Pierre
Published: July 2016

A molecular spring formed by a hydrophobic metal–organic framework Cu2(tebpz) (tebpz=3,3′,5,5′‐tetraethyl‐4,4′‐bipyrazolate) and water is presented. This nanoporous heterogeneous lyophobic system (HLS) has exceptional properties compared to numerous reported systems of such type in terms of stability, efficiency, and operating pressure. Mechanical and thermal energetic characteristics as well as stability of the system are discussed and compared in detail with those of other previously reported HLS.
High Energy Density Materials Incorporating 4,5‐Bis(dinitromethyl)‐Furoxanate and 4,5‐Bis(dinitromethyl)‐3‐Oxy‐Furoxanate
Authors: Zhai Lianjie , Qu Xiaoni , Wang Bozhou , Bi Fuqiang , Chen Sanping , Fan Xuezhong , Xie Gang , Wei Qing , Gao Shengli
Published: July 2016

3‐Oxy‐furoxanate is immobilized in a heterometallic energetic metal–organic framework (MOFs). Two furoxan‐based MOFs ([Ag2K4(BDOFO)(BDFO)2(H2O)6]n, [K2(BDFO)]n) and a salt ([(BDFO2−)(NH2NH3+)2(H2O)]n (BDOFO2−=4,5‐bis(dinitromethyl)‐3‐oxy‐furoxanate, BDFO2−=4,5‐bis(dinitromethyl)‐furoxanate) are synthesized and their energetic performance evaluated. This study outlines the systematic investigation of detonation performance of 3‐oxy‐furoxan and its derivatives.
Catalytic One‐Pot Diastereoselective Michael‐Initiated Ring‐Closure of Methyl Ketones with 3‐Bromochromones: Synthesis of Cyclopropa[b]chromanones
Authors: Sousa Joana L. C. , Talhi Oualid , Mendes Ricardo F. , Almeida Paz Filipe A. , Bachari Khaldoun , Silva Artur M. S.
Published: July 2016

A one‐pot diastereoselective base‐catalyzed Michael‐initiated ring‐closure (MIRC) of activated methyl ketones with 3‐bromochromones to give cyclopropa[b]chromanones is described. Three asymmetric centres are generated in the new cyclopropa[b]chromanone skeleton. Stereochemistry studies based on NMR spectroscopy and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed the trans configuration of the cyclopropane ring, with the (1R,1aS,7aR)/(1S,1aR,7aS) pair of enantiomers, as was further confirmed by chiral HPLC. The use of acetone in our reaction produced a 1‐acetyl‐substituted cyclopropa[b]chromanone that can undergo a subsequent MIRC reaction with a second molecule of 3‐bromochromone to give the first described 1,1′‐carbonylbis(cyclopropa[b]chromanone) dimers as a meso form.
Glycosylation via Transition‐Metal Catalysis: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Li Xiaohua , Zhu Jianglong
Published: July 2016

Development of efficient, mild, and easily operable stereoselective glycosylations is of critical importance to access sufficient amounts of pure and structurally well‐defined carbohydrates for studies of their biological functions. Such studies will facilitate our understanding of the role of complex oligosaccharides and glycoconjugates in biological processes as well as the development of carbohydrate‐based effective therapeutic agents. This review highlights recent advances in the transition metal catalyzed stereoselective glycosylations for the synthesis of a variety of structurally complex and biologically significant O‐, N‐, C‐, and S‐glycosides.
Development of a Triazine‐Based tert‐Butylating Reagent, TriAT‐tBu
Authors: Yamada Kohei , Hayakawa Naoko , Fujita Hikaru , Kitamura Masanori , Kunishima Munetaka
Published: July 2016

A new tert‐butylating reagent, 2,4,6‐tris(tert‐butoxy)‐1,3,5‐triazine (TriAT‐tBu) has been developed for the acid‐catalyzed tert‐butylation of alcohols and carboxylic acids. The reaction of various alcohols and carboxylic acids with TriAT‐tBu in the presence of a catalytic amount of an acid provided the corresponding tert‐butyl ethers and esters in good to high yields. TriAT‐tBu is an air‐stable solid synthesized in good yield from inexpensive starting materials, namely, cyanuric chloride, tBuOH, and sodium hydride.
Remote C–H Selenylation of 8‐Amidoquinolines via Copper‐Catalyzed Radical Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Sahoo Harekrishna , Mandal Anup , Selvakumar Jayaraman , Baidya Mahiuddin
Published: July 2016

A copper‐catalyzed regioselective C–H selenylation of quinolines with readily available diaryl diselenides is developed based on a chelation‐controlled radical cross‐coupling strategy. The reaction is scalable, tolerates a wide spectrum of functional groups, and proceeds with excellent C5 regioselectivity to deliver selenoquinolines in high yields (up to 98 %). A single electron transfer (SET) mediated mechanism is proposed.
Enzyme and inhibition assay of urease by continuous monitoring of the ammonium formation based on capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Liu Xiaoxia , Yang Jiqing , Sun Shucheng , Guo Liping , Yang Li
Published: July 2016

We present here an easy‐to‐operate and efficient method for enzyme and inhibition assays of urease, which is a widely distributed and important enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea to ammonia and CO2. The assay was achieved by integrating CE technique and rapid on‐line derivatization method, allowing us to continuously drive the sample to the capillary, thus to measure the amount of the product ammonia from the beginning to the end of the reaction. The method exhibits excellent repeatability with RSD as low as 2.5% for the initial reaction rate (n = 5), with the LOD of ammonia of 20 μM (S/N = 5). The enzyme activity as well as the inhibition of urease by Cu2+ were investigated using the present method. The results show that Cu2+ is a noncompetitive inhibitor on urease, in accordance with the result published in the literature. The enzyme activity and inhibition kinetic constants were obtained and were found to be consistent with the results of traditional off‐line enzyme assays. Our study indicates that the present approach is a reliable and convenient method for analysis of the urease activity and inhibition kinetics by continuous on‐line monitoring of the ammonium formation based on CE.
Review positive innovations in higher education
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: July 2016

It is easy to be discouraged about the state of higher education in the United States. The public is disgruntled about the cost and questions the value of a college education. College students are borrowing too much. College graduates often fail to secure good jobs after graduation. Accreditation is under fire. International competitors and a slowing worldwide economy are changing international student mobility patterns. The increased number of administrators and the decreased number of hours professors spend in the classroom have all contributed to controversy and skepticism about the state of American higher education.
Diagnosis of potential stressors adversely affecting benthic invertebrate communities in Greenwich Bay, Rhode Island, USA
Authors: Pelletier Marguerite , Ho Kay , Cantwell Mark , Perron Monique , Rocha Kenneth , Burgess Robert M. , Johnson Roxanne , Perez Kenneth , Cardin John , Charpentier Michael A.
Published: July 2016

Greenwich Bay is an urbanized embayment of Narragansett Bay potentially impacted by multiple stressors. The present study identified the important stressors affecting Greenwich Bay benthic fauna. First, existing data and information were used to confirm that the waterbody was impaired. Second, the presence of source, stressor, and effect were established. Then linkages between source, stressor, and effect were developed. This allows identification of probable stressors adversely affecting the waterbody. Three pollutant categories were assessed: chemicals, nutrients, and suspended sediments. This weight of evidence approach indicated that Greenwich Bay was primarily impacted by eutrophication-related stressors. The sediments of Greenwich Bay were carbon enriched and low dissolved oxygen concentrations were commonly seen, especially in the western portions of Greenwich Bay. The benthic community was depauperate, as would be expected under oxygen stress. Although our analysis indicated that contaminant loads in Greenwich Bay were at concentrations where adverse effects might be expected, no toxicity was observed, as a result of high levels of organic carbon in these sediments reducing contaminant bioavailability. Our analysis also indicated that suspended sediment impacts were likely nonexistent for much of the Bay. This analysis demonstrates that the diagnostic procedure was useful to organize and assess the potential stressors impacting the ecological well-being of Greenwich Bay. This diagnostic procedure is useful for management of waterbodies impacted by multiple stressors. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:449–462. © 2016 SETAC
On stream selection for interference alignment with limited feedback in heterogeneous networks
Authors: Beyazıt Esra Aycan , Özbek Berna , Le Ruyet Didier
Published: July 2016

This paper presents a stream selection based interference alignment approach with imperfect channel state information for heterogeneous networks. The proposed solution constructs stream sequences by selecting only the strongest stream of each user where the first stream of the constructed stream sequences is associated to a pico user. While selecting the streams, the channel matrices of the unselected streams are projected orthogonally to the virtual transmit and receive channels of the selected stream in order to align the interference in the null space of these virtual channels. In addition, the influence of imperfect channel state information on the proposed algorithm is analysed. A bit allocation scheme is given by deriving an upper bound on the rate loss because of quantisation. The simulation results are carried out by considering various scenarios with different locations of pico cells at the cell edge regions of the macro cell. The performance results show that the proposed algorithm with the imperfect channel state information achieves higher performance than the existing algorithms. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extracranial schwannoma in the carotid space: A retrospective review of 91 cases
Authors: Zheng Xiaoke , Guo Kai , Wang Hongshi , Li Duanshu , Wu Yi , Ji Qinghai , Shen Qiang , Sun Tuanqi , Xiang Jun , Zeng Wei , Chen Yaling , Wang Zhuoying
Published: July 2016

Background

Schwannomas of the vagus nerve and cervical sympathetic nerve are rare; hence, only limited information exists regarding their diagnosis and clinical management.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of the clinical features, imaging studies, and treatment results of patients with schwannoma of the vagus nerve and schwannoma of the sympathetic nerve.

Results

Of 91 patients, 91% (n = 83) were preoperatively diagnosed with schwannoma tumors. Using the hyoid bone as an anatomic landmark, the location of the schwannoma of the vagus nerve in the carotid space was significantly different to the location of schwannoma of the sympathetic nerve (p = .003). Although 52 of the 76 patients followed up (68%) had postoperative nerve weaknesses, 13 patients (50%) and 14 patients (53.8%), respectively, fully recovered from schwannoma of the vagus nerve and schwannoma of the sympathetic nerve.

Conclusion

In the carotid space, schwannomas of the vagus nerve are usually located below the hyoid bone, whereas schwannomas of the sympathetic nerve more commonly arise from the suprahyoid compartment. Accurate preoperative diagnosis and the intracapsular enucleation surgical approach decreased the incidence of postoperative morbidity. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Head Neck 39: 42–47, 2017
How is your day going? Reciprocity Norm in Everyday Communication
Authors: Stocks Eric L. , Mirghassemi Felicia , Oceja Luis V.
Published: July 2016

In 6 experiments, we manipulated the length of a communication message to assess reciprocity norm‐following behaviour during conversational interaction. In Studies 1 and 2, scripts of different length were used in an online chat, and chat logs were analysed. In Studies 3 and 4, participants e‐mailed scripts that varied in length to acquaintances, and replies were analysed. In Studies 5 and 6, a confederate initiated conversations with either strangers or acquaintances and recorded the amount of time the person responded. The results suggest that conversation partners reciprocate length across different communication media, regardless of the depth of the information disclosed.
Premorbid obesity, but not nutrition, prevents critical illness‐induced muscle wasting and weakness
Authors: Goossens Chloë , Marques Mirna Bastos , Derde Sarah , Vander Perre Sarah , Dufour Thomas , Thiessen Steven E. , Güiza Fabian , Janssens Thomas , Hermans Greet , Vanhorebeek Ilse , De Bock Katrien , Van den Berghe Greet , Langouche Lies
Published: July 2016

Background

The ‘obesity paradox’ of critical illness refers to better survival with a higher body mass index. We hypothesized that fat mobilized from excess adipose tissue during critical illness provides energy more efficiently than exogenous macronutrients and could prevent lean tissue wasting.

Methods

In lean and premorbidly obese mice, the effect of 5 days of sepsis‐induced critical illness on body weight and composition, muscle wasting, and weakness was assessed, each with fasting and parenteral feeding. Also, in lean and overweight/obese prolonged critically ill patients, markers of muscle wasting and weakness were compared.

Results

In mice, sepsis reduced body weight similarly in the lean and obese, but in the obese with more fat loss and less loss of muscle mass, better preservation of myofibre size and muscle force, and less loss of ectopic lipids, irrespective of administered feeding. These differences between lean and obese septic mice coincided with signs of more effective hepatic fatty acid and glycerol metabolism, and ketogenesis in the obese. Also in humans, better preservation of myofibre size and muscle strength was observed in overweight/obese compared with lean prolonged critically ill patients.

Conclusions

During critical illness premorbid obesity, but not nutrition, optimized utilization of stored lipids and attenuated muscle wasting and weakness.
Leadership, followers' mental health and job performance in organizations: A comprehensive meta‐analysis from an occupational health perspective
Authors: Montano Diego , Reeske Anna , Franke Franziska , Hüffmeier Joachim
Published: July 2016

The present meta‐analysis investigates the associations between leadership, followers' mental health, and job performance by taking into account different groups of leadership constructs including transformational leadership, relations‐oriented leadership, task‐oriented leadership, destructive leadership, and leader–member exchange. Six categories of mental health‐related outcomes are considered representing both negative and positive mental health states of followers, namely, affective symptoms, burnout, stress, well‐being, psychological functioning, and health complaints. Meta‐analytic models are used to estimate the association between these categories of leadership and mental health. Our results reveal that transformational leadership, a high quality of relations‐oriented and task‐oriented leadership behavior, as well as a high quality of leader–follower interaction are positively associated with mental health. In contrast, destructive leadership is strongly negatively associated with mental health. In addition, the mediation effects of leadership on job performance via mental health are estimated. Results partially support the mediating role of mental health concerning the relationship between leadership and job performance. Our results emphasize the importance of leadership as an occupational health factor, and they may serve as basis for the planning and designing of occupational health policies and interventions despite existing research limitations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methotrexate‐induced pneumonitis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis: a case report
Authors: Samad Abdul , Khalil Abdul , Ali Iftikhar , Khan Aziz Ullah
Published: July 2016

Background

Methotrexate‐induced pneumonitis (MTX‐P) is rare and life threatening, and a number of possible risk factors have been suggested but none are consistent between studies. Nevertheless, it can be assumed that all patients starting MTX are at risk of MTX‐P.

Aim

The aim of the present report is to increase awareness of the association between methotrexate and the possible risk of induced pneumonitis.

Clinical details

A 50‐year‐old man presented to a rheumatologist complaining of generalised weakness and low‐grade fever after taking 7.5 mg methotrexate (MTX) twice weekly for 1.5 months for rheumatoid arthritis. The patient was admitted to hospital due to respiratory signs and symptoms. Physical examination revealed the patient was in acute respiratory distress and mildly dehydrated. Scattered coarse crepitations were heard bilaterally and diffusely over lung fields.

Outcome

A chest radiograph revealed bilateral diffuse alveolar shadowing. High‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) showed diffuse interstitial changes, diffuse bilateral patchy alveolar shadowing and nodules. The platelet count, blood urea, electrolytes, blood sugar and liver function tests were within normal limits, while the neutrophil percentage was 90%. Owing to the symptoms, MTX‐P was suspected, the drug was discontinued and the therapy switched to oral hydrocortisone, with an observed rapid symptomatic improvement.

Conclusion

Our patient had a probable diagnosis of MTX‐P. Also, as per the Naranjo casualty assessment scale, he had a probable adverse drug event to MTX (score 7). The drug should be withdrawn as soon as MTX‐P is suspected and an urgent HRCT must be arranged to confirm the diagnosis. The patient should be admitted for supportive measures and corticosteroid treatment. All patients taking MTX should be educated about the symptoms of the disease and must be advised to present early to a respiratory physician. Furthermore, the patient should not be re‐treated after a definite or probable case of MTX‐P.
Ratiometric Fluorescent pH Probes Based on Glycopolymers
Authors: Li Zhiyun , Zhang Pengshan , Lu Wei , Peng Lun , Zhao Yun , Chen Gaojian
Published: July 2016

Effectively detecting pH changes plays a critical role in exploring cellular functions and determining physiological and pathological processes. A novel ratiometric pH probe based on a glycopolymer, armored with properties of serum‐stability, tumor‐targeting, and pH monitoring, is designed. Random copolymers of 2‐(methacrylamido) glucopyranose and fluorescein O‐methacrylate are first synthesized by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. Acryloxyethyl thiocarbamoyl rhodamine B is then attached to the polymer chain to prepare ratiometric fluorescent pH probes via a thiol‐ene reaction. The synthesized polymeric probes are characterized by NMR, gel permeation chromatography, UV–vis spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, and the fluorescence responses are examined in phosphate buffer at different pHs. The cytotoxicity and confocal imaging experiments of the probes are detected using HeLa cells, demonstrating a low toxicity and superior biocompatibility for detecting pH changes in bioapplications.

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Computation of an infinite integral using integration by parts
Authors: Tang Jian‐guo
Published: July 2016

In this paper, an infinite integral concerning numerical computation in crystallography is investigated, which was studied in two recent articles, and integration by parts is employed for calculating this typical integral. A variable transformation and a single integration by parts lead to a new formula for this integral, and at this time, it becomes a completely definite integral. Using integration by parts iteratively, the singularity at the points near three points a = 0,1,2 can be eliminated in terms containing obtained integrals, and the factors of amplifying round‐off error are released into two simple fractions independent of the integral. Series expansions for this integral are obtained, and estimations of its remainders are given, which show that accuracy 2−n is achieved in about 2n operations for every value in a given domain. Finally, numerical results are given to verify error analysis, which coincide well with the theoretical results. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lifestyle modification intervention improves glycemic control in Mongolian adults who are overweight or obese with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sonomtseren S. , Sankhuu Y. , Warfel J. D. , Johannsen D. L. , Peterson C. M. , Vandanmagsar B.
Published: July 2016

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a weight loss intervention in Mongolian adults with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus and with BMIs ≥ 25.0 kg/m2.

Methods

Eighty participants (33 men/47 women) aged 32–56 years old received education sessions to improve nutritional habits and increase physical activity. Participants were counselled in‐person on two occasions with regular follow‐up by phone to eat less (reduce calorie intake by 30–40% and consume fewer fatty foods), shift food intake to earlier in a day and increase physical activity such as walking, jogging, running and biking. Measurements were performed before and after the 6‐month intervention.

Results

After 6 months, the average weight loss was 4.3 ± 4.7 kg, representing a 4.9 ± 5.4% reduction in body weight (p < 0.0001). Mean HbA1c decreased from 8.5 ± 2.7% to 6.0 ± 1.8% (p < 0.0001), and the percent of individuals with HbA1c in the diabetic range dropped from 76.3% to 27.5%. These changes were accompanied by marked improvements in cardiovascular risk factors, including total cholesterol (3.92 ± 1.02 to 3.13 ± 0.80 mmol/l; p < 0.0001) and triglycerides (2.11 ± 0.82 to 1.54 ± 0.51 mmol/l; p < 0.0001), and modest reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The remarkable improvement in glycemic control and lipid profile in participants suggests that a lifestyle modification intervention targeting weight loss may be highly effective for early diabetes treatment and prevention in Mongolians.
The impact of language barriers and immigration status on the care experience for Spanish‐speaking caregivers of patients with pediatric cancer
Authors: Zamora Eduardo R. , Kaul Sapna , Kirchhoff Anne C. , Gwilliam Vannina , Jimenez Ornella A. , Morreall Deborah K. , Montenegro Roberto E. , Kinney Anita Y. , Fluchel Mark N.
Published: July 2016

Background

An increasing proportion of pediatric cancer patients in the United States are Latino and many have Spanish‐speaking immigrant parents with limited English proficiency (LEP). Little is known about how language or undocumented immigration status impacts their care experience.

Procedure

A cross‐sectional survey was administered to English (N = 310) and Spanish‐speaking LEP (N = 56) caregivers of pediatric cancer patients. To assess differences in healthcare experiences between the language groups, t‐tests and chi‐square statistics were used. Multivariable logistic regression evaluated associations between primary language and knowledge of clinical trial status.

Results

Spanish‐speaking caregivers were more likely to report higher rates of quitting or changing jobs as a direct result of their child's cancer, and their children were more likely to experience a delay in education. Although Spanish‐speaking caregivers reported higher satisfaction with care, 32% reported feeling that their child would have received better care if English was their primary language. Spanish‐speaking caregivers were more likely to incorrectly identify whether their child was on a clinical trial compared with English‐speaking caregivers. The majority of Spanish‐speaking caregivers reported at least one undocumented caregiver in the household and 11% of them avoided or delayed medical care for their child due to concerns over their undocumented immigration status.

Conclusions

Language barriers and undocumented immigration status may negatively impact the quality of informed decision‐making and the care experience for Spanish‐speaking LEP caregivers of pediatric cancer patients. These families may benefit from culturally appropriate Spanish language resources to improve communication and open a dialogue regarding undocumented immigration status.
Metachronous Type I pleuropulmonary blastoma and atypical choroid plexus papilloma in a young child
Authors: Liu David J. , Perrier Renee , Wei Xing‐Chang , Joseph Jeffrey T , Strother Douglas
Published: July 2016

Pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB) is a rare childhood tumor, often associated with germline DICER1 mutations and a risk for development of other benign and malignant tumors, a constellation termed DICER1 syndrome. A 1‐year‐old male was diagnosed with Type I PPB and screened regularly thereafter for detection of intrathoracic and intraabdominal disease. Ten months after diagnosis of PPB, he presented with headaches and vomiting. He was diagnosed with atypical choroid plexus papilloma, a lesion not previously reported with PPB. The presence of central nervous system symptoms in patients with PPB or a phenotype suggestive of DICER1 syndrome should prompt early intracranial imaging.
Teaching invasive prenatal procedures: effectiveness of two simple simulators in training
Authors: Cordier Anne‐Gael , Fuchs Florent , Tassin Mikael , Saada Julien , Letourneau Alexandra , Brisset Sophie , Mandelbrot Laurent , Bidat Laurent , Benachi Alexandra
Published: July 2016

Background

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis are the major tools of invasive prenatal diagnosis. We studied the effectiveness of two simulators in training in invasive procedures.

Methods

Two affordable and simple simulators were developed, modelling the maternal abdomen and the different tissue layers crossed by the needle. The trainees were evaluated before and after practical and theoretical training. A score evaluating five criteria for technical quality in performing a procedure safely was established. Initial score of 9 or 10 was excluded. The primary endpoint was improvement defined as the change between pre‐test and post‐test, expressed as a percentage of the pre‐test.

Results

A total of 54 residents and 63 specialists in obstetrics and gynaecology participated. Residents improved their scores in the practice of amniocentesis (80% [43–167]) and CVS (100% [29–150]), as well as specialists (100% [25–233] and 67% [33–122]). Specialists who earlier performed one CVS or more than five amniocentesis procedures had a lower increase during training than those who had performed fewer than five procedures (p < 0.01). Being inexperienced in CVS was associated with greater improvement (27% vs 56%, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

A simple simulator improves the ability of physicians to perform invasive procedures in particular when initial experience is low. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy band engineering of flexible gallium arsenide through substrate cracking with pre‐tensioned films
Authors: Alharbi Abdullah , Shahrjerdi Davood
Published: July 2016

Flexible electronics based on the otherwise rigid conventional crystalline semiconductors is emerging as a new class of technology. However, the existing layer‐transfer approaches for implementing such technologies is mostly focused on maintaining the performance of the original device. Here we show that layer transfer through substrate cracking with a pre‐tensioned nickel film readily enables the manipulation of the electronic band structure in flexible gallium arsenide (GaAs) devices. We empirically and theoretically quantify the effect of ‘engineered' residual strain on the electronic band structure in these flexible GaAs devices. Photoluminescence and quantum efficiency measurements indicate the widening of the GaAs energy bandgap due to the residual compressive strain. The experimental results are in good agreement with our theoretical calculations. This study introduces a new way for strain engineering in flexible compound semiconductors with important implications for electronic and optoelectronic applications. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Realistic and interactive high‐resolution 4D environments for real‐time surgeon and patient interaction
Authors: Smith L. N. , Farooq A. R. , Smith M. L. , Ivanov I. E. , Orlando A.
Published: July 2016

Background

Remote consultations that are realistic enough to be useful medically offer considerable clinical, logistical and cost benefits. Despite advances in virtual reality and vision hardware and software, these benefits are currently often unrealised.

Method

The proposed approach combines high spatial and temporal resolution 3D and 2D machine vision with virtual reality techniques, in order to develop new environments and instruments that will enable realistic remote consultations and the generation of new types of useful clinical data.

Results

New types of clinical data have been generated for skin analysis and respiration measurement; and the combination of 3D with 2D data was found to offer potential for the generation of realistic virtual consultations.

Conclusion

An innovative combination of high resolution machine vision data and virtual reality online methods, promises to provide advanced functionality and significant medical benefits, particularly in regions where populations are dispersed or access to clinicians is limited. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cramer‐Rao lower bound and parameter estimation for multibeam satellite links
Authors: Gappmair Wilfried , Ginesi Alberto
Published: July 2016

Data throughput and availability of multibeam satellite links are limited by interference problems, in particular when the design is determined by an aggressive reuse of frequency bands. Usually, this is mitigated by appropriately selected techniques like precoding or multi‐user detection. Before such methods are applicable, however, the most important transmission parameters have to be recovered successfully even under very challenging conditions caused by (full) frequency reuse. The detailed analysis of the log‐likelihood function characterizing the multibeam scenario shows that a beamwise decoupling of the estimation task is possible, if the following three conditions are met: (i) alignment of all frequency offsets; (ii) symbol synchronicity; (iii) orthogonal synchronization sequences. Based on these assumptions, it turns out that the modified Cramer‐Rao lower bound (MCRLB) for carrier frequency and phase, symbol timing and signal amplitude is the same, no matter whether we are dealing with a single or a multiple beam situation. Furthermore, because a maximum likelihood framework for parameter estimation is not available in closed form, we introduce a sub‐optimal concept of low‐complex algorithms. Finally, it is verified by simulation results that the jitter variance of each recovery scheme is close to the related MCRLB, when the decoupling conditions are satisfied. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Entering new markets: The effect of performance feedback near aspiration and well below and above it
Authors: Ref Ohad , Shapira Zur
Published: July 2016

Research summary: This study draws on the resource‐based view and the behavioral theory of the firm to gain new insights about the effect of performance relative to aspiration level (i.e., performance feedback) on the decision to enter new markets. Results show an inverted U‐shaped relationship between performance both below and above aspiration level, and the probability of firms to enter new markets. That is, when firms are well below or well above their aspiration level, they significantly change their behavior. This article develops a theoretical framework to clarify and organize these findings.

Managerial summary: This study examines the effect of performance feedback, and particularly, large discrepancies between firm performance and aspiration level on the decision to enter new markets. It provides support to the role of performance feedback in affecting the decision to enter new markets, a factor that has received relatively little attention in the extensive literature that has examined the inducements of such moves. Results show that, as performance falls below or rises above aspiration, a firm's probability of entering new markets increases up to a certain point after which this relationship decreases. This shows that the tendency to enter new markets is different for firms that are in the neighborhood of aspiration level compared to those that are well below or above it. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effective secondary science programs: A best‐evidence synthesis
Authors: Cheung Alan , Slavin Robert E. , Kim Elizabeth , Lake Cynthia
Published: July 2016

This article reports a systematic review of research on science programs in grades 6–12. Twenty‐one studies met inclusion criteria including use of randomized or quasi‐experimental assignment to conditions, measures that assess content emphasized equally in experimental and control groups, and a duration of at least 12 weeks. Programs fell into four categories. Instructional process programs (ES = +0.17) and technology programs (ES = +0.47) had positive sample‐size weighted mean effect sizes, while use of science kits (ES = −0.02) and innovative textbooks (ES = +0.10) had much lower effects. Outcomes support the use of programs with a strong focus on professional development, technology, and support for teaching, rather than materials‐focused innovations. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 54: 58–81, 2017
Essence Facts and Explanation
Authors: Tillman Chris ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: July 2016

Some essence facts have metaphysical explanations. Some metaphysical explanations for essence facts consist in nonessential facts.
Twenty‐eight‐day repeated inhalation toxicity study of nano‐sized lanthanum oxide in male sprague‐dawley rats
Authors: Shin Seo‐Ho , Lim Cheol‐Hong , Kim Yong‐Soon , Lee Yong‐Hoon , Kim Sung‐Hwan , Kim Jong‐Choon
Published: July 2016

Although the use of lanthanum has increased in field of high‐tech industry worldwide, potential adverse effects to human health and to the environment are largely unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the potential toxicity of nano‐sized lanthanum oxide (La2O3) following repeated inhalation exposure in male Sprague‐Dawley rats. Male rats were exposed nose‐only to nano‐sized La2O3 for 28 days (5 days/week) at doses of 0, 0.5, 2.5, and 10 mg/m3. In the experimental period, we evaluated treatment‐related changes including clinical signs, body weight, hematology, serum biochemistry, necropsy findings, organ weight, and histopathology findings. We also analyzed lanthanum distribution in the major organs and in the blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF), and oxidative stress in lung tissues. Lanthanum level was highest in lung tissues and showed a dose‐dependent relation. Alveolar proteinosis was observed in all treatment groups and was accompanied by an increase in lung weight; moreover, lung inflammation was observed in the 2.5 mg/m3 and higher dose groups and was accompanied by an increase in white blood cells. In the BALF, total cell counts including macrophages and neutrophils, lactate dehydrogenase, albumin, nitric oxide, and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha increased significantly in all treatment groups. Furthermore, these changes tended to deteriorate in the 10 mg/m3 group at the end of the recovery period. In the present experimental conditions, we found that the lowest‐observed‐adverse‐effect level of nano‐sized La2O3 was 0.5 mg/m3 in male rats, and the target organ was the lung. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1226–1240, 2017.
Ultimate design load analysis of planetary gearbox bearings under extreme events
Authors: Gallego‐Calderon Juan , Natarajan Anand , Cutululis Nicolaos A.
Published: July 2016

This paper investigates the impact of extreme events on the planet bearings of a 5 MW gearbox. The system is simulated using an aeroelastic tool, where the turbine structure is modeled, and MATLAB/Simulink, where the drivetrain (gearbox and generator) are modeled using a lumped‐parameter approach. Three extreme events are assessed: low‐voltage ride through, emergency stop and normal stop. The analysis is focused on finding which event has the most negative impact on the bearing extreme radial loads. The two latter events are carried out following the guidelines of the International Electrotechnical Commission standard 61400‐1. The former is carried out by applying a voltage fault while simulating the wind turbine under normal turbulent wind conditions. The voltage faults are defined by following the guidelines from four different grid codes in order to assess the impact on the bearings. The results show that the grid code specifications have a dominant role in the maximum loads achieved by the bearings during a low‐voltage ride through. Moreover, the emergency brake shows the highest impact by increasing the bearing loads up to three times the rated value. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.