bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VISTA Deficiency Accelerates the Development of Fatal Murine Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Ceeraz Sabrina , Sergent Petra A. , Plummer Sean F. , Schned Alan R. , Pechenick Dov , Burns Christopher M. , Noelle Randolph J.
Published: December 2016

Objective

The targeting of negative checkpoint regulators as a means of augmenting antitumor immune responses is now an increasingly used and remarkably effective approach to the treatment of several human malignancies. The negative checkpoint regulator VISTA (V‐domain Ig–containing suppressor of T cell activation; also known as programmed death 1 homolog or as death domain 1α) suppresses T cell responses and regulates myeloid activities. We proposed that exploitation of the VISTA pathway is a novel strategy for the treatment of human autoimmune disease, and therefore we undertook this study to determine the impact of VISTA genetic deficiency on lupus development in a lupus‐prone mouse strain.

Methods

To evaluate whether genetic deficiency of VISTA affects the development of lupus, we interbred VISTA‐deficient mice with Sle1.Sle3 mice, a well‐characterized model of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Results

We demonstrated that the development of proteinuria and glomerulonephritis in these mice, designated Sle1.Sle3 VISTA−/− mice, was greatly accelerated and more severe compared to that in Sle1.Sle3 and C57BL/6 VISTA−/− mice. Analysis of cells from Sle1.Sle3 VISTA−/− mice showed enhanced activation of splenic CD4+ T cells and myeloid cell populations. No increase in titers of autoantibodies was seen in Sle1.Sle3 VISTA−/− mice. Most striking was a significant increase in proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and interferon (IFN)–regulated genes associated with SLE, such as IFNα, IFNγ, tumor necrosis factor, interleukin‐10, and CXCL10, in Sle1.Sle3 VISTA−/− mice.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates for the first time that loss of VISTA in murine SLE exacerbates disease due to enhanced myeloid and T cell activation and cytokine production, including a robust IFNα signature, and supports a strategy of enhancement of the immunosuppressive activity of VISTA for the treatment of human lupus.
Gastrointestinal symptoms and food intolerance 2 years after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity
Authors: Boerlage T C C , van de Laar A W J M , Westerlaken S , Gerdes V E A , Brandjes D P M
Published: December 2016

Background

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is an effective treatment for morbid obesity, but might aggravate gastrointestinal complaints and food intolerance. The long-term prevalence of these symptoms has not been well studied.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, all patients who underwent primary LRYGB from May to October 2012 were approached 2 years after surgery to complete a general health questionnaire, the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), and a food intolerance questionnaire. The results were compared with those for a control group of morbidly obese patients.

Results

A total of 249 patients were included for analysis, representing a response rate of 93·9 per cent. Mean(s.d.) total weight loss was 30·8(8·7) per cent. The total mean GSRS score was higher in patients who had LRYGB (median 2·19 versus 1·75 in unoperated patients; P < 0·001); the difference in symptoms of indigestion was most notable (P < 0·001). Food intolerance for specific products was reported by 70·7 (95 per cent c.i. 64·8 to 76·0) per cent of the postoperative patients, for a median of 4 foods. There was a positive correlation between food intolerance and score on the GSRS. There was no correlation between either food intolerance or the total mean GSRS score and weight loss, but there was a correlation between weight loss and abdominal pain.

Conclusion

At 2 years after surgery, patients undergoing LRYGB for morbid obesity have more gastrointestinal complaints than obese controls. Food intolerance is a common side-effect of LRYGB independent of degree of weight loss or the presence of other abdominal symptoms.
Pseudocapacitance‐Enhanced High‐Rate Lithium Storage in “Honeycomb”‐like Mn2O3 Anodes
Authors: Yuan Tianzhi , Jiang Yinzhu , Wang Qiuting , Pan Bin , Yan Mi
Published: December 2016

The realization of high‐power lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is heavily hampered by intrinsically slow lithium diffusion within solid electrodes. Capacitive‐like lithium storage behavior observed in transition‐metal oxide (TMO)‐based anodes shed light on attaining battery‐like capacity and supercapacitor‐like rate performance simultaneously. Herein, “honeycomb”‐like Mn2O3 films were successfully demonstrated as anodes for LIBs, in which the pseudocapacitive effect is strengthened upon cycling, resulting in a high‐rate lithium storage capability. Such pseudocapacitance originates from the unique porous structure and cycle‐induced microstructure evolution. The reticular Mn2O3 can reach 1584.9 mAh g−1 over 250 cycles at 1 A g−1, 1564.9 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 5 A −1, and 475.6 mAh g−1 at 15 A g−1.
Metal‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Michael Addition in Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Hui Chunngai , Pu Fan , Xu Jing
Published: December 2016

Asymmetric catalysis for chiral compound synthesis is a rapidly growing field in modern organic chemistry. Asymmetric catalytic processes have been indispensable for the synthesis of enantioselective materials to meet demands from various fields. Michael addition has been used extensively for the construction of C−C bonds under mild conditions. With the discovery and development of organo‐ and metal‐catalyzed asymmetric Michael additions, the synthesis of enantioselective and/or diastereoselective Michael adducts has become possible and increasingly prevalent in the literature. In particular, metal‐catalyzed asymmetric Michael addition has been employed as a key reaction in natural product synthesis for the construction of contiguous quaternary stereogenic center(s), which is still a difficult task in organic synthesis. Previously reported applications of metal‐catalyzed asymmetric Michael additions in natural product synthesis are presented here and discussed in depth.
Effective Photo‐ and Triboluminescent Europium(III) Coordination Polymers with Rigid Triangular Spacer Ligands
Authors: Hasegawa Yasuchika , Tateno Shiori , Yamamoto Masanori , Nakanishi Takayuki , Kitagawa Yuichi , Seki Tomohiro , Ito Hajime , Fushimi Koji
Published: December 2016

Luminescent EuIII coordination polymers with rigid triangular spacer ligands are reported. The EuIII coordination polymer, [Eu3(hfa)9(tppb)2]n (hfa: hexafluoroacetylacetonate, tppb: tris(4‐diphenylphosphorylphenyl)benzene), shows high thermo‐stability (decomposition temperature=354 °C) and photoluminescence quantum yield (Φ4f–4f=82 %, photosensitized energy transfer efficiency=78 %). The triboluminescence efficiency of EuIII coordination polymer with triangular spacers under laser pulse irradiation (Nd:YAG, λ=1064 nm, pulse width=5 ns, pulse energy=0.1 mJ) is calculated to be 49 %. Characteristic triangular structure, high emission quantum yield, effective photosensitized energy transfer, and remarkable triboluminescence properties of EuIII coordination polymers are demonstrated for the first time.
Cryoballoon ablation of atrial fibrillation: a practical and effective approach
Authors: Georgiopoulos George , Tsiachris Dimitris , Manolis Antonis S.
Published: December 2016

Medical management of atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common arrhythmia in the general population, has had modest efficacy in controlling symptoms and restoring and maintaining sinus rhythm. Since the seminal observation in 1998 that pulmonary veins host the triggers of AF in the majority of cases, electrical isolation of all pulmonary veins constitutes the cornerstone of ablation in patients with symptomatic AF. However, due to the elaborate and tedious technique of the conventional point‐by‐point method with radiofrequency ablation guided by electroanatomical mapping, newer, more versatile single‐shot techniques, such as cryoballoon ablation, have been sought and developed over recent years and are progressively prevailing. Cryoballoon ablation appears to be the most promising practical and effective approach, and we review it here by presenting all available relevant data from the literature as well as from our own experience in an attempt to apprise colleagues of the significant progress made over the last several years in this important field of electrophysiology.
Strategies for Enhancing the Catalytic Performance of Metal–Organic Frameworks in the Fixation of CO2 into Cyclic Carbonates
Authors: Taherimehr Masoumeh , Van de Voorde Ben , Wee Lik H. , Martens Johan A. , De Vos Dirk E. , Pescarmona Paolo P.
Published: December 2016

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with accessible Lewis acid sites are finding increasing application in the field of heterogeneous catalysis. However, the structural instability of MOFs when they are exposed to high temperature and/or high pressure often limits their applicability. In this study, two strategies were applied to achieve a MOF catalyst with high stability, activity and selectivity in the reaction of CO2 with styrene oxide to produce styrene carbonate. In the first approach, a MOF with linkers with high connectivity as MIL‐100(Cr) was studied, leading to promising activity and recyclability in consecutive catalytic runs without loss of activity. In the second strategy, a MOF with linkers with lower connectivity but with encapsulated Keggin phosphotungstic acid (MIL‐101(Cr)[PTA]) was prepared. However, the activity of this catalyst decreased upon reuse as a consequence of deterioration of the MOF. Further investigations were dedicated to the enhancement of the catalytic performance of MIL‐100 and included the variation of the metal centre as well as the type and loading of organic salt acting as nucleophile source. This allowed tuning the nature of the organic halide to the specific porous structure of MIL‐100(Cr) to prevent diffusion limitations. The best catalytic performance was obtained for MIL‐100(Cr) in combination with EMIMBr ionic liquid, which gave very high styrene carbonate yield (94 %) with complete selectivity after 18 h of reaction at mild temperature (60 °C).
A functional variant of the neuropeptide S receptor‐1 gene modulates clinical outcomes and healthcare utilization in patients with systolic heart failure: results from the Interdisciplinary Network Heart Failure (INH) Study
Authors: Angermann Christiane E. , Kaspar Mathias , Marx Almuth , Kittel‐Schneider Sarah , Menhofer Dominik , Störk Stefan , Ertl Georg , Domschke Katharina , Deckert Jürgen , Reif Andreas
Published: December 2016

Aims

Psychopathologies may occur in heart failure (HF) and can be associated with adverse outcomes. Amongst neuropeptide S receptor gene functional sequence variants, the T‐allele [asparagine(107)isoleucine, NPSR1 rs324981] has been identified as a risk factor for increased anxiety/overinterpretation of bodily symptoms. We investigated all‐cause death and re‐hospitalization (composite primary endpoint, CPEP) and healthcare utilization in patients hospitalized for decompensated systolic HF with the TT vs. the AT/AA genotype.

Methods and results

Participants in the Interdisciplinary Network Heart Failure programme were eligible if consenting to genetic testing (n = 924) and randomization to usual care (UC, n = 464) or nurse‐co‐ordinated disease management (DM, n = 460). Follow‐up was 180 days (100% complete). Compared with AT/AA carriers (n = 726), TT genotype carriers (n = 198) had more CPEP events [47% vs. 39%, hazard ratio (HR) 1.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.61, P = 0.044] and were more frequently re‐hospitalized (43% vs. 35%, HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.02–1.67, P = 0.033); mortality rate was similar in both groups (HR 1.11, 95% CI 0.68–1.81, P = 0.664). In subjects undergoing DM, CPEP and re‐hospitalization occurred more often in TT (51% and 47%) than in AT/AA carriers (36% and 33%; HR 2.14, 95% CI 1.44–3.19, and HR 2.29, 95% CI 1.52–3.44, genotype/treatment interaction both P = 0.007). Furthermore, TT genotype carriers undergoing DM visited cardiologists and other specialists more often than AT/AA carriers (P = 0.009 and P = 0.005). With UC, event rates did not differ between genotype subgroups.

Conclusion

We identified a psychogenetic determinant of clinical outcomes and healthcare utilization after acute HF, which was modulated by the type of care. Future investigations need to clarify whether NPSR1 genotyping might further enhance the concept of ‘personalized’ medicine in HF.

Trial registration: ISRCTN23325295.
The first‐in‐man randomized trial of a beta3 adrenoceptor agonist in chronic heart failure: the BEAT‐HF trial
Authors: Bundgaard Henning , Axelsson Anna , Hartvig Thomsen Jakob , Sørgaard Mathias , Kofoed Klaus F. , Hasselbalch Rasmus , Fry Natasha A.S. , Valeur Nana , Boesgaard Søren , Gustafsson Finn , Køber Lars , Iversen Kasper , Rasmussen Helge H.
Published: December 2016

Aims

The third isotype of beta adrenergic receptors (β3 ARs) has distinctly different effects on cardiomyocytes compared with β1 and β2 ARs. Stimulation of β3 ARs may reduce cardiomyocyte Na+ overload and reduce oxidative stress in heart failure (HF). We examined if treatment with the β3 AR agonist mirabegron increases LVEF in patients with HF.

Methods and results

In a double‐blind trial we randomly assigned 70 patients with NYHA class II–III HF and LVEF <40% at screening–echocardiography to receive mirabegron or placebo for 6 months as add‐on to optimized standard therapy. The primary endpoint was an increase in LVEF after 6 months as measured by computed tomography (CT). Changes in LVEF after 6 months between treatment groups were not significantly different (0.4%, −3.5 to 3.8%, P = 0.82). In an exploratory analysis, based on an expectation that the pathophysiological substrate targeted with treatment is dependent on the baseline LVEF, patients with LVEF <40% by CT given mirabegron had a significant increase in LVEF while no increase was seen in patients given placebo. The changes were significantly different between groups (5.5%, 0.6–10.4%, P < 0.03). Additionally, there was interaction between baseline LVEF and change in LVEF in the entire group of patients treated with mirabegron (R2 = 0.40, β  = −0.63, P < 0.001), but not in the placebo group (R2 = 0.00, β  = −0.01, P = 0.95). Treatment was generally well tolerated. Three patients in each group had fatal or life‐threatening events.

Conclusions

The primary endpoint was not reached. Exploratory analysis indicated that β3 AR stimulation by mirabegron increased LVEF in patients with severe HF. Treatment appeared safe. Additional studies in severe HF are needed.

Trial registration: NCT01876433
Artificial Nitromusks, Stories of Chemists and Businessmen
Authors: David Olivier R. P.
Published: December 2016

The scientific and industrial saga of artificial nitromusks is presented. Stemming from 18th century natural sciences, nitrated artificial musks were developed during the industrial revolution, culminating in the post‐WWII era, to decline and eventually vanish in the 20th century. Stories associated with their discovery, production, and uses are complemented by chemical and historical considerations.
Stress reactivity in childhood functional abdominal pain or irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Gulewitsch M.D. , Weimer K. , Enck P. , Schwille‐Kiuntke J. , Hautzinger M. , Schlarb A.A.
Published: December 2016

Background

Frequent abdominal pain (AP) in childhood has been shown to be associated with elevated experience of stress and with deficits in stress coping, but psychophysiological stress reactivity has been studied rarely.

Methods

We examined whether children with frequent AP show altered reactions of the parasympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis during and following an afternoon laboratory social stress task in comparison to healthy children and children with anxiety disorders. Twenty‐four children with frequent AP (18 with functional AP and six with irritable bowel syndrome; M = 9.9 years), and 24 healthy controls underwent stressful free speech and arithmetic tasks. Twelve children with anxiety disorders served as second comparison sample. Groups were compared regarding parasympathetic reaction and saliva cortisol concentration.

Results

We found no differences in parasympathetic withdrawal between the groups. Concerning the HPA axis, we detected an attenuated cortisol reactivity in children with AP compared to both other groups.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence that childhood AP is not associated with altered parasympathetic withdrawal during stress. It seems to be related to a down‐regulated reactivity of the HPA axis. This pattern was ascertained in comparison to healthy children and also in comparison to children with anxiety disorders.

Significance

Childhood abdominal pain could be related to down‐regulated HPA axis reactivity to stress but not to altered parasympathetic reaction.

Children with abdominal pain and children with anxiety disorders exhibit a divergent stress‐related HPA axis reaction.
Seismic reliability‐based ductility demand evaluation for inelastic base‐isolated structures with friction pendulum devices
Authors: Castaldo Paolo , Palazzo Bruno , Ferrentino Tatiana
Published: December 2016

The aim of this work is to propose seismic reliability‐based relationships between the strength reduction factors and the displacement ductility demand of nonlinear structural systems equipped with friction pendulum isolators (FPS) depending on the structural properties. The isolated structures are described by employing an equivalent 2dof model characterized by a perfectly elastoplastic rule to account for the inelastic response of the superstructure, whereas, the FPS behavior is described by a velocity‐dependent model. An extensive parametric study is carried out encompassing a wide range of elastic and inelastic building properties, different seismic intensity levels and considering the friction coefficient as a random variable. Defined a set of natural seismic records and scaled to the seismic intensity corresponding to life safety limit state for L'Aquila site (Italy) according to NTC08, the inelastic characteristics of the superstructures are designed as the ratio between the average elastic responses and increasing strength reduction factors. Incremental dynamic analyses (IDAs) are developed to evaluate the seismic fragility curves of both the inelastic superstructure and the isolation level assuming different values of the corresponding limit states. Integrating the fragility curves with the seismic hazard curves related to L'Aquila site (Italy), the reliability curves of the equivalent inelastic base‐isolated structural systems, with a design life of 50 years, are derived proposing seismic reliability‐based regression expressions between the displacement ductility demand and the strength reduction factors for the superstructure as well as seismic reliability‐based design (SRBD) abacuses useful to define the FPS properties. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microwave‐assisted Synthesis of Pd Oxide‐rich Pd Particles on Nitrogen/Sulfur Co‐Doped Graphene with Remarkably Enhanced Ethanol Electrooxidation
Authors: Zhang J. X. , Yang X. L. , Shao H. F. , Tseng C. C. , Wang D. S. , Tian S. S. , Hu W. J. , Jing C. , Tian J. N. , Zhao Y. C.
Published: December 2016

Nitrogen and sulfur co‐doped graphene supported Pd oxide‐rich (PdOx‐rich) Pd nanoparticles (Pd/NS‐rGO) are synthesized by microwave‐assisted ascorbic acid reduction method. Raman spectrum reveals that the introduced NS co‐doping could introduce more defects on the graphene surface. X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectrum, SEM and TEM images indicate that the synthesized PdOx‐rich Pd particles are well‐dispersed on NS co‐doped graphene surface. Cyclic voltammograms curves illustrate that the Pd/NS‐rGO catalyst exhibits a larger electrochemically active surface area (35.7 m2 g−1) and higher positive current density (1,054.0 mA mg−1 Pd) than other catalysts prepared by similar methods. The Pd/NS‐rGO catalyst also reveals superior anti‐poisoning intermediate species ability and amazing stability. The electrocatalytic mechanism is also detailedly discussed and the designed Pd/NS‐rGO catalyst has opened up a new insight and methodology for the construction of a high performance and stability ethanol electrocatalysts in corrosive alkaline environments.
Out‐group threats and distress as antecedents of common in‐group identity among majority and minority group members in the aftermath of a natural disaster
Authors: Vezzali Loris , Versari Annalisa , Cadamuro Alessia , Trifiletti Elena , Di Bernardo Gian Antonio
Published: December 2016

The aim of the present study was to examine the role of out‐group threats in fostering one‐group perceptions directly and indirectly via post‐traumatic stress symptoms in the aftermath of a natural disaster. We also tested whether these relationships differ depending on the ethnic group of belonging (majority vs. minority). Participants were 589 Italians and 122 immigrants from a region strongly affected by the earthquakes that struck Northern Italy in 2012. Results revealed that among Italians threat stemming from negative out‐group behaviour was associated positively with post‐traumatic stress symptoms and negatively with perceptions of being a common group with immigrant survivors. Among immigrants, threat posed by the out‐group for economic resources was positively associated with post‐traumatic stress symptoms and, indirectly, with higher one‐group perceptions.
Differentiation of bone marrow‐derived stage‐specific embryonic antigen 1 positive pluripotent stem cells into male germ cells
Authors: Shirazi Reza , Zarnani Amir Hassan , Soleimani Masoud , Nayernia Karim , Ragerdi Kashani Iraj
Published: December 2016

Studies published in recent years have changed the outlook on sterility and germ cell development by producing gametes from stem cells. In present study, a novel approach on differentiation of bone marrow‐derived stage‐specific embryonic antigen 1 positive (SSEA‐1+) pluripotent stem cells into male germ cells has been addressed. SSEA‐1+ stem cells were separated from murine bone marrow using magnetic‐activated cell sorting (MACS) system and propagated on a feeder layer cells. To evaluate the pluripotency characteristic of the purified cells, they were differentiated toward cells of three germ layers. Later the SSEA‐1+ stem cells were induced to differentiate along male germ cell lineage with retinoic acid. Flowcytometric analysis of SSEA‐1+ stem cells revealed purity of about 62% which increased to 91% after cultivation over feeder cells. Expression of specific transcripts of Oct4, SSEA‐1, Nanog, Dppa3, fragilis, Rex‐1, SOX‐2, and alkaline‐phosphatase and immunofluorescence evaluation of Oct4 and SSEA‐1 expression showed the differentiation of purified stem cells toward the cells of three germ layers. Differentiation potential of purified cells was positively evidenced by expression markers specific for primordial germ cells, spermatogonial stem cells and spermatogonia including Mvh, fragilis, Dppa3, Stra8, DAZL, Piwil2, β1, and α6‐integrins as well as meiotic‐specific marker SYCP3. Our results showed that SSEA‐1+ pluripotent stem cells are able to differentiate into male germ cells. The results of the present study are encouraging enough to merit further investigation, provide a new hope for those suffering from infertility and introduce a novel platform for research on germ cell development.
Temporal accumulation and localization of isoflurane in the C57BL/6 mouse and assessment of its potential contamination in 19F MRI with perfluoro‐crown‐ether‐labeled cardiac progenitor cells at 9.4 Tesla
Authors: Constantinides Christakis , Maguire Mahon L. , Stork Leeanne , Swider Edyta , Srinivas Mangala , Carr Carolyn A. , Schneider Jurgen E.
Published: December 2016

Purpose

To assess the uptake, accumulation, temporal stability, and spatial localization of isoflurane (ISO) in the C57BL/6 mouse, and to identify its potential interference with the detection of labeled cardiac progenitor cells using 19F MRI/MR spectroscopy (MRS).

Materials and Methods

Objectives are demonstrated using (a) in vitro ISO tests, (b) in vivo temporal accumulation/spatial localization C57BL/6 studies (n = 3), and (c) through injections of perfluoro‐crown‐ether (PFCE) labeled cardiac progenitor cells into femoral muscle areas of the murine hindlimb post‐mortem (n = 1) using 1H/19F MRI/MRS at 9.4 Tesla. Data were acquired using double‐gated spoiled gradient echo images and pulse‐acquire spectra. For the in vivo study, the temporal stability of ISO resonances was quantified using coefficient of variability (CV) (5 min) estimates.

Results

Two ISO resonances were observed in vivo that correspond to the ‐CF3 and ‐OCHF2 moieties. CV values ranged between 3.2 and 6.4% (‐CF3) and 6.4 and 11.2% (‐OCHF2). Reductions of the ISO dose (2.0 to 1.7%) at 80 min postinduction had insignificant effects on ISO signals (P = 0.23; P = 0.71). PFCE‐labeled cells exhibited a resonance at −16.25 ppm in vitro that did not overlap with the ISO resonances, a finding that is confirmed with MRS post‐mortem using injected, labeled cells. Based on 19F MRI, similar in vivo/post‐mortem ISO compartmentalization was also confirmed in peripheral and thoracic skeletal muscles.

Conclusion

Significant ISO accumulation was observed by 19F MRS in vivo with temporally stable signals over 90 min postinduction. ISO effects on PFCE labels are anticipated to be minimal but may be more prominent for perfluoropolyether or perfluorooctyl bromide labels.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1659–1667
Comprehensive analysis of nanodiamond evidence relating to the Younger Dryas Impact Hypothesis
Authors: Daulton Tyrone L. , Amari Sachiko , Scott Andrew C. , Hardiman Mark , Pinter Nicholas , Anderson R. Scott
Published: December 2016

During the end of the last glacial period in the Northern Hemisphere near 12.9k cal a BP, deglacial warming of the Bølling–Ållerod interstadial ceased abruptly and the climate returned to glacial conditions for an interval of about 1300 years known as the Younger Dryas stadial. The Younger Dryas Impact Hypothesis proposes that the onset of the Younger Dryas climate reversal, Pleistocene megafaunal extinctions and disappearance of the Clovis paleoindian lithic technology were coeval and caused by continent‐wide catastrophic effects of impact/bolide events in North America. While there are no known impact structures dated to the Younger Dryas onset, physical evidence of the impact/bolide events is argued to be present in sediments spanning several continents at stratigraphic levels inferred to date to the Bølling‐Ållerod/Younger Dryas boundary (YDB). Reports of nanometer to submicron‐sized diamonds in YDB sediments, in particular the rare 2H hexagonal polytype of diamond, lonsdaleite, have been presented as strong evidence for shock processing of crustal materials. We review the available data on diamonds in sediments and provide new data. We find no evidence for lonsdaleite in YDB sediments and find no evidence of a spike in nanodiamond concentration at the YDB layer to support the impact hypothesis.
A simple method for measuring excess adsorption isotherms of organic eluent components on reversed‐phase packing materials
Authors: Ohashi Junji , Harada Makoto , Okada Tetsuo
Published: December 2016

A simple frontal analysis method has been developed for the reliable measurement of excess adsorption isotherms of an organic component on reversed‐phase adsorbents in a series of programmed concentration steps. In the present method, a peak, which is produced by refractive index change in column eluate, is detected at 589 nm; it represents the elution volume of the boundary. The method is applied to the measurement of the excess adsorption isotherms of organic eluent components from water on commercially available reversed‐phase stationary phases. The results are in good agreement with the previously reported isotherms. We also measure the excess adsorption isotherms of organic eluent components from solutions containing electrolytes. There are not any interference peaks on the elution traces. The method is thus reliably applicable to the evaluation of the excess adsorption of organic eluent components in practical systems.
Determination of rabeprazole enantiomers in dog plasma by supercritical fluid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Su Chong , Yang Hong , Meng Xiangjun , Fawcett J. Paul , Cao Jianming , Yang Yan , Gu Jingkai
Published: December 2016

Rabeprazole is a novel benzimidazole proton pump inhibitor used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. It is a chiral molecule that gives rise to the possibility of stereoselective pharmacokinetics. To investigate this phenomenon, a rapid and sensitive chiral assay based on supercritical fluid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was developed and applied to the determination of (R)‐rabeprazole and (S)‐rabeprazole in dog plasma. Sample preparation involved protein precipitation with acetonitrile after the addition of (R)‐lansoprazole as internal standard. Baseline separation of enantiomers in 4.5 min was achieved on an Acquity UPC2 system using an ACQUITY UPC2 Trefoil CEL2 column maintained at 60°C and a mobile phase consisting of methanol/CO2 (30:70, v/v) delivered at 2.5 mL/min. Detection was achieved by multiple reaction monitoring of the transitions at m/z 360.0→242.2 (rabeprazole) and 370.3→252.0 (internal standard) in the positive ion mode. The assay was linear in the range of 1–1000 ng/mL and free of matrix effects. Intra‐ and interday precisions were less than 10.0% with accuracy in the range of –2.6 to 3.1%. The method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of rabeprazole enantiomers after administration of a single oral dose of 10 mg racemate to beagle dogs.
Off‐highway vehicle road networks and kit fox space use
Authors: Jones Andrew S. , Anderson Jesse J. , Dickson Brett G. , Boe Susan , Rubin Esther S.
Published: December 2016

Off‐highway vehicle (OHV) use is popular for outdoor recreation across the United States, with especially high levels of participation in Arizona and the American Southwest. Road networks related to OHV recreation have the potential to influence kit fox (Vulpes macrotis) space use intensity. To evaluate the potential impacts of OHV road networks to kit fox space use, we conducted a study during 2010–2013 in 2 areas of the Sonoran Desert in central Arizona. We used an observational approach to determine the importance of road density to kit fox space use, relative to other measured environmental variables. We monitored 22 collared individuals and used linear mixed models and an information‐theoretic approach to develop models of intensity of space use for seasons of relatively low (e.g., 33% of yearly OHV use observed) and high (e.g., 67% of yearly OHV use observed) OHV use. We found road density to be the most important predictor of space use for kit foxes, relative to other measured environmental variables. Space use was negatively associated with road density during winter (Oct–Mar), which coincided with kit fox breeding, denning, and pupping activities and was the season of relatively higher OHV use. Road density in OHV use areas is an important seasonal predictor of, and can negatively influence, kit fox space use. OHV road networks may lead to effective habitat loss for kit foxes and managers must consider how OHV recreational opportunities should be balanced with habitat conservation for species like kit fox. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Survival and population size estimates of the red wolf
Authors: Hinton Joseph W. , White Gary C. , Rabon David R. , Chamberlain Michael J.
Published: December 2016

Evaluating anthropogenic mortality is important to develop conservation strategies for red wolf (Canis lupus) recovery. We used 26 years of population data in a generalized linear mixed model to examine trends in cause‐specific mortality and a known‐fate model in Program MARK to estimate survival rates for the reintroduced red wolf population in North Carolina, USA. We found the proportion of mortality attributable to anthropogenic causes, specifically mortality caused by gunshot during fall and winter hunting seasons (Oct–Dec), increased significantly since 2000 and became the leading cause of red wolf death. Mortality rates were greatest for red wolves <4 years of age, and we suspect inexperience with human activities (e.g., hunting) likely caused younger wolves to be more susceptible to opportunistic killing by hunters. Since 1987, the red wolf population steadily grew and peaked at an estimated 151 individuals during 2005 but declined to 45–60 by 2016. To reduce the negative effects of anthropogenic mortality and ensure long‐term persistence of red wolves, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will need to re‐implement previous long‐standing and proven management practices (e.g., Red Wolf Adaptive Management Plan) on public and private lands and cease issuing take permits. The USFWS will also need to establish an effective management response to mitigate gunshot mortality through stronger regulation of coyote (Canis latrans) hunting and provide adequate ecologically and biologically supported regulatory mechanisms to protect red wolves. Finally, the USFWS should enhance recovery by providing information and education about red wolves to hunters and the general public. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
The role of metastasis‐associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) in endometrial carcinoma tumorigenesis and progression
Authors: Chen Shuo , Zong Zhi‐Hong , Wu Dan‐dan , Sun Kai‐Xuan , Liu Bo‐Liang , Zhao Yang
Published: December 2016

Metastasis‐associated in colon cancer‐1 (MACC1), has recently been identified as a key regulator in the progression of many cancers. However, its role in endometrial carcinoma (EC) remains unknown. MACC1 expression was determined in EC and normal endometrial tissues by immunohistochemistry. EC cell phenotypes and related molecules were examined after MACC1 downregulation by Small interfering RNA (siRNA) or microRNA (miRNA) transfection. We found that MACC1 was highly expressed in EC tissues than normal samples, and was significantly different in FIGO staging (I and II vs. III and IV), the depth of myometrial infiltration (<1/2 vs. ≥1/2), lymph nodes metastasis (negative vs. positive), besides, MACC1 overexpression was correlated with lower cumulative and relapse‐free survival rate. MACC1 downregulation by siRNA transfection significantly induced G1 phrase arrest, suppressed EC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In addition, MACC1 downregulation also reduced expression of Cyclin D1 and Cyclin‐dependent Kinase 2 (CDK2), N‐cadherin (N‐Ca), α‐SMA, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), and MMP9, but increased expression of E‐cadherin (E‐Ca). Bioinformatic predictions and dual‐luciferase reporter assays indicate that MACC1 is a possible target of miR‐23b. MiR‐23b overexpression reduced MACC1 expression in vitro and induced G1 phrase arrest, suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. MiR‐23b transfection also reduced Cyclin D1 and CDK2, N‐Ca, α‐SMA, MMP2, MMP9 expression, but increased E‐Ca expression. Furthermore, the nude mouse xenograft assay showed that miR‐23b overexpression suppressed tumour growth through downregulating MACC1 expression. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the first time that MACC1 may be a new and important diagnosis and therapeutic target of endometrial carcinoma.
Lack of β, β‐carotene‐9′, 10′‐oxygenase 2 leads to hepatic mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular oxidative stress in mice
Authors: Wu Lei , Guo Xin , Hartson Steven D. , Davis Mary Abby , He Hui , Medeiros Denis M. , Wang Weiqun , Clarke Stephen L. , Lucas Edralin A. , Smith Brenda J. , von Lintig Johannes , Lin Dingbo
Published: December 2016

Scope

β,β‐Carotene‐9′,10′‐dioxygenase 2 (BCO2) is a carotenoid cleavage enzyme localized to the inner mitochondrial membrane in mammals. This study was aimed to assess the impact of genetic ablation of BCO2 on hepatic oxidative stress through mitochondrial function in mice.

Methods and results

Liver samples from 6‐wk‐old male BCO2−/− knockout (KO) and isogenic wild‐type (WT) mice were subjected to proteomics and functional activity assays. Compared to the WT, KO mice consumed more food (by 18%) yet displayed significantly lower body weight (by 12%). Mitochondrial proteomic results demonstrated that loss of BCO2 was associated with quantitative changes of the mitochondrial proteome mainly shown by suppressed expression of enzymes and/or proteins involved in fatty acid β‐oxidation, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and the electron transport chain. The mitochondrial basal respiratory rate, proton leak, and electron transport chain complex II capacity were significantly elevated in the livers of KO compared to WT mice. Moreover, elevated reactive oxygen species and increased mitochondrial protein carbonylation were also demonstrated in liver of KO mice.

Conclusions

Loss of BCO2 induces mitochondrial hyperactivation, mitochondrial stress, and changes of the mitochondrial proteome, leading to mitochondrial energy insufficiency. BCO2 appears to be critical for proper hepatic mitochondrial function.
Pulp Stones Prevalence in a Historical Sample from Radom, Poland (ad 1791–1811)
Authors: Tomczyk J. , Turska‐Szybka A. , Zalewska M. , Olczak‐Kowalczyk D.
Published: December 2016

This paper provides an investigation of pulp stones in a sample drawn from the historical population of Radom, Poland, dating to between ad 1791 and 1811. This study seeks to determine the frequency of pulp stones, and assess the association between pulp stones and sex, age, dental caries, and dental wear. A total of 780 teeth from 121 adult individuals of both sexes (45 females, 76 males) were examined. Analysis was limited to molars. The average age‐at‐death of each individual was estimated. Total wear scores across the molars were calculated for each individual. Pulp stones were identified by a portable dental X‐ray machine. Pulp stones were found in 94 of 121 individuals and in 273 of 780 molars. No statistically significant correlation was found between pulp stones and age‐at‐death (p = 0.7625) and sex (p = 0.0915), but a significant relationship was found between pulp stones and dental wear (p < 0.0001) and dental caries (p = 0.0016). Our study found that molars affected by highly advanced dental wear were significantly more often accompanied by pulp stones than molars that had experienced limited wear. Similarly, significant correlations were observed for dental caries. It means that pulp stone formation appears to have been contingent upon the irritation of the tooth crown by factors such as forces acting on the tooth crown leading to dental wear or dental caries. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Passivation at the interface between liquid‐phase crystallized silicon and silicon oxynitride in thin film solar cells
Authors: Preissler Natalie , Töfflinger Jan Amaru , Gabriel Onno , Sonntag Paul , Amkreutz Daniel , Stannowski Bernd , Rech Bernd , Schlatmann Rutger
Published: December 2016

The passivation quality at the interface between liquid‐phase crystallized silicon (LPC‐Si) and a dielectric interlayer (IL) was investigated in terms of the defect state density at the IL/LPC‐Si interface (Dit) as well as the effective fixed charge density in the IL (QIL,eff). Both parameters were obtained via high‐frequency capacitance–voltage measurements on developed metal–insulator–semiconductor structures based on a molybdenum layer sandwiched between the IL and the glass substrate. Dit and QIL,eff were correlated to the open circuit voltage (Voc) and the integrated external quantum efficiency (Jsc,EQE) obtained on corresponding solar cell structures as well as to Voc and Jsc,EQE results based on two‐dimensional simulations. We found that Dit was reduced by one order of magnitude using a hydrogen plasma treatment (HPT) at 400 °C. Irrespectively of the HPT, QIL,eff was > 1012 cm−2. We suggest that field‐effect passivation dominates chemical passivation at the IL/n‐type LPC‐Si interface. We attribute the significant enhancement of Voc and Jsc,EQE observed after HPT on n‐type LPC‐Si solar cells mainly to improvements of the passivation quality in the n‐type LPC‐Si bulk rather than at the IL/n‐type LPC‐Si interface. For p‐type absorbers, the HPT did not improve Voc and Jsc,EQE significantly. We propose that this is because of an insufficient passivation of bulk defects by positively charged hydrogen, which dominates in p‐type silicon, in combination with an insufficient interface passivation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Online FERPA tutorials: Wrong interpretations, continued
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: December 2016

It's interesting. Some colleges' school officials do not equate letters of recommendation with Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and education records. They don't see the connection. Perhaps, by the end of this column, they will. One online FERPA tutorial question that follows, although it has a few more choices than the typical multiple‐choice question, is a good example. You may have to read it more than once.
Provide guided pathways to maximize adult completion
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2016

CHICAGO — How do you ensure that students at your community college are making the most of their time, money, and effort and successfully leveraging your resources to complete their goals while at your institution? It was a problem facing the Alamo Colleges, five community colleges located in the San Antonio, Texas, area, whose students were falling behind the state averages for transfer and completion rates.
Get the best from your most valuable asset: Your staff
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: December 2016

SAN ANTONIO —“Your most competitive weapon is your people,” said Monique Perry, dean for enrollment services at York Technical College in North Carolina.
Thermochemical Properties of Tunable Aryl Alkyl Ionic Liquids (TAAILs) based on Phenyl‐1H‐imidazoles
Authors: Zaitsau Dzmitry H. , Kaliner Maria , Lerch Swantje , Strassner Thomas , Emel'yanenko Vladimir N. , Verevkin Sergey P.
Published: December 2016

Vaporization enthalpies of five different imidazolium based Tunable Aryl Alkyl Ionic Liquids (TAAILs) with a common bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([NTf2]) anion were measured using a Quartz Crystalline Microbalance (QCM) and by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The counter anion and the alkyl chain of these imidazolium‐based ionic liquids with one N‐aryl and one N‐alkyl substituent were kept constant to study the influence of the ortho‐ and para‐substituted aryl moieties on the vaporization enthalpies of these ionic liquids. For comparison, enthalpies of vaporization measured at elevated temperatures were adjusted to the reference temperature 298 K. Structure‐property relations between TAAILs and similarly shaped corresponding 1‐(R‐phenyl)‐imidazoles were analyzed. An incremental approach to predict vaporization enthalpies of ionic liquids by group contributions was suggested. The procedure is based on vaporization enthalpy of a starting IL and group contributions well established from molecular compounds.
Estimation of field soil nitrogen mineralization and nitrification rates using soil N transformation parameters obtained through laboratory incubation
Authors: Urakawa Rieko , Ohte Nobuhito , Shibata Hideaki , Tateno Ryunosuke , Inagaki Yoshiyuki , Oda Tomoki , Toda Hiroto , Fukuzawa Karibu , Watanabe Tsunehiro , Hishi Takuo , Oyanagi Nobuhiro , Nakata Makoto , Fukushima Keitaro , Nakanishi Asami
Published: December 2016

We tested the potential of estimating in‐field (in situ) nitrogen (N) transformation rates based on soil temperature data and N transformation parameters (Q10 and N transformation rates at standard temperature) obtained through laboratory incubations at three constant temperatures for 4 weeks. This test was conducted based on a comparison between in situ measurements and estimates using soils from 16 sites across 9 regions within the Japanese archipelago. The actual in situ N mineralization and nitrification rates measured using the buried‐bag method at 0–50‐cm‐soil depth were 111 ± 34 and 106 ± 45 kg N ha−1 year−1, respectively, and estimates of both the rate and the amount were largely accurate. For rate alone, estimates were accurate in the 0–10‐cm soil layer for annual and seasonal averages (except for spring–summer) whereas for amount alone, estimates were accurate to depths of 50 and 30 cm for N mineralization and nitrification, respectively. Thus, estimates of the rates and amounts were approximately equal to the actual in situ rate/amount, given the wide range of prediction intervals of the field measurement data. The differences between the estimates of N transformation rates derived from hourly measured and monthly average soil temperatures were negligible. Therefore, in situ soil N transformations, which are laborious to measure in the field, have the potential to be estimated from a combination of monthly average soil temperatures and N transformation parameters, which are relatively straightforward to obtain through laboratory incubation.
Enzymatic oligomerization and polymerization of arylamines: state of the art and perspectives
Authors: Ćirić-Marjanović Gordana , Milojević-Rakić Maja , Janošević-Ležaić Aleksandra , Luginbühl Sandra , Walde Peter
Published: December 2016

The literature concerning the oxidative oligomerization and polymerization of various arylamines, e.g., aniline, substituted anilines, aminonaphthalene and its derivatives, catalyzed by oxidoreductases, such as laccases and peroxidases, in aqueous, organic, and mixed aqueous organic monophasic or biphasic media, is reviewed. An overview of template-free as well as template-assisted enzymatic syntheses of oligomers and polymers of arylamines is given. Special attention is paid to mechanistic aspects of these biocatalytic processes. Because of the nontoxicity of oxidoreductases and their high catalytic efficiency, as well as high selectivity of enzymatic oligomerizations/polymerizations under mild conditions—using mainly water as a solvent and often resulting in minimal byproduct formation—enzymatic oligomerizations and polymerizations of arylamines are environmentally friendly and significantly contribute to a “green” chemistry of conducting and redox-active oligomers and polymers. Current and potential future applications of enzymatic polymerization processes and enzymatically synthesized oligo/polyarylamines are discussed.
Are There Formulas for Successful Diplomatic Agreements?
Authors: Mestre-Jorda Jorge
Published: December 2016

The existence of natural panaceas or silver bullets in diplomatic agreements is currently under examination. Diplomacy has evolved from the classical theories of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, which stressed the importance of objective factors, to modern ideas that highlight the human element as well. This explains why finding generalised models in diplomatic arrangements was easier in the old forms of diplomacy than in its more modern counterparts. Diplomatic agreements have become increasingly complex, covering many fields beyond conflict in the traditional sense. The Dayton Accords and Minsk Agreements are good examples of this. This complexity hampers our ability to find a universal formula which can work for all diplomatic situations and agreements. For some scholars a settlement must produce a set of arrangements that lasts for generations, demonstrating robustness and permanence, while for others, the measurement of success is based on the ability of the agreement to meet initial expectations.