bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Examination of the Expected Timing of Transitions into Adulthood among Rural Men and Women
Authors: Agger Charlotte A. , Byun Soo-yong , Meece Judith L.
Published: December 2016

The timing of transitions into adulthood has critical implications for early adulthood development, yet few research studies on this topic exist, particularly involving rural youth. We utilized a nationwide sample of geographically diverse rural youth from 34 rural locations in the United States to investigate adolescents’ expected transitions into adulthood. The vast majority of rural men and women planned to get married and become parents, however, women expected earlier transition times into adulthood. Results also indicated a number of individual, family, and community variables related to the expectation of marriage and parenthood and the expected timing of marriage and parenthood. Notably, we found that whereas women were generally more likely than men to plan to get married and become a parent, this observed gender gap decreased as educational aspirations increased.
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Beliefs of Lebanese and Palestinian School Children in Lebanon
Authors: Fuddah Hanin , Zeitoun Samar
Published: December 2016

The indicators for health risk factors among school children in Lebanon associated with increased mortality and morbidity were higher than the global percentage based on WHO (2014) statistics. Knowing that the Ministry of Education in Lebanon has been trying to include health education in the national school curriculum since the last reform in 1997, this qualitative exploratory study analyzed the students’ arguments resulting from focus group discussions to identify their level of knowledge, attitudes and perceptions and to provide suggestions for improving the national textbooks and teaching practices. Data were collected through focus group discussions with grade 5 students in 2 schools: Lebanese public school and UNRWA Palestinian School. The content analysis technique was used to perform the analysis and interpretation of data. Data was coded based on criteria from the Rational Model as well as the Health Belief Model. The study found, among other things, that students in both schools acquired the knowledge present in the textbooks about the benefits of balanced nutrition but they gave inaccurate and incomplete justifications with no scientific reasoning. Regarding attitudes, they show negative attitudes toward prefer unhealthy food over healthy ones. Some of their practices were healthy but unhealthy snacks, skipping breakfast, drinking big amounts of soft drinks were prevalent. The arguments of the students in both schools also showed some social related practices as related to the opinions, behavior, advice, and support of the people surrounding students influence their feelings and behavior, and the students have a reciprocal effect on those people.
Language Curriculum Analysis of French Literature in Iranian Universities at BA
Authors: Rahmatian Rouhollah , Cheraghi Haleh , Letafati Roya , Safa Parivash
Published: December 2016

This article attempts to realize the dominant approach in developing the academic curriculum of language degree and French literature in Iran. It concentrates on analyzing the content of the curriculum approved by the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology in Iran and the University of Tehran. It was concluded that the first curriculum opts an approach of broad areas by considering the isolated components of language learning. It encompasses the literature of each century. Yet, Tehran University has sought to review the curriculum of Bachelor degree in 2011. With regard to the course of the general French, curriculum decisions are influenced by the corporation, specifically by French companies (under the influence of the action-oriented perspectives in language teaching). In these courses, the approach is based on the general areas. The courses in French literature are based on learning objects and are part of a multidisciplinary approach.
ASSESSING DISSIMILARITY OF RANDOM SETS THROUGH CONVEX COMPACT APPROXIMATIONS, SUPPORT FUNCTIONS AND ENVELOPE TESTS
Authors: Gotovac Vesna , Helisová Kateřina , Ugrina Ivo
Published: December 2016

In recent years random sets were recognized as a valuable tool in modelling different processes from fields like biology, biomedicine or material sciences. Nevertheless, the full potential of applications has not still been reached and one of the main problems in advancement is the usual inability to correctly differentiate between underlying processes generating real world realisations. This paper presents a measure of dissimilarity of stationary and isotropic random sets through a heuristic based on convex compact approximations, support functions and envelope tests. The choice is justified through simulation studies of common random models like Boolean and Quermass-interaction processes.
THE USE OF HAAR WAVELETS IN DETECTING AND LOCALIZING TEXTURE DEFECTS
Authors: Vaidelienė Gintarė , Valantinas Jonas
Published: December 2016

In this paper, a new Haar wavelet-based approach to the detection and localization of defects in grey-level texture images is presented. This new approach explores space localization properties of the discrete Haar wavelet transform (HT) and generates statistically-based parameterized texture defect detection criteria. The criteria provide the user with a possibility to control the percentage of both the actually defect-free images detected as defective and/or the actually defective images detected as defect-free, in the class of texture images under investigation. The experiment analyses samples of ceramic tiles, glass samples, as well as fabric scraps, taken from real factory environment.
Tumor-induced MDSC act via remote control to inhibit L-selectin-dependent adaptive immunity in lymph nodes
Authors: Ku Amy W , Muhitch Jason B , Powers Colin A , Diehl Michael , Kim Minhyung , Fisher Daniel T , Sharda Anand P , Clements Virginia K , O'Loughlin Kieran , Minderman Hans , Messmer Michelle N , Ma Jing , Skitzki Joseph J , Steeber Douglas A , Walcheck Bruce , Ostrand-Rosenberg Suzanne , Abrams Scott I , Evans Sharon S
Published: December 2016

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) contribute to an immunosuppressive network that drives cancer escape by disabling T cell adaptive immunity. The prevailing view is that MDSC-mediated immunosuppression is restricted to tissues where MDSC co-mingle with T cells. Here we show that splenic or, unexpectedly, blood-borne MDSC execute far-reaching immune suppression by reducing expression of the L-selectin lymph node (LN) homing receptor on naïve T and B cells. MDSC-induced L-selectin loss occurs through a contact-dependent, post-transcriptional mechanism that is independent of the major L-selectin sheddase, ADAM17, but results in significant elevation of circulating L-selectin in tumor-bearing mice. Even moderate deficits in L-selectin expression disrupt T cell trafficking to distant LN. Furthermore, T cells preconditioned by MDSC have diminished responses to subsequent antigen exposure, which in conjunction with reduced trafficking, severely restricts antigen-driven expansion in widely-dispersed LN. These results establish novel mechanisms for MDSC-mediated immunosuppression that have unanticipated implications for systemic cancer immunity.
Implications of the differing roles of the β1 and β3 transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains for integrin function
Authors: Lu Zhenwei , Mathew Sijo , Chen Jiang , Hadziselimovic Arina , Palamuttam Riya , Hudson Billy G , Fässler Reinhard , Pozzi Ambra , Sanders Charles R , Zent Roy
Published: December 2016

Integrins are transmembrane receptors composed of α and β subunits. Although most integrins contain β1, canonical activation mechanisms are based on studies of the platelet integrin, αIIbβ3. Its inactive conformation is characterized by the association of the αIIb transmembrane and cytosolic domain (TM/CT) with a tilted β3 TM/CT that leads to activation when disrupted. We show significant structural differences between β1 and β3 TM/CT in bicelles. Moreover, the ‘snorkeling’ lysine at the TM/CT interface of β subunits, previously proposed to regulate αIIbβ3 activation by ion pairing with nearby lipids, plays opposite roles in β1 and β3 integrin function and in neither case is responsible for TM tilt. A range of affinities from almost no interaction to the relatively high avidity that characterizes αIIbβ3 is seen between various α subunits and β1 TM/CTs. The αIIbβ3-based canonical model for the roles of the TM/CT in integrin activation and function clearly does not extend to all mammalian integrins.
Flexible theta sequence compression mediated via phase precessing interneurons
Authors: Chadwick Angus , van Rossum Mark CW , Nolan Matthew F
Published: December 2016

Encoding of behavioral episodes as spike sequences during hippocampal theta oscillations provides a neural substrate for computations on events extended across time and space. However, the mechanisms underlying the numerous and diverse experimentally observed properties of theta sequences remain poorly understood. Here we account for theta sequences using a novel model constrained by the septo-hippocampal circuitry. We show that when spontaneously active interneurons integrate spatial signals and theta frequency pacemaker inputs, they generate phase precessing action potentials that can coordinate theta sequences in place cell populations. We reveal novel constraints on sequence generation, predict cellular properties and neural dynamics that characterize sequence compression, identify circuit organization principles for high capacity sequential representation, and show that theta sequences can be used as substrates for association of conditioned stimuli with recent and upcoming events. Our results suggest mechanisms for flexible sequence compression that are suited to associative learning across an animal’s lifespan.
The angiopoietin-like protein ANGPTL4 catalyzes unfolding of the hydrolase domain in lipoprotein lipase and the endothelial membrane protein GPIHBP1 counteracts this unfolding
Authors: Mysling Simon , Kristensen Kristian Kølby , Larsson Mikael , Kovrov Oleg , Bensadouen André , Jørgensen Thomas JD , Olivecrona Gunilla , Young Stephen G , Ploug Michael
Published: December 2016

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) undergoes spontaneous inactivationviaglobal unfolding and this unfolding is prevented by GPIHBP1 (Mysling et al., 2016). We now show: (1) that ANGPTL4 inactivates LPL by catalyzing the unfolding of its hydrolase domain; (2) that binding to GPIHBP1 renders LPL largely refractory to this inhibition; and (3) that both the LU domain and the intrinsically disordered acidic domain of GPIHBP1 are required for this protective effect. Genetic studies have found that a common polymorphic variant in ANGPTL4 results in lower plasma triglyceride levels. We now report: (1) that this ANGPTL4 variant is less efficient in catalyzing the unfolding of LPL; and (2) that its Glu-to-Lys substitution destabilizes its N-terminal α-helix. Our work elucidates the molecular basis for regulation of LPL activity by ANGPTL4, highlights the physiological relevance of the inherent instability of LPL, and sheds light on the molecular defects in a clinically relevant variant of ANGPTL4.
Stimulus-dependent recruitment of lateral inhibition underlies retinal direction selectivity
Authors: Chen Qiang , Pei Zhe , Koren David , Wei Wei
Published: December 2016

The dendrites of starburst amacrine cells (SACs) in the mammalian retina are preferentially activated by motion in the centrifugal direction, a property that is important for generating direction selectivity in direction selective ganglion cells (DSGCs). A candidate mechanism underlying the centrifugal direction selectivity of SAC dendrites is synaptic inhibition onto SACs. Here we disrupted this inhibition by perturbing distinct sets of GABAergic inputs onto SACs – removing either GABA release or GABA receptors from SACs. We found that lateral inhibition onto Off SACs from non-SAC amacrine cells is required for optimal direction selectivity of the Off pathway. In contrast, lateral inhibition onto On SACs is not necessary for direction selectivity of the On pathway when the moving object is on a homogenous background, but is required when the background is noisy. These results demonstrate that distinct sets of inhibitory mechanisms are recruited to generate direction selectivity under different visual conditions.
Prefabrication of a ribosomal protein subcomplex essential for eukaryotic ribosome formation
Authors: Peña Cohue , Schütz Sabina , Fischer Ute , Chang Yiming , Panse Vikram G
Published: December 2016

Spatial clustering of ribosomal proteins (r-proteins) through tertiary interactions is a striking structural feature of the eukaryotic ribosome. However, the functional importance of these intricate inter-connections, and how they are established is currently unclear. Here, we reveal that a conserved ATPase, Fap7, organizes interactions between neighboring r-proteins uS11 and eS26 prior to their delivery to the earliest ribosome precursor, the 90S. In vitro, uS11 only when bound to Fap7 becomes competent to recruit eS26 through tertiary contacts found between these r-proteins on the mature ribosome. Subsequently, Fap7 ATPase activity unloads the uS11:eS26 subcomplex onto its rRNA binding site, and therefore ensures stoichiometric integration of these r-proteins into the 90S. Fap7-depletion in vivo renders uS11 susceptible to proteolysis, and precludes eS26 incorporation into the 90S. Thus, prefabrication of a native-like r-protein subcomplex drives efficient and accurate construction of the eukaryotic ribosome.
Validation of internal reference genes for relative quantitation studies of gene expression in human laryngeal cancer
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , He Jinting , Wang Wei , Ren Ming , Gao Sujie , Zhao Guanjie , Wang Jincheng , Yang Qiwei
Published: December 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the expression stabilities of 12 common internal reference genes for the relative quantitation analysis of target gene expression performed by reverse transcription real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in human laryngeal cancer.

Methods

Hep-2 cells and 14 laryngeal cancer tissue samples were investigated. The expression characteristics of 12 internal reference gene candidates (18S rRNA, GAPDH, ACTB, HPRT1, RPL29, HMBS, PPIA, ALAS1, TBP, PUM1, GUSB, and B2M) were assessed by RT-qPCR. The data were analyzed by three commonly used software programs: geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper.

Results

The use of the combination of four internal reference genes was more appropriate than the use of a single internal reference gene. The optimal combination was PPIA + GUSB + RPL29 + HPRT1 for both the cell line and tissues; while the most appropriate combination was GUSB + RPL29 + HPRT1 + HMBS for the tissues.

Conclusions

Our recommended internal reference genes may improve the accuracy of relative quantitation analysis of target gene expression performed by the RT-qPCR method in further gene expression research on laryngeal tumors.
Pathologic Complete Response After Preoperative Chemotherapy With a Regimen Containing Trastuzumab in Esophagogastric Junction Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Arai Keisuke , Kanaji Shingo , Okamoto Daiki , Maehara Ritsuko , Yamamoto Masashi , Nakamura Tetsu , Suzuki Satoshi , Jimbo Naoe , Morinaga Yukiko , Itoh Tomoo , Kakeji Yoshihiro
Published: December 2016

Perioperative adjuvant treatment for esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma has been attempted, but the efficacy of preoperative therapy is unclear. We report here a case of pathologic complete response after preoperative treatment containing trastuzumab in esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma. A 54-year-old man presented at our institution with dysphagia. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and computed tomography revealed an 8 × 5 cm sized tumor on the gastric cardia and lower intrathoracic esophagus with invasion to the diaphragm (T4bN0M0, Stage IIIB). Biopsy showed a well-differentiated and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–positive adenocarcinoma. He received 2 cycles of preoperative chemotherapy consisting of trastuzumab, cisplatin, and capecitabine, without severe toxicity. Afterward, he underwent esophagectomy and total gastrectomy with mediastinal and abdominal D2 lymph node dissections. No cancer cells were detected during histopathologic examination, indicating pathologic complete response. Regimens containing trastuzumab are feasible and promising as preoperative chemotherapy for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–positive esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma.
Attributing seasonal pH variability in surface ocean waters to governing factors
Authors: Hagens M. , Middelburg J. J.
Published: December 2016

On‐going ocean acidification and increasing availability of high‐frequency pH data have stimulated interest to understand seasonal pH dynamics in surface waters. Here we show that it is possible to accurately reproduce observed pH values by combining seasonal changes in temperature (T), dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), and total alkalinity (TA) from three time series stations with novel pH sensitivity factors. Moreover, we quantify the separate contributions of T, DIC, and TA changes to winter‐to‐summertime differences in pH, which are in the ranges of −0.0334 to −0.1237, 0.0178 to 0.1169, and −0.0063 to 0.0234, respectively. The effects of DIC and temperature are therefore largely compensatory, and are slightly tempered by changes in TA. Whereas temperature principally drives pH seasonality in low‐latitude to midlatitude systems, winter‐to‐summer DIC changes are most important at high latitudes. This work highlights the potential of pH sensitivity factors as a tool for quantifying the driving mechanisms behind pH changes.
Detector Readout
Authors: Ortlepp Thomas
Published: December 2016

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

Analog Readout

Resonant Circuit Readout

Digital Event Readout
Superconducting Detector Magnets for Particle Physics
Authors: Green Michael A.
Published: December 2016

The article contains sections titled:

The Development of Detector Solenoids

LHCDetector Magnets for theATLAS,CMS, andALICEExperiments

The Future of Detector Magnets for Particle Physics

The Defining Parameters for Thin Solenoids

Thin Detector Solenoid Design Criteria

Magnet Power Supply and Coil Quench Protection

Design Criteria for the Ends of a Detector Solenoid

Cryogenic Cooling of a Detector Magnet
Digital Processing
Authors: Mukhanov Oleg
Published: December 2016

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

Digital Circuits:
SFQ
Design Guiding Principles

Main Digital Circuit Blocks

Digital Processors

Conclusions
Microstructural Evolution and Dynamic Recrystallization Behavior of β–γ TiAl‐based Alloy during Hot Compression
Authors: Jiang Hai Tao , Zeng Shang Wu , Tian Shi Wei , Wu Bo , Zhao Ai Min , Xia Zhen Hai
Published: December 2016

In this paper, the hot deformation behavior of a TNM TiAl‐based alloy (Ti–44.45Al–3.80Nb–1.01Mo–0.29Si–0.14B) is investigated via isothermal compression tests. The experimental results demonstrate that the critical strain for dynamic recrystallization gradually decreases with increasing deformation temperature. At the initial stage of the low‐temperature deformation process, the deformation is mainly caused by dislocation glide in the γ and β phases. When the deformation reaches a certain level, dislocation glide in the β and the DRX γ phases dominates the deformation. In the high‐temperature deformation process, the deformation is the result of dislocation glide in the α and β phases.
Engineering a Diverse Ligase Toolbox for Peptide Segment Condensation
Authors: Nuijens Timo , Toplak Ana , Quaedflieg Peter J. L. M , Drenth Jeroen , Wu Bian , Janssen Dick B.
Published: December 2016

The substrate profile of peptiligase, a stable enzyme designed for peptide ligation in aqueous environments, was mapped using six different peptide libraries. The most discriminating substrate binding pocket proved to be the first nucleophile binding subsite (S1′), which is crucial for the peptide ligation yield. Two important amino acids shaping the S1′ pocket are M213 and L208. A site‐saturation library of the M213 position yielded two variants with a significantly broadened substrate profile, i.e., M213G and M213P. Next, examination of two libraries with M213G+L208X and M213P+L208X (with X being any proteinogenic amino acid) resulted in a toolbox of enzymes which can accommodate any proteinogenic amino acid in the S1′ pocket, except proline. The applicability of a particular enzyme variant in chemoenzymatic peptide synthesis was demonstrated by coupling at the gram scale of two peptide segments to yield exenatide, a 39‐mer therapeutic peptide used in the treatment of diabetes type II. The overall yield of 43% is at least 2‐fold higher than yields reported for conventional syntheses of exenatide by full solid‐phase peptide synthesis; large‐scale production costs are expected to be significantly reduced if the enzymatic coupling process is employed to manufacture this peptide.

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A Palladium/Light System Combined with Hanztsch Ester: Radical Vinylation of Alkyl Iodides with Vinyl Bromides
Authors: Sumino Shuhei , Ryu Ilhyong
Published: December 2016

Radical vinylation of alkyl iodides with vinyl bromides proceeds smoothly with a combined Pd/light/Hanztsch ester system. In this reaction system, the Hanztsch ester acts as an effective reducing reagent of PdII to Pd0 that generates key alkyl radicals via single electron transfer (SET) with alkyl iodides upon photo‐excitation.
Dark Photocatalysis: Storage of Solar Energy in Carbon Nitride for Time‐Delayed Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Lau Vincent Wing‐hei , Klose Daniel , Kasap Hatice , Podjaski Filip , Pignié Marie‐Claire , Reisner Erwin , Jeschke Gunnar , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: December 2016

While natural photosynthesis serves as the model system for efficient charge separation and decoupling of redox reactions, bio‐inspired artificial systems typically lack applicability owing to synthetic challenges and structural complexity. We present herein a simple and inexpensive system that, under solar irradiation, forms highly reductive radicals in the presence of an electron donor, with lifetimes exceeding the diurnal cycle. This radical species is formed within a cyanamide‐functionalized polymeric network of heptazine units and can give off its trapped electrons in the dark to yield H2, triggered by a co‐catalyst, thus enabling the temporal decoupling of the light and dark reactions of photocatalytic hydrogen production through the radical′s longevity. The system introduced here thus demonstrates a new approach for storing sunlight as long‐lived radicals, and provides the structural basis for designing photocatalysts with long‐lived photo‐induced states.
Surfactant‐free Fabrication of Fullerene C60 Nanotubules Under Shear
Authors: Vimalanathan Kasturi , Shrestha Rekha Goswami , Zhang Zhi , Zou Jin , Nakayama Tomonobu , Raston Colin L.
Published: December 2016

A method for controlling the self‐assembly of fullerene C60 molecules into nanotubules in the fcc phase, devoid of entrapped solvent, has been established in a thin film microfluidic device. The micron length C60 nanotubules, with individual hollow diameters of 100 to 400 nm, are formed under continuous flow processing during high shear micromixing of water and a toluene solution of the fullerene, in the absence of surfactant, and without the need for further down‐stream processing. TEM revealed pores on the surface of the nanotubes, and the isolated material has a much higher response to small molecule sensing than that for analogous material formed using multistep batch processing.
Self‐Healing Behavior in a Thermo‐Mechanically Responsive Cocrystal during a Reversible Phase Transition
Authors: Liu Guangfeng , Liu Jie , Ye Xin , Nie Lina , Gu Peiyang , Tao Xutang , Zhang Qichun
Published: December 2016

The molecular‐level motions of a coronene‐based supramolecular rotator are amplified into macroscopic changes of crystals by co‐assembly of coronene and TCNB (1,2,4,5‐tetracyanobenzene) into a charge‐transfer complex. The as‐prepared cocrystals show remarkable self‐healing behavior and thermo‐mechanical responses during thermally‐induced reversible single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal (SCSC) phase transitions. Comprehensive analysis of the microscopic observations as well as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements and crystal habits reveal that a thermally‐reduced‐rate‐dependent dynamic character exists in the phase transition. The crystallographic studies show that the global similarity of the packing patterns of both phases with local differences, such as molecular stacking sequence and orientations, should be the origin of the self‐healing behavior of these crystals.
Recent advances in the synthesis, biological activities and various applications of ferrocene derivatives
Authors: Larik Fayaz Ali , Saeed Aamer , Fattah Tanzeela Abdul , Muqadar Urooj , Channar Pervaiz Ali
Published: December 2016

Ferrocene derivatives constitute an important class of organometallic compounds with not only an extensive range of biological activities but also diverse industrial as well as material science applications. These stimulating features of ferrocene derivatives spurred us to review the recent advances in synthesis methods and biological and other applications reported in the latest literature. An effort has been made to summarize the recent developments in synthetic methods providing access to ferrocene scaffolds and the useful medicinal and material applications, including agricultural, catalytic, polymer, conducting, redox mediating, ferrocenyl stationary phase, rocket propellant and ion sensing applications. Ferrocene‐based bulky metallocenes are also discussed.
Adsorptive removal of biophenols from olive mill wastewaters (OMW) by activated carbon: mass transfer, equilibrium and kinetic studies
Authors: Senol A. , Hasdemir İ.M. , Hasdemir B. , Kurdaş İ.
Published: December 2016

In this study, the removal of biophenols from olive mill wastewater by activated carbon of different particle sizes has been carried out using the batch adsorption technique. The effects of the sorbent specific surface area and concentration, temperature, initial biophenols concentration, and contact time on the adsorption efficiency have been analyzed independently. The sorbent yields higher removal efficiency of biophenols as its specific surface area increases. When increasing the sorbent concentration from 10 to 50 g L−1, the sorbent uptake capacity increases from 20% to 41%, and it reaches a maximum value of 65 mg g−1 at 298.2 K. Adsorption of olive mill wastewater biophenols is moderately rapid, being about 38% to 40% of the initial phenolic content after 120 min. Kinetic analysis shows that the adsorption process can be approximated by a pseudo‐second‐order model for which pore diffusion is the essential rate‐controlling step. Equilibrium modeling by linearized adsorption isotherms reveals that a Langmuir‐type isotherm with a preferable monolayer sorption would likely proceed. Calculated thermodynamic parameters such as Gibbs energy, enthalpy, entropy, activation energy, and sticking probability indicate that adsorption is a typical endothermic yet spontaneous process with a preferable physisorption mechanism. An external mass transfer coefficient model has been developed to determine the rate of adsorption controlled initially by the boundary layer film, with particular focus on its predictive performance. Copyright © 2016 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancing Market Valuation of ESG Performance: Is Integrated Reporting Keeping its Promise?
Authors: Mervelskemper Laura , Streit Daniel
Published: December 2016

This paper studies the effectiveness of a firm's strategy to report on its ESG activities with regard to the extent and direction in which the firm's ESG performance is valued by capital market investors. It is the first to disentangle the moderating effects of different types of ESG reporting on market valuation of ESG performance and to analyze whether following the current integrated reporting trend is worth the effort. Results indicate that ESG performance is valued more strongly and in the (desired) positive direction when firms publish an ESG report, irrespective of its type (stand‐alone or integrated). Furthermore, integrated reporting is associated with superior outcomes compared with a stand‐alone report for composite ESG and corporate governance performance. Our findings are important for corporate managers, as they help to understand market valuation of ESG performance in dependence on the reporting type and provide guidance for formulating and evaluating the reporting strategy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Isolation and Characterization of RNA Aptamers against a Proteasome‐Associated Deubiquitylating Enzyme UCH37
Authors: Lee Jung Hoon , Lee Min Jae
Published: December 2016

Deubiquitylating (DUB) enzymes antagonize ubiquitin‐dependent protein degradation both before and after the substrates are engaged with proteasomes. UCH37 is one of three proteasome‐associated DUB enzymes in mammals and the only protease among them from the ubiquitin carboxyl‐terminal hydrolase (UCH) family. Here, we report the identification of specific RNA aptamers for UCH37 through in vitro selection, and we describe their inhibitory effects on the DUB activity of UCH37. The RNA aptamers significantly delayed RPN13‐mediated UCH37 activation and lowered total DUB activity of proteasomes, as measured by the hydrolysis of ubiquitin‐rhodamine 110. In addition, the UCH37 aptamers efficiently facilitated the hydrolysis of peptide‐based reporter substrates of proteasomes. Thus, the UCH37 aptamers might offer a possible strategy for removing toxic cellular proteins through enhancing proteasome activity.
Brominated Luciferins Are Versatile Bioluminescent Probes
Authors: Steinhardt Rachel C. , Rathbun Colin M. , Krull Brandon T. , Yu Jason M. , Yang Yuhang , Nguyen Brian D. , Kwon Jake , McCutcheon David C. , Jones Krysten A. , Furche Filipp , Prescher Jennifer A.
Published: December 2016

We report a set of brominated luciferins for bioluminescence imaging. These regioisomeric scaffolds were accessed by using a common synthetic route. All analogues produced light with firefly luciferase, although varying levels of emission were observed. Differences in photon output were analyzed by computation and photophysical measurements. The brightest brominated luciferin was further evaluated in cell and animal models. At low doses, the analogue outperformed the native substrate in cells. The remaining luciferins, although weak emitters with firefly luciferase, were inherently capable of light production and thus potential substrates for orthogonal mutant enzymes.
Borinic Acid Catalysed Reduction of Tertiary Amides with Hydrosilanes: A Mild and Chemoselective Synthesis of Amines
Authors: Chardon Aurélien , Mohy El Dine Tharwat , Legay Rémi , De Paolis Michaël , Rouden Jacques , Blanchet Jérôme
Published: December 2016

A reduction of various aryl, alkyl, and α,β‐unsaturated amides with phenylsilane, catalysed by a borinic acid, is reported. The unprecedented reaction was carried out under very mild conditions and led to useful amines. Furthermore, the reaction tolerates a variety of functional groups. Initial investigations implicated that an intermediate diarylhydroborane is involved in the reaction mechanism.
Nutrient limitation in tropical secondary forests following different management practices
Authors: Nagy R. Chelsea , Rastetter Edward B. , Neill Christopher , Porder Stephen
Published: December 2016

Secondary forests now make up more than one‐half of all tropical forests, and constraints on their biomass accumulation will influence the strength of the terrestrial carbon (C) sink in the coming decades. However the variance in secondary tropical forest biomass for a given stand age and climate is high and our understanding of why is limited. We constructed a model of terrestrial C, nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) cycling to examine the influence of disturbance and management practices on nutrient limitation and biomass recovery in secondary tropical forests. The model predicted that N limited the rate of forest recovery in the first few decades following harvest, but that this limitation switched to P approximately 30–40 yr after abandonment, consistent with field data on N and P cycling from secondary tropical forest chronosequences. Simulated biomass recovery agreed well with field data of biomass accumulation following harvest (R2 = 0.80). Model results showed that if all biomass remained on site following a severe disturbance such as blowdown, regrowth approached pre‐disturbance biomass in 80–90 yr, and recovery was faster following smaller disturbances such as selective logging. Field data from regrowth on abandoned pastures were consistent with simulated losses of nutrients in soil organic matter, particularly P. Following any forest disturbance that involved the removal of nutrients (i.e., except blowdown), forest regrowth produced reduced biomass relative to the initial state as a result of nutrient loss through harvest, leaching and/or sequestration by secondary minerals. Differences in nutrient availability accounted for 49–94% of the variance in secondary forest biomass C at a given stand age. Management lessons from this study are the importance of strategies that help retain nutrients on site, recognizing the role of coarse woody debris in immobilization and subsequent release of nutrients, and the potential for nutrient additions to enhance biomass growth and recovery in secondary tropical forests.
Early Response to treatment in Eating Disorders: A Systematic Review and a Diagnostic Test Accuracy Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Nazar Bruno Palazzo , Gregor Louise Kathrine , Albano Gaia , Marchica Angelo , Coco Gianluca Lo , Cardi Valentina , Treasure Janet
Published: December 2016

Objective

Early response to eating disorders treatment is thought to predict a later favourable outcome. A systematic review of the literature and meta‐analyses examined the robustness of this concept.

Method

The criteria used across studies to define early response were summarised following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. Diagnostic Test Accuracy methodology was used to estimate the size of the effect.

Results

Findings from 24 studies were synthesized and data from 14 studies were included in the meta‐analysis. In Anorexia Nervosa, the odds ratio of early response predicting remission was 4.85(95%CI: 2.94–8.01) and the summary Area Under the Curve (AUC) = .77. In Bulimia Nervosa, the odds ratio was 2.75(95%CI:1.24–6.09) and AUC = .67. For Binge Eating Disorder, the odds ratio was 5.01(95%CI: 3.38–7.42) and AUC = .71.

Conclusion

Early behaviour change accurately predicts later symptom remission for Anorexia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder but there is less predictive accuracy for Bulimia Nervosa. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Seek and decode: Random access with physical‐layer network coding and multiuser detection
Authors: Cocco Giuseppe , Pfletschinger Stephan , Navarro Monica
Published: December 2016

We present a novel scheme for Slotted ALOHA random access systems that combines physical‐layer network coding (PLNC) with multiuser detection (MUD). The PLNC and MUD are applied jointly at the physical layer to be able to extract any linear combination of messages experiencing a collision within a slot. The set of combinations extracted from a whole frame is then processed by the receiver to recover the original packets. A simple precoding stage at the transmitting terminals allows the receiver to further decrease the packet loss rate. We present results for the decoding at the physical layer as well as several performance measures at frame level, namely, throughput, packet loss rate, and energy efficiency. The results we present are promising and suggest that a cross‐layer approach leveraging on the joint use of PLNC and MUD can significantly improve the performance of random access systems in the presence of slow fading.
Impact of Land Use Change and Dam Construction on Soil Erosion and Sediment Yield in the Black Soil Region, Northeastern China
Authors: Fang Haiyan
Published: December 2016

Since the 1960s, the implemented soil conservation measures on steep slopes and the densely planted shelterbelts as well as the constructed reservoirs and ponds in Baiquan County, northeastern China have dramatically altered the landscape and would greatly influence soil erosion and sediment yield (SY). However, how these land use changes and the constructed dams affected soil erosion and SY still remained unclear. A physically distributed soil erosion model WaTEM/SEDEM that has been calibrated and validated using 25 reservoir SYs in the study area was applied using nine land use scenarios (land uses in 1954, 1975 and 2010, each with 8, 32 and without dams) to assess their impacts on sediment delivery at the Shuangyang catchment (915 km2). The results show that land use changes as well as the increased dam numbers progressively decreased catchment sediment delivery and the impact of dams on sediment delivery was more efficient under the intensified land use condition (1954 land use without reservoirs). With respect to 1954 land use without dams, current land use condition (2010 land use with 32 dams) was simulated to decrease SY by 61·8%. Soil conservation measures (terrace and contour tillage as well as shelterbelts) on the slopes greatly influenced SY and over 80% of the reduced SY were caused by land use changes. This study indicates that soil conservation measures are sustainable sediment control measures for the black soil region because the accumulation of sediment in dams causes shortening of the useful life in reservoirs and ponds and implies increasing financial costs. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixotrophy in Heterocapsa rotundata: A mechanism for dominating the winter phytoplankton
Authors: Millette N. C. , Pierson J. J. , Aceves A. , Stoecker D. K.
Published: December 2016

Heterocapsa rotundata is a mixotrophic dinoflagellate that can ingest picoplankton, including bacteria, and is known to form large blooms in temperate estuaries during wet winters, particularly when grazing pressure on phytoplankton is low. We hypothesized that phagotrophy gives H. rotundata an advantage over other phytoplankton species during low light conditions. We used laboratory and field experiments to investigate changes in phagotrophy by H. rotundata in response to changes in light availability. Prey removal experiments with a non‐axenic culture of H. rotundata were used to determine changes in H. rotundata's ingestion rates in response to changes in irradiance. Fluorescent microspheres were used to measure in situ ingestion rates of H. rotundata collected on 20 different occasions from the Choptank River during the winter of 2016. In situ H. rotundata ingestion rates were tested for correlation with inorganic nutrient concentrations and irradiance levels. Ingestion rates measured with cultured and in situ H. rotundata followed similar patterns and ingestion rates increased as irradiance decreased. H. rotundata has the potential to obtain nutrients from multiple nutrient sources, switching from phototrophy to partial heterotrophy as irradiance decreases. This response may allow H. rotundata to survive and to potentially form blooms when growth rates of most other estuarine phytoplankton species is low.
Electrochemical study of passive films formed on welded lean duplex stainless steel
Authors: Sicupira D. C. , Cardoso Junior R. , Bracarense A. Q. , Frankel G. S. , de F. C. Lins V.
Published: December 2016

Duplex stainless steel (DSS) has been considered as an excellent material of construction for applications where high corrosion resistance and high mechanical strength are required. The use of this material can minimize costs related to corrosion in different industries, for example, in the biodiesel industry. The objective of this study is to evaluate the electrochemical and electronic properties of passive films of thick welded joints of UNS S32304 lean duplex stainless steel (LDSS) fabricated by different welding processes, in acidified glycerin, a byproduct of the biodiesel industry. The electrochemical and electronic behavior of the passive films formed on UNS S32304 LDSS was evaluated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Mott–Schottky measurements. The capacitance study shows that the passive films formed on welded DSS behave as n‐ and p‐type semiconductors above and below the flat band potential, respectively. Furthermore, the samples welded by the gas metal arc welding process exhibited better corrosion resistance than other welding process using the same filler metal.
Alleviating VLDL overproduction is an important mechanism for Laminaria japonica polysaccharide to inhibit atherosclerosis in LDLr−/− mice with diet‐induced insulin resistance
Authors: Zha Xue‐Qiang , Zhang Wei‐Nan , Peng Fu‐Hua , Xue Lei , Liu Jian , Luo Jian‐Ping
Published: December 2016

Scope

The overproduction of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) is an important cause for initiation and development of atherosclerosis, which is highly associated with insulin signaling. The aim of this work is to verify whether the inhibition of VLDL overproduction is an underlying mechanism for a Laminaria japonica polysaccharide (LJP61A (where LJP is L. japonica)) to resist atherosclerosis.

Methods and results

LJP61A (50 and 200 mg/kg/day) was orally administered to a high‐fat diet (HFD)‐fed LDL receptor deficient mice for 14 weeks. LJP61A significantly attenuated insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, atherosclerosis, and dyslipidemia. Meanwhile, LJP61A ameliorated the HFD‐induced impairment of hepatic insulin signaling and reduced VLDL overproduction via regulating the expression of genes involved in the assembly and secretion of VLDL. To study the possibility that the inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 and stimulation of Forkhead box protein O1 (Foxo1) nuclear exclusion is a result of LJP61A via regulating insulin signaling, LJP61A was administrated to HepG2 cells in the presence or absence of mTOR inhibitor and Foxo1 inhibitor. Results showed that LJP61A alleviated VLDL overproduction via regulating insulin receptor substrate mediated phosphatidylinositide 3‐kinase AKT mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 and phosphatidylinositide 3‐kinase AKT‐Foxo1 signaling pathways.

Conclusion

These results suggested that LJP61A ameliorated HFD‐induced insulin resistance to attenuate VLDL overproduction possibly via regulating insulin signaling, leading to the inhibition of atherosclerosis.
Mutual Diffusion Driven NMR: a new approach for the analysis of mixtures by spatially resolved NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Pantoja Christian F. , Bolaños Jose A. , Bernal Andrés , Wist Julien
Published: December 2016

We introduce a new approach for resolving the NMR spectra of mixtures that relies on the mutual diffusion of dissolved species when a concentration gradient is established within the NMR tube. This is achieved by cooling down a biphasic mixture of triethylamine and deuterated water below its mixing temperature, where a single phase is expected. Until equilibrium is reached, a gradient of concentration, from ‘pure’ triethylamine to ‘pure’ water, establishes within the tube. The amount of time required to reach this equilibrium is controlled by the mutual diffusion coefficient of both species. Moreover, a gradient of concentration exists for each additional compound dissolved in this system, related to the partition coefficient for that compound in the original biphasic state. Using slice selective experiments, it was possible to measure these concentration gradients and use them to separate signals from all the present species. We show the results acquired for a mixture composed ofn‐octanol, methanol, acetonitrile and benzene and compare them with those obtained by pulse field gradient NMR. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fast Fourier‐based simulation of off‐resonance artifacts in steady‐state gradient echo MRI applied to metal object localization
Authors: Zijlstra Frank , Bouwman Job G. , Braškutė Ieva , Viergever Max A. , Seevinck Peter R.
Published: December 2016

Purpose

To accelerate simulation of off‐resonance artifacts in steady‐state gradient echo MRI by using fast Fourier transforms and demonstrate its applicability to metal object localization.

Theory and Methods

By exploiting the repetitive nature of steady‐state pulse sequences it is possible to use fast Fourier transforms to calculate the MR signal. Based on this principle, a method for fast simulation of off‐resonance artifacts was designed. The method was validated against Bloch simulations and MRI scans. Its clinical relevance was demonstrated by employing it for template matching‐based metal object localization, as applied to a titanium cylinder, an oxidized zirconium knee implant, and gold fiducials.

Results

The fast simulations were accurate compared with actual MRI scans of the objects. The differences between the fast simulations and Bloch simulations were minor, while the acceleration scaled linearly with the number of phase‐encoding lines. The object localization method accurately localized the various metal objects.

Conclusion

The proposed simulation methodology provided accurate 3D simulations of off‐resonance artifacts with a lower computational complexity than Bloch simulations. The speed of the simulations opens up possibilities in image reconstructions involving off‐resonance phenomena that were previously infeasible due to computational limitations, as demonstrated for metal object localization. Magn Reson Med 78:2035–2041, 2017. © 2016 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited and is not used for commercial purposes.
Prenatal diagnosis of susceptibility loci for neurodevelopmental disorders – genetic counseling and pregnancy outcome in 57 cases
Authors: Govaerts Lutgarde , Srebniak Malgorzata , Diderich Karin , Joosten Marieke , Riedijk Sam , Knapen Maarten , Go Attie , Papatsonis Dimitri , de Graaf Katja , Toolenaar Toon , van der Steen Sanne , Huijbregts Gido , Knijnenburg Jeroen , de Vries Femke , Van Opstal Diane , Galjaard Robert‐Jan
Published: December 2016

Background

Whole genome array testing not only provides an increased diagnostic yield of pathogenic causative findings, but it may also reveal so called susceptibility loci (SL) for neurodevelopmental disorders. The goal of this study was to evaluate the pregnancy outcomes in SL cases and to establish a protocol for pregnancy management, follow‐up and additional investigations.

Methods

Fifty seven cases were evaluated: 34 with and 23 without ultrasound anomalies at referral. Each pregnant couple received pretest counseling and extensive posttest genetic counseling.

Results

After diagnosis of SL, parental testing and an additional ultrasound examination were offered. The severity of the ultrasound anomalies and not the diagnosis of SL was the most important factor contributing to the decision on pregnancy continuation. In the majority of cases with milder or no ultrasound anomalies, the pregnancy was continued and a normal outcome after birth was observed.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of a SL did not seem to be a reason for termination of pregnancy. Most patients were able to cope with the uncertainty and were interested in both prenatal and postnatal actionability of SL. Long‐term follow‐up is crucial to assess the actual risks for neurodevelopmental disorders, especially in families with unremarkable history. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.