bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angiocrine Wnt signaling controls liver growth and metabolic maturation in mice
Authors: Leibing Thomas , Géraud Cyrill , Augustin Iris , Boutros Michael , Augustin Hellmut G. , Okun Jürgen G. , Langhans Claus‐Dieter , Zierow Johanna , Wohlfeil Sebastian A. , Olsavszky Victor , Schledzewski Kai , Goerdt Sergij , Koch Philipp‐Sebastian
Published: October 2017

Postnatal liver development is characterized by hepatocyte growth, proliferation, and functional maturation. Notably, canonical Wnt signaling in hepatocytes has been identified as an important regulator of final adult liver size and metabolic liver zonation. The cellular origin of Wnt ligands responsible for homeostatic liver/body weight ratio (LW/BW) remained unclear, which was also attributable to a lack of suitable endothelial Cre driver mice. To comprehensively analyze the effects of hepatic angiocrine Wnt signaling on liver development and metabolic functions, we used endothelial subtype‐specific Stab2‐Cre driver mice to delete Wls from hepatic endothelial cells (HECs). The resultant Stab2‐Cretg/wt;Wlsfl/fl (Wls‐HECKO) mice were viable, but showed a significantly reduced LW/BW. Specifically, ablation of angiocrine Wnt signaling impaired metabolic zonation in the liver, as shown by loss of pericentral, β‐catenin‐dependent target genes such as glutamine synthase (Glul), RhBg, Axin2, and cytochrome P450 2E1, as well as by extended expression of periportal genes such as arginase 1. Furthermore, endothelial subtype‐specific expression of a c‐terminally YFP‐tagged Wls fusion protein in Wls‐HECKO mice (Stab2‐Cretg/wt;Wlsfl/fl;Rosa26:Wls‐YFPfl/wt [Wls‐rescue]) restored metabolic liver zonation. Interestingly, lipid metabolism was altered in Wls‐HECKO mice exhibiting significantly reduced plasma cholesterol levels, while maintaining normal plasma triglyceride and blood glucose concentrations. On the contrary, zonal expression of Endomucin, LYVE1, and other markers of HEC heterogeneity were not altered in Wls‐HECKO livers. Conclusion: Angiocrine Wnt signaling controls liver growth as well as development of metabolic liver zonation in mice, whereas intrahepatic HEC zonation is not affected. (Hepatology 2017).
CircFUT10 reduces proliferation and facilitates differentiation of myoblasts by sponging miR‐133a
Authors: Li Hui , Yang Jiameng , Wei Xuefeng , Song Chengchuang , Dong Dong , Huang Yongzhen , Lan Xianyong , Plath Martin , Lei Chuzhao , Ma Yun , Qi Xinglei , Bai Yueyu , Chen Hong
Published: October 2017

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified in various tissues and cell types from human, monkey, porcine, and mouse. However, knowledge on circRNAs in bovine muscle development is limited. We downloaded and analyzed the circRNAs sequencing data of bovine skeletal muscle tissue, and further characterized the role of a candidate circRNA (circFUT10) in muscle development. Quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) and Western blot assays were used to confirm the expression of genes involved in myoblasts differentiation and proliferation. Flow cytometry was performed to assess cell cycle distribution and cell apoptosis. EdU incorporation and CCK‐8 assay were performed to demonstrate cell proliferation. We demonstrated that circFUT10 was highly (but differentially) expressed in embryonic and adult skeletal muscle tissue. circFUT10 induced bovine primary myoblasts differentiation and increased the expression of MyoD, MyoG, and MyhC in mRNA and protein levels. circFUT10 increased the number of myoblasts in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle, and decreased the proportion of cells in the S‐phase. circFUT10 inhibited the proliferation of myoblasts and promoted them apoptosis. Via a luciferase screening assay, circFUT10 is observed to sponge to miR‐133a with three potential binding sites. Specifically, we show that circFUT10 regulated myoblasts differentiation and cell survival by directly binding to miR‐133a and inhibiting miR‐133a activity. Modulation of circFUT10 expression in muscle tissue may emerge as a potential target in breeding strategies attempting to control muscle development in cattle.
The transfer of Crel contextual control (same, opposite, less than, more than) through equivalence relations
Authors: Perez William F. , Kovac Roberta , Nico Yara C. , Caro Daniel M. , Fidalgo Adriana P. , Linares Ila , de Almeida João Henrique , de Rose Júlio C.
Published: October 2017

According to Relational Frame Theory (RFT) Crel denotes a contextual stimulus that controls a particular type of relational response (sameness, opposition, comparative, temporal, hierarchical etc.) in a given situation. Previous studies suggest that contextual functions may be indirectly acquired via transfer of function. The present study investigated the transfer of Crel contextual control through equivalence relations. Experiment 1 evaluated the transfer of Crel contextual functions for relational responses based on sameness and opposition. Experiment 2 extended these findings by evaluating transfer of function using comparative Crel stimuli. Both experiments followed a similar sequence of phases. First, abstract forms were established as Crel stimuli via multiple exemplar training (Phase 1). The contextual cues were then applied to establish arbitrary relations among nonsense words and to test derived relations (Phase 2). After that, equivalence relations involving the original Crel stimuli and other abstract forms were trained and tested (Phase 3). Transfer of function was evaluated by replacing the directly established Crel stimuli with their equivalent stimuli in the former experimental tasks (Phases 1 and 2). Results from both experiments suggest that Crel contextual control may be extended via equivalence relations, allowing other arbitrarily related stimuli to indirectly acquire Crel functions and regulate behavior by evoking appropriate relational responses in the presence of both previously known and novel stimuli.
Synthesis of New Pyrimido[4′,5′:3,4]pyrazolo[1,2‐b]phthalazine‐4,7,12‐triones: Derivatives of a New Heterocyclic Ring System
Authors: Hosseininasab Nasrinsadat , Davoodnia Abolghasem , Rostami‐Charati Faramarz , Tavakoli‐Hoseini Niloofar , Khojastehnezhad Amir
Published: October 2017

Several derivatives of the new pyrimido[4′,5′:3,4]pyrazolo[1,2‐b]phthalazine‐4,7,12‐trione ring system have been prepared by the reaction of 3‐amino‐1‐aryl‐5,10‐dioxo‐5,10‐dihydro‐1H‐pyrazolo[1,2‐b]phthalazine‐2‐carbonitriles with aliphatic carboxylic acids in the presence of phosphoryl chloride (POCl3). The synthesized compounds were characterized on the basis of IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectral and microanalytical data.
Enriching Ethical Leadership in Higher Education as Advanced Learning
Authors: Janfada Mahtab
Published: October 2017

The current paper will discuss the pedagogical affordances of an “Ethical Leadership” subject as a part of an Advanced Learning and Leadership program at the University of Melbourne tailored for doctoral candidates and early career academics. Informed by Aristotelian framework in cultivating theoretical and practical wisdom among adult learners, this subject delves into different principles and values in achieving ethical leadership. Higher degree researchers learn about different leadership perspectives, power of self‐leadership, leadership in opposition, leading change, as well as wisdom and failure in leadership through mixed mode of activities, lectures, and performing seminars. Importantly, they will be equipped to understand and envisage more ethical ways of leadership in their own research journey as well as future academic life. Selected, thought‐provoking ideas from both local and international candidates, undertaking that course will be discussed to provide promising implications for future leadership pedagogy and research.
Interactive effects of biochar and micronutrients on faba bean growth, symbiotic performance, and soil properties
Authors: Mohamed Ibrahim , El-Meihy Rasha , Ali Maha , Chen Fang , Raleve David
Published: October 2017

Leguminous crops are significantly involved in the global symbiotic biological N2 Fixation (BNF), an eco‐friendly process in the agriculture system. Biochar is considered as a vital amendment in improving growth and quality of crops and soils. Few investigations have been conducted to determine the combination effect of biochar with microelements on growth of legumes and soil properties. This study was designed to study the effect of soybean straw‐derived biochar (SSDB) with or without microelements on soil microbial and chemical properties, growth, yield, and seed chemical composition of faba bean (Vicia faba L.). Results revealed that dehydrogenase (DHA) and phosphatase (P‐ase) activities were markedly improved with the increase of SSDB rates under addition of microelements and their highest values were recorded after 90 d. Significant increases were noticed in nodulation activities, nodulation numbers (30.1–72.8), concentrations of N (1.62–1.93%), P (0.15–0.21%), and K (0.53–0.67%), and seed chemical constituents due to the addition of SSDB in the presence of microelements. Moreover, the combination of biochar with microelements caused significant changes in microbial counts. Overall, this investigation shows the potential and role of SSDB in enhancing the growth quality of faba bean seeds as well as an improvement of soil characteristics.
Elevated atmospheric CO2 enhances grazer‐induced morphological defense in the freshwater green alga Scenedesmus obliquus
Authors: Huang Yuan , Cui Guilian , Li Bangping , Zhu Xuexia , Yang Zhou
Published: October 2017

Atmospheric CO2 level is increasing and considerably influences aquatic ecosystems. Grazer‐induced defenses in phytoplankton stabilize the structures of aquatic food webs. Costs associated with defense have resulted in a situation in which the effectiveness of inducible defenses depends on environmental conditions. To investigate the grazer‐induced defense responses to elevated air CO2 levels, the algae Scenedesmus obliquus was cultured under two air CO2 concentrations (390 ppm and 750 ppm) in the absence or presence of predator‐derived cues (Daphnia filtrate). In response to Daphnia filtrate, colonial populations such as eight‐celled colony were largely formed in S. obliquus. When air CO2 was elevated to 750 ppm, the inorganic carbon contents in media increased, thereby stimulating algal reproduction and photosynthesis. Moreover, the volumes of unicells and two‐celled colonies were enlarged under elevated CO2 conditions. These physiological changes satisfied the material and energy demands for the formation of larger colonies. Based on the consistent surface area per volume of the large colony under ambient and elevated CO2 conditions, the increased inorganic carbon (by CO2 enrichment) facilitated the carbon uptake of the multi‐celled colony. Thus, the morphological defense in phytoplankton was enhanced with more eight‐celled colonies formed in populations grown in a high‐CO2 environment. The present result verified the hypothesis that inducible defense is less costly and has higher effectiveness with increasing carbon availability. The enhancement of anti‐grazer morphological defenses in phytoplankton potentially alters the trophic cascades between phytoplankton and zooplankton and contributes to the redirected energy and nutrient flow in ecosystem‐level processes under a CO2‐rising climate.
Associations between cyanobacteria and indices of secondary production in the western basin of Lake Erie
Authors: Larson James H. , Evans Mary Anne , Kennedy Robert J. , Bailey Sean W. , Loftin Keith A. , Laughrey Zachary R. , Femmer Robin A. , Schaeffer Jeff S. , Richardson William B. , Wynne Timothy T. , Nelson J. C. , Duris Joseph W.
Published: October 2017

Large lakes provide a variety of ecological services to surrounding cities and communities. Many of these services are supported by ecological processes that are threatened by the increasing prevalence of cyanobacterial blooms which occur as aquatic ecosystems experience cultural eutrophication. Over the past 10 yr, Lake Erie experienced cyanobacterial blooms of increasing severity and frequency, which have resulted in impaired drinking water for the surrounding communities. Cyanobacterial blooms may impact ecological processes that support other services, but many of these impacts have not been documented. Secondary production (production of primary consumers) is an important process that supports economically important higher trophic levels. Cyanobacterial blooms may influence secondary production because cyanobacteria are a poor‐quality food resource and cyanotoxins may be harmful to consumers. Over 3 yr at 34 sites across the western basin of Lake Erie, we measured three indices of secondary production that focus on the dominant bivalve taxa: (1) growth of a native unionid mussel, (2) the size of young‐of‐year dreissenid mussels, and (3) the mass of colonizing animals on a Hester‐Dendy sampler. Associations between these indices and cyanobacterial data were estimated to assess whether cyanobacteria are associated with variation in secondary production in the western basin of Lake Erie. The results suggest cyanobacterial abundance alone is only weakly associated with secondary production, but that cyanotoxins have a larger effect on secondary production. Given recurring late‐summer cyanobacterial blooms, this impact on secondary production has the potential to undermine Lake Erie's ability to sustain important ecosystem services.
Apparent diffusion coefficients of the five major metabolites measured in the human brain in vivo at 3T
Authors: Deelchand Dinesh K. , Auerbach Edward J. , Marjańska Małgorzata
Published: October 2017

Purpose

To measure the apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) of five main metabolites in the human brain at 3T with PRESS and STEAM, avoiding measurement biases because of cross‐terms. Cross‐terms arise from interactions between slice‐selection and spoiler gradients in the localized spectroscopy sequence and the diffusion gradients.

Methods

Diffusion‐weighted spectra were acquired from the prefrontal cortex in five healthy subjects using STEAM (echo time [TE]/mixing time [TM]/pulse repetition time [TR] = 21.22/105/3000 ms, b‐values = 0 and 3172 s/mm2) and PRESS (TE/TR = 54.2/3000 ms, b‐values = 0 and 2204 s/mm2). Diffusion weighting was applied using bipolar gradients in three orthogonal directions. Post‐processed spectra were analyzed with LCModel, and the trace/3 ADC values were calculated.

Results

Comparable trace/3 ADC values (0.14–0.18 µm2/ms) were obtained for five main metabolites with both methods. These metabolites were quantified with Cramér‐Rao lower bounds below 15%.

Conclusion

The ADC values of the five main metabolites were successfully measured in the human brain at 3T with eliminated directional dependence. Both STEAM and PRESS can be used to probe the diffusivity of metabolites in normal brain and various pathologies on the clinical scanner with slightly higher precision achieved with STEAM for glutamate and myo‐inositol. Magn Reson Med 79:2896–2901, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Body diffusion‐weighted imaging using magnetization prepared single‐shot fast spin echo and extended parallel imaging signal averaging
Authors: Gibbons Eric K. , Vasanawala Shreyas S. , Pauly John M. , Kerr Adam B.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

This work demonstrates a magnetization prepared diffusion‐weighted single‐shot fast spin echo (SS‐FSE) pulse sequence for the application of body imaging to improve robustness to geometric distortion. This work also proposes a scan averaging technique that is superior to magnitude averaging and is not subject to artifacts due to object phase.

Theory and Methods

This single‐shot sequence is robust against violation of the Carr‐Purcell‐Meiboom‐Gill (CPMG) condition. This is achieved by dephasing the signal after diffusion weighting and tipping the MG component of the signal onto the longitudinal axis while the non‐MG component is spoiled. The MG signal component is then excited and captured using a traditional SS‐FSE sequence, although the echo needs to be recalled prior to each echo. Extended Parallel Imaging (ExtPI) averaging is used where coil sensitivities from the multiple acquisitions are concatenated into one large parallel imaging (PI) problem. The size of the PI problem is reduced by SVD‐based coil compression which also provides background noise suppression. This sequence and reconstruction are evaluated in simulation, phantom scans, and in vivo abdominal clinical cases.

Results

Simulations show that the sequence generates a stable signal throughout the echo train which leads to good image quality. This sequence is inherently low‐SNR, but much of the SNR can be regained through scan averaging and the proposed ExtPI reconstruction. In vivo results show that the proposed method is able to provide diffusion encoded images while mitigating geometric distortion artifacts compared to EPI.

Conclusion

This work presents a diffusion‐prepared SS‐FSE sequence that is robust against the violation of the CPMG condition while providing diffusion contrast in clinical cases. Magn Reson Med 79:3032–3044, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Nuclear magnetic relaxation dispersion of murine tissue for development of T1 (R1) dispersion contrast imaging
Authors: Araya Yonathan T. , Martínez‐Santiesteban Francisco , Handler William B. , Harris Chad T. , Chronik Blaine A. , Scholl Timothy J.
Published: October 2017

This study quantified the spin–lattice relaxation rate (R1) dispersion of murine tissues from 0.24 mT to 3 T. A combination of ex vivo and in vivo spin–lattice relaxation rate measurements were acquired for murine tissue. Selected brain, liver, kidney, muscle, and fat tissues were excised and R1 dispersion profiles were acquired from 0.24 mT to 1.0 T at 37 °C, using a fast field‐cycling MR (FFC‐MR) relaxometer. In vivo R1 dispersion profiles of mice were acquired from 1.26 T to 1.74 T at 37 °C, using FFC‐MRI on a 1.5 T scanner outfitted with a field‐cycling insert electromagnet to dynamically control B0 prior to imaging. Images at five field strengths (1.26, 1.39, 1.5, 1.61, 1.74 T) were acquired using a field‐cycling pulse sequence, where B0 was modulated for varying relaxation durations prior to imaging. R1 maps and R1 dispersion (ΔR1/ΔB0) were calculated at 1.5 T on a pixel‐by‐pixel basis. In addition, in vivo R1 maps of mice were acquired at 3 T. At fields less than 1 T, a large R1 magnetic field dependence was observed for tissues. ROI analysis of the tissues showed little relaxation dispersion for magnetic fields from 1.26 T to 3 T. Our tissue measurements show strong R1 dispersion at field strengths less than 1 T and limited R1 dispersion at field strengths greater than 1 T. These findings emphasize the inherent weak R1 magnetic field dependence of healthy tissues at clinical field strengths. This characteristic of tissues can be exploited by a combination of FFC‐MRI and T1 contrast agents that exhibit strong relaxivity magnetic field dependences (inherent or by binding to a protein), thereby increasing the agents' specificity and sensitivity. This development can provide potential insights into protein‐based biomarkers using FFC‐MRI to assess early changes in tumour development, which are not easily measureable with conventional MRI.
Al+Si Interface Optical Properties Obtained in the Si Solar Cell Configuration
Authors: Subedi Indra , Silverman Timothy J , Deceglie Michael G. , Podraza Nikolas J.
Published: October 2017

Al is a commonly used material for rear side metallization in commercial silicon (Si) wafer solar cells. In this study, through‐the‐silicon spectroscopic ellipsometry is used in a test sample to measure Al+Si interface optical properties like those in Si wafer solar cells. Two different spectroscopic ellipsometers are used for measurement of Al+Si interface optical properties over the 1128–2500 nm wavelength range. For validation, the measured interface optical properties are used in a ray tracing simulation over the 300–2500 nm wavelength range for an encapsulated Si solar cell having random pyramidal texture. The ray tracing model matches well with the measured total reflectance at normal incidence of a commercially available Si module. The Al+Si optical properties presented here enable quantitative assessment of major irradiance/current flux losses arising from reflection and parasitic absorption in encapsulated Si solar cells.
Dielectric, Ferroelectric, and Piezoelectric Investigation of Polymer‐Based P(VDF‐TrFE) Composites
Authors: Belovickis Jaroslavas , Ivanov Maksim , Svirskas Šarunas , Samulionis Vytautas , Banys Jūras , Solnyshkin Alexander V. , Gavrilov Sergey A. , Nekludov Kapiton N. , Shvartsman Vladimir V. , Silibin Maxim V.
Published: October 2017

In this study we report on the dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties of the conventional polyvinylidene fluoride/trifluoroethylene, P(VDF‐TrFE), copolymer of composition 70/30 mol.% with fillers on the basis of lead zirconate titanate (PZT). (Pb0.75Ba0.24Sr0.01)(Zr0.53Ti0.47)O3 (BPZT) fillers with concentrations from 10 to 50 vol.% are additional components in the P(VDF‐TrFE) piezoelectric polymer. Dielectric spectroscopy and the characterization of ferroelectricity and piezoelectricity in the P(VDF‐TrFE)/BPZT composites are performed over a wide temperature range from 150 to 420 K. The dependence of the effective dielectric permittivity for the composites under investigation on the filler concentration is analyzed by the Lichtenecker mixing rule. The approximation model of effective medium is also applied to explain the impact of BPZT fillers on the ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties of P(VDF‐TrFE)/BPZT composites.
Epoxyazadiradione Purified from the Azadirachta indica Seed Induced Mitochondrial Apoptosis and Inhibition of NFκB Nuclear Translocation in Human Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Shilpa G. , Renjitha J. , Saranga R. , Sajin Francis K. , Nair Mangalam S. , Joy Beena , Sasidhar B.S. , Priya S.
Published: October 2017

Epoxyazadiradione (EAD) is an important limonoid present in Neem (Azadirachta indica) plant. In the present study, we have purified EAD from Neem seed and studied its anticancer potential in human cervical cancer (HeLa) cells. Cell proliferation inhibition studies indicated that the GI50 value of EAD is 7.5 ± 0.0092 μM in HeLa cells, whereas up to 50 μM concentrations EAD did not affect the growth of normal H9C2 cells. The control drug cisplatin inhibited the growth of both HeLa and H9C2 cells with a GI50 value of 2.92 ± 1.192 and 4.22 ± 1.568 μM, respectively. Nuclear DNA fragmentation, cell membrane blebbing, phosphatidylserine translocation, upregulation of Bax, caspase 3 activity and poly (ADP ribose) polymerase cleavage and downregulation of BCl2 in HeLa cells on treatment with EAD indicated the apoptotic cell death. Increase in caspase 9 activity and release of active cytochrome c to the cytoplasm on treatment with EAD confirmed that the apoptosis was mediated through the mitochondrial pathway. Epoxyazadiradione also inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor κB in HeLa cells. Thus, our studies demonstrated EAD as a potent and safe chemotherapeutic agent when compared with the standard drug cisplatin that is toxic to both cancer and normal cells equally. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Finite ‐gain problem for networked control systems with delays via event‐triggered control
Authors: Yu Hao , Hao Fei
Published: October 2017

By using the integrals of the signals to construct the triggering condition, integral‐based event‐triggered control can relax the requirement of persistent decrease on the Lyapunov function and, then, may yield better sampling performance. This paper studies the disturbance rejection problem for the integral‐based event‐triggered control systems with transmission delays and observer‐based output feedbacks. An integral‐based triggering condition is employed to generate the events. Two asynchronous models are implemented in the different sides of the networks. The model in the observer node is used to detect the events, whereas the model in the controller node is used to calculate the control signals. This structure contributes to avoiding the Zeno behavior, and then, an estimation on the lower bound of the interevent times is provided. Moreover, the criteria on the parameter in the triggering condition and on the bounds of the transmission delays are given to guarantee the desired disturbance rejection performance. Finally, a numerical example is provided to illustrate the efficiency and feasibility of the obtained results.
Catalytic Reduction of Toxic Nitroarenes in Aqueous Medium Using Worm‐Like Rhodium Nanoparticles
Authors: George Anu , Selvan Dhanashree , Mandal Sukhendu
Published: October 2017

We demonstrate a facile synthesis of worm‐like rhodium nanoparticle stabilized by octadecylamine. This worm‐like nanoparticle exhibits excellent catalytic activity toward the reduction of nitro aromatics in the presence of NaBH4 in aqueous medium at room temperature. The reaction follows pseudo‐first order kinetics with a rate constant of 0.0216 s−1. We have explored this catalytic activity for the reduction of several nitro derivatives. This catalyst can effectively reduce toxic nitro aromatics in aqueous medium in much faster rate compared to other Rh‐based catalysts.
On the Borderline Between Discrete Complex Ions and Extended Structures: An Unprecedented Large Undecanuclear Azidocuprate(II) Anion in Crystals of (PPN)2[Cu11(N3)24(C2H5OH)2]
Authors: Hinz Alexander , Köckerling Martin
Published: October 2017

The reaction of the low melting solid PPN(N3) with copper(II) acetate in ethanol yields (PPN)2[Cu11(N3)24(C2H5OH)2]. The undecanuclear azidocuprate dianon is unprecedented and represents the largest example for a discrete azidocuprate(II) anion to date. This structurally more‐or‐less flat anion contains features of Cu(N3)2, i. e. can be considered the largest so far known building block of this solid.
Surface Hovering of Probe on Cyclodextrin Nanoparticle that is Otherwise Sequestered in Isolated Cyclodextrin Cavity
Authors: Ghosh Ashutosh , Purkayastha Pradipta
Published: October 2017

Experimental evidence of hovering of probe on the surface of β‐cyclodextrin nanoparticles (β‐CDNPs) is given in the present work. A special double proton transfer (DPT) probe was used for this purpose. 2,2′‐bipyridine‐3,3′‐diol (BP(OH)2) shows excited state intramolecular DPT (ESIDPT) in different solvents. In water, this process takes place through two mechanisms: (i) normal intramolecular proton transfer and (ii) unconventional DPT through “water‐wire” formation between the prototropic centers. The second mechanism is favoured at low availability of water around the probe. This concept was exploited in the present case to propose possible existence of BP(OH)2 on the surface of the β‐CDNPs due to uncertainty in occupying the host cavity as all are similar and cluttered together. The probe would otherwise is completely sequestered within isolated CD nanocavity in aqueous medium. Spectroscopy has been used as a tool to establish the proposition.
Molecular Insight into Inclusion Complex Formation of Curcumin and Calix[4]arene
Authors: Angelova Silvia , Antonov Liudmil
Published: October 2017

The effect of the complex formation with calix[4]arene on the tautomerism of curcumin was studied in water by means of theoretical calculations at M062X/6‐31G(d,p) level of theory. The results show that both tautomeric forms can enter and leave the host cavity without sterical problems. The binding of the diketo tautomeric form was found to be more favorable (by 2.1 kcal mol−1 in the gas phase and 1.7 kcal mol−1 in water) than the binding to the same host system of the preferred keto‐enol tautomeric form. This results in attenuation of the energy difference between the tautomers in the complex, but does not shift dramatically the position of the tautomeric equilibrium in the guest molecule. The predicted spectral characteristics of the individual tautomers and their complexes reproduce well the experimental observations.
One‐Pot Catalyst‐Free Direct Sulfenylation of 1‐Aryl Pyrazolones with Aryl Thiols at Room Temperature
Authors: Kamani Ronak D. , Purohit Vishal B. , Thummar Rahul P. , Sapariya Nirav H. , Vaghasiya Beena K. , Patel Kirit H. , Pashavan Chandankumar T. , Shah Manish K. , Raval Dipak K.
Published: October 2017

A novel strategy for N‐chlorosuccinimide mediated direct sulfenylation of 1‐aryl pyrazolones using aryl thiols has been developed at room temperature. The protocol was found to be simple, efficient and transition metal‐free to afford the target products in good to excellent yields without further purification. The prepared compounds were characterised by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy. The skeleton of one of the synthesized compounds has been well confirmed by X‐ray single crystal diffraction (XRD) analysis as well as ORTEP diagram.
Household electricity consumers’ incentive to choose dynamic pricing under different taxation schemes
Authors: Katz Jonas , Kitzing Lena , Schröder Sascha T. , Andersen Frits Møller , Morthorst Poul Erik , Stryg Morten
Published: October 2017

Dynamic pricing of retail electricity, as opposed to the widely applied average pricing, has often been proposed to enhance economic efficiency through demand response. The development of variable production from renewable energies and expectations about the installation of heat pumps and electric vehicles has now reinforced interest in flexible demand and dynamic pricing. With a roll‐out of smart metering one important technical hurdle is going to be cleared, and dynamic retail pricing may soon become an eligible option for many households. We quantify the potential incentives to adopt new pricing schemes using exemplary Danish data. Until now, limited activity of household consumers on retail markets indicates that switching supplier or contract is perceived costly. We apply the concept of switching costs to explain this hesitant behavior, and use it to estimate a threshold level based on recent observations in the Danish market. We calculate potential savings from dynamic pricing and show how the choice of electricity taxation technique may hamper or enhance potential benefits. In the light of switching costs, our results suggest that the combination of smart meter roll‐out and dynamic pricing offerings might be insufficient to convince the majority of households to switch contracts and become active in response to prices, unless they hold a substantial flexibility potential. Dynamic taxation, even if applied to parts of the levies, could contribute significantly to inducing flexible consumption. WIREs Energy Environ 2018, 7:e270. doi: 10.1002/wene270.

This article is categorized under:

Energy Infrastructure > Economics and Policy

Energy Systems Economics > Economics and Policy

Energy Policy and Planning > Economics and Policy
Photogalvanic cells: only solar cells having dual role of solar power generation and storage
Authors: Koli Pooran
Published: October 2017

Solar cell converts solar energy into electricity directly. Among such solar cells, the photogalvanic cells are unique as these are only solar cells that are capable of doing solar power generation and storage simultaneously. Therefore, such an inherent solar power storage capacity that too with good efficiency of these cells needs to be exploited for making solar cell technology a reliable source of power in the future. The fabrication and experimentation of photogalvanic cells is very simple to demonstrate its unique property. The power, short‐circuit current, open‐circuit potential, conversion efficiency, and power storage (in terms of half change time) for photogalvanic cells are reported of the order of 1159 μW, 4500 μA, 1.07 V, 14, and 260 min, respectively.

However, to make photogalvanic cells realty in life for simultaneous solar power and storage, some challenges have to be tackled. Some of the challenges are photodecay of dye, corrosion of platinum (Pt), evaporation of liquid, breaking vulnerability of SCE/combination electrode, further need to increase the power and efficiency and storage, assembly operation of cells for augmentation of power, cell study in natural sunlight, and so on. WIREs Energy Environ 2018, 7:e274. doi: 10.1002/wene.274

This article is categorized under:

Photovoltaics > Science and Materials

Energy and Development > Climate and Environment
A Water‐Soluble Mn(CO)3‐Based and Non‐Toxic PhotoCORM for Administration of Carbon Monoxide Inside of Cells
Authors: Mede Ralf , Hoffmann Patrick , Klein Moritz , Görls Helmar , Schmitt Michael , Neugebauer Ute , Gessner Guido , Heinemann Stefan H. , Popp Jürgen , Westerhausen Matthias
Published: October 2017

The photoCORMs [Mn(CO)3(L)]Br with the tridentate ligands L1 = S[(CH2)2NH2]2 (1) (CORM‐EDE3) and L2 = cyclo‐S[(CH2)2NH(CH2‐)]2 (2) (CORM‐EDE4) are non‐toxic and release all CO ligands upon irradiation. Reduction of the hydrophilicity of the cation by L2 (thia‐4,7‐diazacyclononane) enables accumulation of the resulting water‐soluble CORM‐EDE4 as well as administration of CO inside of cells.
Gondwana Biostratigraphy of the Purnea Basin (Eastern Bihar, India), and its Correlation with Rajmahal and Bengal Gondwana Basins
Authors: Prasad Bijai , Pundir B. S.
Published: October 2017

Integrated biostratigraphic studies are undertaken on the newly discovered Gondwana successions of Purnea Basin which have been recognized in the subsurface below the Neogene Siwalik sediments. The four exploratory wells, so far drilled in Purnea Basin, indicated the presence of thick Gondwana sussession (± 2450m) with varied lithological features. However, precise age of different Gondwanic lithounits of this basin and their correlation with standard Gondwana lithounits is poorly understood due to inadequate biostratigraphic data.

Present biostratigraphic studies on the Gondwana successions in the exploratory wells of PRN-A, RSG-A, LHL-A and KRD-A enable recognition of fifteen Gondwanic palynological zones ranging in age from Early Permian (Asselian-Sakmarian) to Late Triassic (Carnian-Norian). Precise age for the Gondwanic palynological zones, recognized in the Purnea Basin and already established in other Indian Gondwana basins, are provided in the milieu of additional palynological data obtained from the Gondwana successions of this basin.

The Lower Gondwana (Permian) palynofloras of Purnea Basin recorded from the Karandighi, Salmari, Katihar and Dinajpur formations resemble the palynological assemblages earlier recorded from the Talchir, Karharbari, Barakar and Raniganj formations respectively, and suggests the full development of lower Gondwana succession in this basin. The Upper Gondwana (Triassic) succession of this basin is marked by the Early and Middle to Late Triassic palynofloras that resemble Panchet and Supra-Panchet (Dubrajpur/Maleri Formation) palynological assemblages, and indicates the occurrence of complete Upper Gondwana succession also in the Purnea Basin.

The lithological and biostratigraphic attributes of Gondwana sediments from Purnea, Rajmahal and western parts of Bengal Basin (Galsi Basin) are almost similar and provides strong evidences about the existence of a distinct N-S trending Gondwana Graben, referred as the Purnea-Rajmahal-Galsi Gondwana Graben. Newly acquired biostratigraphic data from the Gondwana sediments of CHK-A, MNG-A and PLS-A wells from central part of Bengal Basin and Bouguer anomaly data suggest that these wells fall in a separate NE-SW trending graben of “Chandkuri-Palasi-Bogra Gondwana Graben”. Although, the post-Gondwana latest Jurassic-Early Cretaceous Rajmahal Traps and and intertrappean beds succeed the Upper Gondwana successions in Rajmahal, Galsi and Chandkuri-Palasi Gondwana basins, but not recorded in the drilled wells of Purnea Basin, instead succeeded by the Neogene Siwalik sediments.
Aromatase Inhibitors Are Associated with Low Sexual Desire Causing Distress and Fecal Incontinence in Women: An Observational Study
Authors: Robinson Penelope J. , Bell Robin J. , Christakis Marie K. , Ivezic Stephanie R. , Davis Susan R.
Published: October 2017

Background

Little is known of the impact of aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy on sexual and pelvic floor function.

Aim

To document the prevalence of, and factors associated with, low desire, sexually related personal distress, hypoactive sexual desire dysfunction (HSDD), and pelvic floor dysfunction in women 10 years after breast cancer diagnosis.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational, community-based cohort study of Australian women with invasive breast cancer recruited within 12 months of diagnosis. 1,053 of the 1,305 who completed the initial 5 years of study follow-up agreed to be re-contacted, and 992 of these women alive 10 years after diagnosis were sent the study questionnaire.

Outcomes

The main outcome measure was HSDD determined by a score no higher than 5.0 on the desire domain of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) plus a score of at least 11.0 on the Female Sexual Distress Scale–Revised (FSDS-R). Pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse, were assessed using validated questionnaires. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with low desire, personal distress, and HSDD.

Results

625 completed questionnaires were returned. The respondents’ median age was 65.1 years (range = 36.4–95.5). Current AI use was reported by 10% and tamoxifen use was reported by 3.4%. 521 of the 608 women (85.7%; 95% CI = 82.9–88.5) who competed the FSFI desire domain had low sexual desire, and 246 of the 563 women (43.7%; 95% CI = 39.6–47.8%) who completed the FSDS-R had sexually related personal distress. 221 of the 559 women (39.5%; 95% CI = 35.5–43.6%) who completed the 2 questionnaires had HSDD. Current AI users were more likely to have HSDD than non-users (55.2% [95% CI = 42.2–68.1] vs 37.8% [95% CI = 33.5–42.0]; P = .01). HSDD was more prevalent in sexually active, current AI users (66.7%; 95% CI = 49.4–83.9) vs current non-users (43.6%; 95% CI = 37.0–50.2; P = .02). In a logistic regression model, HSDD was significantly associated with current AI use and inversely associated with age. Fecal incontinence was more prevalent in AI users than in current non-users (29.8% [95% CI = 17.8–41.8] vs 16.4% [95% CI = 13.2–19.6], respectively; P = .01).

Clinical Implications

It is important to address women’s sexual health even many years after their breast cancer diagnosis.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths include a representative sample, use of validated questionnaires, and few missing data. Limitations include sexual activity being a 4-week recall.

Conclusions

AI use is associated with HSDD and fecal incontinence in women who are 10 years after breast cancer diagnosis.
Removable Rigid Dressings for Postoperative Management of Transtibial Amputations: A Review of Published Evidence
Authors: Reichmann James P. , Stevens Phillip M. , Rheinstein John , Kreulen Christopher D.
Published: October 2017

Forty years of clinical experience and peer‐reviewed research studies support the use of nonweight‐bearing removable rigid dressings (RRDs) as an effective means of postoperative management of transtibial amputations. We reviewed the published medical evidence regarding the use of RRDs as a postoperative management strategy, culminating in an evidence‐based practice recommendation. Published peer‐reviewed literature on the topic was searched and classified by level of evidence based on the research design using the scale recommended by the PM&R (level I through V). The search uncovered a total of 15 articles, including 5 level I randomized controlled trials, 6 level III retrospective matched controlled trials, and 4 level V case reports.

A number of benefits associated with the application of RRDs compared with soft dressings were reported across these 15 studies. These included faster healing times, reduced limb edema, preparatory contouring of the residual limb in anticipation of prosthetic use, the prevention of knee flexion contractures, and reduced external trauma to the limb. Also described were an increased probability of successful prosthetic use and pain reduction. The RRDs studied permitted regular inspection of surgical wounds with greater ease and consistency of application than traditional soft dressing approaches. Rigid dressings provide all the same benefits of RRDs except ease of wound inspection, therefore rendering them impractical for the 82% of patients receiving an amputation for ischemic disease that are at high risk of developing wound dehiscence. Weight‐bearing immediate postoperative prostheses are almost exclusively reserved for use on trauma patients who usually do not show evidence of vascular or neurologic impairment. The inherent risks of falls and inconsistent pressure on the surgical wound have further restricted their use in practice to a limited patient type.

The benefits of RRDs compared with soft dressings are universally recognized in the published peer‐reviewed medical evidence to be superior to soft dressings. Based on the best‐available current published evidence, nonweight‐bearing removable rigid dressings should be considered the first treatment choice for the postoperative care of transtibial amputees to optimize outcomes with regard to reductions in injury due to falls, knee flexion contractures, edema, healing time, time to prosthetic fitting, and pain.

Level of Evidence

II
The Space between Us
Authors: Enos Ryan D.
Published: October 2017

The Space Between Us brings the connection between geography, psychology, and politics to life. By going into the neighborhoods of real cities, Enos shows how our perceptions of racial, ethnic, and religious groups are intuitively shaped by where these groups live and interact daily. Through the lens of numerous examples across the globe and drawing on a compelling combination of research techniques including field and laboratory experiments, big data analysis, and small-scale interactions, this timely book provides a new understanding of how geography shapes politics and how members of groups think about each other. Enos' analysis is punctuated with personal accounts from the field. His rigorous research unfolds in accessible writing that will appeal to specialists and non-specialists alike, illuminating the profound effects of social geography on how we relate to, think about, and politically interact across groups in the fabric of our daily lives.
On the role of the present indicative in variable future-time reference in Hexagonal French
Authors: Gudmestad Aarnes , Edmonds Amanda , Donaldson Bryan , Carmichael Katie
Published: October 2017

This article investigates variable future-time expression among native speakers of Hexagonal French who participated in informal conversations. The quantitative analysis is the first to examine the inflectional future, periphrastic future, and present indicative as separate forms within a single statistical model of French oral production. Results indicate that temporal distance and presence/absence of a temporal expression predict use of these verb forms. The second phase of the analysis focused on the use of the present indicative in future-time contexts. The examination of each instance of the present indicative shows that an immediate lexical temporal indicator is not necessary for this form to convey futurity and that future-time reference is often established at the discourse level and occasionally through apparent shared knowledge between the interlocutors. This investigation suggests the value of including the present indicative in the analysis of future-time reference in Hexagonal French in order to fully capture variation.
Spot the difference: shared decision-making and supported decision-making in mental health
Authors: Simmons M. B. , Gooding P. M.
Published: October 2017

Respecting a person’s choices about the mental health services they do or do not use is a mark of quality support, and is often pursued for moral reasons, as a rights imperative and to improve outcomes. Yet, providing information and assistance for people making decisions about the mental health services can be a complex process, and has been approached in various ways. Two prominent approaches to this end are ‘shared decision-making’ and ‘supported decision-making’. This article considers each of these approaches, discussing points of similarity and difference and considering how the two might complement one another. By exploring the contribution that each approach can make, we conclude by proposing how future application of these approaches can account for the broader context of decisions, including support for ongoing decision-making; the multitude of service settings where decision-making occurs; and the diversity in supportive practices required to promote active involvement.
In hand and in mind: Effects of gesture production and viewing on second language word learning
Authors: MORETT LAURA M.
Published: October 2017

To date, within the context of second language (L2) word learning, nonspontaneous representational gesture viewing's impact on memory and spontaneous gesture production's impact on communication have been examined separately. Thus, it is unclear whether and how these effects interact, particularly in the same individuals. The present study addresses this question by comparing these effects and by examining their influence on one another. To do so, a dialogic task was employed in which participants learned words from a novel L2 and taught them to other similar participants. The results show that viewing nonspontaneous representational gesture did not affect L2 word recall whereas spontaneous production of different gesture types affected communication and memory of L2 word meanings in varying ways. Furthermore, the results provide evidence that gesture viewing primes production of similar types of gestures, and that the quantity and types of gestures produced differ based on the context of communication. These results indicate that the effects of spontaneous gesture production on communication are stronger than the effects of nonspontaneous gesture viewing on memory, and that these effects influence one another. Together, these results demonstrate that spontaneous gesture production and nonspontaneous gesture viewing play distinct but interrelated roles in L2 acquisition.
Reproducibility of Cognitive Profiles in Psychosis Using Cluster Analysis
Authors: Lewandowski Kathryn E. , Baker Justin T. , McCarthy Julie M. , Norris Lesley A. , Öngür Dost
Published: October 2017

Objectives:Cognitive dysfunction is a core symptom dimension that cuts across the psychoses. Recent findings support classification of patients along the cognitive dimension using cluster analysis; however, data-derived groupings may be highly determined by sampling characteristics and the measures used to derive the clusters, and so their interpretability must be established. We examined cognitive clusters in a cross-diagnostic sample of patients with psychosis and associations with clinical and functional outcomes. We then compared our findings to a previous report of cognitive clusters in a separate sample using a different cognitive battery.Methods:Participants with affective or non-affective psychosis (n=120) and healthy controls (n=31) were administered the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery, and clinical and community functioning assessments. Cluster analyses were performed on cognitive variables, and clusters were compared on demographic, cognitive, and clinical measures. Results were compared to findings from our previous report.Results:A four-cluster solution provided a good fit to the data; profiles included a neuropsychologically normal cluster, a globally impaired cluster, and two clusters of mixed profiles. Cognitive burden was associated with symptom severity and poorer community functioning. The patterns of cognitive performance by cluster were highly consistent with our previous findings.Conclusions:We found evidence of four cognitive subgroups of patients with psychosis, with cognitive profiles that map closely to those produced in our previous work. Clusters were associated with clinical and community variables and a measure of premorbid functioning, suggesting that they reflect meaningful groupings: replicable, and related to clinical presentation and functional outcomes. (JINS, 2018,24, 382–390)