bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Instructional Factors Related to Students’ Academic Self-Discipline in Norway and Finland
Authors: Arnesen Thomas , Elstad Eyvind , Christophersen Knut Andreas
Published: October 2017

School learners can struggle with setting and striving for objectives that require sustained academic self‐discipline. We believe that teachers’ instructional qualities and school culture are factors that can successfully elicit students’ self-discipline in their academic work. This study explores and compares factors related to students’ academic self-discipline among Norwegian and Finnish youths at the upper secondary level. The Finnish students’ excellent results on international comparative tests have led many commentators to consider the Finnish model of education very worthy of emulation. Another reason to com-pare these two groups is that Finnish and Norwegian classrooms differ in their levels of in-class Internet access and computer use for learning purposes. From this perspective, it is interesting to compare empirical associations between instructional factors (as well as students’ school appreciation) and students’ academic self-discipline. The instructional factors in our theoretical model were teachers’ classroom management, teaching quality, teachers’ expressed expectations and the value students placed on the school as an institution. A total of 1433 urban Finnish and Norwegian upper secondary students in general study programmes participated in our cross-sectional questionnaire. We used structural equation modelling for our analysis, and the results show that the associations between instructional qualities (quality instruction, classroom management and high expectations) and academic self-discipline are overall stronger in the Finnish sample than the Norwegian sample. However, students’ appreciation for school was more highly associated with academic self-discipline in Norway than in Finland. Furthermore, the associations between in-class Internet access and motivational conflict were clearly higher in the Norwegian sample than in the Finnish sample. In both samples, we found strong associations between motivational conflict and academic self-discipline. We also discuss the meaning of these results and their implications for research and practice.
Enolase binds to RnpA in competition with PNPase in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Wang Xuejing , Wang Chengliang , Wu Minghao , Tian Tian , Cheng Tianyuan , Zhang Xuan , Zang Jianye
Published: September 2017

The RNA degradosome of the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus regulates the metabolism of RNA, the expression of virulence factors, and the formation of biofilms. It is composed of the RNases J1/J2, RNase Y, CshA, PNPase, Enolase, Pfk, and a newly identified component, RnpA. However, the function and new partners of RnpA in RNA degradosome remain unknown. Here, we identified PNPase and Enolase as two novel partners for RnpA. Further studies revealed that Enolase interacts with RnpA in competition with PNPase. Enzymatic assays showed that RnpA increases Enolase activity but has no effect on PNPase. These findings provide more information about the functional relationship between RnpA and RNA degradosome.
Recent Extreme Runoff Observations From Coastal Arctic Watersheds in Alaska
Authors: Stuefer Svetlana L. , Arp Christopher D. , Kane Douglas L. , Liljedahl Anna K.
Published: September 2017

Arctic coastal watersheds, though rarely monitored, are expected to have increased runoff, as climate models predict more precipitation in the Arctic. This study provides a synthesis of streamflow changes in watersheds of the Alaska Arctic Coastal Plain (AACP) based on available historic discharge data and water balance analysis. A comparison of annual runoff from the Putuligayuk River watershed (471 km2) from the period 1970–1986 (78 ± 24.1 mm/yr) to the period 1999–2015 (122 ± 49.6 mm/yr) shows increasing discharge and interannual variability. From this discontinuous record of 32 years, the three lowest runoff years occurred in 1979, 2007, and 2008, and the three highest runoff years occurred in 2003, 2014, and 2015. Other studied AACP watersheds with shorter discharge records demonstrate similar patterns of dry (2007–2008) and wet (2014–2015) years during common periods of observation. A combination of favorable antecedent surface storage conditions and above‐average precipitation is required to generate large volumes of surface runoff. A strong relationship between climate, surface storage, and runoff inherent to AACP watersheds makes these systems highly responsive to sea ice retreat and hydrological intensification. Our new estimates of freshwater flux from the AACP to the Beaufort Sea and Chukchi Sea account for an observed range of runoff variability and provide baseline data for modeling arctic hydrologic systems.
Revisiting the Analytical Solution Approach to Mixing‐Limited Equilibrium Multicomponent Reactive Transport Using Mixing Ratios: Identification of Basis, Fixing an Error, and Dealing With Multiple Minerals
Authors: Ginn T. R. , Schreyer L. G. , Sanchez‐Vila X. , Nassar M. K. , Ali A. A. , Kräutle S.
Published: September 2017

Multicomponent reactive transport involves the solution of a system of nonlinear coupled partial differential equations. A number of methods have been developed to simplify the problem. In the case where all reactions are in instantaneous equilibrium and the mineral assemblage is constant in both space and time, de Simoni et al. (2007) provide an analytical solution that separates transport of aqueous components and minerals using scalar dissipation of “mixing ratios” between a number of boundary/initial solutions. In this approach, aqueous speciation is solved in conventional terms of primary and secondary species, and the mineral dissolution/precipitation rate is given in terms of the scalar dissipation and a chemical transformation term, both involving the secondary species associated with the mineral reaction. However, the identification of the secondary species is nonunique, and so it is not clear how to use the approach in general, a problem that is keenly manifest in the case of multiple minerals which may share aqueous ions. We address this problem by developing an approach to identify the secondary species required in the presence of one or multiple minerals. We also remedy a significant error in the de Simoni et al. (2007) approach. The result is a fixed and extended de Simoni et al. (2007) approach that allows construction of analytical solutions to multicomponent equilibrium reactive transport problems in which the mineral assemblage does not change in space or time and where the transport is described by closed‐form solutions of the mixing ratios.
Children's hostile intent attributions and emotional distress: What do parents perceive?
Authors: Nelson David A. , Cramer Christine M. , Coyne Sarah M. , Olsen Joseph A.
Published: September 2017

Traditionally, assessments of social information processing and associated emotional distress have used children's self‐reports. We posit that additional informants, such as parents, may help illuminate the association between these variables and aggression. Our sample was composed of 222 dual‐parent families of fourth‐grade children (103 boys; 119 girls). Children responded to instrumental and relational provocations and their parents read the same scenarios and responded the way they believed their child would. Peer nominations provided aggression scores. We explored how means differed by provocation type (relational vs. instrumental), informant (mother, father, and child), and gender of child. The results also suggest that parent perceptions may effectively predict children's participation in relational and physical aggression, above and beyond the child's self‐reports.
Real‐time intrafraction prostate motion during linac based stereotactic radiotherapy with rectal displacement
Authors: Legge Kimberley , Nguyen Doan , Ng Jin Aun , Wilton Lee , Richardson Matthew , Booth Jeremy , Keall Paul , O'Connor Darryl J , Greer Peter , Martin Jarad
Published: September 2017

Background

Kilovoltage Intrafraction Monitoring (KIM) is a method which determines the three‐dimensional position of the prostate from two‐dimensional kilovoltage (kV) projections taken during linac based radiotherapy treatment with real‐time feedback. Rectal displacement devices (RDDs) allow for improved rectal dosimetry during prostate cancer treatment. This study used KIM to perform a preliminary investigation of prostate intrafraction motion observed in patients with an RDD in place.

Methods

Ten patients with intermediate to high‐risk prostate cancer were treated with a Rectafix RDD in place during two boost fractions of 9.5–10 Gy delivered using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) on Clinac iX and Truebeam linacs. Two‐dimensional kV projections were acquired during treatment. KIM software was used following treatment to determine the displacement of the prostate over time. The displacement results were analyzed to determine the percentage of treatment time the prostate spent within 1 mm, between 1 and 2 mm, between 2 and 3 mm and greater than 3 mm from its initial position.

Results

KIM successfully measured displacement for 19 prostate stereotactic boost fractions. The prostate was within 1 mm of its initial position for 84.8%, 1–2 mm for 14%, 2–3 mm 1.2% and ≥3 mm only 0.4% of the treatment time.

Conclusions

In this preliminary study using KIM, KIM was successfully used to measure prostate intrafraction motion, which was found to be small in the presence of a rectal displacement device.

Trial registration

The Hunter New England Human Research Ethics Committee reference number is 14/08/20/3.01.
CD4+ T cells from multiple sclerosis patients respond to a commensal‐derived antigen
Authors: Burgess Joseph N. , Pant Anudeep B. , Kasper Lloyd H. , Colpitts Brass Sara
Published: September 2017

Multiple sclerosis, an immune‐mediated disease of the central nervous system, is characterized by the impaired function of regulatory cells that fail to suppress self‐reactive effector cells. We have previously found that polysaccharide A, a capsular antigen derived from the human gut commensal Bacteroides fragilis, can induce a population of regulatory T cells. Herein, we demonstrate that naïve T cells isolated from patients with multiple sclerosis have the capacity to acquire regulatory characteristics when stimulated in vitro with polysaccharide A. This study demonstrates the amplification of a regulatory T cell response by a gut‐derived commensal antigen in those with multiple sclerosis.
Divergent neural responses to narrative speech in disorders of consciousness
Authors: Iotzov Ivan , Fidali Brian C. , Petroni Agustin , Conte Mary M. , Schiff Nicholas D. , Parra Lucas C.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Clinical assessment of auditory attention in patients with disorders of consciousness is often limited by motor impairment. Here, we employ intersubject correlations among electroencephalography responses to naturalistic speech in order to assay auditory attention among patients and healthy controls.

Methods

Electroencephalographic data were recorded from 20 subjects with disorders of consciousness and 14 healthy controls during of two narrative audio stimuli, presented both forwards and time‐reversed. Intersubject correlation of evoked electroencephalography signals were calculated, comparing responses of both groups to those of the healthy control subjects. This analysis was performed blinded and subsequently compared to the diagnostic status of each patient based on the Coma Recovery Scale‐Revised.

Results

Subjects with disorders of consciousness exhibit significantly lower intersubject correlation than healthy controls during narrative speech. Additionally, while healthy subjects had higher intersubject correlation values in forwards versus backwards presentation, neural responses did not vary significantly with the direction of playback in subjects with disorders of consciousness. Increased intersubject correlation values in the backward speech condition were noted with improving disorder of consciousness diagnosis, both in cross‐sectional analysis and in a subset of patients with longitudinal data.

Interpretation

Intersubject correlation of neural responses to narrative speech audition differentiates healthy controls from patients and appears to index clinical diagnoses in disorders of consciousness.
The Effects of Crystallinity on Charge Transport and the Structure of Sequentially Processed F4TCNQ‐Doped Conjugated Polymer Films
Authors: Scholes D. Tyler , Yee Patrick Y. , Lindemuth Jeffrey R. , Kang Hyeyeon , Onorato Jonathan , Ghosh Raja , Luscombe Christine K. , Spano Frank C. , Tolbert Sarah H. , Schwartz Benjamin J.
Published: September 2017

The properties of molecularly doped films of conjugated polymers are explored as the crystallinity of the polymer is systematically varied. Solution sequential processing (SqP) was used to introduce 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4TCNQ) into poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl) (P3HT) while preserving the pristine polymer's degree of crystallinity. X‐ray data suggest that F4TCNQ anions reside primarily in the amorphous regions of the film as well as in the P3HT lamellae between the side chains, but do not π‐stack within the polymer crystallites. Optical spectroscopy shows that the polaron absorption redshifts with increasing polymer crystallinity and increases in cross section. Theoretical modeling suggests that the polaron spectrum is inhomogeneously broadened by the presence of the anions, which reside on average 6–8 Å from the polymer backbone. Electrical measurements show that the conductivity of P3HT films doped by F4TCNQ via SqP can be improved by increasing the polymer crystallinity. AC magnetic field Hall measurements show that the increased conductivity results from improved mobility of the carriers with increasing crystallinity, reaching over 0.1 cm2 V−1 s−1 in the most crystalline P3HT samples. Temperature‐dependent conductivity measurements show that polaron mobility in SqP‐doped P3HT is still dominated by hopping transport, but that more crystalline samples are on the edge of a transition to diffusive transport at room temperature.
Eco‐Friendly SnTe Thermoelectric Materials: Progress and Future Challenges
Authors: Moshwan Raza , Yang Lei , Zou Jin , Chen Zhi‐Gang
Published: September 2017

As a key type of emerging thermoelectric material, tin telluride (SnTe) has received extensive attention because of its low toxicity and eco‐friendly nature. The recent trend shows that band engineering and nanostructuring can enhance thermoelectric performance of SnTe as intermediate temperature (400–800 K) thermoelectrics, which provides an alternative for toxic PbTe with the same operational temperature. This review highlights the key strategies to enhance the thermoelectric performance of SnTe materials through band engineering, carrier concentration optimization, synergistic engineering, and structure design. A fundamental analysis elucidates the underpinnings for the property improvement. This comprehensive review will boost the relevant research with a view to work on further performance enhancement of SnTe materials.
Defect Creation in HKUST‐1 via Molecular Imprinting: Attaining Anionic Framework Property and Mesoporosity for Cation Exchange Applications
Authors: Tan Ying Chuan , Zeng Hua Chun
Published: September 2017

Discovering new methods to tailor the physical and chemical properties of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for their numerous potential applications is highly desired. In this work, engineering defects in MOF via a molecular imprinting approach is developed to endow HKUST‐1, a well‐studied classical MOF, with hierarchical structure, mesoporosity, and anionic framework property. Ringlike anionic HKUST‐1 (HKUST‐1‐R) and a wide variety of metal‐doped isostructural analogues (M/HKUST‐1‐R, M = Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Li, Mn, Na, Ni, or Zn) are obtained. The benefits of transforming imprinted HKUST‐1‐R to M/HKUST‐1‐R are further demonstrated for various applications. This synthetic strategy is therefore suitable for rational design and functionalization of MOFs in addition to their morphological control in nanoscale.
Solvent‐Assisted Micromolding of Biohybrid Hydrogels to Maintain Human Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells Ex Vivo
Authors: Müller Eike , Pompe Tilo , Freudenberg Uwe , Werner Carsten
Published: September 2017

Array‐format cell‐culture carriers providing tunable matrix cues are instrumental in current cell biology and bioengineering. A new solvent‐assisted demolding approach for the fabrication of microcavity arrays with very small feature sizes down to single‐cell level (3 µm) of very soft biohybrid glycosaminoglycan–poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels (down to a shear modulus of 1 kPa) is reported. It is further shown that independent additional options of localized conjugation of adhesion ligand peptides, presentation of growth factors through complexation to gel‐based glycosaminoglycans, and secondary gel deposition for 3D cell embedding enable a versatile customization of the hydrogel microcavity arrays for cell culture studies. As a proof of concept, cell‐instructive hydrogel compartment arrays are used to analyze the response of human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells to defined biomolecular and spatial cues.
Layered‐Double‐Hydroxide Nanosheets as Efficient Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalysts for Dinitrogen Fixation
Authors: Zhao Yufei , Zhao Yunxuan , Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N. , Zheng Lirong , Cao Xingzong , Teng Fei , Wu Li‐Zhu , Tung Chen‐Ho , O'Hare Dermot , Zhang Tierui
Published: September 2017

Semiconductor photocatalysis attracts widespread interest in water splitting, CO2 reduction, and N2 fixation. N2 reduction to NH3 is essential to the chemical industry and to the Earth's nitrogen cycle. Industrially, NH3 is synthesized by the Haber–Bosch process under extreme conditions (400–500 °C, 200–250 bar), stimulating research into the development of sustainable technologies for NH3 production. Herein, this study demonstrates that ultrathin layered‐double‐hydroxide (LDH) photocatalysts, in particular CuCr‐LDH nanosheets, possess remarkable photocatalytic activity for the photoreduction of N2 to NH3 in water at 25 °C under visible‐light irradiation. The excellent activity can be attributed to the severely distorted structure and compressive strain in the LDH nanosheets, which significantly enhances N2 chemisorption and thereby promotes NH3 formation.
Clinical and risk factor analysis of cloacal defects in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Authors: Keppler‐Noreuil Kim M. , Conway Kristin M. , Shen Dereck , Rhoads Anthony J. , Carey John C. , Romitti Paul A. ,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: September 2017

Cloacal exstrophy (CE) and persistent cloaca (PC) (alternatively termed urorectal septum malformation sequence [URSMS]), represent two major cloacal defects (CDs). Clinical characteristics and risk factors often are studied for both defects combined, rather than exploring if these defects have different etiologies. We enumerated clinical features for 47 CE and 54 PC (inclusive of URSMS) cases from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study. Thirty‐three CE cases were classified as isolated and 14 as multiple (presence of unassociated major defects); respective totals for PC cases were 26 and 28. We compared selected child and maternal characteristics between 11,829 non‐malformed controls and CE and PC cases using chi‐square or Fisher's exact tests. Compared to controls, CE and PC cases were statistically more likely (p < 0.05) to be preterm; CE cases were more likely to be multiple births. We conducted logistic regression analysis to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for any CD, CE, and PC with selected self‐reported maternal prepregnancy and periconceptional (one month prior to 3 months following conception) exposures. In crude and adjusted analyses, we observed significant positive associations for any CD, CE, and PC with use of any fertility medication or assisted reproductive technology procedure. Significant positive associations observed only in crude analyses were any CD with maternal obesity or use of progesterone, any CD and CE with any x‐ray, and any CD and PC with use of folate antagonist medications. Our findings provide some of the first insights into potential differing etiologies for CE and PC.
Ipso Nitration of 2‐Halothiophenes with Silver Nitrate
Authors: Lee Gon‐Ann , Lin Hung‐Chun , Lee Hsin‐Yi , Chen Chien‐Hsun , Huang Hsiang‐Yun
Published: September 2017

A simple method for the ipso nitration of aryl substituted 2‐halothiophenes that produces 2‐nitrothiophenes with regioselectivity is described. The method involves AgNO3 as the nitration reagent without further additives to conduct the transformation. 2‐Styryl‐5‐halothiophenes and the bisthienyl derivatives could be smoothly converted to the corresponding ipso‐nitration products in good yields. This transformation is believed to proceed via an AgIII intermediate and oxygen absorption.
Total Synthesis of (−)‐Spiroleucettadine
Authors: Lamb Richard A. , Aberle Nicholas S. , Lucas Nigel T. , Lessene Guillaume , Hawkins Bill C.
Published: September 2017

One of a number of intriguing new alkaloids isolated from the Leucetta sp. sponge in 2004, spiroleucettadine displayed unique structural features on a restricted scaffold: a trans‐fused 5,5‐bicyclic ring system together with an amino hemiketal moiety. Attempts to synthesize the initially proposed structure failed, raising questions as to its veracity, and structure revision ensued in 2008; no successful synthetic approach has been reported to date. Herein, we describe the enantiospecific total synthesis of (−)‐spiroleucettadine by a highly efficient biomimetic approach starting from l‐tyrosine. One of two key hypervalent‐iodine‐mediated oxidation reactions forged the spirocyclic center, and the other enabled the installation of the methylamine side chain in the penultimate step. Our approach provides synthetic access to a new class of spiroannulated natural products and will enable future studies of the structure–biological‐activity relationships of these antibacterial compounds.
Covalent Lectin Inhibition and Application in Bacterial Biofilm Imaging
Authors: Wagner Stefanie , Hauck Dirk , Hoffmann Michael , Sommer Roman , Joachim Ines , Müller Rolf , Imberty Anne , Varrot Annabelle , Titz Alexander
Published: September 2017

Biofilm formation by pathogenic bacteria is a hallmark of chronic infections. In many cases, lectins play key roles in establishing biofilms. The pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa often exhibiting various drug resistances employs its lectins LecA and LecB as virulence factors and biofilm building blocks. Therefore, inhibition of the function of these proteins is thought to have potential in developing “pathoblockers” preventing biofilm formation and virulence. A covalent lectin inhibitor specific to a carbohydrate binding site is described for the first time. Its application in the LecA‐specific in vitro imaging of biofilms formed by P. aeruginosa is also reported.
A Polymer/Peptide Complex‐Based Sensor Array That Discriminates Bacteria in Urine
Authors: Han Jinsong , Cheng Haoran , Wang Benhua , Braun Markus Santhosh , Fan Xiaobo , Bender Markus , Huang Wei , Domhan Cornelius , Mier Walter , Lindner Thomas , Seehafer Kai , Wink Michael , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: September 2017

A negatively charged poly(para‐phenyleneethynylene) (PPE) forms electrostatic complexes with four positively charged antimicrobial peptides (AMP). The AMPs partially quench the fluorescence of the PPE and discriminate fourteen different bacteria in water and in human urine by pattern‐based fluorescence recognition; the AMP‐PPE complexes bind differentially to the components of bacterial surfaces. The bacterial species and strains form clusters according to staining properties (Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative) or genetic similarity (genus, species, and strain). The identification and data treatment is performed by pattern evaluation with linear discriminant analysis (LDA) of the collected fluorescence intensity data.
Photoredox Generation of Carbon‐Centered Radicals Enables the Construction of 1,1‐Difluoroalkene Carbonyl Mimics
Authors: Lang Simon B. , Wiles Rebecca J. , Kelly Christopher B. , Molander Gary A.
Published: September 2017

Described is a facile, scalable route to access functional‐group‐rich gem‐difluoroalkenes. Using visible‐light‐activated catalysts in conjunction with an arsenal of carbon‐radical precursors, an array of trifluoromethyl‐substituted alkenes undergoes radical defluorinative alkylation. Nonstabilized primary, secondary, and tertiary radicals can be used to install functional groups in a convergent manner, which would otherwise be challenging by two‐electron pathways. The process readily extends to other perfluoroalkyl‐substituted alkenes. In addition, we report the development of an organotrifluoroborate reagent to expedite the synthesis of the requisite trifluoromethyl‐substituted alkene starting materials.
Gelation mechanism and rheological properties of polyacrylamide crosslinking with polyethyleneimine and its plugging performance in air‐foam displacement
Authors: Song Ranran , Jiang Guancheng , Wang Kai
Published: September 2017

Gels based on polyacrylamide crosslinking with polyethyleneimine have attracted attention because of their resulting high strength and good thermal stability. This study investigated the gelation mechanism of the polymeric gel and its plugging performance in air‐foam flooding. An optic microrheology analyzer was used to monitor the gelation process. The crosslinking reaction occurred in two steps, as determined from the elasticity factor curves, and the polymeric gels adopted a semisolid state from solution, as determined from the solid liquid balance curves. The elastic modulus values were higher than the viscous modulus values, indicating that mature gels were elastic‐based materials. The yield stress increased gradually with increasing polymer dosage, which was consistent with the breakthrough pressure and the trend of displacement pressure. The mature gels showed significant thixotropy. In the core displacement test, the preferred injection volume of the gel was 0.1 pore volume, and the stable pressure of the foam flooding was increased by about three times after the core was plugged. The blocking effect for cores with small original permeability was better than that with large permeability. The best blocking resulted from simultaneous treatment of both ends of the cores, followed by front‐end treatment and rear‐end treatment. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45778.
Effects of solvent on structures and properties of electrospun poly(ethylene oxide) nanofibers
Authors: Song Zhe , Chiang Sum Wai , Chu Xiaodong , Du Hongda , Li Jia , Gan Lin , Xu Chengjun , Yao Youwei , He Yanbing , Li Baohua , Kang Feiyu
Published: September 2017

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning PEO solution with a mixed solvent of ethanol and deionized water. The results show that the mixed solvent system has noteworthy influences on structures and properties of electrospun PEO nanofibers, including molecular chain orientation, crystallinity degree, surface morphology, fiber diameter, diameter distribution, spinnability, and productivity. With increasing ethanol content in the mixed solvent, wrinkly morphologies appear on the surface of PEO nanofibers due to a high evaporation rate of ethanol during electrospinning process. The dielectric constant, dipole moment, conductivity, density, boiling point, and solubility parameter of the mixed solvent become lower with the ethanol content increasing. Besides, the hydrogen‐bonding interactions between PEO and solvents become weaker. As a result, PEO nanofibers with larger diameters, lower molecular chain orientation, and crystallinity degree are obtained. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45787.
Everyday executive function predicts adaptive and internalizing behavior among children with and without autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Gardiner Emily , Iarocci Grace
Published: September 2017

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate challenges with executive function (EF), adaptive behavior, and mental health, all of which place long‐term wellbeing at risk. In the current study we examined the relation between parent‐rated EF and adaptive functioning and internalizing symptoms (anxiety, depression), as we expected that identifying the specific EF domains most closely related to these indices of functioning would illuminate opportunities for targeted intervention. Participants included 59 children and adolescents with ASD (M = 10.1 years) and 67 who were typically developing (TD) (M = 9.4 years) matched on age, IQ, mental age, and maternal education. Caregivers completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of EF (BRIEF) and Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition (BASC‐2). Parents rated children with ASD as demonstrating significantly more challenges across most of the examined BRIEF and BASC‐2 indices and scales, with the exception of organization of materials (BRIEF) and anxiety (BASC‐2). For both groups, metacognitive EF processes emerged as strongly associated with practical, conceptual, and social skills, though different BRIEF scales emerged as significant across the component subdomains. In terms of the relation with mental health, BRIEF index scores were unrelated to anxiety for both groups. Behavior regulation, however, was significantly associated with depression symptoms for children with and without ASD. The findings highlight the possibility that targeting particular EF domains among individuals with and without ASD may not only have direct benefit for behavior regulation and metacognitive abilities, but may also extend to other areas of life, including adaptive behavior and concomitant internalizing symptomatology. Autism Res 2018, 11: 284–295. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

We examined whether parents’ ratings of their children's flexibility and ability to monitor their behavior predicted adaptive skills (e.g., ability to complete day‐to‐day personal tasks, communicate, and socialize) and symptoms of anxiety and depression among children with and without autism spectrum disorder. For both groups, children's abilities to manage and monitor their behavior were strongly related to adaptive skills. Children's flexibility and ability to inhibit inappropriate behavior and control their emotions was associated with depression symptoms for both groups.
Integrated microalgae biorefinery: Impact of product demand profile and prospect of carbon capture
Authors: Sen Gupta Soumyajit , Shastri Yogendra , Bhartiya Sharad
Published: September 2017

An integrated microalgae biorefinery producing fuels and value‐added products needs to be optimally synthesized for realizing its potential. A large‐scale optimization model considering biorefinery co‐producing biodiesel, polar lipid, protein, and reduced sugar from microalgae has been previously developed, and biodiesel production without any co‐products manufactured was found to be non‐profitable. This work uses the model to study the impact of demands and selling prices of value‐added co‐products on the optimal biorefinery synthesis and the net annualized life cycle cost (ALCC) of biodiesel production. The simulation results showed that production of reduced sugar to the maximum extent resulted in an annualized profit of US$27.23/L of biodiesel production. Individual scenarios for mandatory production of protein and polar lipid resulted in an ALCC of US$15.11/L and US$13.20/L, respectively. The case of fluctuations in demand and selling prices of the end‐products was also analyzed. Additionally, the potential of a biorefinery to sequester atmospheric carbon dioxide from a coal‐fired 500 MW power plant, without any preferential product, is also modeled. Emission of carbon dioxide is considered to attract a penalty. For this study, with a low‐value biodiesel selling price (US$0.48/L), the biorefinery captured 2.77% of the available carbon dioxide and recorded a net annual deficit of US$9.71 million. On the other hand, for a high price of biodiesel (US$8.74/L), 99.89% of the carbon dioxide was captured to have biodiesel and reduced sugar co‐produced, yielding a net annual revenue of US$303.27 million. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Prediction of drug‐drug interactions using physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic models of CYP450 modulators included in Simcyp software
Authors: Marsousi Niloufar , Desmeules Jules A. , Rudaz Serge , Daali Youssef
Published: September 2017

In recent years, physiologically based PharmacoKinetic (PBPK) modeling has received growing interest as a useful tool for the assessment of drug pharmacokinetics. It has been demonstrated to be informative and helpful to quantify the modification in drug exposure due to specific physio‐pathological conditions, age, genetic polymorphisms, ethnicity and particularly drug–drug interactions (DDIs). In this paper, the prediction success of DDIs involving various cytochrome P450 isoenzyme (CYP) modulators namely ketoconazole (a competitive inhibitor of CYP3A), itraconazole (a competitive inhibitor of CYP3A), clarithromycin (a mechanism‐based inhibitor of CYP3A), quinidine (a competitive inhibitor of CYP2D6), paroxetine (a mechanism‐based inhibitor of CYP2D6), ciprofloxacin (a competitive inhibitor of CYP1A2), fluconazole (a competitive inhibitor of CYP2C9/2C19) and rifampicin (an inducer of CYP3A) were assessed using Simcyp® software. The aim of this report was to establish confidence in each CYP‐specific modulator file so they can be used in the future for the prediction of DDIs involving new victim compounds. Our evaluation of these PBPK models suggested that they can be successfully used to evaluate DDIs in untested scenarios. The only noticeable exception concerned a quinidine inhibitor model that requires further improvement. Additionally, other important aspects such as model validation criteria were discussed.
Reviving near infra‐red emission of Ag2S nanoparticles using interfacial defects in the Ag2S@CdS core–shell structure
Authors: Karimipour M. , Izadian L. , Molaei M.
Published: September 2017

Ag2S@CdS core–shell particles were synthesized with different Cd source content as a measure of shell thickness using a pulsed microwave irradiation method. The particles were verified structurally using X‐ray diffraction, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis and transmission electron microscopy. Optical spectroscopy revealed that core–shells show an absorption peak at 750 nm and an emission peak located around 800 nm after 6 min of microwave irradiation. With continued microwave treatment, the NIR luminescence first vanished but it was revived after 12 min of irradiation, which was 100 nm red shifted. This new type of NIR emission in Ag2S with sizes greater than 5 nm is due to the proximity of a highly deficient CdS shell with strong red emission that was stable for more than 6 months in water. A mechanism has been suggested for this type of emission.
Crizotinib targets in glioblastoma stem cells
Authors: Junca Audelaure , Villalva Claire , Tachon Gaëlle , Rivet Pierre , Cortes Ulrich , Guilloteau Karline , Balbous Anaïs , Godet Julie , Wager Michel , Karayan‐Tapon Lucie
Published: September 2017

Glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) are believed to be involved in the mechanisms of tumor resistance, therapeutic failures, and recurrences after conventional glioblastoma therapy. Therefore, elimination of GSCs might be a prerequisite for the development of successful therapeutic strategies. ALK, ROS1, and MET are targeted by Crizotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor which has been approved for treatment of ALK‐rearranged non–small‐cell lung cancer. In this study we investigated ALK, ROS1, and MET status in nine glioblastoma stem cell lines and tumors from which they arise. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), Sanger's direct sequencing, and immunohistochemistry were used to screen genomic rearrangements (or amplifications), genomic mutations, and protein expression, respectively. The immunohistochemical and FISH studies revealed no significant dysregulation of ROS1 in GSCs and associated tumors. Neither amplification nor polysomy of ALK was observed in GSC, but weak overexpression was detected by IHC in three of nine GSCs. Similarly, no MET amplification was found by FISH but three GSCs presented significant immunohistochemical staining. No ALK or MET mutation was found by Sanger's direct sequencing. In this study, we show no molecular rearrangement of ALK, ROS1, and MET that would lead us not to propose, as a valid strategy, the use of crizotinib to eradicate GSCs. However, MET was overexpressed in all GSCs with mesenchymal subtype and three GSCs presented an overexpression of ALK. Therefore, our study corroborates the idea that MET and ALK may assume a role in the tumorigenicity of GSC.
Impact of preflocculation on scroll decanter centrifuge separation performance
Authors: Demoz Alebachew
Published: September 2017

Industrial scroll decanter centrifuge (SDC) separation of the solids in fluid fine tailings (FFT) which have particles 10 μm and smaller in size require flocculant addition. Accordingly, the mechanism in the centrifuge is flocculation of the fine solid particles followed by sedimentation. Thus, feeding preflocculated material obviates the flocculation step inside the SDC resulting in improved process efficiency by reducing the power consumption and increasing the throughput capacity of each SDC. This work evaluated the separation performance of the SDC using inline static mixers to preflocculate oil sands FFT containing solids, 90 mass% of which are < 9 μm in size. The minimum G‐forces required to achieve the industry benchmarks of < 1 mass% solids in the centrate water and > 97 % fines capture rate were 750 G without preflocculation and 400 G with preflocculation. Since power consumption by the SDC, as expected, was directly proportional to the G‐force, the savings in power due to preflocculation amounted to 47 %. Preflocculation increased SDC throughput capacity by up to 50 %. Operating at lower G‐force has the additional benefits of protecting the high‐capital‐cost SDC machine and reducing ambient noise levels.
Dynamic Combinatorial Chemistry to Identify Binders of ThiT, an S‐Component of the Energy‐Coupling Factor Transporter for Thiamine
Authors: Monjas Leticia , Swier Lotteke J. Y. M. , Setyawati Inda , Slotboom Dirk J. , Hirsch Anna K. H.
Published: September 2017

We applied dynamic combinatorial chemistry (DCC) to identify ligands of ThiT, the S‐component of the energy‐coupling factor (ECF) transporter for thiamine in Lactococcus lactis. We used a pre‐equilibrated dynamic combinatorial library (DCL) and saturation‐transfer difference (STD) NMR spectroscopy to identify ligands of ThiT. This is the first report in which DCC is used for fragment growing to an ill‐defined pocket, and one of the first reports for its application with an integral membrane protein as target.
Delay in radiotherapy is associated with an increased risk of disease recurrence in women with ductal carcinoma in situ
Authors: Shurell Elizabeth , Olcese Cristina , Patil Sujata , McCormick Beryl , Van Zee Kimberly J. , Pilewskie Melissa L.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

The current study was conducted to examine the association between ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) and the timing of radiotherapy (RT) in women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) undergoing breast‐conserving surgery (BCS).

METHODS

Women with DCIS who were treated with BCS and RT from 1980 through 2010 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. IBTR rates, measured from the time of RT completion, were compared between those who initiated RT ≤8 weeks, >8 to 12 weeks, and >12 weeks after the completion of surgery. The association between RT timing and IBTR was evaluated by Kaplan‐Meier and log‐rank analyses; Cox modeling was used for multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 1323 women met the inclusion criteria. The median follow‐up was 6.6 years, with 311 patients followed for ≥10 years. A total of 126 IBTR events occurred. Patients were categorized by RT timing: 806 patients (61%) with timing of ≤8 weeks, 386 patients (29%) with timing of >8 to 12 weeks, and 131 patients (10%) with timing >12 weeks. The 5‐year and 10‐year IBTR rates were 5.8% and 13.0%, respectively, for RT starting ≤8 weeks after surgery; 3.8% and 7.6%, respectively, for RT starting >8 to 12 weeks after surgery; and 8.8% and 23.0%, respectively, for an RT delay >12 weeks after surgery (P = .004). On multivariable analysis, menopause (hazard ratio [HR], 0.54; P = .0009) and endocrine therapy (HR, 0.45; P = .002) were found to be protective against IBTR, whereas a delay in RT >12 weeks compared with ≤8 weeks was associated with a higher risk of IBTR (HR, 1.92; P = .014). There was no difference in IBTR noted between RT initiation at ≤8 weeks and initiation at >8 to 12 weeks after BCS (P = .3).

CONCLUSIONS

A delay in RT >12 weeks is associated with a significantly higher risk of IBTR in women undergoing BCS for DCIS. Efforts should be made to avoid delays in starting RT to minimize the risk of disease recurrence. Cancer 2018;124:46‐54. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Cabozantinib is well tolerated in acute myeloid leukemia and effectively inhibits the resistance‐conferring FLT3/tyrosine kinase domain/F691 mutation
Authors: Fathi Amir T. , Blonquist Traci M. , Hernandez Daniela , Amrein Philip C. , Ballen Karen K. , McMasters Malgorzata , Avigan David E. , Joyce Robin , Logan Emma K. , Hobbs Gabriela , Brunner Andrew M. , Joseph Christelle , Perry Ashley M. , Burke Meghan , Behnan Tanya , Foster Julia , Bergeron Meghan K. , Moran Jenna A. , Ramos Aura Y. , Som Tina T. , Rae Jessica , Fishman Kaitlyn M. , McGregor Kristin L. , Connolly Christine , Neuberg Donna S. , Levis Mark J.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Cabozantinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor of FMS‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3), MET, AXL, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, and KIT, is approved for use in multiple malignancies. We assessed the safety and tolerability of cabozantinib in AML, given up‐regulation of multiple relevant pathways.

METHODS

Adults were eligible if they were 18 years old or older with relapsed/refractory AML or if they were 70 years old or older with newly diagnosed AML but were ineligible for conventional therapy. Cabozantinib was administered in 28‐day cycles, and dose escalation occurred via cohorts. A pharmacodynamic evaluation of serial plasma samples via a plasma inhibitory assay (PIA) was used to assess FLT3‐inhibitory activity in FLT3‐mutant cell lines.

RESULTS

Among 18 patients enrolled, 5 were found to harbor FLT3/ITD mutations. Sixteen patients (89%) had relapsed/refractory AML, and most were treated with 2 or more lines of prior treatment. No dose‐limiting toxicities (DLTs) were detected at the first dose level (40 mg daily), but 2 patients experienced DLTs at the next level (60 mg daily). The remaining patients were then dosed at 40 mg daily, the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Additional grade 2 or higher toxicities, possibly/probably related to cabozantinib, included fatigue, nausea, transaminitis, and electrolyte imbalance. No patients had a marrow response according to formal criteria, but 4 had peripheral blast reductions; 2 of these 4 patients transiently cleared circulating blasts. One patient experienced a reduction in marrow blasts, and 1 had stable disease. The FLT3‐inhibitory activity of plasma samples, as assessed with the PIA, revealed potent and sustained inhibition in FLT3/ITD and, notably, F691 tyrosine kinase domain (TKD)–mutant cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Cabozantinib is well tolerated in AML patients at an MTD of 40 mg daily and is a potent inhibitor of FLT3/ITD‐ and F691 TKD–altered tyrosine kinases. Cancer 2018;124:306‐14. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Clinical impact of colonization with multidrug‐resistant organisms on outcome after allogeneic stem cell transplantation in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Scheich Sebastian , Lindner Sarah , Koenig Rosalie , Reinheimer Claudia , Wichelhaus Thomas A. , Hogardt Michael , Besier Silke , Kempf Volkhard A. J. , Kessel Johanna , Martin Hans , Wilke Anne C. , Serve Hubert , Bug Gesine , Steffen Björn
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is a curative treatment option for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). During transplantation, patients undergo a period of severe neutropenia, which puts them at high risk for infectious complications. However, the impact of patient colonization with multidrug‐resistant organisms (MDRO) on overall survival remains unclear.

METHODS

In this retrospective, single‐center study, the authors analyzed data from 264 patients with AML who underwent a first allo‐HSCT between January 2006 and March 2016 at their institution. Primary endpoints were overall survival and nonrelapse‐related mortality.

RESULTS

One hundred forty‐two of 264 patients (53.8%) were colonized by at least 1 MDRO, mainly with vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus faecalis/faecium (n = 122). The characteristics of colonized patients did not differ from those of MDRO‐negative patients with respect to median age (53.5 vs 53 years), cytogenetic risk according to European LeukemiaNet criteria, remission status before allo‐HSCT (first or second complete remission: 55.7% vs 60.7%, respectively; active disease: 44.4% vs 39.3%, respectively), donor type, or hematopoietic cell transplantation‐comorbidity index (HCT‐CI). Compared with noncolonized patients, MDRO‐positive patients had an inferior probability of survival at 5 years (43.3% vs 65.5%; P = .002), primarily because of a higher cumulative incidence of nonrelapse‐related mortality (33.9% vs 9.4%; P < .001). Death caused by infections occurred in 15.5% of colonized patients versus 4.9% of noncolonized patients. There was no difference in the cumulative incidence of relapse in MDRO‐positive versus MDRO‐negative patients (33.8% vs 42.1%, respectively; P = .798).

CONCLUSIONS

The current data emphasize the importance of regular MDRO screenings and prompt further investigations into the impact of colonization with MDRO on the immune system after allo‐HSCT. Cancer 2018;124:286‐96. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Does uniform color affect offside in association football?
Authors: Krenn Bjoern
Published: September 2017

Past research has documented an impact of sportswear color on performance and referees' judgments in combat and team sports. Amongst other things, it was argued that these effects may arise from differences in visibility. In this regard, the current study was aimed at questioning the impact of uniform color on offside judgments in association football. We analyzed the number of offside judgments for 1530 matches from the first and second division of the football league in Germany and recorded the color of shirts, shorts and stockings for both teams. Data analyses revealed that attacking teams wearing black shirts and black stockings were accompanied by fewer offside decisions. In contrast, defending teams wearing black or green kits were accompanied by increased offside judgments against the opposing teams. Thus, it seems that black and green kits yielded favourable offside judgments. Regarding the low color contrast with green uniforms on a green lawn and the lower detection rate of dark colors the results suggest that green and black kits are less visible, which may impede players' visual detection. The results emphasise the importance of analyzing the role of uniform color in the context of offside decisions to ensure fair play and equal opportunities of winning.