bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To tell or not to tell? Psychopathic traits and response integrity in youth delinquency surveys
Authors: Laajasalo Taina , Aronen Eeva T. , Saukkonen Suvi , Salmi Venla , Aaltonen Mikko , Kivivuori Janne
Published: November 2014

Background

Individuals with high psychopathy scores are capable of providing valid self‐reports on their own personality traits, but there have been no empirical studies of the effect of psychopathic features on responding to sensitive survey questions about specific behaviours.

Aims

The aim of this study is to investigate any relationship between facets of psychopathy and participants' willingness to report antisocial acts in youth delinquency surveys, controlling for demographic variables known to be associated with response integrity.

Methods

In a nationally representative sample of 4,855 Finnish mainstream adolescents aged 15–16, honesty of responding was assessed through direct response integrity questions related to violence, property crime and drug use. Psychopathy was measured with the Antisocial Process Screening Device – Self Report (APSD‐SR).

Results

Callous–unemotional traits and, to a lesser degree, narcissistic features were associated with a dishonest response style, although the effect size was modest.

Conclusions

Although psychopathy does not seem to influence the capability and willingness to report personality traits accurately, it may be associated with endorsing dishonest responses to questions about specific behaviours that have possible repercussions. Our findings suggest that previously observed associations between adolescents' self‐reported delinquent behaviour and psychopathic traits may be underestimations of the strength of the effects. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Treatment of the chronic total occlusion: A call to action for the interventional community
Authors: Carlino Mauro , Magri Caroline J. , Uretsky Barry F. , Brilakis Emmanouil S. , Walsh Simon , Spratt James C. , Hanratty Colm , Grantham J. Aaron , Rinfret Stéphane , Thompson Craig A. , Lombardi William L. , Galassi Alfredo R. , Sianos George , Latib Azeem , Garbo Roberto , Karmpaliotis Dimitri , Kandzari David E. , Colombo Antonio
Published: November 2014

There is substantial evidence that recanalization of a chronic total occlusion is beneficial; nonetheless, it is generally underutilized in clinical practice. We consider the Aesop's fable of the “Fox and the Grapes” as analogous to the current situation in interventional cardiology. The technical challenges in achieving CTO recanalization has led interventionalists, clinical cardiologists, and sometimes even patients to believe that CTO recanalization is not effective, and, therefore, not needed. This perspective reviews available data regarding efficacy and safety of CTO percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the current drug‐eluting stent era, discusses areas where more studies are required, and encourages the interventional community to utilize CTO PCI where appropriate based on current evidence. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Different Synthesis Protocols for Co3O4–CeO2 Catalysts—Part 1: Influence on the Morphology on the Nanoscale
Authors: Yang Jingxia , Lukashuk Liliana , Akbarzadeh Johanna , Stöger‐Pollach Michael , Peterlik Herwig , Föttinger Karin , Rupprechter Günther , Schubert Ulrich
Published: November 2014

Co3O4‐modified CeO2 (Co/Ce 1:4) was prepared by a combination of sol–gel processing and solvothermal treatment. The distribution of Co was controlled by means of the synthesis protocol to yield three different morphologies, namely, Co3O4 nanoparticles located on the surface of CeO2 particles, coexistent Co3O4 and CeO2 nanoparticles, or Co oxide structures homogeneously distributed within CeO2. The effect of the different morphologies on the properties of Co3O4–CeO2 was investigated with regard to the crystallite phase(s), particle size, surface area, and catalytic activity for CO oxidation. The material with Co3O4 nanoparticles finely dispersed on the surface of CeO2 particles had the highest catalytic activity.
Quantification of Ion‐Pairing Effects on the Nucleophilic Reactivities of Benzoyl‐ and Phenyl‐Substituted Carbanions in Dimethylsulfoxide
Authors: Corral‐Bautista Francisco , Appel Roland , Frickel Johanna S. , Mayr Herbert
Published: November 2014

Second‐order rate constants for the reactions of acceptor‐substituted phenacyl (PhCOCH−Acc) and benzyl anions (PhCH−Acc) with diarylcarbenium ions and quinone methides (reference electrophiles) have been determined in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solution at 20 °C. By studying the kinetics in the presence of variable concentrations of potassium, sodium and lithium salts (up to 10−2 mol L−1), the influence of ion‐pairing on the reaction rates was examined. As the concentration of K+ did not have any influence on the rate constants at carbanion concentrations in the range of 10−4–10−3 mol L−1, the acquired rate constants could be assigned to the reactivities of the free carbanions. The counter ion effects increase, however, in the series K+<Na+<Li+, and the sensitivity of the carbanion reactivities toward variation of the counter ion strongly depends on the structure of the carbanions. The reactivity parameters N and sN of the free carbanions were derived from the linear plots of log k2 against the electrophilicity parameters E of the reference electrophiles, according to the linear‐free energy relationship log k2(20 °C)=sN(N+E). These reactivity parameters can be used to predict absolute rate constants for the reactions of these carbanions with other electrophiles of known E parameters.
The Self‐Assembly of Anticancer Camptothecin–Dipeptide Nanotubes: A Minimalistic and High Drug Loading Approach to Increased Efficacy
Authors: Kim Se Hye , Kaplan Jonah A. , Sun Yuan , Shieh Aileen , Sun Hui‐Lung , Croce Carlo M. , Grinstaff Mark W. , Parquette Jon R.
Published: November 2014

20‐(S)‐Camptothecin (CPT)‐conjugated dipeptides are reported that preassemble into nanotubes with diameters ranging from 80–120 nm. These nanoassemblies maintain a high (∼47 %) drug loading and exhibit greater drug stability (i.e., resistance to lactone hydrolysis), and consequently greater efficacy against several human cancer cells (HT‐29, A549, H460, and H23) in vitro compared with the clinically used prodrug irinotecan. A key and defining feature of this system is the use of the CPT‐conjugated dipeptide as both the drug and precursor to the nanostructured carrier, which simplifies the overall fabrication process.
Urea synthesis
Authors: Meessen Jozef
Published: November 2014

The history of urea synthesis is followed by a description of the fundamental thermodynamics underlying urea production. The basic chemistry, side reactions and physical chemistry are summarized, after which the way these fundamentals logically result in a number of constraints to urea production processes is explained. Challenges in urea production process design are highlighted. Finally, using a number of recent urea processes as examples, it is shown how these challenges are addressed in the industrial urea production processes currently offered by the main urea process licensors.
Synthetic Strategies towards Well‐Defined Complex Polymeric Architectures through Covalent Chemistry
Authors: Ren Jing M. , Qiao Greg G.
Published: November 2014

Macromolecular architecture is a key factor determining the materials properties of polymers. Exploration of novel structural arrangements has become a viable means to develop advanced functional nanomaterials. Recent developments in polymer chemistry have forged robust synthetic platforms for innovative polymeric materials with highly regulated structures, functionalities, and compositions. This review summarizes the latest synthetic strategies for well‐defined polymer architectures through covalent chemistry, with the focus on four main types of well‐defined macromolecular constructs.
Photodegradation of C‐PCPDTBT and Si‐PCPDTBT: Influence of the Bridging Atom on the Stability of a Low‐Band‐Gap Polymer for Solar Cell Application
Authors: Aygül Umut , Egelhaaf Hans‐Joachim , Nagel Peter , Merz Michael , Schuppler Stefan , Eichele Klaus , Peisert Heiko , Chassé Thomas
Published: November 2014

The kinetics of photodegradation and the reactivity of different sites of the low‐band‐gap polymers poly[2,6‐(4,4‐bis‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐4H‐cyclopenta[2,1‐b:3,4‐b′]dithiophene)‐alt‐4,7‐(2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole)] (C‐PCPDTBT) and poly[2,6‐(4,4‐bis‐(2‐ethylhexyl)dithieno[3,2‐b:2′,3′‐d]silole)‐alt‐4,7‐(2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole)] (Si‐PCPDTBT) are investigated as thin films and are compared to those of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT). The decay kinetics are monitored with UV/Vis spectroscopy and the reactivity and product evolution are investigated with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Both polymers exhibit higher stability than P3HT. The bridging atom in the cyclopentadithiophene (CPDT) subunit has a significant influence on the stability. Varying oxidation rates for the different elements were observed. In the case of Si‐PCPDTBT, the silicon atom is oxidized primarily, whereas the photooxidation rates of the other elements are reduced relative to C‐PCPDTBT. Additionally, XPS experiments with varying excitation energies reveal a significant reaction gradient within a few nanometers of the surface of degraded thin films of C‐PCPDTBT.
Structural and mechanical properties of KН2PО4 single crystals with embedded nanoparticles and organic molecules
Authors: Kosinova A. V. , Kolybaeva M. I. , Bezkrovnaya O. N. , Tkachenko V. F. , Grishina E. V. , Levchenko A. N. , Puzikov V. M. , Pritula I. M.
Published: November 2014

Single crystals of KDP crystals with embedded Urea molecules and TiO2 nanoparticles have been grown from aqueous solution by the temperature lowering method. The effect of the organic molecules and nanoparticles on the structural and mechanical properties has been studied. It has been observed that addition of Urea molecules improves laser induced damage threshold and mechanical strength of the crystal, while TiO2 nanoparticles have the opposite effect. The structure and composition of KDP:Urea crystal are studied by three‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis, which reveals the existence of a correlation between the increase of the microhardness value and the change of the crystal lattice parameter. The surface features of KDP:TiO2 crystals are analyzed by scanning electron microscopy that reveals the presence of quasi‐equidistant growth bands caused by capture of the nanoparticles. It is shown that the rise of TiO2 nanoparticles concentration up to 10−4 wt.% and higher resulted in 3‐fold reduction of the laser damage threshold of KDP:TiO2 relative to pure KDP in [001] and [100] crystallographic directions. It is found that microhardness and fracture toughness decrease at the nanoparticles concentration of 10−3 wt.% due to crack formation at crystal lattice discontinuities. The grown crystals also have been subjected to dielectric studies.
Hierarchically Superstructured Prussian Blue Analogues: Spontaneous Assembly Synthesis and Applications as Pseudocapacitive Materials
Authors: Yue Yanfeng , Zhang Zhiyong , Binder Andrew J. , Chen Jihua , Jin Xianbo , Overbury Steven H. , Dai Sheng
Published: November 2014

Hierarchically superstructured Prussian blue analogues (hexacyanoferrate, M=NiII, CoII and CuII) are synthesized through a spontaneous assembly technique. In sharp contrast to macroporous‐only Prussian blue analogues, the hierarchically superstructured porous Prussian blue materials are demonstrated to possess a high capacitance, which is similar to those of the conventional hybrid graphene/MnO2 nanostructured textiles. Because sodium or potassium ions are involved in energy storage processes, more environmentally neutral electrolytes can be utilized, making the superstructured porous Prussian blue analogues a great contender for applications as high‐performance pseudocapacitors.
Type III transforming growth factor beta receptor regulates vascular and osteoblast development during palatogenesis
Authors: Hill Cynthia R. , Jacobs Britni H. , Brown Christopher B. , Barnett Joey V. , Goudy Steven L.
Published: November 2014

Background: Cleft palate occurs in up to 1:1,000 live births and is associated with mutations in multiple genes. Palatogenesis involves a complex choreography of palatal shelf elongation, elevation, and fusion. Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) canonical signaling is required during each stage of palate development. The type III TGFβ receptor (TGFβR3) binds all three TGFβ ligands and BMP2, but its contribution to palatogenesis is unknown. Results: The role of TGFβR3 during palate formation was found to be during palatal shelf elongation and elevation. Tgfbr3−/− embryos displayed reduced palatal shelf width and height, changes in proliferation and apoptosis, and reduced vascular and osteoblast differentiation. Abnormal vascular plexus organization as well as aberrant expression of arterial (Notch1, Alk1), venous (EphB4), and lymphatic (Lyve1) markers was also observed. Decreased osteoblast differentiation factors (Runx2, alk phos, osteocalcin, col1A1, and col1A2) demonstrated poor mesenchymal cell commitment to the osteoblast lineage within the maxilla and palatal shelves in Tgfbr3−/− embryos. Additionally, in vitro bone mineralization induced by osteogenic medium (OM+BMP2) was insufficient in Tgfbr3−/− palatal mesenchyme, but mineralization was rescued by overexpression of TGFβR3. Conclusions: These data reveal a critical, previously unrecognized role for TGFβR3 in vascular and osteoblast development during palatogenesis. Developmental Dynamics, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Developmental Dynamics 244:122–133, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of mangrove forest on the biodiversity of macrobenthos under the condition of severe water pollution
Authors: Qiu Guo Yu , Zhou Fufang , Shi Xiuhua
Published: November 2014

Although it is clear that mangrove (MG) forests have a positive effect on macrobenthos diversity in wetland ecosystems, these effects are not very clear under the condition of severe water pollution. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of MG forests on macrobenthos diversity under severe water pollution in Shenzhen Bay, where water quality is strongly affected by industry and urbanization. For this purpose, we carried out a field study from December 2009 to July 2011 in the MG wetland in Shenzhen Bay, the only MG wetland located near a metropolis in mainland China. Samples were taken monthly from four habitats, namely, a reed fish pond, Gei wai ponds, mudflats and an MG forest. The results show that the seawater in all four habitats is severely polluted, and the total N, NO3‐N, total phosphate, Cd, Pb and chemical oxygen demand are well over the Chinese national class IV level. The high level of organics (chemical oxygen demand and soil organic matter) and nutrients (nitrate nitrogen) has a significant positive influence (P < 0.05) on the density and biomass of macrobenthos but a negative influence (P < 0.05) on the diversity of the macrobenthos community. Despite the fact that the levels of organics and nutrients were also high in the MG habitat, the species biodiversity was also the most abundant of the four investigated habitats. This suggests that MG habitats have a remarkable positive effect on maintaining biological diversity compared with other habitats. Therefore, we suggest that efforts should be made to strengthen the protection of MG forests to maintain their biological diversity and promote a healthy ecological system. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changes to the energy budget and evapotranspiration following conversion of tropical savannas to agricultural lands in São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: da Silva Bernardo Barbosa , Wilcox Bradford P. , da Silva Vicente de Paulo Rodrigues , Montenegro Suzana Maria Gico Lima , de Oliveira Leidjane Maria Maciel
Published: November 2014

In Brazil, as much as 50% of the native tropical savannas and woodlands (known as the Cerrado) have been converted to farmland under intensive agriculture. Land cover change at this scale has important implications for water and energy budgets, but at present, these implications are poorly understood. A promising new technology for elucidating these relationships at large scales is remote sensing; but results obtained by this method need to be verified with ground‐based measurements. For this study, we used remote sensing to estimate changes in energy balance and evapotranspiration (ET) in São Paulo State following conversion of native Cerrado woodlands to cultivated land for sugar cane and eucalyptus. We applied the surface energy balance algorithm for land (SEBAL) to ten TM–Landsat 5 images taken during 2005 at two locations (sugar cane fields and Cerrado woodlands). The SEBAL ET results were compared with ET data obtained via eddy covariance. There was good agreement between the two (R2 = 0·87), with no systematic overestimation or underestimation by SEBAL. Our SEBAL analysis indicated that land cover change causes strong shifts in albedo, land‐surface temperature, and vegetation index – all of which affect energy balance and ET. Both the SEBAL and eddy covariance measurements indicate that ET for sugar cane is only about 70% of that for native woodlands. SEBAL estimates found that, for cultivated eucalyptus plantations, ET was about 88% of that for Cerrado forests. Our results indicate that the SEBAL methodology is a reliable tool for estimating energy budgets and ET in Cerrado landscapes and, further, that large‐scale conversion of Cerrado woodlands to agricultural land significantly alters energy budgets and ET. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP‐1/CCL2) contributes to thymus atrophy in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Driss Virginie , Quesnel Bruno , Brinster Carine
Published: November 2014

Recent studies on acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) patients have revealed the existence of T‐cell immunodeficiencies, characterized by peripheral T lymphocytes that are unable to interact with blasts, reduced thymic emigrants and oligoclonal restricted repertoires. These observations suggest that there is a profound thymic dysregulation, which is difficult to study in AML patients. Using the C1498 AML mouse model, we demonstrated that leukemia development was associated with thymus atrophy, which was defined by abnormal organ weight and reduced cellularity. In addition, we observed a dramatic loss of peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell numbers with increased frequencies of CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory and activated/memory T cells. Investigating the mechanisms leading to this atrophy, we observed a significant accumulation of the monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP‐1/CCL2) in thymi of leukemic mice. Treatment of AML‐bearing animals with a blocking anti‐CCL2 antibody revealed a lower tumor burden, augmented antileukemic T‐cell responses, and improved survival rate compared to nontreated mice. These results were not observed when neutralization of CCL2 was performed in thymectomized mice. Altogether, we show that the CCL2 protein participates in thymic atrophy in AML mice, and this could have important implications for future immunotherapeutic strategies.
Cyclopeptoids as Phase‐Transfer Catalysts for the Enantioselective Synthesis of α‐Amino Acids
Authors: Schettini Rosaria , Nardone Brunello , De Riccardis Francesco , Della Sala Giorgio , Izzo Irene
Published: November 2014

The first application of cyclopeptoids in asymmetric phase‐transfer catalysis was examined. A small library of nine alternating N‐substituted‐glycine and proline hexacyclopeptoids was tested in the enantioselective alkylation of N‐(diphenylmethylene)glycine tert‐butyl ester. The presence of an N‐arylmethyl side chain in the catalyst was found to be crucial for the synthesis of α‐amino acids with up to 73 % ee.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Cyclopropanation of Strained Alkenes with 3‐Pinacolatoboryl‐1‐arylallyl Carboxylates
Authors: Horino Yoshikazu , Takahashi Yu , Kobayashi Ryota , Abe Hitoshi
Published: November 2014

The palladium‐catalyzed cyclopropanation of strained alkenes with 3‐pinacolatoboryl‐1‐arylallyl carboxylates was explored. The reactions proceeded smoothly under mild conditions, and the cyclopropanation products were obtained in good to high yields with high diastereoselectivities if CsF, 18‐crown‐6, and molecular sieves were used as additives. The reaction was hypothesized to proceed through the formation of a putative palladacyclobutene intermediate that needed to be considered to explain the observed stereochemistry.
A new steel framing system for seismic protection of timber platform frame buildings. Implementation with hysteretic energy dissipators
Authors: López‐Almansa Francisco , Segués Edgar , Cantalapiedra Inmaculada R.
Published: November 2014

This paper describes a new seismic protection system for timber platform frame buildings, either for new construction or retrofit. The system consists in connecting the timber frame to a steel structure that includes hysteretic energy dissipators designed to absorb most of the seismic input energy thus protecting the timber frame and the other steel members; alternatively, the system might use other types of dissipative devices. The steel structure consists of four steel stacks (located at each of the four façades) and steel collectors embracing each slab; the stacks and the collectors are connected, at each floor level, through the energy dissipators. The steel structure is self‐supporting, that is, the timber frame is not affected by horizontal actions and can be designed without accounting for any seismic provision; in turn, the steel members do not participate in the main load‐carrying system. The timber‐steel interface is designed to avoid any stress concentration in the transfer of horizontal forces and to guarantee that the yielding of the dissipators occurs prior to any timber failure. The energy dissipation capacity of the suggested system is discussed, and an application example on a six‐story timber building is presented; this case corresponds to highly demanding conditions because of the relatively large building height and weight, the high local seismicity, and the soft soil condition. This research belongs to a wider project aiming to promote the structural use of timber by improving the seismic capacity of wooden buildings; this research includes experiments and advanced numerical simulation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long-term effects of binary mixtures of 17α-ethinyl estradiol and dibutyl phthalate in a partial life-cycle test with zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Chen Pengyu , Li Song , Liu Lei , Xu Nan
Published: November 2014

Using 17α-ethinyl estradiol (EE2) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) as a typical estrogen and phthalate ester, respectively, their combined in vivo effects on zebrafish (Danio rerio) were investigated from the juvenile state to the adult stage. The authors spiked EE2 (5 ng/L and 20 ng/L) and DBP (0.1 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L) either individually or in mixture. At 45 d postfertilization (dpf), the survival rate of zebrafish was comparable in all treatments. Dibutyl phthalate did not induce vitellogenin (VTG) synthesis, and no interaction was found between EE2 and DBP on VTG induction. At 90 dpf, both liver and gill were subject to more severe damage (lipid vacuoles of hepatocytes, amalgamation of gill lamellae, and clubbing at the tips of the secondary lamellae) when coexposed to these 2 chemicals, compared with single exposure. At 115 dpf, generally none of the binary mixture groups showed significantly different growth and sex ratios compared with the corresponding EE2 alone groups. In conclusion, no obvious interactions were detected between EE2 and DBP on the growth, VTG induction, or sex ratio of zebrafish, and they may act independently. However, the influence on morphology of gonad, liver, and gill induced by exposure to the mixture of EE2 and DBP was generally more potent than that by single exposure to EE2 or DBP, indicating the combined long-term harmful effects of EE2 and DBP on the development of zebrafish. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:518–526. © 2014 SETAC
Building a Framework for a Next‐Generation English Language Proficiency Assessment System
Authors: Wolf Mikyung Kim , Everson Phil , Lopez Alexis , Hauck Maurice , Pooler Emilie , Wang Joyce
Published: November 2014

Currently, states are moving forward with developing or adopting new English language proficiency (ELP) assessments aligned with the new academic standards in order to meet accountability requirements. In this transition, it is essential to identify areas of improvement for currentELPassessment practices and discuss ways to implement effectiveELPassessments in order to better serve the needs of English language learner (ELL) students. This article offers a conceptual framework and guiding principles to consider in designing and developing next‐generationELPassessment systems for K–12ELLstudents. In particular, the article calls for a need to create anELPassessment system where the standards, a set of coherent assessments, and instruction are all systematically linked to maximize assessment results and thus aid inELLstudents' academic success. The importance of defining an overarching construct to govern various assessments and the use of evidence‐centered‐design principles for the development of an assessment system are also discussed.
Network coding is the 5G Key Enabling Technology: effects and strategies to manage heterogeneous packet lengths
Authors: Torres Compta Pol , Fitzek Frank H. P. , Lucani Daniel E.
Published: November 2014

The exponential growth of the mobile devices market, not only smartphones but also tablets, laptops or wearables, poses a serious challenge for 5G communications. Random linear network coding is a promising solution for present and future networks as it has been shown to provide increased throughput, security and robustness for the transmission of data through the network. Most of the analysis and the demonstrators have focused on the study of data packets with the same size (number of bytes). This constitutes a best‐case scenario as coded packets will incur little overhead to handle such packets. However, packet lengths are quite heterogeneous in real networks, which can cause a high overhead or, alternatively, a high delay in the transmission of data packets. As we show, this can have a severe effect on a variety of applications. This paper proposes a series of mechanisms to manage heterogeneous packet lengths and analyses the induced overhead of those mechanisms using real packet length distributions provided by the Center for Applied Internet Data Analysis (CAIDA) and own measurements using video content. Our results show that an appropriate packetisation of the data packets can reduce the overhead from over 100 per cent (zero‐padding packets) to below 5 per cent for CAIDA packet distributions and that the right choice of parameters can reduce the overhead to less than 10 per cent in the case of video data. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computationally effective sampling frequency‐offset estimation for OFDM‐based LTE downlink systems
Authors: You Young‐Hwan , Shin Won‐Jae , Song Hyoung‐Kyu , Paik Jong‐Ho
Published: November 2014

In this paper, we present a low‐complexity sampling frequency‐offset (SFO) estimation scheme suitable for the 3GPP long‐term evolution (LTE) downlink system. First, a novel SFO estimation method for a pilot‐aided orthogonal frequency division multiplexing system is proposed providing a good performance with reduced complexity. To achieve low complexity, the proposed estimation scheme uses a central conjugate‐symmetric primary synchronisation signal specified in the LTE standard, which eases the SFO estimation at the receiver. For performance evaluation, we derive the mean square error expression of the proposed frequency estimation scheme. Simulations show that the proposed frequency estimation scheme can detect the SFO with higher accuracy and much lower complexity, compared with the conventional estimation schemes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modified Lagrangian vortex method with improved boundary conditions for water waves past a thin bottom‐standing barrier
Authors: Chang Kao‐Hao , Lin Meng‐Yu , Huang Liang‐Hsiung
Published: November 2014

Herein, the modified Lagrangian vortex method (LVM), a hybrid analytical‐numerical algorithm per se, is devised to simulate the process of vortex formation and shedding from the sharp edge of a zero‐thickness vertical plate under linear water‐wave attack. Application of the Helmholtz decomposition facilitates a convenient switch between the inviscid‐ and viscous‐flow models, thereby enabling easy incorporation of vorticity effects into the potential‐flow calculations for the viscous‐dominated region. In evaluating the potential‐flow component, making good use of the quickly convergent technique with singular basis functions, correctly capturing the singular behavior in velocity fields near the tip of the plate, leads to a considerable reduction of computational burdens and to 12‐decimal‐place accuracy. The viscous correction is carried out via the meshless LVM with improved boundary conditions. Comparisons with previously published results show good agreement. Simulations of vortex generation and evolution illuminate the ability of the present method, and provide a supplement to pertinent experimental works. The hybrid scheme proposed herein allows flexibility for the former LVM and convenience in the code development. Such a compromise fits particularly well for the high‐resolution modeling of sharp‐edged vortex shedding without heavy numerical developments. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How Important is a Non‐Default Factor for CDS Valuation?
Authors: Guo Biao , Han Qian , Lee Jaeram , Ryu Doojin
Published: November 2014

Unlike previous research based on structural or reduced‐form models, we investigate the importance of a non‐default factor for credit default swap (CDS) valuation by conducting non‐parametric local linear regression analyses using corporate CDS data from 2002 to 2011. We find that a model with an additional non‐default factor significantly outperforms a model with only a default factor, both in‐sample and out‐of‐sample, particularly for low credit rating CDS spreads. This improvement is robust to both credit rating and maturity. Our findings support the idea that non‐default risk is priced in CDS spreads and help explain CDS valuation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 35:1088–1101, 2015
The combination of irreversible EGFR TKIs and SAHA induces apoptosis and autophagy‐mediated cell death to overcome acquired resistance in EGFRT790M‐mutated lung cancer
Authors: Lee Tae‐Gul , Jeong Eun‐Hui , Kim Seo Yun , Kim Hye‐Ryoun , Kim Cheol Hyeon
Published: November 2014

To overcome T790M‐mediated acquired resistance of lung cancer cells to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR TKIs), second generation TKIs such as BIBW2992 (afatinib) and third generation TKIs including WZ4002 have been developed. However, clinical data on their efficacy in treating T790M mutant tumors are lacking. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors have been reported to arrest cell growth and to lead to differentiation and apoptosis of various cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo. In the present study, we assessed whether the combination of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA, vorinostat), a potent HDAC inhibitor, and BIBW2992 or WZ4002 could overcome EGFR TKI resistance associated with T790M mutation in lung cancer cells. While treatment with BIBW2992 or WZ4002 alone slightly reduced the viability of PC‐9G and H1975 cells, which possess T790M mutation, combining them with SAHA resulted in significantly decreased cell viability through the activation of the apoptotic pathway. This combination also enhanced autophagy occurrence and inhibition of autophagy significantly reduced the apoptosis induced by the combination treatment, showing that autophagy is required for the enhanced apoptosis. Caspase‐independent autophagic cell death was also induced by the combination treatment with SAHA and either BIBW2992 or WZ4002. Finally, the combined treatment with SAHA and either BIBW2992 or WZ4002 showed an enhanced anti‐tumor effect on xenografts of H1975 cells in vivo. In conclusion, the combination of new generation EGFR TKIs and SAHA may be a new strategy to overcome the acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs in T790M mutant lung cancer.
Mutant Enrichment with 3′‐Modified Oligonucleotides (MEMO)‐Quantitative PCR for Detection of NPM1 Mutations in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Shin Sang‐Yong , Ki Chang‐Seok , Kim Hee‐Jin , Kim Jong‐Won , Kim Sun‐Hee , Lee Seung‐Tae
Published: November 2014

Background

Detection of NPM1 mutations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is important for risk stratification, treatment decision, and therapeutic monitoring. We have designed a real‐time PCR method implementing the Mutant enrichment with 3′‐modified oligonucleotides (MEMO) technique to detect NPM1 mutations and validated its utility in clinical samples.

Methods

Sensitivity and linearity were evaluated using serially diluted NPM1‐positive samples. Clinical usefulness was assessed by measuring the levels of mutant alleles in 29 patients at diagnosis and in ten patients after induction chemotherapy.

Results

Excellent linear relationships between the mutant allele proportion and the threshold cycle (Ct) values (r = 0.999) were observed in a range of 1:1–1:103. MEMO‐PCR was able to detect NPM1 mutations regardless of mutant type and also detected novel mutants (964_967delTGGAinsATGATGTC, 957_959delCTGinsATGCATG, 960insTAAG, and 960insTCAG). The concentrations of NPM1 mutant alleles decreased after induction chemotherapy in accordance with the reduction of tumor cells, and in one case, NPM1 mutant alleles were detectable about 7 months before morphological relapse.

Conclusion

MEMO‐quantitative PCR was shown to detect virtually all types of NPM1 mutants with high sensitivity and specificity. This novel method may be useful in the diagnosis of AML with an NPM1 mutation, the detection of minimal residual disease, and the monitoring of treatment response.
The Immune Regulator VTCN1 Gene Polymorphisms and Its Impact on Susceptibility to Breast Cancer
Authors: Tsai Shih‐Meng , Wu Szu‐Hsien , Hou Ming‐Feng , Yang Hlio‐Han , Tsai Li‐Yu
Published: November 2014

Background

VTCN1, a T‐cell regulator, belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily. It is more highly expressed in tumor tissues than in normal tissues, which suggests that it could serve as a tumor‐related agent. We hypothesize the gene variants for this coinhibitory molecule may be associated with the risk of breast cancer, given such gene polymorphisms could affect its related gene expression.

Methods

Genotypes of the VTCN1 gene variants (rs10754339, rs10801935, and rs3738414) were analyzed in 566 patients with breast cancer and 400 age‐frequency‐matched controls.

Results

Compared with the major allele, the minor alleles of rs10754339, rs10801935, and rs3738414 did modulate the risk of breast cancer with ORs (95% CI) of 1.42 (1.07–1.89), 1.39 (1.10–1.77), and 0.81 (0.67–0.99), respectively. Those with the rs10754339 genotype AG and rs10801935 AC genotype had significantly increased risks when compared with their major genotypes. However, in rs3738414, the AA genotype had a marginally significant decreased risk compared with its wild genotype. In the haplotype‐based analysis, the GCG allele was associated with significantly increased risk (OR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.09–2.22) based on the AAG reference. Further analyses of the haplotype pairs showed GCG carriers had a significantly increased risk.

Conclusions

In this study, the VTCN1 genetic variants (rs10754339, rs10801935, and rs3738414) indicate they could be connected with the risk of breast cancer, which in turn provides indirect evidence that T‐cell immunity could be involved in the development of breast cancer.
Increased Igf‐I/Igfbp‐3 Ratios in Postmenopausal Taiwanese with Breast Cancer, Irrespective of Er and Pr Statuses and Her2 Expression in a Case–Control Study
Authors: Lee Su‐Chen , Tsai Shih‐Meng , Hou Ming‐Feng , Tien Li‐Ying , Wu Szu‐Hsien , Hou Lisa Ann , Tsai Joseph M , Tsai Li‐Yu
Published: November 2014

Background

In most research, there were positive associations between the insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I) status, including IGF‐I, insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3), and ratio of IGF‐I/IGFBP‐3, and risks of breast cancer (BC), which was influenced by many factors, including hormone statuses and ethnicity. Therefore, the alterations of the IGF‐I status in Taiwanese women with BC by menopausal statuses and hormone receptors were investigated.

Methods

The levels of IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 were determined by the enzyme‐labeled chemiluminescent immunometric assay, and the protein expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) on paraffin‐embedded sections of tissues with BC were analyzed by the immunohistochemical method.

Results

The ratios of IGF‐I/IGFBP‐3 were significantly higher in the women with BC than those in the controls, but not of the levels of IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3; furthermore, the significantly higher ratios were found only in the postmenopausal status. In addition, there was no significant difference between the IGF‐I status and ER and PR statuses, and HER2 expression, respectively, in the women with BC.

Conclusions

The ratios of IGF‐I/IGFBP‐3 were increased in postmenopausal Taiwanese women with BC, irrespective of their ages, ER and PR statuses, and HER2 expression.
Effect of physiological stress on expression of glucose transporter 2 in liver of the wood frog, Rana sylvatica
Authors: Rosendale Andrew J. , Lee Richard E. , Costanzo Jon P.
Published: November 2014

Glucose transporters (GLUTs) have been implicated in the survival of various physiological stresses in mammals; however, little is known about the role of these proteins in stress tolerance in lower vertebrates. The wood frog (Rana sylvatica), which survives multiple winter‐related stresses by copiously mobilizing hepatic glycogen stores, is an interesting subject for the study of glucose transport in amphibians. We examined the effects of several physiological stresses on GLUT2 protein and mRNA levels in the liver of R. sylvatica. Using immunoblotting techniques to measure relative GLUT2 abundance, we found that GLUT2 numbers increased in response to organismal freezing, hypoxia exposure, and glucose loading; whereas, experimental dehydration and urea loading did not affect GLUT2 abundance. GLUT2 mRNA levels, assessed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, changed in accordance with protein abundance for most stresses, indicating that transcriptional regulation of GLUT2 occurs in response to stress. Overall, hepatic GLUT2 seems to be important in stress survival in R. sylvatica and is regulated to meet the physiological need to accumulate glucose. J. Exp. Zool. 321A: 566–576, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the Structure of Graphs with Given Odd Girth and Large Minimum Degree
Authors: Messuti Silvia , Schacht Mathias
Published: November 2014

We study minimum degree conditions for which a graph with given odd girth has a simple structure. For example, the classical work of Andrásfai, Erdős, and Sós implies that every n‐vertex graph with odd girth and minimum degree bigger than must be bipartite. We consider graphs with a weaker condition on the minimum degree. Generalizing results of Häggkvist and of Häggkvist and Jin for the cases and 3, we show that every n‐vertex graph with odd girth and minimum degree bigger than is homomorphic to the cycle of length . This is best possible in the sense that there are graphs with minimum degree and odd girth that are not homomorphic to the cycle of length . Similar results were obtained by Brandt and Ribe‐Baumann.
Synthesis of [2H7]indatraline
Authors: Allmendinger L. , Wanner K. T.
Published: November 2014

Deuterium‐labelled indatraline was synthesized in high efficiency employing a Friedel–Crafts alkylation of [2H6]benzene with (E)‐3‐(3,4‐dichlorophenyl)acrylic acid as a key step. The desired labelling of the final compound was ascertained in two ways, by incorporation of [2H6]benzene in the target molecule and additionally by deuterium transfer to the non‐deuterated aryl moiety of the Friedel–Crafts alkylation product from [2H6]benzene, the latter thus serving as reagent and solvent.
Variability in the annual cycle of the Río Atuel streamflows and its relationship with tropospheric circulation
Authors: Araneo Diego , Villalba Ricardo
Published: November 2014

Climate‐induced changes in the annual regime of snow‐fed rivers have serious implications for water resource management. In the Central Andes (CA, 28°–36°S) of Argentina–Chile, the snow accumulated in high‐elevation mountains in winter is the dominant component of streamflows during the spring–summer melting season. Although topography introduces complexity in snowpack responses to the annual temperature cycle, streamflow series over a century in length make the CA particularly suitable for identification of long‐term hydrological changes. Principal component (PC) analysis of Río Atuel annual hydrographs from 1906 to 2012 discriminates between precipitation‐ and temperature‐related components associated with variations in snow accumulation (49% of variance) and advances/delays of the streamflow annual peak (21% of variance), respectively. The temporal evolution of PC1 loadings reveals a predominant negative period from 1917 to 1976 and from 1988 to present, suggesting the propensity to undergo long periods with reduced flows. In turn, the PC2 pattern is predominantly positive from 1948 to the present, revealing a tendency to more frequent peak flows in late spring since the mid‐20th century. Above‐average streamflows related to abundant snowfalls in the CA are associated with northward shifts in stormtracks that are remotely induced by above‐average sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific. On the other hand, earlier streamflow peaks in November‐December are concurrent with above‐average temperatures across the Atuel basin induced by enhanced meridional circulation from the Tropics due to the strengthening of the South Atlantic anticyclone. These circulation anomalies are linked to the persistent positive phase of the Southern Annular Mode during the last decades. Additionally, years with reduced streamflows in January, and proportionally larger flow contributions in November‐December, are associated with anomalous air cooling at high levels induced by low pressure centres over the region as part of a quasi‐zonal stationary Rossby wave train that extends from Australia to the South American–South Atlantic sector.
Mass Shootings: A Meta‐Analysis of the Dose‐Response Relationship
Authors: Wilson Laura C.
Published: November 2014

A meta‐analysis was conducted to examine the dose‐response theory as it relates to posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSSs) following mass shootings. It was hypothesized that greater exposure to a mass shooting would be associated with greater PTSSs. Trauma exposure in the current study was broadly defined as the extent to which a person experienced or learned about a mass shooting. The meta‐analysis identified 11 qualifying studies that included 13 independent effect sizes from a total of 8,047 participants. The overall weighted mean effect size, based on a random effects model, was r = .19, p < .001, 95% CI [.13, .25]. Maximum likelihood meta‐regressions revealed no significant linear effects of participant gender, participant age, or time elapsed since the shooting on the relationship between exposure and PTSSs. Because so few studies satisfied the inclusion criteria, the present study also documents that this area of the literature is underresearched.
Readily Prepared Dynamic Hydrogels by Combining Phenyl Boronic Acid‐ and Maltose‐Modified Anionic Polysaccharides at Neutral pH
Authors: Tarus Dominte , Hachet Emilie , Messager Léa , Catargi Bogdan , Ravaine Valérie , Auzély‐Velty Rachel
Published: November 2014

Dynamic covalent hydrogels are facilely prepared from biocompatible polysaccharides in physiological conditions by the formation of phenylboronate ester cross‐links. This is based on the simple mixing of carboxylate‐containing polysaccharides (i.e., hyaluronic acid or carboxymethylcellulose) modified with phenylboronic acid and maltose moieties according to mild coupling reactions performed in aqueous solution. The formation of dynamic networks based on reversible boronic‐ester cross‐links is demonstrated by analyzing their rheological behavior. This study shows that these gels can adapt their structure in response to chemical stimuli such as variations in pH or addition of glucose and self‐heal.

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Effect of Incorporating Aromatic and Chiral Groups on the Dielectric Properties of Poly(dimethyltin esters)
Authors: Baldwin Aaron F. , Ma Rui , Huan Tran Doan , Cao Yang , Ramprasad Ramamurthy , Sotzing Gregory A.
Published: November 2014

High‐dielectric constant materials are critical for numerous applications such as photovoltaics, photonics, transistors, and capacitors. There are numerous polymers used as dielectric layers in these applications but can suffer from having a low dielectric constant, small band gap, or ferroelectricity. Here, the structure–property relationship of various poly(dimethyltin esters) is described that look to enhance the dipolar and atomic polarization component of the dielectric constant. These polymers are also modeled using first principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) to predict such values as the total, electronic, and ionic dielectric constant as well as structure. A strong correlation is achieved between the theoretical and experimental values with the polymers exhibiting dielectric constants >4.5 with dissipation on the order of 10−3–10−2.

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Variable density incoherent spatiotemporal acquisition (VISTA) for highly accelerated cardiac MRI
Authors: Ahmad Rizwan , Xue Hui , Giri Shivraman , Ding Yu , Craft Jason , Simonetti Orlando P.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

For the application of compressive sensing to parallel MRI, Poisson disk sampling (PDS) has been shown to generate superior results compared with random sampling methods. However, due to its limited flexibility to incorporate additional constraints, PDS is not readily extendible to dynamic applications. Here, we propose and validate a pseudo‐random sampling technique that allows incorporating constraints specific to dynamic imaging.

Methods

The proposed sampling scheme, called variable density incoherent spatiotemporal acquisition (VISTA), is based on constrained minimization of Riesz energy on a spatiotemporal grid. Data from both a digital phantom and real‐time cine were used to compare VISTA with uniform interleaved sampling (UIS) and variable density random sampling (VRS). The image quality was assessed qualitatively and quantitatively.

Results

VISTA improved the trade‐off between noise and sharpness. Also, VISTA produced diagnostic quality images at an acceleration rate of 15, whereas UIS and VRS images degraded below the diagnostic threshold at lower acceleration rates.

Conclusions

VISTA generates spatiotemporal sampling patterns with high levels of uniformity and incoherence, while maintaining a constant temporal resolution. Using a small pilot study, VISTA was shown to produce diagnostic quality images at acceleration rates up to 15. Magn Reson Med 74:1266–1278, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.