bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Authorship trends and collaboration patterns in business ethics literature
Authors: Köseoglu Mehmet Ali , Yildiz Mehmet , Ciftci Taha
Published: December 2017

The primary aim of this study is to clarify the authorship trends, collaboration patterns, and impact factors in business ethics literature by looking at articles published between 1960 and 2015 in four leading business ethics journals: Business and Society, Business Ethics: A European Review, Business Ethics Quarterly, and the Journal of Business Ethics. This study showed the growth type of business ethics literature, authorship trends, collaboration patterns, authors' productivity evolved by subperiods and journals, and authors' dominance factor by subperiods and journals. After providing an evaluation of the results of the study, the authors discuss the study's limitations and suggestions for future research.
Different contributions of chemokine N‐terminal features attest to a different ligand binding mode and a bias towards activation of ACKR3/CXCR7 compared with CXCR4 and CXCR3
Authors: Szpakowska Martyna , Nevins Amanda M , Meyrath Max , Rhainds David , D'huys Thomas , Guité‐Vinet François , Dupuis Nadine , Gauthier Pierre‐Arnaud , Counson Manuel , Kleist Andrew , St‐Onge Geneviève , Hanson Julien , Schols Dominique , Volkman Brian F , Heveker Nikolaus , Chevigné Andy
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose

Chemokines and their receptors form an intricate interaction and signalling network that plays critical roles in various physiological and pathological cellular processes. The high promiscuity and apparent redundancy of this network makes probing individual chemokine/receptor interactions and functional effects, as well as targeting individual receptor axes for therapeutic applications, challenging. Despite poor sequence identity, the N‐terminal regions of chemokines, which play a key role in their activity and selectivity, contain several conserved features. Thus far little is known regarding the molecular basis of their interactions with typical and atypical chemokine receptors or the conservation of their contributions across chemokine‐receptor pairs.

Experimental Approach

We used a broad panel of chemokine variants and modified peptides derived from the N‐terminal region of chemokines CXCL12, CXCL11 and vCCL2, to compare the contributions of various features to binding and activation of their shared receptors, the two typical, canonical G protein‐signalling receptors, CXCR4 and CXCR3, as well as the atypical scavenger receptor CXCR7/ACKR3, which shows exclusively arrestin‐dependent activity.

Key Results

We provide molecular insights into the plasticity of the ligand‐binding pockets of these receptors, their chemokine binding modes and their activation mechanisms. Although the chemokine N‐terminal region is a critical determinant, neither the most proximal residues nor the N‐loop are essential for binding and activation of ACKR3, as distinct from binding and activation of CXCR4 and CXCR3.

Conclusion and Implications

These results suggest a different interaction mechanism between this atypical receptor and its ligands and illustrate its strong propensity to activation.
Tumor‐associated CD204+ M2 macrophages are unfavorable prognostic indicators in uterine cervical adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kawachi Asuka , Yoshida Hiroshi , Kitano Shigehisa , Ino Yoshinori , Kato Tomoyasu , Hiraoka Nobuyoshi
Published: December 2017

Uterine cervical adenocarcinoma is rare, but its prevalence has increased. To improve outcomes and ensure the suitability of recent immunotherapies, the aim of this study was to evaluate the clinicopathological impact of the tumor immune microenvironment of uterine cervical adenocarcinoma. We investigated 148 adenocarcinoma cases, including 21 cases of adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) and 127 cases of invasive adenocarcinoma, using immunohistochemistry to detect tumor‐infiltrating immune cells and the expression of programmed cell death 1 ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) and p16 on tumor cells. We then carried out correlation and survival analyses. The density of immune cells and expression levels were compared between the tumor cell nest and stroma and between AIS and invasive adenocarcinoma using digital image analysis. A higher density of tumor‐infiltrating CD204+ M2 macrophages was significantly associated with shorter disease‐free survival, although no other tumor‐infiltrating immune cells were prognostic, including CD4+, CD8+, FOXP3+, and PD‐1+ lymphocytes and CD68+ macrophages. The density of stroma‐infiltrating lymphocytes and macrophages was significantly higher in invasive adenocarcinoma than in AIS. The density of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes in p16‐expressing human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive tumors was significantly higher than that in HPV‐negative tumors. The HPV status was not associated with patient outcome. Expression of PD‐L1 on tumor cells was found only in invasive adenocarcinoma cases (17.3%). A higher density of stroma‐infiltrating lymphocytes and macrophages was found in PD‐L1‐positive tumors than in negative tumors. Patients with PD‐L1‐positive tumors tended to experience longer survival. It is suggested that tumor‐infiltrating CD204+ M2 macrophages may predict poor prognoses in patients with cervical adenocarcinoma.
Solute carrier family 35 member F2 is indispensable for papillary thyroid carcinoma progression through activation of transforming growth factor‐β type I receptor/apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1/mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling axis
Authors: He Jing , Jin Yiting , Zhou Mingxia , Li Xiaoyan , Chen Wanna , Wang Yiwei , Gu Siwen , Cao Yun , Chu Chengyu , Liu Xiuping , Zou Qiang
Published: December 2017

Solute carrier family members control essential physiological functions and are tightly linked to human diseases. Solute carrier family 35 member F2 (SLC35F2) is aberrantly activated in several malignancies. However, the biological function and molecular mechanism of SLC35F2 in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) are yet to be fully explored. Here, we showed that SLC35F2 was prominently upregulated in PTC tissues at both protein and mRNA expression level compared with matched adjacent normal tissues. Besides, the high expression of SLC35F2 was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis in patients with PTC. CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knockout of SLC35F2 attenuated the tumorigenic properties of PTC, including cell proliferation, migration and invasion and induced G1 phase arrest. In contrast, ectopic expression of SLC35F2 brought about aggressive malignant phenotypes of PTC cells. Moreover, SLC35F2 expedited the proliferation and migration of PTC cells by targeting transforming growth factor‐β type I receptor (TGFBR1) and phosphorylation of apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 (p‐ASK‐1), thereby activating the mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway. The malignant behaviors induced by overexpression of SLC35F2 could be abrogated by silencing of TGFBR1 using a specific inhibitor. We conducted the first study on SLC35F2 in thyroid cancer with the aim of elucidating the functional significance and molecular mechanism of SLC35F2. Our findings suggest that SLC35F2 exerts its oncogenic effect on PTC progression through the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway, with dependence on activation of TGFBR‐1 and apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1.
Application of a Dynamic Map for Learning, Communicating, Navigating, and Improving Therapeutic Development
Authors: Wagner John A. , Dahlem Andrew M. , Hudson Lynn D. , Terry Sharon F. , Altman Russ B. , Gilliland C. Taylor , DeFeo Christopher , Austin Christopher P.
Published: December 2017

Drug discovery and development is commonly schematized as a “pipeline,” and, although appreciated by drug developers to be a useful oversimplification, this cartology may perpetuate inaccurate notions of straightforwardness and is of minimal utility for process engineering to improve efficiency. To create a more granular schema, a group of drug developers, researchers, patient advocates, and regulators developed a crowdsourced atlas of the steps involved in translating basic discoveries into health interventions, annotated with the steps that are particularly prone to difficulty or failure. This Drug Discovery, Development, and Deployment Map (4DM), provides a network view of the process, which will be useful for communication and education to those new to the field, orientation and navigation of individual projects, and prioritization of technology development and re‐engineering endeavors to improve efficiency and effectiveness. The 4DM is freely available for utilization, modification, and further development by stakeholders across the translational ecosystem.
Shone's syndrome: Insights from three‐dimensional echocardiography
Authors: Vivas Martín F. , Politi María T. , Riznyk Laura M. , Castro María F. , Avegliano Gustavo , Ronderos Ricardo
Published: December 2017

Shone's syndrome is a rare congenital anomaly defined as the presence of at least two of the following heart obstructions: a mitral supravalvular ring, a “parachute” mitral valve stenosis, subaortic stenosis, and aortic coarctation. A 58‐year‐old man presented with a mitral ring and a “parachute” mitral valve on two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography, raising suspicion of Shone's syndrome. Three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography revealed a subannular mitral ring inserted directly on the mitral leaflets, thus acting as a “valvar ring.” This distinction can have therapeutic implications as a “valvar” mitral ring could require valve repair or replacement, instead of simple resection.
Echocardiographic parameters predicting acute hemodynamically significant mitral regurgitation during transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Ito Asahiro , Iwata Shinichi , Mizutani Kazuki , Nonin Shinichi , Nishimura Shinsuke , Takahashi Yosuke , Yamada Tokuhiro , Murakami Takashi , Shibata Toshihiko , Yoshiyama Minoru
Published: December 2017

Background

Alteration in mitral valve morphology resulting from retrograde stiff wire entanglement sometimes causes hemodynamically significant acute mitral regurgitation (MR) during transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Little is known about the echocardiographic parameters related to hemodynamically significant acute MR.

Methods and Results

This study population consisted of 64 consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR. We defined hemodynamically significant acute MR as changes in the severity of MR with persistent hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 80–90 mm Hg or mean arterial pressure 30 mm Hg lower than baseline). Hemodynamically significant acute MR occurred in 5 cases (7.8%). Smaller left ventricular end‐systolic diameter (LVDs), larger ratios of the coiled section of stiff wire tip to LVDs (wire‐width/LVDs), and higher Wilkins score were significantly associated with hemodynamically significant acute MR (P < .05), whereas the parameters of functional MR (annular area, anterior‐posterior diameter, tenting area, and coaptation length) were not. Moreover, when patients were divided into 4 groups according to wire‐width/LVDs and Wilkins score, the group with the larger wire‐width/LVDs and higher Wilkins score improved prediction rates (P < .05).

Conclusions

Small left ventricle or wire oversizing and calcific mitral apparatus were predictive of hemodynamically significant acute MR. These findings are important for risk stratification, and careful monitoring using intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography may improve the safety in this population.
“Heaven or Las Vegas”: Competing institutional logics and individual experience
Authors: Pina e Cunha Miguel , Giustiniano Luca , Rego Arménio , Clegg Stewart
Published: December 2017

Significant research has been dedicated to the study of the dual constitutive core at the field and organizational levels but less attention has been paid to the micro‐dimensions of the collision of competing logics, namely in terms of how individuals experience and navigate through them and how that influences organizational ethos and strategy. We study how one individual, founder of the organization behind the independent music label 4AD, made sense and lived through the fundamental clash of two logics: ‘music as art’ and ‘music as business’. We analyse how the personal struggles of the founder allowed the construction and maintenance of a strong, solid and continued organizational identity for 4AD. We uncover four factors accounting for the protection of 4AD's sustained artistic integrity in face of a transforming industry.
Environmental limitation mapping of potential biomass resources across the conterminous United States
Authors: Daly Christopher , Halbleib Michael D. , Hannaway David B. , Eaton Laurence M.
Published: December 2017

Several crops have recently been identified as potential dedicated bioenergy feedstocks for the production of power, fuels, and bioproducts. Despite being identified as early as the 1980s, no systematic work has been undertaken to characterize the spatial distribution of their long‐term production potentials in the United states. Such information is a starting point for planners and economic modelers, and there is a need for this spatial information to be developed in a consistent manner for a variety of crops, so that their production potentials can be intercompared to support crop selection decisions. As part of the Sun Grant Regional Feedstock Partnership (RFP), an approach to mapping these potential biomass resources was developed to take advantage of the informational synergy realized when bringing together coordinated field trials, close interaction with expert agronomists, and spatial modeling into a single, collaborative effort. A modeling and mapping system called PRISM‐ELM was designed to answer a basic question: How do climate and soil characteristics affect the spatial distribution and long‐term production patterns of a given crop? This empirical/mechanistic/biogeographical hybrid model employs a limiting factor approach, where productivity is determined by the most limiting of the factors addressed in submodels that simulate water balance, winter low‐temperature response, summer high‐temperature response, and soil pH, salinity, and drainage. Yield maps are developed through linear regressions relating soil and climate attributes to reported yield data. The model was parameterized and validated using grain yield data for winter wheat and maize, which served as benchmarks for parameterizing the model for upland and lowland switchgrass, CRP grasses, Miscanthus, biomass sorghum, energycane, willow, and poplar. The resulting maps served as potential production inputs to analyses comparing the viability of biomass crops under various economic scenarios. The modeling and parameterization framework can be expanded to include other biomass crops.
Physicochemical properties of soy protein prepared by enzyme‐assisted countercurrent extraction
Authors: Wei Cui‐Lan , Lu Wei , Yang Juan , Wang Ming‐Ping , Yang Xiao‐Quan , Wang Jin‐Mei
Published: December 2017

Synchronous improvements of both nutritional properties and the flavour of protein by optimising preparation processes are highly challenging. The prehydrolysis of soy meals by cocktail enzyme (β‐glucosidase, phytase and acid protease) treatment and subsequent countercurrent extraction were designed based on similar hydrolysis conditions. The composition, flavour volatiles and physicochemical properties of soy proteins were investigated. Compared to alkaline extraction and acid precipitation, enzyme‐assisted countercurrent extraction significantly increased protein yield and carbohydrate content, accompanied by a decrease in protein purity. This protein exhibited larger molecular weight distribution, less flavour volatiles, higher thermal stability and surface hydrophobicity, as evidenced by higher denaturation temperature (Td) and enthalpy change (ΔH) of protein. The conversion of isoflavone glycosides to aglycone and the partial degradation of phytic acid were observed for enzyme‐prepared soy proteins. These results suggest a feasible protocol for producing a nutrient‐improved soy protein with excellent flavour and thermal stability.
Thickness‐induced anomalous angular‐dependent magnetoresistance of La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 thin films grown on SrTiO3
Authors: Li Xiaotian , Liu Bin , Wang Yiqian , Xue Xuyan , Liu Guiju , Yang Huaiwen , Sun Jirong
Published: December 2017

In this paper the effect of thickness on angular‐dependent magnetoresistance (MR) of La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 (LSMO) thin films grown on SrTiO3 is systematically investigated. In films thinner than 8 nm, we observe an anomalous weak peak in the MR curves when the magnetic field is parallel to the film surface. In films thicker than 10 nm, however, the weak peak disappears and a novel MR valley appears when the magnetic field is perpendicular to the film surface. The weak peak is thought to be induced by the formation of two‐dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the interface, which is confirmed by density functional theory calculations. The disappearance of the peak and appearance of the valley in the films thicker than 10 nm is associated with the formation of misfit dislocations near the interface between film and substrate, which are clearly visible in high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy images. Our work could shed significant light on the influence of film thickness on 2DEG formation.
Defect mechanisms in BaTiO3‐BiMO3 ceramics
Authors: Kumar Nitish , Patterson Eric A. , Frömling Till , Gorzkowski Edward P. , Eschbach Peter , Love Ian , Müller Michael P. , De Souza Roger A. , Tucker Julie , Reese Steven R. , Cann David P.
Published: December 2017

Often, addition of BiMO3 to BaTiO3 (BT) leads to improvement in resistivity with a simultaneous shift to n‐type conduction from p‐type for BT. In considering one specific BiMO3 composition, that is, Bi(Zn1/2Ti1/2)O3 (BZT), several prospective candidates for the origin of this n‐type behavior in BT‐BZT were studied—loss of volatile cations, oxygen vacancies, bismuth present in multiple valence states and precipitation of secondary phases. Combined x‐ray and neutron diffraction, prompt gamma neutron activation analysis and electron energy loss spectroscopy suggested much higher oxygen vacancy concentration in BT‐BZT ceramics (>4%) as compared to BT alone. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and x‐ray absorption spectroscopy did not suggest the presence of bismuth in multiple valence states. At the same time, using transmission electron microscopy, some minor secondary phases were observed, whose compositions were such that they could result in effective donor doping in BT‐BZT ceramics. Using experimentally determined thermodynamic parameters for BT and slopes of Kröger‐Vink plots, it has been suggested that an ionic compensation mechanism is prevalent in these ceramics instead of electronic compensation. These ionic defects have an effect of shifting the conductivity minimum in the Kröger‐Vink plots to higher oxygen partial pressure values in BT‐BZT ceramics as compared to BT, resulting in a significantly higher resistivity values in air atmosphere and n‐type behavior. This provides an important tool to tailor transport properties and defects in BT‐BiMO3 ceramics, to make them better suited for dielectric or other applications.
Microwave assisted synthesis and characterization of single‐phase tabular hexagonal newberyite, an important bioceramic
Authors: Sikder Prabaha , Bhaduri Sarit B.
Published: December 2017

Magnesium phosphate compounds such as newberyite (MgHPO4·3H2O) and struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O) are becoming important alternatives to calcium phosphates in hard tissue replacements. So far, newberyite has received lesser attention with respect to struvite. Therefore, the broad aim of this paper is to report an easy synthesis technique and characterization of single‐phase newberyite, which may have diverse uses as a bioceramic material. Specifically, we describe a simple and robust microwave‐assisted process for the synthesis of single‐phase newberyite in tabular hexagonal form. Second, we soak the newberyite powders in simulated body fluid, a solution which mimics the pH and ion concentration of human blood plasma, for 7 days and analyze the apatite formation on the crystals. Third, we report that single‐phase newberyite, by itself, does not possess antibacterial property.
Internal capital market efficiency and the diversification discount: The role of financial statement comparability
Authors: Cheng Jia‐Chi , Wu Ruei‐Shian
Published: December 2017

This paper investigates how financial statement comparability affects the efficiency of internal capital markets and diversification discounts in multi‐segment firms through monitoring mechanisms. Previous studies suggest that financial statement comparability improves transparency and reduces the cost of information processing, mitigating information asymmetry between managers and shareholders. Using measures of comparability and internal capital efficiency, we find that financial statement comparability has a strong positive influence on internal capital market efficiency. Further, we find that by improving the efficiency of internal capital markets, financial statement comparability indeed mitigates diversification discounts. Especially, the effect of financial statement comparability is more pronounced for firms with high information asymmetry or operating environment volatility. The results support our arguments that financial statement comparability enhances the efficiency of internal capital markets and increases firm value in diversified firms by mitigating agency problems via monitoring and corporate control mechanisms.
BANK FINANCING AND FIRM GROWTH: EVIDENCE FROM TRANSITION ECONOMIES
Authors: Ullah Barkat , Wei Zuobao
Published: December 2017

We examine the relation between financing patterns and firm growth in transition economies. Using a survey data set covering more than 20,000 firms in 30 Eastern European and Central Asian countries from 2002 to 2014, we find that firms using formal bank finance grow faster than those financed by informal sources. Our results hold after controlling for firm characteristics, country economic development, and potential endogeneity. The effect of bank finance on firm growth is more pronounced in non‐OECD than OECD countries, indicating the overwhelming importance of bank finance in countries with less developed institutions.
INTERNAL CAPITAL MARKETS, FORMS OF INTRAGROUP TRANSFERS, AND DIVIDEND POLICY: EVIDENCE FROM INDIAN CORPORATES
Authors: Goldman Elena , Viswanath P. V.
Published: December 2017

Firms in a business group share ownership structures, allowing them access to sources of intragroup financing not available to independent firms. Resources could be transferred within a group either through intragroup transactions, primarily operational activities (internal transfers), or through dividends permitting insiders to make investments in other group firms (external transfers). The first strategy predicts lower dividends, and the second predicts the reverse. Using a large data set of listed Indian firms, we look at the costs of internal transfers versus external transfers and find that dividend policies of group firms are better explained by the external transfer hypothesis.
7q11.23 microduplication syndrome: neurophysiological and neuroradiological insights into a rare chromosomal disorder
Authors: Castiglia L. , Husain R. A. , Marquardt I. , Fink C. , Liehr T. , Serino D. , Elia M. , Coci E. G.
Published: December 2017

Background

The phenotypical consequence of the heterozygous chromosome 7q11.23 interstitial microdeletion is the Williams–Beuren syndrome, a very well‐known genetic multi‐systemic disorder. Much less is known about the reverse condition, the heterozygous interstitial microduplication of 7q11.23 region. The first molecular cytogenetic description was published in 2005, and only after several years were the reported patients numerous enough to attempt a description of a common phenotype.

Method

By using a broad multidisciplinary approach, we investigated 12 patients with this rare genetic anomaly. Ten of them harboured the duplication of the classical Williams–Beuren syndrome region and two a slightly larger duplication. Upon a detailed description of the clinical and psychological features, we used electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging to explore neurophysiological function and brain structures.

Results

We analysed the clinical, psychological, neuroradiological and neurophysiological features of 12 yet‐unpublished individuals affected by this rare genetic anomaly, focusing specifically on the last two aspects. Several structural abnormalities of the central nervous system were detected, like ventriculomegaly, hypotrophic cerebellum, hypotrophic corpus callosum and hypoplastic temporal lobes. Although only one of 12 individuals suffered from seizures during childhood, three others had abnormal electroencephalography findings prominent in the anterior brain regions, without any visible seizures to date.

Conclusion

Taken together, we enlarged the yet‐underrepresented cohort in the literature of patients affected by 7q11.23 microduplication syndrome and shed further light on neuroradiological and neurophysiological aspects of this rare genetic syndrome.
HCV treatment initiation in persons with chronic kidney disease in the directly acting antiviral agents era: Results from ERCHIVES
Authors: Butt Adeel A. , Ren Yanjie , Puenpatom Amy , Arduino Jean‐Marie , Kumar Ritesh , Abou‐Samra Abdul‐Badi
Published: December 2017

Background

Newer direct acting antiviral agents against HCV (DAAs) are safe and efficacious in persons with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Whether approval of newer DAAs has resulted in more persons with CKD initiating HCV treatment remains unknown.

Methods

We identified HCV+ persons in ERCHIVES between October 1999 and July 2016. We excluded HIV+ and HBsAg+ and those with missing baseline HCV RNA and baseline eGFR data. We identified persons initiated on any approved DAA‐regimen through July 2016, by CKD stage. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with treatment initiation.

Results

Among 83 706 evaluable persons, 21.1% initiated treatment. Rates differed significantly by CKD stage: 22.1% for eGFR>90 mL/min/1.73 m2 and CKD stage‐2; 14.9% for CKD stage 3; and 8.0% for CKD stage‐4/5. Those with CKD stage‐3 were 33% less likely and those with CKD stage‐4/5 were 60% less likely to initiate treatment with a DAA compared with those with baseline eGFR>90 mL/min/1.73 m2. Treatment initiation was less likely in HCV genotype 2 (OR 0.59; 95%CI 0.53,0.66) or 3 (OR 0.53; 95%CI 0.47,0.61) and those with diabetes (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.81,0.94), cardiovascular disease (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.70,0.84), alcohol abuse or dependence (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.70,0.79) or cirrhosis (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.80,0.92) at baseline.

Conclusions

Persons with more advanced CKD are less likely to receive treatment for HCV despite recent data on safety and efficacy. Strategies are needed to improve treatment rates in the HCV/CKD population.
Chemical variations of sulfides and metal in enstatite chondrites—Introduction of a new classification scheme
Authors: Weyrauch Mona , Horstmann Marian , Bischoff Addi
Published: December 2017

In this study, the metal and sulfide compositions of 45 enstatite chondrites were analyzed to determine possible mineral‐chemical trends correlated with the petrologic type. Data for 35 additional samples were taken from the literature. Considering the data from this huge number of different E chondrite samples (80 in total), none of the trends previously described in the literature could be clearly confirmed. Also, among the opaque phases of enstatite chondrites, no other “new” correlations between mineral chemistry and the petrologic type were found. However, major differences in the sulfide and metal chemistry became obvious. Specifically, a certain number of chondrites in the EH and the EL groups have Cr in troilite above 2 wt%, Fe in niningerite or alabandite above 20 wt%, and lack abundant daubréelite. Differences were also found for Ni concentrations in kamacite. Thus, we propose a system for classifying E chondrites by defining four major subgroups: EHa, ELa, EHb, and ELb. All subgroups show full petrologic sequences that are similar to each other. This observation, in combination with the differences in sulfide and metal chemistry, suggests an origin of the samples from different parent bodies. Considering the anomalous E chondrite samples that neither fit in the previous classification scheme nor in the new one described here, the samples investigated in this study require at least eight different parent bodies.
A TEM study of exsolution in Ca‐rich pyroxenes from the Paris and Renazzo chondrites: Determination of type I chondrule cooling rates
Authors: Cuvillier Priscille , Chaumard Noël , Leroux Hugues , Zanda Brigitte , Hewins Roger H. , Jacob Damien , Devouard Bertrand
Published: December 2017

We conducted a transmission electron microscope study of the exsolution microstructures of Ca‐rich pyroxenes in type I chondrules from the Paris CM and Renazzo CR carbonaceous chondrites in order to provide better constraints on the cooling history of type I chondrules. Our study shows a high variability of composition in the augite grains at a submicrometer scale, reflecting nonequilibrium crystallization. The microstructure is closely related to the local composition and is thus variable inside augite grains. For compositions inside the pyroxene miscibility gap, with a wollastonite (Wo) content typically below 40 mole%, the augite grains contain abundant exsolution lamellae on (001). For grain areas with composition close to Wo40, a modulated texture on (100) and (001) is the dominant microstructure, while areas with compositions higher than Wo40 do not show any exsolution microstructure development. To estimate the cooling rate, we used the spacing of the exsolution lamellae on (001), for which the growth is diffusion controlled and thus sensitive to the cooling rate. Despite the relatively homogeneous microstructures of augite grains with Wo < 35 mole%, our study of four chondrules suggests a range of cooling rates from ~10 to ~1000 °C h−1, within the temperature interval 1200–1350 °C. These cooling rates are comparable to those of type II chondrules, i.e., 1–1000 °C h−1. We conclude that the formation of type I and II chondrules in the proto‐solar nebula was the result of a common mechanism.
An experimental model for the tektite fluvial transport based on the most distal Polish moldavite occurrences
Authors: Brachaniec Tomasz
Published: December 2017

Reworking and redeposition of tektites is a highly complex and multistage geological process including many factors. A tumbling experiment was therefore undertaken with the aim of estimating a distance of transport that such moldavites can withstand. Though the experiment probably did not accurately mimic natural conditions, our results proved that moldavites can withstand considerable transport only over a distance of a few kilometers. Observed abrasion of tektites was significant in the early stage of experimental transport; the rate of abrasion decreased correlatively with increasing distance of transport as usual. Overall, given the results obtained from this experimental study and their state of preservation described in the literature, it is very likely that Polish tektites were reworked and redeposited by rivers from the Sudetes Mountains. Based on the paleoreconstruction of river flows, it can be assumed that the Polish tektites originated from two independent sediment supply areas.
Disturbances of dental development distinguish patients with oligodontia‐ectodermal dysplasia from isolated oligodontia
Authors: Dhamo B. , Kuijpers M. A. R. , Balk‐Leurs I. , Boxum C. , Wolvius E. B. , Ongkosuwito E. M.
Published: December 2017

Structured Abstract

Objective

To investigate phenotypic differences in dental development between isolated oligodontia and oligodontia‐ectodermal dysplasia (ED).

Setting and sample population

A total of 129 patients diagnosed with isolated oligodontia and 22 patients with oligodontia as part of ED were eligible.

Methods

The phenotype of dental development was assessed for the frequency of missing a certain tooth, dental age, development of each tooth present, abnormal size and abnormal shape of teeth. The data were analysed building linear, ordinal and logistic regression models.

Results

Compared to patients with isolated oligodontia, patients with oligodontia‐ED missed more frequently central incisors and second molars in both jaws, and lateral incisors in the mandible (P < .05). Oligodontia‐ED was associated with delayed development of the permanent dentition (β = −0.10; 95% CI: −0.17, −0.03). Specifically, the maxillary teeth: right central incisor, right lateral incisor, right second premolar and left second premolar were delayed approximately from 2 to 4 developmental stages. In addition, the left mandibular second premolar was 3 developmental stages delayed. Abnormal shape of teeth was 7 times more evident in patients with oligodontia‐ED compared to patients with isolated oligodontia (OR = 6.54; 95% CI: 2.34, 18.28). The abnormal size of teeth was not a distinctive characteristic for oligodontia‐ED.

Conclusions

Oligodontia‐ED distinguishes from isolated oligodontia by more disturbances in dental development. The abnormal shape of incisors and canines in a patient with oligodontia can raise suspicions for accompanying ectodermal abnormalities.
Efficacy and Tolerance of Lidocaine 5% Patches in Neuropathic Pain and Pain Related to Vaso‐occlusive Sickle Cell Crises in Children: A Prospective Multicenter Clinical Study
Authors: Rousseau Vanessa , Morelle Magali , Arriuberge Céline , Darnis Sophie , Chabaud Sylvie , Launay Valérie , Thouvenin Sandrine , Roumenoff‐Turcant Fabienne , Metzger Séverine , Tourniaire Barbara , Marec‐Berard Perrine
Published: December 2017

Background

The management of neuropathic pain and pain related to bone vaso‐occlusive crises in sickle cell disease remains challenging in children. Lidocaine 5% patches are recommended in adults for neuropathic pain treatment, but they are not recommended in children. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerance of lidocaine 5% patches in pediatric inpatients.

Methods

This prospective, multicenter, single‐arm, phase II study aimed to assess the use of lidocaine 5% patches in 6‐ to 21‐year‐old pediatric patients suffering from neuropathic pain or superficial bone vaso‐occlusive crises. Patches were applied on the painful area for 12 hours a day. The primary endpoint was the proportion of inpatients with significant pain relief defined as a decrease of at least 2 points on the visual analog pain scale (VAS) measured at 12 hours after patch placement over at least 2 consecutive days.

Results

The 12‐hour VAS score decreased by at least 2 points over 2 consecutive days in 48.6% of patients 95% unilateral confidence interval (33.8%). Only 7.7% of patients experienced grade 1 or grade 2 toxicities.

Conclusion

Although lidocaine 5% patches decreased the pain's intensity in nearly half of the enrolled patients with an excellent tolerance, the efficacy endpoint was not reached. Further studies should consider a more refined selection of the experimental population to assess the efficacy of lidocaine 5% patches in the pediatric population.
A guide to the contained use of plant virus infectious clones
Authors: Brewer Helen C. , Hird Diane L. , Bailey Andy M. , Seal Susan E. , Foster Gary D.
Published: December 2017

Plant virus infectious clones are important tools with wide‐ranging applications in different areas of biology and medicine. Their uses in plant pathology include the study of plant–virus interactions, and screening of germplasm as part of prebreeding programmes for virus resistance. They can also be modified to induce transient plant gene silencing (Virus Induced Gene Silencing – VIGS) and as expression vectors for plant or exogenous proteins, with applications in both plant pathology and more generally for the study of plant gene function. Plant viruses are also increasingly being investigated as expression vectors for in planta production of pharmaceutical products, known as molecular farming. However, plant virus infectious clones may pose a risk to the environment due to their ability to reconstitute fully functional, transmissible viruses. These risks arise from both their inherent pathogenicity and the effect of any introduced genetic modifications. Effective containment measures are therefore required. There has been no single comprehensive review of the biosafety considerations for the contained use of genetically modified plant viruses, despite their increasing importance across many biological fields. This review therefore explores the biosafety considerations for working with genetically modified plant viruses in contained environments, with focus on plant growth facilities. It includes regulatory frameworks, risk assessment, assignment of biosafety levels, facility features and working practices. The review is based on international guidance together with information provided by plant virus researchers.
Increasing T‐type calcium channel activity by β‐adrenergic stimulation contributes to β‐adrenergic regulation of heart rates
Authors: Li Yingxin , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Zhang Chen , Zhang Xiaoying , Li Ying , Qi Zhao , Szeto Christopher , Tang Mingxin , Peng Yizhi , Molkentin Jeffery D. , Houser Steven R. , Xie Mingxing , Chen Xiongwen
Published: December 2017

Key points

Cav3.1 T‐type Ca2+ channel current (ICa‐T) contributes to heart rate genesis but is not known to contribute to heart rate regulation by the sympathetic/β‐adrenergic system (SAS).

We show that the loss of Cav3.1 makes the beating rates of the heart in vivo and perfused hearts ex vivo, as well as sinoatrial node cells, less sensitive to β‐adrenergic stimulation; it also renders less conduction acceleration through the atrioventricular node by β‐adrenergic stimulation. Increasing Cav3.1 in cardiomyocytes has the opposite effects.

ICa‐T in sinoatrial nodal cells can be upregulated by β‐adrenergic stimulation.

The results of the present study add a new contribution to heart rate regulation by the SAS system and provide potential new mechanisms for the dysregulation of heart rate and conduction by the SAS in the heart.

T‐type Ca2+ channel can be a target for heart disease treatments that aim to slow down the heart rate

Cav3.1 (α1G) T‐type Ca2+ channel (TTCC) is expressed in mouse sinoatrial node cells (SANCs) and atrioventricular (AV) nodal cells and contributes to heart rate (HR) genesis and AV conduction. However, its role in HR regulation and AV conduction acceleration by the β‐adrenergic system (SAS) is unclear. In the present study, L‐ (ICa‐L) and T‐type (ICa‐T) Ca2+ currents were recorded in SANCs from Cav3.1 transgenic (TG) and knockout (KO), and control mice. ICa‐T was absent in KO SANCs but enhanced in TG SANCs. In anaesthetized animals, different doses of isoproterenol (ISO) were infused via the jugular vein and the HR was recorded. The EC50 of the HR response to ISO was lower in TG mice but higher in KO mice, and the maximal percentage of HR increase by ISO was greater in TG mice but less in KO mice. In Langendorff‐perfused hearts, ISO increased HR and shortened PR intervals to a greater extent in TG but to a less extent in KO hearts. KO SANCs had significantly slower spontaneous beating rates than control SANCs before and after ISO; TG SANCs had similar basal beating rates as control SANCs probably as a result of decreased ICa‐L but a greater response to ISO than control SANCs. ICa‐T in SANCs was significantly increased by ISO. ICa‐T upregulation by β‐adrenergic stimulation contributes to HR and conduction regulation by the SAS. TTCC can be a target for slowing the HR.
Fringe Effect Capacitance Sensor for Control Rod Position Measurement
Authors: Hu Guang , Bo Hanliang
Published: December 2017

In the work, we proposed a new method to monitor the control rod behavior. To this end, a sensor system based on the multi-electrode capacitance is used to measure the rod position in nuclear heating reactor. Additionally, the finite element method was used to analyze the capacitance of the sensors composed of multi-electrode. The capacitances obtained by simulations were compared with experiment results to verify the measurement accuracy. The subsequent quantitative analyses on the data indicate the reliability and accuracy of the apparatus for monitoring rod position. It is demonstrated that such a system shows very promising applications for measurements of the control rod position of nuclear reactor.
Performance Analysis of Eductor Used for Main Control Room Ventilating in Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Yu Xin , Lin Yuqing , Zhang Yan
Published: December 2017

This paper proposes the experimental research for the performance of the air eductor used in main control room (MCR). The air eductor is used for emergency ventilating in advanced passive pressurized water reactor in accident. The compress air is supplied to the eductor as a power source and the indoor air is suctioned to the eductor. The performance of the eductor is related to the habitability of MCR. The entrainment ratio and the air pressure of discharge side are the main concerned performance. The entrainment ratio is a value that resulted from the compress air flow rate divided by the suction air flow rate. A test system was set up to test the performance of eductor. The experimental results show that the entrainment ratio of rectangle nozzle with compress air pressure 0.76MPa, 0.80MPa and 0.83MPa were 15.02, 15.04 and 15.06, respectively.
Analysis on Moisture Transfer Behavior in Dehumidifying Process of Low Moisture Content Graphite
Authors: Jun Li , Huaqiang Yin , Xingtuan Yang , Shengyao Jiang
Published: December 2017

A large mount of nuclear graphite is adopted in high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR), with an initial moisture content being about 0.1%. In order to reduce the chemical corrosion reaction between graphite and moisture, it is necessary for graphite material to be dehumidified before operating the reactor. According to the theoretical analysis of certain dehumidifying conditions and pore structure features of graphite, molecular Fick diffusion of vapor through porous media are considered to be the main controlling mechanisms of moisture transfer. The pore structure meets the requirements of seepage which will accelerate the moisture transfer. A simulation of a diffusion model and diffusion-seepage model of moisture transfer was conducted. The simulation result shows the moisture decreases exponentially, and the higher the diffusion coefficient is, the faster the dehumidification is. An accurate diffusion coefficient, which is mainly determined by the diffusion coefficient of gas, open porosity, and tortuosity, is the crucial parameter for humidifying rate in simulation and prediction.
Methodology for the Analysis of Large Commercial Aircraft Impact on NPP
Authors: Cheng Shujian , Sun Yugang , Li Shuaixi , Huang Xiaolin , Yuan Fang , Wang Xiaowen , Ge Honghui , Xia Zufeng
Published: December 2017

The methodology used for large commercial aircraft impact assessment is introduced. This paper mainly forcus on the topics of physical damage. The vibration damage and fire damage are also briefly introduced.

The challenging topics discussed in this paper are:

1) How to choose the type of commercial plane and the impact velocity (or the load curve).

2) Two different kinds of impact effect analysis method, “Impact Force Time History Method” and “Missile-Target Interaction Analysis Method”, are introduced. They are both accepted by regulations, but lead to greatly different results.

3) Experiment benchmarking for analysis methods.

4) Rationality demonstration of the analysis.

5) Target screening and NI arrangement.

6) Methodology of vibration and fire effect assessment.
Mechanical thrombectomy in orally anticoagulated patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Zapata-Wainberg Gustavo , Ximénez-Carrillo Álvaro , Trillo Santiago , Fuentes Blanca , Cruz-Culebras Antonio , Aguirre Clara , Alonso de Leciñana María , Vera Rocío , Bárcena Eduardo , Fernández-Prieto Andrés , Méndez-Cendón José Carlos , Caniego Jose Luis , Díez-Tejedor Exuperio , Masjuan Jaime , Vivancos José
Published: December 2017

Background and purpose

To investigate the efficacy and safety of mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke according to the oral anticoagulation medication taken at the time of stroke onset.

Materials and methods

A retrospective multicenter study of prospectively collected data based on data from the registry the Madrid Stroke Network was performed. We included consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with mechanical thrombectomy and compared the frequency of intracranial hemorrhage and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months according to anticoagulation status.

Results

The study population comprised 502 patients, of whom 389 (77.5%) were not anticoagulated, 104 (20.7%) were taking vitamin K antagonists, and 9 (1.8%) were taking direct oral anticoagulants. Intravenous thrombolysis had been performed in 59.8% and 15.0% of non-anticoagulated and anticoagulated patients, respectively. Rates of intracranial hemorrhage after treatment were similar between non-anticoagulated and anticoagulated patients, as were rates of recanalization. After 3 months of follow-up, the mRS score was ≤2 in 56.3% and 55.7% of non-anticoagulated and anticoagulated patients, respectively (P=NS). Mortality rates were similar in the two groups (13.1%and12.4%, respectively). Among anticoagulated patients, no differences were found for intracranial bleeding, mRS score, or mortality rates between patients taking vitamin K antagonists and those taking direct oral anticoagulants.

Conclusions

Mechanical thrombectomy is feasible in anticoagulated patients with acute ischemic stroke. The outcomes and safety profile are similar to those of patients with no prior anticoagulation therapy.
Heart failure following STEMI: a contemporary cohort study of incidence and prognostic factors
Authors: Gho Johannes M I H , Postema Pieter G , Conijn Maartje , Bruinsma Nienke , de Jong Jonas S S G , Bezzina Connie R , Wilde Arthur A M , Asselbergs Folkert W
Published: December 2017

Objective

The aim of the current study was to determine the contemporary incidence, risk factors and prognosis of heart failure (HF) after ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

We used the Arrhythmia Genetics in the Netherlands observational cohort study to identify patients with a first STEMI from 2001 onwards (n=1459). HF during follow-up was defined as hospitalisation for HF or an outpatient clinic visit for HF. Cox regression was performed to estimate the relationship between baseline covariates and the onset of HF.

Results

Follow-up was completed for 1360 (93.2%) patients with an overall median follow-up time of 6.7 years, 1232 (90.6%) of these patients had undergone primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A total of 85 patients (6.3%) developed HF during follow-up. HF cases were significantly older at their index MI (59.9 vs 57.2 years, P<0.001) and more commonly had a history of atrial fibrillation (6.1% vs 1.4%, P=0.001) than controls without HF. The crude incidence rate of HF after STEMI was 9.7 (95% CI 7.7 to 11.8) per 1000 person-years. In multivariable analysis, peak creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) levels (HR 1.11 per 100 U/L (95% CI 1.11 to 1.22)) and a left anterior descending artery (LAD) culprit lesion (HR 2.88 (95% CI 1.53 to 5.40)) were risk factors associated with HF.

Conclusions

We found a relatively low long-term contemporary incidence of HF after a first STEMI in the current PCI era in comparison with other reports. Higher CK-MB levels and a LAD culprit lesion at index STEMI were important risk factors for the development of HF after STEMI.

Trial registration number

NCT03007199; Results.