bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Effective Radiative Forcing of Partial Internally and Externally Mixed Aerosols and Their Effects on Global Climate
Authors: Zhou Chen , Zhang Hua , Zhao Shuyun , Li Jiangnan
Published: December 2017

The total effective radiative forcing (ERF) due to partial internally mixed (PIM) and externally mixed (EM) anthropogenic aerosols, as well as their climatic effects since the year of 1850, was evaluated and compared using the aerosol‐climate online coupled model of BCC_AGCM2.0_CUACE/Aero. The influences of internal mixing (IM) on aerosol hygroscopicity parameter, optical properties, and concentration were considered. Generally, IM could markedly weaken the negative ERF and cooling effects of anthropogenic aerosols. The global annual mean ERF of EM anthropogenic aerosols from 1850 to 2010 was −1.87 W m−2, of which the aerosol‐radiation interactive ERF (ERFari) and aerosol‐cloud interactive ERF (ERFaci) were −0.49 and −1.38 W m−2, respectively. The global annual mean ERF due to PIM anthropogenic aerosols from 1850 to 2010 was −1.23 W m−2, with ERFari and ERFaci of −0.23 and −1.01 W m−2, respectively. The global annual mean surface temperature and water evaporation and precipitation were reduced by 1.74 K and 0.14 mm d−1 for EM scheme and 1.28 K and 0.11 mm d−1 for PIM scheme, respectively. However, the relative humidity near the surface was slightly increased for both mixing cases. The Intertropical Convergence Zone was southwardly shifted for both EM and PIM cases but was less southwardly shifted in PIM scheme due to the less reduction in atmospheric temperature in the midlatitude and low latitude of the Northern Hemisphere.
No Consistent Evidence for Advancing or Delaying Trends in Spring Phenology on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Xufeng , Xiao Jingfeng , Li Xin , Cheng Guodong , Ma Mingguo , Che Tao , Dai Liyun , Wang Shaoying , Wu Jinkui
Published: December 2017

Vegetation phenology is a sensitive indicator of climate change and has significant effects on the exchange of carbon, water, and energy between the terrestrial biosphere and the atmosphere. The Tibetan Plateau, the Earth's “third pole,” is a unique region for studying the long‐term trends in vegetation phenology in response to climate change because of the sensitivity of its alpine ecosystems to climate and its low‐level human disturbance. There has been a debate whether the trends in spring phenology over the Tibetan Plateau have been continuously advancing over the last two to three decades. In this study, we examine the trends in the start of growing season (SOS) for alpine meadow and steppe using the Global Inventory Modeling and Mapping Studies (GIMMS)3g normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data set (1982–2014), the GIMMS NDVI data set (1982–2006), the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) NDVI data set (2001–2014), the Satellite Pour l'Observation de la Terre Vegetation (SPOT‐VEG) NDVI data set (1999–2013), and the Sea‐viewing Wide Field‐of‐View Sensor (SeaWiFS) NDVI data set (1998–2007). Both logistic and polynomial fitting methods are used to retrieve the SOS dates from the NDVI data sets. Our results show that the trends in spring phenology over the Tibetan Plateau depend on both the NDVI data set used and the method for retrieving the SOS date. There are large discrepancies in the SOS trends among the different NDVI data sets and between the two different retrieval methods. There is no consistent evidence that spring phenology (“green‐up” dates) has been advancing or delaying over the Tibetan Plateau during the last two to three decades. Ground‐based budburst data also indicate no consistent trends in spring phenology. The responses of SOS to environmental factors (air temperature, precipitation, soil temperature, and snow depth) also vary among NDVI data sets and phenology retrieval methods. The increases in winter and spring temperature had offsetting effects on spring phenology.
Aberrant Ki‐67 expression through 3′UTR alternative polyadenylation in breast cancers
Authors: Yan Hong , Tian Rui , Wang Wei , Zhang Min , Wu Jing , He Jie
Published: December 2017

Ki‐67 (MKI67) is a marker of cellular proliferation of cancer. Here, we show that Ki‐67 is post‐transcriptionally regulated through alternative polyadenylation (APA) and microRNAs in breast cancer. We show that shortening of the Ki‐67 3′UTR results in the loss of the binding sites for the suppressive miRNAs and thus renders the transcript with a shortened 3′UTR insusceptible to miRNA‐mediated suppression. This APA‐mediated shortening of the Ki‐67 3′UTR contributes to increased mRNA stability and enhanced translational efficiency. In summary, our results not only highlight the post‐transcriptional regulation of Ki‐67 involving APA and microRNAs but also suggest that Ki‐67 3′UTR disruption could serve as a molecular marker in breast cancer.
Multidimensional modeling of a microfibrous entrapped cobalt catalyst Fischer‐Tropsch reactor bed
Authors: Challiwala Mohamed Sufiyan , Wilhite Benjamin A. , Ghouri Mohammed M. , Elbashir Nimir O.
Published: December 2017

Thermal management of highly exothermic Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis (FTS) has been a challenging bottleneck limiting the radial dimension of the packed‐bed (PB) reactor tube to 1.5 in. ID. A computational demonstration of a novel microfibrous entrapped cobalt catalyst (MFECC) in mitigating hot spot formation has been evaluated. Specifically, a two‐dimensional (2‐D) model was developed in COMSOL®, validated with experimental data and subsequently employed to demonstrate scale‐up of the FTS bed from 0.59 to 4 in. ID. Significant hot spot of 102.39 K in PB was reduced to 9.4 K in MFECC bed under gas phase at 528.15 K and 2 MPa. Improvement in heat transfer within the MFECC bed facilitates higher productivities at low space velocities (≥1000 h−1) corresponding to high CO conversion (≥90%). Additionally, the MFECC reactor provides an eightfold increase in the reactor ID at hot spots ≤ 30 K with CO% conversions ≥ 90%. This model was developed for a typical FTS cobalt‐based catalyst where CO2 production is negligible. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 1723–1731, 2018
A child with Myhre syndrome presenting with corectopia and tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Alagia Marianna , Cappuccio Gerarda , Pinelli Michele , Torella Annalaura , Brunetti‐Pierri Raffaella , Simonelli Francesca , Limongelli Giuseppe , Oppido Guido , Nigro Vincenzo , Brunetti‐Pierri Nicola ,   TUDP
Published: December 2017

Myhre syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disorder caused by a narrow spectrum of missense mutations in the SMAD4 gene. Typical features of this disorder are distinctive facial appearance, deafness, intellectual disability, cardiovascular abnormalities, short stature, short hands and feet, compact build, joint stiffness, and skeletal anomalies. The clinical features generally appear during childhood and become more evident in older patients. Therefore, the diagnosis of this syndrome in the first years of life is challenging. We report a 2‐year‐old girl diagnosed with Myhre syndrome by whole exome sequencing (WES) that revealed the recurrent p.Ile500Val mutation in the SMAD4 gene. Our patient presented with growth deficiency, dysmorphic features, tetralogy of Fallot, and corectopia (also known as ectopia pupillae). The girl we described is the youngest patient with Myhre syndrome. Moreover, corectopia and tetralogy of Fallot have not been previously reported in this disorder.
Associations between laterality of orofacial clefts and medical and academic outcomes
Authors: Gallagher Emily R. , Siebold Babette , Collett Brent R. , Cox Timothy C. , Aziz Verena , Cunningham Michael L.
Published: December 2017

Patients with oral clefts have an increased risk of other malformations, syndromes, and lower academic performance in school. Few studies have investigated if laterality of clefts is associated with medical and academic outcomes. Oral clefts have nonrandom laterality, with left‐sided clefts occurring approximately twice as often as right‐sided clefts. Using a retrospective study design, we examined potential associations of cleft attributes and outcomes in patients with cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) born in 2003–2010 who were treated at the Seattle Children's Craniofacial Center. The following variables were extracted from medical records: cleft type, medical history, maternal hyperglycemia, other malformations, and the need for academic support at school. We used logistic regression to examine risk of associations with outcomes of interest. Relative to patients with left‐sided clefts, patients with bilateral CL/P were more likely to have a syndrome. Patients with nonsyndromic right‐sided CL/P had a higher risk (OR and 95%CI: 3.5, 1.3–9.5, and 5.5, 1.9–16.0, respectively) of having other malformations and requiring academic support at school, when compared to patients with left‐sided CL/P. Understanding the etiology of oral clefts is complicated, in part because both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the risk of developing a cleft. However, the different outcomes associated with cleft laterality suggest that right‐sided clefts may have a distinct etiology. Using laterality to study cleft subgroups may advance our understanding of the etiology of this common birth defect.
Screening the second‐trimester fetal heart in women with an increased body mass index using three‐dimensional volume sweep
Authors: Wye Deborah , Woo Joyce , Mein Brendan , Brown Chris , Benzie Ronald
Published: December 2017

Purpose

To determine the percentage of fetal cardiac anatomy as detailed in the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology Practice Guidelines on sonographic screening examination of the fetal heart, which can be visualised in women with a body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m2 using three‐dimensional (3D) volume sweeps.

Methods

3D volumes of the fetal heart were taken prospectively in 40 fetuses during routine second‐trimester fetal anatomy scan. Scans and 3D volume sweeps were performed by two experienced sonographers and two experienced raters interpreted the 3D data. 3D volume acquisitions and post‐processing analysis were performed according to the techniques described by Weissmann‐Brenner et al.

Results

The two raters were able to detect an average of 12.9 and 14.1 of the 16 parameters in the 40 patients. Agreement between raters for the 16 parameters had an average of 80%. Five parameters (stomach, situs, heart occupies a third of thoracic area, majority of heart in the left chest and cardiac axis) were detected by both raters on all patients. The range of agreement was between 40% and 100%. The three‐vessel view and bifurcation had agreement <60%.

Conclusion

Consistent identification of all views of the fetal heart was not achieved using the simple method described in women with a BMI > 30 kg/m2.
Nobelpreis für die Innere Uhr
Authors: Staiger Dorothee
Published: December 2017

Am 10. Dezember 2017 wurde in Stockholm der Nobelpreis in Physiologie oder Medizin für die Aufklärung des molekularen Mechanismus der Inneren Uhr verliehen. Die höchste wissenschaftliche Auszeichnung ging an die drei Wissenschaftler Jeffrey (Jeff) Hall, Michael Rosbash und Michael (Mike) Young.
Chloroplast in Kinderschuhen
Authors: Tetsch Larissa
Published: December 2017

Die Amöbe Paulinella chromatophora besitzt ein photosynthetisch aktives Organell, das wie die Chloroplasten der Landpflanzen aus einem Cyanobakterium hervorgegangen, jedoch deutlich später entstanden ist. Damit ermöglicht es einen Einblick in die Frühphase der Organellentwicklung. Der ehemalige Endosymbiont hat bereits einen Großteil seiner Gene verloren und importiert hunderte von kerncodierten Proteinen aus dem Cytoplasma. Dazu wurde ein neuer Importweg etabliert.
Oxidation von Wasserinhaltsstoffen im Photoreaktor
Authors: Gaupp David Raphael , Oppenländer Thomas
Published: December 2017

Die Reaktionskinetik des Abbaus von organischen Stoffen mit der UV/H2O2‐Oxidation kann mittels angefärbter Wässer anschaulich ermittelt und dargestellt werden. Die Entfärbungsgeschwindigkeit einer wässrigen Rhodamin B Lösung in Gegenwart von Wasserstoffperoxid unter UV‐Bestrahlung hängt jedoch anlagenspezifisch nicht nur von der eingebrachten Lampenleistung ab. Weiterhin sind der Volumenstrom, die RhB‐Konzentration und die H2O2‐Konzentration ausschlaggebend. Somit haben wir hier eine Möglichkeit aufgezeigt, Photoreaktoren mit farbigen wässrigen Lösungen für die UV‐Oxidation von Wasserinhaltsstoffen mittels Variation der Betriebsparameter zu optimieren.

Diese Versuchsreihe kann mit unterschiedlichen, kommerziell erhältlichen Photoreaktoren einfach durchgeführt werden. Besonders eignen sich Mikrophotoreaktoren für schulische Zwecke, wie sie von Coyle und Oelgemöller [7] beschrieben werden. Es sind die Sicherheitshinweise beim Umgang mit UV‐Licht zu beachten. Auch solare AOPs, wie zum Beispiel die Titandioxid‐Photokatalyse, können mit dieser Methodik anschaulich demonstriert werden.
[Carboxyl‐11C]Labelling of Four High‐Affinity cPLA2α Inhibitors and Their Evaluation as Radioligands in Mice by Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Fisher Martin J. , McMurray Lindsay , Lu Shuiyu , Morse Cheryl L. , Liow Jeih‐San , Zoghbi Sami S. , Kowalski Aneta , Tye George L. , Innis Robert B. , Aigbirhio Franklin I. , Pike Victor W.
Published: December 2017

Cytosolic phospholipase A2α (cPLA2α) may play a critical role in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders associated with oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. An effective PET radioligand for imaging cPLA2α in living brain might prove useful for biomedical research, especially on neuroinflammation. We selected four high‐affinity (IC50 2.1–12 nm) indole‐5‐carboxylic acid‐based inhibitors of cPLA2α, namely 3‐isobutyryl‐1‐(2‐oxo‐3‐(4‐phenoxyphenoxy)propyl)‐1H‐indole‐5‐carboxylic acid (1); 3‐acetyl‐1‐(2‐oxo‐3‐(4‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl)phenoxy)phenoxy)propyl)‐1H‐indole‐5‐carboxylic acid (2); 3‐(3‐methyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazol‐5‐yl)‐1‐(2‐oxo‐3‐(4‐phenoxyphenoxy)propyl)‐1H‐indole‐5‐carboxylic acid (3); and 3‐(3‐methyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazol‐5‐yl)‐1‐(3‐(4‐octylphenoxy)‐2‐oxopropyl)‐1H‐indole‐5‐carboxylic acid (4), for labelling in carboxyl position with carbon‐11 (t1/2=20.4 min) to provide candidate PET radioligands for imaging brain cPLA2α. Compounds [11C]1–4 were obtained for intravenous injection in adequate overall yields (1.1–5.5 %) from cyclotron‐produced [11C]carbon dioxide and with moderate molar activities (70–141 GBq μmol−1) through the use of Pd0‐mediated [11C]carbon monoxide insertion on iodo precursors. Measured logD7.4 values were within a narrow moderate range (1.9–2.4). After intravenous injection of [11C]1–4 in mice, radioactivity uptakes in brain peaked at low values (≤0.8 SUV) and decreased by about 90 % over 15 min. Pretreatments of the mice with high doses of the corresponding non‐radioactive ligands did not alter brain time–activity curves. Brain uptakes of radioactivity after administration of [11C]1 to wild‐type and P‐gp/BCRP dual knock‐out mice were similar (peak 0.4 vs. 0.5 SUV), indicating that [11C]1 and others in this structural class, are not substrates for efflux transporters.
Herbivory and pollen limitation at the upper elevational range limit of two forest understory plants of eastern North America
Authors: Rivest Sébastien , Vellend Mark
Published: December 2017

Studies of species' range limits focus most often on abiotic factors, although the strength of biotic interactions might also vary along environmental gradients and have strong demographic effects. For example, pollinator abundance might decrease at range limits due to harsh environmental conditions, and reduced plant density can reduce attractiveness to pollinators and increase or decrease herbivory. We tested for variation in the strength of pollen limitation and herbivory by ungulates along a gradient leading to the upper elevational range limits of Trillium erectum (Melanthiaceae) and Erythronium americanum (Liliaceae) in Mont Mégantic National Park, Québec, Canada. In T. erectum, pollen limitation was higher at the range limit, but seed set decreased only slightly with elevation and only in one of two years. In contrast, herbivory of T. erectum increased from <10% at low elevations to >60% at the upper elevational range limit. In E. americanum, we found no evidence of pollen limitation despite a significant decrease in seed set with elevation, and herbivory was low across the entire gradient. Overall, our results demonstrate the potential for relatively strong negative interactions (herbivory) and weak positive interactions (pollination) at plant range edges, although this was clearly species specific. To the extent that these interactions have important demographic consequences—highly likely for herbivory on Trillium, based on previous studies—such interactions might play a role in determining plant species' range limits along putatively climatic gradients.
Experimental study on hybrid MS‐CA system for post‐combustion CO2 capture
Authors: Jiang Yanchi , Zhang Zhongxiao , Fan Haojie , Fan Junjie , An Haiquan
Published: December 2017

A lab‐scale hybrid membrane separation‐chemical absorption (MS‐CA) system for a post‐combustion process was implemented by combining a hollow‐fibre membrane module and a packed column in series. A solution‐diffusion model and double‐film theory were adopted to investigate the mass‐transfer performance of membrane separation and the chemical absorption process. To determine optimal operational conditions, experiments were conducted to investigate the mass transfer characteristics and CO2 removal of both mono‐staged systems. A hybrid MS‐CA method was studied to measure coupling characteristics and CO2 removal performance of the system. It was found that increasing the pressure and the temperature of the feed gas enhanced the CO2 diffusion property of the membrane module. For a packed column, mass transfer and carbon capture is affected by the liquid‐to‐gas ratio; TMEA = 40°C is considered the optimal condition. For a hybrid MS‐CA system, the optimal CO2 removal efficiency can reach 99.49% at the condition of Pf = 1 MPa, wMEA = 10 wt%. Improving the feed‐gas pressure will increase the CO2 absorption rate of the overall hybrid system. Compared with the mono‐staged method, the hybrid MS‐CA system has a higher stability and efficiency for the post‐combustion process, especially at a relatively low feed‐gas pressure. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How does family involvement affect a firm's internationalization? An investigation of Indian family firms
Authors: Ray Sougata , Mondal Arindam , Ramachandran Kavil
Published: December 2017

Research Summary:We investigate whether and how family ownership and management influence firms' internationalization strategies in an emerging economy in which family firms are dominant. Anchoring on the willingness and ability framework and drawing on the socioemotional wealth perspective and agency theory, we theorize how the heterogeneity among family firms in their ownership structures, concentration, and family involvement in management shapes the firms' internationalization strategies. We also theorize how certain contingencies, such as the presence of foreign institutional ownership and family management, moderate the relationship between family ownership and internationalization strategy. We test our predictions by using a proprietary, longitudinal panel dataset of 303 leading family firms from India and find support for most of our theoretical predictions.

Managerial Summary:Internationalization has emerged as a dominant strategy for firms in a globally interconnected world. We observe that ownership structure and management have significant bearing on internationalization strategies of family firms, as family owners and managers are more averse to internationalization. Family firms' aversion to internationalize is more pronounced when families can exercise greater control on firms' actions through the combined effect of higher family ownership (primarily through strategic control) and family's participation in management (through strategic, administrative, and operational control). However, certain contingencies, such as the higher ownership of foreign institutions and presence of professional managers, help business families improve their understanding of international markets, reduce the fear of the unknown, and better appreciate the benefits of internationalization, thereby aiding greater internationalization of family firms.
Negotiating quality standards for effective delivery of labor and childbirth care in Nigeria and Uganda
Authors: Oladapo Olufemi T. , Bohren Meghan A. , Fawole Bukola , Mugerwa Kidza , Ojelade Olubunmi A. , Titiloye Musibau A. , Alu Francis E. , Mambya Musana O. , Oyeneyin Lawal , Bataale Salim , Akintan Adesina , Alabi Olubunmi , Adebayo Amos , Okike Ola , Idris Hadiza A. , Wilfred Sanni , Bello Halima , Kyaddondo David , Olutayo Akinpelu O. , Byamugisha Josaphat , Souza Joao Paulo , Gülmezoglu A. Metin
Published: December 2017

Objective

“Negotiated standards” describe a level of quality of care that is acceptable and achievable within a specific health system, based on consensus between key stakeholders. This paper presents the development of negotiated standards for effective labor and childbirth care in selected hospitals and communities in Nigeria and Uganda.

Methods

A four‐step development process involving different methodologies. The process included: (1) review and synthesis of internationally recognized intrapartum clinical principles and practices; (2) primary qualitative research to assess values and preferences of women and healthcare providers, and practices that align with these preferences; (3) draft contextualization of effective and ineffective behaviors to reflect values and preferences; and (4) WHO‐mediated negotiations between relevant stakeholders, including community members, providers, and administrators.

Results

The primary outcomes of this process were a comprehensive set of effective behaviors and clinical practices covering the main domains of quality of care, which are practical and easy to communicate, implement, and audit across all levels of healthcare delivery.

Conclusion

The process demonstrates that health facilities and providers can be motivated to adopt standards of care that uphold the values and preferences of both service users and providers, while adhering to international best practices.
Metabolomic Pathways to Osteoporosis in Middle-Aged Women: A Genome-Metabolome-Wide Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Moayyeri Alireza , Cheung Ching-Lung , Tan Kathryn CB , Morris John A , Cerani Agustin , Mohney Robert P , Richards J Brent , Hammond Christopher , Spector Tim D , Menni Cristina
Published: December 2017

The metabolic state of the body can be a major determinant of bone health. We used a Mendelian randomization approach to identify metabolites causally associated with bone mass to better understand the biological mechanisms of osteoporosis. We tested bone phenotypes (femoral neck, total hip, and lumbar spine bone mineral density [BMD]) for association with 280 fasting blood metabolites in 6055 women from TwinsUK cohort with genomewide genotyping scans. Causal associations between metabolites and bone phenotypes were further assessed in a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study using genetic markers/scores as instrumental variables. Significant associations were replicated in 624 participants from the Hong Kong Osteoporosis Study (HKOS). Fifteen metabolites showed direct associations with bone phenotypes after adjusting for covariates and multiple testing. Using genetic instruments, four of these metabolites were found to be causally associated with hip or spine BMD. These included androsterone sulfate, epiandrosterone sulfate, 5alpha-androstan-3beta17beta-diol disulfate (encoded by CYP3A5), and 4-androsten-3beta17beta-diol disulfate (encoded by SULT2A1). In the HKOS population, all four metabolites showed significant associations with hip and spine BMD in the expected directions. No causal reverse association between BMD and any of the metabolites were found. In the first metabolome-genomewide Mendelian randomization study of human bone mineral density, we identified four novel biomarkers causally associated with BMD. Our findings reveal novel biological pathways involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Noncontrast‐enhanced time‐resolved 4D dynamic intracranial MR angiography at 7T: A feasibility study
Authors: Cong Fei , Zhuo Yan , Yu Songlin , Zhang Xianchang , Miao Xinyuan , An Jing , Wang Shuo , Cao Yong , Zhang Yan , Song Hee Kwon , Wang Danny JJ , Yan Lirong
Published: December 2017

Background

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) based‐noncontrast‐enhanced 4D MR angiography (NCE 4D MRA) shows potential in characterizing cerebrovascular hemodynamics in cerebrovascular disorders. Ultrahigh‐field theoretically benefits ASL signal with increased inherent signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and prolonged blood T1, which may provide improved delineation of vasculature in 4D MRA.

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of NCE 4D MRA using 3D Cartesian trajectory and stack‐of‐stars (SOS) golden angle radial trajectory at 7T.

Study Type

A prospective study.

Subjects

Six normal volunteers and eight patients with arteriovenous malformation (AVM).

Field Strength/Sequence

NCE 4D MRA with Cartesian and radial trajectories were performed at 3T and 7T.

Assessment

Subjective image quality of 4D MRA was evaluated using a 4‐point scale by two experienced neuroradiologists. The characterization of AVM components with 4D MRA and DSA was also graded using the Spetzler–Martin grading scale.

Statistical Tests

Cohen's kappa coefficient was calculated to evaluate the agreement between two readers within each 4D MRA technique (Cartesian and Radial). A Wilcoxon signed‐rank test was performed to compare the subjective image quality scores of 4D MRA between Cartesian and radial trajectories, and between 7T and 3T, respectively.

Results

Good‐to‐excellent image quality was achieved in 4D MRA with both Cartesian (3.83 ± 0.41) and radial (3.42 ± 0.49) acquisitions in healthy volunteers at 7T. However, markedly reduced scan time was needed with radial acquisition. 4D MRA at 7T (3.31 ± 0.59) shows better delineation of AVM lesion features, especially the vein drainage, compared with that of 3T (2.83 ± 0.75), although no statistical significance was achieved (P = 0.180).

Data Conclusion

The feasibility of ASL based 4D MRA at 7T with Cartesian and SOS golden angle radial acquisition was demonstrated. The clinical evaluation of 4D MRA in AVMs between 3T and 7T suggested 7T 4D MRA images acquired with radial acquisition demonstrate excellent delineation of AVM features, especially the draining veins.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017.
The 1.5 Criterion Model of Creativity: Where Less Is More, More or Less
Authors: Smith Jeffrey K. , Smith Lisa F.
Published: December 2017

We argue that the future of creativity research should focus on the dual goals of the development of individuals with great creative genius as well as the enhancement of creative activity in society in general. To achieve these goals, we need basic research that will help us better understand the fundamental nature of creativity. We describe an approach to creativity that emphasizes novelty over utility.
Creativity Research: More Studies, Greater Sophistication and the Importance of “Big” Questions
Authors: Ward Thomas B. , Kennedy Evan S.
Published: December 2017

In the past 20 years, there has been a strong and steady increase in the number of publications concerned with creativity and in the number of outlets for that work. More importantly, there has been an increase in the level of detail and sophistication of answers provided for the most fundamental questions in the field. We illustrate that phenomenon with a focus on personality traits and cognitive processes. We anticipate that the trends will continue in the future and urge that progress continue to be guided by the “big” questions of what creative people are like and how creative ideas are generated. Beyond progress in distinct research areas, such as personality and cognition, future progress is likely to grow from recent attempts to integrate across the areas.
Taking a Systems View of Creativity: On the Right Path Toward Understanding
Authors: Hennessey Beth A.
Published: December 2017

In our 2010 Annual Review paper, Teresa Amabile and I argued that a virtual explosion of topics, viewpoints, and methodologies had muddied the investigative waters. Few, if any, “big” questions were being pursued by a critical mass of creativity researchers. Instead, investigators in one subfield seemed entirely unaware of advances in another. We saw a crucial need for a systems view of creativity and we encouraged investigators to recognize that creativity arises from a complex web of interrelated forces operating at multiple levels. Seven years have passed since the publication of that paper, and an examination of the most current research suggests that a growing number of publications are now reflecting a systems approach as well as a multidisciplinary perspective.
Whence Creativity?
Authors: Sternberg Robert J.
Published: December 2017

In this article, I explicate where my theoretical work on creativity has been and where it is going. I describe earlier three‐facet and investment theories, as well as a propulsion model. I then describe my new triangular theory of creativity.
Increased oxidative protection by high active vitamin E content and partial radiation crosslinking of UHMWPE
Authors: Xu Jia‐Zhuang , Wannomae Keith K. , Muratoglu Orhun K. , Oral Ebru
Published: December 2017

Vitamin E stabilization successfully improved long‐term oxidation resistance of wear‐resistant ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) used for joint implants. Stabilization can be achieved by blending an antioxidant into the UHMWPE resin powder before consolidation and irradiation. Balancing the wear resistance and vitamin E content in the blend is the current challenge with this approach, because vitamin E hinders crosslinking of UHMWPE during irradiation, which decreases wear resistance. The vitamin E concentration in the blend is generally limited to less than 0.3 wt%. Wear‐ and oxidation‐resistant UHMWPE has been obtained previously by consolidating blends of pre‐irradiated UHMWPE powders (XPE) into an unmodified polyethylene matrix (PE), where the improvement in wear rate depended on the radiation dose and fraction of XPE. We hypothesized that increasing the vitamin E content in the unirradiated matrix would not compromise wear and would further improve the oxidative stability of XPE/PE blends. Pin‐on‐disk wear testing showed that the XPE/PE blends containing 0.1–1.0 wt% vitamin E in the matrix had comparable wear rates. We used an aggressive accelerated aging test in the presence of the pro‐oxidant squalene and oxidation induction time (OIT) test and found that higher amounts of vitamin E resulted in stronger oxidation resistance for XPE/PE blends. The mechanical strength and toughness of the blends were not affected by changing the vitamin E content in the matrix. Stabilizing UHMWPE with higher vitamin E content may extend the service life of UHMWPE implants. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1860–1867, 2018.
Synthesis, stability and bioavailability of astaxanthin succinate diester
Authors: Qiao Xing , Yang Lu , Zhang Ting , Zhou Qingxin , Wang Yuming , Xu Jie , Xue Changhu
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

We synthesized astaxanthin succinate diester (ASD), a novel astaxanthin (AST) derivate, with succinic anhydride and free AST. ASD was purified and characterized using silica gel column chromatography and spectrometry, respectively.

RESULTS

The ASD final synthesis rate was 82.63%. A stability test revealed a high AST and ASD retention rate at pH 5.0–7.0. ASD showed better stability than did AST under acidic conditions. Both sample ions showed lower retention rates under Fe2+ and Fe3+ states. The ASD metabolic curve showed serum and liver area under the curve from 0 h to time t (AUC0–t) values of 45.05 ± 4.58 and 120.38 ± 23.66 µg h−1 mL−1, respectively. The long‐term accumulation was significantly higher in the ASD group than in the AST group, which showed higher accumulation in the heart, muscle and spleen than in other tissues in vivo.

CONCLUSION

The thermal stability and bioavailability of ASD were higher than that of the non‐esterified free AST and common free AST, respectively. Additionally, AST accumulation in different tissues of the ASD group was multifold higher than that of free AST. These results prove that ASD may serve as a better source of AST for human nutrition than does free AST. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Contrasting effects of reindeer grazing on CO2, CH4, and N2O fluxes originating from the northern boreal forest floor
Authors: Köster Kajar , Köster Egle , Berninger Frank , Heinonsalo Jussi , Pumpanen Jukka
Published: December 2017

Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus L.) is considered to be an important mammalian herbivore, strongly influencing Arctic lichen‐dominated ecosystems. There is no wide knowledge about the effect of reindeer on greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes in northern boreal forests. Ground vegetation plays an important role in absorbing nitrogen (N) and carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Lately, it has also been found to be a significant source of nitrous oxide (N2O) and a small source of methane (CH4). We investigated the influence of reindeer grazing on field layer GHG (CO2, CH4, and N2O) fluxes, ground vegetation coverage and biomass, and soil physical properties (temperature and moisture) in a northern boreal forest. At our study site, the reindeer‐induced replacement of lichen by mosses had contrasting effects on the GHG fluxes originating from the field layer. Field layer CO2 efflux was significantly higher in grazed areas. The field layer was a CH4 sink in all areas, but grazed areas absorbed more CH4 compared to non‐grazed areas. Although total N2O fluxes remained around 0 in grazed areas, a small N2O sink occurred in non‐grazed areas with lower moss biomass. Our results indicated that grazing by reindeer in northern boreal forests affects GHG fluxes from the forest field layer both positively and negatively, and these emissions largely depend on grazing‐induced changes in vegetation composition.
Bacterial prey food characteristics modulate community growth response of freshwater bacterivorous flagellates
Authors: Šimek Karel , Grujčić Vesna , Hahn Martin W. , Horňák Karel , Jezberová Jitka , Kasalický Vojtěch , Nedoma Jiří , Salcher Michaela M. , Shabarova Tanja
Published: December 2017

Different bacterioplankton species represent different food quality resources for heterotrophic nanoflagellate (HNF) communities, potentially affecting HNF growth, community dynamics and carbon flow to higher trophic levels. However, our knowledge of such dynamics is still very limited. Here, we describe the results of 11 experiments with natural HNF communities from distinct seasonal phases in two freshwater habitats. The HNF communities were released from predation pressure of zooplankton and incubated with 16 distinct ecologically relevant prey bacterial strains from important Betaproteobacteria genera (Limnohabitans, Polynucleobacter, and Methylopumilus) and one Actinobacteria strain from the Luna 2 cluster. We observed remarkable prey‐ and season‐specific variability in community HNF growth parameters, i.e., doubling time, volumetric gross growth efficiency (GGE), and length of lag phase. All strains, except for the actinobacterium, supported rapid HNF population growth with an average doubling time of 10 h and GGE of 29%. Our analysis revealed that 59% of the variability in flagellate GGE data was explained by the length of lag phase after prey amendments. This indicates a considerable “adaptation time,” during which the predator communities undergo compositional shifts toward flagellate bacterivores best adapted to grow on the offered prey. Importantly, the rapid HNF growth detected on various bacteria tightly corresponds to doubling times reported for fast growing bacterioplankton groups. We propose a conceptual model explaining the tight linkages between rapid bacterial community shifts and succeeding HNF community shifts, which optimize prey utilization rates and carbon flow from various bacteria to the microbial food chain.
Transcriptome analysis and anaerobic C4‐dicarboxylate transport in Actinobacillus succinogenes
Authors: Rhie Mi Na , Park Byeonghyeok , Ko Hyeok‐Jin , Choi In‐Geol , Kim Ok Bin
Published: December 2017

A global transcriptome analysis of the natural succinate producer Actinobacillus succinogenes revealed that 353 genes were differentially expressed when grown on various carbon and energy sources, which were categorized into six functional groups. We then analyzed the expression pattern of 37 potential C4‐dicarboxylate transporters in detail. A total of six transporters were considered potential fumarate transporters: three transporters, Asuc_1999 (Dcu), Asuc_0304 (DASS), and Asuc_0270‐0273 (TRAP), were constitutively expressed, whereas three others, Asuc_1568 (DASS), Asuc_1482 (DASS), and Asuc_0142 (Dcu), were differentially expressed during growth on fumarate. Transport assays under anaerobic conditions with [14C]fumarate and [14C]succinate were performed to experimentally verify that A. succinogenes possesses multiple C4‐dicarboxlayte transport systems with different substrate affinities. Upon uptake of 5 mmol/L fumarate, the systems had substrate specificity for fumarate, oxaloacetate, and malate, but not for succinate. Uptake was optimal at pH 7, and was dependent on both proton and sodium gradients. Asuc_1999 was suspected to be a major C4‐dicarboxylate transporter because of its noticeably high and constitutive expression. An Asuc_1999 deletion (∆1999) decreased fumarate uptake significantly at approximately 5 mmol/L fumarate, which was complemented by the introduction of Asuc_1999. Asuc_1999 expressed in Escherichia coli catalyzed fumarate uptake at a level of 21.6 μmol·gDW−1·min−1. These results suggest that C4‐dicarboxylate transport in A. succinogenes is mediated by multiple transporters, which transport various types and concentrations of C4‐dicarboxylates.
Dietary Slowly Digestible Starch Triggers the Gut–Brain Axis in Obese Rats with Accompanied Reduced Food Intake
Authors: Hasek Like Y. , Phillips Robert J. , Zhang Genyi , Kinzig Kimberly P. , Kim Choon Young , Powley Terry L. , Hamaker Bruce R.
Published: December 2017

Scope

Slowly digestible starch (SDS), as a functional carbohydrate providing a slow and sustained glucose release, may be able to modulate food intake through activation of the gut–brain axis.

Methods and results

Diet‐induced obese rats were used to test the effect on feeding behavior of high‐fat (HF) diets containing an SDS, fabricated to digest into the ileum, as compared to rapidly digestible starch (RDS). Ingestion of the HF‐SDS diet over an 11‐week period reduced daily food intake, through smaller meal size, to the same level as a lean body control group, while the group consuming the HF‐RDS diet remained at a high food intake. Expression levels (mRNA) of the hypothalamic orexigenic neuropeptide Y (NPY) and Agouti‐related peptide (AgRP) were significantly reduced, and the anorexigenic corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) was increased, in the HF‐SDS fed group compared to the HF‐RDS group, and to the level of the lean control group.

Conclusion

SDS with digestion into the ileum reduced daily food intake and paralleled suppressed expression of appetite‐stimulating neuropeptide genes associated with the gut–brain axis. This novel finding suggests further exploration involving a clinical study and potential development of SDS‐based functional foods as an approach to obesity control.
Mathematical Modeling of Nylon 6/6,6 Copolymerization in Batch Reactor: Investigating Recipes without Water and with Cyclic Dimer
Authors: Liu Fei F. , Hurley James M. , Khare Neeraj P. , McAuley Kim B.
Published: December 2017

A model is used to simulate batch copolymerization of caprolactam with hexamethylene diamine (HMD) and adipic acid (ADA) to produce nylon 6/6,6. Four different recipes are considered: a recipe containing caprolactam and an aqueous solution of HMD and ADA, a recipe containing caprolactam and dry HMD/ADA salt, and two recipes with a portion of the caprolactam replaced by nylon 6 cyclic dimer (CD). Consuming CD would be advantageous because CD is an undesirable side product from nylon 6 production. Simulation results lead to three important findings: (i) operation using dry salt rather than aqueous salt solution leads to higher degree of polymerization, (ii) substantial quantities of CD can be consumed to produce nylon 6/6,6 copolymer, and (iii) including water in the recipe is beneficial for achieving improved consumption of CD. The results of this study will be helpful in designing experiments aimed at improving industrial nylon 6/6,6 copolymerization processes.
The Obesity Factor: How Cardiorespiratory Fitness is Estimated More Accurately in People with Obesity
Authors: Königstein Karsten , Klenk Christopher , Rossmeissl Anja , Baumann Sandra , Infanger Denis , Hafner Benjamin , Hinrichs Timo , Hanssen Henner , Schmidt‐Trucksäss Arno
Published: December 2017

Objective

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing is clinically used to estimate cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). The relation to total body mass (TBM) leads to an underestimation of CRF in people with obesity and to inappropriate prognostic and therapeutic decisions. This study aimed to determine body composition‐derived bias in the estimation of CRF in people with obesity.

Methods

Two hundred eleven participants (58.8% women; mean BMI 35.7 kg/m2 [± 6.94; 20.7‐58.6]) were clinically examined, and body composition (InBody720; InBody Co., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea) and spiroergometrical peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) were assessed. The impacts of TBM, lean body mass (LBM), and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) on CRF estimates were analyzed by the application of respective weight models. Linear regression and plotting of residuals against BMI were performed on the whole study population and two subgroups (BMI < 30 kg/m2 and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2).

Results

For every weight model, Δmean VO2peak (expected − measured) was positive. LBM and SMM had a considerable impact on VO2 peak demand (P = 0.001; ΔR2 = 2.3%; adjusted R2 = 56% and P = 0.001; ΔR2= 2.7%; adjusted R2 = 56%), whereas TBM did not. Confounding of body composition on VO2peak did not differ in LBM and SMM.

Conclusions

TBM‐adjusted overestimation of relative VO2 demand is much higher in people with obesity than in those without. LBM or SMM adjustment may be superior alternatives, although small residual body composition‐derived bias remains.
Normal aPTT in children with mild factor XI deficiency
Authors: Puetz John , Hugge Christopher , Moser Karen
Published: December 2017

It has been suggested that persons with factor XI deficiency can have a normal activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). This notion is based on limited data, especially in children. Because of the central role the aPTT plays in diagnostic algorithms for bleeding disorders, it is important to know if a normal aPTT eliminates the need for factor XI activity testing. Our institutional database contains seven children with factor XI deficiency, of whom four have a normal aPTT. This supports the hypothesis that children with factor XI deficiency can have a normal aPTT. Clinicians may wish to consider this evidence when evaluating children with abnormal bleeding.
Influence of magnetite nanoparticles on electrical, magnetic and thermal properties of chitin/cashew gum biopolymer nanocomposites
Authors: Ramesan M.T. , Privya P.P. , Jayakrishnan P. , Kalaprasad G. , Bahuleyan B.K. , Al‐Maghrabi M.A.
Published: December 2017

In this study, we report the preparation of polymer blend nanocomposites based on chitin (CT)/cashew gum (CG) with various contents of magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4). The fabricated nanocomposites were characterised by FT infrared (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), magnetic property (vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM)), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TGA) and impedance analyser. FTIR study revealed the characteristic absorption and shifts of peaks of the blend matrix, the shifts being attributed to the intermolecular interaction of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with CT/CG segments. The amorphous domain of the blend decreased with an increase in the concentration of nanoparticles was observed from XRD analysis. The HRTEM images showed the uniform arrangement of nanoparticles within the CT/CG network. VSM studies showed the ferromagnetic nature of the blend composite with an increasing saturation of magnetism with super‐paramagnetic behavior. DSC and TGA results revealed that the glass transition temperature and thermal stability of the composites were increased by the addition of magnetite nanoparticles. AC and dielectric properties were much improved in the entire range of frequencies due to the interaction with Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The role of nanoparticles on mechanical properties has been carefully studied. The tensile strength and hardness of magnetite filled nanocomposites become significantly higher in comparison to unfilled compounds and the nanocomposite with 10 wt. % of nanoparticles showed the maximum tensile strength. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E540–E549, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Hard Magnetic Laves‐Type (Fe,Si)2Zr Phase in the Known Fe–Si–Zr Ternary System
Authors: Goll Dagmar , Loeffler Ralf , Pflanz Ulrich , Gross Thomas , Schneider Gerhard
Published: December 2017

By high‐throughput screening the known Fe–Si–Zr system, off‐stoichiometric Laves‐type (Fe,Si)2+xZr1−x is identified to be hard magnetic. For example, intrinsic magnetic properties of Js = 0.8 T, K1 = 1.20 ± 0.15 MJ m−3 and TC = 529 K are found for Fe63–Si12–Zr25 by magnetometry. For the experimental conditions used, the solubility range of the ternary Laves compound is larger than previously presented.
Solution‐Processed Transparent Self‐Powered p‐CuS‐ZnS/n‐ZnO UV Photodiode
Authors: Xu Xiaojie , Shukla Sudhanshu , Liu Ya , Yue Binbin , Bullock James , Su Longxing , Li Yanmei , Javey Ali , Fang Xiaosheng , Ager Joel W.
Published: December 2017

Transparent diodes formed by a heterojunction between p‐type CuS–ZnS and n‐type ZnO thin films were fabricated by sequential chemical bath deposition and sol‐gel spin coating. The diodes are transparent in the visible (≈70% at 550 nm) and exhibit a good rectifying characteristics, with If/Ir ratios of up to 800 at ±1 V, higher than most of the reported solution‐processed diodes measured at a similar bias. More importantly, when operated as a self‐powered (zero bias) UV photodetector, they show stable and fast (<1 s) photoresponse with a maximum responsivity of 12 mA W−1 at 300 nm. Both the response time and responsivity of the p‐CuZnS/n‐ZnO UV photodiode are comparable or superior to similar solution‐processed devices reported in the literature.
Green Travel Behavior in Urban China: Influencing Factors and their Effects
Authors: Jia Han
Published: December 2017

With the ever‐increasing number of family cars in China, pollution and traffic jams seriously affect residents' daily lives. Motivating residents to select green travel modes is becoming a major issue. Based on the theory of planned behavior, a framework is developed to identify influencing factors and then examine how these factors affect residential green travel behavior (GTB). An empirical study with 332 valid questionnaires finds that personal factors mediate the relationship between soft environmental factors and green travel intentions (GTIs), whereas hard environmental factors could help GTIs transform into GTB. Such results indicate that the Chinese government needs to improve GTIs by developing related policies and transport systems to motivate people to select green travel modes. GTIs are improved directly by addressing personal factors and indirectly by perfecting green travel policies and campaigns. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment