bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide analysis of Smad and Schnurri transcription factors in C. elegans demonstrates widespread interaction and a function in collagen secretion
Authors: Vora Mehul , Dietz Jonathan , Wing Zachary , George Karen , Kelly Liu Jun , Rongo Christopher , Savage-Dunn Cathy
Published: August 2024

Smads and their transcription factor partners mediate the transcriptional responses of target cells to secreted ligands of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family, including those of the conserved bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family, yet only a small number of direct target genes have been well characterized. In C. elegans, the BMP2/4 ortholog DBL-1 regulates multiple biological functions, including body size, via a canonical receptor-Smad signaling cascade. Here, we identify functional binding sites for SMA-3/Smad and its transcriptional partner SMA-9/Schnurri based on ChIP-seq peaks (identified by modEncode) and expression differences of nearby genes identified from RNA-seq analysis of corresponding mutants. We found that SMA-3 and SMA-9 have both overlapping and unique target genes. At a genome-wide scale, SMA-3/Smad acts as a transcriptional activator, whereas SMA-9/Schnurri direct targets include both activated and repressed genes. Mutations in sma-9 partially suppress the small body size phenotype of sma-3, suggesting some level of antagonism between these factors and challenging the prevailing model for Schnurri function. Functional analysis of target genes revealed a novel role in body size for genes involved in one-carbon metabolism and in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) secretory pathway, including the disulfide reductase dpy-11. Our findings indicate that Smads and SMA-9/Schnurri have previously unappreciated complex genetic and genomic regulatory interactions that in turn regulate the secretion of extracellular components like collagen into the cuticle to mediate body size regulation.
Improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in chiropractic education and profession: Report from three 2020-2021 summit meetings
Authors: Oberstein Ron , Bogatski Anatole , Seto Sharon , Bielser Silvia Dueñas , Odierna Donna H. , Smith Monica
Published: August 2024

Objective

Racial and ethnic minority groups are underrepresented in chiropractic education and the profession, and are less likely than individuals identifying as White to have access to or use chiropractic care. Stakeholders with leadership positions in USA-based chiropractic colleges and organizations participated in 3 online diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) summit meetings to foster a deeper understanding of DEI, identify DEI objectives, and develop action steps and drive change. Summit I (51 attendees) comprised 3 presentations that provided background about DEI in chiropractic education and practice. Summit II (32 attendees), comprised 4 breakout sessions addressing organizational issues in DEI. Summit III (65 attendees) comprised 5 collaborative sessions focused on implementation of DEI objectives.

Methods

We use aggregate data and qualitative summaries to provide a descriptive narrative. Data sources include pre/post-summit quantitative surveys, items from open-ended questionnaires, and a spreadsheet of recommendations for increasing organizational DEI.

Results

Before attending Summit I, 48% rated their understanding of DEI issues as “moderately” or “very” high, compared with 74% afterward. Summit II participants suggested actions that should be taken by their institutions and the profession. Summit III participants stressed the need for DEI-supportive data, policies, and resources. They identified > 150 action steps to address DEI objectives. A listserv was established to facilitate ongoing institutional collaboration.

Conclusion

Summit participants recognized the importance of developing a diverse, culturally aware chiropractic workforce. The summits provided structure and support for stakeholders to effectively plan for and implement DEI in their organizations and institutions.
Analysis of Branded Cattle Feed Industry in Saurashtra Region: A Case Study of Rajkot, Junagadh, and Amreli Districts, India
Authors: Balas Mukeshkumar J. , Mahesh R. Prajapati
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the branded cattle feed industry in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, specifically in Rajkot, Junagadh and Amreli districts. The research aims to analyze the competitive landscape and identify the problems faced by cattle feed dealers. Research was carried out using a descriptive research design and non-probability purposive sampling, 224 cattle feed dealers were surveyed across 32 talukas from the selected districts. The analysis covered compound cattle feed (CCF), cotton seed cake cattle feed, and maize seed cake cattle feed comparing various brands based on price, profit margin, and selling quantities. Key findings reveal significant variations in prices, profit margins and selling quantities among different brands and districts. For Compound Cattle Feed (CCF), Rajmoti 8000 was the top-selling brand in Amreli, Rajvadi 8000 in Junagadh and Doodh Shakti in Rajkot. In the cotton seed cake segment, Krishna Oil Mill in Junagadh, Khedut Oil Industry in Amreli and Ramkrushna Industry in Rajkot had the highest monthly sales. Using Garrett’s ranking method, the study identified key strengths of top-selling brands based on parameters such as product quality, promotional activities, sales quantity, credit period and brand image. Doodh Shakti’s strength in Rajkot was its sales quantity and promotional activities while Rajvadi 8000 in Junagadh focused on product quality and brand image. In Amreli Rajmoti 8000 emphasized product quality and promotional activities. Within the cattle feed industry, Problems faced by dealers included maintaining product quality, establishing appropriate pricing, accessing credit and a lack of storage facilities in which product quality is the most critical issue. This study provides valuable insights for farmers, dealers and businesses of the cattle feed industry in the Saurashtra region.
Isolation and Characterization of Microorganisms from Fermented Cayenne Pepper Obtained from Markets within Enugu Metropolis
Authors: Okafor Chidinma A. , Ekwueme Perpetua Ebere
Published: August 2024

The study investigates the microbial diversity in fermented cayenne pepper sourced from four markets within Enugu metropolis. Fermented foods, including cayenne pepper, are notable for their unique flavors, nutritional benefits, and extended shelf life. This research aims to isolate and characterize the microorganisms present in fermented cayenne pepper, identifying predominant species and evaluating variations in microbial composition across different markets. Samples were collected from Ogbete, Orie-Emene, Abakpa, and Obiagu markets, fermented for 21 days, and analyzed microbiologically using standard techniques. The study revealed diverse bacterial populations, including Streptococcus lactis, Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Enterococcus faecalis. Fungal isolates identified were Mucor spp., Aspergillus niger, Rhodotorulla spp., and Geotricum spp. Ogbete market exhibited the highest bacterial load (6.67 x 10³ CFU/ml), while Abakpa had the least (1.68 x 10³ CFU/ml). Bacterial occurrence was significantly higher across the market with frequency values above 79%. While fungi were below 21% in all cases. The study identifies the impact of environmental conditions and market practices on the microbial ecology of fermented foods, offering insights for optimizing food safety and quality control.
Librarians’ Technology Literacy Skills with the Use of Electronic Information Resources for Research Activities in University Libraries: A Correlational Study
Authors: Akwang Nse Emmanuel , Udoh Inemesit Udom
Published: August 2024

This study examines the correlation between librarians’ technology literacy skills as with the use of electronic information resources for research activities in university libraries. The study adopted a correlational research design, with a population of eighty-four (84) librarians, comprising ten (10) University Librarians, and 74 Heads of Divisions/Units from ten (10) public university libraries in South-East Nigeria. A full population survey was conducted in this study. Two (2) sets of researcher-administered questionnaire with a 4-point rating scale for the independent and correlating dependent variable were used to elicit data for the study. The instruments were subjected to face validation, and tested for reliability coefficient using Cronbach’s alpha reliability formula. The pre-test analysis yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.94 for the independent variables and 0.91 for the corresponding dependent variables. From the distribution of the questionnaire to the 84 respondents, a response rate of 90% representing 74 copies were successfully completed and collated for the analysis. The data collected were analysed using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMCC) to answer the research questions while Simple Regression Statistics were used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The study revealed that while librarians’ online search skills had strong positive significant relationships with the use of electronic information resources for research activities in public university libraries in South-East, Nigeria, Web 2.0 and librarians’ online collaboration skills had a weak relationship. Thus, the study recommended that management of public universities should provide more funds to university libraries to facilitate subscription to more electronic information resources, internet services, and other associated facilities for enhanced research activities, while librarians should take advantage of online collaboration training opportunities to acquire and/or improve on their research skills.
Effectiveness of Organic Fertilizers in Improving Soil Fertility, Productivity and Quality of Carrots (Daucus carota) in Southern Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Edwige-Gwladys Gnimassoun Kawojou , B. Bolou-Bi Emile , Raoul Konan Kouadio
Published: August 2024

In the context of agricultural resilience to climate change, a strategy of replacing chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers has been adopted to improve the production of vegetable crops, particularly carrots. This study promotes organic carrot farming in Côte d'Ivoire by applying an organic biofertiliser based on poultry droppings and traditional medicinal plants to the soil. Different doses of this organic biofertiliser, applied to the soil by fertigation (dilution at 0.5% (T1), 5% (T2) and 10% (T3)), were tested under a crop of carrots (Daucus carota) in a completely randomized Fisher block design with 4 replications. The results show that yields varied significantly according to the different doses applied (p<0.05). High carrot yields of 27.5±1.29 t.ha-1 were obtained with treatment T2. However, plant growth indicators (plant height, number of leaves, root length and diameter) were similar for the three treatments T1, T2 and T3. According to the results obtained, treatment T2 would be suitable for achieving and maintaining an acceptable level of fertility and ensuring satisfactory yields for the carrot crop. Thus, the use of this biofertilizer should be encouraged for agro-ecological soil fertility management, and may be an alternative to synthetic fertilizers which, due to their high cost, are not accessible to growers.
Spine growth and seismogenic faulting at Mt. Unzen, Japan
Authors: Hornby Adrian J. , Kendrick Jackie E. , Lamb Oliver D. , Hirose Takehiro , De Angelis Silvio , von Aulock Felix W. , Umakoshi Kodo , Miwa Takahiro , Henton De Angelis Sarah , Wadsworth Fabian B. , Hess Kai‐Uwe , Dingwell Donald B. , Lavallée Yan
Published: April 2015

The concluding episode of activity during the recent eruption of Mt. Unzen (October 1994 to February 1995) was characterized by incremental spine extrusion, accompanied by seismicity. Analysis of the seismic record reveals the occurrence of two dominant long‐period event families associated with a repeating, nondestructive source mechanism, which we attribute to magma failure and fault‐controlled ascent. We obtain constraints on the slip rate and distance of faulting events within these families. That analysis is complemented by an experimental thermomechanical investigation of fault friction in Mt. Unzen dacitic dome rock using a rotary‐shear apparatus at variable slip rates and normal stresses. A power density threshold is found at 0.3 MW m−2, above which frictional melt forms and controls the shear resistance to slip, inducing a deviation from Byerlee's frictional law. Homogenized experimentally generated pseudotachylytes have a similar final chemistry, thickness, and crystal content, facilitating the construction of a rheological model for particle suspensions. This is compared to the viscosity constrained from the experimental data, to assess the viscous control on fault dynamics. The onset of frictional melt formation during spine growth is constrained to depths below 300 m for an average slip event. This combination of experimental data, viscosity modeling, and seismic analysis offers a new description of material response during conduit plug flow and spine growth, showing that volcanic pseudotachylyte may commonly form and modify fault friction during faulting of dome rock. This model furthers our understanding of faulting and seismicity during lava dome formation and is applicable to other eruption modes.
Possible impacts of a future grand solar minimum on climate: Stratospheric and global circulation changes
Authors: Maycock A. C. , Ineson S. , Gray L. J. , Scaife A. A. , Anstey J. A. , Lockwood M. , Butchart N. , Hardiman S. C. , Mitchell D. M. , Osprey S. M.
Published: April 2015

It has been suggested that the Sun may evolve into a period of lower activity over the 21st century. This study examines the potential climate impacts of the onset of an extreme “Maunder Minimum‐like” grand solar minimum using a comprehensive global climate model. Over the second half of the 21st century, the scenario assumes a decrease in total solar irradiance of 0.12% compared to a reference Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 experiment. The decrease in solar irradiance cools the stratopause (∼1 hPa) in the annual and global mean by 1.2 K. The impact on global mean near‐surface temperature is small (∼−0.1 K), but larger changes in regional climate occur during the stratospheric dynamically active seasons. In Northern Hemisphere wintertime, there is a weakening of the stratospheric westerly jet by up to ∼3–4 m s−1, with the largest changes occurring in January–February. This is accompanied by a deepening of the Aleutian Low at the surface and an increase in blocking over Northern Europe and the North Pacific. There is also an equatorward shift in the Southern Hemisphere midlatitude eddy‐driven jet in austral spring. The occurrence of an amplified regional response during winter and spring suggests a contribution from a top‐down pathway for solar‐climate coupling; this is tested using an experiment in which ultraviolet (200–320 nm) radiation is decreased in isolation of other changes. The results show that a large decline in solar activity over the 21st century could have important impacts on the stratosphere and regional surface climate.
Laboratory measurements of emission factors of nonmethane volatile organic compounds from burning of Chinese crop residues
Authors: Inomata Satoshi , Tanimoto Hiroshi , Pan Xiaole , Taketani Fumikazu , Komazaki Yuichi , Miyakawa Takuma , Kanaya Yugo , Wang Zifa
Published: April 2015

The emission factors (EFs) of nonmethane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) emitted during the burning of Chinese crop residue were investigated as a function of modified combustion efficiency in laboratory experiments. NMVOCs, including acetonitrile, aldehydes/ketones, furan, and aromatic hydrocarbons, were monitored by proton‐transfer‐reaction mass spectrometry. Rape plant was burned in dry conditions and wheat straw was burned in both wet and dry conditions to simulate the possible burning of damp crop residue in regions of high temperature and humidity. We compared the present data to field data reported by Kudo et al. (2014). Good agreement between field and laboratory data was obtained for aromatics under relatively more smoldering combustion of dry samples, but laboratory data were slightly overestimated compared to field data for oxygenated VOC (OVOC). When EFs from the burning of wet samples were investigated, the consistency between the field and laboratory data for OVOCs was stronger than for dry samples. This may be caused by residual moisture in crop residue that has been stockpiled in humid regions. Comparison of the wet laboratory data with field data suggests that Kudo et al. (2014) observed the biomass burning plumes under relatively more smoldering conditions in which approximately a few tens of percentages of burned fuel materials were wet.
Tropopause folds in ERA‐Interim: Global climatology and relation to extreme weather events
Authors: Škerlak Bojan , Sprenger Michael , Pfahl Stephan , Tyrlis Evangelos , Wernli Heini
Published: April 2015

Tropopause folds are intimately linked to upper level frontogenesis and jet stream dynamics. They play an important role for stratosphere‐troposphere exchange, the dynamical coupling of upper and lower tropospheric levels, and for generating severe weather events. This study presents a global climatology of tropopause folds using ERA‐Interim reanalysis data from 1979 to 2012 and a refined version of a previously developed 3‐D labeling and fold identification algorithm. This algorithm objectively separates stratospheric and tropospheric air in complex situations, e.g., in regions with strong low‐level inversions, and in extratropical cyclones where diabatically generated potential vorticity anomalies typically occur. Three classes of tropopause folds are defined (shallow, medium, and deep), and their geographical distribution, vertical extent, and seasonal cycle are investigated. Most shallow folds occur along the subtropical jet stream, in agreement with previous studies. Hot spots of medium and deep tropopause folds are found west of Australia and along the coast of Antarctica in the Southern Hemisphere and around the east coast of North America in the Northern Hemisphere. Seasonal cycles show maxima in winter for all fold classes. Medium and deep folds are frequently associated with surface wind gust and precipitation extremes, as quantified for folds over the southern Indian Ocean. Wind gust extremes occur mainly in an elongated band upstream and equatorward of folds, whereas precipitation extremes occur mainly east and poleward of folds. Overall, in the considered region, about 20% of medium folds and 33% of deep folds are associated with surface wind or precipitation extremes in the vicinity of the fold.
Northeast Indian stalagmite records Pacific decadal climate change: Implications for moisture transport and drought in India
Authors: Myers Christopher G. , Oster Jessica L. , Sharp Warren D. , Bennartz Ralf , Kelley Neil P. , Covey Aaron K. , Breitenbach Sebastian F.M.
Published: April 2015

Two types of El Niño events are distinguished by sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies centered in the central or eastern equatorial Pacific. The Central Pacific El Niño events (CP‐El Niño) are more highly correlated with weakening of the central Indian Summer Monsoon and linked to decadal Pacific climate variability. We present a 50 year, subannually resolved speleothem δ18O record from northeast India that exhibits a significant correlation with northern Pacific decadal variability and central equatorial Pacific SSTs. Accordingly, we suggest that δ18O time series in similar northeast Indian speleothems are effective tools for investigating preinstrumental changes in Pacific climate, including changes in El Niño dynamics. In contrast to central India, rainfall amounts in northeast India are relatively unaffected by El Niño. However, back trajectory analysis indicates that during CP‐El Niño events moisture transport distance to northeast India is reduced, suggesting that variations in moisture transport primarily control δ18O in the region.
A New Process for the Thermal Treatment of Calcium Phosphate Coatings Electrodeposited on Ti6Al4V Substrate
Authors: Ben Jaber Nader , Drevet Richard , Fauré Joël , Demangel Clémence , Potiron Sylvain , Tara Ahmed , Ben Cheikh Larbi Ahmed , Benhayoune Hicham
Published: April 2015

This work presents a new experimental process for the thermal treatment of prosthetic coatings obtained by electrodeposition on titanium alloy Ti6Al4V. This thermal treatment is required to evaporate the solvent from the coating and to improve its cohesion and its adhesion to the titanium alloy substrate. When such treatment is carried out in air, the temperature is limited to 550 °C due to the high oxidation of the titanium substrate. To overcome this limitation, we introduce a new thermal treatment process using a controlled atmosphere obtained by Argon injection under vacuum. In these conditions, the temperature can be increased up to 1 000 °C. This process prevents the formation of the oxide layer onto the titanium alloy surface without noticeable modification of its mechanical properties. It also allows to obtain a fully crystallized biphasic coating made of hydroxyapatite and β‐tricalcium phosphate. Consequently, this work resulted in obtaining an implant (calcium phosphate coating on Ti6Al4V) with improved mechanical properties.
Practical Solvent‐Free Ruthenium Trichloride‐Mediated Benzannulation Approach to Fused Functionalized Arenes
Authors: Jacquet Jeremy , Auvinet Anne‐Laure , Mandadapu Anil Kumar , Haddad Mansour , Ratovelomanana‐Vidal Virginie , Michelet Véronique
Published: April 2015

The solvent‐ and ligand‐free [2+2+2] ruthenium‐promoted cycloaddition of α,ω‐diynes and alkynes provides a facile and efficient strategy for the synthesis of substituted benzene‐derived systems. The search for the optimal reaction conditions revealed the unprecedented catalytic activity of ruthenium trichloride for benzannulation reactions and this atom‐economical process allowed the synthesis of fused arenes including dihydrobenzofurans, isoindolines, indanes in good to high yields. This practical protocol also gave rise to the preparation of pentasubstituted aromatic derivatives and was applied to the one‐gram scale synthesis of a functionalized heterocycle.

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Diastereoselective Synthesis of Six‐Membered Carbocyclic Spirooxindoles via 6π‐Electrocyclization of 3‐Dienylidene‐2‐ oxindoles
Authors: Kim Ko Hoon , Moon Hye Ran , Lee Junseong , Kim Jimin , Kim Jae Nyoung
Published: April 2015

The Wittig reaction of isatin derivatives with Morita–Baylis–Hillman bromides of cinnamaldehydes afforded 3‐dienylidene‐2‐oxindoles. These trienes were converted into the corresponding spirooxindoles in a stereoselective manner in refluxing toluene in good yields. The diastereomeric spirooxindoles could be obtained stereoselectively by adding a catalytic amount of palladium(II) acetate via the palladium‐catalyzed isomerization of EEE‐trienes to ZEE‐trienes followed by a more facile 6π‐electrocyclization process. The obtained spirooxindoles could be further functionalized by palladium‐catalyzed oxidative arylation, thionation with Lawesson’s reagent, catalytic hydrogenation and Friedel–Crafts‐type reaction.

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Product Differentiation by Package Size
Authors: Shreay Sanatan , Chouinard Hayley H. , McCluskey Jill J.
Published: April 2015

Quantity surcharges exist when a larger‐sized package has a higher per‐unit price than its smaller‐sized counterpart. This article argues that quantity surcharges can be explained by the fact that different sizes of the same product are imperfect substitutes and thus are differentiated products. To test this hypothesis, we utilize grocery store scanner data to estimate a demand system and the associated cross‐price elasticities. We focus our empirical investigation on canned tuna, which often exhibits quantity surcharges. A random coefficients logit demand approach is used to calculate elasticities. There is evidence to support the hypothesis that quantity surcharges in canned tuna are driven by firms catering to heterogeneous consumer preferences.
Parental strategies to help children with phenylketonuria (PKU) cope with feeling different
Authors: Zwiesele Sheila , Bannick Allison , Trepanier Angela
Published: April 2015

This study assessed feelings of differentness in children with phenylketonuria (PKU) and elicited parental coping strategies. A total of 22 parents of 7‐ to 12‐year‐old patients with PKU completed qualitative interviews, which assessed whether they think their children feel different from their peers and identified potential solution strategies. The results showed that most parents indicated their child feels different due to PKU, which is frequently triggered by situations surrounding food. PKU community involvement and educating others about PKU were perceived by parents as useful coping strategies. Talking to children about differences was frequently used but one of the least effective strategies. Extended family, clinicians, and teachers also attempted to help children cope with feeling different with varying degrees of success. We concluded that most parents perceive that their child with PKU feels different and have developed strategies to manage these feelings. However, a subset struggle with helping their child cope and may benefit from assistance from healthcare providers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exome sequencing of patients with histiocytoid cardiomyopathy reveals a de novo NDUFB11 mutation that plays a role in the pathogenesis of histiocytoid cardiomyopathy
Authors: Shehata Bahig M. , Cundiff Caitlin A. , Lee Kevin , Sabharwal Ankit , Lalwani Mukesh Kumar , Davis Angela K. , Agrawal Vartika , Sivasubbu Sridhar , Iannucci Glen J. , Gibson Greg
Published: April 2015

Histiocytoid cardiomyopathy (Histiocytoid CM) is a rare form of cardiomyopathy observed predominantly in newborn females that is fatal unless treated early in life. We have performed whole exome sequencing on five parent‐proband trios and identified nuclear‐encoded mitochondrial protein mutations in three cases. The molecular genetic basis of Histiocytoid CM remains unknown despite several hypotheses in medical literature. The findings presented in this manuscript may represent components of genetic etiologies for this heterogeneous disease. Two probands had de novo non‐sense mutations in the second exon of the X‐linked nuclear gene NDUFB11. A third proband was doubly heterozygous for inherited rare variants in additional components of complex I, NDUFAF2 and NDUFB9, confirming that Histiocytoid CM is genetically heterogeneous. In a fourth case, the proband with Histiocytoid CM inherited a mitochondrial mutation from her heteroplasmic mother, as did her brother who presented with cardiac arrhythmia. Strong candidate recessive or compound heterozygous variants were not found for this individual or for the fifth case. Although NDUFB11 has not been implicated before in cardiac pathology, morpholino‐mediated knockdown of ndufb11 in zebrafish embryos generated defective cardiac tissue with cardiomegaly, looping defects, and arrhythmia which suggests the role of NDUFB11 in the pathogenesis of this abnormal cardiac pathology. Taken together, the unbiased whole exome sequencing approach confirms the suspected genetic heterogeneity of Histiocytoid CM. Therefore, the novel NDUFB11 mutation may cause a complex 1 deficiency in synergy with additional unknown mtDNA variants. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association between genetic variants in SLC25A12 and risk of autism spectrum disorders: An integrated meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Jun , Yang Aiping , Zhang Qunwei , Yang Guohui , Yang Wenjun , Lei Heyue , Quan Jianjun , Qu Fei , Wang Min , Zhang Zengyu , Yu Ke
Published: April 2015

The solute carrier family 25 (aspartate/glutamate carrier), member 12 gene (SLC25A12) has been strongly posed as a candidate gene for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) given its important role in mitochondrial function and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis. Evidence is mounting for the association between SLC25A12 variants (rs2056202 and rs2292813) and ASD risk, but the results are inconsistent. To clarify the effect of these two variants on ASD, a meta‐analysis integrating case‐control and transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) studies was performed. The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Chinese BioMedical Literature (CBM), Wanfang, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases were systematically searched to identify relevant studies published up to May 2014. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of association. A total of 775 cases, 922 controls, and 1289 families available from 8 studies concerning rs2056202, and 465 cases, 450 controls, and 1516 families available from 7 studies concerning rs2292813 were finally included. In the overall meta‐analysis, the rs2056202 T allele and rs2292813 T allele were both significantly associated with a decreased risk of ASD (rs2056202: OR = 0.809, P = 0.001, 95%CI: 0.713–0.917, I2 = 0.0%, and Pheterogeneity = 0.526; rs2292813: OR = 0.752, P < 0.001, 95%CI: 0.649–0.871, I2 = 0.0%, Pheterogeneity = 0.486). Besides, subjects with T‐T haplotype of rs2056202–rs2292813 had a significantly reduced risk of ASD (OR = 0.672, P < 0.001, 95%CI: 0.564–0.801, I2 = 0.0%, Pheterogeneity = 0.631). Sensitivity analysis, cumulative meta‐analysis, and publication bias diagnostics confirmed the reliability and stability of our results. Our meta‐analysis suggests that rs2056202 and rs2292813 in SLC25A12 may contribute significantly to ASD risk. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Eye color: A potential indicator of alcohol dependence risk in European Americans
Authors: Sulovari Arvis , Kranzler Henry R. , Farrer Lindsay A. , Gelernter Joel , Li Dawei
Published: April 2015

In archival samples of European‐ancestry subjects, light‐eyed individuals have been found to consume more alcohol than dark‐eyed individuals. No published population‐based studies have directly tested the association between alcohol dependence (AD) and eye color. We hypothesized that light‐eyed individuals have a higher prevalence of AD than dark‐eyed individuals. A mixture model was used to select a homogeneous sample of 1,263 European‐Americans and control for population stratification. After quality control, we conducted an association study using logistic regression, adjusting for confounders (age, sex, and genetic ancestry). We found evidence of association between AD and blue eye color (P = 0.0005 and odds ratio = 1.83 (1.31–2.57)), supporting light eye color as a risk factor relative to brown eye color. Network‐based analyses revealed a statistically significant (P = 0.02) number of genetic interactions between eye color genes and AD‐associated genes. We found evidence of linkage disequilibrium between an AD‐associated GABA receptor gene cluster, GABRB3/GABRG3, and eye color genes, OCA2/HERC2, as well as between AD‐associated GRM5 and pigmentation‐associated TYR. Our population‐phenotype, network, and linkage disequilibrium analyses support association between blue eye color and AD. Although we controlled for stratification we cannot exclude underlying occult stratification as a contributor to this observation. Although replication is needed, our findings suggest that eye pigmentation information may be useful in research on AD. Further characterization of this association may unravel new AD etiological factors. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kationische Titanocen(III)‐Komplexe für die Katalyse in Ein‐Elektronen‐Schritten
Authors: Gansäuer Andreas , Hildebrandt Sven , Michelmann Antonius , Dahmen Tobias , von Laufenberg Daniel , Kube Christian , Fianu Godfred D. , Flowers Robert A.
Published: April 2015

Durch gezielte Ausnutzung von Lösungsmittel‐ und Anioneneffekten wurden [Cp2Ti]+‐Komplexe für die atomökonomische Katalyse in Ein‐Elektronen‐Schritten entwickelt und zum ersten Mal eingesetzt. Die kationischen Komplexe stellen besonders robuste und aktive Katalysatoren für die radikalische Arylierung von Epoxiden dar. Anhand von Cyclovoltammetrie und In‐situ‐IR‐Spektroskopie wurden Katalysatorzusammensetzungen und Reaktionskinetiken bestimmt.
Infrared Spectroscopy During Electrocatalytic Turnover Reveals the Ni‐L Active Site State During H2 Oxidation by a NiFe Hydrogenase
Authors: Hidalgo Ricardo , Ash Philip A. , Healy Adam J. , Vincent Kylie A.
Published: April 2015

A novel in situ IR spectroscopic approach is demonstrated for the characterization of hydrogenase during catalytic turnover. E. coli hydrogenase 1 (Hyd‐1) is adsorbed on a high surface‐area carbon electrode and subjected to the same electrochemical control and efficient supply of substrate as in protein film electrochemistry during spectral acquisition. The spectra reveal that the active site state known as Ni‐L, observed in other NiFe hydrogenases only under illumination or at cryogenic temperatures, can be generated reversibly in the dark at ambient temperature under both turnover and non‐turnover conditions. The observation that Ni‐L is present at all potentials during turnover under H2 suggests that the final steps in the catalytic cycle of H2 oxidation by Hyd‐1 involve sequential proton and electron transfer via Ni‐L. A broadly applicable IR spectroscopic technique is presented for addressing electrode‐adsorbed redox enzymes under fast catalytic turnover.
polyMOFs: A Class of Interconvertible Polymer‐Metal‐Organic‐Framework Hybrid Materials
Authors: Zhang Zhenjie , Nguyen Ha Thi Hoang , Miller Stephen A. , Cohen Seth M.
Published: April 2015

Preparation of porous materials from one‐dimensional polymers is challenging because the packing of polymer chains results in a dense, non‐porous arrangement. Herein, we demonstrate the remarkable adaptation of an amorphous, linear, non‐porous, flexible organic polymer into a three‐dimensional, highly porous, crystalline solid, as the organic component of a metal–organic framework (MOF). A polymer with aromatic dicarboxylic acids in the backbone functioned as a polymer ligand upon annealing with ZnII, generating a polymer–metal–organic framework (polyMOF). These materials break the dogma that MOFs must be prepared from small, rigid ligands. Similarly, polyMOFs contradict conventional polymer chemistry by demonstrating that linear and amorphous polymers can be readily coaxed into a highly crystalline, porous, three‐dimensional structure by coordination chemistry.
Modular Synthesis of a Dual Metal–Dual Semiconductor Nano‐Heterostructure
Authors: Amirav Lilac , Oba Fadekemi , Aloni Shaul , Alivisatos A. Paul
Published: April 2015

Reported is the design and modular synthesis of a dual metal–dual semiconductor heterostructure with control over the dimensions and placement of its individual components. Analogous to molecular synthesis, colloidal synthesis is now evolving into a series of sequential synthetic procedures with separately optimized steps. We detail the challenges and parameters that must be considered when assembling such a multicomponent nanoparticle, and their solutions. This multicomponent nanosystem, Ru‐CdSe@CdS‐Pt, was designed to achieve charge carrier separation and directional transfer across different interfaces toward two separate redox catalysts. This heterostructure may potentially serve as a nanometric closed circuit photoelectrochemical cell.
How the [NiFe4S4] Cluster of CO Dehydrogenase Activates CO2 and NCO−
Authors: Fesseler Jochen , Jeoung Jae‐Hun , Dobbek Holger
Published: April 2015

Ni,Fe‐containing CO dehydrogenases (CODHs) use a [NiFe4S4] cluster, termed cluster C, to reversibly reduce CO2 to CO with high turnover number. Binding to Ni and Fe activates CO2, but current crystal structures have insufficient resolution to analyze the geometry of bound CO2 and reveal the extent and nature of its activation. The crystal structures of CODH in complex with CO2 and the isoelectronic inhibitor NCO− are reported at true atomic resolution (dmin≤1.1 Å). Like CO2, NCO− is a μ2,η2 ligand of the cluster and acts as a mechanism‐based inhibitor. While bound CO2 has the geometry of a carboxylate group, NCO− is transformed into a carbamoyl group, thus indicating that both molecules undergo a formal two‐electron reduction after binding and are stabilized by substantial π backbonding. The structures reveal the combination of stable μ2,η2 coordination by Ni and Fe2 with reductive activation as the basis for both the turnover of CO2 and inhibition by NCO−.
Photochemical Synthesis of Ultrafine Cubic Boron Nitride Nanoparticles under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Liu Hui , Jin Peng , Xue Yan‐Ming , Dong Cunku , Li Xiang , Tang Cheng‐Chun , Du Xi‐Wen
Published: April 2015

Cubic boron nitride (c‐BN) is a super‐hard material whose hardness increases dramatically with decreasing size. However, c‐BN nanoparticles (NPs) with sizes less than 10 nm have never been obtained. Herein we report a simple strategy towards the synthesis of ultrafine c‐BN NPs with an average size of 3.5 nm. The method, under ambient conditions, exploits a laser‐induced photochemical effect and employs dioxane solution of ammonia borane (AB) as a liquid target. Meanwhile, total dehydrogenation of AB is realized by laser irradiation. Therefore, this approach shows great potential for the preparation of super‐hard NPs as well as controllable dehydrogenation.
A Fluxional Copper Acetylide Cluster in CuAAC Catalysis
Authors: Makarem Ata , Berg Regina , Rominger Frank , Straub Bernd F.
Published: April 2015

A molecularly defined copper acetylide cluster with ancillary N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands was prepared under acidic reaction conditions. This cluster is the first molecular copper acetylide complex that features high activity in copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloadditions (CuAAC) with added acetic acid even at −5 °C. Ethyl propiolate protonates the acetate ligands of the dinuclear precursor complex to release acetic acid and replaces one out of four ancillary ligands. Two copper(I) ions are thereby liberated to form the core of a yellow dicationic C2‐symmetric hexa‐NHC octacopper hexaacetylide cluster. Coalescence phenomena in low‐temperature NMR experiments reveal fluxionality that leads to the facile interconversion of all of the NHC and acetylide positions. Kinetic investigations provide insight into the influence of copper acetylide coordination modes and the acetic acid on catalytic activity. The interdependence of “click” activity and copper acetylide aggregation beyond dinuclear intermediates adds a new dimension of complexity to our mechanistic understanding of the CuAAC reaction.
Growth rates of modern science: A bibliometric analysis based on the number of publications and cited references
Authors: Bornmann Lutz , Mutz Rüdiger
Published: April 2015

Many studies (in information science) have looked at the growth of science. In this study, we reexamine the question of the growth of science. To do this we (a) use current data up to publication year 2012 and (b) analyze the data across all disciplines and also separately for the natural sciences and for the medical and health sciences. Furthermore, the data were analyzed with an advanced statistical technique—segmented regression analysis—which can identify specific segments with similar growth rates in the history of science. The study is based on two different sets of bibliometric data: (a) the number of publications held as source items in the Web of Science (WoS, Thomson Reuters) per publication year and (b) the number of cited references in the publications of the source items per cited reference year. We looked at the rate at which science has grown since the mid‐1600s. In our analysis of cited references we identified three essential growth phases in the development of science, which each led to growth rates tripling in comparison with the previous phase: from less than 1% up to the middle of the 18th century, to 2 to 3% up to the period between the two world wars, and 8 to 9% to 2010.
Disciplinary, national, and departmental contributions to the literature of library and information science, 2007–2012
Authors: Walters William H. , Wilder Esther Isabelle
Published: April 2015

We investigate the contributions of particular disciplines, countries, and academic departments to the literature of library and information science (LIS) using data for the articles published in 31 journals from 2007 to 2012. In particular, we examine the contributions of authors outside the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada; faculty in departments other than LIS; and practicing librarians. Worldwide, faculty in LIS departments account for 31% of the journal literature; librarians, 23%; computer science faculty, 10%; and management faculty, 10%. The top contributing nations are the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, China, Canada, and Taiwan. Within the United States and the United Kingdom, the current productivity of LIS departments is correlated with past productivity and with other measures of reputation and performance. More generally, the distribution of contributions is highly skewed. In the United States, five departments account for 27% of the articles contributed by LIS faculty; in the United Kingdom, four departments account for nearly two‐thirds of the articles. This skewed distribution reinforces the possibility that high‐status departments may gain a permanent advantage in the competition for students, faculty, journal space, and research funding. At the same time, concentrations of research‐active faculty in particular departments may generate beneficial spillover effects.
The boundaries between: Parental involvement in a teen's online world
Authors: Erickson Lee B. , Wisniewski Pamela , Xu Heng , Carroll John M. , Rosson Mary Beth , Perkins Daniel F.
Published: April 2015

The increasing popularity of the Internet and social media is creating new and unique challenges for parents and adolescents regarding the boundaries between parental control and adolescent autonomy in virtual spaces. Drawing on developmental psychology and Communication Privacy Management (CPM) theory, we conduct a qualitative study to examine the challenge between parental concern for adolescent online safety and teens' desire to independently regulate their own online experiences. Analysis of 12 parent–teen pairs revealed five distinct challenges: (a) increased teen autonomy and decreased parental control resulting from teens' direct and unmediated access to virtual spaces, (b) the shift in power to teens who are often more knowledgeable about online spaces and technology, (c) the use of physical boundaries by parents as a means to control virtual spaces, (d) an increase in indirect boundary control strategies such as covert monitoring, and (e) the blurring of lines in virtual spaces between parents' teens and teens' friends.
Joint model of multiple longitudinal measures and a binary outcome: An application to predict orthostatic hypertension for subacute stroke patients
Authors: Hwang Yi‐Ting , Wang Chun‐Chao , Wang Chiuan He , Tseng Yi‐Kuan , Chang Yeu‐Jhy
Published: April 2015

Stroke patients with orthostatic hypertensive responses that are one of the blood pressure regulation problems can easily fall down while doing rehabilitation, which may result in prolonged hospitalization and delayed treatment and recovery. This may result in increasing the medical cost and burden. In turn, developing a diagnostic test for the orthostatic hypertension (OH) is clinically important for patients who are suffering from stroke. Clinically, a patient needs to have a tilt testing that requires measuring the change of blood pressures and heart rate at all angles to determine whether a stroke patient has OH. It takes lots of time and effort to perform the test. Assuming there exist measurement errors when obtaining the blood pressures and heart rate at all angles, this paper proposes using multiple mixed‐effect models to obtain the true trajectories of these measurements, which take into account the measurement error and the possible correlation among multiple measurements, and a logistic regression uses these true trajectories at a given time and other fixed‐effect covariates as predictors to predict the status of OH. The joint likelihood function is derived to estimate parameters and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve is used to estimate the predictive power of the model. Monte Carlo simulations are performed to evaluate the feasibility of the proposed methods. Also, the proposed model is implemented in the real data and provides an acceptable predictive power.
A fluorimetric study on the interaction between a Trp‐containing beta‐strand peptide and amphiphilic polymer‐coated gold nanoparticles
Authors: Yuan Ming , Zhong Ruibo , Yun Xiaoling , Hou Jiahua , Du Qiqige , Zhao Guofen , Zhang Feng
Published: April 2015

Owing to the inevitability of nanoparticles encountering proteins/peptides in current bio‐nano‐medicine development, it is important to know how they interact with each other in vitro before developing in vivo applications. To this end, a model de novo β‐sheet‐forming peptide and typical biocompatible nanoparticles were selected to study thermodynamic aspects of their interactions via a fluorescence quenching method. The results showed that Pep11 and AuNPs spontaneously formed conjugates, mainly driven by a coulombic interaction with a binding affinity of ~ 0.1 µM−1; the physical adsorption process was cooperative. These results deepen our quantitative understanding of nanoparticle–peptide interactions. The results may also be helpful in further nanoparticle–peptide hybrid nanofabrication and also useful for the application of nanoparticles in the treatment of amyloid diseases. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hybrid cloud service selection strategy: Model and application of campus
Authors: Li Chunlin
Published: April 2015

The paper proposes hybrid cloud service selection optimization scheme. Hybrid cloud service selection optimization is distributed to and performed at two levels: hybrid cloud user agent‐ hybrid cloud service agent at hybrid cloud service layer and hybrid cloud service agent‐ hybrid cloud agent at hybrid cloud resource layer. Interactions among hybrid cloud user agent, hybrid cloud service agent, public cloud agents and private cloud agents are mediated by means of market mechanisms. Two level hybrid cloud service selection optimization maximizes the interests of hybrid cloud user agents, hybrid cloud service agent, public cloud agents and private cloud agents. Hybrid cloud service selection process includes two parts: hybrid cloud service provisioning and cloud resource allocation. The paper presents a two‐level hybrid cloud service selection algorithm used to perform service provisioning and resource allocation. In the simulations, compared with other related algorithm, our proposed hybrid cloud service selection algorithms achieve the better performance with acceptable overhead. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput. Appl. Eng. Educ. Comput Appl Eng Educ 23:645–657, 2015; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21634