bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Method for Flux‐Chamber Measurement of Ammonia Volatilization From Putting Greens Foliarly‐Fertilized by Urea
Authors: Schlossberg Maxim J. , McGraw Benjamin A. , Hivner Kyle R. , Pruyne Derek T.
Published: June 2017

Foliar fertilization is an increasingly popular method of ensuring golf course putting green nitrogen (N) sufficiency in season. The low cost, high N‐content, and favorable handling characteristics of urea (46‐0‐0) make it a common N‐source in foliar treatments of horticultural crops. While numerous investigations confirm incomplete recovery of foliarly‐applied urea‐N by turfgrass, few field assessments of NH3 volatilization from greens have been conducted. Meanwhile, NH3 emissions reduce air quality and contribute to non‐point nutrient loading of water resources. The research objectives were to (i) develop a method for field‐implementation of closed dynamic/flux chambers to measure NH3 volatilization from 0 to 24 h following foliar application of urea‐N to putting greens; and (ii) infer the significance of flux chamber NH3‐N volatilization measures relative to levels arising from simultaneous static‐chamber measures. Creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L. “Penn G‐2”) putting greens were foliarly treated by 20–44 kg urea‐N ha−1 from 2013 to 2015, and NH3 volatilization measured using H3BO3 trap‐equipped flux and/or static chamber systems. Flux chamber measures of NH3 volatilization accounted for 7.1% of the urea‐N fertilizer applied 24 h previous. Simultaneous static chamber measures of NH3 volatilization were an order of magnitude less. A replicated flux chamber trapping efficiency trial showed 63% mean NH3 recovery. Thus under the duration and conditions described, 7.1–11.2% of foliar urea‐N applications can be expected to volatilize from putting greens. Regarding closed chamber system measurement of NH3 volatilization from small field plots, the described flux chambers afford applied scientists a more precise and efficient method than static chambers.
Long‐Time Asymptotics for the Focusing Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation with Nonzero Boundary Conditions at Infinity and Asymptotic Stage of Modulational Instability
Authors: Biondini Gino , Mantzavinos Dionyssios
Published: June 2017

We characterize the long‐time asymptotic behavior of the focusing nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equation on the line with symmetric, nonzero boundary conditions at infinity by using a variant of the recently developed inverse scattering transform (IST) for such problems and by employing the nonlinear steepest‐descent method of Deift and Zhou for oscillatory Riemann‐Hilbert problems. First, we formulate the IST over a single sheet of the complex plane without introducing the uniformization variable that was used by Biondini and Kovačič in 2014. The solution of the focusing NLS equation with nonzero boundary conditions is thereby associated with a matrix Riemann‐Hilbert problem whose jumps grow exponentially with time for certain portions of the continuous spectrum. This growth is the signature of the well‐known modulational instability within the context of the IST. We then eliminate this growth by performing suitable deformations of the Riemann‐Hilbert problem in the complex spectral plane. The results demonstrate that the solution of the focusing NLS equation with nonzero boundary conditions remains bounded at all times. Moreover, we show that, asymptotically in time, the xt‐plane decomposes into two types of regions: a left far‐field region and a right far‐field region, where the solution equals the condition at infinity to leading order up to a phase shift, and a central region in which the asymptotic behavior is described by slowly modulated periodic oscillations. Finally, we show how, in the latter region, the modulus of the leading‐order solution, initially obtained as a ratio of Jacobi theta functions, can be reduced to the well‐known elliptic solutions of the focusing NLS equation. These results provide the first characterization of the long‐time behavior of generic perturbations of a constant background in a modulationally unstable medium. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimizing update scheduling parameters for distributed virtual environments supporting operational test
Authors: Millar Jeremy Robert , Hodson Douglas , Peterson Gilbert , Ahner Darryl
Published: June 2017

Distributed virtual environments provide a shared sense of time and space to geographically distributed users. They depend on a limited ability to ensure system nodes at different locations maintain consistent state data. This paper presents system models and algorithms designed to find optimal update scheduling parameters that minimize the effects of inconsistent simulation state data. The first model is concerned with ensuring distributed virtual environments that present a fair experience to all users while simultaneously providing adequate levels of system performance. In the second model, we introduce the concept of plausibility limits and address their use in ensuring all participants in an interaction to see the same result.
Photo‐Switchable Self‐Assemblies Based on Thymine‐Containing Bolaamphiphiles
Authors: Al‐Shereiqi Ahmed S. , Boyd Ben J. , Saito Kei
Published: June 2017

The photoswitching of photosensitive bolaamphiphiles based on thymine was investigated. Topochemical principles were applied to create light‐responsive supra‐amphiphiles by the utilisation of dynamic covalent bonds created by the photo‐dimerisation of a DNA base, thymine. In order to induce the photo‐dimerisation of thymine, two bolaamphiphilic molecules were designed and synthesised to meet the required [2 π+2 π] photo‐cycloaddition conditions. The amphiphiles were synthesised with different spacers and their photo‐reversibility and morphologies were studied by using UV/Vis, NMR and infrared spectroscopy, rheometry, dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy.
Enhanced Interfacial Charge Transfer on a Tungsten Trioxide Photoanode with Immobilized Molecular Iridium Catalyst
Authors: Tong Haili , Jiang Yi , Zhang Qian , Li Jialing , Jiang Wenchao , Zhang Donghui , Li Na , Xia Lixin
Published: June 2017

The rational design of active photoanodes for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is crucial for future applications in sustainable energy conversion. A combination of catalysts with photoelectrodes is generally required to improve surface kinetics and suppress surface recombination. In this study, we present WO3 photoanode modified with the iridium complex [(H4dphbpy)IrIII(Cp*)Cl]Cl (Ir‐PO3H2; H4dphbpy=2,2′‐bipyridine‐4,4′‐bisphosphonic acid, Cp*=pentamethylcyclopentadiene (WO3+Ir‐PO3H2)‐ for PEC water oxidation. When Ir‐PO3H2 is anchored to a WO3 electrode, the photoanode shows a significant improvement in both photocurrent and faradaic efficiency compared to the bare WO3 photoanode. Under simulated sunlight illumination (AM 1.5G, 100 mW cm−2) with an applied bias of 1.23 V (vs. reversible hydrogen electrode), the photoanode exhibits a photocurrent of 1.16 mA cm−2 in acidic conditions, which is double that of the bare WO3 photoanode. The faradaic efficiency is promoted from 56 % to 95 %. Kinetic studies reveal that Ir‐PO3H2 exhibits a different interfacial charge‐transfer mechanism on the WO3 photoanode for PEC water oxidation compared to iridium oxide. Ir‐PO3H2, as a water‐oxidation catalyst, can accelerate the surface charge transfer through rapid surface kinetics.
Copper‐Catalyzed Oxidative Dehydrogenative C(sp3)−H Bond Amination of (Cyclo)Alkanes using NH‐Heterocycles as Amine Sources
Authors: Wang Chang‐Sheng , Wu Xiao‐Feng , Dixneuf Pierre H. , Soulé Jean‐François
Published: June 2017

A copper‐catalyzed oxidative C(sp3)−H/N−H coupling of NH‐heterocycles with affordable (cyclo)alkanes has been developed. This procedure involves C(sp3)−N bond formation through a radical pathway generated by homolytic cleavage of di‐tert‐butyl peroxide and trapping of the radical(s) by copper catalysts. The reaction tolerates a series of functional groups, such as bromo, fluoro, ester, ketone, nitrile, methyl, and methoxy. free‐NH‐containing indoles, pyrroles, pyrazoles, indazoles, and benzotriazoles are successfully N‐alkylated.
Mechanochemical Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Lactide: Liquid‐Assisted Grinding for the Green Synthesis of Poly(lactic acid) with High Molecular Weight
Authors: Ohn Nuri , Shin Jihoon , Kim Sung Sik , Kim Jeung Gon
Published: June 2017

Mechanochemical polymerization of lactide is carried out by using ball milling. Mechanical energy from collisions between the balls and the vessel efficiently promotes an organic‐base‐mediated metal‐ and solvent‐free solid‐state polymerization. Investigation of the parameters of the ball‐milling synthesis revealed that the degree of lactide ring‐opening polymerization could be modulated by the ball‐milling time, vibration frequency, mass of the ball media, and liquid‐assisted grinding. Liquid‐assisted grinding was found to be an especially important factor for achieving a high degree of mechanochemical polymerization. Although polymer‐chain scission from the strong collision energy prevented mechanical‐force‐driven high‐molecular‐weight polymer synthesis, the addition of only a small amount of liquid enabled sufficient energy dissipation and poly(lactic acid) was thereby obtained with a molecular weight of over 1×105 g mol−1.
Cells from subcutaneous tissues contribute to scarless skin regeneration in Xenopus laevis froglets
Authors: Otsuka‐Yamaguchi Rina , Kawasumi‐Kita Aiko , Kudo Nanako , Izutsu Yumi , Tamura Koji , Yokoyama Hitoshi
Published: June 2017

Background: Mammals cannot regenerate the dermis and other skin structures after an injury and instead form a scar. However, a Xenopus laevis froglet can regenerate scarless skin, including the dermis and secretion glands, on the limbs and trunk after skin excision. Subcutaneous tissues in the limbs and trunk consist mostly of muscles. Although subcutaneous tissues beneath a skin injury appear disorganized, the cellular contribution of these underlying tissues to skin regeneration remains unclear. Results: We crossed the inbred J strain with a green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐labeled transgenic Xenopus line to obtain chimeric froglets that have GFP‐negative skin and GFP‐labeled subcutaneous tissues and are not affected by immune rejection after metamorphosis. We found that GFP‐positive cells from subcutaneous tissues contributed to regenerating the skin, especially the dermis, after an excision injury. We also showed that the skin on the head, which is over bone rather than muscle, can also completely regenerate skin structures. Conclusions: Cells derived from subcutaneous tissues, at least in the trunk region, contribute to and may be essential for skin regeneration. Characterizing the subcutaneous tissue–derived cells that contribute to skin regeneration in amphibians may lead to the induction of cells that can regenerate complete skin structures without scarring in mammals. Developmental Dynamics 246:585–597, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Autonomy support and autonomous motivation in the outpatient treatment of adults with an eating disorder
Authors: Steiger Howard , Sansfaçon Jeanne , Thaler Lea , Leonard Niamh , Cottier Danaëlle , Kahan Esther , Fletcher Emilie , Rossi Erika , Israel Mimi , Gauvin Lise
Published: June 2017

Objective

Across diverse clinical problems, therapists’ autonomy support has been found to increase patients’ autonomous motivation for change. Being self‐motivated has, in turn, been linked to superior treatment response. In people undergoing outpatient eating disorder (ED) treatment, we examined associations among ratings of autonomy support received from therapists and other carers, self‐reported engagement in therapy, and clinical outcomes.

Method

Ninety‐seven women with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or a related ED provided measures of motivational status and clinical symptoms at the beginning and end of time‐limited (12–16 weeks) segments of specialized treatment. At mid‐treatment, patients also rated the extent to which they perceived their individual therapists, group therapists, group‐therapy peers, family members, friends, and romantic partners as being autonomy supportive.

Results

Overall, multiple regression analyses indicated autonomy support to moderate (rather than mediate) the link between initial autonomous motivation and later change in autonomous motivation—with results indicating that, independently of ED diagnosis or treatment intensity, greater perceived autonomy support (from therapists and nontherapists alike) coincided with larger increases in autonomous motivation over the course of therapy. In turn, higher autonomous motivation at end‐of‐therapy coincided with larger reductions in eating symptoms.

Discussion

Findings suggest that the experience of autonomy support (from therapists and nontherapists) is associated with increasing motivation in people undergoing ED treatment, and that becoming self‐motivated is linked to better outcomes. Such results indicate that support from therapists, relatives, and peers can favorably influence personal engagement in individuals undergoing ED treatment.
The Roles of Residents in Climate Adaptation: A systematic review in the case of the Netherlands
Authors: Hegger Dries L.T. , Mees Heleen L.P. , Driessen Peter P.J. , Runhaar Hens A.C.
Published: June 2017

Climate adaptation literature has hitherto devoted limited attention to the roles of residents. Yet their role is crucial in addressing non‐ or maladaptation, as their initiative or consent is often necessary to take adaptation measures in or around the house. To address this knowledge gap, this paper explores mainstream and additional roles for residents through a literature review. Mainstream roles are those roles that residents usually take, while additional roles are more specific and local in nature. The latter may, however, provide the seeds for wider change. To structure the results, we made a distinction between three forms of residents' commitment to adaptation: as (1) citizens falling under the jurisdiction of various governmental levels; (2) consumers (including home owners) in the market; and (3) civil society members/partners. While this is an established categorization in other domains of environmental governance, it has not yet been systematically applied to the adaptation domain. The paper's empirical focus regarding mainstream and additional roles is on the Dutch adaptation domains of flood risk management, stormwater management and dealing with heat stress. We found scope for additional roles for residents, especially as consumers in the market and civil society members. The findings are of significance for the global debate on residents' roles in climate adaptation and suggest that addressing all three forms of commitment may enhance the implementation of measures as well as their legitimacy, residents' awareness and societies' potential to innovate. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Cytomegalovirus vector expressing RAE‐1γ induces enhanced anti‐tumor capacity of murine CD8+ T cells
Authors: Tršan Tihana , Vuković Kristina , Filipović Petra , Brizić Ana Lesac , Lemmermann Niels A. W. , Schober Kilian , Busch Dirk H. , Britt William J. , Messerle Martin , Krmpotić Astrid , Jonjić Stipan
Published: June 2017

Designing CD8+ T‐cell vaccines, which would provide protection against tumors is still considered a great challenge in immunotherapy. Here we show the robust potential of cytomegalovirus (CMV) vector expressing the NKG2D ligand RAE‐1γ as CD8+ T cell‐based vaccine against malignant tumors. Immunization with the CMV vector expressing RAE‐1γ, delayed tumor growth or even provided complete protection against tumor challenge in both prophylactic and therapeutic settings. Moreover, a potent tumor control in mice vaccinated with this vector can be further enhanced by blocking the immune checkpoints TIGIT and PD‐1. CMV vector expressing RAE‐1γ potentiated expansion of KLRG1+ CD8+ T cells with enhanced effector properties. This vaccination was even more efficient in neonatal mice, resulting in the expansion and long‐term maintenance of epitope‐specific CD8+ T cells conferring robust resistance against tumor challenge. Our data show that immunomodulation of CD8+ T‐cell responses promoted by herpesvirus expressing a ligand for NKG2D receptor can provide a powerful platform for the prevention and treatment of CD8+ T‐cell sensitive tumors.
Partial coalescence in double (W1/O/W2) emulsions prepared with skimmed milk, polyglycerol polyricinoleate, and different fats
Authors: Pérez María P. , Wagner Jorge R. , Márquez Andrés L.
Published: June 2017

Partial coalescence was studied in double (W1/O/W2) emulsions prepared with skimmed milk, polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) as lipophilic emulsifier, and different fats. Microstructural and rheological analyses were performed. Encapsulation efficiency (as a parameter of inner water retention) and solid fat content were estimated by differential scanning calorimetry. The presence of PGPR in dispersed lipid phase promoted partial coalescence especially at higher concentration. This promotion of partial coalescence may have been produced by the increase of collision frequency due to protein displacement by PGPR at the outer interface and/or the increase of capture efficiency due to the modification of fat crystals by PGPR. Partial coalescence was also favored when inner water droplets were released as a consequence of an osmotic unbalance between inner and outer aqueous phases. Thus, the addition of glucose in dispersed aqueous phase decreased the partial coalescence degree due to the higher encapsulation efficiency given by the balanced osmotic pressures. With respect to the effect of the employed fat on partial coalescence, the obtained data indicate that the phenomenon was favored at higher solid fat content in lipid phase. Results led to the conclusion that inner osmolality, encapsulation efficiency, and inhibition of partial coalescence were correlated.

Practical applications: The originality of this work resides on boarding the subject of partial coalescence in W1/O/W2 emulsions. The studied systems are proposed as potential lipid‐reduced substitutes of dairy creams, with the employment of alternative non‐dairy fats such as low trans vegetable fat. The combined analysis of partial coalescence and encapsulation efficiency allowed studying their reciprocal effects and evaluating the potentiality of the systems for the encapsulation of hydrophilic compounds. The variations of relative osmotic pressures in inner and outer aqueous phases, lipophilic emulsifier concentration, and solid fat content may lead to desirable or undesirable rheological properties depending on the required texture of the food emulsion. The findings of this work could be an important step pointing to control the factors leading to partial coalescence in W1/O/W2 emulsions for food applications.

The stability against partial coalescence in W1/O/W2 emulsions containing polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) and solid fat in lipid phase is linked to the retention of inner water droplets or the encapsulation efficiency of the system. The higher the inner osmolality the higher the encapsulation efficiency; and the higher the encapsulation efficiency the lower the partial coalescence degree. This aggregation of fat globules is attributed to the increase of collision frequency due to protein displacement by PGPR at the outer interface and/or the increase of capture efficiency due to the modification of fat crystals by PGPR.
Titanium Salen Complexes with Appended Silver NHC Groups as Nucleophilic Carbene Reservoir for Cooperative Asymmetric Lewis Acid/NHC Catalysis
Authors: Latendorf Katja , Mechler Melanie , Schamne Irina , Mack Daniel , Frey Wolfgang , Peters René
Published: June 2017

Lewis acid catalysis and nucleophilic carbene catalysis are complementary fundamental concepts to accelerate and control chemical reactions of aldehyde substrates. Their efficient merger has recently been achieved using two separate catalyst species. The present report describes our efforts to develop a cooperative catalyst system which incorporates both features – Lewis acid and nucleophilic NHC – within the same catalyst entity. To generate free carbene moieties under very mild conditions, Ag‐NHC complexes were formed releasing the nucleophilic carbene upon treatment with PPh3. The result is the formation of an enol‐δ‐lactone as new enal dimerization product. Silver is essential for the reactivity mode thus suggesting that it plays a double role in the catalytic event.
Thiol–Yne Coupling of Propargylamine under Solvent‐Free Conditions by Bond Anion Relay Chemistry: An Efficient Synthesis of Thiazolidin‐2‐ylideneamine
Authors: Ranjan Alok , Deore Abhijit S. , Yerande Swapnil G. , Dethe Dattatraya H.
Published: June 2017

Thiol–yne coupling of propargylamine with isothiocyanate has been developed under metal‐ and solvent‐free conditions. The addition of propargylamine to isothiocyanate gives propargylthiourea. This intermediate in situ undergoes intramolecular 5‐exo‐dig cyclization to give thiazolidin‐2‐ylideneamine. A through‐bond anion relay reaction occurs by attack of the sulfur (not the nitrogen) atom on the alkyne in a highly regioselective manner at ambient temperature. Wide varieties of thiazolidin‐2‐ylideneamine derivatives were formed in excellent yields.
Dielectrophoretic characterization and isolation of jellyfish stinging capsules
Authors: Park Sinwook , Capelin Daniel , Piriatinskiy Gadi , Lotan Tamar , Yossifon Gilad
Published: June 2017

Jellyfish stinging capsules known as nematocysts are explosive, natural‐injection systems with high potential as a natural drug‐delivery system. These organelles consist of a capsule containing a highly folded thin needle‐like tubule and a matrix highly concentrated with charged constituents that enable the tubule to fire and penetrate a target. For the purpose of using these nematocysts as drug delivery system it is first required to purify subpopulations from heterogeneous population of capsules and to investigate each subpopulation's distinct function and characteristics. Here, the nematocysts’ dielectric properties were experimentally investigated using dielectrophoretic and electrorotational spectra with best fits derived from theoretical models. The dielectric characterization adds to our understanding of the nematocysts’ structure and function and is necessary for the dielectrophoretic isolation and manipulation of populations. As expected, the effect of monovalent and divalent exchange cations resulted in higher inner conductivity for the NaCl treated capsules; this result stands in agreement with their relative higher osmotic pressure. In addition, an efficient dielectrophoretic isolation of different nematocyst subpopulations was demonstrated, paving the way to an understanding of nematocysts’ functional diversity and the development of an efficient drug delivery platform.
Improving substance information in USEtox®, part 1: Discussion on data and approaches for estimating freshwater ecotoxicity effect factors
Authors: Saouter Erwan , Aschberger Karin , Fantke Peter , Hauschild Michael Z. , Bopp Stephanie K. , Kienzler Aude , Paini Alicia , Pant Rana , Secchi Michela , Sala Serenella
Published: June 2017

The scientific consensus model USEtox® is recommended by the European Commission as the reference model to characterize life cycle chemical emissions in terms of their potential human toxicity and freshwater aquatic ecotoxicity impacts in the context of the International Reference Life Cycle Data System Handbook and the Environmental Footprint pilot phase looking at products (PEF) and organizations (OEF). Consequently, this model has been systematically used within the PEF/OEF pilot phase by 25 European Union industry sectors, which manufacture a wide variety of consumer products. This testing phase has raised some questions regarding the derivation of and the data used for the chemical-specific freshwater ecotoxicity effect factor in USEtox. For calculating the potential freshwater aquatic ecotoxicity impacts, USEtox bases the effect factor on the chronic hazard concentration (HC50) value for a chemical calculated as the arithmetic mean of all logarithmized geometric means of species-specific chronic median lethal (or effect) concentrations (L[E]C50). We investigated the dependency of the USEtox effect factor on the selection of ecotoxicological data source and toxicological endpoints, and we found that both influence the ecotoxicity ranking of chemicals and may hence influence the conclusions of a PEF/OEF study. We furthermore compared the average measure (HC50) with other types of ecotoxicity effect indicators, such as the lowest species EC50 or no-observable-effect concentration, frequently used in regulatory risk assessment, and demonstrated how they may also influence the ecotoxicity ranking of chemicals. We acknowledge that these indicators represent different aspects of a chemical's ecotoxicity potential and discuss their pros and cons for a comparative chemical assessment as performed in life cycle assessment and in particular within the PEF/OEF context. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:3450–3462. © 2017 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
The joint credit risk of UK global‐systemically important banks
Authors: Cerrato Mario , Crosby John , Kim Minjoo , Zhao Yang
Published: June 2017

We study the joint credit risk in the UK banking sector using the weekly CDS spreads of global systemically important banks over 2007–2015. We show that the time‐varying and asymmetric dependence structure of the CDS spread changes is closely related to the joint default probability that two or more banks simultaneously default. We are able to flexibly measure the joint credit risk at the high‐frequency level by applying the combination of the reduced‐form model and the GAS‐based dynamic asymmetric copula model to the CDS spreads. We also verify that much of the dependence structure of the CDS spread changes are driven by the market factors. Overall, our study demonstrates that the market factors are key inputs for the effective management of the systemic credit risk in the banking sector.
Sediment composition, provenance, and Holocene paleoenvironmental evolution of the Southern Po River coastal plain (Italy)
Authors: Greggio Nicolas , Giambastiani Beatrice M.S. , Campo Bruno , Dinelli Enrico , Amorosi Alessandro
Published: June 2017

Geochemistry, sediment provenance, and the Holocene paleoenvironmental evolution of the Southern Po River coastal plain (Italy) were examined based on the geochemical analysis of 279 sediment samples from 35 cores. The Holocene succession is subdivided into four major facies associations: back‐barrier, transgressive barrier, shallow‐marine, and beach‐ridge deposits. Bulk chemical composition shows remarkable differences between facies associations, and the poly‐modal behavior in the related frequency curves suggests distinct sources of sediment. Using MgO and Ni as geochemical tracers, changes in sediment provenance were assessed with the aim to reconstruct the Holocene paleoenvironmental evolution of the area. The Po River and the Apenninic rivers represented the main sources of sediment during the early stages of transgression and highstand sea‐level conditions, whereas transgressive barrier and early shallow‐marine facies associations exhibit a clear North Adriatic river (eastern Alpine) provenance. The Holocene paleoenvironmental evolution of the study area, between about 10 ky and the present, indicates the presence of a bypass zone in front of the Po River mouth between 9 and 6 ky BP. At that time, sediment supplied by the North Adriatic rivers was transported southward by the longshore drift, bypassed the weak Po River influx and accumulated close to the Apennines. Comparison between Holocene facies associations and current back‐barrier and shallow‐marine sediments confirms that the present‐day basin circulation is similar to the one that acted during the last episode of sea‐level rise.
Apolipoprotein E genotype impact on memory and attention in older persons: the moderating role of personality phenotype
Authors: Chapman Benjamin P. , Benedict Ralph H.B. , Lin Feng , Roy Shumita , Porteinsson Antoine , Szigeti Kinga , Federoff Howard , Mapstone Mark
Published: June 2017

Objectives

To determine if phenotypic personality traits modify the association of Apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotypes with different domains of cognitive function.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Methods

172 non‐demented older adults were administered the NEO‐Five Factor Inventory (NEO‐FFI), a battery of neuropsychological tests assessing memory, attention, executive function, language, and visuospatial ability, and underwent APOE genotyping. Multivariate (multiple‐dependent variable) regression models predicting cognitive domains tested APOE interactions with personality traits, adjusting for age, sex, and education.

Results

The APOE ε4 allele showed small to modest main effects on memory and executive function (1/3 SD deficits for carriers, p < .05), with ε2 status evidencing minimal and non‐significant benefit. Neuroticism interacted with both ε2 and ε4 alleles in associations with attention scores (p = .001), with ε2 benefits and ε4 deficits being marked at high Neuroticism (Mean [M] covariate‐adjusted Z‐score = .39 for ε2, −.47 for ε4). The association of ε4 with memory was moderated by Conscientiousness (p < .001), such that ε4 memory deficits were apparent at low Conscientiousness (M = −.56), but absent at high levels of Conscientiousness. Weaker patterns (p < .05) also suggested ε4‐related detriments in executive function only at lower Conscientiousness, and ε2 memory benefits only at higher Openness.

Conclusions

Conscientiousness and Neuroticism moderate APOE associations with memory and executive function. As such, they may be useful phenotypic markers in refining the prognostic significance of this polymorphism. Effect‐modifying personality traits also provide clues about behavioral and psychological factors that influence the cognitive impact of APOE. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
WHO's Service Availability and Readiness Assessment of primary health care services of commune health centers in a rural district of Northern Vietnam
Authors: Van Huy Nguyen , Nam You‐Seon , Van Thanh Nguyen , Tuan Ngo Tri , Ha Nguyen Thi Thu , Hoat Luu Ngoc , Hoang Nguyen Minh , Hoa Do Mai
Published: June 2017

The objective of this study was to assess the availability and readiness of the primary health care (PHC) services of commune health centers (CHCs) in Quoc Oai, a rural district of Northern Vietnam based on the World Health Organization's Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) tool. The study was done in 2 steps. First, the heads of the 21 CHCs of Quoc Oai district were interviewed using SARA, a quantitative survey, and the responses were then validated by direct observations of each facility. The results showed that although the average number of health staffs in each CHC met the national standards (at least 5 staffs per CHC), its allocation within each CHC was not properly met because some CHCs had only 2 health staffs. Several health equipment and facilities were not fully available in many CHCs, and although the majority of the PHC services were available at the CHCs, their readiness remained limited. Several significant correlates between the availability of health care workers and the availability of the facilities and the PHC services were observed, suggesting that they depend upon and affect one another in the health system. Using the SARA‐based inventory, the study helps health managers and policy makers to prioritize efforts and allocate resources more appropriately. To be effective, attention should be given to how to make facilities, services, and human resources for health ready for PHC activities—more investment and support from the system (from higher to lower level) and the government.
Adenoviral production of interleukin‐2 at the tumor site removes the need for systemic postconditioning in adoptive cell therapy
Authors: Santos Joao Manuel , Havunen Riikka , Siurala Mikko , Cervera‐Carrascon Víctor , Tähtinen Siri , Sorsa Suvi , Anttila Marjukka , Karell Pauliina , Kanerva Anna , Hemminki Akseli
Published: June 2017

Systemic high dose interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) postconditioning has long been utilized in boosting the efficacy of T cells in adoptive cell therapy (ACT) of solid tumors. The resulting severe off‐target toxicity of these regimens renders local production at the tumor an attractive concept with possible safety gains. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of intratumorally administered IL‐2‐coding adenoviruses in combination with tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte therapy in syngeneic Syrian hamsters bearing HapT1 pancreatic tumors and with T cell receptor transgenic ACT in B16.OVA melanoma bearing C57BL/6 mice. The models are complementary: hamsters are semi‐permissive for human oncolytic adenovirus, whereas detailed immunological analyses are possible in mice. In both models, local production of IL‐2 successfully replaced the need for systemic recombinant IL‐2 (rIL‐2) administration and increased the efficacy of the cell therapy. Furthermore, vectored delivery of IL‐2 significantly enhanced the infiltration of CD8+ T cells, M1‐like macrophages, and B‐cells while systemic rIL‐2 increased CD25 + FoxP3+ T cells at the tumor. In contrast with vectored delivery, histopathological analysis of systemic rIL‐2‐treated animals revealed significant changes in lungs, livers, hearts, spleens, and kidneys. In summary, local IL‐2 production results in efficacy and safety gains in the context of ACT. These preclinical assessments provide the rationale for ongoing clinical translation.
Comparison of the toxicity of the dyes Sudan II and Sudan IV to catalase
Authors: Li Tong , Hao Minglu , Pan Jie , Zong Wansong , Liu Rutao
Published: June 2017

The mechanisms of the toxicity of Sudan dyes to the key antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT) were investigated by spectroscopic methods, calorimetry techniques, enzyme activity assay, and molecular docking. Results showed that Sudan dyes bound to CAT through hydrophobic force, which changed the microenvironment of tryptophan and tyrosine residues, leading to a conformational alteration and shrinkage of the protein. Enzyme activity assay and molecular docking revealed that the activity of CAT was slightly inhibited in the presence of Sudan dyes. In comparison, the binding of Sudan II with CAT was slightly stronger than Sudan IV. Also, Sudan II and Sudan IV showed a different impact on the microenvironment of aromatic amino acid residues. But the dyes had very similar effects on conformation and activity of the protein. This work provides an essential reference for the evaluation of Sudan dyes’ effects on body's antioxidant defense system and safe use of Sudan dyes.
Different Porosities of Chitosan Can Influence the Osteogenic Differentiation Potential of Stem Cells
Authors: Ardeshirylajimi Abdolreza , Delgoshaie Mahdieh , Mirzaei Samaneh , Khojasteh Arash
Published: June 2017

Scaffolds porosity has an important role in in vitro and in vivo differentiation process of stem cells with given the amount of space available to the cells to proliferate and differentiate. In the present study, chitosan with three porosities including 10%, 15%, and 20% that created by gelatin were used for investigation of the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation potential of adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs). In order to be more like the scaffold to natural bone tissue, freeze‐drying method was used in the scaffold preparation. Scaffold morphology, cell attachment, and toxicity were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and MTT assay. Then, osteogenic differentiation potential of ADSCs cultured on chitosan with different porosities was evaluated by common osteogenic markers such as Alizarin red staining, ALP activity, calcium content, and osteogenic‐related genes expression via real‐time RT‐PCR. Although all scaffolds supported the proliferation and differentiation of ADSCs, but 10% scaffold demonstrated higher amount of osteogenic markers in comparison with the other porosities and control groups. Taking together, it can be concluded that osteogenic differentiation well done in the scaffolds with lower porosity because density of the cells will increase by forcing resulted from the scaffold, so osteogenic differentiation of the stem cells have an inverse association with scaffold porosity. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 625–633, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The IL‐1Ra gene variable number tandem repeat variant is associated with susceptibility to temporomandibular disorders in Turkish population
Authors: Tumer Mehmet Kemal , Nursal Ayse Feyda , Tekcan Akin , Yerliyurt Kaan , Geyko Anastasia , Yigit Serbulent
Published: June 2017

Background

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are a group of disorders involving temporomandibular joint and related structures. Interleukine‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) is an important anti‐inflammatory molecule that competes with other interleukin‐1 molecules. This study was designed to investigate the possible association of the IL‐1Ra VNTR variant with the risk of TMD in the Turkish population.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were collected from 100 patients with TMD (23 males, 77 females) and 110 healthy individuals (35 males, 75 females). Genotyping of IL‐1Ra 86 bp VNTR variant was evaluated by gel electrophoresis after polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Our results show that there is a statistically significant difference between TMD patients and control group with respect to IL‐1Ra genotype distribution and allele frequencies. 1.2, 1.4, and 4.4 genotypes were more common in patients, while 2.2 and 3.3 genotypes were rarer (P<.000). Frequency of alleles 1 and 4 was higher in patient groups (P<.000), whereas alleles 2 and 3 had a lower frequency in patients with TMD (P<.000).

Conclusions

This is the first correlation study that evaluates the association between IL‐1Ra gene VNTR variant and TMD. The VNTR variant related to IL‐1Ra gene showed a strong pattern of association with TMD that may have a potential impact on disease counseling and management. Larger studies with various ethnicities are needed to establish the impact of IL‐1Ra VNTR variant on risk of developing TMD.
Core Entrustable Professional Activities in Clinical Pharmacology for Entering Residency: Biologics
Authors: Donnenberg Vera S. , Mandic Maja , Rhee John C. , Burns Timothy F. , Meibohm Bernd , Korth‐Bradley Joan M.
Published: June 2017

Biologicals are a rapidly expanding class of medications used in the treatment of many different conditions. This article reviews the common characteristics of this class and the requirements for safe and effective use in patients. Several vignettes are included to illustrate common challenges.
Efficient MW‐Assisted Synthesis of Some New Isoquinolinone Derivatives With In Vitro Antitumor Activity
Authors: Hekal Mohamed H. , Abu El‐Azm Fatma S. M.
Published: June 2017

An efficient and convenient synthesis of novel [1,3]oxazino[3,2‐b]isoquinoline‐5,12‐dione derivative 4 was achieved by the reaction of anthranilic acid with homophthalic anhydride under microwave irradiation, followed by cyclization with acetic anhydride. Some new isoquinolinone and fused isoquinolinone derivatives were prepared via reaction of compound 4 with different nitrogen nucleophiles by using reflux and a focused microwave reactor. Microwave irradiation favored the formation of the desired products with improved yields and shortened reaction times. This is a simple and green method for the synthesis of isoquinolinone derivatives. The structures of the prepared compounds were elucidated by IR, 1H‐NMR, and mass spectroscopy. Some of the newly prepared compounds were tested in vitro against a panel of three human tumor cell lines, namely, hepatocellular carcinoma (liver) HepG2, colon cancer HCT‐116, and mammary gland breast MCF‐7. Almost all of the tested compounds showed satisfactory activity.
Shape synthesis of a well‐plate for electromagnetic stimulation of cells
Authors: Di Barba Paolo , Fassina Lorenzo , Magenes Giovanni , Mognaschi Maria Evelina
Published: June 2017

In the paper, a device for in vitro electromagnetic stimulation of cells at low frequency (75 Hz) is studied and synthesized. In particular, shape and position of a well plate are identified to obtain a homogeneous stimulation and to maximize the space allotted to cell culture.
Geochemical characterization (REE, Nd and Pb isotopes) of atmospheric mineral dust deposited in two maritime peat bogs from the St. Lawrence North Shore (eastern Canada)
Authors: Pratte Steve , De Vleeschouwer François , Garneau Michelle
Published: June 2017

Dust deposited on two ombrotrophic peat bogs (Baie and IDH bogs) of the St. Lawrence Gulf and Estuary north shore (Quebec) was geochemically characterized using rare earth element (REE) concentrations, Nd and Pb isotopes along with particle grain size. Both cores display similar ɛNd values, which suggests either a common source or sources with similar signatures in both regions. Combining Nd isotope data with REE patterns and particle size allowed for better insights into the source of deposited dust and the inference of past environmental and climatic conditions in both regions. REEs, ɛNd and grain‐size distribution suggest that, over the last 2000 years, the Baie bog received more local dust due to increased local storminess in response to greater regional hydroclimatic variability. The same phenomenon occurred in the IDH bog since 620 cal a BP, i.e. during the Little Ice Age, where hydroclimatic and paleoecological changes have been previously documented. While the dust reconstructions and regional climatic records agree relatively well, the discrepancies between paleodust records highlight the complex and variable structure of late Holocene changes in paleoclimate and more particularly past dust deposition in eastern Canada.
Yield, resource use efficiency and trace metal uptake of weeping lovegrass grown on municipal sludge‐amended soil
Authors: Tesfamariam Eyob H , Annandale John G , Steyn Martin J , Truter Wayne F , Debusho Legesse K , Talore Deribe G
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

There are concerns that fertilization using sludge in semi‐arid areas, where water is limiting, will compound the effect of drought, resulting in the decline of yield from potential salt accumulation. This study investigated impacts of annual sludge application at 0, 4, 8 and 16 Mg ha−1 on weeping lovegrass hay yield, crude protein (CP) content, rainfall use efficiency (RUE), nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and trace metal uptake over eight consecutive years.

RESULTS

Both hay yield and RUE increased by 5–53% as the sludge rate increased. Hay yield was highest (13.3 Mg ha−1) during the wet season and RUE (27.1 kg mm−1) during the dry season. RUE was highest at sludge rates of 16 Mg ha−1 and NUE at 4 Mg ha−1. Similarly, municipal sludge application increased CP content as well as crop Cr and Zn uptake from the 16 Mg ha−1 treatment.

CONCLUSION

Results from this study indicated that eight consecutive years of treated municipal sludge application increased weeping lovegrass hay yield, CP content and RUE. Similarly, trace metal uptake by crop did not differ between the zero control and the 16 Mg ha−1 treatment, except for Zn and Cr, which showed a slight increment. Nonetheless, all trace metals remained well below the maximum tolerable dietary concentrations for domestic animals. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of particle size on phytochemical composition and antioxidant properties of two persimmon flours from Diospyros kaki Thunb. vars. ‘Rojo Brillante’ and ‘Triumph’ co‐products
Authors: Lucas‐González Raquel , Fernández‐López Juana , Pérez‐Álvarez José Ángel , Viuda‐Martos Manuel
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

This contribution studies the influence of the particle size of persimmon flours (from two cultivars, ‘Rojo Brillante’ and ‘Triumph’) on their primary (sugars and organic acids) and secondary (polyphenols, flavonoids and carotenoids) metabolite content, and also on their antioxidant activity, to assess whether these flours could find applications in the food industry as a potential functional ingredient.

RESULTS

The main sugars were fructose and glucose and the principal organic acid was malic acid. The highest content of total phenols, flavonoids and carotenoids was found in flour fractions from cv. ‘Rojo Brillante’. The phenol profile determined by HPLC identified six phenolic compounds in both persimmon flours, the most abundant being gallic acid. The greatest ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging capacity and ferric reducing power were found in flour fractions from cv. ‘Rojo Brillante’. Although the influence of particle size on all these properties was not always evident, in general, the higher bioactive compound content and antioxidant capacity were in the finest particles.

CONCLUSION

Co‐products from cvs. ‘Rojo Brillante’ and ‘Triumph’ persimmon juice extraction can be processed to obtain flours rich in sugars, organic acids and bioactive compounds, suggesting their possible use as a functional ingredient (with antioxidant properties) in different food products. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Purification of lignans from Fructus Arctii using off‐line two‐dimensional supercritical fluid chromatography/reversed‐phase liquid chromatography
Authors: Yang Bichao , Xin Huaxia , Wang Feier , Cai Jianfeng , Liu Yanfang , Fu Qing , Jin Yu , Liang Xinmiao
Published: June 2017

As a common traditional Chinese medicine, Fructus Arctii has important clinical medical values. Its main components are lignans, which are difficult to separate and analyze because of the complex composition, similar chemical structures, and close properties. In this study, an off‐line two‐dimensional supercritical fluid chromatography/reversed‐phase liquid chromatography method, as well as an effective sample pretreatment method based on hydrophilic interaction chromatography material, was developed to enrich the minor lignan fractions and obtain high‐purity compounds. In total, 12 high‐purity compounds were isolated from Fructus Arctii. Their structures were identified by using high‐resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, which showed that all were lignans and that most of them were isomers. The results demonstrated the effective off‐line two‐dimensional supercritical fluid chromatography/reversed‐phase liquid chromatography method for the purification of lignans from Fructus Arctii. The separation protocol established here will be beneficial for the separation of complex samples from other kinds of natural products.