bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the axon initial segment of mice substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons
Authors: González‐Cabrera Cristian , Meza Rodrigo , Ulloa Lorena , Merino‐Sepúlveda Paulina , Luco Valentina , Sanhueza Ana , Oñate‐Ponce Alejandro , Bolam J. Paul , Henny Pablo
Published: July 2017

The axon initial segment (AIS) is the site of initiation of action potentials and influences action potential waveform, firing pattern, and rate. In view of the fundamental aspects of motor function and behavior that depend on the firing of substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopaminergic neurons, we identified and characterized their AIS in the mouse. Immunostaining for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), sodium channels (Nav) and ankyrin‐G (Ank‐G) was used to visualize the AIS of dopaminergic neurons. Reconstructions of sampled AIS of dopaminergic neurons revealed variable lengths (12–60 μm) and diameters (0.2–0.8 μm), and an average of 50% reduction in diameter between their widest and thinnest parts. Ultrastructural analysis revealed submembranous localization of Ank‐G at nodes of Ranvier and AIS. Serial ultrathin section analysis and 3D reconstructions revealed that Ank‐G colocalized with TH only at the AIS. Few cases of synaptic innervation of the AIS of dopaminergic neurons were observed. mRNA in situ hybridization of brain‐specific Nav subunits revealed the expression of Nav1.2 by most SNc neurons and a small proportion expressing Nav1.6. The presence of sodium channels, along with the submembranous location of Ank‐G is consistent with the role of AIS in action potential generation. Differences in the size of the AIS likely underlie differences in firing pattern, while the tapering diameter of AIS may define a trigger zone for action potentials. Finally, the conspicuous expression of Nav1.2 by the majority of dopaminergic neurons may explain their high threshold for firing and their low discharge rate.
One‐Pot Hydrothermal Synthesis of Hexagonal WO3 Nanorods/Graphene Composites as High‐Performance Electrodes for Supercapacitors
Authors: Guan Xiao‐hui , Zhang Zi‐wei , Yang Liu , Wang Guang‐sheng
Published: July 2017

Tungsten oxide (WO3) as an electrode material for supercapacitors has always suffered from low capacitance and poor rate capability. In this work, a series of WO3 nanorods/graphene composites with different weight ratios of tungsten oxide nanorods (WO3 NRs) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) are synthesized successfully through a facile one‐pot electrostatic adsorptive hydrothermal method. In these composites, rGO enhances the conductivity, transporting electrons and protons to the WO3 NRs. In addition, rGO can reinforce the structure of the WO3 NRs during frequently occurring redox reactions. At a graphene weight ratio of 1 wt %, the specific capacitance of the WO3 NRs/rGO composite is 343 F g−1 at a current density of 0.2 A g−1. Compared with pure WO3 as electrodes, the WO3 NRs/rGO composite shows excellent specific capacity, and superior rate performance and cycling stability owing to the combined action of the double layer and pseudocapacitor. This study provides a new convenient approach to promote the electrochemical performance of tungsten oxide.
Researching Corporate Social Responsibility in the Middle East: The Current State and Future Directions
Authors: Al‐Abdin Ahmed , Roy Taposh , Nicholson John D.
Published: July 2017

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has the potential to yield economic and social value in the Middle East (ME), especially given the current high environmental flux in the region. Although much scholarly attention has been paid to CSR issues, a key question remains about how to operate responsibly in the ME, particularly since institutional environments and stakeholders' needs vary across ME states. The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic review of the current state of CSR in the ME. We identify 38 papers that are most pertinent to CSR in the ME and examine the main theoretical frameworks, methodologies, trajectories for further conceptual development, gaps where new research pathways need to be created, and also future research questions. From this systematic review, we reveal how attention to CSR in the ME is slowly gaining traction. A snapshot of the gaps identified include collaboration between business and non‐governmental organisations (NGOs), the impact of stakeholders and institutions on CSR, the impact of political and economic crisis on CSR, and the influence of individualistic characteristics shaping managers' CSR behaviour. In addition to such gaps, we present an agenda for future research. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
How Does Entrepreneurial and International Orientation Influence SMEs' Commitment to Sustainable Development? Empirical Evidence from Spain and Mexico
Authors: Ayuso Silvia , Navarrete‐Báez Francisco Ernesto
Published: July 2017

This paper aims to shed light on the relationship between the entrepreneurial behaviour of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) and their commitment to sustainable development (SD). In order to analyse the determinants of SD engagement at the organisational level, we draw on the resource‐based view of the firm and examine specifically the effects of entrepreneurial orientation and internationalisation, using survey data from Spanish and Mexican SMEs. Our results reveal that entrepreneurial orientation is positively associated with SD engagement, particularly regarding the environment, human resources, and community involvement. However, we could only observe a positive effect of SME internationalisation on SD engagement in Mexican but not in Spanish firms, suggesting that this effect is context‐dependent and related to institutional pressures. We discuss the implications of these findings for scholars and practitioners. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
SA 8000 as a Tool for a Sustainable Development Strategy
Authors: Santos Gilberto , Murmura Federica , Bravi Laura
Published: July 2017

In today's global markets, issues related to environmental sustainability, ethics, working environment conditions and safety, stakeholders' relations and the protection of workers' rights have greater importance on business performances. For this reason, the aim of this research is to analyze the concept of corporate social responsibility, investigating the perception of Italian companies about Social Accountability 8000, a voluntary International Standard used as a tool to certify companies' commitment on social aspects. The survey began September 15, 2016 and answers were accepted until November 15, 2016. Two hundred twenty‐one Italian SA8000 certified companies participated to the survey reaching a response rate of 20.4%. Using a questionnaire submitted to certified companies, the main reasons which have driven companies to certification have been investigated, highlighting that the motivations which drive companies to be certified are both of an internal and external type: an improved image is the first, followed by the willingness to have a better working environment. Among the experienced benefits resulted from the study there are ‘reduction of labor conflicts’ and ‘achievement of a competitive advantage over competitors’, while limitations seem to be scarcely perceived and are defined especially by the lack of staff and management training. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
1D and 2D NMR Spectroscopy of Bonding Interactions within Stable and Phase‐Separating Organic Electrolyte–Cellulose Solutions
Authors: Clough Matthew T. , Farès Christophe , Rinaldi Roberto
Published: July 2017

Organic electrolyte solutions (i.e. mixtures containing an ionic liquid and a polar, molecular co‐solvent) are highly versatile solvents for cellulose. However, the underlying solvent–solvent and solvent–solute interactions are not yet fully understood. Herein, mixtures of the ionic liquid 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate, the co‐solvent 1,3‐dimethyl‐2‐imidazolidinone, and cellulose are investigated using 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The use of a triply‐13C‐labelled ionic liquid enhances the signal‐to‐noise ratio for 13C NMR spectroscopy, enabling changes in bonding interactions to be accurately pinpointed. Current observations reveal an additional degree of complexity regarding the distinct roles of cation, anion, and co‐solvent toward maintaining cellulose solubility and phase stability. Unexpectedly, the interactions between the dialkylimidazolium ring C2−H substituent and cellulose become more pronounced at high temperatures, counteracted by a net weakening of acetate–cellulose interactions. Moreover, for mixtures that exhibit critical solution behavior, phase separation is accompanied by the apparent recombination of cation–anion pairs.
High‐dimensional single cell mapping of cerium distribution in the lung immune microenvironment of an active smoker
Authors: Rahman Adeeb H. , Lavin Yonit , Kobayashi Soma , Leader Andrew , Merad Miriam
Published: July 2017

Background

Mass cytometry leverages inductively coupled mass spectrometry to perform high dimensional single cell analyses using antibodies tagged with rare earth isotopes that are considered to be largely absent in biological samples. We have recently noted an unusual exception to this rule while analyzing tissue samples from patients undergoing surgical resection for early stage lung cancer, and here we present a detailed cytometric characterization of cerium in a clinical patient sample.

Methods

We performed a CyTOF analysis on cell suspensions derived from matched blood, tumor lesion, and non‐involved lung tissue from an active smoker undergoing surgical resection for early stage lung adenocarcinoma. The samples were stained with a 31‐parameter antibody panel to allow a detailed characterization of the cellular heterogeneity of the samples. The data were visualized using viSNE, major immune subsets were identified based on canonical marker expression patterns, and single cell cerium levels were evaluated across each of these defined subsets.

Results

High dimensional immune cell mapping revealed that high levels of cerium were specifically associated with a phenotypically distinct subset of lung macrophages that were most prevalent in noninvolved lung tissue, whereas tumor associated macrophages showed relatively lower levels of cerium. We hypothesize that these findings reflect alveolar macrophage phagocytosis of inhaled cerium derived from cigarette flint lighters.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the first high‐dimensional single cell characterization of environmental metal exposure associated with smoking, and offer a demonstration of the unique potential for applying mass cytometry to the field of environmental toxicology. © 2017 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Ketoacidosis associated with SGLT2 inhibitor treatment: Analysis of FAERS data
Authors: Blau Jenny E. , Tella Sri Harsha , Taylor Simeon I. , Rother Kristina I.
Published: July 2017

Background

Regulatory agencies have concluded that sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors lead to ketoacidosis, but published literature on this point remains controversial.

Methods

We searched the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) for reports of acidosis in patients treated with canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, or empagliflozin (from the date of each drug's FDA approval until May 15, 2015). We compared the number of SGLT2 inhibitor‐related reports to reports of acidosis in patients treated with the 2 most commonly used DPP4 inhibitors: sitagliptin and saxagliptin. We estimated relative risks of acidosis by relating the number of reports to cumulative drug sales (a surrogate for patient exposure).

Results

FAERS contained 259 reports of acidosis (including 192 reports of ketoacidosis) for SGLT2 inhibitors compared with 477 reports of acidosis for DPP4 inhibitors (including 71 reports of ketoacidosis). Based on estimated patient exposure, the overall risk of developing acidosis was ~14‐fold higher for SGLT2 inhibitors. Among 51 SGLT2 inhibitor‐related reports with quantifiable metabolic information, 20 cases occurred in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D), 25 in type 2 diabetes (T2D), and 6 in patients with unspecified type of diabetes. After excluding patients with T1D and focusing on patients identified as having T2D, we estimate that SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with ~7‐fold increase in developing acidosis. Seventy‐one percent had euglycemic ketoacidosis.

Conclusions

Our results support the FDA's warning that SGLT2 inhibitors lead to ketoacidosis, as evidenced by an increased reporting rate for acidosis above that in a comparator population treated with DPP4 inhibitors.
Evolution of antero‐posterior patterning of the limb: Insights from the chick
Authors: Towers Matthew
Published: July 2017

The developing limbs of chicken embryos have served as pioneering models for understanding pattern formation for over a century. The ease with which chick wing and leg buds can be experimentally manipulated, while the embryo is still in the egg, has resulted in the discovery of important developmental organisers, and subsequently, the signals that they produce. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) is produced by mesenchyme cells of the polarizing region at the posterior margin of the limb bud and specifies positional values across the antero‐posterior axis (the axis running from the thumb to the little finger). Detailed experimental embryology has revealed the fundamental parameters required to specify antero‐posterior positional values in response to Shh signaling in chick wing and leg buds. In this review, the evolution of the avian wing and leg will be discussed in the broad context of tetrapod paleontology, and more specifically, ancestral theropod dinosaur paleontology. How the parameters that dictate antero‐posterior patterning could have been modulated to produce the avian wing and leg digit patterns will be considered. Finally, broader speculations will be made regarding what the antero‐posterior patterning of chick limbs can tell us about the evolution of other digit patterns, including those that were found in the limbs of the earliest tetrapods.
Disentangling the role of seed bank and dispersal in plant metapopulation dynamics using patch occupancy surveys
Authors: Manna F. , Pradel R. , Choquet R. , Fréville H. , Cheptou P.‐O.
Published: July 2017

In plants, the presence of a seed bank challenges the application of classical metapopulation models to aboveground presence surveys; ignoring seed bank leads to overestimated extinction and colonization rates. In this article, we explore the possibility to detect seed bank using hidden Markov models in the analysis of aboveground patch occupancy surveys of an annual plant with limited dispersal. Patch occupancy data were generated by simulation under two metapopulation sizes (N = 200 and N = 1,000 patches) and different metapopulation scenarios, each scenario being a combination of the presence/absence of a 1‐yr seed bank and the presence/absence of limited dispersal in a circular 1‐dimension configuration of patches. In addition, because local conditions often vary among patches in natural metapopulations, we simulated patch occupancy data with heterogeneous germination rate and patch disturbance. Seed bank is not observable from aboveground patch occupancy surveys, hence hidden Markov models were designed to account for uncertainty in patch occupancy. We explored their ability to retrieve the correct scenario. For 10 yr surveys and metapopulation sizes of N = 200 or 1,000 patches, the correct metapopulation scenario was detected at a rate close to 100%, whatever the underlying scenario considered. For smaller, more realistic, survey duration, the length for a reliable detection of the correct scenario depends on the metapopulation size: 3 yr for N = 1,000 and 6 yr for N = 200 are enough. Our method remained powerful to disentangle seed bank from dispersal in the presence of patch heterogeneity affecting either seed germination or patch extinction. Our work shows that seed bank and limited dispersal generate different signatures on aboveground patch occupancy surveys. Therefore, our method provides a powerful tool to infer metapopulation dynamics in a wide range of species with an undetectable life form.
Unsymmetrical Diborane(4) Derivatives: A Comparative Study
Authors: Borner Corinna , Wiecha Maximilian T. , Kleeberg Christian
Published: July 2017

Since its introduction in 2010 by Suginome et al., pinB–Bdan [pin = OCMe2CMe2O, dan = (NH)2(C10H6)] has become a valuable reagent in various regioselective (bis‐)borylation reactions, and related unsymmetrical diborane(4) derivatives have been used as versatile precursors for diaminoboryl complexes. However, the unsymmetrical diborane(4) derivatives employed show little variation of the diol and diamine moieties. The present study expands this class of compounds and reports the synthesis of unsymmetrical diborane(4) derivatives [C2H4(tBuN)2]B–B(NMe2)2 and [C2H4(tBuN)2]B–B(NMe2)Cl, bearing a sterically demanding non‐aromatic diamine moiety, as well as [C6H4(HN)2]B–B(O2C5H10), [C6H4(HN)2]B–B(O2C2H4), and [C6H4(HN)2]B–B[O2C6H2(C2H9)2], which illustrate the variability of the diol moiety. Fully characterization of all compounds including single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies allows for the first time a comparative discussion of the spectroscopic and structural properties of this class of compounds.
Pillar[5]arene–Py–Cu Gel, the First Pillar[5]arene‐Based Metallo(organo)gel, and Adsorption of Sudan III by Its Gel‐Precipitate
Authors: Hu Wei‐Bo , Cai Hong‐Rui , Hu Wen‐Jing , Zhao Xiao‐Li , Liu Yahu A. , Li Jiu‐Sheng , Jiang Biao , Wen Ke
Published: July 2017

Pillar[5]arene–Py–Cu gel, a supramolecular metallo(organo)gel, was made from an A1/A2‐bipyridyl‐functionalized pillar[5]arene ligand (L) through metal–ligand complexation. The xerogel obtained from pillar[5]arene–Py–Cu gel has a hydrangea‐flower‐like rugate layered structure, and a sheet‐like structured gel‐precipitate was formed from pillar[5]arene–Py–Cu gel under shaking or sonication. Both the xerogel and the gel‐precipitate can extract Sudan III from its ethanol solution.
Design, Synthesis and X‐ray Crystal Structure of Iodinated Benzoboroxole Derivatives by Consecutive Metal–Iodine Exchange of 3,4,5‐Triiodoanisole
Authors: Al‐Zoubi Raed M. , Al‐Zoubi Mazhar S. , Jaradat Khaled T. , McDonald Robert
Published: July 2017

A series of iodinated benzoboroxoles was designed and synthesized by using a successive metal–iodine exchange reaction of 3,4,5‐triiodoanisole. The reactivity and regioselectivity of the metal‐iodine exchange are remarkably controlled and provide the iodinated products in good yields. The synthesized iodobenzoboroxoles were screened for in vitro antimicrobial activity against two Gram‐positive strains of bacteria, Micrococcus luteus (ATCC 9341) and Bacillus cereus (ATCC 11778), and two Gram‐negative strains, Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Serratia marcescens (ATCC 27117), by using a well‐diffusion assay and dilution methods. The in vitro antimicrobial evaluation indicated that 4‐iodo‐6‐methoxybenzo[c][1,2]oxaborol‐1(3H)‐ol (compound 24) possesses the most‐potent antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive strains with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.016 and 0.013 mg/mL for Micrococcus luteus and Bacillus cereus, respectively. This report discloses a two‐step protocol for the synthesis of hitherto unknown 4‐iodobenzoboroxole and 7‐iodobenzoboroxole derivatives that is efficient, general in scope and scalable.
PDMS/glass hybrid device with a reusable carbon electrode for on‐line monitoring of catecholamines using microdialysis sampling coupled to microchip electrophoresis with electrochemical detection
Authors: Saylor Rachel A. , Lunte Susan M.
Published: July 2017

On‐line separations‐based sensors employing microdialysis (MD) coupled to microchip electrophoresis (ME) enable the continuous monitoring of multiple analytes simultaneously. Electrochemical detection (EC) is especially amenable to on‐animal systems employing MD‐ME due to its ease of miniaturization. However, one of the difficulties in fabricating MD‐ME‐EC systems is incorporating carbon working electrodes into the device. In this paper, a novel fabrication procedure is described for the production of a PDMS/glass hybrid device that is capable of integrating hydrodynamic MD flow with ME‐EC using a flow‐gated interface and a pyrolyzed photoresist film carbon electrode. This fabrication method enables the reuse of carbon electrodes on a glass substrate, while still maintaining a good seal between the PDMS and glass to allow for pressure‐driven MD flow. The on‐line MD‐ME‐EC device was characterized in vitro and in vivo for monitoring analytes in the dopamine metabolic pathway. The ultimate goal is to use this device and associated instrumentation to perform on‐animal, near‐real time in vivo monitoring of catecholamines.
Paramecium‐Like Iron Oxide Nanotubes as a Cost‐Efficient Catalyst for Nonaqueous Lithium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Zhang Ruihan , Zhao T. S. , Wu Maochun , Tan Peng , Jiang Haoran
Published: July 2017

Fe2O3‐based catalysts have been developed to achieve a low overpotential and a long cycle life for nonaqueous Li–O2 batteries. However, previous studies focus mainly on nanoparticles or nanoflakes, which have shown limited improvements for battery performance. Here, paramecium‐like Fe2O3 nanotubes (FNTs) are synthesized by a hard‐template method and applied as the catalyst in a nonaqueous Li–O2 battery. The large specific surface area and unique tubular structure of the FNTs allow the nonaqueous Li–O2 battery to deliver a high capacity of 6000 mAh g−1 at a discharge current density of 500 mA g−1 with a low discharge and charge overpotential of approximately 0.19 and 0.85 V, respectively. Moreover, the battery can be operated at a discharge current density as high as 1000 mA g−1 with a capacity of 3940 mAh g−1 and demonstrates an excellent rate capability. The prepared catalyst enables the battery to maintain the discharge capacity and Coulombic efficiency without any degradation for 150 cycles at 500 mA g−1 with a fixed capacity of 500 mAh g−1, which is 110 more cycles than the battery without the catalyst.
Progress and Trends in Magnesium‐Based Materials for Energy‐Storage Research: A Review
Authors: Shao Huaiyu , He Liqing , Lin Huaijun , Li Hai‐Wen
Published: July 2017

For the realization of a hydrogen economy, one enabling technology is hydrogen storage. Magnesium‐based materials (MBMs) are very promising candidates for hydrogen storage due to the large hydrogen capacity and low cost. Challenges in the development of magnesium‐based hydrogen‐storage materials for various applications, particularly for onboard storage, are poor kinetics and unsuitable thermodynamics. Herein, new methods and techniques adopted by the researchers in this field are reviewed, with a focus on how different techniques could affect the hydrogen‐storage properties of MBMs, including kinetics and thermodynamics. Based on current progress, research trends in MBMs for various applications are introduced. Classical work from some pioneers, important milestones, and the latest development for these possible applications are summarized and future prospects in these fields are discussed.
Enhanced methane production through bioaugmentation of butyrate‐oxidizing hydrogen‐producing acetogens in anaerobic wastewater treatment
Authors: Wang Shuo , Li Ji , Liu Chong , Nies Loring , Li Jianzheng
Published: July 2017

A feasible and readily available source of hydrogen‐producing acetogens (HPAs) was developed by obtaining microflora D83 dominated by butyrate‐oxidizing HPAs through enrichment and subculture of anaerobic sludge with the use of butyric acid. The effect of bioaugmentation of D83 both on methane production through glucose fermentation and molasses wastewater treatment was evaluated. At a bacterial number‐to‐activated sludge ratio of 1:9, inoculation of microflora D83 could enhance methane yield and production rate from glucose by a factor of 2.1 and 2.0, respectively. In treatment of normal molasses wastewater, chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency improved from 75.6% to 88.2%, and the accumulated methane yield and methane yield obtained through COD removal increased by a factor of 2.3 and 2.0, respectively. Hydrogen‐producing acetogenesis is apparently a rate‐limiting step in methanogenesis because bioaugmentation of HPAs during methane production improved not only hydrogen‐producing acetogenesis but also hydrolysis/acidogenesis and methanogenesis. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 367–374, 2018
Optimization of transesterification process using homogeneous and nano‐heterogeneous catalysts for biodiesel production from Mangifera indica oil
Authors: Jadhav Sangram D. , Tandale Madhukar S.
Published: July 2017

The Mangifera indica oil is a nonedible vegetable oil, which is available in large quantities in mango cultivating countries including India. Very little published work has been found on transesterification process. In present study, the transesterification processes with homogeneous catalysts like NaOH, KOH and heterogeneous solid catalysts like nano MgO (crystal size 6–42 nm, BET surface area 50 m2/gm), nano ZnO (crystal size 15–48 nm, BET surface area 12 m2/gm), and nano SiO2 (crystal size 1–44 nm, BET surface area 110 m2/gm) for optimizing production process of Mangifera indica oil methyl ester (MOME) have been investigated. Effect of input parameters viz. methanol‐to‐oil molar ratio, catalyst type and its loading, reaction temperature, stirrer speed, and reaction time on the yield of MOME was studied by applying the orthogonal experimental array L25. ANOVA (F‐test at P = 0.05) and grey relational technique were used for optimization of yield. The optimal combination of six input variables was obtained for optimized yield of (MOME) biodiesel. The optimal combination so obtained was further confirmed through experiments. Methanol‐to‐oil molar ratio, catalyst type and catalyst loading were the most influencing parameters. The biodiesel produced is within the limits prescribed by EN‐14214 standard. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 533–545, 2018
Risk assessment through ieubk model in an inhabited area contaminated with lead
Authors: Delgado‐Caballero M.R. , Valles‐Aragón M.C. , Millan R. , Alarcón‐Herrera M.T.
Published: July 2017

Over centuries the mining industry has been accumulating a great quantity of wastes. The main potentially toxic elements present in the mining wastes are metals and metalloids. Due to its effects on human health, lead is one of the metals in wastes of more concern. Children are the most vulnerable to inorganic‐Pb exposure, due to their behavior and physiology. Therefore, the objective of this research was to determinate lead concentration and dispersion in an inhabited area, also to estimate the risk for children population in the site through the model IEUBK (Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic model). The inorganic lead in dust present in the inhabited area was analytically determined. The risk assessment of lead exposure for children, predicted that is a probability from 31.68 to 90.61% of have lead in blood above of 10 μg dL−1. Remediation actions are recommended in order to mitigate the population exposure. A risk assessment is an important research tool to evaluate the level of population exposure to contaminant sources that can be dangerous for its health and quality of life. This research is significant due to the fact that tailing damps are multicontaminated wastes; moreover Pb is a pollutant that can generate harsh effects in people, especially in children. The lack of urban planning and awareness encouraged that settlements with new families were developed next to tailing damps without concern about the inhabitant's exposure to Pb and other metals. This manuscript proposes the use of models like the IEUBK, as a tool for risk assessment and studies related with urban planning in mining sites. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 391–398, 2018
Spatial and temporal replicability of meteoric and in situ10Be concentrations in fluvial sediment
Authors: Sosa Gonzalez Veronica , Schmidt Amanda H. , Bierman Paul R. , Rood Dylan H.
Published: July 2017

Cosmogenic isotopes, short‐lived radionuclides, elemental concentrations and thermochronometric indicators are measured in river sand to quantify erosion rates and trace sediment sources, and/or infer erosional processes. Interpretations of detrital sediment analyses are often based on the rarely tested assumption of time‐invariant tracer concentration. A better understanding of when and where this assumption breaks down and what sampling strategies minimize temporal and small‐scale spatial variance will improve science done using detrital river sediment.

Here, we present new and previously published spatial and temporal replicates measured for in situ and meteoric 10Be (10Bei and 10Bem, respectively). Our new data include 113 replicate pairs, taken from agricultural and/or tectonically active watersheds in China months to millennia apart and spatial replicates taken up to 2 km apart on the same day. The mean percentage difference is 10% (−122% to 150%) for both systems considered together; the mode is close to 0% for both systems; and 36% of pairs of samples replicate within our analytical accuracy at 2σ. We find that 10Bei replicates better than 10Bem (p < 0.01). 10Bei replicability is worse in steeper basins, suggesting that stochastic processes (i.e. landslides) affect reproducibility. 10Bem replicability is worse in larger basins, suggesting non‐conservative behavior of 10Bem as sediment moves downstream.

Our results are consistent with the few previously published replicate studies. Considering all replicate data in a wide range of landscapes, in areas with deep erosional processes, replicability is poor; in other areas, replicability is good. This suggests that, in steep, tectonically active, and/or agricultural landscapes, individual detrital sediment measurements do not represent upstream rates as well as larger populations of samples. To ensure that measurements are representative of the upstream watershed, our data suggest that samples be amalgamated either over time or from several places close by in the same channel. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Localized reductions in resting‐state functional connectivity in children with prenatal alcohol exposure
Authors: Fan Jia , Taylor Paul A. , Jacobson Sandra W. , Molteno Christopher D. , Gohel Suril , Biswal Bharat B. , Jacobson Joseph L. , Meintjes Ernesta M.
Published: July 2017

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are characterized by impairment in cognitive function that may or may not be accompanied by craniofacial anomalies, microcephaly, and/or growth retardation. Resting‐state functional MRI (rs‐fMRI), which examines the low‐frequency component of the blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal in the absence of an explicit task, provides an efficient and powerful mechanism for studying functional brain networks even in low‐functioning and young subjects. Studies using independent component analysis (ICA) have identified a set of resting‐state networks (RSNs) that have been linked to distinct domains of cognitive and perceptual function, which are believed to reflect the intrinsic functional architecture of the brain. This study is the first to examine resting‐state functional connectivity within these RSNs in FASD. Rs‐fMRI scans were performed on 38 children with FASD (19 with either full fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or partial FAS (PFAS), 19 nonsyndromal heavily exposed (HE)), and 19 controls, mean age 11.3 ± 0.9 years, from the Cape Town Longitudinal Cohort. Nine resting‐state networks were generated by ICA. Voxelwise group comparison between a combined FAS/PFAS group and controls revealed localized dose‐dependent functional connectivity reductions in five regions in separate networks: anterior default mode, salience, ventral and dorsal attention, and R executive control. The former three also showed lower connectivity in the HE group. Gray matter connectivity deficits in four of the five networks appear to be related to deficits in white matter tracts that provide intra‐RSN connections. Hum Brain Mapp 38:5217–5233, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of PASL, PCASL, and background‐suppressed 3D PCASL in mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Dolui Sudipto , Vidorreta Marta , Wang Ze , Nasrallah Ilya M. , Alavi Abass , Wolk David A. , Detre John A.
Published: July 2017

We compared three implementations of single‐shot arterial spin labeled (ASL) perfusion magnetic resonance imaging: two‐dimensional (2D) pulsed ASL (PASL), 2D pseudocontinuous ASL (PCASL), and background‐suppressed (BS) 3D PCASL obtained in a cohort of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and elderly controls. Study subjects also underwent 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F‐FDG PET). While BS 3D PCASL showed the lowest (P < 0.001) gray matter–white matter cerebral blood flow (CBF) contrast ratio, it provided the highest (P < 0.001) temporal signal‐to‐noise ratio. Mean relative CBF estimated using the PCASL methods in posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), precuneus, and hippocampus showed hypoperfusion in the MCI cohort compared to the controls consistent with hypometabolism measured by 18F‐FDG PET. BS 3D PCASL demonstrated the highest discrimination between controls and patients with effect size comparable to that seen with 18F‐FDG PET. 2D PASL did not demonstrate group differentiation with relative CBF in any ROI, whereas 2D PCASL demonstrated significant differences only in PCC and hippocampus. Mean global CBF values did not differ across methods and were highly correlated; however, the correlations were significantly higher (P < 0.001) when either the same labeling (PCASL) or the same acquisition strategy (2D) was used as compared to when both the labeling and readout methods differed. In addition, there were differences in regional distribution of CBF between the three modalities, which can be attributed to differences in sequence parameters. These results demonstrate the superiority of ASL with PCASL and BS 3D readout as a biomarker for regional brain function changes in MCI. Hum Brain Mapp 38:5260–5273, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cervical cancer in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean and Asia: Regional inequalities and changing trends
Authors: Vaccarella S. , Laversanne M. , Ferlay J. , Bray F.
Published: July 2017

The vast majority (86% or 453,000 cases) of the global burden of cervical cancer occurs in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean and Asia, where one in nine new cancer cases are of the cervix. Although the disease has become rare in high‐resource settings (e.g., in North America, parts of Europe, Japan) that have historically invested in effective screening programs, the patterns and trends are variable elsewhere. While favourable incidence trends have been recorded in many populations in Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean in the past decades, rising rates have been observed in sub‐Saharan African countries, where high quality incidence series are available. The challenge for countries heavily affected by the disease in these regions is to ensure resource‐dependent programmes of screening and vaccination are implemented to transform the situation, so that accelerated declines in cervical cancer are not the preserve of high‐income countries, but become the norm in all populations worldwide.
Vector flow imaging techniques: An innovative ultrasonographic technique for the study of blood flow
Authors: Goddi Alfredo , Fanizza Marianna , Bortolotto Chandra , Raciti Maria Vittoria , Fiorina Ilaria , He Xujin , Du Yigang , Calliada Fabrizio
Published: July 2017

Doppler ultrasonography is routinely used to identify abnormal blood flow. Nevertheless, conventional Doppler can be used to determine only the axial component of blood flow velocity and is angle dependent. A new method of multidimensional angle‐independent estimation of flow velocity, called Vector Flow Imaging (VFI), has been proposed. It quantitatively evaluates the true velocity vector's amplitude and direction at any location into a vessel and displays a more intuitive depiction of the flow movements. High frame rate VFI, based on plane wave imaging, allows a detailed dynamic visualization of complex flow by showing even transient events, otherwise undetectable. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:582–588, 2017
Association of clinical and serological parameters of systemic lupus erythematosus patients with Epstein‐Barr virus antibody profile
Authors: Chougule Durga , Nadkar Milind , Rajadhyaksha Anjali , Pandit‐Shende Pallavi , Surve Prathamesh , Dawkar Nausheen , Khadilkar Prasad , Patwardhan Manisha , Kaveri Srini , Ghosh Kanjaksha , Pradhan Vandana
Published: July 2017

Epstein‐Barr viral infection is one of the known environmental factors involved in development of Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE). Though not much is known about the exact role of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) in SLE pathogenesis, the theory of switching of lytic and lysogenic cycles of EBV in memory B cells fits well with the periods of waning disease activity and intermittent flares in SLE patients. In this study, we investigate the association of EBV antibody profile with clinical and serological parameters in SLE. Eighty‐seven clinically diagnosed SLE patients fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria and fifty healthy individuals were enrolled in this case control study. Anti‐VCA IgM, anti‐VCA IgG, and anti‐EBNA IgG were detected by ELISA technique. Antibodies concentrations between two groups were compared using Mann‐Whitney whereas the difference in categorical data was compared using Chi‐square considering statistical significance at P < 0.05. This study demonstrated a significant increase in EBV VCA‐IgG, VCA‐IgM, and EBNA‐IgG antibodies levels of SLE patients when compared to healthy controls (P < 0.05). High seroprevalence was seen in both the study groups for EBV VCA‐IgG and EBNA‐IgG antibodies when compared to VCA‐IgM antibodies. A significant increase was noted in the anti‐VCA‐IgG levels with dsDNA autoantibody positivity (P < 0.05). Though there was no significant association between EBV antibody profile and clinical manifestations, 100% seropositivity for anti‐VCA‐IgG was seen in SLE patients with renal manifestations. Association of anti‐VCA IgG levels with presence of anti‐dsDNA antibodies suggests a possible role of EBV as an environmental trigger in pathogenesis of SLE.
Uncertainty in homogenized daily temperatures and derived indices of extremes illustrated using parallel observations in Canada
Authors: Vincent Lucie A. , Milewska Ewa J. , Wang Xiaolan L. , Hartwell Megan M.
Published: July 2017

Parallel daily temperature observations at site pairs over a 5‐year period at 88 locations across Canada were used to derive and validate adjustments required during homogenization process. The data was first ‘aligned’ for compatible observing times at 12 locations (other locations do not have this problem). Then the homogenization adjustments were obtained using three procedures (Seasonal Bias, Monthly Interpolation and Quantile Matching) and two approaches (using parallel and neighbours observations). The root mean squared error (RMSE) between the daily temperatures of site 1 and site 2, and the percentage of days within 0.5 °C (PD05) between site 1 and site 2 were used to assess the uncertainty in the mean and extreme values, respectively. The instruments were not necessarily collocated as the distance between the two observing sites varied from 0 to 30 km. The results confirm that it is necessary to apply adjustments for known issues first, such as a different observing time. They also show that when a shift between site 1 and site 2 (defined by the annual mean of the daily temperature differences) is small [<0.25 standard deviation (SD)], the adjustments do not reduce the error between site 1 and site 2. When the shift size is between 0.25 and 0.5 SD, the adjustments derived from parallel observations help to reduce the uncertainty. When the shift is large (>0.5 SD), both approaches reduce the error, although the adjustments derived from parallel observations provide better results as compared to those computed from neighbour observations. The results also indicate that Quantile Matching adjustments can provide a better estimate of the adjustments than the other methods evaluated to indices of extreme temperature computed from the adjusted daily values; however, highly correlated neighbours are needed when the adjustments are based on neighbours observations.
Non‐anthocyanin polyphenolic transformation by native yeast and bacteria co‐inoculation strategy during vinification
Authors: Devi Apramita , Archana Kodira Muthanna , Bhavya Panikuttria Kuttappa , Anu‐Appaiah Konerira Aiyappaa
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Co‐inoculation has been adapted by many wine‐producing countries because it enhances the success of malolactic fermentation and reduces the fermentation cost, as well as time. However, wine phenolics have been sparsely highlighted during co‐inoculation, even though polyphenols are an important parameter affecting wine colour, astringency and aroma. In the present study, we investigated the impact of co‐inoculation on non‐anthocyanin polyphenol profile for two different grape varieties.

RESULTS

Co‐inoculation of native yeast strain (AAV2) along with Oenococcus oeni was adapted for Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz wine. It was observed that the co‐inoculation had minimal yet significant impact on the phenolic composition of wines for both the grape varieties. Color loss, as well as fruity aroma development, was observed in co‐inoculated wines. The wines were on a par with the commercial wine, as well as wines without malolactic fermentation, in terms of phenolic compounds and overall organoleptic acceptance. Principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis further suggested that the varietal influence on phenolic composition was dominating compared to inoculation strategies. Among the varieties, the inoculation strategies have significantly influenced the Cabernet wines compared to Shiraz wines.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study demonstrate that the phenolic compounds are not drastically affected by metabolic activities of malolactic bacteria during co‐inoculation and, hence, are equally suitable for wine fermentation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The effect of sucrose addition at dosage stage on the foam attributes of a bottle‐fermented English sparkling wine
Authors: Crumpton Mark , Rice Christopher J , Atkinson Andrew , Taylor Geoff , Marangon Matteo
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Approximately two‐thirds of wine produced in the UK is bottle‐fermented sparkling wine. Effervescence and foamability are key features used to assess English sparkling wine (ESW) quality. A critical, yet understudied, area of research is the potential for dosage to influence foam behaviour via associated changes in wine viscosity.

RESULTS

In this study, dosage treatments of five increasing levels of sucrose (from 0 to 31 g L−1) were added to an ESW. After storage, the foamability attributes of the wines were analysed via an adapted Mosalux method and a novel image analysis method combined with free pour of the wine. Results indicate that increasing sucrose concentration improved foam formation, but reduced foam stability, likely due to the sucrose added causing a modification in wine viscosity.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the impact that dosage treatments can have on the quality of foam produced upon pouring, and therefore have the potential to inform future sparkling winemaking practices. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Estimating population size for Hawaiian monk seals using haulout data
Authors: Harting Albert L. , Baker Jason D. , Johanos Thea C.
Published: July 2017

Obtaining a range‐wide abundance estimate for the Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi; monk seal) has formerly not been possible because of data limitation at sites where the only available data are infrequent counts. We describe a new method for obtaining abundance estimates for these sites that relies upon the proportion of the non‐pup population observed in standardized counts at other sites with known abundance. We converted these proportions (p), compiled over all sites and years having full population enumeration, to haulout correction factors (CF), where CF = 1/p. We then applied these CF values to counts at sites with unknown population size to provide a bounded distribution of population estimates. We used 2,179 CFs from 44 site‐years at intensively studied sites. We used these CFs for population estimation at 2 sites, Necker and Nihoa Islands, Hawaii, USA, where infrequent counts occurred and total abundance was unknown. The resulting population estimates ( and 5 and 95 percentiles) indicated that abundance had increased at Nihoa from 2001 ( = 31 non‐pups, 5–95% = 21–47) to 2015 ( = 116, 5–95% = 79–177), but there was no increase evident at Necker. We conducted method validation by randomly selecting 1–5 of the observed counts at site‐years with full enumeration, applying the CFs to the observed count, and testing whether the true (known) value lay within the 5–95% range of the resulting distribution of estimates. When we used only 1 count, the method succeeded in capturing the true value in >85% of 1,000 randomizations for single islands and 65–87% of the randomizations in atolls. Performance markedly improved when we used >1 randomly selected count to estimate population size. For the monk seal, this methodology represents a significant advancement because it enables a more complete estimate of the species’ abundance and a better assessment of the relative importance of different regions of its range to the overall recovery initiative. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Right lobe living donors ages 55 years old and older in liver transplantation
Authors: Kim Seong Hoon , Lee Eung Chang , Shim Jae Ryong , Park Sang Jae
Published: July 2017

The evidence is insufficient for safe use of elderly donors in adult‐to‐adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of right lobe LDLT by donor age (≥55 versus < 55 years). All living donors who underwent right hepatectomy at the authors’ institution between March 2008 and December 2015 were divided into 2 groups: group A with an age ≥ 55 years and group B with an age of <55 years. The selection criteria for elderly donor were preservation of middle hepatic vein, remnant liver volume ≥30%, and no or mild fatty liver. The matching criteria of recipients for the elderly donor grafts were Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score of <25, graft‐to‐recipient weight ratio of >0.8%, and body mass index of <25 kg/m2. Perioperative data, complications by the Clavien classification, and the outcomes with at least 12 months follow‐up were compared. A total of 42 donors were enrolled in group A and 498 in group B. No significant differences in operative parameters were observed between the 2 groups. The peak postoperative aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total bilirubin levels made no difference between the 2 groups. The peak international normalized ratio level was significantly lower in group A than in group B (P = 0.001). All donors recovered completely with no significant differences in overall complications between the 2 groups. All recipients of grafts from donors in group A showed good initial function with no significant differences in 1‐year graft and patient survival or biliary complications between 2 groups. These results provide clinical evidence for feasibility of right hepatectomy in living donors aged ≥ 55 years without compromising donor safety or recipient outcomes. Liver Transplantation 23 1305–1311 2017 AASLD.