bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The increase in medial prefrontal glutamate/glutamine concentration during memory encoding is associated with better memory performance and stronger functional connectivity in the human medial prefrontal–thalamus–hippocampus network
Authors: Thielen Jan‐Willem , Hong Donghyun , Rohani Rankouhi Seyedmorteza , Wiltfang Jens , Fernández Guillén , Norris David G. , Tendolkar Indira
Published: February 2018

The classical model of the declarative memory system describes the hippocampus and its interactions with representational brain areas in posterior neocortex as being essential for the formation of long‐term episodic memories. However, new evidence suggests an extension of this classical model by assigning the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) a specific, yet not fully defined role in episodic memory. In this study, we utilized 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and psychophysiological interaction (PPI) analysis to lend further support for the idea of a mnemonic role of the mPFC in humans. By using MRS, we measured mPFC γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate/glutamine (GLx) concentrations before and after volunteers memorized face–name association. We demonstrate that mPFC GLx but not GABA levels increased during the memory task, which appeared to be related to memory performance. Regarding functional connectivity, we used the subsequent memory paradigm and found that the GLx increase was associated with stronger mPFC connectivity to thalamus and hippocampus for associations subsequently recognized with high confidence as opposed to subsequently recognized with low confidence/forgotten. Taken together, we provide new evidence for an mPFC involvement in episodic memory by showing a memory‐related increase in mPFC excitatory neurotransmitter levels that was associated with better memory and stronger memory‐related functional connectivity in a medial prefrontal–thalamus–hippocampus network.
Associations of metabolic syndrome and C‐reactive protein with mortality from total cancer, obesity‐linked cancers and breast cancer among women in NHANES III
Authors: Gathirua‐Mwangi Wambui G. , Song Yiqing , Monahan Patrick O. , Champion Victoria L. , Zollinger Terrell W.
Published: February 2018

Although metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a prognostic factor for cancer occurrence, the association of MetS and cancer mortality remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether MetS, components of MetS and C‐reactive protein (CRP) are associated with cancer mortality in women. A total of 400 cancer deaths, with 140 deaths from obesity‐linked‐cancers (OLCas), [breast (BCa), colorectal, pancreatic and endometrial], linked through the National Death Index, were identified from 10,104 eligible subjects aged ≥18 years. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for cancer mortality. MetS was associated with increased deaths for total cancer [HR = 1.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–1.70] and BCa [HR = 2.1, 95% CI, 1.09–4.11]. The risk of total cancer [HR = 1.7, 95% CI, 1.12–2.68], OLCas [HR = 2.1, 95% CI, 1.00–4.37] and BCa [HR = 3.8, 95% CI, 1.34–10.91] mortality was highest for women with all MetS components abnormal, compared to those without MetS. Linear associations of blood‐pressure [HR = 2.5, 1.02–6.12, Quartile (Q) 4 vs Q1, p trend = 0.004] and blood‐glucose [HR = 2.2, 1.04–4.60, Q4 vs. Q1, p trend = 0.04] with total‐OLCas mortality were observed. A threefold increased risk of BCa mortality was observed for women with enlarged waist circumference, ≥100.9 cm, [HR = 3.5, 1.14–10.51, p trend = 0.008] and in those with increased blood glucose, ≥101 mg/dL, [HR = 3.2, 1.11–9.20, p trend = 0.03] compared to those in Q1. None of the components of MetS were associated with total‐cancer mortality. CRP was not associated with cancer mortality. In conclusion, MetS is associated with total‐cancer and breast‐cancer mortality, with waist circumference, blood pressure and blood glucose as independent predictors of OLCas and BCa mortality.
IGNORING CHILDREN'S BEDTIME CRYING: THE POWER OF WESTERN‐ORIENTED BELIEFS
Authors: Maute Monique , Perren Sonja
Published: February 2018

Ignoring children's bedtime crying (ICBC) is an issue that polarizes parents as well as pediatricians. While most studies have focused on the effectiveness of sleep interventions, no study has yet questioned which parents use ICBC. Parents often find children's sleep difficulties to be very challenging, but factors such as the influence of Western approaches to infant care, stress, and sensitivity have not been analyzed in terms of ICBC. A sample of 586 parents completed a questionnaire to investigate the relationships between parental factors and the method of ICBC. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Latent variables were used to measure parental stress (Parental Stress Scale; J.O. Berry & W.H. Jones, 1995), sensitivity (Situation‐Reaction‐Questionnaire; Y. Hänggi, K. Schweinberger, N. Gugger, & M. Perrez, 2010), Western‐oriented parental beliefs (Rigidity), and children's temperament (Parenting Stress Index; H. Tröster & R.R. Abidin). ICBC was used by 32.6% (n = 191) of parents in this study. Parents’ Western‐oriented beliefs predicted ICBC. Attitudes such as feeding a child on a time schedule and not carrying it out to prevent dependence were associated with letting the child cry to fall asleep. Low‐sensitivity parents as well as parents of children with a difficult temperament used ICBC more frequently. Path analysis shows that parental stress did not predict ICBC. The results suggest that ICBC has become part of Western childrearing tradition.
Live training versus e‐learning to teach implementation of listener response programs
Authors: Geiger Kaneen B. , LeBlanc Linda A. , Hubik Katie , Jenkins Sarah R. , Carr James E.
Published: February 2018

Discrete‐trial teaching is an effective teaching procedure that must be implemented with high integrity to produce optimal learning. Behavioral Skills Training (BST) has proven effective for staff training; however, BST is time and labor intensive. Computer‐based instruction (CBI) programs may provide a more efficient and cost‐effective alternative to live training if the CBI program is as effective as BST in producing accurate implementation. The current study compared CBI to BST to train novice undergraduate students to conduct discrete‐trial teaching. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the two conditions and assessed prior to and after the completion of training. Results indicated that although both BST and CBI were effective at training participants to implement discrete‐trial teaching, BST was slightly but significantly more effective whereas CBI quickly created a return on the investment of product development.
Blood tolerogenic monocytes and low proportions of dendritic cell subpopulations are hallmarks of human tuberculosis
Authors: Dirix Violette , Corbière Véronique , Wyndham-Thomas Chloé , Selis Elodie , Allard Sabine , Hites Maya , Aerts Laetitia , Giese Thomas , Mascart Françoise
Published: February 2018

Background

The immune mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of tuberculosis (TB) need better understanding to improve TB management, as the disease still causes more than 1.5 million deaths annually. This study tested the hypothesis that a modulation of the proportions or activation status of APC during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection may impact on the course of the disease.

Procedure

Proportions of circulating APC subsets and the expression of stimulatory (CD86), inhibitory (ILT-3, ILT-4, ILT-7), or apoptosis-inducing (PDL-1, PDL-2) molecules were analyzed in 2 independent cohorts, on blood monocytes and dendritic cell (DC) subsets from patients with active or latent TB infection (aTB /LTBI) and from uninfected subjects.

Results

Higher proportions of classical CD14+CD16− and intermediate CD14+CD16+ monocytes, and lower proportions of plasmacytoid DC (pDC) and type 2 myeloid DC were observed in the blood from untreated patients with aTB compared with those with LTBI and with healthy subjects, with an early normalization of the proportions of pDC during treatment. In addition, monocytes from M. tuberculosis-infected subjects expressed higher levels of ILT-3, ILT-4, and PDL-1 compared with healthy controls, these differences being more important for patients with aTB than for those with LTBI.

Conclusions

These results confirm the hypothesis of a modulation of the proportions and activation status of APC during M. tuberculosis infection and suggest that these cells could play a role in driving the course of M. tuberculosis infection.
Nation‐wide surveillance of human acute respiratory virus infections between 2013 and 2015 in Korea
Authors: Kim Jeong‐Min , Jung Hee‐Dong , Cheong Hyang‐Min , Lee Anna , Lee Nam‐Joo , Chu Hyuk , Lee Joo‐Yeon , Kim Sung Soon , Choi Jang‐Hoon
Published: February 2018

The prevalence of eight respiratory viruses detected in patients with acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in Korea was investigated through analysis of data recorded by the Korea Influenza and Respiratory Viruses Surveillance System (KINRESS) from 2013 to 2015. Nasal aspirate and throat swabs specimens were collected from 36 915 patients with ARIs, and viral nucleic acids were detected by real‐time (reverse‐transcription) polymerase chain reaction for eight respiratory viruses, including human respiratory syncytial viruses (HRSVs), influenza viruses (IFVs), human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs), human coronaviruses (HCoVs), human rhinovirus (HRV), human adenovirus (HAdV), human bocavirus (HBoV), and human metapneumovirus (HMPV). The overall positive rate of patient specimens was 49.4% (18 236/36 915), 5% of which carried two or more viruses simultaneously. HRV (15.6%) was the most predominantly detected virus, followed by IFVs (14.6%), HAdV (7.5%), HPIVs (5.8%), HCoVs (4.2%), HRSVs (3.6%), HBoV (1.9%), and HMPV (1.6%). Most of the ARIs were significantly correlated with clinical symptoms of fever, cough, and runny nose. Although HRV and HAdV were frequently detected throughout the year in patients, other respiratory viruses showed apparent seasonality. HRSVs and IFVs were the major causative agents of acute respiratory diseases in infants and young children. Overall, this study demonstrates a meaningful relationship between viral infection and typical manifestations of known clinical features as well as seasonality, age distribution, and co‐infection among respiratory viruses. Therefore, these data could provide useful information for public health management and to enhance patient care for primary clinicians.
Effect of hydroclimatological teleconnections on the watershed‐scale drought predictability in the southeastern United States
Authors: Sehgal Vinit , Sridhar Venkataramana
Published: February 2018

Large‐scale atmospheric circulation patterns have a strong influence on hydrologic variability in the southeastern United States (SEUS). These climatic indices are often linked with anomalous climatic conditions and thus can be useful to forecast either water surplus or deficit conditions over the region. This study provides an assessment of the watershed‐scale influence of hydroclimatological teleconnections in the context of drought predictability. The interrelationship between several climate indices is assessed with the monthly percentiles of soil water storage (SW), precipitation (PCP), surface run‐off (SURQ), and potential evapotranspiration (PET) for 50 watersheds in the South Atlantic Gulf region of the SEUS. The hydrologic variables are simulated by implementing SWAT models for each watershed at a HUC‐12 resolution for a period of January 1982 through December 2013. The study highlights the strong correlation between the climate indices and watershed‐scale hydrologic variables and provides important insights on the effect of seasonality and the dynamics of water balance components on the predictability of drought at watershed‐scale. Among all hydrologic variables evaluated, soil moisture shows a stronger relationship with the climate indices compared to PCP, SW, and SURQ. The interrelationship between watershed hydrology and climate indices is found to be stronger during fall (September–November) and winter seasons (December–February) with high correlation of SW and PCP with the climate indices, especially in the Carolinas, Georgia, and parts of Florida. Simulated SW corresponds strongly with the Palmer drought severity index (PDSI) in terms of its response to climate indices, indicating that SW can be an effective predictor of drought in the region.
What root traits determine grass resistance to phosphorus deficiency in production grassland?
Authors: Ros Mart B. H. , De Deyn Gerlinde B. , Koopmans Gerwin F. , Oenema Oene , van Groenigen Jan Willem
Published: February 2018

Grasslands are a major form of agricultural land use worldwide. Current and future declines of phosphorus (P) inputs into production grasslands necessitate a shift towards selecting grass species based on high efficiency under suboptimal, rather than optimal P conditions. It is therefore imperative to identify key root traits that determine P acquisition of grasses in soils with a low P status. In a 9‐month greenhouse experiment, we grew eight common grass species and cultivars on a soil with a low P status and related root morphological traits to their performance under P‐limiting conditions. We applied (P1) or withheld (P0) P fertilization while providing adequate amounts of all other nutrients. Omitting P fertilization greatly reduced yield and nutrient acquisition for the various grass species. Biomass production differed significantly (P < 0.1%) among species and P fertilization treatments, varying from 17.1 to 72.1 g pot−1 in the P0 treatment and from 33.4 to 85.8 g pot−1 in the P1 treatment. Root traits were species‐specific and unresponsive to P fertilization, but overall we observed a trade‐off between root biomass and specific root length. Structural equation modeling identified total root length as key factor with respect to resistance to P deficiency, especially when roots explored the subsoil. Optimizing root length and subsoil exploration could be the key to maintaining high productivity of production grasslands with decreasing P availability. This is relevant for both plant breeding programs and for composing seed mixtures.
Adapted MS/MSALL Shotgun Lipidomics Approach for Analysis of Cardiolipin Molecular Species
Authors: Gao Fei , McDaniel Justice , Chen Emily Y. , Rockwell Hannah E. , Nguyen Cindy , Lynes Matthew D. , Tseng Yu‐Hua , Sarangarajan Rangaprasad , Narain Niven R. , Kiebish Michael A.
Published: February 2018

Cardiolipin (Ptd2Gro) is a complex, doubly charged phospholipid located in the inner mitochondrial membrane where it plays an essential role in regulating bioenergetics. Abnormalities in Ptd2Gro content or composition have been associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in a variety of disease states. Here, we report the development of an adapted high‐resolution data‐independent acquisition (DIA) MS/MSALL shotgun lipidomic method to enhance the accuracy and reproducibility of Ptd2Gro molecular species quantitation from biological samples. Utilizing the doubly charged molecular ions and the isotopic pattern with negative mode electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) using an adapted MS/MSALL approach, we profiled more than 150 individual Ptd2Gro species, including monolysocardiolipin (MLPtd2Gro). The method described in this study demonstrated high reproducibility, sensitivity, and throughput with a wide dynamic range. This high‐resolution MS/MSALL shotgun lipidomics approach could be extended to screening aberrations of Ptd2Gro metabolism involved in mitochondrial dysfunction in various pathological conditions and diseases.
Short‐Chain Fatty Acids Enhance the Lipid Accumulation of 3T3‐L1 Cells by Modulating the Expression of Enzymes of Fatty Acid Metabolism
Authors: Yu Haining , Li Ran , Huang Haiyong , Yao Ru , Shen Shengrong
Published: February 2018

Short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid are produced by fermentation by gut microbiota. In this paper, we investigate the effects of SCFA on 3T3‐L1 cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms. The cells were treated with acetic acid, propionic acid, or butyric acid when cells were induced to differentiate into adipocytes. MTT assay was employed to detect the viability of 3T3‐L1 cells. Oil Red O staining was used to visualize the lipid content in 3T3‐L1 cells. A triglyceride assay kit was used to detect the triacylglycerol content in 3T3‐L1 cells. qRT‐PCR and Western blot were used to evaluate the expression of metabolic enzymes. MTT results showed that safe concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid were less than 6.4, 3.2, and 0.8 mM, respectively. Oil Red O staining and triacylglycerols detection results showed that treatment with acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid accelerated the 3T3‐L1 adipocyte differentiation. qRT‐PCR and Western blot results showed that the expressions of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), adipocyte fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4), fatty acid transporter protein 4 (FATP4), and fatty acid synthase (FAS) were significantly increased by acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid treatment during adipose differentiation (p < 0.05). In conclusion, SCFA promoted lipid accumulation by modulating the expression of enzymes of fatty acid metabolism.
Methylphenidate Can Improve Chorea in NKX2.1 and ADCY5 Mutation‐positive Patients—A Report of Two Children
Authors: Tübing J. , Bohnenpoll J. , Spiegler J. , Gillessen‐Kaesbach G. , Bäumer T. , Max C. , Sperner J. , Klein C. , Münchau A.
Published: February 2018

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Functional Speech and Voice Disorders: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Chung David S. , Wettroth Chelsea , Hallett Mark , Maurer Carine W.
Published: February 2018

Background

Functional disorders of speech and voice, subtypes of functional movement disorders, represent abnormalities in speech and voice that are thought to have an underlying psychological cause. These disorders exhibit several positive and negative features that distinguish them from organic disorders.

Methods and Results

We describe the clinical manifestations of functional disorders of speech and voice, and illustrate these features using six clinical cases.

Conclusions

Functional disorders of speech and voice may manifest in a variety of ways, including dysphonia, stuttering, or prosodic abnormalities. Given that these disorders have been understudied and may resemble organic disorders, diagnosis may be challenging. Appropriate treatment may be quite effective, highlighting the importance of prompt and accurate diagnosis.
Are the MDS‐UPDRS–Based Composite Scores Clinically Applicable?
Authors: Makkos Attila , Kovács Márton , Aschermann Zsuzsanna , Harmat Márk , Janszky József , Karádi Kázmér , Kovács Norbert
Published: February 2018

Background: The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society–sponsored UPDRS (MDS‐UPDRS) is a powerful clinical outcome measure.

Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of various MDS‐UPDRS‐based composite scores and determine their minimal clinically important difference threshold values.

Methods: Overall, 1,113 paired investigations of 452 patients were reviewed implementing three different techniques simultaneously.

Results: Based on the ordinal regression modeling, the MDS‐UPDRS II+III, MDS‐UPDRS I+II+III, and the total score of MDS‐UPDRS are clinically applicable outcome measures. Any improvement greater than 4.9 points or any worsening more than 4.2 points on MDS‐UPDRS II+III represent a minimal, yet clinically meaningful, change. In reference to MDS‐UPDRS I+II+III, the smallest changes considered clinically relevant were 6.7 and 5.2 points for improvement and deterioration, respectively. The thresholds for the total score of MDS‐UPDRS were 7.1 points for improvement and 6.3 points for worsening.

Conclusions: Our findings support the application of various MDS‐UPDRS–based composite scores. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Evolution of diagnostic criteria and assessments for Parkinson's disease mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Goldman Jennifer G. , Holden Samantha K. , Litvan Irene , McKeith Ian , Stebbins Glenn T. , Taylor John‐Paul
Published: February 2018

Mild cognitive impairment has gained recognition as a construct and a potential prodromal stage to dementia in both Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease (PD). Although mild cognitive impairment has been recognized in the Alzheimer's disease field, it is a relatively more recent topic of interest in PD. Recent advances include the development of diagnostic criteria for PD mild cognitive impairment to provide more uniform definitions for clinical and research use. Studies reveal that mild cognitive impairment in PD is frequent, but also heterogeneous, with variable clinical presentations, differences in its progression to dementia, and likely differences in underlying pathophysiology. Application of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society PD Mild Cognitive Impairment Task Force diagnostic criteria has provided insights regarding cognitive measures, functional assessments, and other key topics that may require additional refinement. Furthermore, it is important to consider definitions of PD mild cognitive impairment in the landscape of other related Lewy body disorders, such as dementia with Lewy bodies, and in the context of prodromal and early‐stage PD. This article examines the evolution of mild cognitive impairment in concept and definition, particularly in PD, but also in related disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies; the development and application of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society PD Mild Cognitive Impairment diagnostic criteria; and insights and future directions for the field of PD mild cognitive impairment. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Evaluation of salivary heme oxygenase‐1 as a potential biomarker of early Parkinson's disease
Authors: Song Wei , Kothari Vimal , Velly Ana M. , Cressatti Marisa , Liberman Adrienne , Gornitsky Mervyn , Schipper Hyman M.
Published: February 2018

Background and Hypothesis

To date, there are no chemical analytes, including biochemical indices of oxidative stress, metabolites of α‐synuclein protein, and differential protein expression patterns on proteomic profiling, for use in clinics as a diagnostic biomarker of idiopathic PD.

Objectives

Heme oxygenase‐1 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PD. The objective of this study is to ascertain whether salivary heme oxygenase‐1 may serve as a biomarker for early idiopathic PD.

Methods

Fifty‐eight PD patients and 59 non‐neurological disease controls were recruited. Levels of heme oxygenase‐1 expression were assayed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and western blot analysis of whole, unstimulated saliva. Analyses were adjusted by sex, l‐dopa exposure, and relevant comorbidities.

Results

We documented: (1) the presence of 32‐kDa heme oxygenase‐1 protein in human saliva; (2) significantly higher mean heme oxygenase‐1 protein concentrations in saliva of PD patients relative to control values; (3) no variability in salivary heme oxygenase‐1 levels with sex, age, l‐dopa equivalence, or comorbidities; and (4) significantly higher mean salivary heme oxygenase‐1 concentrations in patients with H & Y stage 1 PD (early) than control subjects and stage 2 and stage 3 PD patients. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve that separated controls from PD H & Y stage 1 was 76% (95% confidence interval: 63‐90).

Conclusions

Salivary heme oxygenase‐1 concentrations may provide a useful, noninvasive, and relatively inexpensive biomarker of early idiopathic PD. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Demonstration of a novel Xp22.2 microdeletion as the cause of familial extreme skewing of X‐inactivation utilizing case‐parent trio SNP microarray analysis
Authors: Mason Jane A. , Aung Hnin T. , Nandini Adayapalam , Woods Rickie G. , Fairbairn David J. , Rowell John A. , Young David , Susman Rachel D. , Brown Simon A. , Hyland Valentine J. , Robertson Jeremy D.
Published: February 2018

Background

We report a kindred referred for molecular investigation of severe hemophilia A in a young female in which extremely skewed X‐inactivation was observed in both the proband and her clinically normal mother.

Methods

Bidirectional Sanger sequencing of all F8 gene coding regions and exon/intron boundaries was undertaken. Methylation‐sensitive restriction enzymes were utilized to investigate skewed X‐inactivation using both a classical human androgen receptor (HUMARA) assay, and a novel method targeting differential methylation patterns in multiple informative X‐chromosome SNPs. Illumina Whole‐Genome Infinium microarray analysis was performed in the case‐parent trio (proband and both parents), and the proband's maternal grandmother.

Results

The proband was a cytogenetically normal female with severe hemophilia A resulting from a heterozygous F8 pathogenic variant inherited from her similarly affected father. No F8 mutation was identified in the proband's mother, however, both the proband and her mother both demonstrated completely skewed X‐chromosome inactivation (100%) in association with a previously unreported 2.3 Mb deletion at Xp22.2. At least three disease‐associated genes (FANCB, AP1S2, and PIGA) were contained within the deleted region.

Conclusions

We hypothesize that true “extreme” skewing of X‐inactivation (≥95%) is a rare occurrence, but when defined correctly there is a high probability of finding an X‐chromosome disease‐causing variant or larger deletion resulting in X‐inactivation through a survival disadvantage or cell lethal mechanism. We postulate that the 2.3 Mb Xp22.2 deletion identified in our kindred arose de novo in the proband's mother (on the grandfather's homolog), and produced extreme skewing of X‐inactivation via a “cell lethal” mechanism. We introduce a novel multitarget approach for X‐inactivation analysis using multiple informative differentially methylated SNPs, as an alternative to the classical single locus (HUMARA) method. We propose that for females with unexplained severe phenotypic expression of an X‐linked recessive disorder trio‐SNP microarray should be undertaken in combination with X‐inactivation analysis.
Synthesis of Aryl Triflones through the Trifluoromethanesulfonylation of Benzynes
Authors: Sumii Yuji , Sugita Yutaka , Tokunaga Etsuko , Shibata Norio
Published: February 2018

The direct synthesis of aryl triflones, that is, trifluoromethanesulfonyl arenes, was achieved through the trifluoromethanesulfonylation of benzynes. The trifluoromethanesulfonyl group, one of the fluorinated functional groups, is a highly electron‐negative and mild lipophilic substituent. Aryl triflones have high potential in the synthesis of bioactive compounds and specialty materials. The treatment of 2‐(trimethylsilyl)aryl trifluoromethanesulfonates with cesium fluoride in the presence of 15‐crown‐5 generated benzynes, which reacted with sodium trifluoromethanesulfinate followed by protonation with tBuOH under heating conditions, provided aryl triflones in moderated to good yields. Both symmetrical and unsymmetrical triflones were nicely accessed under the same reaction conditions. Interestingly, the trifluoromethanesulfonylation of unsymmetrical benzyne precursors proceeded smoothly to furnish corresponding aryl triflones in good yields with good to high regioselectivities. The balance of polarization of electric charge as well as steric hindrance of the benzyne intermediates are central factors to control the outcome of regioselectivity.
Identification of GB1, a gene whose constitutive overexpression increases glycinebetaine content in maize and soybean
Authors: Castiglioni Paolo , Bell Erin , Lund Adrian , Rosenberg Alexander F. , Galligan Meghan , Hinchey Brendan S. , Bauer Stanislaus , Nelson Donald E. , Bensen Robert J.
Published: February 2018

Efforts to increase glycinebetaine (GB) levels in plants have been pursued as an approach to improving plant performance under stress conditions. To date, the impact of engineered levels of GB has been limited by metabolic constraints that restrict the achieved increases. We report the identification of a novel gene, GB1, that is differentially expressed in high and low GB accumulating maize genotypes. The predicted GB1 protein shows 60% identity to a putative C‐4 sterol methyl oxidase from rice. Overexpression of GB1 in maize and soybean led to dramatically higher leaf GB content in most of the transgenic lines compared to wild‐type. These results suggest that the GB1 protein is an important component of the biochemical pathways controlling GB accumulation in plants.
Red algal Rubisco fails to accumulate in transplastomic tobacco expressing Griffithsia monilis RbcL and RbcS genes
Authors: Lin Myat T. , Hanson Maureen R.
Published: February 2018

In C3 plants, the carbon fixation step catalyzed by ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) represents a major rate‐limiting step due to the competing oxygenation reaction, which leads to the energy‐intensive photorespiration and lowers the overall photosynthetic efficiency. Hence, there is great biotechnological interest in replacing the Rubisco in C3 crops with a more efficient enzyme. The Rubisco enzymes from red algae are among the most attractive choices due to their remarkable preference for carboxylation over oxygenation reaction. However, the biogenesis of Rubisco is extremely complex. The Rubisco enzymes in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria are made up of eight large and eight small subunits. The folding of the large subunits and the assembly of the large subunits with the small subunits to form a functional holoenzyme require specific chaperonin complexes and assembly factors. As a result, previous success in expressing foreign Rubisco in plants has been limited to Rubisco large subunits from closely related plant species and simpler bacterial enzymes. In our previous work, we successfully replaced the Rubisco in tobacco with a cyanobacterial enzyme, which was able to support the phototrophic growth of the transgenic plants. In this work, we used the same approach to express the Rubisco subunits from the red alga Griffithsia monilis in tobacco chloroplasts in the absence of the tobacco Rubisco large subunit. Although the red algal Rubisco genes are being transcribed in tobacco chloroplasts, the transgenic plants lack functional Rubisco and can only grow in a medium containing sucrose. Our results suggest that co‐expression of compatible chaperones will be necessary for successful assembly of red algal Rubisco in plants.
Cover Image, Volume 74, Issue 4
Authors: Lidor Ofir , Dror Orit , Hamershlak Dor , Shoshana Nofar , Belausov Eduard , Zahavi Tirtza , Mozes‐Daube Netta , Naor Vered , Zchori‐Fein Einat , Iasur‐Kruh Lilach , Bahar Ofir
Published: February 2018

The cover image, by Ofir Lidor et al., is based on the Research Article Introduction of a putative biocontrol agent into a range of phytoplasma‐ and liberibacter‐susceptible crop plants, DOI: 10.1002/ps.4775.

image
Electron Irradiation Degradation of AlGaInP/GaAs Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Brudnyi Valentin , Prudaev Ilya , Oleinik Vladimir , Marmaluk Alexander
Published: February 2018

Red and yellow AlGaInP/GaAs light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) with multiple quantum wells grown by the metalorganic chemical vapor deposition technique were irradiated at room temperature by 10 MeV electrons at fluences of 1012–1016 cm−2. The damage constants of the minority carrier lifetime and the light‐output reach the values of (1–2.5) × 10−14 cm2 at room temperature measurements. At the same time, the radiation tolerance of these diodes increases up to 50 times when the temperature is lowered down to 16 K. The beneficial effect of the Mg doping of the p‐GaP(Mg) window layer on the LEDs radiation tolerance at a high forward current density has been demonstrated.
Magnetocaloric Effect and Universal Curve Behavior in Superparamagnetic Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticles Synthesized via Microwave Assisted Co‐Precipitation Method
Authors: Thandapani Prabhakaran , Ramalinga Viswanathan Mangalaraja , Denardin Juliano C.
Published: February 2018

Single domain superparamagnetic zinc ferrite nanoparticles are synthesized through microwave assisted co‐precipitation method. Single phase and cubic spinel zinc ferrite nanoparticles shows the narrow particle size distribution with an average particle size of 5.07 nm. They exhibits superparamagnetic nature at 290 K and ferromagnetism at 5 K with a blocking temperature of around 25 K. The magnetic entropy change calculated from the set of isothermal magnetization curves shows the maximum entropy change of −0.652 J kg−1 K−1 at 135 K and large relative cooling power (RCP) of 187 J kg−1 for the field of 40 kOe. The synthesized zinc ferrite nanoparticles exhibits large magnetic anisotropy constant of 12.625 × 106 erg cm−3 with an appreciable magnetic entropy change. The field dependence of maximum magnetic entropy change and RCP values is discussed by using power law equations. Furthermore, an attempt is made to study the phenomenological curve behavior of magnetic entropy change for the zinc ferrite nanoparticles. Interestingly, the magnetic entropy change at the range of magnetic fields collapses into a single universal phenomenological curve when rescaling the temperature axis with two reference temperatures. The obtained results conveys that the zinc ferrite nanoparticles is prospective magnetic refrigerant for miniaturized devices.
Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) Have a Superior Neuroprotective Capacity Over Fetal MSCs in the Hypoxic-Ischemic Mouse Brain
Authors: Hawkins Kate E. , Corcelli Michelangelo , Dowding Kate , Ranzoni Anna M. , Vlahova Filipa , Hau Kwan-Leong , Hunjan Avina , Peebles Donald , Gressens Pierre , Hagberg Henrik , de Coppi Paolo , Hristova Mariya , Guillot Pascale V.
Published: February 2018

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have huge potential for regenerative medicine. In particular, the use of pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PSC-MSCs) overcomes the hurdle of replicative senescence associated with the in vitro expansion of primary cells and has increased therapeutic benefits in comparison to the use of various adult sources of MSCs in a wide range of animal disease models. On the other hand, fetal MSCs exhibit faster growth kinetics and possess longer telomeres and a wider differentiation potential than adult MSCs. Here, for the first time, we compare the therapeutic potential of PSC-MSCs (ES-MSCs from embryonic stem cells) to fetal MSCs (AF-MSCs from the amniotic fluid), demonstrating that ES-MSCs have a superior neuroprotective potential over AF-MSCs in the mouse brain following hypoxia-ischemia. Further, we demonstrate that nuclear factor (NF)-κB-stimulated interleukin (IL)-13 production contributes to an increased in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of ES-MSC-conditioned medium (CM) over AF-MSC-CM, thus suggesting a potential mechanism for this observation. Moreover, we show that induced pluripotent stem cell-derived MSCs (iMSCs) exhibit many similarities to ES-MSCs, including enhanced NF-κB signaling and IL-13 production in comparison to AF-MSCs. Future studies should assess whether iMSCs also exhibit similar neuroprotective potential to ES-MSCs, thus presenting a potential strategy to overcome the ethical issues associated with the use of embryonic stem cells and providing a potential source of cells for autologous use against neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy in humans.
Multicollinearity: How common factors cause Type 1 errors in multivariate regression
Authors: Kalnins Arturs
Published: February 2018

Research Summary: In multivariate regression analyses of correlated variables, we sometimes observe pairs of estimated beta coefficients large in absolute magnitude and opposite in sign. T‐statistics are also large, suggesting meaningful findings. I found 64 recently published Strategic Management Journal articles with results exhibiting these characteristics. In this article, I demonstrate that such results may be Type 1 errors (false positives): If regressors are correlated via an unobservable common factor, estimated beta coefficients will misleadingly tend toward infinite magnitudes in opposite directions, even if the variables’ real effects are small and of the same sign. Diagnostics such as Variance Inflation Factors (VIF) will misleadingly validate Type 1 errors as legitimate results. After establishing general results via mathematical analysis and simulation, I provide guidelines for detection and mitigation.

Managerial Summary: This article demonstrates mathematically how regression analyses with correlated independent variables may generate beta coefficients of opposite sign to the variables’ true effects. To assess the likelihood of this possibility, I propose that: if (a) absolute correlation of two independent variables is about ±0.3 or more (smaller correlations may be problematic for large data sets), (b) the two variables have beta coefficients of opposite sign, if correlated positively, and of the same sign, if correlated negatively, and (c) the bivariate correlation of one independent variable with the dependent variable is of the opposite sign from the beta coefficient, then the beta might be a false positive. To facilitate such analysis, authors should provide complete correlation tables, including dependent variables, interaction terms, and quadratic terms.
Novel 2D Layered Molybdenum Ditelluride Encapsulated in Few‐Layer Graphene as High‐Performance Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Ning , Jiang Xiao‐Yu , Zhang Lu , Wang Xiao‐Shuang , Cao Yu‐Liang , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: February 2018

Molybdenum ditelluride nanosheets encapsulated in few‐layer graphene (MoTe2/FLG) are synthesized by a simple heating method using Te and Mo powder and subsequent ball milling with graphite. The as‐prepared MoTe2/FLG nanocomposites as anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries exhibit excellent electrochemical performance with a highly reversible capacity of 596.5 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1, a high rate capability (334.5 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1), and superior cycling stability (capacity retention of 99.5% over 400 cycles at 0.5 A g−1). Ex situ X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy are used to explore the lithium storage mechanism of MoTe2. Moreover, the electrochemical performance of a MoTe2/FLG//0.35Li2MnO3·0.65LiMn0.5Ni0.5O2 full cell is investigated, which displays a reversible capacity of 499 mAh g−1 (based on the MoTe2/FLG mass) at 100 mA g−1 and a capacity retention of 78% over 50 cycles, suggesting the promising application of MoTe2/FLG for lithium‐ion storage. First‐principles calculations exhibit that the lowest diffusion barrier (0.18 eV) for lithium ions along pathway III in the MoTe2 layered structure is beneficial for improving the Li intercalation/deintercalation property.
Bending Durable and Recyclable Mesostructured Perovskite Solar Cells Based on Superaligned ZnO Nanorod Electrode
Authors: Zhao Xingyue , Shen Heping , Sun Rujie , Luo Qiang , Li Xin , Zhou Yu , Tai Meiqian , Li Jianbao , Gao Yanfeng , Li Xin , Lin Hong
Published: February 2018

Though high‐quality perovskite films can be achieved under low‐temperature, the efficient charge selective materials, such as the most widely used TiO2, require high‐temperature sintering process, hindering mass production with roll‐to‐roll process by using flexible substrate. Here, a low‐temperature (90 °C) process is developed for preparing superaligned ZnO nanorods (SAZNRs), serving as mesostructured scaffold in direct contact with the perovskite layer. By rational design of the length of the SAZNRs, the perovskite solar cell (PSC), reaches a highest power conversion efficiency of ≈13.8% with largely suppressed hysteresis behavior. More importantly, this nano‐array design demonstrates outstanding mechanical robustness after being incorporated onto the flexible substrate, resulting in a performance preservation of 90% after 1000 bending cycles with a curvature radius of 4 mm. Finite element analysis indicate that the reduction of device performance after bending is ascribed to the cracks occurred in AZO stress concentration layer, which is attested by experiment as well. Besides, the SAZNRs ETM can be reused for fabricating new perovskite solar cells with comparable photovoltaic performance in a time‐saving and scalable manner, paving the way for industrial production of PSCs.
Technical and social problems of nuclear waste
Authors: Ramana M. V.
Published: February 2018

Despite decades of effort, the nuclear industry does not yet have a working solution for managing spent fuel and high level waste, the most radioactive products generated by nuclear power plants. Although many scientific and technical bodies have endorsed geological disposal as the preferred solution to this problem, there remain significant uncertainties about the long‐term performance of repositories and behavior of the nuclear wastes to be stored in these facilities. Apart from a minority of countries, most countries have not chosen any sites for a repository. Further concerns about the long‐term safety of repositories arise from the experiences of failures and accidents at pilot facilities. One reason for the absence of operating repositories decades after they were first proposed is widespread public opposition to such facilities. Polls have revealed that substantial majorities of people consider nuclear waste with dread and do not approve plans to dispose of radioactive wastes near them, or, often, far away either. Nuclear power advocates have typically dismissed public concerns as resulting from a lack of understanding of scientific facts but this explanation does not withstand scrutiny. Technical approaches to dealing with nuclear waste, such as reprocessing of spent fuel, mischaracterize the social concerns and therefore do not help gain public acceptance. Concern about radioactive waste has contributed to the failure of the propaganda effort by the nuclear industry to market nuclear power as a solution to climate change. The absence of a solution to waste negatively affects the future expansion of nuclear energy.

This article is categorized under:

Nuclear Power > Climate and Environment

Nuclear Power > Economics and Policy

Nuclear Power > Science and Materials
Reconciling the biogeography of an invader through recent and historic genetic patterns: the case of topmouth gudgeon Pseudorasbora parva
Authors: Hardouin Emilie A. , Andreou Demetra , Zhao Yahui , Chevret Pascale , Fletcher David H. , Britton J. Robert , Gozlan Rodolphe E.
Published: February 2018

The genetic variability and population structure of introduced species in their native range are potentially important determinants of their invasion success, yet data on native populations are often poorly represented in relevant studies. Consequently, to determine the contribution of genetic structuring in the native range of topmouth gudgeon Pseudorasbora parva to their high invasion success in Europe, we used a dataset comprising of 19 native and 11 non-native populations. A total of 666 samples were analysed at 9 polymorphic microsatellite loci and sequenced for 597 bp of mitochondrial DNA. The analysis revealed three distinct lineages in the native range, of which two haplogroups were prevalent in China (100%), with a general split around the Qinling Mountains. Dating of both haplogroups closely matched past geological events. More recently, its distribution has been influenced by fish movements in aquaculture, resulting in gene flow between previously separated populations in Northern and Southern China. Their phylogeography in Europe indicate as few as two introductions events and two dispersal routes. Microsatellite data revealed native populations had higher genetic diversity than those in the invasive range, a contrast to previous studies on P. parva. This study confirms the importance of extensive sampling in both the native and non-native range of invasive species in evaluating the influence of genetic variability on invasion success.
The changing social organization of prison protection markets: when prisoners choose to organize horizontally rather than vertically
Authors: Gundur R. V.
Published: February 2018

This article revisits the framework which Buentello et al. (Prison J 71(2): 3–14, 1991) created to describe the development of inmate solidarity groups into prison gangs in the Texas Department of Corrections. Interviews with current and former prison gang members in Texas, Arizona, and Illinois augment the current published literature on prison gangs in California. This article argues that the responses which prison administrations make to prisoners’ social orders are not static and have, in some cases, caused vertically configured groups to evolve into horizontally configured groups. These structural changes in prison gangs affect the gangs’ ability to affect control in the criminal underworld outside prison. Accordingly, although the challenges which prison administrations present to vertically developed social orders within prison may improve the administrations’ control within the prison walls, they may effectively decrease criminal-led social control on the street, leading to an increase in street-level violence.
Erratum to: Metamaterial-based graphene thermal emitter
Authors: Shi Cheng , Mahlmeister Nathan H. , Luxmoore Isaac J. , Nash Geoffrey R.
Published: February 2018

The article Metamaterial-based graphene thermal emitter, written by Cheng Shi, Nathan H. Mahlmeister, Isaac J. Luxmoore, and Geoffrey R. Nash, was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal (currently SpringerLink) on December 6th 2017 without open access. With the author(s)’ decision to opt for Open Choice the copyright of the article changed in February 2018 to © The Author(s) 2018 and the article is forthwith distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits use, duplication, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license and indicate if changes were made.

The original article has been corrected.
Integrated Modeling of Carburizing-Quenching-Tempering of Steel Gears for an ICME Framework
Authors: Khan Danish , Gautham BP
Published: February 2018

In order to leverage the concept of integrated computational materials engineering (ICME) for manufacturing of high-performance automotive transmission components such as steel gears, it is important to bring a closer collaboration between geometrical design, material selection, and manufacturing design stages for these components. This can be achieved by making the manufacturers aware of the implications of the decisions taken during each of these stages on material and its underlying microstructure. In order to facilitate this, it is necessary to model the evolution of the microstructure in the process-chain and its resultant properties. With this view, the current work focusses on development of an integrated modeling scheme of carburizing, quenching, and tempering processes using chemical composition-dependent, microstructure-based models intended to be used in an ICME framework for steel gear manufacturing. The individual process models are implemented in the commercial FEM suite ABAQUS™, with essential microstructure physics incorporated via user-subroutines. The individual process-models and their sequential integration are validated against experimental case-studies from literature. After validation, the integrated modeling scheme is automated by writing appropriate pre-processing and post-processing wrapper scripts, leading to the development of an independent manufacturing module that can be used in an ICME workflow. Finally, the utility of this module is demonstrated by using it for the exploration of the manufacturing process design and material selection scenarios for the production of a typical spur gear.