bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracranial EEG potentials estimated from MEG sources: A new approach to correlate MEG and iEEG data in epilepsy
Authors: Grova Christophe , Aiguabella Maria , Zelmann Rina , Lina Jean‐Marc , Hall Jeffery A. , Kobayashi Eliane
Published: March 2016

Detection of epileptic spikes in MagnetoEncephaloGraphy (MEG) requires synchronized neuronal activity over a minimum of 4cm2. We previously validated the Maximum Entropy on the Mean (MEM) as a source localization able to recover the spatial extent of the epileptic spike generators. The purpose of this study was to evaluate quantitatively, using intracranial EEG (iEEG), the spatial extent recovered from MEG sources by estimating iEEG potentials generated by these MEG sources. We evaluated five patients with focal epilepsy who had a pre‐operative MEG acquisition and iEEG with MRI‐compatible electrodes. Individual MEG epileptic spikes were localized along the cortical surface segmented from a pre‐operative MRI, which was co‐registered with the MRI obtained with iEEG electrodes in place for identification of iEEG contacts. An iEEG forward model estimated the influence of every dipolar source of the cortical surface on each iEEG contact. This iEEG forward model was applied to MEG sources to estimate iEEG potentials that would have been generated by these sources. MEG‐estimated iEEG potentials were compared with measured iEEG potentials using four source localization methods: two variants of MEM and two standard methods equivalent to minimum norm and LORETA estimates. Our results demonstrated an excellent MEG/iEEG correspondence in the presumed focus for four out of five patients. In one patient, the deep generator identified in iEEG could not be localized in MEG. MEG‐estimated iEEG potentials is a promising method to evaluate which MEG sources could be retrieved and validated with iEEG data, providing accurate results especially when applied to MEM localizations. Hum Brain Mapp 37:1661–1683, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exome sequencing of oral squamous cell carcinoma in users of Arabian snuff reveals novel candidates for driver genes
Authors: Al‐hebshi Nezar Noor , Li Shiyong , Nasher Akram Thabet , El‐Setouhy Maged , Alsanosi Rashad , Blancato Jan , Loffredo Christopher
Published: March 2016

The study sought to identify genetic aberrations driving oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) development among users of shammah, an Arabian preparation of smokeless tobacco. Twenty archival OSCC samples, 15 of which with a history of shammah exposure, were whole‐exome sequenced at an average depth of 127×. Somatic mutations were identified using a novel, matched controls‐independent filtration algorithm. CODEX and Exomedepth coupled with a novel, Database of Genomic Variant‐based filter were employed to call somatic gene‐copy number variations. Significantly mutated genes were identified with Oncodrive FM and the Youn and Simon's method. Candidate driver genes were nominated based on Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. The observed mutational spectrum was similar to that reported by the TCGA project. In addition to confirming known genes of OSCC (TP53, CDKNA2, CASP8, PIK3CA, HRAS, FAT1, TP63, CCND1 and FADD) the analysis identified several candidate novel driver events including mutations of NOTCH3, CSMD3, CRB1, CLTCL1, OSMR and TRPM2, amplification of the proto‐oncogenes FOSL1, RELA, TRAF6, MDM2, FRS2 and BAG1, and deletion of the recently described tumor suppressor SMARCC1. Analysis also revealed significantly altered pathways not previously implicated in OSCC including Oncostatin‐M signalling pathway, AP‐1 and C‐MYB transcription networks and endocytosis. There was a trend for higher number of mutations, amplifications and driver events in samples with history of shammah exposure particularly those that tested EBV positive, suggesting an interaction between tobacco exposure and EBV. The work provides further evidence for the genetic heterogeneity of oral cancer and suggests shammah‐associated OSCC is characterized by extensive amplification of oncogenes.
Nomograms for predicting prognostic value of inflammatory biomarkers in colorectal cancer patients after radical resection
Authors: Li Yaqi , Jia Huixun , Yu Wencheng , Xu Ye , Li Xinxiang , Li Qingguo , Cai Sanjun
Published: March 2016

Increasing evidence indicates that inflammation plays a vital role in tumorigenesis and progression. However, the prognostic value of inflammatory biomarkers in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been established. In this study, a retrospective analysis was conducted in patients with CRC in Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center (FUSCC) between April 1, 2007 and April 30, 2014, and 5,336 patients were identified eligible. Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio (LMR), and albumin/globulin ratio (AGR) were analyzed. Kaplan‐Meier analysis was used to calculate the 5‐year overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS). Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the prognostic factors. Nomograms were established to predict OS and DFS, and Harrell's concordance index (c‐index) was adopted to evaluate prediction accuracy. As results, the 5‐year OS was 79.2% and the 5‐year DFS was 56.0% in the cohort. Patients were stratified into 2 groups by NLR (≤2.72 and >2.72), PLR (≤219.00 and >219.00), LMR (≤2.83 and >2.83) and AGR (<1.50 and ≥1.50). Patients with NLR > 2.72, PLR > 219.00, LMR ≤ 2.83 and AGR < 1.50 were significantly associated with decreased OS and DFS (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that NLR, LMR and AGR were independent factors of OS (p = 0.047, p = 0.008 and p < 0.001, respectively) and DFS (p = 0.009, p < 0.001 and p = 0.008, respectively). In addition, nomograms on OS and DFS were established according to all significant factors, and c‐indexes were 0.765 (95% CI: 0.744–0.785) and 0.735 (95% CI: 0.721–0.749), respectively. Nomograms based on OS and DFS can be recommended as practical models to evaluate prognosis for CRC patients.
Everyone Learns From Everyone
Authors: Hobbs Renee , Coiro Julie
Published: March 2016

Hobbs and Coiro describe a new approach to the professional development of educators, librarians, and media professionals that emphasizes the value of collaborative, interdisciplinary relationships. The authors explore why creative collaboration using digital media texts, tools, and technologies is vital to support the professional development of educators. Creative collaboration experiences generate personally meaningful, transformative learning by promoting personal reflection in a social context. It is important to provide cognitive and emotional support for the risk‐taking cycles of experimentation and trial‐and‐error process that is essential for learning to use digital tools. By using inquiry learning practices through collaborative and creative media production, adult learners thrive by taking on distinct and enmeshed roles that inevitably involve creative tension that stimulates and energizes innovation.
Inside the Crystal Ball: New Approaches to Predicting the Gasoline Price at the Pump
Authors: Baumeister Christiane , Kilian Lutz , Lee Thomas K.
Published: March 2016

Appropriate real‐time forecasting models for the US retail price of gasoline yield substantial reductions in the mean‐squared prediction error (MSPE) at horizons up to 2 years as well as substantial increases in directional accuracy. Even greater MSPE reductions are possible by constructing a pooled forecast that assigns equal weight to five of the most successful forecasting models. Pooled forecasts have lower MSPE than the US Energy Information Administration gasoline price forecasts and the gasoline price expectations in the Michigan Survey of Consumers. We also show that as much as 39% of the decline in gas prices between June and December 2014 was predictable. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential Effects of Teriparatide and Zoledronic Acid on Bone Mineralization Density Distribution at 6 and 24 Months in the SHOTZ Study
Authors: Dempster David W , Roschger Paul , Misof Barbara M , Zhou Hua , Paschalis Eleftherios P , Alam Jahangir , Ruff Valerie A , Klaushofer Klaus , Taylor Kathleen A
Published: March 2016

The Skeletal Histomorphometry in Patients on Teriparatide or Zoledronic Acid Therapy (SHOTZ) study assessed the progressive effects of teriparatide (TPTD) and zoledronic acid (ZOL) on bone remodeling and material properties in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Previously, we reported that biochemical and histomorphometric bone formation indices were significantly higher in patients receiving TPTD versus ZOL. Here we report bone mineralization density distribution (BMDD) results based on quantitative backscattered electron imaging (qBEI). The 12-month primary study was randomized and double blind until the month 6 biopsy, then open label. Patients (TPTD, n = 28; ZOL, n = 31) were then eligible to enter a 12-month open-label extension with their original treatment: TPTD 20 μg/d (subcutaneous injection) or ZOL 5 mg/yr (intravenous infusion). A second biopsy was collected from the contralateral side at month 24 (TPTD, n = 10; ZOL, n = 10). In cancellous bone, ZOL treatment was associated at 6 and 24 months with significantly higher average degree of mineralization (CaMEAN, +2.2%, p = 0.018; +3.9%, p = 0.009, respectively) and with lower percentage of low mineralized areas (CaLOW, –34.6%, p = 0.029; –33.7%, p = 0.025, respectively) and heterogeneity of mineralization CaWIDTH (–12.3%, p = 0.003; –9.9%, p = 0.012, respectively), indicating higher mineralization density and more homogeneous mineral content versus TPTD. Within the ZOL group, significant changes were found in all parameters from month 6 to 24, indicating a progressive increase in mineralization density. In sharp contrast, mineralization density did not increase over time with TPTD, reflecting ongoing deposition of new bone. Similar results were observed in cortical bone. In this study, TPTD stimulated new bone formation, producing a mineralized bone matrix that remained relatively heterogeneous with a stable mean mineral content. ZOL slowed bone turnover and prolonged secondary mineralization, producing a progressively more homogeneous and highly mineralized bone matrix. Although both TPTD and ZOL increase clinical measures of bone mineral density (BMD), this study shows that the underlying mechanisms of the BMD increases are fundamentally different. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
α‐Solanine Isolated From Solanum Tuberosum L. cv Jayoung Abrogates LPS‐Induced Inflammatory Responses Via NF‐κB Inactivation in RAW 264.7 Macrophages and Endotoxin‐Induced Shock Model in Mice
Authors: Shin Ji‐Sun , Lee Kyoung‐Goo , Lee Hwi‐Ho , Lee Hae Jun , An Hyo‐Jin , Nam Jung‐Hwan , Jang Dae Sik , Lee Kyung‐Tae
Published: March 2016

α‐Solanine, a trisaccharide glycoalkaloid, has been reported to possess anti‐cancer effects. In this study, we investigated the anti‐inflammatory effects of α‐solanine isolated from “Jayoung” a dark purple‐fleshed potato by examining its in vitro inhibitory effects on inducible nitric‐oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), and pro‐inflammatory cytokines in LPS‐induced RAW 264.7 macrophages and its in vivo effects on LPS‐induced septic shock in a mouse model. α‐Solanine suppressed the expression of iNOS and COX‐2 both at protein and mRNA levels and consequently inhibited nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production in LPS‐induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. α‐Solanine also reduced the production and mRNA expression of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) induced by LPS. Furthermore, molecular mechanism studies indicated that α‐solanine inhibited LPS‐induced activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) by reducing nuclear translocation of p65, degradation of inhibitory κBα (IκBα), and phosphorylation of IκB kinaseα/β (IKKα/β). In an in vivo experiment of LPS‐induced endotoxemia, treatment with α‐solanine suppressed mRNA expressions of iNOS, COX‐2, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β, and the activation of NF‐κB in liver. Importantly, α‐solanine increased the survival rate of mice in LPS‐induced endotoxemia and polymicrobial sepsis models. Taken together, our data suggest that the α‐solanine may be a promising therapeutic against inflammatory diseases by inhibiting the NF‐κB signaling pathway. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 2327–2339, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Survey on the Computational Complexity of Coloring Graphs with Forbidden Subgraphs
Authors: Golovach Petr A. , Johnson Matthew , Paulusma Daniël , Song Jian
Published: March 2016

For a positive integer k, a k‐coloring of a graph is a mapping such that whenever . The Coloring problem is to decide, for a given G and k, whether a k‐coloring of G exists. If k is fixed (i.e., it is not part of the input), we have the decision problem k‐Coloring instead. We survey known results on the computational complexity of Coloring and k‐Coloring for graph classes that are characterized by one or two forbidden induced subgraphs. We also consider a number of variants: for example, where the problem is to extend a partial coloring, or where lists of permissible colors are given for each vertex.
4‐Aryl‐2‐ferrocenyl‐ and 2‐Aryl‐4‐ferrocenyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1,5‐benzothiazepines with Potentially Biological Activities: Synthesis, Characterization, X‐ray Diffraction Studies
Authors: Klimova Elena I. , Gallardo Vega Miguel A. , Sánchez García Jessica J. , Flores‐Alamo Marcos , Méndez Stivalet José M.
Published: March 2016

A series of novel 4‐aryl‐2‐ferrocenyl‐ and 2‐aryl‐4‐ferrocenyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1,5‐benzothiazepines 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f and 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e was obtained by the condensation of 1‐aryl‐3‐ferrocenyl‐ and 3‐aryl‐1‐ferrocenyl‐2‐propenones 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f and 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, respectively, with o‐aminothiophenol in the presence of AcOH and HCl (~64–91%). Their structures were established based on the spectroscopic data and X‐ray diffraction analysis of the compounds 3d, 5a, and 6c.
N‐Bromosulfonamides catalyzed synthesis of new spiro [indoline‐3,4'‐pyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazole] derivatives
Authors: Ghorbani‐Vaghei Ramin , Malaekehpoor Seyedeh Mina
Published: March 2016

An efficient approach for the synthesis of pharmacologically important spiro[indoline‐3,4'‐pyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazole] derivatives from tandem, four component reaction of various hydrazines, isatins, β‐ketoesters, and malononitrile or methyl(ethyl)cyanoester in the presence of N,N,N',N'‐tetrabromobenzene‐1,3‐disulfonamide [TBBDA] and poly(N,N'‐dibromo‐N‐ethyl‐benzene‐1,3‐disulfonamide) [PBBS] as efficient organocatalysts was reported.
Comparison of descriptors for predicting selectivity of protein‐imprinted polymers
Authors: Raim Vladimir , Zadok Israel , Srebnik Simcha
Published: March 2016

Molecular imprinting is a technique that is used to create artificial receptors by the formation of a polymer network around a template molecule, creating a molecularly imprinted polymer. These artificial receptors may be used in applications that require molecular recognition, such as enantioseparations, biosensors, artificial catalysis, drug delivery and others. Small molecules, such as drugs, have been imprinted with high efficiency and, combined with the low cost of preparation, molecularly imprinted polymers have acquired commercial usage. While attempts at imprinting proteins have been significantly less successful, the great potential of protein‐imprinted polymers (PIPs) in medicine and industry attracted much research. Multifunctionality, conformational flexibility, large size of the proteins, and aqueous polymerization environment are some of the obstacles faced by protein imprinting. We explore the relation between PIP selectivity and the properties of the template and competitor proteins. A comprehensive statistical analysis of published studies reveals a statistically significant correlation between four protein descriptors and the corresponding selectivity of PIPs. Namely, a PIP will generally be more selective against large competitor proteins with a smooth surface, whose isoelectric point and aspect ratio are significantly different than those of the template protein. The size of the protein, as measured by its molecular weight, appears to be independent of the template protein characteristics. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental febrile seizures impair interastrocytic gap junction coupling in juvenile mice
Authors: Khan Dilaware , Dupper Alexander , Deshpande Tushar , Graan Pierre N.E. De , Steinhäuser Christian , Bedner Peter
Published: March 2016

Prolonged and focal febrile seizures (FSs) have been associated with the development of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), although the underlying mechanism and the contribution of predisposing risk factors are still poorly understood. Using a kainate model of TLE, we previously provided strong evidence that interruption of astrocyte gap junction‐mediated intercellular communication represents a crucial event in epileptogenesis. To elucidate this aspect further, we induced seizures in immature mice by hyperthermia (HT) to study the consequences of FSs on the hippocampal astrocytic network. Changes in interastrocytic coupling were assessed by tracer diffusion studies in acute slices from mice 5 days after experimental FS induction. The results reveal that HT‐induced FSs cause a pronounced reduction of astrocyte gap junctional coupling in the hippocampus by more than 50%. Western blot analysis indicated that reduced connexin43 protein expression and/or changes in the phosphorylation status account for this astrocyte dysfunction. Remarkably, uncoupling occurred in the absence of neuronal death and reactive gliosis. These data provide a mechanistic link between FSs and the subsequent development of TLE and further strengthen the emerging view that astrocytes have a central role in the pathogenesis of this disorder. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 2 and 4 gene deficiency attenuates nociceptive behaviors in a mouse model of acute inflammatory pain
Authors: Jha Mithilesh Kumar , Rahman Md Habibur , Park Dong Ho , Kook Hyun , Lee In‐Kyu , Lee Won‐Ha , Suk Kyoungho
Published: March 2016

Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) kinases (PDKs) 1–4, expressed in peripheral and central tissues, regulate the activity of the PDH complex (PDC). The PDC is an important mitochondrial gatekeeping enzyme that controls cellular metabolism. The role of PDKs in diverse neurological disorders, including neurometabolic aberrations and neurodegeneration, has been described. Implications for a role of PDKs in inflammation and neurometabolic coupling led us to investigate the effect of genetic ablation of PDK2/4 on nociception in a mouse model of acute inflammatory pain. Deficiency in Pdk2 and/or Pdk4 in mice led to attenuation of formalin‐induced nociceptive behaviors (flinching, licking, biting, or lifting of the injected paw). Likewise, the pharmacological inhibition of PDKs substantially diminished the nociceptive responses in the second phase of the formalin test. Furthermore, formalin‐provoked paw edema formation and mechanical and thermal hypersensitivities were significantly reduced in Pdk2/4‐deficient mice. Formalin‐driven neutrophil recruitment at the site of inflammation, spinal glial activation, and neuronal sensitization were substantially lessened in the second or late phase of the formalin test in Pdk2/4‐deficient animals. Overall, our results suggest that PDK2/4 can be a potential target for the development of pharmacotherapy for the treatment of acute inflammatory pain. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Amylose content decreases during tuber development in potato
Authors: Jansky Shelley , Fajardo Diego
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND

Potato starch is composed primarily of amylopectin and amylose in an approximately 3:1 ratio. Amylose is considered to be nutritionally desirable in North American and European markets, so there is interest in finding strategies to increase the amylose content of potato starch. There is also interest in marketing ‘baby’ potatoes, which are harvested when they are physiologically immature. This study was carried out to determine weekly changes in amylose content in potato tubers of 11 North American cultivars during the growing season. The trial was repeated across 3 years.

RESULTS

We determined that amylose content is highest early and it decreases in a linear fashion as the growing season progresses. Mean amylose content across cultivars and years declined from 30.0% in late June to 26.8% in late August. The rate of decrease varied across years, with slopes of linear regression plots ranging from −0.17 in 2012 to −0.74 in 2011. Amylose content in tuber starch varied among cultivars, with the highest levels observed in Ranger Russet (30.7%) and White Pearl (31.6%); it was lowest in Kennebec (25.7%) and Langlade (25.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study adds to a growing body of literature on the nutritional value of immature potato tubers. In addition to having higher levels of some phytonutrients, as reported in other studies, immature tubers have a higher proportion of amylose in the starch. This is nutritionally desirable in affluent regions where high fiber content is more important than calories from carbohydrates. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Aggregate Stability and Water Retention Near Saturation Characteristics as Affected by Soil Texture, Aggregate Size and Polyacrylamide Application
Authors: Mamedov Amrakh I. , Huang Chi‐hua , Aliev Fazil A. , Levy Guy J.
Published: March 2016

Understanding the effects of soil intrinsic properties and extrinsic conditions on aggregate stability is essential for the development of effective soil and water conservation practices. Our objective was to evaluate the combined role of soil texture, aggregate size and application of a stabilizing agent on aggregate and structure stability indices (composite structure index [SI], the α and n parameters of the VG model and the S‐index) by employing the high energy (0–5·0 J kg−1) moisture characteristic (HEMC) method. We used aggregates of three sizes (0·25–0·5, 0·5–1·0 and 1·0–2·0 mm) from four semi‐arid soils treated with polyacrylamide (PAM). An increase in SI was associated with the increase in clay content, aggregate size and PAM application. The value of α increased with the increase in aggregate size and with PAM application but was not affected by soil texture. For each aggregate size, a unique exponential type relationship existed between SI and α. The value of n and the S‐index tended, generally, to decrease with the increase in PAM application; however, an increase in aggregate size had an inconsistent effect on these two indices. The relationship between SI and n or the S‐index could not be generalized. Our results suggest that (i) the effects of PAM on aggregate stability are not trivial, and its application as a soil conservation tool should consider field soil condition, and (ii) α, n and S‐index cannot replace the SI as a solid measure for aggregate stability and soil structure firmness when assessing soil conservation practices. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐dimensional modelling of differential railway track settlement using a cycle domain constitutive model
Authors: Li Xin , Ekh Magnus , Nielsen Jens C. O.
Published: March 2016

A method for simulation of differential (spatially varying) track settlement in a ballasted railway track is presented. It employs a cycle domain constitutive model to determine accumulated plastic (permanent) deformation of the granular layers supporting the track. The constitutive model is adopted for both the ballast and the sub‐ballast but with different parameter sets. The proposed framework can be used to predict differential track settlement accounting for heterogeneous (space‐variant) track characteristics and loading conditions. Here, it is demonstrated for three‐dimensional continuum modelling of a railway crossing panel subjected to a large number of axle passages. Because of the design of the crossing panel and the transient character of the impact loads on the crossing, the load transferred into the track bed is not uniform along the track, and the resulting differential settlement leads to vertical irregularities in track geometry. The spatial variation of track settlement is calculated both along the sleepers and along the rails. The influences of the number of adjacent sleepers accounted for in the model and the stiffness of the subgrade on the predicted settlement at the crossing are studied. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Primary Care Physician‐Pharmacist Collaborative Care Model: Strategies for Implementation
Authors: Carter Barry L.
Published: March 2016

The Collaboration Among Pharmacists and Physicians To Improve Outcomes Now (CAPTION) trial recently found that a pharmacist intervention for hypertension could be implemented in diverse medical offices. In this issue of Pharmacotherapy, the article by Brian Isetts and colleagues discusses the complexity of the patient population, the specific functions the pharmacists performed, and the time estimates from billing records used to quantify time spent during face‐to‐face patient encounters. This invited commentary will discuss findings from the CAPTION trial and provide recommendations for strategies to implement similar interventions for patients with other chronic medical conditions seen in primary care practices.
Diketopyrrolopyrrole assembly into J‐aggregates
Authors: Zhou Yujia , Guzman Carmen X. , Helguero‐Kelley Lance C. , Liu Chuan , Peurifoy Samuel R. , Captain Burjor , Braunschweig Adam B.
Published: March 2016

Realizing the potential of the diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) heterocyclic scaffold as a dye or semiconductor in the context of molecular electronics, organic photovoltaics, and supramolecular chemistry requires understanding fully the factors that drive its aggregation. To determine how solubilizing side chains, conjugation length, and H‐bonding groups affect DPP assembly into J‐aggregates, we performed variable temperature ultraviolet–visible titrations in toluene on a series of DPP derivatives. The structures of these clusters in solution are extrapolated from single‐crystal x‐ray data and computational modeling. Spectroscopic changes in response to variations in temperature and concentration were fit to an isodesmic assembly model to determine ΔH, ΔS, ΔGo, and K of association for each of the DPP derivatives. The resulting thermodynamic assembly parameters predict how aggregate size responds to perturbations, which can be used to design stimuli‐responsive systems with DPP as a functional component. Finally, a new mathematical model is presented that demonstrates how these thermodynamic parameters can be used to estimate the average number of DPP monomers in a cluster in solution at a given temperature and concentration. This study provides guidelines for anticipating how changes to DPP molecular structure affect assembly, and more generally, they show that even the simplest supramolecular association process can only be understood as a complex matrix that considers simultaneously the synergistic interactions of molecular structure, solvent, and assembly pathway. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solution and aqueous miniemulsion polymerization of vinyl chloride mediated by a fluorinated xanthate
Authors: Huang Zhihui , Pan Pengju , Bao Yongzhong
Published: March 2016

Solution and aqueous miniemulsion polymerizations of vinyl chloride (VC) mediated by (3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8‐tridecafluorooctyl‐2‐((ethoxycarbonothioyl)thio) propanoate) (X1) were studied. The living characters of X1‐mediated solution and miniemulsion polymerizations of VC were confirmed by polymerization kinetics. The miniemulsion polymerization exhibits higher rate than solution polymerization. Final conversions of VC in the reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) miniemulsion polymerization reach as high as 87% and are independent of X1 concentration. Initiation process of X1‐mediated RAFT miniemulsion polymerization is controlled by the diffusion–adsorption process of prime radicals. Due to the heterogeneity of polymerization environments and concentration fluctuation of RAFT agent in droplets or latex particles, PVCs prepared in RAFT miniemulsion exhibit relatively broad molecular weight distribution. Furthermore, chain extensions of living PVC (PVC‐X) with VC, vinyl acetate (VAc), and N‐vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) reveal that PVC‐X can be reinitiated and extended, further confirming the living nature of VC RAFT polymerization. PVC‐b‐PVAc diblock copolymer is successfully synthesized by the chain extension of PVC‐X in RAFT miniemulsion polymerization. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2092–2101
4000 Years of Changing Wetness in a Permafrost Polygon Peatland (Kytalyk, NE Siberia): A Comparative High‐Resolution Multi‐Proxy Study
Authors: Teltewskoi Annette , Beermann Fabian , Beil Ilka , Bobrov Anatoly , De Klerk Pim , Lorenz Sebastian , Lüder Arne , Michaelis Dierk , Joosten Hans
Published: March 2016

Ice‐wedge polygon mires feature a micro‐relief of dry ridges, shallow wet depressions, deeper wet troughs and transitional sites, resulting in a local mosaic of vegetation. The correct recognition of these landscape elements in palaeoecological studies of peat sections requires insight about the suitability of proxies and their potential for palaeoecological reconstruction in order to reconstruct vegetation and wetness patterns as well as dynamics. This paper analyses a 105.5 cm long peat section with a base dating to about 4000 cal yr BP from an ice‐wedge polygon mire near Kytalyk (NE Siberia). Pollen, macrofossils, testate amoebae, geochemistry and sediment properties were analysed in order to compare the suitability of these proxies to reconstruct past surface wetness. The proxies show similar wetness trends. Pollen and geochemistry data did not always permit wetness reconstruction, the former because many pollen types do not allow the identification of taxa at a low taxonomic resolution, the latter because later taphonomic processes modify chemical variables in deeper peat layers. Macrofossils provided the most detailed wetness reconstruction, because they could be identified to genera or species, for which the moisture requirements are accurately known from their present‐day distribution in ice‐wedge polygons. All proxies, except geochemistry, show an obvious change from wet to dry conditions at around 20 cm depth. However, as the proxies sometimes show contradictory results, a multi‐proxy approach is preferable over a single proxy interpretation as it allows the reconstruction of environmental development in a broader palaeoecological context. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Communicating to Influence Drug Development and Regulatory Decisions: A Tutorial
Authors: Mehrotra S , Gobburu J
Published: March 2016

Pharmacometricians require three skills to be influential: technical, business (e.g., drug development), and soft skills (e.g., communication). Effective communication is required to translate technical and often complicated quantitative findings to interdisciplinary team members in order to influence drug development or regulatory decisions. In this tutorial, we highlight important aspects related to communicating pharmacometric analysis to influence decisions.
Eleven‐year solar cycle signal in the NAO and Atlantic/European blocking
Authors: Gray L. J. , Woollings T. J. , Andrews M. , Knight J.
Published: March 2016

The 11‐year solar cycle signal in December–January–February (DJF) averaged mean‐sea‐level pressure (SLP) and Atlantic/European blocking frequency is examined using multilinear regression with indices to represent variability associated with the solar cycle, volcanic eruptions, the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). Results from a previous 11‐year solar cycle signal study of the period 1870–2010 (140 years; ∼13 solar cycles) that suggested a 3–4 year lagged signal in SLP over the Atlantic are confirmed by analysis of a much longer reconstructed dataset for the period 1660–2010 (350 years; ∼32 solar cycles). Apparent discrepancies between earlier studies are resolved and stem primarily from the lagged nature of the response and differences between early‐ and late‐winter responses. Analysis of the separate winter months provide supporting evidence for two mechanisms of influence, one operating via the atmosphere that maximises in late winter at 0–2 year lags and one via the mixed‐layer ocean that maximises in early winter at 3–4 year lags. Corresponding analysis of DJF‐averaged Atlantic/European blocking frequency shows a highly statistically significant signal at ∼1‐year lag that originates primarily from the late winter response. The 11‐year solar signal in DJF blocking frequency is compared with other known influences from ENSO and the AMO and found to be as large in amplitude and have a larger region of statistical significance.
Semilocal density functionals and constraint satisfaction
Authors: Perdew John P. , Sun Jianwei , Martin Richard M. , Delley Bernard
Published: March 2016

We discuss six questions related to the recent “strongly constrained and appropriately normed” (SCAN) meta‐generalized gradient approximation (meta‐GGA): (1) When and why should a semilocal approximation to the density functional for the exchange‐correlation energy be accurate? (2) What is the right dimensionless ingredient for a meta‐GGA, and why? (3) In the construction of density functional approximations, should we satisfy more or fewer exact constraints? (4) Is there a tight lower bound on the exchange energy for all spin‐unpolarized densities? (5) Should a semilocal approx‐ imation yield any intermediate‐range van der Waals interaction? (6) Do semilocal functionals make consistent predictions for the energy differences between different molecules (and thus presumably for reaction and formation energies)? © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A New Perspective on Sustainable Soil Remediation—Case Study Suggests Novel Fungal Genera Could Facilitate in situ Biodegradation of Hazardous Contaminants
Authors: Czaplicki Lauren M. , Cooper Ellen , Ferguson P. Lee , Stapleton Heather M. , Vilgalys Rytas , Gunsch Claudia K.
Published: March 2016

Deciding upon a cost effective and sustainable method to address soil pollution is a challenge for many remedial project managers. High pressure to quickly achieve cleanup goals pushes for energy‐intensive remedies that rapidly address the contaminants of concern with established technologies, often leaving little room for research and development especially for slower treatment technologies, such as bioremediation, for the more heavily polluted sites. In this case study, new genomic approaches have been leveraged to assess fungal biostimulation potential in soils polluted with particularly persistent hydrophobic contaminants. This new approach provides insights into the genetic functions available at a given site in a way never before possible. In particular, this article presents a case study where next‐generation sequencing has been used to categorize fungi in soils from the Atlantic Wood Industries Superfund site in Portsmouth, Virginia. Data suggest that original attempts to harness fungi for bioremediation may have focused on fungal genera poorly suited to survive under heavily polluted site conditions, and that more targeted approaches relying on native indigenous fungi which are better equipped to survive under site‐specific conditions may be more appropriate. ©2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Stochastic Approach in Groundwater Modeling for the Optimization of Hydraulic Barriers
Authors: Remonti Michele , Mori Piero
Published: March 2016

A three‐dimensional stochastic groundwater flow and contaminant transport model has been developed to optimize groundwater containment at an industrial site in Italy and to define likely future contaminant distribution under different confinement or remediation scenarios. The transport model was first calibrated using a deterministic approach to simulate the hydrochemical conditions prior to the optimization of groundwater extraction, then a probabilistic simulation was conducted to predict future contaminant concentrations. The stochastic approach allowed introducing an estimate of the uncertainty of the hydrogeological and chemical parameters into the model, simulating the probability density function of the contaminant concentrations after the application of the optimized barrier wells pumping rates. This allowed the calculation of the time required for the concentrations of each modeled parameter to decrease to under the regulatory limit at the compliance point, and associating the related uncertainty into the model. Quantifying the model prediction uncertainty facilitated a better understanding of the site environmental conditions, providing the site owners additional information for managing the site and allocating related economic resources. ©2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effective Communications for Project Success
Authors: Greenberger Leonard S.
Published: March 2016

Successful soil remediation depends on many factors that project managers know well: accurate assessments as to the extent and nature of contamination; the right choice and proper implementation of remediation technologies; and, deft negotiation of regulatory requirements and review. One equally important factor that often receives too little attention is stakeholder communication. Effective communication strategies and tactics can help avoid project delays and cost overruns related to stakeholder concerns and opposition, and inoculate owners and others against frivolous litigation. Remediation projects also offer opportunities to bolster the brands and images of engaged parties, including owners, engineering and environmental contractors—and even the regulatory agencies that oversee them. Understanding the skills and techniques necessary to communicate effectively when people are angry, upset, and suspicious of everything you say is essential to project success. This article will explore six rules for effective communication—brought to life by genuine case studies where they have been followed to positive effect—that encapsulate the skills and techniques project managers can apply in difficult situations involving the remediation of contaminated sites. ©2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficient key encapsulation mechanisms with tight security reductions to standard assumptions in the two security models
Authors: Hanatani Yoshikazu , Hanaoka Goichiro , Matsuda Takahiro , Yamakawa Takashi
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we propose two new practical constructions of chosen ciphertext attack secure (CCA secure) key encapsulation mechanisms (KEM, which is the main building block for public key encryption in hybrid encryption), with remarkable security features: Our KEMs can be proved not only to satisfy CCA security (or constrained CCA security introduced by Hofheinz and Kiltz at CRYPTO'07) in the standard model with a tight security reduction to a basic indistinguishability‐type assumption but also to be CCA secure in the random oracle model with a tight security reduction to a basic computational‐type assumption. Our first construction is based on the Diffie–Hellman‐type assumptions, and compared with the KEM by Shoup at EUROCRYPT'00 that has security reductions in two security models (but its security proof in the random model is a loose reduction), our proposed KEM has a smaller ciphertext size with the same computational costs, and more importantly, ours has a tight security reduction also in the random oracle model. Our second construction is based on assumptions related to integer factoring, and compared with the KEM by Hofheinz and Kiltz at CRYPTO'99 that also has tight security reductions in two security models to factoring‐related assumptions, our proposed KEM has similar efficiency (both ciphertext size and computational costs) and bases the security on incomparable assumptions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Schlosssteg 2.0 – Ersatzneubau einer Fuß‐ und Radwegbrücke in Waidhofen an der Ybbs, Österreich
Authors: Brandstötter Rudolf , Kirchhofer Johannes
Published: March 2016

In Waidhofen an der Ybbs, Österreich, wurde im Sommer 2015 eine Fuß‐ und Radwegbrücke mit 60 m Spannweite als Ersatzneubau für eine bestehende Stegkonstruktion errichtet. Neben dem Neubau musste die bestehende Stegkonstruktion abgetragen werden, was in Kombination mit den weiteren örtlichen Gegebenheiten zu einem nicht alltäglichen Montage‐ bzw. Demontagekonzept führte. Durch die konsequente Umsetzung einer ganzheitlichen Entwurfsstrategie konnte eine Stegkonstruktion geschaffen werden, die sich harmonisch in die Umgebung integriert und auch binnen kürzester Zeit umgesetzt werden konnte.

Schlosssteg 2.0 – A new reconstruction of a bridge for pedestrians and cyclists across the river Ybbs in Waidhofen, Austria. In the summer of 2015, a pedestrian and cyclist bridge was built in Waidhofen across the river Ybbs. The bridge has a span width of 60 m. It replaces an existing structure, which had to be removed during construction – which, added to the local circumstances, resulted in an unordinary construction and dismantling concept. By consistently applying a holistic design strategy a bridge structure could be created that harmoniously blends with its environment and was put into practise within short time.
KLF7 Regulates Satellite Cell Quiescence in Response to Extracellular Signaling
Authors: Wang Xiaobin , Shen Qingwu W. , Wang Jie , Zhang Zhiguo , Feng Fu , Chen Ting , Zhang Yanyan , Wei Huan , Li Zhongwen , Wang Xinxia , Wang Yizhen
Published: March 2016

Retaining muscle stem satellite cell (SC) quiescence is important for the maintenance of stem cell population and tissue regeneration. Accumulating evidence supports the model where key extracellular signals play crucial roles in maintaining SC quiescence or activation, however, the intracellular mechanisms that mediate niche signals to control SC behavior are not fully understood. Here, we reported that KLF7 functioned as a key mediator involved in low-level TGF-β signaling and canonical Notch signaling-induced SC quiescence and myoblast arrest. The data obtained showed that KLF7 was upregulated in quiescent SCs and nonproliferating myoblasts. Silence of KLF7 promoted SCs activation and myoblasts proliferation, but overexpression of KLF7 induced myogenic cell arrest. Notably, the expression of KLF7 was regulated by TGF-β and Notch3 signaling. Knockdown of KLF7 diminished low-level TGF-β and canonical Notch signaling-induced SC quiescence. Investigation into the mechanism revealed that KLF7 regulation of SC function was dependent on p21 and acetylation of Lys227 and/or 231 in the DNA binding domain of KLF7. Our study provides new insights into the regulatory network of muscle stem cell quiescence.
Accuracy of Surgeon‐Performed Ultrasound in Detecting Gallstones: A Validation Study
Authors: Gustafsson Camilla , McNicholas Andrea , Sondén Anders , Törngren Staffan , Järnbert‐Pettersson Hans , Lindelius Anna
Published: March 2016

Background

Symptomatic gallstone disease is a common diagnosis in patients with abdominal pain. Ultrasound is considered the gold standard method to identify gallstones. Today the examination may be performed bedside by the treating clinician. Bedside ultrasound could provide a safe and time‐saving diagnostic resource for surgeons evaluating patients with suspected symptomatic gallstones; however, large validation studies of the accuracy and reliability are lacking. The aim of this study was to prospectively investigate the accuracy of surgeon‐performed ultrasound for the detection of gallstones.

Methods

Between October 2011 and November 2012, 179 adult patients, with an acute or elective referral for an abdominal ultrasound examination, were examined with a right upper quadrant ultrasound scan by a radiologist as well as a surgeon. The surgeons had undergone a four‐week‐long ultrasound education before participating in the study. Ultrasound findings of the surgeon were compared to those of the radiologist, using radiologist‐performed ultrasound as reference standard.

Results

Surgeon‐performed ultrasound agreed with radiologist findings in 169 of 179 patients regarding the detection of gallstones, providing an accuracy of 94 %. The sensitivity was 88 % (67/76), specificity 99 % (102/103), positive predictive value 99 % (67/68), and negative predictive value 92 % (102/111). Agreement between the diagnosis set by the radiologists and the surgeons was high: Cohen’s Kappa coefficient = 0.88.

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐trained surgeons may accurately diagnose gallstones using ultrasound and reach a high level of agreement with radiologists.
Imbalanced Job Polarization and Skills Mismatch in Europe
Authors: Sparreboom Theo , Tarvid Alexander
Published: March 2016

This paper considers the education of the labour force based on an analysis of trends in and the relationships between job polarization and skills mismatch. Both job polarization and skills mismatch have become topics of increasing interest, but relationships between the two have been relatively neglected in the literature. We argue that the relationship between polarization and skills mismatch is an empirical matter, which we analyse at both the macroeconomic and microeconomic level in European countries. A novel job polarization index (JPI) is proposed to measure imbalanced job polarization. It takes into account not only the change in the share of medium-level jobs, as is typical for measuring pure polarization, but also the imbalance between the change in high-level and low-level jobs. Skills mismatch at macro-level is measured by a skills mismatch index (SMI), while traditional measures of undereducation and overeducation are used at the microeconomic level. At the macroeconomic level, we estimate a system of two equations, one for each of the country-level variables gauging polarization and mismatch, respectively. Imbalanced job polarization measured by the JPI negatively affects skills mismatch at the macroeconomic level (SMI), but there is no significant reverse effect. Thereafter we consider the microeconomic level and study the determinants of mismatch using multi-level mixed effects logistic models. The effect of imbalanced job polarization on individual-level mismatch was arguably favourable for individuals in non-crisis time, decreasing overeducation risk although also increasing the chances of undereducation, both gauged using the normative measure, but unfavourable during the global financial crisis of 2008–2009 and the following two years.
Amyloid‐related imaging abnormalities from trials of solanezumab for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Carlson Christopher , Siemers Eric , Hake Ann , Case Michael , Hayduk Roza , Suhy Joyce , Oh Joonmi , Barakos Jerome
Published: March 2016

Introduction

Solanezumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds soluble amyloid beta peptide, is being developed for treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Patients (n = 2042) with mild and moderate AD were randomized 1:1 to 400‐mg solanezumab or placebo infusion every 4 weeks for 80 weeks and 1457 patients entered an open‐label extension. Magnetic resonance imaging scans monitored for amyloid‐related imaging abnormalities‐edema/effusion (ARIA‐E) and amyloid‐related imaging abnormalities‐hemorrhage/hemosiderin deposition.

Results

Sixteen patients (solanezumab, n = 11; placebo, n = 5) developed ARIA‐E during the double‐blind phase, and 7 patients developed ARIA‐E during the open‐label extension as of July 31, 2014. Unique cases are discussed including solanezumab patients who were given solanezumab, while ARIA‐E was present and a patient who developed ARIA‐E during placebo treatment and again during solanezumab treatment.

Discussion

Asymptomatic ARIA‐E was detected in solanezumab‐treated and placebo‐treated AD patients. ARIA‐E occurs infrequently during solanezumab and placebo treatments but may occur repeatedly in some patients.