bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anthropogenic influence on the frequency of extreme temperatures in China
Authors: Lu Chunhui , Sun Ying , Wan Hui , Zhang Xuebin , Yin Hong
Published: June 2016

Anthropogenic influence on the frequencies of warm days, cold days, warm nights, and cold nights are detected in the observations of Chinese temperature data covering 1958–2002. We used an optimal fingerprinting method to compare these temperature indices computed from a newly homogenized observational data set with those from simulations conducted with multiple climate models that participated in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5. We found the clear anthropogenic signals in the observational records of frequency changes in warm and cold days and nights. We also found that the models appear to be doing a better job in simulating the observed frequencies of daytime extremes than nighttime extremes. The model‐simulated variability appears to be consistent with that of the observations, providing confidence on the detection results. Additionally, the anthropogenic signal can be clearly detected at subnational scales, with detectable human influence found in Eastern and Western China separately.
Pliocene‐Pleistocene evolution of sea surface and intermediate water temperatures from the southwest Pacific
Authors: McClymont Erin L. , Elmore Aurora C. , Kender Sev , Leng Melanie J. , Greaves Mervyn , Elderfield Henry
Published: June 2016

Over the last 5 million years, the global climate system has evolved toward a colder mean state, marked by large‐amplitude oscillations in continental ice volume. Equatorward expansion of polar waters and strengthening temperature gradients have been detected. However, the response of the mid latitudes and high latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere is not well documented, despite the potential importance for climate feedbacks including sea ice distribution and low‐high latitude heat transport. Here we reconstruct the Pliocene‐Pleistocene history of both sea surface and Antarctic Intermediate Water (AAIW) temperatures on orbital time scales from Deep Sea Drilling Project Site 593 in the Tasman Sea, southwest Pacific. We confirm overall Pliocene‐Pleistocene cooling trends in both the surface ocean and AAIW, although the patterns are complex. The Pliocene is warmer than modern, but our data suggest an equatorward displacement of the subtropical front relative to present and a poleward displacement of the subantarctic front of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC). Two main intervals of cooling, from ~3 Ma and ~1.5 Ma, are coeval with cooling and ice sheet expansion noted elsewhere and suggest that equatorward expansion of polar water masses also characterized the southwest Pacific through the Pliocene‐Pleistocene. However, the observed trends in sea surface temperature and AAIW temperature are not identical despite an underlying link to the ACC, and intervals of unusual surface ocean warmth (~2 Ma) and large‐amplitude variability in AAIW temperatures (from ~1 Ma) highlight complex interactions between equatorward displacements of fronts associated with the ACC and/or varying poleward heat transport from the subtropics.
Skin artifact removal technique for breast cancer radar detection
Authors: Caorsi S. , Lenzi C.
Published: June 2016

In this paper we propose a new model‐based skin artifact cleaning technique with the aim to remove skin reflections with good effectiveness, without introducing significant signal distortions, and without assuming a priori information on the real structure of the breast. The reference cleaning model, constituted by a two‐layer geometry skin‐adipose tissue, is oriented to all the ultrawideband radar methods able to detect the tumor starting by the knowledge of each trace recorded around the breast. All the radar signal measurements were simulated by using realistic breast models derived from the University of Wisconsin computational electromagnetic laboratory database and the finite difference time domain (FDTD)‐based open source software GprMax. First, we have searched for the best configuration for the reference cleaning model with the aim to minimize the distortions introduced on the radar signal. Second, the performance of the proposed cleaning technique has been assessed by using a breast cancer radar detection technique based on the use of artificial neural network (ANN). In order to minimize the signal distortions, we found that it was necessary to use the real skin thickness and the static Debye parameters of both skin and adipose tissue. In such a case the ANN‐based radar approach was able to detect the tumor with an accuracy of 87%. By extending the performance assessment also to the case when only average standard values are used to characterize the reference cleaning model, the detection accuracy was of 84%.
Mood Management Theory
Authors: Reinecke Leonard
Published: June 2016

Mood management theory belongs to a larger group of theoretical approaches that address selective exposure to media content. The theory posits that media choice is a function of the current affective state of media users and follows the principle of mood optimization. While the existing empirical evidence provides substantial support for the general notion that selective exposure to media content varies as a function of the situational affective state, research also suggests that media choice does not always follow the dictate of immediate mood optimization. A number of theoretical extensions have been introduced to account for the mixed empirical evidence concerning the specific predictions of mood management theory and to explain seemingly counterhedonistic forms of media exposure.
Content Effects: Personal and Public Health
Authors: Dutta Mohan J.
Published: June 2016

Media and health are deeply intertwined, both in the realm of positive health effects of the media content and in that of negative effects. Media effects have been studied in the area of individual beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors as well as in the domains of public opinion and policy‐making. In addition to examining the effects of the media on personal and public health, one could categorize media effects themselves as intended or unintended health effects. In examining the relationship between media and health, this entry highlights several problems of assessing causality in the realm of health in general, with possible intervening or moderating factors such as physical situation, environmental developments, structural determinants, cultural context, and so on, which are always relevant.
Public Relations: Media Effects
Authors: Raupp Juliana
Published: June 2016

Public relations efforts are directed toward the news media as well as toward different stakeholder groups. In order to draw conclusions on public relations effects, the observed effects have to be related to the corresponding public relations efforts. Media effects research in public relations involves different areas of study: the relationship between journalists and public relations practitioners, the agenda‐building capacity of public relations, and direct effects of public relations messages on publics or key stakeholders. A distinctive feature of public relations effects research is the measurement of relationships. In all areas of study of public relations media effects, researchers now integrate questions on the impact of online media.
Personal Media
Authors: Thumim Nancy
Published: June 2016

In critical scholarship, personal media tend to refer to media technologies and their uses by individuals rather than to institutions or companies. Critical research on personal media taken cumulatively shows how personal media are embedded in relations and discourses of power, in relations to authorities, in relations to peers, and in relations between groups (digital natives vs. other groups), and how they are important to citizenship. Moreover, personal media do not refer only to individual technologies and their use but are also, by definition, about sociability and the embeddedness of individual use in networks of various kinds. In short, critical scholarship on personal media finds them to have far‐reaching positive and negative implications, entwined with other kinds of influences and factors—social, political, economic, and cultural.
Interactivity
Authors: Quiring Oliver
Published: June 2016

Interactivity is a central concept for the analysis of social communication, whether mediated or not. This entry concentrates on the analysis of the role of interactivity in mediated communication processes by explaining the origins and basic dimensions of the concept, some selected areas of research and theoretical concepts related to it, and the different methods and operationalizations used in the empirical investigation of interactivity. It ends with a summary of the effects of interactivity from three different perspectives: interactivity as a dependent variable; effects of interactivity on interactivity (i.e., on itself); and interactivity as an independent variable.
Social Context of Media Use
Authors: Cohen Elizabeth L.
Published: June 2016

Media are often consumed socially, yet media effects theory and research most often focus on how individuals respond to media content in nonsocial contexts. Research spanning the last half‐century provides insight into the ways in which different aspects of the social contexts of media use can affect how users perceive and experience media content. Both mediated and nonmediated social context effects on traditional mass communication and video game experiences are discussed.
Understanding Roman Architecture From A Distance: Sir Christopher Wren on the Temples of Peace and of Mars the Avenger
Authors: van Eck Caroline
Published: June 2016

The large majority of British architects in the seventeenth century had not seen Greek or Roman architecture with their own eyes. This chapter considers the process of grasping Roman architecture from a distance, starting with the first English editions of Serlio, Scamozzi, and Vignola. The main part of the chapter is devoted to the descriptions Sir Christopher Wren wrote of two Roman monuments, the Temple of Peace and the Temple of Mars the Avenger, without ever having set eyes on them. These texts document the change from the first efforts to learn how to handle the classical orders to a critical analysis of Roman buildings that is informed by Wren's experimental attitude. At the same time, while Wren subjects Roman architecture to empirical scrutiny like any other natural or artificial phenomenon, he brings to its understanding the same rhetorical and emblematic knowledge as his sixteenth‐ and seventeenth‐century predecessors used. His
Tracts
thus stand at an important crossroads in European architectural thought. They move away from Renaissance deference to classical authority toward critical scrutiny based on the new empirical science that was developed at the Royal Society, of which Wren was a founding member, and thus prepared the way for Enlightenment revisions of Vitruvianism. At the same time, paradoxically, by bringing to bear traditional early modern rhetorical and emblematic modes of thought on the problem of the meaning and expressive character of the orders, Wren announces eighteenth‐century approaches to design that would start from the effect of a building on the spectator, of which the Picturesque is the most obvious instance.
P(VDF‐TrFE)/BaTiO3 Nanoparticle Composite Films Mediate Piezoelectric Stimulation and Promote Differentiation of SH‐SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Genchi Giada Graziana , Ceseracciu Luca , Marino Attilio , Labardi Massimiliano , Marras Sergio , Pignatelli Francesca , Bruschini Luca , Mattoli Virgilio , Ciofani Gianni
Published: June 2016

Poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene, P(VDF‐TrFE)) and P(VDF‐TrFE)/barium titanate nanoparticle (BTNP) films are prepared and tested as substrates for neuronal stimulation through direct piezoelectric effect. Films are characterized in terms of surface, mechanical, and piezoelectric features before in vitro testing on SH‐SY5Y cells. In particular, BTNPs significantly improve piezoelectric properties of the films (4.5‐fold increased d31). Both kinds of films support good SH‐SY5Y viability and differentiation. Ultrasound (US) stimulation is proven to elicit Ca2+ transients and to enhance differentiation in cells grown on the piezoelectric substrates. For the first time in the literature, this study demonstrates the suitability of polymer/ceramic composite films and US for neuronal stimulation through direct piezoelectric effect.
Overcoming Instability of Antibody‐Nanomaterial Conjugates: Next Generation Targeted Nanomedicines Using Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Howard Christopher B. , Fletcher Nicholas , Houston Zachary H. , Fuchs Adrian V. , Boase Nathan R. B. , Simpson Joshua D. , Raftery Lyndon J. , Ruder Tim , Jones Martina L. , de Bakker Christopher J. , Mahler Stephen M. , Thurecht Kristofer J.
Published: June 2016

Targeted nanomaterials promise improved therapeutic efficacy, however their application in nanomedicine is limited due to complexities associated with protein conjugations to synthetic nanocarriers. A facile method to generate actively targeted nanomaterials is developed and exemplified using polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐functional nanostructures coupled to a bispecific antibody (BsAb) with dual specificity for methoxy PEG (mPEG) epitopes and cancer targets such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The EGFR‐mPEG BsAb binds with high affinity to recombinant EGFR (KD: 1 × 10–9m) and hyperbranched polymer (HBP) consisting of mPEG (KD: 10 × 10–9m) and demonstrates higher avidity for HBP compared to linear mPEG. The binding of BsAb‐HBP bioconjugate to EGFR on MDA‐MB‐468 cancer cells is investigated in vitro using a fluorescently labeled polymer, and in in vivo xenograft models by small animal optical imaging. The antibody‐targeted nanostructures show improved accumulation in tumor cells compared to non‐targeted nanomaterials. This demonstrates a facile approach for tuning targeting ligand density on nanomaterials, by modulating surface functionality. Antibody fragments are tethered to the nanomaterial through simple mixing prior to administration to animals, overcoming the extensive procedures encountered for developing targeted nanomedicines.
Rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) with self‐injurious behavior show less behavioral anxiety during the human intruder test
Authors: Peterson Emily J. , Worlein Julie M. , Lee Grace H. , Dettmer Amanda M. , Varner Elana K. , Novak Melinda A.
Published: June 2016

Self‐injurious behavior (SIB) has been linked to anxiety in the human literature, but relatively few studies have explored this link in rhesus macaques. A widely used behavioral assessment of anxiety, the human intruder test (HIT), employs the mildly stressful stimulus of an unfamiliar experimenter to assess anxious behavior in macaques. The HIT was conducted on 59 (20 male) laboratory housed rhesus macaques, 30 with a record of SIB (10 male). If monkeys with SIB have a more anxious phenotype, they should show stronger reactions to the HIT. However, contrary to our predictions, monkeys with SIB did not show higher levels of anxious behavior compared to controls. They spent significantly less time showing anxious behavior and displayed little aggression in response to the stare of the intruder. SIB and control monkeys did not differ in a range score (number of unique behaviors expressed per phase); however, SIB monkeys had a lower change score (total number of behaviors expressed including repetitions) than controls. In general, monkeys that paced regardless of SIB status, showed a reduction in pacing when the intruder entered the room. Possible explanations for the failure of SIB monkeys to show increased anxiety in the HIT include greater exposure of SIB monkeys to unfamiliar humans because of their condition, evidence for a subtype of SIB which is not anxiety related, and/or the presence of comorbid depressive‐like symptoms. Am. J. Primatol. 79:e22569, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Chemical Shift Baseline for High‐Pressure NMR Spectra of Proteins
Authors: Frach Roland , Kibies Patrick , Böttcher Saraphina , Pongratz Tim , Strohfeldt Steven , Kurrmann Simon , Koehler Joerg , Hofmann Martin , Kremer Werner , Kalbitzer Hans Robert , Reiser Oliver , Horinek Dominik , Kast Stefan M.
Published: June 2016

High‐pressure (HP) NMR spectroscopy is an important method for detecting rare functional states of proteins by analyzing the pressure response of chemical shifts. However, for the analysis of the shifts it is mandatory to understand the origin of the observed pressure dependence. Here we present experimental HP NMR data on the 15N‐enriched peptide bond model, N‐methylacetamide (NMA), in water, combined with quantum‐chemical computations of the magnetic parameters using a pressure‐sensitive solvation model. Theoretical analysis of NMA and the experimentally used internal reference standard 4,4‐dimethyl‐4‐silapentane‐1‐sulfonic (DSS) reveal that a substantial part of observed shifts can be attributed to purely solvent‐induced electronic polarization of the backbone. DSS is only marginally responsive to pressure changes and is therefore a reliable sensor for variations in the local magnetic field caused by pressure‐induced changes of the magnetic susceptibility of the solvent.
Adhesive and viscoelastic performance of surface functionalized nano‐Fe3O4 induced orientated ethylene vinyl‐acetate composite hot melt adhesives
Authors: He Xianru , Lu Xiaobin , Chen Qian , Zhang Rui
Published: June 2016

Different surface functionalized Fe3O4 were added to ethylene vinyl‐acetate copolymers (EVA) composite hot melt adhesives (HMAs) to study their influence on the properties of composite HMAs. The adhesion and viscoelastic properties for HMAs were studied using an electromechanical universal testing machine, dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) and parallel‐plate rheometer, respectively. Orientation structure of HMAs was studied by Infrared dichroism. The results showed that tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) treated Fe3O4 showed better compatibility with EVA composite HMAs, and that TEOS‐treated Fe3O4/EVA composite HMAs presented better adhesion property and processing fluidity, compared with bare Fe3O4/EVA composite HMAs and silane coupling agent KH560 treated Fe3O4/EVA composite HMAs. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43931.
Gestational and Early Postnatal Exposure to an Environmentally Relevant Mixture of Brominated Flame Retardants: General Toxicity and Skeletal Variations
Authors: Tung Emily W. Y. , Yan Han , Lefèvre Pavine L. C. , Berger Robert G. , Rawn Dorothea F. K. , Gaertner Dean W. , Kawata Alice , Rigden Marc , Robaire Bernard , Hales Barbara F. , Wade Michael G.
Published: June 2016

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are stable environmental contaminants known to exert endocrine‐disrupting effects. Developmental exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) is correlated with impaired thyroid hormone signaling, as well as estrogenic and anti‐androgenic effects. As previous studies have focused on a single congener or technical mixture, the purpose of the current study was to examine the effects of gestational and early postnatal exposure to an environmentally relevant mixture of BFRs designed to reflect house dust levels of PBDEs and hexabromocyclododecane on postnatal developmental outcomes. Pregnant Sprague‐Dawley rats were exposed to the PBDE mixture from preconception to weaning (PND 21) through the diet containing 0, 0.75, 250, and 750 mg mixture/kg diet. BFR exposure induced transient reductions in body weight at PND 35 in male and from PND 30–45 in female offspring (250 and 750 mg/kg). Liver weights (PND 21) and xenobiotic metabolizing enzyme activities (PND 21 and 46) were increased in both male and female offspring exposed to 250 and 750 mg/kg diets. Furthermore, serum T4 levels were reduced at PND 21 in both,male and female offspring (250 and 750 mg/kg). At PND 21, Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was decreased in males exposed to 750 mg/kg dietat, and females exposed to 250 and 750 mg/kg diets. At PND 46 ALP was significantly elevated in males (250 and 750 mg/kg). Variations in the cervical vertebrae and phalanges were observed in pups at PND 4 (250 and 750 mg/kg). Therefore, BFR exposure during gestation through to weaning alters developmental programming in the offspring. The persistence of BFRs in the environment remains a cause for concern with regards to developmental toxicity
Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon and prenatal counseling: a case series
Authors: Beissel Anne , Riou Stéphanie , Fischer Fumeaux Céline Julie , Cassart Marie , Blanc Sébastien , Claris Olivier , Guibaud Laurent
Published: June 2016

Key Clinical Message

Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon can be encountered in the perinatal period. No consensus exists regarding prenatal management. We report one prenatal case leading to therapeutic abortion and one neonatal case, successfully treated by a multimodal therapy. Prenatal counseling should include the possibility of neonatal multimodal treatment that can lead to favorable outcomes.
Clinical mutational profiling of bone metastases of lung and colon carcinoma and malignant melanoma using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Zheng Gang , Lin Ming‐Tseh , Lokhandwala Parvez M. , Beierl Katie , Netto George J. , Gocke Christopher D. , Eshleman James R. , McCarthy Edward , Illei Peter B.
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Bone is a common metastatic site for solid tumors and is often the only source for molecular testing. Current routine decalcification protocols for the processing of bone specimens damage nucleic acids, leading to a high failure rate.

METHODS

In this retrospective quality‐assessment analysis, preanalytic factors that contributed to the failure of mutational profiling in metastatic bone specimens were evaluated using a next‐generation sequencing assay.

RESULTS

Mutational profiling was conducted in 33 formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded bone lesions that were submitted to a clinical laboratory. Adequate depth of coverage was obtained in 21 specimens, of which, 16 had mutations detected. “No results” were reported in 12 specimens because the NGS assay failed. There was a significantly higher failure rate in bone specimens compared with nonbone specimens (36% vs 2.3%, respectively). Although nonbone specimens had a higher failure rate in biopsy/fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) specimens, in‐house bone biopsy/FNA specimens with or without short‐duration surface decalcification had a lower failure rate than resected bone specimens (11% vs 60%, respectively). The high failure rate in resected metastatic bone specimens was associated with regular decalcification but not with low DNA input.

CONCLUSIONS

Next‐generation sequencing assays demonstrated clinical utility in metastatic bone specimens. FNA (smear and cell block) and core‐biopsy specimens provided adequate resources of nucleic acids for molecular profiling of metastatic bone lesions. The current findings suggest the need for developing specific tissue procurement and processing protocols for bone metastases and greater use of small biopsy and FNA specimens. Cancer Cytopathol 2016;124:744–53. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
GPER/GPR30, a membrane estrogen receptor, is expressed in the brain and retina of a social fish (Carassius auratus) and colocalizes with isotocin
Authors: Mangiamele Lisa A. , Gomez Julia R. , Curtis Nancy J. , Thompson Richmond R.
Published: June 2016

Estradiol rapidly (within 30 minutes) influences a variety of sociosexual behaviors in both mammalian and nonmammalian vertebrates, including goldfish, in which it rapidly stimulates approach responses to the visual cues of females. Such rapid neuromodulatory effects are likely mediated via membrane‐associated estrogen receptors; however, the localization and distribution of such receptors within the nervous system is not well described. To begin to address this gap, we identified GPER/GPR30, a G‐protein‐coupled estrogen receptor, in goldfish (Carassius auratus) neural tissue and used reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and in situ hybridization to test if GPR30 is expressed in the brain regions that might mediate visually guided social behaviors in males. We then used immunohistochemistry to determine whether GPR30 colocalizes with isotocin‐producing cells in the preoptic area, a critical node in the highly conserved vertebrate social behavior network. We used quantitative (q)PCR to test whether GPR30 mRNA levels differ in males in breeding vs. nonbreeding condition and in males that were socially interacting with a female vs. a rival male. Our results show that GPR30 is expressed in the retina and in many brain regions that receive input from the retina and/or optic tectum, as well as in a few nodes in the social behavior network, including cell populations that produce isotocin. J. Comp. Neurol. 525:252–270, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An Efficient Targeted Mutagenesis System Using CRISPR/Cas in Monocotyledons
Authors: Liang Zhen , Zong Yuan , Gao Caixia
Published: June 2016

Precise genome modification using artificial nucleases is a powerful tool for in‐depth understanding of gene functions and for creating new varieties. The CRISPR/Cas system, derived from an adaptive immunity system in bacteria and archaea, can introduce DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs) into pre‐selected genomic loci and lead to loss of gene function due to error‐prone non‐homologous end joining (NHEJ). RNA‐guided nucleases have been widely used in several eukaryotic organisms. In this article, we provide a detailed protocol for designing and constructing gRNA targets, detecting nuclease activity in transient protoplast assays, and identifying mutations in transgenic plants (including rice, wheat and maize). Targeted mutations in T0 plants can be generated in 14 to 18 weeks. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Quantitative Auxin Metabolite Profiling Using Stable Isotope Dilution UHPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Novák Ondřej , Pěnčík Aleš , Blahoušek Ota , Ljung Karin
Published: June 2016

Auxin, a plant hormone, is able to stimulate growth and to control developmental processes. To get a deeper level of understanding of how auxin activity is regulated in planta, we have developed a sensitive and selective mass spectrometry‐based protocol for multiplex quantification of indole 3‐acetic acid (IAA) as well as its precursors and degradation products. As part of the protocol development, we have also established a derivatization protocol for the IAA precursors IPyA and IAAld, compounds that are highly labile during sample extraction and purification. This article describes a standard isotope dilution method for quantitative profiling of the IAA metabolome in small amounts of plant tissues. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Cyclic nucleotide signaling is required during synaptic refinement at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction
Authors: Vonhoff Fernando , Keshishian Haig
Published: June 2016

The removal of miswired synapses is a fundamental prerequisite for normal circuit development, leading to clinical problems when aberrant. However, the underlying activity‐dependent molecular mechanisms involved in synaptic pruning remain incompletely resolved. Here the dynamic properties of intracellular calcium oscillations and a role for cAMP signaling during synaptic refinement in intact Drosophila embryos were examined using optogenetic tools. We provide In vivo evidence at the single gene level that the calcium‐dependent adenylyl cyclase rutabaga, the phosphodiesterase dunce, the kinase PKA, and Protein Phosphatase 1 (PP1) all operate within a functional signaling pathway to modulate Sema2a‐dependent chemorepulsion. It was found that presynaptic cAMP levels were required to be dynamically maintained at an optimal level to suppress connectivity defects. It was also proposed that PP1 may serve as a molecular link between cAMP signaling and CaMKII in the pathway underlying refinement. The results introduced an in vivo model where presynaptic cAMP levels, downstream of electrical activity and calcium influx, act via PKA and PP1 to modulate the neuron's response to chemorepulsion involved in the withdrawal of off‐target synaptic contacts. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 39–60, 2017
Mating system, population growth, and management scenario for Kalanchoe pinnata in an invaded seasonally dry tropical forest
Authors: González de León Salvador , Herrera Ileana , Guevara Roger
Published: June 2016

Ecological invasions are a major issue worldwide, where successful invasion depends on traits that facilitate dispersion, establishment, and population growth. The nonnative succulent plant Kalanchoe pinnata, reported as invasive in some countries, is widespread in remnants of seasonally dry tropical forest on a volcanic outcrop with high conservation value in east‐central Mexico where we assessed its mating system and demographic growth and identified management strategies. To understand its local mating system, we conducted hand‐pollination treatments, germination, and survival experiments. Based on the experimental data, we constructed a life‐stage population matrix, identified the key traits for population growth, weighted the contributions of vegetative and sexual reproduction, and evaluated management scenarios. Hand‐pollination treatments had slight effects on fruit and seed setting, as well as on germination. With natural pollination treatment, the successful germination of seeds from only 2/39 fruit suggests occasional effective natural cross‐pollination. The ratios of the metrics for self‐ and cross‐pollinated flowers suggest that K. pinnata is partially self‐compatible. Most of the pollinated flowers developed into fruit, but the seed germination and seedling survival rates were low. Thus, vegetative propagation and juvenile survival are the main drivers of population growth. Simulations of a virtual K. pinnata population suggest that an intense and sustained weeding campaign will reduce the population within at least 10 years. Synthesis and applications. The study population is partially self‐compatible, but sexual reproduction by K. pinnata is limited at the study site, and population growth is supported by vegetative propagation and juvenile survival. Demographic modeling provides key insights and realistic forecasts on invasion process and therefore is useful to design management strategies.
Modulated Synthesis of Metal‐Organic Frameworks through Tuning of the Initial Oxidation State of the Metal
Authors: Bosch Mathieu , Sun Xing , Yuan Shuai , Chen Ying‐Pin , Wang Qi , Wang Xuan , Zhou Hong‐Cai
Published: June 2016

Modulated solvothermal synthesis and other alterations of synthetic conditions have been used to control metal‐organic framework (MOF) crystallinity, porosity, and other properties. However, so far these changes have mostly been limited to changes in solvent, pH, or modulating acid type or concentration. In this work, we introduce a new method for the tuning of MOF synthesis: modulation through alteration of the metal source's initial oxidation state. By choosing a metal source that should be reduced or oxidized at high temperature in the solvent, metal concentration can be started at zero for initially insoluble starting materials and then increased as the metal reacts with the solvent, slowing and altering crystallization compared to standard MOF solvothermal synthesis. This concept is demonstrated through the synthesis of PCN‐47, PCN‐48, and PCN‐49, MOFs with distinct structures and porosities synthesized from the same metal and ligand with the metal initially in different oxidation states.
Influence of the Increasing Size of the M2+ Cation on the Crystal Structures of XeF5M(SbF6)3 (M = Ni, Mg, Cu, Zn, Co, Mn, Pd) and (XeF5)3[Hg(HF)]2(SbF6)7
Authors: Mazej Zoran , Goreshnik Evgeny
Published: June 2016

The reactions between XeF5SbF6 and M(SbF6)2 (M2+ = Ni, Mg, Zn, Co, Mn, Pd) in anhydrous HF (aHF) in a 1:1 molar ratio yielded XeF5M(SbF6)3 upon crystallization. All six structures were characterized at 150 K by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. For Mn, there is a phase transition at around 235 K, and for Pd between 260 and 296 K. Similar attempts to prepare new [XeF5]+/M2+ mixed‐cation salts with M2+ = Ca, Sr, Ba, Cr, Fe, Ag, Cd, and Hg were only successful for Hg, for which (XeF5)3[Hg(HF)]2(SbF6)7 was obtained. The crystal structures of XeF5M(SbF6)3 (M2+ = Mg, Co, Ni, Zn) and the low‐temperature phase α‐XeF5Mn(SbF6)3 are isotypic with the known XeF5Cu(SbF6)3. The main features of the crystal structures of β‐XeF5Mn(SbF6)3 and β‐XeF5Pd(SbF6)3 are similar to those of the other XeF5M(SbF6)3 compounds, that is, a 3D framework consisting of rings of MF6 octahedra that share the apexes with SbF6 octahedra, forming cavities within which the [XeF5]+ cations are located. At 296 K, the disordered [XeF5]+ cations in β‐XeF5Pd(SbF6)3 are ordered in the α‐phase (260 K). The crystal structure of (XeF5)3[Hg(HF)]2(SbF6)7 consists of columns of [Hg(HF)]2+ cations bridged by SbF6 units. The charge balance is maintained by the [XeF5]+ cations, which form secondary contacts with the F atoms of the SbF6 groups.
Al2O3/TiO2 double layer anti‐reflection coating film for crystalline silicon solar cells formed by spray pyrolysis
Authors: Kanda Hiroyuki , Uzum Abdullah , Harano Norihisa , Yoshinaga Seiya , Ishikawa Yasuaki , Uraoka Yukiharu , Fukui Hidehito , Harada Tomitaro , Ito Seigo
Published: June 2016

An Al2O3/TiO2 double layer anti‐reflection coating (ARC) film formed by spray pyrolysis was introduced for monocrystalline silicon solar cells as the nonvacuum processing method. The thickness of the Al2O3 layer and TiO2 compact layer was controlled by the volume of deposited precursor solution and confirmed by ellipsometry and scanning electron microscopy. The average photovoltaic properties of photocurrent density (Jsc), open‐circuit photovoltage (Voc), fill factor (FF), and photo energy conversion efficiency (η) were 37.0 mA/cm2, 590 mV, 0.712, and 15.5%, respectively. A significant improvement on Jsc and η could be confirmed owing to the Al2O3/TiO2 ARC. The results of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and optical simulation with modeling for the reflectance properties confirmed that C‐H‐based organics remained after the deposition of thin films.
Anticholinergic effect on cognition (AEC) of drugs commonly used in older people
Authors: Bishara Delia , Harwood Daniel , Sauer Justin , Taylor David M.
Published: June 2016

Objective

Use of anticholinergic drugs in older people is associated with increased risk of cognitive decline and of dementia and death.

Method

We identified drugs widely used in older people and attempted to classify their anticholinergic effect on cognition (AEC) according to our three‐point scale which scored AEC according to in vitro anticholinergic potency, capacity to cross the blood–brain barrier and statements made in standard texts.

Results

In total, 165 drugs were examined. We identified 21 drugs with an AEC score of 3, 18 with a score of 2, 21 with a score of 1 and 62 with a score of 0. Owing to insufficient information, we were unable to classify 43 drugs.

Conclusions

A large number of drugs commonly used in older people are likely to be associated with cognitive impairment. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular characterization of KMT2A fusion partner genes in 13 cases of pediatric leukemia with complex or cryptic karyotypes
Authors: Ney Garcia Daniela R. , de Souza Mariana T. , de Figueiredo Amanda F. , Othman Moneeb A. K. , Rittscher Katharina , Abdelhay Eliana , Capela de Matos Roberto R. , Meyer Claus , Marschalek Rolf , Land Marcelo G. P. , Liehr Thomas , Ribeiro Raul C. , Silva Maria Luiza Macedo
Published: June 2016

In pediatric acute leukemias, reciprocal chromosomal translocations frequently cause gene fusions involving the lysine (K)‐specific methyltransferase 2A gene (KMT2A, also known as MLL). Specific KMT2A fusion partners are associated with the disease phenotype (lymphoblastic vs. myeloid), and the type of KMT2A rearrangement also has prognostic implications. However, the KMT2A partner gene cannot always be identified by banding karyotyping. We sought to identify such partner genes in 13 cases of childhood leukemia with uninformative karyotypes by combining molecular techniques, including multicolor banding FISH, reverse‐transcriptase PCR, and long‐distance inverse PCR. Of the KMT2A fusion partner genes, MLLT3 was present in five patients, all with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, MLLT1 in two patients, and MLLT10, MLLT4, MLLT11, and AFF1 in one patient each. Reciprocal reading by long‐distance inverse PCR also disclosed KMT2A fusions with PITPNA in one patient, with LOC100132273 in another patient, and with DNA sequences not compatible with any gene in three patients. The most common KMT2A breakpoint region was intron/exon 9 (3/8 patients), followed by intron/exon 11 and 10. Finally, multicolor banding revealed breakpoints in other chromosomes whose biological and prognostic implications remain to be determined. We conclude that the combination of molecular techniques used in this study can efficiently identify KMT2A fusion partners in complex pediatric acute leukemia karyotypes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maternal Childhood Sexual Trauma and Early Parenting: Prenatal and Postnatal Associations
Authors: Zvara B. J. , Meltzer‐Brody S. , Mills‐Koonce W. R. , Cox M. ,   The Family Life Project Key Investigators
Published: June 2016

Existing research suggests that approximately 19% of females experience childhood sexual trauma (CST). Little is known, however, about the parenting behaviour of mothers who have experienced CST. Using propensity‐matched controls, the present study examines prenatal psychosocial distress, postnatal depressive symptomatology, and caregiving behaviours of women reporting CST at or before the age of 14. Data for these analyses were obtained from mother reports and from observational protocols from a longitudinal study of low‐income, rural families. Propensity score methodology was used to create a contrast group matched on family of origin variables in an effort to isolate and examine the long‐term associations of CST beyond the effects of other childhood adversities such as poverty. Study findings provide evidence that women with CST histories report greater prenatal psychosocial distress compared to women without trauma histories. Findings further provide evidence for a spillover process from prenatal distress to the broader caregiving system including less sensitive parenting through postnatal depressive symptoms for women with CST histories. These results highlight the importance of screening for CST and psychosocial distress and depression prenatally. Interventions for women with CST histories and directions for future study are proposed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Curcumin: A new candidate for melanoma therapy?
Authors: Mirzaei Hamed , Naseri Gholamreza , Rezaee Ramin , Mohammadi Mohsen , Banikazemi Zarrin , Mirzaei Hamid Reza , Salehi Hossein , Peyvandi Mostafa , Pawelek John M. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: June 2016

Melanoma remains among the most lethal cancers and, in spite of great attempts that have been made to increase the life span of patients with metastatic disease, durable and complete remissions are rare. Plants and plant extracts have long been used to treat a variety of human conditions; however, in many cases, effective doses of herbal remedies are associated with serious adverse effects. Curcumin is a natural polyphenol that shows a variety of pharmacological activities including anti‐cancer effects, and only minimal adverse effects have been reported for this phytochemical. The anti‐cancer effects of curcumin are the result of its anti‐angiogenic, pro‐apoptotic and immunomodulatory properties. At the molecular and cellular level, curcumin can blunt epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition and affect many targets that are involved in melanoma initiation and progression (e.g., BCl2, MAPKS, p21 and some microRNAs). However, curcumin has a low oral bioavailability that may limit its maximal benefits. The emergence of tailored formulations of curcumin and new delivery systems such as nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles and phospholipid complexes has led to the enhancement of curcumin bioavailability. Although in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that curcumin and its analogues can be used as novel therapeutic agents in melanoma, curcumin has not yet been tested against melanoma in clinical practice. In this review, we summarized reported anti‐melanoma effects of curcumin as well as studies on new curcumin formulations and delivery systems that show increased bioavailability. Such tailored delivery systems could pave the way for enhancement of the anti‐melanoma effects of curcumin.
What determines skin sensitization potency: Myths, maybes and realities. The 500 molecular weight cut‐off: An updated analysis
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jeremy M. , Roberts David W. , Patlewicz Grace
Published: June 2016

It is widely accepted that substances must have a molecular weight (MW) < 500 to penetrate effectively through the skin to induce sensitization. Roberts et al. (2012. Contact Dermatitis 68: 32–41) evaluated a data set of 699 substances taken from the TIMES‐SS expert system and identified that of the 13 substances with a MW > 500, five were sensitizers. This provided good evidence to refute such a MW 500 threshold. While Roberts et al. (2012) made a convincing case that the MW > 500 cut‐off was not a true requirement for sensitization, the number of counter examples identified were too few to draw any statistical conclusions. This updated analysis systematically interrogated a large repository of sensitization information collected under the EU REACH regulation. A data set of 2904 substances that had been tested for skin sensitization, using guinea pigs and/or mice were collected. The data set contained 197 substances with a MW > 500; 33 of these were skin sensitizers. Metal containing complexes, reaction products and mixtures were excluded from further consideration. The final set of 14 sensitizers substantiated the original findings. The study also assessed whether the same reaction chemistry principles established for low MW sensitizers applied to chemicals with a MW > 500. The existing reaction chemistry considerations were found appropriate to rationalize the sensitization behaviour of the 14 sensitizers with a MW > 500. The existence of the MW 500 threshold, based on the widespread misconception that the ability to penetrate efficiently the stratum corneum is a key determinant of skin sensitization potential and potency, was refuted. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of GPR40 targeting 3H‐ and 18F‐probes towards selective beta cell imaging
Authors: Bertrand Romain , Hamp Isabel , Brönstrup Mark , Weck Remo , Lukacevic Mario , Polyak Andras , Ross Tobias L. , Gotthardt Martin , Plettenburg Oliver , Derdau Volker
Published: June 2016

Diabetes affects an increasing number of patients worldwide and is responsible for a significant rise in healthcare expenses. Imaging of β‐cells in vivo is expected to contribute to an improved understanding of the underlying pathophysiology, improved diagnosis, and development of new treatment options for diabetes. Here, we describe the first radiosyntheses of [3H]‐TAK875 and [18F]‐TAK875 derivatives to be used as β‐cell imaging probes addressing the free fatty acid receptor 1 (FFAR1/GPR40). The fluorine‐labeled derivative showed similar agonistic activity as TAK875 in a functional assay. The radiosynthesis of the 18F‐labelled tracer 2a was achieved with 16.7 ± 5.7% radiochemical yield in a total synthesis time of 60–70 min.
Synthesis and Properties of Conjugated Microporous Polymers Bearing Pyrazine Moieties with Macroscopically Porous 3D Networks Structures
Authors: Zang Jiake , Zhu Zhaoqi , Mu Peng , Sun Hanxue , Liang Weidong , Yu Fucheng , Chen Lihua , Li An
Published: June 2016

The N‐containing conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) are synthesized by 2,5‐dibromopyrazine or its isomeric pyridazine monomer and 1,3,5‐triethynylbenzene via the Pd(0)/Cu(I)‐catalyzed Sonogashira–Hagihara cross‐coupling polycondensation. The resulting CMPs exhibit diverse porosity and morphology, which reveals macroscopically porous 3D networks for BQCMP‐1, agglomerated and amorphous structure for DQCMP‐1, arising from the variation of isomeric monomer. In addition, metal ions adsorption capacity of Zn(II), Cr(VI), Ni(II) have been investigated due to the good porosity of CMPs. Compared with Zn(II) and Cr(VI), the adsorption capacity of Ni(II) for BQCMP‐1 and DQCMP‐1 is maximal, which is 272 mg g−1 and 559 mg g−1. Our study may provide a useful guidance to manipulate CMPs by varying the constitution of isomeric monomer.

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Sensory Trick in Levodopa‐induced Orolingual Dystonia in a Patient with Advanced Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Georgiev Dejan , Križnar Nina Župančič , Pirtošek Zvezdan , Kojović Maja
Published: June 2016

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19F DOSY diffusion‐NMR spectroscopy of fluoropolymers
Authors: Xu Chenglong , Wan Yingbo , Chen Dongxue , Gao Chun , Yin Hongnan , Fetherston Daniel , Kupce Eriks , Lopez Gerald , Ameduri Bruno , Twum Eric B. , Wyzgoski Faith J. , Li Xiaohong , McCord Elizabeth F. , Rinaldi Peter L.
Published: June 2016

A new pulse sequence for obtaining 19F detected DOSY (diffusion ordered spectroscopy) spectra of fluorinated molecules is presented and used to study fluoropolymers based on vinylidene fluoride and chlorotrifluoroethylene. The performance of 19F DOSY NMR experiments (and in general any type of NMR experiment) on fluoropolymers creates some unique complications that very often prevent detection of important signals. Factors that create these complications include: (1) the presence of many scalar couplings among 1H, 19F and 13C; (2) the large magnitudes of many 19F homonuclear couplings (especially 2JFF); (3) the large 19F chemical shift range; and (4) the low solubility of these materials (which requires that experiments be performed at high temperatures). A systematic study of the various methods for collecting DOSY NMR data, and the adaptation of these methods to obtain 19F detected DOSY data, has been performed using a mixture of low molecular weight, fluorinated model compounds. The best pulse sequences and optimal experimental conditions have been determined for obtaining 19F DOSY spectra. The optimum pulse sequences for acquiring 19F DOSY NMR data have been determined for various circumstances taking into account the spectral dispersion, number and magnitude of couplings present, and experimental temperature. Pulse sequences and experimental parameters for optimizing these experiments for the study of fluoropolymers have been studied. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oocyte vitrification does not affect early developmental timings after intracytoplasmic sperm injection for women younger than 30 years old
Authors: Martínez Meritxell , Obradors Albert , Vernaeve Valerie , Santaló Josep , Vassena Rita
Published: June 2016

Oocyte vitrification causes a temporary disassembly of the metaphase plate and spindle, which needs time to recover after warming. As a consequence, early post‐fertilization events—such as timing of second polar body extrusion—might be altered, with unknown effects on preimplantation development, timing to pronuclear breakdown, and timing of cleavages. The aim of this study was to evaluate if differences exist among these events when comparing embryos obtained from fresh‐donated versus vitrified/warmed oocytes from young women. We performed a prospective study with 201 embryos from 100 fresh and 101 vitrified/warmed oocytes that were subsequently fertilized by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Kaplan–Meier curves of each time period were generated, in which we observed that median developmental times did not differ between embryos from fresh versus vitrified/warmed oocytes among all the metrics assessed. Thus, for young women without fertility problems, no differences exist between the timing of early developmental milestones in embryos derived from fresh or vitrified oocytes, and vitrification does not affect the preimplantation development of the resulting embryos. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 624–629, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.