bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Termination in anionic polymerization of octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane. formation of stable complexes on active sites
Authors: Kučera M. , Jelínek M. , Láníková J. , Veselý K. 
Published: November 2014

AbstractThe ionic polymerization of octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (the tetramer) proceeds through successive additions of tetramer on active centers. The active centers consist of the ion‐pair magnified image (where M stands for Na, K, Rb, Cs, Me4N−, Bu4P−, etc.) formed through the reaction of the hydroxide (oxide) of the respective alkali metal (or the respective ammonium or phosphonium base) with the siloxane bond. Measurement of the rate of polymerization of tetramer indicated changes in the efficiency of magnified image active centers caused by additions of small amounts of substances capable of changing the character of donor‐acceptor reactions taking place during polymerization. These acids such as H2SO4 to very strong bases, such as hydroxides of alkaline metals. The substances were added in the order of their decreasing acidity ranging from very strong influence of substances being added, as judged by their influence on the overall rate of reaction, can be seen to fall into several classes. The most acidic substances (ranging from very strong mineral acids to weak organic acids, e.g., phenol) neutralize the active centers; weak acids (H2O, ROH, etc.) act (as judged by changes of the overall rate of reaction) only through physicochemical effects in the polymerizing system (for instance through changes in the quantitative composition of the solvate shell of ions and ion‐pairs and through changes of the dielectric constant). Very strong bases, as strong as, or stronger than, KOH increase the number of active centers. The most interesting effects are displayed on addition of relatively strong bases of the type of LiOH and NaOH. They cause a strong reduction of the efficiency of active centers, a deceleration of the polymerization and even its complete inhibition, in the whole range of dielectric constante of the polymerizing medium investigated by the authors (viz., in the range of dielectric constants from 3.4 to 8.7). This phenomenon of deceleration and even stopping of polymerization on addition of relatively strong bases to a basic active center has been called the “isobasic termination.” Similar effects were observed also in the case of the cationic polymerization of the tetramer, viz. a slowing‐down or even stopping of the H2SO4−induced polymerization on addition of weaker acids. The mechanism of “isobasic termination” is discussed.
Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Abrogate Plasmablast Formation and Induce Regulatory B Cells Independently of T Helper Cells
Authors: Franquesa M. , Mensah F. K. , Huizinga R. , Strini T. , Boon L. , Lombardo E. , DelaRosa O. , Laman J. D. , Grinyó J. M. , Weimar W. , Betjes M. G. H. , Baan C. C. , Hoogduijn M. J. 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
Mesenchymal or stromal stem cells (MSC) interact with cells of the immune system in multiple ways. Modulation of the immune system by MSC is believed to be a therapeutic option for autoimmune disease and transplant rejection. In recent years, B cells have moved into the focus of the attention as targets for the treatment of immune disorders. Current B-cell targeting treatment is based on the indiscriminate depletion of B cells. The aim of this study was to examine whether human adipose tissue-derived MSC (ASC) interact with B cells to affect their proliferation, differentiation, and immune function. ASC supported the survival of quiescent B cells predominantly via contact-dependent mechanisms. Coculture of B cells with activated T helper cells led to proliferation and differentiation of B cells into CD19+CD27highCD38high antibody-producing plasmablasts. ASC inhibited the proliferation of B cells and this effect was dependent on the presence of T cells. In contrast, ASC directly targeted B-cell differentiation, independently of T cells. In the presence of ASC, plasmablast formation was reduced and IL-10-producing CD19+CD24highCD38high B cells, known as regulatory B cells, were induced. These results demonstrate that ASC affect B cell biology in vitro, suggesting that they can be a tool for the modulation of the B-cell response in immune disease. Stem Cells 2015;33:880–891
Metal‐Catalyzed Cascade Reactions: Useful Synthetic Tools for the Preparation of Polycyclic Arenes
Authors: Feng Chieh‐Ning , Hsieh Ya‐Chu , Wu Yao‐Ting 
Published: November 2014

AbstractThis account summarizes our recent efforts to synthesize numerous important and interesting polycyclic arenes under mild conditions using metal‐catalyzed protocols. The palladium‐catalyzed annulations of 2‐iodobiphenyls or 2,2′‐diiodobiphenyls with alkynes efficiently generated phenanthrene derivatives. This synthetic method was utilized as the key step when preparing phenanthrene‐based alkaloids, tetrabenzopyracylenes and persubstituted [8]circulenes. Depending on whether a palladium or nickel catalytic system was used, 1‐ethynyl‐8‐iodonaphthalenes underwent either a cyclodimerization or a nitrile‐incorporated cascade reaction to produce zethrenes or pyrroloarenes, respectively. Methylene‐bridged polyarenes are generated easily from 2‐halo‐2′‐methylbiaryls through benzylicC–Hbond activation and subsequent carbon–carbon bond formation, and palladium complexes promote the arylation of methylene carbons. The palladium‐catalyzed annulations of 1,8‐bis(arylethynyl)naphthalene derivatives witho‐diiodoarenes yielded benzo[k]fluoranthene‐based linear acenes, which can be applied to synthesize highly curved fragments of fullerenes. The self‐reactions of diarylethynes formed either dihydrocyclopenta[a]indenes or octaaryl‐1,3,5,7‐octatetraenes through palladium‐catalyzed cycloisomerization or nickel‐catalyzed tetramerization, respectively. In the presence of palladium catalysts, the hydroalkynylation of terminal arylalkynes directly generated angular trimerization adduct dienynes.
The rheological and tribological properties of calcium sulfonate complex greases
Authors: Wang Zeyun , Xia Yanqiu , Liu Zhilu 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
In this study, we synthesized two types of calcium sulfonate complex greases (barium soap and calcium soap) and investigated their physical, rheological, and tribological properties in detail. The test results showed that the evolution of their linear viscoelasticity functions with frequency were quite similar to those of traditional lubricating greases. Moreover, these two calcium sulfonate complex greases had good friction-reducing and antiwear properties at room temperature and at 150 °C. In addition, by adding an organic molybdenum compound (MoDTC) to the base greases, we obtained a very low friction coefficient (0.065) for one of the greases (calcium soap) at 400 N and 500 N (maximum Hertzian pressures of 3.47 GPa and 3.74 GPa, respectively) at 150 °C. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis showed that the tribofilm was composed of some complex oxide species and CaCO3 that had formed on the worn surface.
Noncontrast computed tomography can predict the outcome of shockwave lithotripsy via accurate stone measurement and abdominal fat distribution determination
Authors: Geng Jiun‐Hung , Tu Hung‐Pin , Shih Paul Ming‐Chen , Shen Jung‐Tsung , Jang Mei‐Yu , Wu Wen‐Jen , Li Ching‐Chia , Chou Yii‐Her , Juan Yung‐Shun 
Published: November 2014

AbstractUrolithiasis is a common disease of the urinary system. Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) has become one of the standard treatments for renal and ureteral stones; however, the success rates range widely and failure of stone disintegration may cause additional outlay, alternative procedures, and even complications. We used the data available from noncontrast abdominal computed tomography (NCCT) to evaluate the impact of stone parameters and abdominal fat distribution on calculus‐free rates following SWL. We retrospectively reviewed 328 patients who had urinary stones and had undergone SWL from August 2012 to August 2013. All of them received pre‐SWL NCCT; 1 month after SWL, radiography was arranged to evaluate the condition of the fragments. These patients were classified into stone‐free group and residual stone group. Unenhanced computed tomography variables, including stone attenuation, abdominal fat area, and skin‐to‐stone distance (SSD) were analyzed. In all, 197 (60%) were classified as stone‐free and 132 (40%) as having residual stone. The mean ages were 49.35 ± 13.22 years and 55.32 ± 13.52 years, respectively. On univariate analysis, age, stone size, stone surface area, stone attenuation, SSD, total fat area (TFA), abdominal circumference, serum creatinine, and the severity of hydronephrosis revealed statistical significance between these two groups. From multivariate logistic regression analysis, the independent parameters impacting SWL outcomes were stone size, stone attenuation, TFA, and serum creatinine. [Adjusted odds ratios and (95% confidence intervals): 9.49 (3.72–24.20), 2.25 (1.22–4.14), 2.20 (1.10–4.40), and 2.89 (1.35–6.21) respectively, all p < 0.05]. In the present study, stone size, stone attenuation, TFA and serum creatinine were four independent predictors for stone‐free rates after SWL. These findings suggest that pretreatment NCCT may predict the outcomes after SWL. Consequently, we can use these predictors for selecting the optimal treatment for patients with urinary stones.
Engineering Compassion: The Institutional Structure of Virtue
Authors: GREGORY JAMES 
Published: November 2014

AbstractThis paper offers a constructive critique of a recent account, in this journal, of the place of compassion as a virtue within social policy. The critique suggests that the ‘compassion thesis’ collapses into an account of duty rather than virtue, and that compassion as a virtue can only be exercised by individuals, and not by institutions. The paper goes on to suggest an alternative account of the relationship between social policy institutions and the virtue of compassion. It develops a broadly Humean account of ‘sympathy’ triggered by proximity to distress. In this alternative account, social policy is used to create the background conditions in which individuals are moved, and able, to exercise the virtues of sympathy and compassion. Special attention is paid to housing and mixed communities policy as a means of creating the social proximity that may underpin a welfare culture of understanding rather than blame.
Risk of malnutrition and zinc deficiency in community-living elderly men and women: the Tromsø Study
Authors: Kvamme Jan-Magnus , Grønli Ole , Jacobsen Bjarne K , Florholmen Jon 
Published: November 2014

AbstractObjectiveElderly people may be at particular risk of Zn deficiency due to an increased prevalence of malnutrition. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the Zn status in community-living elderly people at risk of malnutrition.DesignCross-sectional population-based survey. Individuals at risk of malnutrition were identified by the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool. Zn status was assessed by measuring serum Zn. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association between the risk of malnutrition and Zn deficiency.SettingMunicipality of Tromsø, Norway.SubjectsRandom sample of 743 men and 778 women aged 65–87 years.ResultsZn deficiency was found in 10·1 % of the participants, including 13·1 % of the men and 7·3 % of the women. Among the men and women at risk of malnutrition, 31·0 % and 12·7 %, respectively, had Zn deficiency. In a model adjusted for age, gender, serum albumin and smoking status, Zn deficiency was positively associated with the risk of malnutrition (OR=2·2; 95 % CI 1·3, 3·6).ConclusionsOverall, Zn deficiency was found in one out of ten community-living elderly people and was associated with the risk of malnutrition. Our results encourage the assessment of Zn status in elderly people at risk of malnutrition, with a special emphasis on elderly men.
Regulation of autophagy by polyphenolic compounds as a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer
Authors: Hasima N , Ozpolat B 
Published: November 2014

AbstractAutophagy, a lysosomal degradation pathway for cellular constituents and organelles, is an adaptive and essential process required for cellular homeostasis. Although autophagy functions as a survival mechanism in response to cellular stressors such as nutrient or growth factor deprivation, it can also lead to a non-apoptotic form of programmed cell death (PCD) called autophagy-induced cell death or autophagy-associated cell death (type II PCD). Current evidence suggests that cell death through autophagy can be induced as an alternative to apoptosis (type I PCD), with therapeutic purpose in cancer cells that are resistant to apoptosis. Thus, modulating autophagy is of great interest in cancer research and therapy. Natural polyphenolic compounds that are present in our diet, such as rottlerin, genistein, quercetin, curcumin, and resveratrol, can trigger type II PCD via various mechanisms through the canonical (Beclin-1 dependent) and non-canonical (Beclin-1 independent) routes of autophagy. The capacity of these compounds to provide a means of cancer cell death that enhances the effects of standard therapies should be taken into consideration for designing novel therapeutic strategies. This review focuses on the autophagy- and cell death-inducing effects of these polyphenolic compounds in cancer.
Manganese-induced neurotoxicity: from C. elegans to humans
Authors: Chen Pan , Chakraborty Sudipta , Peres Tanara V. , Bowman Aaron B. , Aschner Michael 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
Manganese (Mn) is one of the most abundant metals on the earth. It is required for normal cellular activities, but overexposure leads to toxicity. Neurons are more susceptible to Mn-induced toxicity than other cells, and accumulation of Mn in the brain results in Manganism that presents with Parkinson's disease (PD)-like symptoms. In the last decade, a number of Mn transporters have been identified, which improves our understanding of Mn transport in and out of cells. However, the mechanism of Mn-induced neurotoxicity is only partially uncovered, with further research needed to explore the whole picture of Mn-induced toxicity. In this review, we will address recent progress in Mn-induced neurotoxicity from C. elegans to humans, and explore future directions that will help understand the mechanisms of its neurotoxicity.
Recent climate and air pollution impacts on Indian agriculture
Authors: Burney Jennifer , Ramanathan V. 
Published: November 2014

SignificanceRising temperatures because of increased emissions of long-lived greenhouse gases (LLGHGs) have had and will continue to have significant negative impacts on crop yields. However, other climate changes caused by short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) are also significant for agricultural productivity. The SLCPs black carbon and ozone impact temperature, precipitation, radiation, and—in the case of ozone—are directly toxic to plants. To our knowledge, this study provides the first integrated historical examination of the role of both SLCPs and LLGHGs on wheat and rice yields in India, and finds that the majority of losses are attributable to SLCPs. Agricultural cobenefits from SLCP mitigation are expected to be large, and because SLCPs have short atmospheric lifetimes, almost immediate.
c-Abl tyrosine kinase promotes adipocyte differentiation by targeting PPAR-gamma 2
Authors: Keshet Rom , Bryansker Kraitshtein Zina , Shanzer Matan , Adler Julia , Reuven Nina , Shaul Yosef 
Published: November 2014

Significance
Adipocytes evolve from preadipocyte progenitors by the process of adipogenesis. This process is governed by the adipogenic master regulator peroxisome proliferator–activator receptor gamma (PPARγ). PPARγ is also involved in metabolic homeostasis and in pathological states such as obesity and diabetes. Furthermore, a common genetic polymorphism of PPARγ, encoding the proline 12 to alanine substitution (Pro12Ala) variant, is clinically important. Investigating PPARγ regulation is therefore vital for understanding these physiological and pathological conditions. We show that the tyrosine kinase Abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene (c-Abl) is an adipogenic key regulator. c-Abl promotes adipogenesis by phosphorylation and subsequent stabilization of PPARγ. Importantly, the reduced binding affinity of the Pro12Ala variant to c-Abl provides an explanation for this genetic variant phenotype.
Differential gradients of interaction affinities drive efficient targeting and recycling in the GET pathway
Authors: Rome Michael E. , Chio Un Seng , Rao Meera , Gristick Harry , Shan Shu-ou 
Published: November 2014

Significance
Ensuring the accuracy of protein interaction cascades is a challenge in many cellular processes. This challenge is faced by the guided entry of tail-anchored (TA) protein (GET) pathway, in which the targeting factor Get3 must sequentially interact with three effector proteins to deliver an essential class of TA proteins to the membrane. Using fluorescence probes that quantitatively interrogate individual Get3–effector interactions, we show here that Get3 adopts discrete conformational states in response to substrate and nucleotide binding; these conformational states allow Get3 to generate differential gradients of interaction energies with distinct effectors, thus driving its cyclic and ordered interaction cascade. These results also explain why multiple effector proteins are needed for TA targeting and uncover a previously unidentified mechanism for recycling Get3 from the membrane.
Talent, Effort or Social Background?
Authors: Spruyt Bram 
Published: November 2014

ABSTRACT
Little research has been conducted into the way citizens explain educational outcomes today. This is remarkable because scholars have always claimed that education as an institution contributes to a representation of society in which success is ‘achieved’ on strictly meritocratic grounds. This paper attempts to fill this gap by examining public opinion on three explanations for educational success and failure – namely talent, effort and social background – in Flanders (the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium). Survey data (N = 1693) revealed that people are much more inclined to attribute educational success to effort and dedication when compared to educational failure. Contrary to the expectations derived from the literature on symbolic capital, ‘talent’ was not deemed very important by our respondents as an explanation for educational outcomes. In addition, higher educated people supported an explanation for school success or failure in terms of social background more than the less educated. The implications of our findings are discussed.
A Delphi study to update CTE teacher competencies
Authors: Adam Manley R. , Zinser Richard 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this project was to create a contemporary taxonomy of Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher competencies in order to evaluate and improve CTE teacher education.Design/methodology/approachThis study utilized a modified Delphi technique with a large sample of CTE experts – teachers, administrators, and teacher‐educators in the state of Michigan, USA to identify the competencies and their relative importance.FindingsAs a result, new competencies were added and a number of old competencies were deleted or changed. The product of this research is a matrix of 144 competencies in 13 categories, which also shows the level of importance and degree of consensus for each competency.Research limitations/implicationsThe state plans to use the new competencies for a variety of purposes, however caution is advised for making conclusions and generalizations from the study for other applications.Practical implicationsUsing the matrix as its infrastructure, CTE teacher‐education institutions can assess their curricula to determine where the competencies are addressed, and use it in the form of a follow‐up survey with recent graduates. CTE administrators might utilize the competencies for internal evaluation of new teachers and as a needs assessment for professional development.Originality/valueAny effort to improve CTE teaching and teacher‐education, by researchers or policy‐makers, should begin with a consensus on the competencies required for successful teaching and learning.
Flexible working and happiness in the NHS
Authors: Atkinson Carol , Hall Laura 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the influence of flexible working on employee happiness and attitude, and the role of this within a high performance work system (HPWS).Design/methodology/approachA case study of flexible working within an NHS Acute Trust is presented. A qualitative study is undertaken based on 43 employee interviews across a range of directorates within the Trust.FindingsEmployees perceive that flexible working makes them “happy” and that there are attitudinal/behavioural links between this happiness, discretionary behaviour and a number of performance outcomes.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper presents a single case study with a relatively small sample which uses an inductive approach based on emergent data; it explores one element of a HPWS rather than an entire employment system. Respondents were volunteers, which raises the possibility of sample bias.Practical implicationsThere may be a need for organisations to focus more on employee happiness to encourage performance. HR practitioners could reflect on the impact of HR practices on happiness and which features of a job role are likely to promote happiness.Originality/valueThis paper contributes a much‐needed employee perspective on the effect of HR practices, specifically that of flexible working, and explores the neglected employee attitude of happiness.
Turning values into valuation
Authors: Strugatch Warren 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThis article aims to explore the recent evolution of corporate social responsibility (CSR) from fringe philosophy to corporate buzzword.Design/methodology/approachFor the period 2008 to mid‐2009, the author surveyed articles in mainstream media and business periodicals focusing on corporate social responsibility; reviewed polls for methodology and results; searched press releases for mention of corporate social responsibility; and interviewed professionals employed in the field. The author sought quantifiable examples of corporate financial support for programs in light of the recessionary economy. The author also looked to define today's corporate social responsibility as a philosophy reflecting the values of environmentalism, corporate transparency, community investment, diversity programs and other social benefits.FindingsCSR is a wide‐ranging global movement advocating good corporate citizenship through such values as sustainability, corporate transparency, business ethics, workforce diversity, philanthropy, quality, service to community and workforce education. Even as corporations shed costs by the billions, CSR programs are thriving. The reasons are complex, but involve the conflation of CSR with environmentalism, and the apparent genuineness of corporate executives' commitment to its principles.Research limitations/implicationsResearch found fewer in‐depth articles on the topic than might be expected, particularly articles providing or examining hard data.Practical implicationsFor those seeking to develop, sustain or evaluate a corporate social responsibility program, this article offers context, insight, and caution.Originality/valueThe article suggests there is resilience to corporate social responsibility, in light of the durability it has shown in the current economic downturn.