bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of mash and crumble diets on intestinal amino acids transporters, intestinal morphology and pancreatic enzyme activity of broilers
Authors: Mahdavi Reza , Osmanyan Artyom Karlovich , Fisinin Vladimir Ivanovich , Ghazi Harsini Shahab , Arkhipova Anna Leonidovna , Shevyakov Alexander Nikolayevich , Kovalchuk Svetlana Nikolaevna , Kosovsky Gleb Yurievich
Published: August 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of mash and crumble pre‐starter diets on pancreatic enzyme activity, intestinal morphology, gene expression of intestinal peptide and amino acid (AA) transporters of broilers. Broilers in battery cages were assigned to different feed forms of pre‐starter diet from 1 to 10 days of age. Significantly increased body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI) and lowered FCR were observed in birds fed crumble pre‐starter diet (CPD, p < 0.05). Feed forms had no effect on whole and small intestine length, but relative intestinal length and relative small intestinal length significantly increased in the broilers fed a mash pre‐starter diet (MPD, p < 0.05). Feeding CPD increased the weight of pancreas (p < 0.05), but relative weight of the pancreas was not influenced by treatments. Pancreatic protease and amylase activities significantly increased in the broilers fed CPD (p < 0.05) but the activity of lipase was not influenced. Crypt depth (CD) and villus height (VH) were higher in broilers fed CPD (p < 0.05) but villus width (VW), villus surface area (VSA) and villus height‐to‐crypt depth ratio (VCR) were not influenced by treatments. mRNA levels for peptide transporter 1 (PepT1), Na+‐independent cationic AA transporter1 (CAT1), Na+‐independent cationic and Na+‐dependent neutral AA transporter 1 (y+LAT1) and Na+‐dependent neutral AA transporter (B0AT) were lower in birds fed CPD (p < 0.05). There were no differences in mRNA abundance of Na+‐independent cationic and zwitterionic AA transporter (b0,+AT) among treatments. Overall, the present data showed that feeding crumble diet during first 10 days of age, through higher FI, enhanced intestinal histomorphology, increased digestive enzyme activity is beneficial to growth performance of broilers. Indeed, dietary form can be an important factor in the expression of jejunal transporters.
Protein kinase‐mediated signalling in priming: Immune signal initiation, propagation, and establishment of long‐term pathogen resistance in plants
Authors: Hake Katharina , Romeis Tina
Published: August 2018

“Priming” in plant phytopathology describes a phenomenon where the “experience” of primary infection by microbial pathogens leads to enhanced and beneficial protection of the plant against secondary infection. The plant is able to establish an immune memory, a state of systemic acquired resistance (SAR), in which the information of “having been attacked” is integrated with the action of “being prepared to defend when it happens again.” Accordingly, primed plants are often characterized by faster and stronger activation of immune reactions that ultimately result in a reduction of pathogen spread and growth.

Prerequisites for SAR are (a) the initiation of immune signalling subsequent to pathogen recognition, (b) a rapid defence signal propagation from a primary infected local site to uninfected distal parts of the plant, and (c) a switch into an immune signal‐dependent establishment and subsequent long‐lasting maintenance of phytohormone salicylic acid‐based systemic immunity.

Here, we provide a summary on protein kinases that contribute to these three conceptual aspects of “priming” in plant phytopathology, complemented by data addressing the role of protein kinases crucial for immune signal initiation also for signal propagation and SAR.
Gaps and limitations in the use of restoration scenarios: a review
Authors: Acosta Andre L. , d'Albertas Francisco , de Souza Leite Melina , Saraiva Antonio M. , Walter Metzger Jean P.
Published: August 2018

The use of scenarios to evaluate restoration effects on biodiversity and ecosystem services (ES) is fundamental to improve restoration practices. Here we developed a systematic review to verify the existence of gaps and limitations in the use of scenarios for environmental restoration, and assess the state of the science of “restoration scenarios” and implications for future research. From 419 studies reviewed, most were held in developed countries, using exploratory scenarios at the regional scale, actively restoring ES and habitat at “habitat, ecosystems or communities” at landscape level, targeting forests and fragmented landscapes. The main gaps we identified were: few studies in tropical, marine, and urban environments, despite their importance for biodiversity and ES; few reports on global scales using target‐seeking approach, despite the existence of global targets; small number of studies considered invertebrates and invasive species, neglecting many ecosystem services and disservices; lack of participatory and cost‐effectiveness studies, revealing a disconnection between restoration research and socioeconomic context. The gaps identified might prevent the widespread use of scenarios for restoration planning, particularly the limited scales of analysis, the lack of participatory approaches, and weak cost consideration. We encourage the use of target‐seeking scenarios, with clear objectives, stimulating collaboration among stakeholders seeking cost‐effective restoration alternatives.
Random-Walk Models of Network Formation and Sequential Monte Carlo Methods for Graphs
Authors: Bloem-Reddy Benjamin , Orbanz Peter
Published: August 2018

We introduce a class of generative network models that insert edges by connecting the starting and terminal vertices of a random walk on the network graph. Within the taxonomy of statistical network models, this class is distinguished by permitting the location of a new edge to depend explicitly on the structure of the graph, but being nonetheless statistically and computationally tractable. In the limit of infinite walk length, the model converges to an extension of the preferential attachment model—in this sense, it can be motivated alternatively by asking what preferential attachment is an approximation to. Theoretical properties, including the limiting degree sequence, are studied analytically. If the entire history of the graph is observed, parameters can be estimated by maximum likelihood. If only the final graph is available, its history can be imputed by using Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. We develop a class of sequential Monte Carlo algorithms that are more generally applicable to sequential network models and may be of interest in their own right. The model parameters can be recovered from a single graph generated by the model. Applications to data clarify the role of the random-walk length as a length scale of interactions within the graph.
Current state of transfusion practices for ABO‐incompatible pediatric heart transplant patients in the United States and Canada
Authors: Dean Christina L. , Sullivan Harold C. , Stowell Sean R. , Fasano Ross M. , West Lori J. , Robitaille Nancy , Josephson Cassandra D.
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

ABO compatibility restriction on solid organ transplantation limits organ availability. In an effort to increase organ availability, pediatric ABO‐incompatible heart transplants (ABOiHT) are now performed with similar outcomes to ABO‐compatible transplants. Transfusion support can be challenging and currently there are no standard guidelines for blood product support, ABO isohemagglutinin (IH) titer cutoffs for transplant eligibility, or therapeutic intervention for these patients. The study aim was to survey current blood bank and antibody reduction practices for pediatric ABOiHT in the United States and Canada.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A Web‐based survey was sent to 50 US and Canadian pediatric blood bank directors. Participants were queried regarding pre‐, intra‐, and postoperative blood product support; ABO IH titer testing; and antibody reduction practices in ABOiHT recipients.

RESULTS

We analyzed 21 responses from US and Canadian centers that perform pediatric ABOiHT. There is wide variation in the type of blood products transfused and the modification of these products among respondents in the pre‐, intra‐, and postoperative settings. The frequency of testing ABO IH titers, implementing therapeutic intervention, and the type of therapeutic intervention also vary greatly among the institutions.

CONCLUSION

Transfusion support of children with ABOiHT varies widely among blood banks in the United States and Canada. The choice of blood products and modifications utilized, titer thresholds for organ selection and medical decision points, and antibody reduction strategies are not standardized from center to center. As pediatric ABOiHTs become more common, a better understanding of optimal transfusion support and therapeutic intervention is needed.
Analysis of a large data set to identify predictors of blood transfusion in primary total hip and knee arthroplasty
Authors: Huang ZeYu , Huang Cheng , Xie JinWei , Ma Jun , Cao GuoRui , Huang Qiang , Shen Bin , Byers Kraus Virginia , Pei FuXing
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to identify the predictors of need for allogenic blood transfusion (ALBT) in primary lower limb total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This study utilized a large dataset of 15,187 patients undergoing primary unilateral TJA. Risk factors and demographic information were extracted from the electronic health record. A predictive model was developed by both a random forest (RF) algorithm and logistic regression (LR). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC‐ROC) was used to compare the accuracy of the two methods.

RESULTS

The rate of ALBT was 18.9% in total. Patient‐related factors associated with higher risk of an ALBT included female sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) II, ASA III, and ASA IV. Surgery‐related risk factors for ALBT were operative time, drain use, and amount of intraoperative blood loss. Higher preoperative hemoglobin and tranexamic acid use were associated with decreased risk for ALBT. The RF model had a better predictive accuracy (area under the curve [AUC] 0.84) than the LR model (AUC, 0.77; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The risk factors identified in the current study can provide specific, personalized perioperative ALBT risk assessment for a patient considering lower limb TJA. Furthermore, the predictive accuracy of the RF algorithm was significantly higher than that of LR, making it a potential tool for future personalized preoperative prediction of risk for perioperative ALBT.
Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal symbiosis for control of Egyptian broomrape (Orobanche aegyptiaca Pers.) in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) cultivation
Authors: Tadayyon Ali , Zafarian Mojtaba , Fallah Sina , Bazoubandi Mohammad
Published: August 2018

The present study assessed the effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on broomrape (Orobanche aegyptiaca Pers.) control to determine its effects on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) growth indices. This experiment was carried out using a randomized complete block design with four replications. The treatments included three strains of AMF (Glomus mosseae, Glomus intraradices and Glomuse hoe) at three levels (100, 200 and 300 kg ha−1). The control treatments (without mycorrhiza) were with and without broomrape (weed infest and weed free). The results showed that the use of G. intraradices and G. mosseae decreased broomrape seed germination, the number of nodules and the dry weight of the broomrape and increased root area and dry weight of the tomato plant when compared to G. hoe and the control treatments without broomrape. The tomato yield in G. intraradices 300 kg ha−1 treatment increased by 10 and 205% than weed free and weed infest treatments, respectively. Finally, G. intraradices and G. mosseae at, respectively, 200 and 300 kg ha−1 are recommended for land under tomato cultivation that has been contaminated with broomrape.
Steady-state extensional viscosity of a linear polymer solution using a differential pressure extensional rheometer on a chip
Authors: Kim Seo Gyun , Ok Chang Min , Lee Heon Sang
Published: August 2018

In our earlier theoretical work [Lee and Muller, J. Rheol. 61, 1049–1059 (2017)], we proposed a design for a differential pressure extensional rheometer (DPER) on a chip. Here, we implement the DPER to evaluate the steady-state viscosity of a semidilute poly(ethylene oxide) solution at high and low extension rates. At low extension rates, the extensional viscosity exhibits strain thinning behavior with a power-law exponent of −0.5. At intermediate extension rates, the extensional viscosity exhibits strain thickening. At high extension rates, the extensional viscosity plateau has been estimated, and the corresponding finite extendable nonlinear elastic (FENE) constant is evaluated as 482. A novel method to determine the FENE constant and the extensional relaxation time distribution is presented, which are key parameters for the understanding of the extensional flow of a linear polymer solution.
Tracing glioblastoma’s roots
Authors: Attenello Frank J.
Published: August 2018

Subventricular zone neural stem cells with low-level driver mutations are likely the origin cells for glioblastoma.
Finding the smoking gun of lung fibrosis after influenza
Authors: Segal Leopoldo N.
Published: August 2018

A preclinical model of influenza-related lung injury reveals the impact of smoking on tissue repair mechanisms.
Transplanting islets: Hitting two birds with one stone
Authors: Yang Ming
Published: August 2018

A chemically modified alginate-based encapsulation strategy combined with transplantation into the bursa omentalis maintains islet graft function in nonhuman primates.
A Smooth-Type, Phage-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Mutant Strain Reveals that OmpC Is Indispensable for Infection by Phage GH-K3
Authors: Cai Ruopeng , Wu Mei , Zhang Hao , Zhang Yufeng , Cheng Mengjun , Guo Zhimin , Ji Yalu , Xi Hengyu , Wang Xinwu , Xue Yibing , Sun Changjiang , Feng Xin , Lei Liancheng , Tong Yigang , Liu Xiaoyun , Han Wenyu , Gu Jingmin
Published: August 2018

With increased incidence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial strains, phages have regained attention as promising potential antibacterial agents. However, the rapid emergence of resistant variants during phage treatment has limited the therapeutic applications of phage. According to our
trans
-complementation,
ompC
mutation, and phage adsorption efficiency assays, we identified OmpC as the key receptor-binding protein (RBP) for phage GH-K3, which is essential for effective infection. This study revealed that the phage secondary receptor of
K. pneumoniae
, OmpC, is the essential RBP not only for phage infecting Gram-negative bacteria, such as
Escherichia coli
and
Salmonella
, but also for
K. pneumoniae
.
Phenotypic Detection of Carbapenemase-Producing Organisms from Clinical Isolates
Authors: Tamma Pranita D. , Simner Patricia J.
Published: August 2018

The rapid spread of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative organisms constitutes one of the greatest challenges to global health. While Gram-negative organisms have developed several mechanisms to avert the bactericidal effects of commonly prescribed antibiotic agents, the increasing prevalence of carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPO) is particularly concerning given the rapid spread of mobile genetic elements containing carbapenemase genes, the limited treatment options for infections caused by these organisms, and the high mortality rates associated with CPO infections.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Cadmium-Resistant Strain JJU2, Belonging to the Family Hapalosiphonaceae of the Cyanobacteria
Authors: Victoria Angelo Joshua , Cao Ernelea , Salmaso Nico , Segata Nicola , Donati Claudio
Published: August 2018

Here, we report the genome of strain JJU2, a cyanobacterium of the family
Hapalosiphonaceae
known to be resistant to high cadmium levels, assembled from a nonaxenic, unialgal culture from Marinduque, Philippines. The draft genome is 7.1 Mb long with a GC content of 40.05% and contains 5,625 protein-coding genes.
Are large randomised controlled trials in severe sepsis and septic shock statistically disadvantaged by repeated inadvertent underestimates of required sample size?
Authors: Wong Joshua L C , Mason Alexina J , Gordon Anthony C , Brett Stephen J
Published: August 2018

Objectives

We sought to understand why randomised controlled trials in septic shock have failed to demonstrate effectiveness in the face of improving overall outcomes for patients and seemingly promising results of early phase trials of interventions.

Design

We performed a retrospective analysis of large critical care trials of severe sepsis and septic shock. Data were collected from the primary trial manuscripts, prepublished statistical plans or by direct communication with corresponding authors.

Setting

Critical care randomised control trials in severe sepsis and septic shock.

Participants

14 619 patients randomised in 13 trials published between 2005 and 2015, enrolling greater than 500 patients and powered to a primary outcome of mortality.

Intervention

Multiple interventions including the evaluation of treatment strategies and novel therapeutics.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Our primary outcome measure was the difference between the anticipated and actual control arm mortality. Secondary analysis examined the actual effect size and the anticipated effect size employed in sample size calculation.

Results

In this post hoc analysis of 13 trials with 14 619 patients randomised, we highlight a global tendency to overestimate control arm mortality in estimating sample size (absolute difference 9.8%, 95% CI −14.7% to −5.0%, p<0.001). When we compared anticipated and actual effect size of a treatment, there was also a substantial overestimation in proposed values (absolute difference 7.4%, 95% CI −9.0% to −5.8%, p<0.0001).

Conclusions

An interpretation of our results is that trials are consistently underpowered in the planning phase by employing erroneous variables to calculate a satisfactory sample size. Our analysis cannot establish if, given a larger sample size, a trial would have had a positive result. It is disappointing so many promising phase II results have not translated into durable phase III outcomes. It is possible that our current framework has biased us towards discounting potentially life-saving treatments.
Allogeneic adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy in dogs with refractory atopic dermatitis: clinical efficacy and safety
Authors: Villatoro Antonio José , Hermida‐Prieto Manuel , Fernández Viviana , Fariñas Fernando , Alcoholado Cristina , Rodríguez‐García M Isabel , Mariñas‐Pardo Luis , Becerra José
Published: August 2018

Canine atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin disease with a 10–15 per cent prevalence. Current treatments vary in their efficacy and safety. The immunomodulatory properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) make them a promising alternative treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of allogeneic canine adipose MSCs (cAd‐MSCs) in dogs with refractory AD. Twenty‐six dogs, suffering from AD for at least 12 months, not responding to conventional therapy, received an intravenous dose of 1.5×106 cAd‐MSCs/kg bodyweight. Clinical signs, haematological and biochemistry profiles, and AD severity were assessed in a six‐month follow‐up using a validated scoring system (Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, version 4 (CADESI‐04)). The degree of pruritus was quantified using a validated visual analogue scale, and also owner's global assessment of treatment efficacy. Twenty‐two animals completed the study. Pruritus and CADESI‐04 scores decreased significantly after one week or month of treatment, respectively, and remained stable for six months. Owner's global assessment score was 2.15±1.15 for all the animals in the study. In conclusion, systemic administration of allogeneic cAd‐MSCs appeared to be a simple therapy with positive outcome in the remission of clinical signs for AD refractory to conventional medications, for at least six months and with no adverse events.
Effects of layering on triggering mechanisms of rainfall-induced landslides in unsaturated pyroclastic granular soils
Authors: Damiano Emilia
Published: August 2018

Rainfall-induced landslides are widespread in shallow layered granular soil deposits. In many cases, slope instability is related to the decrease of suction during rainwater infiltration. However, the contrasts in the unsaturated hydraulic properties of the soils deeply affect the infiltration process, thus influencing slope failure. Coarse-textured soil layers embedded between finer ones may initially confine the process within the overlying finer layers, delaying the infiltration and eventually inducing lateral flow diversion. Nonetheless, depending on the state variables at the beginning of rainfall as well as on rainfall characteristics, the coarser layers may or may not have a positive effect on stability. The results of research based on advanced geotechnical characterization, physical and numerical modeling, and field monitoring have been analyzed to investigate the effects of layering on slope stability.
Using forensic geochemistry via fish otoliths to investigate an illegal fish introduction
Authors: Bourret Samuel L. , Clancy Niall G.
Published: August 2018

Illegal fish introductions create some of the most challenging problems for resource managers because of their potential to harm existing recreational fisheries and their impact on species of conservation concern. Determining the origin of a suspected illegal fish introduction can aid managers in preventing the colonization and subsequent ecosystem impacts of introduced species. In this study, we used forensic geochemistry via fish otoliths to investigate an illegal walleye (Sander vitreus) introduction in Swan Lake, Montana, which provides critical habitat for threatened bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) and native westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii). Core to edge geochemical profiles of 87Sr/86Sr and Sr/Ca ratios in the walleye otoliths revealed that these fish had been introduced to Swan Lake within the past growing season, and their geochemical signature matched that of walleye sampled from Lake Helena, Montana, located 309 road kilometres away. This research highlights application of a tool fisheries managers can use to identify the natal waterbody source of illegally introduced fish.
In-season assessment and management of salmon stocks using a Bayesian time–density model
Authors: Michielsens Catherine G.J. , Cave Jim D.
Published: August 2018

We document a time–density model for in-season assessment of salmon stocks that integrates both relative and absolute indicators of abundance and incorporates preseason information on run size and migration timing using a Bayesian framework. We evaluate different data collection programs for Fraser River sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) by examining the precision, bias, and timeliness of resulting run-size estimates with a retrospective analysis of 20 years of data. We quantify the run-size bias if migration was early versus late and evaluate the impact of run-size uncertainty on the ability to reach management objectives. In-season assessments greatly improve the accuracy and precision of run-size estimates compared with preseason forecasts. For the in-season assessment of Fraser River sockeye, catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) data from seaward marine test fisheries, although less precise, were more informative at the peak marine migration than more precise terminal, in-river hydroacoustic data obtained on the same date due to the time lag associated with migration from the marine test fishing locations to the lower river. Throughout the season, the best fisheries management results were obtained by relying on in-season assessments using both marine CPUE data as well as marine reconstructed abundance estimates derived from in-river hydroacoustic estimates, thereby taking advantage of the benefits of both sources of information.
Behavior of the Auslander condition with respect to regradings
Authors: Zhou G.-S. , Shen Y. , Lu D.-M.
Published: August 2018

We show that a noetherian ring graded by an abelian group of finite rank satisfies the Auslander condition if and only if it satisfies the graded Auslander condition. In addition, we also study the injective dimension, the global dimension and the Cohen–Macaulay property from the same perspective as that for the Auslander condition. A key step of our approach is to establish homological relations between a graded ring [Formula: see text], its quotient ring modulo the ideal [Formula: see text] and its localization ring with respect to the Ore set [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a homogeneous regular normal non-invertible element of [Formula: see text].
Efficiency of Solar Cells Based on Natural Dyes with Plasmonic Nanoparticle-Based Photo Anode
Authors: Sahu Kirti , Dhonde Mahesh , Murty V. V. S.
Published: August 2018

Cheap and efficient dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) can be prepared using natural dyes responding in the visible region of solar spectrum. Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) plays a very important role for the improvement in the efficiency of DSSCs by using Plasmonic nanoparticles (PNPs) for exploiting the visible portion of the solar radiation by transferring the energy from dye to PNP. This energy transfers from dye to semiconductor TiO2 through PNP which increases the overall photo catalytic activity. In the present study, Al-doped TiO2 photoanodes were prepared via sol–gel route and used for DSSC application. Various natural and synthetic dyes are prepared and the optical transmittance and absorbance of the dyes are measured in the wavelength range of 250–850[Formula: see text]nm using UV-Vis spectroscopy and they are used in DSSC. Natural dyes extracted from fruits and synthetic dye based on Ruthenium (Ru) metal complex is used as sensitizers. Power conversion efficiency (PCE) of solar cells utilizing different dyes is compared. Out of the various natural dyes, beetroot and strawberry extracts based dyes show good absorbance in the visible range of electromagnetic spectrum. On the other hand, synthetic dyes based on Ru complex show strong absorbance over a wide range of visible spectrum. The absorbance increases with increase in concentration of Ru in ethanol. The extracts of beetroot, strawberry and mixed fruits show a peak in absorbance spectra at 501nm, 416nm and 332nm, respectively, indicating the absorption over a wide range of visible spectrum. Maximum efficiency of DSSCs utilizing PNPs sensitized with beetroot and strawberry dyes are found to be 1.5% and 1.3%, respectively.
Boundary Element Modeling of Sound Attenuation in Acoustically Lined Curved Pipes
Authors: Saide Sarıgül A.
Published: August 2018

The results of a modeling study for the numerical solution of the interior surface Helmholtz integral for acoustically lined curved pipes with rectangular cross-section are presented. The solution of the Helmholtz integral equation is calculated by using the boundary element method (BEM). The sound attenuation spectra of different possible models with regard to the lining on the boundaries are compared with the analytical solution. The acoustic behavior of different models is discussed and the features of the model that gives more accurate results are presented.
Global Air–Sea Fluxes of Heat, Fresh Water, and Momentum: Energy Budget Closure and Unanswered Questions
Authors: Yu Lisan
Published: August 2018

The ocean interacts with the atmosphere via interfacial exchanges of momentum, heat (via radiation and convection), and fresh water (via evaporation and precipitation). These fluxes, or exchanges, constitute the ocean-surface energy and water budgets and define the ocean's role in Earth's climate and its variability on both short and long timescales. However, direct flux measurements are available only at limited locations. Air–sea fluxes are commonly estimated from bulk flux parameterization using flux-related near-surface meteorological variables (winds, sea and air temperatures, and humidity) that are available from buoys, ships, satellite remote sensing, numerical weather prediction models, and/or a combination of any of these sources. Uncertainties in parameterization-based flux estimates are large, and when they are integrated over the ocean basins, they cause a large imbalance in the global-ocean budgets. Despite the significant progress that has been made in quantifying surface fluxes in the past 30 years, achieving a global closure of ocean-surface energy and water budgets remains a challenge for flux products constructed from all data sources. This review provides a personal perspective on three questions: First, to what extent can time-series measurements from air–sea buoys be used as benchmarks for accuracy and reliability in the context of the budget closures? Second, what is the dominant source of uncertainties for surface flux products, the flux-related variables or the bulk flux algorithms? And third, given the coupling between the energy and water cycles, precipitation and surface radiation can act as twin budget constraints—are the community-standard precipitation and surface radiation products pairwise compatible?
Sexual Harassment in Academia: Ethical Climates and Bounded Ethicality
Authors: Tenbrunsel Ann E. , Rees McKenzie R. , Diekmann Kristina A.
Published: August 2018

This article reviews research on sexual harassment, particularly that pertaining to academia, to understand its underlying causes. Arguing that sexual harassment is an ethical issue, we draw on the field of behavioral ethics to structure our review. We first review ethical climate antecedents at the individual, leader, organizational, and environmental levels and examine their effects on both the occurrence of and responses to sexually harassing behaviors. This discussion is followed by an exploration of research that speaks to the cognitive processes of bounded ethicality—including ethical fading, motivated blindness, and the slippery slope—and their role in facilitating and perpetuating sexual harassment. We conclude by highlighting the value to be gained from integrating research on sexual harassment with research on behavioral ethics and identifying several practical steps that can be taken to curb sexual harassment in academia.
Attracting and Retaining Top Scientists and Engineers at U.S. National Laboratories and Universities: Listening to the next generation
Authors: Northen Trent R. , Haegel Nancy , Sinars Daniel B. , Green Johney , Wellman Dawn E. , Schwartz Daniel T.
Published: August 2018

Traditional career models for U.S. national laboratory research staff and university professors are based on long-term career stability that enables the development of deep expertise devoted to solving complex scientific and engineering problems. However, generational transitions as well as changing dynamics of U.S. federal funding may cause major shifts in this traditional career model, which has dominated research since Vannevar Bush published, "Science the Endless Frontier". To explore career attitudes, expectations, and perceived barriers among the next generation of energy scholars, surveys were sent to 450 recipients of the U.S. Department of Energy Early Career Award (about half employed at national labs and the other half at universities) as well as nearly 200 students at the University of Washington Clean Energy Institute and Notre Dame Energy. The survey results are placed in the context of peer reviewed research on the performance and motivation of researchers and scientific organizations.
Void spot assay: recommendations on the use of a simple micturition assay for mice
Authors: Hill Warren G. , Zeidel Mark L. , Bjorling Dale E. , Vezina Chad M.
Published: August 2018

Investigators have for decades used mouse voiding patterns as end points for studying behavioral biology. It is only recently that mouse voiding patterns were adopted for study of lower urinary tract physiology. The spontaneous void spot assay (VSA), a popular micturition assessment tool, involves placing a mouse in an enclosure lined by filter paper and quantifying the resulting urine spot pattern. The VSA has advantages of being inexpensive and noninvasive, but some investigators challenge its ability to distinguish lower urinary tract function from behavioral voiding. A consensus group of investigators who regularly use the VSA was established by the National Institutes of Health in 2015 to address the strengths and weaknesses of the assay, determine whether it can be standardized across laboratories, and determine whether it can be used as a surrogate for evaluating urinary function. Here we leverage experience from the consensus group to review the history of the VSA and its uses, summarize experiments to optimize assay design for urinary physiology assessment, and make best practice recommendations for performing the assay and analyzing its results.
High-level language processing regions are not engaged in action observation or imitation
Authors: Pritchett Brianna L. , Hoeflin Caitlyn , Koldewyn Kami , Dechter Eyal , Fedorenko Evelina
Published: August 2018

A set of left frontal, temporal, and parietal brain regions respond robustly during language comprehension and production (e.g., Fedorenko E, Hsieh PJ, Nieto-Castañón A, Whitfield-Gabrieli S, Kanwisher N. J Neurophysiol 104: 1177–1194, 2010; Menenti L, Gierhan SM, Segaert K, Hagoort P. Psychol Sci 22: 1173–1182, 2011). These regions have been further shown to be selective for language relative to other cognitive processes, including arithmetic, aspects of executive function, and music perception (e.g., Fedorenko E, Behr MK, Kanwisher N. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 108: 16428–16433, 2011; Monti MM, Osherson DN. Brain Res 1428: 33–42, 2012). However, one claim about overlap between language and nonlinguistic cognition remains prominent. In particular, some have argued that language processing shares computational demands with action observation and/or execution (e.g., Rizzolatti G, Arbib MA. Trends Neurosci 21: 188–194, 1998; Koechlin E, Jubault T. Neuron 50: 963–974, 2006; Tettamanti M, Weniger D. Cortex 42: 491–494, 2006). However, the evidence for these claims is indirect, based on observing activation for language and action tasks within the same broad anatomical areas (e.g., on the lateral surface of the left frontal lobe). To test whether language indeed shares machinery with action observation/execution, we examined the responses of language brain regions, defined functionally in each individual participant (Fedorenko E, Hsieh PJ, Nieto-Castañón A, Whitfield-Gabrieli S, Kanwisher N. J Neurophysiol 104: 1177–1194, 2010) to action observation ( experiments 1, 2, and 3a) and action imitation ( experiment 3b). With the exception of the language region in the angular gyrus, all language regions, including those in the inferior frontal gyrus (within “Broca’s area”), showed little or no response during action observation/imitation. These results add to the growing body of literature suggesting that high-level language regions are highly selective for language processing (see Fedorenko E, Varley R. Ann NY Acad Sci 1369: 132–153, 2016 for a review).

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Many have argued for overlap in the machinery used to interpret language and others’ actions, either because action observation was a precursor to linguistic communication or because both require interpreting hierarchically-structured stimuli. However, existing evidence is indirect, relying on group analyses or reverse inference. We examined responses to action observation in language regions defined functionally in individual participants and found no response. Thus language comprehension and action observation recruit distinct circuits in the modern brain.
Antioxidant and Anticancer Roles of a Novel Strain ofBacillus anthracisIsolated from Vermicompost Prepared from Paper Mill Sludge
Authors: Ganguly Ram Kumar , Midya Sujoy , Chakraborty Susanta Kumar
Published: August 2018

Mass production of vermicompost using suitable species of earthworms and selecting target organic waste materials has appeared to be a great development in the realm of biotechnological research for the sustainable eco-management. Although, for the bioconversion of organic wastes to vermicompost, suitable earthworm species play major roles, a hoard of bacterial assemblages by virtue of production of different enzymes facilitate the process of vermicomposting. The present study has documented the roles of vermicompost associated bacteria in combating, preventing, and controlling of cancer so as to open a new vista not only in the field of vermitechnology but also on biomedical research. Earthworms’ associated bacterial metabolic products having their unique physicochemical excellence have gained importance due to their roles as a facilitator of apoptosis (programed cell death in a MCF-7 cell line). The antioxidant and anticancer activities of ethyl acetate extracts’ of vermicompost associated bacteriumBacillus anthraciswere undertaken by antioxidant assay which revealed maximum DPPH radical scavenging effect (75.79 ± 5.41%) of the extracts’ at 9 00 μg ml-1. Furthermore, the crude extracts obtained from the same bacteria were found to decrease the activity of SOD (superoxide dismutase) with the increase in doses. MTT assay showed potent cytotoxic activity against human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7) with the IC50 value of 46.64 ± 0.79 μg ml-1. It was further confirmed through Hoechst 33258 staining of nuclear fragmentation assay and DNA fragmentation analysis. Western blotting test has confirmed a downregulation of Akt upon application of crude extracts. Increase of SOD activity along with decrease of Akt level reflects that the mode of action is entirely PI-3K dependent. This study tends to indicate thatB.anthracisisolated from vermicompost could be potentially explored for the development of new therapeutic agents, especially against cancer.
Dynamic Multivariate Quantile Residual Life in Reliability Theory
Authors: Noughabi M. Shafaei , Kayid M. , Abouammoh A. M.
Published: August 2018

We extend the univariateα-quantile residual life function to multivariate setting preserving its dynamic feature. Principal attributes of this function are derived and their relationship to the dynamic multivariate hazard rate function is discussed. A corresponding ordering, namely,α-quantile residual life order, for random vectors of lifetimes is introduced and studied. Based on the proposed ordering, a notion of positive dependency is presented. Finally, a discussion about conditions characterizing the class of decreasing multivariateα-quantile residual life functions is pointed out.
Genomic Subtypes of GISTs for Stratifying Patient Response to Sunitinib following Imatinib Resistance: A Pooled Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Tan Siyuan , Chen Ping , Ji Jiafu , Guo Shanshan , Yu Dapeng , Asakawa Tetsuya , Zhou Yu , Abe Masanobu , Zong Liang
Published: August 2018

Objectives. Sunitinib (a second-line chemotherapeutic agent that inhibits multiple kinases, including KIT and PDGFR) is widely used in imatinib-resistant patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). However, diverse responses to sunitinib have been observed in the clinic. We aimed to evaluate whether the different GIST genotypes could be used to stratify patient response to sunitinib. Methods. We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases and included English-language literature published up to August 31, 2017. Inclusion criteria were GIST patients with KIT exon 9, KIT exon 11, or PDGFRA mutations and those without KIT/PDGFRA mutations (termed the wild-type genotype) who were receiving sunitinib within a clinical trial, and the efficacy evaluation was clinical benefit rate (CBR), median progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Odds ratios (ORs) for CBR and hazard ratios (HRs) for PFS and OS with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in sunitinib-treated GIST patients with different genotypes were compared. Results. Seven studies totaling 531 patients were included. Patients with KIT mutations showed an improved CBR to sunitinib compared to those with PDGFRA mutations. In particular, those with the KIT exon 9 or 11 mutation showed improved CBR over those with PDGFRA mutation. Moreover, GIST patients with the KIT exon 9 mutation showed improved CBR over those with the KIT exon 11 mutation. Patients without KIT/PDGFRA mutations (wild-type genotype) showed better CBR than those with PDGFRA mutations. Conclusion. GIST genotypes may be useful for stratifying patient response to sunitinib after imatinib resistance.
Isolation, Culture, and Functional Characterization of Human Embryonic Stem Cells: Current Trends and Challenges
Authors: Khan Firdos Alam , Almohazey Dana , Alomari Munthar , Almofty Sarah Ameen
Published: August 2018

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) hold great potential for the treatment of various degenerative diseases. Pluripotent hESCs have a great ability to undergo unlimited self-renewal in culture and to differentiate into all cell types in the body. The journey of hESC research is not that smooth, as it has faced several challenges which are limited to not only tumor formation and immunorejection but also social, ethical, and political aspects. The isolation of hESCs from the human embryo is considered highly objectionable as it requires the destruction of the human embryo. The issue was debated and discussed in both public and government platforms, which led to banning of hESC research in many countries around the world. The banning has negatively affected the progress of hESC research as many federal governments around the world stopped research funding. Afterward, some countries lifted the ban and allowed the funding in hESC research, but the damage has already been done on the progress of research. Under these unfavorable conditions, still some progress was made to isolate, culture, and characterize hESCs using different strategies. In this review, we have summarized various strategies used to successfully isolate, culture, and characterize hESCs. Finally, hESCs hold a great promise for clinical applications with proper strategies to minimize the teratoma formation and immunorejection and better cell transplantation strategies.
Complexity‐Based Discrepancy Measures Applied to Detection of Apnea‐Hypopnea Events
Authors: Rolón R. E. , Gareis I. E. , Di Persia L. E. , Spies R. D. , Rufiner H. L.
Published: August 2018

In recent years, an increasing interest in the development of discriminative methods based on sparse representations with discrete dictionaries for signal classification has been observed. It is still unclear, however, what is the most appropriate way for introducing discriminative information into the sparse representation problem. It is also unknown which is the best discrepancy measure for classification purposes. In the context of feature selection problems, several complexity‐based measures have been proposed. The main objective of this work is to explore a method that uses such measures for constructing discriminative subdictionaries for detecting apnea‐hypopnea events using pulse oximetry signals. Besides traditional discrepancy measures, we study a simple one called Difference of Conditional Activation Frequency (DCAF). We additionally explore the combined effect of overcompleteness and redundancy of the dictionary as well as the sparsity level of the representation. Results show that complexity‐based measures are capable of adequately pointing out discriminative atoms. Particularly, DCAF yields competitive averaged detection accuracy rates of 72.57% at low computational cost. Additionally, ROC curve analyses show averaged diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 81.88% and 87.32%, respectively. This shows that discriminative subdictionary construction methods for sparse representations of pulse oximetry signals constitute a valuable tool for apnea‐hypopnea screening.
Synthesis of Platinum Nanocrystals within Iodine Ions Mediated
Authors: Li Jiamao , Hou Jingwei , Gong Yu , Xiao Chengjian , Yue Lei , Zhao Linjie , Ma Huan , Wang Heyi , Peng Shuming , Chen Chao , Chen Hongli
Published: August 2018

A liquid-phase reducing method of synthesizing Pt nanocrystals was demonstrated, and dendrite-, cube-, and cuboctahedron-shaped Pt nanocrystals (NCs) with well-defined monomorphic were successfully synthesized through iodine ions mediated with the CTAB agent. When the KI concentration was increased to thirty times of K2PtCl4 at the nucleation stage, the high-quality Pt nanodendrites could be obtained. However, no matter how many KI were added at the growth age, only cube- and cuboctahedron-shaped Pt nanocrystals formed. The results of high-resolution TEM, EDX, and XRD indicated that the size and shape of Pt NCs could be turned by changing the concentration and time of KI. In the nucleation stage, it might be due to that some iodine ions adsorb on the surfaces of Pt NCs, which probably cause the rapid growth process resulting in the formation of Pt nanodendrites. In the growth stage, although high concentrations of I− ions could contribute to the shape control and generate bigger particles of Pt NCs, small Pt particles do not grow into dendrites. The insight into the role of I− ions in synthesis of Pt NCs reported here provided a viewpoint for clearly understanding the formation mechanism of anisotropic platinum nanostructures.
Left Right Judgement Task and Sensory, Motor, and Cognitive Assessment in Participants with Wrist/Hand Pain
Authors: Pelletier René , Bourbonnais Daniel , Higgins Johanne , Mireault Maxime , Danino Michel Alain , Harris Patrick G.
Published: August 2018

The Left Right Judgement Task (LRJT) involves determining if an image of the body part is of the left or right side. The LRJT has been utilized as part of rehabilitation treatment programs for persons with pain associated with musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Although studies often attribute changes and improvement in LRJT performance to an altered body schema, imaging studies suggest that the LRJT implicates other cortical regions. We hypothesized that cognitive factors would be related to LRJT performance of hands and feet and that sensory, motor, and pain related factors would be related to LRJT in the affected hand of participants with wrist/hand pain. In an observational cross-sectional study, sixty-one participants with wrist/hand pain participated in a study assessing motor imagery ability, cognitive (Stroop test), sensory (Two-Point Orientation Discrimination, pressure pain thresholds), motor (grip strength, Purdue Pegboard Test), and pain related measures (West Haven Yale Multidimensional Pain Inventory) as well as disability (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand). Multiple linear regression found Stroop test time and motor imagery ability to be related to LRJT performance. Tactile acuity, motor performance, participation in general activities, and the taking of pain medications were predictors of LRJT accuracy in the affected hand. Participants who took pain medications performed poorly in both LRJT accuracy (p=0.001) and reaction time of the affected hand (p=0.009). These participants had poorer cognitive (p=0.013) and motor function (p=0.002), and higher pain severity scores (p=0.010). The results suggest that the LRJT is a complex mental task that involves cognitive, sensory, motor, and behavioural processes. Differences between persons with and without pain and improvement in LRJT performance may be attributed to any of these factors and should be considered in rehabilitation research and practice utilizing this task.