bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration of Strategies for Mechanism‐Based Inhibitor Design for Family GH99 endo‐α‐1,2‐Mannanases
Authors: Fernandes Pearl Z. , Petricevic Marija , Sobala Lukasz , Davies Gideon J. , Williams Spencer J.
Published: March 2018

endo‐α‐1,2‐Mannosidases and ‐mannanases, members of glycoside hydrolase family 99 (GH99), cleave α‐Glc/Man‐1,3‐α‐Man‐OR structures within mammalian N‐linked glycans and fungal α‐mannan, respectively. They are proposed to act through a two‐step mechanism involving a 1,2‐anhydrosugar “epoxide” intermediate incorporating two conserved catalytic carboxylates. In the first step, one carboxylate acts as a general base to deprotonate the 2‐hydroxy group adjacent to the fissile glycosidic bond, and the other provides general acid assistance to the departure of the aglycon. We report herein the synthesis of two inhibitors designed to interact with either the general base (α‐mannosyl‐1,3‐(2‐aminodeoxymannojirimycin), Man2NH2DMJ) or the general acid (α‐mannosyl‐1,3‐mannoimidazole, ManManIm). Modest affinities were observed for an endo‐α‐1,2‐mannanase from Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron. Structural studies revealed that Man2NH2DMJ binds like other iminosugar inhibitors, which suggests that the poor inhibition shown by this compound is not a result of a failure to achieve the expected interaction with the general base, but rather the reduction in basicity of the endocyclic nitrogen caused by introduction of a vicinal, protonated amine at C2. ManManIm binds with the imidazole headgroup distorted downwards, a result of an unfavourable interaction with a conserved active site tyrosine. This study has identified important limitations associated with mechanism‐inspired inhibitor design for GH99 enzymes.
ATP3 and MTP3: Easily Prepared Stable Perruthenate Salts for Oxidation Applications in Synthesis
Authors: Moore Peter W. , Read Christopher D. G. , Bernhardt Paul V. , Williams Craig M.
Published: March 2018

The Ley–Griffith tetra‐n‐propylammonium perruthenate (TPAP) catalyst has been widely deployed by the synthesis community, mainly for the oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes and ketones, but also for a variety of other synthetic transformations (e.g. diol cleavage, isomerizations, imine formation and heterocyclic synthesis). Such popularity has been forged on broad reaction scope, functional group tolerance, mild conditions, and commercial catalyst supply. However, the mild instability of TPAP creates preparation, storage, and reaction reproducibility issues, due to unpreventable slow decomposition. In search of attributes conducive to catalyst longevity an extensive range of novel perruthenate salts were prepared. Subsequent evaluation unearthed a set of readily synthesized, bench stable, phosphonium perruthenates (ATP3 and MTP3) that mirror the reactivity of TPAP, but avoid storage decomposition issues.
A General Catalytic Method for Highly Cost‐ and Atom‐Efficient Nucleophilic Substitutions
Authors: Huy Peter H. , Filbrich Isabel
Published: March 2018

A general formamide‐catalyzed protocol for the efficient transformation of alcohols into alkyl chlorides, which is promoted by substoichiometric amounts (down to 34 mol %) of inexpensive trichlorotriazine (TCT), is introduced. This is the first example of a TCT‐mediated dihydroxychlorination of an OH‐containing substrate (e.g., alcohols and carboxylic acids) in which all three chlorine atoms of TCT are transferred to the starting material. The consequently enhanced atom economy facilitates a significantly improved waste balance (E‐factors down to 4), cost efficiency, and scalability (>50 g). Furthermore, the current procedure is distinguished by high levels of functional‐group compatibility and stereoselectivity, as only weakly acidic cyanuric acid is released as exclusive byproduct. Finally, a one‐pot protocol for the preparation of amines, azides, ethers, and sulfides enabled the synthesis of the drug rivastigmine with twofold SN2 inversion, which demonstrates the high practical value of the presented method.
Salicylic Acid‐Based Polymeric Contrast Agents for Molecular Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Banerjee Sangeeta Ray , Song Xiaolei , Yang Xing , Minn Il , Lisok Ala , Chen Yanrong , Bui Albert , Chatterjee Samit , Chen Jian , van Zijl Peter C. M. , McMahon Michael T. , Pomper Martin G.
Published: March 2018

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an innovative molecular imaging technique in which contrast agents are labeled by saturating their exchangeable proton spins by radio‐frequency irradiation. Salicylic acid and its analogues are a promising class of highly sensitive, diamagnetic CEST agents. Herein, polymeric agents grafted with salicylic acid moieties and a known high‐affinity ligand targeting prostate‐specific membrane antigen in approximately 10:1 molar ratio were synthesized to provide sufficient MRI sensitivity and receptor specificity. The proton‐exchange properties of the contrast agent in solution and in an experimental murine model are reported to demonstrate the feasibility of receptor‐targeted CEST MRI of prostate cancer. Furthermore, the CEST imaging data were validated with an 111In‐labeled analogue of the agent by in vivo single photon emission computed tomographic imaging and tissue biodistribution studies.
Mediating conflicts over sacred lands
Authors: Podziba Susan L.
Published: March 2018

Mediating conflicts over sacred lands, a unique subset of public conflicts and international conflict with a religion component, requires sensitivity to the concept of the sacred and the unique contexts within which they occur. Sacred lands disputes may emerge from competing incompatible commercial and religious uses, demands for exclusive use, and efforts to undermine religious legitimacy. These aspects of conflicts over sacred lands require mediator consideration of their peculiar dynamics, including clashes of worldviews, indivisibility, and territorial access to the divine.
Internal Polarization Modulation in Bi2MoO6 for Photocatalytic Performance Enhancement under Visible‐Light Illumination
Authors: Chen Yan , Yang Weiyi , Gao Shuang , Zhu Linggang , Sun Caixia , Li Qi
Published: March 2018

A built‐in electric field from polarization inside polar photocatalysts could provide the driving force for photogenerated electrons and holes to move in opposite directions for better separation to improve their photocatalytic performance. The photocatalytic performance of a polar photocatalyst of Bi2MoO6 has been enhanced through the precise control of its structure to increase internal polarization. DFT calculations predicted that a shortened crystal lattice parameter b in Bi2MoO6 could induce larger internal polarization, which was achieved by the modulation of the pH of the reaction solution during a solvothermal synthetic process. A series of Bi2MoO6 samples were created with reaction solutions of pH≈1, 4, and 8; the crystal lattice parameter b was found to decrease gradually with increasing solution pH. Accordingly, these Bi2MoO6 samples demonstrated a gradually enhanced photocatalytic performance with decreasing crystal lattice parameter b, as demonstrated by the photocatalytic degradation of sulfamethoxazole/phenol and disinfection of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria under visible‐light illumination due to improved photogenerated charge‐carrier separation. This study demonstrates an innovative design strategy for materials to further enhance the photocatalytic performance of polar photocatalysts for a broad range of technical applications.
Determining preferred spawning habitat of the endangered Rio Grande silvery minnow by hydrological manipulation of a conservation aquaculture facility and the implications for management
Authors: Hutson Alison M. , Toya Louie A. , Tave Douglas
Published: March 2018

The endangered Rio Grande silvery minnow (Hybognathus amarus) was induced to spawn in both 2012 and 2013, using hydrological manipulation of a conservation aquaculture facility to create floodplain habitat. Fish responded to the flood by leaving the stream and entered both deep (20–97 cm) and shallow (14–18 cm) low‐velocity off‐channel habitats, spawning in the deep ones; fish did not spawn in the stream. When water level was brought down from flood stage, fry actively moved into the stream 2.5 weeks postspawn. This study supports the hypothesis that this species is a floodplain spawner. The results show that habitat restoration of the Rio Grande to create floodplains is needed for recovery of this species as floodplains are both spawning and nursery habitats. The study provides guidelines about how deep floodplain inundation must inundate for spawning to occur and for the duration of inundation so fry can actively swim with the water when flood waters recede. This project also shows that a conservation facility can be used for all stages of fish's life history. Equally important, it shows that a conservation aquaculture facility can be used to conduct hydrological experiments to determine how an endangered fish will respond to changes in river management.
Synthesizing models useful for ecohydrology and ecohydraulic approaches: An emphasis on integrating models to address complex research questions
Authors: Brewer Shannon K. , Worthington Thomas A. , Mollenhauer Robert , Stewart David R. , McManamay Ryan A. , Guertault Lucie , Moore Desiree
Published: March 2018

Ecohydrology combines empiricism, data analytics, and the integration of models to characterize linkages between ecological and hydrological processes. A challenge for practitioners is determining which models best generalizes heterogeneity in hydrological behaviour, including water fluxes across spatial and temporal scales, integrating environmental and socio‐economic activities to determine best watershed management practices and data requirements. We conducted a literature review and synthesis of hydrologic, hydraulic, water quality, and ecological models designed for solving interdisciplinary questions. We reviewed 1,275 papers and identified 178 models that have the capacity to answer an array of research questions about ecohydrology or ecohydraulics. Of these models, 43 were commonly applied due to their versatility, accessibility, user‐friendliness, and excellent user‐support. Forty‐one of 43 reviewed models were linked to at least 1 other model especially: Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program (linked to 21 other models), Soil and Water Assessment Tool (19), and Hydrologic Engineering Center's River Analysis System (15). However, model integration was still relatively infrequent. There was substantial variation in model applications, possibly an artefact of the regional focus of research questions, simplicity of use, quality of user‐support efforts, or a limited understanding of model applicability. Simply increasing the interoperability of model platforms, transformation of models to user‐friendly forms, increasing user‐support, defining the reliability and risk associated with model results, and increasing awareness of model applicability may promote increased use of models across subdisciplines. Nonetheless, the current availability of models allows an array of interdisciplinary questions to be addressed, and model choice relates to several factors including research objective, model complexity, ability to link to other models, and interface choice.
Consumption of terrestrial organic matter in the rocky intertidal zone along the central Oregon coast
Authors: Fairbanks Douglas O. , McArthur J Vaun , Young Craig M. , Rader Russell B.
Published: March 2018

Terrestrial organic matter (TOM) constitutes an important source of energy in many aquatic environments. This is the first study to compare the consumption of terrestrial leaves (Alnus rubra) to high‐quality (Nereocystis luetkeana) and low‐quality (Fucus gardneri) sources of drift kelp and low‐quality seagrass (Phyllospadix spp.) in pools of the rocky intertidal zone on Cape Arago, Oregon, USA. On average, 1.02 kg ash‐free dry mass (AFDM) per day of TOM was transported by small forested streams during fall leaf abscission to the rocky intertidal zone in small pocket bays. Leaves of A. rubra (red alder) varied in wrack from negligible (12 g AFDM/m2) on some beaches to the primary source of detritus on others (256 g AFDM/m2). Long‐term feeding experiments (months) showed that consumption rates of A. rubra in the spring (19.7% of the initial pack biomass) and in the fall (52% of the initial pack biomass) were intermediate between those of N. luetkeana (fully consumed) and Phyllospadix spp. (never >10% consumed of the initial pack biomass). Long‐term experiments also showed that conditioned fall‐shed leaves of A. rubra were consumed at a faster rate (52.3% of initial pack biomass) than spring‐shed leaves of A. rubra (16.8% of initial pack biomass). Short‐term feeding experiments again showed that consumption of A. rubra in the spring (18.6% of initial pack biomass over 3 d) and fall (16.7% over 7 d) was intermediate between N. luetkeana (57.3% consumed over 3 d in the spring and 60.7% over 7 d in the fall) and Phyllospadix spp. (<1% consumed in the spring). Except for Phyllospadix spp., consumption rates followed polyphenolic concentrations in that, N. luetkeana (418 mg/mL) > A. rubra (3415 mg/mL) > F. gardneri (8098 mg/mL). Phyllospadix spp. was rarely consumed despite a fairly low concentration of phenolics (800 mg/mL). In the temperate zone, leaves of A. rubra may constitute an important source of energy during the fall and winter when more nutritious marine resources dieback, such as single‐celled algae and kelp (e.g., N. luetkeana).
Increased Efficiency of Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells by Incorporation of a π Spacer in Donor–Acceptor Zinc Porphyrins Bearing Cyanoacrylic Acid as an Anchoring Group
Authors: Panagiotakis Stylianos , Giannoudis Emmanouil , Charisiadis Asterios , Paravatou Raphaella , Lazaridi Maria‐Eleni , Kandyli Maria , Ladomenou Kalliopi , Angaridis Panagiotis A. , Bertrand Hélène C. , Sharma Ganesh D. , Coutsolelos Athanassios G.
Published: March 2018

Two novel porphyrins, ZnP(SP)CNCOOH and ZnPCNCOOH, bearing cyanoacrylic acid as an anchoring group were synthesized. Porphyrin ZnP(SP)CNCOOH contains a π‐conjugated spacer (SP) for improved electronic communication between the dye and the TiO2 electrode. The spacer bears polyethylene glycol chains to prevent dye aggregation and to enhance solubility of the dye. Electrochemical measurements and theoretical calculations suggest that both porphyrins are promising sensitizers for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), as their molecular orbital energy levels favor electron injection and dye regeneration. Solar cells sensitized by ZnP(SP)CNCOOH and ZnPCNCOOH show power conversion efficiencies of 7.61 and 5.02 %, respectively. Photovoltaic measurements (J–V curves and incident photon to current conversion efficiency spectra) show that higher short‐circuit current (Jsc) and open‐circuit voltage (Voc) values are reached for the solar cell based on ZnP(SP)CNCOOH. This can be mainly ascribed to suppressed charge recombination, as indicated by their electrochemical impedance spectra.
Synthesis of Sponge‐Like Bi2O3 by Using a Soft/Hard‐Combined Biomembrane Support System for Application as Supercapacitor
Authors: Li Jiangfeng , Chen Dandan , Zhang Qiwei , Zhang Yan , Wang Xu , Yang Chengqing , Wu Qingsheng
Published: March 2018

In this study, sponge‐like Bi2O3 was successfully synthesized by a simple soft/hard‐combined biomembrane support system for the first time. The morphology and composition of the final products were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, and BET measurements. When the aging time is 20 min, the obtained Bi2O3 based electrode exhibits a specific capacitance of 1103 F g–1 at 0.5 A g–1 and excellent rate capability (87.9 % capacitance retention from 0.5 A g–1 to 10 A g–1).
Microwave‐Assisted Domino Palladium Catalysis in Water: A Diverse Synthesis of 3,3′‐Disubstituted Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Ramesh Karu , Basuli Suchand , Satyanarayana Gedu
Published: March 2018

An environmentally benign microwave‐assisted domino [Pd]‐catalyzed reaction, for the efficient and diverse synthesis of 3,3′‐disubstituted indolines, oxindoles, and dihydrobenzofurans, is presented. Significantly, water served as the sole green solvent and the strategy displayed an excellent functional‐group tolerance. Remarkably, the process was also amenable to unmasked functional groups and furnished the products, in very good to almost quantitative yields.
A Sensitive Photoelectrochemical Aptasensor for miRNA‐21 Based on the Sensitization Effect of CdSe Quantum Dots
Authors: Cong Xinxin , Zhou Minfeng , Hou Ting , Xu Zijian , Yin Yizhi , Wang Xiaolei , Yin Miao
Published: March 2018

A novel photoelectrochemical aptasensor for the sensitive detection of miRNA‐21 was designed based on the sensitization effect of CdSe quantum dots as a signal amplification strategy. The TiO2NTs/RGO/AuNPs electrode was prepared by the electrodeposition of graphene oxide and Au nanoparticles on TiO2 nanotubes with electrochemical reduction. The electrode was prepared as the matrix of the electrochemical aptasensor. The hairpin DNA strands decorated with CdSe quantum dots were immobilized on the surface of the electrode by Au−S bonds. Because of the card‐type structure of the hairpin DNA (HP‐DNA), the CdSe quantum dots were close to the base electrode, which would lead to the sensitization effect and cause the increase of the photocurrent intensity. When a certain concentration of the miRNA‐21 was added, miRNA‐21 hybridized with the complementary part of the HP‐DNA. At the same time, the hairpin structure of HP‐DNA was broken into a straight chain structure, so the CdSe quantum dots on the end of the DNA would move away from the electrode surface, the sensitization effect would be weakened, and the photocurrent intensity would be decreased. The designed photoelectrochemical aptasensor exhibited a low detection limit of 5.6 fM and a wide linear range from 20 fM to 0.2 nM, and it also showed good specificity, reproducibility and stability. The signal amplification strategy was also expected to provide a significant photoelectrochemical biosensor platform for the sensitive detection of biomolecules.
Capillary electrophoresis method for the discrimination between natural and artificial vanilla flavor for controlling food frauds
Authors: Lahouidak Samah , Salghi Rachid , Zougagh Mohammed , Ríos Angel
Published: March 2018

A capillary electrophoresis method was developed for the determination of coumarin (COUM), ethyl vanillin (EVA), p‐hydroxybenzaldehyde (PHB), p‐hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), vanillin (VAN), vanillic acid (VANA) and vanillic alcohol (VOH) in vanilla products. The measured concentrations are compared to values obtained by liquid chromatography (LC) method. Analytical results, method precision, and accuracy data are presented and limits of detection for the method ranged from 2 to 5 μg/mL. The results obtained are used in monitoring the composition of vanilla flavorings, as well as for confirmation of natural or non‐natural origin of vanilla in samples using four selected food samples containing this flavor.
Dependence of sediment sorting on bedload transport phase in a river meander
Authors: Rovira Albert , Núñez‐González Francisco , Ibañez Carles
Published: March 2018

It is widely recognized nowadays that there are at least two different phases of bedload sediment transport in gravel‐bed rivers. However, the transition between these phases is still poorly or subjectively defined, especially at bends in rivers, where cross‐stream sediment transport can strongly influence changes in the texture of the transported sediment. In this paper, we use piecewise models to identify objectively, at two points in the cross‐section of a river bend, the discharge at which the transition between bedload transport phases occurs. Piecewise models were applied to a new bedload data set collected during a wide range of discharges while analysing the associated changes in sediment texture. Results allowed the identification of two well‐differentiated phases of sediment transport (phase I and phase II), with a breakpoint located around bankfull discharge. Associated with each phase there was a change in bedload texture. In phase I there was non‐dominance in the transport of fine or coarse fractions at a particular sampling point; but in phase II bedload texture was strongly linked to the position of the sampling point across the channel. In this phase, fine particles tended to be transported to the inner bank, while coarse sizes were transferred throughout the middle parts of the channel. Moreover, bedload texture at the inner sampling point became bimodal while the transport of pebble‐sized particles was increasing in the central parts of the river channel. It is suggested that this general pattern may be related both to secondary currents, which transfer finer particles from the outer to the inner bank, and to the progressive dismantling of the riverbed surface layer. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulating a century of soil erosion for agricultural catchment management
Authors: Smith Hugh G. , Peñuela Andrés , Sangster Heather , Sellami Haykel , Boyle John , Chiverrell Richard , Schillereff Daniel , Riley Mark
Published: March 2018

Agricultural land management requires strategies to reduce impacts on soil and water resources while maintaining food production. Models that capture the effects of agricultural and conservation practices on soil erosion and sediment delivery can help to address this challenge. Historic records of climatic variability and agricultural change over the last century also offer valuable information for establishing extended baselines against which to evaluate management scenarios. Here, we present an approach that combines centennial‐scale reconstructions of climate and agricultural land cover with modelling across four lake catchments in the UK where radiometric dating provides a record of lake sedimentation. We compare simulations using MMF‐TWI, a catchment‐scale model developed for humid agricultural landscapes that incorporates representation of seasonal variability in vegetation cover, soil water balance, runoff and sediment contributing areas. MMF‐TWI produced mean annual sediment exports within 9–20% of sediment core‐based records without calibration and using guide parameter values to represent vegetation cover. Simulations of land management scenarios compare upland afforestation and lowland field‐scale conservation measures to reconstructed historic baselines. Oak woodland versus conifer afforestation showed similar reductions in mean annual surface runoff (8–16%) compared to current moorland vegetation but a larger reduction in sediment exports (26–46 versus 4–30%). Riparian woodland buffers reduced upland sediment yields by 15–41%, depending on understorey cover levels, but had only minor effect on surface runoff. Planting of winter cover crops in the lowland arable catchment halved historic sediment exports. Permanent grass margins applied to sets of arable fields across 15% or more of the catchment led to further significant reduction in exports. Our findings show the potential for reducing sediment delivery at the catchment scale with land management interventions. We also demonstrate how MMF‐TWI can support hydrologically‐informed decision making to better target conservation measures in humid agricultural environments. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicity of various road-deicing salts to Asian clams (Corbicula fluminea)
Authors: Coldsnow Kayla D. , Relyea Rick A.
Published: March 2018

Humans are altering environments by destroying habitats, introducing species, and releasing pollution. One emergent pollutant is the salinization of freshwater habitats from road-deicing salts. Government agencies have set thresholds to protect freshwater ecosystems, yet these values are exceeded in many systems. The present study investigated the tolerance of Asian clams (Corbicula fluminea), a common invasive bivalve, to the common road salt (sodium chloride [NaCl]) and 2 alternatives (magnesium chloride [MgCl2] and calcium chloride [CaCl2]). Experiments conducted at 4 and 8 d revealed that Asian clams are very salt tolerant. The median lethal concentration after 4 d of exposure (LC504-d) estimate was 2162 mg Cl–/L for MgCl2, 3554 mg Cl–/L for CaCl2, and more than 22 581 mg Cl–/L for NaCl, which were all significantly different from each other (p ≤ 0.05). The LC508-d values were significantly different (p ≤ 0.05) from each other and from the LC504-d values, and were estimated to be 1769 mg Cl–/L for MgCl2, 2235 Cl–/L for CaCl2, and 10 069 mg Cl–/L for NaCl. Mortality was determined using 2 methods: either no response after exposure or no response after being in freshwater following exposure. For the majority of the LC50s, these methods were not significantly different (p > 0.05). The high salt tolerance of Asian clams is a concern because of their transportation in ballast water between aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, salt-tolerant organisms may outcompete sensitive organisms in salinized ecosystems, which may alter ecosystem services. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1839–1845. © 2018 SETAC
Geochemistry and zircon U–Pb ages of basic rocks in the Kekebieketi mining area from Fuyun (Xinjiang, China) and their geological significance
Authors: Shao Tiequan , Hu Bo , Tang Hanhua , Shan Lihua , Jiang Kaituo , Jia Chenhui
Published: March 2018

The Kekebieketi mining area is located on the southern margin of the Altai Mountains in Northern Xinjiang and is at the junction of the Siberia and Kazakhstan‐Junggar plates. Faults and magmatic rocks are well developed, and the main stratum is the Middle Devonian Kaxiweng Formation. The Kekebieketi‐Kalatongke‐Xibodu basic to ultrabasic mixed rock strip is an appropriate area for mineral resources and a good target to study the crustal and mantle evolution. This study explored the tectonic age and setting of basic rocks in the Kekebieketi mining area and provides a basis for the study of basic rocks and discrimination of the wider formation. The basic rocks were mainly gabbro, pyroxenolite, basic subvolcano rock, and diabase. They have all been altered to different degrees through amphibolization, sub‐amphibolization, actinolitization, chloritization, epidotization, zoisitization, uralitization, and serpentinization. Similar rare earth element compositions of the different rock types suggest that they are homologous. Enrichment of large ion lithophile elements (Cs, Rb, Sr, and U) and depletion of high field strength elements (Nb, Ta, Zr, and Hf) showed that the basic rocks have the characteristics of island arc magmatic rocks. A single zircon U–Pb age of 321 ± 2.5 Ma was obtained from a hornblende gabbro. Based on the petrological and geochemical features, we concluded that the basic rocks in the study area were formed during the post‐collision period in East Junggar. The parental magma is mainly composed of metasomatic mantle wedge material and upwelling asthenosphere, which is why it showed geochemical characteristics of subduction.
Sr–Nd isotopes of Early and Late Carboniferous volcanic rocks in Yining Massif (Xinjiang, NW China): Implications for petrogenesis and tectonic evolution of Western Tianshan
Authors: Tong Lili , Li Yongjun , Li Ganyu , Li Zhucang , Yang Gaoxue , Wang Zuopeng , Wang Zhenyu , Shen Rui , Li Zhao
Published: March 2018

The Yining Massif, sandwiched between the Junggar and Tarim plates, has received much attention because of its special position and complex tectonic evolution, as well as a significant breakthrough in geological prospecting. Moreover, a lot of studies have focused on two suites of volcanic rocks of the Early Carboniferous Dahalajunshan and Late Carboniferous Yishijilike formations in the Yining Massif. Recently, an increasing number of results have shown that two suites of volcanic rocks have obvious differences in lithochemistry and geochemistry and might have formed in an arc and intracontinental rift settings, respectively. Furthermore, the latest results of Sr–Nd isotopes indicate that the initial (87Sr/86Sr)i ratio is less than 0.7119 for all samples in the two formations. But the (87Sr/86Sr)i of andesites in the Dahalajunshan Formation is obviously higher than that of the Yishijilike Formation. However, those of dacites and rhyolites are just the opposite. The (143Nd/144Nd)i of all kinds of rocks from the Dahalajunshan Formation is less than 0.5126, and that of basalts in Yishijilike Formation is also less than 0.5126. However, the results of the andesites and rhyolites are higher than 0.5126. In short, the parameters of (87Sr/86Sr)i, (143Nd/144Nd)i, εNd(t), TDM (Ga), and εSr(t) are different obviously between the two suites, showing progressive change from basic to acid rocks in the two formations (gradual increase and decrease), but the changed direction is just the opposite. Consequently, it illustrates that there is a significant distinction in composition and petrogenesis between the Dahalajunshan and Yishijilike formations. The Dahalajunshan Formation volcanic rocks might be derived from an enriched mantle, whereas the volcanic rocks in the Yishijilike Formation are related to the evolution of continental crust. In other words, the differentiation of Sr–Nd isotopes provides a reference information for studying the petrogenesis and tectonic setting of the two suites of volcanic rocks.
Dopamine D1 receptor‐mediated upregulation of BKCa currents modifies Müller cell gliosis in a rat chronic ocular hypertension model
Authors: Wu Hang‐Jing , Li Xue‐Yan , Qian Wen‐Jing , Li Qian , Wang Shu‐Yue , Ji Min , Ma Yuan‐Yuan , Gao Feng , Sun Xing‐Huai , Wang Xin , Miao Yanying , Yang Xiong‐Li , Wang Zhongfeng
Published: March 2018

Müller cell gliosis is a common response in many retinal pathological conditions. We previously demonstrated that downregulation of Kir channels contributes to Müller cell gliosis in a rat chronic ocular hypertension (COH) model. Here, the possible involvement of outward K+ currents in Müller cell gliosis was investigated. Outward K+ current densities in Müller cells isolated from COH rats, as compared with those in normal rats, showed a significant increase, which was mainly contributed by large‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ (BKCa) channels. The involvement of BKCa channels in Müller cell gliosis is suggested by the fact that glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels were augmented in COH retinas when these channels were suppressed by intravitreal injections of iberiotoxin. In COH retinas an increase in dopamine (DA) D1 receptor (D1R) expression in Müller cells was revealed by both immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Moreover, protein levels of tyrosine hydroxylase were also increased, and consistent to this, retinal DA contents were elevated. SKF81297, a selective D1R agonist, enhanced BKCa currents of normal Müller cells through intracellular cAMP‐PKA signaling pathway. Furthermore, GFAP levels were increased by the D1R antagonist SCH23390 injected intravitreally through eliminating the BKCa current upregulation in COH retinas, but partially reduced by SKF81297. All these results strongly suggest that the DA‐D1R system may be activated to a stronger extent in COH rat retinas, thus increasing BKCa currents of Müller cells. The upregulation of BKCa channels may antagonize the Kir channel inhibition‐induced depolarization of Müller cells, thereby attenuating the gliosis of these cells.
Prognostic importance of solid variant papillary thyroid carcinoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Vuong Huy Gia , Odate Toru , Duong Uyen N. P. , Mochizuki Kunio , Nakazawa Tadao , Katoh Ryohei , Kondo Tetsuo
Published: March 2018

Background

Solid variant papillary thyroid carcinoma (SVPTC) is a rare variant of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and its prognostic value is still unclear. The purpose of this systematic clinical review and meta‐analysis is to investigate the prognostic value of SVPTC in comparison with classical PTC (cPTC).

Methods

Four electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Virtual Health Library, were searched in June 2017. Extracted data were pooled into odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio (HR) and their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) using the random‐effect model.

Results

From 1439 articles, we finally included 11 studies with 205 SVPTCs for meta‐analysis. Overall, SVPTC manifested a significantly higher risk for vascular invasion, tumor recurrence, and cancer mortality as compared to cPTC. The genetic profile of SVPTC was also distinct from that of cPTC.

Conclusion

A case of SVPTC should be regarded as an aggressive variant of PTC because of a higher risk for tumor recurrence and mortality.
Equivalence‐based instruction of academic skills: Application to adolescents with autism
Authors: Stanley Caleb R. , Belisle Jordan , Dixon Mark R.
Published: March 2018

This study evaluated the efficacy of three equivalence‐based instruction procedures on the acquisition of novel academic skills by 3 adolescents diagnosed with autism in a school setting. The skills targeted for instruction were related to topics in history, science, and mathematics, and were taught using different training structures from the PEAK‐E curriculum. All participants demonstrated mastery of the trained relations and the tested derived relations following all variants of equivalence‐based instruction.
Are malignant self‐regard and vulnerable narcissism different constructs?
Authors: Huprich Steven K. , Nelson Sharon , Sohnleitner Aimee , Lengu Ketrin , Shankar Sneha , Rexer Kyle
Published: March 2018

In the clinical and empirical literature, vulnerable narcissism and malignant self‐regard (MSR) have been found to be highly interrelated and associated with theoretically related personality constructs, suggesting that the two constructs may be much more similar than different. The present study set out to test this hypothesis by examining the relationship of vulnerable narcissism and MSR to experiences and expressions of anger, the factor structure of grandiose and vulnerable narcissism with MSR, the associations of MSR and vulnerable narcissism to the five factor model of personality, and to global self‐esteem in self‐report measures within 1168 undergraduate students. A separate study of 158 undergraduates also assessed how MSR and vulnerable narcissism predicted state and trait anxiety and anger after receiving positive or negative feedback, and the extent to which negative feedback interacted with MSR and vulnerable narcissism. Overall, compared with grandiose narcissism, both MSR and vulnerable narcissism were more associated with experiencing anger internally, self‐reports of state and trait anger, high levels of neuroticism and openness, and lower levels of extraversion and global self‐esteem. Both vulnerable narcissism and MSR uniquely predicted trait levels of anger and anxiety and state levels of anger after receiving negative feedback. It is concluded that MSR and vulnerable narcissism are likely identical constructs.
Genome‐wide expression profiling analysis to identify key genes in the anti‐HIV mechanism of CD4+and CD8+T cells
Authors: Gao Lijie , Wang Yunqi , Li Yi , Dong Ya , Yang Aimin , Zhang Jie , Li Fengying , Zhang Rongqiang
Published: March 2018

Comprehensive bioinformatics analyses were performed to explore the key biomarkers in response to HIV infection of CD4+and CD8+T cells. The numbers of CD4+and CD8+T cells of HIV infected individuals were analyzed and the GEO database (GSE6740) was screened for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in HIV infected CD4+and CD8+T cells. Gene Ontology enrichment, KEGG pathway analyses, and protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network were performed to identify the key pathway and core proteins in anti‐HIV virus process of CD4+and CD8+T cells. Finally, we analyzed the expressions of key proteins in HIV‐infected T cells (GSE6740 dataset) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells(PBMCs) (GSE511 dataset). 1) CD4+T cells counts and ratio of CD4+/CD8+T cells decreased while CD8+T cells counts increased in HIV positive individuals; 2) 517 DEGs were found in HIV infected CD4+and CD8+T cells at acute and chronic stage with the criterial ofP‐value <0.05 and fold change (FC) ≥2; 3) In acute HIV infection, type 1 interferon (IFN‐1) pathway might played a critical role in response to HIV infection of T cells. The main biological processes of the DEGs were response to virus and defense response to virus. At chronic stage, ISG15 protein, in conjunction with IFN‐1 pathway might play key roles in anti‐HIV responses of CD4+T cells; and 4) The expression of ISG15 increased in both T cells and PBMCs after HIV infection. Gene expression profile of CD4+and CD8+T cells changed significantly in HIV infection, in which ISG15 gene may play a central role in activating the natural antiviral process of immune cells.
Origin of early‐spring central Pacific warming as the 1982–1983 El Niño precursor
Authors: Kim Ji‐Won , An Soon‐Il
Published: March 2018

The extreme El Niño events, such as those which occurred in 1982–1983, 1997–1998, and 2015–2016, exerted devastating impacts in many parts of the globe. Hence, it is crucial to understand the precursors of such extreme events. Nevertheless, each El Niño event has its own characteristics even in the initiation. Here, we show that the development of early‐spring equatorial central Pacific warming forced by the increased solar radiation due to a suppressed convection was a crucial factor in developing the 1982–1983 extreme El Niño event. The central Pacific warming anomalies in the spring of 1982 were induced by atmospheric subsidence connected to the northern subtropical Pacific convection, subsequently reinforced by a reduced evaporative cooling via westerly anomalies. On the other hand, springtime warming anomalies over the equatorial central and eastern Pacific regions during other extreme El Niño events were induced mainly by oceanic dynamical processes.
1‐Methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) effects on natural disease resistance in stored sweet potato
Authors: Amoah Robert S , Terry Leon A
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

The potential of 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) to maintain postharvest storage of sweet potato was studied. In two separate experiments, the orange‐fleshed sweet potato cv. Covington was treated with 1‐MCP (1.0 µL L−1, 24 h) and roots stored at 15 °C. During storage, samples were evaluated for the respiration rate, sprout growth, weight loss, incidence of decay and changes in dry matter. The roots were further assayed for the temporal changes in individual non‐structural carbohydrates and phenolic compounds in the skin and flesh tissues of the proximal (stem end), middle and distal (root end) regions.

RESULTS

1‐MCP treatment reduced root weight loss and decay but respiration rate and non‐structural carbohydrates were not affected. No sprouting was recorded irrespective of the treatment. 1‐MCP transiently suppressed the accumulation of individual phenolic compounds, especially in the middle and distal segments. This accentuated the proximal dominance of phenolic compounds. Isochlorogenic acid A and chlorogenic acid were the dominant phenolics in the skin and flesh tissues, respectively.

CONCLUSION

1‐MCP treatment may have an anti‐decay effect and reduce weight loss. Therefore, storage trials that involve the use of continuous ethylene supplementation to inhibit sprout growth may be combined with 1‐MCP to alleviate ethylene‐induced weight loss and decay in sweet potato. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of organic agronomic techniques and packaging on the quality of lamb's lettuce
Authors: Ceglie Francesco G , Amodio Maria Luisa , de Chiara Maria Lucia V , Madzaric Suzana , Mimiola Giancarlo , Testani Elena , Tittarelli Fabio , Colelli Giancarlo
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

This research focused on the effect of organic production systems on initial quality and postharvest performance of lamb's lettuce leaves stored in air or under modified atmosphere at refrigerated temperature. Different strategies of organic soil fertility management were compared under the same environmental conditions: (i) a simplified organic production system based on organic commercial fertilizers to recover crop uptake (SB); (ii) an organic production system based on organic matter amendment mainly supplied by animal manure (AM); and (iii) an organic production system based on organic matter amendment supplied by green waste compost (AC). Fully developed lamb's lettuce leaves were harvested and then packed into perforated bags (control in AIR) or in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and stored at 4 °C.

RESULTS

At harvest, the yield of lamb's lettuce in the AM and AC systems was higher than that in SB. Phenol and dehydroascorbic acid accumulation was observed in the system with the lowest initial supply of organic amendment (SB). Regarding the effect of packaging, AIR conditions maintained the initial quality attributes for a longer period than MAP, which developed off‐odours above the threshold of acceptability at 11 days, irrespective of the production system used.

CONCLUSION

In general, the initial differences among the production systems were minimal during the postharvest storage. As for the tested packaging systems, AIR successfully maintained the initial quality attributes for a longer period than the MAP. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of cultivar and of conventional and organic agricultural practices on phenolic and sensory profile of blackberries (Rubus fruticosus)
Authors: Pinto Teresa , Vilela Alice , Pinto Andreia , Nunes Fernando M , Cosme Fernanda , Anjos Rosário
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Consumer demand for organic products is increasing because of their claimed health benefits. Blackberries are a rich source of polyphenols, with high antioxidant activity; nevertheless, the impact of organic versus conventional agricultural practices on its phytochemical composition is unknown. ‘Loch Ness’ and ‘Chester Thornless’ were selected as blackberry cultivars for this study because of their desired sensory and technological properties, which make them more suitable for export.

RESULTS

‘Loch Ness’ variety presented a higher amounts of polyphenols and higher antioxidant activity when compared to the ‘Chester Thornless’ variety. The impact of agricultural practices on the phytochemical composition of the two varieties was contradictory. Under organic agricultural practices, levels of polyphenols increased for ‘Loch Ness’ and decreased for ‘Chester Thornless’, whereas the soluble solids content increased in both varieties. These changes in composition were correlated with changes observed in the blackberries' sensory profile.

CONCLUSION

The effect of agricultural practices on the blackberries' chemical and sensory profile was dependent on the variety and cannot be generalized. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of substituting fresh‐cut perennial ryegrass with fresh‐cut white clover on bovine milk fatty acid profile
Authors: Stergiadis Sokratis , Hynes Deborah N , Thomson Anna L , Kliem Kirsty E , Berlitz Carolina GB , Günal Mevlüt , Yan Tianhai
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Including forage legumes in dairy systems can help address increasing environmental/economic concerns about perennial ryegrass monoculture pastures. This work investigated the effect of substituting fresh‐cut grass with increasing quantities of fresh‐cut white clover (WC) on milk fatty acid (FA) profile and transfer efficiency of dietary linoleic (LA) and α‐linolenic (ALNA) acids to milk fat. Three groups of three crossbred dairy cows were used in a 3 × 3 crossover design. Dietary treatments were 0 g kg−1 WC + 600 g kg−1 grass, 200 g kg−1 WC + 400 g kg−1 grass, and 400 g kg−1 WC + 200 g kg−1 grass. All treatments were supplemented with 400 g kg−1 concentrates on a dry matter basis. Cows had a 19‐day adaptation period to the experimental diet before a 6‐day measurement period in individual tie stalls.

RESULTS

Increasing dietary WC did not affect dry matter intake, milk yield or milk concentrations of fat, protein or lactose. Milk polyunsaturated FA concentrations (total n‐3, total n‐6, LA and ALNA) and transfer efficiency of LA and ALNA were increased with increasing dietary WC supply.

CONCLUSION

Inclusion of WC in pastures may increase concentrations of nutritionally beneficial FA, without influencing milk yield and basic composition, but any implications on human health cannot be drawn. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by JohnWiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio is associated with prognosis in patients who underwent potentially curative resection for gastric cancer
Authors: Szor Daniel José , Roncon Dias Andre , Pereira Marina A. , Ramos Marcus F.K.P. , Zilberstein Bruno , Cecconello Ivan , Ribeiro Ulysses
Published: March 2018

Background and Objectives

The role of inflammation in cancer development is a well‐known phenomenon that may be represented by the neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR). The present research intends to determine the impact of NLR on the survival outcome of patients with gastric cancer (GC), and to evaluate its use as a stratification factor for the staging groups.

Methods

Data regarding clinical characteristics, surgery, pathology, and follow‐up were retrospectively collected from our single‐center prospective database. Blood samples were obtained before surgery.

Results

A total of 383 patients (231 males) who underwent gastrectomy with lymphadenectomy were evaluated between 2009 and 2016. NLR established cutoff was 2.44, and patients were divided in NLR ≥2.44 (hNLR) and <2.44 (lNLR). hNLR patients (38.4% of the cases) had lower disease‐free survival and overall survival (OS) compared to lNLR patients (P = 0.047 and P = 0.045, respectively). Risk stratification according to NLR value was done in same tumor depth (T4 and <T4), stage (III and <III) and lymph node status (N+ and N−) group of patients. The OS was significantly lower when NLR was high in same tumor depth (P = 0.032) and stage (P = 0.020), but not in same lymph node status patients (P = 0.184). In a multivariate analysis, NLR was an independent factor of worse OS (HR 1.50 95%CI 1.27‐4.21, P = 0.048).

Conclusion

A high NLR was an independent risk factor for reduced survival in GC patients submitted to potentially curative resection. Calculating NLR is easily reproducible and may be incorporated in pre‐operative evaluation.
The impact of cultivated land spatial shift on food crop production in China, 1990–2010
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Li Xiubin , Tan Minghong , Wang Xue , Xin Liangjie
Published: March 2018

Cultivated land has been undergoing significant spatial shift during the last 2 decades in China, according to land‐use data derived from the Landsat Thematic Mapper. Based on soil organic matter data and yield data at county level, we developed a constant crop yield dataset at pixel level with a resolution of 1 km. Using this dataset, this paper quantitatively evaluates average crop yield change due to cultivated land spatial shift at national and regional levels. The results show that (a) at national level, the average crop yield per unit area decreased by 1.99% during the period 1990–2010. The main reason for this is that built‐up areas occupied a significant amount of high‐yield cultivated land whereas low‐yield land converted in ecologically vulnerable areas. (b) In spite of 77.2 thousand km2 cultivated land was converted to built‐up areas, especially in areas with high economic value, such as Huang–Huai–Hai Plain, 329.4 thousand km2 land was converted to cultivated land, especially in Northeastern and Northwestern China. (c) The quality gap between cultivated land converted to built‐up areas nationally and new cultivated land regionally suggests that the loss of 1 km2 of cultivated land converted to built‐up area would, to achieve equivalency, need to be compensated by 1.54 km2 of new land in Xinjiang, or more in Northeastern China. However, cultivated land expansion in these areas may cause land degradation and a series of ecological environment problems.