bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Diquat Residues in Potato Using Reversed-Phase Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Attallah Emad R , Soliman Mostafa , Abo-Aly Mohamed M
Published: February 2017

A simple, modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe procedure was developed for the determination of diquat in potato using reversed-phase LC coupled with tandem MS(MS/MS) in a total run time of 10 min. Different sample preparation parameters (pH modifier type, sample size, and elevatedtemperature) were tested and optimized. Potato sample was extracted with acetonitrile in the presence of ammonium hydroxide at 80°C. Phase separation was obtained by shaking the extract with magnesium sulfate and sodium chloride, and analysis was done using LC-MS/MS. Matrix-matched standard calculations were used to compensate for matrix-induced suppressionin LC-MS/MS determination. The precision and trueness of the method were determined from recovery experiments on five replicates of spiked blank potato samples at 0.01, 0.05, and 0.1 mg/kg. The range of the obtained recoveries was 74–110%, with RSD values <5% for all the concentrations.
Molecular phylogenies support taxonomic revision of three species of Laurencia (Rhodomelaceae, Rhodophyta), with the description of a new genus
Authors: Rousseau Florence , Gey Delphine , Kurihara Akira , Maggs Christine A. , Martin-Lescanne Julie , Payri Claude , De Reviers Bruno , Sherwood Alison R. , Le Gall Line
Published: February 2017

The systematics of the Laurencia complex was investigated using a taxon-rich data set including the chloroplast ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit (rbcL) gene only and a character-rich data set combining mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 (COI-5P), the rbcL marker, and the nuclear large subunit of the ribosomal operon (LSU). Bayesian and ML analyses of these data sets showed that three species hitherto placed in the genus Laurencia J.V.Lamour. were not closely related to Laurencia s. str. Laurencia caspica Zinova & Zaberzhinskaya was the sister group of the remaining Osmundea Stackh. species, L. crustiformans McDermid joined Palisada and L. flexilis Setch. consisted of an independent lineage. In light of these results a new genus, Ohelopapa F.Rousseau, Martin-Lescanne, Payri & L.Le Gall gen. nov., is proposed to accommodate L. flexilis. This new genus is morphologically characterized by four pericentral cells in each vegetative axial segment; however, it lacks ‘corps en cerise’ in cortical cells and secondary pit connections between cortical cells, which are characteristic of Laurencia. Three novel combinations are proposed to render the classification closer to a natural system: Ohelopapa flexilis (Setch.) F.Rousseau, Martin-Lescanne, Payri & L.Le Gall comb. nov., Osmundea caspica (Zinova & Zaberzhinskaya) Maggs & L.M.McIvor comb. nov. and Palisada crustiformans (McDermid) A.R.Sherwood, A.Kurihara & K.W.Nam comb. nov.
Ionospheric‐thermospheric UV tomography: 2. Comparison with incoherent scatter radar measurements
Authors: Dymond K. F. , Nicholas A. C. , Budzien S. A. , Stephan A. W. , Coker C. , Hei M. A. , Groves K. M.
Published: February 2017

The Special Sensor Ultraviolet Limb Imager (SSULI) instruments are ultraviolet limb scanning sensors that fly on the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program F16‐F19 satellites. The SSULIs cover the 80–170 nm wavelength range which contains emissions at 91 and 136 nm, which are produced by radiative recombination of the ionosphere. We invert the 91.1 nm emission tomographically using a newly developed algorithm that includes optical depth effects due to pure absorption and resonant scattering. We present the details of our approach including how the optimal altitude and along‐track sampling were determined and the newly developed approach we are using for regularizing the SSULI tomographic inversions. Finally, we conclude with validations of the SSULI inversions against Advanced Research Project Agency Long‐range Tracking and Identification Radar (ALTAIR) incoherent scatter radar measurements and demonstrate excellent agreement between the measurements. As part of this study, we include the effects of pure absorption by O2, N2, and O in the inversions and find that best agreement between the ALTAIR and SSULI measurements is obtained when only O2 and O are included, but the agreement degrades when N2 absorption is included. This suggests that the absorption cross section of N2 needs to be reinvestigated near 91.1 nm wavelengths.
Using spectral shape and predictor fluence to evaluate temporal dependence of exposures from solar particle events
Authors: Kim Myung‐Hee Y. , Blattnig Steve R. , Clowdsley Martha C. , Norman Ryan B.
Published: February 2017

Real‐time estimation of exposure levels has been considered in NASA's operational strategies and structural capability for the protection of astronauts from exposure to large solar particle events (SPEs). The temporal profile of organ dose rates is also important for the analysis of dose‐rate‐dependent biological responses and the optimization of radiation shielding and future mission planning. A realistic temporal estimation of exposure profiles relies on (1) the complete energy spectrum of SPE that defines the boundary condition for radiation transport simulation, (2) the radiation transport simulation with detailed shielding and body geometry models that determines particle transmission at each critical body organ, and (3) the assessment of organ dosimetric quantities and biological risks by applying the corresponding response models. This paper introduces a process of rapidly estimating temporal exposures to SPEs by implementing the distributions of the organ doses and the spectral‐shape characterization of the major SPEs. Simultaneously, the unconditional probability exceeding the NASA 30 day limit of a blood‐forming organ dose is estimated by taking into account the variability of detailed spectra of SPEs for a given predictor fluence. These temporal evaluations of SPEs can be applied to the development of real‐time guidance and protection system on improving mitigation of adverse effects during space missions.
An exospheric temperature model from CHAMP thermospheric density
Authors: Weng Libin , Lei Jiuhou , Sutton Eric , Dou Xiankang , Fang Hanxian
Published: February 2017

In this study, the effective exospheric temperature, named as T∞, derived from thermospheric densities measured by the CHAMP satellite during 2002–2010 was utilized to develop an exospheric temperature model (ETM) with the aid of the NRLMSISE‐00 model. In the ETM, the temperature variations are characterized as a function of latitude, local time, season, and solar and geomagnetic activities. The ETM is validated by the independent GRACE measurements, and it is found that T∞ and thermospheric densities from the ETM are in better agreement with the GRACE data than those from the NRLMSISE‐00 model. In addition, the ETM captures well the thermospheric equatorial anomaly feature, seasonal variation, and the hemispheric asymmetry in the thermosphere.
Rationally Developed Organic Salts of Tolfenamic Acid and Its β‐Alanine Derivatives for Dual Purposes as an Anti‐Inflammatory Topical Gel and Anticancer Agent
Authors: Parveen Rumana , Sravanthi Bommagani , Dastidar Parthasarathi
Published: February 2017

A new series of primary ammonium monocarboxylate (PAM) salts of a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID), namely, tolfenamic acid (TA), and its β‐alanine derivatives were generated. Nearly 67 % of the salts in the series showed gelling abilities with various solvents, including water (biogenic solvent) and methyl salicylate (typically used for topical gel formulations). Gels were characterized by rheology, electron microscopy, and so forth. Structure–property correlations based on single‐crystal and powder XRD data of several gelator and nongelator salts revealed intriguing insights. Studies (in vitro) on an aggressive human breast cancer cell line (MDA‐MB‐231) with the l‐tyrosine methyl ester salt of TA (S7) revealed that the hydrogelator salt was more effective at killing cancer cells than the mother drug TA (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay); displayed better anti‐inflammatory activity compared with that of TA (prostaglandin E2 assay); could be internalized within the cancer cells, as revealed by fluorescence microscopy; and inhibited effectively migration of the cancer cells. Thus, the easily accessible ambidextrous gelator salt S7 can be used for two purposes: as an anti‐inflammatory topical gel and as an anticancer agent.
Synthesis of Sebacic Acid Using a De Novo Designed Retro‐Aldolase as a Key Catalyst
Authors: Otte Konrad B. , Maurer Elena , Kirtz Marko , Grabs Daniela , Althoff Eric , Bartsch Sebastian , Vogel Andreas , Nestl Bettina M. , Hauer Bernhard
Published: February 2017

The production of new organic compounds from natural feedstocks drives the construction of new biosynthetic cascades. To develop and generate valuable complex chemicals, it is necessary to go beyond natural enzymes towards de novo designed and engineered variants for both natural and non‐natural compounds. Herein, we exploit the applicability of a de novo retro‐aldolase for the synthesis of sebacic acid, a valuable precursor for bio‐based polymers. From ricinoleic acid, a route composed of four individual enzyme‐catalyzed steps was developed. As a result of the narrow substrate scope of natural aldolases, this enzymatic route could only be realized by the design and engineering of a de novo retro‐aldolase. We further highlight the outstanding potential of this technology for the realization of non‐natural reactions and pathways.
Mikroben oxidieren Methan und reduzieren zugleich Metallkationen
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: February 2017

Erstmals konnte die anaerobe Oxidation von Methan durch Mikroorganismen in einer Süßwasserkultur verknüpft mit der Reduktion von Metallkationen durchgeführt werden. Dieser neu entdeckte Weg könnte ein Hinweis auf die frühesten Anpassungen des Lebens auf der Erde sein.
A simple authentication encryption scheme
Authors: Mazumder Rashed , Miyaji Atsuko , Su Chunhua
Published: February 2017

An authentication encryption (AE) scheme satisfies to transfer an authenticated data between 2 parties or more. There are vast applications of the AE such as access control, encryption, enhancing trust between multiple parties, and assure the originality of a message. However, the main challenge of the AE is to maintain low‐cost features for its construction. Furthermore, there is another emerging issue of Internet of Things (IoT) in the field of data and network communication. The numbers of application of the IoT are increasing expeditiously, where various kinds of device have been used such as IoT‐end device, constrained device, and RfID. Moreover, the main challenge of the IoT‐end devices and resource constrained devices is to keep a certain level of security bound including minimum cost. However, the IoT‐end devices, resource constrained devices, and RfID have lack of resources such as memory, power, and processors. Interestingly, the AE can play a vital role between data acquisition (sensors, actuators) and data aggregation of usual platform of the IoT. Thus, the construction of the AE should satisfy the properties of low‐cost, least resources, and less operating‐time. Though, there are many familiar constructions of AE such as OTR, McOE, POE, OAE, APE, COPE, CLOC, and SILK but most of the schemes depend on the features of nonce and associate data. In the aspect of security, the usage of nonce and associated data are adequate. However, these 2 features increase the overhead cost. Therefore, we propose a simple construction of IV‐based AE where blockcipher compression function is used as encryption function. Our proposed scheme's efficiency‐rate is 1 with reasonable privacy‐security bound. In addition, it can encrypt arbitrary length of message in each iteration without padding.
Conformance test development with the Java modeling language
Authors: Søndergaard Hans , Korsholm Stephan E. , Ravn Anders P.
Published: February 2017

In order to claim conformance with a Java Specification Request, a Java implementation has to pass all tests in an associated Technology Compatibility Kit. This paper presents a model‐based development of a Technology Compatibility Kit test suite and a test execution tool for the draft safety‐critical Java profile specification. The Java Modeling Language is used to model conformance constraints for the profile. Java Modeling Language annotations define contracts for classes and interfaces. The annotations are translated by a tool into runtime assertion checks. Hereby, the design and elaboration of the concrete test cases are simplified, because the expected results are derived from contracts and thus do not need to be provided explicitly. Bottom‐up testing is applied for testing methods of the safety‐critical Java classes, whereas top‐down testing is applied for testing global properties, such as protocols, memory management, and real‐time properties, including scheduling. The tests are executed using a simplified version of JUnit, which makes the test suite executable on resource‐constrained platforms. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of Protein Content Present in Exosomes Isolated from Conditioned Media and Urine
Authors: Sinha Ankit , Alfaro Javier , Kislinger Thomas
Published: February 2017

Cells secrete biomolecules into the extracellular space as a way of intercellular communication. Secreted proteins can act as ligands that engage specific receptors—on the same cell, nearby cells, or distant cells—and induce defined signaling pathways. Proteins and other biomolecules can also be packaged as cargo molecules within vesicles that are released to the extracellular space (termed extracellular vesicles or EVs). A subclass of such EVs, exosomes have been shown to horizontally transfer information. In recent years, exosomes have sparked tremendous interest in biological research, both for the discovery of novel biomarkers and for the identification of signaling molecules, as part of their cargo. Although multiple methods have been described for the isolation of exosomes, described here is a simple differential centrifugation approach that is well suited for the isolation of exosomes from conditioned cell culture media and urine. Mass spectrometry provides an ideal method to comprehensively analyze the protein cargo of exosomes. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Reprogramming of Pancreatic Acinar Cells to Functional Beta Cells by In Vivo Transduction of a Polycistronic Construct Containing Pdx1, Ngn3, MafA in Mice
Authors: Cavelti‐Weder C. , Zumsteg A. , Li W. , Zhou Q.
Published: February 2017

To generate new beta cells after birth is a key focus of regenerative medicine, which could greatly aid the major health burden of diabetes. Beta‐cell regeneration has been described using four different approaches: (1) the development of beta cells from putative precursor cells of the adult pancreas, which is termed neogenesis, (2) replication of existing beta cells, (3) differentiation from embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells, and (4) reprogramming of non‐beta cells to beta cells. Studies from the authors’ laboratory have shown that beta‐cell reprogramming can be achieved by transduction of adult pancreatic tissues with viral constructs containing the three developmentally important transcription factors Pdx1, Ngn3, and MafA. This protocol outlines the generation of a polycistronic construct containing the three transcription factors, the expansion and purification of the polycistronic virus, and in vivo transduction for acinar to beta‐cell reprogramming in adult mice. The ultimate goal is to generate beta‐like cells that resemble as closely as possible endogenous beta cells in phenotype and function for potential translational applications. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Magnetic Nanoparticle‐Mediated Gene Delivery to Two‐ and Three‐Dimensional Neural Stem Cell Cultures: Magnet‐Assisted Transfection and Multifection Approaches to Enhance Outcomes
Authors: Pickard Mark R. , Adams Christopher F. , Chari Divya M.
Published: February 2017

Neural stem cells (NSCs) have high translational potential in transplantation therapies for neural repair. Enhancement of their therapeutic capacity by genetic engineering is an important goal for regenerative neurology. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are major non‐viral vectors for safe bioengineering of NSCs, offering critical translational benefits over viral vectors, including safety, scalability, and ease of use. This unit describes protocols for the production of suspension (neurosphere) and adherent (monolayer) murine NSC cultures. Genetic engineering of NSCs with MNPs and the application of ‘magnetofection’ (magnetic fields) or ‘multifection’ (repeat transfection) approaches to enhance gene delivery are described. Magnetofection of monolayer cultures achieves optimal transfection, but neurospheres offer key advantages for neural graft survival post‐transplantation. A protocol is presented which allows the advantageous features of each approach to be combined into a single procedure for transplantation. The adaptation of these protocols for other MNP preparations is considered, with emphasis on the evaluation of procedural safety. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Ca4Mg5Ge3N10 and Sr2Mg3GaN4.33: Two Mg‐Containing Nitrides and Their Structural Relation to (Sr,Ba)2Si5N8
Authors: Poesl Christine , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: February 2017

The quaternary nitrides Ca4Mg5Ge3N10 and Sr2Mg3GaN4.33 were synthesized by employing the Na azide route in weld‐shut Ta ampules. The two compounds are homotypic and crystallize in the monoclinic space group C2/m (no. 12). The crystal structures were solved and refined on the basis of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data [Ca4Mg5Ge3N10: a = 11.269(3), b = 3.3267(11), c = 8.008(3) Å, β = 109.80(2)°, V = 282.44(16) Å3, Z = 1; Sr2Mg3GaN4.33: a = 11.737(2), b = 3.4610(7), c = 7.8610(16) Å, β = 108.03(3)°, V = 303.65(12) Å3, Z = 1]. The three‐periodic anionic substructures of both nitrides are made up of MN4 tetrahedra with mixed occupation of central atoms M = Mg/Ge and Mg/Ga, respectively. Corner‐ and edge‐sharing of MN4 tetrahedra results in vierer and sechser ring channels along [010]. Alkaline earth metal ions are located within sechser ring channels. The crystal structures are also homeotypic with that of known Ca2MgGa3N5 and represent a more highly condensed variant of the MII2Si5N8 (MII = Sr, Ba) type of structure.
Utility of computed diffusion‐weighted MRI for predicting aggressiveness of prostate cancer
Authors: Waseda Yuma , Yoshida Soichiro , Takahara Taro , Kwee Thomas Christian , Matsuoka Yoh , Saito Kazutaka , Kihara Kazunori , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To investigate the value of computed (c) diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) in assessing prostate cancer aggressiveness.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐five patients with peripheral zone prostate cancer who underwent prebiopsy 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging (including native DWI at b‐values of 0 and 1000 s/mm2) were included. cDWI signal intensities of peripheral zone prostate cancer and nonmalignant prostate tissue were measured. Association between changes in monoexponentially calculated cDWI signals according to different b‐values and primary Gleason grades were assessed.

Results

The cDWI signal intensity of prostate cancer was lower at b = 0 s/mm2 and higher at b = 1000 s/mm2 compared to nonmalignant prostate tissue. The b‐value at which the signal intensities of prostate cancer and nonmalignant prostate tissue were equal was defined as the “iso‐b‐value.” On multivariate analysis, only the iso‐b‐value was a significant predictor of primary Gleason grade 4/5 cancer (P = 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) of the iso‐b‐value for diagnosing primary Gleason grade 4/5 cancer was 0.94, and significantly higher than that of the tumor apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value with an AUC of 0.68 (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

cDWI with iso‐b‐value‐based semiquantitative analysis was found to be useful for predicting the aggressiveness of prostate cancer and may potentially outperform tumor ADC measurements in this setting.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;46:490–496
Differential effects of energy deprivation on intracellular sodium homeostasis in neurons and astrocytes
Authors: Gerkau Niklas J. , Rakers Cordula , Petzold Gabor C. , Rose Christine R.
Published: February 2017

The maintenance of a low intracellular sodium concentration by the Na+/K+‐ATPase (NKA) is critical for brain function. In both neurons and glial cells, NKA activity is required to counteract changes in the sodium gradient due to opening of voltage‐ and ligand‐gated channels and/or activation of sodium‐dependent secondary active transporters. Because NKA consumes about 50% of cellular ATP, sodium homeostasis is strictly dependent on an intact cellular energy metabolism. Despite the high energetic costs of electrical signaling, neurons do not contain significant energy stores themselves, but rely on a close metabolic interaction with surrounding astrocytes. A disruption of energy supply as observed during focal ischemia causes a rapid drop in ATP in both neurons and astrocytes. There is accumulating evidence that dysregulation of intracellular sodium is an inherent consequence of a reduction in cellular ATP, triggering secondary failure of extra‐ and intracellular homeostasis of other ions ‐in particular potassium, calcium, and protons‐ and thereby promoting excitotoxicity. The characteristics, cellular mechanisms and direct consequences of harmful sodium influx, however, differ between neurons and astrocytes. Moreover, recent work has shown that an intact astrocyte metabolism and sodium homeostasis are critical to maintain the sodium homeostasis of surrounding neurons as well as their capacity to recover from imposed sodium influx. Understanding the mechanisms of sodium increases upon metabolic failure and the differential responses of neurons and glial cells as well as their metabolic interactions will be critical to fully unravel the events causing cellular malfunction, failure and cell death following energy depletion. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Near‐critical GLUT1 and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Barros L. Felipe , San Martín Alejandro , Ruminot Ivan , Sandoval Pamela Y. , Fernández‐Moncada Ignacio , Baeza‐Lehnert Felipe , Arce‐Molina Robinson , Contreras‐Baeza Yasna , Cortés‐Molina Francisca , Galaz Alex , Alegría Karin
Published: February 2017

Recent articles have drawn renewed attention to the housekeeping glucose transporter GLUT1 and its possible involvement in neurodegenerative diseases. Here we provide an updated analysis of brain glucose transport and the cellular mechanisms involved in its acute modulation during synaptic activity. We discuss how the architecture of the blood‐brain barrier and the low concentration of glucose within neurons combine to make endothelial/glial GLUT1 the master controller of neuronal glucose utilization, while the regulatory role of the neuronal glucose transporter GLUT3 emerges as secondary. The near‐critical condition of glucose dynamics in the brain suggests that subtle deficits in GLUT1 function or its activity‐dependent control by neurons may contribute to neurodegeneration. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Axonal sprouting in commissurally projecting parvalbumin‐expressing interneurons
Authors: Christenson Wick Zoé , Leintz Caara H. , Xamonthiene Casey , Huang Bin H. , Krook‐Magnuson Esther
Published: February 2017

Previous research has shown that in vivo on‐demand optogenetic stimulation of inhibitory interneurons expressing parvalbumin (PV) is sufficient to suppress seizures in a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Surprisingly, this intervention was capable of suppressing seizures when PV‐expressing interneurons were stimulated ipsilateral or contralateral to the presumed seizure focus, raising the possibility of commissural inhibition in TLE. There are mixed reports regarding commissural PV interneuron projections in the healthy hippocampus, and it was previously unknown whether these connections would be maintained or modified following the network reorganization associated with TLE. Using retrograde labeling and viral vector technology in both sexes and the intrahippocampal kainate mouse model of TLE, we therefore examined these issues. Our results reveal that healthy controls possess a population of commissurally projecting hippocampal PV interneurons. Two weeks post kainate injection, we observed a slight, but not statistically significant decrease in retrogradely labeled PV interneurons in the hippocampus contralateral to kainate and tracer injection. By 6 months post kainate, however, there was a significant increase in retrogradely labeled PV interneurons, suggesting commissural inhibitory axonal sprouting. Using viral green fluorescent protein expression selectively in PV neurons, we demonstrated sprouting of commissural PV projections in the dentate gyrus of the kainate‐injected hippocampus 6 months post kainate. These findings indicate that PV interneurons supply direct inhibition to the contralateral hippocampus and undergo sprouting in a mouse model of TLE. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lack of appropriate stoichiometry: Strong evidence against an energetically important astrocyte–neuron lactate shuttle in brain
Authors: Dienel Gerald A.
Published: February 2017

Glutamate‐stimulated aerobic glycolysis in astrocytes coupled with lactate shuttling to neurons where it can be oxidized was proposed as a mechanism to couple excitatory neuronal activity with glucose utilization (CMRglc) during brain activation. From the outset, this model was not viable because it did not fulfill critical stoichiometric requirements: (i) Calculated glycolytic rates and measured lactate release rates were discordant in cultured astrocytes. (ii) Lactate oxidation requires oxygen consumption, but the oxygen–glucose index (OGI, calculated as CMRO2/CMRglc) fell during activation in human brain, and the small rise in CMRO2 could not fully support oxidation of lactate produced by disproportionate increases in CMRglc. (iii) Labeled products of glucose metabolism are not retained in activated rat brain, indicating rapid release of a highly labeled, diffusible metabolite identified as lactate, thereby explaining the CMRglc–CMRO2 mismatch. Additional independent lines of evidence against lactate shuttling include the following: astrocytic oxidation of glutamate after its uptake can help “pay” for its uptake without stimulating glycolysis; blockade of glutamate receptors during activation in vivo prevents upregulation of metabolism and lactate release without impairing glutamate uptake; blockade of β‐adrenergic receptors prevents the fall in OGI in activated human and rat brain while allowing glutamate uptake; and neurons upregulate glucose utilization in vivo and in vitro under many stimulatory conditions. Studies in immature cultured cells are not appropriate models for lactate shuttling in adult brain because of their incomplete development of metabolic capability and astrocyte–neuron interactions. Astrocyte–neuron lactate shuttling does not make large, metabolically significant contributions to energetics of brain activation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Addressing wild turkey population declines using structured decision making
Authors: Robinson Kelly F. , Fuller Angela K. , Schiavone Michael V. , Swift Bryan L. , Diefenbach Duane R. , Siemer William F. , Decker Daniel J.
Published: February 2017

We present a case study from New York, USA, of the use of structured decision making (SDM) to identify fall turkey harvest regulations that best meet stakeholder objectives, in light of recent apparent declines in abundance of wild turkeys in the northeastern United States. We used the SDM framework to incorporate the multiple objectives associated with turkey hunting, stakeholder desires, and region‐specific ecological and environmental factors that could influence fall harvest. We identified a set of 4 fall harvest regulations, composed of different season lengths and bag limits, and evaluated their relative achievement of the objectives. We used a stochastic turkey population model, statistical modeling, and expert elicitation to evaluate the consequences of each harvest regulation on each of the objectives. We conducted a statewide mail survey of fall turkey hunters in New York to gather the necessary information to evaluate tradeoffs among multiple objectives associated with hunter satisfaction. The optimal fall harvest regulation was a 2‐week season and allowed for the harvest of 1 bird/hunter. This regulation was the most conservative of those evaluated, reflecting the concerns about recent declines in turkey abundance among agency wildlife biologists and the hunting public. Depending on the region of the state, the 2‐week, 1‐bird regulation was predicted to result in 7–32% more turkeys on the landscape after 5 years. The SDM process provided a transparent framework for setting fall turkey harvest regulations and reduced potential stakeholder conflict by explicitly taking the multiple objectives of different stakeholder groups into account. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
The caspase‐3/p120 RasGAP stress‐sensing module reduces liver cancer incidence but does not affect overall survival in gamma‐irradiated and carcinogen‐treated mice
Authors: Vanli Güliz , Sempoux Christine , Widmann Christian
Published: February 2017

Activation of oncogenes is the initial step in cellular transformation. Oncogenes favor aberrant proliferation, which, at least initially, induces cellular stress. This oncogenic stress can act as a safeguard mechanism against further transformation by inducing senescence or apoptosis. Yet, the few premalignant cells that tolerate and escape these senescent or apoptotic responses are those that will ultimately generate tumors. The caspase‐3/p120 RasGAP module is a stress‐sensing device that promotes survival under mild stress conditions. A point mutation in RasGAP that prevents its cleavage by caspase‐3 inactivates the pro‐survival capacity of the device. When the mice homozygous for this mutation (D455A knock‐in mice) are patho‐physiologically challenged, they experience much stronger cellular damage than their wild‐type counterparts and the affected organs rapidly lose their functionality. We reasoned that the caspase‐3/p120 RasGAP module could help premalignant cells to cope with oncogenic stress and hence favor the development of tumors. Using gamma‐irradiation and N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea (ENU) as tumor initiators, we assessed the survival advantage that the caspase‐3/p120 RasGAP module could provide to premalignant cells. No difference in overall mortality between wild‐type and D455A knock‐in mice were observed. However, the number of ENU‐induced liver tumors in the knock‐in mice was higher than in control mice. These results indicate that the caspase‐3/p120 RasGAP stress‐sensing module impacts on carcinogen‐induced liver cancer incidence but not sufficiently so as to affect overall survival. Hence, gamma irradiation and ENU‐induced tumorigenesis processes do not critically rely on a survival mechanism that contributes to the maintenance of organ homeostasis in stressed healthy tissues.
Spectral characteristics of semisolid protons in human brain white matter at 7 T
Authors: Jiang Xu , van Gelderen Peter , Duyn Jeff H.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To inform the quantification of MRI magnetization transfer contrast at high field by measuring the spectral characteristics of 1H protons in semisolids in human brain at 7 T, while avoiding prohibitive radiofrequency (RF) tissue heating and confounding effects from chemical exchange.

Methods

Saturation‐recovery type experiments were performed using brief, frequency‐specific RF pulses that saturate semisolid proton magnetization. Analysis of the subsequent recovery of water proton magnetization with a two‐pool model of exchange allowed the study of spectral characteristics of semisolid protons.

Results

We show that in white matter, the semisolid proton spectrum can be approximated with a symmetric, super‐Lorentzian line at −2.58 ± 0.05 ppm from the water resonance and an average transverse relaxation time constant (T2) of 9.6 ± 0.6 μs.

Conclusions

These results are consistent with studies at lower field that have indicated a major contribution from methylene protons to magnetization transfer contrast, and will facilitate the design and quantification of magnetization transfer studies at 7 T. Magn Reson Med 78:1950–1958, 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Structural, thermodynamic, and phosphatidylinositol 3‐phosphate binding properties of Phafin2
Authors: Tang Tuo‐Xian , Jo Ami , Deng Jingren , Ellena Jeffrey F. , Lazar Iulia M. , Davis Richey M. , Capelluto Daniel G. S.
Published: February 2017

Phafin2 is a phosphatidylinositol 3‐phosphate (PtdIns(3)P) binding protein involved in the regulation of endosomal cargo trafficking and lysosomal induction of autophagy. Binding of Phafin2 to PtdIns(3)P is mediated by both its PH and FYVE domains. However, there are no studies on the structural basis, conformational stability, and lipid interactions of Phafin2 to better understand how this protein participates in signaling at the surface of endomembrane compartments. Here, we show that human Phafin2 is a moderately elongated monomer of ∼28 kDa with an intensity‐average hydrodynamic diameter of ∼7 nm. Circular dichroism (CD) analysis indicates that Phafin2 exhibits an α/β structure and predicts ∼40% random coil content in the protein. Heteronuclear NMR data indicates that a unique conformation of Phafin2 is present in solution and dispersion of resonances suggests that the protein exhibits random coiled regions, in agreement with the CD data. Phafin2 is stable, displaying a melting temperature of 48.4°C. The folding‐unfolding curves, obtained using urea‐ and guanidine hydrochloride‐mediated denaturation, indicate that Phafin2 undergoes a two‐state native‐to‐denatured transition. Analysis of these transitions shows that the free energy change for urea‐ and guanidine hydrochloride‐induced Phafin2 denaturation in water is ∼4 kcal mol−1. PtdIns(3)P binding to Phafin2 occurs with high affinity, triggering minor conformational changes in the protein. Taken together, these studies represent a platform for establishing the structural basis of Phafin2 molecular interactions and the role of the two potentially redundant PtdIns(3)P‐binding domains of the protein in endomembrane compartments.
Interactions of glyphosate use with farm characteristics and cropping patterns in Central Europe
Authors: Wiese Armin , Schulte Michael , Theuvsen Ludwig , Steinmann Horst‐Henning
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Although glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide in the European Union, little is known about the patterns of its usage in arable farming. Therefore, a nationwide survey of 2026 German farmers was analysed to obtain further knowledge about glyphosate applications in conventional European arable farming. Given its broad range of agri‐environmental and farm‐type conditions, Germany can be regarded as a suitable study region to represent Central European farming. The growing season 2013/2014 was set as a reference.

RESULTS

Farmers who participated in the survey employ diverse patterns of glyphosate use. While 23% stated that they did not use glyphosate in the season in question, others applied glyphosate to their total arable area. However, most applications occurred on specific parts of the farm. Application patterns of oilseed rape, winter wheat, maize and sugar beet were studied in detail, and U‐shaped distributions of glyphosate use intensity were observed. The effects of farm type and management practices on glyphosate use patterns were mixed in the various crops.

CONCLUSION

Motivation for glyphosate use differs widely within the farming community. Agricultural researchers, extension services and policy makers are recommended to mitigate vulnerabilities associated with glyphosate use, such as routine spraying and practices that increase selection pressure for the evolution of glyphosate‐resistant weeds. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Impaired maternal hemodynamics in morbidly obese women: a case–control study
Authors: Vinayagam D. , Gutierrez J. , Binder J. , Mantovani E. , Thilaganathan B. , Khalil A.
Published: February 2017

Objective

Maternal obesity is associated with significant pregnancy complications and is a risk factor for the development of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy as well as other adverse outcomes. There are few data regarding the hemodynamic aberrations observed in maternal obesity. The aim of this study was to investigate maternal hemodynamics in morbidly obese women.

Methods

This was a prospective, case–control study of morbidly obese women (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m2) and controls (BMI 20–29.9 kg/m2). The control population was matched for maternal age and gestational age. BMI was calculated based on maternal height and weight at the time of recruitment to the study, which occurred on the same day as the hemodynamic assessment. Pregnant women in the second or third trimester of pregnancy were included. Women who were found to be hypertensive at any time were excluded from the study. A USCOM‐1A® device was used to assess hemodynamic parameters (heart rate, stroke volume (SV), cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance (SVR)). The parameters were corrected for body surface area (BSA) to provide the SV index (SVI), cardiac index (CI) and SVR index (SVRI). Mann–Whitney U‐test was used to compare the medians of the hemodynamic variables between the two groups.

Results

In total, 23 morbidly obese women and 327 controls were included in the analysis. There was no difference in maternal (P = 0.506) or gestational (P = 0.693) age at recruitment between the groups. Mean arterial pressure was higher both at pregnancy booking (90 vs 80 mmHg, P < 0.001) and study recruitment (91 vs 85 mmHg, P < 0.001) in the obese group compared with the controls. Heart rate was higher in the obese group (P = 0.003), but there was no difference in SV (P = 0.271), cardiac output (P = 0.238) or SVR (P = 0.635). Following correction of these parameters for BSA, compared with the control group, SVI (34 vs 45 mL/m2, P < 0.001) and CI (2.96 vs 3.64 L/min/m2, P < 0.001) were significantly reduced in the obese group, whereas SVRI was significantly higher (2354 vs 1840 dynes × s/cm5, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The findings of our study suggest that cardiac function is significantly altered in morbidly obese pregnant women. In order to make appropriate comparisons between individuals, it is imperative that hemodynamic parameters are indexed for BSA, as is standard practice in pediatric cardiology. The novel finding of reduced CI in morbidly obese pregnant women may explain the predisposition to pre‐eclampsia and other adverse outcomes in this population and warrants further investigation. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
The 3-Sweep Approach: A Standardized Technique for Fetal Anatomic Assessment in the Limited Resource Setting
Authors: Abu-Rustum Reem S. , Ziade M. Fouad
Published: February 2017

This retrospective study aims to describe a standardized screening technique “the 3-sweep approach” for fetal anatomic assessment in the outreach setting. The study was carried out on 1396 pregnant women referred for an obstetric ultrasound for pregnancy dating and detection of abnormalities in a limited resource setting in Lebanon. All pregnancies were scanned utilizing a previously described standardized 6-step approach and the 3-sweep approach for fetal anatomic assessment. The first sweep examines the fetal head and face, the second examines the spine, and the third examines the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Positive findings were referred for a detailed ultrasound examination at a referral center. There were a total of 1157 women, at >14 weeks gestation, included in the study. The median gestational age was 24 weeks 4 days (14 weeks 0 day–41 weeks 1 day). The 3-sweep approach was completed in all pregnancies with a total time of under 1 min. A total of 33/1157 (2.9%) fetuses had structural abnormalities detected. Confirmation of the 3-sweep findings was made by comprehensive imaging at a referral center (8/33 = 24.2%) or thorough review of 3-sweep images (25/33 = 75.8%). We found the 3-sweep approach to be an effective mode of screening for structural fetal abnormalities. Though it requires skill in probe manipulation and knowledge of fetal anatomy, its incorporation into routine evaluation in the outreach setting will help identify at-risk fetuses. Depending on the available facilities, this may facilitate proper referral and management to optimize neonatal outcomes and minimize maternal risks. Based on our experience, it is a time-efficient and complementary technique to the 6-step approach.
Creating the competitive edge: A new relationship between operations management and industrial policy
Authors: Spring Martin , Hughes Alan , Mason Katy , McCaffrey Paul
Published: February 2017

Policy interventions by governments to alter the structure of economic activity have either been dismissed or ignored by operations management (OM) scholars. However, in recent years, such ‘industrial policy’ measures have gained increasing support in developed economies, particularly in relation to manufacturing. This paper argues that contemporary manufacturing in high‐cost economies is rooted in technological innovation. As such, it can be enhanced by industrial policy interventions that prevent systems failures in the process of turning technological innovation into commercially viable products. In particular, we argue that this can be achieved by establishing non‐firm, intermediate research organizations and by other measures to change the institutional architecture of an economy. We disagree with claims in earlier OM literature that industrial policy is all but irrelevant to manufacturing firms and to OM. Instead, we argue that OM must broaden its conceptual scope so as to encompass active engagement with non‐firm network participants such as government‐supported intermediate research organizations, and that, as well as learning to be effective users of industrial policy, OM practitioners and academics should engage actively in the development of industrial policy. In this way, high‐value, high‐productivity manufacturing can be viable in high‐cost economic environments.
Solutions of elliptic equations with indefinite nonlinearities via Morse theory and linking
Authors: Del Pino Manuel , Alama Stanley
Published: February 2017

We consider the Dirichlet problem for the equation

−∆u = λu + h(x)f(u)

, with

h

changing sign. In particular, we study existence of nontrivial solutions in the case where

f

has superlinear growth, but is not assumed to be odd. Two different approaches are used: one involving Morse theory and one using min-max methods.

Nous étudions le problème de Dirichlet pour l’équation

−∆u = λu + h(x)f(u)

, où

h

est une fonction qui change de signe. En particulier, nous établissons l’existence de solutions non triviales quand

f

est surlinéaire, mais pas nécessairement impair. Nous nous servons de deux approches différentes, l’une basée sur la théorie de Morse, et l’autre sur les méthodes d’enlacement.
NEW CRITERIA FOR THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL IDENTIFICATION OF BONE GREASE PROCESSING
Authors: Morin Eugène , Soulier Marie-Cécile
Published: February 2017

Bone grease processing is frequently used in archaeology to investigate human diet breadth because it constitutes a costly mode of lipid procurement. However, problems of equifinality often complicate the identification of this activity. This paper develops new criteria focused on morphology, the presence of micro-inclusions, and forms of damage that were derived from a bone grease rendering experiment that involved red deer(Cervus elaphus)long bones. Because they are poorly represented in a distinct experiment focused exclusively on marrow extraction, the criteria presented here appear to provide robust signatures of bone grease processing. A survey of the actualistic literature shows that certain bone processing activities, such as stewing and soup making, mostly involve coarse spongy fragments. Because these fragments are too large to be ingested, grease can be extracted from them only through heating or boiling. In contrast, bones ingested in bone meal or as flour necessitate pulverization. A high percentage of coarse fragments may therefore provide a proxy for cooking technology or, minimally, the use of fire, if other patterns are consistent with grease extraction. Given the evolutionary significance of these innovations, the criteria presented here may help to strengthen arguments about dietary shifts during the Paleolithic and later periods.
Pharmacological Therapy for Apathy in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sepehry Amir A. , Sarai Michael , Hsiung Ging-Yuek R.
Published: February 2017

Introduction:Apathy is highly prevalent in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but whether pharmacotherapy is effective in managing apathy is unclear.Methods:To assess the efficacy of pharmacotherapy for apathy in AD we searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) and aggregate data reporting on apathy in several search engines, reference lists of articles, and reviews. Demographic characteristics and relevant data were extracted to assess apathy.Results:Fifteen RCTs’ were examined, and 11 were used in aggregate meta-analytic statistics. Drugs included were cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, and psycho-stimulants. We found no significant treatment effect in favour of any of the drugs, and the effect-size estimates under a random effect model were heterogeneous. Most RCTs had a high attrition rate and used the NPI apathy subscale to measure apathy.Conclusion:The lack of an effect could be explained by methodological limitations, publication bias, and heterogeneity.
Special Considerations for Mass Violence Events in Senior Living Facilities: A Case Report on the Pinelake Health and Rehab Center Shooting
Authors: Martin Cody , Powell David
Published: February 2017

The 2009 Pinelake Health and Rehab Center shooting in Carthage, North Carolina, presents a unique case study for examining the specific considerations for mass violence events in senior living facilities. A variety of factors, including reduced sensory perception, reduced mobility, and cognitive decline, may increase the vulnerability of the populations of senior living facilities during mass violence events. Management of response aspects such as evacuation, relocation, and reunification also require special consideration in the context of mass violence at senior living facilities. Better awareness of these vulnerabilities and response considerations can assist facility administrators and emergency managers when preparing for potential mass violence events at senior living facilities. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:150–152)