bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental drivers of coral reef carbonate production and bioerosion: a multi‐scale analysis
Authors: Silbiger Nyssa J. , Donahue Megan J. , Brainard Russell E.
Published: July 2017

The resilience of coral reefs depends on the balance between reef growth and reef breakdown, and their responses to changing environmental conditions. Across the 2500‐km Hawaiian Archipelago, we quantified rates of carbonate production, bioerosion, and net accretion at regional, island, site, and within‐site spatial scales and tested how these rates respond to environmental conditions across different spatial scales. Overall, there were four major outcomes from this study: (1) bioerosion rates were generally higher in the populated Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) than the remote, protected Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI), while carbonate production rates did not vary significantly between the two regions; (2) variability in carbonate production, bioerosion, and net accretion rates was greatest at the smallest within‐reef spatial scale; (3) carbonate production and bioerosion rates were associated with distinct sets of environmental parameters; and (4) the strongest correlates of carbonate production, bioerosion, and net accretion rates were different between the MHI region and the NWHI region: in the MHI, the dominant correlates were percent cover of macroalgae and herbivorous fish biomass for carbonate production and bioerosion, respectively, whereas in the NWHI, the top correlates were total alkalinity and benthic cover. This study highlights the need to understand accretion and erosion processes as well as local environmental conditions to predict net coral reef responses to future environmental changes.
Synthesis of (E)‐4‐Methylhexa‐3,5‐dien‐1‐ol and Its Diels–Alder Reaction with Thioester Dienophiles: A Short Enantioselective Synthesis of Bicyclic Lactones
Authors: Syntrivanis Leonidas‐Dimitrios , Robertson Jeremy
Published: July 2017

The preparation of (E)‐4‐methylhexa‐3,5‐dien‐1‐ol has been achieved in a single step from 3‐methylpenta‐1,4‐diene through deprotonation with BuLi, alkylation with paraformaldehyde and metal‐counterion exchange in situ to promote oxy‐anion‐accelerated [1,3]‐sigmatropic shift. This alcohol is shown to undergo intermolecular Diels–Alder reaction with 3‐isopropyl acrylate thioesters; the so‐formed exclusive endo‐adduct may then be closed to the bicyclic lactone, the product of formal intramolecular Diels–Alder reaction (a much more difficult process). Use of chiral thioesters results in an enantioselective synthesis of this bicyclic lactone, an intermediate with application to eunicellane (cladiellane) diterpene synthesis.
The Remarkable Cooperative Effect of a Brønsted‐Acidic Ionic Liquid in the Cyclization of 2‐Aminobenzamides with Ketones
Authors: Das Sudarshan , Santra Sougata , Jana Sourav , Zyryanov Grigory V. , Majee Adinath , Hajra Alakananda
Published: July 2017

An unprecedented role of an imidazolium Brønsted acidic ionic liquid was found in the formation of 2,2‐disubstituted quinazolin‐4(1H)‐one derivatives; both the C2‐H of the imidazolium moiety and an acidic proton were necessary and simultaneously took part in the catalysis. A library of quinazolin‐4(1H)‐ones was prepared from readily available ketones and 2‐aminobenzamides; excellent yields were obtained through simple crystallization under solvent‐free conditions with lower E factors. The catalyst could be reused over five consecutive runs without any significant loss in catalytic activity. This method produces only water as a byproduct and represents a green synthetic protocol. A clean reaction, no chromatographic purification, easily accessible reactants, a metal‐free and solvent‐free process, and environmentally friendly reaction conditions are the notable advantages of this procedure. The possible role of the C2‐H of the imidazolium moiety in catalysis was studied by mass spectrometry.
Fragility functions for masonry infill walls with in‐plane loading
Authors: Chiozzi Andrea , Miranda Eduardo
Published: July 2017

Recent seismic events have provided evidence that damage to masonry infills can lead not only to large economic losses but also to significant injuries and even fatalities. The estimation of damage of such elements and the corresponding consequences within the performance‐based earthquake engineering framework requires the construction of reliable fragility functions. In this paper, drift‐based fragility functions are developed for in‐plane loaded masonry infills, derived from a comprehensive experimental data set gathered from current literature, comprising 152 masonry infills with different geometries and built with different types of masonry blocks, when tested under lateral cyclic loading. Three damage states associated with the structural performance and reparability of masonry infill walls are defined. The effect of mortar compression strength, masonry prism compression strength, and presence of openings is evaluated and incorporated for damage states where their influence is found to be statistically significant. Uncertainty due to specimen‐to‐specimen variability and sample size is quantified and included in the proposed fragility functions. It is concluded that prism strength and mortar strength are better indicators of the fragility of masonry infills than the type of bricks/blocks used, whose influence, in general, is not statistically significant for all damage states. Finally, the presence of openings is also shown to have statistically relevant impact on the level of interstory drift ratio triggering the lower damage states.
Exercise therapy for trismus secondary to head and neck cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Kamstra Jolanda I. , van Leeuwen Marianne , Roodenburg Jan L.N. , Dijkstra Pieter U.
Published: July 2017

Background

Effects of exercise therapy for trismus secondary to head and neck cancer have not been reviewed systematically since 2004.

Methods

Four databases were searched. The quality of observational studies and randomized controlled trials was assessed.

Results

Two hundred eleven articles were found, 20 studies were included. A large variation in research methodology, stretching techniques, duration of stretch, and repetition of exercises was found. The overall quality was moderate. Five of the 8 preventive studies found that exercises during (chemo)radiotherapy could not prevent a reduction in mouth opening. In 4 therapeutic case studies, mouth opening increased between 17 and 24 mm. In 8 other therapeutic studies, mouth opening increased between −1.9 and 13.6 mm. No exercise therapy was clearly superior to the others.

Conclusion

Changes in mouth opening ranged considerably and no stretching technique was superior to others regarding either prevention or treatment of trismus. Clinical guidelines cannot be given based on this systematic review. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 160–169, 2017
Relationship between response rates and median progression‐free survival in non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma: A meta‐analysis of published clinical trials
Authors: Mangal Naveen , Salem Ahmed Hamed , Li Mengyao , Menon Rajeev , Freise Kevin J.
Published: July 2017

Demonstration of clinical effectiveness of a non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) treatment generally involves determination of progression‐free survival (PFS). However, the long evaluation time of PFS limits its utility to make timely decisions in drug development. Therefore, the objective of this analysis was to determine the relationship between response rates and median PFS in NHL. A database was systematically developed from 513 identified NHL trials reported from 1996 to 2015. Potential predictors of the relationship between response rates and PFS were evaluated, including age, sex, treatment, percentage of treatment‐naïve patients, and subtype of NHL. Seventy‐three trials involving 86 cohorts were included in the meta‐analysis. Linear regression analysis using logit of response rates and logarithm of median PFS indicated that the correlation between overall response rate (ORR) and median PFS was higher (R2 = 0.70) when compared to that of complete response (CR) rate and median PFS (R2 = 0.57). Furthermore, the correlation was improved with the addition of percentage of treatment‐naïve patients and percentage of patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) (P < .005) between ORR and median PFS (R2 = 0.78), and between CR rate and median PFS relationship (R2 = 0.74). Treatment was not found to alter this relationship. In summary, ORR is as good as CR rate in predicting median PFS. Moreover, longer median PFS is expected in the trials including treatment‐naïve and/or FL patients at a given ORR/CR rate. The determined relationship can be used to project the median PFS based on ORR or CR rate.
Equity in maternal‐ and infant‐care services in China: A trend analysis based on residence and area (2000‐2014)
Authors: Liang Hong , Fang Shuai , Liu Shanshan , Liu Xinyu , Li Yanting , Li Ming , Zhang Yimin
Published: July 2017

Equity in maternal‐ and infant‐care services is key to achieving equity in maternal and infant health outcomes. In this study, 12 indicators of maternal and infant services were selected to measure equity in maternal and infant services in China from 2000‐2014 using the Theil index and between‐group variance, with the result showing that equity has improved steadily and significantly, though serious inequities in premarital and reproductive health services remain. Relatively speaking, equity at the interprovincial level has increased, but equity in urban‐rural stratification has improved more, indicating that policies should focus on interprovincial inequities and premarital and reproductive health services.
Controlled basic fibroblast growth factor release device made of poly(ethyleneglycol) dimethacrylates for creating a subcutaneous neovascular bed for cell transplantation
Authors: Yamada Shinji , Nagai Nobuhiro , Saijo Saaya , Kaji Hirokazu , Nishizawa Matsuhiko , Imura Kozue , Goto Masafumi , Abe Toshiaki
Published: July 2017

Subcutaneous space is a potential site for the transplantation of cells such as islets for treatment of type 1 diabetes. To enhance engraftment, an optimal space for the growth of the transplanted cells is needed along with neovascularization. In this study, we developed a device using a photocurable resin, poly(ethyleneglycol) dimethacrylates (PEGDM), for controlled release of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) to create a subcutaneous neovascular bed in rats. The device consists of a disk‐shaped capsule with micropores and is composed of tri(ethyleneglycol) dimethacrylate (TEGDM) and a drug formulation of PEGDM. The release rate was tuned by changing the number of pores and the composition of water and PEGDM in the drug formulation. bFGF released from devices incubated in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) enhanced the growth of fibroblasts, indicating bioactivity of bFGF after release. Histological evaluation showed a significant increase in the extent of vasculature that was dependent on the amount of bFGF loaded into the device. A perfusion study using fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran 2000 kDa showed linear and capillary staining patterns, indicating potent functional vasculature. In conclusion, the controlled bFGF releasing device could provide a neovascular bed with the required vascularization in the subcutaneous space. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 3017–3024, 2017.
Dissolution behavior of CaO‐MgO‐SiO2‐based multiphase bioceramic powders and effects of the released ions on osteogenesis
Authors: Zhang Mengjiao , Chen Xianchun , Pu Ximing , Liao Xiaoming , Huang Zhongbing , Yin Guangfu
Published: July 2017

In the present study, the dissolution behavior of the CaO‐MgO‐SiO2‐based multiphase bioceramic powders as well as the effects of released ions on osteogenesis was investigated. In the dissolution process, Ca, Mg, and Si ions could be dissolved out from the powders. The incorporation of Mg could slow down the degradation rate of the powders so that to reduce the local concentration of Ca and Si ions. In return, the dissolution of Ca and Si ions leading to the formation of a porous SiO2‐rich layer could enhance the readsorption of free Mg ions in solution and thus down‐regulate the concentration of Mg ions. In addition, the released ions exhibited both positive and negative synergistic effects on osteogenesis with a concentration‐dependent manner. Trace amount of released Si ions could stimulate cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation in the presence of Ca and Mg ions. The optimal concentration of Ca‐Mg‐Si ion combination to promote osteogenesis was existed in the 1/4 diluted extract, whereas a slightly inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and ALP activity was observed in the 1/2 diluted extract with higher concentration of Ca and Si ions . All above results suggested that the ion dissolution behavior of the CaO‐MgO‐SiO2‐based multiphase bioceramic could be regulated via adjustment of the composition so that released ions could be maintained at an appropriate composite concentration to cooperatively regulate the osteogenesis. This research provided an experimental basis for further optimization and application of CaO‐MgO‐SiO2‐based multiphase bioceramics with controlled ion dissolution and excellent physicochemical and biological properties. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 3159–3168, 2017.
Ganglioside GM3 suppresses lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammatory responses in rAW 264.7 macrophage cells through NF‐κB, AP‐1, and MAPKs signaling
Authors: Park Junyoung , Kwak Choong‐Hwan , Ha Sun‐Hyung , Kwon Kyung‐Min , Abekura Fukushi , Cho Seung‐Hak , Chang Young‐Chae , Lee Young‐Choon , Ha Ki‐Tae , Chung Tae‐Wook , Kim Cheorl‐Ho
Published: July 2017

Gangliosides are known to specifically inhibit vascular leukocyte recruitment and consequent interaction with the injured endothelium, the basic inflammatory process. In this study, we have found that the production of nitric oxide (NO), a main regulator of inflammation, is suppressed by GM3 on murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells, when induced by LPS. In addition, GM3 attenuated the increase in cyclooxyenase‐2 (COX‐2) protein and mRNA levels in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐activated RAW 264.7 cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Moreover, GM3 inhibited the expression and release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) in RAW 264.7 macrophages. At the intracellular level, GM3 inhibited LPS‐induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) and activator protein (AP)‐1 in RAW 264.7 macrophages. We, therefore, investigated whether GM3 affects mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation, a process known as the upstream signaling regulator. GM3 dramatically reduced the expression levels of the phosphorylated forms of ERK, JNK, and p38 in LPS‐activated RAW 264.7 cells. These results indicate that GM3 is a promising suppressor of the vascular inflammatory responses and ganglioside GM3 suppresses the LPS‐induced inflammatory response in RAW 264.7 macrophages by suppression of NF‐κB, AP‐1, and MAPKs signaling. Accordingly, GM3 is suggested as a beneficial agent for the treatment of diseases that are associated with inflammation.
GLUT 1 receptor expression and circulating levels of fasting glucose in high grade serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Pizzuti Laura , Sergi Domenico , Mandoj Chiara , Antoniani Barbara , Sperati Francesca , Chirico Andrea , Di Lauro Luigi , Valle Mario , Garofalo Alfredo , Vizza Enrico , Corrado Giacomo , Tomao Federica , Rinaldi Massimo , Carpano Silvia , Maugeri‐Saccà Marcello , Conti Laura , Digiesi Giovanna , Marchetti Paolo , De Maria Ruggero , Giordano Antonio , Barba Maddalena , Carosi Maria A. , Vici Patrizia
Published: July 2017

In recent years, the poorly remarkable goals achieved in terms of patients’ important outcomes for ovarian cancer have fueled our interest toward the study of its metabolic roots. Within this research pipeline, we assessed the association between the expression of the glucose transporter GLUT1, as expressed at the tumor tissue level, and circulating pre‐surgical levels of fasting glucose in a case series including data from 40 patients with high FIGO stage serous ovarian cancer. Patients who provided data to the current analysis were randomly selected from a larger cohort. To our purposes, the procedures related to serum and tissue collection, storage and biomarker assessment were highly standardized and centralized at the institutional laboratories. The GLUT1 antibody SPM498 SPRING (REF. E13810) was used at a 1:500 dilution in 2 µm slides. Staining for GLUT1 was observed at the cell membrane level in all the cases assessed, but strong staining was described in 29 (72.5%) of them. The agreement between the two independent reviewers was 100%. Strong GLUT1 staining was inversely associated with circulating levels of fasting glucose, with a particularly striking difference for patients in the lowest fasting glucose tertile (p = 0.044). These results support the biological plausibility of the association of interest. If confirmed in larger studies, our findings may help clarify the potentials of biomarkers related to energy metabolism in terms of prognosis definition, treatment assignment, and outcome interpretation for patients with high FIGO stage serous ovarian cancer.
Aquaporin1 and 3 modification as a result of chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cell
Authors: Graziano Adriana C. E. , Avola Rosanna , Pannuzzo Giovanna , Cardile Venera
Published: July 2017

Chondrocytes are cells of articular cartilage particularly sensitive to water transport and ionic and osmotic changes from extracellular environment and responsible for the production of the synovial fluid. Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of water and small solute transport channel proteins identified in several tissues, involved in physiological pathways and in manifold human diseases. In a recent period, AQP1 and 3 seem to have a role in metabolic water regulation in articular cartilage of load bearing joints. The aim of this study was to examine the levels of AQP1 and 3 during the chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from adipose tissue (AT). For the determination of chondrogenic markers and AQPs levels, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) quantification, immunocytochemistry, RT‐PCR, and Western blot were used after 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days from the start of differentiation. At 21 days, chondrocytes derived from AT‐MSCs were able to produce augmented content of GAGs and significant quantity of SOX‐9, lubricin, aggrecan, and collagen type II, suggesting hyaline cartilage formation, in combination with an increase of AQP3 and AQP1. However, while AQP1 level decreased after 21 days; AQP3 reached higher values at 28 days. The expression of AQP1 and 3 is a manifestation of physiological adaptation of functionally mature chondrocytes able to respond to the change of their internal environment influenced by extracellular matrix. The alteration or loss of expression of AQP1 and 3 could contribute to destruction of chondrocytes and to development of cartilage damage.
miR‐199a‐3p is involved in estrogen‐mediated autophagy through the IGF‐1/mTOR pathway in osteocyte‐like MLO‐Y4 cells
Authors: Fu Jiayao , Hao Lingyu , Tian Yawen , Liu Yang , Gu Yijing , Wu Junhua
Published: July 2017

To date, evidence indicates that estrogen partially modulates cellular processes through microRNAs. Autophagy is a catabolic process that is regulated by multiple factors and is associated with skeletal diseases. However, whether estrogen regulates osteocyte autophagy via microRNAs is largely unknown. In this study, we observed the up‐regulation of microRNA‐199a‐3p, a post‐transcriptional regulatory factor, in osteocytic areas in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. The mature forms of miR‐199a‐3p and pri‐miR‐199a were produced in response to estrogen signaling in osteocyte‐like MLO‐Y4 cells. Western blotting, autophagic flux detection, mRFP‐GFP‐LC3 fluorescence, and electron microscopy confirmed that miR‐199a‐3p induced autophagy in MLO‐Y4 cells, although cellular apoptosis was not affected. Additionally, we documented the ability of estrogen to mediate osteocyte autophagy. Based on our in vivo data, estrogen deficiency induced autophagy in osteocytes. Treatment of starved MLO‐Y4 cells with 17β‐estradiol suppressed the excess autophagy induced by starvation via activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)‐related signaling cascades, while administration of rapamycin reversed the effects of 17β‐estradiol. Meanwhile, miR‐199a‐3p overexpression reversed 17β‐estradiol‐mediated regulation of autophagy in MLO‐Y4 cells. According to mechanistic studies, miR‐199a‐3p inhibited the mTOR pathway by directly binding to the 3′‐untranslated regions of insulin growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) and mTOR. However, overexpression of miR‐199a‐3p inhibited IGF‐1 phosphorylation and mTOR‐related pathways. Knockdown of mTOR and IGF‐1 abolished estrogen signaling and restored LC3‐II expression through mTOR re‐activation, respectively. Thus, miR‐199a‐3p appears to be involved in the estrogen regulatory networks that mediate bone cell autophagy, potentially by targeting IGF‐1 and mTOR.
Optimization of synthesis condition for carboxymethyl cellulose‐based hydrogel from rice straw by microwave‐assisted method and its application in heavy metal ions removal
Authors: Panchan Noppadol , Niamnuy Chalida , Dittanet Peerapan , Devahastin Sakamon
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

An alternative carboxymethyl cellulose‐based biosorbent hydrogel was synthesized by grafting 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) onto the prepared carboxymethyl cellulose backbone via microwave heating. Response surface methodology was employed to optimize the hydrogel synthesis condition for maximum gel content with respect to AMPS dose, N,N′‐methylene‐bis‐acrylamide dose, and microwave exposure time. The prepared gels were then characterized and evaluated in terms of their heavy metal ions adsorption performance and reusability.

RESULTS

The optimum synthesis condition yielded the maximum gel content and maximum equilibrium swelling of 96.33% and 2819 ± 15%, respectively. The Langmuir model fitted the experimental isotherm data well, with maximum adsorption capacity of 86.21, 102.04 and 33.56 mg g‐1 for Cu2+, Pb2+ and Fe3+, respectively. Microwave heating was clearly noted to result in hydrogel of higher porosity and could shorten the synthesis time by 88.33%; the gel content was 7.46% higher compared with that obtained via conventional heating.

CONCLUSION

Microwave‐assisted heating is a feasible alternative and an efficient technique for CMC‐g‐AMPS hydrogel synthesis. The optimized CMC‐g‐AMPS hydrogel exhibited good performance for Cu2+, Pb2+ and Fe3+ ions removal and was satisfactorily reused, thus contributing to the alleviation of environmental problems caused by discarded rice straw and water contaminated with heavy metal ions. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Applications of ordinary voltage graph theory to graph embeddability
Authors: Schluchter Steven
Published: July 2017

Let p be a prime greater than 5. We show that, while the generalized Petersen graphs of the form have cellular toroidal embeddings, they have no such embeddings having the additional property that a free action of a group on the graph extends to a cellular automorphism of the torus. Such an embedding is called a derived embedding. We also show that does have a derived embedding in the torus, and we show that for any odd q, each generalized Petersen graph of the form has a derived embedding in the Klein bottle, which has the same Euler characteristic as the torus. We close with some comments that frame these results in the light of Abrams and Slilaty's recent work on graphs featuring group actions that extend to spherical embeddings of those graphs.
Embryonic development of Eucorydia yasumatsui Asahina, with special reference to external morphology (Insecta: Blattodea, Corydiidae)
Authors: Fujita Mari , Machida Ryuichiro
Published: July 2017

As the first step in the comparative embryological study of Blattodea, with the aim of reconstructing the groundplan and phylogeny of Dictyoptera and Polyneoptera, the embryonic development of a corydiid was examined and described in detail using Eucorydia yasumatsui. Ten to fifteen micropyles are localized on the ventral side of the egg, and aggregated symbiont bacterial “mycetomes” are found in the egg. The embryo is formed by the fusion of paired blastodermal regions, with higher cellular density on the ventral side of the egg. This type of embryo formation, regarded as one of the embryological autapomorphies of Polyneoptera, was first demonstrated for “Blattaria” in the present study. The embryo undergoes embryogenesis of the short germ band type, and elongates to its full length on the ventral side of the egg. The embryo undergoes katatrepsis and dorsal closure, and then finally, it acquires its definitive form, keeping its original position on the ventral side of the egg, with its anteroposterior axis never reversed throughout development. The information obtained was compared with that of previous studies on other insects. “Micropyles grouped on the ventral side of the egg” is thought to be a part of the groundplan of Dictyoptera, and “possession of bacteria in the form of mycetomes” to be an apomorphic groundplan of Blattodea. Corydiid embryos were revealed to perform blastokinesis of the “non‐reversion type (N)”, as reported in blaberoid cockroaches other than Corydiidae (“Ectobiidae,” Blaberidae, etc.) and in Mantodea; the embryos of blattoid cockroaches (Blattidae and Cryptocercidae) and Isoptera undergo blastokinesis of the “reversion type (R),” in which the anteroposterior axis of the embryo is reversed during blastokinesis. Dictyopteran blastokinesis types can be summarized as “Mantodea (N) + Blattodea [= Blaberoidea (N) + Blattoidea (R) + Isoptera (R)]”.
Interspecific variation in the tetradactyl manus of modern tapirs (Perissodactyla:Tapirus) exposed using geometric morphometrics
Authors: MacLaren Jamie A. , Nauwelaerts Sandra
Published: July 2017

The distal forelimb (autopodium) of quadrupedal mammals is a key morphological unit involved in locomotion, body support, and interaction with the substrate. The manus of the tapir (Perissodactyla:Tapirus) is unique within modern perissodactyls, as it retains the plesiomorphic tetradactyl (four‐toed) condition also exhibited by basal equids and rhinoceroses. Tapirs are known to exhibit anatomical mesaxonic symmetry in the manus, although interspecific differences and biomechanical mesaxony have yet to be rigorously tested. Here, we investigate variation in the manus morphology of four modern tapir species (Tapirus indicus,Tapirus bairdii,Tapirus pinchaque, andTapirus terrestris) using a geometric morphometric approach. Autopodial bones were laser scanned to capture surface shape and morphology was quantified using 3D‐landmark analysis. Landmarks were aligned using Generalised Procrustes Analysis, with discriminant function and partial least square analyses performed on aligned coordinate data to identify features that significantly separate tapir species. Overall, our results support the previously held hypothesis thatT. indicusis morphologically separate from neotropical tapirs; however, previous conclusions regarding function from morphological differences are shown to require reassessment. We find evidence indicating thatT. bairdiiexhibits reduced reliance on the lateral fifth digit compared to other tapirs. Morphometric assessment of the metacarpophalangeal joint and the morphology of the distal facets of the lunate lend evidence toward high loading on the lateral digits of both the largeT. indicus(large body mass) and the small, long limbedT. pinchaque(ground impact). Our results support other recent studies onT. pinchaque, suggesting subtle but important adaptations to a compliant but inclined habitat. In conclusion, we demonstrate further evidence that the modern tapir forelimb is a variable locomotor unit with a range of interspecific features tailored to habitual and biomechanical needs of each species.
Stayers versus movers: Social capital and early career imprinting among young professionals
Authors: Dobrev Stanislav D. , Merluzzi Jennifer
Published: July 2017

We investigate what interfirm career mobility patterns would emerge if individuals are motivated by the job rewards they obtain as a function of their experience in organizations. We articulate two career strategies that individuals employ to navigate their early careers—commitment to a single employer and “job hopping” between different employers. Each strategy generates social capital (an individual's structure of social relations) but of a different kind. Embeddedness in the same organization over time develops a strong local identity and reputation within the firm. Boundary spanning through experience in different organizations creates opportunities for connecting people and ideas and for knowledge transfer between firms. We posit and present evidence that the choice between these two strategies is conditioned by social experience at the onset of one's career—the length of tenure with the first employer—which sorts individuals into “stayers” and “movers.”
Spatiotemporal variation of snow cover over the Tibetan Plateau based on MODIS snow product, 2001–2014
Authors: Li Chunhong , Su Fengge , Yang Daqing , Tong Kai , Meng Fanchong , Kan Baoyun
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we investigate the spatiotemporal characteristics and trends of snow cover fraction (SCF) in the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and seven upstream river basins (Yellow, Yangtze, Mekong, Salween, Brahmaputra, Indus and Yarkant) by employing the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data for 2001–2014. The possible linkage between the SCF, and temperature and precipitation changes over the TP and individual basins is also investigated. Results suggest that the distribution of snow cover over the TP exhibit a large spatiotemporal heterogeneity with high SCFs mainly concentrating on the southern and western edges which is strongly linked to the moist air supplies. The distribution of snow cover is highly dependent on the elevations, with a higher SCF and a later onset of snow melt at the higher elevation zones than at the lowers. There is an elevation threshold existing for separating two distinct snow cover regimes, which are 4000 m for the western basins and 5000 m for the southeastern basins. The snow cover over the TP has slightly decreased by about 1.1% during 2001–2014, with dramatic reductions mostly lying in the heavy snowy regions and some light increases occurring in the areas with annual mean SCFs mostly less than 10%. The reduction rates of snow cover increase with the rising of altitudes for the TP average, and the basins of Indus, Yarkant, Salween and Brahmaputra. At the same time, the Yellow and Yangtze basins exhibit larger increasing rates of snow cover at the higher elevations zones. The SCF variations are linked to the temperature and precipitation changes. Precipitation tends to be the major factor impacting the snow cover changes in the TP during 2001–2014.
Observed variability and trends in the microclimate of the midlands of KwaZulu‐Natal and its influence on fire danger
Authors: Strydom Sheldon , Savage Michael J.
Published: July 2017

Current changes in global climate are likely to be evident at both the regional and the local scale. This study presents an investigation in climatic trends in the KwaZulu‐Natal (KZN) midlands, South Africa and seeks to assess the level of change in the microclimate and more specifically, the influence of a changing climate on fire danger. To this end, long‐term (1953–2015), historical daily meteorological data from the KZN midlands were analysed, using multitemporal regression analysis as well as time‐series analysis. Analysis indicated significant trends, to varying rates of change, across all sites. Over the last two decades, annual average air temperature was found to be increasing at a rate of between 1 and 3 °C century−1. Atmospheric water vapour pressure across the three sites also experienced significant levels of change. Decreases in total rainfall over the last two decades are of concern. Fire danger, calculated using the Lowveld fire danger index (LFDI), displayed significant rates of change. At two sites, annual average fire danger, over the last two decades, was found to be decreasing at a rate between roughly 5 and 10 FDI units century−1. The onset and length of the KZN midlands fire season has also undergone significant changes, as a response to changes in the microclimate. Sites experienced an overall decreasing trend in the onset of the fire season – indicative of an earlier start to the fire season, as well as an increase in fire season length. Results indicate that while the microclimate of the KZN midlands is changing, the rate of change differs from that of global and continental estimates.
Regulation of RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis by RING finger protein RNF114
Authors: Lin Boren , Ke Qi , Leaman Douglas W. , Goel Vijay , Agarwal Anand
Published: July 2017

Normal bone remodeling is a continuous process orchestrated by bone‐resorbing osteoclasts and bone‐forming osteoblasts, which an imbalance in bone remodeling results in metabolic bone diseases. RANKL, a member of the TNF cytokine family, functions as a key stimulator for osteoclast differentiation and maturation. Here, we report that RNF114, previously identified as a psoriasis susceptibility gene, plays a regulatory role in the RANKL/RANK/TRAF6 signaling pathway that mediates osteoclastogenesis. Our results demonstrated that RNF114 expression was significantly down‐regulated in mouse osteoclast precursor cells undergoing RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation. RNF114 knockout did not affect development or viability of the subpopulation of bone marrow macrophages capable of differentiating into osteoclasts in culture. However, in the presence of RANKL, RNF114 knockout bone marrow macrophages exhibited enhanced cell proliferation and augmented osteoclast differentiation, as shown by an increased expression of mature osteoclast markers, increased osteoclastic TRAP activity and bone resorption. Conversely, ectopic expression of RNF114 inhibited CTSK expression, TRAP activity, and bone resorption in RANKL‐treated pre‐osteoclasts. RNF114 also suppressed RANKL‐activated NFATc1 expression and NFAT‐regulated promoter activity. RNF114 suppressed TRAF6‐, but not TAK1/TAB2‐mediated NF‐κB activation downstream of RANKL/RANK. In particular, TRAF6 protein levels were down‐regulated by RNF114, possibly via K48‐mediated proteasome‐dependent degradation. These data suggested that RNF114's inhibitory effect on RANKL‐stimulated osteoclastogenesis was mediated by blocking RANK/TRAF6/NF‐κB signal transduction. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:159–166, 2018.
Sonography of Non‐neoplastic Disorders of the Hand and Wrist Tendons
Authors: Gitto Salvatore , Draghi Anna Guja , Draghi Ferdinando
Published: July 2017

Tendon disorders commonly cause hand and wrist disability and curtail the performance of work‐related duties or routine tasks. Imaging is often needed for diagnosis, but it requires knowledge of the complex anatomic structures of the tendons of the hand and wrist as well as familiarity with related disorders. This review article aims to provide medical professionals with guidelines for the sonographic assessment of the tendons of hand and wrist and related disorders. Sonographic features of tendon disorders affecting the hand and wrist are described here, specifically: infectious tenosynovitis; tendon rupture or tearing; stenosing forms of tenosynovitis such as De Quervain disease and trigger finger; intersection syndrome; insertional tendinopathy; several forms of tendinous instability such as extensor carpi ulnaris instability, climber finger, and boxer knuckle; and tendinopathy in inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Postsurgical evaluation of the hand and wrist tendons is also discussed, including the healthy and pathologic appearances of operated tendons as well as impingement from orthopedic hardware. In conclusion, sonography is effective in assessing the tendons of the hand and wrist and related disorders and represents a valuable tool for diagnosis.
Baseline Diameters of Inferior Vena Cava and Abdominal Aorta Measured by Ultrasonography in Healthy Term Neonates During Early Neonatal Adaptation Period
Authors: Jarosz‐Lesz Anna , Michalik Katarzyna , Maruniak‐Chudek Iwona
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To evaluate normative sonographic measurements of the inferior vena cava (IVC), aorta (Ao), and IVC/Ao ratio in the first 2 days of life in term neonates.

Methods

We prospectively observed 200 term (more than 36 and 6/7 weeks of gestation), single, healthy neonates born in a city hospital. The exclusion criteria were congenital abnormalities, an Apgar score of less than 8, and hyperbilirubinemia requiring phototherapy. Maximum IVC (distal to the hepatic‐IVC junction) and Ao (above the superior mesenteric artery) diameters were measured in the first 2 days of life in the longitudinal plane. Neonatal weight loss was calculated as a percentage lost from birth weight (BW).

Results

A total of 200 (50% born vaginally, 53% male) neonates were enrolled. Correlations between IVC and aortic diameters as a function of gestational age, method of birth, weight loss, and body surface area (BSA) were calculated using the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The correlation coefficients were statistically significant for the IVC (P = .017) and Ao (P = .006) abdominal diameters versus gestational age. The Ao diameter correlated with BSA (P = .0001). In neonates with weight loss less than 8% of BW, the IVC/Ao ratio remained constant at 0.62 (95% confidence interval, 0.60–0.63).

Conclusions

Sonographic measurements of IVC and Ao maximum diameters in term neonates suggests a significant positive correlation among gestational age, BSA, and IVC and Ao diameters. The IVC/Ao ratios remain constant over 48 hours after birth in neonates with weight loss up to 8% of BW, and appear to be lower than previously reported ratios for healthy children.
A POD‐based–optimized finite difference CN‐extrapolated implicit scheme for the 2D viscoelastic wave equation†
Authors: Xia Hong , Luo Zhengdong
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we devote ourselves to establishing the unconditionally stable and absolutely convergent classical finite difference Crank‐Nicholson (CN) implicit (CFDCNI) scheme and optimized finite difference CN‐extrapolated implicit (OFDCNEI) scheme containing very few degrees of freedom but holding fully second‐order accuracy for the two‐dimensional viscoelastic wave via the proper orthogonal decomposition technique, analyzing the existence, stability, and convergence of the CFDCNI and OFDCNEI solutions, and using the numerical simulations to verify that the OFDCNEI scheme is far more superior than the CFDCNI scheme.
Model identification and parameter estimation of elastoplastic constitutive model by data assimilation using the particle filter
Authors: Murakami Akira , Shinmura Hayato , Ohno Shintaro , Fujisawa Kazunori
Published: July 2017

Data assimilation, using the particle filter and incorporating the soil‐water coupled finite element method, is applied to identify the yield function of the elastoplastic constitutive model and corresponding parameters based on the sequential measurements of hypothetical soil tests and an actual construction sequence. In the proposed framework of the inverse analysis, the unknowns are both the particular parameter within the exponential contractancy model, nE, which parameterizes various shapes for the yield function of the competing constitutive models, including the original/the modified Cam‐Clay models and in‐between models and the parameters of the corresponding constitutive model. An appropriate set, consisting of the yield function of the constitutive model and the parameters of the constitutive model, can be simultaneously identified by the particle filter to describe the most suitable soil behavior. To examine the validity of the proposed procedure, hypothetical and actual measurements for the displacements of a soil specimen were obtained for consolidated and undrained tests through a synthetic FEM computation and for consolidated and drained tests, respectively. After examining the applicability of the proposed procedure to these test results, the present paper then focuses on the actual measured data, ie, the settlement behavior including the lateral deformation of the Kobe Airport Island constructed on reclaimed land.
Monosomy 7/del (7q) in inherited bone marrow failure syndromes: A systematic review
Authors: Pezeshki Alex , Podder Shreya , Kamel Ralph , Corey Seth J.
Published: July 2017

Inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFS) are rare cancer predisposition syndromes with an especially high risk of transformation to myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and/or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We performed a retrospective systematic review of reported MDS/AML arising in the eight most common IBMFS to determine the frequency and outcome of chromosome 7 abnormalities. We identified 738 MDS/AML cases of 4,293 individuals. Monosomy 7 or del (7q) occurred in ∼17%. Greater understanding of the roles played by sequential acquisition of genetic and cytogenetic changes will provide insights into myeloid leukemogenesis and improve the surveillance and hopefully outcomes for individuals with IBMFS.
Explaining student and home variance of Chinese reading achievement of the PIRLS 2011 Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Wai Ming , Lam Joseph W. I. , Au Doreen W. H. , So Wendy W. Y. , Huang Yanli , Tsang Hector W. H.
Published: July 2017

Hong Kong attained the top place in the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) 2011, an international study of reading achievement, which arouses keen interest in understanding the reasons behind this remarkable achievement. Although factors associated with reading achievement in English have been widely studied, similar studies using Chinese as a different language system are limited. The present study proposes and tests a hypothetical model that attempts to explain the variance of reading achievement of Hong Kong pupils in the PIRLS 2011 study, focusing on parental and student factors. Data of 3,875 fourth graders from 132 primary schools and their parents or caregivers (n = 3,682) are involved in the analysis. Structural equation modeling supports the hypothesized model as tenable explaining 34% of the variance of reading achievement. Parental background acts as the fundamental factor that exerts an indirect effect on reading motivation, reading self‐efficacy, and reading achievement of students via books at home and early reading abilities. Reading motivation and reading self‐efficacy are found to be significant in influencing reading achievement. Implications for educational practices and future research are discussed.
Structural and functional diversity of EF‐hand proteins: Evolutionary perspectives
Authors: Kawasaki Hiroshi , Kretsinger Robert H.
Published: July 2017

We have classified 865 sequences of EF‐hand proteins from five proteomes into 156 subfamilies. These subfamilies were put into six groups. Evolutionary relationships among subfamilies and groups were analyzed from the inferred ancestral sequence for each subfamily. CTER, CPV, and PEF groups arose from a common EF‐lobe (pair of adjacent EF‐hands). They have two or more EF‐lobes; the relative positions of their EF‐lobes differ from each other. Comparisons of the ancestral sequences and the inferred structures of the EF‐lobes of these groups indicate that the mutual positions of EF‐lobes were established soon after divergence of an EF‐lobe for each group and before the duplication and fusion of EF‐lobe gene(s). These ancestral sequences reveal that some subfamilies in low similarity and isolated groups did not evolve from the EF‐lobe precursor, even if their conformations are similar to the canonical EF‐hand. This is an example of convergent evolution.
Removal of a consensus proline is not sufficient to allow tetratricopeptide repeat oligomerization
Authors: Bakkum Amber L. , Hill R. Blake
Published: July 2017

Tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) domains are ubiquitous protein interaction domains that adopt a modular antiparallel array of α‐helices. The TPR fold typically adopts a monomeric state, and consensus TPRs sequences successfully fold into the expected monomeric topology. The versatility of the TPR fold also supports different quaternary structures, which may function as regulatory switches. One example is yeast mitochondrial fission 1 (Fis1) that appears to interconvert between monomer and dimer states in regulating division of peroxisomes and mitochondria. Whether human Fis1 can also interconvert like the yeast molecule is unknown. A TPR consensus proline residue present in human Fis1 is absent in the yeast molecule and, when added, prevents yeast Fis1 dimerization suggesting that the TPR consensus proline might have persisted to prevent TPR oligomerization. Here, we address this question with human Fis1 and the consensus TPR protein CTPR3. We demonstrate that human Fis1 does not form a noncovalent dimer via its TPR domain, despite conditions that favor dimerization of the yeast protein. We also show that the presence of the consensus proline is not sufficient to forbid TPR dimerization. Lastly, an analysis of all available TPR protein structures (22 nonredundant structures, totaling 64 TPRs—42 with the consensus proline and 22 without) revealed that the consensus proline is not necessary for turn formation, but does favor shorter turns. This work suggests the TPR consensus proline is not to prevent oligomerization, but to favor tight turns between repeats.
Ratio of ellipticities between 192 and 208 nm (R1): An effective electronic circular dichroism parameter for characterization of the helical components of proteins and peptides
Authors: Banerjee Raja , Sheet Tridip
Published: July 2017

Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy represents an important tool for characterization of the peptide and protein secondary structures that mainly arise from the conformational disposition of the peptide backbone in solution. In 1991 Manning and Woody proposed that, in addition to the signal intensity, the ratio between
and
((R2) ≅ [θ]222/[θ]208), along with
and
((R1) ≅ [θ]192/[θ]208), may be utilized towards identifying the peptide/protein conformation (especially 310‐ and α‐helices). However, till date the use of the ratiometric ellipticity component for helical structure analysis of peptides and proteins has not been reported. We studied a series of temperature dependent CD spectra of a thermally stable, model helical peptide and its related analogs in water as a function of added 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol (TFE) in order to explore their landscape of helicity. For the first time, we have experimentally shown here that the R1 parameter can characterize better the individual helices, while the other parameter R2 and the signal intensity do not always converge. We emphasize the use of the R1 ratio of ellipticities for helical characterization because of the common origin of these two bands (exciton splitting of the amide π→ π* transition in a helical polypeptide). This approach may become worthwhile and timely with the increasing accessibility of CD synchrotron sources.