bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biostratigraphy and paleoenvironment of the Sarmatian (s. l.) deposits from the eastern part of the Moldavian Platform (Comarna borehole) based on foraminifera
Authors: Ispas Bogdan-Adrian
Published: December 2017

Due to the change of the Paratethys’ marine regime with normal salinity to the brackish regime, the Moldavian Platform deposits of this time period are characterized by euryhaline microfaunal forms. Foraminifera species Lobatula lobatula (W. et J.) (Cibicides lobatulus W. et J.), Cycloforina karreri ovata (Serova) (Quinqueloculina karreri ovata Serova), Cycloforina fluviata (Vengl.) (Q. fluviata Vengl.) mark the beginning of the Sarmatian period in the Moldavian Platform; the presence of other genera, like Nonion, Elphidium, Articulina indicate that part of the Upper Badenian specific microfauna adapted to lower salinity water of the Paratethys. Having a small size, the Cibicides genus, marks the sudden change in the environmental conditions and the installation of the brackish regime. The predominance of benthic foraminifera forms indicates a normal oxygen content at the substrate surface, and the abundance of foraminifera species with calcareous tests indicates that the sedimentation of the Lower Sarmatian deposits was made in warm sea conditions.
Anacardiaceae-feeding Nepticulidae in the Neotropics: description of Stigmella lilliputica sp. nov. from Argentina, a pest on Chilean peppertree Schinus polygama
Authors: Stonis Jonas Rimantas , Remeikis Andrius
Published: December 2017

The paper deals with a description of a new leaf-mining Nepticulidae species, Stigmella lilliputica Remeikis & Stonis, sp. nov., from Argentina, the larvae of which feed on leaves of the Chilean peppertree Schinus polygama (Cav.) Cabrera. The species is illustrated with photographs of the adults and leaf mines, a distribution map as well as drawings and photographs of the genitalia.
Investigation of the effects of domestic waste on aquatic bacterial distribution in the Meric River (Edirne, Turkey)
Authors: Bulbul Gonul , Camur-Elipek Belgin
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of domestic waste on aquatic bacterial distribution in the Meric River located in the city centre of Edirne (Turkey). For this purpose, total mesophilic aerobic bacteria, total coliform, faecal coliform, and Eschericia coli bacteria were examined in the river. Also, some physicochemical features (water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, total hardness, magnesium, calcium, orthophosphate, nitrite nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen) were measured at the same time with bacterial sampling. The Spearman correlation index was used to evaluate the correlation between the bacterial distribution and environmental features. According to the results of the index, it was found that bacterial distribution related with some environmental variables, but overloading of wastewaters from settlements lead to bacterial contamination. Furthermore, bacterial and physicochemical datasets were grouped using some multivariate analysis techniques (cluster analysis, principle components, and correspondence analysis). The results grouped the sampling localities by their bacterial, including physicochemical, features.
Fungi in malting barley grain and malt production
Authors: Krasauskas Aurimas
Published: December 2017

Contamination of malting barley grain with microscopic fungi during different periods was investigated from 2012 to 2014. Grain samples of malting barley were taken directly from the field before harvesting and from a storage silo; malted grain was taken from two malt producers in Lithuania. The fungi were isolated and identified in barley grain before the malting and after steeping and germination during the malting process. The total count of fungi was done in these barley samples during the mentioned phases. Most attention was given to widely distributed fungi known as producers of toxins: Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium. Abilities of some of these fungi to produce secondary toxic metabolites cause a possible hazard to people consuming the contaminated products.
The aim of this work was to investigate changes in fungi composition and in their total count in barley grain, the raw material for the production of malt.
Biological control of leaf disease of barley with Bacillus strain
Authors: Kriuchkova Larysa O.
Published: December 2017

A new Bacillus amyloliquefaciens subsp. plantarum strain IMV B-7404 was selected by an in-vitro agar plate assay as a potential biological control agent. The strain strongly inhibited the growth of 12 important plant pathogenic fungi.
In growth chamber assays, the severity of spot blotch of barley decreased when culture filtrate was applied on leaves or was introduced into the plant growth medium before fungal inoculation. Apparently, the metabolites of strain IMV B-7404 play a role in disease prevention, which indicates that the strain can stimulate induced systemic resistance (ISR). When the cell suspension was sprayed onto leaves, the disease severity depended on environmental and, probably, some other conditions.
We suggest that effective biological control by Bacillus-based products depends on spraying leaves with the cell suspension to co-ordinate with the process of plant infection by the pathogen. The ecological behaviour and biology of both the antagonist and the target pathogen are the key elements in enhancing the efficacy of biocontrol products. It is necessary to know the stage of infection that is most vulnerable. This information needs to be identified individually for each pathosystem and in relation to environmental conditions.
Características del turismo de luna de miel: aproximación al turista chino
Authors: Aragonés Jericó Cristina , Wu Mengting
Published: December 2017

En el presente trabajo, enmarcado en el turismo alternativo, se estudia el turismo de luna de miel, la elección del destino turístico y los turistas chinos en el mercado internacional. Se concluye que el turismo de luna de miel es un tipo de turismo alternativo específico con 5 características distintivas: larga duración y planificación, temporada propia, público objetivo joven, necesidades particulares y toma de decisión compartida. La investigación muestra que para los turistas chinos este tipo de turismo presenta sus propias peculiaridades.
Has implementing an ecolabel increased sustainable tourism in Barcelona?
Authors: Arenado Rodríguez Rocío , García López Ana , Jiménez Caballero José L.
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study is to find out if by implementing an ecolabel in destinations, applying an SDM model, tourism sustainability increases. In order to this, three measures have been put into practice in Barcelona: (1) a focus group interview to key stakeholders (DMOs) see their implication with the certification project; (2) the implementations of two different actions relevant for the study: (a) to confront and pair up the certification body´s set of criteria with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) ones, (b) check if the certification adapts to Font´s study about ecolabels; and finally, (3) a discussion to find out if the media and local citizens felt in a city touristic ally sustainable. The findings show that Barcelona tourism board and other stakeholders were concerned about tourism sustainability. Besides, ecolabel can be believed to be trustworthy and reliable by adapting it to Font´s study (2001) and by confronting it with GSTC destination criteria. However, local population seems not to be satisfied at all with how the city is getting so many tourism. They seems not to understand labels, but they understand the negative impacts from tourism in their way of life. The limitation to this study is that just the Barcelona case is analyzed. The contribution is that it is actually putting into practice well known concepts that have usually been studied in theoretical ways.
Segmentación de los Seniors en función de los productos que compran por internet: impacto en la industria turística
Authors: Cristóbal-Fransi Eduard , Ferrer-Rosell Berta , Daries-Ramon Natalia
Published: December 2017

Los seniors se configuran como un colectivo de especial relevancia para un gran número de industrias. El cambio en el estilo de vida de la población mayor más orientada actualmente al disfrute del tiempo libre que generaciones anteriores y por tanto, más propensa a viajar, beneficia al sector turístico. Hasta ahora, estudios centrados en los seniors han analizado su comportamiento como algo homogéneo en comparación con otras franjas de edad. En esta investigación, con una muestra útil de 2.541 individuos, partimos de la consideración que dicho grupo es heterogéneo, con distintas características y niveles de uso de Internet, y proponemos, mediante una clasificación, tres perfiles de internautas seniors en función de los productos comprados en línea. Encontramos un segmento que utiliza Internet para comprar, sobretodo, productos y servicios turísticos. En las conclusiones se presentan las reflexiones más significativas sobre los segmentos obtenidos y su implicación en la gestión.
La información sobre Responsabilidad Social Corporativa en los hoteles de las Islas Canarias
Authors: Déniz Mayor José Juan , Verona Martel María Concepción , Barrera Rodríguez José Juan
Published: December 2017

En el presente trabajo se ofrece un diagnóstico preliminar acerca de la comunicación sobre responsabilidad social corporativa (RSC) a través de internet por parte de empresas de alojamiento turístico domiciliadas en las Islas Canarias (España) y su relación con determinadas variables societarias y contables. Destaca que las empresas de mayor tamaño, que operan como sociedades anónimas o forman parte de un grupo empresarial son más propensas a difundir datos sobre RSC. Unas cifras superiores en indicadores de rendimiento como el margen neto de explotación, el ROA o el ROE también arrojan resultados significativos. La categoría de los establecimientos propiedad de la sociedad, su longevidad o el endeudamiento no parecen influir en la decisión de publicar.
El turismo residencial no existe. Revisión de un concepto y crítica de su función ideológica
Authors: Mantecón Alejandro
Published: December 2017

Este trabajo presenta una contribución a la discusión sobre la instrumentalización ideológica que se ha hecho del turismo con el fin de promover intereses ligados al negocio inmobiliario. Con este propósito, se revisan los orígenes y evolución de la expresión «turismo residencial» en el debate académico para, después, plantear una reflexión sobre la apropiación y redefinición del concepto por parte de la llamada «burguesía cementera». Las conclusiones cuestionan los límites y la vigencia de la expresión como herramienta útil para la investigación en turismo, sobre todo si se considera la politización a la que este término ha sido expuesto.
Identidad urbana y el turismo de eventos deportivos: el Grand Depart Tour de Francia 2015
Authors: Paramio-Salcine Juan Luis , Ruiz Barquín Roberto , Baena Arroyo Manuel Jesús
Published: December 2017

Ciudades de todo tipo en la actual jerarquía urbana se afanan por adquirir una nueva identidad. En ese proceso de reinvención urbana, el turismo de eventos deportivos ha venido desarrollando una gran capacidad para generar diferentes impactos ‘tangibles’ e ‘intangibles’, como se argumenta en este artículo con el caso de la ciudad holandesa de Utrecht y la organización del Grand Depart Tour de Francia 2015 (GDTF). Si bien se ha analizado de manera amplia el uso estratégico del Tour de Francia por parte de numerosas ciudades en la última década desde la perspectiva de la oferta, este estudio exploratorio con un carácter marcadamente internacional que incluye nueve países, uno de los cuales es España, examina el GDTF 2015 desde la perspectiva de la demanda. En particular, estudia los factores clave que pueden facilitar o condicionar el deseo de viajar, previamente al propio evento, de ciudadanos españoles a Utrecht, para seguir dicho evento. Con el fin de valorar el grado de conocimiento de los principales atractivos de la ciudad, así como las principales motivaciones de estos ciudadanos españoles a la hora de viajar a Utrecht in situ, se han utilizado encuestas, un grupo de discusión y una revisión documental. El artículo concluye con los principales resultados que se derivan de las percepciones de los ciudadanos españoles de Utrecht y su relación con el GDTF 2015, además de las implicaciones prácticas de este caso.
Dinamismo económico del turismo a escala local. Una aproximación a través del análisis de clases latentes
Authors: Parrilla-González Juan Antonio , Pulido-Fernández Juan Ignacio
Published: December 2017

Hasta hace escasos años, el destino turístico era relegado por la literatura científica al papel de mero contenedor de la actividad turística. Sin embargo, durante la última década, se empieza a asumir la importancia del destino en la toma de decisiones del turista y en la satisfacción de sus necesidades y expectativas, lo que conlleva la necesidad de una gestión activa de este tipo de territorios. Por otro lado, el continuo crecimiento de la demanda turística anima a un número cada vez mayor de territorios a poner en valor sus recursos y atractivos para posicionarse y conseguir o aumentar cuota de mercado en el negocio turístico. Ello genera una creciente competencia entre destinos que, de nuevo, conlleva la necesidad de una gestión activa de los destinos turísticos. En este artículo se demuestra la importancia de analizar el dinamismo económico del turismo, como herramienta para la segmentación de destinos, lo que facilitará a los policymakers y gestores de destinos la adopción de medidas de política turística y de gestión diferenciadas según el nivel más o menos avanzado de cada territorio.
Discontinuidades y limitaciones de los últimos planes turísticos de España en relación a la sostenibilidad ambiental del turismo de sol y playa
Authors: Santos-Lacueva Raquel , Anton Clavé Salvador , Saladié Óscar
Published: December 2017

El turismo de sol y playa es una actividad estratégica para la economía española que depende altamente de los recursos naturales que la posibilitan. Para garantizar su competitividad y su sostenibilidad futura es imprescindible la incorporación de medidas ambientales en la política turística. El análisis crítico argumentativo de los tres últimos planes turísticos aprobados por el gobierno de España permite observar el alcance y las limitaciones de la incorporación de tales medidas. Los poderes públicos reconocen la persistencia de los problemas ambientales pero esto no siempre se ha plasmado en los planes.
The AMPA receptor-associated protein Shisa7 regulates hippocampal synaptic function and contextual memory
Authors: Schmitz Leanne J M , Klaassen Remco V , Ruiperez-Alonso Marta , Zamri Azra Elia , Stroeder Jasper , Rao-Ruiz Priyanka , Lodder Johannes C , van der Loo Rolinka J , Mansvelder Huib D , Smit August B , Spijker Sabine
Published: December 2017

Glutamatergic synapses rely on AMPA receptors (AMPARs) for fast synaptic transmission and plasticity. AMPAR auxiliary proteins regulate receptor trafficking, and modulate receptor mobility and its biophysical properties. The AMPAR auxiliary protein Shisa7 (CKAMP59) has been shown to interact with AMPARs in artificial expression systems, but it is unknown whether Shisa7 has a functional role in glutamatergic synapses. We show that Shisa7 physically interacts with synaptic AMPARs in mouse hippocampus. Shisa7 gene deletion resulted in faster AMPAR currents in CA1 synapses, without affecting its synaptic expression. Shisa7 KO mice showed reduced initiation and maintenance of long-term potentiation of glutamatergic synapses. In line with this, Shisa7 KO mice showed a specific deficit in contextual fear memory, both short-term and long-term after conditioning, whereas auditory fear memory and anxiety-related behavior were normal. Thus, Shisa7 is a bona-fide AMPAR modulatory protein affecting channel kinetics of AMPARs, necessary for synaptic hippocampal plasticity, and memory recall.
Synaptic and peptidergic connectome of a neurosecretory center in the annelid brain
Authors: Williams Elizabeth A , Verasztó Csaba , Jasek Sanja , Conzelmann Markus , Shahidi Réza , Bauknecht Philipp , Mirabeau Olivier , Jékely Gáspár
Published: December 2017

Neurosecretory centers in animal brains use peptidergic signaling to influence physiology and behavior. Understanding neurosecretory center function requires mapping cell types, synapses, and peptidergic networks. Here we use transmission electron microscopy and gene expression mapping to analyze the synaptic and peptidergic connectome of an entire neurosecretory center. We reconstructed 78 neurosecretory neurons and mapped their synaptic connectivity in the brain of larval Platynereis dumerilii, a marine annelid. These neurons form an anterior neurosecretory center expressing many neuropeptides, including hypothalamic peptide orthologs and their receptors. Analysis of peptide-receptor pairs in spatially mapped single-cell transcriptome data revealed sparsely connected networks linking specific neuronal subsets. We experimentally analyzed one peptide-receptor pair and found that a neuropeptide can couple neurosecretory and synaptic brain signaling. Our study uncovered extensive networks of peptidergic signaling within a neurosecretory center and its connection to the synaptic brain.
Stimulation of hair follicle stem cell proliferation through an IL-1 dependent activation of γδT-cells
Authors: Lee Pedro , Gund Rupali , Dutta Abhik , Pincha Neha , Rana Isha , Ghosh Subhasri , Witherden Deborah , Kandyba Eve , MacLeod Amanda , Kobielak Krzysztof , Havran Wendy L , Jamora Colin
Published: December 2017

The cutaneous wound-healing program is a product of a complex interplay among diverse cell types within the skin. One fundamental process that is mediated by these reciprocal interactions is the mobilization of local stem cell pools to promote tissue regeneration and repair. Using the ablation of epidermal caspase-8 as a model of wound healing in Mus musculus, we analyzed the signaling components responsible for epithelial stem cell proliferation. We found that IL-1α and IL-7 secreted from keratinocytes work in tandem to expand the activated population of resident epidermal γδT-cells. A downstream effect of activated γδT-cells is the preferential proliferation of hair follicle stem cells. By contrast, IL-1α-dependent stimulation of dermal fibroblasts optimally stimulates epidermal stem cell proliferation. These findings provide new mechanistic insights into the regulation and function of epidermal cell–immune cell interactions and into how components that are classically associated with inflammation can differentially influence distinct stem cell niches within a tissue.
LAST, a c-Myc-inducible long noncoding RNA, cooperates with CNBP to promote CCND1 mRNA stability in human cells
Authors: Cao Limian , Zhang Pengfei , Li Jinming , Wu Mian
Published: December 2017

Cyclin D1 is a critical regulator of cell cycle progression and works at the G1 to S-phase transition. Here, we report the isolation and characterization of the novel c-Myc-regulated lncRNA LAST (LncRNA-Assisted Stabilization of Transcripts), which acts as a CCND1 mRNA stabilizer. Mechanistically, LAST was shown to cooperate with CNBP to bind to the 5′UTR of CCND1 mRNA to protect against possible nuclease targeting. In addition, data from CNBP RIP-seq and LAST RNA-seq showed that CCND1 mRNA might not be the only target of LAST and CNBP; three additional mRNAs were shown to be post-transcriptional targets of LAST and CNBP. In a xenograft model, depletion of LAST diminished and ectopic expression of LAST induced tumor formation, which are suggestive of its oncogenic function. We thus report a previously unknown lncRNA involved in the fine-tuned regulation of CCND1 mRNA stability, without which CCND1 exhibits, at most, partial expression.
Dephosphorylation of the NPR2 guanylyl cyclase contributes to inhibition of bone growth by fibroblast growth factor
Authors: Shuhaibar Leia C , Robinson Jerid W , Vigone Giulia , Shuhaibar Ninna P , Egbert Jeremy R , Baena Valentina , Uliasz Tracy F , Kaback Deborah , Yee Siu-Pok , Feil Robert , Fisher Melanie C , Dealy Caroline N , Potter Lincoln R , Jaffe Laurinda A
Published: December 2017

Activating mutations in fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor 3 and inactivating mutations in the NPR2 guanylyl cyclase both cause severe short stature, but how these two signaling systems interact to regulate bone growth is poorly understood. Here, we show that bone elongation is increased when NPR2 cannot be dephosphorylated and thus produces more cyclic GMP. By developing an in vivo imaging system to measure cyclic GMP production in intact tibia, we show that FGF-induced dephosphorylation of NPR2 decreases its guanylyl cyclase activity in growth plate chondrocytes in living bone. The dephosphorylation requires a PPP-family phosphatase. Thus FGF signaling lowers cyclic GMP production in the growth plate, which counteracts bone elongation. These results define a new component of the signaling network by which activating mutations in the FGF receptor inhibit bone growth.
How the brain controls urination
Authors: Malykhina Anna P
Published: December 2017

Coordination between the brainstem and the cortex helps to ensure that urination occurs at an appropriate time.
Shaping of inner ear sensory organs through antagonistic interactions between Notch signalling and Lmx1a
Authors: Mann Zoe F , Gálvez Héctor , Pedreno David , Chen Ziqi , Chrysostomou Elena , Żak Magdalena , Kang Miso , Canden Elachumee , Daudet Nicolas
Published: December 2017

The mechanisms of formation of the distinct sensory organs of the inner ear and the non-sensory domains that separate them are still unclear. Here, we show that several sensory patches arise by progressive segregation from a common prosensory domain in the embryonic chicken and mouse otocyst. This process is regulated by mutually antagonistic signals: Notch signalling and Lmx1a. Notch-mediated lateral induction promotes prosensory fate. Some of the early Notch-active cells, however, are normally diverted from this fate and increasing lateral induction produces misshapen or fused sensory organs in the chick. Conversely Lmx1a (or cLmx1b in the chick) allows sensory organ segregation by antagonizing lateral induction and promoting commitment to the non-sensory fate. Our findings highlight the dynamic nature of sensory patch formation and the labile character of the sensory-competent progenitors, which could have facilitated the emergence of new inner ear organs and their functional diversification in the course of evolution.
Patterns in artisanal coral reef fisheries revealed through local monitoring efforts
Authors: Delaney David G. , Teneva Lida T. , Stamoulis Kostantinos A. , Giddens Jonatha L. , Koike Haruko , Ogawa Tom , Friedlander Alan M. , Kittinger John N.
Published: December 2017

Sustainable fisheries management is key to restoring and maintaining ecological function and benefits to people, but it requires accurate information about patterns of resource use, particularly fishing pressure. In most coral reef fisheries and other data-poor contexts, obtaining such information is challenging and remains an impediment to effective management. We developed the most comprehensive regional view of shore-based fishing effort and catch published to date, to show detailed fishing patterns from across the main Hawaiian Islands (MHI). We reveal these regional patterns through fisher “creel” surveys conducted by local communities, state agencies, academics, and/or environmental organizations, at 18 sites, comprising >10,000 h of monitoring across a range of habitats and human influences throughout the MHI. All creel surveys included in this study except for one were previously published in some form (peer-reviewed articles or gray literature reports). Here, we synthesize these studies to document spatial patterns in nearshore fisheries catch, effort, catch rates (i.e., catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE)), and catch disposition (i.e., use of fish after catch is landed). This effort provides for a description of general regional patterns based on these location-specific studies. Line fishing was by far the dominant gear type employed. The most efficient gear (i.e., highest CPUE) was spear (0.64 kg h−1), followed closely by net (0.61 kg h−1), with CPUE for line (0.16 kg h−1) substantially lower than the other two methods. Creel surveys also documented illegal fishing activity across the studied locations, although these activities were not consistent across sites. Overall, most of the catch was not sold, but rather retained for home consumption or given away to extended family, which suggests that cultural practices and food security may be stronger drivers of fishing effort than commercial exploitation for coral reef fisheries in Hawai‘i. Increased monitoring of spatial patterns in nearshore fisheries can inform targeted management, and can help communities develop a more informed understanding of the drivers of marine resource harvest and the state of the resources, in order to maintain these fisheries for food security, cultural practices, and ecological value.
Constructing a comprehensive gene co-expression based interactome in Bos taurus
Authors: Chen Yan , Liu Yining , Du Min , Zhang Wengang , Xu Ling , Gao Xue , Zhang Lupei , Gao Huijiang , Xu Lingyang , Li Junya , Zhao Min
Published: December 2017

Integrating genomic information into cattle breeding is an important approach to exploring genotype-phenotype relationships for complex traits related to diary and meat production. To assist with genomic-based selection, a reference map of interactome is needed to fully understand and identify the functional relevant genes. To this end, we constructed a co-expression analysis of 92 tissues and this represents the systematic exploration of gene-gene relationship in Bos taurus. By using robust WGCNA (Weighted Gene Correlation Network Analysis), we described the gene co-expression network of 5,000 protein-coding genes with majority variations in expression across 92 tissues. Further module identifications found 55 highly organized functional clusters representing diverse cellular activities. To demonstrate the re-use of our interaction for functional genomics analysis, we extracted a sub-network associated with DNA binding genes in Bos taurus. The subnetwork was enriched within regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter representing central cellular functions. In addition, we identified 28 novel linker genes associated with more than 100 DNA binding genes. Our WGCNA-based co-expression network reconstruction will be a valuable resource for exploring the molecular mechanisms of incompletely characterized proteins and for elucidating larger-scale patterns of functional modulization in the Bos taurus genome.
A Comparison of the Results of the Karydakis Flap Procedure and Primary Closure in the Treatment of Pilonidal Sinus Disease Over the Short and Long Term: A Randomized Clinical Study
Authors: Kendirci Murat , Akin Tezcan , Akin Merve , Berkem Hüseyin , Hengirmen Süleyman , Yüksel Bülent Cavit
Published: December 2017

In the current prospective study, we compared the results of the Karydakis flap procedure (KFP) and primary closure (PC). This study compared the short and long-term results of the KFP and PC techniques. The sample of this study was a total of 352 patients (302 male: 85.7%; median age: 24 years) who underwent reconstruction after pilonidal sinus excision in our clinic. The reconstruction was performed using the KFP (group 1, n = 176, 50%) or PC (group 2, n = 176, 50%). The following data on the patients was obtained; sex, age, body mass index (BMI), duration of operation and hospital stay, length of time patient could walk without pain, length of time patients could sit on toilet without pain, complications (e.g., infection, recurrence). No significant difference was found between groups 1 and 2 with respect to sex, age, BMI, and duration of operation. Moreover, length of time patients could walk and sit on toilet without pain was similar in both groups. On the other hand, the rate of recurrence was significantly lower in group 1 (n = 4, 2%) compared with group 2 (n = 20, 11%, P < 0.001). KFP is preferable to PC since it is easier to learn and perform and has lower complication and recurrence rates.
Thiersch Procedure for Rectal Prolapse: Experiences From a Single Institution
Authors: Chan Ren-Hao , Lin Bo-Wen , Lin Shao-Chieh , Lee Jenq-Chang
Published: December 2017

The Thiersch procedure is a simple and safe surgical management option for rectal prolapse. Herein, experiences—the perioperative factor, functional outcome, recurrence, and complications—from a single institution are reported. Medical records were reviewed to identify patients diagnosed with rectal prolapse, and only patients who underwent the Thiersch procedure. The clinical presentations, perioperative findings, complications, recurrences, and long-term functional outcomes were collated. Twenty-four patients underwent the Thiersch procedure for rectal prolapse between 1995 and 2014. The mean operative time was 55.5 ± 25.6 minutes and postoperative wound pain was minor. The major complications were urine retention (29.2%) and wound infection (16.7%). All patients experienced symptom improvement after the operation and recovered their anal tone. Although the Thiersch procedure entails certain recurrence and infection rates, it provides improved functional outcomes and low perioperative risks.
Condensation
Authors: Tran Julian M. , Kenig Eugeny Y.
Published: December 2017

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction1.1.Definition1.2.History1.3.Classification1.3.1Vapor–Liquid Contact1.3.2.Equipment Type2.Theory2.1.Physical Background2.1.1.Mechanism and Thermodynamics2.1.2.Wetting2.1.3.Multicomponent Condensation2.2.Description Methods2.2.1.Equilibrium‐Based Models2.2.2.Nonequilibrium‐Based Models2.2.3.Analysis of Existing Modeling Methods2.2.4.Special Aspects2.2.4.1.Film Condensate Turbulence2.2.4.2.Superheated Vapors3.Different Types of Heterogeneous Condensation3.1.Indirect‐Contact Condensation3.1.1.Dropwise Condensation3.1.2.Filmwise Condensation of Pure Substances3.1.3.Filmwise Condensation under the Influence of Noncondensables3.1.4.Internal Condensation3.1.5.External Condensation3.2.Direct‐Contact Condensation4.Equipment4.1.Indirect‐Contact Condensers4.1.1.Shell‐and‐Tube Condensers4.1.2.Plate Condensers4.1.3.Pillow‐Plate Condensers4.1.4.Tube‐and‐Fin Condensers4.2.Direct‐Contact Condensers5.Applications5.1.Heat Transfer5.1.1.Steam Surface Condensers in Power Plants5.1.2.Air‐Cooled Condensers in Power Plants5.1.3.Liquefied Fuel Gas Generation5.2.Separation5.2.1.Distillation Columns5.2.2.Exhaust Air Solvent Regeneration/Removal5.3.Process Optimization5.3.1.Passive Optimization Methods5.3.2.Active Optimization Methods
Analytical Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
Authors: Trapiella‐Alfonso Laura , Llano‐Suárez Pablo , Fernández‐Argüelles María T. , Sanz‐Medel Alfredo , Costa‐Fernández José M.
Published: December 2017

Research in nanoscience and nanotechnology has widely developed to the extent that today there are a large variety of nanotools and nanomaterials providing exciting applications in most areas of Science and Technology. Particularly, the availability of materials and methods produced at the nanometer scale, with varied functionalization possibilities, has rendered them as very attractive materials for analytical chemistry applications.

Current (bio)analytical developments achieved by exploiting attractive properties of nanomaterials to design and apply them for (bio)analysis are here reviewed. Moreover, the great number of novel nanomaterials that are continuously produced require improved analytical methodologies specifically designed to enable the detection, quantification, and characterization of the nanomaterials (key information in quality control of the nanomaterials, to study their environmental behavior in toxicity studies or to improve the knowledge of their properties, thus making more effective their final use). An overview of this dual facet of the relationship between analytical chemistry and the nanoworld is presented here.

To conclude, a brief discussion about the use of nanomaterials in the development of novel improved analytical methodologies to characterize or detect nanomaterials, along with a short outlook on future directions of the continuously growing nanoworld‐related analytical applications, is also included.
Toxicological Analysis UsingDNAFragmentation
Authors: Basnakian Alexei G. , Braman Nicholas , Yin Xiaoyan , Kolomeichuk Sergey N. , Apostolov Eugene O.
Published: December 2017

Toxicological analysis relies on the measurement of cell death. DNA fragmentation is the preferential method in cell death assessment because it measures irreversible stage of cell death, and it is universal to all mechanisms of cell death. DNA fragmentation is provided by a group of nine cytotoxic DNases/endonucleases, cumulative activity of which is sufficient to eventually destroy all cellular DNAs to potentially reusable mononucleotides. Of all the methods for measuring DNA fragmentation, the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay seems to be the best in satisfying the toxicology assessment because it is simple, quantitative, based on individual cell measurements, and is not destructive to the cells. The latter allows it to combine with quantitative immunocytochemistry and other histology and genetic techniques to perform mechanistic studies.
A π‐Conjugation Extended Viologen as a Two‐Electron Storage Anolyte for Total Organic Aqueous Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Luo Jian , Hu Bo , Debruler Camden , Liu Tianbiao Leo
Published: November 2017

Extending the conjugation of viologen by a planar thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole (TTz) framework and functionalizing the pyridinium with hydrophilic ammonium groups yielded a highly water‐soluble π‐conjugation extended viologen, 4,4′‐(thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole‐2,5‐diyl)bis(1‐(3‐(trimethylammonio)propyl)pyridin‐1‐ium) tetrachloride, [(NPr)2TTz]Cl4 , as a novel two‐electron storage anolyte for aqueous organic redox flow battery (AORFB) applications. Its physical and electrochemical properties were systematically investigated. Paired with 4‐trimethylammonium‐TEMPO (NMe‐TEMPO) as catholyte, [(NPr)2TTz]Cl4 enables a 1.44 V AORFB with a theoretical energy density of 53.7 Wh L−1. A demonstrated [(NPr)2TTz]Cl4/NMe‐TEMPO AORFB delivered an energy efficiency of 70 % and 99.97 % capacity retention per cycle.
Medicago truncatula: Genetic and Genomic Resources
Authors: Garmier Marie , Gentzbittel Laurent , Wen Jiangqi , Mysore Kirankumar S. , Ratet Pascal
Published: December 2017

Medicago truncatula was chosen by the legume community, along with Lotus japonicus, as a model plant to study legume biology. Since then, numerous resources and tools have been developed for M. truncatula. These include, for example, its genome sequence, core ecotype collections, transformation/regeneration methods, extensive mutant collections, and a gene expression atlas. This review aims to describe the different genetic and genomic tools and resources currently available for M. truncatula. We also describe how these resources were generated and provide all the information necessary to access these resources and use them from a practical point of view. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
BiBAC Modification and Stable Transfer into Maize (Zea mays) Hi‐II Immature Embryos via Agrobacterium‐Mediated Transformation
Authors: Cody Jon P. , Graham Nathaniel D. , Birchler James A.
Published: December 2017

Binary Bacterial Artificial Chromosomes (BiBAC) are large insert cloning vectors that contain the necessary features required for Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation. However, the large size of BiBACs and low‐copy number in Escherichia coli (DH10B) and Agrobacterium tumefaciens make cloning experiments more difficult than other available binary vector systems. Therefore, a protocol that outlines preparation, modification, and transformation of high‐molecular weight (HMW) constructs is advantageous for researchers looking to use BiBACs in plant genomics research. This unit does not cover the cloning of HMW DNA into BiBAC vectors. Researchers looking to clone HMW DNA into BiBACs can refer to Zhang et al. (2012; doi: 10.1038/nprot.2011.456). © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Statistically reinforced machine learning for nonlinear patterns and variable interactions
Authors: Ryo Masahiro , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: December 2017

Most statistical models assume linearity and few variable interactions, even though real‐world ecological patterns often result from nonlinear and highly interactive processes. We here introduce a set of novel empirical modeling techniques which can address this mismatch: statistically reinforced machine learning. We demonstrate the behaviors of three techniques (conditional inference tree, model‐based tree, and permutation‐based random forest) by analyzing an artificially generated example dataset that contains patterns based on nonlinearity and variable interactions. The results show the potential of statistically reinforced machine learning algorithms to detect nonlinear relationships and higher‐order interactions. Estimation reliability for any technique, however, depended on sample size. The applications of statistically reinforced machine learning approaches would be particularly beneficial for investigating (1) novel patterns for which shapes cannot be assumed a priori, (2) higher‐order interactions which are often overlooked in parametric statistics, (3) context dependency where patterns change depending on other conditions, (4) significance and effect sizes of variables while taking nonlinearity and variable interactions into account, and (5) a hypothesis using parametric statistics after identifying patterns using statistically reinforced machine learning techniques.
Sampling effort and uncertainty in leaf litterfall mass and nutrient flux in northern hardwood forests
Authors: Yang Yang , Yanai Ruth D. , See Craig R. , Arthur Mary A.
Published: December 2017

Designs for litterfall sampling can be improved by understanding the sources of uncertainty in litterfall mass and nutrient concentration. We compared the coefficient of variation of leaf litterfall mass and nutrient concentrations (nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and potassium) at different spatial scales and across years for six northern hardwood species from 23 stands in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, USA. Stands with steeper slopes (P = 0.01), higher elevations (P = 0.05), and more westerly aspect (P = 0.002) had higher interannual variation in litter mass, probably due to a litter trap design that allowed litter to blow into traps in windy years. The spatial variation of nutrient concentrations varied more across stands than within stands for all elements (P < 0.001). Phosphorus was the most spatially variable of all nutrients across stands (P < 0.001). Litter nutrient concentrations varied less from year to year than litter mass, but the magnitude of difference depended on the element and tree species. We compared the relative importance of variation in mass vs. concentration to estimates of nutrient flux by simulating different sampling intensities of one while holding the other constant. In this dataset, interannual variability of leaf litter mass contributed more to uncertainty in litterfall flux calculations than interannual variation in nutrient concentrations. Optimal sampling schemes will depend on the elements of interest and local factors affecting spatial and temporal variability.
Previous burns and topography limit and reinforce fire severity in a large wildfire
Authors: Harris Lucas , Taylor Alan H.
Published: December 2017

In fire‐prone forests, self‐reinforcing fire behavior may generate a mosaic of vegetation types and structures. In forests long subject to fire exclusion, such feedbacks may result in forest loss when surface and canopy fuel accumulations lead to unusually severe fires. We examined drivers of fire severity in one large (>1000 km2) wildfire in the western United States, the Rim Fire in the Sierra Nevada, California, and how it was influenced by severity of 21 previous fires to examine the influences on (1) the severity of the first fire since 1984 and (2) reburn severity. The random forest machine‐learning statistical model was used to predict satellite‐derived fire severity classes from geospatial datasets of fire history, topographic setting, weather, and vegetation type. Topography and inferred weather were the most important variables influencing the previous burn. Previous fire severity was the most important factor influencing reburn severity, and areas tended to reburn at the same severity class as the previous burn. However, areas reburned in <15 yr burned at lower severity than expected. Previous fire severity and Rim Fire severity were higher on ridges, at intermediate elevations (~750–1250 m), and on slopes <30°, indicating a consistent effect of topography on fire severity patterns in these forests. Areas burned with low severity prescribed fires burned at low severity again in the Rim Fire, and areas with long fire‐free periods burned at higher severity. This fire history effect suggests that prescribed burning was an effective management tool, leading to lower fire severity in the previous burns and the subsequent reburn. Our results show that self‐reinforcing fire behavior results mainly from effects of vegetation structure and fuels on fire severity and that this behavior is mediated by topographic setting and the time since last fire.
Integration of routine QA data into mega‐analysis may improve quality and sensitivity of multisite diffusion tensor imaging studies
Authors: Kochunov Peter , Dickie Erin W. , Viviano Joseph D. , Turner Jessica , Kingsley Peter B. , Jahanshad Neda , Thompson Paul M. , Ryan Meghann C. , Fieremans Els , Novikov Dmitry , Veraart Jelle , Hong Elliot L. , Malhotra Anil K. , Buchanan Robert W. , Chavez Sofia , Voineskos Aristotle N.
Published: November 2017

A novel mega‐analytical approach that reduced methodological variance was evaluated using a multisite diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) fractional anisotropy (FA) data by comparing white matter integrity in people with schizophrenia to controls. Methodological variance was reduced through regression of variance captured from quality assurance (QA) and by using Marchenko–Pastur Principal Component Analysis (MP‐PCA) denoising. N = 192 (119 patients/73 controls) data sets were collected at three sites equipped with 3T MRI systems: GE MR750, GE HDx, and Siemens Trio. DTI protocol included five b = 0 and 60 diffusion‐sensitized gradient directions (b = 1,000 s/mm2). In‐house DTI QA protocol data was acquired weekly using a uniform phantom; factor analysis was used to distil into two orthogonal QA factors related to: SNR and FA. They were used as site‐specific covariates to perform mega‐analytic data aggregation. The effect size of patient‐control differences was compared to these reported by the enhancing neuro imaging genetics meta‐analysis (ENIGMA) consortium before and after regressing QA variance. Impact of MP‐PCA filtering was evaluated likewise. QA‐factors explained ∼3–4% variance in the whole‐brain average FA values per site. Regression of QA factors improved the effect size of schizophrenia on whole brain average FA values—from Cohen's d = .53 to .57—and improved the agreement between the regional pattern of FA differences observed in this study versus ENIGMA from r = .54 to .70. Application of MP‐PCA‐denoising further improved the agreement to r = .81. Regression of methodological variances captured by routine QA and advanced denoising that led to a better agreement with a large mega‐analytic study.
Anharmonicity and Fermi resonance in the vibrational spectra of a CO2 molecule and CO2 molecular crystal: Similarity and distinctions
Authors: Nosenko Valentyna V. , Rudko Galyna Yu. , Yaremko Anatoliy M. , Yukhymchuk Volodymyr O. , Hreshchuk Olexandr M.
Published: November 2017

The vibrational spectra of a molecule and related molecular crystal are systematically analyzed theoretically with the account of the influence of anharmonic interactions between the vibrations. The specific anharmonism‐induced features in the spectra of a molecule and crystal are revealed, and spectral lineshapes at varied strength of anharmonic interaction are simulated. The proposed general theoretical approach is used for fitting the experimental vibrational spectra of CO2 substance in gas and molecular crystal phases. Pretty good coincidence of experimental data with theoretical results is demonstrated, and the constants of anharmonic interaction are obtained. The proposed theoretical approach can be used to interpret the bands in the Raman and infrared absorption spectra of various complex molecules and crystals.
Effects of a capital gains tax on asset pricing
Authors: Krause Marko Volker
Published: December 2017

I extend and generalize the work of Kruschwitz and Löffler (BuR—Business Research 2(2):171–178, 2009). I find that, with a zero risk-free rate, the implicit price of capital gains tax payments is zero. I provide conditions in stochastic discount factor language when a capital gains tax has no effect on asset prices for the case of a zero risk-free rate. A sufficient condition for price equality with a zero risk-fee rate is that agents consume the same in any state with and without taxes. Equilibria exist that guarantee equal consumptions, and they imply the same portfolio rules that Kruschwitz and Löffler (BuR—Business Research 2(2):171–178, 2009) find for the CAPM. Furthermore, for an exogenous non-zero risk-free rate, I show that exponential utility with multivariate normal payoffs, as well as linear marginal utility leave prices unchanged. Equilibrium prices are independent of capital gains taxes in those cases. However, total wealth of agents is different between the tax and the no-tax economy.
Commentary on the Second Geneva Convention
Authors: International Committee of the Red Cross
Published: December 2017

The application and interpretation of the four Geneva Conventions of 1949 have developed significantly in the sixty years since the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) first published its Commentaries on these important humanitarian treaties. To promote a better understanding of, and respect for, this body of law, the ICRC commissioned a comprehensive update of its original Commentaries, of which this is the second volume. Its preparation was coordinated by Jean-Marie Henckaerts, ICRC legal adviser and head of the project to update the Commentaries. The Second Convention is a key text of international humanitarian law. It contains the essential rules on the protection of the wounded, sick and shipwrecked at sea, those assigned to their care, and the vessels used for their treatment and evacuation. This article-by-article Commentary takes into account developments in the law and practice to provide up-to-date interpretations of the Convention. The new Commentary has been reviewed by humanitarian-law practitioners and academics from around the world, including naval experts. It is an essential tool for anyone working or studying within this field.