bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gestion des poissons d’eau douce et migrateurs dans le Saint-Laurent : mandats, enjeux et perspectives
Authors: Mingelbier Marc , Paradis Yves , Brodeur Philippe , de la Chenelière Véronik , Lecomte Frédéric , Hatin Daniel , Verreault Guy
Published: June 2016

Bien que la pêche soit très présente dans la culture québécoise, la gestion et la conservation des poissons d’eau douce et des poissons migrateurs du Saint-Laurent sont peu connues du public. L’objectif de cet article est de présenter les acteurs, le cadre législatif et les pratiques de gestion applicables à ces espèces dans les eaux douces et saumâtres du Saint-Laurent. La croissance des usages du territoire québécois, déjà nombreux, génère des pressions grandissantes sur la faune et les habitats du Saint-Laurent. Cette réalité force à sortir des modèles classiques de gestion et à recourir à des approches globales nécessitant de protéger des habitats multi spécifiques plutôt qu’une espèce en particulier, et d’impliquer des intervenants provenant, entre autres, des domaines agricole, industriel et municipal. Dans le futur, les principaux défis consisteront à rassembler les acteurs liés au Saint-Laurent autour des cibles communes de restauration et de mise en valeur, de maintenir une expertise de pointe et de continuer à appuyer la gestion de la faune aquatique sur des données scientifiques rigoureuses. Dans un contexte de changements climatiques, où la menace liée aux espèces exotiques envahissantes et les pressions de diverses natures sont exercées sur les habitats, il sera primordial d’appliquer une gestion proactive en déployant les mesures nécessaires dès que l’état de situation d’une espèce le suggérera. L’état précaire de certaines populations, comme la perchaude du lac Saint-Pierre, doit d’ailleurs être interprété comme un indicateur parmi d’autres de la détérioration de certaines fonctions de l’écosystème exceptionnel que représente le Saint-Laurent et des défis qui devront être relevés dans le futur. Tous les défis ne sont cependant pas associés à des situations de déclins. Les exemples de la réintroduction du bar rayé et du rétablissement de l’esturgeon jaune démontrent, lorsque des mesures de gestion adéquates sont prises, que le système peut être résilient et que le futur peut être prometteur.
Recharge en sable et revégétalisation de 2 plages de l’estuaire du Saint-Laurent, Québec
Authors: Bachand Étienne , Comtois Sophie
Published: June 2016

En 2012, le comité ZIP (Zone d’intervention prioritaire) du Sud-de-l’Estuaire a réalisé 2 projets de recharge en sable sur des plages du Bas-Saint-Laurent. C’est respectivement 275 m3 et 295m3 de sédiments qui ont été déposés sur une plage de Sainte-Flavie et de Rivière-Ouelle. Les recharges en sable étaient accompagnées d’une revégétalisation à l’aide d’espèces indigènes possédant une forte capacité de rétention des sols. Ces techniques souples de restauration des berges s’appuient sur le principe de la dynamique naturelle des écosystèmes côtiers pour atténuer les effets de l’érosion littorale et diminuer les dégâts liés à la submersion marine. Sur chacun des sites, 100 m linéaires de plage ont été restaurés pour une fraction (453 $/m linéaire) des coûts nécessaires à la construction d’un enrochement (7 000 $/m linéaire). Après 3 années de suivi, on a noté un engraissement et un élargissement des plages ainsi qu’un développement rapide des végétaux dans le milieu. La restauration des écosystèmes littoraux est une solution durable, écologique, peu coûteuse et accessible aux communautés côtières.
Hepatitis C in HIV‐infected individuals: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of estimated prevalence in Africa
Authors: Azevedo Tiago Castro Lopes , Zwahlen Marcel , Rauch Andri , Egger Matthias , Wandeler Gilles
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Although hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening is recommended for all HIV‐infected patients initiating antiretroviral therapy, data on epidemiologic characteristics of HCV infection in resource‐limited settings are scarce.

Methods

We searched PubMed and EMBASE for studies assessing the prevalence of HCV infection among HIV‐infected individuals in Africa and extracted data on laboratory methods used. Prevalence estimates from individual studies were combined for each country using random‐effects meta‐analysis. The importance of study design, population and setting as well as type of test (anti‐HCV antibody tests and polymerase chain reactions) was examined with meta‐regression.

Results

Three randomized controlled trials, 28 cohort studies and 121 cross‐sectional analyses with 108,180 HIV‐infected individuals from 35 countries were included. The majority of data came from outpatient populations (55%), followed by blood donors (15%) and pregnant women (14%). Based on estimates from 159 study populations, anti‐HCV positivity prevalence ranged between 3.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.8–4.7) in Southern Africa and 42.3% (95% CI 4.1–80.5) in North Africa. Study design, type of setting and age distribution did not influence this prevalence significantly. The prevalence of replicating HCV infection, estimated from data of 29 cohorts, was 2.0% (95% CI 1.5–2.6). Ten studies from nine countries reported the HCV genotype of 74 samples, 53% were genotype 1, 24% genotype 2, 14% genotype 4 and 9% genotypes 3, 5 or 6.

Conclusions

The prevalence of anti‐HCV antibodies is high in HIV‐infected patients in Africa, but replicating HCV infection is rare and varies widely across countries.
Global, quantitative and dynamic mapping of protein subcellular localization
Authors: Itzhak Daniel N , Tyanova Stefka , Cox Jürgen , Borner Georg HH
Published: June 2016

Subcellular localization critically influences protein function, and cells control protein localization to regulate biological processes. We have developed and applied Dynamic Organellar Maps, a proteomic method that allows global mapping of protein translocation events. We initially used maps statically to generate a database with localization and absolute copy number information for over 8700 proteins from HeLa cells, approaching comprehensive coverage. All major organelles were resolved, with exceptional prediction accuracy (estimated at >92%). Combining spatial and abundance information yielded an unprecedented quantitative view of HeLa cell anatomy and organellar composition, at the protein level. We subsequently demonstrated the dynamic capabilities of the approach by capturing translocation events following EGF stimulation, which we integrated into a quantitative model. Dynamic Organellar Maps enable the proteome-wide analysis of physiological protein movements, without requiring any reagents specific to the investigated process, and will thus be widely applicable in cell biology.
I see what you are saying
Authors: Cogan Gregory B
Published: June 2016

The motor cortex in the brain tracks lip movements to help with speech perception.
Ambipolar transistors based on random networks of WS2 nanotubes
Authors: Sugahara Mitsunari , Kawai Hideki , Yomogida Yohei , Maniwa Yutaka , Okada Susumu , Yanagi Kazuhiro
Published: June 2016

WS2 nanotubes are rolled multiwalled nanotubes made of a layered material, tungsten disulfide. Their fibril structures enable the fabrication of random network films; however, these films are nonconducting, and thus have not been used for electronic applications. Here, we demonstrate that carrier injection into WS2 networks using an electrolyte gating approach could cause these networks to act as semiconducting channels. We clarify the Raman characteristics of WS2 nanotubes under electrolyte gating and confirm the feasibility of the injection of electrons and holes. We reveal ambipolar behaviors of the WS2 nanotube networks in field-effect transistor setups with electrolyte gating.
Convergence of intense aerial acoustic waves radiated by a rectangular transverse vibrating plate
Authors: Nakai Tomoki , Asami Takuya , Miura Hikaru
Published: June 2016

A stripe-mode rectangular transverse vibrating plate can be used as a sound source that emits intense ultrasonic waves in air by placing a jut driving point outside the vibrating plate. The aim of this research was to use this vibrating plate to focus sound waves in the direction perpendicular to the nodal lines of the vibrating plate, which differs from the conventional direction. In this study, we investigated new methods for focusing the emitted sound waves by arranging reflective plates around the vibrating plate, using a design equation for each node between nodes in the vibrating plate, and placing additional reflective plates at an outer position beyond the convergence point, and found that a powerful acoustic field can be formed at an arbitrary position.
Aberrant methylation ofPCDH10andRASSF1Agenes in blood samples for non-invasive diagnosis and prognostic assessment of gastric cancer
Authors: Pimson Charinya , Ekalaksananan Tipaya , Pientong Chamsai , Promthet Supannee , Putthanachote Nuntiput , Suwanrungruang Krittika , Wiangnon Surapon
Published: June 2016

Background.Assessment of DNA methylation of specific genes is one approach to the diagnosis of cancer worldwide. Early stage detection is necessary to reduce the mortality rate of cancers, including those occurring in the stomach. For this purpose, tumor cells in circulating blood offer promising candidates for non-invasive diagnosis. Transcriptional inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, likePCDH10andRASSF1A, by methylation is associated with progression of gastric cancer, and such methylation can therefore be utilized as a biomarker.

Methods.The present research was conducted to evaluate DNA methylation in these two genes using blood samples of gastric cancer cases. Clinicopathological data were also analyzed and cumulative survival rates generated for comparison.

Results.High frequencies ofPCDH10andRASSF1Amethylations in the gastric cancer group were noted (94.1% and 83.2%, respectively, as compared to 2.97% and 5.45% in 202 matched controls). Most patients (53.4%) were in severe stage of the disease, with a median survival time of 8.4 months after diagnosis. Likewise, the patients with metastases, orRASSF1AandPCDH10methylations, had median survival times of 7.3, 7.8, and 8.4 months, respectively. A Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that cumulative survival was significantly lower in those cases positive for methylation ofRASSF1Athan in their negative counterparts. Similarly, whereas almost 100% of patients positive forPCDH10methylation had died after five years, none of the negative cases died over this period. Notably, the methylations ofRASSF1AandPCDH10were found to be higher in the late-stage patients and were also significantly correlated with metastasis and histology.

Conclusions.PCDH10andRASSF1Amethylations in blood samples can serve as potential non-invasive diagnostic indicators in blood for gastric cancer. In addition toRASSF1Amethylation, tumor stage proved to be a major prognostic factor in terms of survival rates.
Quantifying uncertainty in Gulf of Mexico forecasts stemming from uncertain initial conditions
Authors: Iskandarani Mohamed , Le Hénaff Matthieu , Thacker William Carlisle , Srinivasan Ashwanth , Knio Omar M.
Published: June 2016

Polynomial Chaos (PC) methods are used to quantify the impacts of initial conditions uncertainties on oceanic forecasts of the Gulf of Mexico circulation. Empirical Orthogonal Functions are used as initial conditions perturbations with their modal amplitudes considered as uniformly distributed uncertain random variables. These perturbations impact primarily the Loop Current system and several frontal eddies located in its vicinity. A small ensemble is used to sample the space of the modal amplitudes and to construct a surrogate for the evolution of the model predictions via a nonintrusive Galerkin projection. The analysis of the surrogate yields verification measures for the surrogate's reliability and statistical information for the model output. A variance analysis indicates that the sea surface height predictability in the vicinity of the Loop Current is limited to about 20 days.
Sources of Sahelian‐Sudan moisture: Insights from a moisture‐tracing atmospheric model
Authors: Salih Abubakr A. M. , Zhang Qiong , Pausata Francesco S. R. , Tjernström Michael
Published: June 2016

The summer rainfall across Sahelian‐Sudan is one of the main sources of water for agriculture, human, and animal needs. However, the rainfall is characterized by large interannual variability, which has attracted extensive scientific efforts to understand it. This study attempts to identify the source regions that contribute to the Sahelian‐Sudan moisture budget during July through September. We have used an atmospheric general circulation model with an embedded moisture‐tracing module (Community Atmosphere Model version 3), forced by observed (1979–2013) sea‐surface temperatures. The result suggests that about 40% of the moisture comes with the moisture flow associated with the seasonal migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and originates from Guinea Coast, central Africa, and the Western Sahel. The Mediterranean Sea, Arabian Peninsula, and South Indian Ocean regions account for 10.2%, 8.1%, and 6.4%, respectively. Local evaporation and the rest of the globe supply the region with 20.3% and 13.2%, respectively. We also compared the result from this study to a previous analysis that used the Lagrangian model FLEXPART forced by ERA‐Interim. The two approaches differ when comparing individual regions, but are in better agreement when neighboring regions of similar atmospheric flow features are grouped together. Interannual variability with the rainfall over the region is highly correlated with contributions from regions that are associated with the ITCZ movement, which is in turn linked to the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation. Our result is expected to provide insights for the effort on seasonal forecasting of the rainy season over Sahelian Sudan.
A multiscale approach to determine hydraulic conductivity in thick claystone aquitards using field, laboratory, and numerical modeling methods
Authors: Smith L. A. , Barbour S. L. , Hendry M. J. , Novakowski K. , van der Kamp G.
Published: June 2016

Characterizing the hydraulic conductivity (K) of aquitards is difficult due to technical and logistical difficulties associated with field‐based methods as well as the cost and challenge of collecting representative and competent core samples for laboratory analysis. The objective of this study was to produce a multiscale comparison of vertical and horizontal hydraulic conductivity (Kv and Kh, respectively) of a regionally extensive Cretaceous clay‐rich aquitard in southern Saskatchewan. Ten vibrating wire pressure transducers were lowered into place at depths between 25 and 325 m, then the annular was space was filled with a cement‐bentonite grout. The in situ Kh was estimated at the location of each transducer by simulating the early‐time pore pressure measurements following setting of the grout using a 2‐D axisymmetric, finite element, numerical model. Core samples were collected during drilling for conventional laboratory testing for Kv to compare with the transducer‐determined in situ Kh. Results highlight the importance of scale and consideration of the presence of possible secondary features (e.g., fractures) in the aquitard. The proximity of the transducers to an active potash mine (∼1 km) where depressurization of an underlying aquifer resulted in drawdown through the aquitard provided a unique opportunity to model the current hydraulic head profile using both the Kh and Kv estimates. Results indicate that the transducer‐determined Kh estimates would allow for the development of the current hydraulic head distribution, and that simulating the pore pressure recovery can be used to estimate moderately low in situ Kh (<10−11 m s−1).
Energetic electron acceleration observed by MMS in the vicinity of an X‐line crossing
Authors: Jaynes A. N. , Turner D. L. , Wilder F. D. , Osmane A. , Baker D. N. , Blake J. B. , Fennell J. F. , Cohen I. J. , Mauk B. H. , Reeves G. D. , Ergun R. E. , Giles B. L. , Gershman D. J. , Torbert R. B. , Burch J. L.
Published: June 2016

During the first months of observations, the Magnetospheric Multiscale Fly's Eye Energetic Particle Spectrometer instrument has observed several instances of electron acceleration up to >100 keV while in the vicinity of the dayside reconnection region. While particle acceleration associated with magnetic reconnection has been seen to occur up to these energies in the tail region, it had not yet been reported at the magnetopause. This study reports on observations of electron acceleration up to hundreds of keV that were recorded on 19 September 2015 around 1000 UT, in the midst of an X‐line crossing. In the region surrounding the X‐line, whistler‐mode and broadband electrostatic waves were observed simultaneously with the appearance of highly energetic electrons which exhibited significant energization in the perpendicular direction. The mechanisms by which particles may be accelerated via reconnection‐related processes are intrinsic to understanding particle dynamics among a wide range of spatial scales and plasma environments.
Wintertime water dynamics and moonlight disruption of the acoustic backscatter diurnal signal in an ice‐covered Northeast Greenland fjord
Authors: Petrusevich Vladislav , Dmitrenko Igor A. , Kirillov Sergey A. , Rysgaard Søren , Falk‐Petersen Stig , Barber David G. , Boone Wieter , Ehn Jens K.
Published: June 2016

Six and a half month records from three ice‐tethered Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers deployed in October 2013 in Young Sound fjord in Northeast Greenland are used to analyze the acoustic backscatter signal. The acoustic data suggest a systematic diel vertical migration (DVM) of scatters below the land‐fast ice during polar night. The scatters were likely composed of zooplankton. The acoustic signal pattern typical to DVM persisted in Young Sound throughout the entire winter including the period of civil polar night. However, polynya‐enhanced estuarine‐like cell circulation that occurred during winter disrupted the DVM signal favoring zooplankton to occupy the near‐surface water layer. This suggests that zooplankton avoided spending additional energy crossing the interface with a relatively strong velocity gradient comprised by fjord inflow in the intermediate layer and outflow in the subsurface layer. Instead, the zooplankton tended to remain in the upper 40 m layer where relatively warmer water temperatures associated with upward heat flux during enhanced estuarine‐like circulation could be energetically favorable. Furthermore, our data show moonlight disruption of DVM in the subsurface layer and weaker intensity of vertical migration beneath snow covered land‐fast ice during polar night. Finally, by using existing models for lunar illuminance and light transmission through sea ice and snow cover, we estimated under ice illuminance and compared it with known light sensitivity of Arctic zooplankton species.
Clandestine/Hidden Organizations
Authors: Stohl Cynthia , Stohl Michael
Published: June 2016

Clandestine/hidden organizations are composed of groups of people who keep their affiliations secret and conceal internal and external organizational activities. Since the early 2000s, the prominence and notoriety of clandestine organizations have made them the subject of much discussion, debate, and research, although they have existed throughout human history. Three distinct communication characteristics that distinguish clandestine organizations from other types of collective organization create several theoretical, methodological, and ethical challenges for researchers. The increasing development and use of digital information technologies make the study of clandestine organizations both easier and more difficult.
Sensemaking
Authors: Kramer Michael W.
Published: June 2016

The concept of sensemaking has generated a great deal of interest and research in organizational settings. In its simplest form, sensemaking involves assigning meaning to experiences. A more complete understanding of the concept recognizes that differences between expectations and experiences lead to sensemaking. Through a communication process of sensebreaking and sensegiving, organizational members assign meaning to their everyday experiences. By committing to a particular interpretation of their experiences, they create an identity that influences their future actions.
Piezoelectric Gold: Strong Charge‐Load Response in a Metal‐Based Hybrid Nanomaterial
Authors: Stenner Charlotte , Shao Li‐Hua , Mameka Nadiia , Weissmüller Jörg
Published: June 2016

Impregnating the pores of nanoporous gold with aqueous electrolyte yields a hybrid nanomaterial with two separate and interpenetrating charge transport paths, electronic conduction in the metal and ionic conduction in the electrolyte. As the two paths are capacitively connected, space‐charge layers along the internal interfaces are coupled to electric potential differences between the paths and can be controlled or detected thereby. The present experiments show that the space charge couples to mechanical deformation of the hybrid material, so that external loading generates an electric current. The electric signal originates from charge displacement along the entire internal interface; the signal is particularly robust since the interface area is large. The charge transfer in response to load constitutes a piezoelectric response, yet the mechanism is quite different to classic piezoelectricity. The analysis in this work predicts links between electromechanical coupling parameters for strain sensing and actuation, which are in excellent agreement with the experiment.
Hierarchical Nanohybrids of Gold Nanorods and PGMA‐Based Polycations for Multifunctional Theranostics
Authors: Zhao Nana , Li Jia , Zhou Yiqiang , Hu Yang , Wang Ranran , Ji Zhaoxia , Liu Fusheng , Xu Fu‐Jian
Published: June 2016

Organic/inorganic nanohybrids hold great importance in fabricating multifunctional theranostics to integrate therapeutic functions with real‐time imaging. Although Au nanorods (NRs) have been employed for theranostics, complicated design of materials limits their practical applications. In this work, new multifunctional theranostic agents are designed and synthesized employing Au NRs with desirable near‐infrared absorbance as the cores. A facile “grafting‐onto” approach is put forward to prepare the series of hierarchical nanohybrids (Au‐PGEA and Au‐PGED) of Au NRs and poly(glycidyl methacrylate)‐based polycations. The resultant nanohybrids can be utilized as gene carriers with high gene transfection performances. The structural effect of polycations on gene transfection is investigated in detail, and Au‐PGEA with abundant hydroxyl groups on the surface exhibits superior performance. Au‐PGEA nanohybrids are further validated to possess remarkable capability of combined photothermal therapy (PTT) and gene therapy (GT) for complementary tumor treatment. Moreover, significantly enhanced computed tomography (CT)/photoacoustic (PA) signals are detected both in vitro and in vivo, verifying the potential of Au‐PGEA for dual‐modal imaging with precise and accurate information. Therefore, these multifunctional nanohybrids fabricated from a simple and straightforward strategy are promising for in vivo dual‐modal CT/PA imaging guided GT/PTT therapy with high antitumor efficacy.
Training Neural Stem Cells on Functional Collagen Scaffolds for Severe Spinal Cord Injury Repair
Authors: Li Xing , Liu Sumei , Zhao Yannan , Li Jiayin , Ding Wenyong , Han Sufang , Chen Bing , Xiao Zhifeng , Dai Jianwu
Published: June 2016

Neural stem cells (NSCs) transplantation is regarded as a promising therapeutic strategy to treat severe spinal cord injury (SCI) by compensating the neuronal loss. However, significant challenges including long‐term survival, directed neuronal differentiation, and functional integration of the transplanted NSCs and their progenies within the host spinal cord are yet to be solved. In this study, NSCs are trained on differently modified collagen scaffolds to increase their neuronal differentiation rate when cultured under the simulated SCI microenvironment. Then, a functional scaffold is screened out, on which the cultured NSCs show high neuronal differentiation rate and generate both sensory and motor mature neurons. Subsequently, that NSC seeded functional scaffold is transplanted into a rat severe SCI model. The results show that higher endogenous neurogenesis efficiency as well as in vivo survival and neuronal differentiation rate of the grafted NSCs are observed. Moreover, both sensory and motor neurons are found to be differentiated from the grafted NSCs in the lesion site and those newly generated neurons can functionally interact with each other and the host neurons. Taken together, the in vitro training systems for modulating the differentiation profiles of NSCs are instructive and exhibit strong potentials for SCI treatments.
Controlling Molecular Orientation of Naphthalenediimide‐Based Polymer Acceptors for High Performance All‐Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Jung Jihye , Lee Wonho , Lee Changyeon , Ahn Hyungju , Kim Bumjoon J.
Published: June 2016

Molecular orientation, with respect to donor/acceptor interface and electrodes, plays a critical role in determining the performance of all‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs), but is often difficult to rationally control. Here, an effective approach for tuning the molecular crystallinity and orientation of naphthalenediimide‐bithiophene‐based n‐type polymers (P(NDI2HD‐T2)) by controlling their number average molecular weights (Mn) is reported. A series of P(NDI2HD‐T2) polymers with different Mn of 13.6 (PL), 22.9 (PM), and 49.9 kg mol−1 (PH) are prepared by changing the amount of end‐capping agent (2‐bromothiophene) during polymerization. Increasing the Mn values of P(NDI2HD‐T2) polymers leads to a remarkable shift of dominant lamellar crystallite textures from edge‐on (PL) to face‐on (PH) as well as more than a twofold increase in the crystallinity. For example, the portion of face‐on oriented crystallites is dramatically increased from 21.5% and 46.1%, to 78.6% for PL, PM, and PH polymers. These different packing structures in terms of the molecular orientation greatly affect the charge dissociation efficiency at the donor/acceptor interface and thus the short‐circuit current density of the all‐PSCs. All‐PSCs with PTB7‐Th as electron donor and PH as electron acceptor show the highest efficiency of 6.14%, outperforming those with PM (5.08%) and PL (4.29%).
Improvement in the biological standard of living in 20th century Korea: Evidence from age at menarche
Authors: Sohn Kitae
Published: June 2016

Objectives

We used age at menarche to understand improvement in the biological standard of living in South Korea during the 20th century.

Methods

The main dataset, the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, provided a consistent source of nationally representative data with a large number of observations over a long period of time. We calculated mean ages at menarche by birth year and estimated the rate of decrease in age at menarche, while avoiding survival bias.

Results

The mean age at menarche decreased from 16.64 for the birth year 1941 to 12.68 for the birth year 1992, decreasing 0.78 (or 0.81 in a regression) years per decade for the period. Comparisons with other populations demonstrate that this is the fastest rate of decline ever known. In contrast to other developed countries, the decreasing rate in Korea does not appear to slow. We also compared the trend in age at menarche to that of height and found that the rate of increase in height is also the fastest in history.

Conclusions

Age at menarche is an appropriate index of change in the general standard of living in South Korea over the 20th century. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 29:e22882, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
RIN2 syndrome: Expanding the clinical phenotype
Authors: Rosato Simonetta , Syx Delfien , Ivanovski Ivan , Pollazzon Marzia , Santodirocco Daniela , De Marco Loredana , Beltrami Marina , Callewaert Bert , Garavelli Livia , Malfait Fransiska
Published: June 2016

Biallelic defects in the RIN2 gene, encoding the Ras and Rab interactor 2 protein, are associated with a rare autosomal recessive connective tissue disorder, with only nine patients from four independent families reported to date. The condition was initially termed MACS syndrome (macrocephaly, alopecia, cutis laxa, and scoliosis), based on the clinical features of the first identified family; however, with the expansion of the clinical phenotype in additional families, it was subsequently coined RIN2 syndrome. Hallmark features of this condition include dysmorphic facial features with striking, progressive facial coarsening, sparse hair, normal to enlarged occipitofrontal circumference, soft redundant and/or hyperextensible skin, and scoliosis. Patients with RIN2 syndrome present phenotypic overlap with other conditions, including EDS (especially the dermatosparaxis and kyphoscoliosis subtypes). Here, we describe a 10th patient, the first patient of Caucasian origin and the oldest reported patient so far, who harbors the previously identified homozygous RIN2 mutation c.1878dupC (p. (Ile627Hisfs*7)). Besides the hallmark features, this patient also presents problems not previously associated with RIN2 syndrome, including cervical vertebral fusion, mild hearing loss, and colonic fibrosis. We provide an overview of the clinical findings in all reported patients with RIN2 mutations and summarize some of the possible pathogenic mechanisms that may underlie this condition. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel CCM2 variant in a family with non‐progressive cognitive complaints and cerebral microbleeds
Authors: Cohn‐Hokke Petra E. , Holstege Henne , Weiss Marjan M. , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Barkhof Frederik , Sistermans Erik A. , Pijnenburg Yolande A. L. , van Swieten John C. , Meijers‐Heijboer Hanne , Scheltens Philip
Published: June 2016

Lobar cerebral microbleeds are most often sporadic and associated with Alzheimer's disease. The aim of our study was to identify the underlying genetic defect in a family with cognitive complaints and multiple lobar microbleeds and a positive family history for early onset Alzheimer's disease. We performed exome sequencing followed by Sanger sequencing for validation purposes on genomic DNA of three siblings with cognitive complaints, reduced amyloid‐beta‐42 in CSF and multiple cerebral lobar microbleeds. We checked for the occurrence of the variant in a cohort of 363 patients with early onset dementia and/or microbleeds. A novel frameshift variant (c.236_237delAC) generating a premature stop codon in the CCM2 gene shared by all three siblings was identified. Pathogenicity of the variant was supported by the presence of cerebral cavernous malformations in two of the siblings and by the absence of the variant exome variant databases. Two siblings were homozygous for APOE‐ϵ4; one heterozygous. The cognitive complaints, reduced amyloid‐beta‐42 in CSF and microbleeds suggest preclinical Alzheimer's disease, but the stability of the cognitive complaints does not. We hypothesize that the phenotype in this family may be due to a combination of the CCM2 variant and the APOE status. © 2016 The Authors. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part B: Neuropsychiatric Genetics Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Germanium‐Based Nanomaterials for Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Wu Songping , Han Cuiping , Iocozzia James , Lu Mingjia , Ge Rongyun , Xu Rui , Lin Zhiqun
Published: June 2016

Germanium‐based nanomaterials have emerged as important candidates for next‐generation energy‐storage devices owing to their unique chemical and physical properties. In this Review, we provide a review of the current state‐of‐the‐art in germanium‐based materials design, synthesis, processing, and application in battery technology. The most recent advances in the area of Ge‐based nanocomposite electrode materials and electrolytes for solid‐state batteries are summarized. The limitations of Ge‐based materials for energy‐storage applications are discussed, and potential research directions are also presented with an emphasis on commercial products and theoretical investigations.
Application of Pd‐2A3HP‐MCM‐41 to the Suzuki, Heck and Stille coupling reactions and synthesis of 5‐substituted 1H‐tetrazoles
Authors: Nikoorazm Mohsen , Ghorbani‐Choghamarani Arash , Khanmoradi Maryam
Published: June 2016

An ecofriendly heterogeneous catalyst has been synthesized by anchoring palladium onto the surface of organically modified mesoporous silica. The prepared catalyst was characterized using X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopies, transmission and scanning electron microscopies, inductively coupled plasma and thermogravimetric techniques. The catalyst shows high activity in the Suzuki, Heck and Stille cross‐coupling reactions and the synthesis of 5‐substituted 1H‐tetrazoles from sodium azide (NaN3). These methods have the advantages of high yields, green reaction conditions, simple methodology and easy separation and workup. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controlled DNA interpolyelectrolyte complex formation or dissociation via stimuli‐responsive poly(vinylamine‐co‐N‐vinylisobutylamide)
Authors: Tachaboonyakiat Wanpen , Ajiro Hiroharu , Akashi Mitsuru
Published: June 2016

Poly(vinylamine‐co‐N‐vinylisobutylamide) or poly(VAm‐co‐NVIBA) was evaluated for its ability to stabilize double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA) with the controlled formation or dissociation of polyion complexes. The poly(VAm‐co‐NVIBA) copolymer consists of the cationic poly(vinylamine) (VAm) that electrostatically binds to the anionic DNA and the thermally responsive poly(N‐isobutylamide) (NVIBA) that helps limit the strength of the electrostatic interaction and prevents the alteration of the DNA helical structure. Agarose gel electrophoresis showed the successful complexation between dsDNA and poly(VAm‐co‐NVIBA). Moreover, DNA was released from the complex at 65 °C, but not at 25 °C. Thus, the NVIBA component in the copolymer played an important role in controlling the process of complex formation or dissociation according to the pH and temperature. The results showed that the molecular design of polycations with a thermoresponsive part is a potential strategy to allow the controllable formation and dissociation of the copolymer/dsDNA complex while avoiding changes to the DNA helical structure. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43852.
Bimetallic Effects of Silver‐Modified Nickel Catalysts and their Synergy in Glycerol Hydrogenolysis
Authors: Chen Bin , Zhang Bin , Zhang Yibo , Yang Xiangguang
Published: June 2016

A series of Ag‐modified Ni catalysts was prepared, and the role of bimetallic effects on the selective cleavage of C−O and C−C bonds was investigated in glycerol hydrogenolysis, a model reaction for the utilization of biomass‐derived polyols. Compared to Raney Ni, the optimal Raney Ni6Ag catalyst was more active in glycerol conversion and efficient for C−O bond cleavage to afford a higher selectivity toward C3 products (1,2‐propanediol and lactic acid; 88 %) at the same ∼70 % conversion of glycerol, especially 1,2‐propanediol (73 %). On Ni catalysts, the hydrogenation of adsorbed species was the most likely rate‐limiting step in glycerol hydrogenolysis under alkaline conditions. The Ag additive enhanced the hydrogenation ability of Ni catalysts, which should be related to the higher strength of the adsorption of hydrogen and the lower strength of the adsorption of substrates on Ni sites because of the formation of Ni‐Ag alloys. A mechanistic interpretation was presented for the excellent catalytic behavior.
Oxidovanadium(V) Complexes Anchored on Carbon Materials as Catalysts for the Oxidation of 1‐Phenylethanol
Authors: Sutradhar Manas , Martins Luísa M. D. R. S. , Carabineiro Sónia A. C. , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Buijnsters Josephus G. , Figueiredo José L. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: June 2016

Six oxidovanadium(V) aroylhydrazone complexes derived from (3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐2‐hydroxybenzylidene)‐2‐hydroxybenzohydrazide (H2L1) and (3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐2‐hydroxybenzylidene)‐2‐aminobenzohydrazide (H2L2), namely, [VOL1(OEt)][VOL1(OEt) (EtOH)] (1), [VOL2(OEt)] (2), [Et3NH][VO2L1] (3), [VO2(HL2)]⋅2 EtOH (4), [(VOL1)2(μ‐O)] (5), and [(VOL2)2(μ‐O)] (6), were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR, and 51V NMR spectroscopies, ESI‐MS and, for 1–5, single‐crystal XRD. The compounds have VO3+ (1 and 2), VO2+ (3 and 4), and V2O34+ (5 and 6) cores. They are active homogeneous catalysts in the microwave‐assisted, solvent‐free peroxidative oxidation of 1‐phenylethanol to acetophenone by tBuOOH. The immobilization of the oxidovanadium complexes (1, 2, 4, and 5) on oxidized carbon materials improved the oxidation efficiency and allowed catalyst reuse with the preservation of activity.
Effect of Solvent on Nanoparticle Production of β‐Carotene by a Supercritical Antisolvent Process
Authors: Nerome Hazuki , Machmudah Siti , Wahyudiono  , Fukuzato Ryuichi , Higashiura Takuma , Kanda Hideki , Goto Motonobu
Published: June 2016

Production of micro‐ to nano‐sized particles of β‐carotene was investigated by means of solution‐enhanced dispersion by supercritical fluids (SEDS). β‐Carotene was dissolved in dichloromethane (DCM), N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF), n‐hexane, or ethyl acetate, and supercritical CO2 served as an antisolvent. The effects of the organic solvents, operating pressure, and temperature were examined. The morphologies of the particles produced by the SEDS were observed by field emission‐scanning electron microscopy and particle sizes were determined by image analysis. Irregularly shaped microparticles were produced in the system with DCM and DMF solution. Plate‐like microparticles were generated by using n‐hexane solution and irregular nanoparticles by ethyl acetate solution. The optimum operating conditions were found to be ethyl acetate as solvent in a defined pressure and temperature range.
Novel Approach to the Detection of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Using Body Mass Index–Corrected Electrocardiographic Voltage Criteria in a Group of African Ancestry
Authors: Robinson Chanel , Woodiwiss Angela J. , Libhaber Carlos D. , Norton Gavin R.
Published: June 2016

Background

Electrocardiographic (ECG) QRS voltages used to generate criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) detection are considerably attenuated by obesity. This effect renders the utility of ECG criteria to detect LVH in obese individuals of African ancestry to be of limited value.

Hypothesis

A novel approach to correcting QRS voltages for the attenuating effect of body mass index (BMI) will improve the ability of ECG criteria to detect LVH in a group of African descent.

Methods

Left ventricular mass was determined from echocardiography in 661 randomly selected participants (43.0% obese) of black African ancestry in South Africa.

Results

As compared with Cornell and Sokolow‐Lyon voltage criteria, BMI best correlated with RaVL, Gubner‐Ungerleider, and Lewis QRS complex voltages, but these relations were noted only in those with BMI <29 kg/m2. Correcting RaVL and Lewis voltages by the difference in the slope of BMI‐voltage relations in those with BMI <29 kg/m2 vs those with BMI ≥29 kg/m2 showed the greatest performance for LVH detection (uncorrected RaVL: 0.695 ± 0.025, corrected RaVL: 0.733 ± 0.022; P < 0.0001), and also increased the sensitivity (uncorrected RaVL: 30.6%, corrected RaVL: 42.4%; P < 0.0005) with no significant change in specificity (uncorrected RaVL: 86.3%, corrected RaVL: 83.0%; P = 0.28).

Conclusions

We offer a novel approach to correcting ECG voltages for the attenuating effects of obesity in individuals of African ancestry, and this improves the performance and sensitivity for LVH detection.
Weighing the relative potential impacts of climate change and land‐use change on an endangered bird
Authors: Bancroft Betsy A. , Lawler Joshua J. , Schumaker Nathan H.
Published: June 2016

Climate change and land‐use change are projected to be the two greatest drivers of biodiversity loss over the coming century. Land‐use change has resulted in extensive habitat loss for many species. Likewise, climate change has affected many species resulting in range shifts, changes in phenology, and altered interactions. We used a spatially explicit, individual‐based model to explore the effects of land‐use change and climate change on a population of the endangered Red‐cockaded Woodpecker (RCW; Picoides borealis). We modeled the effects of land‐use change using multiple scenarios representing different spatial arrangements of new training areas for troops across Fort Benning. We used projected climate‐driven changes in habitat and changes in reproductive output to explore the potential effects of climate change. We summarized potential changes in habitat based on the output of the dynamic vegetation model LPJ‐GUESS, run for multiple climate change scenarios through the year 2100. We projected potential changes in reproduction based on an empirical relationship between spring precipitation and the mean number of successful fledglings produced per nest attempt. As modeled in our study, climate change had virtually no effect on the RCW population. Conversely, simulated effects of land‐use change resulted in the loss of up to 28 breeding pairs by 2100. However, the simulated impacts of development depended on where the development occurred and could be completely avoided if the new training areas were placed in poor‐quality habitat. Our results demonstrate the flexibility inherent in many systems that allows seemingly incompatible human land uses, such as development, and conservation actions to exist side by side.
Is individual consistency in body mass and reproductive decisions linked to individual specialization in foraging behavior in a long‐lived seabird?
Authors: Dehnhard Nina , Eens Marcel , Sturaro Nicolas , Lepoint Gilles , Demongin Laurent , Quillfeldt Petra , Poisbleau Maud
Published: June 2016

Individual specialization in diet or foraging behavior within apparently generalist populations has been described for many species, especially in polar and temperate marine environments, where resource distribution is relatively predictable. It is unclear, however, whether and how increased environmental variability – and thus reduced predictability of resources – due to global climate change will affect individual specialization. We determined the within‐ and among‐individual components of the trophic niche and the within‐individual repeatability of δ13C and δ15N in feathers and red blood cells of individual female southern rockhopper penguins (Eudyptes chrysocome) across 7 years. We also investigated the effect of environmental variables (Southern Annular Mode, Southern Oscillation Index, and local sea surface temperature anomaly) on the isotopic values, as well as the link between stable isotopes and female body mass, clutch initiation dates, and total clutch mass. We observed consistent red blood cell δ13C and δ15N values within individuals among years, suggesting a moderate degree of within‐individual specialization in C and N during the prebreeding period. However, the total niche width was reduced and individual specialization not present during the premolt period. Despite significant interannual differences in isotope values of C and N and environmental conditions, none of the environmental variables were linked to stable isotope values and thus able to explain phenotypic plasticity. Furthermore, neither the within‐individual nor among‐individual effects of stable isotopes were found to be related to female body mass, clutch initiation date, or total clutch mass. In conclusion, our results emphasize that the degree of specialization within generalist populations can vary over the course of 1 year, even when being consistent within the same season across years. We were unable to confirm that environmental variability counteracts individual specialization in foraging behavior, as phenotypic plasticity in δ13C and δ15N was not linked to any of the environmental variables studied.
Late Pleistocene climate change promoted divergence betweenPicea asperataandP. crassifoliaon the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau through recent bottlenecks
Authors: Bi Hao , Yue Wei , Wang Xi , Zou Jiabin , Li Lili , Liu Jianquan , Sun Yongshuai
Published: June 2016

Divergence during the early stage of speciation can be driven by a population bottleneck via reduced gene flow and enhanced lineage sorting. In this study, we aimed to examine whether such bottlenecks occurred during the initial speciation of two closely related spruce speciesPicea asperataandP. crassifoliaoccurring on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP). We analyzed sequences of three chloroplast, two mitochondrialDNAfragments and a further 13 nuclear loci from 216 individuals of the two species. Both species showed a low level of genetic diversity in contrast to other congeners occurring in theQTPand adjacent regions. The estimated population sizes ofP. asperataandP. crassifoliaare less than the ancestral population size before splitting. These results together with multiple statistical tests (Tajima'sD, Fu and Li'sD* andF*) suggest that these two species underwent recent bottlenecks. Based on approximate Bayesian computation (ABC), we also determined that the period of the population shrinkage was consistent with the interspecific divergence during the late Pleistocene. The reduced population sizes and the divergent selection may together have triggered the initial divergence under high gene flow between these two species. Our results therefore highlight the importance of climatic oscillations during the late Pleistocene in promoting speciation through changing demographic sizes of the ancestral species on theQTPand in adjacent regions.
Synthesis, Single‐Crystal Structure Determination, and Vibrational Spectroscopy of the Europium Borate Eu[B6O8(OH)5]·H3BO3
Authors: Ortner Teresa S. , Wurst Klaus , Seibald Markus , Joachim Bastian , Huppertz Hubert
Published: June 2016

The new europium borate Eu[B6O8(OH)5]·H3BO3 was obtained by hydrothermal synthesis from europium nitrate hydrate and boric acid. The compound crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1 (no. 2) with the lattice parameters a = 681.59(3), b = 714.17(3), c = 1271.88(6) pm, α = 96.02(1), β = 98.60(1), γ = 101.73(1)° (Z = 2). The structure of Eu[B6O8(OH)5]·H3BO3 is isotypic to that of the samarium borate Sm[B6O8(OH)5]·H3BO3 and is built up from tetrahedral BO4 and trigonal‐planar BO3 units, both of which are protonated at terminal and bridging oxygen positions. Boric acid molecules reside between the borate layers. Through hydrogen bonding, the structure forms a three‐dimensional network. In channels down [110], the Eu3+ cations are eightfold coordinated by oxygen ions. The compound was also characterized by IR and Raman spectroscopy, and it shows typical Eu3+ line emission.
Dehydrogenative Coupling of a Tertiary Silane Using Wilkinson's Catalyst
Authors: Azpeitia Susan , Fernández Belén , Garralda María A. , Huertos Miguel A.
Published: June 2016

Wilkinson's catalyst [Rh(PPh3)3Cl] results active in the dehydrogenative coupling of the tertiary silane SiMeH(o‐C6H4SMe)2 (L1) to give (o‐C6H4SMe)2MeSi–SiMe(o‐C6H4SMe)2 (L2). The stoichiometric reaction of [Rh(PPh3)3Cl] with L1 affords a new silyl‐hydrido‐RhIII complex [Rh(H){SiMe(o‐C6H4SMe)2}Cl(PPh3)] (1), which results also active in the dehydrocoupling of L1. The unsaturated RhIII compound [Rh(H){SiMe(o‐C6H4SMe)2}(PPh3)][BArF4] (2) was synthesized by reaction of 1 with NaBArF4 and shows lower catalytic activity in this process. Compound 2 reacts with a second equivalent of L1 to form [Rh{SiMe(o‐C6H4SMe)2}2][BArF4] (3), which is inactive in catalysis. Our results allow proposing 1 as an active species in the catalytic reaction and suggesting the formation of 3 as a deactivation process when the unsaturated compound 2 is used as catalyst.