bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and physicochemical studies of hydration of crosslinked TBA polyacrylates with different substitution degrees of H+ ions with TBA+ ions
Authors: Terekhova Irina S. , Manakov Andrey Yu. , Villevald Galina V.
Published: January 2018

X‐ray powder diffraction studies and physicochemical studies have been carried out of the hydrate phases formed in binary water systems with crosslinked tetrabutylammonium (TBA) polyacrylates (n = 1%) in mixed [x(C4H9)4N + (100−x)H] form with low degrees of substitution of proton ions of the carboxylic groups in poly(acrylic acid) for TBA cations x = 40%, 30%, and 20%. As was shown by structural studies, the clathrate hydrate is formed in the water system with the polyacrylate in the mixed form with x = 40%. The structure is analogous to that of earlier studied hydrates formed by crosslinked polyacrylates in mixed [x(C4H9)4N + (100−x)H] form with higher values of x = ∼100%, 80%, and 60% and can be related to the tetragonal structure I, characteristic of the ionic clathrate hydrates of TBA salts with monomeric anions. Decomposition temperature and fusion enthalpy of the studied hydrate were determined using differential thermal analysis and calorimetric methods. It was revealed that the further decrease of x led to the destruction of clathrate hydrate framework. According to the results of X‐ray powder diffraction research, the phase of ice is crystallized instead of the hydrate phase in water systems with the polyacrylates with x = 30% and 20%. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46209.
Sensitivity to audio‐visual synchrony and its relation to language abilities in children with and without ASD
Authors: Righi Giulia , Tenenbaum Elena J. , McCormick Carolyn , Blossom Megan , Amso Dima , Sheinkopf Stephen J.
Published: January 2018

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often accompanied by deficits in speech and language processing. Speech processing relies heavily on the integration of auditory and visual information, and it has been suggested that the ability to detect correspondence between auditory and visual signals helps to lay the foundation for successful language development. The goal of the present study was to examine whether young children with ASD show reduced sensitivity to temporal asynchronies in a speech processing task when compared to typically developing controls, and to examine how this sensitivity might relate to language proficiency. Using automated eye tracking methods, we found that children with ASD failed to demonstrate sensitivity to asynchronies of 0.3s, 0.6s, or 1.0s between a video of a woman speaking and the corresponding audio track. In contrast, typically developing children who were language‐matched to the ASD group, were sensitive to both 0.6s and 1.0s asynchronies. We also demonstrated that individual differences in sensitivity to audiovisual asynchronies and individual differences in orientation to relevant facial features were both correlated with scores on a standardized measure of language abilities. Results are discussed in the context of attention to visual language and audio‐visual processing as potential precursors to language impairment in ASD. Autism Res 2018, 11: 645–653. © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

Speech processing relies heavily on the integration of auditory and visual information, and it has been suggested that the ability to detect correspondence between auditory and visual signals helps to lay the foundation for successful language development. The goal of the present study was to explore whether children with ASD process audio‐visual synchrony in ways comparable to their typically developing peers, and the relationship between preference for synchrony and language ability. Results showed that there are differences in attention to audiovisual synchrony between typically developing children and children with ASD. Preference for synchrony was related to the language abilities of children across groups.
Cover Image, Volume 12, Issue 1
Authors: Valdez‐Vazquez Idania , Sanchez Arturo
Published: January 2018

The cover image, by Idania Valdez‐Vazquez and Arturo Sanchez, is based on the Modeling and Analysis Proposal for biorefineries based on mixed cultures for lignocellulosic biofuel production: a techno‐economic analysis, DOI: 10.1002/bbb.1828. Photo Credit: Idania Valdez‐Vazquez.

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Defined Serum‐Free Medium for Bioreactor Culture of an Immortalized Human Erythroblast Cell Line
Authors: Lee Esmond , Lim Zhong Ri , Chen Hong‐Yu , Yang Bin Xia , Lam Alan Tin‐Lun , Chen Allen Kuan‐Liang , Sivalingam Jaichandran , Reuveny Shaul , Loh Yuin‐Han , Oh Steve Kah‐Weng
Published: January 2018

Anticipated shortages in donated blood supply have prompted investigation of alternative approaches for in vitro production of red blood cells (RBCs), such as expansion of conditional immortalization erythroid progenitors. However, there is a bioprocessing challenge wherein factors promoting maximal cell expansion and growth‐limiting inhibitory factors are yet to be investigated. The authors use an erythroblast cell line (ImEry) derived from immortalizing CD71+CD235a+ erythroblast from adult peripheral blood for optimization of expansion culture conditions. Design of experiments (DOE) is used in media formulation to explore relationships and interactive effects between factors which affect cell expansion. Our in‐house optimized medium formulation produced significantly higher cell densities (3.62 ± 0.055) × 106 cells mL−1, n = 3) compared to commercial formulations (2.07 ± 0.055) × 106 cells mL−1, n = 3; at 209 h culture). Culture media costs per unit of blood is shown to have a 2.96–3.09 times cost reduction. As a proof of principle for scale up, ImEry are expanded in a half‐liter stirred‐bioreactor under controlled settings. Growth characteristics, metabolic, and molecular profile of the cells are evaluated. ImEry has identical O2 binding capacity to adult erythroblasts. Amino acid supplementation results in further yield improvements. The study serves as a first step for scaling up erythroblast expansion in controlled bioreactors.
Effective sport program evaluation can reap long‐term results
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: January 2018

To accurately assess a sport program, you need an insider's perspective combined with a detailed overview. You can't assume you already know everything you need to know. But you don't have time to extract pertinent facts from coaches when you're compiling an annual report. And you can't rely on the passing comments, praises, and gripes from just a few coaches or student‐athletes. You need the unadulterated truth from everyone in that program.
Beware the legal ramifications of impulsive, contradictory termination decisions
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: January 2018

Both the firing of one coach and the hiring a new one can be a frenzied and emotional time. There's usually significant pressure to get rid of a coach who isn't performing well, and even more pressure to quickly find the right replacement. The recent experiences with the annual coaching carousel remind us all too well that a significant amount of money is at stake in this decision‐making process for the school as well as for both the incoming and outgoing coaches. In situations when schools fire coaches for not winning often enough, the schools usually owe the coaches a payment for the remaining years on the contract and/or whatever buyout amount is specified in the contract.
Tackle problems by seeking input, building partnerships
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: January 2018

When Dawn Stewart first took on her role as director of athletics at Otterbein University six years ago, she knew she had a big challenge to tackle — the lack of alumni engagement with the athletics program. As an alumna of Otterbein's athletics program, she had a hunch about what caused the lack of engagement, but she wanted to find out more.
Telmisartan ameliorates vascular endothelial dysfunction in coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP)
Authors: Jin Zhe , Tan Qindong , Sun Bei
Published: January 2018

Coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP) is a coronary microvascular disorder with an increasing morbidity, and currently, available therapies are of limited clinical value for its cure. Hence, it is urgent to find a novel approach to CSFP treatment. Several studies show that endothelial dysfunction plays a critical role in the aetiology of CSFP. Telmisartan (TMST) is a clinically available anti‐hypertensive medicine and has shown its potential properties for improving vascular endothelial function. Thus, we aimed to investigate the effect of TMST on endothelial dysfunction in CSFP, Endothelial‐dependent flow‐mediated vasodilation, serum levels of nitric oxide, adiponectin, and endothelin‐1 were surveyed before and after 3 months of TMST treatment. And the percentages of vasodilator response to acetylcholine (Ach) were detected after 12 weeks of TMST treatment. Compare with pretreatment, flow‐mediated vasodilation, nitric oxide, and adiponectin were substantially improved after TMST treatment; meanwhile, endothelin‐1 was decreased in the TMST group (all P < .01). Compared with the model group, the vasodilator response to Ach was enormously increased after TMST intervention. Additionally, administration of SU11274 or GW9662 would partially reverse the protective effects of TMST on accumulative concentration‐vasodilator responses to Ach (P < .01). We demonstrated that administration of TMST could remarkably increase the mRNA and/or protein levels of hepatocyte growth factor, mesenchymal‐epithelial transition factor, peroxisome proliferation‐activated receptor γ, whereas dramatically diminish mRNA and/or protein levels of p‐JNK1/2, mitogen‐activated protein kinase, and nuclear factor kappa B (P < .05). Our results thus implicate that TMST ameliorates endothelial dysfunction in CSFP. It is suggested that TSMF may play an important role in the medication of CSFP.
Good enough…isn't
Authors: Auberson Denise , Gray William
Published: January 2018

Key Points

Mild PVR has been shown to increase all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality after TAVR, especially in high surgical risk patients.

Mechanistic and associative causes, as well imprecise ascertainment have been suggested as underlying etiologies of this association.

Ongoing trials with newer valve technologies, broader patient inclusion and more systematic assessment of PVR may provide further insight into the prevalence, causality, and outcome of PVR.
Moving beyond Seldinger, a vascular access and closure smorgasbord, “safe zone” or not
Authors: Turi Zoltan G.
Published: January 2018

Key Points

This paper describes a quality improvement initiative featuring the adoption of multiple access and closure techniques to assess “real world” outcomes.

Although the study does not provide a scientific evidence base, it does highlight the changing platforms being adopted.

Radial, micropuncture, and image guided access will hopefully become near universal in the coming decade.
Mechanism of Carbon Monoxide Dissociation on a Cobalt Fischer–Tropsch Catalyst
Authors: Chen Wei , Zijlstra Bart , Filot Ivo A. W. , Pestman Robert , Hensen Emiel J. M.
Published: January 2018

The front cover artwork for issue 1/2018 is provided by the Laboratory of Inorganic Materials Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology in The Netherlands. The image refers to the complex mechanism underlying the dissociation of CO on a cobalt nanoparticle, a reaction pivotal to Fischer–Tropsch synthesis. The authors used isotopic scrambling and in situ infrared spectroscopy to shed new light on this old issue. See the Communication itself at https://doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201701203.
Interchangeability of Generic Drugs: A Nonparametric Pharmacokinetic Model of Gabapentin Generic Drugs
Authors: Glerum Pieter J. , Yu Yang , Yamada Walter M. , Neely Michael N. , Maliepaard Marc , Burger David M. , Neef Cees
Published: January 2018

Substitution by generic drugs is allowed when bioequivalence to the originator drug has been established. However, it is known that similarity in exposure may not be achieved at every occasion for all individual patients when switching between formulations. The ultimate aim of our research is to investigate if pharmacokinetic subpopulations exist when subjects are exposed to bioequivalent formulations. For that purpose, we developed a pharmacokinetic model for gabapentin, based on data from a previously conducted bioavailability study comparing gabapentin exposure following administration of the gabapentin originator and three generic gabapentin formulations in healthy subjects. Both internal and external validation confirmed that the optimal model for description of the gabapentin pharmacokinetics in this comparative bioavailability study was a two‐compartment model with absorption constant, an absorption lag time, and clearance adjusted for renal function, in which each model parameter was separately estimated per administered formulation.
Reverse Translation: The Art of Cyclical Learning
Authors: Kasichayanula Sreeneeranj , Venkatakrishnan Karthik
Published: January 2018

We live in an era of precision therapeutics, value‐based healthcare, patient‐participatory research, and enhanced clinical trial transparency, with explosive increases in our ability to access and analyze multiscale biological and clinical data from diverse ecosystems. To discover and develop truly transformative medicines with a patient‐centric sense of urgency, we will need to exploit data that lie far beyond the confines of laboratory‐based experimental models and controlled clinical trials, dynamically maximizing the value of information in real‐world data from clinical practice settings and even social media. This demands commitment to a culture that embraces Reverse Translation as a critical component of the practice of Translational Medicine in the discovery, development, regulation, and utilization of therapeutics.
Educate blind, low‐vision students about accessibility features of the iPhone, iPad
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: January 2018

At one time Douglas Walker, who is legally blind, carried a handheld magnifier, a desktop video magnifier, a braille note‐taker, several book‐reading devices, a money identifier, and a color identifier. Now, the accessibility features on an iPad and iPhone replace all those devices. Walker, program leader for the iFocus instructional video series at the Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired and formerly an adjunct professor in the visions program at Vanderbilt University, discussed how Apple devices can help blind and low‐vision students.
Skeletal development in the heterocercal caudal fin of spotted gar (lepisosteus oculatus) and other lepisosteiformes
Authors: Desvignes Thomas , Carey Andrew , Braasch Ingo , Enright Trevor , Postlethwait John H.
Published: January 2018

Background: The caudal fin of actinopterygians experienced substantial morphological changes during evolution. In basal actinopterygians, the caudal fin skeleton supports an asymmetrical heterocercal caudal fin, while most teleosts have a symmetrical homocercal caudal fin. The transition from the ancestral heterocercal form to the derived homocercal caudal fin remains poorly understood. Few developmental studies provide an understanding of derived and ancestral characters among basal actinopterygians. To fill this gap, we examined the development of the caudal fin of spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus, one of only eight living species of Holostei, the sister group to the teleosts. Results: Our observations of animals from fertilization to more than a year old provide the most detailed description of the development of caudal fin skeletal elements in any Holostean species. We observed two different types of distal caudal radials replacing two transient plates of connective tissue, identifying two hypaxial ensembles separated by a space between hypurals 2 and 3. These features have not been described in any gar species, but can be observed in other gar species, and thus represent anatomical structures common to lepisosteiformes. Conclusions: The present work highlights the power and importance of ontogenic studies and provides bases for future evolutionary and morphological investigations on actinopterygians fins. Developmental Dynamics 247:724–740, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Loss of VAMP5 in mice results in duplication of the ureter and insufficient expansion of the lung
Authors: Ikezawa Maiko , Tajika Yuki , Ueno Hitoshi , Murakami Tohru , Inoue Naokazu , Yorifuji Hiroshi
Published: January 2018

Background: Vesicle‐associated membrane protein 5 (VAMP5) is a member of the SNARE protein family, which regulates the docking and fusion of membrane vesicles within cells. Previously, we reported ubiquitous expression of VAMP5 proteins in various organs except the brain and small intestine. However, the precise roles of VAMP5 in each organ remain unclear. To explore the roles of VAMP5 in vivo, we generated VAMP5 knockout (KO) mice. Results: VAMP5 KO mice showed low birth rate and low body weight. KO embryos grew normally in the uterus, and tended to die around birth. Anatomical analysis revealed that viable KO mice often exhibited duplication of the ureter, and dead KO mice showed insufficient expansion of the lung. VAMP5 was localized in the epithelial cells of the ureter and terminal bronchiole. Conclusions: VAMP5 KO mice showed a low birth rate and abnormalities of the urinary and respiratory systems. VAMP5 KO mice died around birth, possibly due to defects in vesicoureteral flow and breathing. The results presented could provide a basis for future studies to understand the roles of VAMP5 protein. Developmental Dynamics 247:754–762, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Generating retinoic acid gradients by local degradation during craniofacial development: One cell's cue is another cell's poison
Authors: Dubey Aditi , Rose Rebecca E. , Jones Drew R. , Saint‐Jeannet Jean‐Pierre
Published: January 2018

Retinoic acid (RA) is a vital morphogen for early patterning and organogenesis in the developing embryo. RA is a diffusible, lipophilic molecule that signals via nuclear RA receptor heterodimeric units that regulate gene expression by interacting with RA response elements in promoters of a significant number of genes. For precise RA signaling, a robust gradient of the morphogen is required. The developing embryo contains regions that produce RA, and specific intracellular concentrations of RA are created through local degradation mediated by Cyp26 enzymes. In order to elucidate the mechanisms by which RA executes precise developmental programs, the kinetics of RA metabolism must be clearly understood. Recent advances in techniques for endogenous RA detection and quantification have paved the way for mechanistic studies to shed light on downstream gene expression regulation coordinated by RA. It is increasingly coming to light that RA signaling operates not only at precise concentrations but also employs mechanisms of degradation and feedback inhibition to self‐regulate its levels. A global gradient of RA throughout the embryo is often found concurrently with several local gradients, created by juxtaposed domains of RA synthesis and degradation. The existence of such local gradients has been found especially critical for the proper development of craniofacial structures that arise from the neural crest and the cranial placode populations. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of how local gradients of RA are established in the embryo and their impact on craniofacial development.
An examination of the clinical outcomes of adolescents and young adults with broad autism spectrum traits and autism spectrum disorder and anorexia nervosa: A multi centre study
Authors: Nazar Bruno Palazzo , Peynenburg Vanessa , Rhind Charlotte , Hibbs Rebecca , Schmidt Ulrike , Gowers Simon , Macdonald Pamela , Goddard Elizabeth , Todd Gillian , Micali Nadia , Treasure Janet
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To compare the clinical outcomes of adolescents and young adults with anorexia nervosa (AN) comorbid with broad autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or ASD traits.

Method

The developmental and well‐being assessment and social aptitude scale were used to categorize adolescents and young adults with AN (N = 149) into those with ASD traits (N = 23), and those who also fulfilled diagnostic criteria for a possible/probable ASD (N = 6). We compared both eating disorders specific measures and broader outcome measures at intake and 12 months follow‐up.

Results

Those with ASD traits had significantly more inpatient/day‐patient service use (p = .015), as well as medication use (p < .001) at baseline. Both groups had high social difficulties and poorer global functioning (strengths and difficulties questionnaire) at baseline, which improved over time but remained higher at 12 months in the ASD traits group (p = .002). However, the improvement in eating disorder symptoms at 12 months was similar between groups with or without ASD traits. Treatment completion rates between AN only and ASD traits were similar (80.1 vs. 86.5%).

Discussion

Adolescents with AN and ASD traits show similar reductions in their eating disorder symptoms. Nevertheless, their social difficulties remain high suggesting that these are life‐long difficulties rather than starvation effects.
Provisional methods to guide species‐specific seed transfer in ecological restoration
Authors: Crow Taylor M. , Albeke Shannon E. , Buerkle C. Alex , Hufford Kristina M.
Published: January 2018

Transferring plant material during ecological restoration has inherent risk. The use of seed transfer guidelines minimizes the possibility of introducing maladapted genotypes. We delineated biogeographic regions relevant to the distribution of Cercocarpus montanus for the purpose of creating provisional seed transfer zones for ecological restoration. We also modeled seed transfer guidelines using quantitative estimates of environmental tolerance and thresholds. Analyses identified broadscale environmental patterns relevant for seed transfer success. First, a species distribution model was used to identify the distribution of C. montanus. Next, we used non‐metric multidimensional scaling to investigate the structure of environmental data, and hierarchical cluster analysis to delineate biogeographic regions (i.e., environmental discontinuities) using species distribution data. Finally, we calculated measures of environmental tolerance and thresholds for C. montanus to model the probability of seed transfer success with multiple logistic regression. Biogeographic regionalization of C. montanus resulted in four major clusters, which agreed with ordination methods. Logistic regression was implemented using estimates of environmental tolerance and threshold data to model seed transfer success. We compared our species‐specific seed transfer zones and guidelines with other provisional seed transfer zone methods and found that our species‐specific methods performed better at explaining phenotypic variation of C. montanus in four out of six cases. Seed transfer zones are useful for restoration planning; however, zonal models fail to reflect much of the environmental heterogeneity present across the range of C. montanus. Continuous models for seed transfer success using environmental tolerance and thresholds enhance the development and use of seed transfer guidelines because they reflect landscape heterogeneity at a fine scale, and the results are relative to restoration sites of interest. Herein, we describe a methodology to construct provisional seed transfer zones and continuous seed transfer guidelines using species‐specific distribution models and multivariate analyses.
Livestock and the functional habitat of vicuñas in Ecuador: a new puzzle
Authors: McLaren Brian E. , MacNearney Douglas , Siavichay Carlos A.
Published: January 2018

Whether interactions between wildlife and livestock are competitive or facilitative is context dependent. Intermediary factors that explain how context (seasonal or regional characteristics of the ecological community) affects these interactions are rarely reported. We compared activity time and density in vicuñas (Vicugna vicugna) introduced into the Chimborazo Faunal Production Reserve (CFPR), Ecuador, to describe how they interact with livestock. We compared vicuña density in wetlands and uplands (two landscape structures) with and without livestock (two conditions) using an isodar approach. We measured, over two seasons, vicuña forage abundance, composition, preference and accessibility, time vicuñas spent vigilant, and their flight distances on approach. We tested optimal foraging theory relating to the hypothesis that time mediates behavior, and found that vicuñas were no less frequently vigilant, nor were flight distances greater, during a wet season or in habitats of greater forage abundance and accessibility. We also found no evidence that vicuña behavior was density dependent; instead, we found that more time was spent vigilant by vicuñas when they foraged near livestock in rainy regions during the dry season. Although forage abundance was similar throughout CFPR during a dry season, better forage quality in areas occupied by livestock may constitute an effect of their facilitating vicuñas. A puzzling finding, because it was not explained by any of the other variables we measured, was that at low densities vicuñas selected habitat irrespective of livestock, and where their density was higher, it was doubly so adjacent to livestock. We conclude that in the CFPR, spatial heterogeneity in habitat quality determines the interactions between livestock and vicuñas. To support recommendations that minimize competition between wildlife and livestock, and to expand on descriptions of the contexts that determine the direction of species interactions, future study may require a wider sampling of the densities of sympatric large herbivores in general, and, in the CFPR, a closer resolution of spatial heterogeneity in forage plant quality.
Allocation to clonal and sexual reproduction and its plasticity in Vallisneria spinulosa along a water‐depth gradient
Authors: Li Lei , Lan Zhichun , Chen Jiakuan , Song Zhiping
Published: January 2018

Variations in water level profoundly affect functional stability of freshwater ecosystems, as well as macrophyte growth and reproduction. Although the trade‐off between allocation to clonal and sexual reproduction in clonal plants can be influenced by a variety of environmental factors, whether variations of reproductive allocation (RA) in response to different environments are driven only by a size‐dependent effect (apparent plasticity) or whether RA can also change independently of plant size (true plasticity) is uncertain. We conducted an experiment in nine outdoor mesocosms (6400 L) to investigate the response of clonal and sexual reproduction and vegetative growth of a perennial submerged macrophyte Vallisneria spinulosa at water depths of 50, 100, or 150 cm. We evaluated size‐dependent and size‐independent effects of water depth on sexual and clonal RA. Deep water reduced vegetative size and sexual output (mass of fruits produced), but increased tuber production of V. spinulosa. There was an apparent trade‐off between reproductive modes in terms of biomass investment; plants in deep water allocated more resources into clonal propagation and reduced investment in sexual reproduction compared to plants in shallow or intermediate water. Slopes of allometric relationships (sexual vs. vegetative biomass and clonal vs. vegetative biomass) were significantly affected by water depth. Shifts in sexual RA in response to varying water depths were largely size‐dependent, but there were also size‐independent effects. In contrast, size‐independent effects were more important than effects of size changes in determining clonal RA. We concluded that V. spinulosa adapted to a water‐depth gradient by plastic trade‐offs between clonal propagation and sexual reproduction. Furthermore, a size‐independent effect on RA suggests a flexible reproductive strategy that could be critical for plant performance in changing aquatic environments.
A salmonid individual‐based model as a proposed decision support tool for management of a large regulated river
Authors: Dudley Peter N.
Published: January 2018

Large regulated rivers often require fisheries and water managers to make management decisions involving resident fish population dynamics that have many ecological drivers. Because of the large scale of the system and often competing interests and demands for water, there is a critical need for decision support tools (DSTs) that allow examination of alternative management scenarios while considering key ecological interactions. Spatially explicit individual‐based models (IBMs) can serve as effective DSTs by providing information on fish population dynamics while accounting for, and providing extensive, spatially explicit information on, the numerous ecological drivers. Spatially explicit IBMs are often difficult to implement owing to the numerous and often complex inputs the models require. Here, I demonstrate how a suite of free, graphical user interface equipped programs, along with three custom‐built and publicly available plugins, can streamline the modeling process and serve as a IBM‐based DST for fisheries management on large regulated rivers. The main program is a spatially explicit IBM of juvenile salmonid dynamics, inSALMO, with two other programs that generate the key input data in the required spatially explicit formats. I then use this proposed DST to simulate a Chinook salmon population on a portion of California's Sacramento River to determine whether an IBM‐based DST is appropriate to evaluate management impacts on a large regulated river. The Sacramento is a large river of major concern in California and is representative of many rivers in the United States and worldwide in that it is dammed, has a resident fish population, and is heavily used for water supply. The proposed DTS results compare favorably with the predictive power of a general additive model, while providing a much fuller and richer data set that could significantly aid and inform management decisions.
Mesophytic litter dampens flammability in fire‐excluded pyrophytic oak–hickory woodlands
Authors: Kreye Jesse K. , Varner J. Morgan , Hamby Gregory W. , Kane Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2018

Fire exclusion in eastern North AmericanQuercus–Caryawoodlands has resulted in overstory compositional changes, linked to altered fuel composition, structure, and ultimately, altered fire regimes. These compositional changes have been implicated in a dampening effect on fire behavior in formerly fire‐prone ecosystems, the positive feedback termed “mesophication.” Several proposed mechanisms are likely involved in this process; however, few have been examined. We evaluated the potential mechanism of dampened forest floor flammability through changes in litter composition in a southeastern U.S. oak–hickory forest undergoing mesophication. Laboratory drying and burning experiments revealed that increasing the relative contribution of litter from fire‐sensitive mesophytic tree species (Liquidambar styraciflua,Ulmus alata, andCornus florida) increased moisture retention and diminished litter flammability. Litterbeds composed of ≥66% mesophyte litter gained the most moisture following fuelbed saturation and were consistently wetter than pyrophyte litter following 12 and 24 h of drying. Flammability metrics decreased with increasing contribution of mesophyte litter with reductions most pronounced under more moist conditions. Under dry conditions, where litter moisture did not differ across compositional treatments, mesophyte litter was less flammable than fuelbeds that contained any pyrophyte litter. The combined effects of moisture retention and less flammable litter reveal an important synergistic impact that may result with increased dominance of fire‐sensitive mesophytic species. Restoration efforts in long‐unburned eastern hardwood forests may require altering stand composition to limit mesophytic litter input or developing burn prescriptions that intensify surface fire behavior in less flammable fuels.
Historical niche partitioning and long‐term trophic shifts in Laurentian Great Lakes deepwater coregonines
Authors: Blanke Chelsey , Chikaraishi Yoshito , Vander Zanden M. Jake
Published: January 2018

Over the last 100 yr, anthropogenic stressors have decimated the assemblage of deepwater coregonines that once underpinned the food webs of the Laurentian Great Lakes. As a part of ongoing restoration efforts, fisheries managers are interested in reintroducing deepwater coregonines from remnant populations to reestablish historical food web connections. However, little is known about historical trophic position and niche partitioning among deepwater coregonines in the Great Lakes. We used nitrogen stable isotope analysis of amino acids to compare trophic position of museum‐preserved (1920s) and present‐day forage fishes in Lakes Michigan and Superior. In the 1920s, deepwater coregonines exhibited clear trophic niche partitioning, with trophic positions spanning a full trophic level. Additionally, species trophic positions were tightly conserved between lakes. In Lake Superior, trophic niche partitioning has been maintained over the last 100 yr, but trophic position has shifted downward by ~0.5 trophic level. The more dramatic species loss in Lake Michigan corresponds with a sharp reduction in trophic niche breadth over time. Our study reveals remarkable trophic niche breadth among deepwater coregonines prior to the major anthropogenic impacts on the Laurentian Great Lakes and provides a food web benchmark for restoring the historical trophic diversity of this iconic species flock.
Small genome separates native and invasive populations in an ecologically important cosmopolitan grass
Authors: Pyšek Petr , Skálová Hana , Čuda Jan , Guo Wen‐Yong , Suda Jan , Doležal Jan , Kauzál Ondřej , Lambertini Carla , Lučanová Magdalena , Mandáková Terezie , Moravcová Lenka , Pyšková Klára , Brix Hans , Meyerson Laura A.
Published: January 2018

The literature suggests that small genomes promote invasion in plants, but little is known about the interaction of genome size with other traits or about the role of genome size during different phases of the invasion process. By intercontinental comparison of native and invasive populations of the common reedPhragmites australis, we revealed a distinct relationship between genome size and invasiveness at the intraspecific level. Monoploid genome size was the only significant variable that clearly separated the North American native plants from those of European origin. The mean Cx value (the amount of DNA in one chromosome set) for source European native populations was 0.490 ± 0.007 (mean ± SD), for North American invasive 0.506 ± 0.020, and for North American native 0.543 ± 0.021. Relative to native populations, the European populations that successfully invaded North America had a smaller genome that was associated with plant traits favoring invasiveness (long rhizomes, early emerging abundant shoots, resistance to aphid attack, and low C:N ratio). The knowledge that invasive populations within species can be identified based on genome size can be applied to screen potentially invasive populations ofPhragmitesin other parts of the world where they could grow in mixed stands with native plants, as well as to other plant species with intraspecific variation in invasion potential. Moreover, as small genomes are better equipped to respond to extreme environmental conditions such as drought, the mechanism reported here may represent an emerging driver for future invasions and range expansions.
Blue‐Fluorescent Probes for Lipid Droplets Based on Dihydrochromeno‐Fused Pyrazolo‐ and Pyrrolopyridines
Authors: Becerra‐Ruiz Martín , Vargas Victor , Jara Patricio , Tirapegui Cristian , Carrasco Carlos , Nuñez Marco , Lezana Nicolás , Galdámez Antonio , Vilches‐Herrera Marcelo
Published: January 2018

Lipid droplets (LDs) have been recognized as highly dynamic cellular organelles involved in important biological functions for the survival of organisms such as supplying food or energy. Nevertheless, lipid storage must be tightly controlled, because both its excess and the inability to store lipids can be detrimental to the organism, resulting in metabolic diseases or multifaceted systemic problems. Visualization and the monitoring of the concentration of LDs is essential to understanding these processes. Commercially available LD dyes, such as Nile Red and boron‐dipyrromethene (BODIPY), offer several advantageous characteristics, but can be limiting in multicolor imaging because most ready‐made fluorescent reporter constructs fluoresce in the green‐to‐red region of the visible spectrum. Nile Red emits between green and red, and BODIPY can be photoconverted from green to red fluorescence, limiting its ability to be utilized for time‐lapse imaging of living cells. Here, we report the design and synthesis, the photophysical characterization, and biological testing of two easily prepared series of new blue‐fluorescing dyes as markers for LDs. Confocal fluorescence microscopy results showed an interesting correlation between the chemical structures of these fluorescent probes and their specific staining patterns. The pyrazole‐based compound 11c was found to be a specific dye for LDs, whereas the pyrrole‐based compound 10d led to prominent staining of the membranous cell organelles.
Vapor phase catalytic degradation studies of diethyl sulfide with MnO/Zeolite‐13X catalysts in presence of air
Authors: Ramakrishna Chowdam , Gopi T. , Shekar S. Chandra , Gupta A. K. , Krishna Racharla
Published: January 2018

Vapor phase catalytic degradation of diethyl sulfide (DES) (simulant of sulfur mustard: a potential chemical warfare agent) at higher concentration (∼1200 ppm) was carried out in a fixed bed flow reactor over MnO/zeolite‐13X catalysts of different manganese contents. The catalytic process was studied in the temperature range of 100–400°C with air as the oxidizing agent. Process parameters such as reaction temperature, metal content, gas hourly space velocity, and RH% were optimized for 100% degradation of DES vapors. Reaction temperature and RH% has significant influence over the activity and stability of MnO/zeolite‐13X catalyst. The major degradation products identified are carbon oxides, ethylene, acetaldehyde, and sulfur dioxide. Traces of diethyl sulfoxide and diethyl sulfone, CSO, ethanol, thioethanol, methane thiol, acetic acid, formic acid, and thiophene are also identified in GC‐MS analyses. The plausible degradation pathway of DES is also proposed based on the analyses results. The MnO/zeolite‐13X catalysts of different compositions are prepared by wet impregnation method and characterized by different characterization techniques. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1705–1712, 2018
Properties of ionic liquid mixtures of [NH2e‐mim][BF4] and [bmim][BF4] as absorbents for CO2 capture
Authors: Wang Mei , Rao Na , Wang Mingming , Cheng Qunpeng , Zhang Shunxi , Li Jianfen
Published: January 2018

Although the use of ‘task‐specific’ amine‐functionalized imidazolium‐based ionic liquids (ILs) such as [NH2emim][BF4] and conventional imidazolium‐based ILs [bmim][BF4]), as absorbents for CO2 capture, possesses some unique advantages, they have a number of disadvantages when independently used for CO2 capture. This study examined a series of binary liquid mixtures of [NH2emim][BF4] and [bmim][BF4] for CO2 capture, exploiting the advantages and reducing the disadvantages of each of the components. The CO2 absorption performances of the mixtures were investigated as well as their physicochemical properties. Densities, viscosities, and surface tensions of the mixtures of varying molar fractions of [NH2e‐mim][BF4] (from 0.2–0.5 mol/mol) were experimentally measured over a temperature range of 298.0–343.0 K at a fixed pressure of 0.1 MPa. Thermal expansion coefficients, excess logarithmic viscosities, surface entropies, and surface enthalpies were calculated based on the experimental data. All the estimated physicochemical properties in a mixture with a mole fraction of [NH2e‐mim][BF4] of 0.4 had variation characteristics significantly different from those in mixtures with other mole fractions, which might be attributed to the large interaction between the two kinds of IL components and showed a positive effect on CO2 absorption and desorption. The above laws were consistent with those of the CO2 capture performances of the IL mixtures basically. An IL mixture containing 0.4 mol/mol [NH2e‐mim][BF4] and 0.6 mol/mol [bmim][BF4] would be an optimal CO2‐capturing absorbent. The findings in this study may enrich the database and provide a theoretical support for CO2 capture with IL mixtures. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ARTIST: A fully automated artifact rejection algorithm for single‐pulse TMS‐EEG data
Authors: Wu Wei , Keller Corey J. , Rogasch Nigel C. , Longwell Parker , Shpigel Emmanuel , Rolle Camarin E. , Etkin Amit
Published: January 2018

Concurrent single‐pulse TMS‐EEG (spTMS‐EEG) is an emerging noninvasive tool for probing causal brain dynamics in humans. However, in addition to the common artifacts in standard EEG data, spTMS‐EEG data suffer from enormous stimulation‐induced artifacts, posing significant challenges to the extraction of neural information. Typically, neural signals are analyzed after a manual time‐intensive and often subjective process of artifact rejection. Here we describe a fully automated algorithm for spTMS‐EEG artifact rejection. A key step of this algorithm is to decompose the spTMS‐EEG data into statistically independent components (ICs), and then train a pattern classifier to automatically identify artifact components based on knowledge of the spatio‐temporal profile of both neural and artefactual activities. The autocleaned and hand‐cleaned data yield qualitatively similar group evoked potential waveforms. The algorithm achieves a 95% IC classification accuracy referenced to expert artifact rejection performance, and does so across a large number of spTMS‐EEG data sets (n = 90 stimulation sites), retains high accuracy across stimulation sites/subjects/populations/montages, and outperforms current automated algorithms. Moreover, the algorithm was superior to the artifact rejection performance of relatively novice individuals, who would be the likely users of spTMS‐EEG as the technique becomes more broadly disseminated. In summary, our algorithm provides an automated, fast, objective, and accurate method for cleaning spTMS‐EEG data, which can increase the utility of TMS‐EEG in both clinical and basic neuroscience settings.
Neuroanatomical correlates of grit: Growth mindset mediates the association between gray matter structure and trait grit in late adolescence
Authors: Wang Song , Dai Jing , Li Jingguang , Wang Xu , Chen Taolin , Yang Xun , He Manxi , Gong Qiyong
Published: January 2018

There is a long‐standing interest in exploring the factors related to student achievement. As a newly explored personality trait, grit is defined as a person's tendency to pursue long‐term goals with continual perseverance and passion, and grit plays a critical role in student achievement. Increasing evidence has shown that growth mindset, the belief that one's basic abilities are malleable and can be developed through effort, is a potential factor for cultivating grit. However, less is known about the association between grit and the brain and the role of growth mindset in this association. Here, we utilized voxel‐based morphometry to examine the neuroanatomical correlates of grit in 231 healthy adolescent students by performing structural magnetic resonance imaging. The whole‐brain regression analyses revealed that the regional gray matter volume (rGMV) in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) negatively predicted grit. In contrast, the rGMV in the right putamen positively predicted grit. Furthermore, mediating analyses suggested that growth mindset served as a mediator in the association between left DLPFC volume and grit. Our results persisted even after controlling for the influences of self‐control and delayed gratification. Overall, our study presents novel evidence for the neuroanatomical basis of grit and highlights that growth mindset might play an essential role in cultivating a student's grit level.
The association between smoking and cancer incidence in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers
Authors: Ko Kwang‐Pil , Kim Shana J. , Huzarski Tomasz , Gronwald Jacek , Lubinski Jan , Lynch Henry T. , Armel Susan , Park Sue K , Karlan Beth , Singer Christian F. , Neuhausen Susan L. , Narod Steven A. , Kotsopoulos Joanne ,   the Hereditary Breast Cancer Clinical Study Group
Published: January 2018

Tobacco smoke is an established carcinogen, but the association between tobacco smoking and cancer risk in BRCA mutation carriers is not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate prospectively the association between tobacco smoking and cancer incidence in a cohort of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers. The study population consisted of unaffected BRCA mutation carriers. Information on lifestyle including smoking histories, reproductive factors, and past medical histories was obtained through questionnaires. Incident cancers were updated biennially via follow‐up questionnaires. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using time‐dependent Cox regression models. There were 700 incident cancers diagnosed over 26,711 person‐years of follow‐up. The most frequent cancers seen in BRCA mutation carriers were breast (n = 428; 61%) and ovarian (n = 109; 15%) cancer. Compared to nonsmokers, (ever) smoking was associated with a modest increased risk of all cancers combined (HR = 1.17; 95%CI 1.01–1.37). Women in the highest group of total pack‐years (4.3–9.8) had an increased risk of developing any cancer (HR = 1.27; 95%CI 1.04–1.56), breast cancer (HR = 1.33, 95%CI 1.02–1.75), and ovarian cancer (HR = 1.68; 95%CI 1.06–2.67) compared to never smokers. The associations between tobacco smoking and cancer did not differ by BRCA mutation type or by age at diagnosis. This prospective study suggests that tobacco smoking is associated with a modest increase in the risks of breast and ovarian cancer among women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation.
Enhanced chondrogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells over silk fibroin/chitosan‐chondroitin sulfate three dimensional scaffold in dynamic culture condition
Authors: Agrawal Parinita , Pramanik Krishna , Vishwanath Varshini , Biswas Amit , Bissoyi Akalabya , Patra Pradeep Kumar
Published: January 2018

Chondroitin sulfate (Ch) is one of the main structural components of cartilage tissue, therefore, its presence in tissue engineered scaffold is expected to enhance cartilage regeneration. Previously, silk fibroin/chitosan (SF/CS) blend was proven to be a potential biomaterial for tissue development. In this study, the effect of Ch on physicochemical and biological properties of SF/CS blend was investigated and scaffolds with 0.8 wt% Ch was found to be favorable. The scaffolds possess pore size of 37–212 µm, contact angle 46.2–50.3°, showed controlled swelling and biodegradation. The biocompatibility of scaffold was confirmed by subcutaneous implantation in mouse. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) seeded scaffolds cultured under spinner flask bioreactor promoted cell attachment, proliferation, distribution, and metabolic activity in vitro. The histology and immunofluorescence studies revealed that combined effect of Ch and dynamic condition resulted in higher glycosaminoglycan secretion and native cartilage type matrix synthesis in comparison to SF/CS scaffolds used as control. Higher expression of collagen‐II, Sox9, aggrecan and decrease in collagen‐I expression represented by quantitative polymerase chain reaction study confirmed the progression of chondrogenic differentiation. This study successfully demonstrates the potentiality of SF/CS‐Ch scaffold for hMSCs recruitment and redirecting cartilage tissue regeneration with enhanced chondrogenesis. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2576–2587, 2018.