bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation of mechanical and fracture properties of offshore wind monopile weldments: SLIC interlaboratory test results
Authors: Mehmanparast A. , Taylor J. , Brennan F. , Tavares I.
Published: May 2018

S355 structural steel is commonly used in fabrication of offshore structures including offshore wind turbine monopiles. Knowledge of mechanical and fracture properties in S355 weldments and the level of scatter in these properties is extremely important for ensuring the integrity of such structures through engineering critical assessment. An interlaboratory test programme was created to characterise the mechanical and fracture properties of S355 weldments, including the base metal, heat‐affected zone, and the weld metal, extensively. Charpy impact tests, chemical composition analysis, hardness tests, tensile tests, and fracture toughness tests have been performed on specimens extracted from each of the 3 material microstructures. The experimental test results from this project are presented in this paper, and their importance in structural integrity assessment of offshore wind turbine monopiles has been discussed. The results have shown a decreasing trend in the Charpy impact energy and Jmax values with an increase in yield stress from base metal to heat‐affected zone to weld metal. Moreover, the JIC fracture toughness value in the heat‐affected zone and weld metal is on average around 60% above and 40% below the base metal value, respectively. In addition, the average Charpy impact energy value in the heat‐affected zone and weld metal is around 5% and 30% below the base metal value, respectively. The effects of mechanical and fracture properties on the critical crack size estimates have been investigated, and the results are discussed concerning the impact of material properties on structural design and integrity assessment of monopiles.
Divergent response of seasonally dry tropical vegetation to climatic variations in dry and wet seasons
Authors: Wang Xuhui , Ciais Philippe , Wang Yilong , Zhu Dan
Published: May 2018

Interannual variations of photosynthesis in tropical seasonally dry vegetation are one of the dominant drivers to interannual variations of atmosphericCO2growth rate. Yet, the seasonal differences in the response of photosynthesis to climate variations in these ecosystems remain poorly understood. Here using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), we explored the response of photosynthesis of seasonally dry tropical vegetation to climatic variations in the dry and the wet seasons during the past three decades. We found significant (p < 0.01) differences between dry and wet seasons in the interannual response of photosynthesis to temperature (γint) and to precipitation (δint).γintis ~1% °C−1more negative andδintis ~8% 100 mm−1more positive in the dry season than in the wet season. Further analyses show that the seasonal difference inγintcan be explained by background moisture and temperature conditions. Positiveγintoccurred in wet season where mean temperature is lower than 27°C and precipitation is at least 60 mm larger than potential evapotranspiration. Two widely used Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) estimates (empirical modeling by machine‐learning algorithm applied to flux tower measurements, and nine process‐based carbon cycle models) were examined for theGPP–climate relationship over wet and dry seasons. TheGPPderived from empirical modeling can partly reproduce the divergence ofγint, while most process models cannot. The overestimate by process models on negative impacts by warmer temperature during the wet season highlights the shortcomings of current carbon cycle models in representing interactive impacts of temperature and moisture on photosynthesis. Improving representations on soil water uptake, leaf temperature, nitrogen cycling, and soil moisture may help improve modeling skills in reproducing seasonal differences of photosynthesis–climate relationship and thus the projection for impacts of climate change on tropical carbon cycle.
Measuring Space‐Time Accessibility Benefits within Transportation Networks: Basic Theory and Computational Procedures
Authors: Miller Harvey J.
Published: May 2018

Accessibility is a fundamental but often neglected concept in transportation analysis and planning. Three complementary views of accessibility have evolved in the literature. The first is the constraints‐oriented approach, best implemented by Hägerstrand's space‐time prisms. The second perspective follows a spatial interaction framework and derives “attraction‐accessibility measures” that compare destinations' attractiveness with the travel costs required. A third approach measures the benefit provided to individuals by the transportation/land‐use system. This paper reconciles the three complementary approaches by deriving space‐time accessibility and benefit measures that are consistent with the rigorous Weibull axiomatic framework for accessibility measures. This research also develops computational procedures for calculating these measures within network structures. This provides realistic accessibility measures that reflect the locations, distances, and travel velocities allowed by an urban transportation network. Since their computational burdens are reasonable, they can be applied at the urban scale using a GIS.
Genotypes, phenotypes and whole genome sequence: Approaches from the My Life Our Future haemophilia project
Authors: Konkle B. A. , Johnsen J. M. , Wheeler M. , Watson C. , Skinner M. , Pierce G. F. ,   on behalf of My Life Our Future programme
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Information from the genes encoding factor VIII (F8) and IX (F9) is used in reproductive planning and to inform inhibitor formation, bleeding severity and response to therapies. Advances in technology and our understanding of the human genome now allows more comprehensive methods to study genomic variation and its impact on haemophilia.

Aims

The My Life Our Future (MLOF) programme was begun in 2012 to provide genetic analysis and to expand research in haemophilia through a research repository.

Methods

MLOF enrolled haemophilia A and B patients followed at haemophilia treatment centers in the U.S., including, since 2015, known and potential genetic carriers. Initial F8 and F9 DNA analysis was performed utilizing a next generation sequencing approach which allowed simultaneous detection of F8 inversions and other variants. Candidate variants were confirmed using a second method and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification was used to detect structural variants.

Results

The initial phase of MLOF completed enrollment in December 2017 with 11,356 patients, genetic carriers, and potential carriers enrolled. In the 9453 subjects in whom analysis is complete, 687 unique previously unreported variants were found. Simultaneous sequencing of the F8 and F9 genes resulted in identification of non‐deleterious variants previously reported as causative in haemophilia. DNA from 5141 MLOF subjects has undergone whole genome sequencing through the NHLBI TOPMed programme of the U.S. NIH.

Conclusion

MLOF has provided genetic information for patients and their families to help inform clinical care and has established a repository of data and biospecimens to further advance haemophilia research.
Dynamic changes of portal vein pressure gradient under different degrees of liver cirrhosis and resection volume in the first week post hepatectomy
Authors: Lan Xiang , Zhang Hua , Li Hongyu , Chen Kefei , Liu Fei , Wei Yonggang , Li Bo
Published: May 2018

Aim

We set out to acquire original pathophysiologic data of dynamic changes in portal vein pressure gradient (PVPG) following liver resection (LR) during post‐operation days (POD) 1–7.

Methods

Portal vein pressure gradient was measured in 31 patients daily until POD 7 at our liver surgery center. Patients were divided into non‐, mild, moderate, and severe cirrhosis groups according to histopathology and were also divided into subgroups according to the volume of hepatectomy.

Results

Portal vein pressure gradient reached its peak on POD 3 in mild cirrhosis (F = 7.525, P < 0.001), moderate cirrhosis (F = 11.200, P < 0.001), and severe cirrhosis groups (F = 26.634, P < 0.001). There were no significant changes in PVPG in the non‐cirrhosis group (F = 1.050, P = 0.411). Moreover, PVPG on POD 3 was higher with increasing severity of cirrhosis under the same interval of LR volume (resection volume <200 cm3: F = 13.040, P = 0.004; ≥200 cm3 but <400 cm3: F = 13.243, P = 0.004; ≥400 cm3: F = 43.685, P < 0.001). Finally, the LR volume had significant impact on PVPG for patients with moderate cirrhosis (F = 6.339, P = 0.033) and severe cirrhosis (t = −7.000, P = 0.020). A similar tendency was also observed when patients were divided according to the ratio of the resected liver volume to total liver volume.

Conclusions

The increase in PVPG following LR was positively associated with the degree of cirrhosis, significantly peaking on POD 3. The LR volume only had a significant impact on PVPG for patients with moderate and severe cirrhosis. This represents the first time, to our knowledge, that dynamic changes of PVPG after LR were measured and compared to cirrhosis and resection volume.
SHRIMP U–Pb ages of detrital zircons from the Early Cretaceous Nakdong Formation, South East Korea: Timing of initiation of the Gyeongsang Basin and its provenance
Authors: Lee Tae‐Ho , Park Kye‐Hun , Yi Keewook
Published: May 2018

To constrain the depositional age of the lowermost Nakdong Formation in the Early Cretaceous Gyeongsang Basin, SHRIMP U–Pb age determination was carried out on zircon separates. The U–Pb compositions of detrital zircons from the Nakdong Formation yield a wide range of ages from the Archean to the Cretaceous but show a marked contrast in age distribution according to the geographical locations within the basin. The provenance of the southern Nakdong Formation is dominantly the surrounding Yeongnam Massif, which is composed of Paleoproterozoic metamorphic rocks and Triassic to Jurassic plutonic rocks, whereas the central to northern Nakdong Formation records significant sediment derivation from the Okcheon Metamorphic Belt, which is distributed to the northwest, in addition to the contribution from the Yeongnam Massif. It is suggested that the maximum depositional age of the Nakdong Formation is ca 127 Ma, based on its youngest detrital zircon age population. The onset of its deposition at 127 Ma coincided with the tectonic inversion in East Asia from a compressional to an extensional geodynamic setting, probably due to the contemporaneous change in the drift direction of the Izanagi Plate and its subsequent oblique subduction.
Resource‐mediated effects of grazing and irrigation on insect diversity in a meadow steppe
Authors: Zhu Hui , Wang Wenhui , Qu Yekuan , Fu Jun , Jiang Siqi , Wang Deli , Kaplan Ian , Ren Bingzhong
Published: May 2018

Human activities and climate change are key drivers of biodiversity loss in natural ecosystems. In particular, a growing body of evidence shows that grazing and altered precipitation patterns strongly affect grassland plant and insect diversity respectively, but their combined effects and impact on trophic interactions are largely unknown.

In this study, a field experiment was conducted with different grazing intensities and irrigation to examine how plant diversity responds to variation in grazing and precipitation, which in turn influences the diversity of herbivores and predators in insect communities in a meadow steppe.

Overall, grazing and irrigation increased plant biomass and decreased plant diversity, except for non‐significant effects of irrigation treatments on plant diversity. Higher herbivore diversity in grazing treatments was mediated by plant diversity because path analysis revealed a positive relationship between plant and herbivore species richness. Increased predator diversity caused by grazing was mediated indirectly through changes in herbivore abundance. Our results indicate that plant‐mediated changes in herbivore diversity are consistent with the Resource Diversity Hypothesis, whereas changes in predator diversity correspond with the More Individuals Hypothesis.

Our findings highlight the importance of assessing both direct and indirect effects of grazing and irrigation on the diversity of guilds at different trophic levels within an insect community. Furthermore, understanding mechanistic responses to such changes could help us to better account for biodiversity loss in the context of grazing and altered precipitation patterns.
Where the Seeds of Modern Statistics were Sown
Authors: Langkjær-Bain Robert
Published: May 2018

This year marks the 175th anniversary of an agricultural research institute, where figures including Ronald Fisher laid the foundations of modern statistics. Robert Langkjær-Bain steps inside the past, present and future of Rothamsted Research
Brexit Britain, Two years on
Authors: Worcester Sir Robert , Mortimore Roger , Baines Paul , Gill Mark
Published: May 2018

June 2018 marks two years since the Leave campaign won the referendum on Britain's membership of the European Union, bringing David Cameron's tenure as Prime Minister to a sudden, catastrophic end.
Native Water Protection Flows Through Self‐Determination: Understanding Tribal Water Quality Standards and “Treatment as a State”
Authors: Diver Sibyl
Published: May 2018

For Indigenous communities, protecting traditional lands and waters is of the utmost importance. In the U.S. context, scholars have documented an unfortunate neglect of water quality on tribal lands. Treatment as a State (TAS) provisions, adopted in the 1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act, and tribal Water Quality Standards (WQSs) programs are intended to address such problems. Importantly, tribal WQSs may be more stringent than neighboring state standards, and can be used to influence pollution levels coming from upstream, off‐reservation users. Tribes can also develop WQSs that support unique tribal values, including ceremonial and cultural uses of native waters. Yet scholarly debates question whether tribal environmental self‐determination strategies can fully succeed within dominant regulatory structures. Based on a synthesis of the published literature, this article examines tribal WQSs as a case of tribal environmental self‐determination. The author discusses how U.S. tribes pursue WQSs under TAS, program outcomes, and why so few tribes have established WQSs to date. Because most scholarship was found within the legal literature, the author focuses on the legal and political outcomes that arise from tribal WQSs, and analyzes specific opportunities and constraints for program participants. The author also considers how some tribes use WQSs as a “third space” strategy—simultaneously working inside and outside of dominant government structures to advance tribal sovereignty (Bruyneel ). Additional research is needed to understand the diversity of tribal environmental self‐determination strategies that occur through federal regulatory frameworks and under tribal law.
Navajo Nation, USA, Precipitation Variability from 2002 to 2015
Authors: Tulley‐Cordova Crystal L. , Strong Courtenay , Brady Irving P. , Bekis Jerome , Bowen Gabriel J.
Published: May 2018

Due to its semi‐arid climate, the Navajo Nation, situated in the southwestern United States, is sensitive to small changes in precipitation. However, little information on patterns and causes of rainfall variation is available for this sparsely populated region. In order to study stability and variability over time, this study characterized hydroclimatic changes for the Navajo Nation over timescales of months to years based on data from 90 sites from 2002 to 2015. This research will help local water managers identify related precipitation areas within the region, compare Navajo Nation precipitation with climate indices to ascertain larger‐scale atmospheric contributors to precipitation in the Four Corners region, and support future water planning in this understudied region. A vector quantization method, called k‐means clustering, identified five sub‐regions of contrasting precipitation climatology. The regions differed in the timing, magnitude, and relative importance of the winter and summer peaks comprising the bimodal precipitation regime of the area. Correlation examination of spatial and temporal trends of precipitation variability with three climate indices revealed strong winter precipitation relationships to the Pacific North American teleconnection pattern for all regions; summer precipitation teleconnections were weaker and more variable; however, modest correlations with Pacific Decadal Oscillation were observed. Climate field analysis indicates that cold‐season precipitation is enhanced by intensification of the Aleutian Low with a storm trajectory into the southwest United States; warm season precipitation is enhanced by poleward shift of the North American monsoon ridge.
Silicon carbide fiber oxidation behavior in the presence of boron nitride
Authors: McFarland Bohuslava , Opila Elizabeth J.
Published: May 2018

The oxidation behavior of Sylramic SiC fibers without a boron nitride surface layer was compared to Sylramic iBN SiC fibers with a boron nitride surface layer by conducting thermogravimetric analysis in dry O2 at temperatures ranging from 800 to 1300°C for times up to 100 hours. Sylramic fibers followed the Deal and Grove oxidation kinetic model. A transient period of accelerated oxidation kinetics was observed with Sylramic iBN fibers. Raman spectroscopic analysis of oxidized fibers provided evidence for a borosilicate glass structure. The boron concentrations in the oxides, quantified by inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectrometry, were correlated with the weight change behavior, oxide thickness, and fiber recession of the oxidized fibers. Oxides formed from Sylramic iBN fibers were typically higher in boron concentration, which led to initial rapid oxidation rates that were 3‐10 times faster than observed for pure SiC. Slower oxidation rates followed as the oxide surface became increasingly enriched with SiO2 due to boria volatilization, thus limiting boria effects on SiC fiber oxidation kinetics. The accelerated high‐temperature oxidation of SiC fibers due to the presence of BN are discussed in terms of the borosilicate glass structure and composition.
Transgenerational epigenetic variance for body weight in meat quails
Authors: Paiva J.T. , de Resende M.D.V. , Resende R.T. , de Oliveira H.R. , Silva H.T. , Caetano G.C. , Lopes P.S. , Silva F.F.
Published: May 2018

We aimed to estimate transgenerational epigenetic variance for body weight using genealogical and phenotypic information in meat quails. Animals were individually weighted from 1 week after hatching, with weight records at 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of age (BW7, BW14, BW21, BW28, BW35 and BW42, respectively). Single‐trait genetic analyses were performed using mixed models with random epigenetic effects. Variance components were estimated by the restricted maximum likelihood method. A grid search for values of autorecursive parameter (λ) ranging from 0 to 0.5 was used in the variance component estimation. This parameter is directly related to the reset coefficient (ν) and the epigenetic coefficient of transmissibility (1‐ν). The epigenetic effect was only significant for BW7. Direct heritability estimates for body weight ranged in magnitude (from 0.15 to 0.26), with the highest estimate for BW7. Epigenetic heritability was 0.10 for BW7, and close to zero for the other body weights. The inclusion of the epigenetic effect in the model helped to explain the residual and non‐Mendelian variability of initial body weight in meat quails.
In vitro and clinical data analysis of Osteopontin as a prognostic indicator in colorectal cancer
Authors: Wei Ran , Wong Janet Pik Ching , Lyu Peng , Xi Xinping , Tong Olivia , Zhang Shu‐Dong , Yuen Hiu Fung , Shirasawa Senji , Kwok Hang Fai
Published: May 2018

Osteopontin (OPN) has been shown to promote colorectal cancer (CRC) progression; however, the mechanism of OPN‐induced CRC progression is largely unknown. In this study, we found that OPN overexpression led to enhanced anchorage‐independent growth, cell migration and invasion in KRAS gene mutant cells but to a lesser extent in KRAS wild‐type cells. OPN overexpression also induced PI3K signalling, expression of Snail and Matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9), and suppressed the expression of E‐cadherin in KRAS mutant cells. In human CRC specimens, a high‐level expression of OPN significantly predicted poorer survival in CRC patients and OPN expression was positively correlated with MMP9 expression, and negatively correlated with E‐cadherin expression. Furthermore, we have found that 15 genes were co‐upregulated in OPN highly expression CRC and a list of candidate drugs that may have potential to reverse the secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) gene signature by connectivity mapping. In summary, OPN is a potential prognostic indicator and therapeutic target for colon cancer.
The role of accounting and the accountancy profession in economic development: A research agenda
Authors: Venter Elmar R. , Gordon Elizabeth A. , Street Donna L.
Published: May 2018

A widely held view in the accountancy profession and the donor community is that accounting and the accountancy profession play an essential role in economic development. However, our review of the academic literature finds limited empirical research evidence on the relation between accounting and the accountancy profession and economic development, including specifically whether any such relation is causal, and if so, the direction of the causality. Entities, including those comprising the donor community, policymakers, and professional accountancy organizations (PAOs), need evidence on the question of whether and how the accountancy profession contributes to economic development. Such research could assist donors in evaluating the outcomes of interventions aimed at building the capacity of PAOs in emerging and developing economies and inform future interventions. We summarize the limited academic research addressing the relation between PAOs and economic development and present insights from two roundtables facilitated by the International Association for Accounting Education and Research. We identify research opportunities and research design considerations. We hope our paper will stimulate accounting researchers to advance this literature.
Split face comparison between common concentration vs double dilution of intradermal abobotulinum toxin type A (Dysport) injection for facial lifting in Asians
Authors: Sirithanabadeekul Punyaphat , Lapsomboonsiri Siripan , Rungjang Atiya , Thanasarnaksorn Wilai
Published: May 2018

Background

The most efficacious concentration of botulinum toxin for facial lifting is not well established.

Objective

This study compared the efficacy of common concentration vs double dilution of intradermal abobotulinum toxin type A (Dysport) injection for facial lifting in Asians.

Methods

In all, 10 women aged 32‐61 years with mild to moderate facial laxity participated in this study. Each patient received one session of intradermal injection of double diluted abobotulinum toxin type A (Dysport) (dilution of 15 mL to give 3.33 units per 0.1 mL) on one side of the face and common concentration (dilution of 7.5 mL to give 6.67 units per 0.1 mL) on the opposite side of the face. Clinical improvement of facial lifting, wrinkling, and subjective satisfaction was evaluated at every visit (baseline, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks).

Results

Both concentrations offered reduction of facial laxity and wrinkles, with no statistical difference. The effects gradually increased and lasted for a minimum 12 weeks with both concentrations.

Conclusion

Common concentration and double dilution of intradermal abobotulinum toxin type A (Dysport) injection were effective and safe for facial lifting in Asians. There were no statistically significant differences between the two concentrations.
Mechanism of resveratrol in improving ovarian function in a rat model of premature ovarian insufficiency
Authors: Li Ning , Liu Lili
Published: May 2018

Aim

To investigate the mechanism of resveratrol treatment in chemically induced premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) in rats.

Methods

Five‐week‐old specific pathogen‐free healthy Sprague–Dawley female rats (n = 90) were randomly divided into five groups (n = 18): low‐dose resveratrol (group A), moderate‐dose resveratrol (group B), high‐dose resveratrol (group C), model control group (group D) and blank control group (group E). POI was induced in rats from the resveratrol‐treated groups and the model control group according to observed indexes using a previously established model (oral administration of tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside tablet 50 mg/kg/day for 14 days). Western blot analysis was performed to compare levels of PI3K, p‐PI3K, Akt, p‐Akt, mTOR, p‐mTOR, Bax, Bcl‐2 and Caspase‐3 in ovarian tissues of each group, and expression of p‐Akt, p‐mTOR, Bax, Bcl‐2 and Caspase‐3 was also evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Compared with controls, we found that serum MDA decreased and SOD increased in resveratrol‐treated groups. In addition, we found increased expression of p‐PI3K, p‐Akt, p‐mTOR and Bcl‐2, and decreased expression of Bax and Caspase‐3 were observed in ovarian tissues of treated rats with POI. There was reduced ovarian function in POI rats compared with rats from the blank control group.

Conclusion

Resveratrol reduced oxidative stress and inhibited apoptosis in granulosa cells by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in a rat model of POI.
Immune checkpoints indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 and programmed death‐ligand 1 in oral mucosal dysplasia
Authors: Sieviläinen Meri , Passador‐Santos Fabricio , Almahmoudi Rabeia , Christopher Solomon , Siponen Maria , Toppila‐Salmi Sanna , Salo Tuula , Al‐Samadi Ahmed
Published: May 2018

Background

Oral mucosal dysplasia is a histologic feature of potentially malignant disorders that is associated with the risk of transformation to carcinoma. Dysplastic cells use many strategies during their transformation to cancer, including escape from the immune mediated destruction. We hypothesized that adaptive immunity is inhibited by activation of distinct immune checkpoint molecules, such as indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1).

Methods

We collected 63 oral dysplasia samples from 47 patients. Nine biopsies from alveolar mucosa were taken during wisdom teeth extractions were used as healthy controls. Tissue samples were stained and scored for IDO1 and PD‐L1. Additionally, dysplasia grades and inflammatory cell infiltration were evaluated. Eight patients were followed up to 36 months to evaluate dysplasia progression, inflammation, and immune checkpoint molecules expression.

Results

Dysplastic epithelium had significantly lower IDO1 expression than that of healthy controls. PD‐L1 positive cells in the lamina propria were mainly in dysplastic samples and seldom in healthy controls. Dysplasia grade was associated negatively with epithelium IDO1 and positively with IDO1 and PD‐L1 expression in the lamina propria. There was a positive association between dysplasia grade and level of inflammatory cell infiltration. During follow‐up, dysplasia grade, inflammatory cell infiltration, and the immune checkpoint expression fluctuated over time.

Conclusions

Immune checkpoint molecules IDO1 and PD‐L1 are modulated during oral epithelial dysplastic changes, and their expression is associated with inflammatory cell infiltration in the lamina propria. As immune checkpoint molecules expression fluctuates over time, these molecules are not useful as biomarkers for oral mucosal dysplasia progression.
Beyond Consumptive Solidarity: An Aesthetic Response to Human Trafficking
Authors: Flores Nichole
Published: May 2018

A disturbing economic reality confronts consumers today: thousands of farm workers are enslaved in U.S. agricultural fields, forced to work without pay amid deplorable conditions and under the constant threat of violence. If structural economic injustices perpetuate modern‐day agricultural slavery, then it is necessary to promote consumer practices that resist these abusive dynamics. But a consumption‐oriented strategy does not necessarily restore either personal agency or communal relations damaged by agricultural trafficking. This essay proposes a framework for aesthetic solidarity that cultivates affective bonds necessary for building communities of resistance characterized by mutuality, equality, and participation.
The effects of biodegradable poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid)‐based microspheres loaded with quercetin on stemness, viability and osteogenic differentiation potential of stem cell spheroids
Authors: Lee H. , Nguyen T. T. , Kim M. , Jeong J.‐H. , Park J.‐B.
Published: May 2018

Objective

Quercetin has been reported to exert many beneficial effects on the protection against various diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and inflammation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential osteogenic differentiation ability of mesenchymal stem cells in the presence of quercetin.

Material and Methods

Quercetin‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres were prepared using an electrospraying technique. Characterization of the microspheres was evaluated with a scanning electron microscope and release profile. Three‐dimensional cell spheroids were fabricated using silicon elastomer‐based concave microwells. Qualitative results of cellular viability were seen under a confocal microscope, and quantitative cellular viability was evaluated using the Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay. The alkaline phosphatase activity and Alizarin Red S staining were performed. A quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and a western blot analysis were performed.

Results

Spheroids were well formed irrespective of quercetin concentration. Most of the cells in spheroids emitted green fluorescence, and the morphology was round without significant changes. The application of quercetin‐loaded microspheres produced a significant increase in the alkaline phosphatase activity. The real‐time polymerase chain reaction results showed a significant increase in Runx2, and western blot results showed higher expression of Runx2 protein expression.

Conclusion

Biodegradable microspheres loaded with quercetin produced prolonged release profiles with increased mineralization. Microspheres loaded with quercetin can be used for the enhancement of osteoblastic differentiation in cell therapy.
Multisite Replication in Second Language Acquisition Research: Attention to Form During Listening and Reading Comprehension
Authors: Morgan‐Short Kara , Marsden Emma , Heil Jeanne , Issa II Bernard I. , Leow Ronald P. , Mikhaylova Anna , Mikołajczak Sylwia , Moreno Nina , Slabakova Roumyana , Szudarski Paweł
Published: May 2018

We conducted a multisite replication study with aspects of preregistration in order to explore the feasibility of such an approach in second language (L2) research. To this end, we addressed open questions in a line of research that has examined whether having learners attend to form while reading or listening to a L2 passage interferes with comprehension. Our results are consistent with findings from the specific paradigm that we replicated in that no effects on comprehension were detected in analyses conducted over all sites. However, further investigation is warranted due to site‐specific effects and methodological limitations. We found all aspects of the multisite registered replication approach to be useful although the registration component itself appeared to be an especially feasible and valuable first step toward increasing the robustness and generalizability of findings in our field.

Open Practices

This article has been awarded Open Data, Open Materials, and Preregistered Research Design badges. The following information is publicly accessible via the Open Science Framework: registered materials and protocol (https://osf.io/tvuer), registered data entry template (https://osf.io/d5s2t), open data (https://osf.io/vwytd), and open analysis (https://osf.io/nz3su). Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science: https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki.
The role of institutions of higher education in teaching Indigenous languages: Ichishkíin and Chinuk Wawa
Authors: Underriner Janne , Jansen Joana
Published: May 2018

Since 2008, Ichishkíin and Chinuk Wawa language courses have been offered at the University of Oregon (UO) and Lane Community College in Eugene, Oregon. These languages are Indigenous to peoples of present day Oregon and Washington. Both courses resulted through partnerships developed at the Northwest Indian Language Institute (NILI). This article describes the development of the courses and their continued impact. Both language programs embody collaborative partnering with elders, Tribal language programs, other institutions, and teachers. Both have created curricular materials that are used by Tribal programs and K‐12 schools and have mentored students to become language teachers. We propose that teaching local endangered languages in university settings enriches students' academic experiences, supports language revitalization, addresses issues of human and linguistic rights, and strengthens institutions by incorporating Indigenous viewpoints. Academic institutions that once contributed to the loss of Indigenous languages now have an opportunity and obligation to revitalize and maintain them.
Lake Chivero (Zimbabwe) and its climatic environment
Authors: Magadza C. H. D.
Published: May 2018

The mean temperatures and mean maximum temperatures in Lake Chivero indicate a warming trend, which is not evident in mean minimum temperatures. The mean annual precipitation also exhibits a declining trend, as does the Manyame River flow trend. The relation between run‐off, river flow and precipitation indicate a discontinuous trend at a piecewise regression breakpoint of 998 mm precipitation. Above the breakpoint, the river flow is related exponentially with precipitation, while the run‐off relationship is linear, although with a low R2 value. Below the breakpoint, both the run‐off and river flow exhibit a low variance accountability. Considered within the context of the IPCC findings of a subcontinent warming faster than the rest of the southern hemisphere, along with declining precipitation, these data suggest an uncertain water supply security for the City of Harare and its satellite settlements. The detectable warming of the lake, taken together with observations in Lake Kariba, also suggests an ecological shift that could be dominated by a shift to a permanent cyanobacteria‐dominated ecosystem, which is currently dominated by Microcystis and Anabaena species.
Citizen science monitoring of marine protected areas: Case studies and recommendations for integration into monitoring programs
Authors: Freiwald Jan , Meyer Ryan , Caselle Jennifer E. , Blanchette Carol A. , Hovel Kevin , Neilson Doug , Dugan Jenifer , Altstatt Jessica , Nielsen Karina , Bursek Julie
Published: May 2018

Ecosystem‐based management and conservation approaches such as marine protected areas (MPAs) require large amounts of ecological data to be implemented and adaptively managed. Recently, many citizen science programs have endeavored to help provide these much‐needed data. Implementation of MPAs under the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) Initiative in Southern California was followed by a monitoring program to establish a comprehensive baseline of the ecological conditions of several marine ecosystems at the time of MPA implementation. This baseline monitoring consortium involved several citizen science monitoring programs alongside more traditional academic monitoring programs, creating an opportunity to evaluate the potential for citizen scientists to become more involved in future long‐term monitoring efforts. We investigated different citizen science models, their program goals, and contributions to MPA baseline monitoring, including their respective monitoring protocols and data quality assurance measures, in the context of the goals of the MLPA baseline monitoring program. We focused on three very different case studies: (i) commercial fishermen and other volunteers collaborating with researchers to study the California spiny lobster, (ii) volunteer divers monitoring rocky reefs with the Reef Check California (RCCA) program and (iii) middle and high school students monitoring the inter‐tidal life of rocky shore and sandy beach ecosystems with the National Marine Sanctuaries’ Long‐term Monitoring Program and Experiential Training for Students (LiMPETS) program. We elucidate capacities and potential of citizen science approaches for MPA baseline monitoring and for building capacity towards sustainable long‐term monitoring of MPAs. Results from this study will be relevant and timely as the monitoring of California's MPAs transitions from baseline to long‐term monitoring, and as citizen science continues to become more prevalent in California and elsewhere.
Development of a biological condition assessment index for shallow, subtidal rocky reefs in Southern California, USA
Authors: Coates Julia H. , Schiff Kenneth , Mazor Raphael D. , Pondella Daniel J. , Schaffner Rebecca , Whiteman Elizabeth
Published: May 2018

Quantitative biological assessment indices overcome many of the challenges faced when trying to convey the status or trends of complex biological communities with large natural variability, particularly when attempting to evaluate the impacts from human influences. In this paper, we developed a biological condition index for shallow (<30 m) rocky reefs of the Southern California Bight, evaluated its ability to distinguish healthy from stressed sites, and then applied the index by examining relative correlations with fishing and water quality as ecosystem stressors. We utilized a multivariate, predictive index based on the ratio of observed‐to‐expected taxa (O/E). O/E indices are relatively common in freshwater environments, but rarely utilized in marine systems and never before applied to rocky reefs. Based on expectations drawn from region‐wide reference reefs with the least fishing or water quality stress, the O/E index predicts expected taxa at a new site based on environmental factors such as sea surface temperature, reef area, and slope, among others. The observed taxa at that site are then compared to the predicted taxa to generate index scores; values near unity indicate intact, reference‐like communities. Overall, the accuracy of the index was high, with minimal bias, and precision exceeded the performance of an index based on null models (i.e., indices that did not account for natural gradients). The mean index score was significantly higher among reference sites than stressed sites; however, sensitivity was low, as 84% of stressed sites had scores within the range of reference sites. Ultimately, fishing pressure was more correlated with changes in index scores from the non‐reference data set than was water quality pressure. This study demonstrates that a multivariate predictive index is feasible in rocky reef assessment and illuminates additional investigative work to continue to advance index development.
Can nearshore seabirds detect variability in juvenile fish distribution at scales relevant to managing marine protected areas?
Authors: Robinette Daniel P. , Howar Julie , Claisse Jeremy T. , Caselle Jennifer E.
Published: May 2018

Juvenile recruitment is an important determinant of change within marine protected areas (MPAs). Understanding spatio‐temporal variability in recruitment rates will help managers set realistic expectations for rates of population and community level change within individual MPAs. Here we ask whether seabird foraging rates can be used as a proxy for juvenile fish recruitment at spatial scales relevant to MPA management. We investigated the foraging rates of six piscivorous seabirds inside and outside of three island and four mainland MPAs in Southern California and compared these rates to estimates of juvenile fish density from kelp forest surveys conducted at the same sites during the same 2 years (2012 and 2013). Juvenile fish communities at island and mainland sites were dominated by three families, Embiotocidae, Labridae and Pomacentridae, in both years. Additionally, there was an influx of young‐of‐the‐year rockfishes (family Sebastidae) at most sites in 2013. Seabird and fish distributions were similar at the regional (approximately 15–30 km) scale, but less similar at the site‐specific scale. Site‐specific differences reflected differences in the diet and foraging habits of individual seabird species. While fish surveys were specific to the kelp forest habitat, seabirds were sampling multiple habitats (i.e. multiple water depths over multiple bottom substrates) within a given site. Our results suggest that integrating seabird data with data on juvenile fish abundance can produce a more holistic index to proxy spatio‐temporal variability in juvenile fish recruitment. In other words, seabird studies can provide additional information not captured by fish surveys and help resource managers better understand local patterns of fish recruitment at the community level. This will help resource managers establish realistic expectations for how quickly fish populations should change within individual MPAs.
Making the mast of a rainy day: environmental constraints can synchronize mass seeding across populations
Authors: Tanentzap Andrew J. , Monks Adrian
Published: June 2018

This article is a Commentary on Bogdziewicz et al., 219: 98–108.
Probabilistic approaches to cleaning the Ganges in Varanasi to attract tourists
Authors: Batabyal Amitrajeet A. , Beladi Hamid
Published: May 2018

We study two probabilistic approaches to cleaning the Ganges river when the underlying goal is to use the cleanup to sustain tourism in Varanasi, India. The first approach models the idea that because resources are scarce and cleanup is costly, not all pollutants in the Ganges can be removed. Therefore, a cleaning agency first establishes a benefit‐cost ratio rule and then it uses this rule to remove from the Ganges only those pollutants whose removal satisfies the ratio rule. In contrast, the second approach focuses on removing all pollutants from the Ganges but the emphasis now is on the frequency of cleanup given that pollutants accumulate temporally and hence water quality deteriorates over time. Finally, we compare and contrast these two approaches and discuss the connections between the two approaches and the sustainability of tourism in Varanasi.

Recommendations for Resource Managers:

When cleanup resources are scarce, strategic management of Ganges water pollution calls for removing only those pollutants whose removal satisfies a benefit‐cost criterion.

When cleanup resources are adequate, holistic management of Ganges water pollution calls for attaining the highest possible water quality by removing all pollutants from the river.

Strategic management is more realistic and also likely to cost less than holistic management.
Risk factors for esophageal cancer: emphasis on infectious agents
Authors: El‐Zimaity Hala , Di Pilato Vincenzo , Novella Ringressi Maria , Brcic Iva , Rajendra Shanmugarajah , Langer Rupert , Dislich Bastian , Tripathi Monika , Guindi Maha , Riddell Robert
Published: May 2018

Risk factors for esophageal cancer include genetic factors (such as tylosis) and infectious agents. A variety of organisms have been implicated in esophageal carcinogenesis, either directly or indirectly. In this review, we explore the normal esophageal flora and how it may be controlled, and also the variety of organisms that may affect esophageal carcinogenesis, either directly or indirectly. The organisms with potential direct effects in squamous cell carcinoma include human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein–Barr virus, and polyoma viruses. Interestingly, HPV is now implicated in esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), not in its initiation but in the development of dysplasia, in which HPV33 in particular has been associated. Indirectly, Helicobacter pylori has been associated with EAC by, initially, causing increased acid secretion that increases acid reflux, and by reducing lower esophageal sphincter pressure, which increases gastroesophageal reflux; the latter increases the risk of Barrett's esophagus, and hence EAC. Conversely, subsequent atrophic gastritis may normalize that risk.
The embarrassment of being human
Authors: Boysen Benjamin
Published: May 2018

New materialism and object‐oriented ontology have recently gained widespread attention. Taking as exemplary the work of Jane Bennett and Graham Harman (yet also drawing on other figures within these materialist fields), this paper argues that the theories are self‐contradictory and rooted in what I label semiophobia (an unease with human reality as embedded in a semiotic reality). In addition, I argue that Harman's poetics (weird realism) and Bennett's strategic anthropomorphism are inconsistent and fail to deliver what they promise. Finally, I argue that in spite of its honorable intentions new materialism entails undesirable ethical and political consequences.
Long forgotten literary gems?
Authors: Classen Albrecht
Published: May 2018

Literary history can easily and quickly pass over important writers, or leave them behind because times and tastes change, or because individual poets or playwrights no longer fit into a certain cultural and political framework. This is the case with the Austrian writer Karl Heinrich Waggerl (1897–1973), who was very well known during his later years and was admired far and wide for his insightful, humorous, and meditative short stories, calendar narratives, aphorisms, and novels. Today, however, he no longer has any presence in the relevant literary histories. This article analyzes some of the central motifs in Waggerl's work and highlights timeless aspects that would justify a reorientation toward his texts. To some extent, he could be called an ecocritic avant la lettre.
Chromatin interacting factor OsVIL2 increases biomass and rice grain yield
Authors: Yang Jungil , Cho Lae‐Hyeon , Yoon Jinmi , Yoon Hyeryung , Wai Antt Htet , Hong Woo‐Jong , Han Muho , Sakakibara Hitoshi , Liang Wanqi , Jung Ki‐Hong , Jeon Jong‐Seong , Koh Hee‐Jong , Zhang Dabing , An Gynheung
Published: May 2018

Grain number is an important agronomic trait. We investigated the roles of chromatin interacting factor Oryza sativa VIN3‐LIKE 2 (OsVIL2), which controls plant biomass and yield in rice. Mutations in OsVIL2 led to shorter plants and fewer grains whereas its overexpression (OX) enhanced biomass production and grain numbers when compared with the wild type. RNA‐sequencing analyses revealed that 1958 genes were up‐regulated and 2096 genes were down‐regulated in the region of active division within the first internodes of OX plants. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis showed that, among the downregulated genes, OsVIL2 was directly associated with chromatins in the promoter region of CYTOKININ OXIDASE/DEHYDROGENASE2 (OsCKX2), a gene responsible for cytokinin degradation. Likewise, active cytokinin levels were increased in the OX plants. We conclude that OsVIL2 improves the production of biomass and grain by suppressing OsCKX2 chromatin.