bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of aluminum on seed germination and early seedling establishment, growth, and respiration of white spruce (Picea glauca)
Authors: Nosko Peter , Brassard Pierre , Kramer James R. , Kershaw Kenneth A.
Published: June 2017

Seed germination and the establishment and subsequent growth of seedlings of white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) subjected to various aluminum treatments were examined. Aluminum concentrations of 50–500 μM did not reduce the cumulative percent germination of seeds but impaired the ability of seedlings to become established. The inability of roots of Al-treated seedlings to penetrate a rooting medium resulted in significant reductions in seedling fresh weight and in the length and dry weight of roots and shoots. When seedlings were established before exposure to Al, the deleterious effects of Al were not as pronounced; however, root length, root dry weight, and root to shoot ratio were significantly lower for Al-treated seedlings compared with controls. Aluminum stimulated shoot growth, and a trend towards increased shoot length and stem dry weight with increased Al concentration was observed. Increased Al concentration in solution decreased the root to shoot ratio of established seedlings, but significant differences in respiration rate among Al treatments were not evident. The minimal Al concentration at which root elongation and the root dry weight of white spruce seedlings was significantly reduced was 50 μM, a value generally lower than those reported for other North American tree species. This suggests that white spruce seedlings are sensitive to aluminum and that soil acidification with its related increase in soluble aluminum may inhibit the natural establishment of this species.
Production, partial purification, and antimicrobial activity of a novel antibiotic produced by a Bacillus subtilis isolate from Ulmus americana
Authors: Schreiber L. R. , Gregory Garold F. , Krause C. R. , Ichida J. M.
Published: June 2017

Antibiotic substances produced by a Bacillus subtilis isolate from the xylem of an American elm (Ulmus americana L.) inhibited several fungal plant pathogens including the Dutch elm disease pathogen, Ceratocystis ulrni. Bioassays indicated the bacterium produced a diffusible, methanol-soluble antibiotic on potato dextrose agar at 30 °C. Cellulose powder column chromatography separated the antibiotic, which was further purified on a Sephadex LH-20 column, yielding two peaks of antibiotic activity, BS1 and BS2. These were further purified by paper chromatography. High-performance liquid chromatography, using C-18 reverse phase chromatography under isocratic conditions, resulted in five 280-nm absorbing peaks. Only one peak contained antibiotic activity. Upon ultrafiltration, the antibiotics passed through a 500 mol. wt. filter. The antibiotic was soluble in water, absolute methanol, ethanol, and chloroform but not in hexane or petroleum ether. Antimicrobial activity differed from that of other B. subtilis antibiotics including iturin A, bacillomycin L, mycosubtilin, fengycin, and bacilysin. Ceratocystis ulmi exposed to BS1 produced short, twisted, and swollen hyphae with irregularly thickened cell walls.
Effect of salinity, light, and temperature on germination in Allenrolfea occidentalis
Authors: Gul Bilquees , Weber Darrell J
Published: June 2017

Allenrolfea occidentalis (S. Wats.) Kuntze, a halophytic perennial shrub in the family Chenopodiaceae, is widely distributed in inland salt marshes and salt playas of western North America. Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of NaCl, light, and temperature on seed germination and their recovery of germination from saline conditions after being transferred to distilled water. Seeds of A. occidentalis were germinated at various temperatures (5:15, 10:20, 10:30, 15:25, 20:30, and 25:35°C (night:day)) and salinities (0, 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 mM NaCl) in a 12 h light : 12 h dark photoperiod and in 24 h darkness. Increases in NaCl concentration progressively inhibited seed germination, and this inhibition was greater in the dark than in light. No seeds germinated at concentrations higher than 800 mM NaCl. Cooler temperatures significantly inhibited germination in all treatments, while regimes of high night (25°C) and high day (35°C) temperatures showed higher germination. Rate of germination decreased with an increase in salinity. Germination rate was higher at 25:35°C and lower at 5:15°C. Seeds were transferred from salt solutions to distilled water after 20 days, and those from high salinities recovered quickly at all temperature regimes. Recovery germination percentages at higher salinities varied from 51 to 100% at various temperatures, but recovery of germination of seeds from salt stress was significantly affected by temperature regime.Key words: Allenrolfea occidentalis, halophyte, light, recovery of seed germination, salt playas, thermoperiod, Utah.
Lepidoptera wing scales: a new paleoecological indicator for reconstructing spruce budworm abundance
Authors: Navarro Lionel , Harvey Anne-Élizabeth , Morin Hubert
Published: June 2017

Natural disturbances have a major impact on boreal forest landscape dynamics, and although fire history is well documented at the Holocene scale, spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana (Clemens)) (SBW) dynamics have only been known for the last three centuries. This is likely due to the difficulty in using and interpreting existing indicators (cephalic head capsules and feces). In this methodological study, we present an original approach using lepidopteran wing scales to reconstruct insect abundance. We analyzed two sediment cores from the boreal forest in central Quebec and extracted wing scales at every stratigraphic level. The required quantity of sediment for paleoecological analysis is relatively small given the large quantity of wing scales produced by Lepidoptera and their small size. Scales are well preserved due to their chitinous structure and their great variety of shapes offer a high potential for taxonomic identification. A statistical model based on the shape of scales of the three major epidemic lepidopterans in Quebec discriminated 68% of SBW scales. This indicator allows a more efficient and more precise reconstruction of SBW history with respect to the use of cephalic head capsules or feces.
Chromosome identification by new molecular markers and genomic in situ hybridization in the Triticum–Secale–Thinopyrum trigeneric hybrids
Authors: Dai Yi , Duan Yamei , Chi Dawn , Liu Huiping , Huang Shuai , Cao Wenguang , Gao Yong , Fedak George , Chen Jianmin
Published: June 2017

It is very important to use chromosome-specific markers for identifying alien chromosomes in advanced generations of distant hybridization. The chromosome-specific markers of rye and Thinopyrum elongatum, as well as genomic in situ hybridization, were used to identify the alien chromosomes in eight lines that were derived from the crossing between Triticum trititrigia (AABBEE) and triticale (AABBRR). The results showed that four lines contained all rye chromosomes but no Th. elongatum chromosomes. The line RE36-1 contained all of the rye chromosomes except for chromosome 2R. The lines RE33-2 and RE62-1 contained all rye chromosomes and 1E and 5E translocated chromosome, respectively. The line RE24-4 contained 12 rye chromosomes plus a 7E chromosome or 12 rye chromosomes plus one R–E translocated chromosome. Chromosome identification in the above lines was consistent using chromosome-specific markers and genomic in situ hybridization. These chromosome-specific markers provide useful tools for detecting alien chromosomes in trigeneric hybrids, and these lines could be utilized as valuable germplasm in wheat improvement.
SOURCES OF FINANCE AND EXPORT PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM THAI MANUFACTURING SMEs
Authors: AMORNKITVIKAI YOT , HARVIE CHARLES
Published: June 2017

This study emphasizes the contribution of sources of finance to the export participation and export intensity of Thai manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and manufacturing firms in aggregate. It also elaborates on other key factors contributing to SME manufacturing firm export activity. The empirical results presented confirm that the Export–Import Bank of Thailand (EXIM Bank) and the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) both play a significant role in enhancing Thai SME and all manufacturing firm export participation and export intensity. Local and foreign commercial banks, however, are not found to have a significant correlation with their export participation and export intensity. In addition, SMEs and all manufacturing firms receiving funds from friends and family are found to participate less in foreign markets compared to those SMEs and all manufacturing firms in aggregate which do not receive any funds from their friends and family. With respect to the importance of type of ownership for export activity, foreign ownership can help promote the export participation and intensity of Thai manufacturing SMEs and all manufacturing enterprises. Technological innovation activity also helps them to participate in foreign markets. The empirical evidence also points out that financial institutions in Thailand remain reliant on collateral-based lending and financial transparency. A key finding from this paper is that manufacturing SMEs are likely to perform worse in terms of export participation, export intensity, and access to finance compared to large manufacturing enterprises.
CONSPICUOUS CONSUMPTION OF ONLINE SOCIAL NETWORKING DEVICES AND SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING OF BANGKOKIANS
Authors: HERBERHOLZ CHANTAL , PRAPAIPANICH NATTAYA
Published: June 2017

Empirical evidence of the conspicuous consumption theory is limited and ambiguous. It has been shown, however, that the consumption of life experiences makes people happier than the consumption of material goods. Yet, these studies typically conduct dichotomous comparisons and do not distinguish between conspicuous and inconspicuous consumption. Conspicuous and inconspicuous online social networking devices (OSND) are experiential goods and as such fall between life experiences and material goods. The objective of this paper, thus, is to examine the relationship between conspicuous consumption of OSND and subjective well-being, which is proxied by happiness and mental health. Cross-sectional data ([Formula: see text]) were collected in 2015 using probability sampling. The ordered logistic regression results reveal that conspicuous consumption of OSND is negatively related with happiness and mental health in all regressions as hypothesized, while the coefficient on inconspicuous consumption of OSND is positive. Also, the number of virtual friends is negatively associated with happiness. Among the control variables, it is noteworthy that respondents with high blood pressure, used to capture physical health, have lower happiness and mental health, while respondents with higher education and high own monthly income exhibit higher happiness and mental health. Respondents, whose personality can best be characterized as “agreeable”, have lower happiness and mental health which is in line with the old saying that “nice guys finish last”.
VBS W±W±H production at the HL-LHC and a 100 TeV pp-collider
Authors: Englert Christoph , Li Qiang , Spannowsky Michael , Wang Mengmeng , Wang Lei
Published: June 2017

[Formula: see text] production at hadron colliders through vector boson scattering is a so far unconsidered process, which leads to a clean signature of two same-sign charged leptons and two widely separated jets. This process is sensitive to the [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] couplings and any deviation of these couplings from their SM predictions serves as direct evidence of new physics beyond the SM. In this paper, we perform a Monte Carlo study of this process for the [Formula: see text] LHC and a 100 TeV [Formula: see text]-collider, and provide projections of the constraints on the triple-Higgs and [Formula: see text] quartic couplings for these environments. In particular, we consider the impact of pileup on the expected sensitivity in this channel. Our analysis demonstrates that although the sensitivity to the [Formula: see text] coupling is rather low, the [Formula: see text] coupling can be constrained in this channel within [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]100% and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]20% at 95% confidence level around the SM prediction at the HL-LHC and a 100 TeV [Formula: see text]-collider, respectively. We have also provided results with simple truncation scheme, in consideration of unitarity safety.
Gravitational wave–gauge field dynamics
Authors: Caldwell R. R. , Devulder C. , Maksimova N. A.
Published: June 2017

The dynamics of a gravitational wave propagating through a cosmic gauge field are dramatically different than in vacuum. We show that a gravitational wave acquires an effective mass, is birefringent, and its normal modes are a linear combination of gravitational waves and gauge field excitations, leading to the phenomenon of gravitational wave–gauge field oscillations. These surprising results provide an insight into gravitational phenomena and may suggest new approaches to a theory of quantum gravity.
Isospin excitation and shape phase transition in odd-mass Cu isotopes
Authors: Ghapanvari M. , Jafarizadeh M. A. , Fouladi N. , Ranjbar Z. , Amiri N.
Published: June 2017

In this paper, the interacting boson–fermion model generalized by considering an np-boson and the single nucleon as a vector coupled in isospin to the bosons to form the model isospin invariant. The transitional interacting boson–fermion model Hamiltonians in IBFM-1 and IBFM-3 versions based on affine SU(1,[Formula: see text]1) Lie algebra are employed to describe the evolution from the spherical to deformed gamma unstable shapes along the chain of Cu isotopes. We have studied the energy spectra of [Formula: see text] isotopes and B(E2) transition probabilities of [Formula: see text] isotopes in the shape phase transition region between the spherical and gamma unstable deformed shapes. Good agreement was achieved between the calculated results using the models and measured data. The results obtained and the values of control parameters used in this calculation indicated that the odd-mass Cu isotopes located near the closed shell provided good examples of [Formula: see text](5) symmetry without any significant deformed gamma-unstable structure. Some comparisons are made with IBFM-1.
AB INITIO STUDY OF THE ELECTRONIC AND MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF GRAPHENE WITH AND WITHOUT ADSORPTION OF M ATOM (M = C, N, O, F, Cl)
Authors: ISMAIL ALI I. , MUBARAK A. A.
Published: June 2017

We present here an ab initio study for the energetic, electronic, magnetic and optical structures of the graphene sheet with and without the adsorption of M atom (M [Formula: see text] C, N, O, F, Cl). The calculations are preformed using the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) to describe the exchange-correlation potential. The calculations show that N prefers the bridge site, while C, O, F and Cl prefer the top site above the graphene sheet. The calculated M-graphene bond length is found to be inversely proportional to the adsorption energy. The hybridization between sp-states of the graphene sheet and M adatom is determined by the analysis of the partial and local density of states (PDOS and TDOS). In case of O and F as adsorbed atoms, graphene sheets show a wide energy band-gap and some significant magnetic moments. The optical properties of the studied sheets are performed in different radiation regions using the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric function. We think that the energetic, electronic, optical and magnetic properties of the M-graphene sheets are governed by two main factors; the number of unpaired valence electrons and the electronegativity of the M atom.
Mammalian Synthetic Biology: Engineering Biological Systems
Authors: Black Joshua B. , Perez-Pinera Pablo , Gersbach Charles A.
Published: June 2017

The programming of new functions into mammalian cells has tremendous application in research and medicine. Continued improvements in the capacity to sequence and synthesize DNA have rapidly increased our understanding of mechanisms of gene function and regulation on a genome-wide scale and have expanded the set of genetic components available for programming cell biology. The invention of new research tools, including targetable DNA-binding systems such as CRISPR/Cas9 and sensor-actuator devices that can recognize and respond to diverse chemical, mechanical, and optical inputs, has enabled precise control of complex cellular behaviors at unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution. These tools have been critical for the expansion of synthetic biology techniques from prokaryotic and lower eukaryotic hosts to mammalian systems. Recent progress in the development of genome and epigenome editing tools and in the engineering of designer cells with programmable genetic circuits is expanding approaches to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease and to establish personalized theranostic strategies for next-generation medicines. This review summarizes the development of these enabling technologies and their application to transforming mammalian synthetic biology into a distinct field in research and medicine.
Inter-relations between 3-hydroxypropionate and propionate metabolism in rat liver: relevance to disorders of propionyl-CoA metabolism
Authors: Wilson Kirkland A. , Han Yong , Zhang Miaoqi , Hess Jeremy P. , Chapman Kimberly A. , Cline Gary W. , Tochtrop Gregory P. , Brunengraber Henri , Zhang Guo-Fang
Published: June 2017

Propionate, 3-hydroxypropionate (3HP), methylcitrate, related compounds, and ammonium accumulate in body fluids of patients with disorders of propionyl-CoA metabolism, such as propionic acidemia. Although liver transplantation alleviates hyperammonemia, high concentrations of propionate, 3HP, and methylcitrate persist in body fluids. We hypothesized that conserved metabolic perturbations occurring in transplanted patients result from the simultaneous presence of propionate and 3HP in body fluids. We investigated the inter-relations of propionate and 3HP metabolism in perfused livers from normal rats using metabolomic and stable isotopic technologies. In the presence of propionate, 3HP, or both, we observed the following metabolic perturbations. First, the citric acid cycle (CAC) is overloaded but does not provide sufficient reducing equivalents to the respiratory chain to maintain the homeostasis of adenine nucleotides. Second, there is major CoA trapping in the propionyl-CoA pathway and a tripling of liver total CoA within 1 h. Third, liver proteolysis is stimulated. Fourth, propionate inhibits the conversion of 3HP to acetyl-CoA and its oxidation in the CAC. Fifth, some propionate and some 3HP are converted to nephrotoxic maleate by different processes. Our data have implications for the clinical management of propionic acidemia. They also emphasize the perturbations of the liver intermediary metabolism induced by supraphysiological, i.e., millimolar, concentrations of labeled propionate used to trace the intermediary metabolism, in particular, inhibition of CAC flux and major decreases in the [ATP]/[ADP] and [ATP]/[AMP] ratios.
The effects of neuromodulation in a novel obese-prone rat model of detrusor underactivity
Authors: Gonzalez Eric J. , Grill Warren M.
Published: June 2017

Obesity is a global epidemic associated with an increased risk for lower urinary tract dysfunction. Inefficient voiding and urinary retention may arise in late-stage obesity when the expulsive force of the detrusor smooth muscle cannot overcome outlet resistance. Detrusor underactivity (DUA) and impaired contractility may contribute to the pathogenesis of nonobstructive urinary retention. We used cystometry and electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves (pudendal and pelvic nerves) to characterize and improve bladder function in urethane-anesthetized obese-prone (OP) and obese-resistant (OR) rats following diet-induced obesity (DIO). OP rats exhibited urinary retention and impaired detrusor contractility following DIO, reflected as increased volume threshold, decreased peak micturition pressure, and decreased voiding efficiency (VE) compared with OR rats. Electrical stimulation of the sensory branch of the pudendal nerve did not increase VE, whereas patterned bursting stimulation of the motor branch of the pudendal nerve increased VE twofold in OP rats. OP rats required increased amplitude of electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerve to elicit bladder contractions, and maximum evoked bladder contraction amplitudes were decreased relative to OR rats. Collectively, these studies characterize a novel animal model of DUA that can be used to determine pathophysiology and suggest that neuromodulation is a potential management option for DUA.
Harnessing basic and clinic tools to evaluate SGLT2 inhibitor nephrotoxicity
Authors: Saly Danielle L. , Perazella Mark A.
Published: June 2017

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a new class of medications that target the transporter that reabsorbs ~90% of glucose in the S1 segment of the proximal convoluted tubule. As a result, SGLT2 inhibition increases urinary glucose excretion, effectively lowering plasma glucose levels. In addition to reducing hemoglobin A1c levels, these drugs also lower body weight, blood pressure, and uric acid levels in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. Importantly, empagliflozin has been observed to slow progression of kidney disease and reduce dialysis requirements in T2DM patients. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) has collected over 100 cases of acute kidney injury (AKI) for canagloflozin and dapagliflozin since their approval. Of the 101 patients, 96 required hospitalization, 22 required intensive care unit admission, and 15 underwent hemodialysis. The FDA now requires that AKI be listed as a potential side effect of the SGLT2 inhibitors along with cautious prescription of these drugs with other medications, such as renin-angiotensin-system antagonists, diuretics, and NSAIDs. It is unclear, however, whether this FAERS reported “AKI” actually represents structural kidney injury, as randomized, controlled trials of these drugs do not describe AKI as an adverse event despite coprescription with RAS blockers and diuretics. As a result of this FDA warning, diabetic patients with early-stage CKD may not be prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor for fear of AKI. Thus, it is imperative to ascertain whether the reported AKI represents true structural kidney injury or a functional decline in glomerular filtration rate. We propose using readily available clinical tools with experimental biomarkers of kidney injury and kidney-on-a-chip technology to resolve this question and provide solid evidence about the AKI risk of these drugs for healthcare providers.
Timing during transitions in Bengalese finch song: implications for motor sequencing
Authors: Troyer Todd W. , Brainard Michael S. , Bouchard Kristofer E.
Published: June 2017

To investigate mechanisms of action sequencing, we examined the relationship between timing and sequencing of syllables in Bengalese finch song. An individual’s song comprises acoustically distinct syllables organized into probabilistic sequences: a given syllable potentially can transition to several different syllables (divergence points), and several different syllables can transition to a given syllable (convergence points). In agreement with previous studies, we found that more probable transitions at divergence points occur with shorter intersyllable gaps. One intuition for this relationship is that selection between syllables reflects a competitive branching process, in which stronger links to one syllable lead to both higher probabilities and shorter latencies for transitions to that syllable vs. competing alternatives. However, we found that simulations of competitive race models result in overlapping winning-time distributions for competing outcomes and fail to replicate the strong negative correlation between probability and gap duration found in song data. Further investigation of song structure revealed strong positive correlation between gap durations for transitions that share a common convergent point. Such transitions are not related by a common competitive process, but instead reflect a common terminal syllable. In contrast to gap durations, transition probabilities were not correlated at convergence points. Together, our data suggest that syllable selection happens early during the gap, with gap timing determined chiefly by the latency to syllable initiation. This may result from a process in which probabilistic sequencing is first stabilized, followed by a shortening of the latency to syllables that are sung more often.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Bengalese finch songs consist of probabilistic sequences of syllables. Previous studies revealed a strong negative correlation between transition probability and the duration of intersyllable gaps. We show here that the negative correlation is inconsistent with previous suggestions that timing at syllable transitions is governed by a race between competing alternatives. Rather, the data suggest that syllable selection happens early during the gap, with gap timing determined chiefly by the latency to syllable initiation.
Dynamic mechanisms of visually guided 3D motion tracking
Authors: Bonnen Kathryn , Huk Alexander C. , Cormack Lawrence K.
Published: June 2017

The continuous perception of motion-through-depth is critical for both navigation and interacting with objects in a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) world. Here we used 3D tracking to simultaneously assess the perception of motion in all directions, facilitating comparisons of responses to motion-through-depth to frontoparallel motion. Observers manually tracked a stereoscopic target as it moved in a 3D Brownian random walk. We found that continuous tracking of motion-through-depth was selectively impaired, showing different spatiotemporal properties compared with frontoparallel motion tracking. Two separate factors were found to contribute to this selective impairment. The first is the geometric constraint that motion-through-depth yields much smaller retinal projections than frontoparallel motion, given the same object speed in the 3D environment. The second factor is the sluggish nature of disparity processing, which is present even for frontoparallel motion tracking of a disparity-defined stimulus. Thus, despite the ecological importance of reacting to approaching objects, both the geometry of 3D vision and the nature of disparity processing result in considerable impairments for tracking motion-through-depth using binocular cues.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We characterize motion perception continuously in all directions using an ecologically relevant, manual target tracking paradigm we recently developed. This approach reveals a selective impairment to the perception of motion-through-depth. Geometric considerations demonstrate that this impairment is not consistent with previously observed spatial deficits (e.g., stereomotion suppression). However, results from an examination of disparity processing are consistent with the longer latencies observed in discrete, trial-based measurements of the perception of motion-through-depth.
Discharge against Medical Advice in Surgical Patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Case Report Series Illustrating Unique Challenges
Authors: Brzezinski Marek , Gregersen Maren , Schuch Luiz Gustavo , Sawatzki Ricarda , Chen Joy W. , Gauger Grant , Kukreja Jasleen , Cason Brian
Published: June 2017

Discharge against medical advice (DAMA) can have detrimental effects on patient outcomes. Recently, the diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been linked with DAMA in themental healthsetting. However, PTSD as a risk factor for DAMA insurgicalpatients has not received much consideration, although such patients may be at risk for triggering or amplification of PTSD symptoms perioperatively. We present the first case report series of three surgical patients with PTSD who left the hospital AMA. These cases differ markedly from DAMA in non-PTSD patients. In all three subjects, the stress of feeling misunderstood by clinicians and the distress of public detainment by hospital security in the setting of chronic PTSD led to aggressive and risky behavior. All three subjects represented a risk to themselves and to others at the time of DAMA. Finally, all three subjects were difficult to contact for follow-up or medical care and missed appointments.
The Traditional Chinese Medicine and Relevant Treatment for the Efficacy and Safety of Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Shi Zhao-feng , Song Tie-bing , Xie Juan , Yan Yi-quan , Du Yong-ping
Published: June 2017

Background. Atopic dermatitis (AD) has become a common skin disease that requires systematic and comprehensive treatment to achieve adequate clinical control. Traditional Chinese medicines and related treatments have shown clinical effects for AD in many studies. But the systematic reviews and meta‐analyses for them are lacking. Objective. The systematic review and meta‐analysis based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement were conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicines and related treatments for AD treatment. Methods. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched based on standardized searching rules in eight medical databases from the inception up to December 2016 and a total of 24 articles with 1,618 patients were enrolled in this meta‐analysis. Results. The results revealed that traditional Chinese medicines and related treatments did not show statistical differences in clinical effectiveness, SCORAD amelioration, and SSRI amelioration for AD treatment compared with control group. However, EASI amelioration of traditional Chinese medicines and related treatments for AD was superior to control group. Conclusion. We need to make conclusion cautiously for the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine and related treatment on AD therapy. More standard, multicenter, double‐blind randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of traditional Chinese medicine and related treatment for AD were required to be conducted for more clinical evidences providing in the future.
Research of Hubs Location Method for Weighted Brain Network Based on NoS-FA
Authors: Weng Zhengkui , Wang Bin , Xue Jie , Yang Baojie , Liu Hui , Xiong Xin
Published: June 2017

As a complex network of many interlinked brain regions, there are some central hub regions which play key roles in the structural human brain network based on T1 and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) technology. Since most studies about hubs location method in the whole human brain network are mainly concerned with the local properties of each single node but not the global properties of all the directly connected nodes, a novel hubs location method based on global importance contribution evaluation index is proposed in this study. The number of streamlines (NoS) is fused with normalized fractional anisotropy (FA) for more comprehensive brain bioinformation. The brain region importance contribution matrix and information transfer efficiency value are constructed, respectively, and then by combining these two factors together we can calculate the importance value of each node and locate the hubs. Profiting from both local and global features of the nodes and the multi-information fusion of human brain biosignals, the experiment results show that this method can detect the brain hubs more accurately and reasonably compared with other methods. Furthermore, the proposed location method is used in impaired brain hubs connectivity analysis of schizophrenia patients and the results are in agreement with previous studies.
The Virtuous CO2 Circle or the Three Cs: Capture, Cache, and Convert
Authors: Bocchini Sergio , Castro Carlos , Cocuzza Matteo , Ferrero Sergio , Latini Giulio , Martis Alberto , Pirri Fabrizio , Scaltrito Luciano , Rocca Vera , Verga Francesca , Viberti Dario
Published: June 2017

It is not the first time in human history, nor will it be the last for that matter, that a collective problem calls for a collective response. Climate change fueled by greenhouse emissions affects humankind alike. Despite the disagreement among policymakers and scientists on the severity of the issue, the truth is that the problem remains. A broad look at different technologies being used today in different fields has led to the idea of bringing them together in an attempt to offer a viable solution to reducing anthropogenic CO2. The following paper describes how the nanotechnologies, available or soon to be available, would make CO2 capture, cache, and conversion (coined the three Cs) a valid way for achieving a more sustainable energy society. Authors also set out to highlight with this work how knowledge transfer is instrumental in the development of technology and how methodical assessment of crossovers can expedite research when time plays against us.
A Certificateless Ring Signature Scheme with High Efficiency in the Random Oracle Model
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Zeng Jiwen , Li Wei , Zhu Huilin
Published: June 2017

Ring signature is a kind of digital signature which can protect the identity of the signer. Certificateless public key cryptography not only overcomes key escrow problem but also does not lose some advantages of identity‐based cryptography. Certificateless ring signature integrates ring signature with certificateless public key cryptography. In this paper, we propose an efficient certificateless ring signature; it has only three bilinear pairing operations in the verify algorithm. The scheme is proved to be unforgeable in the random oracle model.
Geographical Variation and Factors Associated with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in Manitoba
Authors: Dawe David E. , Singh Harminder , Wickramasinghe Lahiru , Pitz Marshall W. , Torabi Mahmoud
Published: June 2017

Background. Screening decreases non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) deaths and is recommended by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care. We investigated risk factor prevalence and NSCLC incidence at a small region level to inform resource allocation for lung cancer screening. Methods. NSCLC diagnoses were obtained from the Canadian Cancer Registry, then geocoded to 283 small geographic areas (SGAs) in Manitoba. Sociodemographic characteristics of SGAs were obtained from the 2006 Canadian Census and Canadian Community Health Survey. Geographical variation was modelled using a Bayesian spatial Poisson model. Results. NSCLC incidence in SGAs ranged from 1 to 343 cases per 100,000 population per year. The highest incidence rates were in the Southeastern, Southwestern, and Central regions of Manitoba, while most of Northern Manitoba had lower rates. Poisson regression suggested areas with higher proportions of Aboriginal people and higher average income, and immigrants had lower NSCLC incidence whereas areas with higher proportions of smokers had higher incidence. Conclusion. On an SGA level, smoking rates remain the most significant factor driving NSCLC incidence. Socioeconomic status and proportions of immigrants or Aboriginal peoples independently impact NSCLC rates. We have identified SGAs in Manitoba to target in policy and infrastructure planning for lung cancer screening.
Should a Manufacturer Encroach on Its Retailer’s Operations with Quality Differentiated Products?
Authors: Chai Junwu , Chen Huan , Huang Qilin , Yan Wei
Published: June 2017

Despite the fact that manufacturers are progressively encroaching into the retail market by selling products that differ in quality from the products that are already on the market, this issue has received little attention in the literature on dual-channel supply chains. We fill this gap by first considering that a manufacturer sells higher- (lower-) quality products through its own direct channel, whereas all lower- (higher-) quality products are distributed by an independent retailer, and then comparing our equilibrium outcomes with those in the literature of the manufacturer who distributes homogeneous products through both channels. Our results show that, compared to selling lower-quality products directly or offering homogeneous products through both channels, an effort by the manufacturer that is too aggressive in its attempt to encroach on the retail market (i.e., selling higher-quality products directly) not only decreases the retailer’s profits but also reduces the manufacturer’s own profitability. Furthermore, we find that, compared with offering homogeneous products through both channels, selling lower-quality products directly is always beneficial for the retailer but hurts consumers.
Use of Ultrasmall Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Enhanced Susceptibility Weighted Imaging and Mean Vessel Density Imaging to Monitor Antiangiogenic Effects of Sorafenib on Experimental Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Shuohui , Lin Jiang , Lu Fang , Han Zhihong , Fu Caixia , Gu Hongchen
Published: June 2017

We investigated effectiveness of ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide enhanced susceptibility weighted imaging (USPIO-enhanced SWI) and mean vessel density imaging (Q) in monitoring antiangiogenic effects of Sorafenib on orthotopic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thirty-five HCC xenografts were established. USPIO-enhanced SWI and Q were performed on a 1.5 T MR scanner at baseline, 7, 14, and 21 days after Sorafenib treatment. Intratumoral susceptibility signal intensity (ITSS) and Q were serially measured and compared between the treated (n = 15) and control groups (n = 15). Both ITSS and Q were significantly lower in the treated group at each time point (P < 0.05). Measurements in the treated group showed that ITSS persisted at 7 days (P = 0.669) and increased at 14 and 21 days (P < 0.05), while Q significantly declined at 7 days (P = 0.028) and gradually increased at 14 and 21 days. In the treated group, significant correlation was found between Q and histologic microvessel density (MVD) (r = 0.753, P < 0.001), and ITSS correlated well with MVD (r = 0.742, P = 0.002) after excluding the data from baseline. This study demonstrated that USPIO-enhanced SWI and Q could provide novel biomarkers for evaluating antiangiogenic effects of Sorafenib on HCC.
Phosphoproteomic Profiling Reveals ALK and MET as Novel Actionable Targets across Synovial Sarcoma Subtypes
Authors: Fleuren Emmy D.G. , Vlenterie Myrella , van der Graaf Winette T.A. , Hillebrandt-Roeffen Melissa H.S. , Blackburn James , Ma Xiuquan , Chan Howard , Magias Mandy C. , van Erp Anke , van Houdt Laurens , Cebeci Sabri A.S. , van de Ven Amy , Flucke Uta E. , Heyer Erin E. , Thomas David M. , Lord Christopher J. , Marini Kieren D. , Vaghjiani Vijesh , Mercer Tim R. , Cain Jason E. , Wu Jianmin , Versleijen-Jonkers Yvonne M.H. , Daly Roger J.
Published: June 2017

Despite intensive multimodal treatment of sarcomas, a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors arising from connective tissue, survival remains poor. Candidate-based targeted treatments have demonstrated limited clinical success, urging an unbiased and comprehensive analysis of oncogenic signaling networks to reveal therapeutic targets and personalized treatment strategies. Here we applied mass spectrometry–based phosphoproteomic profiling to the largest and most heterogeneous set of sarcoma cell lines characterized to date and identified novel tyrosine phosphorylation patterns, enhanced tyrosine kinases in specific subtypes, and potential driver kinases. ALK was identified as a novel driver in the Aska-SS synovial sarcoma (SS) cell line via expression of an ALK variant with a large extracellular domain deletion (ALKΔ2–17). Functional ALK dependency was confirmed in vitro and in vivo with selective inhibitors. Importantly, ALK immunopositivity was detected in 6 of 43 (14%) of SS patient specimens, one of which exhibited an ALK rearrangement. High PDGFRα phosphorylation also characterized SS cell lines, which was accompanied by enhanced MET activation in Yamato-SS cells. Although Yamato-SS cells were sensitive to crizotinib (ALK/MET-inhibitor) but not pazopanib (VEGFR/PDGFR-inhibitor) monotherapy in vitro, synergistic effects were observed upon drug combination. In vivo, both drugs were individually effective, with pazopanib efficacy likely attributable to reduced angiogenesis. MET or PDGFRα expression was detected in 58% and 84% of SS patients, respectively, with coexpression in 56%. Consequently, our integrated approach has led to the identification of ALK and MET as promising therapeutic targets in SS. Cancer Res; 77(16); 4279–92. ©2017 AACR.
Homeobox Transcription Factor NKX2-1 PromotesCyclin D1Transcription in Lung Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Harada Masanori , Sakai Satoshi , Ohhata Tatsuya , Kitagawa Kyoko , Mikamo Masashi , Nishimoto Koji , Uchida Chiharu , Niida Hiroyuki , Kotake Yojiro , Sugimura Haruhiko , Suda Takafumi , Kitagawa Masatoshi
Published: June 2017

The known oncogene cyclin D1 (CCND1) participates in progression of the cell cycle from G1 to S-phase. Expression of cyclin D1 is frequently promoted in multiple human cancers including non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, a relationship between cyclin D1 expression and the prognosis of NSCLC has not been confirmed. NKX2-1 is a homeobox transcription factor involved in pulmonary development as a differentiation-promoting factor. In NSCLC, it acts as a metastasis suppressor and correlates with a good prognosis. Here, NKX2-1–binding motifs were identified in the cyclin D1 promoter, but it has not been clarified whether NKX2-1 is involved in cyclin D1 expression in NSCLC. To shed light on this issue, endogenous NKX2-1 was depleted in NSCLC cell lines, which resulted in decreased cyclin D1 mRNA and protein. In contrast, forced overexpression of NKX2-1 increased cyclin D1 levels. Moreover, NKX2-1 directly bound to the cyclin D1 promoter and enhanced its activity. Finally, using human NSCLC clinical specimens, it was determined that both NKX2-1 protein and mRNA were significantly correlated with cyclin D1 expression status in adenocarcinomas. These results indicate that NKX2-1 directly and positively regulates transcription of cyclin D1. Finally, expression of NKX2-1, but not cyclin D1, was significantly associated with metastatic incidence as an independent good prognostic factor of adenocarcinoma.

Implications: NKX2-1–expressing adenocarcinomas, whereas NKX2-1 promoted cyclin D1 expression, may show good prognosis features by the metastasis inhibition potency of NKX2-1 regardless cyclin D1 expression. Mol Cancer Res; 15(10); 1388–97. ©2017 AACR.
Association between Metabolic Syndrome and Serum Nerve Growth Factor Levels in Women with Overactive Bladder
Authors: Dagdeviren Hediye , Cengiz Huseyin
Published: June 2017

Objective: This study aimed to determine the association between overactive bladder (OAB), metabolic syndrome (MetS) and serum nerve growth factors (NGF). Study Design: Serum samples from a group of 90 women that included patients with OAB (group 1), patients with both OAB and MetS (group 2) and healthy women without OAB and MetS (group 3). Each group included 30 patients. Serum levels of NGF were compared among the groups. Results: When the groups were compared with respect to NGF levels, group 2 was found to have significantly higher NGF levels (p = 0.001). A NGF threshold of >380 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 81.7% and a specificity of 100% to discriminate between groups 2 and 3. Conclusion: Our findings support the theory that possible sympathetic overactivity, proinflammatory status, oxidative stress and other pathological conditions associated with MetS and potentially involved in the development of OAB lead to increased serum NGF levels. These findings may help to shed light on the complicated pathogenesis of OAB.
Is There a Relationship between Vegetarianism and Seasonal Affective Disorder? A Pilot Study
Authors: Meesters Alie N.R. , Maukonen Mirkka , Partonen Timo , Männistö Satu , Gordijn Marijke C.M. , Meesters Ybe
Published: June 2017

Background and Aim: Seasonal patterns of food intake are found in healthy individuals and particularly in patients with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). One nutritional choice is a vegetarian diet. Methods: In a Finnish population study, FINRISK 2012, information about diet and SAD was collected. In a Dutch outpatient clinic, SAD patients were asked if they were vegetarian. Results: The percentage of SAD patients among Finnish vegetarians was 4 times higher than in the normal population. The percentage of vegetarians among the SAD patients in a Dutch outpatient clinic was 3 times higher than in the normal population. In the Dutch population, the seasonal loss of energy, in particular, is related to vegetarianism. Conclusion: These findings suggest a possible link between vegetarianism and SAD.
Recovery of Food Intake after Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: Based on a Large-Scale Gastric Cancer Cohort
Authors: Eom Bang Wool , Kim Jeongseon , Kim Deok Hee , Kim Young-Il , Yoon Hong Man , Cho Soo-Jeong , Lee Jong Yeul , Kim Chan Gyoo , Choi Il Ju , Kim Young-Woo , Nam Byung-Ho , Ryu Keun Won
Published: June 2017

Background: This study was aimed at evaluating the food intake and nutritional status of patients who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer based on a large-scale gastric cancer cohort. Methods: An observational prospective cohort study for gastric cancer has been conducted since 2010. From the cohort data, we selected the data for patients who completed at least 2 days of 3-day diet diaries and who underwent subtotal gastrectomy (STG) or total gastrectomy (TG). As a control group, patients who underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection were also included. The collected diet data were converted to macro- and micronutrients using computerized software, and the nutrient intakes were compared. Results: Among 6,556 patients who participated in the cohort study from 2011 to 2016, 1,289 patients who completed at least 2 days of 3-day diet diaries were included in this study. During the postoperative 3-month period, body weight was significantly decreased in the and TG groups. However, there was no difference in nutrient intake among the 3 groups except vitamin D and calcium intake. Similar results were observed during the postoperative 12 months period. Conclusions: Postoperative body weight loss and anemia might originate from altered absorptive function and metabolic change after gastrectomy rather than decreased nutrient intake.
Protecting Oligodendrocytes by Targeting Non-Glutamate Receptors as a New Therapeutic Strategy for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Luo Pan , Liu Dong , Guo Lianjun
Published: June 2017

Ischemic stroke has many devastating effects within the brain. At the cellular level, excitotoxicity has been a popular pharmacological target for therapeutics. To date, many clinical trials have been performed with drugs that target excitatory neurotransmitter receptors, such as NMDA receptor agonists. The results, however, have been lackluster. Most efforts to understand the impacts of excitotoxicity on the brain have focused primarily on neurons, and to a lesser degree, on gliocytes as cellular targets. Recent evidence suggests that oligodendrocytes (OLGs), the myelin-forming cells in the central nervous system, are damaged by ischemia in a manner completely different from that in neurons. Whereas ischemia primarily damages neurons through overactivation of ionotropic glutamate receptors, the ischemia damage in OLGs occurs through overactivation of H+-gated transient receptor potential channels. Given the differential mechanisms of ischemic injury between neurons and OLGs, strategies to target non-glutamate receptors to prevent OLG damage/demyelination deserve greater attention in drug development. Such strategies, combined with neuroprotective measures, could provide an excellent therapeutic avenue for the treatment of ischemic stroke.