bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simple and noninvasive method for assessment of digestive efficiency: Validation of fecal steatocrit in greenfinch coccidiosis model
Authors: Meitern Richard , Lind Mari‐Ann , Karu Ulvi , Hõrak Peeter
Published: November 2016

Animals’ capability to absorb energy and nutrients from food poses a major internal constraint that affects the amount of resources available for allocation to maintenance, growth, signaling, and reproduction. Intestinal surface is the largest area of contact between immune system and microbial antigens; gut thus appears the main arena where trade‐offs between immune function and other components of fitness arise. Assessment of the integrity of digestive machinery should therefore be of high priority in ecophysiological research. Traditional methods of digestive physiology, however, appear unsuitable for most ecological applications due to lethality or complexity of the procedure.

Here, we test the reliability of a simple, cheap, and noninvasive procedure, an acid steatocrit that assesses fat content in feces. It is based on centrifugation of a fecal sample, diluted in acid medium, in hematocrit capillary tube and quantifying the percentage of fat in fecal matter. The method has been previously validated in humans and mice; here, we apply it for the first time in birds.

When applied to captive wild‐caught greenfinches, the method showed reasonable internal consistency (rs = 0.71 for steatocrit values, sampled from the same fecal aliquot in duplicate but processed separately). Individual steatocrit values were significantly repeatable in time in different intervals from eight to at least 20 days (rs = 0.32–0.49). The relationship between intestinal health and steatocrit values was tested by experimental manipulations. Medication against coccidiosis (a naturally pervasive intestinal infection) reduced, and experimental infection with heterologous coccidian strains increased steatocrit. Individual changes in steatocrit correlated negatively with changes of two markers of nutritional state—plasma triglyceride levels and body mass.

Findings of this study suggest that steatocrit has a wide application potential as a marker of intestinal health in ecophysiological research. In particular, we see the perspective of this method for increasingly popular immunoecological research, conservation medicine, and studies of animal coloration.
Patterns of population structure at microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA markers in the franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei)
Authors: Gariboldi María Constanza , Túnez Juan Ignacio , Failla Mauricio , Hevia Marta , Panebianco María Victoria , Paso Viola María Natalia , Vitullo Alfredo Daniel , Cappozzo Humberto Luis
Published: November 2016

The franciscana dolphin, Pontorporia blainvillei, is an endemic cetacean of the Atlantic coast of South America. Its coastal distribution and restricted movement patterns make this species vulnerable to anthropogenic factors, particularly to incidental bycatch. We used mitochondrial DNA control region sequences, 10 microsatellites, and sex data to investigate the population structure of the franciscana dolphin from a previously established management area, which includes the southern edge of its geographic range. F‐statistics and Bayesian cluster analyses revealed the existence of three genetically distinct populations. Based on the microsatellite loci, similar levels of genetic variability were found in the area; 13 private alleles were found in Monte Hermoso, but none in Claromecó. When considering the mitochondrial DNA control region sequences, lower levels of genetic diversity were found in Monte Hermoso, when compared to the other localities. Low levels of gene flow were found between most localities. Additionally, no evidence of isolation by distance nor sex‐biased dispersal was detected in the study area. In view of these results showing that populations from Necochea/Claromecó, Monte Hermoso, and Río Negro were found to be genetically distinct and the available genetic information for the species previously published, Argentina would comprise five distinct populations: Samborombón West/Samborombón South, Cabo San Antonio/Buenos Aires East, Necochea/Claromecó/Buenos Aires Southwest, Monte Hermoso, and Río Negro. In order to ensure the long‐term survival of the franciscana dolphin, management and conservation strategies should be developed considering each of these populations as different management units.
Monocyte‐derived dendritic cells enhance protection against secondary influenza challenge by controlling the switch in CD8+ T‐cell immunodominance
Authors: Cruz Jazmina L. G. , Pérez‐Girón José V. , Lüdtke Anja , Gómez‐Medina Sergio , Ruibal Paula , Idoyaga Juliana , Muñoz‐Fontela César
Published: November 2016

Influenza virus infection triggers an increase in the number of monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (moDCs) in the respiratory tract, but the role of these cells during antiviral immunity is still unclear. Here we show that during influenza infection, moDCs dominate the late activation of CD8+ T cells and trigger the switch in immunodominance of the CD8+ T‐cell response from acidic polymerase specificity to nucleoprotein specificity. Abrogation of monocyte recruitment or depletion of moDCs strongly compromised host resistance to secondary influenza challenge. These findings underscore a novel function of moDCs in the antiviral response to influenza virus, and have important implications for vaccine design.
Gold(I) Complexes [N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2]AuL (L = Ethylene, tert‐Butyl Isocyanide, Tetrahydrothiophene, Triphenylphosphine) and Different Triazapentadienyl Ligand Coordination Modes
Authors: Singh Shreeyukta , Wang Guocang , Mao James X. , Flores Jaime A. , Kou Xiaodi , Campana Charles , Kroll Peter , Dias H. V. Rasika
Published: November 2016

Fluorinated 1,3,5‐triazapentadienyl ligand [N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2] (Dipp = 2,6‐iPr2C6H3) has been used in the synthesis of monomeric gold(I)‐ethylene, tBuNC, tetrahydrothiophene (THT), and PPh3 complexes. X‐ray crystal structures show a rich diversity of coordination modes in which gold coordinates to the central nitrogen atom of 1,3,5‐triazapentadienyl ligand in tBuNCAu[N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2] and (THT)Au[N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2] or one of the two terminal nitrogen atoms in [N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2]Au(THT) and [N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2]Au(PPh3), or to both terminal nitrogen atoms in the chelated [N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2]Au(C2H4). The triazapentadienyl ligand therefore serves as either κ1‐N or κ2‐NN donor, and the N3C3 backbone adopts either a distorted W‐ or U‐shaped conformation. The gold(I) THT adduct exists as a mixture of two isomers in the solid state, as evident from structural data. The gold(I) atom in tBuNCAu[N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2], (THT)Au[N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2], [N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2]Au(THT), and [N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2]Au(PPh3) display linear geometry, whereas [N{(C3F7)C(Dipp)N}2]Au(C2H4) has a three‐coordinate, trigonal‐planar gold site. Energies of each [N{(CF3)C(Dipp)N}2]AuL (L = ethylene, tBuNC, PPh3 and THT) in κ2‐NN chelating, κ1‐N central, and κ1‐N terminal coordination modes of triazapentadienyl ligand have also been investigated by using DFT.
Tailored Approaches towards the Synthesis of l‐S‐(Trifluoromethyl)cysteine‐ and l‐Trifluoromethionine‐Containing Peptides
Authors: Gadais Charlène , Saraiva‐Rosa Nathalie , Chelain Evelyne , Pytkowicz Julien , Brigaud Thierry
Published: November 2016

Among the fluorinated noncanonical amino acids, l‐trifluoromethionine (TFM) and l‐S‐(trifluoromethyl)cysteine (TfmCys), fluorinated analogues of methionine and cysteine, are of particular interest because of their ability to locally increase the hydrophobicity of peptides. We report herein the synthesis of tert‐butoxycarbonyl/benzyl‐protected TFM and TfmCys by using a cheap and user‐friendly radical trifluoromethylation approach. The benzyl protecting group of these fluorinated amino acids could be conveniently removed by hydrogenolysis, which circumvented troublesome saponification reactions. For the first time, TfmCys was inserted into a peptide sequence by liquid‐ or solid‐phase peptide synthesis. Finally, a late trifluoromethylation strategy with the use of Togni's reagent on disulfide‐bridged peptides was also efficient to incorporate TFM or TfmCys at both N‐terminal and internal positions.
A Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA)‐DNA Ferrocenyl Intercalator for Electrochemical Sensing
Authors: Gaiji Houda , Jolly Pawan , Ustuner Serife , Goggins Sean , Abderrabba Manef , Frost Christopher G. , Estrela Pedro
Published: November 2016

A ferrocenyl intercalator was investigated to develop an electrochemical DNA biosensor employing a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) sequence as capture probe. After hybridization with single strand DNA sequence, a naphthalene diimide intercalator bearing ferrocene moieties (FND) was introduced to bind with the PNA‐DNA duplex and the electrochemical signal of the ferrocene molecules was used to monitor the DNA recognition. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to characterize the different modification steps. Differential pulse voltammetry was employed to evaluate the electrochemical signal of the FND intercalator related to its interaction with the complementary PNA‐DNA hybrid. The ferrocene oxidation peaks were utilised for the target DNA quantification.

The developed biosensor demonstrated a good linear dependence of FND oxidation peak on DNA concentration in the range 1 fM to 100 nM of target DNA, with a low detection limit of 11.68 fM. Selectivity tests were also investigated with a non‐complementary DNA sequence, indicating that the FND intercalator exhibits a selective response to the target PNA‐DNA duplex.
Processing–Structure–Property Relationships for Lignin‐Based Carbonaceous Materials Used in Energy‐Storage Applications
Authors: García‐Negrón Valerie , Phillip Nathan D. , Li Jianlin , Daniel Claus , Wood David , Keffer David J. , Rios Orlando , Harper David P.
Published: November 2016

Lignin, an abundant organic polymer and a byproduct of pulp and biofuel production, has potential applications owing to its high carbon content and aromatic structure. Processing–structure relationships are difficult to predict because of the heterogeneity of lignin. This work discusses the roles of unit operations in the carbonization process of softwood lignin, and their resulting impacts on the material structure and electrochemical properties in application as the anode in lithium‐ion cells. The processing variables include the lignin source, temperature, and duration of thermal stabilization, pyrolysis, and reduction. Materials are characterized at the atomic and microscales. High‐temperature carbonization, at 2000 °C, produces larger graphitic domains than at 1050 °C, but results in a reduced capacity. Coulombic efficiencies over 98 % are achieved for extended galvanostatic cycling. Consequently, a properly designed carbonization process for lignin is well suited for the generation of low‐cost, high‐efficiency electrodes.
Rapid adjustment of shoreline behavior to changing seasonality of storms: observations and modelling at an open‐coast beach
Authors: Splinter Kristen D. , Turner Ian L. , Reinhardt Mika , Ruessink Gerben
Published: November 2016

An 8‐year time series of weekly shoreline data collected at the Gold Coast, Australia, is used to examine the temporal evolution of a beach, focusing on the frequency response of the shoreline to time‐varying wave height and period. Intriguingly, during 2005 the movement of the shoreline at this site changed from a seasonally‐dominated mode (annual cycle) to a storm‐dominated (~monthly) mode. This unexpected observation provides the opportunity to explore the drivers of the observed shoreline response. Utilizing the calibration of an equilibrium shoreline model to explore the time‐scales of underlying beach behavior, the best‐fit frequency response (days−1) is shown to be an order of magnitude higher post‐2004, suggesting that a relatively subtle change in wave forcing can drive a significant change in shoreline response. Analysis of available wave data reveals a statistically significant change in the seasonality of storms, from predominantly occurring at the start of the year pre‐2005 to being relatively consistent throughout the year after this time. The observed change from one mode of shoreline variability to another suggests that beaches can adapt relatively quickly to subtle changes in the intra‐annual distribution of wave energy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Option Pricing with the Realized GARCH Model: An Analytical Approximation Approach
Authors: Huang Zhuo , Wang Tianyi , Hansen Peter Reinhard
Published: November 2016

We derive a pricing formula for European options for the Realized GARCH framework based on an analytical approximation using an Edgeworth expansion for the density of cumulative return. Existing approximations in this context are based on a Gram–Charlier expansion while the proper Edgeworth expansion is more accurate. In relation to existing discrete‐time option pricing models with realized volatility, our model is log‐linear, non‐affine, with a flexible leverage effect. We conduct an extensive empirical analysis on S&P500 index options and the results show that our computationally fast formula outperforms competing methods in terms of pricing errors, both in‐sample and out‐of‐sample. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 37:328–358, 2017
Single nucleotide polymorphisms within MicroRNAs, MicroRNA targets, and MicroRNA biogenesis genes and their impact on colorectal cancer survival
Authors: Mullany Lila E. , Herrick Jennifer S. , Wolff Roger K. , Slattery Martha L.
Published: November 2016

We have shown that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in microRNA (miRNA) genes, miRNA target genes, and miRNA biogenesis genes minimally contribute to colon cancer risk. It is possible that these SNPs alter survival. We analyzed 565 SNPs in or adjacent to microRNAs, target genes, or biogenesis genes, using 1,115 cases and 1,173 controls; 837 cases had survival information. We tested SNPs for associations with colorectal cancer (CRC) survival using a Cox proportional hazard model adjusting for age, study center, gender, AJCC disease stage, and MSI tumor status. Multiple comparison adjustments were made using the step‐down Bonferroni correction. SNPs associated with survival (Praw < 0.05) also were assessed with messenger RNA (mRNA). Seven of the 565 SNPs analyzed were associated significantly with CRC survival after adjustment for multiple comparisons. Six of these increased risk of dying, and one, rs12140 (ADAMTS1) decreased risk of dying from CRC (HRR = 0.44, 95% CI (0.24, 0.83; PHolm = 0.011). Six SNPs altered colon cancer risk and five were associated with altered mRNA expression across genotypes. One SNP, rs2059691 (PRKRA), was associated with increased mRNA expression and worse survival, and one SNP, rs6598964 (LIN28A), decreased risk of developing colon cancer [OR = 0.77 95% CI (0.61, 0.98)] and increased risk of dying from CRC (HRR = 2.26 95% CI (1.52, 3.36). PHolm = 0.003). The few SNPs associated with CRC survival, colon cancer risk, or with mRNA expression, resided in genes that influence metastasis and angiogenesis. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of CO2‐wettability on CO2 migration and trapping capacity in deep saline aquifers
Authors: Al‐Khdheeawi Emad A. , Vialle Stephanie , Barifcani Ahmed , Sarmadivaleh Mohammad , Iglauer Stefan
Published: November 2016

CO2 migration and trapping capacity in deep saline aquifers are highly influenced by various rock and fluid parameters. One of the key parameters, which has received little attention, is CO2‐wettability. We thus simulated the behavior of a CO2 plume in a deep saline aquifer as a function of rock wettability and predicted various associated CO2 migration patterns and trapping capacities. We clearly show that CO2‐wet reservoirs are most permeable for CO2; CO2 migrates furthest upwards and the plume has a candle‐like shape, while in a water‐wet reservoir the plume is more compact and rain‐drop shaped. Furthermore, higher residual trapping capacities are achieved in water‐wet rock, while solubility trapping is more efficient in CO2‐wet rock. We thus conclude that rock wettability has a highly significant impact on both CO2 migration and trapping capacities and that water‐wet reservoirs are preferable CO2 sinks due to their higher storage capacities and higher containment security. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deuterium‐excess determination of evaporation to inflow ratios of an alpine lake: Implications for water balance and modeling
Authors: Cui Jiangpeng , Tian Lide , Biggs Trent W. , Wen Rong
Published: November 2016

The numerous lakes on the Tibetan Plateau play an important role in the regional hydrological cycle and water resources, but systematic observations of the lake water balance are scarce on the Tibetan Plateau. Here, we present a detailed study on the water cycle of Cona Lake, at the headwaters of the Nujiang‐Salween River, based on 3 years (2011–2013) of observations of δ18O and δ2H, including samples from precipitation, lake water, and outlet surface water. Short‐term atmospheric water vapor was also sampled for isotope analyses. The δ2H–δ18O relationship in lake water (δ2H = 6.67δ18O − 20.37) differed from that of local precipitation (δ2H = 8.29δ18O + 12.50), and the deuterium excess (d‐excess) in the lake water (−7.5‰) was significantly lower than in local precipitation (10.7‰), indicating an evaporative isotope enrichment in lake water. The ratio of evaporation to inflow (E/I) of the lake water was calculated using both d‐excess and δ18O. The E/I ratios of Cona lake ranged from 0.24 to 0.27 during the 3 years. Observations of atmospheric water vapor isotopic composition (δA) improved the accuracy in E/I ratio estimate over a simple precipitation equilibrium model, though a correction factor method provided nearly identical estimates of E/I ratio. The work demonstrates the feasibility of d‐excess in the study of the water cycle for lakes in other regions of the world and provides recommendations on sampling strategies for accurate calculations of E/I ratio.
Heterogeneity of colorectal cancer risk by tumour characteristics: Large prospective study of UK women
Authors: Burón Pust Andrea , Alison Rupert , Blanks Roger , Pirie Kirstin , Gaitskell Kezia , Barnes Isobel , Gathani Toral , Reeves Gillian , Beral Valerie , Green Jane ,   Million Women Study Collaborators
Published: November 2016

Associations between behavioural and other personal factors and colorectal cancer risk have been reported to vary by tumour characteristics, but evidence is inconsistent. In a large UK‐based prospective study we examined associations of 14 postulated risk factors with colorectal cancer risk overall, and across three anatomical sites and four morphological subtypes. Among 1.3 million women, 18,518 incident colorectal cancers were identified during 13.8 (SD 3.4) years follow‐up via record linkage to national cancer registry data. Cox regression yielded adjusted relative risks. Statistical significance was assessed using correction for multiple testing. Overall, colorectal cancer risk was significantly associated with height, body mass index (BMI), smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity, parity and menopausal hormone therapy use. For smoking there was substantial heterogeneity across morphological types; relative risks around two or greater were seen in current smokers both for signet ring cell and for neuroendocrine tumours. Obese women were also at higher risk for signet ring cell tumours. For adenocarcinomas, the large majority of colorectal cancers in the cohort, all risk factor associations were weak. There was little or no heterogeneity in risk between tumours of the right colon, left colon and rectum for any of the 14 factors examined. These epidemiological findings complement an emerging picture from molecular studies of possible different developmental pathways for different tumour types.
Engineering specific chemical modification sites into a collagen‐like protein from Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Stoichevska Violet , Peng Yong Y. , Vashi Aditya V. , Werkmeister Jerome A. , Dumsday Geoff J. , Ramshaw John A. M.
Published: November 2016

Recombinant bacterial collagens provide a new opportunity for safe biomedical materials. They are readily expressed in Escherichia coli in good yield and can be readily purified by simple approaches. However, recombinant proteins are limited in that direct secondary modification during expression is generally not easily achieved. Thus, inclusion of unusual amino acids, cyclic peptides, sugars, lipids, and other complex functions generally needs to be achieved chemically after synthesis and extraction. In the present study, we have illustrated that bacterial collagens that have had their sequences modified to include cysteine residue(s), which are not normally present in bacterial collagen‐like sequences, enable a range of specific chemical modification reactions to be produced. Various model reactions were shown to be effective for modifying the collagens. The ability to include alkyne (or azide) functions allows the extensive range of substitutions that are available via “click” chemistry to be accessed. When bifunctional reagents were used, some crosslinking occurred to give higher molecular weight polymeric proteins, but gels were not formed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 806–813, 2017.
Osteosarcoma in a Patient With Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1b Due to Paternal Uniparental Disomy of Chromosome 20q
Authors: Park Hye-Sun , Kim Chang Gon , Hong Namki , Lee Seok Joo , Seo Da Hea , Rhee Yumie
Published: November 2016

It is assumed that a persistent high level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) might have a relation with bone malignancy. However, there has been no report of osteosarcoma associated with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1b (PHP1b), which is accompanied by high PTH. PHP1b is the result of resistance to PTH in certain end-organ tissues, especially the kidney; the response in bone is unaffected because it normally expresses stimulatory G protein equally from both parental alleles. A 21-year-old male, presenting with gum swelling at the right mandible, was referred to a dental clinic. A curative surgical resection by segmental mandibulectomy was performed and the pathologic findings of the mass were consistent with osteoblastic osteosarcoma. His laboratory results showed a low calcium level despite high PTH, and he did not have any features of Albright hereditary osteodystrophy; therefore, PHP1b was suspected. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and microsatellite marker analyses of chromosome 20 confirmed the diagnosis and identified paternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 20q (patUPD20). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of osteosarcoma in a patient with PHP1b due to patUPD20. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Abstract

Chronically high level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) might be associated with the development of bone tumor. A patient in this report had a pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1b (PHP1b) by paternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 20q who developed a mandibular osteosarcoma. PHP1b is characterized by specific resistances in the proximal renal tubule but sensitive responses in the bone to the persistent PTH elevation. It is possible that persistently elevated PTH could have been pernicious to the bone tumor cells.
A study of enhanced ion formation from metal‐semiconductor complexes in atmospheric pressure laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Silina Yuliya E. , Herbeck‐Engel Petra , Koch Marcus
Published: November 2016

The study of the key parameters impacted surface‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry is of broad interest. In previous studies, it has been shown that surface‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry is a complex process depending on multiple factors. In the presented study, we showed that neither porosity, light absorbance nor surface hydrophobicity alone influence the enhancement phenomena observed from the hybrid metal‐semiconductor complexes versus individual targets, but small changes in the analyte attaching to the target significantly affect laser desorption ionization‐efficiency. By means of Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, it was revealed that the formation of an amorphous analyte layer after drying on a solid substrate was essential for the enhanced laser desorption ionization‐signal observed from the hybrid metal‐semiconductor targets, and the crystallization properties of the analyte appeared as a function of the substrate. Obtained results were used for the screening of regular and lactose‐free milk samples through the hybrid metal‐semiconductor target. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of tropical Indian Ocean thermal condition during preceding winter on summer high temperature anomalies over the southern Yangtze River valley
Authors: Liu Ge , Wu Renguang , Wang Huimei , Ji Liren
Published: November 2016

The present study investigates signals of summer high temperature anomalies over the southern Yangtze River valley (SYRV) region. The results show that summer high temperature anomalies over the SYRV region are associated with preceding winter sea surface temperature (SST) and surface air temperature (SAT) anomalies over the tropical Indian Ocean (TIO), particularly the tropical northwestern (5°–15°N, 55°–75°E) and southwestern (15°S–0°N, 40°–55°E) Indian Ocean regions. Coupled with SST, positive SAT anomalies over the TIO region may persist from preceding winter to summer, leading to more summer precipitation over the northwestern India and Arabian Sea (IAS) region. More summer precipitation (increased condensational heating) over the IAS region can regulate the strength and location of the western Pacific subtropical high and the South Asian high and result in their vertical superposition over the SYRV region. As such, a deep and stable high‐pressure anomaly forms over the SYRV region and results in high temperature anomalies. In this process, anomalous precipitation over the IAS region may to some degree act as a ‘bridge’ in providing a delayed impact of the preceding winter TIO SAT on summer SAT over the SYRV region. The effect of the preceding winter TIO SAT on summer SYRV SAT becomes weaker after removing the variability of IAS precipitation.
Shift of grain protein composition in bread wheat under summer drought events
Authors: Zörb Christian , Becker Elisabeth , Merkt Nikolaus , Kafka Stephanie , Schmidt Sarina , Schmidhalter Urs
Published: November 2016

Climate change bears the risk of more frequent drought stress in the northern hemisphere with more frequent early summer drought events affecting main grain crops. Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is susceptible for such drought events at the flowering and grain filling stages. After drought, the grain yield decrease of three hybrids was about 20% lower compared to three wheat lines analyzed. Wheat grain proteins are classified into four main components such as albumin and globulin, gliadin, and glutenin. The latter two are closely related to the baking quality of flour and might be affected by drought. However, detailed knowledge about the influence of drought on the synthesis of specific storage protein fractions is scarce. By analyzing the grain protein fractions by means of SDS‐PAGE technique, we detected an increase in grain protein content as well as in HMW and some LMW glutenin sub‐fractions. The glutenin fraction seems to be most variable in gene expression under different environmental scenarios such as drought. However, the protein yield as well as the grain yield may be strongly decreased, which might be not acceptable in practice.
Impact of pecan nut shell aqueous extract on the oxidative properties of margarines during storage
Authors: Engler Ribeiro Paula Cristina , de Britto Policarpi Priscila , Dal Bo Andrea , Barbetta Pedro Alberto , Block Jane Mara
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

The oxidative properties of margarines supplemented with pecan nut shell extract, rosemary extract and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were investigated.

RESULTS

The extracts of pecan nut shell and rosemary showed a high content of total phenolics and condensed tannins (93 and 102.9 mg GAE g−1 and 46 and 38.9 mg CE g−1 respectively) as well as a high antioxidant activity (1257 and 2306 µmol TEAC g−1 and 293 and 856 mg TEAC g−1 by ABTS and DPPH methods respectively). Gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, p‐hydroxybenzoic acid, epicatechin and epicatechin gallate were identified in the pecan nut shell extract. Peroxide and p‐anisidine values of 3.75–4.43 meq kg−1 and 1.22–2.73 respectively, Totox values of 9.88–10.8 and specific extinction values of 4.38–4.59 and 0.92–0.94 at 232 and 268 nm respectively were observed after 8 months of storage in the studied samples.

CONCLUSION

Margarines supplemented with pecan nut shell extract, rosemary extract or BHT during prolonged storage were found to be of equal quality within the degree of confidence limits. The extract of pecan nut shell may be considered as a natural product replacement for the synthetic antioxidant BHT. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Exogenous nitric oxide induces disease resistance against Monilinia fructicola through activating the phenylpropanoid pathway in peach fruit
Authors: Li Guangjin , Zhu Shuhua , Wu Wenxue , Zhang Chang , Peng Yong , Wang Qingguo , Shi Jingying
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Nitric oxide (NO) is a multifunctional signaling molecule involved in plant‐induced resistance to disease. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between disease resistance induced by NO and the phenylpropanoid pathway in peach fruit. The present study investigated the effect of NO on the main enzymes and metabolites of the phenylpropanoid pathway of harvested peach, which are probably related to disease resistance against Monilinia fructicola.

RESULTS

The results showed that treatment with 15 µmol L−1 NO significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced the activities of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase, cinnamate‐4‐hydroxylase, 4‐coumaroyl‐CoA ligase, chalcone synthase and chalcone isomerase and the expression of their genes. Furthermore, NO treatment significantly (P < 0.05) increased the contents of total phenolics, flavonoids and lignin over the entire storage period and maintained higher total anthocyanin, phenolic acid and anthocyanin contents during the earlier storage period.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that NO treatment could activate the phenylpropanoid pathway to enhance the activity of related enzymes and the contents of phenylpropanoid metabolites in peach to improve disease resistance and prevent pathogenic invasion. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Conformal geometry of non‐reductive four‐dimensional homogeneous spaces
Authors: Calviño‐Louzao Esteban , García‐Río Eduardo , Gutiérrez‐Rodríguez Ixchel , Vázquez‐Lorenzo Ramón
Published: November 2016

We classify non‐reductive four‐dimensional homogeneous conformally Einstein manifolds.
A Functionalized Cyclic Lactide Monomer for Synthesis of Water‐Soluble Poly(Lactic Acid) and Amphiphilic Diblock Poly(Lactic Acid)
Authors: Zhang Xiaojin , Dai Yu
Published: November 2016

Biodegradable and bioabsorbable poly(lactic acid)s are one of the most important biomedical materials. However, it is difficult to introduce the functional groups into poly(lactic acid)s in order to improve their hydrophilicity and degradation rate. Here the authors describe the synthesis of functionalized cyclic lactide monomer 3,6‐bis(benzyloxymethyl)‐1,4‐dioxane‐2,5‐dione (BnLA) using an advanced synthetic route. Water‐soluble hydroxyl‐functionalized homopoly(lactic acid) (P(OH)LA) is synthesized via ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of BnLA, followed by a hydrogenolytic deprotection reaction. Amphiphilic diblock poly(lactic acid) (P(OH)LA‐PLA) is synthesized via ROP of DL‐lactide using PBnLA as an initiator, followed by a hydrogenolytic deprotection reaction. P(OH)LA‐PLA is able to form polymeric micelles with the diameter of sub‐100 nm.

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Biostimulation and microbial community profiling reveal insights on RDX transformation in groundwater
Authors: Wang Dongping , Boukhalfa Hakim , Marina Oana , Ware Doug S. , Goering Tim J. , Sun Fengjie , Daligault Hajnalka E. , Lo Chien‐Chi , Vuyisich Momchilo , Starkenburg Shawn R.
Published: November 2016

Hexahydro‐1,3,5‐trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazine (RDX) is a high explosive released to the environment as a result of weapons manufacturing and testing worldwide. At Los Alamos National Laboratory, the Technical Area (TA) 16 260 Outfall discharged high‐explosives‐bearing water from a high‐explosives‐machining facility to Cañon de Valle during 1951 through 1996. These discharges served as a primary source of high‐explosives and inorganic‐element contamination in the area. Data indicate that springs, surface water, alluvial groundwater, and perched‐intermediate groundwater contain explosive compounds, including RDX (hexahydro‐1,3,5‐trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazine); HMX (octahydro‐1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetrazocine); and TNT (2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene). RDX has been detected in the regional aquifer in several wells, and a corrective measures evaluation is planned to identify remedial alternatives to protect the regional aquifer. Perched‐intermediate groundwater at Technical Area 16 is present at depths from 650 ft to 1200 ft bgs. In this study, we examined the microbial diversity in a monitoring well completed in perched‐intermediate groundwater contaminated by RDX, and examined the response of the microbial population to biostimulation under varying geochemical conditions. Results show that the groundwater microbiome was dominated by Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. A total of 1,605 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in 96 bacterial genera were identified. Rhodococcus was the most abundant genus (30.6%) and a total of 46 OTUs were annotated as Rhodococcus. One OTU comprising 25.2% of total sequences was closely related to a RDX ‐degrading strain R. erythropolis HS4. A less abundant OTU from the Pseudomonas family closely related to RDX‐degrading strain P. putida II‐B was also present. Biostimulation significantly enriched Proteobacteria but decreased/eliminated the population of Actinobacteria. Consistent with RDX degradation, the OTU closely related to the RDX‐degrading P. putida strain II‐B was specifically enriched in the RDX‐degrading samples. Analysis of the accumulation of RDX‐degradation products reveals that during active RDX degradation, there is a transient increase in the concentration of the degradation products MNX, DNX, TNX, and NDAB. The accumulation of these degradation products suggests that RDX is degraded via sequential reduction of the nitro functional groups followed by abiotic ring‐cleavage. The results suggest that strict anaerobic conditions are needed to stimulate RDX degradation under the TA‐16 site‐specific conditions.
Biodegradable plant nursery containers from leather industry wastes
Authors: Sartore Luciana , Schettini Evelia , Bignotti Fabio , Pandini Stefano , Vox Giuliano
Published: November 2016

Novel biodegradable polymeric materials based on protein hydrolysate (Pr.Hyd), derived from waste products of the leather industry, and poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether (PEG) or epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) are obtained and their physico‐chemical properties and mechanical behaviour are evaluated. Different processing conditions and the introduction of fillers of natural origin, as saw dust and wood flour, are used to tailor the mechanical properties and the environmental durability of the product. The biodegradable products, which are almost completely manufactured from renewable‐based raw materials, look promising for several applications, particularly in agriculture for the additional fertilizing action of Pr.Hyd. To this purpose, tests are carried out to prove the feasibility of novel biodegradable pots and containers by investigating their functionality, their physico‐chemical and mechanical behaviour in standard and controlled experimental field conditions, and to follow the assessment of their biodegradation process during plants cultivation in the soil. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2743–2750, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Current controversies in prenatal diagnosis 1: in utero therapy for spina bifida is ready for endoscopic repair
Authors: Belfort Michael , Deprest Jan , Hecher Kurt
Published: November 2016

What's already known about this topic?

There is level 1 (RCT) evidence for improved neurological outcomes after open fetal surgery for spina bifida versus postnatal surgery.

There is a lack of standardization of techniques and comparative outcome data in clinical trials for endoscopic fetal surgery for spina bifida.

What does this study add?

Different techniques, their strengths, limitations and clinical implications of endoscopic versus open fetal surgery for spina bifida are discussed.

Open fetal surgery anticipates postnatal surgery, whereas novel and less invasive endoscopic approaches aim to simplify the technique.

More data on long‐term follow‐up of intrauterine closure of spina bifida are needed, and open surgery is one step ahead of fetoscopic approaches.
Elliptic‐curve cryptography for wireless sensor network nodes without hardware multiplier support
Authors: Gulen Utku , Baktir Selcuk
Published: November 2016

With its relatively small key size, elliptic‐curve cryptography (ECC) is considered as the public‐key cryptographic algorithm of choice for wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In this work, we implemented ECC in the frequency domain, that is, by using the number theoretic transform, and without using hardware multiplier support, on the constrained MSP430 microcontroller widely used in WSNs. Our 169‐bit ECC implementation uses Edwards curves and performs scalar point multiplication in only 1.97 and 0.98 s for multiplication of random and fixed points, respectively. Unlike many implementations in literature, our implementation does not use hardware multiplier support, which makes it desirable for low‐power applications on constrained WSN platforms. To our knowledge, this study presents the first ever software implementation of ECC in the frequency domain on a constrained low‐power microcontroller without hardware multiplier support. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient identity‐based leveled fully homomorphic encryption from RLWE
Authors: Sun Xiaoqiang , Yu Jianping , Wang Ting , Sun Zhiwei , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2016

Based on the learning with errors over rings (RLWE) assumption, a leveled fully homomorphic encryption (FHE) by the approximate eigenvector method under the same public key is proposed, which security can be reduced to the shortest vector problem on ideal lattices in the worst case. And the leveled FHE under different public keys is realized by the secret key switching without dimension reduction. Combine the public key of leveled FHE with the identity, we bring forward an efficient identity‐based leveled FHE scheme from the RLWE assumption. The security analysis shows that our identity‐based leveled FHE scheme is selective‐ID secure against chosen‐plaintext attacks in the random oracle model. And the efficiency analysis and simulation results show that the proposed identity‐based leveled FHE scheme is much more efficient than Gentry's and Wang's identity‐based cryptosystems based on the learning with errors assumption. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modularized Gold Nanocarriers for TAT‐Mediated Delivery of siRNA
Authors: Huang Xiao , Lai Yifan , Braun Gary B. , Reich Norbert O.
Published: November 2016

Targeted delivery of siRNA controlled by near‐infrared light using hollow gold nanoshells has been demonstrated in cancer and stem cells models. Here, a universal surface module and several functionalization rules for the maximized delivery of short nucleic acids (here, siRNA) applicable for diverse gold nanocarriers are described. Streptavidin is devised as a handle to assemble biotinylated cell penetrating peptides (e.g., transactivating transcriptional activator (TAT)), as well as an insulator between the positive charge of TAT and the dense negative charge of RNA. However, direct linking of streptavidin to functional siRNA inhibits its silencing activity. The approach then involves the orthogonal assembly of two types of RNA strands: one with biotin modification for cell targeting and penetration (scaffold RNA); the other without biotin as functional RNA (i.e., siRNA). Initially, flexible single‐stranded RNA is used for dense surface‐packing, followed by hybridization with the complementary RNA strand to maximize the assembly of the targeting peptide for cellular uptake and siRNA delivery. This orthogonal approach for the delivery of short oligonucleotides, together with novel surface functionalization rules discovered here, should enable the use of these materials for nanomedicinal research and applications.
Redesigning general education program takes collaboration, requires prioritizing
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2016

Between the winter of 2014 and the fall of 2015, the University of La Verne made a huge shift in general education requirements that affected all staff and students on campus, but few departments more than the Registrar's Office. The university moved from a general education requirement of three courses in three different humanities subject areas (literature, history, philosophy) to two courses in any humanities concentration, meaning that students could take two courses in the same concentration.
Gain insight into managing a dysfunctional manager
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2016

If you work in a dysfunctional environment, you're not alone. In fact, research shows that about a third of employees work for a dysfunctional leader and 35 percent of workers have been bullied, while more than half of U.S. employers lack policies addressing workplace bullying.
Make efficient use of your time by guiding students to answers online
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2016

Andrea Wawrzusin has experienced her fair share of Registrar's Offices, and there's something special about Xavier University. “I was attracted by Xavier's excellent reputation and mission as a Jesuit university. One thing which can really describe Xavier is excellence,” Wawrzusin said. It was that reputation of excellence and mission of doing good in the world that helped Wawrzusin move to Xavier in 2014. Wawrzusin's background as registrar at various institutions has helped her deal with challenges that have arisen in her own office at Xavier, including creating an online hub for student and staff engagement, and providing ongoing Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act training to keep her office up‐to‐date.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Abdominal Ultrasound for Diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis: Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Giljaca Vanja , Nadarevic Tin , Poropat Goran , Nadarevic Vesna Stefanac , Stimac Davor
Published: November 2016

Background

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of abdominal ultrasound (US) for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis (AA), in terms of sensitivity, specificity and post‐test probabilities for positive and negative result.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane library and Science Citation Index Expanded from January 1994 to October 2014 was performed. Two authors independently evaluated studies for inclusion, extracted data and performed analyses. The reference standard for evaluation of final diagnosis was pathohistological report on tissue obtained at appendectomy. Summary sensitivity, specificity and post‐test probability of AA after positive and negative result of US with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

Results

Out of 3306 references identified through electronic searches, 17 reports met the inclusion criteria, with 2841 included participants. The summary sensitivity and specificity of US for diagnosis of AA were 69% (95% CI 59–78%) and 81% (95% CI 73–88%), respectively. At the median pretest probability of AA of 76.4%, the post‐test probability for a positive and negative result of US was 92% (95% CI 88–95%) and 55% (95% CI 46–63%), respectively.

Conclusions

Abdominal ultrasound does not seem to have a role in the diagnostic pathway for diagnosis of AA in suspected patients. The summary sensitivity and specificity of US do not exceed that of physical examination. Patients that require additional diagnostic workup should be referred to more sensitive and specific diagnostic procedures, such as computed tomography.
Improvement in Compensation for Chronic Poststroke Homonymous Hemianopsia After Initiation of a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor: A Case Report
Authors: Abramoff Benjamin A. , Milton S. Byron , Belagaje Samir R.
Published: November 2016

Homonymous hemianopsia (HH) is a common adverse outcome after stroke. Spontaneous improvement more than 6 months poststroke is thought to be unlikely, and traditional visual rehabilitation techniques lack clear evidence of efficacy. The case presented is of a 22‐year‐old woman who demonstrated improved compensation of her stroke‐induced HH after the initiation of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). There is evidence supporting the use of SSRIs to improve poststroke cognitive impairment, motor impairment, and depression. This is the first case, however, demonstrating the potential novel use SSRIs to improve HH compensation after stroke, to our knowledge.

Level of Evidence

V
Prevalence and Etiology of Hypogonadism in Young Men With Chronic Spinal Cord Injury: A Cross‐Sectional Analysis From Two University‐Based Rehabilitation Centers
Authors: Sullivan Shannon D. , Nash Mark S. , Tefera Eshetu , Tinsley Emily , Blackman Marc R. , Groah Suzanne
Published: November 2016

Background

Spinal cord injury (SCI) triggers an “accelerated aging” process that may include development of hypogonadism, even among younger men with SCI; however, few studies have investigated the prevalence or etiology of hypogonadism in men with SCI. Young men with SCI also are at increased risk for developing metabolic dysfunction after injury, which may be exacerbated by concomitant testosterone (T) deficiency, thus identifying the prevalence and risk factors for T deficiency in men with SCI is important for their long‐term health.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence, risk factors, and etiology of T deficiency (hypogonadism) in otherwise‐healthy men with chronic, motor complete SCI.

Design

Secondary cross‐sectional analysis.

Setting

Rehabilitation research centers in Washington, DC, and Miami, Florida.

Participants

Men (n = 58) aged 18‐45 years with chronic (≥1 year), motor complete SCI without comorbidities or use of testosterone therapy.

Methods

Plasma concentrations of hormones were measured with standardized assays. Body composition was assessed with dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry scan.

Main Outcome Measurements

Serum total T and calculated free T.

Results

T deficiency was more common in men after SCI than in a matched cohort of similarly‐aged men without SCI (25%, SCI versus 6.7%, non‐SCI, P < .001). The risk of hypogonadism appeared to be increased in men with more extensive injury and with higher percent body fat. The majority of men with SCI with low T had low serum LH levels, suggesting that central suppression of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis may be the most common etiology of hypogonadism after SCI.

Conclusions

Hypogonadism is more common in young men with SCI than in similarly aged men without SCI, suggesting that SCI should be identified as a risk factor for T deficiency and that routine screening for hypogonadism should be performed in the SCI population.

Level of Evidence

II