bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical quantum private query of blocks based on unbalanced-state Bennett-Brassard-1984 quantum-key-distribution protocol
Authors: Wei Chun-Yan , Gao Fei , Wen Qiao-Yan , Wang Tian-Yin
Published: December 2014

Until now, the only kind of practical quantum private query (QPQ), quantum-key-distribution (QKD)-based QPQ, focuses on the retrieval of a single bit. In fact, meaningful message is generally composed of multiple adjacent bits (i.e., a multi-bit block). To obtain a message "Equation missing" from database, the user Alice has to query l times to get each ai. In this condition, the server Bob could gain Alice's privacy once he obtains the address she queried in any of the l queries, since each ai contributes to the message Alice retrieves. Apparently, the longer the retrieved message is, the worse the user privacy becomes. To solve this problem, via an unbalanced-state technique and based on a variant of multi-level BB84 protocol, we present a protocol for QPQ of blocks, which allows the user to retrieve a multi-bit block from database in one query. Our protocol is somewhat like the high-dimension version of the first QKD-based QPQ protocol proposed by Jacobi et al., but some nontrivial modifications are necessary.
Biological and clinical significance of epigenetic silencing of MARVELD1 gene in lung cancer
Authors: Shi Ming , Wang Shan , Yao Yuanfei , Li Yiqun , Zhang Hao , Han Fang , Nie Huan , Su Jie , Wang Zeyu , Yue Lei , Cao Jingyan , Li Yu
Published: December 2014

Epigenetic silence in cancer frequently altered signal-transduction pathways during the early stages of tumor development. Recent progress in the field of cancer epigenetics has led to new opportunities for diagnosis and treatment of cancer. We previously demonstrated that novel identified nuclear factor MARVELD1 was widely expressed in human tissues, but down-regulated by promoter methylation in multiple cancers. This study was carried out to determine the biological and clinical significance of MARVELD1 gene silencing in lung cancer. Here, we found the reduced MARVELD1 expression significantly correlated with diagnostic histopathology and malignant degree of lung cancers. DNA hypermethylation and histone deacetylation synergistically inactivated MARVELD1 gene in lung cancer cells. Moreover, MARVELD1 modulated the efficiency of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) through interaction with NMD core factor SMG1. The decreased MARVELD1 level in lung cancer reduces NMD efficiency through diminishing the association between NMD complex component UPF1/SMG1 and premature termination codons containing mRNA (PTC-mRNA). The results suggested that MARVELD1 silencing is an appealing diagnostic biomarker for lung cancer and epigenetic silencing of MARVELD1 gene links with the regulatory mechanism of NMD pathway in lung cancer, which may be required for tumorigenesis.
The first 4d/4f single-molecule magnet containing a {RuIII2DyIII2} core
Authors: Langley Stuart K. , Wielechowski Daniel P. , Vieru Veacheslav , Chilton Nicholas F. , Moubaraki Boujemaa , Chibotaru Liviu F. , Murray Keith S.
Published: December 2014

The first 4d–4f single-molecule magnet of formula [RuIII2DyIII2(OMe)2(O2CPh)4(mdea)2(NO3)2] shows an anisotropy barrier Ueff of 11 cm−1.
Structural diversity of new solid-state luminophores based on quinoxaline-β-ketoiminate boron difluoride complexes with remarkable fluorescence switching properties
Authors: Liao Chia-Wei , Rao M. Rajeswara , Sun Shih-Sheng
Published: December 2014

Highly tunable organoboron luminophores with intense solid-state fluorescence showed outstanding photoswitching properties modulated by acid/base vapors.
Gold nanoparticle-loaded filter paper: a recyclable dip-catalyst for real-time reaction monitoring by surface enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Zheng Guangchao , Polavarapu Lakshminarayana , Liz-Marzán Luis M. , Pastoriza-Santos Isabel , Pérez-Juste Jorge
Published: December 2014

While acting as catalysts, Au NP-loaded paper composites display excellent surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) efficiency, allowing the real-time monitoring of chemical reactions.
A practical guide to using boron doped diamond in electrochemical research
Authors: Macpherson Julie V.
Published: December 2014

This article serves as a guide to those working with boron doped diamond electrodes, especially the first time user. It outlines the key material properties required when interpretating electrochemical data and provides a summary of experimental approaches to determining electrode quality.
Effect of the borax mass and pre-spray medium temperature on droplet size and velocity vector distributions of intermittently sprayed starchy solutions
Authors: Naz Muhammad Yasin , Sulaiman Shaharin Anwar , Ariwahjoedi Bambang
Published: December 2014

The droplet size–velocity field plot of the modified tapioca starch solution atomized using an airless full cone nozzle.
Phenolic resin-grafted reduced graphene oxide as a highly stable anode material for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Li Mochen , Song Huaihe , Chen Xiaohong , Zhou Jisheng , Ma Zhaokun
Published: December 2014

Preparation of phenol formaldehyde resin grafted reduced graphite oxide as an electrode material with highly enhanced electrochemical properties.
Characterization and preparation of bio-tubular scaffolds for fabricating artificial vascular grafts by combining electrospinning and a 3D printing system
Authors: Lee Sang Jin , Heo Dong Nyoung , Park Ji Sun , Kwon Seong Keun , Lee Jin Ho , Lee Jun Hee , Kim Wan Doo , Kwon Il Keun , Park Su A.
Published: December 2014

This study describes the design and fabrication of artificial blood vessels composed of a blend of CTS and PCL ENs and coated with PCL strands using rapid prototyping technology.
Pyrazine-imide complexes: reversible redox and MOF building blocks
Authors: Cowan Matthew G. , Miller Reece G. , Brooker Sally
Published: December 2014

Stepwise exchange of pyrazine for pyridine, in three bis-heterocycle-based imide ligands, tunes the potential of the [MII/III(ligand)2]0/+ redox couple, increasing the stability of the MII oxidation state by about 0.1 V per exchange.
Research highlights: cell separation at the bench and beyond
Authors: Kunze Anja , Che James , Karimi Armin , Di Carlo Dino
Published: December 2014

Microfluidic pipette tip for combined solution transfer and cell filtration – Physical separations for improved cell-based therapies – Separating cells from the living brain with nanomagnets.
A carbon fiber–ZnS nanocomposite for dual application as an efficient cold cathode as well as a luminescent anode for display technology
Authors: Jha Arunava , Sarkar Sudipta Kumar , Sen Dipayan , Chattopadhyay K. K.
Published: December 2014

A carbon nanofiber/zinc sulfide composite material was synthesized following a simple chemical mixing procedure. The composite showed improved cathodoluminescence and field emission characteristics compared to pure ZnS and CNF, respectively.
Tailoring magnetic properties of molecular materials through non-covalent interactions
Authors: Atzori Matteo , Serpe Angela , Deplano Paola , Schlueter John A. , Laura Mercuri Maria
Published: December 2014

This Chemistry Frontier highlights how supramolecular non-covalent interactions can be employed as effective tools in tailoring the magnetic properties of crystalline functional molecular materials.
Construction of a series of zero-dimensional/one-dimensional crystalline Zn–S clusters – effect of the character of bridging organic ligands on structural diversity
Authors: Zeng Xianghua , Yao Xiaojing , Zhang Junyong , Zhang Qi , Wu Wenqian , Chai Aihua , Wang Jinlan , Zeng Qingdao , Xie Jingli
Published: December 2014

A series of Zn–S clusters have been synthesised and a very rare 1D helical structure was illustrated by first-principles calculations.
Short ligands offer long-term water stability and plasmon tunability for silver nanoparticles
Authors: Bayram Serene , Zahr Omar K. , Blum Amy Szuchmacher
Published: December 2014

Four short ligands; cysteine, cysteamine, dithiothrietol and glycine are examined and compared in their ability to stabilize and assemble silver nanoparticles (AgNPs).
A non-immunosuppressive FK506 analogue with neuroregenerative activity produced from a genetically engineered Streptomyces strain
Authors: Shinde Pramod B. , Ban Yeon Hee , Hwang Jae-yeon , Cho Yumi , Chen Yi-Ahn , Cheong Eunji , Nam Sang-Jip , Kwon Ho Jeong , Yoon Yeo Joon
Published: December 2014

A new FK506 analogue, 9-deoxo-prolyl-FK506, was discovered and purified from the fkbD (responsible for C-9 oxidation) deletion mutant of Streptomyces sp. KCTC11604BP, and its biological activities were evaluated.
CoFe2O4@MnFe2O4/polypyrrole nanocomposites for in vitro photothermal/magnetothermal combined therapy
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhou Zhiguo , Wang Li , Wei Jie , Yang Hong , Yang Shiping , Zhao Jiangmin
Published: December 2014

CoFe2O4@MnFe2O4/polypyrrole nanocomposites with a relatively large SLP and high photothermal efficiency are highly effective for in vitro cancer cell ablation by photothermal/magnetothermal combined therapy under mild conditions.
An efficient photocatalyst used in a continuous flow system for hydrogen evolution from water: TiO2 nanotube arrays fabricated on Ti meshes
Authors: Zhou Ruixue , Kang Shi-Zhao , Li Xiangqing , Wang Lei , Qin Lixia , Mu Jin
Published: December 2014

TiO2 nanotube arrays were fabricated on metallic Ti meshes and decorated with Pt. The as-prepared TiO2 nanotube arrays with Pt are an efficient and promising photocatalyst for the photocatalytic H2 evolution in a continuous flow system.
Bodipy/dipyridylamino-based “turn-on” fluorescent chemosensor for trivalent chromium cations: characterization and photophysical properties
Authors: Kursunlu Ahmed Nuri , Şahin Emel , Güler Ersin
Published: December 2014

{{3,5-Bis[4,4-difluoro,8-(2,6-diethyl,1,3,5,7-tetramethyl-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene)]}}phenyl-N,N-di(pyridin-2-yl)benzamide (Bodipy-DPy) was designed as an efficient fluorescent chemosensor for Cr(iii).
Templated synthesis of nitrogen-doped graphene-like carbon materials using spent montmorillonite
Authors: Zhu Runliang , Chen Qingze , Wang Xin , Wang Shuangyin , Zhu Jianxi , He Hongping
Published: December 2014

This work provided a method that can recycle the spent montmorillonite and synthesize heteroatom-doped graphene-like materials.
Simultaneous determination of aconite alkaloids and ginsenosides using online solid phase extraction hyphenated with polarity switching ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Song Yuelin , Zhang Na , Jiang Yong , Li Jun , Zhao Yunfang , Shi Shepo , Tu Pengfei
Published: December 2014

Simultaneous determination of ten aconite alkaloids and thirteen ginsenosides using online solid phase extraction hyphenated with polarity switching ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.
A two step protocol for the synthesis of highly substituted benzobicyclo[2.2.2]octadienone derivatives from 2-methoxyphenols
Authors: Chittimalla Santhosh Kumar , Bandi Chennakesavulu , Putturu Sireesha
Published: December 2014

A rapid process for the synthesis of functionally rich benzobicyclo[2.2.2]octadienone derivatives has been realized through oxidative dimerization of commercially/readily available 2-methoxyphenols followed by an aromatization sequence.
Simple, PCR-free telomerase activity detection using G-quadruplex–hemin DNAzyme
Authors: Li Hui , Fu Hai-Wei , Zhao Ting , Kong De-Ming
Published: December 2014

A G-quadruplex DNAzyme-based telomerase activity detection method is developed by utilizing telomerase-triggered generation of short G-rich extension products.
Ultra-thin liquid film extraction based on a gas–liquid–liquid double emulsion in a microchannel device
Authors: Wang Kai , Qin Kang , Wang Tao , Luo Guangsheng
Published: December 2014

A gas–liquid–liquid double emulsion with ultra-thin liquid film is proposed for the mass transfer enhancement of an extreme phase ratio system.
Influence of electrode assembly on catalytic activation and deactivation of a Pt film immobilized H+ conducting solid electrolyte in electrocatalytic reduction reactions
Authors: Hasnat Mohammad A. , Islam Muhammad Amirul , Rashed M. A.
Published: December 2014

Symmetric assembly deactivated the electrocatalytic nitrate reduction process due to oxidation of copper atoms on the anode surface. In case of assymetric assembly, H2 evolution eroded copper oxides causing catalytic activation.
Effect of shape on the self-assembly of faceted patchy nanoplates with irregular shape into tiling patterns
Authors: Millan Jaime A. , Ortiz Daniel , Glotzer Sharon C.
Published: December 2014

Recent reports of the synthesis and assembly of faceted nanoplates with a wide range of shapes and composition motivates the possibility of a new class of two-dimensional materials with specific patterns targeted for a host of exciting properties.
One-step hydrothermal synthesis of V1−xWxO2(M/R) nanorods with superior doping efficiency and thermochromic properties
Authors: Chen Ru , Miao Lei , Cheng Haoliang , Nishibori Eiji , Liu Chengyan , Asaka Toru , Iwamoto Yuji , Takata Masaki , Tanemura Sakae
Published: December 2014

V1−xWxO2(M/R) nanorods with superior doping efficiency (103 °C per at% W) and thermochromic property (Tvis = 60.6%, ΔTsol = 10.3%) were synthesized using a one-step hydrothermal method.
A three-dimensional conducting oxide hollow nanobead photoanode: synthesis, characterization, and applications in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Liu Fa-Qian , Su Juan , Wang Wei , Li Wei-Hua , Hu Hai-Qing , Wang Lei , Li Rong-Xun
Published: December 2014

We report the existence of drift transport in I−/I3− electrolyte-based DSSC by using 3-dimensional FTO coated with TiO2 as a photoanode.
Facile pH-mediated synthesis of morphology-tunable MnCO3and their transformation to truncated octahedral spinel LiMn2O4cathode materials for superior lithium storage
Authors: Huang Sisi , Wu Hao , Chen Penghui , Guo Yi , Nie Bo , Chen Baojun , Liu Heng , Zhang Yun
Published: December 2014

A pH-mediated approach to synthesize single crystalline LiMn2O4is developed by truncating a small portion of the surface to support Li diffusion while leaving most of the remaining surfaces with minimal Mn dissolution.
Phase transformation from hydroxyapatite to the secondary bone mineral, whitlockite
Authors: Jang Hae Lin , Lee Hye Kyoung , Jin Kyoungsuk , Ahn Hyo-Yong , Lee Hye-Eun , Nam Ki Tae
Published: December 2014

Whitlockite (Ca18Mg2(HPO4)2(PO4)12), the second most abundant biomineral in bone, can precipitate from hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2), the major phase in bone.
Layer by layer assembly of sulfonic poly(ether sulfone) as heparin-mimicking coatings: scalable fabrication of super-hemocompatible and antibacterial membranes
Authors: Wang Lingren , Su Baihai , Cheng Chong , Ma Lang , Li Shuangsi , Nie Shengqiang , Zhao Changsheng
Published: December 2014

In this study, super-hemocompatible and antibacterial polymeric membranes with surface coated nanofilms were fabricated by LBL assembly of water-soluble heparin-mimicking polymer and quaternized chitosan.
Solvent-tunable PDMS microlens fabricated by femtosecond laser direct writing
Authors: Lu Dong-Xiao , Zhang Yong-Lai , Han Dong-Dong , Wang Huan , Xia Hong , Chen Qi-Dai , Ding Hong , Sun Hong-Bo
Published: December 2014

Reported here is the fabrication of a solvent-tunable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microlens using the femtosecond laser direct writing (FsLDW) technique.
Performing leadership: municipal green building policies and the city as role model
Authors: Cidell Julie
Published: December 2014

The recent rise in the use of third-party standards and rating systems to evaluate the sustainability or greenness of urban programs and policies includes their explicit incorporation into municipal policy in the case of certified green buildings. In this paper the theoretical framework of performativity is used to explain how multiple forms of city activity interlock through policy to name, repeat, and recount the city as a leader—which, in this particular discursive formation, means being green. By performing greenness to their peers, city staff and elected officials work on the city's identity as an innovator and leader. Furthermore, the internal performance of greenness to residents and businesspeople indicates the appropriate role of local government in relation to private sector activity and protecting citizens, including taking on the risks of new technologies and practices to ease the way for private capital.
Living with Omega-3: New Materialism and Enduring Concerns
Authors: Abrahamsson Sebastian , Bertoni Filippo , Mol Annemarie , Martín Rebeca Ibáñez
Published: December 2014

In the early 21st century quite a few social scientists and scholars in the humanities are arguing that we should pay more attention to things material. For, as they say, not only humans act but so, too, do materials. Joining this discussion, in this paper we will use the case of omega-3 fatty acids to address the questions of how materials may act; in which ways this is relevant; and what is linked up with it. Hence, we will come to speak about research in prisons where inmates were badly nourished; fish being caught in the Global South for Scandinavian fish pills; and the urgency of shifting from the verb ‘to act’ to a differentiated list of modes of doing. Learning from the natural sciences, we will argue, requires that their methods and concerns be carefully attended to. Taking matters seriously comes with the obligation of tracing where such matters come from and where they go. And talking about ‘action’, finally, demands that, beyond liberal notions of isolated individual actors, it be creatively retheorised.
The reports of our death have been greatly exaggerated (with apologies to Mark Twain)
Authors: POWELL Andrea , PEARSON Michael
Published: December 2014

Key points

A&I services continue to thrive even against Google

We need both scope and specialty

Understanding and integrating with researcher workflows is key to success
Stories and statistics from library‐led publishing
Authors: BUSHER Casey , KAMOTSKY Irene
Published: December 2014

Library‐led publishing is one of the new approaches to journal publishing and open access that has grown tremendously in the last few years. A 2010 IMLS‐funded survey found that 55% of respondents – from US academic libraries of all different types and sizes – were already implementing or developing a publishing program. Library‐led publishing has garnered such momentum because, by offering low‐ or no‐cost publishing to university scholars, it addresses needs that traditional publishing has not been able to meet. This article presents a series of small case studies to illustrate different journals that have benefited from the library‐publishing model: (i) a journal that struggled to find an affordable publisher in its emerging field; (ii) a small society journal that could no longer afford to support itself in print; (iii) society publications that go beyond the traditional journal format; and (iv) a student journal with a revolving editorial board.
The volumes and transcript counts of single cells reveal concentration homeostasis and capture biological noise
Authors: Kempe Hermannus , Schwabe Anne , Crémazy Frédéric , Verschure Pernette J. , Bruggeman Frank J.
Published: December 2014

Transcriptional stochasticity can be measured by counting the number of mRNA molecules per cell. Cell-to-cell variability is best captured in terms of concentration rather than molecule counts, because reaction rates depend on concentrations. We combined single-molecule mRNA counting with single-cell volume measurements to quantify the statistics of both transcript numbers and concentrations in human cells. We compared three cell clones that differ only in the genomic integration site of an identical constitutively expressed reporter gene. The transcript number per cell varied proportionally with cell volume in all three clones, indicating concentration homeostasis. We found that the cell-to-cell variability in the mRNA concentration is almost exclusively due to cell-to-cell variation in gene expression activity, whereas the cell-to-cell variation in mRNA number is larger, due to a significant contribution of cell volume variability. We concluded that the precise relationship between transcript number and cell volume sets the biological stochasticity of living cells. This study highlights the importance of the quantitative measurement of transcript concentrations in studies of cell-to-cell variability in biology.
Crop Prices, Agricultural Revenues, and the Rural Economy1
Authors: Weber Jeremy G. , Wall Conor , Brown Jason , Hertz Tom
Published: December 2014

Policy makers in the United States often justify agricultural subsidies by stressing that agriculture is the engine of the rural economy. We use the increase in crop prices in the late 2000s to estimate the marginal effect of increased agricultural revenues on local economies in the U.S. Heartland. We find that $1 more in crop revenue generated 64¢ in personal income, with most going to farm proprietors and workers (59%) or nonfarmers who own farm assets (36%). The evidence suggests a weak link between revenues and nonfarm income or employment, or on population. Cuts to agricultural subsidies are therefore likely to have little effect on the broader rural economy in regions like the Heartland.
Endocranial and masticatory muscle volumes in myostatin-deficient mice
Authors: Jeffery Nathan , Mendias Christopher
Published: December 2014

Structural and functional trade-offs are integral to the evolution of the mammalian skull and its development. This paper examines the potential for enlargement of the masticatory musculature to limit the size of the endocranial cavity by studying a myostatin-deficient mouse model of hypermuscularity (MSTN−/−). The study tests the null prediction that the larger MSTN−/− mice have larger brains compared with wild-type (WT) mice in order to service the larger muscles. Eleven post-mortem MSTN−/− mice and 12 WT mice were imaged at high resolution using contrast enhanced micro-CT. Masticatory muscle volumes (temporalis, masseter, internal and external pterygoids) and endocranial volumes were measured on the basis of two-dimensional manual tracings and the Cavalieri principle. Volumes were compared using Kruskal–Wallis and Student's
t
-tests. Results showed that the masticatory muscles of the MSTN−/− mice were significantly larger than in the WT mice. Increases were in the region of 17–36% depending on the muscle. Muscles increased in proportion to each other, maintaining percentages in the region of 5, 10, 21 and 62% of total muscle volume for the external ptyergoid, internal pterygoid, temporalis and masseter, respectively. Kruskal–Wallis and
t
-tests demonstrated that the endocranial volume was significantly larger in the WT mice, approximately 16% larger on average than that seen in the MSTN−/− mice. This comparative reduction of MSTN−/− endocranial size could not be explained in terms of observer bias, ageing, sexual dimorphism or body size scaling. That the results showed a reduction of brain size associated with an increase of muscle size falsifies the null prediction and lends tentative support to the view that the musculature influences brain growth. It remains to be determined whether the observed effect is primarily physical, nutritional, metabolic or molecular in nature.
Males migrate farther than females in a differential migrant: an examination of the fasting endurance hypothesis
Authors: Gow Elizabeth A. , Wiebe Karen L.
Published: December 2014

Patterns of migration including connectivity between breeding and non-breeding populations and intraspecific variation in the distance travelled are important to study because they can affect individual fitness and population dynamics. Using data from 182 band recoveries across North America and 17 light-level geolocators, we examined the migration patterns of the northern flicker (
Colaptes auratus
), a migratory woodpecker. This species is unusual among birds because males invest more in parental care than females. Breeding latitude was positively correlated to migration distance because populations in the north appeared to travel farther distances than southern populations to find wintering locations with little snow cover. Connectivity was strong for populations west and east of the Continental Divide. Contrary to the three main hypotheses for intraspecific variation in migration distance, females wintered, on average, farther north than males, although there was overlap throughout their non-breeding range. This pattern contradicts those of other species found to date and is most consistent with the fasting endurance hypothesis if investment in parental care depletes the energy reserves of male flickers more than females. We thus propose a new factor, parental effort, which may influence optimal wintering areas and migration strategies within birds, and encourage future experimental studies to test the relationship between parental care roles and migration strategies of the sexes.
Insights from genomes of representatives of the human gut commensal Bifidobacterium bifidum
Authors: Duranti Sabrina , Milani Christian , Lugli Gabriele Andrea , Turroni Francesca , Mancabelli Leonardo , Sanchez Borja , Ferrario Chiara , Viappiani Alice , Mangifesta Marta , Mancino Walter , Gueimonde Miguel , Margolles Abelardo , van Sinderen Douwe , Ventura Marco
Published: December 2014

Bifidobacteria are bacterial gut commensals of mammals, birds and social insects that are perceived to influence the metabolism/physiology of their host. In this context, members of the Bifidobacterium bifidum species are believed to significantly contribute to the overall microbiota of the human gut at infant stage. However, the molecular reasons for their adaptation to this environment are poorly understood. In this study, we analysed the pan‐genome of B. bifidum species by decoding genomes of 15 B. bifidum strains, which highlighted the existence of a conserved gene uniquely present in this bifidobacterial taxon, underscoring a nutrient acquisition strategy that targets host‐derived glycans, such as those present in mucin. Growth experiments and corresponding transcriptomic analyses confirmed the in silico data and supported these intriguing and unique host glycan‐specific saccharolytic features. The ubiquity of the genetic features of B. bifidum for the breakdown of host glycans was confirmed by interrogating metagenomic datasets, thereby supporting the notion that metabolic access to host‐derived glycans is a potent evolutionary force that has shaped B. bifidum genomes and consequently the ecology of the infant intestinal microbiota.
Heterothermy in large mammals: inevitable or implemented?
Authors: Hetem Robyn S. , Maloney Shane K. , Fuller Andrea , Mitchell Duncan
Published: December 2014

Advances in biologging techniques over the past 20 years have allowed for the remote and continuous measurement of body temperatures in free‐living mammals. While there is an abundance of literature on heterothermy in small mammals, fewer studies have investigated the daily variability of body core temperature in larger mammals. Here we review measures of heterothermy and the factors that influence heterothermy in large mammals in their natural habitats, focussing on large mammalian herbivores. The mean 24 h body core temperatures for 17 species of large mammalian herbivores (>10 kg) decreased by ∼1.3°C for each 10‐fold increase in body mass, a relationship that remained significant following phylogenetic correction. The degree of heterothermy, as measured by the 24 h amplitude of body core temperature rhythm, was independent of body mass and appeared to be driven primarily by energy and water limitations. When faced with the competing demands of osmoregulation, energy acquisition and water or energy use for thermoregulation, large mammalian herbivores appear to relax the precision of thermoregulation thereby conserving body water and energy. Such relaxation may entail a cost in that an animal moves closer to its thermal limits for performance. Maintaining homeostasis requires trade‐offs between regulated systems, and homeothermy apparently is not accorded the highest priority; large mammals are able to maintain optimal homeothermy only if they are well nourished, hydrated, and not compromised energetically. We propose that the amplitude of the 24 h rhythm of body core temperature provides a useful index of any compromise experienced by a free‐living large mammal and may predict the performance and fitness of an animal.
Genetic counselors' (GC) knowledge, awareness, understanding of clinical next‐generation sequencing (NGS) genomic testing
Authors: Boland P.M. , Ruth K. , Matro J.M. , Rainey K.L. , Fang C.Y. , Wong Y.N. , Daly M.B. , Hall M.J.
Published: December 2014

Genomic tests are increasingly complex, less expensive, and more widely available with the advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS). We assessed knowledge and perceptions among genetic counselors pertaining to NGS genomic testing via an online survey. Associations between selected characteristics and perceptions were examined. Recent education on NGS testing was common, but practical experience limited. Perceived understanding of clinical NGS was modest, specifically concerning tumor testing. Greater perceived understanding of clinical NGS testing correlated with more time spent in cancer‐related counseling, exposure to NGS testing, and NGS‐focused education. Substantial disagreement about the role of counseling for tumor‐based testing was seen. Finally, a majority of counselors agreed with the need for more education about clinical NGS testing, supporting this approach to optimizing implementation.
Impaired coronary artery distensibility is an endothelium‐dependent process and is associated with vulnerable plaque composition
Authors: Ahmadi Naser , Ruiz‐Garcia Juan , Hajsadeghi Fereshteh , Azen Stanley , Mack Wendy , Hodis Howard , Lerman Amir
Published: December 2014

Coronary endothelial‐dependent microvascular dysfunction, an early reversible stage of coronary artery disease (CAD), is associated with poor clinical outcome. The current study investigated whether coronary artery distensibility index (CDI) is associated with: (i) coronary endothelial‐dependent microvascular dysfunction and (ii) vulnerable plaque composition among subjects with non‐obstructive CAD. Seventy‐four subjects with non‐obstructive CAD (luminal stenosis <30%) were studied. In 20 subjects with and without coronary endothelial‐dependent microvascular dysfunction, coronary flow reserve (CFR) of target segment during intracoronary (IC) infusion of acetylcholine (Ach) and bolus injection of adenosine as well as CDI at rest of corresponding target segment were measured. In 54 subjects, plaque compositions and CDI at rest of 154 non‐obstructive coronary segments as well as proximal segment without disease were measured by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). CDI was defined as: [(Early‐diastolic cross‐sectional‐area (CSA) – End‐diastolic CSA of target segment)/(end‐diastolic CSA of target segment × coronary‐pulse‐pressure) × 103]. There is a direct association between endothelial dysfunction and impaired CDI of a coronary segment both in the given coronary segment and corresponding microvessels in which a strong agreement between CDI and CFR Ach (r2 = 0·85, P = 0·0001) was observed. Multivariable regression‐analysis showed that CDI was an independent predictor of the vulnerable plaque characteristics. The risk of impaired CDI was 125% higher in segments with necrotic core and 60% higher in segments with fibrofatty components as compared to normal segments (P = 0·001). In conclusions, the current study reveals that impaired CDI is an endothelial‐dependent process of both given coronary segment and corresponding microvessels and is associated with vulnerable plaque composition.
Spatial incongruence among hotspots and complementary areas of tree diversity in southern Africa
Authors: Daru Barnabas H. , van der Bank Michelle , Davies T. Jonathan
Published: December 2014

Aim

Biodiversity hotspots have important roles in conservation prioritisation, but efficient methods for selecting among them remain debated.

Location

Southern Africa.

Methods

In this study, we used data on the dated phylogeny and geographical distribution of 1400 tree species in southern Africa to map regional hotspots of species richness (SR), phylogenetic diversity (PD), phylogenetic endemism (PE), species endemism (CWE), and evolutionary distinctiveness and global endangerment (EDGE). In addition, we evaluated the efficiency of hotspots in capturing complementary areas of species richness and phylogenetic diversity. We examined the spatial overlap among hotspots for each metric, and review how well one metric may serve as a surrogate for others. We then evaluated the effectiveness of current conservation areas in capturing these different facets of diversity and complementary areas. Lastly, we explored the environmental factors influencing the distribution of these diversity metrics in southern Africa.

Results

We reveal large spatial incongruence between biodiversity indices, resulting in unequal representation of PD, SR, PE, CWE and EDGE in hotspots and currently protected areas. Notably, no hotspot area is shared among all five measures, and 69% of hotspot areas were unique to a single diversity metric. Areas selected using complementarity are even more dispersed, but capture rare diversity that is overlooked by the hotspot approach.

Main conclusions

An integrative approach that considers multiple facets of biodiversity is needed if we are to maximise the conservation of tree diversity in southern Africa.
TWEAK and NT‐proBNP levels predict exercise capacity in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hernández‐Romero Diana , Jover Eva , Martínez Carlos M. , Andreu‐Cayuelas José M. , Orenes‐Piñero Esteban , Romero‐Aniorte Ana I. , Casas Teresa , Cánovas Sergio , Montero‐Argudo José A. , Valdés Mariano , de la Morena Gonzalo , Marín Francisco
Published: December 2014

Background

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is characterized by inappropriate hypertrophy, myocyte disarray and increased interstitial fibrosis. The tumour necrosis factor‐like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) is a cell surface cytokine with biological activities including stimulation of cell growth, induction of inflammatory cytokines and stimulation of apoptosis. There are controversial data about the potential role of TWEAK in different cardiovascular pathologies. NT‐proBNP is an established biomarker of myocardial wall stress, associated with poor functional class in HCM. We hypothesized that effort capacity in patients with HCM could be related to serum levels of these biomarkers.

Materials and methods

We included 40 haemodynamic stable HCM patients and 53 healthy controls with similar sex and age. We studied exercise capacity by maximal oxygen consumption in a limited treadmill exercise test. TWEAK and NT‐proBNP were assayed by ELISA method and automated Elecsys® platform, respectively. We obtained 46 samples of myocardial tissues by septal myectomy in patients with HCM and evaluated myocardial fibrosis, immunoreaction with TWEAK antibody and apoptosis with TUNEL assay.

Results

We found raised TWEAK and NT‐proBNP serum levels in patients when compared with control levels (both P < 0·001). In a multivariate analysis, TWEAK and NT‐proBNP levels, as well as sex, remained independently associated with the effort capacity (all P < 0·05). We found an association between immunoreaction degree and the degree of myocardial fibrosis (P = 0·021), as well as apoptosis (P = 0·002) in the tissue samples from patients undergoing septal myectomy.

Conclusions

TWEAK and NT‐proBNP levels are biomarkers of disease severity independently associated with the effort capacity in patients with HCM.
Habitat‐specific demography, source‐sink dynamics, and the niche of a common shrub in a heterogeneous and fluctuating environment
Authors: Ferrer Miriam M. , Montaña Carlos , Franco Miguel
Published: December 2014

The occurrence of a species in habitats of varying quality connected through migration can only be understood by detailed investigation of itsdemography. In the Chihuahuan Desert, the common shrubFlourensia cernuais found in both productive and unproductive areas. In the former, both growing and senescent populations are regularly found, while in the latter a low density scattered population persists indefinitely. While precipitation (and its annual stochastic variation) is the same in both habitats, their geomorphological differences produce a sharp difference in the availability of the limiting resource, water. This produces different population dynamics inF. cernua, but also radically different plant communities. Counterintuitively, the low‐resource habitat (LR) supports a scattered, slightly increasing or stable population that coexists with its neighbors and acts as exporter of seeds (source population). In contrast, the high‐resource habitat (HR) allows sporadic recruitment of locally dense patches that tend towards extinction (sink population). The latter is accounted for by the increasing dominance of the grassPleuraphys mutica. The different dynamics and regulatory mechanisms in each habitat allow the species to occupy a wider distribution than it would have in their absence. The higher abundance ofF. cernuain the sink habitat, together with its consequences on community composition and dynamics, questions the idea proposed in the literature that a sink population lives outside its fundamental niche. The study provides support to the notion that the ecological niche of a species cannot be completely characterized by its requirements (e.g. as they relate to physiology), but must also include the complex demographic responses to a spatially and temporally variable environment, which may often include substandard conditions. For the niche concept to retain its usefulness, it must incorporate the demographic response of populations to spatially and temporallyvariable resource supply.
Convexity Subarachnoid Hemorrhage with PiB Positive Pet Scans: Clinical Features and Prognosis
Authors: Ly John V. , Singhal Shaloo , Rowe Christopher C. , Kempster Peter , Bower Simon , Phan Thanh G.
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) has been reported to present as convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage (cSAH). Lesser known is that cSAH can herald intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and ischemic lesions. We present seven new cases with 11C‐Pittsburgh compound B (PiB) positive positron emission tomography (PET) scans including two with biopsy, review the literature and comment on clinical and radiological findings.

METHODS

Patients with cSAH identified on CT, underwent MR imaging and MR angiography to exclude intracranial aneurysm. Nonaneurysmal cSAH were further prospectively evaluated for amyloid angiopathy using PiB. Clinical and radiological features of cSAH, subsequent ICH and ischemic lesions were characterized.

RESULTS

Seven patients with nonaneurysmal cSAH fulfilled the Boston criteria for probable CAA. All had PiB PET scans consistent with CAA. Of the 4 patients who had contrast MR Imaging all had enhancement overlying the cSAH, followed by ICH in three cases. All patients presented with transient sensory symptoms. All patients had small punctate subcortical and cortical infarcts on diffusion‐weighted MR imaging. Literature review revealed subsequent ICH in approximately 11/79 patients.

CONCLUSION

The finding of cSAH and PiB binding in our patients suggest underlying CAA. cSAH may be associated with ischemic lesion as well as future ICH occurrence.
Molecular and Biological Characterization of Potato virus Y Isolates from Vietnam
Authors: Schubert Jörg , Thieme Thomas , Thieme Ramona , Ha Cuong Viet , Hoang Giang Thi
Published: December 2014

Eight isolates from different potato growing regions in Vietnam were characterized. All were highly pathogenic in some potato cultivars, but did not overcome the extreme resistance of Solanum stoloniferum and Solanum demissum. RT‐PCR analysis revealed that all of these isolates are recombinants. Sequence data for 4 isolates were obtained, and their reaction in potato cultivars harbouring specific N genes was determined. Different phylogenetic analyses of viral sequences confirmed previous results that the recombinant isolates evolved from different parental sequences. One of the Vietnamese isolates investigated had a specific structure. The need for a clear classification of PVYNWi isolates is discussed.
Metabolic abnormalities among people diagnosed with schizophrenia: a literature review and implications for mental health nurses
Authors: McDaid T. M. , Smyth S.
Published: December 2014

Accessible summary

Metabolic abnormalities such as diabetes, obesity and dyslipidaemia are found in much higher rates in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia when compared with the general population.

This review discusses the most prevalent metabolic abnormalities associated with schizophrenia, their frequency and implications for mental health nurses (MHN). This review illuminates the need for MHN to acquire added awareness, knowledge and practical strategies in managing people at high risk of developing metabolic abnormalities associated with MetS. By doing this, it contributes to the literature by highlighting practical strategies for MHN in assessment and ongoing monitoring of metabolic abnormalities in clinical practice.

This review highlights the need for MHN to be vigilant in monitoring a person's physical state on commencement and throughout treatment with antipsychotics.

There is a need for an early detection monitoring system for people who are potentially at risk of developing metabolic abnormalities.

The literature review aimed to investigate metabolic abnormalities associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) in people diagnosed with schizophrenia; they are almost twice as likely to have metabolic risk factors and die approximately 20 years younger than the general population. MetS has become an issue of growing concern in mental health nursing. A comprehensive literature review was conducted utilizing various databases to address the reviews aim. Databases such as CINAHL Plus with full text (via EBSCO), MEDLINE(R) (OVID), PsycINFO and the COCHRANE library were accessed. The main metabolic abnormalities that emerged were: diabetes, obesity and dyslipidaemia. Antipsychotic medication also plays a vital role in a person's susceptibility to the development of MetS. It is critical that MHN has access to training and education in managing people at high risk of developing metabolic abnormalities associated with MetS. This review contributes to the literature by highlighting practical strategies for MHN in assessment and ongoing monitoring of metabolic abnormalities in clinical practice.
Validity of birth certificate‐derived maternal weight data in twin pregnancies
Authors: Bodnar Lisa M. , Abrams Barbara , Siminerio Lara , Lash Timothy L.
Published: December 2014

Birth certificates are an important source of pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) data for surveillance and aetiologic studies, but little is known about their validity in twin pregnancies. Twins experience high rates of adverse perinatal outcomes that have been associated with BMI and GWG in singletons. Our objective was to evaluate the accuracy of birth certificate‐derived pre‐pregnancy BMI and GWG compared with medical record‐derived data in a sample of 186 twin pregnancies at a teaching hospital in Pennsylvania (2003–2010). Twelve strata were created by simultaneous stratification on pre‐pregnancy BMI (underweight, normal weight/overweight, obese class 1, obese classes 2 and 3) and GWG (<20th, 20–80th, >80th percentile). The agreement of birth certificate‐derived pre‐pregnancy BMI category with medical record BMI category was lowest among underweight mothers [75% (95% confidence interval 51–91%) ] and highest among normal/overweight [97% (90–99%) ] and obese classes 2 and 3 mothers [97% (85–99%) ]. Agreement for GWG category from the birth certificate varied from 57% (41–70%) for GWG >80th percentile to 80% (65–91%) and 82% (72–89%) for GWG <20th and 20th–80th percentiles, respectively. The misclassification of BMI and GWG was primarily due to error in pre‐pregnancy weight rather than weight at delivery or height. Agreement proportions for twins were not meaningfully different from the proportions in a comparable sample of singleton pregnancies. These data suggest that birth certificate‐based BMI and GWG data are prone to error in twin pregnancies. Those who use these data should conduct internal validation studies and adjust their results using bias analyses.
Duodenal rather than antral motility contractile parameters correlate with symptom severity in gastroparesis patients
Authors: Barshop K. , Staller K. , Semler J. , Kuo B.
Published: December 2014

Background

Studies of symptomatic gastroparetics consistently find poor correlation with gastric emptying. We hypothesized that concomitant small bowel dysmotility may play a role in symptom causation in gastroparesis and sought to test this hypothesis by using wireless motility capsule (WMC) testing to simultaneously measure antral and duodenal area under pressure curve (AUC) in patients with delayed gastric emptying.

Methods

Using a cohort from a multicenter clinical trial and a separate tertiary clinical database, we identified gastroparetics that underwent concurrent WMC testing and completed the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index, a validated questionnaire. Our study included 35 gastroparetics defined by a gastric emptying time (GET) ≥5 h. Antral and duodenal AUC were assessed at 1‐h windows pre‐GET and post‐GET, respectively.

Key Results

We found moderate correlations between duodenal AUC and symptom severity in the combined cohort (n = 35; R = −0.42; p = 0.01; 95% CI −0.7, −0.1). Removing patients with colonic delay resulted in a stronger correlation of duodenal AUC to symptom severity (n = 21; R = −0.63; p < 0.01; 95% CI −0.81, −0.31). The multicenter trial (n = 20) and clinical practice cohorts (n = 15) had significantly different symptom severity and exclusion criteria. When analyzed separately, significant correlations between duodenal AUC and symptom severity were observed (R = −0.71; p < 0.01; 95% CI −0.9, −0.4 and R = −0.72; p < 0.01; 95% CI −0.9, −0.3, respectively). Symptom severity and antral motility showed no correlation.

Conclusions & Inferences

We found significant correlations between duodenal AUC and symptom severity in two cohorts of gastroparetics. Small bowel motility may contribute to symptom generation in gastroparetic patients and this may inform therapeutic considerations.
A nutrition/health mindset on commercial Big Data and drivers of food demand in modern and traditional systems
Authors: Dubé Laurette , Labban Alice , Moubarac Jean‐Claude , Heslop Gabriela , Ma Yu , Paquet Catherine
Published: December 2014

Building greater reciprocity between traditional and modern food systems and better convergence of human and economic development outcomes may enable the production and consumption of accessible, affordable, and appealing nutritious food for all. Information being key to such transformations, this roadmap paper offers a strategy that capitalizes on Big Data and advanced analytics, setting the foundation for an integrative intersectoral knowledge platform to better inform and monitor behavioral change and ecosystem transformation. Building upon the four P's of marketing (product, price, promotion, placement), we examine digital commercial marketing data through the lenses of the four A's of food security (availability, accessibility, affordability, appeal) using advanced consumer choice analytics for archetypal traditional (fresh fruits and vegetables) and modern (soft drinks) product categories. We demonstrate that business practices typically associated with the latter also have an important, if not more important, impact on purchases of the former category. Implications and limitations of the approach are discussed.