bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Skin Splint for Accurately Mapping Dermal Remodeling and Epithelialization During Wound Healing
Authors: Jimi Shiro , De Francesco Francesco , Ferraro Giuseppe A. , Riccio Michele , Hara Shuuji
Published: September 2016

The mouse excisional dorsal full‐thickness wound model with a silicon splint fixed on the skin has been widely used to mimic human wound healing. However, the method cannot accurately quantify dermal remodeling, since the initial point of epithelialization on the wound surface is unclear. To overcome this limitation, we have developed a novel mouse excisional wound model to assess the degree of epithelial extension and regeneration, using a plastic ring‐shaped splint fixed beneath the surrounding epidermal tissue. At the end of the experiment, tissue samples were fixed in formalin, the splint was excised, and paraffin sections were prepared. Splint holes, corresponding to the prior location of the splint, were evident on the tissue cross‐sections, and the epidermis above the holes was considered the initial excision site. The epidermal contraction and epithelial regeneration, as independent essential tissue alterations in wound healing, could be distinguishable and quantified. Compared with previous splint models, this method provides an accurate evaluation of epidermal processes in wound healing, and can be a platform to assess the effects of various wound healing factors. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1225–1232, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Longitudinal study using voxel‐based relaxometry: Association between cartilage T1ρ and T2 and patient reported outcome changes in hip osteoarthritis
Authors: Pedoia Valentina , Gallo Matthew C. , Souza Richard B. , Majumdar Sharmila
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To study the local distribution of hip cartilage T1ρ and T2 relaxation times and their association with changes in patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) using a fully automatic, local, and unbiased method in subjects with and without hip osteoarthritis (OA).

Materials and Methods

The 3 Tesla MRI studies of the hip were obtained for 37 healthy controls and 16 subjects with radiographic hip OA. The imaging protocol included a three‐dimensional (3D) SPGR sequence and a combined 3D T1ρ and T2 sequence. Quantitative cartilage analysis was compared between a traditional region of interest (ROI)‐based method and a fully automatic voxel‐based relaxometry (VBR) method. Additionally, VBR was used to assess local T1ρ and T2 differences between subjects with and without OA, and to evaluate the association between T1ρ and T2 and 18‐month changes PROMs.

Results

Results for the two methods were consistent in the acetabular (R = 0.79; coefficients of variation [CV] = 2.9%) and femoral cartilage (R = 0.90; CV = 2.6%). VBR revealed local patterns of T1ρ and T2 elevation in OA subjects, particularly in the posterosuperior acetabular cartilage (T1ρ: P = 0.02; T2: P = 0.038). Overall, higher T1ρ and T2 values at baseline, particularly in the anterosuperior acetabular cartilage (T1ρ: Rho = ‐0.42; P = 0.002; T2: Rho = ‐0.44; P = 0.002), were associated with worsening PROMS at 18‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

VBR is an accurate and robust method for quantitative MRI analysis in hip cartilage. VBR showed the capability to detect local variations in T1ρ and T2 values in subjects with and without osteoarthritis, and voxel based correlations demonstrated a regional dependence between baseline T1ρ and T2 values and changes in PROMs.

Level of Evidence: 1

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1523–1533
An appraisal of meta‐analysis guidelines: how do they relate to safety outcomes?
Authors: Bennetts Meg , Whalen Ed , Ahadieh Sima , Cappelleri Joseph C.
Published: September 2016

Although well developed to assess efficacy questions, meta‐analyses and, more generally, systematic reviews, have received less attention in application to safety‐related questions. As a result, many open questions remain on how best to apply meta‐analyses in the safety setting. This appraisal attempts to: (i) summarize the current guidelines for assessing individual studies, systematic reviews, and network meta‐analyses; (ii) describe several publications on safety meta‐analytic approaches; and (iii) present some of the questions and issues that arise with safety data. A number of gaps in the current quality guidelines are identified along with issues to consider when performing a safety meta‐analysis. While some work is ongoing to provide guidance to improve the quality of safety meta‐analyses, this review emphasizes the critical need for better reporting and increased transparency regarding safety data in the systematic review guidelines. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of selected fatty acids in dried sweat spot using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection
Authors: Kanďár Roman , Drábková Petra , Andrlová Lenka , Kostelník Adam , Čegan Alexander
Published: September 2016

A method is described for the determination of fatty acids in dried sweat spot and plasma samples using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. Plasma and dried sweat spot samples were obtained from a group of blood donors. The sweat was collected from each volunteer during exercise. Sweat was spotted onto collection paper containing butylated hydroxytoluene. Fatty acids were derivatized with acetyl chloride in methanol to form methyl esters of fatty acids. The fatty acids in dried sweat spot samples treated with butylated hydroxytoluene and stored at –20°C were stable for 3 months. Our results indicate that sweat contains, among fatty acids with short chain, also fatty acids with long chain and unsaturated fatty acids. Linear relationships between percentage content of selected fatty acids in dried sweat spot and plasma were observed.
Ecologically sate and resource‐saving methods for recycling waste tungsten, niobium carbide‐cobalt cermets and extraction of tungsten and niobium from concentrates
Authors: Onischenko V. , Soloviev V. , Solianyk L. , Malyshev V.
Published: September 2016

A range of potentials in which the cobalt–tungsten alloy phase is selectively dissolved in the solutions of phosphoric acid to form soluble compounds of these metals while the tungsten carbide phase remains in the precipitate is determined. It is shown that tungsten ores and concentrates are decomposed at temperatures of 1050 to 1100 °C in sodium chloride–sodium metasilicate melts to form two immiscible phases: halide–tungstate, which contains 96 to 99 %, and silicate, which contains 90 % of the ore components.
A grape seed procyanidin extract inhibits HDAC activity leading to increased Pparα phosphorylation and target‐gene expression
Authors: Downing Laura E. , Ferguson Bradley S. , Rodriguez Kelvin , Ricketts Marie‐Louise
Published: September 2016

Scope

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) have emerged as epigenetic regulators of risk factors associated with the metabolic syndrome (MetS), and certain botanical extracts have proven to be potent HDAC inhibitors. Understanding the role of dietary procyanidins in HDAC inhibition is important in exploring the therapeutic potential of natural products.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were gavaged with vehicle (water) or grape seed procyanidin extract (GSPE, 250 mg/kg) and terminated 14 h later. Liver and serum were harvested to assess the effect of GSPE on HDAC activity, histone acetylation, Pparα activity and target‐gene expression, and serum lipid levels.

Results

GSPE increased histone acetylation and decreased Class I HDAC activity in vivo, and dose‐dependently inhibited recombinant HDAC2 and 3 activities in vitro. Accordingly, Pparα gene and phosphorylated protein expression were increased, as were target genes involved in fatty acid catabolism, suggesting increased Pparα activity. Serum fibroblast growth factor 21 (Fgf21) was elevated, and triglyceride levels were reduced by 28%.

Conclusion

GSPE regulates HDAC and Pparα activities to modulate lipid catabolism and reduce serum triglycerides in vivo.
A novel points system to predict the prognosis of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow
Authors: Beekman Roy , Zijlstra Wobbe , Visser Leo H.
Published: September 2016

Introduction: In this study we aimed to identify prognostic factors of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) and developed a scoring system to establish the prognosis. Methods: We collected baseline clinical, electrophysiologic, and ultrasonographic data from 2 cohorts. The outcomes for all patients were determined on follow‐up. Prognostic factors were determined using single and multiple variable analyses. A points system was developed to determine the risk for an unfavorable outcome. Results: Of the 220 patients with UNE 178 (81%) could be re‐evaluated. Four variables were retained in the prediction model for a points system. An unfavorable outcome was associated with right‐sided UNE, more severe weakness of the abductor digiti minimi (ADM), and more pronounced ulnar nerve thickening. A compound muscle action potential amplitude reduction across the elbow of ≥16% (particularly if ≥ 50%) was associated with a more favorable outcome. Conclusion: Outcome in UNE may be predicted by scoring 4 parameters. Muscle Nerve 55: 698–705, 2017
Monitoring and mechanisms of insecticide resistance in Chilo suppressalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), with special reference to diamides
Authors: Yao Rong , Zhao Dan‐Dan , Zhang Shuai , Zhou Li‐Qi , Wang Xin , Gao Cong‐Fen , Wu Shun‐Fan
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

The rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is one of the most economically important pests of rice in Asia. Chemical control remains the most efficient primary means for controlling this pest.

RESULTS

Significant variations among field populations in their resistance to seven insecticides were observed. The populations exhibited LC50 values that ranged between 0.605 and 108.088 mg AI L−1 for chlorantraniliprole and between 0.046 and 3.919 mg AI L−1 for flubendiamide. The YY14 population collected from Yuyao in Zhejiang Province in 2014 showed a moderate resistance level to the two diamides, i.e. up to 77.6‐fold and 42.6‐fold for chlorantraniliprole and flubendiamide respectively. Synergism tests and biochemical assays showed no obvious correlations between diamide resistance and three detoxifying enzymes. Sequence comparison of the ryanodine receptor gene between the YY14 resistant population and susceptible population revealed that a glycine to glutamic acid substitution (G4910E) was presented in the YY14 population.

CONCLUSION

G4910E mutation might be involved in the resistance evolution of C. suppressalis to the diamides. An appropriate insecticide resistance management programme should be established to maintain the effectiveness of the insecticides and to ensure sustainable management. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Spectroscopic studies of Co2TiO4 and Co3O4 two‐phase composites
Authors: Nayak S. , Dasari K. , Joshi D. C. , Pramanik P. , Palai R. , Sathe V. , Chauhan R. N. , Tiwari N. , Thota S.
Published: September 2016

In this article, we report a comparative analysis of various spectroscopic studies including low‐temperature () Raman spectroscopy of cobalt‐orthotitanate () and tricobalt‐tetraoxide (), and their solid solutions of ( (100 wt.%)). For all the lower and intermediate compositions, five Raman‐active modes were recognized at , and that are associated with , , and phonon symmetries. Conversely, pure exhibits a broad spectrum of width without any signatures of (3) mode. At low‐temperatures (down to 25 K) the and  peaks of both and shift toward the high‐frequency side with anomalies across the ferrimagnetic Néel temperature (K) and antiferromagnetic Néel temperature ( K), respectively. All the investigated samples exhibit two distinct bands at 576 () and 665 () in the Fourier transform infrared spectra recorded at K, associated with the vibrational stretching of the metal–oxygen bonds of length 195.8 pm (B–O) and 185.4 pm (A–O), respectively. The intensity of these sharp bands gradually decreases as the crystal structure transforms from normal‐spinel ( Å) to inverse‐spinel structure ( Å). The X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies revealed that the Ti was incorporated into the octahedral B‐sites of inverse‐spinel structure of . Interestingly, the XPS spectra of provide evidence of the trivalent character of Ti instead of tetravalent cationic configuration together with a weak character at the octahedral sites. These results are discussed in terms of the binding‐energy (BE) difference between the O‐1s and Ti‐2p ([O–Ti‐2p] = BE(O‐1s) −BE(Ti‐2p) and the mean chemical bond length . The peculiarities of all these results in consonance with the crystal‐structure (bond angles and bond lengths) and electron‐spin‐resonance studies are discussed in detail.
Resonant electron capture by aspartame and aspartic acid molecules
Authors: Muftakhov M. V. , Shchukin P. V.
Published: September 2016

Rationale

The processes for dissociative electron capture are the key mechanisms for decomposition of biomolecules, proteins in particular, under interaction with low‐energy electrons. Molecules of aspartic acid and aspartame, i.e. modified dipeptides, were studied herein to define the impact of the side functional groups on peptide chain decomposition in resonant electron‐molecular reactions.

Methods

The processes of formation and decomposition of negative ions of both aspartame and aspartic acid were studied by mass spectrometry of negative ions under resonant electron capture. The obtained mass spectra were interpreted under thermochemical analysis by quantum chemical calculations.

Results

Main channels of negative molecular ions fragmentation were found and characteristic fragment ions were identified.

Conclusions

The СООН fragment of the side chain in aspartic acid is shown to play a key role like the carboxyl group in amino acids and aliphatic oligopeptides. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The cellular and molecular mechanisms of tissue repair and regeneration as revealed by studies in Xenopus
Authors: Li Jingjing , Zhang Siwei , Amaya Enrique
Published: September 2016

Survival of any living organism critically depends on its ability to repair and regenerate damaged tissues and/or organs during its lifetime following injury, disease, or aging. Various animal models from invertebrates to vertebrates have been used to investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of wound healing and tissue regeneration. It is hoped that such studies will form the framework for identifying novel clinical treatments that will improve the healing and regenerative capacity of humans. Amongst these models, Xenopus stands out as a particularly versatile and powerful system. This review summarizes recent findings using this model, which have provided fundamental knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for efficient and perfect tissue repair and regeneration.
Costs and assessment in medical education: a strategic view
Authors: Walsh Kieran
Published: September 2016

None
Modeling practice effects in healthy middle‐aged participants of the Alzheimer and Families parent cohort
Authors: Sánchez‐Benavides Gonzalo , Gispert Juan D. , Fauria Karine , Molinuevo José Luis , Gramunt Nina
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Repetitive administration of neuropsychological tests can lead to performance improvement merely due to previous exposure. The magnitude of such practice effects (PEs) may be used as a marker of subtle cognitive impairment because they are diminished in healthy individuals subsequently developing Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

To explore the relationship between sociodemographic factors, AD family history (FH), and APOE ε4 status, and the magnitude of PE, four subtests of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale‐IV were administered twice to 400 middle‐aged healthy individuals, most of them first‐degree descendants of AD patients.

Results

PEs were observed in all measures. Sociodemographic variables did not show a uniform effect on PE. Baseline score was the strongest predictor of change, being inversely related to PE magnitude. Significant effects of the interaction term APOE ε4∗Age in processing speed and working memory were observed.

Discussion

PEs exert a relevant effect in cognitive outcomes at retest and, accordingly, they must be taken into consideration in clinical trials. The magnitude of PE in processing speed and working memory could be of special interest for the development of cognitive markers of preclinical AD.
Systematic evaluation of the associations between environmental risk factors and dementia: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses
Authors: Bellou Vanesa , Belbasis Lazaros , Tzoulaki Ioanna , Middleton Lefkos T. , Ioannidis John P.A. , Evangelou Evangelos
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Dementia is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disease, whose etiology results from a complex interplay between environmental and genetic factors.

Methods

We searched PubMed to identify meta‐analyses of observational studies that examined associations between nongenetic factors and dementia. We estimated the summary effect size using random‐effects and fixed‐effects model, the 95% CI, and the 95% prediction interval. We assessed the between‐study heterogeneity (I‐square), evidence of small‐study effects, and excess significance.

Results

A total of 76 unique associations were examined. By applying standardized criteria, seven associations presented convincing evidence. These associations pertained to benzodiazepines use, depression at any age, late‐life depression, and frequency of social contacts for all types of dementia; late‐life depression for Alzheimer's disease; and type 2 diabetes mellitus for vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Discussion

Several risk factors present substantial evidence for association with dementia and should be assessed as potential targets for interventions, but these associations may not necessarily be causal.
Rival Versions of Objective Spirit
Authors: Alznauer Mark
Published: September 2016

To assert the primacy of objective spirit is to claim that certain distinctively human capacities, such as thinking and acting, are not capacities we have as individuals considered singly but are in some way dependent on shared public norms or social institutions. In this essay, I provide a brief history of arguments for the primacy of objective spirit from Hegel to the present, identifying three distinct strategies for defending this thesis: the teleological argument, the sociological argument and the quasi-transcendental argument. Although it has now become quite common to read Hegel as advancing a quasi-transcendental argument, one similar to the argument found in Wittgenstein’s famous remarks about ‘rule-following’, I show that Hegel’s most interesting claims about the social dimensions of human mindedness are incompatible with this strategy and can only be vindicated if he is read as offering a teleological argument.
The Reality of Religion in Hegel’s Idealist Metaphysics
Authors: Bubbio Paolo Diego
Published: September 2016

In this paper, I explore the question of the reality of God for Hegel. I first consider the contemporary interpretative debate on Hegel’s metaphysics and the implications of this debate for the Hegelian conception of God. I then advocate a ‘qualified revisionist’ approach to Hegel, and, as a further qualification to such an approach, I suggest an interpretation of the objective reality that Hegel attributes to God as mediated objectivity. I analyse how Hegel’s ‘mediated objectivity’ applies to religious representations, suggesting that a figural reading of the kind theorized by philologist Erich Auerbach should be adopted. Finally I reconstruct Hegel’s distinction between the image (Bild) of God, the concept (Begriff) of God, and the Idea (Idee) of God, and I argue that the answer to the question of the objective reality of God in Hegel’s philosophy of religion can be retrieved in the process according to which the concept turns into the Idea.
Dryland vegetation from the Middle Pennsylvanian of Indiana (Illinois Basin): the dryland biome in glacioeustatic, paleobiogeographic, and paleoecologic context
Authors: Bashforth Arden R. , DiMichele William A. , Eble Cortland F. , Nelson W. John
Published: September 2016

A macrofloral assemblage dominated by elements of the Euramerican dryland biome is described from the Brazil Formation in Clay County, Indiana (Illinois Basin). Fossils were recovered from a thin heterolithic unit between a shallow-marine bed and the paleosol beneath the Minshall Coal, a Middle Pennsylvanian succession deposited near the Atokan-Desmoinesian and Bolsovian-Asturian boundaries. Sedimentological indicators imply accumulation under a seasonal climate, including interbedded siltstone and sandstone deposited during flashfloods, intraclasts eroded from local sources, and charcoal produced by wildfires. The macrofloral assemblage is consistent with a dryland setting, being dominated by large, coriaceous gymnosperm leaves with mesic to xeric traits, includingCordaitesspp. indet.,Lesleyasp. indet., andTaeniopterissp. cf.T. multinervia. Sphenopsids and ferns typical of the wetland biome are rare. In contrast, the microfloral assemblage is dominated by fern spores, with lesser lycopsid spores and cordaitalean pollen. The succession indicates that the dryland biome predominated during late regression, prior to the onset of perhumid conditions that resulted in peat accumulation at late lowstand. However, the abundance of palynomorphs from wetland vegetation implies gradual fragmentation of the prevailing dryland flora and replacement by the wetland biome in the transition to glacial maximum. The taphonomic and paleobiogeographic context confirms that floras adapted to seasonal moisture deficit periodically dispersed into tropical lowlands, rather than being transported from ‘extrabasinal’ or ‘upland’ environments. The precocious occurrence ofTaeniopteris, more typical of Late Pennsylvanian and Permian floras, may be the earliest record of the fossil-genus, and exemplifies the association of derived plant taxa with dryland habitats. The predominance of broad-leaved gymnosperms with mesic to xeric characters suggests that dryland communities contained more slow-growing and long-lived plants than contemporaneous wetland floras.
DENSE IDEALS AND CARDINAL ARITHMETIC
Authors: ESKEW MONROE
Published: September 2016

From large cardinals we show the consistency of normal, fine, κ-complete λ-dense ideals on ${{\cal P}_\kappa }\left( \lambda \right)$ for successor κ. We explore the interplay between dense ideals, cardinal arithmetic, and squares, answering some open questions of Foreman.
Geographic patterns of biodiversity in European coastal marine benthos
Authors: Hummel Herman , Van Avesaath Pim , Wijnhoven Sander , Kleine-Schaars Loran , Degraer Steven , Kerckhof Francis , Bojanic Natalia , Skejic Sanda , Vidjak Olja , Rousou Maria , Orav-Kotta Helen , Kotta Jonne , Jourde Jérôme , Pedrotti Maria Luiza , Leclerc Jean-Charles , Simon Nathalie , Rigaut-Jalabert Fabienne , Bachelet Guy , Lavesque Nicolas , Arvanitidis Christos , Pavloudi Christina , Faulwetter Sarah , Crowe Tasman , Coughlan Jennifer , Benedetti-Cecchi Lisandro , Dal Bello Martina , Magni Paolo , Como Serena , Coppa Stefania , Ikauniece Anda , Ruginis Tomas , Jankowska Emilia , Weslawski Jan Marcin , Warzocha Jan , Gromisz Sławomira , Witalis Bartosz , Silva Teresa , Ribeiro Pedro , Fernandes De Matos Valentina Kirienko , Sousa-Pinto Isabel , Veiga Puri , Troncoso Jesús , Guinda Xabier , Juanes De La Pena Jose Antonio , Puente Araceli , Espinosa Free , Pérez-Ruzafa Angel , Frost Matt , Mcneill Caroline Louise , Peleg Ohad , Rilov Gil
Published: September 2016

Within the COST action EMBOS (European Marine Biodiversity Observatory System) the degree and variation of the diversity and densities of soft-bottom communities from the lower intertidal or the shallow subtidal was measured at 28 marine sites along the European coastline (Baltic, Atlantic, Mediterranean) using jointly agreed and harmonized protocols, tools and indicators. The hypothesis tested was that the diversity for all taxonomic groups would decrease with increasing latitude. The EMBOS system delivered accurate and comparable data on the diversity and densities of the soft sediment macrozoobenthic community over a large-scale gradient along the European coastline. In contrast to general biogeographic theory, species diversity showed no linear relationship with latitude, yet a bell-shaped relation was found. The diversity and densities of benthos were mostly positively correlated with environmental factors such as temperature, salinity, mud and organic matter content in sediment, or wave height, and related with location characteristics such as system type (lagoons, estuaries, open coast) or stratum (intertidal, subtidal). For some relationships, a maximum (e.g. temperature from 15–20°C; mud content of sediment around 40%) or bimodal curve (e.g. salinity) was found. In lagoons the densities were twice higher than in other locations, and at open coasts the diversity was much lower than in other locations. We conclude that latitudinal trends and regional differences in diversity and densities are strongly influenced by, i.e. merely the result of, particular sets and ranges of environmental factors and location characteristics specific to certain areas, such as the Baltic, with typical salinity clines (favouring insects) and the Mediterranean, with higher temperatures (favouring crustaceans). Therefore, eventual trends with latitude are primarily indirect and so can be overcome by local variation of environmental factors.
Genetic characteristics of broodstock and offspring of the seven-band grouper (Hyporthodus septemfasciatus) using fluorescent-AFLP markers
Authors: Xiao Yongshuang , Guan Shuguang , Liu Qinghua , Liu Hongjun , Yu Daode , Ma Daoyuan , Xu Shihong , Liu Jing , Dai Ming , Xiao Zhizhong , Li Jun
Published: September 2016

Seven-band grouper (Hyporthodus septemfasciatus) is a commercial rocky reef fish in East Asia that has been regarded as a promising species for aquaculture. To investigate the broodstock contributions to offspring for the sustainability of fry production, 62 individuals ofH. septemfasciatusfrom two broodstocks and one offspring population were analysed using fluorescent-AFLP. A total of 602 bands were amplified and 70.10% of them were polymorphic. The numbers of polymorphic loci were 308 (Pbroodstock I= 55.50%) and 356 (Pbroodstock II= 63.12%) in the two broodstocks, and 294 (Poffspring= 52.88%) in the offspring, respectively. The average values of Shannon diversity index (I) and expected heterozygosity (H) were higher in the broodstock (Ibroodstock I= 0.281,Ibroodstock II= 0.244,Hbroodstock I= 0.185,Hbroodstock II= 0.161) than those in the offspring (Ioffspring= 0.243,Hoffspring= 0.161). AMOVA and FSTanalyses showed that significant genetic differentiation between broodstock and offspring populations, and limited effective broodstock population size has contributed to the offspring. Both STRUCTURE and Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) also showed the three populations composed of two stocks and most offspring individuals (95.0%) only originated from 44.0% of the individuals of broodstock I, which may have negative effects on sustainable fry production. Therefore, genetic variation between broodstock and offspring should be monitored, and large effective size of broodstock should be employed to ensure the success of commercial breeding programmes. Our data provide a useful genetic basis for future planning of sustainable culture and management ofH. septemfasciatus.
Anthropological Crisis and Solution in theHodayotand 1 Corinthians 15
Authors: Maston Jason
Published: September 2016

This article describes how the writers of theHodayotunderstand Gen 2.7 as describing an anthropological crisis: the human is formed from the dust and wasting away. Drawing on Ezekiel 37, the hymnists maintain that this crisis is overcome by God imparting his Spirit. This understanding of Gen 2.7 is used to illuminate Paul's argument in 1 Corinthians 15. Paul likewise reads Gen 2.7 as a description of an anthropological problem, and he finds the solution in Ezekiel 37. Yet, he introduces his own twist so that Gen 2.7 comes to express both the crisis and the solution.
Gender, Criminal Opportunity and Landscape in Nineteenth-Century Wales
Authors: JONES RACHAEL
Published: September 2016

In the nineteenth century, the old county of Montgomeryshire in Wales was mainly rural, with some industrialised towns. This article looks at the most prevalent crime dealt with in the county's Quarter Sessions, namely theft, and considers the gendered nature of law breaking. In particular it investigates the rural and urban landscapes and how they affected offenders’ activities and draws conclusions on the implications for policing.
CREDIT MARKETS AND INVESTMENT IN RENEWABLE ENERGY UNDER UNCERTAINTY
Authors: Vinogradova Alexandra
Published: September 2016

The present study examines the problem facing a resource-importing economy seeking to achieve energy independence by developing a renewable substitute. The invention of the substitute is assumed to follow a stochastic process that can be influenced by investment in energy research and development. I analyze the optimal investment strategy under alternative assumptions with respect to the economy's access to international financial markets, the terms on which credit is available, and the country's degree of dependence on resource imports. It is found that, in general, having access to capital markets does not necessarily lead to a higher investment rate. However, in the empirically relevant range of elasticity of intertemporal consumption substitution, the economy with access to credit invests more than under financial autarky. A higher degree of dependence on resource imports implies a lower optimal investment. Arrival of the substitute does not necessarily cause an immediate improvement in the net foreign asset position but may in fact cause its further deterioration.
How Vague Historical Writings Help Scientists Predict Floods
Authors: Crane Leah
Published: September 2016

By including imprecise historical written records in their calculations, researchers were able to decrease uncertainty in estimations of future flood frequency.
A FRET biosensor reveals spatiotemporal activation and functions of aurora kinase A in living cells
Authors: Bertolin Giulia , Sizaire Florian , Herbomel Gaëtan , Reboutier David , Prigent Claude , Tramier Marc
Published: September 2016

Overexpression of AURKA is a major hallmark of epithelial cancers. It encodes the multifunctional serine/threonine kinase aurora A, which is activated at metaphase and is required for cell cycle progression; assessing its activation in living cells is mandatory for next-generation drug design. We describe here a Förster’s resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor detecting the conformational changes of aurora kinase A induced by its autophosphorylation on Thr288. The biosensor functionally replaces the endogenous kinase in cells and allows the activation of the kinase to be followed throughout the cell cycle. Inhibiting the catalytic activity of the kinase prevents the conformational changes of the biosensor. Using this approach, we discover that aurora kinase A activates during G1 to regulate the stability of microtubules in cooperation with TPX2 and CEP192. These results demonstrate that the aurora kinase A biosensor is a powerful tool to identify new regulatory pathways controlling aurora kinase A activation.
The NF-YC–RGL2 module integrates GA and ABA signalling to regulate seed germination in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Xu , Hu Pengwei , Huang Mingkun , Tang Yang , Li Yuge , Li Ling , Hou Xingliang
Published: September 2016

The antagonistic crosstalk between gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) plays a pivotal role in the modulation of seed germination. However, the molecular mechanism of such phytohormone interaction remains largely elusive. Here we show that three Arabidopsis NUCLEAR FACTOR-Y C (NF-YC) homologues NF-YC3, NF-YC4 and NF-YC9 redundantly modulate GA- and ABA-mediated seed germination. These NF-YCs interact with the DELLA protein RGL2, a key repressor of GA signalling. The NF-YC–RGL2 module targets ABI5, a gene encoding a core component of ABA signalling, via specific CCAAT elements and collectively regulates a set of GA- and ABA-responsive genes, thus controlling germination. These results suggest that the NF-YC–RGL2–ABI5 module integrates GA and ABA signalling pathways during seed germination.
NOX2 amplifies acetaldehyde-mediated cardiomyocyte mitochondrial dysfunction in alcoholic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Brandt Moritz , Garlapati Venkata , Oelze Matthias , Sotiriou Efthymios , Knorr Maike , Kröller-Schön Swenja , Kossmann Sabine , Schönfelder Tanja , Morawietz Henning , Schulz Eberhard , Schultheiss Heinz-Peter , Daiber Andreas , Münzel Thomas , Wenzel Philip
Published: September 2016

Alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM) resulting from excess alcohol consumption is an important cause of heart failure (HF). Although it is assumed that the cardiotoxicity of the ethanol (EtOH)-metabolite acetaldehyde (ACA) is central for its development and progression, the exact mechanisms remain obscure. Murine cardiomyocytes (CMs) exposed to ACA or EtOH showed increased superoxide (O2•−) levels and decreased mitochondrial polarization, both being normalized by NADPH oxidase (NOX) inhibition. C57BL/6 mice and mice deficient for the ACA-degrading enzyme mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH-2−/−) were fed a 2% EtOH diet for 5 weeks creating an ACA-overload. 2% EtOH-fed ALDH-2−/− mice exhibited a decreased cardiac function, increased heart-to-body and lung-to-body weight ratios, increased cardiac levels of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as increased NOX activity and NOX2/glycoprotein 91phox (NOX2/gp91phox) subunit expression compared to 2% EtOH-fed C57BL/6 mice. Echocardiography revealed that ALDH-2−/−/gp91phox−/− mice were protected from ACA-overload-induced HF after 5 weeks of 2% EtOH-diet, demonstrating that NOX2-derived O2•− contributes to the development of ACM. Translated to human pathophysiology, we found increased gp91phox expression in endomyocardial biopsies of ACM patients. In conclusion, ACM is promoted by ACA-driven mitochondrial dysfunction and can be improved by ablation of NOX2/gp91phox. NOX2/gp91phox therefore might be a potential pharmacological target to treat ACM.
Skin scarification with Plasmodium falciparum peptide vaccine using synthetic TLR agonists as adjuvants elicits malaria sporozoite neutralizing immunity
Authors: Mitchell Robert A. , Altszuler Rita , Frevert Ute , Nardin Elizabeth H.
Published: September 2016

Malaria eradication will require a combination of vector control, chemotherapy and an easily administered vaccine. Sterile immunity can be elicited in humans by immunization with sporozoites, the infective stage injected by bite of the mosquito vector, however, whole parasite vaccines present formidable logistical challenges for production, storage and administration. The “gold standard” for infectious disease eradiation, the Smallpox Eradication Programme, utilized mass immunization using the skin scarification (SS) route. SS may more closely mimic the natural route of malaria infection initiated by sporozoites injected by mosquito bite which elicits both neutralizing antibodies and protective cell mediated immunity. We investigated the potential of SS immunization using a malaria repeat peptide containing a protective B cell epitope of Plasmodium falciparum, the most lethal human species, and delivery vehicles containing TLR agonists as adjuvants. In a murine model, SS immunization with peptide in combination with TLR-7/8 and -9 agonists elicited high levels of systemic sporozoite neutralizing antibody, Th1- type CD4+ T cells and resistance to challenge by bites of infected mosquitoes. SS provides the potential to elicit humoral immunity to target Plasmodium at multiple stages of its complex life cycle.
α-Mangostin-encapsulated PLGA nanoparticles inhibit pancreatic carcinogenesis by targeting cancer stem cells in human, and transgenic (KrasG12D, and KrasG12D/tp53R270H) mice
Authors: Verma Raj Kumar , Yu Wei , Shrivastava Anju , Shankar Sharmila , Srivastava Rakesh K.
Published: September 2016

Activation of sonic hedgehog (Shh) in cancer stem cell (CSC) has been demonstrated with aggressiveness of pancreatic cancer. In order to enhance the biological activity of α-mangostin, we formulated mangostin-encapsulated PLGA nanoparticles (Mang-NPs) and examined the molecular mechanisms by which they inhibit human and KC mice (PdxCre;LSL-KrasG12D) pancreatic CSC characteristics in vitro, and pancreatic carcinogenesis in KPC (PdxCre;LSLKrasG12D;LSL-Trp53R172H) mice. Mang-NPs inhibited human and KrasG12D mice pancreatic CSC characteristics in vitro. Mang-NPs also inhibited EMT by up-regulating E-cadherin and inhibiting N-cadherin and transcription factors Slug, and pluripotency maintaining factors Nanog, c-Myc, and Oct4. Furthermore, Mang-NPs inhibited the components of Shh pathway and Gli targets. In vivo, Mang-NPs inhibited the progression of pancreatic intraneoplasia to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and liver metastasis in KPC mice. The inhibitory effects of Mang-NPs on carcinogenesis in KPC mice were associated with downregulation of pluripotency maintaining factors (c-Myc, Nanog and Oct4), stem cell markers (CD24 and CD133), components of Shh pathway (Gli1, Gli2, Patched1/2, and Smoothened), Gli targets (Bcl-2, XIAP and Cyclin D1), and EMT markers and transcription factors (N-cadherin, Slug, Snail and Zeb1), and upregulation of E-cadherin. Overall, our data suggest that Mang-NPs can inhibit pancreatic cancer growth, development and metastasis by targeting Shh pathway.
Correction: Corrigendum: Ultra-low Thermal Conductivity in Si/Ge Hierarchical Superlattice Nanowire
Authors: Mu Xin , Wang Lili , Yang Xueming , Zhang Pu , To Albert C. , Luo Tengfei
Published: September 2016

Scientific Reports 5: Article number: 16697; published online: 16 November 2015; updated: 14 September 2016
Correction: Corrigendum: Identification of cancer-driver genes in focal genomic alterations from whole genome sequencing data
Authors: Jang Ho , Hur Youngmi , Lee Hyunju
Published: September 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 25582; published online: 09 May 2016; updated: 14 September 2016
Erratum: Genetic variability in a frozen batch of MCF-7 cells invisible in routine authentication affecting cell function
Authors: Kleensang Andre , Vantangoli Marguerite M. , Odwin-DaCosta Shelly , Andersen Melvin E. , Boekelheide Kim , Bouhifd Mounir , Fornace Albert J. , Li Heng-Hong , Livi Carolina B. , Madnick Samantha , Maertens Alexandra , Rosenberg Michael , Yager James D. , Zhao Liang , Hartung Thomas
Published: September 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 28994; published online: 26 July 2016; updated: 14 September 2016
Six Versus Twelve Months Clopidogrel Therapy After Drug-Eluting Stenting in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: An ISAR-SAFE Study Subgroup Analysis
Authors: Lohaus Raphaela , Michel Jonathan , Mayer Katharina , Lahmann Anna Lena , Byrne Robert A. , Wolk Annabelle , ten Berg Jurrien M. , Neumann Franz-Josef , Han Yaling , Adriaenssens Tom , Tölg Ralph , Seyfarth Melchior , Maeng Michael , Zrenner Bernhard , Jacobshagen Claudius , Wöhrle Jochen , Kufner Sebastian , Morath Tanja , Ibrahim Tareq , Bernlochner Isabell , Fischer Marcus , Schunkert Heribert , Laugwitz Karl-Ludwig , Mehilli Julinda , Kastrati Adnan , Schulz-Schüpke Stefanie
Published: September 2016

In patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) the optimal duration of dual-antiplatelet therapy after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation remains unclear. At 6 months after intervention, patients receiving clopidogrel were randomly assigned to either a further 6-month period of placebo or clopidogrel. The primary composite endpoint was death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, stroke, or major bleeding 9 months after randomization. The ISAR-SAFE trial was terminated early due to low event rates and slow recruitment. 1601/4000 (40.0%) patients presented with ACS and were randomized to 6 (n = 794) or 12 months (n = 807) clopidogrel. The primary endpoint occurred in 14 patients (1.8%) receiving 6 months of clopidogrel and 17 patients (2.2%) receiving 12 months; hazard ratio (HR) 0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41–1.68, P = 0.60. There were 2 (0.3%) cases of stent thrombosis in each group; HR 1.00, 95% CI 0.14–7.09, P = >0.99. Major bleeding occurred in 3 patients (0.4%) receiving 6 months clopidogrel and 5 (0.6%) receiving 12 months; HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.15–2.49, P = 0.49. There was no significant difference in net clinical outcomes after DES implantation in ACS patients treated with 6 versus 12 months clopidogrel. Ischaemic and bleeding events were low beyond 6-months.
QTL meta-analysis of root traits in Brassica napus under contrasting phosphorus supply in two growth systems
Authors: Zhang Ying , Thomas Catherine L. , Xiang Jinxia , Long Yan , Wang Xiaohua , Zou Jun , Luo Ziliang , Ding Guangda , Cai Hongmei , Graham Neil S. , Hammond John P. , King Graham J. , White Philip J. , Xu Fangsen , Broadley Martin R. , Shi Lei , Meng Jinling
Published: September 2016

A high-density SNP-based genetic linkage map was constructed and integrated with a previous map in the Tapidor x Ningyou7 (TNDH) Brassica napus population, giving a new map with a total of 2041 molecular markers and an average marker density which increased from 0.39 to 0.97 (0.82 SNP bin) per cM. Root and shoot traits were screened under low and ‘normal’ phosphate (Pi) supply using a ‘pouch and wick’ system, and had been screened previously in an agar based system. The P-efficient parent Ningyou7 had a shorter primary root length (PRL), greater lateral root density (LRD) and a greater shoot biomass than the P-inefficient parent Tapidor under both treatments and growth systems. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis identified a total of 131 QTL, and QTL meta-analysis found four integrated QTL across the growth systems. Integration reduced the confidence interval by ~41%. QTL for root and shoot biomass were co-located on chromosome A3 and for lateral root emergence were co-located on chromosomes A4/C4 and C8/C9. There was a major QTL for LRD on chromosome C9 explaining ~18% of the phenotypic variation. QTL underlying an increased LRD may be a useful breeding target for P uptake efficiency in Brassica.
Application of Species Distribution Modeling for Avian Influenza surveillance in the United States considering the North America Migratory Flyways
Authors: Belkhiria Jaber , Alkhamis Moh A. , Martínez-López Beatriz
Published: September 2016

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has recently (2014–2015) re-emerged in the United States (US) causing the largest outbreak in US history with 232 outbreaks and an estimated economic impact of $950 million. This study proposes to use suitability maps for Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) to identify areas at high risk for HPAI outbreaks. LPAI suitability maps were based on wild bird demographics, LPAI surveillance, and poultry density in combination with environmental, climatic, and socio-economic risk factors. Species distribution modeling was used to produce high-resolution (cell size: 500m x 500m) maps for Avian Influenza (AI) suitability in each of the four North American migratory flyways (NAMF). Results reveal that AI suitability is heterogeneously distributed throughout the US with higher suitability in specific zones of the Midwest and coastal areas. The resultant suitability maps adequately predicted most of the HPAI outbreak areas during the 2014–2015 epidemic in the US (i.e. 89% of HPAI outbreaks were located in areas identified as highly suitable for LPAI). Results are potentially useful for poultry producers and stakeholders in designing risk-based surveillance, outreach and intervention strategies to better prevent and control future HPAI outbreaks in the US.
Replicating Cardiovascular Condition-Birth Month Associations
Authors: Li Li , Boland Mary Regina , Miotto Riccardo , Tatonetti Nicholas P. , Dudley Joel T.
Published: September 2016

Independent replication is vital for study findings drawn from Electronic Health Records (EHR). This replication study evaluates the relationship between seasonal effects at birth and lifetime cardiovascular condition risk. We performed a Season-wide Association Study on 1,169,599 patients from Mount Sinai Hospital (MSH) to compute phenome-wide associations between birth month and CVD. We then evaluated if seasonal patterns found at MSH matched those reported at Columbia University Medical Center. Coronary arteriosclerosis, essential hypertension, angina, and pre-infarction syndrome passed phenome-wide significance and their seasonal patterns matched those previously reported. Atrial fibrillation, cardiomyopathy, and chronic myocardial ischemia had consistent patterns but were not phenome-wide significant. We confirm that CVD risk peaks for those born in the late winter/early spring among the evaluated patient populations. The replication findings bolster evidence for a seasonal birth month effect in CVD. Further study is required to identify the environmental and developmental mechanisms.
Splenic CD11clowCD45RBhigh dendritic cells derived from endotoxin-tolerant mice attenuate experimental acute liver failure
Authors: Zhang Sai-Nan , Yang Nai-Bin , Ni Shun-Lan , Dong Jin-Zhong , Shi Chun-Wei , Li Shan-Shan , Zhang Sheng-Guo , Tang Xin-Yue , Lu Ming-Qin
Published: September 2016

Endotoxin tolerance (ET) is suggested to attenuate the severity of acute liver failure (ALF) in mice, possibly through both innate and adaptive immunity. However, the involvement of regulatory dendritic cells (DCregs) in ET has not been fully elucidated. In this study, their effect on ALF in mice was investigated. Splenic DCregs from ET-exposed mice (ET-DCregs) showed lower expression levels of CD40, CD80, and MHC-II markers and stronger inhibition of allogenic T cells and regulation of IL-10 and IL-12 secretion than splenic DCregs from normal mice (nDCregs). Moreover, the mRNA and protein levels of TNF-α and P65 in splenic ET-DCregs were significantly lower than those in the splenic nDCregs. The survival rate was significantly increased and liver injury was mitigated in mice with ALF treated with splenic ET-DCregs. In addition, A20 expression was decreased in the liver of ALF mice, but elevated after infusion of splenic nDCregs and ET-DCregs, and a much higher elevation was observed after infusing the latter cells. The functionality of splenic DCregs was altered after ET exposure, contributing to protection of the livers against D-GalN/LPS-induced ALF.