bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerosol single‐scattering albedo over the global oceans: Comparing PARASOL retrievals with AERONET, OMI, and AeroCom models estimates
Authors: Lacagnina Carlo , Hasekamp Otto P. , Bian Huisheng , Curci Gabriele , Myhre Gunnar , van Noije Twan , Schulz Michael , Skeie Ragnhild B. , Takemura Toshihiko , Zhang Kai
Published: September 2015

The aerosol single‐scattering albedo (SSA) over the global ocean is evaluated based on polarimetric measurements by the PARASOL (Polarization and Anisotropy of Reflectances for Atmospheric Sciences coupled with Observations from a Lidar) satellite. For the first time, global ocean SSA and Absorption Aerosol Optical Depth (AAOD) from this instrument are shown and evaluated against other observations (the Aerosol Robotic Network, AERONET, and the Ozone Monitoring Instrument, OMI). The observational data sets compare reasonably well, with the majority of the colocated points within 0.05 of the AERONET measurements. PARASOL shows that SSA is characterized by high spatial and seasonal variability, also over the open ocean far from the inland emission regions. The near global coverage in the visible spectral range provided by the PARASOL retrievals represents a unique opportunity to evaluate aerosol optical properties simulated by global aerosol models, as performed in the Aerosol Comparisons between Observations and Models (AeroCom) framework. The SSA (AAOD) estimated by the AeroCom models is generally higher (smaller) than the SSA (AAOD) retrieved from PARASOL. On the other hand, the mean simulated aerosol optical depth is consistent or slightly underestimated compared with observations. An overestimate of the aerosol scattering, compared to absorption, by the models would suggest that these simulate an overly strong aerosol radiative cooling at top of atmosphere, over most of the ocean surfaces. This implies that aerosols have a potentially stronger direct and semidirect impact within the atmosphere than currently simulated.
Association of Body Composition and Hormonal and Inflammatory Factors With Tibial Cartilage Volume and Sex Difference in Cartilage Volume in Young Adults
Authors: Antony Benny , Venn Alison , Cicuttini Flavia , March Lyn , Blizzard Leigh , Dwyer Terence , Cross Marita , Jones Graeme , Ding Changhai
Published: September 2015

Objective

To describe the associations between body composition and hormonal and inflammatory factors measured 5 years prior and tibial cartilage volume in young adults, and to explore if these factors contribute to the sex difference in tibial cartilage volume.

Methods

Subjects broadly representative of the young adult Australian population (n = 328, ages 31–41 years, 47.3% women) were selected. They underwent T1‐weighted fat‐suppressed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of their knees. Tibial cartilage volume was measured from MRI. Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and testosterone in a subset of women and C‐reactive protein (CRP) level and fibrinogen in both sexes were measured 5 years prior. Body mass index (BMI), fat mass, and lean mass were calculated from height, weight, and skinfolds.

Results

In multivariable analyses, correlates of tibial cartilage volume included lean body mass (β = 26.4 mm3; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 13.6, 39.1), fat mass (β = −11.8 mm3; 95% CI −22.2, −1.4), and fibrinogen (β = −146.4 mm3; 95% CI −276.4, −16.4), but not BMI, testosterone, or CRP level. In women, SHBG was positively associated with tibial cartilage volume (β = 0.67 mm3; 95% CI 0.14, 1.20) and Free Androgen Index was negatively associated with lateral tibial cartilage volume (β = −0.04 mm3; 95% CI −0.07, 0.00). Men had 13% more tibial cartilage volume (500 mm3) than women. The magnitude of this association decreased by 38%, 20%, and 37% after adjustment for lean body mass, fat mass, and fibrinogen, respectively.

Conclusion

Body composition, sex hormones, and fibrinogen correlate with knee cartilage volume in young adult life. Sex difference in knee cartilage volume is contributed largely by variations in body composition and/or fibrinogen.
Unraveling the Dynamic Nanoscale Reducibility (Ce4+ → Ce3+) of CeOx–Ru in Hydrogen Activation
Authors: Höcker Jan , Menteş Tevfik Onur , Sala Alessandro , Locatelli Andrea , Schmidt Thomas , Falta Jens , Senanayake Sanjaya D. , Flege Jan Ingo
Published: September 2015

The interaction of molecular hydrogen with ceria is of important relevance for heterogeneous catalysis related to green chemistry and renewable energy. Here, the complex structural transformations of a well‐defined cerium oxide model catalyst are followed in situ and in real time when exposed to a reactive H2 environment. By using electron spectromicroscopy and diffraction with chemical and structural sensitivities, it is demonstrated that the transition from CeO2 to crystalline Ce2O3 occurs through a mixture of transient, coexisting phases on the nanoscale. The findings establish a clear relationship between structure and functionality for hydrogen dissociation over ceria(111), bearing profound implications on the nature of the reduction (Ce4+ → Ce3+) and mechanism for H2 scission.
Gate‐Tunable Ultrahigh Photoresponsivity of 2D Heterostructures Based on Few Layer MoS2 and Solution‐Processed rGO
Authors: Yang Juehan , Huo Nengjie , Li Yan , Jiang Xiang‐Wei , Li Tao , Li Renxiong , Lu Fangyuan , Fan Chao , Li Bo , Nørgaard Kasper , Laursen Bo W. , Wei Zhongming , Li Jingbo , Li Shu‐Shen
Published: September 2015

2D materials heterostructures are built by vertical stacking of solution‐processed reduced graphene oxide (rGO) film and few‐layer MoS2. The Raman and photoluminescence of the MoS2/rGO heterostructures show more significant peak shift compared to individual MoS2 or rGO film. The field‐effect transistors (FETs) based on such MoS2/rGO heterostructures show ambipolar behavior in the dark but n‐type behavior under illumination. This phenomenon provides a way to investigate the charge transport in valence band of MoS2. Due to charge separation caused by built‐in potential at MoS2/rGO interface, the recombination of photoexcited electron–hole pairs is effectively suppressed, leading to high photoresponsivity (≈2.4 × 104 A W−1) and photogain (≈4.7 × 104) of the MoS2/rGO heterostructures in ambient air with modulation of gate bias and drain–source bias.
Designing Efficient Non‐Fullerene Acceptors by Tailoring Extended Fused‐Rings with Electron‐Deficient Groups
Authors: Lin Yuze , Zhan Xiaowei
Published: September 2015

In the past two years, non‐fullerene acceptors including polymers and small molecules have become the focus of many research efforts. Fullerene‐free organic solar cells (OSCs) have shown efficiencies of up to 6.8% for solution‐processed devices, and even up to 8.4% for vacuum‐deposited devices, which have been significantly improved relative to those disclosed 2 years ago (generally <4%). Non‐fullerene acceptor materials are a new focus in the OSC field. Tailoring extended fused‐rings with electron‐deficient groups is an effective strategy for design of acceptors. Here, very recent developments in several systems of fused ring‐based electron acceptors, such as halogenated (sub or subna)phthalocyanine, imide‐functionalized rylene, and linear fused‐rings end capped with electron deficient blocks, are reviewed.
Macrothrombocytopenia and developmental delay with a de novo CDC42 mutation: Yet another locus for thrombocytopenia and developmental delay
Authors: Takenouchi Toshiki , Kosaki Rika , Niizuma Takahiro , Hata Kenichiro , Kosaki Kenjiro
Published: September 2015

The combinatory phenotype of thrombocytopenia and developmental delay has been described for two genetic conditions: a chromosome 11q deletion that is referred to as Jacobsen syndrome, and a 21q22 microdeletion syndrome. Herein, we report a young girl who presented with persistent macrothrombocytopenia and a developmental delay. Whole exome sequencing revealed a de novo amino acid substitution in CDC42, a critical regulator of the cytoskeleton. Our observation recapitulates observations in mice lacking Cdc42. We suggest that this CDC42 mutation may represent yet another mechanism leading to the combinatory phenotype of persistent macrothrombocytopenia and developmental delay. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synergistic effect of expandable graphite and aluminum hypophosphite on flame‐retardant properties of rigid polyurethane foam
Authors: Xu Wen‐Zong , Liu Liang , Wang Shao‐Qing , Hu Yuan
Published: September 2015

A series of flame retarding rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) composites based on expandable graphite (EG) and aluminum hypophosphite (AHP) were prepared by the one‐pot method. The properties were characterized by limiting oxygen index (LOI) test, cone calorimeter test, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), real‐time Fourier transform‐infrared spectra (RT‐FT‐IR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), etc. The results indicate that both EG and AHP could enhance the flame retardency of RPUF composites. Besides, the flame retardant effect of EG was better than that of AHP. The results also show that partial substitution of EG with AHP could improve the flame retardency of RPUF, and EG and AHP presented an excellent synergistic effect on flame retardancy. What is more, compared with RPUF/20EG and RPUF/20AHP, the heat release rate (HRR) and total heat release (THR) of RPUF/15EG/5AHP were lower.TGA results indicate that partial substitution of EG with AHP could improve the char residue which provided better flame retardancy for RPUF composites. The thermal degradation process of RPUF composites and the chemical component of the char residue were investigated by RT‐FT‐IR and XPS. And the results prove that RPUF/15EG/5AHP had higher heat resistance in the later stage. Compared with the RPUF composites filled with EG, a better cell structure and mechanical properties were observed with the substitution of AHP for part of EG. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42842.
The Effects of Choice Between Nonpreferred Foods on the Food Consumption of Individuals with Food Selectivity
Authors: Fernand Jonathan K. , Penrod Becky , Fu Sherrene Brice , Whelan Colleen M. , Medved Shannon
Published: September 2015

Previous research has concluded that presenting individuals with the opportunity to choose is a viable treatment for escape‐maintained behavior. Considering that food refusal behavior has been generally described as avoidant behavior, the present study aimed to evaluate the role of choice between nonpreferred foods on the food consumption and problematic mealtime behavior of two children with food selectivity. Each participant was allowed to choose between four nonpreferred foods in the choice condition and was not allowed to choose in the no‐choice condition. Further, the role of choice as an antecedent manipulation in mediating extinction‐induced responding was evaluated when choice alone was demonstrated to be ineffective in increasing consumption and a nonremoval of the spoon procedure was introduced. Results indicated that providing choices was effective in increasing the food consumption of one participant and was advantageous in decreasing emotional responding when a nonremoval of the spoon procedure was introduced for the second participant. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Review seed biopharmaceutical cyclic peptides: From discovery to applications
Authors: Mahatmanto Tunjung
Published: September 2015

Mini‐proteins (or peptides) with disulfide bond/s and a cyclic backbone offer exciting opportunities for applications in medicine, as these ribosomally synthesized and posttranslationally modified peptides are exceptionally stable and amenable to grafting epitopes with desirable activities. Here I discuss important aspects of the discovery and applications of disulfide‐bonded cyclic peptides from seeds, i.e., the trypsin inhibitor cyclotides and the preproalbumin with sunflower trypsin inhibitor‐derived peptides, focusing on bioanalytical methods for and insights generated from their discovery as well as their potential use as engineering scaffolds for peptide‐based drug design. The recent discovery of their precursors and processing enzymes could potentially enable in planta production of designer disulfide‐bonded cyclic peptides, preferably in edible seeds, and address the demand for new biopharmaceutical peptides in a cost‐effective manner. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 104: 804–814, 2015.
The enigmatic subcostal muscle: Anatomical study with application to spine and chest pain syndromes and avoidance of confusion on imaging
Authors: Kim Jun‐Ho , Won Hyung‐Sun , Chung In‐Hyuk , Kim In‐Beom
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to revisit the morphological characteristics of the subcostal muscle and to obtain its morphometric data. One hundred and two sides of the thorax from 51 adult cadavers were used. The total number of subcostal muscles in the 102 specimens was 559. The subcostal muscle commonly comprised an aponeurosis at its superior and inferior attachments. This muscle had a thin band‐like shape in 64.2% cases, while in the other 35.8% either its superior or inferior attachment was wider. It was classified into the following four types on the basis of its inferior attachment: in Types I and II it extended to two (79.3%) and three (12.0%) lower ribs, respectively; in Type III it joined adjacent muscles such as the psoas major (2.2%) or quadratus lumborum (0.7%); and in Type IV it was attached to the transverse process (0.4%) or body (3.9%) of the 12th thoracic vertebra and the body of the 1st lumbar vertebra (1.4%). The subcostal muscle was found at the deepest layer of the intercostal space, and mainly presented in the upper and lower parts of the thorax. Its width and height were 18.2 ± 10.9 mm (mean ± SD) and 56.0 ± 13.3 mm, respectively. The distances from the midsagittal line to the superior and inferior attachments of the subcostal muscle were 77.1 ± 13.0 mm and 48.9 ± 13.5 mm, respectively. The results of this study will help to advance current understanding of the subcostal muscle. Clin. Anat. 28:1017–1021, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effects of body mass index and age on cross‐sectional properties of the femoral neck
Authors: Wheeler Rachel L. , Hampton Aaron D. , Langley Natalie R.
Published: September 2015

Research on the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and cross‐sectional geometry of long bone diaphyses demonstrates that strength properties are significantly greater in obese versus normal BMI individuals. However, articular dimensions do not differ appreciably. If femoral head size remains constant, we hypothesize that the femoral neck remodels to accommodate greater loads associated with increased BMI. High‐resolution CT scans (n = 170 males) were divided into three BMI groups (normal, overweight, and obese) and two age groups (21–50 and >50). OsiriX software was used to obtain a cross‐sectional slice at the waist of the femoral neck. Cortical area (CA), total cross‐sectional area (TA), percent cortical area (%CA), circularity index (Imax/Imin), section modulus (Zpol), and second moment of area (J) were measured with ImageJ software. The effects of age and BMI were evaluated statistically. Pairwise comparisons in the younger group only detected significant differences between normal and obese males in the circularity index (P = 0.022). The older cohort showed significant differences in CA (P < 0.001), %CA (P = 0.004), Zpol (P = 0.007), and J (P < 0.001) between normal and obese groups. This study shows that the effects of obesity on the cross‐sectional geometry of the femoral neck are more pronounced in older males relative to younger males. Older males with increased BMI have greater cortical area and bone strength in the femoral neck relative to younger males, thus making the femoral neck less susceptible to fractures in obese individuals. Clin. Anat. 28:1048–1057, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rotational atherectomy: A persistently relevant niche device
Authors: Aghili Nima , Kimmelstiel Carey
Published: September 2015

Key Points

Rotational atherectomy is effective and safe in selected complex calcified lesions.

Despite an older population with more comorbidities, rotational atherectomy is not associated with worse clinical outcomes.

Coronary interventionalists need to be well‐trained in both the use of atherectomy techniques as well as how to manage potential complications.
Filtering through the data on retrievable inferior vena cava filters
Authors: Weinberg Ido , Drachman Douglas E.
Published: September 2015

Key points

Technical success rates with implantation and retrieval of retrievable inferior vena cava filters are high

Inferior vena cava filters are being used for a wide range of indications

Systems should be put in place to ensure prompt and effective retrieval of inferior vena cava filters once these are no longer needed
Transradial approach to take a little piece of heart
Authors: Bagur Rodrigo , Gilchrist Ian C.
Published: September 2015

Key Points

Advances in sheathless‐guide technology can permit left ventricular endomyocardial biopsy through the radial artery.

In experienced hands, the procedure can be done effectively with concurrent anticoagulation to both prevent system embolization from the biopsy site and to reduce the risk of radial artery occlusion.

The long‐term effect of repeated or single myocardial biopsy procedures using the radial artery is unknown.
Buzzing the plaque: Coronary rotational atherectomy in its third decade
Authors: Vetrovec George W.
Published: September 2015

Key Points

Rotational atherectomy enhances successful stenting in high risk, limited option PCI.

Independent risk factors for mortality, not surprisingly, include older age, reduced LVEF, renal insufficiency and diabetes.

These results support the continued importance of rotational atherectomy to support the growing frequency of high risk, no option PCI patients often with complex calcified lesions.
Improved harmonization of eosin‐5‐maleimide binding test across different instruments and age groups
Authors: Agarwal Archana M. , Liew Michael A. , Nussenzveig Roberto H. , Sangle Nikhil , Heikal Nahla , Yaish Hassan , Christensen Robert
Published: September 2015

Background

The eosin‐5′maleimide (EMA) binding test has been studied extensively for the detection of hereditary spherocytosis (HS). Its performance characteristics have been compared to NaCl‐based or glycerol lysis‐based red cell osmotic fragility tests and cryohemolysis. HS samples are also better identified when both mean channel fluorescence (MCF) of EMA relative to controls and the coefficient of variation (CV) are analyzed.

Methods

We looked at 65 normal controls including 30 adults 25‐65 years old and 35 newborns and 12 HS cases. In addition to the MCF and the CV, we used a side scatter (SSC) vs. EMA fluorescence gate or “footprint” to depict where normal erythrocytes should appear. Erythrocytes that have reduced band 3 protein appear outside of the footprint.

Results

In our study, newborn data did not cluster with the samples from working age individuals. The MCF and the CVs of normal newborns were higher than normal adult group. However, the footprint data of normal samples relative to their controls was around 99.5% for each group, because the footprint was moved to fit the pattern of the normal.

Conclusions

The inclusion of footprint parameter will help in better standardization as well as implementation of this test across different age groups as well as different instruments. © 2015 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Evaluation of assay interference and interpretation of CXCR4 receptor occupancy results in a preclinical study with MEDI3185, a fully human antibody to CXCR4
Authors: Schwickart Martin , Chavez Carlos , Henderson Simon , Vainshtein Inna , Standifer Nathan , DelNagro Christopher , Mehrzai Freshta , Schneider Amy , Roskos Lorin , Liang Meina
Published: September 2015

Background

Receptor occupancy (RO) assays provide a means to measure the direct interaction of therapeutics with their cell surface targets. Free receptor assays quantify cell‐surface receptors not bound by a therapeutic while total receptor assays quantify the amount of target on the cell surface.

Methods

We developed both a flow cytometry‐based free RO assay to detect free surface CXCR4, and a total surface CXCR4 assay. In an effort to evaluate potential displacement interference, we performed in vitro experiments to compare on‐cell affinity with the IC50 values from in vitro and in vivo from the free CXCR4 assay. We determined free and total surface CXCR4 on circulating blood cells in cynomolgus monkeys dosed with MEDI3185, a fully human monoclonal antibody to CXCR4.

Results

We devised an approach to evaluate displacement interference during assay development and showed that our free assay demonstrated little to no displacement interference. After dosing cynomolgus monkeys with MEDI3185, we observed dose‐dependence in the magnitude and duration of receptor occupancy and found CXCR4 to increase on lymphocytes, monocytes, and granulocytes. In a multiple dose study, we observed time points where surface CXCR4 appeared fully occupied but MEDI3185 was not detectable in serum. These paradoxical results represented a type of assay interference, and by comparing pharmacokinetic, ADA and total CXCR4 results, the most likely reason for the free CXCR4 results was the emergence of neutralizing anti‐drug antibodies (ADA). The total CXCR4 assay was unaffected by ADA and provided a reliable marker of target modulation in both in vivo studies. © 2015 The Authors Cytometry Part B: Clinical Cytometry Published byWiley Periodicals, Inc.
Saxagliptin improves glycaemic control and C‐peptide secretion in latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)
Authors: Buzzetti R. , Pozzilli P. , Frederich R. , Iqbal N. , Hirshberg B.
Published: September 2015

Background

To assess the efficacy and tolerability of saxagliptin and C‐peptide secretion in patients with diagnosed type 2 diabetes classified as glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GADA)‐positive or GADA‐negative.

Methods

Post hoc analysis of data pooled from five randomized, placebo‐controlled, 24‐week phase 3 studies (n = 2709) was conducted. We evaluated mean change from baseline at week 24 in HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, postprandial plasma glucose, fasting and postprandial C‐peptide, and HOMA2‐%β and the proportion of patients achieving HbA1c < 7% (53 mmol/mol) at week 24.

Results

Saxagliptin produced greater adjusted mean reductions from baseline in HbA1c versus placebo for GADA‐negative [difference vs placebo (95% CI), −0.62% (−0.71% to −0.54%); −6.8 mmol/mol (−7.8, −5.9)] and GADA‐positive patients [−0.64% (−1.01% to −0.27%); −7.0 mmol/mol (−11.0, −3.0)]. Consistently, saxagliptin produced a greater reduction from baseline in fasting plasma glucose and postprandial plasma glucose versus placebo in GADA‐positive versus GADA‐negative patients, and more patients achieved HbA1c < 7% (53 mmol/mol) with saxagliptin versus placebo in both GADA‐negative and GADA‐positive patients. Saxagliptin increased β‐cell function as assessed by HOMA2‐%β and postprandial C‐peptide area under the curve from baseline in patients in both GADA‐positive and GADA‐negative patients. Adverse events and hypoglycaemic events were similar across treatment groups and GADA categories.

Conclusion

Saxagliptin was effective in lowering blood glucose levels and generally well tolerated in GADA‐positive patients. Interestingly, saxagliptin appears to improve β‐cell function in these patients, although a longer treatment duration may be needed to confirm this finding. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early network activity propagates bidirectionally between hippocampus and cortex
Authors: Barger Zeke , Easton Curtis R. , Neuzil Kevin E. , Moody William J.
Published: September 2015

Spontaneous activity in the developing brain helps refine neuronal connections before the arrival of sensory‐driven neuronal activity. In mouse neocortex during the first postnatal week, waves of spontaneous activity originating from pacemaker regions in the septal nucleus and piriform cortex propagate through the neocortex. Using high‐speed Ca2+ imaging to resolve the spatiotemporal dynamics of wave propagation in parasagittal mouse brain slices, we show that the hippocampus can act as an additional source of neocortical waves. Some waves that originate in the hippocampus remain restricted to that structure, while others pause at the hippocampus‐neocortex boundary and then propagate into the neocortex. Blocking GABAergic neurotransmission decreases the likelihood of wave propagation into neocortex, whereas blocking glutamatergic neurotransmission eliminates spontaneous and evoked hippocampal waves. A subset of hippocampal and cortical waves trigger Ca2+ waves in astrocytic networks after a brief delay. Hippocampal waves accompanied by Ca2+ elevation in astrocytes are more likely to propagate into the neocortex. Finally, we show that two structures in our preparation that initiate waves—the hippocampus and the piriform cortex—can be electrically stimulated to initiate propagating waves at lower thresholds than the neocortex, indicating that the intrinsic circuit properties of those regions are responsible for their pacemaker function. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 76: 661–672, 2016
Localization of germ plasm‐related structures during sea urchin oogenesis
Authors: Yakovlev Konstantin V.
Published: September 2015

Background: Animal germ cells have specific organelles that are similar to ribonucleoprotein complex, called germ plasm, which is accumulated in eggs. Germ plasm is essential for inherited mechanism of germ line segregation in early embryogenesis. Sea urchins have early germ line segregation in early embryogenesis. Nevertheless, organization of germ plasm‐related organelles and their molecular composition are still unclear. Another issue is whether maternally accumulated germ plasm exists in the sea urchin eggs. Results: I analyzed intracellular localization of germ plasm during oogenesis in sea urchin Strongylocentrotus intermedius by using morphological approach and immunocytochemical detection of Vasa, a germ plasm marker. All ovarian germ cells have germ plasm‐related organelles in the form of germ granules, Balbiani bodies, and perinuclear nuage found previously in germ cells in other animals. Maternal germ plasm is accumulated in late oogenesis at the cell periphery. Cytoskeletal drug treatment showed an association of Vasa‐positive granules with actin filaments in the egg cortex. Conclusions: All female germ cells of sea urchins have germ plasm‐related organelles. Eggs have a maternally accumulated germ plasm associated with cortical cytoskeleton. These findings correlate with early segregation of germ line in sea urchins. Developmental Dynamics 245:56–66, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
cis‐regulatory control of Mesp1 expression by YY1 and SP1 during mouse embryogenesis
Authors: Beketaev Ilimbek , Zhang Yi , Weng Kuo‐Chan , Rhee Siyeon , Yu Wei , Liu Yu , Mager Jesse , Wang Jun
Published: September 2015

Background: Mesp1 is critical for early cardiomyocyte differentiation and heart development. We previously observed down‐regulation of Mesp1 expression in YY1‐ablated mouse embryonic hearts. However, how Mesp1 expression is mediated by YY1 is not well understood. Results: We excised YY1 in the murine embryos using Sox2‐cre and found that Mesp1 was down‐regulated in the embryonic day (E) 7.5 mutant embryos. Also, YY1 activated the 6 kb Mesp1 regulatory element fused to a luciferase reporter. We identified two putative YY1 binding sites in the proximal promoter region of Mesp1 gene, and found that mutation of these sites significantly reduced YY1‐induced activation of the Mesp1 promoter. We also uncovered one cognitive site for SP1, one of the earliest binding partners of YY1 identified. Mutation of this SP1 site repressed SP1‐induced activation of the Mesp1 promoter. Moreover, YY1 and SP1 synergistically activated the Mesp1 promoter. Consistently, while Lacz expression driven by the wild‐type 6 kb regulatory element of Mesp1 gene was robust in E7.5 mouse embryos, the mutation of these binding sites in the context of this 6 kb sequence substantially reduced the LacZ expression during embryogenesis. Conclusions: YY1 and SP1 independently and cooperatively govern the Mesp1 expression during embryogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 245:379–387, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Zebra finch as a developmental model
Authors: Mak Siu‐Shan , Wrabel Anna , Nagai Hiroki , Ladher Raj K. , Sheng Guojun
Published: September 2015

The domesticated zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) is a well‐established animal model for studying vocal learning. It is also a tractable model for developmental analyses. The finch genome has been sequenced and methods for its transgenesis have been reported. Hatching and sexual maturation in this species takes only two weeks and three months, respectively. Finch colonies can be established relatively easily and its eggs are laid at a stage earlier than in other common avian experimental models, facilitating the analysis of very early avian development. Representing the Neoaves to which 95% of all bird species belong, the finch can potentially complement two existing, Galloanserae developmental models, the chick, and quail. Here, we provide a step‐by‐step guide for how to set up a finch colony in a conventional laboratory environment. Technical tips are offered to optimize hens’ productivity and ensure a constant supply of fertilized finch eggs. Methods of handling finch eggs and embryos for subsequent embryological, cellular, or molecular analyses are also discussed. We conclude by emphasizing scientific values and cost effectiveness of maintaining a finch colony for avian developmental studies. genesis 53:669–677, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Emulsifying properties of hydrolysed and low HLB sunflower lecithin mixtures
Authors: Cabezas Dario M. , Diehl Bernd W. K. , Tomás Mabel C.
Published: September 2015

Most commonly processes for lecithin modification are deoling, fractionation with absolute ethanol to produce phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylinositol‐enriched fractions, or enzymatic hydrolysis of these compounds. These modifications are important for achieving an optimal balance between hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds (HLB) and ensure a good food processing ability. The aim of this work was to improve the O/W emulsifying properties of modified lecithins with low HLB mixing them with hydrolysed sunflower lecithin obtained using a microbial phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Thereby, three modified sunflower lecithins (hydrolysed (HL), deoiled (DSL), and PI fraction (PIf)) were obtained. These modified lecithins and their mixtures were applied as emulsifying agent of coarse and fine O/W emulsions (Φm = 0.3). Stability of different emulsions was evaluated through the evolution of backscattering profiles, particle size distribution, and mean particle diameters. Mixtures with a hydrolysed lecitihin increased the HLB (addition of lysophospholipids) and improved the O/W emulsifying properties of DSL and PIf in each case. Mixtures 0.5:0.5 of DSL/HL or PIf/HL produced a similar behavior than 1% HL emulsions, constituting a good alternative for production of new bioactive agents.

Practical applications: This study deals about the increase of the O/W emulsifying properties and thereby the commercial value of modified sunflower lecithins with low HLB values. The main target of this research work is to contribute with useful information to the food industry.

Flow diagram of the process used for producing different modified lecithins to analyze their emulsifier properties in mixtures.
Effect of microrelief on water erosion and their changes during rainfall
Authors: Zhao Longshan , Huang Chihua , Wu Faqi
Published: September 2015

Soil surface roughness contains two elementary forms, depressions and mounds, which affect water flow on the surface differently. While depressions serve as temporary water storage, mounds divert water away from their local summits. Although roughness impacts on runoff and sediment production have been studied, almost no studies have been designed explicitly to quantify the evolution of depressions and mounds and how this impacts runoff generation and sediment delivery. The objectives of this study were to analyze how different surface forms affect runoff and sediment delivery and to measure the changes in surface depressions and mounds during rainfall events. A smooth surface was used as the control. Both mounds and depressions delayed the runoff initiating time, but to differing degrees; and slightly reduced surface runoff when compared to the runoff process from the smooth surface. Surface mounds significantly increased sediment delivery, whilst depressions provided surface storage and hence reduced sediment delivery. However, as rainfall continued and rainfall intensity increased, the depression effect on runoff and erosion gradually decreased and produced even higher sediment delivery than the smooth surface. Depressions and mounds also impacted the particle size distribution of the discharged sediments. Many more sand‐sized particles were transported from the surface with mounds than with depressions. The morphology of mounds and depressions changed significantly due to rainfall, but to different extents. The difference in change had a spatial scale effect, i.e. erosion from each mound contributed to its own morphological change while sediments deposited in a depression came from a runoff contributing area above the depression, hence a much greater source area than a single mound. The results provide a mechanistic understanding of how soil roughness affects runoff and sediment production. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of draining hilly lands on runoff and on‐site erosion: a case study from humid Ethiopia
Authors: Monsieurs Elise , Dessie Mekete , Verhoest Niko E. C. , Poesen Jean , Adgo Enyew , Deckers Jozef , Nyssen Jan
Published: September 2015

The use of drainage ditches on farmland has an impact on erosion processes both on‐site and off‐site, though their environmental impacts are not unequivocal. Here we study the runoff response and related rill erosion after installing drainage ditches and assess the effects of stone bunds in north Ethiopia. Three different land management systems were studied in 10 cropland catchments around Wanzaye during the rainy season of 2013: (1) the exclusive use of drainage ditches (locally called feses), (2) the exclusive use of stone bunds, and (3) a mixture of both systems. Stone bunds are an effective soil and water conservation technique, making the land more resistant against on‐site erosion, and allowing feses to be installed at a larger angle with the contour. The mean rill volumes for the 10 studied cropland catchments during the rainy season of 2013 was 3.73 ± 4.20 m3 ha−1 corresponding to a soil loss of 5.72 ± 6.30 ton ha−1. The establishment of feses causes larger rill volumes (R = 0.59, N = 10), although feses are perceived as the best way to avoid soil erosion when no stone bunds are present. The use of feses increases event‐based runoff coefficients (RCs) on cropland from c. 5% to values up to 39%. Also, a combination of low stone bund density and high feses density results in a higher RC, whereas catchments with a high stone bund density and low feses density have a lower RC. Peak runoff discharges decrease when stone bund density increases, whereas feses density is positively related to the peak runoff discharge. A multiple linear relation in which both feses and stone bund densities are used as explanatory variable, performs best in explaining runoff hydrograph peakedness (R2 = 83%). Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“Y'all Always Told Me to Stand Up for What I Believe In”
Authors: Haddix Marcelle , Everson Josanique , Hodge Reba Y.
Published: September 2015

In this article, the authors share their individual and connected experiences—as a youth writer, a workshop facilitator, and the program director—of writing together in a community‐engaged writing project in efforts to support the civically engaged activist work of youth writers. The authors draw on their personal narratives and conversations to share an example of what happened when a youth writer called for social action and change, when her call was heard by supportive adults in her community, and when her writing contributed to moving forward a school reform agenda.
Experimental and Theoretical DFT Study on Synthesis of Sterically Crowded 2,3,3,(4)5‐Tetrasubstituted‐4‐nitroisoxazolidines via 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions Between Ketonitrones and Conjugated Nitroalkenes
Authors: Jasiński Radomir , Mróz Kamila , Kącka Agnieszka
Published: September 2015

1,3‐Dipolar cycloaddition reactions between ketonitrones (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e) and β‐substituted nitroalkenes (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) proceed under mild conditions, with complete regioselectivity, and lead with high yields to sterically crowded 2,3,3,5‐tetrasubstituted‐4‐nitroisoxazolidines (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f). Reaction course may be interpreted on the basis of nature of local, nucleophile–electrophile interactions. Moreover, density functional theory (DFT) simulations of reaction paths suggest that these reactions should be considered as polar, “one‐step two‐stage” cycloadditions. Subsequently, it has been found that similar reactions between ketonitrones and α‐substituted nitroalkenes do not allow to obtain the expected 2,3,3,4‐tetrasubstituted‐4‐nitroisoxazolidines.
The role of robotic surgery in endometrial cancer
Authors: O'Malley David M. , Smith Blair , Fowler Jeffrey M.
Published: September 2015

Robotic surgery for endometrial cancer has less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and less postoperative complications compared to laparotomies. Robotic technologic advantages over laparoscopic technique are most pronounced in obese patients. The shorter learning curve may explain the greater utilization of the robotic technique. Robotic surgery will continue as a mainstay in the treatment of uterine cancers as we become more efficient and cost conscious while maintaining the high quality outcomes that have been reported. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015;112:761–768. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Test–retest reliability of the electromyographic fatigue threshold for cycle ergometry
Authors: MahmutoviĆ Selim , Sprout Erick Y. , Fontaine John C. , Buskirk Travis M. , Galen Sujay S. , Malek Moh H.
Published: September 2015

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine the intersession reliability of the electromyographic fatigue threshold (EMGFT) for cycle ergometry. Methods: On separate occasions, 10 healthy, college‐aged men performed an incremental test to voluntary exhaustion on a cycle ergometer. The EMG amplitude vs. time relationships for each power output from the quadriceps femoris muscles were analyzed using linear regression. EMGFT was defined operationally as the average of the highest power output that resulted in a non‐significant slope coefficient (P >  0.05) and the lowest power output that resulted in a significant (P <  0.05) positive slope coefficient. The EMGFT values for trials 1 and 2 were used to calculate the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: Overall, the reliability of the EMGFT (ICC2,1 = 0.85; 95% confidence interval 0.49–0.96) was in the “excellent” category. Conclusions: The EMGFT for cycle ergometry is a reliable measure for assessing muscular fatigue. Muscle Nerve 53: 803–807, 2016
A coupled discrete element‐finite difference approach for modeling mechanical response of fluid‐saturated porous materials
Authors: Psakhie S. G. , Dimaki A. V. , Shilko E. V. , Astafurov S. V.
Published: September 2015

A model of fluid‐saturated poroelastic medium was developed based on a combination of the discrete element method and grid method. The developed model adequately accounts for the deformation, fracture, and multiscale internal structure of a porous solid skeleton. The multiscale porous structure is taken into account implicitly by assigning the porosity and permeability values for the enclosing skeleton, which determine the rate of filtration of a fluid. Macroscopic pores and voids are taken into account explicitly by specifying the computational domain geometry. The relationship between the stress–strain state of the solid skeleton and pore fluid pressure is described in the approximations of simply deformable discrete element and Biot's model of poroelasticity. The developed model was applied to study the mechanical response of fluid‐saturated samples of brittle material. Based on simulation results, we constructed a generalized logistic dependence of uniaxial compressive strength on loading rate, mechanical properties of fluid and enclosing skeleton, and on sample dimensions. The logistic form of the generalized dependence of strength of fluid‐saturated elastic–brittle porous materials is due to the competition of two interrelated processes, such as pore fluid pressure increase under solid skeleton compression and fluid outflow from the enclosing skeleton to the environment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physiome‐on‐a‐Chip: The Challenge of “Scaling” in Design, Operation, and Translation of Microphysiological Systems
Authors: Stokes CL , Cirit M , Lauffenburger DA
Published: September 2015

Scaling of a microphysiological system (MPS) or physiome‐on‐a‐chip is arguably two interrelated, modeling‐based activities: on‐platform scaling and in vitro‐in vivo translation. This dual approach reduces the need to perfectly rescale and mimic in vivo physiology, an aspiration that is both extremely challenging and not substantively meaningful because of uncertain relevance of any specific physiological condition. Accordingly, this perspective offers a tractable approach for designing interacting MPSs and relating in vitro results to analogous context in vivo.
Magnetotransport properties of corrugated stanene in the presence of electric modulation and tilted magnetic field
Authors: Mogulkoc A. , Modarresi M. , Kandemir B. S. , Roknabadi M. R.
Published: September 2015

We investigated the effects of external electric and magnetic fields on the electronic and transport properties of corrugated stanene. We match density functional calculations with the effective Dirac model and applied external fields in the Dirac model. We calculate both the Fermi velocity and the strength of spin–orbit interaction in stanene within the framework of density functional theory. In the presence of intrinsic spin–orbit interaction accompanying with external electric field splits spin‐up and down states. We also study the spin‐dependent Landau levels and transport for stanene in the presence of periodically modulated electric and tilted magnetic fields with corrugation. Additionally, the Weiss and spin‐polarization oscillations with inverse of magnetic field in stanene are reported.
Isolation of starches from different tubers and study of their physicochemical, thermal, rheological and morphological characteristics
Authors: Sukhija Sakshi , Singh Sukhcharn , Riar Charanjit S.
Published: September 2015

Isolation of starches from various tubers such as elephant foot yam (NYS), taro (NTS), ginger (NGS), green banana (NBS) and lotus stem (NLS) was carried out for studying various characteristics viz. physicochemical, differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), rapid visco analyzer (RVA), rheological, morphological and colour in order to explore their end use potential. A significant variation was observed in pasting properties of isolated starches. X‐ray diffractometery (XRD) showed a B‐type crystal pattern of banana starch, while yam, taro, ginger and lotus starches had A‐type crystal pattern. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed that taro starch possessed the smallest granule size having cluster pattern while lotus starches have the largest granular size with hemispherical facets having dents or hollows at one end. Thermal properties of isolated starches revealed that NLS had lowestTo,Tp,Tcvalues i.e. 68.3, 72.0 and 76.8°C, respectively. Similarly the lowest gel characteristics such as hardness, gumminess, chewiness and adhesiveness 3.09 g, 1.45, 1.27, 8.42 gs, respectively, were also found in NLS.L* values of NTS and NYS starches were the highest i.e. 93.36, 93.29 with no significant difference whereas the lowest i.e. 89.917 in NGS.
Structure and functional properties of octenyl succinic anhydride modified starch prepared by a non‐conventional technology
Authors: Hu Huayu , Liu Wandong , Shi Jian , Huang Zuqiang , Zhang Yanjuan , Huang Aimin , Yang Mei , Qin Xingzhen , Shen Fang
Published: September 2015

This study investigated the direct production of octenyl succinic anhydride modified starch (OSA‐starch) by a non‐conventional mechanical activation (MA)‐assisted solid phase synthesis (MASPS) technology without the use of solvents and additives in a stirring ball mill. FTIR analysis confirmed that the OSA‐starches with different degrees of substitution (DS) had been successfully produced by MASPS with different MA time, ascribing to the changes in structure and physicochemical properties induced by intense mechanical actions. XRD and SEM analyses showed that the crystal structure and morphology of starch were significantly disrupted after the process of MASPS. The OSA esterification of starch by MASPS resulted in the increase of cold‐water solubility, transparency, and emulsion stabilization, and the reduction of paste viscosity and retrogradation, and these changes were enhanced with the increase of MA time. It indicated that the OSA‐starch prepared by MASPS possessed some unusual functional properties, which can be favorable for special applications.
A glycogen branching enzyme from Thermomonospora curvata: Characterization and its action on maize starch
Authors: Fan Qin , Xie Zhengjun , Zhan Jinling , Chen Hailong , Tian Yaoqi
Published: September 2015

A gene (TcGBE) encoding a glycogen branching enzyme from Thermomonospora curvata was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified, and biochemically analyzed. The purified enzyme was approximately 84 kDa, and exhibited a maximum activity at 55°C and pH 8.5. The enzyme showed the highest specificity to amylose with a specific activity of 90.28 U/mg. The recombinant enzyme could act on maize starch, and starch treated with TcGBE was observed to have a lower amylose content and molecular weight. The number of short chains of amylopectin in TcGBE‐modified starch with a degree of polymerization (DP) less than 13 increased from 20.19 to 32.59%, and was accompanied by a reduction in longer chains (DP > 25) from 25.58 to 10.03%. In addition, the medium length chains of amylopectin (13 < DP <25) also showed a slight increase from 54.23 to 58.38%. The 1H NMR spectra revealed an increased ratio of α‐1,6‐ to α‐1,4‐glucosidic linkages from 4.1 to 10.3% following treatment with TcGBE for 10 h. Taken together, these results suggested that TcGBE could be used to generate a modified maize starch with a low amylose content and more branched amylopectin of low molecular weight but richer in short and intermediate chains.