bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ILC3 GM-CSF production and mobilisation orchestrate acute intestinal inflammation
Authors: Pearson Claire , Thornton Emily E , McKenzie Brent , Schaupp Anna-Lena , Huskens Nicky , Griseri Thibault , West Nathaniel , Tung Sim , Seddon Benedict P , Uhlig Holm H , Powrie Fiona
Published: January 2016

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) contribute to host defence and tissue repair but can induce immunopathology. Recent work has revealed tissue-specific roles for ILCs; however, the question of how a small population has large effects on immune homeostasis remains unclear. We identify two mechanisms that ILC3s utilise to exert their effects within intestinal tissue. ILC-driven colitis depends on production of granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), which recruits and maintains intestinal inflammatory monocytes. ILCs present in the intestine also enter and exit cryptopatches in a highly dynamic process. During colitis, ILC3s mobilize from cryptopatches, a process that can be inhibited by blocking GM-CSF, and mobilization precedes inflammatory foci elsewhere in the tissue. Together these data identify the IL-23R/GM-CSF axis within ILC3 as a key control point in the accumulation of innate effector cells in the intestine and in the spatio-temporal dynamics of ILCs in the intestinal inflammatory response.
An effector of the Irish potato famine pathogen antagonizes a host autophagy cargo receptor
Authors: Dagdas Yasin F , Belhaj Khaoula , Maqbool Abbas , Chaparro-Garcia Angela , Pandey Pooja , Petre Benjamin , Tabassum Nadra , Cruz-Mireles Neftaly , Hughes Richard K , Sklenar Jan , Win Joe , Menke Frank , Findlay Kim , Banfield Mark J , Kamoun Sophien , Bozkurt Tolga O
Published: January 2016

Plants use autophagy to safeguard against infectious diseases. However, how plant pathogens interfere with autophagy-related processes is unknown. Here, we show that PexRD54, an effector from the Irish potato famine pathogen Phytophthora infestans, binds host autophagy protein ATG8CL to stimulate autophagosome formation. PexRD54 depletes the autophagy cargo receptor Joka2 out of ATG8CL complexes and interferes with Joka2's positive effect on pathogen defense. Thus, a plant pathogen effector has evolved to antagonize a host autophagy cargo receptor to counteract host defenses.
IK1 channels do not contribute to the slow afterhyperpolarization in pyramidal neurons
Authors: Wang Kang , Mateos-Aparicio Pedro , Hönigsperger Christoph , Raghuram Vijeta , Wu Wendy W , Ridder Margreet C , Sah Pankaj , Maylie Jim , Storm Johan F , Adelman John P
Published: January 2016

In pyramidal neurons such as hippocampal area CA1 and basolateral amygdala, a slow afterhyperpolarization (sAHP) follows a burst of action potentials, which is a powerful regulator of neuronal excitability. The sAHP amplitude increases with aging and may underlie age related memory decline. The sAHP is due to a Ca2+-dependent, voltage-independent K+ conductance, the molecular identity of which has remained elusive until a recent report suggested the Ca2+-activated K+ channel, IK1 (KCNN4) as the sAHP channel in CA1 pyramidal neurons. The signature pharmacology of IK1, blockade by TRAM-34, was reported for the sAHP and underlying current. We have examined the sAHP and find no evidence that TRAM-34 affects either the current underling the sAHP or excitability of CA1 or basolateral amygdala pyramidal neurons. In addition, CA1 pyramidal neurons from IK1 null mice exhibit a characteristic sAHP current. Our results indicate that IK1 channels do not mediate the sAHP in pyramidal neurons.
Genetic dissection of Down syndrome-associated congenital heart defects using a new mouse mapping panel
Authors: Lana-Elola Eva , Watson-Scales Sheona , Slender Amy , Gibbins Dorota , Martineau Alexandrine , Douglas Charlotte , Mohun Timothy , Fisher Elizabeth MC , Tybulewicz Victor LJ
Published: January 2016

Down syndrome (DS), caused by trisomy of human chromosome 21 (Hsa21), is the most common cause of congenital heart defects (CHD), yet the genetic and mechanistic causes of these defects remain unknown. To identify dosage-sensitive genes that cause DS phenotypes, including CHD, we used chromosome engineering to generate a mapping panel of 7 mouse strains with partial trisomies of regions of mouse chromosome 16 orthologous to Hsa21. Using high-resolution episcopic microscopy and three-dimensional modeling we show that these strains accurately model DS CHD. Systematic analysis of the 7 strains identified a minimal critical region sufficient to cause CHD when present in 3 copies, and showed that it contained at least two dosage-sensitive loci. Furthermore, two of these new strains model a specific subtype of atrio-ventricular septal defects with exclusive ventricular shunting and demonstrate that, contrary to current hypotheses, these CHD are not due to failure in formation of the dorsal mesenchymal protrusion.
Preoperative CT versus diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the liver in patients with rectal cancer; a prospective randomized trial
Authors: Achiam Michael P. , Løgager Vibeke B. , Skjoldbye Bjørn , Møller Jakob M. , Lorenzen Torben , Rasmussen Vera L. , Thomsen Henrik S. , Mollerup Talie H. , Okholm Cecilie , Rosenberg Jacob
Published: January 2016

Introduction. Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequent cancers in the world and liver metastases are seen in up to 19% of patients with colorectal cancers. Detection of liver metastases is not only vital for sufficient treatment and survival, but also for a better estimation of prognosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of diffusion weighted MRI of the liver as part of a combined MR evaluation of patients with rectal cancers and compare it with the standard preoperative evaluation of the liver with CT.

Methods. Consecutive patients diagnosed with rectal cancers were asked to participate in the study. Preoperative CT and diffusion weighted MR (DWMR) were compared to contrast enhanced laparoscopic ultrasound (CELUS).

Results. A total of 35 patients were included, 15 patients in Group-1 having the standard CT evaluation of the liver and 20 patients in Group-2 having the standard CT evaluation of the liver and DWMR of the liver. Compared with CELUS, the per-patient sensitivity/specificity was 50/100% for CT, and for DWMR: 100/94% and 100/100% for Reader 1 and 2, respectively. The per-lesion sensitivity of CT and DWMR were 17% and 89%, respectively compared with CELUS. Furthermore, one patient had non-resectable metastases after DWMR despite being diagnosed with resectable metastases after CT. Another patient was diagnosed with multiple liver metastases during CELUS, despite a negative CT-scan.

Discussion. DWMR is feasible for preoperative evaluation of liver metastases. The current standard preoperative evaluation with CT-scan results in disadvantages like missed metastases and futile operations. We recommend that patients with rectal cancer, who are scheduled for MR of the rectum, should have a DWMR of the liver performed at the same time.
The impact of land reform on the status of large carnivores in Zimbabwe
Authors: Williams Samual T. , Williams Kathryn S. , Joubert Christoffel J. , Hill Russell A.
Published: January 2016

Large carnivores are decreasing in number due to growing pressure from an expanding human population. It is increasingly recognised that state-protected conservation areas are unlikely to be sufficient to protect viable populations of large carnivores, and that private land will be central to conservation efforts. In 2000, a fast-track land reform programme (FTLRP) was initiated in Zimbabwe, ostensibly to redress the racial imbalance in land ownership, but which also had the potential to break up large areas of carnivore habitat on private land. To date, research has focused on the impact of the FTLRP process on the different human communities, while impacts on wildlife have been overlooked. Here we provide the first systematic assessment of the impact of the FTLRP on the status of large carnivores. Spoor counts were conducted across private, resettled and communal land use types in order to estimate the abundance of large carnivores, and to determine how this had been affected by land reform. The density of carnivore spoor differed significantly between land use types, and was lower on resettlement land than on private land, suggesting that the resettlement process has resulted in a substantial decline in carnivore abundance. Habitat loss and high levels of poaching in and around resettlement areas are the most likely causes. The FTLRP resulted in the large-scale conversion of land that was used sustainably and productively for wildlife into unsustainable, unproductive agricultural land uses. We recommended that models of land reform should consider the type of land available, that existing expertise in land management should be retained where possible, and that resettlement programmes should be carefully planned in order to minimise the impacts on wildlife and on people.
The effect of repeated laser stimuli to ink-marked skin on skin temperature—recommendations for a safe experimental protocol in humans
Authors: Madden Victoria J. , Catley Mark J. , Grabherr Luzia , Mazzola Francesca , Shohag Mohammad , Moseley G. Lorimer
Published: January 2016

Background.Nd:YAP laser is widely used to investigate the nociceptive and pain systems, generating perpetual and laser-evoked neurophysiological responses. A major procedural concern for the use of Nd:YAP laser stimuli in experimental research is the risk of skin damage. The absorption of Nd:YAP laser stimuli is greater in darker skin, or in pale skin that has been darkened with ink, prompting some ethics boards to refuse approval to experimenters wishing to track stimulus location by marking the skin with ink. Some research questions, however, require laser stimuli to be delivered at particular locations or within particular zones, a requirement that is very difficult to achieve if marking the skin is not possible. We thoroughly searched the literature for experimental evidence and protocol recommendations for safe delivery of Nd:YAP laser stimuli over marked skin, but found nothing.

Methods.We designed an experimental protocol to define safe parameters for the use of Nd:YAP laser stimuli over skin that has been marked with black dots, and used thermal imaging to assess the safety of the procedure at the forearm and the back.

Results.Using thermal imaging and repeated laser stimulation to ink-marked skin, we demonstrated that skin temperature did not increase progressively across the course of the experiment, and that the small change in temperature seen at the forearm was reversed during the rest periods between blocks. Furthermore, no participant experienced skin damage due to the procedure.

Conclusion.This protocol offers parameters for safe, confident and effective experimentation using repeated Nd:YAP laser on skin marked with ink, thus paving the way for investigations that depend on it.
A Review of Mental Health Approaches for Rural Communities: Complexities and Opportunities in the Canadian Context
Authors: Caxaj C. Susana
Published: January 2016

Three mental health approaches with potential relevance to rural Canada were reviewed: telepsychiatry, integrated mental health models, and community-based approaches. These approaches have been evaluated in relation to their cost-effectiveness, comprehensiveness, client-centredness, cultural appropriateness, acceptability, feasibility and fidelity; criteria that may vary amidst rural contexts. Collaborative approaches to care, technologies fully integrated into local health systems, multi-sectoral capacity-building, and further engagement with informal social support networks may be particularly promising strategies in rural communities. More research is required to determine rural mental health pathways among diverse social groups, and further, to establish the acceptability of novel approaches in mental health.
High basal melting forming a channel at the grounding line of Ross Ice Shelf, Antarctica
Authors: Marsh Oliver J. , Fricker Helen A. , Siegfried Matthew R. , Christianson Knut , Nicholls Keith W. , Corr Hugh F. J. , Catania Ginny
Published: January 2016

Antarctica's ice shelves are thinning at an increasing rate, affecting their buttressing ability. Channels in the ice shelf base unevenly distribute melting, and their evolution provides insight into changing subglacial and oceanic conditions. Here we used phase‐sensitive radar measurements to estimate basal melt rates in a channel beneath the currently stable Ross Ice Shelf. Melt rates of 22.2 ± 0.2 m a−1 (>2500% the overall background rate) were observed 1.7 km seaward of Mercer/Whillans Ice Stream grounding line, close to where subglacial water discharge is expected. Laser altimetry shows a corresponding, steadily deepening surface channel. Two relict channels to the north suggest recent subglacial drainage reorganization beneath Whillans Ice Stream approximately coincident with the shutdown of Kamb Ice Stream. This rapid channel formation implies that shifts in subglacial hydrology may impact ice shelf stability.
A projection of changes in landfalling atmospheric river frequency and extreme precipitation over western North America from the Large Ensemble CESM simulations
Authors: Hagos Samson M. , Leung L. Ruby , Yoon Jin‐Ho , Lu Jian , Gao Yang
Published: January 2016

Simulations from the Community Earth System Model (CESM) Large Ensemble project are analyzed to investigate the impact of global warming on atmospheric rivers (ARs) making landfall in western North America. The model has notable biases in simulating the subtropical jet position and the relationship between extreme precipitation and moisture transport. After accounting for these biases, the model projects an ensemble mean increase of 35% in the number of landfalling AR days between the last 20 years of the twentieth and 21st centuries under Representative concentration pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5). However, the associated extreme precipitation days increase only by 28% because the moisture transport required to produce extreme precipitation also increases with warming. Internal variability introduces an uncertainty of ±8% and ±7% in the changes in AR days and associated extreme precipitation days compared to only about 1% difference from accountings for model biases. The significantly larger mean changes compared to internal variability, and effects of model biases highlight the robust AR responses to global warming.
Plasma drifts and polarization electric fields associated with TID‐like disturbances in the low‐latitude ionosphere: C/NOFS observations
Authors: Huang Chao‐Song
Published: January 2016

Medium‐scale traveling ionospheric disturbances are often observed at the magnetically conjugate points in the nighttime midlatitude ionosphere. It has been suggested that gravity waves disturb the ionosphere and induce electric fields in one hemisphere and that the electric fields are amplified by the Perkins instability and transmitted along the geomagnetic field lines to the conjugate ionosphere, creating similar disturbances there. However, direct observations of electric fields associated with traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) are very few. In this study, we present low‐latitude TID‐like disturbances observed by the Communication/Navigation Outage Forecasting System (C/NOFS) satellite. It is found that ion velocity perturbations are generated in the directions parallel and perpendicular to the geomagnetic field within TIDs. Both the parallel and perpendicular ion velocity perturbations show an in‐phase correlation with the ion density perturbations. For nighttime TIDs, the amplitude of both the parallel and meridional ion velocity perturbations increases almost linearly with the amplitude of the ion density perturbations, and the meridional ion drift is proportional to the parallel ion velocity. For daytime TIDs, the parallel ion velocity perturbation increases with the ion density perturbation, but the meridional ion velocity perturbation does not change much. The observations provide evidence that polarization electric field is generated within TIDs at low latitudes and maps along the geomagnetic field lines over a large distance.
Numerical Simulations of Combustion
Authors: Aggarwal Suresh K.
Published: January 2016

Advances in computing power, numerical algorithms and physical models have occurred at a remarkable pace during the past 40 years. Computations of multidimensional reacting flows are now performed routinely, and computational fluid dynamic (CFD)‐based tools are increasingly used in industry to test and design new combustors. Consequently, numerical combustion has become a diversified field with virtually unlimited literature, which makes it impossible to cover this topic in a single chapter. Therefore, the present discussion is limited to numerical simulations of reacting systems involving zero‐, one‐, and two‐dimensional combustion phenomena. Starting with the generalized form of the conservation equations and a general methodology for the computation of 3‐D reacting flows, several examples of simplified combustion systems are presented. These include flammability limits, flame blowout, transient ignition, 1‐D premixed flames, opposed‐jet flames, and transient 1‐D reacting systems, such as droplet ignition and combustion. Computations of 2‐D steady and unsteady flames using a DNS‐based code are also discussed. Examples here include the stability and emission characteristics of burner‐stabilized flames, and flame liftoff and blowout. Topics not covered include the modeling and computations of turbulent flames and multiphase reacting flows, including spray and coal combustion. In spite of its phenomenal growth, the field of numerical combustion continues to evolve, as exemplified by advances in high‐performance computing, modeling of turbulence–chemistry interactions, numerical flame diagnostics, and algorithms for the automatic generation of reaction mechanisms.
Unconventional Natural Gas
Authors: McLennan John
Published: January 2016

The natural gas industry, manufacturing entities, utilities and consumers have rebounded from the specter of dwindling resources and foreign dependency to a situation characterized currently by an oversupply and future potential for export outside of the United States. This dramatic rebound has occurred during the past two decades, mainly because technical protocols have been refined to develop extensive, ultralow permeability formations – that is, production from shales. In this chapter, a description is provided of these low‐permeability resources, contrasting them with higher‐permeability reservoirs to which the natural gas industry is more accustomed. Methods for recovery of the resource, particularly hydraulic fracturing, are highlighted and methods for surface handling and delivery to a pipeline for transportation are described.
Porous Media Combustion
Authors: Voss Stefan
Published: January 2016

Combustion within porous media offers several technological advantages compared to free flames. In this chapter, the fundamentals of porous media combustion underlying the complex interaction between gas phase and solid structure are given. Furthermore, different stabilization techniques, emission characteristics, status of modeling and simulation, and the most commonly utilized materials and structures of porous media combustion are introduced.
Electropolymerization of m‐Toluidin on Platinum Electrode from Aqueous Acidic Solution and Character of the Obtained Polymer
Authors: Sayyah S. M. , Shaban Mohamed , Rabia Mohamed
Published: January 2016

The electrochemical anodic electropolymerization of m‐toluidin on a Pt electrode from a deoxygenated aqueous acid medium is carried out using the cyclic voltammetry technique. The effects of different parameters on the electrochemical polymerization such as the monomer, sulfuric acid, sodium sulfate concentrations, scan rate, and temperature are investigated using a conventional three‐electrode cell. The results show the presence of an oxidation peak (anodic current peak) at approximately +1110 mV vs. saturated calomel electrode in all cases of the investigated parameters. A gradual increase in the anodic current peak density (Ip) is observed with a repeating number of cycles accompanied with the appearance of a new peak at low positive potential from the second repeating cycle. In addition, the effects of m‐toluidin, sulfuric acid, sodium sulfate concentrations, scan rate, and temperature values have the same behavior on Ip values, in which there is an increase in Ip values till certain values (different for each parameter) and then decrease. The experimentally obtained kinetic equation is deduced from values of Ip, and a simplified mechanism for the electrochemical anodic polymerization of m‐toluidin is proposed. Moreover, the diffusion coefficient, activation energy (Ea), and thermokinetic parameters such as entropy (ΔS*), enthalpy of reaction (ΔH*), and free energy change (ΔG*) are calculated. The prepared polymer is characterized by elemental analysis, UV–visible, IR, 1H NMR, X‐ray diffraction, SEM, and TGA.
Cardiorespiratory fitness is related to metabolic risk independent of physical activity in boys but not girls from Southern Brazil
Authors: Silva Danilo , Werneck André O. , Collings Paul , Tomeleri Crisieli M. , Fernandes RôMulo A. , Ronque Enio , Venturini Danielle , Barbosa Décio S. , Coelho‐E‐Silva Manuel J. , Sardinha Luís B. , Cyrino Edilson S.
Published: January 2016

Objective

Our aim was to determine the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and metabolic risk in adolescents from Southern Brazil.

Methods

We performed a school‐based cross‐sectional study in 1,037 adolescents (436 boys) aged 10–16 years from Londrina, PR, Brazil. CRF was determined by 20‐m shuttle run test. A continuous metabolic risk score was obtained from the mean of fasting glucose, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein, blood pressure, and waist circumference z‐scores. Age, physical activity (Baecke questionnaire), body mass index (BMI; weight/stature2), and somatic maturity (Mirwald method) were included as covariates in multiple linear regression analyses.

Results

CRF was related to metabolic risk in boys (β = −0.02, P < 0.01) and girls (β = −0.01, P = 0.02) after adjusting for chronological age, BMI, and somatic maturity. However, when adjusted for physical activity, CRF failed to explain metabolic risk in girls (β = −0.01, P = 0.24).

Conclusion

We conclude that CRF is independently and inversely related to metabolic risk in boys, but physical activity either mediates or confounds the association between CRF and metabolic risk in girls. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:534–538, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Light‐Directed Dynamic Chirality Inversion in Functional Self‐Organized Helical Superstructures
Authors: Bisoyi Hari Krishna , Li Quan
Published: January 2016

Helical superstructures are widely observed in nature, in synthetic polymers, and in supramolecular assemblies. Controlling the chirality (the handedness) of dynamic helical superstructures of molecular and macromolecular systems by external stimuli is a challenging task, but is of great fundamental significance with appealing morphology‐dependent applications. Light‐driven chirality inversion in self‐organized helical superstructures (i.e. cholesteric, chiral nematic liquid crystals) is currently in the limelight because inversion of the handedness alters the chirality of the circularly polarized light that they selectively reflect, which has wide potential for application. Here we discuss the recent developments toward inversion of the handedness of cholesteric liquid crystals enabled by photoisomerizable chiral molecular switches or motors. Different classes of chiral photoresponsive dopants (guests) capable of conferring light‐driven reversible chirality inversion of helical superstructures fabricated from different nematic hosts are discussed. Rational molecular designs of chiral molecular switches toward endowing handedness inversion to the induced helical superstructures of cholesteric liquid crystals are highlighted. This Review is concluded by throwing light on the challenges and opportunities in this emerging frontier, and it is expected to provide useful guidelines toward the development of self‐organized soft materials with stimuli‐directed chirality inversion capability and multifunctional host–guest systems.
Mild and Efficient Palladium‐Catalyzed Direct Trifluoroethylation of Aromatic Systems by C−H Activation
Authors: Tóth Balázs L. , Kovács Szabolcs , Sályi Gergő , Novák Zoltán
Published: January 2016

The introduction of trifluoroalkyl groups into aromatic molecules is an important transformation in the field of organic and medicinal chemistry. However, the direct installation of fluoroalkyl groups onto aromatic molecules still represents a challenging and highly demanding synthetic task. Herein, a simple trifluoroethylation process that relies on the palladium‐catalyzed C−H activation of aromatic compounds is described. With the utilization of a highly active trifluoroethyl(mesityl)iodonium salt, the developed catalytic method enables the first highly efficient and selective trifluoroethylation of aromatic compounds. The robust catalytic procedure provides the desired products in up to 95 % yield at 25 °C in 1.5 to 3 hours and tolerates a broad range of functional groups. The utilization of hypervalent reagents opens new synthetic possibilities for direct alkylations and fluoroalkylations in the field of transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H activation.
Selective preparation of oligomeric naphthylene ether and its applications to epoxy resin for silicon carbide power semiconductor device materials
Authors: Arita Kazuo , Oyama Toshiyuki
Published: January 2016

In this study, a novel method for selective synthesis of naphthylene ether trimers by self‐condensation of 2,7‐dihydroxynaphthalene in the presence of catalytic amount of potassium hydroxide was reported. An epoxy resin from the trimers was prepared and properties of the cured epoxy resin were examined. The cured resin showed not only good physical thermal stability, such as high glass transition temperature and low thermal expansion coefficient, but also good chemical thermal stability like high thermal decomposition temperature. Additionally, low moisture absorption of the cured resin was confirmed. From these results, the newly prepared epoxy resin with naphthylene ether skeletons was considered to be suitable for advanced applications such as silicon carbide power semiconductor device. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43339.
Sensory subtypes and anxiety in older children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Uljarević Mirko , Lane Alison , Kelly Amanda , Leekam Susan
Published: January 2016

This study aimed to identify sensory subtypes in older children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and examine the relationship of sensory subtypes with anxiety levels in this group. Mothers of 57 children and adolescents with ASD aged 11–17 years (Mean age = 14 years. 2.4 months, SD = 1.81) completed the short sensory profile and Spence anxiety scales. Model‐based cluster analysis was applied to sensory profile scores to identify sensory subtypes. Three sensory subtypes, sensory adaptive (N = 19), sensory moderate (N = 29) and sensory severe (N = 9) were identified. The results indicated that the differences between the subtypes were well characterised by the severity of sensory symptoms and were not attributable to sensory modality or varying types of sensory‐related behaviors. Children and adolescents from the adaptive subtype had significantly lower anxiety scores when compared with other two subtypes. There were no differences between subtypes based on chronological age, expressive language, or severity of autism diagnostic features as measured by the social communication questionnaire (SCQ total score). This is the first study to identify the existence of sensory subtypes among older children and adolescents with ASD and explore their association with anxiety levels. Autism Res 2016, 9: 1073–1078. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimal contracting structure between cellulosic biorefineries and farmers to reduce the impact of biomass supply variation: game theoretic analysis
Authors: Golecha Rajdeep , Gan Jianbang
Published: January 2016

There is considerable year‐to‐year variability in the supply of cellulosic biomass used in the production of cellulosic biofuels, yet strategies to mitigate these variations in biofuel development are not well understood. Biorefineries and farmers venturing into the cellulosic biofuel industry will require biomass supply and contracting strategies that can minimize the impact of these large variations. Some studies have proposed biomass pre‐treatment and storage to address biomass supply variations. Other studies have used transportation modeling approaches to manage supply variations and select the optimal location of a cellulosic biorefinery. However, storage, pre‐treatment, and similar engineering approaches lead to higher costs and have other limitations such as additional infrastructural requirements. There is a gap in understanding how contracting strategies between biorefineries and the biomass suppliers (farmers) can reduce the risks with biomass supply variations. In this study, the contracting structure between biorefineries and biomass suppliers is studied under different market structures for the US Corn Belt. A theoretical framework is then developed to use contracting strategies for mitigating the impact of biomass supply variations. First, the trade‐offs between intricately linked components of biomass cost, such as biomass transport, biomass price (incentive) to suppliers, variation in biomass supply, biorefinery size, and alternative feedstock availability are examined. Next, an optimal contracting structure is developed between biorefineries and biomass suppliers using game theoretic analysis. Results show that both the impact of biomass supply variations and the overall biomass cost can be significantly reduced through the use of the optimal contracting strategy between biorefineries and suppliers. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Flotation: A promising microalgae harvesting and dewatering technology for biofuels production
Authors: Ndikubwimana Theoneste , Chang Jingyu , Xiao Zongyuan , Shao Wenyao , Zeng Xianhai , Ng I‐Son , Lu Yinghua
Published: January 2016

Microalgal biomass as renewable energy source is believed to be of great potential for reliable and sustainable biofuels production. However, microalgal biomass production is pinned by harvesting and dewatering stage thus hindering the developing and growing microalgae biotechnology industries. Flotation technology applied in mineral industry could be potentially applied in microalgae harvesting and dewatering, however substantial knowledge on different flotation units is essential. This paper presents an overview on different flotation units as promising cost‐effective technologies for microalgae harvesting thus bestowing for further research in development and commercialization of microalgae based biofuels. Dispersed air flotation was found to be less energy consuming. Moreover, Jameson cell flotation and dispersed ozone flotation are believed to be energy efficient microalgae flotation approaches. Microalgae harvesting and dewatering by flotation is still at embryonic stage, therefore extended studies with the focus on life cycle assessment, sustainability of the flotation unit, optimization of the operating parameters using different algal species is imperative. Though there are a number of challenges in microalgae harvesting and dewatering, with well designed and developed cultivation, harvesting/dewatering, extraction and conversion technologies, progressively, microalgae technology will be of great potential for biological carbon sequestration, biofuels and biochemicals production.
Human pluripotent stem cell culture density modulates YAP signaling
Authors: Hsiao Cheston , Lampe Michael , Nillasithanukroh Songkhun , Han Wenqing , Lian Xiaojun , Palecek Sean P.
Published: January 2016

Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) density is an important factor in self‐renewal and differentiation fates; however, the mechanisms through which hPSCs sense cell density and process this information in making cell fate decisions remain to be fully understood. One particular pathway that may prove important in density‐dependent signaling in hPSCs is the Hippo pathway, which is regulated by cell‐cell contact and mechanosensing through the cytoskeleton and has been linked to the maintenance of stem cell pluripotency. To probe regulation of Hippo pathway activity in hPSCs, we assessed whether Hippo pathway transcriptional activator YAP was differentially modulated by cell density. At higher cell densities, YAP phosphorylation and localization to the cytoplasm increased, which led to decreased YAP‐mediated transcriptional activity. Furthermore, total YAP protein levels diminished at high cell density due to the phosphorylation‐targeted degradation of YAP. Inducible shRNA knockdown of YAP reduced expression of YAP target genes and pluripotency genes. Finally, the density‐dependent increase of neuroepithelial cell differentiation was mitigated by shRNA knockdown of YAP. Our results suggest a pivotal role of YAP in cell density‐mediated fate decisions in hPSCs.
A novel regulatory element (E77) isolated from CHO‐K1 genomic DNA enhances stable gene expression in Chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Kang Shin‐Young , Kim Yeon‐Gu , Kang Seunghee , Lee Hong Weon , Lee Eun Gyo
Published: January 2016

Vectors flanked by regulatory DNA elements have been used to generate stable cell lines with high productivity and transgene stability; however, regulatory elements in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, which are the most widely used mammalian cells in biopharmaceutical production, are still poorly understood. We isolated a novel gene regulatory element from CHO‐K1 cells, designated E77, which was found to enhance the stable expression of a transgene. A genomic library was constructed by combining CHO‐K1 genomic DNA fragments with a CMV promoter‐driven GFP expression vector, and the E77 element was isolated by screening. The incorporation of the E77 regulatory element resulted in the generation of an increased number of clones with high expression, thereby enhancing the expression level of the transgene in the stable transfectant cell pool. Interestingly, the E77 element was found to consist of two distinct fragments derived from different locations in the CHO genome shotgun sequence. High and stable transgene expression was obtained in transfected CHO cells by combining these fragments. Additionally, the function of E77 was found to be dependent on its site of insertion and specific orientation in the vector construct. Our findings demonstrate that stable gene expression mediated by the CMV promoter in CHO cells may be improved by the isolated novel gene regulatory element E77 identified in the present study.
Feasibility of Nondestructive Sugar Content Analysis of Korean Pears by Using Near‐infrared Diffuse‐reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Lee Yonghoon , Han Song‐Hee
Published: January 2016

Nondestructive sugar content analysis of fruits is important for effective quality monitoring during growing stages, postharvest storage, and distribution in markets. The requirement of nondestructive analysis can be satisfied by an optical spectroscopic technique with an appropriate data analysis approach. We applied near‐infrared (NIR) diffuse‐reflectance spectroscopy in combination with multivariate calibration as the nondestructive method of sugar content analysis for Korean pears. The diffuse‐reflectance spectra for 21 Korean pears with the sugar contents of 10.3−12.9 °Bx were obtained in the wavelength region between 900 and 1500 nm. The differential spectrum of the pear samples with the maximum and minimum sugar contents was found to show structures similar to those of the transmittance spectrum of an aqueous solution of glucose. This confirms that the NIR spectra of pears convey the quantitative chemical information of sugar molecules. A simple, effective spectral intensity normalization method was applied to improve the analysis precision. Based on the normalized NIR spectra, a multivariate calibration model was developed using partial least squares regression for predicting the sugar content of the Korean pear samples. The prediction accuracy was evaluated to be ~0.24 °Bx by the test set switch method.
Testing of candidate single nucleotide variants associated with paclitaxel neuropathy in the trial NCCTG N08C1 (Alliance)
Authors: Boora Ganesh K. , Kanwar Rahul , Kulkarni Amit A. , Abyzov Alexej , Sloan Jeff , Ruddy Kathryn J. , Banck Michaela S. , Loprinzi Charles L. , Beutler Andreas S.
Published: January 2016

Paclitaxel‐induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) cannot be predicted from clinical parameters and might have a pharmacogenomic basis. Previous studies identified single nucleotide variants (SNV) associated with PIPN. However, only a subset of findings has been confirmed to date in more than one study, suggesting a need for further re‐testing and validation in additional clinical cohorts. Candidate PIPN‐associated SNVs were identified from the literature. SNVs were retested in 119 patients selected by extreme phenotyping from 269 in NCCTG N08C1 (Alliance) as previously reported. SNV genotyping was performed by a combination of short‐read sequencing analysis and Taqman PCR. These 22 candidate PIPN SNVs were genotyped. Two of these, rs7349683 in the EPHA5 and rs3213619 in ABCB1 were found to be significantly associated with PIPN with an Odds ratios OR = 2.07 (P = 0.02) and OR = 0.12 (P = 0.03), respectively. In addition, three SNVs showed a trend toward a risk‐ or protective effect that was consistent with previous reports. The rs10509681 and rs11572080 in the gene CYP2C8*3 showed risk effect with an OR = 1.49 and rs1056836 in CYP1B1 showed a protective effect with an OR = 0.66. None of the other results supported the previously reported associations, including some SNVs displaying an opposite direction of effect from previous reports, including rs1058930 in CYP2C8, rs17222723 and rs8187710 in ABCC2, rs10771973 in FGD4, rs16916932 in CACNB2 and rs16948748 in PITPNA. Alliance N08C1 validated or supported a minority of previously reported SNV‐PIPN associations. Associations previously reported by multiple studies appeared to have a higher likelihood to be validated by Alliance N08C1.
Three‐dimensional microtissues essentially contribute to preclinical validations of therapeutic targets in breast cancer
Authors: Falkenberg Natalie , Höfig Ines , Rosemann Michael , Szumielewski Justine , Richter Sabine , Schorpp Kenji , Hadian Kamyar , Aubele Michaela , Atkinson Michael J. , Anastasov Nataša
Published: January 2016

A 3D microtissues using T47D and JIMT‐1 cells were generated to analyze tissue‐like response of breast cancer cells after combined human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐targeted treatment and radiation. Following lentiviral knockdown of HER2, we compared growth rate alterations using 2D monolayers, 3D microtissues, and mouse xenografts. Additionally, to model combined therapeutic strategies, we treated HER2‐depleted T47D cells and 3D microtissues using trastuzumab (anti‐HER2 antibody) in combination with irradiation. Comparison of HER2 knockdown with corresponding controls revealed growth impairment due to HER2 knockdown in T47D 2D monolayers, 3D microtissues, and xenografts (after 2, 12, and ≥40 days, respectively). In contrast, HER2 knockdown was less effective in inhibiting growth of trastuzumab‐resistant JIMT‐1 cells in vitro and in vivo. Combined administration of trastuzumab and radiation treatment was also analyzed using T47D 3D microtissues. Administration of both, radiation (5 Gy) and trastuzumab, significantly enhanced the growth inhibiting effect in 3D microtissues. To improve the predictive power of potential drugs—as single agents or in combination—here, we show that regarding tumor growth analyses, 3D microtissues are highly comparable to outcomes derived from xenografts. Considering increased limitations for animal experiments on the one hand and strong need of novel drugs on the other hand, it is indispensable to include highly reproducible 3D microtissue platform in preclinical analyses to validate more accurately the capacity of future drug‐combined radiotherapy.
Develop effective life skills program
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: January 2016

Do you struggle to develop key life skills in your student‐athletes? Perhaps your athletics department isn't offering a life skills program or is merely giving lip service to the concept. And that could be detrimental for your student‐athletes' academic and career success.
Follow 10 tips for website redesign success
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: January 2016

If you're tasked with redesigning the website for your athletics department, there's so much to consider to ensure a creative, effective presentation.
Isoquinoline Alkaloids from Fumaria officinalis L. and Their Biological Activities Related to Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Chlebek Jakub , Novák Zdeněk , Kassemová Dominika , Šafratová Marcela , Kostelník Jan , Malý Lukáš , Ločárek Miroslav , Opletal Lubomír , Hošt'álková Anna , Hrabinová Martina , Kuneš Jiří , Novotná Pavlína , Urbanová Marie , Nováková Lucie , Macáková Kateřina , Hulcová Daniela , Solich Petr , Pérez Martín Concepción , Jun Daniel , Cahlíková Lucie
Published: January 2016

Two new isoquinoline alkaloids, named fumaranine (2) and fumarostrejdine (10), along with 18 known alkaloids were isolated from aerial parts of Fumaria officinalis. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analyses and by comparison with literature data. The absolute configuration of the new compound 2 was determined by comparing its circular dichroism spectra with those of known analogs. Compounds isolated in sufficient amounts were evaluated for their acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, prolyl oligopeptidase (POP), and glycogen synthase kinase‐3β inhibitory activities. Parfumidine (8) and sinactine (15) exhibited potent POP inhibition activities (IC50 99±5 and 53±2 μM, resp.).
Acridone Alkaloids from Swinglea glutinosa (Rutaceae) and Their Effects on Photosynthesis
Authors: Arato Ferreira Pedro H. , dos Santos Djalma A. P. , da Silva Maria Fátima das G. F. , Vieira Paulo C. , King‐Diaz Beatriz , Lotina‐Hennsen Blas , Veiga Thiago A. M.
Published: January 2016

Continuing our search for herbicide models based on natural products, we investigated the action mechanisms of five alkaloids isolated from Swinglea glutinosa (Rutaceae): Citrusinine‐I (1), glycocitrine‐IV (2), 1,3,5‐trihydroxy‐10‐methyl‐ 2,8‐bis(3‐methylbut‐2‐en‐1‐yl)‐9(10H)‐acridinone (3), (2R)‐2‐tert‐butyl‐3,10‐dihydro‐4,9‐dihydroxy‐11‐methoxy‐10‐methylfuro[3,2‐b]acridin‐5(2H)‐one (4), and (3R)‐2,3,4,7‐tetrahydro‐3,5,8‐trihydroxy‐6‐methoxy‐2,2,7‐trimethyl‐12H‐pyrano[2,3‐a]acridin‐12‐one (5) on several photosynthetic activities in an attempt to find new compounds that affect photosynthesis. Through polarographic techniques, the compounds inhibited the non‐cyclic electron transport in the basal, phosphorylating, and uncoupled conditions from H2O to methylviologen (=MV). Therefore, they act as Hill reaction inhibitors. This approach still suggested that the compounds 4 and 5 had their interaction site located at photosystem I. Studies on fluorescence of chlorophyll a suggested that acridones (1–3) have different modes of interaction and inhibition sites on the photosystem II electron transport chain.
A glimpse into the future of TAVR
Authors: Cilingiroglu Mehmet , Marmagkiolis Konstantinos
Published: January 2016

Key Points

Important differences still exist in the management of patients who receive TAVR in Europe and in the USA.

Provisional participation of cardiovascular surgeons and imaging cardiologists, use of TEE, general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation, and length of stay are some of the major differences which may define the future of TAVR in the USA.

TAVR procedure will most likely be performed without CT surgery presence and with limited echocardiographic imaging guidance in USA in the near future as it is already being done in Europe.
Learning curves for TAVR: Not quite see one, do one teach one
Authors: Tommaso Carl L.
Published: January 2016

Key Points

The learning curve for TAVR is determined based on technical (procedural) data from PARTNER‐1 Trial

The number of cases needed to reach a learning curve for TAVR in PARTNER‐1 was 50 for original sites and fell to 25 for late entering sites

Analyses such as this is important in developing guidelines for other emerging technologies
Inflation time in stent deployment: How long is enough?
Authors: Pinton Fábio Augusto , Lemos Pedro Alves
Published: January 2016

Key Points

Coronary stents are commonly deployed using high pressure. However, the duration time of balloon inflation during deployment is still to be determined.

Vallurupalli and coworkers, in this issue of CCI, show that the stent system takes an average of 33 sec to “accommodate” its pressure during in vitro deployment. In patients, the mean stent inflation time to achieve pressure stability was 104 seconds, ranging from 30 to 380 sec.

These results challenge a rapid inflation/deflation approach for stent deployment. It is suggested that the duration of the inflation might be individualized, in a case‐by‐case approach.

However, the findings must be interpreted with caution, as they cannot be directly extrapolated to more diverse clinical, angiographic, and interventional scenarios.
Same or next day discharge: A new chapter in transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Chandrasekhar Jaya , Mehran Roxana
Published: January 2016

Key Points

As more patients become eligible for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), resource allocation and early discharge planning require careful consideration.

TAVI centers must develop locally appropriate and systematic strategies to facilitate early discharge and seamless post‐discharge care.

While ongoing studies examine pacing requirements post‐TAVI, trials comparing general anesthesia and monitored analgesia care are desired. Future technologies for co‐registration of computed tomography with fluoroscopy may reduce the need for intra‐operative transesophageal echo and general anesthesia. A tailored patient-centered approach is essential to optimize in-hospital stay and overall patient experience.
Is mean arterial pressure the best parameter in ischemic stroke?
Authors: Fuhrer Hannah , Weiller Cornelius , Niesen Wolf‐Dirk
Published: January 2016

Key Clinical Message

This case series of 27 patients with large stroke challenges the current state of the art guiding hemodynamic management by blood pressure levels. The results show that assumed correlations of blood pressure, cardiac output, and systemic vascular resistance do not exist. Therefore, hemodynamic therapy may better be guided by cardiac output.
Statistical Interpretation of Semi‐Continuous Anaerobic Digestion Experiments on the Laboratory Scale
Authors: Hofmann Josephine , Peltri Gregor , Sträuber Heike , Müller Liane , Schumacher Britt , Müller Ulf , Liebetrau Jan
Published: January 2016

The importance of thorough experimental design, implementation, and interpretation of laboratory experiments is known but rarely considered in continuous anaerobic digestion experiments. Especially in the evaluation of small effects on gas yields, e.g., by substrate disintegration, the usual methods such as the use of single digesters or the mere comparison of mean values often reach their limits. A proper statistical interpretation will be demonstrated on four examples of semi‐continuous laboratory‐scale anaerobic digestion experiments that investigated the effects of substrate disintegration on biogas yields. Power analysis was performed for one exemplary experimental setup. In this particular case, the power analysis showed that, with digester duplicates per treatment, a minimum 6 % difference in biogas yield could be significantly detected.