bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between manuscript title structure and success: editorial decisions and citation performance for an ecological journal
Authors: Fox Charles W. , Burns C. Sean
Published: April 2015

A poorly chosen article title may make a paper difficult to discover or discourage readership when discovered, reducing an article's impact. Yet, it is unclear how the structure of a manuscript's title influences readership and impact. We used manuscript tracking data for all manuscripts submitted to the journal Functional Ecology from 2004 to 2013 and citation data for papers published in this journal from 1987 to 2011 to examine how title features changed and whether a manuscript's title structure was predictive of success during the manuscript review process and/or impact (citation) after publication. Titles of manuscripts submitted to Functional Ecology became marginally longer (after controlling for other variables), broader in focus (less frequent inclusion of genus and species names), and included more humor and subtitles over the period of the study. Papers with subtitles were less likely to be rejected by editors both pre‐ and post‐peer review, although both effects were small and the presence of subtitles in published papers was not predictive of citations. Papers with specific names of study organisms in their titles fared poorly during editorial (but not peer) review and, if published, were less well cited than papers whose titles did not include specific names. Papers with intermediate length titles were more successful during editorial review, although the effect was small and title word count was not predictive of citations. No features of titles were predictive of reviewer willingness to review papers or the length of time a paper was in peer review. We conclude that titles have changed in structure over time, but features of title structure have only small or no relationship with success during editorial review and post‐publication impact. The title feature that was most predictive of manuscript success: papers whose titles emphasize broader conceptual or comparative issues fare better both pre‐ and post‐publication than do papers with organism‐specific titles.
Spatial and temporal variation in harvest probabilities for American black duck
Authors: Roy Christian , Cumming Steven G. , McIntire Eliot J.B.
Published: April 2015

Assessing spatial variation in waterfowl harvest probabilities from banding data is challenging because reporting and recovery probabilities have distinct spatial patterns that covary temporally with harvesting regulations, hunter effort, and reporting methods. We analyzed direct band recovery data from American black ducks banded on the Canadian breeding grounds from 1970 through 2010. Data were registered to a 1‐degree grid and analyzed using hierarchical logistic regression models with spatially correlated errors to estimate the annual probabilities of band recovery and the proportion of individuals recovered in Canada. Probability of harvest was estimated from these values, in combination with independent estimates of reporting probabilities in Canada and the USA. Model covariates included estimates of hunting effort and factors for harvest regulation and band reporting methods. Both the band recovery processes and the proportion of individuals recovered in Canada had significant spatial structure. Recovery probabilities were highest in southern Ontario, along the Saint Lawrence River in Quebec, and in Nova Scotia. Black ducks breeding in Nova Scotia and southern Quebec were harvested predominantly in Canada. Recovery probabilities for juveniles were correlated with hunter effort, while the adult recoveries were weakly correlated with the implementation of stricter harvest regulations in the early 1980s. Mean harvest probability decreased in the northern portion of the survey area but remained stable or even increased in the south. Harvest probabilities for juveniles in 2010 exceeded 20% in southern Quebec and the Atlantic provinces. Our results demonstrate fine‐scale variation in harvest probabilities for black duck on the Canadian breeding ground. In particular, harvest probabilities should be closely monitored along the Saint Lawrence River system and in the Atlantic provinces to avoid overexploitation.
Mesoporous Materials‐Based Electrochemical Sensors
Authors: Walcarius Alain
Published: April 2015

A review (350 references) is given to the interest of mesoporous materials for designing electrochemical sensors. After a brief summary of the implication of template‐based ordered mesoporous materials in electrochemical science, the various types of inorganic and organic‐inorganic hybrid mesostructures used to date in electroanalysis and the corresponding electrode configurations are described. The various sensor applications are then discussed on the basis of comprehensive tables and some representative illustrations. The main detection schemes developed in the field are (volt)amperometric sensing subsequent to preconcentration and electrocatalytic detection.
Intermolecular Interactions in Mixed Self‐Assembled Monolayers of Ferrocene
Authors: Antuch Manuel , Abradelo Darío G. , Cao Roberto
Published: April 2015

Electrochemical characterization of mixed self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of 6‐ferrocenyl‐1‐hexanethiol (FcH) and mercaptoundecanoic acid tyrosinamide (MUATyr) on gold is reported. Single‐component SAMs of FcH presented repulsive intermolecular interactions (vGθT=−1.12), while mixed SAMs of FcH/MUATyr (1 : 1) exhibited attractive interactions (vGθT=+0.20), with a homogeneous distribution of both components. Electrochemical kinetic determinations on mixed SAMs of FcH/MUATyr, indicated a secondary electron transfer pathway between the redox centers of both components. Higher amounts of FcH in the mixed SAMs lowered the observed rate of electron transfer of MUATyr. The oxidation of FcH caused an anodic shift of 160 mV in the voltammetric wave of MUATyr.
From Job Characteristics to Job Satisfaction of Foreign Workers in Taiwan's Construction Industry: The Mediating Role of Organizational Commitment
Authors: Hsu Li‐Chun , Liao Pei‐Wen
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships among job characteristics, organizational commitment, and job satisfaction of foreign workers in Taiwan. Overall, 440 Thailand foreign workers were recruited and structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses. The results of this study supported all proposed hypotheses. Job characteristics had a positive effect on job satisfaction of foreign workers. However, the results showed an indirect effect of job characteristics on job satisfaction via organizational commitment. Moreover, the findings suggested that job autonomy is better compared to other job characteristics. This study contributes to the existing literature by stressing the importance of such relationships in the cross‐cultural management enterprises, particularly those concerning foreign workers.
Two New Flavonoids from Retama raetam
Authors: Xu Wen‐Hui , Al‐Rehaily Adnan J. , Yousaf Muhammad , Ahmad Mohammad S. , Khan Shabana I. , Khan Ikhlas A.
Published: April 2015

Two new furanoflavonoids, retamasins A and B (1 and 2, resp.), along with five known flavonoids, 3–7, were isolated from the aerial parts of Retama raetam. Their structures were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic (IR, MS, and 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR) analyses and by comparison with the literature data. This is the first report of the isolation of new furanoflavonoids 1 and 2 from Retama genus, while compounds 3, 5, and 6 were found for the first time from R. raetam. Antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were also evaluated. Compounds 2, 3, and 5–7 exhibited potent inhibitions of iNOS activity with IC50 values of 2.9, 5.0, 3.1, 1.2, and 4.8 μg/ml, respectively. All compounds inhibited NF‐κB except 1 and 5. Compound 6 was most active in inhibiting iNOS and NF‐κB activity, as well as in decreasing oxidative stress.
Synthesis of Terpene Diamines Based on Camphor‐Derived Dinitriles
Authors: Kinzl Florian R. , Riepl Herbert M.
Published: April 2015

Diamines are useful as additional ligands in enantioselective hydrogenations. A new route for synthesizing such a rigid diamine from naturally available camphor via camphor oxime/camphor furoxan/deoxygenation in large scale was developed. The resulting dinitriles were subjected to hydrogenation with Raney Ni or other heterogenous catalysts. In most cases, the reduction resulted in complex mixtures. The best results were obtained with Raney Ni in THF/H2O in strongly basic media (NaOH), which affords compound 5b only in good yield. Homogenous catalyst like Grubbs 2nd generation reduced only the less hindered CN group to yield an amino nitrile.
Particle Swarm Optimization in Agent‐Based Economic Simulations of the Cournot Market Model
Authors: Maschek Michael K.
Published: April 2015

The numerous variations of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm originally proposed by Kennedy and Eberhart (. Particle swarm optimization. In Proceedings of the IEEE International Conference on Neural Networks IV. IEEE: Piscataway, NJ; 1942–1948) have proven to be powerful optimization methods that rely on exploiting simple analogues of social interaction. In this study, PSO is adopted in lieu of the social or individual evolutionary learning algorithms as a model of individual adaptation in an agent‐based computational model. In this examination of the simple Cournot market framework, each agent's individual strategy evolves according to the PSO algorithm. The model is one in which agents’ strategies must adapt interdependently. That is, a change in one particle may not only affect its performance but also other particles within the same swarm simultaneously. The dynamics and convergence properties associated with this model are compared with those where evolutionary learning algorithms are employed. Similar to evolutionary learning, convergence to equilibrium is dependent on the scope of learning, social or individual. While convergence is dependent on some of the algorithm parameters, prices resulting from the individual PSO are nearest the Cournot equilibrium and those from social PSO are nearest the Walrasian equilibrium in all cases. For particular parameterizations, certain advantages over evolutionary algorithms exist: in the main, decreasing volatility in market prices does not require an election operator or the addition of free parameters through two‐level learning. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Viscoelastic properties of healthy achilles tendon are independent of isometric plantar flexion strength and cross‐sectional area
Authors: Suydam Stephen M. , Soulas Elizabeth M. , Elliott Dawn M. , Gravare Silbernagel Karin , Buchanan Thomas S. , Cortes Daniel H.
Published: April 2015

Changes in tendon viscoelastic properties are observed after injuries and during healing as a product of altered composition and structure. Continuous Shear Wave Elastography is a new technique measuring viscoelastic properties of soft tissues using external shear waves. Tendon has not been studied with this technique, therefore, the aims of this study were to establish the range of shear and viscosity moduli in healthy Achilles tendons, determine bilateral differences of these parameters and explore correlations of viscoelasticity to plantar flexion strength and tendon area. Continuous Shear Wave Elastography was performed over the free portion of both Achilles tendons from 29 subjects. Isometric plantar flexion strength and cross sectional area were measured. The average shear and viscous moduli was 83.2 kPa and 141.0 Pa‐s, respectively. No correlations existed between the shear or viscous modulus and area or strength. This indicates that viscoelastic properties can be considered novel, independent biomarkers. The shear and viscosity moduli were bilaterally equivalent (p = 0.013, 0.017) which allows determining pathologies through side‐to‐side deviations. The average bilateral coefficient of variation was 7.2% and 9.4% for shear and viscosity modulus, respectively. The viscoelastic properties of the Achilles tendon may provide an unbiased, non‐subjective rating system of tendon recovery and optimizing treatment strategies. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:926–931, 2015.
Restricted differentiation potential of progenitor cell populations obtained from the equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT)
Authors: Williamson Kate Ann , Lee Katie Joanna , Humphreys William James Edward , Comerford Eithne Josephine Veronica , Clegg Peter David , Canty‐Laird Elizabeth Gail
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to characterize stem and progenitor cell populations from the equine superficial digital flexor tendon, an energy‐storing tendon with similarities to the human Achilles tendon, which is frequently injured. Using published methods for the isolation of tendon‐derived stem/progenitor cells by low‐density plating we found that isolated cells possessed clonogenicity but were unable to fully differentiate towards mesenchymal lineages using trilineage differentiation assays. In particular, adipogenic differentiation appeared to be restricted, as assessed by Oil Red O staining of stem/progenitor cells cultured in adipogenic medium. We then assessed whether differential adhesion to fibronectin substrates could be used to isolate a population of cells with broader differentiation potential. However we found little difference in the stem and tenogenic gene expression profile of these cells as compared to tenocytes, although the expression of thrombospondin‐4 was significantly reduced in hypoxic conditions. Tendon‐derived stem/progenitor cells isolated by differential adhesion to fibronectin had a similar differentiation potential to cells isolated by low density plating, and when grown in either normoxic or hypoxic conditions. In summary, we have found a restricted differentiation potential of cells isolated from the equine superficial digital flexor tendon despite evidence for stem/progenitor‐like characteristics. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 33:849–858, 2015.
The role of complex clinical scenarios in the failure of modular components following revision total knee arthroplasty: A finite element study
Authors: Conlisk Noel , Howie Colin R. , Pankaj Pankaj
Published: April 2015

Modular prostheses are increasingly applied in complex revision knee arthroplasty scenarios due to the greater intraoperative flexibility they provide to the surgeon, for example, accurate placement of stem in canal while maintaining a good fit distally for complex femoral geometry. However, growing evidence indicates that these modular devices often fail at the stem junction. Modular prostheses are generally applied to provide enhanced fixation in poor quality bone or in the presence of condylar defects. From the literature, it is unclear which of these patient scenarios contribute the most to modular component failure. The present study uses finite element (FE) models to answer this question. The findings of this study indicate that the most significant increase in stem junction stress occurs in the presence of large condylar defects. However, taking into account standard clinical practice (large F3 defects typically result in distal femoral replacement), the most significant factor is then found to be compromised bone quality, these findings are particularly evident at higher flexion angles. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that patients with large femoral defects or severely compromised bone quality are particularly vulnerable to implant failure when a modular approach is adopted. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1134–1141, 2015.
Deep‐UV exciton emission from Mg1 − xCaxO—A first‐principle investigation
Authors: Li Qiaofen , Tu Yan , Yang Lanlan , Tolner Harm
Published: April 2015

In order to investigate the ultraviolet and electron emission properties of rock‐salt Mg1 − xCaxO, first‐principle calculations are carried out with x ranging from 0 to 0.5. The electron–hole interaction is taken into account by solving the Bethe–Salpeter equation. In pure MgO, the calculated exciton binding‐energy value of 83 ± 3 meV is quite close to the published experimental values. The electronic properties of doped MgO are investigated based on the super‐cell model. Both the optical bandgap and the exciton binding energy of the super cell of Mg1 − xCaxO are calculated for five discrete compositions, with an increasing amount x of CaO. The results show that there are strong excitonic effects in all of these materials. A rapid reduction in bandgap value is observed for Mg1 − xCaxO, when increasing the x value. The exciton binding energy of Mg1 − xCaxO shows a minimum value of about 40 meV around x = 0.2. In all of these cases, the exciton is stable at room temperature. The lowest excitation levels in Mg1 − xCaxO are determined by dark excitons. The occurrence of these dark excitons might explain why Mg1 − xCaxO is a strong source of delayed electron emission, after being bombarded by ions in a plasma.
Cardiovascular disease after liver transplantation: When, What, and Who Is at Risk
Authors: Fussner Lynn A. , Heimbach Julie K. , Fan Chun , Dierkhising Ross , Coss Elizabeth , Leise Michael D. , Watt Kymberly D.
Published: April 2015

The evolution of metabolic and cardiovascular disease (CVD) complications after liver transplantation (LT) is poorly characterized. We aim to illustrate the prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS), define the cumulative incidence of CVD, and characterize risk factors associated with these comorbidities after LT. A retrospective review of 455 consecutive LT recipients from 1999 to 2004 with an 8‐ to 12‐year follow‐up was performed. Obesity increased from 23.8% (4 months) to 40.8% (3 years) after LT. Increase in body mass index predicted MS at 1 year after LT (odds ratio, 1.1; P < 0.001, per point). CVD developed in 10.6%, 20.7%, and 30.3% of recipients within 1, 5, and 8 years, respectively. Age, diabetes, hypertension, glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/minute, prior CVD, ejection fraction < 60%, left ventricular hypertrophy, and serum troponin (TN) > 0.07 ng/mL were associated with CVD on univariate analysis. Age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01‐1.06; P = 0.019), diabetes (HR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.09‐2.92; P = 0.022), prior history of CVD (HR, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.45‐4.16; P < 0.001), and serum TN > 0.07 ng/mL (HR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.23‐3.18; P = 0.005) were independently associated with CVD in the long term. Smoking history (ever), sex, hyperlipidemia, and serum ferritin levels were not predictive of CVD. Tacrolimus use versus noncalcineurin‐based immunosuppression (HR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.14‐0.49; P < 0.001) was associated with reduced risk of CVD but not versus cyclosporine (HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.30‐1.49; P = 0.322). CVD is common after LT. Independent of MS, more data are needed to identify nonconventional risk factors and biomarkers like serum TN. Curbing weight gain in the early months after transplant may impact MS and subsequent CVD in the long term. Liver Transpl 21:889‐896, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Soft‐ and reactive landing of ions onto surfaces: Concepts and applications
Authors: Johnson Grant E. , Gunaratne Don , Laskin Julia
Published: April 2015

Soft‐ and reactive landing of mass‐selected ions is gaining attention as a promising approach for the precisely‐controlled preparation of materials on surfaces that are not amenable to deposition using conventional methods. A broad range of ionization sources and mass filters are available that make ion soft‐landing a versatile tool for surface modification using beams of hyperthermal (<100 eV) ions. The ability to select the mass‐to‐charge ratio of the ion, its kinetic energy and charge state, along with precise control of the size, shape, and position of the ion beam on the deposition target distinguishes ion soft landing from other surface modification techniques. Soft‐ and reactive landing have been used to prepare interfaces for practical applications as well as precisely‐defined model surfaces for fundamental investigations in chemistry, physics, and materials science. For instance, soft‐ and reactive landing have been applied to study the surface chemistry of ions isolated in the gas‐phase, prepare arrays of proteins for high‐throughput biological screening, produce novel carbon‐based and polymer materials, enrich the secondary structure of peptides and the chirality of organic molecules, immobilize electrochemically‐active proteins and organometallics on electrodes, create thin films of complex molecules, and immobilize catalytically active organometallics as well as ligated metal clusters. In addition, soft landing has enabled investigation of the size‐dependent behavior of bare metal clusters in the critical subnanometer size regime where chemical and physical properties do not scale predictably with size. The morphology, aggregation, and immobilization of larger bare metal nanoparticles, which are directly relevant to the design of catalysts as well as improved memory and electronic devices, have also been studied using ion soft landing. This review article begins in section 1 with a brief introduction to the existing applications of ion soft‐ and reactive landing. Section 2 provides an overview of the ionization sources and mass filters that have been used to date for soft landing of mass‐selected ions. A discussion of the competing processes that occur during ion deposition as well as the types of ions and surfaces that have been investigated follows in section 3. Section 4 discusses the physical phenomena that occur during and after ion soft landing, including retention and reduction of ionic charge along with factors that impact the efficiency of ion deposition. The influence of soft landing on the secondary structure and biological activity of complex ions is addressed in section 5. Lastly, an overview of the structure and mobility as well as the catalytic, optical, magnetic, and redox properties of bare ionic clusters and nanoparticles deposited onto surfaces is presented in section 6. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 35:439–479, 2016.
Mass spectrometric based approaches in urine metabolomics and biomarker discovery
Authors: Khamis Mona M. , Adamko Darryl J. , El‐Aneed Anas
Published: April 2015

Urine metabolomics has recently emerged as a prominent field for the discovery of non‐invasive biomarkers that can detect subtle metabolic discrepancies in response to a specific disease or therapeutic intervention. Urine, compared to other biofluids, is characterized by its ease of collection, richness in metabolites and its ability to reflect imbalances of all biochemical pathways within the body. Following urine collection for metabolomic analysis, samples must be immediately frozen to quench any biogenic and/or non‐biogenic chemical reactions. According to the aim of the experiment; sample preparation can vary from simple procedures such as filtration to more specific extraction protocols such as liquid‐liquid extraction. Due to the lack of comprehensive studies on urine metabolome stability, higher storage temperatures (i.e. 4°C) and repetitive freeze‐thaw cycles should be avoided. To date, among all analytical techniques, mass spectrometry (MS) provides the best sensitivity, selectivity and identification capabilities to analyze the majority of the metabolite composition in the urine. Combined with the qualitative and quantitative capabilities of MS, and due to the continuous improvements in its related technologies (i.e. ultra high‐performance liquid chromatography [UPLC] and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography [HILIC]), liquid chromatography (LC)‐MS is unequivocally the most utilized and the most informative analytical tool employed in urine metabolomics. Furthermore, differential isotope tagging techniques has provided a solution to ion suppression from urine matrix thus allowing for quantitative analysis. In addition to LC‐MS, other MS‐based technologies have been utilized in urine metabolomics. These include direct injection (infusion)‐MS, capillary electrophoresis‐MS and gas chromatography‐MS. In this article, the current progresses of different MS‐based techniques in exploring the urine metabolome as well as the recent findings in providing potentially diagnostic urinary biomarkers are discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 36:115–134, 2017.
Asymptotically linear problems driven by fractional Laplacian operators
Authors: Fiscella Alessio , Servadei Raffaella , Valdinoci Enrico
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we study a non‐local fractional Laplace equation, depending on a parameter, with asymptotically linear right‐hand side. Our main result concerns the existence of weak solutions for this equation, and it is obtained using variational and topological methods. We treat both the non‐resonant case and the resonant one. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of the Viscoelastic Behavior of Low‐Density Polyethylene Produced in High‐Pressure Tubular Reactors
Authors: Pladis Prokopios , Meimaroglou Dimitrios , Kiparissides Costas
Published: April 2015

In the open literature, there is a lack of comprehensive predictive models that can provide detailed information on the distributed molecular properties of LDPE (e.g bivariate molecular weight‐long‐chain distribution, seniority–priority long‐chain branching distributions, etc.) produced in a high‐pressure process. To address this problem, Meimaroglou and Kiparissides (2010) developed a novel kinetic–molecular topology Monte Carlo (MC) algorithm to predict the exact molecular architecture of nonlinear polyethylene chains. In the present paper, the molecular information obtained from the kinetic–topology MC algorithm is introduced into a comprehensive rheological model, the so‐called “branch on branch” model of Das et al. (2006), to predict the rheological behavior of the LDPE melt in a high‐pressure ethylene polymerization tubular reactor. The model uses an ensemble of branched polymer chains generated by the kinetic–chain topology MC algorithm to calculate several important viscoelastic properties, including the viscosity–shear rate curve, the storage and loss moduli, etc. The predictive capabilities of the new proposed computational approach, combining the solutions of kinetic, chain topology, and rheology models, are fully assessed via a direct comparison of model predictions with available experimental measurements on the molecular weight distribution, long‐chain branching, and linear viscoelastic properties of two LDPE grades produced in industrial‐scale reactors.
Equity‐based incentives and collaboration in the modern multibusiness firm
Authors: Oxley Joanne , Pandher Gurupdesh
Published: April 2015

Research summary: This paper examines the role of equity‐based incentives in fostering cross‐business‐unit collaboration in multibusiness firms. We develop a formal agency model in which headquarters offers equity and profit incentives to business‐unit managers with the objective of maximizing total expected firm returns. The resulting compensation contract provides a rich mechanism for aggregating value from collaborative interactions across business units, aligning managers' efforts with the firm's growth prospects and organization structure and managing the dual risks in profits and firm market value. The inclusion of equity incentives elicits higher levels of own‐unit and collaborative efforts over the profits‐only contract. Our results suggest that equity‐based incentives are most beneficial when profitability is uncertain relative to long‐term growth prospects, in firms pursuing related diversification strategies, and in periods of rising equity markets.

Managerial summary: Equity‐based compensation such as restricted stock grants and options are increasingly common, not only for CEOs and other top executives, but also for business unit managers and other non‐C‐suite employees. The paper studies the role of such “global” incentives in enabling multibusiness firms to benefit from cross‐unit collaboration. Results from our model show that managerial contracts that include appropriate levels of equity incentives, in addition to profit‐based incentives, generate higher own‐unit and collaborative efforts. We also find that equity incentives are likely to be most beneficial for large firms in high‐growth sectors, for firms pursuing a related diversification strategy, and in periods of rising stock markets. The model can also provide useful guidance on designing return‐maximizing compensation contracts for business unit managers in different firm, organizational, and industry contexts. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The emerging landscape of small nucleolar RNAs in cell biology
Authors: Dupuis‐Sandoval Fabien , Poirier Mikaël , Scott Michelle S.
Published: April 2015

Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are a large class of small noncoding RNAs present in all eukaryotes sequenced thus far. As a family, they have been well characterized as playing a central role in ribosome biogenesis, guiding either the sequence‐specific chemical modification of pre‐rRNA (ribosomal RNA) or its processing. However, in higher eukaryotes, numerous orphan snoRNAs were described over a decade ago, with no known target or ascribed function, suggesting the possibility of alternative cellular functionality. In recent years, thanks in great part to advances in sequencing methodologies, we have seen many examples of the diversity that exists in the snoRNA family on multiple levels. In this review, we discuss the identification of novel snoRNA members, of unexpected binding partners, as well as the clarification and extension of the snoRNA target space and the characterization of diverse new noncanonical functions, painting a new and extended picture of the snoRNA landscape. Under the deluge of novel features and functions that have recently come to light, snoRNAs emerge as a central, dynamic, and highly versatile group of small regulatory RNAs. WIREs RNA 2015, 6:381–397. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1284

This article is categorized under:

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Ribonomics

RNA Processing > Processing of Small RNAs

Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs
Profiling maternal plasma microRNA expression in early pregnancy to predict gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhu Yanan , Tian Fei , Li Hailing , Zhou Youxia , Lu Jiafeng , Ge Qinyu
Published: April 2015

Objective

To profile the differential expression of plasma miRNAs in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

In a pilot study conducted at a tertiary hospital in China between 2010 and 2014, peripheral blood samples were collected from women at 16–19 weeks of pregnancy. Pooled samples from 10 women who were subsequently diagnosed with GDM and from 10 healthy controls were used to construct two small RNA libraries. High‐throughput sequencing was performed, and differentially expressed miRNAs were validated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), followed by target prediction, Gene Ontology analysis, and pathway identification.

Results

Sequencing revealed 32 miRNAs that were differentially expressed in GDM, including 12 miRNAs that were upregulated and 20 that were downregulated. Differential expression of five upregulated miRNAs (hsa‐miR‐16‐5p, hsa‐miR‐17‐5p, hsa‐miR‐19a‐3p, hsa‐miR‐19b‐3p, hsa‐miR‐20a‐5p) was confirmed by qRT‐PCR. Target prediction showed that the major targets of these miRNAs were associated with insulin resistance and abnormal pregnancies.

Conclusion

The five miRNAs that were differentially expressed in GDM could serve as noninvasive biomarkers. The results also provide insights into the molecular mechanisms that underlie GDM, thereby contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
KRAS and HRAS mutations confer resistance to MET targeting in preclinical models of MET‐expressing tumor cells
Authors: Leiser Dominic , Medová Michaela , Mikami Kei , Nisa Lluís , Stroka Deborah , Blaukat Andree , Bladt Friedhelm , Aebersold Daniel M. , Zimmer Yitzhak
Published: April 2015

The MET receptor tyrosine kinase is often deregulated in human cancers and several MET inhibitors are evaluated in clinical trials. Similarly to EGFR, MET signals through the RAS‐RAF‐ERK/MAPK pathway which plays key roles in cell proliferation and survival. Mutations of genes encoding for RAS proteins, particularly in KRAS, are commonly found in various tumors and are associated with constitutive activation of the MAPK pathway. It was shown for EGFR, that KRAS mutations render upstream EGFR inhibition ineffective in EGFR‐positive colorectal cancers. Currently, there are no clinical studies evaluating MET inhibition impairment due to RAS mutations. To test the impact of RAS mutations on MET targeting, we generated tumor cells responsive to the MET inhibitor EMD1214063 that express KRAS G12V, G12D, G13D and HRAS G12V variants. We demonstrate that these MAPK‐activating RAS mutations differentially interfere with MET‐mediated biological effects of MET inhibition. We report increased residual ERK1/2 phosphorylation indicating that the downstream pathway remains active in presence of MET inhibition. Consequently, RAS variants counteracted MET inhibition‐induced morphological changes as well as anti‐proliferative and anchorage‐independent growth effects. The effect of RAS mutants was reversed when MET inhibition was combined with MEK inhibitors AZD6244 and UO126. In an in vivo mouse xenograft model, MET‐driven tumors harboring mutated RAS displayed resistance to MET inhibition. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the first time in details the role of KRAS and HRAS mutations in resistance to MET inhibition and suggest targeting both MET and MEK as an effective strategy when both oncogenic drivers are expressed.
Association Between Exercise Therapy Dose and Functional Improvements in the Early Postoperative Phase After Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: An Observational Study
Authors: Zech Astrid , Hendrich Simon , Pfeifer Klaus
Published: April 2015

Objective

To determine whether intensity and duration of standard exercise therapy are associated with changes in function after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Orthopedic inpatient rehabilitation center.

Participants

A total of 123 patients 2 weeks after THA (n = 58; age, 62.5 ± 10.4 years) and TKA (n = 65; age, 66.6 ± 7.6 years).

Intervention

Standard rehabilitation (hands‐on physiotherapy, group exercise therapy, strength training, cycle ergometer therapy, continuous passive motion therapy, and water exercise therapy).

Main Outcome Measures

The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and hip and knee range of motion (ROM) were assessed before and after inpatient rehabilitation.

Results

The individual rehabilitation period varied between 12‐25 days and included 48.1 ± 12.5 (THA) or 41.9 ± 9.7 (TKA) exercise interventions with intensities between 9.6 and 14.0 points on the Borg Rate of Perceived Exertion Scale. WOMAC pain (P < .001), stiffness (P < .001), and function (P < .001), as well as hip (P < .001) and knee (P < .001) ROM, improved significantly in THA and TKA patients. Analysis of covariance showed that these changes could not be explained by the total duration or mean intensity of exercise therapy.

Conclusions

The findings show a low dose‐response relationship between early postoperative exercise therapy and the improvements in function or ROM after THA and TKA. Although the findings raise questions about the efficacy of existing rehabilitation programs, the small sample size, single setting, and geographic differences in postoperative treatment standards limit the generalizability of findings.
Reconstruction of past climate variability and ENSO-like fluctuations in the southern Gulf of California (Alfonso Basin) since the last glacial maximum
Authors: Staines-Urías Francisca , González-Yajimovich Oscar , Beaufort Luc
Published: April 2015

Nannofossil assemblages from core MD02-2510 provide a ~ 22 ka record of past oceanographic variability in Alfonso Basin (Gulf of California, east subtropical Pacific). In this area, environmental conditions depend on a monsoonal system heavily influenced by changes in the location of the ITCZ and nearby atmospheric pressure centers. To reconstruct nutricline depth and ENSO-like variability, two ecological indexes were calculated based on the relative abundance of the three dominant coccolith species. The late glacial period is characterized by intensified wind-driven upwelling, high primary productivity and La Niña-like conditions. An environmental shift occurs during the glacial–interglacial transition, El Niño-like conditions intensify, nutricline deepens and surface productivity declines. The late Holocene is characterized by a persistent increase in nutricline depth and dominance of El Niño-like conditions. The fluctuations in the composition of the coccolith assemblages can be related to orbital-scale fluctuations in the average position of the ITCZ. However, while the ENSO-like signal that overprints the record varies in response to orbital forcing, on suborbital time scales the relation between ENSO-like conditions and the average position of the ITCZ and the North Pacific High changes, suggesting that the development of persistent El Niño-like conditions is strongly dependent on the specific climatic background.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with anaemia among African Americans in a US cohort
Authors: Smith Ellen M. , Alvarez Jessica A. , Martin Greg S. , Zughaier Susu M. , Ziegler Thomas R. , Tangpricha Vin
Published: April 2015

Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in the US population and is associated with numerous diseases, including those characterised by inflammatory processes. We aimed to investigate the link between vitamin D status and anaemia, hypothesising that lower vitamin D status would be associated with increased odds of anaemia, particularly anaemia with inflammation. A secondary aim was to examine the effects of race in the association between vitamin D status and anaemia. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis in a cohort of generally healthy adults in Atlanta, GA (n 638). Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between vitamin D status and anaemia. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) < 50 nmol/l (compared to 25(OH)D ≥ 50 nmol/l) was associated with anaemia in bivariate analysis (OR 2·64, 95 % CI 1·43, 4·86). There was significant effect modification by race (P= 0·003), such that blacks with 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l had increased odds of anaemia (OR 6·42, 95 % CI 1·88, 21·99), v. blacks with 25(OH)D ≥ 50 nmol/l, controlling for potential confounders; this association was not apparent in whites. When categorised by subtype of anaemia, blacks with 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l had significantly increased odds of anaemia with inflammation than blacks with serum 25(OH)D ≥ 50 nmol/l (OR 8·42, 95 % CI 1·96, 36·23); there was no association with anaemia without inflammation. In conclusion, serum 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l was significantly associated with anaemia, particularly anaemia with inflammation, among blacks in a generally healthy adult US cohort.
The Literary Expansion of Ezekiel's “Two Sticks” Sign Act (Ezekiel 37:15–28)
Authors: Whitley John B.
Published: April 2015

In Ezek 37:15–28 the prophet Ezekiel is instructed to inscribe two “sticks” (Hebrew), one for Judah and one for Joseph, and to unite them in a visual display meant to signify God's intention to reunite the former kingdoms of Judah and Israel. This intended meaning is made clear in the accompanying oracle (vv. 21–28), which explicitly proclaims this interpretation of the act. This form of prophetic announcement, in which a conspicuous action is followed by an oracle that is, in part or in whole, an interpretation of it, is often referred to as a symbolic action, or “sign act.” Whereas other sign acts in the Hebrew Bible strive for a simple and clear relationship between the act and the prophecy that they introduce, this one is more complex, both in its form and in the hermeneutical relationship between the act and its interpretation.
Exploring the supply and demand factors of varietal turnover in Indian wheat
Authors: KRISHNA V. V. , SPIELMAN D. J. , VEETTIL P. C.
Published: April 2015

Cultivar depreciation – the gradual decline in relative advantage of a cultivated variety over time – accentuates the vulnerability of resource-poor farmers to production risks. The current paper addresses constraints in combating cultivar depreciation of wheat in India. National level data on quoted demand for breeder seeds and breeder seed production indicated a slowdown in the rate of cultivar turnover of wheat, with average varietal age increasing from 9 years in 1997 to 12 years in 2009. Analysis of cultivar adoption patterns among farmer households of Haryana State also indicates that farmers prefer cultivars that were released a decade ago over the recent ones. Cultivar turnover rates are found to be particularly low among marginal farmers. While the structure of India's wheat breeding and seed delivery systems might be the primary cause of slow cultivar turnover, a number of social and economic factors at the micro-level are also responsible. Many of the constraints to technology adoption and wheat productivity growth, identified during the Green Revolution era, persist even today.
Effects of nitrogen rate and genotype on seed protein and amino acid content in canola
Authors: ZUO Q. S. , ZHOU G. S. , YANG S. F. , YANG Y. , WU L. R. , LENG S. H. , YANG G. , WU J. S.
Published: April 2015

Canola (Brassica napusL.) meal is widely used in animal feed as a protein source, and its quality relies on protein and amino acid content. However, little information is available regarding amino acid regulation in canola seed with nitrogen (N) application. The present study is aimed to evaluate the effect of N rate and genotype on canola seed amino acid concentrations under field conditions. A split-plot design comprising four N rates (0, 120, 240 and 360 kg N/ha) and three genotypes differing in seed protein content were used in 2010/11 and 2011/12. The results showed that increasing N rate decreased seed oil content linearly but increased seed protein content in all of the genotypes. The total amino acid concentration and absolute concentrations of individual amino acids in canola seed also improved significantly with the N rates in all of the genotypes. Regarding the proportions of amino acids, a group that included glutamic acid (Glu), proline (Pro) and arginine (Arg) dominated and occupied > 0·30 compared with other amino acids. The ratio of amino acids in this group increased by 8·3% with 360 kg N/ha compared with the control. However, the proportions of the other amino acids showed negative responses to the N rates. The results of regression analysis of the responses of individual amino acids to N rate indicated that Glu, Pro and Arg had a greater improvement potential with application of N fertilizer, as revealed by higher slopes in the linear equations compared with the other amino acids. Additionally, the concentrations of sulphur-containing amino acids, methionine and cysteine, were also a potential target for improving with N application because these are always deficient in major crops. In conclusion, N application cannot only improve seed protein content but also enhance deposition of amino acids such as Glu, Pro and Arg.
Impact of influenza vaccination on respiratory illness rates in children attending private boarding schools in England, 2013–2014: a cohort study
Authors: BROUSSEAU N. , GREEN H. K. , ANDREWS N. , PRYSE R. , BAGUELIN M. , SUNDERLAND A. , ELLIS J. , PEBODY R.
Published: April 2015

Several private boarding schools in England have established universal influenza vaccination programmes for their pupils. We evaluated the impact of these programmes on the burden of respiratory illnesses in boarders. Between November 2013 and May 2014, age-specific respiratory disease incidence rates in boarders were compared between schools offering and not offering influenza vaccine to healthy boarders. We adjusted for age, sex, school size and week using negative binomial regression. Forty-three schools comprising 14 776 boarders participated. Almost all boarders (99%) were aged 11–17 years. Nineteen (44%) schools vaccinated healthy boarders against influenza, with a mean uptake of 48·5% (range 14·2–88·5%). Over the study period, 1468 respiratory illnesses were reported in boarders (5·66/1000 boarder-weeks); of these, 33 were influenza-like illnesses (ILIs, 0·26/1000 boarder-weeks) in vaccinating schools and 95 were ILIs (0·74/1000 boarder-weeks) in non-vaccinating schools. The impact of vaccinating healthy boarders was a 54% reduction in ILI in all boarders [rate ratio (RR) 0·46, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·28–0·76]. Disease rates were also reduced for upper respiratory tract infections (RR 0·72, 95% CI 0·61–0·85) and chest infections (RR 0·18, 95% CI 0·09–0·36). These findings demonstrate a significant impact of influenza vaccination on ILI and other clinical endpoints in secondary-school boarders. Additional research is needed to investigate the impact of influenza vaccination in non-boarding secondary-school settings.
Temporal and spatial patterns of diarrhoea in the Mekong Delta area, Vietnam
Authors: PHUNG D. , HUANG C. , RUTHERFORD S. , CHU C. , WANG X. , NGUYEN M. , NGUYEN N. H. , DO C. M. , NGUYEN T. H.
Published: April 2015

This study examined the temporal and spatial patterns of diarrhoea in relation to hydro-meteorological factors in the Mekong Delta area in Vietnam. A time-series design was applied to examine the temporal pattern of the climate–diarrhoea relationship using Poisson regression models. Spatial analysis was applied to examine the spatial clusters of diarrhoea using Global Moran'sIand local indicators of spatial autocorrelation (LISA). The temporal pattern showed that the highest peak of diarrhoea was from weeks 30–42 corresponding to August–October annually. A 1 cm increase in river water level at a lag of 1 week was associated with a small [0·07%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·01–0·1] increase in the diarrhoeal rate. A 1 °C increase in temperature at lag of 2 and 4 weeks was associated with a 1·5% (95% CI 0·3−2·7) and 1·1% (95% CI 0·1−2·3) increase in diarrhoeal risk, respectively. Relative humidity and diarrhoeal risk were in nonlinear relationship. The spatial analysis showed significant clustering of diarrhoea, and the LISA map shows three multi-centred diarrhoeal clusters and three single-centred clusters in the research location. The findings suggest that climatic conditions projected to be associated with climate change have important implication for human health impact in the Mekong Delta region.