bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microglia and sexual differentiation of the developing brain: A focus on ontogeny and intrinsic factors
Authors: Bordt Evan A. , Ceasrine Alexis M. , Bilbo Staci D.
Published: November 2019

Sexual differentiation of the brain during early development likely underlies the strong sex biases prevalent in many neurological conditions. Mounting evidence indicates that microglia, the innate immune cells of the central nervous system, are intricately involved in these sex‐specific processes of differentiation. In this review, we synthesize literature demonstrating sex differences in microglial number, morphology, transcriptional state, and functionality throughout spatiotemporal development as well as highlight current literature regarding ontogeny of microglia. Along with vanRyzin et al. in this issue, we explore the idea that differences in microglia imparted by chromosomal or ontogeny‐related programming can influence microglial‐driven sexual differentiation of the brain, as well as the idea that extrinsic differences in the male and female brain microenvironment may in turn impart sex differences in microglia.
Dose‐dependent cytotoxicity induced by pristine graphene oxide nanosheets for potential bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Zhang Xiliu , Wei Changbo , Li Yiming , Li Ye , Chen Guanhui , He Yi , Yi Chen , Wang Chao , Yu Dongsheng
Published: November 2019

This study was aimed to investigate the toxic effects of pristine graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets on bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), a type of traditional seed cells in tissue regeneration engineering. First, a GO suspension was prepared and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman shifts. Then, rat BMSCs were isolated and characterized. Subsequently, cell proliferation, membrane integrity, cell cycle, cell apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured. In addition, relevant proteins of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and autophagy were analyzed. Our results showed that a high concentration of GO inhibited cell viability and membrane integrity, while cell apoptosis and cell‐cycle arrest were induced by GO. Further, GO significantly increased ROS generation and MMP loss with an upregulation of Cleaved Caspase‐3, LC3‐II/I, and Beclin‐1 and a downregulation of Bcl‐2 and Caspase3. We concluded that the toxic effects of GO on BMSCs occurred in a dose‐dependent manner via the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and autophagy.
Sclerostin Antibody Treatment Increases Bone Mass and Normalizes Circulating Phosphate Levels in Growing Hyp Mice
Authors: Carpenter Kelsey A , Ross Ryan D
Published: November 2019

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), caused by a loss-of-function mutation in the phosphate regulating gene with homology to endopeptidase located on the X chromosome (PHEX), is the most common form of vitamin D-resistant rickets. Loss of functional PHEX results in elevated fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) levels, impaired phosphate reabsorption, and inhibited skeletal mineralization. Sclerostin, a protein produced primarily in osteocytes, suppresses bone formation by antagonizing Wnt signaling and is reported to be elevated in XLH patients. This study used the Hyp mouse model to investigate sclerostin's role in the pathophysiology of XLH by evaluating the use of a monoclonal antibody to sclerostin in a mouse model of XLH, the Hyp mouse. Male and female wild-type and Hyp littermates were injected with 25 mg/kg of vehicle or sclerostin antibody (Scl-Ab) twice weekly, beginning at 4 weeks of age and euthanized at 8 weeks of age. Scl-Ab treatment increased serum phosphate levels and suppressed circulating levels of intact FGF23 in treated wild-type and Hyp mice of both sexes. Cortical area, trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV), metaphyseal apparent density, and the peak load increased with Scl-Ab treatment in both sexes. This short-term treatment study suggests that Scl-Ab treatment can effectively improve some of the pathologies associated with XLH, including normalization of phosphate, and that sclerostin may play a role in regulating FGF23 and phosphate metabolism in XLH. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
PyRETIS 2: An improbability drive for rare events
Authors: Riccardi Enrico , Lervik Anders , Roet Sander , Aarøen Ola , van Erp Titus S.
Published: November 2019

The algorithmic development in the field of path sampling has made tremendous progress in recent years. Although the original transition path sampling method was mostly used as a qualitative tool to sample reaction paths, the more recent family of interface‐based path sampling methods has paved the way for more quantitative rate calculation studies. Of the exact methods, the replica exchange transition interface sampling (RETIS) method is the most efficient, but rather difficult to implement. This has been the main motivation to develop the open‐source Python‐based computer library PyRETIS that was released in 2017. PyRETIS is designed to be easily interfaced with any molecular dynamics (MD) package using either classical or ab initio MD. In this study, we report on the principles and the software enhancements that are now included in PyRETIS 2, as well as the recent developments on the user interface, improvements of the efficiency via the implementation of new shooting moves, easier initialization procedures, analysis methods, and supported interfaced software. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Computational Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Isolated low levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and stroke incidence: JMS Cohort Study
Authors: Watanabe Jun , Kakehi Eiichi , Kotani Kazuhiko , Kayaba Kazunori , Nakamura Yosikazu , Ishikawa Shizukiyo
Published: November 2019

Background

The cardiovascular relevance of isolated low levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) is yet to be determined. Stroke often leads to long‐term disability, and thus, not only stroke mortality but also stroke incidence is a topic of research. Although isolated low HDL‐C level has been found to be a predictor for stroke mortality previously, whether it can predict stroke incidence is unknown.

Methods

In the Jichi Medical School cohort study, 11 025 community‐living residents without a history of stroke were examined. Hazard ratios (HRs) for isolated and non‐isolated low HDL‐C levels were calculated relative to those for normal HDL‐C levels in stroke patients using Cox's regression models.

Results

During the mean follow‐up period of 10.7 years, 412 residents had their first‐ever stroke. The multivariable‐adjusted HRs for the levels of isolated and non‐isolated low HDL‐C were 1.11 (95% confidence interval, 0.85‐1.44) and 1.35 (1.01‐1.81), respectively, when compared to that for normal HDL‐C.

Conclusion

Low HDL‐C levels with other dyslipidemias may contribute to the incidence of stroke, not isolated low HDL‐C.
The RAS‐PI3K‐AKT‐NF‐κB pathway transcriptionally regulates the expression of BCL2 family and IAP family genes and inhibits apoptosis in fibrous epulis
Authors: Jiang Yangyang , Fang Bing , Xu Bin , Chen Liang
Published: November 2019

Background

Epulis has a tumor‐like appearance but is considered to be a massive reactive lesion rather than a true neoplasia. Limited information about the pathogenesis of epulis is available. The purpose of our study was to identify potential signaling pathways in fibrous epulis through transcriptome profiling.

Methods

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between fibrous epulis lesions and normal gingival tissues were detected using RNA sequencing (RNAseq). The expression levels of eighteen genes were validated using quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR).

Results

RNAseq identified 533 upregulated genes and 732 downregulated genes. The top 10 upregulated genes were IL11, OSM, MMP3, KRT75, MMP1, IL6, IL1B, IL24, SP7, and ADGRG3. The top 10 downregulated genes were BCHE, TYR, DCT, KRT222, RP11‐507K12.1, COL6A5, PMP2, GFRA1, SCN7A, and CDH19. KEGG pathway analysis further indicated that the DEGs were enriched in “Pathways in cancer” and the “Ras signaling pathway”. quantitative real‐time PCR verified that the expression levels of SOS1, HRAS, PIK3CA, AKT3, IKBKA, IKBKB, NFKB1, BCL2, BCL2L1, XIAP, BIRC2, and BIRC3 were increased significantly.

Conclusions

The current transcriptomic profiling study reveals that in fibrous epulis, RAS‐PI3K‐AKT‐NF‐κB pathway transcriptionally regulates the expression of BCL2 family and IAP family genes, leading to increased proliferation and apoptosis inhibition.
Preparation of TiO2 supported on MDF biochar for simultaneous removal of methylene blue by adsorption and photocatalysis
Authors: Silvestri Siara , Stefanello Nádia , Sulkovski Aline Alexia , Foletto Edson Luiz
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

This article reports for the first time the preparation and characterization of biochar/titanium dioxide (TiO2) composites by pyrolysis from medium‐density fiberboard (MDF) biomass. Their adsorptive and photocatalytic activities were evaluated by removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions with and without UV‐light irradiation.

RESULTS

Characterization results suggested that the composite have different intrinsic characteristics in relation to the precursors. The biochar and TiO2 amounts of the composite significantly affected its performance. The MB removal efficiency with 1 g L−1 of the composite with 10% w/w TiO2 (B10T sample) was 2.3 and 2.2 times faster than that the B5T and B1T samples, respectively, and 1.5 times faster than TiO2 alone.

CONCLUSION

The loading of TiO2 significantly enhanced the adsorption performance of the composite and factors such as specific surface area, pore volume and pore size of the biochar synergistically promoted the photocatalytic activity of TiO2, coupled with a lower band gap for all composites produced. Both adsorption and photocatalytic efficiencies were confirmed to contribute to the degradation of the aqueous solution of MB by the hydroxyl radical (•OH) in lower molecular mass by‐products. The synthesized composite is a promising alternative sustainable material for removing chemical contaminants, since the biochar used as a support comes from the waste of the furniture industry. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Controlling the l‐asparaginase extraction and purification by the appropriate selection of polymer/salt‐based aqueous biphasic systems
Authors: Magri Agnes , Pimenta Marcela V , Santos João HPM , Coutinho João AP , Ventura Sónia PM , Monteiro Gisele , Rangel‐Yagui Carlota O , Pereira Jorge FB
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

l‐Asparaginase (ASNase) is an important biopharmaceutical for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL); however, with some restrictions due to its high manufacturing costs. Aqueous biphasic systems (ABS) have been suggested as more economical platforms for the separation/purification of proteins, but a full understanding of the mechanisms behind the ASNase partition is still a major challenge. Polymer/salt‐based ABS with different driving‐forces (salting‐out and hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity effects) were herein applied to control the partition of commercial ASNase.

RESULTS

The main results showed the ASNase partition to the salt‐ or polymer‐rich phase depending on the ABS studied, with extraction efficiencies higher than 95%. For systems composed of inorganic salts, the ASNase partition was controlled by the polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecular weight used. Cholinium‐salts‐based ABS were able to promote a preferential ASNase partition to the polymer‐rich phase using PEG‐600 and to the salt‐rich phase using a more hydrophobic polypropylene glycol (PPG)‐400 polymer. It was possible to select the ABS composed of PEG‐2000 + potassium phosphate buffer as the most efficient to separate the ASNase from the main contaminant proteins (purification factor = 2.4 ± 0.2), while it was able to maintain the enzyme activity for posterior application as part of a therapeutic.

CONCLUSION

Polymer/salt ABS can be used to control the partition of ASNase and adjust its purification yields, demonstrating the ABS potential as more economic platform for the selective recovery of therapeutic enzymes from complex broths. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Biosensing of algal‐photosynthetic productivity using nanostructured bioelectrochemical systems
Authors: Mahmoud Rehab H , Abdo Sayeda M , Samhan Farag A , Ibrahim Mohamed K , Ali Gamila H , Hassan Rabeay YA
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Microalgae have attracted worldwide interest resulting from their extensive applications in renewable energy and biomass production. However, in algal fuel cells, photosynthetically evolved oxygen hinders the use of algal biofilms formed at the anode surface. Here, nanostructured bio‐electrochemical systems have been designed to explore the algal bio‐electrochemistry at different illumination and growth conditions.

RESULTS

Three algal strains were screened for their exoelectrogenic activity and the possibility of direct electron transfer to the chemically modified surfaces. After adjusting light and dark conditions and medium compositions, oxygen production within the fuel cells was regulated. At the anode surface, the obtained bioelectrochemical responses and the morphological characterizations suggested that Oscillatoria agardhii has the potential to serve as electron donor and the nanostructured surface is the final electron acceptor. To that end, dual‐chamber algal fuel cells were constructed and glucose (10 g L–1) was used as carbon source.

CONCLUSION

Power density of 26.8 mW m–2 was produced using the biofilm formed by O. agardhii. Eventually, the consumption of organic waste was monitored, whereas the chemical oxygen demand removal reached 82%. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Organic phase screening for in‐stream reactive extraction of bio‐based 3‐hydroxypropionic acid: biocompatibility and extraction performances
Authors: Sánchez‐Castañeda Ana Karen , Moussa Marwen , Ngansop Luther , Trelea Ioan Cristian , Athès Violaine
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

3‐Hydroxypropionic acid (3‐HP) production through glycerol bioconversion by Lactobacillus reuteri suffers from low yields and productivities due to product inhibition. Reactive extraction assisted by a Hollow Fibre Membrane Contactor (HFMC) is a promising strategy for process intensification. However, the use of this integrated system is hindered by extraction phase toxicity towards the microorganism. This study describes a solvent selection strategy based on extraction performance (extraction yield and viscosity, related to mass transfer), and a low solvent toxicity, in order to find an extraction phase composition that allows continuous in stream extraction of 3‐HP.

RESULTS

Inert diluent addition to a trioctylamine (TOA)‐decanol mixture decreased its toxicity and viscosity but decreased extraction yield. The linear and ramified long‐chain alcohols tested showed that increasing the number of carbon atoms decreased extraction performance as well as toxicity. Ramified alcohols showed the lowest extraction performance. Didodecylmethylamine (DDMA) gave higher extraction yield and lower solvent toxicity than TOA. Flow cytometry with dual staining for cell membrane integrity and enzymatic activity proved to give concordant and complementary information with cell bioconversion ability, being an adequate and quick method for solvent toxicity assessment. The selected organic phase consisted of 20% DDMA, 47% dodecanol and 33% dodecane by volume, and can be used for in‐stream extraction of 3‐HP produced by L. reuteri.

CONCLUSIONS

The integrated selection criteria proposed in this study – extraction yield, solvent viscosity and toxicity – provide key information for choosing an organic phase with the best trade‐off between extraction performance and biocompatibility. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Genome‐wide identification of nonvisual opsin family reveals amplification of RPE‐retinal G protein receptor gene (RGR) and offers novel insights into functions of RGR(s) in Paralichthys olivaceus (Paralichthyidae, Teleostei)
Authors: Liu Yuezhong , Zhang Wei , Du Xinxin , Liu Yuxiang , Qu Jiangbo , Liu Xiaobing , Liu Jinxiang , Zhang Quanqi
Published: November 2019

Opsins play important roles in the image‐forming visual pathways and numerous biological systems such as the biological clock and circadian rhythm. However, the nonvisual opsins involved in nonimage forming process are not clear to date. The aim of this study was to characterize nonvisual opsins in Paralichthys olivaceus. A total of 24 nonvisual opsin genes were identified. Expressions of these genes in eye, brain, heart, testis, and fin were investigated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Testis contained a surprisingly large number of nonvisual opsins including Opn4m2, Tmt2a, Tmt3b, Opn3, RRH, Opn7a, and Opn7b. Syntenic and phylogenetic analyses confirmed that the RGRa and RGRb originated from the teleost‐specific genome duplication (TSGD). qRT‐PCR results demonstrated high RGRa and RGRb expression in the eye, while the expression levels in the brain, heart, testis, and fin were relatively weak. In situ hybridization results presented here revealed the presence of both RGRa and RGRb mRNA‐positive signals in the ganglion cell layer but absence in the intracellular compartment of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Müller glial cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that RGRa and RGRb had undergone subfunctionalization in P. olivaceus after TSGD. In conclusion, this study provides novel insights into the evolutionary fates of the RGR genes, still, further studies need to be done to explore the mechanism about the lack of RGR genes' expression in RPE.
Three‐component, one‐pot synthesis of pyrano[3,2‐c]chromene derivatives catalyzed by ammonium acetate: Synthesis, characterization, cation binding, and biological determination
Authors: Mhiri Chiheb , Boubakri Lamia , Ternane Riadh , Mansour Lamjed , Harrath Abdel Halim , Al‐Tamimi J. , Baklouti Lassaad , Hamdi Naceur
Published: November 2019

Three‐component reaction of arylaldehydes with malononitrile and 4‐hydroxycoumarine using CH3COONH4 as a catalyst at reflux was used for the synthesis of novel substituted pyrano[3,2‐c]chromene derivatives. The structure of these compounds was assigned by spectroscopic data such as (IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and mass spectral data). The cation binding properties of chromene derivatives 4a‐c towards Cu2+, Ni2+, and Zn2+ were studied in methanol. The results showed that Zn2+ is the most complexed in this series of cations, and 4c is best complexed with either Ni2+ and Zn2+. Antimicrobial properties of new pyrano[3,2‐c]chromene derivatives are investigated, the compound 4c presents against Micrococcus luteus LB 14110 an MIC value of 0.0185 mg/mL quite better to that of ampicillin (0.0195 mg/mL) used as standard. Concerning acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity (AChEI), compound 4c presents an interesting AChEI activity with an inhibition of 52%.
Evolution of annual report: A longitudinal investigation between 1973 and 2015
Authors: Uyar Ali
Published: November 2019

This study analyzes how corporate annual reports have evolved between 1973 and 2015. The coverage of annual reports is cyclical while the average cycle spans over several years rather than one single year. We suppose that external shocks such as the financial crisis affect this trend. The results show that reports have substantially improved in content and design and presented more information that is relevant for the stakeholders. In particular, annual reports have evolved into more comprehensive business documentation. It is undergoing an evolution in financial information as well as in nonfinancial data. Although the stockholders were the main target of annual reports in earlier years, the stakeholders seem to be the main target of the report in later years. Over time, reports gained more professional look while presenting more voluntary and mandatory information.
Dietary supplementation with pioglitazone hydrochloride and chromium methionine manipulates lipid metabolism with related genes to improve the intramuscular fat and fatty acid profile of yellow‐feathered chickens
Authors: Jin Cheng‐long , Zeng Huan‐ren , Gao Chun‐qi , Yan Hui‐chao , Tan Hui‐ze , Wang Xiu‐qi
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Intramuscular fat (IMF) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been thought to play a crucial role in improving meat quality. Considering the ability of pioglitazone hydrochloride (PGZ) to deposit fat, and the anti‐stress capability of chromium methionine (CrMet), we combined these compounds to produce higher quality meat in poultry. A total of 3000 female chickens were divided into four groups (five replicates, each with 150 chickens): control, control plus15 mg·kg−1 PGZ, control plus 200 μg·kg−1 CrMet, and control plus15 mg·kg−1 PGZ plus 200 μg·kg−1 CrMet. The experiment lasted for 28 days.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group and the PGZ group, the average daily gain (ADG) was significantly increased in the PGZ plus CrMet group, whereas the feed‐to‐gain ratio (F/G) was decreased from 0 to 14 days. Meanwhile, the redness value of breast muscle and IMF of thigh muscle increased in the PGZ plus CrMet group compared with the control group and these detections in the PGZ plus CrMet group exhibited highest value among the four groups. The cooking loss decreased in the breast muscle and thigh muscle after PGZ combined with CrMet in diets. The percentages of C16:1, C18:2n‐6 and PUFAs increased in the PGZ plus CrMet group. The mRNA abundance of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) γ, PPAR coactivator 1 α, and fatty acid binding protein 3 was significantly enhanced with PGZ plus CrMet supplementation.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, dietary supplementation with PGZ plus CrMet improved growth performance and meat quality by decreasing the cooking loss and increasing the IMF and PUFA levels. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Functional and conformational properties of proteolytic enzyme‐modified potato protein isolate
Authors: Akbari Nastaran , Mohammadzadeh Milani Jafar , Biparva Pourya
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Potato protein hydrolysates (PPHs) were preparedwith Alcalase on intact potato protein isolates (PPI), with differenthydrolysis times (0.5–4 h), and functional and conformational properties of resultant hydrolysates were investigated.

RESULTS

The degree of hydrolysis changed during incubation. Peptide bond cleavage increased and hydrolysis progressed rapidly. Gel electrophoresis showed that, by increasing the hydrolysis time, peptides with an apparent molecular weight below 20 kDa increased. It also revealed that, among potato protein components, patatin was more sensitive to Alcalase® hydrolysis than protease inhibitors. Enzymatic hydrolysis significantly enhanced the solubility and foam capacity of PPHs, but impaired foam stability (P < 0.05). Limited enzymatic hydrolysates (0.5PPH) at the interface improved the emulsion activity and stability index. These emulsions also had the smallest z‐average and polydispersity index and showed the highest zeta potential. Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) analysis indicated extensive disruption of hydrogen bonds in PPHs, besides augmentation of α‐helices and β‐turns, and a decline in the β‐sheets in the secondary structure of the PPHs was shown.

CONCLUSION

Potato protein isolate, especially 0.5PPH, has good functional and conformational properties. Overall, our results provide new insights into the use of potato protein hydrolysates as a functional food component in the food industry. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Feasibility of Resistance Exercise for Posttraumatic Stress and Anxiety Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Whitworth James W. , Nosrat Sanaz , SantaBarbara Nicholas J. , Ciccolo Joseph T.
Published: November 2019

Emerging evidence suggests that exercise may beneficially affect posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), but few randomized trials exist. Additionally, the effects of resistance exercise (i.e., weight lifting or strength training) on PTSS have not been thoroughly examined. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of a brief high‐intensity resistance exercise intervention for PTSS and related issues, such as anxiety, sleep, alcohol use, and depression, in non‐treatment–seeking adults who screened positive for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. The sample included 30 non‐treatment–seeking, urban‐dwelling adults (M age = 29.10 years, SD = 7.38; 73.3% female) who screened positive for PTSD and anxiety and were randomly assigned to either a 3‐week resistance exercise intervention or a time‐matched contact control condition. The results suggest the intervention was feasible, with 80.0% (n = 24) of participants completing the study, 88.9% of the resistance exercise sessions attended, and no adverse effects reported. Additionally, resistance exercise had large beneficial effects on symptoms of avoidance, d = 1.26, 95% CI [0.39, 2.14]; and hyperarousal, d = 0.90, 95% CI [0.06, 1.74], relative to the control condition. Resistance exercise also produced large improvements concerning sleep quality, d = 1.31, 95% CI [0.41, 2.21], and hazardous alcohol use, d = 0.99, 95% CI [0.13, 1.86], compared to the control condition. Overall, the findings suggest that 3 weeks of high‐intensity resistance exercise is a feasible intervention for PTSS reduction in non‐treatment–seeking adults who screen positive for PTSD and anxiety; additional research is needed to verify these preliminary findings.
Dogs and Disease Threats to Giant Pandas in China
Authors: Yan Xia , Owens Jacob R. , Wen Yiping , Su Xiaoyan , Wang Zhenghao , Liu Songrui , Zhang Dongsheng , Callan Ramana , Wenlei Bi , Qi Dunwu , Spotila James R. , Hou Rong , Zhang Zhihe
Published: November 2019

The potential threat of domestic dogs to wildlife habitat in China is not widely recognized, despite their large population, lack of regulations regarding their control, and threat they pose to native species. In a case study in 2017, we surveyed villages surrounding Liziping Nature Reserve, the primary site for the release of captive‐born giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) into the wild. We conducted surveys of dog owners to assess the population size, demographics, free‐roaming status, and vaccination and sterilization history of their dogs. We collected blood and fecal samples to assess the prevalence of viral and parasite disease threats. At least 370 owned dogs lived near the core giant panda habitat; 64% were free‐roaming, 21% had positive antibody titers for ≥1 of the 4 viruses we tested (canine distemper, parvovirus, rotavirus, rabies), and 67% were positive for gastrointestinal parasites. The high proportion of free‐roaming dogs, uninhibited access to the reserve, and high prevalence of infectious diseases indicate that dogs pose a serious threat to wildlife within Liziping. The extent of this threat throughout the giant panda nature reserve network is unknown and should be assessed. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Wildlife Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Wildlife Society.
The Sustainability of Wolverine Trapping Mortality in Southern Canada
Authors: Mowat Garth , Clevenger Anthony P. , Kortello Andrea D. , Hausleitner Doris , Barrueto Mirjam , Smit Laura , Lamb Clayton , DorsEy BenJAMIN , Ott Peter K.
Published: November 2019

Range declines, habitat connectivity, and trapping have created conservation concern for wolverines throughout their range in North America. Previous researchers used population models and observed estimates of survival and reproduction to infer that current trapping rates limit population growth, except perhaps in the far north where trapping rates are lower. Assessing the sustainability of trapping requires demographic and abundance data that are expensive to acquire and are therefore usually only achievable for small populations, which makes generalization risky. We surveyed wolverines over a large area of southern British Columbia and Alberta, Canada, used spatial capture‐recapture models to estimate density, and calculated trapping kill rates using provincial fur harvest data. Wolverine density averaged 2 wolverines/1,000 km2 and was positively related to spring snow cover and negatively related to road density. Observed annual trapping mortality was >8.4%/year. This level of mortality is unlikely to be sustainable except in rare cases where movement rates are high among sub‐populations and sizable un‐trapped refuges exist. Our results suggest wolverine trapping is not sustainable because our study area was fragmented by human and natural barriers and few large refuges existed. We recommend future wolverine trapping mortality be reduced by ≥50% throughout southern British Columbia and Alberta to promote population recovery. © 2019 The Authors. The Journal of Wildlife Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Wildlife Society.
Neurophysiological monitoring of tongue muscle activation during hypoglossal nerve stimulation
Authors: Sturm Joshua J. , Modik Oleg , Suurna Maria V.
Published: November 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Upper airway stimulation for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) via implantable hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) reduces airway obstruction by selectively stimulating nerve fibers that innervate muscles that produce tongue protrusion, while avoiding fibers that produce tongue retraction. This selective stimulation likely depends upon the location, intensity, and type of electrical stimulation delivered. This study investigates the impact of changing stimulation parameters on tongue muscle activation during HGNS using intraoperative nerve integrity monitoring in conjunction with electromyography (EMG).

Study Design

Prospective case series.

Methods

Ten patients undergoing unilateral HGNS implantation for OSA in a university hospital setting were studied. Data included EMG responses in tongue muscles that produce protrusion (genioglossus), retraction (styloglossus/hyoglossus), and stiffening (transverse/vertical) in response to intraoperative bipolar probe electrical stimulation of lateral and medial branches of the hypoglossal nerve (HGN) and to implantable pulse generator (IPG) unipolar and bipolar settings after placement of the stimulation cuff.

Results

Stimulation of medial division HGN branches resulted in EMG responses in genioglossus muscles, but not in styloglossus/hyoglossus muscles, whereas stimulation of the lateral division HGN branches drove responses in styloglossus/hyoglossus muscles. Variable responses in transverse/vertical muscles were observed with stimulation of lateral and medial division branches. After electrode cuff placement, unipolar and bipolar HGN stimulation configurations of IPG resulted in unique patterns of muscle activation.

Conclusions

The relative activation of extrinsic and intrinsic tongue musculature by HGNS is determined by stimulus location, intensity, and type. Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring of tongue muscle activation enables proper electrode cuff placement and may provide essential data for stimulus optimization.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:1836–1843, 2020
Relationship between video head impulse test, ocular and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials, and compartmental magnetic resonance imaging classification in menière's disease
Authors: Kahn Laureline , Hautefort Charlotte , Guichard Jean‐Pierre , Toupet Michel , Jourdaine Clément , Vitaux Hélène , Herman Philippe , Kania Romain , Houdart Emmanuel , Attyé Arnaud , Eliezer Michael
Published: November 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Currently, it is possible to assess in vivo the morphology of each compartment of the endolymphatic spaces 4 hours after an intravenous administration of gadolinium on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between otolithic and ampullar functions (cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential [cVEMP], ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential [oVEMP], video head impulse test [VHIT]) and delayed inner ear MRI based on a compartmental, anatomically based classification that included the cochlea, the saccule, the utricle, and the ampullas.

Study Design

Retrospective case–control study.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we performed three‐dimensional fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery sequences with delayed acquisition in 26 healthy subjects and 31 definite Menière's disease (MD) patients. Each subject was then graded on MRI on the basis on cochlear, saccular, utricular, and ampullar hydrops in MD patients. All patients underwent pure‐tone audiometry, VHIT, cVEMP, and oVEMP testing.

Results

Cochlear, saccular, utricular, and ampullar hydrops were found on MRI in 88%, 91%, 50%, and 8.5% respectively. We found no significant correlation between the presence of saccular hydrops versus cVEMP, utricular hydrops versus oVEMP, and ampullar hydrops versus VHIT. However, the severity of endolymphatic hydrops on MRI was correlated to the degree of hearing loss.

Conclusions

We proposed a compartmental, anatomically based classification for endolymphatic hydrops on MRI, which included the whole vestibular compartment. Using this classification, we observed increasing morphological changes as the disease evolved, affecting first the saccule, then the utricle, and finally the ampullas. The severity of vestibular endolymphatic hydrops is only correlated to hearing loss severity.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 130:E444–E452, 2020
New problems of food security in Northwest China: A sustainability perspective
Authors: Liu Xian , Shi Lijie , Qian Haiyang , Sun Shikun , Wu Pute , Zhao Xining , Engel Bernie A. , Wang Yubao
Published: November 2019

China's food security has met standards set by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. However, this development is based on excessive resource input and sacrificing the environment. There are few studies on how to evaluate food production systems with a sustainability framework. In order to guarantee the food security in Northwest China, and realize the sustainable development of agricultural production, this study was carried out. On the basis of comprehensive analysis of new problems faced, including water resources, cultivated land resources and ecological security, several indicators such as water resources development and utilization rate, cultivated land pressure index, cultivated land quality index, N and P emissions and emission intensity are proposed to comprehensively evaluate the sustainability of grain production in Northwest China and put forward countermeasures to realize regional sustainable development. The results show that the water resources are already at a high‐stress level as the development and utilization rate of water resources is 42.7% in 2015. Industrial and domestic water continues to squeeze agricultural water use (annual average reduction of 0.1%). The amount of per capita cultivated land in 2015 has decreased by 9.7% compared to 2000. The quality index of cultivated land is as low as 0.22. A series of ecological problems caused by agricultural production have intensified the ecological crisis in the Northwest, which in turn will further affect food security. Suggestions to address these issues include improving agricultural water use efficiency, strengthening the measures of arable land conservation, improving fertilizer utilization efficiency and reducing plastic‐film mulch residues.
Biogeochemical asynchrony: Ecosystem drivers of seasonal concentration regimes across the Great Lakes Basin
Authors: Van Meter Kim J. , Chowdhury Shadman , Byrnes Danyka K. , Basu Nandita B.
Published: November 2019

Changes in seasonal nutrient dynamics are occurring across a range of climates and land use types. Although it is known that seasonal patterns in nutrient availability are key drivers of both stream metabolism and eutrophication, there has been little success in developing a comprehensive understanding of seasonal variations in nutrient export across watersheds or of the relationship between nutrient seasonality and watershed characteristics. In the present study, we have used concentration and discharge data from more than 200 stations across U.S. and Canadian watersheds to identify (1) archetypal seasonal concentration regimes for nitrate, soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP), and total phosphorus, and (2) dominant watershed controls on these regimes across a gradient of climate, land use, and topography. Our analysis shows that less impacted watersheds, with more forested and wetland area, most commonly exhibit concentration regimes that are in phase with discharge, with concentration lows occurring during summer low‐flow periods. Agricultural watersheds also commonly exhibit in‐phase behavior, though the seasonality is usually muted compared to that seen in less impacted areas. With increasing urban area, however, nutrient concentrations frequently become essentially aseasonal or even exhibit clearly out‐of‐phase behavior. In addition, our data indicate that seasonal SRP concentration patterns may be strongly influenced by proximal controls such as the presence of dams and reservoirs. In all, these results suggest that human activity is significantly altering nutrient concentration regimes, with large potential consequences for both in‐stream metabolism and eutrophication risk in downstream waterbodies.
Nutrient regulation of late spring phytoplankton blooms in the midlatitude North Atlantic
Authors: Browning Thomas J. , Al‐Hashem Ali A. , Hopwood Mark J. , Engel Anja , Wakefield Ewan D. , Achterberg Eric P.
Published: November 2019

The duration and magnitude of the North Atlantic spring bloom impacts both higher trophic levels and oceanic carbon sequestration. Nutrient exhaustion offers a general explanation for bloom termination, but detail on which nutrients and their relative influence on phytoplankton productivity, community structure, and physiology is lacking. Here, we address this using nutrient addition bioassay experiments conducted across the midlatitude North Atlantic in June 2017 (late spring). In four out of six experiments, phytoplankton accumulated over 48–72 h following individual additions of either iron (Fe) or nitrogen (N). In the remaining two experiments, Fe and N were serially limiting, that is, their combined addition sequentially enhanced phytoplankton accumulation. Silicic acid (Si) added in combination with N + Fe led to further chlorophyll a (Chl a) enhancement at two sites. Conversely, addition of zinc, manganese, cobalt, vitamin B12, or phosphate in combination with N + Fe did not. At two sites, the simultaneous supply of all six nutrients, in combination with N + Fe, also led to no further Chl a enhancement, but did result in an additional 30–60% particulate carbon accumulation. This particulate carbon accumulation was not matched by a Redfield equivalent of particulate N, characteristic of high C:N organic exudates that enhance cell aggregation and sinking. Our results suggest that growth rates of larger phytoplankton were primarily limited by Fe and/or N, making the availability of these nutrients the main bottom‐up factors contributing to spring bloom termination. In addition, the simultaneous availability of other nutrients could modify bloom characteristics and carbon export efficiency.
Dual‐band horizontally/dual‐polarized antennas for WiFi/WLAN/ISM applications
Authors: Gong Qing , Xiao Meizhen , Luo Peng , Cui Yuehui
Published: November 2019

A dual‐band horizontally polarized (HP) antenna with omnidirectional radiation patterns is presented in this paper. The HP antenna is a vertical slot backed with a metal box, which is excited by a tapered feeding patch with a U‐slit for dual‐band operation. Good omnidirectional radiations are observed. A dual‐band dual‐polarized (DP) antenna is then developed by adding a dual‐band vertically polarized (VP) element to the HP element. The VP element is composed of two horizontal slots excited by a two‐branch feedline. The dual‐band DP antenna achieves an overlapped impedance bandwidth of 6% (2.34‐2.5 GHz) for the lower band and 15% (5.06‐5.91 GHz) for the upper band with an isolation of higher than 35 dB. Both the dual‐band HP and DP antennas are suitable to serve as WiFi/WLAN/ISM antennas for short‐range, low power wireless communications.
Evaluating person‐centredness for frail older persons in nursing homes before and after implementing a palliative care intervention
Authors: Bökberg Christina , Behm Lina , Wallerstedt Birgitta , Ahlström Gerd
Published: November 2019

Aim

To evaluate person‐centeredness in nursing homes from the perspective of frail older persons, before and after implementing an educational intervention about palliative care.

Design

A crossover design.

Methods

Forty‐four older persons living in nursing homes were interviewed. A convergent mixed‐method was used to analyse data.

Results

The older persons expressed feelings of unsafety related to shortcomings in staff. These shortcomings implied that the responsibilities of everyday activities and making the residents’ existence more bearable were transferred to the next of kin. The dropout rate related to death and not enough energy was considerably high (51%) even though one of the inclusion criteria was to have enough energy to manage a 1‐hr interview. This result supports previous research describing the difficulties in retaining older persons in research and indicated that the dose of the intervention was not sufficient to improve person‐centred care.
Development and validation of body fat prediction models in American adults
Authors: Merrill Zachary , Chambers April , Cham Rakié
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Commonly used statistical models to predict body fat percentage currently rely on skinfold measures, anthropometric measures, or some combination of the two but do not account for the wide ranges of age and body mass index (BMI) present in the American adult population. The objective of this study was to develop a statistical regression model to predict in vivo body fat percentage (dual energy X‐ray) in men and women across significant age and obesity ranges.

Methods

This study included 228 adults between the ages of 21 and 70, with BMI between 18.5 and 40.0 kg m−2. The study population was split into training (n = 163) and validation (n = 65) groups, which were used to develop and validate the prediction models. The models were developed on the training group using a backwards stepwise regression analysis, with the initial predictors including age, BMI, and several anthropometric and skinfold measurements.

Results

The final statistical regression models included age, BMI, anthropometric measures, and skinfold measures with significant effects following the stepwise process. The models predicted body fat percentage in the testing group with average errors of less than 0.10% body fat in males and females, while the four previously existing methods (Durnin, Hodgdon, Jackson, and Woolcott) significantly underestimated or overestimated body fat in both genders, with errors ranging between 2% and 10%.

Conclusions

The final models included hand thickness, and the female model was dependent on waist circumference and two of the skinfold measures, while the male model used hip and thigh circumferences, along with three skinfold measures. By including the skinfold measurements separately, instead of only as sums like previous models have done, these models can account for the different relative contributions of each site to total body fat.
Corporate environmental responsibility, motivational factors, and effectiveness: A case of Indian iron and steel industry
Authors: Haider Salman , Adil Masudul Hasan , Mishra Prajna Paramita
Published: November 2019

This study provides an understanding of motivational factors that lead to the adoption of an environmental management system (EMS) from the perspective of resource‐based view theory. Further, the role of EMS has been examined to reduce energy intensity by estimating the average treatment effect. Therefore, different logistic regression has been estimated to find out major motivational factors. Results from the logit model validate the role of firm's size, age, and ownership in motivating firms to adopt an EMS whereas regulatory pressure does not influence the firm's adoption of EMS. Furthermore, negative average treatment effect shows the effectiveness of certification in reducing energy intensity. The comparative analysis of sustainability report indicates that TATA Steel outperforms in terms of carbon emission intensity as compared with Steel Authority of Indian Limited, Jindal power and steel limited, JSW Steel, and average Indian firms. Nonetheless, top Indian steel companies are far behind the global best practices in terms of energy, water, emission, and effluent performance indicators.
Tropical forest and peatland conservation in Indonesia: Challenges and directions
Authors: Harrison Mark E. , Ottay Juliarta Bramansa , D’Arcy Laura J. , Cheyne Susan M. , Anggodo  , Belcher Claire , Cole Lydia , Dohong Alue , Ermiasi Yunsiska , Feldpausch Ted , Gallego‐Sala Angela , Gunawan Adib , Höing Andrea , Husson Simon J. , Kulu Ici P. , Soebagio Siti Maimunah , Mang Shari , Mercado Lina , Morrogh‐Bernard Helen C. , Page Susan E. , Priyanto Rudy , Ripoll Capilla Bernat , Rowland Lucy , Santos Eduarda M. , Schreer Viola , Sudyana I. Nyoman , Taman Supardi Bin Bakeri , Thornton Sara A. , Upton Caroline , Wich Serge A. , van Veen F. J. Frank
Published: November 2019

Tropical forests and peatlands provide important ecological, climate and socio‐economic benefits from the local to the global scale. However, these ecosystems and their associated benefits are threatened by anthropogenic activities, including agricultural conversion, timber harvesting, peatland drainage and associated fire. Here, we identify key challenges, and provide potential solutions and future directions to meet forest and peatland conservation and restoration goals in Indonesia, with a particular focus on Kalimantan.

Through a round‐table, dual‐language workshop discussion and literature evaluation, we recognized 59 political, economic, legal, social, logistical and research challenges, for which five key underlying factors were identified. These challenges relate to the 3Rs adopted by the Indonesian Peatland Restoration Agency (Rewetting, Revegetation and Revitalization), plus a fourth R that we suggest is essential to incorporate into (peatland) conservation planning: Reducing Fires.

Our analysis suggests that (a) all challenges have potential for impact on activities under all 4Rs, and many are inter‐dependent and mutually reinforcing, implying that narrowly focused solutions are likely to carry a higher risk of failure; (b) addressing challenges relating to Rewetting and Reducing Fire is critical for achieving goals in all 4Rs, as is considering the local socio‐political situation and acquiring local government and community support; and (c) the suite of challenges faced, and thus conservation interventions required to address these, will be unique to each project, depending on its goals and prevailing local environmental, social and political conditions.

With this in mind, we propose an eight‐step adaptive management framework, which could support projects in both Indonesia and other tropical areas to identify and overcome their specific conservation and restoration challenges.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.