bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrasting effects ofEDTAapplications on the fluxes of methane and nitrous oxide emissions from straw‐treated rice paddy soils
Authors: Pramanik Prabhat , Kim Pil Joo
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND

Submerged rice paddy soils are the major anthropogenic source of methane (CH4) emission to the atmosphere. Straw incorporation for sustaining soil organic C pool increasesCH4emission flux from rice paddy soils. Though the rate of nitrous oxide (N2O) emission is much less thanCH4, the former has 298 times higher global warming potential (GWP) than equivalent quantity of carbon dioxide. The effect of chelating agents, such asEDTA, onN2Oemission and onGWPdue toCH4andN2Oemissions has not been evaluated before.

RESULTS

The emission ofCH4gas from submerged soil may be mitigated byEDTAapplication; however, it also increases concentration of nitrate‐N in soil, the precursor ofN2Ogas formation under anaerobic condition. In this experiment, irrespective of straw application,EDTA‐treated soils emitted lessCH4to the atmosphere than the corresponding control. ThoughN2Oemission was increased from soil due toEDTAapplications, totalGWPwas at least 15% reduced inEDTAtreated soils during rice cultivation. The plant growth and rice grain yield was not affected byEDTAapplication.

CONCLUSION

EDTAapplication at 5.0 ppm might be used to reduce total global warming potential during rice cultivation. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Surgical telementoring: A new model for surgical training
Authors: Snyderman Carl H. , Gardner Paul A. , Lanisnik Bostjan , Ravnik Janez
Published: March 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To assess the efficacy of a surgical telementoring program for endoscopic skull base surgery.

Study Design

Prospective case series with surveys of surgeons.

Methods

A surgical telementoring program was established for mentoring of a skull base team at the University of Maribor in Slovenia by an experienced skull base team at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pennsylvania. Two‐way video and audio streaming provided real‐time communication with the surgical team. Over a period of 3 years, 10 endoscopic endonasal surgeries of the skull base were mentored preoperatively and during the key part of the procedure. Following each procedure, an evaluation form was used to document the mentoring interventions and rate the experience.

Results

Procedures included endoscopic endonasal approaches to the sella, anterior cranial fossa, posterior cranial fossa, and orbit. Diagnoses included benign and malignant neoplasms, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and inflammatory disease. In nine of 10 cases, adequate audio and video communications were maintained. The most frequent mentoring interventions were for identification of anatomy, extent of exposure, extent of resection, and surgical technique. The median perceived value by the junior surgical team was 9.5 (range 8–10). A model for surgical telementoring is proposed.

Conclusion

Surgical telementoring provides the ability to help surgeons develop their surgical skills to a greater level of proficiency for complex surgeries when experienced mentors are not available locally. The technology is reliable and available at most institutions. Perceived benefits of surgical telementoring include improved surgical exposure, increased extent of tumor resection, and decreased duration of surgery.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 126:1334–1338, 2016
Acupuncture in shoulder pain and functional impairment after neck dissection: A prospective randomized pilot study
Authors: Deganello Alberto , Battat Nir , Muratori Enrico , Cristofaro Glauco , Buongiorno Ana , Mannelli Giuditta , Picconi Mario , Giachetti Rita , Borsotti Giulia , Gallo Oreste
Published: March 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

The efficacy of conventional physiotherapy and antiinflammatory/analgesic drugs in the management of shoulder pain and functional disability following neck dissection is often disappointing. Acupuncture is a safe and well‐tolerated method. We report the results regarding our pilot trial of acupuncture versus conventional care in the management of postoperative shoulder pain and dysfunction after neck dissection.

Study Design

Pilot study.

Methods

Patients at a tertiary university center with chronic pain or dysfunction attributed to neck dissection were randomly assigned to either weekly acupuncture or usual care (eg., physical therapy, analgesia, and/or antiinflammatory drugs) for 5 consecutive weeks. The Constant‐Murley score, a composite measure of pain, function, and activities of daily living, was the primary outcome measure. As secondary end point, The Neck Dissection Impairment Index (NDII) was used to quantify site‐specific, self‐reported quality of life (QOL).

Results

After randomization, 48 patients completed the study (23 and 25 patients on acupuncture and control arms, respectively). Constant‐Murley scores improved more in the acupuncture group (gain difference between groups 13.6, P < 0.01), a statistically significant improvement in site‐specific QOL was also recorded at NDII (gain difference between groups 11.5, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Acupuncture is safe and effective; it should be introduced and offered to patients suffering from neck pain and dysfunction related to neck dissection.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 126:1790–1795, 2016
Transoral robotic approach to parapharyngeal space tumors: Case series and technical limitations
Authors: Boyce Brian J. , Curry Joseph M. , Luginbuhl Adam , Cognetti David M.
Published: March 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

The transoral robotic approach to parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors is a new technique with limited data available on its feasibility, safety, and efficacy. We analyzed our experience with transoral robotic excisions of PPS tumors to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique.

Study Design

Retrospective chart analysis at tertiary academic medical center. From July 2010 to June 2014, 17 patients who had transoral robotic excision of PPS tumors were included in the study. Our cohort had an average age of 61.6 years and was 52.9% male.

Results

All patients had successful removal of their PPS tumors, and the average size of the tumors was 27.3 cm3 (range 2–80 cm3). Two cases (11.7%) required a cervical incision to assist with tumor removal. The average total operative time was 140.5 minutes. Two PPS PAs had focal areas of capsule rupture and one was fragmented. The average length of stay was 1.8 days (range 1–7 days), and all patients were discharged on an oral diet. Three patients experienced complications. There was no clinical or radiographic evidence of recurrence.

Conclusion

This is the largest single‐institution case series of transoral robotic approaches to PPS tumors. We demonstrate that this approach is feasible and safe but also note limitations of the robotic approaches for tumors on the far lateral and superior areas of the PPS, which required transcervical assistance. There were no patients who demonstrated recurrent tumor either radiographically or clinically.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:1776–1782, 2016
Ranking of Dystonia Severity by Pairwise Video Comparison
Authors: Ellermeyer Tobias , Otte Karen , Heinrich Felix , Mansow‐Model Sebastian , Kayser Bastian , Lipp Axel , Seidel Adrian , Krause Patricia , Lauritsch Katharina , Gusho Elona , Paul Friedemann , Kühn Andrea A. , Brandt Alexander U. , Schmitz‐Hübsch Tanja
Published: March 2016

Background

Reviewers of dystonia rating scales agree on the need to assess symptoms more comprehensively. During the development of a quantitative dystonia assessment by video‐perceptive computing, we devised a video‐based severity ranking as a procedure to create a validation standard without the use of clinical scales.

Methods

Thirty‐four patients with dystonia (17 with dystonic tremor) and 2 controls were assessed with clinical scales and video‐recordings of 24 short movement tasks. Two to 4 raters compared multiple permutations of videos from 22 subjects, including 2 healthy controls, until a complete rank order was achieved. Inter‐rater agreement was expressed as normalized Kendall tau distance. Spearman correlations of video rank order with clinical scales and self‐rating were repeated for tremor/nontremor subgroups.

Results

Normalized Kendall tau distances were <0.3 for 15 items. The video rank order for sitting and head movements correlated with clinical scales for the whole group (rho 0.52–0.87) and in the subgroup without tremor. In the tremor subgroup such correlation was perceived in the 2 items involving sitting. Video rank order correlated with quality of life self‐rating only in 1 item (arms held in front, palm down).

Conclusions

The agreement of video rankings between raters is remarkable. The lack of correlation in the tremor subgroup in several items may be interpreted as tremor being considered in video comparisons but not in clinical scales. This supports video‐based ranking as a more comprehensive rating of dystonia and as a possible validation instrument applicable in situations in which no reference standard is available
Electrostatic complexation of a double hydrophilic block polyelectrolyte and proteins of different molecular shape
Authors: Karayianni Maria , Radeva Radka , Koseva Neli , Pispas Stergios
Published: March 2016

The electrostatic complexation between the polyelectrolyte block of the novel double hydrophilic copolymer quaternized poly(3,5‐bis(dimethylaminomethylene) hydroxystyrene)‐b‐poly(ethylene oxide) (QNPHOS‐PEO) and proteins of different molecular shape, that is globular bovine serum albumin (BSA) or rod‐like bovine fibrinogen (FBG), is investigated by means of dynamic, static, and electrophoretic light scattering, as well as analytical ultracentrifugation measurements. The solution behavior, structure, and properties of the formed complexes at pH 7 and 0.01 M ionic strength, as a function of the protein concentration in the solution (or equivalently the charge ratio of the two components), depend on the protein concentration and molecular characteristics. Moreover, the structure of the complexes is greatly influenced by the intrinsic structure of the block polyelectrolyte, which forms rather loose multichain aggregates, due to hydrophobic interactions. A direct correlation between the stability of the preformed complexes against the increase of the solution ionic strength and their structure is established. Finally, the spectroscopic structural investigation of both complexed proteins reveals no signs of protein denaturation upon complexation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 1515–1529
Arctic System Reanalysis improvements in topographically forced winds near Greenland
Authors: Moore G. W. K. , Bromwich David H. , Wilson Aaron B. , Renfrew Ian , Bai Lesheng
Published: March 2016

Southern Greenland is home to a number of weather systems characterized by high speed low‐level winds that are the result of topographic flow distortion. These systems include tip jets, barrier winds and katabatic flows. Global atmospheric reanalyses have proven to be important tools in furthering our understanding of these systems and their role in the climate system. However, there is evidence that their mesoscale structure may be poorly resolved in these global products. Here output from the regional Arctic System Reanalysis (ASRv1–30 km and ASRv2–15 km grid resolutions) are compared to the global ERA‐Interim Reanalysis (ERA‐I–80 km grid resolution), focusing on their ability to represent winds in the vicinity of southern Greenland. Comparisons are made to observations from surface and upper‐air stations, as well as from research aircraft flights during the Greenland Flow Distortion Experiment (GFDex). The ERA‐I reanalysis has a tendency to underestimate high wind speeds and overestimate low wind speeds, which is reduced in ASRv1 and nearly eliminated in ASRv2. In addition, there is generally a systematic reduction in the root‐mean‐square error between the observed and the reanalysis wind speeds from ERA‐I to ASRv1 to ASRv2, the exception being low‐level marine winds where the correspondence is similar in all reanalyses. Case‐studies reveal that mesoscale spatial features of the wind field are better captured in ASRv2 as compared to the ERA‐I or ASRv1. These results confirm that a horizontal grid size on the order of 15 km is needed to characterize the impact that Greenland's topography has on the regional wind field and climate. However even at this resolution, there are still features of the wind field that are under‐resolved.
A thorough note: Does a procedure-specific operation note proforma for laparoscopic appendicectomy improve compliance with the Royal College of Surgeons of England Guidelines?
Authors: Abbas S.H. , Singh S. , Sundran R. , Akbari K. , Gilmour J. , Puttick M.
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Operation notes provide an insight into the operative process and stand as a legal document of a surgical procedure occurring. Maintaining accurate, complete and legible notes is fundamental for post-operative patient care and medico-legal purposes. This study aimed at comparing the quality of laparoscopic appendicectomy operation notes prior-to and after the introduction of a procedure-specific proforma consistent with the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCSEng) guidelines, 2014.

Methods:

Nineteen parameters based on the RCSEng ‘Good Surgical Practice’ 2014 guidelines were used to audit laparoscopic appendicectomy operation notes. The study consisted of a retrospective audit of 43 consecutive laparoscopic appendicectomy operation notes and a prospective audit of 57 consecutive operation notes following the introduction of a procedure-specific proforma (existing in both hard copy and electronic versions) for laparoscopic appendicectomy.

We assessed: (i) the overall compliance with the RCSEng guidelines, (ii) whether each parameter of RCSEng guidelines recommendations were clearly recorded in the operation notes, and (iii) legibility of operation notes. Statistical analysis for difference between the two groups was performed using the independent sample t-test.

Results:

After introduction of a procedure-specific profroma for laparoscopic appendicectomy, average compliance with RCSEng guidelines increased from 66% retrospectively to 94% prospectively (p
<
0.00001). In 8 of the 19 parameters assessed there was significant improvement in adherence to guidelines.

Discussion:

The implementation of a procedure-specific operation significantly increased compliance with RCSEng guidelines. Such proformas may help reduce variability and standardise operation notes for the same procedure and improve post-operative care.

Highlights:
Current turn-off in an ungrounded horizontal loop: experiment and theory
Authors: Kozhevnikov N.O.
Published: March 2016

An ungrounded horizontal loop, a common transmitter type in TEM surveys, makes up a system with distributed parameters with the earth under it. It can be simulated by an equivalent circuit with lumped parameters at late times and/or low frequencies, but at early times commensurate with the period of free current oscillations, the lumped circuit model fails to account for experimental data. At high frequencies and/or early times, the wire, in combination with the underlying earth, forms a transmission line in which current behaves according to the wave equation. This model allows calculating the current at any time and at any loop point with reference to the theory of long transmission lines. At early times, the loop self-responses depend on near-surface resistivity and environment and its primary magnetic field differs from that predicted by the classical theory of TEM surveys. Therefore, inversion of early-time rerponse in terms of the conventional TEM system model is meaningless. However, as illustrated with a loop shunted by a matching resistor, the loop model as a combination of two transmission lines enables the inversion of the early-time current response in terms of the line parameters and near-surface resistivity.
Body, Person and Environment: Why Promoting Physical Activity (PA) with Stroke Survivors Requires Holistic Thinking
Authors: Morris Jacqui H.
Published: March 2016

The role of physical activity (PA) after stroke is increasingly recognised as important for function, fitness and wellbeing. Current evidence shows that targeted PA after stroke improves cardiovascular fitness, walking ability and muscle strength and may ameliorate depression and improve quality of life. Secondary stroke prevention and management of cardiovascular risk factors are further health benefits. Despite increasing emphasis on organised exercise classes for stroke, PA levels remain low and effects of organised exercise interventions are not maintained once programmes have finished. Barriers to PA after stroke are complex and innovative approaches to maintaining and promoting long-term engagement in activity are required. This commentary proposes that using the International Classification of Disability and Functioning (ICF) to guide thinking about PA after stroke may help us develop and apply comprehensive solutions that increase PA levels. This approach considers stroke survivors’ PA engagement in terms of Body – the physical impairments imposed by stroke; Person – the role of identity, and psychological factors on PA; and Environment – the physical and social environments that influence PA engagement. The commentary discusses how innovative solutions addressing these issues may enable stroke survivors to be better supported to lead active lifestyles.
A lyrical architecture of the flood: Landscape, infrastructure, and symbiosis
Authors: Butcher Matthew
Published: March 2016

This paper presents, through text and the design project ‘The Silt House’, an alternative architecture for flood landscapes.

The investigation sets out the context for current forms of infrastructure and architecture planned in response to the increased threat of flooding in and around the Thames Estuary. In particular, it looks to certain experimental flood defence systems, suggesting, that instead of building bigger and bigger sea walls, we should look to use the landscape as a hybrid landscape infrastructure where salt marshes can act as a storage point for excess water and the flora can dispel energy from flood tides. Within this context, the text and design work seek to address the questions: what formal and spatial logics might be appropriate for architecture if sited in such a hybridised landscape like the tidal marsh; and, how might these logics mirror the particular conditions of this new model of infrastructure?

To help answer this question, the work looks to the architect and poet Raimund Abraham and, in particular, his 10 Houses projects developed between 1970 and 1973 for an alternative architectural model that uses natural processes to create enclosure and define architectural space. The design project seeks to explore how the direct use of such a historical reference can itself be seen as a means to not only develop an architecture that demonstrates a symbiotic relationship between nature and architecture, but also between the social and the political.
Field operations: necessary transgressions
Authors: Davies Kate
Published: March 2016

Standing on the bridge of an enormous container ship, watching Hong Kong harbour emerge blinking out of a South China Sea pregnant with ships and into the radar screen dawn as we approach nearby Chinese port of Yantian … barrelling along a dirt road tracing oil pipes through the Ecuadorean Amazon atop the roof rack of a minivan, the gas flares of oil refineries visible over jungle canopy … passing a bar of solid metal more valuable than a London house and less useful than a brick between eager hands in the Gold Room of an Australian Outback mine … Standing in a chilled and humming room with the supercomputer ‘Pac-man’ as it crunches climate change data … Feeling the bass wave rumble from a rocket launch at a space city in the Kazakh Steppe … Breathless at 5,000m as a radio array turns gracefully to face the beginnings of the universe … We are in the field. These are sites built from stories. Unfamiliar landscapes forged from familiar wants and needs. They are landscapes and infrastructures as cultural artefacts. Each ripe with its own absurdities and contradictions, and each born of a critical mass of habits, beliefs, and desires.
Downregulation of renal tubular Wnt/β-catenin signaling by Dickkopf-3 induces tubular cell death in proteinuric nephropathy
Authors: Wong D W L , Yiu W H , Wu H J , Li R X , Liu Y , Chan K W , Leung J C K , Chan L Y Y , Lai K N , Tang S C W
Published: March 2016

Studies on the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in different forms of kidney disease have yielded discrepant results. Here, we report the biphasic change of renal β-catenin expression in mice with overload proteinuria in which β-catenin was upregulated at the early stage (4 weeks after disease induction) but abrogated at the late phase (8 weeks). Acute albuminuria was observed at 1 week after bovine serum albumin injection, followed by partial remission at 4 weeks that coincided with overexpression of renal tubular β-catenin. Interestingly, a rebound in albuminuria at 8 weeks was accompanied by downregulated tubular β-catenin expression and heightened tubular apoptosis. In addition, there was an inverse relationship between Dickkopf-3 (Dkk-3) and renal tubular β-catenin expression at these time points. In vitro, a similar trend in β-catenin expression was observed in human kidney-2 (HK-2) cells with acute (upregulation) and prolonged (downregulation) exposure to albumin. Induction of a proapoptotic phenotype by albumin was significantly enhanced by silencing β-catenin in HK-2 cells. Finally, Dkk-3 expression and secretion was increased after prolonged exposure to albumin, leading to the suppression of intracellular β-catenin signaling pathway. The effect of Dkk-3 on β-catenin signaling was confirmed by incubation with exogenous Dkk-3 in HK-2 cells. Taken together, these data suggest that downregulation of tubular β-catenin signaling induced by Dkk-3 has a detrimental role in chronic proteinuria, partially through the increase in apoptosis.
FoxO1-mediated autophagy is required for NK cell development and innate immunity
Authors: Wang Shuo , Xia Pengyan , Huang Guanling , Zhu Pingping , Liu Jing , Ye Buqing , Du Ying , Fan Zusen
Published: March 2016

Natural killer (NK) cells exert a crucial role in early immune responses as a major innate effector component. However, the underlying mechanisms of NK cell development remain largely elusive. Here we show that robust autophagy appears in the stage of immature NK cells (iNKs), which is required for NK cell development. Autophagy defects result in damaged mitochondria and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that leads to apoptosis of NK cells. Autophagy protects NK cell viability during development through removal of damaged mitochondria and intracellular ROS. Phosphorylated Forkhead box O (FoxO)1 is located to the cytoplasm of iNKs and interacts with Atg7, leading to induction of autophagy. FoxO1 deficiency or an inactive FoxO1AAA mutant abrogates autophagy initiation in iNKs and impairs NK cell development and viral clearance. Therefore we conclude that FoxO1-mediated autophagy is required for NK cell development and NK cell-induced innate immunity.
Observational evidence for enhanced magnetic activity of superflare stars
Authors: Karoff Christoffer , Knudsen Mads Faurschou , De Cat Peter , Bonanno Alfio , Fogtmann-Schulz Alexandra , Fu Jianning , Frasca Antonio , Inceoglu Fadil , Olsen Jesper , Zhang Yong , Hou Yonghui , Wang Yuefei , Shi Jianrong , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2016

Superflares are large explosive events on stellar surfaces one to six orders-of-magnitude larger than the largest flares observed on the Sun throughout the space age. Due to the huge amount of energy released in these superflares, it has been speculated if the underlying mechanism is the same as for solar flares, which are caused by magnetic reconnection in the solar corona. Here, we analyse observations made with the LAMOST telescope of 5,648 solar-like stars, including 48 superflare stars. These observations show that superflare stars are generally characterized by larger chromospheric emissions than other stars, including the Sun. However, superflare stars with activity levels lower than, or comparable to, the Sun do exist, suggesting that solar flares and superflares most likely share the same origin. The very large ensemble of solar-like stars included in this study enables detailed and robust estimates of the relation between chromospheric activity and the occurrence of superflares.
Ephrin-B3 coordinates timed axon targeting and amygdala spinogenesis for innate fear behaviour
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Na , Liu Xian-Dong , Sun Suya , Zhuang Hanyi , Yang Jing-Yu , Henkemeyer Mark , Xu Nan-Jie
Published: March 2016

Innate emotion response to environmental stimuli is a fundamental brain function that is controlled by specific neural circuits. Dysfunction of early emotional circuits may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia. However, how the functional circuits are formed to prime initial emotional behaviours remain elusive. We reveal here using gene-targeted mutations an essential role for ephrin-B3 ligand-like activity in the development of innate fear in the neonatal brain. We further demonstrate that ephrin-B3 controls axon targeting and coordinates spinogenesis and neuronal activity within the amygdala. The morphological and behavioural abnormalities in ephrin-B3 mutant mice are rescued by conditional knock-in of wild-type ephrin-B3 during the critical period when axon targeting and fear responses are initiated. Our results thus define a key axonal molecule that participates in the wiring of amygdala circuits and helps bring about fear emotion during the important adolescence period.
Regulation of cell-to-cell variability in divergent gene expression
Authors: Yan Chao , Wu Shuyang , Pocetti Christopher , Bai Lu
Published: March 2016

Cell-to-cell variability (noise) is an important feature of gene expression that impacts cell fitness and development. The regulatory mechanism of this variability is not fully understood. Here we investigate the effect on gene expression noise in divergent gene pairs (DGPs). We generated reporters driven by divergent promoters, rearranged their gene order, and probed their expressions using time-lapse fluorescence microscopy and single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (smFISH). We show that two genes in a co-regulated DGP have higher expression covariance compared with the separate, tandem and convergent configurations, and this higher covariance is caused by more synchronized firing of the divergent transcriptions. For differentially regulated DGPs, the regulatory signal of one gene can stochastically ‘leak’ to the other, causing increased gene expression noise. We propose that the DGPs’ function in limiting or promoting gene expression noise may enhance or compromise cell fitness, providing an explanation for the conservation pattern of DGPs.
The Coral Trait Database, a curated database of trait information for coral species from the global oceans
Authors: Madin Joshua S. , Anderson Kristen D. , Andreasen Magnus Heide , Bridge Tom C.L. , Cairns Stephen D. , Connolly Sean R. , Darling Emily S. , Diaz Marcela , Falster Daniel S. , Franklin Erik C. , Gates Ruth D. , Harmer Aaron M.T. , Hoogenboom Mia O. , Huang Danwei , Keith Sally A. , Kosnik Matthew A. , Kuo Chao-Yang , Lough Janice M. , Lovelock Catherine E. , Luiz Osmar , Martinelli Julieta , Mizerek Toni , Pandolfi John M. , Pochon Xavier , Pratchett Morgan S. , Putnam Hollie M. , Roberts T. Edward , Stat Michael , Wallace Carden C. , Widman Elizabeth , Baird Andrew H.
Published: March 2016

Trait-based approaches advance ecological and evolutionary research because traits provide a strong link to an organism’s function and fitness. Trait-based research might lead to a deeper understanding of the functions of, and services provided by, ecosystems, thereby improving management, which is vital in the current era of rapid environmental change. Coral reef scientists have long collected trait data for corals; however, these are difficult to access and often under-utilized in addressing large-scale questions. We present the Coral Trait Database initiative that aims to bring together physiological, morphological, ecological, phylogenetic and biogeographic trait information into a single repository. The database houses species- and individual-level data from published field and experimental studies alongside contextual data that provide important framing for analyses. In this data descriptor, we release data for 56 traits for 1547 species, and present a collaborative platform on which other trait data are being actively federated. Our overall goal is for the Coral Trait Database to become an open-source, community-led data clearinghouse that accelerates coral reef research.
Self-healing Characteristics of Collagen Coatings with Respect to Surface Abrasion
Authors: Kim Chang-Lae , Kim Dae-Eun
Published: March 2016

A coating based on collagen with self-healing properties was developed for applications in mechanical components that are prone to abrasion due to contact with a counter surface. The inherent swelling behavior of collagen in water was exploited as the fundamental mechanism behind self-healing of a wear scar formed on the surface. The effects of freeze-drying process and water treatment of the collagen coatings on their mechanical and self-healing properties were analyzed. Water was also used as the medium to trigger the self-healing effect of the collagen coatings after the wear test. It was found that collagen coatings without freeze-drying did not demonstrate any self-healing effect whereas the coatings treated by freeze-drying process showed remarkable self-healing effect. Overall, collagen coatings that were freeze-dried and water treated showed the best friction and self-healing properties. Repeated self-healing ability of these coatings with respect to wear scar was also demonstrated. It was also confirmed that the self-healing property of the collagen coating was effective over a relatively wide range of temperature.
Cortical thickness in human V1 associated with central vision loss
Authors: Burge Wesley K. , Griffis Joseph C. , Nenert Rodolphe , Elkhetali Abdurahman , DeCarlo Dawn K. , ver Hoef Lawrence W. , Ross Lesley A. , Visscher Kristina M.
Published: March 2016

Better understanding of the extent and scope of visual cortex plasticity following central vision loss is essential both for clarifying the mechanisms of brain plasticity and for future development of interventions to retain or restore visual function. This study investigated structural differences in primary visual cortex between normally-sighted controls and participants with central vision loss due to macular degeneration (MD). Ten participants with MD and ten age-, gender-, and education-matched controls with normal vision were included. The thickness of primary visual cortex was assessed using T1-weighted anatomical scans, and central and peripheral cortical regions were carefully compared between well-characterized participants with MD and controls. Results suggest that, compared to controls, participants with MD had significantly thinner cortex in typically centrally-responsive primary visual cortex – the region of cortex that normally receives visual input from the damaged area of the retina. Conversely, peripherally-responsive primary visual cortex demonstrated significantly increased cortical thickness relative to controls. These results suggest that central vision loss may give rise to cortical thinning, while in the same group of people, compensatory recruitment of spared peripheral vision may give rise to cortical thickening. This work furthers our understanding of neural plasticity in the context of adult vision loss.
Hepatitis C virus NS5A protein cooperates with phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase IIIα to induce mitochondrial fragmentation
Authors: Siu Gavin Ka Yu , Zhou Fan , Yu Mei Kuen , Zhang Leiliang , Wang Tuanlao , Liang Yongheng , Chen Yangchao , Chan Hsiao Chang , Yu Sidney
Published: March 2016

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has long been observed to take advantage of the host mitochondria to support viral replication and assembly. The HCV core protein has been implicated to fragment host mitochondria. In this report, we have discovered that the non-structural protein 5A (NS5A) plays an instructive role in attaching ER with mitochondria, causing mitochondrial fragmentation. Dynamin-related protein 1(Drp1), a host protein essential to mitochondrial membrane fission, does not play a role in NS5A-induced mitochondrial fragmentation. Instead, phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase IIIα (PI4KA), which has been demonstrated to bind to NS5A and is required to support HCV life cycle, is required for NS5A to induce mitochondrial fragmentation. Both NS5A and core are required by HCV to fragment the mitochondria, as inhibiting either of their respective downstream proteins, PI4KA or Drp1, resulted in lengthening of mitochondria tubules in HCVcc-infected cells. By fragmenting the mitochondria, NS5A renders the cells more resistant to mitochondria mediated apoptosis. This finding indicates previously-ignored contribution of NS5A in HCV-induced mitochondria dysfunction.
Different lasers in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xingming , Shen Pengfei , He Qiying , Yin Xiaoxue , Chen Zhibin , Gui Haojun , Shu Kunpeng , Tang Qidun , Yang Yaojing , Pan Xiuyi , Wang Jia , Chen Ni , Zeng Hao
Published: March 2016

All available surgical treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have their individual advantages or disadvantages. However, the lack of head-to-head studies comparing different surgeries makes it unavailable to conduct direct analysis. To compare the efficacy and safety among different lasers and transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) for BPH, randomized controlled trials were searched in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane library, WHO International Clinical Trial Registration Platform and Clinical Trial.gov by 2015.5; and the effectiveness-, perioperation- and complication-related outcomes were assessed by network meta-analysis. 36 studies involving 3831 patients were included. Holmium laser through resection and enucleation had the best efficacy in maximum flow rate. Thulium laser through vapo-resection was superior in improving international prostate symptom score and holmium laser through enucleation was the best for post-voiding residual volume improvement. Diode laser through vaporization was the rapidest in removing postoperative indwelling catheter, while TURP was the longest. TURP required the longest hospitalization and thulium laser through vapo-resection was relatively shorter. Holmium and thulium lasers seem to be relatively better in surgical efficacy and safety, so that these two lasers might be preferred in selection of optimal laser surgery. Actually, more large-scale and high quality head-to-head RCTs are suggested to validate the conclusions.
Thermally activated charge transport in microbial protein nanowires
Authors: Lampa-Pastirk Sanela , Veazey Joshua P. , Walsh Kathleen A. , Feliciano Gustavo T. , Steidl Rebecca J. , Tessmer Stuart H. , Reguera Gemma
Published: March 2016

The bacterium Geobacter sulfurreducens requires the expression of conductive protein filaments or pili to respire extracellular electron acceptors such as iron oxides and uranium and to wire electroactive biofilms, but the contribution of the protein fiber to charge transport has remained elusive. Here we demonstrate efficient long-range charge transport along individual pili purified free of metal and redox organic cofactors at rates high enough to satisfy the respiratory rates of the cell. Carrier characteristics were within the orders reported for organic semiconductors (mobility) and inorganic nanowires (concentration), and resistivity was within the lower ranges reported for moderately doped silicon nanowires. However, the pilus conductance and the carrier mobility decreased when one of the tyrosines of the predicted axial multistep hopping path was replaced with an alanine. Furthermore, low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy demonstrated the thermal dependence of the differential conductance at the low voltages that operate in biological systems. The results thus provide evidence for thermally activated multistep hopping as the mechanism that allows Geobacter pili to function as protein nanowires between the cell and extracellular electron acceptors.
Residual matrix from different separation techniques impacts exosome biological activity
Authors: Paolini Lucia , Zendrini Andrea , Noto Giuseppe Di , Busatto Sara , Lottini Elisabetta , Radeghieri Annalisa , Dossi Alessandra , Caneschi Andrea , Ricotta Doris , Bergese Paolo
Published: March 2016

Exosomes are gaining a prominent role in research due to their intriguing biology and several therapeutic opportunities. However, their accurate purification from body fluids and detailed physicochemical characterization remain open issues. We isolated exosomes from serum of patients with Multiple Myeloma by four of the most popular purification methods and assessed the presence of residual contaminants in the preparations through an ad hoc combination of biochemical and biophysical techniques - including Western Blot, colloidal nanoplasmonics, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning helium ion microscopy (HIM). The preparations obtained by iodixanol and sucrose gradients were highly pure. To the contrary, those achieved with limited processing (serial centrifugation or one step precipitation kit) resulted contaminated by a residual matrix, embedding the exosomes. The contaminated preparations showed lower ability to induce NfkB nuclear translocation in endothelial cells with respect to the pure ones, probably because the matrix prevents the interaction and fusion of the exosomes with the cell membrane. These findings suggest that exosome preparation purity must be carefully assessed since it may interfere with exosome biological activity. Contaminants can be reliably probed only by an integrated characterization approach aimed at both the molecular and the colloidal length scales.
Enhancing the Temporal Complexity of Distributed Brain Networks with Patterned Cerebellar Stimulation
Authors: Farzan Faranak , Pascual-Leone Alvaro , Schmahmann Jeremy D. , Halko Mark
Published: March 2016

Growing evidence suggests that sensory, motor, cognitive and affective processes map onto specific, distributed neural networks. Cerebellar subregions are part of these networks, but how the cerebellum is involved in this wide range of brain functions remains poorly understood. It is postulated that the cerebellum contributes a basic role in brain functions, helping to shape the complexity of brain temporal dynamics. We therefore hypothesized that stimulating cerebellar nodes integrated in different networks should have the same impact on the temporal complexity of cortical signals. In healthy humans, we applied intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) to the vermis lobule VII or right lateral cerebellar Crus I/II, subregions that prominently couple to the dorsal-attention/fronto-parietal and default-mode networks, respectively. Cerebellar iTBS increased the complexity of brain signals across multiple time scales in a network-specific manner identified through electroencephalography (EEG). We also demonstrated a region-specific shift in power of cortical oscillations towards higher frequencies consistent with the natural frequencies of targeted cortical areas. Our findings provide a novel mechanism and evidence by which the cerebellum contributes to multiple brain functions: specific cerebellar subregions control the temporal dynamics of the networks they are engaged in.
Shear-coupled grain boundary migration assisted by unusual atomic shuffling
Authors: Niu Liang-Liang , Zhang Ying , Shu Xiaolin , Gao Fei , Jin Shuo , Zhou Hong-Bo , Lu Guang-Hong
Published: March 2016

Shear-coupled grain boundary (GB) migration can be an efficacious mechanism to accommodate plastic deformation when the grain size of polycrystalline materials goes small. Nevertheless, how this kind of GB motion comes into play at the atomic level has not been fully revealed. Here, we have investigated the shear-coupled migration (SCM) of typical [100] group symmetrical tilt GBs in bcc W using atomistic simulations. Depending on GB character, the SCM is found to proceed via dislocation slipping in the 〈100〉 or 〈110〉 mode with striking shear strength difference between them. We demonstrate that there exists an unusual atomic shuffling along the tilt axis, which greatly assists SCM to operate in the easier 〈110〉 mode instead of the 〈100〉 one. The present results highlight the significant role of GB character in the atomistic SCM process and contribute to the future design and fabrication of high-performance materials in GB engineering.
Genome sequence and plasmid transformation of the model high-yield bacterial cellulose producer Gluconacetobacter hansenii ATCC 53582
Authors: Florea Michael , Reeve Benjamin , Abbott James , Freemont Paul S. , Ellis Tom
Published: March 2016

Bacterial cellulose is a strong, highly pure form of cellulose that is used in a range of applications in industry, consumer goods and medicine. Gluconacetobacter hansenii ATCC 53582 is one of the highest reported bacterial cellulose producing strains and has been used as a model organism in numerous studies of bacterial cellulose production and studies aiming to increased cellulose productivity. Here we present a high-quality draft genome sequence for G. hansenii ATCC 53582 and find that in addition to the previously described cellulose synthase operon, ATCC 53582 contains two additional cellulose synthase operons and several previously undescribed genes associated with cellulose production. In parallel, we also develop optimized protocols and identify plasmid backbones suitable for transformation of ATCC 53582, albeit with low efficiencies. Together, these results provide important information for further studies into cellulose synthesis and for future studies aiming to genetically engineer G. hansenii ATCC 53582 for increased cellulose productivity.
Charge transport in a liquid crystalline triphenylene polymer monolayer at air–solid interface
Authors: Gayathri H. N. , Kumar Bharat , Suresh K. A. , Bisoyi H. K. , Kumar Sandeep
Published: March 2016

The charge transport mechanism in a novel discotic liquid crystalline polymer monolayer having potential applications in organic molecular electronics.
Supramolecular transformations within discrete coordination-driven supramolecular architectures
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Yu-Xuan , Yang Hai-Bo
Published: March 2016

In this review, a comprehensive summary of supramolecular transformations within discrete coordination-driven supramolecular architectures, including helices, metallacycles, metallacages, etc., is presented.
Aggregation and sedimentation of magnetite nanoparticle clusters
Authors: Vikesland P. J. , Rebodos R. L. , Bottero J. Y. , Rose J. , Masion A.
Published: March 2016

Magnetite nanoparticles are redox active constituents of subsurface and corrosive environments.
Environmental processes and toxicity of metallic nanoparticles in aquatic systems as affected by natural organic matter
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Zhang Lei , Zhao Jian , Xing Baoshan
Published: March 2016

The key roles of NOM affecting environmental processes and toxicity of MNPs in aquatic environments are discussed and presented.
An injectable nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA)/glycol chitosan (G-CS)/hyaluronic acid (HyA) composite hydrogel for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Huang Yixing , Zhang Xiaolei , Wu Aimin , Xu Huazi
Published: March 2016

The aim of the present study was to fabricate an injectable nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA)/glycol chitosan (G-CS)/hyaluronic acid (HyA) composite hydrogel and investigate its potent application in bone tissue engineering.
Boron nitride@graphene oxide hybrids for epoxy composites with enhanced thermal conductivity
Authors: Huang Tao , Zeng Xiaoliang , Yao Yimin , Sun Rong , Meng Fanling , Xu Jianbin , Wong Chingping
Published: March 2016

Boron nitride/graphene oxide hybrids prepared by an electrostatic self-assembly strategy were used as fillers for epoxy composites with high thermal conductivity.
Targeting label free carbohydrate–protein interactions for biosensor design
Authors: Chaudhary Preeti Madhukar , Gade Madhuri , Yellin Rina Arad , Sangabathuni Sivakoti , Kikkeri Raghavendra
Published: March 2016

In this review, we describe different technologies used for probing molecular interactions and focus on the major discoveries made in the last four years in the field of label free biosensors for carbohydrate–protein interactions.
Analysis of urine, oral fluid and fingerprints by liquid extraction surface analysis coupled to high resolution MS and MS/MS – opportunities for forensic and biomedical science
Authors: Bailey Melanie J. , Randall Elizabeth C. , Costa Catia , Salter Tara L. , Race Alan M. , de Puit Marcel , Koeberg Mattijs , Baumert Mark , Bunch Josephine
Published: March 2016

Liquid Extraction Surface Analysis (LESA) is a new, high throughput tool for ambient mass spectrometry.
A density functional theory study of arsenic immobilization by the Al(iii)-modified zeolite clinoptilolite
Authors: Awuah Joel B. , Dzade Nelson Y. , Tia Richard , Adei Evans , Kwakye-Awuah Bright , Richard A. Catlow C. , de Leeuw Nora H.
Published: March 2016

We present density functional theory calculations of the adsorption of arsenic acid (AsO(OH)3) and arsenous acid (As(OH)3) on the Al(iii)-modified natural zeolite clinoptilolite under anhydrous and hydrated conditions.
Mixed ligand two dimensional Cd(ii)/Ni(ii) metal organic frameworks containing dicarboxylate and tripodal N-donor ligands: Cd(ii) MOF is an efficient luminescent sensor for detection of picric acid in aqueous media
Authors: Rachuri Yadagiri , Parmar Bhavesh , Bisht Kamal Kumar , Suresh Eringathodi
Published: March 2016

Two water stable MOFs [M(BrIP)(TIB)]n [M = Cd(ii), Ni(ii)] have been prepared. Cd(ii) MOF serves as photoluminescent sensor for detection of TNP in aqueous phase.
Fabrication of novel p–n heterojunction BiOI/La2Ti2O7 composite photocatalysts for enhanced photocatalytic performance under visible light irradiation
Authors: Ao Yanhui , Wang Kedan , Wang Peifang , Wang Chao , Hou Jun
Published: March 2016

A novel BiOI/La2Ti2O7 composite photocatalyst with p–n heterojunctions was prepared for the first time. The as-obtained photocatalysts exhibit efficient activity under visible light irradiation for degradation of organic pollutants.
Challenges and recent advances in MOF–polymer composite membranes for gas separation
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Feng Xiao , Yuan Shuai , Zhou Junwen , Wang Bo
Published: March 2016

This review summarizes the recent progress in the fabrication of MOF-polymer membranes including the challenges, difficulties and corresponding solutions.
Fluorophores based on a minimal thienylthiazole core: towards multifunctional materials with solid state red emissions, solvatochromism and AIE behaviour
Authors: Radhakrishnan Rakesh , Sreejalekshmi Kumaran G.
Published: March 2016

Minimal architecture solid red emissive D–A–D–A tetrads were built on a thienylthiazole core and their photophysical properties were investigated.
The conjugate base of methyl 3-oxobutanoate as an antenna ligand in visible-emitting photoluminescent lanthanide complexes
Authors: Bortoluzzi Marco , Reolon Andrea , Castro Jesús , Enrichi Francesco , Albertin Gabriele , Bragato Carlo
Published: March 2016

Luminescent lanthanide complexes with the conjugate base of methyl-3-oxobutanoate were synthesized, characterized and used for the preparation of doped poly(methylmethacrylate) samples.
Enhanced bioelectricity generation of double-chamber air-cathode catalyst free microbial fuel cells with the addition of non-consumptive vanadium(v)
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Zhang Baogang , Song Qinan , Borthwick Alistair G. L.
Published: March 2016

Improvement of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) via bioelectricity recovery is urgently needed in micro-energy devices nowadays.