bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased root hair density by loss of WRKY6 in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Stetter Markus G. , Benz Martin , Ludewig Uwe
Published: January 2017

Root hairs are unicellular elongations of certain rhizodermal cells that improve the uptake of sparingly soluble and immobile soil nutrients. Among different Arabidopsis thaliana genotypes, root hair density, length and the local acclimation to low inorganic phosphate (Pi) differs considerably, when analyzed on split agar plates. Here, genome-wide association fine mapping identified significant single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with the increased root hair density in the absence of local phosphate on chromosome 1. A loss-of-functionmutant of the candidate transcription factor gene WRKY6, which is involved in the acclimation of plants to low phosphorus, had increased root hair density. This is partially explained by a reduced cortical cell diameter in wrky6-3, reducing the rhizodermal cell numbers adjacent to the cortical cells. As a consequence, rhizodermal cells in positions that are in contact with two cortical cells are found more often, leading to higher hair density. Distinct cortical cell diameters and epidermal cell lengths distinguish other Arabidopsis accessions with distinct root hair density and −Pi response from diploid Col-0, while tetraploid Col-0 had generally larger root cell sizes, which explain longer hairs. A distinct radial root morphology within Arabidopsis accessions and wrky6-3explains some, but not all, differences in the root hair acclimation to –Pi.
Bells, bomas and beefsteak: complex patterns of human-predator conflict at the wildlife-agropastoral interface in Zimbabwe
Authors: Loveridge Andrew J. , Kuiper Timothy , Parry Roger H. , Sibanda Lovemore , Hunt Jane Hunt , Stapelkamp Brent , Sebele Lovelater , Macdonald David W.
Published: January 2017

Reports of livestock depredation by large predators were systematically collected at three study sites in northwestern Zimbabwe from 2008–2013. We recorded 1,527 incidents (2,039 animals killed and 306 injured). Lions (Panthera leo) and spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta) were mostly responsible, and cattle and donkeys most frequently attacked. Patterns of predation were variable among study sites. Nevertheless, some overall patterns were apparent. Predators selected livestock close to the size of their preferred wild prey, suggesting behaviours evolved to optimise foraging success may determine the domestic species primarily preyed upon. Most attacks occurred when livestock were roaming outside and away from their ‘home’ protective enclosures at night. Hyaena attacks were largely nocturnal; lions and leopards (Panthera pardus) were more flexible, with attacks occurring by day and at night. Livestock fitted with bells suffered a disproportionate number of attacks; the sound of bells appears to have conditioned predators to associate the sound with foraging opportunities. Lion and hyaena attacks on cattle were more frequent in the wet season suggesting that seasonal herding practices may result in cattle vulnerability. Only a small proportion of conflict incidents were reported to wildlife management officials with a bias towards lion predation events, potentially prejudicing conflict management policies. Predation on domestic stock involves an intricate interplay between predator behaviour and ecology on the one hand and human behaviour and husbandry practices on the other. Our data suggest that improved livestock husbandry (supervision of grazing animals, protection at night in strong enclosures) would greatly reduce livestock depredation.
Epidemiological research on parent–child conflict in the United States: subgroup variations by place of birth and ethnicity, 2002–2013
Authors: Parra-Cardona Jose Ruben , Yeh Hsueh-Han , Anthony James C.
Published: January 2017

Background

Chronically escalated parent–child conflict has been observed to elicit maladaptive behavior and reduced psychological well-being in children and youth. In this epidemiological study, we sought to estimate the occurrence of escalated parent–child conflict for United States (US) adolescent subgroups defined by (a) ethnic self-identification, and (b) nativity (US-born versus foreign-born).

Methods

US study populations of 12-to-17-year-olds were sampled, recruited, and assessed for the National Surveys on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 2002–2013 (n = 111, 129). Analysis-weighted contingency table analyses contrasted US-born versus foreign-born who self-identified as: (a) Hispanic, (b) non-Hispanic African-American, (c) non-Hispanic Asian, and (c) non-Hispanic White.

Results

Frequently escalated parent–child conflict was most prevalent among US-born non-Hispanic White adolescents, from 18% at age 12 (95% CI [17.6%, 18.9%]) to 29% at age 17 (95% CI [28.3%, 29.7%]), followed by US-born Hispanic and non-Hispanic Asian children. Estimated prevalence proportions were markedly lower for African-American children, from 8% at age 12 (95% CI [6.8, 8.5]) to 16% at age 17 (95% CI [14.3, 16.7]). Broad and sometimes overlapping CI indicate that larger sample sizes are needed for complete evaluation of an apparent excess occurrence of frequent parent-child conflict among US-born versus foreign-born. Nonetheless, in the larger subgroups, the US-born show a clear excess occurrence of frequent parent-child conflict. For example, US-born Mexican children have 1.7 times higher odds of experiencing frequent parent-child conflict than foreign-born Mexican children (OR = 1.7, 95% CI [1.5, 2.0],p-value < 0.001).

Discussion

The main discovery from this multi-ethnic sample investigation is a rank-ordering of parent-child conflict prevalence estimates from high (non-Hispanic White) to low (non-Hispanic African-American). The pattern also suggests a possibly generalizable excess associated with US-born sub-groups. The epidemiological estimates presented here merit attention in future cross-cultural research focused on parent-child conflict.
Allometry of sexual size dimorphism in turtles: a comparison of mass and length data
Authors: Regis Koy W. , Meik Jesse M.
Published: January 2017

Background

The macroevolutionary pattern of Rensch’s Rule (positive allometry of sexual size dimorphism) has had mixed support in turtles. Using the largest carapace length dataset and only large-scale body mass dataset assembled for this group, we determine (a) whether turtles conform to Rensch’s Rule at the order, suborder, and family levels, and (b) whether inferences regarding allometry of sexual size dimorphism differ based on choice of body size metric used for analyses.

Methods

We compiled databases of mean body mass and carapace length for males and females for as many populations and species of turtles as possible. We then determined scaling relationships between males and females for average body mass and straight carapace length using traditional and phylogenetic comparative methods. We also used regression analyses to evalutate sex-specific differences in the variance explained by carapace length on body mass.

Results

Using traditional (non-phylogenetic) analyses, body mass supports Rensch’s Rule, whereas straight carapace length supports isometry. Using phylogenetic independent contrasts, both body mass and straight carapace length support Rensch’s Rule with strong congruence between metrics. At the family level, support for Rensch’s Rule is more frequent when mass is used and in phylogenetic comparative analyses. Turtles do not differ in slopes of sex-specific mass-to-length regressions and more variance in body size within each sex is explained by mass than by carapace length.

Discussion

Turtles display Rensch’s Rule overall and within families of Cryptodires, but not within Pleurodire families. Mass and length are strongly congruent with respect to Rensch’s Rule across turtles, and discrepancies are observed mostly at the family level (the level where Rensch’s Rule is most often evaluated). At macroevolutionary scales, the purported advantages of length measurements over weight are not supported in turtles.
Brood size and sex ratio in response to host quality and wasp traits in the gregarious parasitoidOomyzus sokolowskii(Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)
Authors: Li Xianwei , Zhu Liangting , Meng Ling , Li Baoping
Published: January 2017

This laboratory study investigated whether the larval-pupal parasitoidOomyzus sokolowskiifemales adjust their brood size and sex ratio in response to body size and stage ofPlutella xylostellalarval hosts, as well as to their own body size and the order of oviposition. These factors were analyzed using multiple regression with simultaneous entry of them and their two-way interactions. Parasitoids brood size tended to increase with host body size at parasitism when the 4th instar larval host was attacked, but did not change when the 2nd and 3rd instar larvae were attacked. Parasitoids did not vary in brood size according to their body size, but decreased with their bouts of oviposition on a linear trend from 10 offspring adults emerged per host in the first bout of oviposition down to eight in the third. Parasitoid offspring sex ratio did not change with host instar, host body weight, wasp body size, and oviposition bout. Proportions of male offspring per brood were from 11% to 13% from attacking the 2nd to 4th instar larvae and from 13% to 16% across three successive bouts of oviposition, with a large variation for smaller host larvae and wasps. When fewer than 12 offspring were emerged from a host, one male was most frequently produced; when more than 12 offspring were emerged, two or more males were produced. Our study suggests thatO. sokolowskiifemales may optimize their clutch size in response to body size of matureP. xylostellalarvae, and their sex allocation in response to clutch size.
No apparent influence of psychometrically-defined schizotypy on orientation-dependent contextual modulation of visual contrast detection
Authors: Mannion Damien J. , Donkin Chris , Whitford Thomas J.
Published: January 2017

We investigated the relationship between psychometrically-defined schizotypy and the ability to detect a visual target pattern. Target detection is typically impaired by a surrounding pattern (context) with an orientation that is parallel to the target, relative to a surrounding pattern with an orientation that is orthogonal to the target (orientation-dependent contextual modulation). Based on reports that this effect is reduced in those with schizophrenia, we hypothesised that there would be a negative relationship between the relative score on psychometrically-defined schizotypy and the relative effect of orientation-dependent contextual modulation. We measured visual contrast detection thresholds and scores on the Oxford-Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences (O-LIFE) from a non-clinical sample (N= 100). Contrary to our hypothesis, we find an absence of a monotonic relationship between the relative magnitude of orientation-dependent contextual modulation of visual contrast detection and the relative score on any of the subscales of the O-LIFE. The apparent difference of this result with previous reports on those with schizophrenia suggests that orientation-dependent contextual modulation may be an informative condition in which schizophrenia and psychometrically-defined schizotypy are dissociated. However, further research is also required to clarify the strength of orientation-dependent contextual modulation in those with schizophrenia.
Glycosylation affects the stability and subcellular distribution of human PAT1 protein
Authors: Luo Hongjie , Zhao Lingling , Ji Xin , Zhang Xiangxiang , Jin Yaping , Liu Wei
Published: January 2017

The amino acid transporter PAT1 is typically expressed on the lysosome and plasma membranes in various human tissues. Glycosylation has been shown to be critical for the cell surface expression of PAT1, but not for its stability, in Xenopus oocytes. Here, we report that the glycosylation‐deficient mutant of PAT1 (PAT13NQ) is unstable and is degraded mainly via the endoplasmic reticulum‐associated degradation pathway in HEK293 cells. Interestingly, PAT13NQ binds preferentially to the plasma membrane rather than to the lysosome. Consistent with this altered distribution, overexpression of PAT13NQ fails to inhibit the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). Our data suggest that glycosylation affects the stability and localization of PAT1 in HEK293 cells and the subcellular distribution of PAT1 is a factor affecting mTORC1 activity.
Mobility and transport of mercury and methylmercury in peat as a function of changes in water table regime and plant functional groups
Authors: Haynes Kristine M. , Kane Evan S. , Potvin Lynette , Lilleskov Erik A. , Kolka Randall K. , Mitchell Carl P. J.
Published: January 2017

Climate change is likely to significantly affect the hydrology, ecology, and ecosystem function of peatlands, with potentially important but unclear impacts on mercury mobility within and transport from peatlands. Using a full‐factorial mesocosm approach, we investigated the potential impacts on mercury mobility of water table regime changes (high and low) and vegetation community shifts (sedge‐dominated, Ericaceae‐dominated, or unmanipulated control) in peat monoliths at the PEATcosm mesocosm facility in Houghton, Michigan. Lower and more variable water table regimes and the loss of Ericaceae shrubs act significantly and independently to increase both total Hg and methylmercury concentrations in peat pore water and in spring snowmelt runoff. These differences are related to enhanced peat decomposition and internal regeneration of electron acceptors which are more strongly related to water table regime than to plant community changes. Loss of Ericaceae shrubs and an increase in sedge cover may also affect Hg concentrations and mobility via oxygen shuttling and/or the provision of labile root exudates. Altered hydrological regimes and shifting vegetation communities, as a result of global climate change, are likely to enhance Hg transport from peatlands to downstream aquatic ecosystems.
EMIC wave scale size in the inner magnetosphere: Observations from the dual Van Allen Probes
Authors: Blum L. W. , Bonnell J. W. , Agapitov O. , Paulson K. , Kletzing C.
Published: January 2017

Estimating the spatial scales of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves is critical for quantifying their overall scattering efficiency and effects on thermal plasma, ring current, and radiation belt particles. Using measurements from the dual Van Allen Probes in 2013–2014, we characterize the spatial and temporal extents of regions of EMIC wave activity and how these depend on local time and radial distance within the inner magnetosphere. Observations are categorized into three types—waves observed by only one spacecraft, waves measured by both spacecraft simultaneously, and waves observed by both spacecraft with some time lag. Analysis reveals that dayside (and H+ band) EMIC waves more frequently span larger spatial areas, while nightside (and He+ band) waves are more often localized but can persist many hours. These investigations give insight into the nature of EMIC wave generation and support more accurate quantification of their effects on the ring current and outer radiation belt.
The vanishing cryovolcanoes of Ceres
Authors: Sori Michael M. , Byrne Shane , Bland Michael T. , Bramson Ali M. , Ermakov Anton I. , Hamilton Christopher W. , Otto Katharina A. , Ruesch Ottaviano , Russell Christopher T.
Published: January 2017

Ahuna Mons is a 4 km tall mountain on Ceres interpreted as a geologically young cryovolcanic dome. Other possible cryovolcanic features are more ambiguous, implying that cryovolcanism is only a recent phenomenon or that other cryovolcanic structures have been modified beyond easy identification. We test the hypothesis that Cerean cryovolcanic domes viscously relax, precluding ancient domes from recognition. We use numerical models to predict flow velocities of Ahuna Mons to be 10–500 m/Myr, depending upon assumptions about ice content, rheology, grain size, and thermal parameters. Slower flow rates in this range are sufficiently fast to induce extensive relaxation of cryovolcanic structures over 108–109 years, but gradual enough for Ahuna Mons to remain identifiable today. Positive topographic features, including a tholus underlying Ahuna Mons, may represent relaxed cryovolcanic structures. A composition for Ahuna Mons of >40% ice explains the observed distribution of cryovolcanic structures because viscous relaxation renders old cryovolcanoes unrecognizable.
Study of the effect of 17–18 March 2015 geomagnetic storm on the Indian longitudes using GPS and C/NOFS
Authors: Ray Sarbani , Roy Bidyut , Paul Krishnendu Sekhar , Goswami Samiddha , Oikonomou Christina , Haralambous Haris , Chandel Babita , Paul Ashik
Published: January 2017

The largest geomagnetic storm in solar cycle 24 occurred during 17–18 March 2015 where the main phase of the storm commenced from 07:00 UT of 17 March 2015 and reached the Dst negative minimum at 22:00 UT. The present paper reports observations of total electron content (TEC), amplitude, and phase scintillations from different GPS stations of India during the storm of 17 March and highlights its effects on GPS. It also presents the global equatorial spread F (ESF) occurrence during the storm using total ion density drift measurements from Communication and Navigation Outage Forecast System (C/NOFS) satellite. TEC enhancements were noted from stations along 77°E meridian around 10:00 UT on 17 March compared to 16 and 18 March indicating positive storm effects arising out of equatorward neutral wind in the local morning to noon sector of the main phase. Intense scintillation observations from Calcutta were most extensive during 15:00–16:00 UT, 17 March, and the receiver recorded a longitude deviation of 5.2 m during this time. Cycle slips of the order of 8 s could be observed during periods of intense phase scintillations on the same night. Intense scintillation observation from Palampur is an exceptional phenomenon attributed to the dramatic enhancement of the electric field due to prompt penetrating (undershielded) electric leading to a very high upward ion velocity over the magnetic equator as recorded by C/NOFS. The total ion density measured globally by C/NOFS reveals two distinct longitude regions of ESF occurrence during the storm: (i) East Pacific sector and (ii) Indian longitude during the storm. The time and longitude of ESF occurrence could be predicted using the time of southward turning of interplanetary magnetic field Bz.
Correlations between substrate availability, dissolved CH4, and CH4 emissions in an arctic wetland subject to warming and plant removal
Authors: Nielsen Cecilie Skov , Michelsen Anders , Strobel Bjarne W. , Wulff Katrine , Banyasz Imre , Elberling Bo
Published: January 2017

The Arctic is warming which may potentially affect substrate availability, organic matter decomposition, plant growth, and plant species composition. This may lead to changes in the exchange of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) between the soil system and the atmosphere. Yet the correlations among substrate availability, CH4 production, and net emissions of CH4 have been scarcely studied in arctic wetlands. Presently, the impact of increasing temperatures on CH4 exchange is uncertain as the two existing reports on field warming in arctic wetlands present opposite results. We here report results on how summer warming and shrub removal affect soil water substrate (acetate, formate, oxalate, and dissolved organic carbon) concentrations as well as dissolved CH4 and CH4 emissions in a fen at Disko Island (West Greenland). The peak in dissolved CH4 followed the peak in acetate concentration, and appeared after the peak in CH4 emissions, which indicates a lack of correlation between CH4 production and emissions. The peak in CH4 emissions coincided with maximum gross ecosystem production suggesting that CH4 emissions are closely linked to photosynthesis. This was supported by an experiment with removal of the sedge Carex aquatilis ssp. stans which contributed with up to 77% of the CH4 emitted from the ecosystem. By contrast, shrub removal and summer warming did not significantly affect CH4 emissions, possibly due to the treatments impacting CH4 production more than emissions. This implies that such wetlands may be less sensitive to moderate warming and changes in shrub cover than previously assumed.
Fluxes all of the time? A primer on the temporal representativeness of FLUXNET
Authors: Chu Housen , Baldocchi Dennis D. , John Ranjeet , Wolf Sebastian , Reichstein Markus
Published: January 2017

FLUXNET, the global network of eddy covariance flux towers, provides the largest synthesized data set of CO2, H2O, and energy fluxes. To achieve the ultimate goal of providing flux information “everywhere and all of the time,” studies have attempted to address the representativeness issue, i.e., whether measurements taken in a set of given locations and measurement periods can be extrapolated to a space‐ and time‐explicit extent (e.g., terrestrial globe, 1982–2013 climatological baseline). This study focuses on the temporal representativeness of FLUXNET and tests whether site‐specific measurement periods are sufficient to capture the natural variability of climatological and biological conditions. FLUXNET is unevenly representative across sites in terms of the measurement lengths and potentials of extrapolation in time. Similarity of driver conditions among years generally enables the extrapolation of flux information beyond measurement periods. Yet such extrapolation potentials are further constrained by site‐specific variability of driver conditions. Several driver variables such as air temperature, diurnal temperature range, potential evapotranspiration, and normalized difference vegetation index had detectable trends and/or breakpoints within the baseline period, and flux measurements generally covered similar and biased conditions in those drivers. About 38% and 60% of FLUXNET sites adequately sampled the mean conditions and interannual variability of all driver conditions, respectively. For long‐record sites (≥15 years) the percentages increased to 59% and 69%, respectively. However, the justification of temporal representativeness should not rely solely on the lengths of measurements. Whenever possible, site‐specific consideration (e.g., trend, breakpoint, and interannual variability in drivers) should be taken into account.
Increased C3 productivity in Midwestern lawns since 1982 revealed by carbon isotopes in Amanita thiersii
Authors: Hobbie Erik A. , Schubert Brian A. , Craine Joseph M. , Linder Ernst , Pringle Anne
Published: January 2017

How climate and rising carbon dioxide concentrations (pCO2) have influenced competition between C3 and C4 plants over the last 50 years is a critical uncertainty in climate change research. Here we used carbon isotope (δ13C) values of the saprotrophic lawn fungus Amanita thiersii to integrate the signal of C3 and C4 carbon in samples collected between 1982 and 2009 from the Midwestern USA. We then calculated 13C fractionation (Δ) to assess the balance between C3 and C4 photosynthesis as influenced by mean annual temperature (MAT), mean annual precipitation over a 30 year period (MAP‐30), and pCO2. Sporocarp Δ correlated negatively with MAT (−1.74‰ °C−1, 79% of variance) and positively with MAP (9.52‰ m−1, 15% of variance), reflecting the relative productivity of C3 and C4 grasses in lawns. In addition, Δ values correlated positively with pCO2 (0.072‰ ppm−1, 5% of variance). Reduced photorespiration with rising pCO2 accounted for 20% of this increased Δ, but the remaining 80% is consistent with increased assimilation of C3‐derived carbon by Amanita thiersii resulting from increased productivity of C3 grasses with rising pCO2. Between 1982 and 2009, pCO2 rose by 46 ppm and the relative contribution of C3 photosynthesis to Amanita thiersii carbon increased 18.5%. The δ13C value of Amanita thiersii may integrate both lawn maintenance practices and the physiological responses of turf grasses to rising CO2 concentrations.
Erosion of organic carbon from the Andes and its effects on ecosystem carbon dioxide balance
Authors: Clark K. E. , Hilton R. G. , West A. J. , Robles Caceres A. , Gröcke D. R. , Marthews T. R. , Ferguson R. I. , Asner G. P. , New M. , Malhi Y.
Published: January 2017

Productive forests of the Andes are subject to high erosion rates that supply to the Amazon River sediment and carbon from both recently photosynthesized biomass and geological sources. Despite this recognition, the source and discharge of particulate organic carbon (POC) in Andean Rivers remain poorly constrained. We collected suspended sediments from the Kosñipata River, Peru, over 1 year at two river gauging stations. Carbon isotopes (14C, 13C, and 12C) and nitrogen to organic carbon ratios of the suspended sediments suggest a mixture of POC from sedimentary rocks (POCpetro) and from the terrestrial biosphere (POCbiosphere). The majority of the POCbiosphere has a composition similar to surface soil horizons, and we estimate that it is mostly younger than 850 14C years. The suspended sediment yield in 2010 was 3500 ± 210 t km−2 yr−1, >10 times the yield from the Amazon Basin. The POCbiosphere yield was 12.6 ± 0.4 t C km−2 yr−1 and the POCpetro yield was 16.1 ± 1.4 t C km−2 yr−1, mostly discharged in the wet season (December to March) during flood events. The river POCbiosphere discharge is large enough to play a role in determining whether Andean forests are a source or sink of carbon dioxide. The estimated erosional discharge of POCpetro from the Andes is much larger (~1 Mt C yr−1) than the POCpetro discharge by the Madeira River downstream in the Amazon Basin, suggesting that oxidation of POCpetro counters CO2 drawdown by silicate weathering. The flux and fate of Andean POCbiosphere and POCpetro need to be better constrained to fully understand the carbon budget of the Amazon River basin.
Nonmonotonic and spatial‐temporal dynamic slope effects on soil erosion during rainfall‐runoff processes
Authors: Wu Songbai , Yu Minghui , Chen Li
Published: January 2017

The slope effect on flow erosivity and soil erosion still remains a controversial issue. This theoretical framework explained and quantified the direct slope effect by coupling the modified Green‐Ampt equation accounting for slope effect on infiltration, 1‐D kinematic wave overland flow routing model, and WEPP soil erosion model. The flow velocity, runoff rate, shear stress, interrill, and rill erosion were calculated on 0°–60° isotropic slopes with equal horizontal projective length. The results show that, for short‐duration rainfall events, the flow erosivity and erosion amounts exhibit a bell‐shaped trend which first increase with slope gradient, and then decrease after a critical slope angle. The critical slope angles increase significantly or even vanish with increasing rainfall duration but are nearly independent of the slope projective length. The soil critical shear stress, rainfall intensity, and temporal patterns have great influences on the slope effect trend, while the other soil erosion parameters, soil type, hydraulic conductivity, and antecedent soil moisture have minor impacts. Neglecting the slope effect on infiltration would generate smaller erosion and reduce critical slope angles. The relative slope effect on soil erosion in physically based model WEPP was compared to those in the empirical models USLE and RUSLE. The trends of relative slope effect were found quite different, but the difference may diminish with increasing rainfall duration. Finally, relatively smaller critical slope angles could be obtained with the equal slope length and the range of variation provides a possible explanation for the different critical slope angles reported in previous studies.
The future role of dams in the United States of America
Authors: Ho Michelle , Lall Upmanu , Allaire Maura , Devineni Naresh , Kwon Hyun Han , Pal Indrani , Raff David , Wegner David
Published: January 2017

Storage and controlled distribution of water have been key elements of a human strategy to overcome the space and time variability of water, which have been marked by catastrophic droughts and floods throughout the course of civilization. In the United States, the peak of dam building occurred in the mid‐20th century with knowledge limited to the scientific understanding and hydrologic records of the time. Ecological impacts were considered differently than current legislative and regulatory controls would potentially dictate. Additionally, future costs such as maintenance or removal beyond the economic design life were not fully considered. The converging risks associated with aging water storage infrastructure and uncertainty in climate in addition to the continuing need for water storage, flood protection, and hydropower result in a pressing need to address the state of dam infrastructure across the nation. Decisions regarding the future of dams in the United States may, in turn, influence regional water futures through groundwater outcomes, economic productivity, migration, and urban growth. We advocate for a comprehensive national water assessment and a formal analysis of the role dams play in our water future. We emphasize the urgent need for environmentally and economically sound strategies to integrate surface and groundwater storage infrastructure in local, regional, and national water planning considerations. A research agenda is proposed to assess dam failure impacts and the design, operation, and need for dams considering both paleo and future climate, utilization of groundwater resources, and the changing societal values toward the environment.
Predictors of Reduced Health‐Related Quality of Life in Adult Patients With Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies
Authors: Feldon Michal , Farhadi Payam Noroozi , Brunner Hermine I. , Itert Lukasz , Goldberg Bob , Faiq Abdullah , Wilkerson Jesse , Rose Kathryn M. , Rider Lisa G. , Miller Frederick W. , Giannini Edward H.
Published: January 2017

Objective

Extensive studies on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are lacking. Our objective was to document HRQoL and to identify factors associated with a reduced HRQoL in patients with IIM.

Methods

A total of 1,715 patients (median age 49.9 years, 70% female, 87% white) who met probable or definite Bohan and Peter criteria or Griggs criteria for myositis were included from the Myovision registry. HRQoL was ascertained using the Short Form 12 (SF‐12) health survey questionnaire. HRQoL physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores in relation to different patient and disease characteristics were compared to scores from matched normative data from the US general population and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Bivariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to assess the association between HRQoL and patient and disease parameters.

Results

The mean SF‐12 summary scores were significantly lower in IIM patients than in the normative and RA populations. A diagnosis of inclusion body myositis, older age, patient‐reported negative effect of disease on work, presence of another co‐occurring autoimmune disease, polypharmacy, and IIM‐associated lung disease and joint involvement were significantly associated with lower PCS scores. Lower MCS scores were associated with joint involvement and a negative effect of disease on work.

Conclusion

In this large study of patient‐reported outcomes in IIM, an association was found between multiple disease characteristics and reduced HRQoL, mostly in the physical domain. In the US, the HRQoL of IIM patients was found to be lower than that of the general population and RA patients.
From Childhood to Adulthood: The Trajectory of Damage in Patients With Juvenile‐Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Lim Lily S. H. , Pullenayegum Eleanor , Lim Lillian , Gladman Dafna , Feldman Brian , Silverman Earl
Published: January 2017

Objective

To determine the longitudinal damage trajectory of patients with juvenile‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and to identify baseline and disease course predictors of damage trajectory.

Methods

This is a retrospective inception cohort. Longitudinal pediatric‐age data were obtained from a juvenile‐onset SLE research database, while adult‐age data were obtained from either a research database or patients' charts. Baseline factors were tested as predictors. Time‐varying factors were lagged 6–24 months before a visit for testing their predictive effects. The longitudinal damage trajectory was modeled using a weighted generalized estimating equation.

Results

This study cohort consisted of 473 subjects, with followup to 26 years. A total of 65% of patients were ages >18 years at last followup. Cataracts (14%), avascular necrosis (10%), and osteoporosis (5%) were the most common items of damage. Two patients had myocardial infarctions. Baseline features, self‐reported ethnicity (Afro‐Caribbean), earlier time periods of diagnosis, and the presence of a life‐threatening major organ manifestation (lupus nephritis class III–V, cerebrovascular accidents, major organ vasculitis, pulmonary hemorrhage, or myocarditis), were associated with greater damage. Throughout the disease course, an acute confusional state, lupus headache, and fever predicted subsequent increases in the damage trajectory. A higher prednisone dose and exposure to cyclophosphamide also predicted subsequent increases in the damage trajectory. Antimalarial exposure was protective against an increase in damage trajectory.

Conclusion

Patients with juvenile‐onset SLE accrue damage steadily into adulthood. Baseline factors predict greater damage and/or influence the evolution of the damage trajectory. Additionally, SLE clinical features and therapies during the course of disease predict additional changes in the damage trajectory.
Gout Self‐Management in African American Veterans: A Qualitative Exploration of Challenges and Solutions From Patients' Perspectives
Authors: Singh Jasvinder A. , Herbey Ivan , Bharat Aseem , Dinnella Janet E. , Pullman‐Mooar Sally , Eisen Seth , Ivankova Nataliya
Published: January 2017

Objective

To explore gout self‐management and associated challenges and solutions in African Americans.

Methods

We conducted semistructured interviews with 35 African American veterans with gout, who received health care at Birmingham or Philadelphia Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers, had filled urate‐lowering therapy (ULT; most commonly allopurinol) for at least 6 months, and had a ULT medication possession ratio ≥80%. The interview protocol was constructed to explore key concepts related to gout self‐management, including initial diagnosis of gout, beginning medical care for gout, the course of the gout, ULT medication adherence, dietary strategies, comorbidity and side effects, and social support.

Results

Thirty‐five African American male veterans with gout who had ≥80% ULT adherence (most commonly, allopurinol) were interviewed at Birmingham (n = 18) or Philadelphia (n = 17) VA medical centers. Mean age was 65 years, mean body mass index was 31.9 kg/m2, 97% had hypertension, 23% had coronary artery disease, and 31% had renal failure. The main themes motivating African American veterans to better gout self‐management were fear of pain, adherence to medications, self‐discipline, lifestyle changes, information gathering, and developing a positive outlook. Birmingham participants more frequently revealed skipping gout medications. More Philadelphia participants discussed lifestyle/diet changes to prevent gout flares, indicated limiting social activities that involved drinking, and sought more information about gout self‐management from health care providers and internet sources.

Conclusion

Identified themes, including cultural differences by site, led to the development of a patient‐centered intervention to improve gout self‐management in African American men with gout.
Lack of Concordance in Interrater Scoring of the Provider's Global Assessment of Children With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis With Low Disease Activity
Authors: Taylor Janalee , Giannini Edward H. , Lovell Daniel J. , Huang Bin , Morgan Esi M.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To measure agreement among raters when scoring the physician/provider global assessment (PGA) of disease activity in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) with no apparent disease activity, and to identify clinical and laboratory parameters that most strongly influence provider scoring of the PGA.

Methods

Profiles of clinical and laboratory findings from 20 patients with JIA with no apparent disease activity were given to 51 providers, who were asked to score the PGA using a 21‐circle visual analog scale (range 0–10). Following initial scoring, providers discussed each profile and reasons for assigning the score given, and then were asked to rescore each profile. Providers were asked to list variables that influenced their scoring most strongly. Using a mixed‐model approach, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of the final scores served as the measure of concordance.

Results

A total of 504 PGA scores were obtained. The overall ICC of the initial scores was 0.18. Thus, 18% of nonconcordance of the scores was attributable to patient differences, while 82% was due to provider variation. Variables that influenced scoring most strongly were (in order of frequency) presence of pain, questionable temporomandibular joint involvement, loss of joint motion, presence of any morning stiffness, psoriasis, and past history of uveitis.

Conclusion

The low ICC suggests poor agreement among providers scoring the PGA in JIA patients with low or no disease activity. Given the ubiquitous use of the PGA in classification and response criteria for JIA and other pediatric rheumatic diseases, substantive efforts are needed to bring about greater uniformity in scoring of global disease activity by providers.
Novel Direct Nanopatterning Approach to Fabricate Periodically Nanostructured Perovskite for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Mao Jian , Sha Wei E. I. , Zhang Hong , Ren Xingang , Zhuang Jiaqing , Roy Vellaisamy A. L. , Wong Kam Sing , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: January 2017

While indirectly patterned organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite nanostructures have been extensively studied for use in perovskite optoelectronic devices, it is still challenging to directly pattern perovskite thin films because perovskite is very sensitive to polar solvents and high‐temperature environments. Here, a simple and low‐cost approach is proposed to directly pattern perovskite solid‐state films into periodic nanostructures. The approach is basically perovskite recrystallization through phase transformation with the presence of a periodic mold on an as‐prepared solid‐state perovskite film. Interestingly, this study simultaneously achieves not only periodically patterned perovskite nanostructures but also better crystallized perovskites and improved optical properties, as compared to its thin film counterpart. The improved optical properties can be attributed to the light extraction and increased spontaneous emission rate of perovskite gratings. By fabricating light‐emitting diodes using the periodic perovskite nanostructure as the emission layers, approximately twofold higher radiance and lower threshold than the reference planar devices are achieved. This work opens up a new and simple way to fabricate highly crystalline and large‐area perovskite periodic nanostructures for low‐cost production of high‐performance optoelectronic devices.
Low‐Dose Prostate Cancer Brachytherapy with Radioactive Palladium–Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Laprise‐Pelletier Myriam , Lagueux Jean , Côté Marie‐France , LaGrange Thomas , Fortin Marc‐André
Published: January 2017

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of death among men. Low‐dose brachytherapy is an increasingly used treatment for PCa, which requires the implantation of tens of radioactive seeds. This treatment causes discomfort; these implants cannot be removed, and they generate image artifacts. In this study, the authors report on intratumoral injections of radioactive gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) as an alternative to seeds. The particles (103Pd:Pd@Au‐PEG and 103Pd:Pd@198Au:Au‐PEG; 10–14 nm Pd@Au core, 36–48 nm hydrodynamic diameter) are synthesized by a one‐pot process and characterized by electron microscopy. Administrated as low volume (2–4 µL) single doses (1.6–1.7 mCi), the particles are strongly retained in PCa xenograft tumors, impacting on their growth rate. After 4 weeks, a tumor volume inhibition of 56% and of 75%, compared to the controls, is observed for 103Pd:Pd@Au‐PEG NPs and 103Pd:Pd@198Au:Au‐PEG NPs, respectively. Skin necrosis is observed with 198Au; therefore, Au NPs labeled with 103Pd only are a more advisable choice. Overall, this is the first study confirming the impact of 103Pd@Au NPs on tumor growth. This new brachytherapy procedure could allow tunable doses of radioactivity, administered with smaller needles than with the current technologies, and leading to fewer image artifacts.
Disulfide‐Directed C–H Hydroxylation for Synthesis of Sulfonyl Diphenyl Sulfides and 2‐(Phenylthio)phenols with Oxygen as Oxidant
Authors: Wang Long , Xie Yi‐Bi , Huang Nian‐Yu , Zhang Nuo‐Nuo , Li De‐Jiang , Hu Yu‐Lin , Liu Ming‐Guo , Li Dong‐Sheng
Published: January 2017

Compared to N, O and P as directing functional atoms, the application of directing group containing sulfur atoms for transition metal‐catalyzed C–H activation is much more difficult for the known reason (some metal catalysts are easily poisoned by sulfur). Here, the disulfide‐directed C–H activation for thew synthesis of sulfonyl diphenyl sulfides was realized for the first time by a copper‐catalyzed, tandem, one‐step C–S coupling/hydroxylation of disulfides and arylboronic acids with oxygen as the oxidant. This method provides a mild and easy method for the synthesis of sulfonyl diphenyl sulfides and 2‐(phenylthio)phenol derivatives and avoids producing sulfoxides and sulfones under air conditions and elevated temperatures.

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PVDF‐Based Ferroelectric Polymers in Modern Flexible Electronics
Authors: Chen Xin , Han Xu , Shen Qun‐Dong
Published: January 2017

Ferroelectric polymers are the most promising electroactive materials with outstanding properties that can be integrated into a variety of flexible electronic devices. Their multifunctional capabilities, ability to bend and stretch, ease of processing, chemical stability, and the high biocompatibility of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)‐based polymers make them attractive for applications in flexible memories, energy transducers, and electronic skins. Here, recent advance in the research of PVDF‐based flexible electronic devices is reviewed, including nonvolatile memories, energy‐harvesting devices, and multifunctional portable sensors.
Improved nutrition in the first 1000 days and adult human capital and health
Authors: Martorell Reynaldo
Published: January 2017

Objective

The aim of this article is to review why the first 1000 days of life are a vulnerable period of human development and the long‐term effects of a nutrition experiment carried out in Guatemala (1969–1977).

Methods

In 1969–77, a supplement called Atole, containing high quality protein, energy and micronutrients, was provided to women during pregnancy and lactation and to children <7 years of age in two villages while in two control villages a low‐energy drink called Fresco was provided. The villages were assigned at random to the treatment groups.

Results

Several reasons explain the vulnerability of the first 1000 days: rapid growth and development, high nutritional requirements, greater susceptibility to infections, high sensitivity to programming effects and full dependence on others for care, nutrition, and social interaction. Compared with Fresco, Atole improved total nutrient intakes (protein, energy, and micronutrients) and reduced stunting, but only in children < 3 years of age. A study in 2002–2004 showed that schooling, reading, and intelligence were improved in Atole villages, but only in those who received Atole before the age of 3 years. Wages of men were increased by 46% in those provided Atole through the age of 2 years. Findings for cardiovascular disease risk factors were inconclusive, perhaps because of the young age of the sample. A new study focusing on chronic diseases is ongoing (ages 38–54 years).

Conclusions

The Guatemalan studies indicate that substantial improvement in adult human capital and economic productivity resulted from the nutrition intervention. This provides a powerful argument for promoting improvements in nutrition in pregnant women and young children in low income countries.
Recalibration of the Klales et al. (2012) method of sexing the human innominate for Mexican populations
Authors: Gómez‐Valdés Jorge A. , Menéndez Garmendia Antinea , García‐Barzola Lizbeth , Sánchez‐Mejorada Gabriela , Karam Carlos , Baraybar José Pablo , Klales Alexandra
Published: January 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to test the accuracy of the Klales et al. (2012) equation for sex estimation in contemporary Mexican population.

Materials and Methods

Our investigation was carried out on a sample of 203 left innominates of identified adult skeletons from the UNAM‐Collection and the Santa María Xigui Cemetery, in Central Mexico. The Klales' original equation produces a sex bias in sex estimation against males (86–92% accuracy versus 100% accuracy in females). Based on these results, the Klales et al. (2012) method was recalibrated for a new cutt‐of‐point for sex estimation in contemporary Mexican populations.

Results and Discussion

The results show cross‐validated classification accuracy rates as high as 100% after recalibrating the original logistic regression equation. Recalibration improved classification accuracy and eliminated sex bias. This new formula will improve sex estimation for Mexican contemporary populations.
Nonmetric cranial trait variation and the origins of the Scythians
Authors: Movsesian Alla A. , Bakholdina Varvara Yu.
Published: January 2017

Objectives

Within the fields of archaeology and anthropology, there is a long history of disputes concerning the origin of the northern Black Sea Scythians. One of the main points of contention is whether the Scythian gene pool was derived from the preceding local Bronze Age population or whether their population history can be connected to invaders from Central Asia. To test these hypotheses, we investigated Late Scythian populations from the northern Black Sea region and compared them to Bronze Age groups from Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Materials and methods

We studied a cranial series of five Late Scythian populations from the northern Black Sea region (N = 323), as well as local Bronze Age groups (N = 109), Central Asian Bronze Age groups (N = 79), and Sarmatians (N = 110). Biological diversity was analyzed by the mean measure of divergence (MMD).

Results

The Late Scythian population considered in this study proved to be genetically homogeneous, although some connections with the Sarmatians were found. We also revealed similarities between the Scythian groups and the local Bronze Age population of the Srubnaya culture, as well as, to a lesser extent, a group representative of the Central Asian Bronze Age Okunevo culture.

Discussion

The similarities between Late Scythians and various Sarmatian groups could be the result of genetic contacts between the groups, as well as shared genetic origins. The gene pool of the Scythian population likely comprises both local and Central Asian genetic components, though the exact origins and proportion of the eastern component currently remains unknown.