bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of human–carnivore conflict hotspots to prioritize mitigation efforts
Authors: Broekhuis Femke , Cushman Samuel A. , Elliot Nicholas B.
Published: November 2017

Human–carnivore conflict is a primary driver of carnivore declines worldwide and resolving these conflicts is a conservation priority. However, resources to mitigate conflicts are limited and should be focused on areas of highest priority. We conducted 820 semistructured interviews with community members living within Kenya's Maasai Mara ecosystem. A multiscale analysis was used to determine the influence of husbandry and environmental factors on livestock depredation inside livestock enclosures (bomas). Areas with a high proportion of closed habitat and protected areas had the highest risk of depredation. Depredation was most likely to occur at weak bomas and at households where there were fewer dogs. We used the results to identify potential conflict hotspots by mapping the probability of livestock depredation across the landscape. 21.4% of the landscape was classified as high risk, and within these areas, 53.4% of the households that were interviewed had weak bomas. Synthesis and applications. With limited resources available to mitigate human–carnivore conflicts, it is imperative that areas are identified where livestock is most at risk of depredation. Focusing mitigation measures on high‐risk areas may reduce conflict and lead to a decrease in retaliatory killings of predators.
Male‐specific mortality biases secondary sex ratio in Eurasian tree sparrows Passer montanus
Authors: Kato Takahiro , Matsui Shin , Terai Yohey , Tanabe Hideyuki , Hashima Sayaka , Kasahara Satoe , Morimoto Gen , Mikami Osamu K. , Ueda Keisuke , Kutsukake Nobuyuki
Published: November 2017

Sex allocation theory predicts that parents bias the offspring sex ratio strategically. In avian species, the offspring sex ratio can be biased at multiple growth stages, although the mechanisms are not well known. It is crucial to reveal a cause and timing of biased offspring sex ratio. We investigated (i) offspring sex ratio at multiple growth stages, from laying to fledging; and (ii) the stage at which offspring sex ratio became biased; and (iii) the cause of biased offspring sex ratio in Eurasian tree sparrows Passer montanus. Sex determination of 218 offspring, including hatchlings and unhatched eggs from 41 clutches, suggested that the offspring sex ratio was not biased at the egg‐laying stage but was significantly female‐biased after the laying stage due to higher mortality of male embryos. Half of the unhatched eggs showed no sign of embryo development (37/74, 50.00%), and most undeveloped eggs were male (36/37, 97.30%). Additional experiments using an incubator suggested that the cause of embryo developmental failure was a lack of developmental ability within the egg, rather than a failure of incubation. This study highlights the importance of clarifying offspring sex ratio at multiple stages and suggests that offspring sex ratio is adjusted after fertilization.
Distinguish water utilization strategies of trees growing on earth‐rocky mountainous area with transpiration and water isotopes
Authors: Jia Guodong , Liu Ziqiang , Chen Lixin , Yu Xinxiao
Published: November 2017

Water stress is regarded as a global challenge to forests. Unlike other water‐limited areas, the water use strategies of rocky mountainous forests, which play an important ecohydrological role, have not received sufficient attention. To prove our hypothesis that species adopt different water use strategies to avoid competition of limited water resources, we used site abiotic monitoring, sap flow and stable isotope method to study the biophysiological responses and water use preferences of two commonly distributed forest species, Pinus tabuliformis (Pt) and Quercus variabilis (Qv). The results showed that Pt transpired higher than Qv. Pt was also prone to adopt isohydric water use strategy as it demonstrated sensitive stomatal control over water loss through transpiration. Qv developed cavitation which was reflected by the dropping Ec in response to high vapor pressure deficit, concentrated peak sap flux density (Js), and enlarged hysteresis loop. Considering the average soil depth of 52.8 cm on the site, a common strategy shared by both species was the ability to tap water from deep soil layers (below 40 cm) when soil water was limited, and this contributed to the whole growing season transpiration. The contribution of surface layer water to plant water use increased and became the main water source for transpiration after rainfall. Qv was more efficient at using water from surface layer than Pt due to the developed surface root system when soil water content was not stressed. Our study proves that different water‐using strategies of co‐occurring species may be conducive to avoid competition of limited water resources to guarantee their survival. Knowledge of water stress‐coping strategies of trees has implications for the understanding and prediction of vegetation composition in similar areas and can facilitate forest management criteria for plantations.
Are local plants the best for ecosystem restoration? It depends on how you analyze the data
Authors: Bucharova Anna , Durka Walter , Hölzel Norbert , Kollmann Johannes , Michalski Stefan , Bossdorf Oliver
Published: November 2017

One of the key questions in ecosystem restoration is the choice of the seed material for restoring plant communities. The most common strategy is to use local seed sources, based on the argument that many plants are locally adapted and thus local seed sources should provide the best restoration success. However, the evidence for local adaptation is inconsistent, and some of these inconsistencies may be due to different experimental approaches that have been used to test for local adaptation. We illustrate how conclusions about local adaptation depend on the experimental design and in particular on the method of data analysis. We used data from a multispecies reciprocal transplant experiment and analyzed them in three different ways: (1) comparing local vs. foreign plants within species and sites, corresponding to tests of the “local is best” paradigm in ecological restoration, (2) comparing sympatric vs. allopatric populations across sites but within species, and (3) comparing sympatric and allopatric populations across multiple species. These approaches reflect different experimental designs: While a local vs. foreign comparison can be done even in small experiments with a single species and site, the other two approaches require a reciprocal transplant experiment with one or multiple species, respectively. The three different analyses led to contrasting results. While the local/foreign approach indicated lack of local adaptation or even maladaptation, the more general sympatric/allopatric approach rather suggested local adaptation, and the most general cross‐species sympatric/allopatric test provided significant evidence for local adaptation. The analyses demonstrate how the design of experiments and methods of data analysis impact conclusions on the presence or absence of local adaptation. While small‐scale, single‐species experiments may be useful for identifying the appropriate seed material for a specific restoration project, general patterns can only be detected in reciprocal transplant experiments with multiple species and sites.
KIR downregulation by IL‐12/15/18 unleashes human NK cells from KIR/HLA‐I inhibition and enhances killing of tumor cells
Authors: Ewen Eva‐Maria , Pahl Jens H.W. , Miller Matthias , Watzl Carsten , Cerwenka Adelheid
Published: November 2017

To exploit autologous NK cells for cancer immunotherapy, it is highly relevant to circumvent killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor (KIR)‐mediated self‐inhibition of human NK cells by HLA‐I–expressing tumor cells. Here, we show that stimulation of NK cells with IL‐12/15/18 for two days led to downregulation of surface expression of the inhibitory KIR2DL2/L3, KIR2DL1 and KIR3DL1 receptors on peripheral blood NK cells. Downregulation of KIR expression was attributed to decreased KIR mRNA levels which could be re‐induced already 3 days after re‐culture in IL‐2. Reduced KIR2DL2/L3 expression on IL‐12/15/18–activated NK cells resulted in less inhibition upon antibody‐mediated KIR engagement and increased CD16‐dependent cytotoxicity in redirected lysis assays. Most importantly, downregulated KIR2DL2/L3 expression enabled enhanced cytotoxicity of IL‐12/15/18–stimulated NK cells against tumor cells expressing cognate HLA‐I molecules. NK cells pre‐activated with IL‐12/15/18 were previously shown to exert potent anti‐tumor activity and memory‐like long‐lived functionality, mediating remission in a subset of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients in a clinical trial. Our study reveals a novel mechanism of IL‐12/15/18 in improving the cytotoxicity of NK cells by reducing their sensitivity to inhibition by self–HLA‐I due to decreased KIR expression, highlighting the potency of IL‐12/15/18–activated NK cells for anti‐tumor immunotherapy protocols.
1D Chains of Diruthenium Tetracarbonyl Sawhorse Complexes
Authors: Fritsch Nico , Wick Christian R. , Waidmann Thomas , Pflock Stephan , Dral Pavlo O. , Tucher Johannes , Steiner Christian , Shubina Tatyana E. , Maier Sabine , Clark Timothy , Burzlaff Nicolai
Published: November 2017

The syntheses of five 1D coordination polymers containing the sawhorse‐type unit [Ru2(µ‐OAc)2(CO)4] linked by various bridging N,N‐donor ligands are reported. Various π‐conjugated linkers, such as trans‐[1,2‐bis(N‐methyl)imidazol‐2‐yl]ethylene (trans‐bie), pyrazine (pyz), 4,4′‐bipyridine (4,4′‐bipy) and 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethylene (bpe) as well as the aliphatic linker 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO), were applied in the syntheses. The formation of 1D coordination polymers was proven by crystal structure determinations of two of the polymeric materials. The geometries and electronic structures of all polymers were analysed further by CASSCF/CASPT2 and DFT calculations based on monomeric model compounds. Finally, first attempts regarding deposition of the 1D chain, the sawhorse fragment and/or the ligands on a highly ordered pyrolytic graphite surface, analysed by STM measurements, are also reported.
Comparison of Typical Photocatalytic Systems with Intrinsic Plasmonic Photocatalysts Based on Strontium Niobate for Water Splitting
Authors: Wan Dongyang. , Asmara Teguh C. , Rusydi Andrivo , Venkatesan T.
Published: November 2017

We report in this Review the study of conventional semiconductor‐based photocatalysts and the photocatalytic properties of SrNbO3. The history of photocatalysis, its basic principles, and the problems associated with its commercial application will be discussed. These problems can be partially alleviated by using plasmonic metal nanoparticle/semiconductor systems. Then, we will introduce a new intrinsic plasmonic photocatalyst, SrNbO3. Epitaxial films of SrNbO3 are grown as a metallic oxide by means of pulsed laser deposition. This unusual material has a band gap of 4.1 eV with a degenerate conduction band with a charge‐carrier density exceeding 1022 cm−3. This large charge‐carrier density gives rise to a plasmon that in turn causes a strong absorption in the red range of light; this was mistaken earlier by the community to arise from a mid‐gap state. When oxygen is introduced into this system, a special planar defect is formed that progressively reduces the percolation of the metallic region. Within the metallic region an unusual coherent plasmonic effect is seen, which arises from strong electronic correlation. Such a strong optical absorption enables the material to generate hydrogen from water under solar irradiation.
Semiactive control of rigid blocks under earthquake excitation
Authors: Pecorelli Marica L. , Ceravolo Rosario
Published: November 2017

This paper investigates the usefulness of a semiactive control to reduce the overturning vulnerability of a rigid block on a rigid plane under earthquake excitation. The proposed feedback law is used to set the stiffness of restraints placed at the 2 lower corners of the block. The performance of the semiactive control is numerically validated by subjecting the block to 100 recorded accelerograms. Specific simulations are performed to study the effect of different anchorage design parameters on the utility of the control. Finally, the robustness of the proposed control is addressed with respect to typical issues of the real‐world implementation.
Downregulation of spinal astrocytic connexin43 leads to upregulation of interleukin‐6 and cyclooxygenase‐2 and mechanical hypersensitivity in mice
Authors: Morioka Norimitsu , Fujii Shiori , Kondo Syun , Zhang Fang Fang , Miyauchi Kazuki , Nakamura Yoki , Hisaoka‐Nakashima Kazue , Nakata Yoshihiro
Published: November 2017

Connexin43 (Cx43), involved in intercellular signaling, is expressed in spinal dorsal horn astrocytes and crucial in the maintenance of neuropathic pain. Downregulation of spinal astrocytic Cx43 in mice enhances glutamatergic neurotransmission by decreasing glutamate transporter GLT‐1 expression, resulting in cutaneous hypersensitivity. Decreased expression of astrocytic Cx43 could lead to altered expression of other nociceptive molecules. Transfection of Cx43‐targeting siRNA in cultured spinal astrocytes increased expression of the pronociceptive cytokine interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and the prostaglandin synthesizing enzyme cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2). Increased expression of IL‐6 and COX‐2 was due to decreased Cx43 expression rather than due to diminished Cx43 channel function. In mice, downregulation of spinal Cx43 expression by intrathecal treatment with Cx43‐targeting siRNA increased IL‐6 and COX‐2 expression and induced hind paw mechanical hypersensitivity. Cx43 siRNA‐induced mechanical hypersensitivity was attenuated by intrathecal treatment with anti‐IL‐6 neutralizing antibody and intraperitoneal treatment of selective COX‐2 inhibitor celecoxib, demonstrating that these molecules play a role in nociceptive processing following Cx43 downregulation. Restoring spinal Cx43 by intrathecal injection of an adenovirus vector expressing Cx43 in mice with a partial sciatic nerve ligation reduced spinal IL‐6 and COX‐2 expression. Suppression of glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β), a serine/threonine protein kinase, prevented upregulation of IL‐6 and COX‐2 expression induced by Cx43 downregulation in both cultured astrocytes and in mouse spinal dorsal horn. Inhibition of spinal GSK‐3β also ameliorated Cx43 siRNA‐induced mechanical hypersensitivity. The current findings indicate that downregulation of spinal astrocytic Cx43 leads to changes in spinal expression of pronociceptive molecules underlying the maintenance of pain following nerve injury.
Generational shift in melanoma incidence and mortality in Queensland, Australia, 1995–2014
Authors: Aitken Joanne F. , Youlden Danny R. , Baade Peter D. , Soyer H. Peter , Green Adèle C. , Smithers B. Mark
Published: November 2017

Public campaigns encouraging sun protection for skin cancer prevention began in Queensland, Australia, in the early 1980s. We examined recent trends to assess whether earlier evidence of stabilizing melanoma incidence in young people has persisted. Anonymized incidence and mortality data for in situ and invasive melanoma for the 20 years 1995–2014 were obtained from the Queensland Cancer Registry. Time trends were analyzed using JoinPoint regression. Birth cohort patterns were assessed using age–period–cohort models. Melanoma incidence in Queensland remains the highest recorded in the world (age‐standardized incidence of invasive melanoma (2010–2014) = 72/100,000/annum). Over the 20‐year period, incidence of in situ melanoma increased in all age groups. Incidence of both thin (≤1 mm) and thick (>1 mm) invasive melanoma was either stable or decreased in people under 60, while it increased in those aged 60 and above, particularly in men. Age–period–cohort analysis revealed decreasing age‐specific incidence of invasive melanoma under 40 years of age, beginning with the birth cohort born around the mid‐1960s, with steepest falls for those born around 1980 and later. Age‐specific incidence was stable between 40 and 59 years of age from the 1945 birth cohort onwards. Melanoma mortality over the period was stable or decreased in all groups except in men aged 60 or over. These findings are evidence of real advances in the prevention and early detection of invasive melanoma in this very high‐risk population. They make a compelling case for continued public health efforts to reduce the burden of melanoma in susceptible populations.
Effects of platelet‐rich plasma on biological activity and bone regeneration of brushite‐based calcium phosphate cement
Authors: Hasan Md Lemon , Taz Mirana , Lee Byong‐Taek
Published: November 2017

In this study, we focused on identifying the effects of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) on bioactivity and bone ingrowths incorporated into brushite cement. We introduced PRP as a series of substitutions with an aqueous citrate‐ion solution, and the optimized cement with PRP showed no disintegration of the paste consistency. Incorporating PRP showed that the setting time decreased with the increasing of PRP ratios, although the compressive strength was not significantly changed. We evaluated in vitro degradation and bioactivity with the simulated body fluid test, and the result showed that adding PRP accelerated the carbonated apatite nucleation and markedly improved the surface reactivity of the cement. The in vitro studies demonstrated that incorporating PRP into the brushite cement improved cell adhesion and proliferation. The in vivo effects of PRP were faster degradation, improved tissue response in the early stage, and bone ingrowths. We demonstrated based on our results of this study, incorporation of PRP into brushite cement could be helpful for improving biological activity of the cement as well as bone regeneration. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2316–2326, 2018.
P2O5 Mediated an Efficient Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Heterocyclic‐fused Pyrimidine Derivatives as an Antitubercular Agent
Authors: Patil Kirti T. , Warekar Poojali P. , Patil Priyanka T. , Undare Santosh S. , Kolekar Govind B. , Anbhule Prashant V.
Published: November 2017

An efficient P2O5 mediated protocol for the synthesis of pyrido[2,3‐d:6,5‐d]dipyrimidines has been developed through one‐pot three‐component condensation of aromatic aldehydes, barbituric acid/thiobarbituric acid, and 1,3‐dimethyl‐6‐amino‐uracil in ethanol. All the synthesized products were screened for their in vitro antitubercular activity, and results reveal that most of the compounds exhibited moderate to good activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37RV strain.
Aortopulmonary collateral flow quantification by MR at rest and during continuous submaximal exercise in patients with total cavopulmonary connection
Authors: Mkrtchyan Naira , Frank Yvonne , Steinlechner Eva , Calavrezos Lenika , Meierhofer Christian , Hager Alfred , Martinoff Stefan , Ewert Peter , Stern Heiko
Published: November 2017

Background

Aortopulmonary collateral flow is considered to have significant impact on the outcome of patients with single ventricle circulation and total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC). There is little information on collateral flow during exercise.

Purpose

To quantify aortopulmonary collateral flow at rest and during continuous submaximal exercise in clinical patients doing well with TCPC.

Study Type

Prospective, case controlled.

Population

Thirteen patients with TCPC (17 (11–37) years) and 13 age and sex‐matched healthy controls (18 (11–38) years).

Field Strength

1.5T; free breathing; phase sensitive gradient echo sequence.

Assessment

Blood flow in the ascending and descending aorta and superior vena cava were measured at rest and during continuous submaximal physical exercise in patients and controls. Systemic blood flow (Qs) was assumed to be represented by the sum of flow in the superior caval vein (Qsvc) and the descending aorta (QAoD) at the diaphragm level. Aortopulmonary collateral flow (Qcoll) was calculated by subtracting Qs from flow in the ascending aorta (QAoA).

Statistics

Mann–Whitney U‐test and Wilcoxon test for comparison between groups and between rest and exercise.

Results

Absolute collateral flow in TCPC patients at rest was 0.4 l/min/m2 (–0.1–1.2), corresponding to 14% (–2–42) of Qs. Collateral flow did not change during exercise (difference –0.01 (–0.7–1.0) l/min/m2, P = 0.97). TCPC patients had significantly lower Qs at rest (2.5 (1.6–4.1) vs. 3.5 (2.6–4.8) l/min/m2, P = 0.001) and during submaximal exercise (3.2 (2.0–6.0) vs. 4.8 (3.3–6.9) l/min/m2, P = 0.001), compared to healthy controls. The increase in Qs with exercise was also significantly lower in patients than in healthy controls (median 0.6 vs. 1.2 l/min/m2, P < 0.02).

Data Conclusion

Clinical patients doing well with TCPC have significant aortopulmonary collateral flow at rest (14% of Qs) compared to healthy controls, which does not change during submaximal exercise.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1509–1516.
Biocontrol ability of killer yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) isolated from wine against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides on grape
Authors: Liu Zongling , Du Shuang , Ren Yi , Liu Yanlin
Published: November 2017

A total of 216 killer yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae, isolated from wine, were evaluated in controlling Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, a pre‐harvest anthracnose agent of grape. Three of these yeast isolates were tested positive for antagonizing C. gloeosporioides and were further evaluated for their mechanisms as biological control agents (BCAs): production of antifungal compounds, production of hydrolytic enzymes, inhibition of C. gloeosporioides conidia germination, colonization on grape berry, and efficiency in controlling anthracnose of grape. The results showed that all three S. cerevisiae isolates produced antifungal compounds, inhibited C. gloeosporioides conidia germination and produced β‐1,3‐glucanase and chitinase. All isolates colonized grape berry in large quantities and controlled C. gloeosporioides when artificially inoculated on grape berry. Among the three isolates, application of isolate GA8 resulted in 69.7% of disease reductions for C. gloeosporioides on grape berry. The antagonistic isolates of S. cerevisiae could represent important BCAs of anthracnose of grape caused by C. gloeosporioides that are responsible for economic losses in viticulture.
Characterization of a robust serine protease from Bacillus subtilis K‐1
Authors: Singh Satbir , Gupta Puneet , Bajaj Bijender K.
Published: November 2017

Process apt microbial proteases due to their wide range industrial applications have become the focus of intense scientific research during recent years. Considering the hostile process milieu, the proteases intended for application must be robust enough to withstand the extremes of temperature and pH, and presence of organic solvents and other potential enzyme inhibitors. Current study presents the characterization of a robust protease from a previously isolated bacterium Bacillus subtilis K‐1 (BSK‐1). Purification of BSK‐1 protease (5.21‐fold) was achieved to homogeneity by salt (ammonium sulfate) precipitation, and ion‐exchange (diethyl‐aminoethyl‐sephadex) and size exclusion chromatography (Sephadex G‐100). Molecular weight of BSK‐1 protease was determined by SDS‐PAGE analysis (42 kDa). Though the optimum temperature and pH for BSK‐1 protease activity was 50 °C and 10, respectively, but, the protease exhibited remarkable activity and stability over elevated temperatures (60–80 °C) and a broad pH range (pH 7–11). Protease showed resistance towards several organic solvents/other potential enzyme inhibitors. Drastic activity loss in presence of phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride indicated that the enzyme is a serine protease. Kinetic parameters (Km and Vmax) for BSK‐1 protease were found to be 0.14 mg ml−1 and 1176 mg min−1, respectively. Putative amino acid sequence of BSK‐1 protease (derived from nucleotide sequence of protease gene) suggested that the enzyme belonged to peptidases S8/S53 super family with multidomain of S8. BSK‐1 protease being stable under harsh conditions may serve a model system for understanding the molecular basis of stability, and may help designing novel proteases that are suitable for industrial applications.
Evaluating Creativity Through the Degrees of Solidity of Its Assessment: A Relational Approach
Authors: Martine Thomas , Cooren François , Bartels Gerald
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we introduce a new approach to creativity assessment. Arguably, one of the main obstacles to creativity assessment is that creativity criteria are likely to change depending on what is assessed and who is making the assessment. We argue that we might be able to solve this problem by adopting a relational ontology, i.e., an ontology according to which beings of the world acquire their properties by relating to other beings. First, we present the main consequences of this ontological approach for creativity assessment: (a) Accounting for the creativity of a given object involves retracing the beings (including criteria) that relate it to its alleged creativity; (b) One can assess the creativity of this object by looking at the number of beings that substantiate this relation, i.e., by looking at what we call the “degree of solidity” of the relation; (c) One can thus account for the specificity of various forms of creativity and, at the same time, compare them in terms of solidity. Building on these ontological assumptions, we then present a new assessment technique, the Objection Counting Technique, before putting it to the test using an excerpt taken from a naturally occurring brainstorming session.
Structural, thermal, and morphological characteristics of cassava amylodextrins
Authors: Costa Mariana Souza , Volanti Diogo Paschoalini , Grossmann Maria Victória Eiras , Franco Célia Maria Landi
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Amylodextrins from cassava starch were obtained by acid hydrolysis, and their structural, thermal and morphological characteristics were evaluated and compared to those from potato and corn amylodextrins.

RESULTS

Cassava starch was the most susceptible to hydrolysis due to imperfections in its crystalline structure. The crystalline patterns of amylodextrins remained unchanged, and crystallinity and peak temperature increased with hydrolysis time, whereas thermal degradation temperature decreased, independent of treatment time and starch source. Cassava amylodextrins had similar structural and morphological characteristics to those from corn amylodextrins due to their A‐type crystalline arrangements. A‐amylodextrins were structurally and thermally more stable than potato amylodextrins (B‐type). Starch nanocrystals (SNC) were observed by transmission electron microscopy from the third day of hydrolysis in cassava amylodextrins, whereas potato and corn amylodextrins displayed SNC only on the fifth day. A‐SNC displayed platelet shapes, whereas B‐SNC were rounded. The SNC shape was related to the packing form and geometry of unit cells of allomorphs A and B.

CONCLUSION

Microstructures (agglomerated crystalline particles) and nanostructures (double helix organization) were observed for amylodextrins. Cassava starch was shown to be a promising material for SNC production, since it requires less hydrolysis time to obtaining more stable crystals. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Weak response of greenhouse gas emissions to whole lake N enrichment
Authors: Klaus Marcus , Bergström Ann‐Kristin , Jonsson Anders , Deininger Anne , Geibrink Erik , Karlsson Jan
Published: November 2017

Global warming and land use scenarios suggest increased 21st century nitrogen (N) inputs to aquatic systems. Nitrogen affects in‐lake processing and, potentially, atmospheric exchange of greenhouse gases, probably being most relevant in unproductive systems. Here, we test for the first time the effect of a whole‐lake experimental increase (threefold) in external nitrate loads on the atmospheric exchange of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) from N‐limited unproductive boreal lakes. Nitrate enrichment effects were assessed within a paired Before/After‐Control/Impact framework based on 2‐hourly to biweekly surface‐water sampling of dissolved gas concentrations, and monthly whole‐lake inventory surveys, carried out over 4 yrs in six lakes. Nitrate enrichment did not affect gas exchange during summer stratification and whole‐lake gas inventories during summer and winter stratification. This finding specifically emphasizes the modest role of internal carbon fixation for the CO2 dynamics of unproductive boreal lakes. A global synthesis of 52 published studies revealed a wide range of nutrient fertilization effects, both in systems similar to our experimental lakes, and other more productive systems. Effects depended mainly on the spatiotemporal scale of the study and became more pronounced when N enrichment was combined with phosphorous. Conclusively, although short‐term and habitat‐specific effects can occur, changes in N supply have only weak whole‐ecosystem effects on greenhouse gas emissions from unproductive boreal lakes.
In‐line optical fiber metallic mirror reflector for monolithic common path optical coherence tomography probes
Authors: Singh Kanwarpal , Reddy Rohith , Sharma Gargi , Verma Yogesh , Gardecki Joseph A. , Tearney Guillermo
Published: November 2017

Background and Objectives

Endoscopic optical coherence tomography probes suffer from various artifacts due to dispersion imbalance and polarization mismatch between reference and sample arm light. Such artifacts can be minimized using a common path approach. In this work, we demonstrate a miniaturized common path probe for optical coherence tomography using an inline fiber mirror.

Materials and Methods

A common path optical fiber probe suitable for performing high‐resolution endoscopic optical coherence tomography imaging was developed. To achieve common path functionality, an inline fiber mirror was fabricated using a thin gold layer. A commercially available swept source engine was used to test the designed probe in a cadaver human coronary artery ex vivo.

Results

We achieved a sensitivity of 104 dB for this probe using a swept source optical coherence tomography system. To test the probe, images of a cadaver human coronary artery were obtained, demonstrating the quality that is comparable to those obtained by OCT systems with separate reference arms. Additionally, we demonstrate recovery of ranging depth by use of a Michelson interferometer in the detection path.

Conclusion

We developed a miniaturized monolithic inline fiber mirror‐based common path probe for optical coherence tomography. Owing to its simplicity, our design will be helpful in endoscopic applications that require high‐resolution probes in a compact form factor while reducing system complexity. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:230–235, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cooperative Folding of Linear Poly(dimethyl siloxane)s via Supramolecular Interactions
Authors: Ślęczkowski Marcin L. , Meijer E. W. , Palmans Anja R. A.
Published: November 2017

The synthesis and characterization of graft copolymers are reported based on linear poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PDMS) and chiral, pendant benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxamides (BTAs). The copolymers differ in degree of polymerization (DP) and BTA graft density. Characterization of the bulk materials at room temperature reveals that the BTAs aggregate in a helical fashion via threefold hydrogen‐bond formation within the PDMS matrix. A significant degree of hydrogen bonding persists up to 180 °C, regardless of DP and BTA content. Analysis of the solution behavior by 1H NMR spectroscopy indicates that BTA aggregation occurs in CDCl3, a solvent normally suppressing aggregation. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy in 1,2‐dichloroethane shows strong CD effects and reveals that increasing the DP and decreasing the BTA graft density results in an increase in the cooperativity of the BTA aggregation. Dynamic light scattering indicates the formation of particles with sizes of 400 nm. This is the first time that polymers with pendant BTAs show a sharp transition between a nonaggregated and aggregated state, a behavior similar to the one observed for “free” BTAs. The cooperative aggregation is attributed to the strong phase‐segregation between the PDMS backbone and the BTAs, in combination with a high propensity of these polymers to form multichain aggregates.
Smart Combinations of Bioactive Compounds in Fruits and Vegetables May Guide New Strategies for Personalized Prevention of Chronic Diseases
Authors: van Breda Simone G.J. , de Kok Theo M.C.M.
Published: November 2017

There is ample scientific evidence suggesting that the health benefits of eating the right amounts of a variety of vegetables and fruit are the consequence of the combined action of different phytochemicals. The present review provides an update of the scientific literature on additive and synergistic effects of mixtures of phytochemicals. Most research has been carried out in in vitro systems in which synergistic or additive effects have been established on the level of cell proliferation, apoptosis, antioxidant capacity, and tumor incidence, accompanied by changes in gene and protein expression in relevant pathways underlying molecular mechanisms of disease prevention. The number of human dietary intervention studies investigating complex mixtures of phytochemicals is relatively small, but showing promising results. These studies have demonstrated that combining transcriptomic data with phenotypic markers provide insight into the relevant cellular processes which contribute to the antioxidant response of complex mixtures of phytochemicals. Future studies should be designed as short‐term studies testing different combinations of vegetables and fruit, in which markers for disease outcome as well as molecular (‘omics)‐markers and genetic variability between subjects are included. This will create new opportunities for food innovation and the development of more personalized strategies for prevention of chronic diseases.
A Ketone Ester Drink Lowers Human Ghrelin and Appetite
Authors: Stubbs Brianna J. , Cox Pete J. , Evans Rhys D. , Cyranka Malgorzata , Clarke Kieran , de Wet Heidi
Published: November 2017

Objective

The ketones d‐β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and acetoacetate are elevated during prolonged fasting or during a “ketogenic” diet. Although weight loss on a ketogenic diet may be associated with decreased appetite and altered gut hormone levels, it is unknown whether such changes are caused by elevated blood ketones. This study investigated the effects of an exogenous ketone ester (KE) on appetite.

Methods

Following an overnight fast, subjects with normal weight (n = 15) consumed 1.9 kcal/kg of KE, or isocaloric dextrose (DEXT), in drinks matched for volume, taste, tonicity, and color. Blood samples were analyzed for BHB, glucose, insulin, ghrelin, glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1), and peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY), and a three‐measure visual analogue scale was used to measure hunger, fullness, and desire to eat.

Results

KE consumption increased blood BHB levels from 0.2 to 3.3 mM after 60 minutes. DEXT consumption increased plasma glucose levels between 30 and 60 minutes. Postprandial plasma insulin, ghrelin, GLP‐1, and PYY levels were significantly lower 2 to 4 hours after KE consumption, compared with DEXT consumption. Temporally related to the observed suppression of ghrelin, reported hunger and desire to eat were also significantly suppressed 1.5 hours after consumption of KE, compared with consumption of DEXT.

Conclusions

Increased blood ketone levels may directly suppress appetite, as KE drinks lowered plasma ghrelin levels, perceived hunger, and desire to eat.
In situ reduction of graphene oxide in the poly (vinyl alcohol) matrix via microwave irradiation
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , He Yonglyu , Zhu Pu , Lin Shaofeng , Ju Su , Jiang Dazhi
Published: November 2017

Despite great recent progress, the processing of graphene oxide (GO) sheets in polymers are often one of the most challenging steps in fabricating graphene/polymer nanocomposites. The challenge is how to achieve high levels of dispersion and reduction of GO simultaneously, without any residual reducing agents in the composites. In this work, microwave irradiation is applied as a remote source to in situ reduce GO sheets embedded in the poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix, which process maximizes the advantage of GO's solvent processability. The active response of GO to microwave irradiation allows for the uniform and selective heating of GO, leading to a minutes‐quick reduction of GO without physical damage to the polymer matrix. Significant improvements in the mechanical properties, electrical conductivities and glass transition temperatures (Tgs) of GO/PVA nanocomposites are achieved, and possible reasons for the improvements are also discussed. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:170–178, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Electrified single‐walled carbon nanotube/epoxy nanocomposite via vacuum shock technique: Effect of alignment on electrical conductivity and electromagnetic interference shielding
Authors: Hashemi Seyyed Alireza , Mousavi Seyyed Mojtaba , Arjmand Mohammad , Yan Ning , Sundararaj Uttandaraman
Published: November 2017

Electrified and non‐electrified epoxy‐based nanocomposites holding highly and randomly aligned single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT), respectively, were made by vacuum shock technique, where a DC electric field was used to align SWCNT. The alignment of SWCNTs in the electrified nanocomposites was verified via optical microscopy, SEM analysis, and Raman spectroscopy. Electrical characterization revealed that alignment of SWCNTs led to a significant improvement in electrical conductivity and electromagnetic interference shielding of the fabricated nanocomposites. For instance, the electrical conductivity of the electrified nanocomposites at 0.25 wt% and 0.60 wt% was 2.5 × 10−8 and 5.1 × 10−4 S·m−1, while the conductivity of non‐electrified nanocomposites was 1.1 × 10−11 and 5.6 × 10−5 S·m−1, respectively. With 3.0 mm thickness and 0.60 wt% SWCNT loading, the electrified and non‐electrified nanocomposites showed shielding effectiveness of 12.8 dB and 9.1 dB, respectively. These results revealed that electrification of SWCNT in epoxy‐based nanocomposites improved the level of conductive network formation, thereby enhancing electrical properties of the nanocomposites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1139–E1148, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Safety assessment of niacin in the US Food and Drug Administration's mini‐sentinel system
Authors: Gagne Joshua J. , Houstoun Monika , Reichman Marsha E. , Hampp Christian , Marshall James H. , Toh Sengwee
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The Heart Protection Study 2—Treatment of HDL to Reduce the Incidence of Vascular Events (HPS2‐THRIVE) trial found higher incidence rates of adverse reactions, including bleeding, in patients receiving the combination of extended‐release niacin and laropiprant versus placebo. It is not known whether these adverse events are attributable to laropiprant, not approved in the USA, or to extended‐release niacin. We compared rates of major gastrointestinal bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage among initiators of extended‐release niacin and initiators of fenofibrate.

Methods

We used Mini‐Sentinel (now Sentinel) to conduct an observational, new user cohort analysis. We included data from 5 Data Partners covering the period from January 1, 2007 to August 31, 2013. Individuals who initiated extended‐release niacin were propensity score‐matched to individuals who initiated fenofibrate. Within the matched cohorts, we used Cox proportional hazards models to compare rates of hospitalization for major gastrointestinal bleeding events and intracranial hemorrhage assessed using validated claims‐based algorithms.

Results

A total of 234 242 eligible extended‐release niacin initiators were identified, of whom 210 389 (90%) were 1:1 propensity score‐matched to eligible fenofibrate initiators. In propensity score‐matched analyses, no differences were observed between exposure groups in rates of major gastrointestinal bleeding (hazard ratio [HR], 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.82 to 1.18) or intracranial hemorrhage (HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 0.66 to 2.22). Results were similar in pre‐specified sensitivity and subgroup analyses.

Conclusions

We did not observe evidence for an association between extended‐release niacin versus fenofibrate and rates of major gastrointestinal bleeding or intracranial hemorrhage.
Extracellular Vesicles in the Adaptive Process of Prostate Cancer during Inhibition of Androgen Receptor Signaling by Enzalutamide
Authors: Soekmadji Carolina , Rockstroh Anja , Ramm Grant A. , Nelson Colleen C. , Russell Pamela J.
Published: November 2017

Current treatments for advanced prostate cancer focus on inhibition of the androgen receptor (AR) by androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). However, complex interactions mediated by tumor suppressors, oncogenes, aberrations of AR expression, or de novo androgen production have been shown to induce the adaptive response of prostate cancer, leading to the development of castration resistant prostate cancer. In this study, we report the effects of AR antagonist, enzalutamide on the protein contents of extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs mediate cell‐to‐cell communication and increasing evidence shows the role of EVs in promoting cancer survival and metastasis. We found that treatment with enzalutamide alters the secretion of EVs, one of which is a plasma membrane calcium pump, ATP2B1/PMCA ATPase, as an AR‐regulated EV protein. We highlight the networks of interactions between AR, Ca2+, and ATP2B1, where the extracellular proteins thrombospondin‐1, gelsolin, and integrinß1 were previously reported as regulators for cancer progression and metastasis, indicating the potential role of EV‐derived proteins in mediating calcium homoeostasis under AR inhibition by enzalutamide. Our data further highlight the cross‐talk between AR signaling and EV pathways in mediating resistance toward ADT.
Critical evaluation of HOMA and MBL as local aromaticity indices
Authors: Makino Masakazu , Nishina Naoko , Aihara Jun‐ichi
Published: November 2017

The harmonic oscillator model of aromaticity (HOMA) index is an excellent structural indicator of aromaticity. We found that HOMA values for internal benzene rings in large pericondensed polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are often overestimated because of the local aromaticity of adjacent benzene rings. The occurrence of this phenomenon was confirmed by comparing the HOMA with the corresponding SSE(LA) values; SSE(LA) is a graph‐theoretical index of local aromaticity not disturbed by the aromaticity of the adjacent benzene rings. Mean bond length values were likewise assessed by comparing them with the corresponding HOMA and SSE(LA) values.
Effects of alkyl side chains positioning and presence of fused aromatic units in the backbone of low‐bandgap diketopyrrolopyrrole copolymers on the optoelectronic properties of organic solar cells
Authors: Chochos Christos L. , Katsouras Athanasios , Drakopoulou Sofia , Miskaki Christina , Krassas Miron , Tzourmpakis Pavlos , Kakavelakis George , Sprau Christian , Colsmann Alexander , Squeo Benedetta M. , Gregoriou Vasilis G. , Kymakis Emmanuel , Avgeropoulos Apostolos
Published: November 2017

The systematic optimization of the chemical structure of low‐bandgap (LBG) donor‐acceptor polymeric semiconductors is a challenging task for which accurate guidelines are yet to be determined. Several different structural and molecular parameters are crucial ingredients for obtaining LBG polymers that simultaneously possess high power conversion efficiencies, good processability in common organic solvents, and enhanced stability in organic photovoltaic devices. In this work, we present an extensive structure–optoelectronic properties–solar cell performance study on the emerging class of diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based LBG polymers. In particular, we investigate alkyl side chain positioning by introducing linear alkyl side chains into two different positions (α‐ and β‐), and the distance of the electron rich and electron deficient monomers within the repeat units of the polymer chain. We demonstrate that anchoring linear alkyl side chains to the α‐positions and introducing fused moieties into the polymer backbone, can be beneficial toward maintaining photocurrents similar to the unsubstituted derivative, and concurrently exhibit better processabiliy in common organic solvents. These results can provide a design rationale towards further optimization of semiconducting polymers. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 138–146
Facile Construction of 3D Reduced Graphene Oxide Wrapped Ni3S2 Nanoparticles on Ni Foam for High‐Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Qi Jiqiu , Chang Yuan , Sui Yanwei , He Yezeng , Meng Qingkun , Wei Fuxiang , Zhao Yulong , Jin Yunxue
Published: November 2017

3D reduced graphene oxide (rGO)‐wrapped Ni3S2 nanoparticles on Ni foam with porous structure is successfully synthesized via a facile one‐step solvothermal method. This unique structure and the positive synergistic effect between Ni3S2 nanoparticles and graphene can greatly improve the electrochemical performance of the NF@rGO/Ni3S2 composite. Detailed electrochemical measurements show that the NF@rGO/Ni3S2 composite exhibits excellent supercapacitor performance with a high specific capacitance of 4048 mF cm−2 (816.8 F g−1) at a current density of 5 mA cm−2 (0.98 A g−1), as well as long cycling ability (93.8% capacitance retention after 6000 cycles at a current density of 25 mA cm−2). A novel aqueous asymmetric supercapacitor is designed using the NF@rGO/Ni3S2 composite as positive electrode and nitrogen‐doped graphene as negative electrode. The assembled device displays an energy density of 32.6 W h kg−1 at a power density of 399.8 W kg−1, and maintains 16.7 W h kg−1 at 8000.2 W kg−1. This outstanding performance promotes the as‐prepared NF@rGO/Ni3S2 composite to be ideal electrode materials for supercapacitors.
Milk and other dairy foods in relation to prostate cancer recurrence: Data from the cancer of the prostate strategic urologic research endeavor (CaPSURE™)
Authors: Tat David , Kenfield Stacey A. , Cowan Janet E. , Broering Jeanette M. , Carroll Peter R. , Van Blarigan Erin L. , Chan June M.
Published: November 2017

Background

High‐fat dairy, particularly whole milk, in healthy men may increase risk of aggressive prostate cancer. However, data are limited regarding dairy after prostate cancer diagnosis.

Method

We conducted a prospective study among 1334 men with non‐metastatic prostate cancer in the Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor. Men answered a food frequency questionnaire in 2004‐2005 (median 2 years after diagnosis) and were followed until 2016 for recurrence, defined as: prostate cancer death, bone metastases, biochemical recurrence, or secondary treatment. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate hazards ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between whole and low‐fat milk; total, high‐fat, and low‐fat dairy; and other dairy items and risk of recurrence.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 8 years, we observed 137 events. Men who consumed >4 servings/week versus 0‐3 servings/month of whole milk had an 73% increased risk of recurrence (HR: 1.73; 95%CI: 1.00, 2.98; P‐value = 0.04). Body mass index (BMI) modified the association (P‐interaction = 0.01). Among men with a BMI ≥27 kg/m2, >4 servings/week versus 0‐3 servings/month of whole milk was associated with a 3‐fold higher risk of recurrence (HR: 2.96; 95%CI: 1.58, 5.54; P‐value < 0.001). No association was seen in men with BMI <27 kg/m2. Low‐fat milk and other dairy foods were not associated with recurrence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whole milk consumption after prostate cancer diagnosis was associated with increased risk of recurrence, particularly among very overweight or obese men. Men with prostate cancer who choose to drink milk should select non‐fat or low‐fat options.