bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miR‐124‐9‐9* potentiates Ascl1‐induced reprogramming of cultured Müller glia
Authors: Wohl Stefanie Gabriele , Reh Thomas Andrew
Published: January 2016

The Müller glia of fish provide a source for neuronal regeneration after injury, but they do not do so in mammals. We previously showed that lentiviral gene transfer of the transcription factor Achaete‐scute homolog 1 (Ascl1/Mash1) in murine Müller glia cultures resulted in partial reprogramming of the cells to retinal progenitors. The microRNAs (miRNAs) miR‐124‐9‐9* facilitate neuronal reprogramming of fibroblasts, but their role in glia reprogramming has not been reported. The aim of this study was to test whether (1) lentiviral gene transfer of miR‐124‐9‐9* can reprogram Müller glia into retinal neurons and (2) miR‐124‐9‐9* can improve Ascl1‐induced reprogramming. Primary Müller glia cultures were generated from postnatal day (P) 11/12 mice, transduced with lentiviral particles, i.e., miR‐124‐9‐9*‐RFP, nonsense‐RFP, Ascl1‐GFP, or GFP‐control. Gene expression and immunofluorescence analyses were performed within 3 weeks after infection.

Overexpression of miR‐124‐9‐9* induced the expression of the proneural factor Ascl1 and additional markers of neurons, including TUJ1 and MAP2.

When Ascl1 and miR‐124‐9‐9* were combined, 50 to 60% of Müller glia underwent neuronal reprogramming, whereas Ascl1 alone results in a 30 to 35% reprogramming rate.

Analysis of the miR‐124‐9‐9* treated glial cells showed a reduction in the level of Ctdsp1 and Ptbp1, indicating a critical role for the REST pathway in the repression of neuronal genes in Müller glia.

Our data further suggest that miR‐124‐9‐9* and the REST complex may play a role in regulating the reprogramming of Müller glia to progenitors that underlies retinal regeneration in zebrafish. GLIA 2016;64:743–762
Model complexity and data requirements in snow hydrology: seeking a balance in practical applications
Authors: Avanzi Francesco , De Michele Carlo , Morin Samuel , Carmagnola Carlo Maria , Ghezzi Antonio , Lejeune Yves
Published: January 2016

We investigate the problem of balancing model complexity and input data requirements in snow hydrology. For this purpose, we analyze the performance of two models of different complexity in estimating variables of interest in snow hydrology applications. These are snow depth, bulk snow density, snow water equivalent and snowmelt run‐off. We quantify the differences between data and model prediction using 18 years of measurements from an experimental site in the French Alps (Col de Porte, 1325 m AMSL). The models involved in this comparison are a one‐layer temperature‐index model (HyS) and a multilayer model (Crocus). Results show that the expected loss in performance in the one‐layer temperature‐index model with respect to the multilayer model is low when considering snow depth, snow water equivalent and bulk snow density. As for run‐off, the comparison returns less clear indications for identification of a balance. In particular, differences between the models' prediction and data with an hourly resolution are higher when considering the Crocus model than the HyS model. However, Crocus is better at reproducing sub‐daily cycles in this variable. In terms of daily run‐off, the multilayer physically based model seems to be a better choice, while results in terms of cumulative run‐off are comparable. The better reproduction of daily and sub‐daily variability of run‐off suggests that use of the multilayer model may be preferable for this purpose. Variation in performance is discussed as a function of both the calibration solution chosen and the time of year. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Indole‐derived Donor‐acceptor Cyclopropanes
Authors: Trushkov Igor V.
Published: January 2016

Due to a combination of a broad diversity of reactivities of donor‐acceptor cyclopropanes with easy functionalization of the indole ring, as well as potent bioactivity of indole ring‐containing products, indole‐derived donor‐acceptor cyclopropanes are among the most attractive compounds. Methods for the synthesis and reactivity of donor‐acceptor cyclopropanes containing the indole ring as a donor substituent are reviewed.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Donor‐Acceptor Cyclopropapyranone by Intramolecular Cyclopropanation of Vinylogous Carbonates: Application to the Total Synthesis of (±)‐Diospongin B
Authors: Gharpure Santosh J. , Mane Sumit P. , Nanda Laxmi Narayan , Shukla Manoj Kumar
Published: January 2016

An intramolecular, stereoselective cyclopropanation of vinylogous carbonates with carbenes using copper catalyst is developed for the synthesis of donor‐acceptor substituted cyclopropapyranones. Completely regioselective ring cleavage of each of the cyclopropane bonds was achieved under suitable reaction conditions, leading to a diverse array of cyclic ethers. The developed method is utilized in the total synthesis of (±)‐diospongin B.
Flow cytometric evaluation of the contribution of ionic silver to genotoxic potential of nanosilver in human liver HepG2 and colon Caco2 cells
Authors: Sahu Saura C. , Njoroge Joyce , Bryce Steven M. , Zheng Jiwen , Ihrie John
Published: January 2016

Exposure to nanosilver found in food‐ and cosmetics‐related consumer products is of public concern because of the lack of information about its safety. In this study, two widely used in vitro cell culture models, human liver HepG2 and colon Caco2 cells, and the flow cytometric micronucleus (FCMN) assay were evaluated as tools for rapid predictive screening of the potential genotoxicity of nanosilver. Recently, we reported the genotoxicity of 20 nm nanosilver using these systems. In the current study presented here, we tested the hypothesis that the nanoparticle size and cell types were critical determinants of its genotoxicity. To test this hypothesis, we used the FCMN assay to evaluate the genotoxic potential of 50 nm nanosilver of the same shape, composition, surface charge and obtained from the same commercial source using the same experimental conditions and in vitro models (HepG2 and Caco2) as previously tested for the 20 nm silver. Results of our study show that up to the concentrations tested in these cultured cell test systems, the smaller (20 nm) nanoparticle is genotoxic to both the cell types by inducing micronucleus (MN). However, the larger (50 nm) nanosilver induces MN only in HepG2 cells, but not in Caco2 cells. Also in this study, we evaluated the contribution of ionic silver to the genotoxic potential of nanosilver using silver acetate as the representative ionic silver. The MN frequencies in HepG2 and Caco2 cells exposed to the ionic silver in the concentration range tested are not statistically significant from the control values except at the top concentrations for both the cell types. Therefore, our results indicate that the ionic silver may not contribute to the MN‐forming ability of nanosilver in HepG2 and Caco2 cells. Also our results suggest that the HepG2 and Caco2 cell cultures and the FCMN assay are useful tools for rapid predictive screening of a genotoxic potential of food‐ and cosmetics‐related chemicals including nanosilver. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Dengue severity associated with age and a new lineage of dengue virus‐type 2 during an outbreak in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Nunes Priscila Conrado Guerra , Sampaio Simone Alves Faria , Rodrigues da Costa Nieli , de Mendonça Marcos Cesar Lima , Lima Monique da Rocha Queiroz , Araujo Saraiva Eliane M , dos Santos Flávia Barreto , Simões Jaqueline Basto Santos , de Santis Gonçalves Bianca , Nogueira Rita Maria Ribeiro , de Filippis Ana Maria Bispo
Published: January 2016

Dengue virus‐type 2 (DENV‐2) caused three outbreaks, in the years 1990, 1998, and 2008, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The 2008 outbreak was the most severe in reported cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. To investigate virological and epidemiological factors that may have contributed to the pathogenic profile of 2008 epidemic, 102 patients sera obtained during the epidemic and inter‐epidemic periods of three outbreaks were analysed by qRT‐PCR to estimate viremia levels and their correlation with the clinical, immunological, and demographic patient characteristics. DENV‐2 isolates from the outbreaks were sequenced. Two DENV‐2 lineages (I and II) of the American/Asian genotype were confirmed, each exclusive for 1990–2002 and 2007–2011, respectively. The mean viremia level in the 2008 samples was two orders of magnitude higher than that of the 1990–2002 samples. Severe dengue cases increased from 31% in 1990–2002 to 69% in 2007–2011; in patients aged ≤15 years, from 3% in 1990–2002 to 37% in 2007–2011. The DENV‐2 lineage II and younger age significantly contributed to the pathogenic profile of 2008 epidemic in Rio de Janeiro. J. Med. Virol. 88:1130–1136, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Copper, Chromium, Nickel, Lead and Zinc Levels and Pollution Degree in Firing Range Soils
Authors: Rodríguez‐Seijo Andres , Alfaya Maria C. , Andrade María Luisa , Vega Flora A.
Published: January 2016

Small‐arms firing ranges are an important source of metal contaminants in the ecosystems located near these facilities, owing to the constant fall and alteration of the ammunition remnants on the soil, particularly in nearby berms. The objectives of this study were to analyse the pollution of chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) in rifle/pistol shooting range soils, to estimate their availability and to evaluate the influence of the ammunition used. The concentrations of Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr and Ni range from 55 to 6·309, 34 to 264, 19 to 98, 40 to 79 and 11 to 33 mg kg−1, respectively. The moderate acidity and organic matter content favour the availability of Pb, followed by Cu > Zn > Ni > Cr. The values of different contamination indexes (Igeo, pollution index and integrated pollution index) suggest that Pb soil contamination is moderate to heavy, especially in the berm area and moderate for Cu and Zn. Lead ammunition is the main source of pollution, but another one was identified owing to the concentrations of Fe, Cr and Ni detected. Further studies are needed to verify their long‐term potential adverse effects. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Case of Foot Amputation from the Wari Imperial Tomb at Castillo de Huarmey, Peru
Authors: Więckowski W.
Published: January 2016

Evidence of surgical interventions leaving traces on bones is quite abundant in archaeological material all over the world and is found frequently in the Andes. Among them, trepanations are most common, while amputations represent a relatively small part of the material. These have been reported from a few sites on the Peruvian north coast and archaeologically associated with the Moche culture. In 2013, two new cases from this area were found in situ within the Wari imperial mausoleum excavated at Castillo de Huarmey. Two individuals, one man and one woman, were found in the antechamber, serving as guards for the occupants of the main burial chamber. Their left feet were amputated, disarticulated at the ankle joints, a long time before they died. The article presents this find and discusses the form of amputation and the possible reasons why it was performed. As the context of both individuals possessed the same specifics, suggesting that they performed similar tasks related to religion and ritual, this article also presents a cultural interpretation of these finds, using other artefacts—ceremonial beakers in the form of the left human foot—known from Wari and Tiwanaku cultures. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical activity and weight loss are independent predictors of improved insulin sensitivity following energy restriction
Authors: Camps Stefan G. J. A. , Verhoef Sanne P. M. , Westerterp Klaas R.
Published: January 2016

Objective

The role of physical activity and the joint effect with sleep duration on insulin sensitivity (IS) during energy restriction followed by weight maintenance were determined.

Methods

One hundred and two subjects (28 males) (mean ± SD age: 40 ± 9 years; BMI: 31.9 ± 3.0 kg/m2) followed a very‐low‐energy diet for 8 weeks, followed by a 44‐week period of weight maintenance. Body composition (three‐compartment model based on body weight, total body water, and body volume), physical activity (accelerometry), sleep (questionnaire, Epworth Sleepiness Scale), and fasting plasma insulin and glucose concentrations were assessed before the diet and at 8, 20, and 52 weeks after the start.

Results

Compared to baseline, IS was improved significantly after 8 weeks (P < 0.001) and was higher after 20 weeks (P < 0.001) and 52 weeks (P < 0.05). After 8, 20, and 52 weeks, 23% (P < 0.01), 19% (P < 0.05), and 13% (P < 0.05), respectively, of the variance in IS improvement was explained by weight loss percentage and change in physical activity counts.

Conclusions

Maintaining daily physical activity during energy restriction is as important as weight loss itself in the improvement of IS; there was no additional effect of change in sleep duration. During weight maintenance, improved IS is maintained better if physical activity returns to baseline or higher.
Ahnak stimulates BMP2‐mediated adipocyte differentiation through Smad1 activation
Authors: Shin Sunmee , Seong Je Kyung , Bae Yun Soo
Published: January 2016

Objective

Previous reports have indicated that Ahnak‐deficient mice were protected from high‐fat diet‐induced obesity. However, the molecular mechanism in which Ahnak mediates adipocyte differentiation and high‐fat diet‐induced obesity is unclear.

Methods

Adipocytes from Ahnak knockout (Ahnak−/−) mice and knockdown of Ahnak in C3H10T1/2 were used to investigate the function of Ahnak in adipocyte differentiation. Ahnak‐induced adipocyte differentiation was analyzed by Oil Red O staining.

Results

Adipocytes from Ahnak−/− mice were smaller than those from wild‐type mice. Silencing of Ahnak in C3H10T1/2 and adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) from Ahnak−/− mice showed severely impaired adipocyte differentiation. Down‐regulation of Ahnak in C3H10T1/2 cells and ADSCs from Ahnak−/− mice attenuated the phosphorylation and nuclear localization of Smad1 in response to BMP2, whereas Ahnak overexpression in 3T3‐L1 cells significantly increased Smad1 activation. Because PPARγ is a well‐known transcriptional factor in adipocyte differentiation, the PPARγ expression in Ahnak‐mediated adipocyte differentiation was investigated. Transfection of C3H10T1/2 cells with Ahnak siRNA resulted in reduced PPARγ expression apparently through inhibited binding of Smad1 to the Smad1‐binding site in the PPARγ promoter. These results suggest that Ahnak regulates adipogenesis by regulating Smad1‐dependent PPARγ expression.

Conclusions

A molecular mechanism was proposed in which Ahnak regulates adipocyte differentiation through Smad1 activation.
Integration of metabolomics and proteomics in multiple sclerosis: From biomarkers discovery to personalized medicine
Authors: Del Boccio Piero , Rossi Claudia , di Ioia Maria , Cicalini Ilaria , Sacchetta Paolo , Pieragostino Damiana
Published: January 2016

Personalized medicine is the science of individualized prevention and therapy. In the last decade, advances in high‐throughput approaches allowed the development of proteomic and metabolomic studies in evaluating the association of genetic and phenotypic variability with disease sensitivity and analgesic response. These considerations have more value in case of multiple sclerosis (MuS), a multifactorial disease with high heterogeneity in clinical course and treatment response. In this review, we reported and updated about proteomic and metabolomic studies for the research of new candidate biomarkers in MuS, and difficulties in their clinical applications. We focused especially on the description of both “omics” approaches that, once integrated, may synergically describe pathophysiology conditions. To prove this assumption, we rebuilt interaction between proteins and metabolites described in the literature as potential biomarkers for MuS, and a pathway analysis of these molecules was performed. The result of such speculation demonstrated a strong convergence of proteomic and metabolomic results in this field, showing also a poorness of available tools for incorporating “omics” approaches. In conclusion, the integration of Metabolomics and Proteomics may allow a more complete characterization of such a heterogeneous disease, providing further insights into personalized healthcare.
Clinical applications of MS‐based protein quantification
Authors: Sabbagh Bassel , Mindt Sonani , Neumaier Michael , Findeisen Peter
Published: January 2016

Mass spectrometry‐based assays are increasingly important in clinical laboratory medicine and nowadays are already commonly used in several areas of routine diagnostics. These include therapeutic drug monitoring, toxicology, endocrinology, pediatrics, and microbiology. Accordingly, some of the most common analyses are therapeutic drug monitoring of immunosuppressants, vitamin D, steroids, newborn screening, and bacterial identification. However, MS‐based quantification of peptides and proteins for routine diagnostic use is rather rare up to now despite excellent analytical specificity and good sensitivity.

Here, we want to give an overview over current fit‐for‐purpose assays for MS‐based protein quantification. Advantages as well as challenges of this approach will be discussed with focus on feasibility for routine diagnostic use.
Determining the drift potential of Venturi nozzles compared with standard nozzles across three insecticide spray solutions in a wind tunnel
Authors: Ferguson J Connor , Chechetto Rodolfo G , O'Donnell Chris C , Dorr Gary J , Moore John H , Baker Greg J , Powis Kevin J , Hewitt Andrew J
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

Previous research has sought to adopt the use of drift‐reducing technologies (DRTs) for use in field trials to control diamondback moth (DBM) Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) in canola (Brassica napus L.). Previous studies observed no difference in canopy penetration from fine to coarse sprays, but the coverage was higher for fine sprays. DBM has a strong propensity to avoid sprayed plant material, putting further pressure on selecting technologies that maximise coverage, but often this is at the expense of a greater drift potential. This study aims to examine the addition of a DRT oil that is labelled for control of DBM as well and its effect on the drift potential of the spray solution. The objectives of the study are to quantify the droplet size spectrum and spray drift potential of each nozzle type to select technologies that reduce spray drift, to examine the effect of the insecticide tank mix at both (50 and 100 L ha−1) application rates on droplet size and spray drift potential across tested nozzle type and to compare the droplet size results of each nozzle by tank mix against the drift potential of each nozzle.

RESULTS

The nozzle type affected the drift potential the most, but the spray solution also affected drift potential. The fine spray quality (TCP) resulted in the greatest drift potential (7.2%), whereas the coarse spray quality (AIXR) resulted in the lowest (1.3%), across all spray solutions. The spray solutions mixed at the 100 L ha−1 application volume rate resulted in a higher drift potential than the same products mixed at the 50 L ha−1 mix rate. The addition of the paraffinic DRT oil was significant in reducing the drift potential of Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstkai (Bt)‐only treatments across all tested nozzle types. The reduction in drift potential from the fine spray quality to the coarse spray quality was up to 85%.

CONCLUSION

The addition of a DRT oil is an effective way to reduce the spray solution drift potential across all nozzle types and tank mixes evaluated in this study. The greatest reduction in drift potential can be achieved by changing nozzle type, which can reduce the losses of the spray to the surrounding environment. Venturi nozzles greatly reduce the drift potential compared with standard nozzles by as much as 85% across all three insecticide spray solutions. Results suggest that a significant reduction in drift potential can be achieved by changing the nozzle type, and can be achieved without a loss in control of DBM. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Practicality of the suicidal germination approach for controlling Striga hermonthica
Authors: Samejima Hiroaki , Babiker Abdel Gabar , Takikawa Hirosato , Sasaki Mitsuru , Sugimoto Yukihiro
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

Purple witchweed (Striga hermonthica), Orobanchaceae, is an obligate root‐parasitic weed of important cereal crops. The parasite is a copious seed producer, and a huge seed bank develops soon after the onset of the initial infestation. To germinate, a Striga seed requires a pretreatment in a moist warm environment and a subsequent exposure to an exogenous stimulant. One approach to reduce the seed bank is artificially to induce germination of the seeds in the absence of or away from the host roots. A newly developed germination stimulant for S. hermonthica, designated as T‐010, was evaluated for efficacy in greenhouse and field experiments under artificial Striga infestation.

RESULTS

T‐010 displayed germination‐inducing activity in soil. Formulated T‐010 applied at 0.1, 1 and 10 kg ai ha−1 to potted soil containing S. hermonthica seeds, previously conditioned by judicious irrigation, reduced Striga emergence by 94–100%. Results of a field trial showed that formulated T‐010, at the same rates as for the pot experiment, delayed and reduced Striga emergence by 33% and increased sorghum shoot and head dry weight by 18.7–40.2% and 187–241% respectively.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrated, for the first time, the technical feasibility of suicidal germination for controlling S. hermonthica. Optimising structure, formulation and application protocol of germination stimulants should be the main goal for further improvement of the technology. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Molecular modeling of sulfoxaflor and neonicotinoid binding in insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: impact of the Myzus β1 R81T mutation
Authors: Wang Nick X , Watson Gerald B , Loso Michael R , Sparks Thomas C
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

Sulfoxaflor (Isoclast™ active), a new sulfoximine‐class insecticide, targets sap‐feeding insect pests, including those resistant to neonicotinoids. Sulfoxaflor acts on the insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) in a distinct manner relative to neonicotinoids. Unlike any of the neonicotinoids, sulfoxaflor has four stereoisomers. A homology model of Myzus persicae (green peach aphid) based on the ACh binding protein from Aplysia californica, overlaid with M. persicae nAChR sequence (α2 and β1 subunits) was used to investigate the interactions of the sulfoxaflor stereoisomers with WT and R81T versions of the nAChR.

RESULTS

Whole‐molecule van der Waals interactions are highly correlated with the binding affinity for the neonicotinoids and correctly predict the rank order of binding affinity for neonicotinoids and sulfoxaflor. The R81T mutation in M. persicae nAChR is predicted to have much less effect on binding of sulfoxaflor's stereoisomers than that of the neonicotinoids.

CONCLUSION

All four stereoisomers predictably contribute to the activity of sulfoxaflor. The WT and R81T nAChR homology models suggest that changes in a whole‐molecule electrostatic energy component can potentially explain the effects of this target‐site mutation on the pattern of reduced efficacy for the modeled neonicotinoids, and provide a basis for the reduced effect of this mutation on sulfoxaflor. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Calibration and seasonal adjustment for matched case–control studies of vitamin D and cancer
Authors: Gail Mitchell H. , Wu Jincao , Wang Molin , Yaun Shiaw‐Shyuan , Cook Nancy R. , Eliassen A. Heather , McCullough Marjorie L. , Yu Kai , Zeleniuch‐Jacquotte Anne , Smith‐Warner Stephanie A. , Ziegler Regina G. , Carroll Raymond J.
Published: January 2016

Vitamin D measurements are influenced by seasonal variation and specific assay used. Motivated by multicenter studies of associations of vitamin D with cancer, we formulated an analytic framework for matched case–control data that accounts for seasonal variation and calibrates to a reference assay. Calibration data were obtained from controls sampled within decile strata of the uncalibrated vitamin D values. Seasonal sine–cosine series were fit to control data. Practical findings included the following: (1) failure to adjust for season and calibrate increased variance, bias, and mean square error and (2) analysis of continuous vitamin D requires a variance adjustment for variation in the calibration estimate. An advantage of the continuous linear risk model is that results are independent of the reference date for seasonal adjustment. (3) For categorical risk models, procedures based on categorizing the seasonally adjusted and calibrated vitamin D have near nominal operating characteristics; estimates of log odds ratios are not robust to choice of seasonal reference date, however. Thus, public health recommendations based on categories of vitamin D should also define the time of year to which they refer. This work supports the use of simple methods for calibration and seasonal adjustment and is informing analytic approaches for the multicenter Vitamin D Pooling Project for Breast and Colorectal Cancer. Published 2016. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Biomass catalytic pyrolysis: process design and economic analysis
Authors: Vasalos I. A. , Lappas A. A. , Kopalidou E. P. , Kalogiannis K. G.
Published: January 2016

The estimation of catalytic pyrolysis oil (CPO) production cost in a biomass catalytic pyrolysis (BCP) process is the objective of this study. Experiments carried out with a woody biomass (Beechwood) and a commercially available ZSM‐5 catalyst in a circulating fluid bed (CFB) reactor are the basis for the design of a commercial unit. In the CFB unit, the catalytic pyrolysis step takes place at 482°C and at a catalyst to biomass ratio of 15–20. Following this step, the vapor temperature exiting the reactor is cooled from 482 to 340°C by recovering energy for steam production. The vapors are condensed in two quench towers with recirculated oil and water. Following water separation, the CPO flows to storage. A commercial scale process was designed for a capacity of 180,000 metric tons (MT) per year (8 wt% moisture, 0.54 wt% ash) or 500 MT/day of moisture ash free (MAF) biomass (90% operating factor). The projected costs are valid only for an nth plant and they underestimate the cost for a first of its kind plant. Following procedures used for estimating investment and operating costs for a fluid catalytic cracking unit (FCCU), it is found that for BCP the estimated cost of producing CPO with 18 wt% oxygen is 615 US$/MT or 22 US$/GJ. A sensitivity analysis showed that the price of CPO could vary from 615 to 841 US$/MT (22–31 US$/GJ). On a crude oil energy equivalent basis, the bio‐oil cost lies in the range of 36–49 US$/GJ. WIREs Energy Environ 2016, 5:370–383. doi: 10.1002/wene.192

This article is categorized under:

Bioenergy > Science and Materials
The role of the ribosome in the regulation of longevity and lifespan extension
Authors: MacInnes Alyson W.
Published: January 2016

The most energy‐consuming process that a cell must undertake to stay viable is the continuous biogenesis of ribosomes for the translation of RNA into protein. Given the inextricable links between energy consumption and cellular lifespan, it is not surprising that mutations and environmental cues that reduce ribosome biogenesis result in an extension of eukaryotic lifespan. This review goes into detail describing recent discoveries of different and often unexpected elements that play a role in the regulation of longevity by virtue of their ribosome biogenesis functions. These roles include controlling the transcription and processing of ribosomal RNA (rRNA), the translation of ribosomal protein (RP) genes, and the number of ribosomes overall. Together these findings suggest that a fundamental mechanism across eukaryotic species for extending lifespan is to slow down or halt the expenditure of cellular energy that is normally absorbed by the manufacturing and assembly of new ribosomes. WIREs RNA 2016, 7:198–212. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1325

This article is categorized under:

Translation > Ribosome Structure/Function

RNA Processing > Splicing Mechanisms
Breakthrough Spanish 2
Authors: Truscott Sandra
Published: January 2016

A book on 'Breakthrough Spanish 2 Euro Edition (Breakthrough)'.
Association between VDR FokI Polymorphism and Intervertebral Disk Degeneration
Authors: Zhao Jian , Yang Mingyuan , Shao Jie , Bai Yushu , Li Ming
Published: January 2016

Intervertebral disk degeneration (IDD) is strongly associated with genetic predisposition and environmental susceptibility. Several studies been conducted to investigate the potential association between IDD and FokI polymorphism located in the gene encoding the vitamin D receptor (VDR), and inconsistent conclusions had been reached among different ethnic populations. In order to assess the association between the FokI polymorphism and the risk of IDD, we performed a comprehensive and systematic meta-analysis. Candidate articles were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and China Biology Medical (CBM) with strict inclusion criteria in January 2015. Among the 54 articles that were retrieved, only eight studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled data analysis based on allele contrast, homozygote, heterozygote, dominant, and recessive models revealed no significant correlation between the FokI polymorphism and the risk of IDD. However, when stratified by ethnicity, significant associations were detected for Hispanics based on allele contrast (OR = 1.395, 95% CI = 1.059–1.836, P  = 0.018), homozygote (OR = 1.849, 95% CI = 1.001–3.416, P  = 0.049), heterozygote (OR = 1.254, 95% CI = 1.049–1.498, P  = 0.013), and dominant (OR = 1.742, 95% CI = 1.174–2.583, P  = 0.006) models, and for Asians using the dominant model (OR = 1.293, 95% CI = 1.025–1.632, P  = 0.030), whereas there is no significant association detected for Caucasians. In conclusion, FokI polymorphism is not generally associated with IDD, but there is increased risk for IDD in Hispanics and Asians carrying FokI allele T.
Breast conservation after neoadjuvant therapy for tumors ≥5 cm: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Libson Shai , Koshenkov Vadim , Rodgers Steven , Hurley Judith , Avisar Eli
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Neoadjuvant therapy (NT) can facilitate breast conservation (BC). Similar oncologic outcomes have been reported with BC and mastectomy for T1 and T2 lesions, but studies of BC results for tumors ≥5 cm are limited. Our experience with BC for tumors ≥5 cm is reported.

Patients and methods:

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of all breast cancer patients treated with NT at our institution between 2003 and 2010 was performed to identify patients treated with BC for tumors ≥5 cm. Demographics, stage, tumor histology, pathologic response, tumor margins, failure patterns and rates, as well as survival rates were recorded.

Results:

Thirty patients treated with BC after NT for large tumors were identified. The only selection criteria for BC were technical ability with acceptable cosmetic results and negative margins. Patients with genetic predisposition for additional breast cancer were excluded. The mean follow-up was 43 months and the mean age at diagnosis was 51. The mean tumor size at diagnosis was 6.4 cm and the mean pathological size was 2.1 cm. Four of thirty (13.3%) had either systemic progression or regional recurrence. Three patients had systemic progression, 2 had regional recurrence and none had local recurrence. At a mean follow-up of 43 months, the success rate of BC on intent to treat basis was 96.7%, with an overall survival of 86.7% and disease-free survival of 83.3%.

Conclusion:

BC after NT is a safe option for carefully selected patients with tumors ≥5 cm. In this series, the oncologic results for the duration of the study were comparable to those reported after mastectomy.
Covenant, History, and the Holocaust: Revisiting Emil Fackenheim's Jewish Philosophy
Authors: Rynhold Daniel
Published: January 2016

In the twentieth century, historical circumstance in the form of the Holocaust led to theodicy's returning to the forefront of the philosophical agenda, particularly in Jewish thought. As a result, post-Holocaust theology is almost always an element of introductory courses on modern and contemporary Jewish philosophy, if not introductory courses on modern Judaism simpliciter. Many working in the field of Jewish philosophy, therefore, probably first encounter Emil Fackenheim (1916–2003), and the infamous turn of phrase that ensured his immortality in the realm of Jewish thought, early on in their studies. Fackenheim was one of the most influential post-Holocaust philosophical voices in what soon became a cacophony. This German-born philosopher's (and ordained Reform rabbi's) concept of the 614th commandment—not to grant Hitler a posthumous victory (in his own words “the only statement of mine that ever became famous”)—has captured the imagination of many a student and often made a lasting impression. Yet it seems that one of the concerns at the forefront of this new expansive monograph on Fackenheim's philosophy is that for the majority, this constitutes both their first and last exposure to his thought, leaving them with an extremely contracted view of his conceptual palate. The result, noted in the book's introduction, is that Fackenheim has never really been considered a Jewish philosopher worthy of mention in the same breath as Hermann Cohen, Franz Rosenzweig, or even latterly Emmanuel Levinas and Joseph Soloveitchik. In this volume, a case is presented for including him on that list.
The Search for a Plural America: Protestant and Enlightenment Authority in American History
Authors: Finstuen Andrew
Published: January 2016

A crisis of authority defines modernity. The crisis in the Christian West dates to the Reformation and the church-and-state conflicts based upon the question: whose Christianity? The crisis deepened during the Enlightenment as advances in science, reason, and technology changed the question: Christianity or not? By the 1960s, post-structuralism or postmodernity had posed the very question of authority and asserted competing authorities.
Diagnosis of tuberculosis in groups of badgers: an exploration of the impact of trapping efficiency, infection prevalence and the use of multiple tests
Authors: BUZDUGAN S. N. , CHAMBERS M. A. , DELAHAY R. J. , DREWE J. A.
Published: January 2016

Accurate detection of infection withMycobacterium bovisin live badgers would enable targeted tuberculosis control. Practical challenges in sampling wild badger populations mean that diagnosis of infection at the group (rather than the individual) level is attractive. We modelled data spanning 7 years containing over 2000 sampling events from a population of wild badgers in southwest England to quantify the ability to correctly identify the infection status of badgers at the group level. We explored the effects of variations in: (1) trapping efficiency; (2) prevalence ofM. bovis; (3) using three diagnostic tests singly and in combination with one another; and (4) the number of badgers required to test positive in order to classify groups as infected. No single test was able to reliably identify infected badger groups if <90% of the animals were sampled (given an infection prevalence of 20% and group size of 15 badgers). However, the parallel use of two tests enabled an infected group to be correctly identified when only 50% of the animals were tested and a threshold of two positive badgers was used. Levels of trapping efficiency observed in previous field studies appear to be sufficient to usefully employ a combination of two existing diagnostic tests, or others of similar or greater accuracy, to identify infected badger groups without the need to capture all individuals. To improve on this, we suggest that any new diagnostic test for badgers would ideally need to be >80% sensitive, at least 94% specific, and able to be performed rapidly in the field.
Herpes simplex virus encephalitis in Peru: a multicentre prospective study
Authors: MONTANO S. M. , MORI N. , NELSON C. A. , TON T. G. N. , CELIS V. , TICONA E. , SIHUINCHA M. , TILLEY D. H. , KOCHEL T. , ZUNT J. R. ,   the Meningoencephalitis Working Group
Published: January 2016

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of the most commonly identified infectious aetiologies of encephalitis in North America and Europe. The epidemiology of encephalitis beyond these regions, however, is poorly defined. During 2009–2012 we enrolled 313 patients in a multicentre prospective study of encephalitis in Peru, 45 (14·4%) of whom had confirmed HSV infection. Of 38 patients with known HSV type, 84% had HSV-1 and 16% had HSV-2. Patients with HSV infection were significantly more likely to present in the summer months (44·4% vs. 20·0%, P = 0·003) and have nausea (60·0% vs. 39·8%, P = 0·01) and rash (15·6% vs. 5·3%, P = 0·01) compared to patients without HSV infection. These findings highlight differences in the epidemiology and clinical presentation of HSV encephalitis outside of the Northern Hemisphere that warrant further investigation. Furthermore, there is an urgent need for improved HSV diagnostic capacity and availability of intravenous acyclovir in Peru.
Flooding risks and housing markets: a spatial hedonic analysis for La Plata City
Authors: Rabassa Mariano Javier , Zoloa Juan Ignacio
Published: January 2016

On 2 April 2013 a major flood struck the City of La Plata, Argentina, killing 89 people and displacing thousands of others. That event, the worst flood the city has suffered in the past 100 years, prompted plans for a new hydraulic infrastructure. Although such an investment is necessary, little is known about its benefits. This paper intends to shed some light on this issue by estimating the willingness to pay to avoid the risk of experiencing a flooding event. For this purpose, we have taken thousands of real estate prices in the La Plata Metropolitan Area and combined them with a high-resolution flood risks map to estimate spatial hedonic price models. The results show significant price discounting for properties in flood-prone areas.
USING FORECASTS TO UNCOVER THE LOSS FUNCTION OF FEDERAL OPEN MARKET COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Authors: Pierdzioch Christian , Rülke Jan-Christoph , Tillmann Peter
Published: January 2016

We revisit the sources of the bias in Federal Reserve forecasts and assess whether a precautionary motive can explain the forecast bias. In contrast to the existing literature, we use forecasts submitted by individual Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) members to uncover members' implicit loss function. Our key finding is that the loss function of FOMC members is asymmetric: FOMC members incur a higher loss when they underpredict (overpredict) inflation and unemployment (nominal and real growth) as compared to their making an overprediction (underprediction) of similar size. We also find that an asymmetric loss function, in some cases, weakens evidence against forecast rationality, though results depend on the variable being projected and the subgroup of FOMC members being studied. Furthermore, we add to the recent controversy on the relative quality of FOMC forecasts compared to staff forecasts. Our results suggest that differences in predictive ability could indeed stem from differences in preferences.
THE ASYMMETRIC EFFECTS OF UNCERTAINTY ON MACROECONOMIC ACTIVITY
Authors: Jones Paul M. , Enders Walter
Published: January 2016

We estimate a number of macroeconomic variables as logistic smooth transition autoregressive (LSTAR) processes with uncertainty as the transition variable. The notion is that the effects of increases in uncertainty should not be symmetrical with the effects of decreases in uncertainty. Nonlinear estimation allows us to answer several interesting questions left unanswered by a linear model. For a number of important macroeconomic variables, we show that (i) a positive shock to uncertainty has a greater effect than a negative shock and (ii) the effect of the uncertainty shock is highly dependent on the state of the economy. Hence, the usual linear estimates for the consequences of uncertainty are underestimated in circumstances such as the recent financial crisis.
Comparing the nutrition environment and practices of home- and centre-based child-care facilities
Authors: Martyniuk Olivia JM , Vanderloo Leigh M , Irwin Jennifer D , Burke Shauna M , Tucker Patricia
Published: January 2016

Objective

To assess and compare the nutrition environment and practices (as they relate to pre-schoolers) of centre- and home-based child-care facilities.

Design

Using a cross-sectional study design, nineteen child-care facilities (ten centre-based, nine home-based) were assessed for one full day using the Environment and Policy Assessment and Observation (EPAO) tool (consisting of a day-long observation/review of the nutrition environment, practices and related documents). Specifically, eight nutrition-related subscales were considered.

Setting

Child-care facilities in London, Ontario, Canada.

Subjects

Child-care facilities were recruited through directors at centre-based programmes and the providers of home-based programmes.

Results

The mean total nutrition environment EPAO scores for centre- and home-based facilities were 12·3 (sd 1·94) and 10·8 (sd 0·78) out of 20 (where a higher score indicates a more supportive environment with regard to nutrition), respectively. The difference between the total nutrition environment EPAO score for centre- and home-based facilities was approaching significance (P=0·055). For both types of facilities, the highest nutrition subscale score (out of 20) was achieved in the staff behaviours domain (centre mean=17·4; home mean=17·0) and the lowest was in the nutrition training and education domain (centre mean=3·6; home mean=2·0).

Conclusions

Additional research is needed to confirm these findings. In order to better support child-care staff and enhance the overall nutrition environment in child care, modifications to food practices could be adopted. Specifically, the nutritional quality of foods/beverages provided to pre-schoolers could be improved, nutrition-related training for child-care staff could be provided, and a nutrition curriculum could be created to educate pre-schoolers about healthy food choices.
Volkskrankheit obstruktive Schlafapnoe – wen abklären und wie?
Authors: Brill Anne-Kathrin , Geiser Thomas
Published: January 2016

Zusammenfassung. Die Prävalenz des obstruktiven Schlafapnoe-Syndroms innerhalb der Bevölkerung ist hoch und sollte als Verdachtsdia­gnose in einer Vielzahl von klinischen Szenarien in Erwägung gezogen werden. Risikogruppen mit entsprechenden anatomischen Veränderungen, die obstruktive Apnoen begünstigen, schläfrige Patienten und solche mit relevanten kardiovaskulären oder metabolischen Komorbiditäten können in der Hausarztpraxis gut identifiziert und einer weiteren Abklärung zugeführt werden. Neben einer gezielten Schlafanamnese und der klinischen Untersuchung, können auch Fragebögen und nächtliches Screening mit Pulsoximetrie und Nasenflussmessung die Verdachtsdia­gnose untermauern.
Call Scientists Before Disaster Strikes
Authors: Mease Lindley , Gibbs-Plessl Theodora , Lubchenco Jane
Published: January 2016

When governments respond to natural disasters, experts with some of the greatest potential to help—scientists—are often missing in action. It's time to change that.
Novel Vents Built from Talc Found Far from Mid-Ocean Rift
Authors: Kelleher Shannon
Published: January 2016

Researchers discovered the first new variety of hydrothermal vents in a decade—a finding that may give clues to how oceanic crust cools.
A short half‐life of ULBP1 at the cell surface due to internalization and proteosomal degradation
Authors: Fernández‐Messina Lola , Reyburn Hugh T , Valés‐Gómez Mar
Published: January 2016

The expression of NKG2D ligands (NKG2D‐L) flag stressed cells for immune recognition and destruction. A precise control of the cell surface expression of these proteins is therefore required to ensure an appropriate immune response and it is becoming clear that NKG2D ligand expression is regulated at multiple levels. We now report that the surface stability of the human glycosyl‐phosphatidyl‐inositol (GPI)‐anchored ligand ULBP1 (UL16‐binding protein) at the plasma membrane is lower than other ULBP molecules. This difference in stability is due neither to shedding nor to a higher internalization rate of ULBP1 but rather occurs because of a rapid degradation of ULBP1 protein after internalization from the cell surface that is blocked by proteasome inhibition. These data indicate that, in addition to the known transcriptional and post‐translational mechanisms, surface expression of human NKG2D‐L is also regulated by protein turnover and that the brief residence of ULBP1 could contribute to the fine tuning of immune responses.
Electrochemically driven mechanical energy harvesting
Authors: Kim Sangtae , Choi Soon Ju , Zhao Kejie , Yang Hui , Gobbi Giorgia , Zhang Sulin , Li Ju
Published: January 2016

Efficient mechanical energy harvesters enable various wearable devices and auxiliary energy supply. Here we report a novel class of mechanical energy harvesters via stress–voltage coupling in electrochemically alloyed electrodes. The device consists of two identical Li-alloyed Si as electrodes, separated by electrolyte-soaked polymer membranes. Bending-induced asymmetric stresses generate chemical potential difference, driving lithium ion flux from the compressed to the tensed electrode to generate electrical current. Removing the bending reverses ion flux and electrical current. Our thermodynamic analysis reveals that the ideal energy-harvesting efficiency of this device is dictated by the Poisson’s ratio of the electrodes. For the thin-film-based energy harvester used in this study, the device has achieved a generating capacity of 15%. The device demonstrates a practical use of stress-composition–voltage coupling in electrochemically active alloys to harvest low-grade mechanical energies from various low-frequency motions, such as everyday human activities.
A polymer scaffold for self-healing perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhao Yicheng , Wei Jing , Li Heng , Yan Yin , Zhou Wenke , Yu Dapeng , Zhao Qing
Published: January 2016

Advancing of the lead halide perovskite solar cells towards photovoltaic market demands large-scale devices of high-power conversion efficiency, high reproducibility and stability via low-cost fabrication technology, and in particular resistance to humid environment for long-time operation. Here we achieve uniform perovskite film based on a novel polymer-scaffold architecture via a mild-temperature process. These solar cells exhibit efficiency of up to ∼16% with small variation. The unencapsulated devices retain high output for up to 300 h in highly humid environment (70% relative humidity). Moreover, they show strong humidity resistant and self-healing behaviour, recovering rapidly after removing from water vapour. Not only the film can self-heal in this case, but the corresponding devices can present power conversion efficiency recovery after the water vapour is removed. Our work demonstrates the value of cheap, long chain and hygroscopic polymer scaffold in perovskite solar cells towards commercialization.