bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative importance of abiotic, biotic, and disturbance drivers of plant community structure in the sagebrush steppe
Authors: Mitchell Rachel M. , Bakker Jonathan D. , Vincent John B. , Davies G. Matt
Published: December 2016

Abiotic conditions, biotic factors, and disturbances can act as filters that control community structure and composition. Understanding the relative importance of these drivers would allow us to understand and predict the causes and consequences of changes in community structure. We used long‐term data (1989–2002) from the sagebrush steppe in the state of Washington, USA, to ask three questions: (1) What are the key drivers of community‐level metrics of community structure? (2) Do community‐level metrics and functional groups differ in magnitude or direction of response to drivers of community structure? (3) What is the relative importance of drivers of community structure? The vegetation in 2002 was expressed as seven response variables: three community‐level metrics (species richness, total cover, compositional change from 1989 to 2002) and the relative abundances of four functional groups. We used a multi‐model inference framework to identify a set of top models for each response metric beginning from a global model that included two abiotic drivers, six disturbances, a biotic driver (initial plant community), and interactions between the disturbance and biotic drivers. We also used a permutational relative variable importance metric to rank the influence of drivers. Moisture availability was the most important driver of species richness and of native forb cover. Fire was the most important driver of shrub cover and training area usage was important for compositional change, but disturbances, including grazing, were of secondary importance for most other variables. Biotic drivers, as represented by the initial plant communities, were the most important driver for total cover and for the relative covers of exotics and native grasses. Our results indicate that the relative importance of drivers is dependent on the choice of metric, and that drivers such as disturbance and initial plant community can interact.
Shifts in intertidal zonation and refuge use by prey after mass mortalities of two predators
Authors: Gravem Sarah A. , Morgan Steven G.
Published: December 2016

Recent mass mortalities of two predatory sea star species provided an unprecedented opportunity to test the effect of predators on rocky intertidal prey. Mass mortalities provide insight that manipulative experiments cannot because they alter ecosystems on a larger scale, for longer time periods, and remove both organisms and their cues from the environment. We examined shifts in population size structure, vertical zonation, and use of emersed refuge habitats outside tidepools by the abundant herbivorous black turban snail Tegula funebralis, both before and after the successive mortalities of two predatory sea stars. The small cryptic predator Leptasterias spp. suffered a localized but extreme mortality event in November 2010, followed by two mass mortalities of the keystone predator Pisaster ochraceus in August 2011 and autumn 2013. After the local extinction of Leptasterias, the population size of Tegula more than doubled. Also, since Leptasterias primarily inhabited only mid to low intertidal tidepools at this site, small and medium sized snails (which are preferred by Leptasterias) shifted lower in the intertidal and into tidepools after the mortality of Leptasterias. After the mortality of Pisaster in August 2011, large snails did not shift lower in the intertidal zone despite being preferred by Pisaster. Small and medium sized snails became denser in the higher zone and outside tidepools, which was not likely due to Pisaster mortality. Previous studies concluded that Pisaster maintained vertical size gradients of snails, but our data implicate the overlooked predator Leptasterias as the primary cause. This natural experiment indicated that (1) predators exert top‐down control over prey population sizes and lower limits, (2) vertical zonation of prey are dynamic and controlled in part by prey behavior, and (3) predators exert the strongest effects on more vulnerable individuals, which typically inhabit stressful habitats higher on the shore or outside tidepools to avoid predation. Because the mass mortalities of two predators drastically reduced both the predation pressure and the chemical cues of predators in the environment, we were able to investigate both the effects of predators on prey populations and the effects on mobile prey behavior.
When can we infer mechanism from parasite aggregation? A constraint‐based approach to disease ecology
Authors: Wilber Mark Q. , Johnson Pieter T. J. , Briggs Cheryl J.
Published: December 2016

Few hosts have many parasites while many hosts have few parasites. This axiom of macroparasite aggregation is so pervasive it is considered a general law in disease ecology, with important implications for the dynamics of host–parasite systems. Because of these dynamical implications, a significant amount of work has explored both the various mechanisms leading to parasite aggregation patterns and how to infer mechanism from these patterns. However, as many disease mechanisms can produce similar aggregation patterns, it is not clear whether aggregation itself provides any additional information about mechanism. Here we apply a “constraint‐based” approach developed in macroecology that allows us to explore whether parasite aggregation contains any additional information beyond what is provided by mean parasite load. We tested two constraint‐based null models, both of which were constrained on the total number of parasites P and hosts H found in a sample, using data from 842 observed amphibian host–trematode parasite distributions. We found that constraint‐based models captured ~85% of the observed variation in host‐parasite distributions, suggesting that the constraints P and H contain much of the information about the shape of the host‐parasite distribution. However, we also found that extending the constraint‐based null models can identify the potential role of known aggregating mechanisms (such as host heterogeneity) and disaggregating mechanisms (such as parasite‐induced host mortality) in constraining host‐parasite distributions. Thus, by providing robust null models, constraint‐based approaches can help guide investigations aimed at detecting biological processes that directly affect parasite aggregation above and beyond those that indirectly affect aggregation through P and H.
Phase Transition Originating from Disorder–Order Transformation Coupled with Reorientation in the Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Compound (C4H14N2)[Cd2(H2O)6(SO4)3]
Authors: Mu Rong , Chen Chun‐Hong , Zhang Li , Jia Dian‐Zeng , Xu Guan‐Cheng
Published: December 2016

The organic–inorganic hybrid compound 1,4‐butyldiammonium hexaaquadicadmium(II) trisulfate (C4H14N2)[Cd2(H2O)6(SO4)3] (1) was synthesized by the reaction of 3CdSO4·8H2O with 1,4‐butanediamine in sulfuric acid aqueous solution. Differential scanning calorimetry measurements indicate that 1 undergoes a reversible phase transition at 243.4 K with a thermal hysteresis of 3.3 K. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data disclose that the phase transition is from the room‐temperature phase with the space group C2/c to the low‐temperature phase with the space group P1 with the Aizu notation of 2/mF1. The structural phase transition of 1 is ascribed to the coupling of disorder–order transformations of the flexible 1,4‐butyldiammonium cation and a sulfate anion and reorientation of the cation. The temperature dependence of the dielectric permittivity demonstrates a step‐like change in the range 200–260 K, which makes (C4H14N2)[Cd2(H2O)6(SO4)3] a promising switchable dielectric material. The results could offer an avenue to design switchable dielectric materials through the synergistic effect of disorder–order transitions and reorientation motion.
Complexation of Uranyl Ion with Sulfonates: One‐ to Three‐Dimensional Assemblies with 1,5‐ and 2,7‐Naphthalenedisulfonates
Authors: Thuéry Pierre , Harrowfield Jack
Published: December 2016

Uranyl nitrate was treated with the sodium salt of either 1,5‐ or 2,7‐naphthalenedisulfonate (1,5‐ndsNa2 or 2,7‐ndsNa2, respectively) under (solvo)‐hydrothermal conditions, in the presence of additional coligands and/or metal cations, to give six new complexes, which were characterized by determination of their crystal structures. Complex [UO2(1,5‐nds)(H2O)] (1) crystallizes as a three‐dimensional (3D) framework, with both sulfonate groups coordinated in the O,O′‐bridging mode. In the presence of the N‐chelating species 2,2′‐bipyridine (bipy) or 1,10‐phenanthroline (phen), the three complexes [(UO2)2(1,5‐nds)(OH)2(bipy)2]·H2O (2), [(UO2)2(1,5‐nds)(OH)2(bipy)2]·bipy (3) and [(UO2)2(1,5‐nds)(OH)2(phen)2] (4) were obtained, in which doubly hydroxide‐bridged uranyl dimers are assembled into one‐dimensional (1D) chains by bis(unidentate) disulfonate ligands. Complex [Cu(bipy)2Cl][UO2(2,7‐nds)(OH)]·H2O (5) displays anionic, two‐dimensional (2D) sheets in which unidentate/O,O′‐bridging disulfonate ligands link hydroxide‐bridged uranyl dimers. In the additional presence of cucurbit[6]uril (CB6), complex [(UO2)4Na4(2,7‐nds)2(CB6)Cl4O2(H2O)10]·5H2O (6) crystallizes as a 3D framework of intricate architecture, with bis(µ3‐oxo)‐bridged uranyl tetranuclear moieties connected to CB6‐bound sodium cations by doubly O,O′‐bridging disulfonates. Complexes 2 and 4 display intense and well‐resolved uranyl emission in the solid state, while nearly complete quenching is observed in 3 and 5.
Synthesis of Substituted Acridines through a Palladium‐Catalyzed Condensation/Cyclization/Tautomerization Sequence
Authors: Chen Xiangui , Xie Yanjun , Li Cheng , Xiao Fuhong , Deng Guo‐Jun
Published: December 2016

Herein, we report an efficient strategy for the synthesis of 9‐aryl‐substituted acridines from cyclohexanones and 2‐aminobenzophenones in the presence of a palladium catalyst. Molecular oxygen is applied as a green oxidant. Various cyclohexanones acted as the aryl source to construct the nitrogen‐containing heterocycles through a condensation/cyclization/tautomerization sequence.
Improved separation and size characterization of gold nanoparticles through a novel capillary zone electrophoresis method using poly(sodium4‐styrenesulfonate) as stabiliser and a stepwise field strength gradient
Authors: Ciriello Rosanna , Iallorenzi Pina Teresa , Laurita Alessandro , Guerrieri Antonio
Published: December 2016

A novel capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) method was developed for an improved separation and size characterization of pristine gold nanoparticles (AuNP) using uncoated fused‐silica capillaries with UV‐Vis detection at 520 nm. To avoid colloid aggregation and/or adsorption during runs, poly(sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate) (PSS) was added (1%, w/v) in the running buffer (CAPS 10 mM, pH 11). This polyelectrolyte conferred an enhanced stabilization to AuNP, both steric and electrostatic, exalting at the same time their differences in electrophoretic mobility. Resolution was further and successfully improved through a stepwise field strength gradient by the application of 25 kV for the first 5 min and then 10 kV. Migration times varied linearly with particles diameters showing relative standard deviations better than 1% for daily experiments and 3% for interday experiments. A comparison with the size distribution obtained by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) allowed assessing that the electrophoretic profile can reasonably be considered as representative of the effective size heterogeneity of each colloid. Finally, the practical utility of the proposed method was demonstrated by measuring the core diameter of a gold colloid sample produced by chemical synthesis which was in good agreement with the value obtained by TEM measurements.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of Hierarchically Porous Zn(Co1−xMnx)2O4 Anodes for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wong Wei‐Ting , Chen Bing‐Hong , Maggay Irish Valerie B. , Liu Chang , Duh Jenq‐Gong , Liu Wei‐Ren
Published: December 2016

A hierarchically porous Zn(Co1−xMnx)2O4 anode is synthesized through a hydrothermal method. XRD measurements indicate that ZnCo2O4, ZnCo1.5Mn0.5O4, ZnCoMnO4, ZnCo0.5Mn1.5O4, and ZnMn2O4 are isostructural in solid solution. Through analysis of X‐ray photoelectronic spectra and EPMA and EDX mapping of Zn(Co1−xMnx)2O4, it is confirmed that the valance of Mn is 3+ only, and that the Mn cation is distributed homogeneously in the ZnCo2O4‐based structure. Interestingly, the pore‐size distributions of these spinel‐based anodes are tunable by changing the substituting content of Mn in the ZnCo2O4 host. Compared with nanoporous ZnCo2O4 and macroporous ZnMn2O4, the as‐synthesized ZnCoMnO4 nanospheres exhibit a high capacity of 823 mAh g−1 with excellent cycling retention of more than 80 cycles without decay. The excellent cyclability might be attributed to the nanosized particles and the nature of the hierarchical pore‐size distribution. The results indicate that ZnCoMnO4 is a good candidate as an anode for application in lithium‐ion batteries.
Thermal‐infrared remote sensing of surface water–groundwater exchanges in a restored anastomosing channel (Upper Rhine River, France)
Authors: Eschbach David , Piasny Guillaume , Schmitt Laurent , Pfister Laurent , Grussenmeyer Pierre , Koehl Mathieu , Skupinski Grzegorz , Serradj Abdelaziz
Published: December 2016

Ecohydrological processes are a key element to consider in functional river restorations. In the framework of a LIFE+ European restoration program, we have investigated the potential for airborne thermal‐infrared remote sensing to map surface water–groundwater exchanges and to identify their driving factors. We focused our attention on anastomosing channels on an artificial island of the Upper Rhine River (Rohrschollen), where a new channel was excavated from the floodplain to reconnect an older channel in its upstream part. These hydraulic engineering works led to an increased inflow from the Rhine Canal. Here, we propose an original data treatment chain to (a) georeference the thermal‐infrared images in geographic information system based on visible images, (b) detect and correct data errors, and (c) identify and locate thermal anomalies attributed to groundwater inputs and hyporheic upwellings. Our results, which have been compared to morpho‐sedimentary data, show that groundwater upwelling in the new channel is controlled by riffle–pool sequences and bars. This channel is characterized by large bedload transport and morphodynamic activity, forming riffles and bars. In the old channel, where riffle–pool sequences no longer exist, due to impacts of engineering works and insufficient morphodynamic effects of the restoration, thermal anomalies appeared to be less pronounced. Groundwater inputs seem to be controlled by former gravel bars outcropping on the banks, as well as by local thinning of the low‐permeability clogging layer on the channel bed.
Direct estimation of catchment response time parameters in medium to large catchments using observed streamflow data
Authors: Gericke O.J. , Smithers J.C.
Published: December 2016

In single‐event deterministic design flood estimation methods, estimates of the peak discharge are based on a single and representative catchment response time parameter. In small catchments, a simplified convolution process between a single‐observed hyetograph and hydrograph is generally used to estimate time parameters such as the time to peak (TP), time of concentration (TC), and lag time (TL) to reflect the “observed” catchment response time. However, such simplification is neither practical nor applicable in medium to large heterogeneous catchments, where antecedent moisture from previous rainfall events and spatially non‐uniform rainfall hyetographs can result in multi‐peaked hydrographs. In addition, the paucity of rainfall data at sub‐daily timescales further limits the reliable estimation of catchment responses using observed hyetographs and hydrographs at these catchment scales. This paper presents the development of a new and consistent approach to estimate catchment response times, expressed as the time to peak (TPx) obtained directly from observed streamflow data. The relationships between catchment response time parameters and conceptualised triangular‐shaped hydrograph approximations and linear catchment response functions are investigated in four climatologically regions of South Africa. Flood event characteristics using primary streamflow data from 74 flow‐gauging stations were extracted and analysed to derive unique relationships between peak discharge, baseflow, direct runoff, and catchment response time in terms of TPx. The TPx parameters are estimated from observed streamflow data using three different methods: (a) duration of total net rise of a multipeaked hydrograph, (b) triangular‐shaped direct runoff hydrograph approximations, and (c) linear catchment response functions. The results show that for design hydrology and for the derivation of empirical equations to estimate catchment response times in ungauged catchments, the catchment TPx should be estimated from both the use of an average catchment TPx value computed using either Methods (a) or (b) and a linear catchment response function as used in Method (c). The use of the different methods in combination is not only practical but is also objective and has consistent results.
Sentinel node metastasis mitotic rate (SN‐MMR) as a prognostic indicator of rapidly progressing disease in patients with sentinel node‐positive melanomas
Authors: Baum Cornelia , Weiss Christel , Gebhardt Christoffer , Utikal Jochen , Marx Alexander , Koenen Wolfgang , Géraud Cyrill
Published: December 2016

Risk stratification of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB)‐positive patients with malignant melanoma differs among current classification systems. To improve classification of patients with rapidly progressive disease who may profit from adjuvant therapy with novel immune or targeted treatment modalities, a single‐center retrospective analysis was performed including all melanoma patients diagnosed with a positive SN at a university‐based skin cancer center over a 10‐year period (2002–2012) (96 of 419 patients). Sentinel node metastasis mitotic rate (SN‐MMR) and further histologic parameters were determined by blinded histological re‐evaluation and correlated with clinical follow‐up (overall [OS], melanoma‐specific [MSS], and disease‐free survival [DFS]). Median follow‐up was 53 months. In univariate analyses, SN tumor penetrative depth (TPD), maximum tumor diameter (MTD), number of positive SN, SN‐MMR and the S‐, Rotterdam, RDC, Hannover I and II classification systems correlated with OS, MSS and DFS. Multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that a binary classification system based only on the SN‐MMR (<1 vs. ≥1 mitoses/mm2) was the strongest independent prognostic indicator for all endpoints analyzed. Kaplan‐Meier analyses confirmed binary SN‐MMR to be superior to stratify patients into high‐ and low‐risk groups (45.45% vs. 87.92% 5‐yr MSS). The general prognostic validity of the published SN classification systems was confirmed. The novel SN‐MMR classification system may improve discrimination of patients with slowly and rapidly progressive disease. We therefore propose its implementation into clinical practice as the SN‐MMR can be easily and reliably determined in routine pathology reports. Its prognostic value for the selection of patients amenable to adjuvant therapies should be studied in clinical trials.
Aflatoxin biomarkers in hair may facilitate long‐term exposure studies
Authors: Mupunga Innocent , Izaaks Christo D. , Shai Leshweni J. , Katerere David R.
Published: December 2016

Aflatoxins are highly toxic fungal metabolites produced by some members of the Aspergillus species. They are low molecular weight lipophilic compounds that are easily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. They contaminate most staple foods, including maize, peanuts, peanut butter and sorghum mainly in the tropics where hot and humid conditions promote fungal growth. Absorbed aflatoxins are metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver into toxic metabolites. Aflatoxin B (AFB)1 is the most toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic naturally occurring toxin. Aflatoxin exposure assessment has been traditionally achieved through food use frequency questionnaires and laboratory analysis of food samples. However, estimation of individual exposure to aflatoxins based on these methods may not be accurate. The use of aflatoxin biomarkers in urine and blood for use in exposure studies has emerged in more recent times. However, the current biomarkers (e.g., AFB‐N7‐guanine and AFB1‐albumin adduct) in use have a short half‐life and are only practically useful to indicate levels over 24 h–3 months post‐exposure. There is therefore an immediate need to study and evaluate alternative biomarkers in non‐conventional matrices such as hair and nails. Hair analysis revealed considerable interest in forensic analysis particularly in the detection of drugs of abuse where it has emerged as a sensitive and specific technique complementary to blood and urinalysis. This article provides an overview of aflatoxins, current aflatoxin biomarkers and proposes the use of hair as a potential matrix for biomarkers of long‐term aflatoxin exposure. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Osteoblast adhesion, migration, and proliferation variations on chemically patterned nanocrystalline diamond films evaluated by live‐cell imaging
Authors: Broz Antonin , Ukraintsev Egor , Kromka Alexander , Rezek Bohuslav , Hubalek Kalbacova Marie
Published: December 2016

Cell fate modulation by adapting the surface of a biocompatible material is nowadays a challenge in implantology, tissue engineering as well as in construction of biosensors. Nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) thin films are considered promising in these fields due to their extraordinary physical and chemical properties and diverse ways in which they can be modified structurally and chemically. The initial cell distribution, the rate of cell adhesion, distance of cell migration and also the cell proliferation are influenced by the NCD surface termination. Here, we use real‐time live‐cell imaging to investigate the above‐mentioned processes on oxidized NCD (NCD‐O) and hydrogenated NCD (NCD‐H) to elucidate cell preference to the NCD‐O especially on surfaces with microscopic surface termination patterns. Cells adhere more slowly and migrate farther on NCD‐H than on NCD‐O. Cells seeded with a fetal bovine serum (FBS) supplement in the medium move across the surface prior to adhesion. In the absence of FBS, the cells adhere immediately, but still exhibit different migration and proliferation on NCD‐O/H regions. We discuss the impact of these effects on the formation of cell arrays on micropatterned NCD. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1469–1478, 2017.
Syntaxin 4a Regulates Matrix Vesicle-Mediated Bone Matrix Production by Osteoblasts
Authors: Kawai Shinji , Michikami Ikumi , Kitagaki Jirouta , Hata Kenji , Kiyonari Hiroshi , Abe Takaya , Amano Atsuo , Wakisaka Satoshi
Published: December 2016

Osteoblasts secrete matrix vesicles and proteins to bone surfaces, but the molecular mechanisms of this secretion system remain unclear. The present findings reveal the roles of important genes in osteoblasts involved in regulation of extracellular matrix secretion. We especially focused on “soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein receptor” (SNARE) genes and identified notable Syntaxin 4a (Stx4a) expression on the basolateral side of the plasma membrane of osteoblasts. Furthermore, Stx4a overexpression was found to increase mineralization by osteoblastic cells, whereas Stx4a knockdown reduced levels of mineralization. Also, BMP-4 and IGF-1 induced the localization of Stx4a to the basolateral side of the cells. To examine the function of Stx4a in osteoblasts, we generated osteoblast-specific Stx4a conditional knockout mice, which demonstrated an osteopenic phenotype due to reduced matrix secretion. Bone mineral density, shown by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), was reduced in the femur metaphyseal and diaphyseal regions of Stx4a osteoblast-specific deficient mice, whereas bone parameters, shown by micro–computed tomography (μCT) and bone histomorphometric analysis, were also decreased in trabecular bone. In addition, primary calvarial cells from those mice showed decreased mineralization and lower secretion of matrix vesicles. Our findings indicate that Stx4a plays a critical role in bone matrix production by osteoblasts. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Alteration of Neurotrophic Factors After Transplantation of Bone Marrow Derived Lin‐ve Stem Cell in NMDA‐Induced Mouse Model of Retinal Degeneration
Authors: Jindal Neeru , Banik Avijit , Prabhakar Sudesh , Vaiphie Kim , Anand Akshay
Published: December 2016

Retinal ganglion cell layer (RGCs) is one of the important layers of retina, depleted in Glaucoma. Loss of RGC neurons is a major cellular mechanism involved in its pathogenesis resulting in severe vision loss. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a potential strategy to arrest the apoptotic loss of RGCs and also replace the degenerative cells in damaged retina. Here, we have investigated the incorporation and survival of mouse bone marrow derived Lin‐ve stem cells in N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA)‐induced mouse model of retinal degeneration. Two days after intravitreal injection of NMDA (100 mM) showed significant decrease in ganglion cell number and increase in TUNEL positive apoptotic cells in retinal layers. The injury was further characterized by immunohistochemical expression of Brn3b, GFAP, Bcl2, pCREB, CNTF, GDNF, and BDNF in retinal layers. Lin‐ve cells (100,000 dose) were intravitreally transplanted after 2 days of injury and evaluated after 7, 14, and 21 days of transplantation. Transplanted cells were found to have migrated from intravitreal space and incorporated into injured retina at 7, 14, and 21 days post‐transplantation. At 21 days Brn3b, CNTF, and BDNF expression was found to be upregulated whereas GDNF was downregulated when compared to respective injury time points. Molecular data showed decrease in the expression of Brn3b, BDNF, CNTF, and GDNF post transplantation when compared with injury groups. This study reveals that Lin‐ve stem cells may exert neuroprotective effect in damaged retina mediated by participation of neurotrophic factors induced by stem cell transplantation at the site of injury. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1699–1711, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential Expression of Newly Identified Long Intergenic Non‐Coding RNAs in Buffalo Oocytes Indicating Their Possible Role in Maturation and Embryonic Development
Authors: Dholpuria Sunny , Kumar Manish , Kumar Sandeep , Sarwalia Parul , Rajput Sandeep , Kumar Rakesh , De Sachinandan , Datta Tirtha K.
Published: December 2016

Female germ cell and its intricate milieu regulate key processes of folliculogenesis and early embryonic development. However, the composition and dynamics of the oocyte transcriptome defines its future fertilizing ability which in turn depends on a number of oocyte specific genes whose identities are still unknown. In this context, the construction of buffalo oocyte specific subtracted cDNA library has raised fresh challenges of defining the importance of a battery of oocyte expressed transcripts in oocyte maturation. The present study tried to characterize these hitherto unknown transcripts and further to assess their expression dynamics in buffalo oocytes of different quality. For this purpose, three ESTs were selected from the library and subjected to 5′ and 3′ RACE for generating their full length sequences. These constructed full length sequences were validated by amplifying them in oocytes. Further these sequences were extensively analyzed for their coding potential and possible role using coding potential calculator and miRNA database. Besides, their expression was monitored during in vitro maturation in good (BCB+) and poor quality (BCB−) oocytes which was interestingly found to be differing significantly. All the three sequences under study were interpreted as long intergenic non‐coding RNAs with the possibility of two of them acting as a miRNA precursors. Also, their differential expression trends in competitively diverse oocytes hints at their possible involvement in oocyte maturation and future embryonic development which needs to be explored further. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1712–1721, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TRIAD1 Is a Novel Transcriptional Target of p53 and Regulates Nutlin‐3a‐Induced Cell Death
Authors: Lee Junwoo , An Sungkwan , Choi Yeong Min , Jung Jin Hyuk , Li Li , Meng Hong , Dong Yinmao , Ahn Kyu Joong , An In‐Sook , Bae Seunghee
Published: December 2016

Nutlin‐3a is a non‐genotoxic, p53‐activating, MDM2 inhibitor being investigated as an anticancer agent. Although Nutlin‐3a selectively antagonizes the ubiquitin E3 ligase activity of MDM2, its efficacy is not entirely regulated by MDM2 levels in cancer cells. Here, we report that the cytotoxic effects of Nutlin‐3a are regulated by TRIAD1 via a positive feedback loop with p53. We found that Nutlin‐3a enhanced TRIAD1 transcription in a p53‐dependent manner. Using in silico analysis and promoter luciferase assays, we demonstrated that p53‐mediated transcription of TRIAD1 is mediated by a p53 consensus sequence in the TRIAD1 promoter region. Silencing TRIAD1 expression in wild‐type p53 (p53WT) cancer cells suppressed Nutlin‐3a‐mediated p53 activation and p53 target gene expression. These effects were enhanced in TRIAD1‐overexpressing p53WT cancer cells, but not in p53‐deficient cancer cells. Furthermore, TRIAD1 knockdown significantly reduced the growth inhibitory and cytotoxic effects of Nutlin‐3a in p53WT cancer cells, as demonstrated by cell viability assays, cell cycle analysis, clonogenic growth, and soft‐agar colony forming assays. Together, these data indicate that TRIAD1 regulates Nutlin‐3a‐mediated p53 activation and the cytotoxic activity of Nutlin‐3a. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1733–1740, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nuclear‐relaxed elastic and piezoelectric constants of materials: Computational aspects of two quantum‐mechanical approaches
Authors: Erba Alessandro , Caglioti Dominique , Zicovich‐Wilson Claudio Marcelo , Dovesi Roberto
Published: December 2016

Two alternative approaches for the quantum‐mechanical calculation of the nuclear‐relaxation term of elastic and piezoelectric tensors of crystalline materials are illustrated and their computational aspects discussed: (i) a numerical approach based on the geometry optimization of atomic positions at strained lattice configurations and (ii) a quasi‐analytical approach based on the evaluation of the force‐ and displacement‐response internal‐strain tensors as combined with the interatomic force‐constant matrix. The two schemes are compared both as regards their computational accuracy and performance. The latter approach, not being affected by the many numerical parameters and procedures of a typical quasi‐Newton geometry optimizer, constitutes a more reliable and robust mean to the evaluation of such properties, at a reduced computational cost for most crystalline systems. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Sabotaging Role of Myeloid Cells in Anti‐Angiogenic Therapy: Coordination of Angiogenesis and Immune Suppression by Hypoxia
Authors: Li Chunyan , Liu Tao , Bazhin Alexandr V. , Yang Yuhui
Published: December 2016

Tumor angiogenesis has become a promising target for anti‐tumor therapy. Unfortunately, the somewhat inevitable occurrence of resistance has limited the efficacy of anti‐angiogenic therapy. In addition to their well‐established role in immune suppression, bone marrow‐derived myeloid cells actively contribute to tumor angiogenesis. More importantly, myeloid cells constitute one of the major mechanisms of resistance to angiogenesis inhibition. As the most pervasive feature in tumor microenvironment, hypoxia is able to initiate both pro‐angiogenic and immunosuppressive capacities of myeloid cells. Tumor adapts to hypoxic stress primarily through signaling mediated by hypoxic inducible factors (HIFs) and consequently utilizes hypoxia to its own advantage. In this regard, hypoxia orchestrates both angiogenesis and immune evasion to support tumor growth. In this article, we will review available information on the sabotaging role of myeloid cells in anti‐angiogenic therapy. We will also discuss how hypoxia coordinates the dual‐role cellular and molecular participants in microenvironment to maximize the efficiency of angiogenesis and immunosuppression to promote tumor progression. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2312–2322, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Integrated Analysis and MicroRNA Expression Profiling Identified Seven miRNAs Associated With Progression of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yan Zhong‐Yi , Luo Zhi‐Qing , Zhang Lai‐Jian , Li Jia , Liu Jia‐Qiang
Published: December 2016

MicroRNAs have been used as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for many cancers including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Several studies have been shown that microRNA (miRNA) play important roles during the progression of OSCC. However, the results vary largely in different studies due to different platforms and sample sizes. In this study, we systematically evaluated a large scale of miRNA profiles from current qualified OSCC samples, and further investigated the functions of genes regulated by these key miRNAs as well as the signaling pathways through which these miRNA effect carcinogenesis. Seven key miRNAs were identified, and of which three were significantly upregulated, including hsa‐miR‐21, hsa‐miR‐31, hsa‐miR‐338, and four were downregulated, namely hsa‐miR‐125b, hsa‐miR‐133a, hsa‐miR‐133b, and hsa‐miR‐139. The function enrichment analysis revealed that target genes of upregulated miRNAs were associated with cellular protein metabolic process, macromolecule metabolic process, and TGF‐beta pathway, while the targets of downregulated were enriched in negative regulation of macromolecule biosynthetic process and gene expression, and p53, long‐term potentiation and adherens junction pathways. Transcription factor analysis revealed that there were 67 (51.1%) transcription factors influenced by both up and downregulated miRNAs. In summary, seven key miRNAs were found to play essential role in progression of OSCC, as well as the target genes and transcription factors of these miRNAs. The potential functions of these target genes identified in our study may be profitable to diagnosis and prognostic prediction of OSCC as biomarkers. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2178–2185, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of the Anticancer Properties of a Novel Series of Imidazolone Fused Pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine Derivatives
Authors: A.K. Ajeesh Kumar , Bodke Yadav D. , Gowda Ashwath N. , Sambasivam Ganesh , Bhat Kishore G.
Published: December 2016

A novel series of imidazolone fused pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine derivatives has been designed and synthesized using a convergent approach, and the structures of these compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, ESI‐MS, and IR analyses. These new compounds were tested for their in vitro antiproliferative activity using an 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Out of the 20 derivatives prepared in the current study, compounds 8h, 8n, and 8r exhibited good anticancer activities tested against HeLa cells and HepG2 cells. However, the in vitro anticancer activity of compound 8r against HeLa, HepG2, and MCF‐7 cell lines is superior to the marketed drugs Paclitaxel and SAHA.
Prevalence of genital, oral, and anal HPV infection among STI patients in Italy
Authors: Ciccarese Giulia , Herzum Astrid , Rebora Alfredo , Drago Francesco
Published: December 2016

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a carcinogenic agent responsible for tumor development in many sexually involved tissues. We present a survey on the prevalence of HPV infection in a risk population for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The studied population was formed by 125 STI clinic attendees, who took part in a screening program on STIs. To be included in the study, the patients had to show no overt clinical signs of HPV infection. Genital (cervical in women, urethral in men), anal, and oral samples were collected with ThinPrep liquid based cytology preparation system. Overall, of the screened population, 56% proved positive for genital HPV, 37% for oral HPV, and 42% for anal HPV infection. Our data indicate that in STI patients, HPV infection is more prevalent, than previously estimated. Further studies are needed to better understand the epidemiological burden of HPV in sexually involved tissues, especially in the oral mucosa.
Determination of a metabolite of nifursol in foodstuffs of animal origin by liquid–liquid extraction and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Chuanxian , Qu Li , Liu Xia , Zhao Chaomin , Zhao Fengjuan , Huang Fuzhen , Zhu Zhenou , Han Chao
Published: December 2016

An analytical method has been developed for the detection of a metabolite of nifursol, 3,5‐dinitrosalicylic acid hydrazide, in foodstuffs of animal origin (chicken liver, pork liver, lobster, shrimp, eel, sausage, and honey). The method combines liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry with liquid–liquid extraction. Samples were hydrolyzed with hydrochloric acid and derivatized with 2‐nitrobenzaldehyde at 37°C for 16 h. The solutions of derivatives were adjusted to pH 7.0−7.5, and the metabolite was extracted with ethyl acetate. 3,5‐Dinitrosalicylic acid hydrazide determination was performed in the negative electrospray ionization method. Both isotope‐labeled internal standard and matrix‐matched calibration solutions were used to correct the matrix effects. Limits of quantification were 0.5 μg/kg for all samples. The average recoveries, measured at three concentration levels (0.5, 2.0, and 10 μg/kg) were in the range of 75.8–108.4% with relative standard deviations below 9.8%. The developed method exhibits a high sensitivity and selectivity for the routine determination and confirmation of the presence of a metabolite of nifursol in foodstuffs of animal origin.
Hosting Friends Versus Hosting Relatives: Is Blood Thicker Than Water?
Authors: Yousuf Mohammad S. , Backer Elisa
Published: December 2016

Little research has been undertaken to examine visiting friends and relatives (VFR) travel from the perspective of hosts. Additionally, little research has explored the differences between VFs and VRs, treating VFR as one homogenous group. This research examined the hosts' perspective of hosting friends versus relatives through in‐depth interviews with 34 local residents in three contrasting destinations in Australia. Key differences were found between the experiences of hosting friends versus relatives, with immigration a key aspect in impacting the outcome. This is the first study to examine hosting friends versus relatives and to consider how immigration and destination impact VFR travel experiences for hosts. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association of alirocumab therapy with inflammatory lesions of the vocal folds: A case report
Authors: Benedict Peter A. , Abdou Rania M. , Dion Gregory R. , Woo Peak , Branski Ryan C. , Amin Milan R.
Published: December 2016

Therapeutic monocolonal antibodies (MAbs) are a new, rapidly growing class of medications that frequently have poorly characterized side‐effect profiles. We present a patient who developed inflammatory lesions of the vocal folds in temporal relation to the initiation of alirocumab. Lesions of the vocal folds represent a previously unreported adverse effect of alirocumab therapy, making it the second MAb documented with such a side effect. The potential laryngeal effects of alirocumab specifically, and of MAbs more broadly, warrant investigation. Laryngoscope, 127:1652–1654, 2017
Comparison of cartilage with temporalis fascia tympanoplasty: A meta‐analysis of comparative studies
Authors: Jalali Mir Mohammad , Motasaddi Masoud , Kouhi Ali , Dabiri Sasan , Soleimani Robabeh
Published: December 2016

Objective

To systematically review the results of type 1 tympanoplasty with temporalis fascia (TF) versus cartilage in patients with chronic otitis media (COM) for graft integration and hearing improvement.

Data Sources

The English language literature (until June 1, 2016) was searched, using Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, ProQuest, Ovid, Cochrane database, and Google Scholar.

Review Methods

A comprehensive review of the literature was performed. Prospective and retrospective studies enrolling patients with COM were included. Relevance and validity of selected articles were evaluated. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. For dichotomous variables, absolute rate differences, and number needed to treat (NNT) were calculated. For continuous variables, standard mean differences were calculated.

Results

A total of 11 prospective and 26 retrospective studies involving 3,606 patients were included. In general, the overall graft integration rates of cartilage and fascia tympanoplasty were 92% and 82%, respectively (NNT = 11.1, P < 0.001). Although there was no significant difference in the air–bone gap (ABG) closure of < 10 dB between the two groups, the subanalysis of prospective studies showed that patients in the TF group had less mean postoperative ABG (P = 0.02). Subgroup analysis of palisade grafts compared with that of TF graft revealed a significant difference in the graft integration rate favoring cartilage tympanoplasty (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Cartilage grafting seemed to show a higher graft integration rate compared with TF grafting. Both cartilage and fascia tympanoplasty provided similar improvements in the hearing outcome postoperatively. Large prospective trials are necessary to collect high‐quality data.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 127:2139–2148, 2017
Effects of Ant Mounds on the Plant and Soil Microbial Community in an Alpine Meadow of Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Wang Changting , Wang Genxu , Wu Pengfei , Rafique Rashid , Zi Hongbiao , Li Xiangzhen , Luo Yiqi
Published: December 2016

Ants are important soil engineers, affecting the structure and function of ecosystems. To address the impacts of ants (Camponotus herculeanus) on the properties of an alpine meadow ecosystem of Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, we investigated the effects of ant mounds on plant biomass, soil physicochemical properties, microbial diversity, and functions. We found that the total biomass of plant community was significantly greater in ant mound periphery. Plant species richness in ant mounds was reduced compared with that of control plots without ant mounds. Significant changes in physicochemical properties of soil were also observed. Soil organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorous, total potassium, and available potassium increased in ant mound soil due to the excavation activities by ants as well as the accumulation of organic matter and other nutrients during mound construction. For example, roots/soil contents (g/g) and soil moisture in ant mound soils were lower than those in controls. Microbial community composition and microbial biomass were clearly changed in ant mound soils. BIOLOG analysis further indicated that the functional diversity of the microbial community of ant mound soil increased and differed from that of controls. This study indicates that ant‐induced modification of soil properties indirectly influences plant biomass and species composition, and ant mounds have different microbial communities from those of control soil. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hemophilia Liver Transplantation Observational Study
Authors: Ragni Margaret V. , Humar Abhinav , Stock Peter G. , Blumberg Emily A. , Eghtesad Bijan , Fung John J. , Stosor Valentina , Nissen Nicholas , Wong Michael T. , Sherman Kenneth E. , Stablein Donald M. , Barin Burc
Published: December 2016

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the leading cause of liver disease in hemophilia patients. In those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/HCV coinfection, the rate of liver disease progression is greater than in HCV monoinfected individuals. Despite antiretroviral therapy, which slows HCV liver disease progression, some require transplantation. Whether transplant outcomes are worse in hemophilic (H) rather than nonhemophilic (NH) candidates is unknown. In order to determine rates and predictors of pretransplant and posttransplant survival, we conducted a retrospective observational study using United Network for Organ Sharing national transplant registry data, comparing HCV+ H and NH candidates. We identified 2502 HCV+ liver transplant candidates from 8 US university‐based transplant centers, between January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2010, including 144 HIV+ (6%) and 2358 HIV–; 36 H (1%) and 2466 NH; 1213 (48%) transplanted and 1289 not transplanted. Other than male predominance and younger age, each were P < 0.001. Baseline data were comparable between H and NH. In univariate analysis, 90‐day pretransplant mortality was associated with higher baseline Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD; hazard ratio [HR] = 1.15; P < 0.001), lower baseline platelet count (HR = 0.9 per 25,000/µL; P = 0.04), and having HIV/HCV+ hemophilia (P = 0.003). In multivariate analysis, pretransplant mortality was associated with higher MELD (P < 0.001) and was significantly greater in HIV+ than HIV– groups (P = 0.001). However, it did not differ between HIV+ H and NH (HR = 1.7; P = 0.36). Among HIV/HCV+, posttransplant mortality was similar between H and NH, despite lower CD4 in H (P = 0.04). In conclusion, this observational study confirms that hemophilia per se does not have a specific influence on transplant outcomes and that HIV infection increases the risk of mortality in both H and NH patients. Liver Transplantation 23 762–768 2017 AASLD.
Evolution of highly symmetric curves under the shrinking curvature flow
Authors: Chen Wenyan , Wang Xiaoliu , Yang Ming
Published: December 2016

Under the shrinking curvature flow with inner normal velocity V = kα(α > 1), it is shown that highly symmetric, locally convex initial curves evolve into a point asymptotically like an multi‐circles. The proof relies on a crucial use of Bonnensen inequality for highly symmetric, locally convex curves. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Observability from measurable sets for a parabolic equation involving the Grushin operator and applications
Authors: Liu Hanbing , Zhang Can
Published: December 2016

In this work, we utilize the existing Carleman estimates and propagation estimates of smallness from measurable sets for real analytic functions, together with the telescoping series method, to establish an observability inequality from measurable subsets in time‐space variable for the parabolic equation with Grushin operator in some multidimension domains. We can apply this observability inequality to show the bang–bang property for both time optimal and norm optimal control problems for this kind of singular parabolic equation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.