bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A physical framework for evaluating net effects of wet meadow restoration on late‐summer streamflow
Authors: Nash Caroline S. , Selker John S. , Grant Gordon E. , Lewis Sarah L. , Noël Paul
Published: March 2018

Restoration of degraded wet meadows found on upland valley floors has been proposed to achieve a range of ecological benefits, including augmenting late‐season streamflow. There are, however, few field and modelling studies documenting hydrologic changes following restoration that can be used to validate this expectation, and published changes in groundwater levels and streamflow following restoration are inconclusive. Here, we assess the streamflow benefit that can be obtained by wet‐meadow restoration using a physically based quantitative analysis. This framework employs a 1‐dimensional linearized Boussinesq equation with a superimposed solution for changes in storage due to groundwater upwelling and evapotranspiration, calculated explicitly using the White method. The model and assumptions gave rise to predictions in good agreement with field data from the Middle Fork John Day watershed in Oregon, USA. While raising channel beds can increase total water storage via increases in water table elevation in upland valley bottoms, the contributions of both lateral and longitudinal drainage from restored floodplains to late‐summer streamflow were found to be undetectably small, while losses in streamflow due to greater transpiration, lower hydraulic gradients, and less laterally drainable pore volume were likely to be substantial. Although late‐summer streamflow increases should not be expected as a direct result of wet‐meadow restoration, these approaches offer benefits for improving the quality and health of riparian and meadow vegetation that would warrant considering such measures, even at the cost of increased water demand and reduced streamflow.
Effect of discharge and habitat type on the occurrence and severity of Didymosphenia geminata mats in the Restigouche River, eastern Canada
Authors: Gillis Carole‐Anne , Dugdale Stephen J. , Bergeron Normand E.
Published: March 2018

Since 2006, the Restigouche River watershed, eastern Canada, has been affected by nuisance growths of the mat‐forming diatom, Didymosphenia geminata. In 2010, in view of the potential impacts of this alga on the local Atlantic salmon fishery, we created a volunteer monitoring network to assess D. geminata mat severity within the watershed. Over the course of 6 monitoring summers, more than 1,200 observations of D. geminata mat severity were reported in 20 subwatersheds of the Restigouche River basin. Observations were mapped to illustrate the yearly severity of D. geminata mats throughout the watershed. Metrics were then extracted from this dataset to assess the spatial and temporal variability of mat severity. At the reach scale, D. geminata occurrence was predominantly found in riffles compared to any other river habitat type. At the watershed scale, a two‐sample Kolmogorov–Smirnov test highlighted a significant effect of maximum spring discharge on mean annual D. geminata mat severity, indicating that when maximum spring discharge is high, severity of D. geminata mats in the following months is significantly lower. Additionally, maximum spring discharge explained 71% of the variability in annual mat severity. This study contributes to the understanding of mat severity dynamics and illustrates the value of volunteer monitoring networks for studying complex ecosystem dynamics.
Climate, but not trait, effects on plant–soil feedback depend on mycorrhizal type in temperate forests
Authors: Bennett Jonathan A. , Klironomos John
Published: March 2018

Plants interact with a variety of soil biota. The accumulation of beneficial or antagonistic biota over time can have strong positive or negative effects on the recruitment of new individuals into the population (i.e., plant–soil feedback, PSF). Despite the potential influence of PSF on plant diversity in terrestrial ecosystems, our understanding of its determinants remains incomplete. Within forests, recent evidence indicates that mycorrhizal type can regulate PSF: Arbuscular mycorrhizal trees typically experience negative PSF, while ectomycorrhizal trees experience positive PSF. Other studies have found that plant traits and the local environment also affect PSF; yet, these studies are based on arbuscular mycorrhizal plants in herbaceous systems. Consequently, the relationship between PSF and plant traits or the environment may depend on the mycorrhizal type of the tree. Using PSF measurements for 520 populations belonging to 52 North American temperate forest tree species, we tested whether mycorrhizal type influences how plant traits and climate relate to PSF. For both mycorrhizal types, species that produced larger seeds and were less drought tolerant had more positive (or less negative) PSF. Precipitation during the dry season was negatively related to PSF, but only for arbuscular mycorrhizal trees. These results suggest that investing more resources in seeds may minimize PSF for tree species, irrespective of mycorrhizal type. Species that have historically been exposed to greater pathogen abundances in wetter environments may also be better defended against attack, minimizing negative PSF. However, for species currently found in wetter environments, PSF may be strongly negative if their mycorrhizas do not defend them against attack, as is common among arbuscular mycorrhizal trees. Combined, these results highlight the importance of mycorrhizal type in determining the relationship between PSF and climate, but indicate that the relationship between PSF and plant traits may be independent of mycorrhizal type. Nevertheless, mycorrhizal type remains an important consideration when studying PSF, and forest dynamics in general.
Dock2 in the development of inflammation and cancer
Authors: Chen Yayun , Meng Fan , Wang Bingyu , He Liangmei , Liu Yangbin , Liu Zhiping
Published: March 2018

An atypical guanine exchange factor, Dock2 is specifically expressed in hematopoietic cells and regulates activation and migration of immune cells through activating Ras‐related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (Rac). Dock2 was shown to be critical in the development of various inflammatory diseases, including allergic diseases, HIV infection, and graft rejection in organ transplantation. DOCK2 mutation in infants was recently identified to be associated with T and B cell combined immunodeficiency. Furthermore, Dock2 is involved in host protection during enteric bacterial infection and is also associated with the proliferation of cancer cells. It was also shown that patients with digestive tract cancer had high frequency mutation of DOCK2. This review summarizes the latest research progresses on the role of Dock2 for the development of various inflammatory diseases and cancers, and discusses the potential application of Dock2 modulators for patient treatment.
Cyclic Compounds Incorporating Two or Four Alkyne Units in Close Proximity – Theory and Experiments
Authors: Gleiter Rolf , Haberhauer Gebhard
Published: March 2018

In the first part we summarize the results of experiments performed with medium‐sized cyclic compounds (10, 12, 14 ring size) incorporating either two opposite acetylene units or two buta‐1,3‐diyne units. The acetylene units in the 10‐membered rings react either thermally or with the aid of AuI catalysis to afford bicyclo[4.4.0]‐1,6‐diene rings. Reduction with H2/Pd or addition of I2 to 12‐membered rings containing two opposite buta‐1,3‐diyne units yield 5–6–5 cycles, whereas 14‐membered rings react with HCl to afford 5–8–5 or 6–6–6 rings. In the second part we discuss the results of calculations relating to 1,6‐transannular ring closure of cyclodeca‐1,6‐diyne derivatives in which the two triple bonds are each flanked either with two oxygen atoms or with two NH groups. For the resulting heterocycles, dicarbenes with singlet ground states are predicted. The extension of these model calculations led us to look at substituted phenylacetylenes (e.g., Ph–C≡C–OMe) for which dimerization to cyclobutadiene derivatives was predicted. This forecast could be verified by trapping the cyclobutadiene products with maleic acid.
The role of external carbon sources at each stage of an A2/O process for simultaneously removing nitrogen and phosphorus
Authors: Xie Jingyi , Guo Yi , Li Yongfeng
Published: March 2018

Eutrophication has increased globally which has resulted in a deterioration of water quality, largely due to an increase nitrogen and phosphorus from urban sewage. In this study, a novel A2/O process to simultaneously remove nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater is presented which could overcome issues regarding insufficient carbon sources, and maximizing the use carbon sources. Moreover, the carbon source could not meet the required A2/O system, which aggravated the competition of carbon sources in the A2/O system. Methanol, glucose and ethanol were used as carbon sources with different ratios (3:0:0, 1:1:1, 0:2:1, 0:1:2, and 0:0:3) in the three chambers in the A2/O experiment. Results show that ethanol was the most efficient carbon source for removing nitrogen and phosphorus. Total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) removal rates were 78.23 and 78.18%, and the removal time of
N was 25 min. A dosing ratio of 0:1:2 (external carbon source) and a nitrate recycling ratio of 250% were then optimum conditions for the A2/O system, the A2/O system efficiently removed TN and TP. The removal rates of TN, NH3–N, and TP were 82.36, 96.67, and 92.18%, respectively. The effluent concentrations were 11.43, 4.1, and 0.45 mg/L, respectively, which reached the requirements of the type A standard GB18918‐2002. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1901–1907, 2018
Possible association between Helicobacter pylori infection and vocal fold leukoplakia
Authors: Chen Min , Chen Jian , Yang Yue , Cheng Lei , Wu Hai‐Tao
Published: March 2018

Background

Several studies have indicated the larynx as possible Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) reservoirs. This study explored the association between H. pylori and vocal fold leukoplakia.

Methods

The case‐control study involved 51 patients with vocal fold leukoplakia and 35 control patients with vocal polyps. Helicobacter pylori was detected in tissues by the rapid urease test, nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and single‐step PCR. The H. pylori‐specific immunoglobulin antibodies were detected in plasma by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Helicobacter pylori‐positive rate of vocal fold leukoplakia and vocal polyps was 23.5% versus 11.4% (P = .157), 37.2% versus 14.3% (P = .020), 27.5% versus 8.6% (P = .031), and 70.6% versus 68.6% (P = .841) detected by rapid urease test, nested PCR, single‐step PCR, and ELISA, respectively. Regression analysis indicated that H. pylori infection (P = .044) was the independent risk factor for vocal fold leukoplakia.

Conclusion

Helicobacter pylori infection exists in the larynx and may be associated with vocal fold leukoplakia.
The “HR–line‐connecting HRM system” and its effects on employee turnover
Authors: Kim Sunghoon , Su Zhong‐Xing , Wright Patrick M.
Published: March 2018

Although the importance of positive, trusting, and cooperative relations between HR professionals and line managers has been well documented, little is known about how organizations can systematically nurture such relationships. This article specifies the “HR–line‐connecting HRM system,” which consists of a bundle of HRM practices designed to improve the relationship between HR and line managers. Drawing on the social capital perspective and HR strength theory, we propose that such HRM practices develop HR managers' social networks with line managers and facilitate the formation of a shared language between them, which should in turn result in low employee turnover. Our theory is generally supported by empirical analyses on data from Chinese high‐tech firms.
Childhood height and risk of testicular germ cell tumors in adulthood
Authors: McGlynn Katherine A. , Petrick Jessica L. , Gamborg Michael , Aarestrup Julie , Baker Jennifer L.
Published: March 2018

Increased adult stature has been associated with risk of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) in a number of studies. Whether childhood stature is also associated with TGCT is unclear as no studies of measured childhood height and TGCT have been reported. Thus, associations between TGCT in adulthood and childhood height and growth between ages 7 and 13 years were examined in a cohort from the Copenhagen School Health Records Register. Analyses included 162,607 boys born during the years 1930–1989. Development of TGCT was determined via linkage to the Danish Cancer Registry. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using Cox proportional hazards regression. Between 1968 and 2014, 782 TGCT were diagnosed. Childhood height, per one unit increase in z‐score, was associated with risk of TGCT, with HRs ranging from 1.11 (95%CI 1.03–1.20) at age 7 to 1.09 (95%CI = 1.01–1.18) at age 13. In a categorical analysis, the shortest boys were at the lowest risk of developing TGCT. Results varied little by TGCT histology (seminoma and nonseminoma). Growth between ages 7 and 13 years was not associated with risk. These findings suggest that risk of TGCT in adulthood was already determined by age 7 years. Although the mechanism requires further investigation, these results provide additional evidence that risk of TGCT is determined at a young age, thus suggesting that additional investigation of early life factors is warranted.
Bepridil exhibits anti‐leukemic activity associated with NOTCH1 pathway inhibition in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Baldoni Stefano , Del Papa Beatrice , Dorillo Erica , Aureli Patrizia , De Falco Filomena , Rompietti Chiara , Sorcini Daniele , Varasano Emanuela , Cecchini Debora , Zei Tiziana , Di Tommaso Ambra , Rosati Emanuela , Alexe Gabriela , Roti Giovanni , Stegmaier Kimberly , Di Ianni Mauro , Falzetti Franca , Sportoletti Paolo
Published: March 2018

Dysregulated NOTCH1 signaling, by either gene mutations or microenvironment interactions, has been increasingly linked to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Thus, inhibiting NOTCH1 activity represents a potential therapeutic opportunity for this disease. Using gene expression‐based screening, we identified the calcium channel modulator bepridil as a new NOTCH1 pathway inhibitor. In primary CLL cells, bepridil induced selective apoptosis even in the presence of the protective stroma. Cytotoxic effects of bepridil were independent of NOTCH1 mutation and other prognostic markers. The antitumor efficacy of bepridil was associated with inhibition of NOTCH1 activity through a decrement in trans‐membrane and activated NOTCH1 protein levels with unchanged NOTCH2 protein levels. In a CLL xenotransplant model, bepridil significantly reduced the percentage of leukemic cells infiltrating the spleen via enhanced apoptosis and decreased NOTCH1 activation. In conclusion, we report in vitro and in vivo anti‐leukemic activity of bepridil associated with inhibition of the NOTCH1 pathway in CLL. These data provide a rationale for the clinical development of bepridil as anti‐NOTCH1 targeted therapy for CLL patients.
Measuring Crop Water Requirement and Crop Coefficient for Blue Panic Crop Under Arid Conditions Using Draining Lysimeters
Authors: Ismail Saleh M. , El‐Nakhlawy Fathy S.
Published: March 2018

Previous research results of Blue Panic (Panicum antidotale Retz) in arid conditions under different irrigation methods proved an increase in forage yield and water productivity (WP) under full and water stress conditions. However, a thorough search in the literature revealed that its water requirement has not yet been determined. Therefore the objective of this research was to measure evapotranspiration (ETc) and crop coefficient (Kc) for a Blue Panic crop under arid conditions. Four draining lysimeters constructed in Jeddah (21° 48′ 3′′ N, 39° 43′ 25′′ E) were used to measure its ETc and Kc under a plentiful water supply. Results revealed that ETc varied from 141 mm in the first harvest to 292 mm in the sixth, with an average of 225 mm per harvest. The Kc value was different from one harvest to another. The average Kc over all harvests was 0.7, 1.2, 1.3 and 1.0 for the initial, development, midseason and late stages, respectively. Average fresh and dry forage yields per harvest were 30.5 and 12.6 t ha−1, respectively. Average WP was 55 kg ha−1 mm−1. The predicted ETc based on the measured crop coefficient value and ET0 show a good fit between measured and calculated ETc. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiband modulation spectroscopy for the determination of sex and species of mosquitoes in flight
Authors: Gebru Alem , Jansson Samuel , Ignell Rickard , Kirkeby Carsten , Prangsma Jord C. , Brydegaard Mikkel
Published: March 2018

We present a dual‐wavelength polarimetric measurement method to distinguish species and sexes of disease transmitting mosquitoes in flight. By measuring co‐ and de‐polarized backscattered light at 808 and 1550 nm, the degree of linear polarization, wingbeat frequency, reflectance, spectral ratio and glossiness of mosquitoes can be retrieved. Body and wing contributions to these signals can be separated. Whereas the optical cross section is sensitive to the aspect of observation, thus the heading direction of the insect in flight, we demonstrate that polarimetric‐ and spectral‐band ratios are largely invariant to the aspect of observation. We show that wing glossiness, as well as wing‐ and body‐spectral ratios are particularly efficient in distinguishing Anopheles coluzzii and Anopheles arabiensis, 2 closely related species of malaria vectors. Spectral and polarimetric ratios relate to microstructural and melanization features of the wing and body of these species. We conclude that multiband modulation spectroscopy is a useful expansion of the parameter space that can be used to improve the specificity of entomological lidars.
Inside Front Cover: Combining hyperspectral imaging and chemometrics to assess and interpret the effects of environmental stressors on zebrafish eye images at tissue level (J. Biophotonics 3/2018)
Authors: Olmos Víctor , Marro Mònica , Loza‐Alvarez Pablo , Raldúa Demetrio , Prats Eva , Padrós Francesc , Piña Benjamin , Tauler Romà , de Juan Anna
Published: March 2018

Raman images were used to study the effect of the contaminant chlorpyriphos‐oxon on zebrafish eye samples. Multivariate Curve Resolution‐Alternating Least Squares (MCR‐ALS) was used to obtain the distribution maps and spectral signatures of biological components present in the images analyzed. The use of MCRALS spectral signatures as starting information for Partial Least Squares‐Discriminant Analysis allowed statistical assessment of the effect of the contaminant at a specific tissue level.

Further details can be found in the article by Víctor Olmos et al. (e201700089).

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Back Cover: Protein secondary structure analysis of dried blood serum using infrared spectroscopy to identify markers for colitis screening (J. Biophotonics 3/2018)
Authors: Titus Jitto , Ghimire Hemendra , Viennois Emilie , Merlin Didier , Unil Perera A. G.
Published: March 2018

Protein secondary structural alteration in the serum sample as induced by colitis has been demonstrated via the spectral fitting. Using DSS mouse models of acute colitis and IL10‐/‐ for chronic colitis, a significant difference in the integral ratio of Gaussian energy bands representing α‐helix and β‐pleated sheet structures were obtained.

Further details can be found in the article by Jitto Titus et al. (e201700057).

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Experiments and modelling of a biotrickling filter (BTF) for removal of styrene from airstreams
Authors: Gąszczak Agnieszka , Bartelmus Grażyna , Burghardt Andrzej , Rotkegel Adam , Sarzyński Rafał
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Studies on the removal of styrene from airstreams carried out in pilot‐scale biotrickling filters (BTF) are still scarce thus making its industrial application difficult. Moreover, it seems necessary to develop a comprehensive description of the phenomena occurring in the bioreactor that could be used as a tool for BTF design and performance prediction.

RESULTS

The removal of styrene from airstreams in a pilot‐scale biotrickling filter (BTF) inoculated with Pseudomonas sp. E‐93486 bacteria was investigated (operational parameters: = 100–150 m3 h−1, = 8 m3 h−1, = 0.2–1 g−3, EBRTs = 41–62 s, T = 303 K). The experiments performed during a period of more than 120 days confirmed high effectiveness of the examined process; RE = 78–94.2% was obtained for all the sets of operational parameters.

The experimental database was exploited to validate the three mathematical models of the process. All the tested models approximate very well the experimental data; the mean percentage error of the RE value prediction did not exceed 3%.

CONCLUSION

The formulated approximate simple one‐substrate model (SOSM) described the investigated process with excellent accuracy (eY = 2.72%) and was numerically relatively simple. Therefore, this model was recommended as a useful tool for modelling the biodegradation processes of moderately hydrophobic compounds carried out in a BTF. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Application of a thermostable Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenase for the synthesis of branched polyester precursors
Authors: Delgove Marie AF , Elford Matthew T , Bernaerts Katrien V , De Wildeman Stefaan MA
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

It is widely accepted that the poor thermostability of Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenases limits their use as biocatalysts for applied biocatalysis in industrial applications. The goal of this study was to investigate the biocatalytic oxidation of 3,3,5‐trimethylcyclohexanone using a thermostable cyclohexanone monooxygenase from Thermocrispum municipale (TmCHMO) for the synthesis of branched ϵ‐caprolactone derivatives as building blocks for tuned polymeric backbones. In this multi‐enzymatic reaction, the thermostable cyclohexanone monooxygenase was fused to a phosphite dehydrogenase (PTDH) in order to ensure co‐factor regeneration.

RESULTS

Using reaction engineering, the reaction rate and product formation of the regio‐isomeric branched lactones were improved and the use of co‐solvents and the initial substrate load were investigated. Substrate inhibition and poor product solubility were overcome using continuous substrate feeding regimes, as well as a biphasic reaction system with toluene as water‐immiscible organic solvent. A maximum volumetric productivity, or space–time‐yield, of 1.20 g L‐1 h‐1 was achieved with continuous feeding of substrate using methanol as co‐solvent, while a maximum product concentration of 11.6 g L‐1 was achieved with toluene acting as a second phase and substrate reservoir.

CONCLUSION

These improvements in key process metrics therefore demonstrate progress towards the up‐scaled Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenase‐biocatalyzed synthesis of the target building blocks for polymer application. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Utility of shear‐wave elastography to differentiate low from advanced degrees of liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis C virus infection of native and transplant livers
Authors: Rattansingh Anand , Amooshahi Hosein , Menezes Ravi J , Wong Florence , Fischer Sandra , Kirsch Richard , Atri Mostafa
Published: March 2018

Objective

To determine the accuracy of shear‐wave elastography (SWE) to differentiate low from advanced degrees of liver fibrosis in hepatitis C patients.

Material & Method

Consented native/transplant hepatitis C patients underwent SWE using a C1‐6 MHz transducer before ultrasound (US)‐guided liver biopsy. Five interpretable SWE samples were obtained from the right lobe of the liver immediately before US‐guided random biopsy of the right lobe. Average kilopascal (kPa) values were compared to the meta‐analysis of histological data in viral hepatitis (METAVIR) fibrosis grading. SWE values were correlated with the degree of inflammation and fatty infiltration.

Results

Study population consisted of 115 patients (63 with transplant, and 52 with native liver) including 29 women and 86 men, with a mean ± SD age of 56 ± 8.7 years. Mean ± SD SWE values were 7.9 ± 3 kPa in 83 patients with METAVIR scores of 0–2 and 13.2 ± 5.9 kPa in 32 patients with METAVIR scores of 3 or 4 (P < .001). Area under curve (AUC) of a Receiver Operating Characteristics curve for advanced degrees of fibrosis was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.71, 0.90) (P < .001). AUCs of transplant versus native livers (0.78 [CI:0.62, 0.94] versus 0.85 [CI: 0.73, 0.96]), degree of inflammation (0.81 [CI: 0.65, 0.97] versus 0.72 [0.56, 0.88]), or degree of fat deposition (0.81 [CI:0.70, 0.92] versus 0.80 [CI:0.61, 1]) were not statistically different (P > .05). for kPa threshold of SWE value of 10.67 kPa to differentiate advanced from low degree of fibrosis had a sensitivity of 59% (CI: 41%–76%) and specificity of 90% (CI: 82%–96%).

Conclusion

Liver stiffness evaluated by SWE can differentiate low from advanced liver fibrosis.
Toward a contemporary quantitative model of punishment
Authors: Klapes Bryan , Riley Steven , McDowell J. J
Published: March 2018

A direct‐suppression, or subtractive, model of punishment has been supported as the qualitatively and quantitatively superior matching law‐based punishment model (Critchfield, Paletz, MacAleese, & Newland, 2003; de Villiers, 1980; Farley, 1980). However, this conclusion was made without testing the model against its predecessors, including the original (Herrnstein, 1961) and generalized (Baum, 1974) matching laws, which have different numbers of parameters. To rectify this issue, we reanalyzed a set of data collected by Critchfield et al. (2003) using information theoretic model selection criteria. We found that the most advanced version of the direct‐suppression model (Critchfield et al., 2003) does not convincingly outperform the generalized matching law, an account that does not include punishment rates in its prediction of behavior allocation. We hypothesize that this failure to outperform the generalized matching law is due to significant theoretical shortcomings in model development. To address these shortcomings, we present a list of requirements that all punishment models should satisfy. The requirements include formal statements of flexibility, efficiency, and adherence to theory. We compare all past punishment models to the items on this list through algebraic arguments and model selection criteria. None of the models presented in the literature thus far meets all of the requirements.
Morphological and transcriptomic analyses reveal three discrete primary stages of postembryonic development in the common fire salamander, Salamandra salamandra
Authors: Sanchez Eugenia , Küpfer Eliane , Goedbloed Daniel J. , Nolte Arne W. , Lüddecke Tim , Schulz Stefan , Vences Miguel , Steinfartz Sebastian
Published: March 2018

The postembryonic development of amphibians has been characterized as divided into three predominant periods, hereafter named primary developmental stages: premetamorphosis (PreM), prometamorphosis (ProM), metamorphic climax (Meta), and completion of metamorphosis (PostM), largely based on examination of anuran development. Here, we categorized the postembryonic development of larvae of a poisonous fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) by integrating morphology and gene expression (transcriptomic) data. Morphological analysis revealed three distinct clusters suggestive of PreM, ProM, and Meta, which were confirmed in parallel by microarray‐derived gene expression analysis. In total, 3,510 probes targeted transcripts differentially expressed between the clusters we identified. Genes upregulated in PreM related to organogenesis, and those upregulated in Meta underlie structural proteins and related to development of anatomical structures and pigmentation. Biosynthesis pathways of pigments (pteridines and melanin) were upregulated during late ProM and Meta. Gas chromatographic analysis of alkaloids indicated the onset of steroidal alkaloid biosynthesis at ProM. When comparing gene expression in the fire salamander to that in other amphibians—three anurans, Xenopus laevis, X. tropicalis, and Michrohyla fissipes, and one caudate, Ambystoma mexicanum— we identified genes with conserved expression patterns involved in basic metamorphic processes such as skin restructuring and tail fin resorption. Our results support that primary stages of postembryonic development in caudates are homologous to those of anurans, and offer a baseline for the study of the evolution of developmental modes.
Gender differences in the use of cardiovascular interventions in HIV‐positive persons; the D:A:D Study
Authors: Hatleberg Camilla I , Ryom Lene , El‐Sadr Wafaa , Mocroft Amanda , Reiss Peter , De Wit Stephane , Dabis Francois , Pradier Christian , d'Arminio Monforte Antonella , Kovari Helen , Law Matthew , Lundgren Jens D , Sabin Caroline A ,   the Data Collection of Adverse Events of Anti‐HIV drugs (D:A:D) Study group
Published: March 2018

Introduction

There is paucity of data related to potential gender differences in the use of interventions to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease (CVD) among HIV‐positive individuals. We investigated whether such differences exist in the observational D:A:D cohort study.

Methods

Participants were followed from study enrolment until the earliest of death, six months after last visit or February 1, 2015. Initiation of CVD interventions [lipid‐lowering drugs (LLDs), angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), anti‐hypertensives, invasive cardiovascular procedures (ICPs) were investigated and Poisson regression models calculated whether rates were lower among women than men, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Women (n = 12,955) were generally at lower CVD risk than men (n = 36,094). Overall, initiation rates of CVD interventions were lower in women than men; LLDs: incidence rate 1.28 [1.21, 1.35] vs. 2.40 [2.34, 2.46]; ACEIs: 0.88 [0.82, 0.93] vs. 1.43 [1.39, 1.48]; anti‐hypertensives: 1.40 [1.33, 1.47] vs. 1.72 [1.68, 1.77] and ICPs: 0.08 [0.06, 0.10] vs. 0.30 [0.28, 0.32], and this was also true for most CVD interventions when exclusively considering periods of follow‐up for which individuals were at high CVD risk. In fully adjusted models, women were less likely to receive CVD interventions than men (LLDs: relative rate 0.83 [0.78, 0.88]; ACEIs: 0.93 [0.86, 1.01]; ICPs: 0.54 [0.43, 0.68]), except for the receipt of anti‐hypertensives (1.17 [1.10, 1.25]).

Conclusion

The use of most CVD interventions was lower among women than men. Interventions are needed to ensure that all HIV‐positive persons, particularly women, are appropriately monitored for CVD and, if required, receive appropriate CVD interventions.
Air temperature conditions in northern Nordaustlandet (NE Svalbard) at the end of World War II
Authors: Przybylak Rajmund , Wyszyński Przemysław , Woźniak Marta
Published: March 2018

This article presents the results of an investigation into air temperature conditions in northern Nordaustlandet (NE Svalbard) based on meteorological observations made by German soldiers towards the end of World War II (1944/1945) and 4 months after its end. Traditional analysis using mean monthly data was supplemented by a detailed analysis based on daily data: maximum temperature, minimum temperature and diurnal temperature range. The latter kind of data made it possible to study such aspects of climate as the number of “characteristic days” (i.e., the number of days with temperatures exceeding specified thresholds), day‐to‐day temperature variability, and duration, onset and end dates of thermal seasons. The results from Nordaustlandet for the warmest period of the early 20th century warming period (ETCWP) were compared with temperature conditions both historical (the end part of the Little Ice Age) and contemporary (different sub‐periods taken from the years 1981–2017) to estimate the range of warming during the ETCWP.

Analysis reveals that the expedition year 1944/1945 in Nordaustlandet was, in the majority of months, the warmest of all analysed periods, that is, both historical and contemporary periods. The study period was markedly warmer than 1981–2010 (mean annual −6.5 vs. −8.4 °C) but colder than the periods 2011–2016 (−5.7 °C) and 2014–2017 (−5.8 °C). The majority of mean monthly air temperatures in the ETCWP lies within two standard deviations of the modern 2014–2017 mean. This means that values of air temperature in the study period lie within the range of recent temperature variability. All other thermal characteristics show changes in accordance with expectations associated with general warming of the Arctic (i.e., a decrease in diurnal temperature range and number of cold days, and an increase in number of warm days). The latter days were most common in the ETCWP.
Optimization of ultrasound‐assisted extraction of phenolic compounds from grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) leaves via D‐optimal design and artificial neural network design with categorical and quantitative variables
Authors: Ciğeroğlu Zeynep , Aras Ömür , Pinto Carlos A , Bayramoglu Mahmut , Kırbaşlar Ş İsmail , Lorenzo José M , Barba Francisco J , Saraiva Jorge A , Şahin Selin
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

The extraction of phenolic compounds from grapefruit leaves assisted by ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) by means of D‐optimal experimental design and artificial neural network (ANN). For this purpose, five numerical factors were selected: ethanol concentration (0–50%), extraction time (15–60 min), extraction temperature (25–50 °C), solid:liquid ratio (50–100 g L−1) and calorimetric energy density of ultrasound (0.25–0.50 kW L−1), whereas ultrasound probe horn diameter (13 or 19 mm) was chosen as categorical factor.

RESULTS

The optimized experimental conditions yielded by RSM were: 10.80% for ethanol concentration; 58.52 min for extraction time; 30.37 °C for extraction temperature; 52.33 g L−1 for solid:liquid ratio; 0.457 kW L−1 for ultrasonic power density, with thick probe type. Under these conditions total phenolics content was found to be 19.04 mg gallic acid equivalents g−1 dried leaf.

CONCLUSION

The same dataset was used to train multilayer feed‐forward networks using different approaches via MATLAB, with ANN exhibiting superior performance to RSM (differences included categorical factor in one model and higher regression coefficients), while close values were obtained for the extraction variables under study, except for ethanol concentration and extraction time. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Relapse in dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: A histological and molecular analysis
Authors: Molina André S. , Duprat Neto João P. , Bertolli Eduardo , da Cunha Isabela W. , Fregnani José H.T.G. , Figueiredo Pedro H.M. , Soares Fernando A. , Macedo Mariana P. , Pinto Lopes Clovis A. , de Abranches Oliveira Santos Filho Ivan D.
Published: March 2018

Background

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare low grade tumor with a locally aggressive behavior and low metastatic potential.

Objectives

To evaluate the factors that are associated with relapse in DFSP.

Methods Retrospective analysis of medical records from 61 patients with dermatofibrosarcoma. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to detect translocations.

Results

Of 61 patients, 6 experienced a relapse. No patient with resection margins greater than 3 cm had a recurrence. One relapse was observed in a patient treated with at least 2 cm margins and 4 relapses occurred in 16 patients whose margins were below 2 cm (P = 0.018). The frequency of translocations was 77.8%. The recurrence rate was lower in patients with translocation, but this difference was not significant. Immunohistochemical markers did not correlate with recurrence rates, but greater FasL expression was associated with recurrence in patients with margins smaller than 3 cm.

Conclusions

Surgical margins smaller than than 2 cm are related to higher recurrences in dermatofibrosarcomas. In this analysis a 2 cm margin was acceptable for treatment. Between all the immunohistochemical markers analyzed, only FasL was associated with a higher recurrence rate in patients with margins smaller than 3 cm.
Laryngeal cancer: Global socioeconomic trends in disease burden and smoking habits
Authors: Ramsey Tam , Guo Eric , Svider Peter F. , Lin Hosheng , Syeda Sara , Raza S. Naweed , Fribley Andrew M.
Published: March 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To characterize health burden and determine the associated level of equality of laryngeal carcinoma (LC) burden at a global level.

Methods

One hundred eighty‐four countries were organized by socioeconomic status using Human Development Index (HDI) categorizations provided by the United Nations Development Program. Disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs), obtained from The Global Health Data Exchange, were calculated and compared between each HDI category for the period from 1990 to 2015. Equality of LC burden was then evaluated with concentration indices.

Results

Global LC burden, as measured by age‐standardized DALYs, has improved significantly over the 25‐year period studied. This burden has declined for very high, high, and medium HDI countries, whereas it has remained unchanged for low HDI countries. The majority of LC global burden was found in high socioeconomic countries before 2010 and has shifted toward low socioeconomic countries, as indicated by concentration indices. Over the last 25 years, Central and Eastern Europe continue to have the largest disease burden in the world.

Conclusion

This is the first analysis that we are aware of investigating health disparities of LC at a global level. The global burden of the disease has declined, which is a trend corresponding with significantly reduced smoking behaviors in developed countries. Although the global inequality gap decreased between 2010 and 2015, there remain reasons for concern. Smoking continues to trend upward in low socioeconomic countries, which could increase LC burden in low socioeconomic countries in the near future. A new global initiative directed toward low socioeconomic countries may yield dividends in preventing subsequent disparities in the LC burden.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:2039–2053, 2018
Wind erosion reduction by water diversion in the lower Heihe River Basin, Northwest China
Authors: Yan Haiming , Zhan Jinyan , Yang Huicai , Liu Wei , Li Wei
Published: March 2018

The lower Heihe River Basin, a key ecological function zone in Northwest China, has suffered from serious land degradation by wind erosion for decades, posing a great threat to the national ecological safety. This study explores the dynamics of wind erosion and the soil conservation service (SCS) in this region following water diversion during 2001–2010 with the statistic model of wind erosion on small watershed basis based on remote sensing, climate, and soil data, and impacts of driving factors on the SCS are revealed with scenario analysis. Results suggest that the SCS represented by the soil retention amount was less than 500 t km−2 yr−1 in most parts of the study area and higher than 15,000 t km−2 yr−1 in a few wind erosion hotspots, including the East Juyanhai region, Dingxin Oasis, Ejina Oasis, and its surrounding desert–oasis transitional areas. The cumulative potential soil loss of the study area increased much faster than the cumulative soil retention amount, and fractional vegetation cover influenced by the Ecological Water Diversion Project played a dominant role in improving the SCS, accounting for 82.25% of the change in the SCS of the study area. Climate change played a subordinate role, but there were essential separate and interactive effects of climate factors on the SCS. This study provides a preliminary overview of hotspots of wind erosion and the SCS in the lower Heihe River Basin from a geographical perspective, laying a solid basis for combating land degradation by wind erosion in arid regions of Northwest China.
Quantitative characterization of degradation processes in situ by means of a bioreactor coupled flow chamber under physiological conditions using time‐lapse SRµCT
Authors: Zeller‐Plumhoff Berit , Helmholz Heike , Feyerabend Frank , Dose Thomas , Wilde Fabian , Hipp Alexander , Beckmann Felix , Willumeit‐Römer Regine , Hammel Jörg U.
Published: March 2018

Magnesium and its alloys have in recent years emerged as a promising alternative to titanium‐based implants for medical applications due to favorable degradation properties and good biocompatibility. The degradation of materials is currently investigated by studying different samples of the same material at different time points after degradation in a medium. This study is presenting a high‐resolution time‐lapse investigation of Mg‐2Ag in culture medium using synchrotron radiation‐based micro‐computed tomography over the course of 5 days. The design of the custom‐built corrosion cell and bioreactor are described. The computed degradation rate after 5 days is in agreement with the literature. SRµCT enables the segmentation of cracks forming in the degradation layer due to stresses and hydrogen development.
Effects of the extrusion ratio on the intergranular corrosion behaviour of 6082 aluminium alloy
Authors: Shan Jiqiang , Hou Dandan , Zhang Jinjie , Xin Xiucheng , Cao Guohua , Genzhe Huang
Published: March 2018

The intergranular corrosion behaviour and corrosion mechanism of 6082 aluminium alloy subjected to different homogenisation processes were investigated. The results show that with increasing homogenisation temperature and/or time, the amount of corrosion product, Al(OH)3, and the thickness of its layer gradually increase, the corrosion current density decreases, and the corrosion resistance increases. In addition, the corrosion current density of the forged alloy is much smaller than that of the extruded alloy, and thus, the forged alloy is more resistant to corrosion. Two kinds of secondary phase particles, Si and AlMnFeSi, are homogeneously distributed within the plastic deformation flow lines of the alloy. When the boundary between the secondary phase Si particles and the matrix is in contact with the corrosive agent, the matrix dissolves first and initiates the formation of corrosion cracks, as the matrix serves as an anode and the Si particles serve as a cathode in the micro‐galvanic cell configuration. Moreover, the corrosion cracks develop into networks upon electrochemical corrosive coupling between the β″‐Mg2Si precipitates and the precipitate‐free zone (PFZ) located along the grain boundaries.
Opto‐electrical and corrosion properties of electrocodeposited Zn‐TiO2/WO3‐ZnO‐SnO2 nanocomposite coatings
Authors: Daniyan Ayodele A. , Umoru Lasisi E. , Popoola Abimbola P. I. , Fayomi Ojo S. I.
Published: March 2018

In this work, the optical, electrical, and corrosion properties of Zn‐TiO2 and Zn‐TiO2‐WO3‐ZnO‐SnO2 nanocomposite coatings produced via electrocodeposition were investigated. The morphological characteristics of the composite coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The electrical characterization was obtained using Four‐point probe system coupled with Keithley 2400 Series Sourcemeter, interfaced by a lab view tracer software and multimeters. The optical examination was carried out with the aid of Newport Solar Simulator with maximum intensity of 1000 W/m2 but the experiment was carried out at working intensity of 750 W/m2. The air mass was 1.5 A.M (same as that of real atmosphere). The corrosion properties were evaluated by linear polarization in 1 M HCl and 3.5% NaCl. The result showed that the coatings exhibited good stability and Zn‐TiO2‐WO3‐ZnO‐SnO2 nanocomposite coatings showed improved microstructural properties, outstanding electrical conductivity, and displayed better corrosion resistance.
Effect of retrogression and re‐aging (RRA) heat treatment on the corrosion behavior of B206 aluminum–copper casting alloy
Authors: Pournazari Shabnam , Deen Kashif Mairaj , Maijer Daan M. , Asselin Edouard
Published: March 2018

The effect of the retrogression and re‐aging (RRA) heat treatment on the corrosion behavior of B206 aluminum‐copper casting alloy in artificial seawater employing electrochemical experiments such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization, weight loss measurements and microstructure studies is reported. The electrochemical results show that the corrosion resistance of RRA samples is much higher than that of the as‐cast microstructure for the first 48 h of immersion in artificial seawater. However, the RRA samples corrode more rapidly after 48 h of immersion. Weight loss measurements confirm the electrochemical findings. The dependence of the corrosion rate on immersion time for RRA samples was found to be related to the microstructural features. Exfoliation corrosion was also observed in the cross‐section of RRA samples after 48 h of immersion in artificial seawater.
A Selective Phosphodiesterase 10A Inhibitor Reduces L‐Dopa‐Induced Dyskinesias in Parkinsonian Monkeys
Authors: Beck Goichi , Maehara Shunsuke , Chang Phat Ly , Papa Stella M.
Published: March 2018

Background

Phosphodiesterase 10A is a member of the phosphodiesterase family whose brain expression is restricted to the striatum. Phosphodiesterase 10A regulates cyclic adenosine monophosphate and cyclic guanosine monophosphate, which mediate responses to dopamine receptor activation, and the levels of these cyclic nucleotides are decreased in experimental models of l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia. The elevation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate/cyclic guanosine monophosphate levels by phosphodiesterase 10A inhibition may thus be targeted to reduce l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia.

Objectives

The present study was aimed at determining the potential antidyskinetic effects of phosphodiesterase 10A inhibitors in a primate model of Parkinson's disease (PD). The experiments performed in this model were also intended to provide translational data for the design of future clinical trials.

Methods

Five MPTP‐treated macaques with advanced parkinsonism and reproducible l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia were used. MR1916, a selective phosphodiesterase 10A inhibitor, at doses 0.0015 to 0.05 mg/kg, subcutaneously, or its vehicle (control test) was coadministered with l‐dopa methyl ester acutely (predetermined optimal and suboptimal subcutaneous doses) and oral l‐dopa chronically as daily treatment for 5 weeks. Standardized scales were used to assess motor disability and l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia by blinded examiners. Pharmacokinetics was also examined.

Results

MR1916 consistently reduced l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia in acute tests of l‐dopa optimal and suboptimal doses. Significant effects were present with every MR1916 dose tested, but the most effective was 0.015 mg/kg. None of the MR1916 doses tested affected the antiparkinsonian action of l‐dopa at the optimal dose. The anti‐l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia effect of MR1916 (0.015 mg/kg, subcutaneously) was sustained with chronic administration, indicating that tolerance did not develop over the 5‐week treatment. No adverse effects were observed after MR1916 administration acutely or chronically.

Conclusions

Results show that regulation of striatal cyclic nucleotides by phosphodiesterase 10A inhibition could be a useful therapeutic approach for l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia, and therefore data support further studies of selective phosphodiesterase 10A inhibitors for PD therapy. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society