bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ruminal use of undegraded‐feed soluble protein and accuracy of the estimations of the nutrient content in ruminal bacteria
Authors: González Javier , Díaz‐Royón Fernando , Vanegas Jorge L , Arroyo José M , Carro María D
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

The possible escape from the rumen of undegraded‐feed soluble proteins (SP) was investigated using nitrogen‐15 (15N) infusions (25 mg) in three rumen and duodenum cannulated wethers. Animals were fed three isoproteic diets differing in SP content and including protein concentrates either untreated (control) or treated with solutions of either malic acid (MHT) or orthophosphoric acid (OHT) and heat.

RESULTS

Compared with control, MHT and OHT diets reduced ruminal concentrations of ammonia‐nitrogen (NH3‐N) by 35.9% (P = 0.007), non‐ammonia nitrogen (NAN) by 36.8% (P = 0.007), and SP‐nitrogen (SP‐N) by 45.2% (P = 0.072) over the post‐feeding period. Both NAN and SP‐N were lower (P ≤ 0.040) for OHT than for MHT diet. The 15N enrichment of NAN and SP‐N did not vary either among diets or with time, and both values were closely related (R2 = 0.965; P < 0.001). Estimations, either using solid‐associated bacteria (SAB) or liquid‐associated bacteria (LAB) as a reference, indicated that 0.983 and 0.894 of SP‐N (values averaged across diets) was of microbial origin, respectively, which would indicate a practically negligible ruminal escape of feed SP‐N. Values of 15N‐enrichment in SAB and LAB fitted well to previously published SAB–LAB relationships, indicating a 22% underevaluation of the N supply from SAB when only LAB is used as a reference.

CONCLUSION

Both the negligible ruminal escape of feed SP and the underevaluation of the bacterial nutrient supply as a consequence of the use of LAB as the only bacterial reference should be considered to improve ruminant protein feeding systems. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The Associations Between Physical and Psychological Symptoms and Traumatic Military Deployment Exposures
Authors: Graham Kristin , Searle Amelia , Van Hooff Miranda , Lawrence‐Wood Ellie , McFarlane Alexander
Published: November 2019

Current paradigms regarding the effects of traumatic exposures on military personnel do not consider physical symptoms unrelated to injury or illness as independent outcomes of trauma exposure, characteristically dealing with these symptoms as comorbidities of psychological disorders. Our objective was to ascertain the proportions of deployed military personnel who experienced predominantly physical symptoms, predominantly psychological symptoms, and comorbidity of the two and to examine the association between traumatic deployment exposures (TDEs) and these symptomatic profiles. Data were taken from a cross‐sectional study of Australian Defence Force personnel who were deployed to the Middle East during 2001–2009 (N = 14,032). Four groups were created based on distributional splits of physical and psychological symptom scales: low‐symptom, psychological, physical, and comorbid. Multinomial logistic regression models assessed the probability of symptom group membership, compared with low‐symptom, as predicted by self‐reported TDEs. Group proportions were: low‐symptom, 78.3%; physical, 5.0%; psychological, 9.3%; and comorbid, 7.5%. TDEs were significant predictors of all symptom profiles. For subjective, objective, and human death and degradation exposures, respectively, the largest relative risk ratios (RRRs) were for the comorbid profile, RRRs = 1.47, 1.19, 1.48; followed by the physical profile, RRRs = 1.27, 1.15, 1.40; and the psychological profile, RRRs = 1.22, 1.07, 1.22. Almost half of participants with physical symptoms did not have comorbid psychological symptoms, suggesting that physical symptoms can occur as a discrete outcome trauma exposure. The similar dose–response association between TDEs and the physical and psychological profiles suggests trauma is similarly associated with both outcomes.
Synthesis and structural elucidation of a phthalide analog using NMR analysis and DFT calculations
Authors: Pinto Bryan N.S. , Teixeira Milena G. , Alvarenga Elson S.
Published: November 2019

Phtalides are secondary metabolites found in several fungi with a wide range of biological activities. A novel phthalide analog was synthesized by Diels–Alder reaction between cyclopentadiene and 3,4‐dichlorofuran‐2(5H)‐one. Quantum mechanical calculations were used in conjunction with the spectrometric methods to determine the structure of the title compound. The calculated NMR chemical shifts for eight candidate pairs of enantiomers were compared with the experimental NMR chemical shifts applying the DP4 probability and mean absolute errors methodology. DP4 analysis using 1H and 13C NMR chemical shifts without assignment of the signals presented 100% probability for the correct candidate structure 3d, proving the consistency of the method even without spectra interpretation. Results from theoretical calculation and NMR spectra interpretation were in agreement to the structure of rac‐(3aR,4S,4aS,5R,8S,8aR,9R,9aS)‐3a,9a‐dichloro‐3a,4,4a,5,8,8a,9,9a‐octahydro‐4,9:5,8‐dimethanonaphtho[2,3‐c]furan‐1(3H)‐one.
Using Global Criteria to Detect Malnutrition: Application in Disease States
Authors: Kirsch Rachelle , Matthews Kelsie , Williams Valaree
Published: November 2019

The accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment of malnutrition is an essential component of nutrition care because of the known negative impacts of malnutrition on patient outcomes. The detection of malnutrition is influenced by disease‐specific characteristics, practice settings, and the availability of resources. This article explores how malnutrition diagnosis through the application of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition global consensus on malnutrition diagnostic criteria is impacted by the unique characteristics of the heart failure, oncology, and trauma populations.
Eye movement characteristics in schizophrenia: A recent update with clinical implications
Authors: Morita Kentaro , Miura Kenichiro , Kasai Kiyoto , Hashimoto Ryota
Published: November 2019

Eye movements are indispensable for the collection of visual information in everyday life. Many findings regarding the neural basis of eye movements have been accumulated from neurophysiological and psychophysical studies. In the field of psychiatry, studies on eye movement characteristics in mental illnesses have been conducted since the early 1900s. Participants with schizophrenia are known to have characteristic eye movements during smooth pursuit, saccade control, and visual search. Recently, studies evaluating eye movement characteristics as biomarkers for schizophrenia have attracted considerable attention. In this article, we review the neurophysiological basis of eye movement control and eye movement characteristics in schizophrenia. Furthermore, we discuss the prospects for eye movements as biomarkers for mental illnesses.
Decreased serum levels of thrombospondin‐1 in female depressed patients
Authors: Okada‐Tsuchioka Mami , Omori Wataru , Kajitani Naoto , Shibasaki Chiyo , Itagaki Kei , Takebayashi Minoru
Published: November 2019

Aim

Thrombospondin‐1 (TSP‐1) is an astrocyte‐derived synaptogenesis‐related factor. It was previously reported to be increased by chronic treatment of electroconvulsive seizure, a model of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), in rat hippocampus. The aim of this study was to examine whether serum levels of TSP‐1 are associated with depression and ECT.

Methods

Serum TSP‐1 levels of major depressive disorder (MDD) patients (n = 36) and age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls (n = 36) were measured by TSP‐1 ELISA. MDD patients were diagnosed according to the Diagnostics and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders‐IV‐TR and underwent ECT. MDD patients were also analyzed for serum TSP‐1 levels pre‐ and post‐ECT. Evaluation of symptoms was obtained using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression.

Results

Serum TSP‐1 levels showed significant decreases specific to female MDD patients. However, TSP‐1 did not change pre‐ and post‐ECT, did not correlate with symptoms, nor was not affected by the dose of antidepressants.

Conclusion

Serum TSP‐1 is a possible female‐specific factor that reflects depressive trait, but not state.
Cost‐Effectiveness of a Weight Loss Intervention: An Adaptation of the Look AHEAD Lifestyle Intervention in the US Military
Authors: Manz Karina C. , Waters Teresa M. , Clifton Hannah E. , Kocak Mehmet , Klesges Robert C. , Talcott G. Wayne , Krukowski Rebecca A.
Published: November 2019

Objective

This study aimed to assess whether a counselor‐initiated (CI) adaptation of the Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes) intensive lifestyle intervention in a military setting was cost‐effective relative to a self‐paced (SP) adaptation.

Methods

A cost‐effectiveness analysis from a payer perspective was performed alongside a 2014‐2017 randomized behavioral weight loss trial among 248 active‐duty military personnel stationed at a US Air Force base in Texas. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios were calculated for weight loss, reductions in waist circumference, and quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs).

Results

After 12 months, the CI adaptation cost more per participant compared with the SP adaptation ($1,081 vs. $120) but achieved greater weight loss (1.86 kg vs. 0.06 kg), greater reductions in waist circumference (1.85 cm vs. 0.48 cm), and more QALYs (0.871 vs. 0.856). The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio for the CI adaptation relative to the SP adaptation was $61,268 per additional QALY. At willingness‐to‐pay thresholds of $50,000 and $100,000 per QALY, the CI adaptation was 45% and 49% likely to be cost‐effective, respectively.

Conclusions

The CI delivery of the Look AHEAD Intensive Lifestyle Intervention may offer a cost‐effective approach to tackle excess weight in the US military.
Optimal impulse control of a SIR epidemic
Authors: Piunovskiy Alexey , Plakhov Alexander , Tumanov Mikhail
Published: November 2019

Based on our recent results on the optimal impulse control, we solve explicitly an optimal isolation problem for a specific SIR (susceptible‐infective‐removed) epidemic model describing, eg, the spread of AIDS.
Prevalence and correlates of adherence to skin examination among adolescent and young adult survivors of melanoma from the Project Forward Study
Authors: Miller Kimberly A. , Wojcik Katherine Y. , Cockburn Myles G. , In Gino K. , Hamilton Ann S. , Milam Joel E.
Published: November 2019

Background

Melanoma is a common cancer among adolescents and young adults (AYAs), yet adherence to recommended surveillance and factors related to adherence are not well understood in this population. This study assessed the prevalence and correlates of physician‐conducted skin examination (PSE) and skin self‐examination (SSE) among AYA‐aged long‐term survivors of melanoma.

Procedures

Melanoma cases were identified from the Los Angeles County cancer registry and surveys were then completed by 128 respondents diagnosed between the ages 0 and 24, with stage 1 melanoma or higher, at least 5 years from diagnosis, and who were between the ages 18 and 39 at the time of survey.

Results

Eighty‐two percent of AYA melanoma survivors reported SSE within the past 6 months, while 65% reported annual PSE. Greater health care self‐efficacy was positively associated with adherence to PSE, SSE, and both types of skin examinations (P < .01). Higher socioeconomic status and having a regular source of primary health care were positively associated with annual PSE and adherence to both surveillance practices (P < .05 and P < .01, respectively). Hispanic ethnicity was negatively associated with annual PSE compared to non‐Hispanics (P < .01), and greater depressive symptoms were negatively associated with adherence to both skin examinations (P < .05).

Conclusions

High rates of SSE were observed, but PSE adherence was lower than optimal in this sample. Interventions to improve PSE are needed for at‐risk AYA survivors of melanoma, and strategies that help melanoma survivors navigate the health care system and access primary care may facilitate greater adherence.
Efficient extraction and determination of prenylflavonol glycosides in Epimedium pubescens Maxim. using deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Wang Yang , Peng Bin , Zhao Jing , Wang Mengting , Zhao Longshan
Published: November 2019

Introduction

The Epimedium herb, Yinyanghuo in Chinese, is a famous Chinese herbal medicine. In this study, an efficient extraction method was developed for the extraction of major bioactive constituent epimedin A, epimedin B, epimedin C and icariin from E. pubescens Maxim. using deep eutectic solvents (DESs).

Methodology

A series of choline chloride‐based DESs were synthesised for the extraction of four target compounds. DES composed of lactic acid and choline chloride with the ratio of 2:1 was selected as the most promising. Three vital factors affecting the extraction yields including water content, volume of DES aqueous solution and extraction time were optimised systematically by Box–Behnken experimental design in combination with response surface methodology. A high‐performance liquid chromatography ultraviolet (HPLC‐UV) method was developed for the sensitive and accurate quantification.

Results

The optimal extraction conditions were obtained as follows: water content of 17.5% (v/v), volume of DES aqueous solution 3.14 ml, and extraction time of 21 min. Under the optimal extraction conditions, the developed DES method could supply almost the same extraction yield as 50% ethanol, which were 98%, 99%, 97%, 96% for epimedin A, epimedin B, epimedin C and icariin, respectively.

Conclusion

The present study exhibited high efficiency in extraction of prenylflavonol glycosides in E. pubescens Maxim. Thus, DESs could be used as an alternative for efficient extraction and quantification of biologically active components from natural medical plants.
Jasmonic acid levels decline in advance of the transition to the adult phase in maize
Authors: Osadchuk Krista , Cheng Chi‐Lien , Irish Erin E.
Published: November 2019

Leaf‐derived signals drive the development of the shoot, eventually leading to flowering. In maize, transcripts of genes that facilitate jasmonic acid (JA) signaling are more abundant in juvenile compared to adult leaf primordia; exogenous application of JA both extends the juvenile phase and delays the decline in miR156 levels. To test the hypothesis that JA promotes juvenility, we measured JA and meJA levels using LC‐MS in successive stages of leaf one development and in later leaves at stages leading up to phase change in both normal maize and phase change mutants. We concurrently measured gibberellic acid (GA), required for the timely transition to the adult phase. Jasmonic acid levels increased from germination through leaf one differentiation, declining in later formed leaves as the shoot approached phase change. In contrast, levels of GA were low in leaf one after germination and increased as the shoot matured to the adult phase. Multiple doses of exogenous JA resulted in the production of as many as three additional juvenile leaves. We analyzed two transcript expression datasets to investigate when gene regulation by miR156 begins in the context of spatiotemporal patterns of JA and GA signaling. Quantifying these hormones in phase change mutants provided insight into how these two hormones control phase‐specific patterns of differentiation. We conclude that the hormone JA is a leaf‐provisioned signal that influences the duration, and possibly the initiation, of the juvenile phase of maize by controlling patterns of differentiation in successive leaf primordia.
Preparation of NiAl double hydroxide@polypyrrole materials for high‐performance supercapacitors
Authors: Cao Xiao‐Ju , Zeng Hong‐Yan , Yi Mo‐Yu , Zou Kai‐Min , Xu Sheng
Published: November 2019

A novel NiAl double hydroxide@polypyrrole (LDH@PPy) core–shell material was designed and fabricated by a facile in situ oxidative polymerization of pyrrole (Py) monomer. The microstructure and morphology of the LDH@PPy composites were determined by X‐ray diffractometer, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy/transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric and differential thermal, revealing that the polypyrrole (PPy) was successfully coated onto the surface of the NiAl‐LDH (LDH) core and the loading amount of PPy impacted the thickness and the dispersion of the conductive PPy shell. The electrochemical performances of the LDH@PPy composites were also evaluated by cyclic voltammogram, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and galvanostatic charge–discharge measurements. The results indicated that the supercapacitor performances were attributed to the synergy of unique core–shell heterostructure and each individual component, where the LDH core provided the high‐energy storage capacity and the PPy shell with networks had high electronic conductivity. These shorted the ion diffusion pathway and made electrolyte ions more easily accessible for faradic reactions to enhance the electrochemical performance of the LDH@PPy composites. It was found that the LDH@PPy composite (LDH@PPy7) fabricated at 7 mL∙L−1 of Py monomer feed exhibiting the best electrochemical performances with high specific capacitance of 437.5 F∙g−1 at 2 A∙g−1 and excellent capacitance retention of about 91% after 1000 cycles. The work provides a simple approach for designing organic–inorganic core–shell materials with potential application in supercapacitors. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 1653–1662
Structure prediction of biological assemblies using GALAXY in CAPRI rounds 38‐45
Authors: Park Taeyong , Woo Hyeonuk , Baek Minkyung , Yang Jinsol , Seok Chaok
Published: November 2019

We participated in CARPI rounds 38‐45 both as a server predictor and a human predictor. These CAPRI rounds provided excellent opportunities for testing prediction methods for three classes of protein interactions, that is, protein‐protein, protein‐peptide, and protein‐oligosaccharide interactions. Both template‐based methods (GalaxyTBM for monomer protein, GalaxyHomomer for homo‐oligomer protein, GalaxyPepDock for protein‐peptide complex) and ab initio docking methods (GalaxyTongDock and GalaxyPPDock for protein oligomer, GalaxyPepDock‐ab‐initio for protein‐peptide complex, GalaxyDock2 and Galaxy7TM for protein‐oligosaccharide complex) have been tested. Template‐based methods depend heavily on the availability of proper templates and template‐target similarity, and template‐target difference is responsible for inaccuracy of template‐based models. Inaccurate template‐based models could be improved by our structure refinement and loop modeling methods based on physics‐based energy optimization (GalaxyRefineComplex and GalaxyLoop) for several CAPRI targets. Current ab initio docking methods require accurate protein structures as input. Small conformational changes from input structure could be accounted for by our docking methods, producing one of the best models for several CAPRI targets. However, predicting large conformational changes involving protein backbone is still challenging, and full exploration of physics‐based methods for such problems is still to come.
Anthocyanidin attenuates myocardial ischemia induced injury via inhibition of ROS‐JNK‐Bcl‐2 pathway: New mechanism of anthocyanidin action
Authors: Syeda Madiha Zahra , Fasae Moyondafoluwa Blessing , Yue Er , Ishimwe Alain Prudence , Jiang Yannan , Du Zhimin , Yang Baofeng , Bai Yunlong
Published: November 2019

Despite treatment options available to date, myocardial ischemia (MI) remains the leading cause of death worldwide. Studies are focused on finding effective therapeutic strategies against MI injury. Growing interest has been developed in natural compounds possessing medicinal properties with scarcer side effects. Here, we have evaluated the cardioprotective potential of anthocyanidin against MI injury and explored its underlying protective mechanism. Left anterior descending coronary artery was ligated to induce MI in mice. Neonatal mice cardiomyocytes were treated with H2O2 to induce oxidative stress (a major contributor to MI injury) in vitro. Anthocyanidin pretreatment significantly reduced the infarct size, preserved the cell viability, and protected against ischemia‐induced cardiac injury in treatment groups compared with the H2O2‐treated group in vitro. Measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) validated the strong antioxidant potential of anthocyanidin, as significant reduction in oxidative stress was observed in anthocyanidin‐pretreated groups. Mechanistically, pretreatment with anthocyanidin significantly subdued the activation of JNK (to p‐JNK) and elevated Bcl‐2 levels. Both in vivo and in vitro findings suggest that anthocyanidin can induce a state of myocardial resistance against ischemic insult. We have provided the experimental evidence for inhibition of ROS/p‐JNK/Bcl‐2 pathway being the underlying mechanism of action of anthocyanidin. Our results support the use of anthocyanidin as therapeutic strategy against MI injury.
Pleural cryobiopsy during local anaesthetic thoracoscopy in dry pleural dissemination
Authors: Lao Ayn Marie , Matsumoto Yuji , Tanaka Midori , Matsunaga Takafumi , Sasada Shinji , Tsuchida Takaaki
Published: November 2019

A minimally invasive thoracic intervention, such as local anaesthetic thoracoscopy, can be used to collect the samples in malignant pleural lesions. But cancerous pleurisy without pleural effusion, called dry pleural dissemination, is considered difficult to perform thoracoscopy from concerns about pleural injury. We present a diagnosed case of dry pleural dissemination safely sampled using cryobiopsy using flex‐rigid thoracoscope under local anaesthesia.
Cancer immunotherapy trial design with cure rate and delayed treatment effect
Authors: Wei Jing , Wu Jianrong
Published: November 2019

Cancer immunotherapy trials have two special features: a delayed treatment effect and a cure rate. Both features violate the proportional hazard model assumption and ignoring either one of the two features in an immunotherapy trial design will result in substantial loss of statistical power. To properly design immunotherapy trials, we proposed a piecewise proportional hazard cure rate model to incorporate both delayed treatment effect and cure rate into the trial design consideration. A sample size formula is derived for a weighted log‐rank test under a fixed alternative hypothesis. The accuracy of sample size calculation using the new formula is assessed and compared with the existing methods via simulation studies. A real immunotherapy trial is used to illustrate the study design along with practical consideration of balance between sample size and follow‐up time.
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in men
Authors: Michael Emma , Alazawi William
Published: November 2019

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming a significant clinical and economic burden globally. It affects more men than women for reasons that are not yet completely understood. If identified in the early stages and treated, NAFLD can be reversed. Here the authors review the diagnosis and management of NAFLD in men.
A wavelength‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer for in/ex situ resonant inelastic X‐ray scattering studies
Authors: Mei Bingbao , Gu Songqi , Du Xianlong , Li Zhongliang , Cao Hanjie , Song Fei , Huang Yuying , Jiang Zheng
Published: November 2019

A wavelength‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer based on von Hamos geometry for in/ex situ resonant inelastic X‐ray scattering (RIXS) studies at BL14W1‐X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) beamline of Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility (SSRF) is reported. The design considerations and the operational characteristics of the spectrometer are described in detail. With a Si(444) bent crystal, the spectrometer provides an energy range from 8 to 9 keV, which enables the measurement of K‐edge X‐ray spectroscopy of some transition metal complexes and L‐edge X‐ray spectroscopy of some 5d transition metal complexes. Based on von Hamos geometry, the process of the collection of RIXS is considerably simplified. The collection of full RIXS planes of tungstic samples requiring spectral resolutions is presented, demonstrating the speciation capabilities of the instrument. Taking the series of oxide‐derived copper catalysts for carbon dioxide electrochemical reduction as the research model, the in situ RIXS were measured to probe dynamic changes in electronic structure. Finally, the comparison between in situ RIXS and in situ conventional XAFS is presented, demonstrating more competitive spectral resolution of RIXS.
Conserved currents and T$$ \overline{\mathrm{T}} $$s irrelevant deformations of 2D integrable field theories
Authors: Conti Riccardo , Negro Stefano , Tateo Roberto
Published: November 2019

Abstract

The T$$ \overline{\mathrm{T}} $$

T
¯

deformation of 2-dimensional QFTs is closely-related to Jackiw- Teitelboim gravity. It has been shown that, at the classical level, this perturbation induces an interaction between the stress-energy tensor and space-time and the equations of motion of the deformed theory map onto the original ones through a field-dependent coordinate transformation. At the quantum level, instead, the perturbation is induced by a modification of the original S-matrix by a specific CDD factor and, correspondingly, the quantised energy levels evolve according to a Burgers-type equation. In this paper, we point out that, in the framework of integrable field theories, there exist infinite families of perturbations characterised by a coupling between space-time and local conserved currents, labelled by the Lorentz spin. Similarly to the T$$ \overline{\mathrm{T}} $$

T
¯

case, the deformed models emerge through a field-dependent coordinate transformation involving conserved currents with higher Lorentz spin. Furthermore, using a geometric construction, we present a general method to derive the integrable hierarchy of the corresponding deformed models. The resulting expressions of the conserved currents turn out to be essential for the identification of the scattering phase factors which generate the deformations of the S-matrix, at the quantum level. Finally, the effect of the perturbations on the finite-volume spectrum is investigated using a non-linear integral equation. Exact spectral flow equations are derived, and links with previous literature, in particular on the J$$ \overline{\mathrm{T}} $$

T
¯

model, are discussed. While the classical setup is very general, the sine-Gordon model and its CFT limit are used as illustrative quantum examples. Most of the final equations and considerations are, however, of broader validity, or easily generalisable to more complicated systems.
Site-dependent induction of jasmonic acid-associated chemical defenses against western flower thrips in Chrysanthemum
Authors: Chen Gang , Kim Hye Kyong , Klinkhamer Peter GL , Escobar-Bravo Rocío
Published: November 2019

Main conclusion

Local and systemic induction of JA-associated chemical defenses and resistance to western flower thrips in Chrysanthemum are spatially variable and dependent on the site of the JA application.

Plants have evolved numerous inducible defense traits to resist or tolerate herbivory, which can be activated locally at the site of the damage, or systemically through the whole plant. Here we investigated how activation of local and systemic chemical responses upon exogenous application of the phytohormone jasmonic acid (JA) varies along the plant canopy in Chrysanthemum, and how these responses correlate with resistance to thrips. Our results showed that JA application reduced thrips damage per plant when applied to all the plant leaves or when locally applied to apical leaves, but not when only basal leaves were locally treated. Local application of JA to apical leaves resulted in a strong reduction in thrips damage in new leaves developed after the JA application. Yet, activation of a JA-associated defensive protein marker, polyphenol oxidase, was only locally induced. Untargeted metabolomic analysis further showed that JA increased the concentrations of sugars, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids and some amino acids in locally induced basal and apical leaves. However, local application of JA to basal leaves marginally affected the metabolomic profiles of systemic non-treated apical leaves, and vice versa. Our results suggest that JA-mediated activation of systemic chemical defense responses is spatially variable and depends on the site of the application of the hormone in Chrysanthemum.
Lymphatic vessels in human adipose tissue
Authors: Redondo Patricia de Albuquerque Garcia , Gubert Fernanda , Zaverucha-do-Valle Camila , Dutra Tatiana Pereira Pena , Ayres-Silva Jackline de Paula , Fernandes Natasha , de Souza Antonio Augusto Peixoto , Loizidou Marilena , Takiya Christina Maeda , Rossi Maria Isabel Doria , Borojevic Radovan
Published: November 2019

Despite being considered present in most vascularised tissues, lymphatic vessels have not been properly shown in human adipose tissue (AT). Our goal in this study is to investigate an unanswered question in AT biology, regarding lymphatic network presence in tissue parenchyma. Using human subcutaneous (S-) and visceral (V-) AT samples with whole mount staining for lymphatic specific markers and three-dimensional imaging, we showed lymphatic capillaries and larger lymphatic vessels in the human VAT. Conversely, in the human SAT, microcirculatory lymphatic vascular structures were rarely detected and no initial lymphatics were found.
Climate change investment risk: optimal portfolio construction ahead of the transition to a lower-carbon economy
Authors: Benedetti Davide , Biffis Enrico , Chatzimichalakis Fotis , Fedele Luciano Lilloy , Simm Ian
Published: November 2019

There is an increasing likelihood that governments of major economies will act within the next decade to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, probably by intervening in the fossil fuel markets through taxation or cap & trade mechanisms (collectively “carbon pricing”). We develop a model to capture the potential impact of carbon pricing on fossil fuel stocks, and use it to inform Bayesian portfolio construction methodologies, which are then used to create what we call Smart Carbon Portfolios. We find that investors could reduce ex-post risk by lowering the weightings of some fossil fuel stocks with corresponding higher weightings in lower-risk fossil fuel stocks and/or in the stocks of companies active in energy efficiency markets. The financial costs of such de-risking strategy are found to be statistically negligible in risk-return space. Robustness of the results is explored with alternative approaches.
The effects of road crossings on stream macro-invertebrate diversity
Authors: Gál Blanka , Weiperth András , Farkas János , Schmera Dénes
Published: November 2019

Although it is well known that the increasing size of the human population has a negative effect on freshwater biodiversity, the subject of whether or how the intersection of roads and streams (hereafter road crossings) influence the diversity of stream macro-invertebrates is under-researched. To fill this gap in our knowledge, we collected stream macro-invertebrates from road crossings (bridges and culverts) and compared their diversity with upstream and downstream sections. We found that road crossings had negative effects on the richness and abundance of native macro-invertebrates, as well as on the number of protected taxa. Our results showed also that alien individuals were more abundant at road crossings. These findings support the assumption that road crossings contribute to the spread of alien species. The assessment of environmental variables indicated that road crossings caused habitat modifications, and based on these it can be assumed that habitat modifications and associated phenomena (e.g. pollutants and storm events) were the major drivers of the observed patterns in biodiversity. Our results fill a knowledge gap and contribute to the deeper understanding of the effect of road crossings on freshwater biodiversity.
A Phase Ib/II, open-label, multicenter study of INC280 (capmatinib) alone and in combination with buparlisib (BKM120) in adult patients with recurrent glioblastoma
Authors: van den Bent Martin , Azaro Analia , De Vos Filip , Sepulveda Juan , Yung W. K. Alfred , Wen Patrick Y. , Lassman Andrew B. , Joerger Markus , Tabatabai Ghazaleh , Rodon Jordi , Tiedt Ralph , Zhao Sylvia , Kirsilae Tiina , Cheng Yi , Vicente Sergio , Balbin O. Alejandro , Zhang Hefei , Wick Wolfgang
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To estimate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and/or identify the recommended Phase II dose (RP2D) for combined INC280 and buparlisib in patients with recurrent glioblastoma with homozygous phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) deletion, mutation or protein loss.

Methods

This multicenter, open-label, Phase Ib/II study included adult patients with glioblastoma with mesenchymal-epithelial transcription factor (c-Met) amplification. In Phase Ib, patients received INC280 as capsules or tablets in combination with buparlisib. In Phase II, patients received INC280 only. Response was assessed centrally using Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology response criteria for high-grade gliomas. All adverse events (AEs) were recorded and graded.

Results

33 patients entered Phase Ib, 32 with altered PTEN. RP2D was not declared due to potential drug–drug interactions, which may have resulted in lack of efficacy; thus, Phase II, including 10 patients, was continued with INC280 monotherapy only. Best response was stable disease in 30% of patients. In the selected patient population, enrollment was halted due to limited activity with INC280 monotherapy. In Phase Ib, the most common treatment-related AEs were fatigue (36.4%), nausea (30.3%) and increased alanine aminotransferase (30.3%). MTD was identified at INC280 Tab 300 mg twice daily + buparlisib 80 mg once daily. In Phase II, the most common AEs were headache (40.0%), constipation (30.0%), fatigue (30.0%) and increased lipase (30.0%).

Conclusion

The combination of INC280/buparlisib resulted in no clear activity in patients with recurrent PTEN-deficient glioblastoma. More stringent molecular selection strategies might produce better outcomes.

Trial registration: NCT01870726.
DHA Attenuates Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury by Activating SSeCKS in Human Cerebrovascular Pericytes
Authors: Yu Yanli , Fang Haibin , Qiu Zhen , Xia Zhongyuan , Zhou Bin
Published: November 2019

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can alleviate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by reducing blood–brain barrier permeability and maintaining its integrity, accompanied by an increased Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio; however, the underlying mechanisms of these effects remain unclear. Src-suppressed C kinase substrates (SSeCKS), a substrate of protein kinase C, plays an important role in maintaining cell junctions and cell morphology and regulating cell permeability. However, whether DHA can increase SSeCKS expression and then mediate the Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio still needs to be studied. Human cerebrovascular pericytes (HBVPs) cultured in vitro were divided into groups, treated with or without DHA along with SSeCKS siRNA to knockdown SSeCKS expression, and then subjected to 24 h of hypoxia followed by 6 h of reoxygenation. Cell viability; lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release; and Ang-1, Ang-2 and VEGF activity were detected by using ELISA kits. The apoptosis rate was assessed by TUNEL flow cytometry. Expression of the SSeCKS, Ang-1, Ang-2 and VEGF proteins was evaluated by western blotting. Pretreatment with 10 μM or 40 μM DHA efficiently attenuated hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury by activating SSeCKS to increase the Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio and downregulate VEGF expression in HBVPs, as evidenced by decreased LDH release and apoptotic rates and increased HBVPs viability. Meanwhile, after we used SSeCKS siRNA to knock down SSeCKS protein expression, the protective effect of DHA on HBVPs following H/R injury was reversed. In conclusion, DHA can activate SSeCKS to increase the Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio and downregulate VEGF expression in HBVPs, thus reducing H/R injury.
Grounding at a distance
Authors: Baron Sam , Miller Kristie , Tallant Jonathan
Published: November 2019

What distinguishes causation from grounding? One suggestion is that causation, but not grounding, occurs over time. Recently, however, counterexamples to this simple temporal criterion have been offered. In this paper, we situate the temporal criterion within a broader framework that focuses on two aspects: locational overlapping in space and time and the presence of intermediaries in space and time. We consider, and reject, the idea that the difference between grounding and causation is that grounding can occur without intermediaries. We go on to use the fact that grounding and causation both involve intermediaries to develop a better temporal criterion for distinguishing causation from grounding. The criterion is this: when a cause and effect are spatially disjoint, there is always a chain of causal intermediaries between the cause and the effect that are extended in time. By contrast, when the grounds and the grounded are spatially disjoint, there is always a chain of grounding intermediaries, but the chain need not be extended in time, it can be purely spatial. The difference between grounding and causation, then, is that causationrequirestime for chaining in a way that grounding does not.
Leaf Area Index evaluation in vineyards using 3D point clouds from UAV imagery
Authors: Comba L. , Biglia A. , Ricauda Aimonino D. , Tortia C. , Mania E. , Guidoni S. , Gay P.
Published: November 2019

The Leaf Area Index (LAI) is an ecophysiology key parameter characterising the canopy-atmosphere interface where most of the energy fluxes are exchanged. However, producing maps for managing the spatial and temporal variability of LAI in large croplands with traditional techniques is typically laborious and expensive. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the reliability of LAI estimation by processing dense 3D point clouds as a cost-effective alternative to traditional LAI assessments. This would allow for high resolution, extensive and fast mapping of the index, even in hilly and not easily accessible regions. In this setting, the 3D point clouds were generated from UAV-based multispectral imagery and processed by using an innovative methodology presented here. The LAI was estimated by a multivariate linear regression model using crop canopy descriptors derived from the 3D point cloud, which account for canopy thickness, height and leaf density distribution along the wall. For the validation of the estimated LAI, an experiment was conducted in a vineyard in Piedmont: the leaf area of 704 vines was manually measured by the inclined point quadrant approach and six UAV flights were contextually performed to acquire the aerial images. The vineyard LAI estimated by the proposed methodology showed to be correlated with the ones obtained by the traditional manual method. Indeed, the obtained R2 value of 0.82 can be considered fully adequate, compatible to the accuracy of the reference LAI manual measurement.
Cell culture propagation of foot-and-mouth disease virus: adaptive amino acid substitutions in structural proteins and their functional implications
Authors: Dill Veronika , Eschbaumer Michael
Published: November 2019

Foot-and-mouth disease is endemic in livestock in large parts of Africa and Asia, where it is an important driver of food insecurity and a major obstacle to agricultural development and the international trade in animal products. Virtually all commercially available vaccines are inactivated whole-virus vaccines produced in cell culture, but the adaptation of a field isolate of the virus to growth in culture is laborious and time-consuming. This is of particular concern for the development of vaccines to newly emerging virus lineages, where long lead times from virus isolate to vaccine can delay the implementation of effective control programs. High antigen yields in production cells are also necessary to make vaccines affordable for less developed countries in endemic areas. Therefore, a rational approach to cell culture adaptation that combines prior knowledge of common adaptive mutations and reverse genetics techniques is urgently required. This review provides an overview of amino acid exchanges in the viral capsid proteins in the context of adaptation to cell culture.
Understanding Public Views on a Dam Construction Boom: the Role of Values
Authors: Schulz Christopher , Martin-Ortega Julia , Glenk Klaus
Published: November 2019

Large numbers of dams for hydroelectric power production are currently planned or under construction in many areas around the world. While positive and negative social and environmental impacts of dams are increasingly well understood, little is known about attitudes of the general public towards dams, even though benefits to wider society are often cited to legitimise their construction. In Brazil’s Upper Paraguay River Basin, more than 100 mostly small-scale hydropower dams are planned or under construction in what can be considered a regional dam construction boom. Here we analyse public preferences for strategies to manage dam impacts in the area by investigating the value base that underpins such preferences, drawing on the recently proposed Value Landscapes Approach as our theoretical framework and data from a large representative household survey (N = 1067). We find that contrasting attitudes towards dams, expressed in preferences for economically or ecologically oriented water policies are informed by opposing underlying value landscapes, that is, groups of closely related fundamental, governance-related, and assigned (water) values. While such tensions between opposing values can never be fully eliminated, our research nevertheless gives insights to policy-makers seeking to minimise value conflict and to improve the political legitimacy of public decision-making on dam construction. Moreover, we find that a majority of members of the general public would prefer concentrating dam construction on some rivers while keeping others free-flowing, with direct implications for ecosystems and inland fisheries. This finding may guide policy-makers wishing to develop publicly supported water resources management strategies.
Notes, outline and divergence times of Basidiomycota
Authors: He Mao-Qiang , Zhao Rui-Lin , Hyde Kevin D. , Begerow Dominik , Kemler Martin , Yurkov Andrey , McKenzie Eric H. C. , Raspé Olivier , Kakishima Makoto , Sánchez-Ramírez Santiago , Vellinga Else C. , Halling Roy , Papp Viktor , Zmitrovich Ivan V. , Buyck Bart , Ertz Damien , Wijayawardene Nalin N. , Cui Bao-Kai , Schoutteten Nathan , Liu Xin-Zhan , Li Tai-Hui , Yao Yi-Jian , Zhu Xin-Yu , Liu An-Qi , Li Guo-Jie , Zhang Ming-Zhe , Ling Zhi-Lin , Cao Bin , Antonín Vladimír , Boekhout Teun , da Silva Bianca Denise Barbosa , De Crop Eske , Decock Cony , Dima Bálint , Dutta Arun Kumar , Fell Jack W. , Geml József , Ghobad-Nejhad Masoomeh , Giachini Admir J. , Gibertoni Tatiana B. , Gorjón Sergio P. , Haelewaters Danny , He Shuang-Hui , Hodkinson Brendan P. , Horak Egon , Hoshino Tamotsu , Justo Alfredo , Lim Young Woon , Menolli Nelson , Mešić Armin , Moncalvo Jean-Marc , Mueller Gregory M. , Nagy László G. , Nilsson R. Henrik , Noordeloos Machiel , Nuytinck Jorinde , Orihara Takamichi , Ratchadawan Cheewangkoon , Rajchenberg Mario , Silva-Filho Alexandre G. S. , Sulzbacher Marcelo Aloisio , Tkalčec Zdenko , Valenzuela Ricardo , Verbeken Annemieke , Vizzini Alfredo , Wartchow Felipe , Wei Tie-Zheng , Weiß Michael , Zhao Chang-Lin , Kirk Paul M.
Published: November 2019

The Basidiomycota constitutes a major phylum of the kingdom Fungi and is second in species numbers to the Ascomycota. The present work provides an overview of all validly published, currently used basidiomycete genera to date in a single document. An outline of all genera of Basidiomycota is provided, which includes 1928 currently used genera names, with 1263 synonyms, which are distributed in 241 families, 68 orders, 18 classes and four subphyla. We provide brief notes for each accepted genus including information on classification, number of accepted species, type species, life mode, habitat, distribution, and sequence information. Furthermore, three phylogenetic analyses with combined LSU, SSU, 5.8s, rpb1, rpb2, and ef1 datasets for the subphyla Agaricomycotina, Pucciniomycotina and Ustilaginomycotina are conducted, respectively. Divergence time estimates are provided to the family level with 632 species from 62 orders, 168 families and 605 genera. Our study indicates that the divergence times of the subphyla in Basidiomycota are 406–430 Mya, classes are 211–383 Mya, and orders are 99–323 Mya, which are largely consistent with previous studies. In this study, all phylogenetically supported families were dated, with the families of Agaricomycotina diverging from 27–178 Mya, Pucciniomycotina from 85–222 Mya, and Ustilaginomycotina from 79–177 Mya. Divergence times as additional criterion in ranking provide additional evidence to resolve taxonomic problems in the Basidiomycota taxonomic system, and also provide a better understanding of their phylogeny and evolution.
A family of minimal and renormalizable rectangle exchange maps
Authors: ALEVY IAN , KENYON RICHARD , YI REN
Published: November 2019

Adomain exchange map(DEM) is a dynamical system defined on a smooth Jordan domain which is a piecewise translation. We explain how to use cut-and-project sets to construct minimal DEMs. Specializing to the case in which the domain is a square and the cut-and-project set is associated to a Galois lattice, we construct an infinite family of DEMs in which each map is associated to a Pisot–Vijayaraghavan (PV) number. We develop a renormalization scheme for these DEMs. Certain DEMs in the family can be composed to create multistage, renormalizable DEMs.
“Kids Know What They Are Doing”: Peer-Led Sex Education in New York City
Authors: Andersen Lisa M. F.
Published: November 2019

The reasons for peer education's ascendance as a core pedagogy in sex education are as much historical as they are reasonable or ethical. This article traces the history of peer-led sex education from the 1970s to the 1990s against the backdrop of New York City's financial ruin, social unrest, and a public health crisis. Starting with an analysis of the Student Coalition for Relevant Sex Education's Peer Information Project, founded in 1974, it investigates the application of new pedagogical techniques, the interplay between pedagogy and bureaucracy, and the transformation of school culture. Peer education thrived when educators and activists agreed that young people were more likely to accept advice from other young people, a reasonable contention that was nonetheless underassessed. Yet peer education's least intriguing attribute proved to be its most important characteristic: it could be quickly and inexpensively enacted. When HIV/AIDS began to decimate New York City's adolescent population, and the Board of Education proved slow and contradictory in its actions, the city turned to peer education, henceforth coupling the concepts of sex education and peer education.