bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VESPA: Very large-scale Evolutionary and Selective Pressure Analyses
Authors: Webb Andrew E. , Walsh Thomas A. , O’Connell Mary J.
Published: June 2017

Background

Large-scale molecular evolutionary analyses of protein coding sequences requires a number of preparatory inter-related steps from finding gene families, to generating alignments and phylogenetic trees and assessing selective pressure variation. Each phase of these analyses can represent significant challenges, particularly when working with entire proteomes (all protein coding sequences in a genome) from a large number of species.

Methods

We present VESPA, software capable of automating a selective pressure analysis using codeML in addition to the preparatory analyses and summary statistics. VESPA is written in python and Perl and is designed to run within a UNIX environment.

Results

We have benchmarked VESPA and our results show that the method is consistent, performs well on both large scale and smaller scale datasets, and produces results in line with previously published datasets.

Discussion

Large-scale gene family identification, sequence alignment, and phylogeny reconstruction are all important aspects of large-scale molecular evolutionary analyses. VESPA provides flexible software for simplifying these processes along with downstream selective pressure variation analyses. The software automatically interprets results from codeML and produces simplified summary files to assist the user in better understanding the results. VESPA may be found at the following website: http://www.mol-evol.org/VESPA.
Stratigraphic signatures of forearc basin formation mechanisms
Authors: Mannu Utsav , Ueda Kosuke , Willett Sean D. , Gerya Taras V. , Strasser Michael
Published: June 2017

Tectonic deformation of accretionary wedges is often interpreted using stratigraphic patterns observed in forearc basins. However, similar stratigraphic patterns could evolve from different deformational processes making it difficult to uniquely reconcile stratigraphic patterns and the geodynamic history of natural accretionary wedges. Therefore, it is important to test the dynamic consistency of interpreted deformation histories. One approach is to compare synthetic stratigraphy of forearc basins generated in numerical accretionary wedge models, to the stratal patterns observed in natural fore arcs. We present a simple method to simulate synthetic stratigraphy in numerical accretionary wedge models, comparable to the stratigraphic patterns observed in seismic reflection data. As calibration, we use reflection seismic and borehole data for the Kumano forearc basin in Nankai. We observe that the stratigraphy in retro‐forearc basins remains predominantly undisturbed and unaffected by wedge deformation. Sediment‐stabilized wedge‐top basins in wedges with trenchward surface slope typically form landward of an active out‐of‐sequence thrust, leading to a landward tilting of the basin. These stratigraphic characteristics are diagnostic of the forearc basin forming mechanism. We also infer that sedimentation in the trench can potentially influence the generation/reactivation of Megasplay Fault activity in the Nankai accretionary wedge. Activity on the Megasplay Fault helps create accommodation space landward to it that leads to the formation of Kumano forearc basin.
Highly sensitive protein detection by biospecific AFM‐based fishing with pulsed electrical stimulation
Authors: Pleshakova Tatyana O. , Malsagova Kristina A. , Kaysheva Anna L. , Kopylov Arthur T. , Tatur Vadim Yu. , Ziborov Vadim S. , Kanashenko Sergey L. , Galiullin Rafael A. , Ivanov Yuri D.
Published: June 2017

We report here the highly sensitive detection of protein in solution at concentrations from 10–15 to 10–18 m using the combination of atomic force microscopy (AFM) and mass spectrometry. Biospecific detection of biotinylated bovine serum albumin was carried out by fishing out the protein onto the surface of AFM chips with immobilized avidin, which determined the specificity of the analysis. Electrical stimulation was applied to enhance the fishing efficiency. A high sensitivity of detection was achieved by application of nanosecond electric pulses to highly oriented pyrolytic graphite placed under the AFM chip. A peristaltic pump‐based flow system, which is widely used in routine bioanalytical assays, was employed throughout the analysis. These results hold promise for the development of highly sensitive protein detection methods using nanosensor devices.
All‐Dielectric C‐Shaped Nanoantennas for Light Manipulation: Tailoring Both Magnetic and Electric Resonances to the Desire
Authors: Forouzmand Ali , Mosallaei Hossein
Published: June 2017

A systematic study is carried out on the interaction of electromagnetic waves with a nonsymmetric all‐dielectric C‐shaped nanoantenna to achieve an ultimate control over the independent and relative spectral positions of the excited magnetic and electric dipolar modes. By properly determining the structural parameters (inner and outer radii and the opening angle) and tailoring the interference of geometrical resonances, an ultrathin C‐element metasurface is designed, which can highly transmit the linearly polarized incident beam (>80%) with full phase‐agility (2π) in the red light of visible regime. The investigation on the physical mechanism behind this nanoantenna reveals the confinement of magnetic and electric fields corresponding to the magnetic and electric dipolar modes mainly inside the hollow and opening angle, i.e., outside the constituent high‐index material of C‐element. This feature allows making building blocks less dependent on the material loss and dispersion. Three different approaches based on only varying the inner/outer radius or the opening angle are proposed which can facilitate the design complexity, the encoding of the desired phase distribution for specific functionality, and easing the fabrication procedure. The proposed approaches are leveraged to design several highly transparent graded‐pattern metasurfaces with the capability of beam steering, focusing, flat‐top generation, and holography.
The relationship between morphology development and mechanical properties in thermoplastic protein blends
Authors: Smith Matthew J. , Verbeek Casparus J. R.
Published: June 2017

Novatein thermoplastic protein was blended with modified polyethylene (containing either epoxy, carboxylic acid functionalities partially neutralised to produce zinc carboxylate salts, or maleic anhydride functionalities) to alter blend morphology and to manipulate thermal and mechanical properties. Up to 40 pphNovatein polyethylene (PE) was blended with Novatein by extrusion and injection moulding. Using zinc ionomer resulted in optimal properties and was compatible with a finely dispersed morphology at high content; high interfacial tension (σ) and a viscosity ratio (λ) of ~1 was observed. Unmodified blends and those containing epoxy functionalities showed co‐continuity at low PE content. Whilst co‐continuity appeared to increase impact resistance, other mechanical properties decreased due to lack of phase interaction. Maleic anhydride‐grafted‐polyethylene blends showed a finely dispersed PE phase, yet was less compatible. Zinc ionomer was deemed to be the most appropriate for modification of mechanical properties in Novatein.
Amphicharge‐Storable Pyropolymers Containing Multitiered Nanopores
Authors: Kim Na Rae , Lee Sang Moon , Kim Min Wook , Yoon Hyeon Ji , Hong Won G. , Kim Hae Jin , Choi Hyoung Jin , Jin Hyoung‐Joon , Yun Young Soo
Published: June 2017

In this study, hierarchically nanoporous pyropolymers (HN‐PPs) including numerous redox‐active heteroatoms are fabricated from polyaniline nanotubes by heating with KOH. In the large operating voltage range 1.0–4.8 V versus Li+/Li, HN‐PPs store amphicharges by a pseudocapacitive manner of Li‐ion (mainly <3.0 V) and electrochemical double layer formation of anion (primarily >3.0 V). Through these surface‐driven charge storage behaviors, HN‐PPs achieve a significantly high specific capacity of ≈460 mA h g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, maintaining specific capacities of 140 mA h g−1 at a high specific current of 30 A g−1 and 305 mA h g−1 after 2000 cycles at 3 A g−1. Furthermore, asymmetric energy storage devices based on HN‐PPs deliver a high specific energy of 265 W h kg−1 and high specific power of 5081 W kg−1 with long‐term cycling performance.
Transforming Social Regularities in a Multicomponent Community‐Based Intervention: A Case Study of Professionals’ Adaptability to Better Support Parents to Meet Their Children's Needs
Authors: Quiroz Saavedra Rodrigo , Brunson Liesette , Bigras Nathalie
Published: June 2017

This paper presents an in‐depth case study of the dynamic processes of mutual adjustment that occurred between two professional teams participating in a multicomponent community‐based intervention (CBI). Drawing on the concept of social regularities, we focus on patterns of social interaction within and across the two microsystems involved in delivering the intervention. Two research strategies, narrative analysis and structural network analysis, were used to reveal the social regularities linking the two microsystems. Results document strategies and actions undertaken by the professionals responsible for the intervention to modify intersetting social regularities to deal with a problem situation that arose during the course of one intervention cycle. The results illustrate how key social regularities were modified in order to resolve the problem situation and allow the intervention to continue to function smoothly. We propose that these changes represent a transition to a new state of the ecological intervention system. This transformation appeared to be the result of certain key intervening mechanisms: changing key role relationships, boundary spanning, and synergy. The transformation also appeared to be linked to positive setting‐level and individual‐level outcomes: confidence of key team members, joint planning, decision‐making and intervention activities, and the achievement of desired intervention objectives.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Butadienylcalcium‐based Heavy Grignard Reagents and a Ca4[O] Inverse Crown Ether Complex
Authors: Wei Baosheng , Liu Liang , Zhang Wen‐Xiong , Xi Zhenfeng
Published: June 2017

The structure elucidation of heavy Grignard reagents (RAeX, Ae=Ca, Sr, and Ba, X=halides) has been greatly strived after, mainly because of their inaccessibility and remarkable instability. The synthesis of a series of butadienylcalcium compounds is presented, including 1‐calcio‐4‐lithio‐1,3‐butadiene, 1,4‐dicalcio‐1,3‐butadiene, and a Ca4[O] inverse crown ether complex, via the reaction between 1,4‐dilithio‐1,3‐butadienes and calcium iodide in THF. Single‐crystal X‐ray analysis of these unprecedented heavy Grignard reagents revealed unique structural characteristics and bonding modes. Preliminary reaction chemistry was investigated. This study provides a novel class of alkenyl heavy Grignard reagents and a useful synthetic strategy for otherwise unavailable reactive organometallic compounds.
Effect of polymer sulfonation on the proton conductivity and fuel cell performance of polyvinylalcohol‐mordenite direct methanol fuel cell membranes
Authors: Üçtuğ Fehmi Görkem , Nijem Jinan
Published: June 2017

Sulfonated polyvinylalcohol‐mordenite (SPVA‐MOR) membranes for direct methanol fuel cell use were synthesized and characterized. It had earlier been found out that polyvinylalcohol‐mordenite (PVA‐MOR) membranes, while having excellent methanol permeability and modest proton conductivity values, had inferior direct methanol fuel cell performances than Nafion™. Sulfonating the polyvinylalcohol matrix had been suggested to improve the proton conductivity. In this work, polyvinylalcohol powder was sulfonated by using propane sultone as the sulfonating agent prior to the membrane synthesis. Morphological analyses revealed that the zeolite particles mixed homogeneously within the polymer matrix. Sulfonating the polymer slightly decreased both water and methanol uptakes. Both in PVA‐MOR and SPVA‐MOR membranes, water uptake turned out to be higher than the methanol uptake. SPVA‐MOR membranes were found to have an average proton conductivity of 0.052 S·cm−1 when compared with the 0.036 S·cm−1 of PVA‐MOR membranes, while Nafion™ has a proton conductivity of approximately 0.1 S·cm−1. The increase in the proton conductivity upon sulfonation despite the decrease in water uptake was explained by the dominance of the Grotthuss mechanism over the vehicular mechanism for proton conductivity. Fuel cell test results showed that while SPVA‐MOR membranes cannot outperform Nafion™, they give higher power output than PVA‐MOR membranes, especially at low temperatures and high methanol concentrations. © 2017 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design and Synthesis of 1,2,4‐Triazolo[3,2‐b]‐1,3,5‐thiadiazine Derivatives as a Novel Template for Analgesic/Anti‐Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Sert‐Ozgur Seyma , Tel Banu C. , Somuncuoglu Elif I. , Kazkayasi Inci , Ertan Mevlut , Tozkoparan Birsen
Published: June 2017

Previously, we demonstrated that certain heterocyclic compounds derived from 3‐substituted‐1,2,4‐triazole‐5‐thiones had promising analgesic/anti‐inflammatory activities together with low ulcerogenic properties. Therefore, we sought to design and synthesize new derivatives of triazol‐5‐thiones‐fused heterocycles. In the present study, a series of novel bis‐Mannich bases, namely 2,6‐disubstituted‐6,7‐dihydro‐5H‐1,2,4‐triazolo[3,2‐b]‐1,3,5‐thiadiazines (1a–d, 2a–c, and 3a–d), were synthesized and characterized to assess their possible anti‐inflammatory/analgesic properties. Additionally, their ability to induce gastric toxicity was also evaluated. Several of the condensed compounds produced a degree of analgesic activity comparable to reference drugs in both the hot plate and tail‐flick tests. A strong anti‐inflammatory effect was observed for the derivatives carrying a benzyl group at the second position (2a–c). The majority of the prepared compounds caused comparatively less gastrointestinal (GI) side effects than the reference drugs naproxen and indomethacin did. These results showed that 1,2,4‐triazolo[3,2‐b]‐1,3,5‐thiadiazine derivatives might afford a safer alternative to currently available analgesic/anti‐inflammatory agents for the treatment and management of inflammatory disease and pain.
Tension sensors reveal how the kinetochore shares its load
Authors: Salmon Edward D. , Bloom Kerry
Published: June 2017

At metaphase in mitotic cells, pulling forces at the kinetochore‐microtubule interface create tension by stretching the centromeric chromatin between oppositely oriented sister kinetochores. This tension is important for stabilizing the end‐on kinetochore microtubule attachment required for proper bi‐orientation of sister chromosomes as well as for satisfaction of the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint and entry into anaphase. How force is coupled by proteins to kinetochore microtubules and resisted by centromere stretch is becoming better understood as many of the proteins involved have been identified. Recent application of genetically encoded fluorescent tension sensors within the mechanical linkage between the centromere and kinetochore microtubules are beginning to reveal – from live cell assays – protein specific contributions that are functionally important.
Mechanisms of suppression: The wiring of genetic resilience
Authors: van Leeuwen Jolanda , Pons Carles , Boone Charles , Andrews Brenda J.
Published: June 2017

Recent analysis of genome sequences has identified individuals that are healthy despite carrying severe disease‐associated mutations. A possible explanation is that these individuals carry a second genomic perturbation that can compensate for the detrimental effects of the disease allele, a phenomenon referred to as suppression. In model organisms, suppression interactions are generally divided into two classes: genomic suppressors which are secondary mutations in the genome that bypass a mutant phenotype, and dosage suppression interactions in which overexpression of a suppressor gene rescues a mutant phenotype. Here, we describe the general properties of genomic and dosage suppression, with an emphasis on the budding yeast. We propose that suppression interactions between genetic variants are likely relevant for determining the penetrance of human traits. Consequently, an understanding of suppression mechanisms may guide the discovery of protective variants in healthy individuals that carry disease alleles, which could direct the rational design of new therapeutics.
Enhanced Activity in Methane Dry Reforming by Carbon Dioxide Induced Metal‐Oxide Interface Restructuring of Nickel/Zirconia
Authors: Steib Matthias , Lou Yu , Jentys Andreas , Lercher Johannes A.
Published: June 2017

The activity of the Ni/ZrO2 catalyst for the dry reforming of methane was significantly enhanced by activation and regeneration in the presence of CO2. Exposure to CO2 maximized and dynamically restructured the Ni–ZrO2 interface, which was critical to obtain a stable catalyst. The ZrO2−x species at this interface was found to act catalytically by accepting and transferring one oxygen atom of CO2 to the Ni surface, which resulted in the release of CO in the decomposition of transiently formed carbonates. This was found to open a fast additional reaction pathway to convert CO2 that eclipsed direct CO2 dissociation on Ni. The kinetically controlled availability of atomic oxygen by this pathway reduced the carbon concentration on the surface, which led to less refractory carbon deposition and more facile regeneration.
Fabrication of Zinc Oxide Composite Microfibers for Near‐Infrared‐Light‐Mediated Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Wan‐Ni , Zhang Fu , Zhang Chuan‐Ling , Guo Yan‐Chuan , Dai Wei , Qian Hai‐Sheng
Published: June 2017

The fabrication of photocatalysts driven by near‐infrared (NIR) light is of great scientific and technological interest to make use of solar energy. NaYF4 codoped with Yb3+ and Tm3+ upconversion nanoparticles are important nanotransducers that transfer NIR photons to high‐energy photons (UV/Vis). In this work, we demonstrated an electrospinning technique to synthesize ZnO and porous ZnO composite microfibers embedded with a large amount of NaYF4:Yb/Tm@NaYF4 nanoparticles. The morphologies, chemical compositions, and phase of the as‐prepared composites were investigated carefully by using field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, TEM, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and XRD. Steady‐state and dynamic‐state fluorescence spectra were used to demonstrate that the embedded NaYF4:Yb/Tm@NaYF4 core–shell nanoparticles can activate the ZnO nanoparticles under IR irradiation. The ZnO composite microfibers can efficiently transfer the NIR photons to the excited state of ZnO and activate the semiconductor to produce reactive oxygen species to result in the degradation of rhodamine B dyes.
Performance Enhancement of a Sulfur/Carbon Cathode by Polydopamine as an Efficient Shell for High‐Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xuqing , Xie Dong , Zhong Yu , Wang Donghuang , Wu Jianbo , Wang Xiuli , Xia Xinhui , Gu Changdong , Tu Jiangping
Published: June 2017

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) are considered to be among the most promising next‐generation high‐energy batteries. It is a consensus that improving the conductivity of sulfur cathodes and impeding the dissolution of lithium polysulfides are two key accesses to high‐performance LSBs. Herein we report a sulfur/carbon black (S/C) cathode modified by self‐polymerized polydopamine (pDA) with the assistance of polymerization treatment. The pDA acts as a novel and effective shell on the S/C cathode to stop the shuttle effect of polysulfides. By the synergistic effect of enhanced conductivity and multiple blocking effect for polysulfides, the S/C@pDA electrode exhibits improved electrochemical performances including large specific capacity (1135 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C), high rate capability (533 mAh g−1 at 5 C) and long cyclic life (965 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles). Our smart design strategy may promote the development of high‐performance LSBs.
Distinguishing Two Ammonium and Triazolium Sites of Interaction in a Three‐Station [2]Rotaxane Molecular Shuttle
Authors: Waelès Philip , Fournel‐Marotte Karine , Coutrot Frédéric
Published: June 2017

This paper reports on the synthesis of a tri‐stable [2]rotaxane molecular shuttle, in which the motion of the macrocycle is triggered by either selective protonation/deprotonation or specific carbamoylation/decarbamoylation of an alkylbenzylamine. The threaded axle is surrounded by a dibenzo[24]crown[8] (DB24C8) macrocycle and contains three sites of different binding affinities towards the macrocycle. An N‐methyltriazolium moiety acts as a molecular station that has weak affinity for the DB24C8 macrocycle and is located in the centre of the molecular axle. Two other molecular stations, arylammonium and alkylbenzylammonium moieties, sit on either side of the triazolium moiety along the molecular axle and have stronger affinities for the DB24C8 macrocycle. These two ammonium moieties are covalently linked to two different stopper groups at each extremity of the thread: a tert‐butylphenyl group and a substituted DB24C8 unit. Owing to steric hindrance, the former does not allow any π–π stacking interactions with the encircling DB24C8 macrocycle, whereas the latter residue does; therefore, this allows the discrimination of the two ammonium stations by the surrounding DB24C8 macrocycle in the fully protonated state. In the deprotonated state, the contrasting reactivity of the amine functional groups, as either a base or a nucleophile, allows for selective reactions that trigger the controlled shuttling of the macrocycle around the three molecular stations.
On the Accessible Reaction Channels of Vinyl Gold(I) Species: π‐ and σ‐Pathways
Authors: Nunes dos Santos Comprido Laura , Klein Johannes E. M. N. , Knizia Gerald , Kästner Johannes , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: June 2017

The potential of vinyl Au species to react either through a controlled π‐ or σ‐pathway is demonstrated. This nomenclature is directly derived from the orbitals of the vinyl Au species leading to the newly formed bonds. When the π‐bond of the vinyl Au intermediate is transformed into a σ‐bond, we name it π‐pathway, and a σ‐ to σ‐ transformation is named σ‐pathway. Examples of reactions following these pathways are a Au‐catalysed [3,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement and a protodeauration reaction. These reactions have been studied using intrinsic bond orbitals (IBOs) and allow for the clear identification of these pathways. Energies for the reaction path of the Au‐catalysed [3,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement were in addition computed using CCSD(T)‐F12. Analysis of the intrinsic reaction coordinate (IRC) of the [3,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement using IBOs further allows us to refine the previous mechanistic proposal and identifies a hidden intermediate along the reaction path.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Esterification of Amides
Authors: Bourne‐Branchu Yann , Gosmini Corinne , Danoun Grégory
Published: June 2017

The first cobalt‐catalyzed amide activation of N‐Boc‐amides, and their conversion into esters, is reported here. This new methodology presents a very practical process that does not require an inert atmosphere, uses an inexpensive cobalt catalyst, and proceeds under mild reaction conditions. This catalytic system has a broad substrate scope and has been shown to be highly efficient, with catalyst loadings as low as 1 mol %.
Pigments & dyes in a collection of medieval illuminations (14th–16th century)
Authors: Mounier Aurélie , Daniel Floréal
Published: June 2017

The Marcadé Collection (Bordeaux Cathedral treasury) consists among other objects of 42 illuminations (14th to the 16th century) from five origins (France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain). For better knowledge of these miniatures, the pigments and dyes have been analyzed in ten illuminations chosen in order to represent the diversity of the collection. The aim of this study is to establish a panorama of the pigments and techniques used in medieval miniatures through the study of a set of manuscripts and to discuss the potentialities of the analytical techniques in order to reach this objective. Hyperspectral imaging is a rapid, mobile and noninvasive technique. It gives reflectance spectra for each pixel of the image. The datacube obtained was treated in order to visualize images and reflectance spectra. The software allows the mapping of the pigments by comparing spectra with those of our database. As some interpretation difficulties can appear for dyes or mixtures, to confirm the identification, point techniques such as Raman, X‐ray spectroscopy, and Fiber Optic Reflectance Spectroscopy in the Near Infrared range were used. Analyses allowed access to the palette for each illumination and showed the colours diversity and pigments treatment. They increase knowledge about the materials used and the evolution of them during the time period: the use of dyes and shell gold became more important at the end of the period. The analytical choice respects the fragility and preciousness of these artworks and helps the fast data acquisition for the materials identification.
The Effect of Gabapentin and Tramadol in Cancer Pain Induced by Glioma Cell in Rat Femur
Authors: Corona‐Ramos Janette Nallely , Déciga‐Campos Myrna , Romero‐Piña Mario , Medina Luis A. , Martínez‐Racine Issac , Jaramillo‐Morales Osmar A. , García‐López Patricia , López‐Muñoz Francisco Javier
Published: June 2017

Preclinical Research

The presence of pain as part of the cancer process is variable. Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) can produce bone metastasis, a condition that involves other pathological phenotypes including neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Tramadol and gabapentin are drugs used in the treatment of neuropathic pain. However, there are no studies evaluating their analgesic effects in bone metastasis. We produced a pain model induced by the inoculation of glioma cells (105) into the rat femur, by perforating the intercodiloid fossa. Painful behavior was evaluated by measuring mechanical allodynia using the Von Frey test while thermal hyperalgesia was assessed in the plantar test. Histopathological features were evaluated and antinociceptive responses were compared using tramadol and gabapentin. The inoculation of cells inside the right femur produced nociceptive behaviors. Tramadol and gabapentin produced an anti‐allodynic effect in this condition, but tramadol did not produce an anti‐hyperalgesic response. The development of this model will allow us to perform tests to elucidate the pathology of bone metastasis, cancer pain, and in particular the pain produced by glioma. Drug Dev Res 78 : 173–183, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigating the DSM‐5 severity specifiers based on thinness for adults with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Reas Deborah Lynn , Rø Øyvind
Published: June 2017

Objective

The DSM‐5 severity classification scheme for adults with anorexia nervosa (AN) is based upon current body mass index (BMI; kg/m2). This study examined the utility of the DSM‐5 severity specifiers for adults with AN in relation to core cognitive and behavioral features of eating pathology and associated psychosocial impairment.

Methods

A clinical sample of 146 adult AN patients (140 women, 6 men) were categorized using DSM‐5 current BMI severity specifiers and assessed with the Eating Disorder Examination‐Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) and Clinical Impairment Assessment (CIA).

Results

A total of 34 (23.3%) patients were categorized as mild (>=17.0 BMI), 35 (24.0%) as moderate (16‐16.99 BMI), 32 (21.9%) as severe (15‐15.99 BMI), and 45 (30.8%) as extreme (<15 BMI). No significant group differences were found for age, CIA and EDE‐Q global or subscale scores, frequency of laxative use, self‐induced vomiting, binge eating, or excessive exercise.

Discussion

This study found little empirical evidence to support the utility of DSM‐5 severity rating scheme to differentiate adults with AN in terms of core eating disorder pathology or associated psychosocial impairment.
Adaptive molecular evolution of MC1R gene reveals the evidence for positive diversifying selection in indigenous goat populations
Authors: Ahmad Hafiz Ishfaq , Liu Guiqiong , Jiang Xunping , Liu Chenhui , Chong Yuqing , Huarong Huang
Published: June 2017

Detecting signatures of selection can provide a new insight into the mechanism of contemporary breeding and artificial selection and further reveal the causal genes associated to the phenotypic variation. However, the signatures of selection on genes entailing for profitable traits between Chinese commercial and indigenous goats have been poorly interpreted. We noticed footprints of positive selection at MC1R gene containing SNPs genotyped in five Chinese native goat breeds. An experimental distribution of FST was built based on approximations of FST for each SNP across five breeds. We identified selection using the high FST outlier method and found that MC1R candidate gene show evidence of positive selection. Furthermore, adaptive selection pressure on specific codons was determined using different codon based on maximum‐likelihood methods; signature of positive selection in mammalian MC1R was explored in individual codons. Evolutionary analyses were inferred under maximum likelihood models, the HyPhy package implemented in the DATAMONKEY Web Server. The results of codon selection displayed positive diversifying selection at the sites were mainly involved in development of genetic variations in coat color in various mammalian species. Positive diversifying selection inferred with recent evolutionary changes in domesticated goat MC1R provides new insights that the gene evolution may have been modulated by domestication events in goats.
Changes in phytophagous insect host ranges following the invasion of their community: Long‐term data for fruit flies
Authors: Charlery de la Masselière Maud , Ravigné Virginie , Facon Benoît , Lefeuvre Pierre , Massol François , Quilici Serge , Duyck Pierre‐François
Published: June 2017

The invasion of an established community by new species can trigger changes in community structure. Invasions often occur in phytophagous insect communities, the dynamics of which are driven by the structure of the host assemblage and the presence of competitors. In this study, we investigated how a community established through successive invasions changed over time, taking the last invasion as the reference. The community included four generalist and four specialist species of Tephritidae fruit flies. We analyzed a long‐term database recording observed numbers of flies per fruit for each species on 36 host plants, over 18 years, from 1991 to 2009. Community structure before the last invasion by Bactrocera zonata in 2000 was described in relation to host plant phylogeny and resource availability. Changes in the host range of each species after the arrival of B. zonata were then documented by calculating diversity indices. The flies in the community occupied three types of niches defined on the basis of plant phylogeny (generalists, Solanaceae specialist, and Cucurbitaceae specialists). After the arrival of B. zonata, no change in the host range of specialist species was observed. However, the host ranges of two generalist species, Ceratitis quilicii and Ceratitis capitata, tended to shrink, as shown by the decreases in species richness and host plant α‐diversity. Our study shows increased host specialization by generalist phytophagous insects in the field following the arrival of an invasive species sharing part of their resources. These findings could be used to improve predictions of new interactions between invaders and recipient communities.
Transgenerational plasticity as an important mechanism affecting response of clonal species to changing climate
Authors: Münzbergová Zuzana , Hadincová Věroslava
Published: June 2017

In spite of the increasing number of studies on the importance of transgenerational plasticity for species response to novel environments, its effects on species ability to respond to climate change are still largely unexplored. We study the importance of transgenerational plasticity for response of a clonal species Festuca rubra. Individuals from four natural populations representing two levels of temperature and two levels of precipitation were cultivated in four growth chambers that simulate the temperature and precipitation of origin of the populations (maternal phase). Each population was represented in each growth chamber. After 6 months, single young ramets of these plants were reshuffled among the growth chambers and let to grow for additional 2 months (offspring phase). The results show that transgenerational effects (i.e., maternal phase conditions) significantly modify species response to novel climates, and the direction and intensity of the response depend on the climate of origin of the plants. For traits related to recourse acquisition, the conditions of maternal phase, either alone or in interaction mainly with climate of origin, had stronger effect than the conditions of cultivation. Overall, the maternal climate interacted more intensively with the climate of origin than with the offspring climate. The direction of the effect of the maternal climate was of different directions and intensities depending on plant origin and trait studied. The data demonstrated strong significant effects of conditions during maternal phase on species response to novel climates. These transgenerational affects were, however, not adaptive. Still, transgenerational plasticity may be an important driver of species response to novel conditions across clonal generations. These effects thus need to be carefully considered in future studies exploring species response to novel climates. This will also have strong effects on species performance under increasingly variable climates expected to occur with the climate change.
Bioproduction of α‐humulene in metabolically engineered Escherichia coli and application in zerumbone synthesis
Authors: Alemdar Semra , König Jan C. , Hartwig Steffen , Frister Thore , Scheper Thomas , Beutel Sascha
Published: June 2017

Zerumbone is a sesquiterpene ketone with potent anti‐cancerogenic activities, produced in several ginger species of the Zingiberaceae familiy. We have investigated the biotechnological production of α‐humulene, a precursor of zerumbone. By implementing a heterologous mevalonate pathway in combination with the α‐humulene synthase expression, we effectively synthesized α‐humulene from glucose in Escherichia coli. In this study, we developed a practical and efficient in situ separation method for α‐humulene by comparison of extractive and adsorptive strategies. By the in situ adsorption of the product to the hydrophobic resin Amberlite® XAD4 we were able to increase α‐humulene yield by 2310% to 60.2 mg/L. Furthermore we present an easy applicable, short subsequent chemical process for the conversion of α‐humulene to zerumbone by using transition metal catalysis. To reduce process steps, the chemical reaction was carried out in the same solvent as the eluting solvent that was used to elute α‐humulene from the adsorbent resin. By allylic oxidation of α‐humulene with manganeseII chloride as a catalyst and tert.‐butylhydroperoxide as an oxidizing agent we were able to synthetize zerumbone with a selectivity of 51.6%. Product and byproducts of the oxidation reaction were identified by GC‐MS.
Vanilla authenticity control by DNA barcoding and isotope data aggregation
Authors: Geißler Katrin , Greule Markus , Schäfer Uwe , Hans Joachim , Geißler Torsten , Meier Lars , Keppler Frank , Krammer Gerhard
Published: June 2017

Originating from the seedpods of orchids, Vanilla belongs to the most widely appreciated flavours worldwide. Besides the seedpods (beans) also Vanilla extracts and isolated vanillin as the major characteristic aroma compound are commercially used. Different consumer demands and national regulations require appropriate quality control of products arising from the Vanilla plants. Depending on the kind of product and its position in the supply or value chain, different methods for quality control and authentication have to be applied. When examining plant material for instance DNA barcoding can be used, whereas for Vanilla extracts and vanillin analytical quality control is frequently employed. As one of the first chemically synthesized flavouring substances with its first production in the late 19th century vanillin is nowadays manufactured via multiple different chemical and natural routes. To discriminate commercial vanillin qualities by their precursors with respect to the chemical and natural origin stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry (sIRMS) and 1H nuclear resonance spectroscopy (NMR) are the most recognized techniques. This article describes new features to discriminate vanillin from different origins using the δ13C and δ2H ratios of the methoxy group after derivatization with hydriodic acid and subsequent measurement of the released gaseous methyl iodide (CH3I) with sIRMS. The combination of available analytical data by means of multiparametric statistical tools allows for the clear segregation of critical provenience clusters for vanillin, such as (natural) eugenol‐derived qualities from (synthetic) lignin‐ or curcumin‐based products. The approach supports quality and authenticity control for Vanilla‐based products, aiding in meeting customer expectations in this demanding market segment.
Comparison of different methods for telomere length measurement in whole blood and blood cell subsets: Recommendations for telomere length measurement in hematological diseases
Authors: Behrens Yvonne Lisa , Thomay Kathrin , Hagedorn Maike , Ebersold Juliane , Henrich Lea , Nustede Rainer , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Göhring Gudrun
Published: June 2017

Different methods of telomere length measurement are used to identify patients with telomeropathies. In our lab, we established four different methods for telomere length measurement, terminal restriction fragment (TRF) analysis by Southern blot analysis, quantitative PCR (qPCR), quantitative telomere/centromere fluorescence in situ hybridization (T/C‐FISH) and fluorescence in situ hybridization combined with flow cytometry (FlowFISH). The methods each have distinct properties and apart from this—according to our experience and data—may have an impact on the individual result. In this study, we therefore compared and validated these methods measuring 154 healthy individuals of different age groups (newborn—81 years). A linear decline was found for every method (Southern blotting 64 bp per year; qPCR 31 bp per year; T/C‐FISH 36 bp per year; FlowFISH 50 bp per year). With the equation of the regression line the values of each method (T/S ratio, T/C value, RTL value) can be expressed in absolute kb. All methods showed acceptable accuracy. The analysis indicated good agreement between all methods, with the best agreement between T/C‐FISH and FlowFISH. Here, FlowFISH was the most precise, accurate, and reproducible method compared to the other methods. Based on our data, we emphasize the influence of expertise and experience that is required to produce robust and reliable telomere length analyses. Furthermore, we want to provide the scientific community working in diagnostics and research with data‐funded advice on how to choose the appropriate method to safely discriminate between natural variability and pathological telomere shortening in individual cases.
Astrocyte‐derived lipocalin‐2 mediates hippocampal damage and cognitive deficits in experimental models of vascular dementia
Authors: Kim Jae‐Hong , Ko Pan‐Woo , Lee Ho‐Won , Jeong Ji‐Young , Lee Maan‐Gee , Kim Jong‐Heon , Lee Won‐Ha , Yu Ri , Oh Won‐Jong , Suk Kyoungho
Published: June 2017

Lipocalin‐2 (LCN2) has diverse functions in multiple pathophysiological conditions; however, its pathogenic role in vascular dementia (VaD) is unknown. Here, we investigated the role of LCN2 in VaD using rodent models of global cerebral ischemia and hypoperfusion with cognitive impairment and neuroinflammation. Mice subjected to transient bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (tBCCAo) for 50 min showed neuronal death and gliosis in the hippocampus at 7 days post‐tBCCAo. LCN2 expression was observed predominantly in the hippocampal astrocytes, whereas its receptor was mainly detected in neurons, microglia, and astrocytes. Furthermore, Lcn2‐deficient mice, compared with wild‐type animals, showed significantly weaker CA1 neuronal loss, cognitive decline, white matter damage, blood–brain barrier permeability, glial activation, and proinflammatory cytokine production in the hippocampus after tBCCAo. Lcn2 deficiency also attenuated hippocampal neuronal death and cognitive decline at 30 days after unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (UCCAo). Furthermore, intracerebroventricular (i.c.v) injection of recombinant LCN2 protein elicited CA1‐neuronal death and a cognitive deficit. Our studies using cultured glia and hippocampal neurons supported the decisive role of LCN2 in hippocampal neurotoxicity and microglial activation, and the role of the HIF‐1α–LCN2–VEGFA axis of astrocytes in vascular injury. Additionally, plasma levels of LCN2 were significantly higher in patients with VaD than in the healthy control subjects. These results indicate that hippocampal damage and cognitive impairment are mediated by LCN2 secreted from reactive astrocytes in VaD.
Therapeutic relevance of ozone therapy in degenerative diseases: Focus on diabetes and spinal pain
Authors: Braidy Nady , Izadi Morteza , Sureda Antoni , Jonaidi‐Jafari Nematollah , Banki Abdolali , Nabavi Seyed F. , Nabavi Seyed M.
Published: June 2017

Ozone, one of the most important air pollutants, is a triatomic molecule containing three atoms of oxygen that results in an unstable form due to its mesomeric structure. It has been well‐known that ozone has potent ability to oxidize organic compounds and can induce respiratory irritation. Although ozone has deleterious effects, many therapeutic effects have also been suggested. Since last few decades, the therapeutic potential of ozone has gained much attention through its strong capacity to induce controlled and moderated oxidative stress when administered in precise therapeutic doses. A plethora of scientific evidence showed that the activation of hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1a), nuclear factor of activated T‐cells (NFAT), nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2‐antioxidant response element (Nrf2‐ARE), and activated protein‐1 (AP‐1) pathways are the main molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of ozone therapy. Activation of these molecular pathways leads to up‐regulation of endogenous antioxidant systems, activation of immune functions as well as suppression of inflammatory processes, which is important for correcting oxidative stress in diabetes and spinal pain. The present study intended to review critically the available scientific evidence concerning the beneficial properties of ozone therapy for treatment of diabetic complications and spinal pain. It finds benefit for integrating the therapy with ozone into pharmacological procedures, instead of a substitutive or additional option to therapy.
Self‐gated 4D‐MRI of the liver: Initial clinical results of continuous multiphase imaging of hepatic enhancement
Authors: Weiss Jakob , Notohamiprodjo Mike , Martirosian Petros , Taron Jana , Nickel Marcel D. , Kolb Manuel , Bamberg Fabian , Nikolaou Konstantin , Othman Ahmed E.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of a self‐gated free‐breathing volume‐interpolated breath‐hold examination (VIBE) sequence using compressed sensing (CS) for contrast‐enhanced multiphase liver MRI.

Materials and Methods

We identified 23 patients who underwent multiphase gadobutrol‐enhanced liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using 1) a prototype free‐breathing VIBE sequence with respiratory self‐gating and CS (VIBECS), and 2) a standard breath‐hold VIBE (VIBESTD) on the same 1.5T scanner at two timepoints. VIBECS was continuously acquired for 128 seconds and a time‐series of 16 timepoints was jointly reconstructed from the dataset. The unenhanced, arterial, portal‐venous, and venous timepoints with the best image quality were selected and compared to the corresponding VIBESTD series serving as reference. Image quality was assessed qualitatively (image quality, sharpness, lesion conspicuity, vessel contrast, noise, motion/other artifacts; two readers independently; 5‐point Likert scale; 5 = excellent) and quantitatively (vessel contrast [VC], coefficient‐of‐variation [CV]) Statistics were performed using Wilcoxon‐sign‐rank (ordinal) and paired t‐test (continuous variables).

Results

Image quality and lesion conspicuity revealed no significant differences between the sequences (P ≥ 0.3). VIBESTD showed a tendency to higher motion artifacts (P ≥ 0.07). Image sharpness significantly increased in VIBECS as compared to VIBESTD (P ≤ 0.03). Arterial phase vessel contrast appeared significantly lower in VIBECS than in VIBESTD (P = 0.04). VIBECS showed reconstruction artifacts not present in VIBESTD (P = 0.001). Image noise was significantly lower in VIBECS than in VIBESTD (P ≤ 0.004). Arterial phase VC was significantly lower in VIBECS than in VIBESTD (P = 0.01). CV revealed no differences between sequences (P = 0.7).

Conclusion

VIBECS is feasible for continuous free‐breathing contrast‐enhanced multiphase liver MRI, providing similar image quality and lesion conspicuity as VIBESTD.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:459–467.
Inhibition strategies of Listeria monocytogenes biofilms—current knowledge and future outlooks
Authors: Oloketuyi Sandra F. , Khan Fazlurrahman
Published: June 2017

There is an increasing trend in the food industry on the Listeria monocytogenes biofilm formation and inhibition. This is attributed to its easy survival on contact surfaces, resistance to disinfectants or antibiotics and growth under the stringent condition used for food processing and preservation thereby leading to food contamination products by direct or indirect exposure. Though, there is a lack of conclusive evidences about the mechanism of biofilm formation, in this review, the concept of biofilm formation and various chemical, physical, and green technology approaches to prevent or control the biofilm formed is discussed. State‐of‐the‐art approaches ranging from the application of natural to synthetic molecules with high effectiveness and non‐toxicity targeted at the different steps of biofilm formation could positively influence the biofilm inhibition in the future.
Reduction of internal climate variability in surface temperature due to sea‐ice loss since the mid‐21st century
Authors: Hyun Seung‐Hwon , Yeh Sang‐Wook , Yoon Jinho
Published: June 2017

Understanding the internal climate variability (ICV) is a principal challenge in projecting future climate change. In this study, we define the ICV in projection of surface temperature as the ensemble spread of surface temperature using a 30‐member ensemble simulated with the Community Earth System Model Large Ensemble (CESM‐LE) experiment, and examine how this ICV changes from the present climate to the future climate under Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 scenario (RCP8.5). First, ICV is reduced in the future climate, particularly since the mid‐21st century. Such a decrease is primarily due to the reduction of ICV in both the Arctic (70°–90°N) and the Antarctic (65°–80°S). Our analysis further indicates that the decrease in ICV in Arctic is significant during boreal fall (September–October–November), and in particular, it is closely linked to the reduction in sea ice since the early and mid‐21st century. This implies that realistic simulation of the Arctic sea ice is a key in reducing ICV in a changing climate.