bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Regeneration of Remnant Liver After Hemihepatectomy with or Without the Middle Hepatic Vein
Authors: Inoue Yoshihiro , Suzuki Yusuke , Ota Masato , Fujii Kensuke , Kawaguchi Nao , Shimizu Tetsunosuke , Asakuma Mitsuhiro , Hirokawa Fumitoshi , Hayashi Michihiro , Uchiyama Kazuhisa
Published: September 2017

Background

There is no consensus about remnant liver regeneration associated with middle hepatic vein (MHV) resecting.

Methods

Seventy‐five patients who underwent hemihepatectomy were retrospectively analysed with respect to remnant liver regeneration. The liver remnant volume (LRV) and each sectional volume were postoperatively measured with multidetector computed tomography at day 7 and months 1, 2, 5, and 12 after the operation.

Results

In right hemihepatectomy cases, the regeneration rate of LRV in the MHV preservation group was significantly higher than that of the MHV resection group at months 5 and 12. In particular, the regeneration rate of remnant segment IV peaked at day 7 and was shrunk after 1 month, and was significant higher in the MHV preservation group. In left hemihepatectomy cases, the regeneration rate of LRV at month 12 was significantly higher in the MHV preservation group. The regeneration rate of the remnant anterior section peaked at 1 month and was shrunk.

Conclusion

In this study, the MHV should be preserved or reconstructed whenever possible during hepatic hemihepatectomy. Hepatic regeneration in the MHV perfusion region becomes poor within 7 days to 1 month after surgery (UMIN000023714).
A High Abdominal Aortic Calcification Score on CT is a Risk Factor for Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula in Elderly Patients Undergoing Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Kakizawa Nao , Noda Hiroshi , Watanabe Fumiaki , Ichida Kosuke , Suzuki Koichi , Rikiyama Toshiki
Published: September 2017

Background

To evaluate the clinical significance of a CT‐based evaluation of abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) in the postoperative outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) in elderly patients.

Methods

Patients 70 years of age and older who were randomly assigned to Group A were compared with those younger than 70 who were assigned to Group B in terms of preoperative and intraoperative variables and postoperative outcomes. We compared the patients with clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR‐POPF) (Group C) to those without CR‐POPF (Group D), and especially Group A. We also compared the patients with CR‐POPF (Group E) to those without CR‐POPF (Group E) to clarify the risk factors for POPF, in each of the analyses. The AAC score was determined using the methods of Agatston et al.

Results

Group A more often had frequent atherosclerosis‐related comorbidities (62.2%), low serum albumin (55.9%), and a high AAC score (66.1%). There were no significant differences in the postoperative variables. The comparisons between Groups C and D identified four independent risk factors for CR‐POPF: BMI ≥ 25 (OR 8.54, 95% CI 3.15–23.1), male gender (OR 3.17, 95% CI 1.28–7.85), soft pancreatic parenchyma (OR 3.43, 95% CI 1.34–8.81), and the absence of MPD dilatation (OR 5.70, 95% CI 2.13–15.3). Comparisons between Groups E and F identified two independent risk factors for CR‐POPF: BMI ≥ 25 (OR 29.4, 95% CI 5.77–150) and a high ACC score (OR 10.8, 95% CI 2.08–56.6).

Conclusions

We demonstrated, for the first time, that a high AAC score is a risk factor of CR‐POPF in elderly patients who underwent PD.
Erratum to: Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens) forests as a significant carbon sink? A case study based on 4‐year measurements in central Taiwan
Authors: Lin Meng‐Ying , Hsieh I‐Fang , Lin Po‐Hsuan , Laplace Sophie , Ohashi Mizue , Chen Tsai‐Huei , Kume Tomonori
Published: September 2017

The correct name of the first author should be “Meng‐Ying Lin”, and not “Meng‐Yin Lin” as given in the original publication of the article.
Diagenetic Features of Jurassic Fort Member Sandstone, Jaisalmer Formation, Western Rajasthan
Authors: Ahmad Faiz , Ahmad A. H. M. , Quasim M. A.
Published: September 2017

Jaisalmer Formation consists of 360m thick succession of medium to coarse grained sandstones with interbeds of shale, claystone and occasional lignite that rest over Lathi Formation, is the basal part of the Jaisalmer basin. The rocks are exposed amidst desert, low mounds and shallow stone quarries. Sandstones were deposited in shallow marine to deltaic environments. The studied sandstones consist of abundant quartz followed by feldspar, mica, chert, rock fragments and heavy minerals. The study mainly deals with identification of various diagenetic features such as compaction, cementation and porosity evolution. During mechanical compaction rearrangement of grains took place and point, long and suture contacts were formed. The sandstones are cemented by iron oxide, silica overgrowth, carbonate and clay. Porosity has developed due to dissolution of iron, carbonate cement and feldspar grains. Dissolution and alteration of feldspar, lithic fragments and pressure solution were the main source of quartz cements. The sandstones show good amount of existing optical porosity with an average of 7.19%. Porosity reduction is mainly due to early stage of mechanical compaction and subsequent pervasive calcite and iron oxide cementation. Further, porosity reduced due to deposition of clay cement.
Analysis of Sedimentary Facies and Depositional Environments of Paleogene Sequence of Cambay Basin, India
Authors: Baskaran Vijai Kumar , Govindarajan Suresh Kumar , Dani Kamal Chandra , Kumar Mandhir
Published: September 2017

A study on the sedimentary facies characterization and depositional environment interpretations for the K#Field (K-Oil Field) in Cambay petroleum basin of western onshore, India was conducted based on the sub-surface data from drilled wells, including well logs, borehole images, cores and the regional knowledge of the basin. In this work, an effort is made to integrate the current data from seismics and well logging, to study and analyze its depositional environments and establish the petroleum systems. The study regions for the present work are K45 and K48 blocks. The target strata includes 2 oil-bearing formations of Paleogene, which is about 3600 ft; they are M#Fm (M-Formation) of the Eocene and N#Fm (N-Formation) of Oligocene, subdivided into 11 zones. The sediment fill is mostly of Tertiary. The research attempts to decipher the oil - depositional source correlation problems of the basin. Sedimentary models were established referring to the core analysis, core photographs and well logs. Reservoir and heterogeneity study included reservoir lithology features, physical properties and pore structure features. Well facies analysis of oil well WELL-0297 and WELL-0129 was done and the results were analyzed for further drilling of new wells for oil and gas exploration. The study found that the Eocene, Oligocene, Miocene and Paleogene are fluviatile facies sand and mud inter-bed sediment with the thickness 2000-4000 ft, which are main oil-bearing formations in these areas. Studies concluded that the fluvial reservoirs of the K#Field are characterized by large variations from laterally extensive bodies with good interconnectedness and high net-to-gross ratios, multi-storey ribbon bodies with poor interconnections and low net-to-gross ratios.
Structural Interpretation and Hydrocarbon Potential of Balkassar Oil Field, Eastern Potwar, Pakistan, using Seismic 2D Data and Petrophysical Analysis
Authors: Shah Syed Bilawal Ali , Abdullah Wan Hasiah
Published: September 2017

The Balkassar oil field is situated in the eastern Potwar sub-basin, lies on the southern flank of Soan syncline in Himalayan collisional regime. The area represents Indo-Pak and Eurasian blocks of Precambrian to recent time. Thrusting and folding of Himalayan, Indo-Pak plate movement and Salt Range uplift form the structural trap in Balkassar sub-surface (Balkassar anticline). On the basis of information from eleven seismic 2D lines and wells data six reflectors well data, four faults were identified and marked. The structural trend is northeast southwest. Interpretation of seismic 2D data reveals that the study area has undergone intense deformation as a consequence of development of thrusts and backthrusts. The Balkassar anticline is bounded by two thrust faults one from southeast and the other from northwest. Time and depth contour models shows that anticline limbs at north-western side are steep as compared to south-eastern limbs. Seismic interpretation indicates the presence of well-developed anticline bounded by three faults in the cover sequence and one fault in basement and thus the structure may act as a trap for hydrocarbons. The petrophysical analysis of Balkassar-OXY-1 well shows about 83.1% hydrocarbons saturation in the reservoir rocks, hence this study suggest that Balkassar Oilfield has potential to produce hydrocarbons.
Assessment of Water Quality Index for the Groundwater in the Upper Cheliff Plain, Algeria
Authors: Bouderbala Abdelkader
Published: September 2017

Assessment of groundwater suitability for drinking and agricultural purposes was carried out in the plain of upper Cheliff. The study area covers an area of 375 km2 and lies in a semiarid climate. Groundwater is the major source for domestic and agricultural activity in this area. Groundwater samples were collected from 19 wells during dry and wet periods in 2012, and they were analyzed for major cations and anions and compared with drinking and irrigation specification standards. The concentration of the majority of chemical constituents exceeds the standards of WHO as a result of various sources of pollution. It indicates the dominance of groundwater types: Ca-Mg-Cl, and Ca-Mg-HCO3. Suitability of groundwater for drinking was evaluated based on the water quality index; it shows more than 60% of samples have very poor quality for dry and wet periods, which means water is severely contaminated and unsuitable for drinking purpose. In terms of the irrigation usage, generally groundwater is suitable for both periods in the major part of the plain. The Mineralization processes in this area is determined by the lithology of the aquifer (exchange water-rock), by anthropogenic factors (discharges of urban sewage, use of fertilizers) and also by evaporation (semi-arid climate).
Ethnic differences in the association between angiotensin‐converting enzyme gene insertion/deletion polymorphism and peripheral vascular disease: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Han Chao , Han Xi‐Kun , Liu Fang‐Chao , Huang Jian‐Feng
Published: September 2017

Background

Several studies have investigated the association of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism with peripheral vascular disease (PVD); however, the results remain controversial. Therefore, we conducted the current meta‐analysis to evaluate this relationship in the general population of different ethnicities.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Wanfang Database, and CNKI to identify eligible studies. Random‐effect models were applied to estimate the pooled odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), regardless of between‐study heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 13 studies with 1966 cases and 6129 controls were included in this meta‐analysis. The pooled ORs for the association between ACE I/D polymorphism and PVD risk were not statistically significant in the overall population under all genetic models. In further ethnicity‐stratified analyses, we found a statistically significant association of ACE I/D polymorphism with PVD susceptibility in Asians under most models. However, the association among Caucasians did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

ACE I/D polymorphism might be associated with susceptibility to PVD in the Asian population, but there was no clear evidence indicating a similar significant relationship among Caucasians.
Geology and paleomagnetism of Jeannette Island (De Long Archipelago, Eastern Arctic)
Authors: Chernova A.I. , Metelkin D.V. , Matushkin N.Yu. , Vernikovsky V.A. , Travin A.V.
Published: September 2017

New characteristics and generalized geostructural, isotope-geochronological, and paleomagnetic data are presented for the first time for the territory of Jeannette Island in the De Long Archipelago. Until recently, this small rock outcrop in the East Siberian Sea, discovered in the late 19th century, has been in effect a blank spot on the geological map. Field work made in 2013 and subsequent laboratory analysis of the obtained sample collection show that the island has a volcanogenic-sedimentary section including many thin (up to several meters) dolerite dikes. These dikes are the main target of the study. Newly obtained 40Ar/39Ar isotope-geochronological data indicate that the earliest dike intrusion stage corresponds to the Ediacaran (553.6 ± 10.3 Ma). Several subsequent tectonothermal events can be inferred until and through the Early Carboniferous, which affected the stability of the isotope system in the dolerites. In addition, paleomagnetic data confirm at least one more stage of dike emplacement, in the Early Ordovician, as the coordinates of the virtual geomagnetic poles for the dikes are nearly identical to those of the Ordovician paleomagnetic pole determined for carbonate rocks of Kotelny Island. The study describes the main petromagnetic characteristics and magnetic mineralogy of the studied dolerites, validating the primary thermoremanent nature of the identified characteristic component. The results agree with available information on the paleomagnetism, tectonics, and paleogeography of the New Siberian Islands.
Identification With Terrorist Attack Victims: Association With Television Viewing and Prior Life Threat
Authors: Mash Holly B. Herberman , Fullerton Carol S. , Benevides K. Nikki , Ursano Robert J.
Published: September 2017

Objective

A series of sniper attacks in the Washington, DC, area left 10 people dead and 3 wounded. We developed and tested a model that examined the unique and interdependent relationships of sniper-related television viewing, prior life-threatening events, and parental status to identification with attack victims.

Methods

Participants were 1238 residents of the DC area (aged 18-90 years, mean=41.7 years; 51% female; 68% white) who completed an online survey that assessed identification with sniper attack victims, amount of television viewing, and prior life-threatening events. Identification was measured by using a previously developed scale that assessed to what extent participants identified victims as similar to themselves, a friend, or a family member.

Results

The relationship of television viewing to identification was examined by using multivariate linear regression analyses. In univariate analyses, female gender, having children, higher levels of television viewing, and past life-threatening events were independently related to greater identification. After adjustment for demographics and life-threatening events, sniper-related television viewing continued to be associated with identification (B=0.61,P≤0.001, ∆R2=0.07). Examination of the interactions of television viewing by parental status and television viewing by life-threatening event revealed significant relationships.

Conclusions

Attention to events preceding and during a terrorist event could help in the recognition of those at particular risk for increased identification with attack victims. These findings also have implications for recommendations for media exposure during an event. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018; 12: 337–344)
A Study of Selected Ethnic Affiliations in the Development of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Other Psychopathology After a Terrorist Bombing in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: North Carol S. , Dvorkina Tatiana , Thielman Samuel , Pfefferbaum Betty , Narayanan Pushpa , Pollio David E.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Despite the frequency of disasters in Africa, almost nothing is known about ethnic affiliations in relation to psychopathology after such incidents. This study examined the mental health outcomes of members of 7 major ethnic groups exposed to the 1998 terrorist bombing of the US Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya.

Methods

Approximately 8 to 10 months after the disaster, 229 civilian employees, 99 locally engaged staff workers of the US State Department and the US Agency for International Development, and 64 workers of the Kenyan Red Cross Society (total N=392) were assessed with the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition). Additional data were gathered on demographic characteristics, disaster exposures and injuries, and ethnic affiliations.

Results

Disaster-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was significantly less prevalent among members of the Kikuyu group (28%) and post-disaster major depression was significantly more prevalent among members of the Meru group (64%), compared with all others in the sample. Preexisting psychopathology and disaster injury were independently associated with bombing-related psychopathology.

Conclusions

Further study of disaster-related psychopathology in relation to African ethnic affiliations is needed to better understand these associations and to assist in planning resources and interventions for African disaster survivors. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018; 12: 360–365)
UNEXPLORED CONSEQUENCES OF VIOLENCE AGAINST CIVILIANS DURING THE KOREAN WAR
Authors: Kang Woo Chang , Hong Ji Yeon
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we examine the extent to which wartime violence against civilians during the Korean War affects people's current attitudes toward South Korea and other involved countries. Using a difference-in-differences (DID) approach that compares the cohorts born before and after the war, we find that direct exposure to wartime violence induces negative perceptions regarding perpetrator countries. As many of the civilian massacres were committed by the South Korean armed forces, prewar cohorts living in violence-ridden areas during the war demonstrate significantly less pride in South Korea today. In contrast, postwar cohorts from those violent areas, who were exposed to intensive anti-communist campaigns and were incentivized to differentiate themselves from the victims, show significantly greater pride in South Korea, and greater hospitality toward the United States than toward North Korea, compared to prewar cohorts in the same areas and to the same cohorts born in non-violent areas.
Wood14C Dating with AixMICADAS: Methods and Application to Tree-Ring Sequences from the Younger Dryas Event in the Southern French Alps
Authors: Capano Manuela , Miramont Cécile , Guibal Frédéric , Kromer Bernd , Tuna Thibaut , Fagault Yoann , Bard Edouard
Published: September 2017

The AixMICADAS facility is in part dedicated to research on radiocarbon (14C) calibration by means of various archives. For this purpose, we are improving upon the capacity to accurately date subfossil wood. In the current study, nine chemical pretreatment protocols are tested on six wood samples of known ages. The optimization based on14C ages,13C/12C ratios, carbon % and overall mass yield % leads us to favor the acid-base-acid-bleaching pretreatment (ABA-B). This efficient method is shown to provide a residue of holocellulose with optimal blanks equivalent to an age of 51,30014C BP with a standard deviation of 1500 yr based on 25 analyses. The seven wood samples from the Sixth International Radiocarbon Intercomparison (SIRI) are then analyzed as a further verification of the accuracy of our method. As a first scientific contribution, we studied two tree-ring sequences from subfossil pines (Barb12 and Barb17) collected in the southern French Alps. New14C analyses were performed at high resolution (every third year) and are shown to agree well with results obtained previously by high precision β-counting on CO2from large samples at lower resolution for Barb17 and accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) data for Barb12. The new14C series are then matched to the Kauri and YDB chronologies: the new sequence of Barb12-17 tentatively corresponds to the interval between 12,836 and 12,594 cal BP within the Younger Dryas cold period. The14C comparison between the Barb12-17 sequence from France and the Kauri sequence from New Zealand allows calculating the14C Inter-Hemispheric Gradient (IHG), with an average value of ca. 57 yr. The IHG stayed relatively high throughout the studied period. Interestingly, the IHG exhibits a transient maximum value (ca. 100 yr) during the period of rapid Δ14C rise (12,750–12,720 cal BP), a behavior that could be due to a delayed response of the Southern Hemisphere.
The Alternative Business History: Business in Emerging Markets
Authors: Austin Gareth , Dávila Carlos , Jones Geoffrey
Published: September 2017

This article suggests that the business history of emerging markets should be seen as an alternative business history, rather than merely adding new settings to explore established core debates. The discipline of business history evolved around the corporate strategies and structures of developed economies. The growing literature on the business history of emerging markets addresses contexts that are different from those of developed markets. These regions had long eras of foreign domination, had extensive state intervention, faced institutional inefficiencies, and experienced extended turbulence. This article suggests that this context drove different business responses than are found in the developed world. Entrepreneurs counted more than managerial hierarchies; immigrants and diaspora were critical sources of entrepreneurship; illegal and informal forms of business were common; diversified business groups rather than the M-form became the major form of large-scale business; corporate strategies to deal with turbulence were essential; and radical corporate social-responsibility concepts were pursued by some firms.
A hidden basidiolichen rediscovered: Omphalina oreades is a separate species in the genus Lichenomphalia (Basidiomycota: Agaricales: Hygrophoraceae)
Authors: LÜCKING Robert , THORN R. Greg , SAAR Irja , PIERCEY-NORMORE Michele D. , MONCADA Bibiana , DOERING Jennifer , MANN Henry , LEBEUF Renée , VOITK Maria , VOITK Andrus
Published: September 2017

Molecular studies have shown the type collection of Omphalina oreades to be conspecific with a small brown basidiolichen from the Appalachian range in Newfoundland, both with 4-spored basidia. Two sequences deposited in GenBank, originally identified as O. grisella, fell in the same clade. Sequences of the type collection of Omphalia grisella, with 2-spored basidia, formed a sister clade together with two GenBank deposits, one identified as O. grisella and the other as Omphalina velutina. Omphalina oreades is recombined here as Lichenomphalia oreades comb. nov., and the species redescribed and illustrated. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacer regions of nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS rDNA) from the algae associated with two collections of L. oreades fell within a highly supported clade with members of an undetermined species of Coccomyxa. The most abundant algal ribosomal large subunit sequence from granules at the base of a different collection matched GenBank sequences identified as Chloroidium ellipsoideum, which is probably either a free-living algal species or a partner to a species of Trapeliopsis. The second most abundant sequence matched Coccomyxa subellipsoidea and is the most likely photobiont of L. oreades. Further studies are required to elucidate the relationship of L. velutina to these taxa.
Hydration traits in cephalolichen members of the epiphytic old forest genusLobaria(s. lat.)
Authors: LONGINOTTI Sara , SOLHAUG Knut Asbjørn , GAUSLAA Yngvar
Published: September 2017

This study aims to quantify the size-dependency of important hydration traits inLobaria amplissima, L. pulmonariaandL. virenssampled in sympatric populations on deciduous tree trunks in southern Norway, and to discuss possible implications of species-specific traits for the ecological niches of these old forest cephalolichens. Traits measured were thallus size (area and mass), specific thallus mass (STM), internal (WHCinternal) and external water-holding capacity (WHCexternal), and water content (WC) after shaking and after blotting.Lobaria amplissimahad the highest WHCinternal, 2·6 times higher thanL. pulmonariawith the lowest WHCinternal. WHCinternal, driven by STM, strongly depended on size. WHCexternalwas 28% (L. virens)to 47% (L. pulmonaria) of the WHCinternal. Unlike WHCinternal, WHCexternaldid not depend on thallus area, meaning that WHCexternalis proportionally higher for smaller compared with larger thalli. The most widespread species,L. pulmonaria, benefits from a flexible hydration strategy due to low STM, facilitating the use of more diverse water sources than the other two species that depend more on rain, particularlyL. amplissimawith the highest STM and thus relatively high WHCinternal. ForL. virens, a combination of less specialized hydration traits and a low tolerance to higher light intensity probably jeopardizes its survival outside rainforest habitats.
Enhancing biodiversity conservation in existing land-use plans with widely available datasets and spatial analysis techniques
Authors: MARTINUZZI SEBASTIAN , RIVERA LUIS , POLITI NATALIA , BATEMAN BROOKE L. , RUIZ DE LOS LLANOS ESTEFANIA , LIZARRAGA LEONIDAS , DE BUSTOS M. SOLEDAD , CHALUKIAN SILVIA , PIDGEON ANNA M. , RADELOFF VOLKER C.
Published: September 2017

In many developing countries, high rates of deforestation and biodiversity loss make conservation efforts urgent. Improving existing land-use plans can be an option for enhancing biodiversity conservation. We showcase an approach to enhancing an existing forest land-use plan using widely available data and spatial tools, focusing on Argentina's Southern Yungas ecoregion. We mapped the distribution of wilderness areas and species and habitats of conservation concern, assessed their representation in the land-use plan and quantified potential changes in habitat availability and forest connectivity. Wilderness comprised 48% of the study area, and the highest concentrations of elements of conservation concern were in the north. In the current land-use plan, wilderness areas often occur in regions where logging and grazing are allowed, and a large proportion of the forest with the highest conservation value (43%) is under some level of human influence. Furthermore, we found that deforestation being legally allowed in the land-use plan could reduce forest connectivity and habitat availability substantially. We recommend updating the current land-use plan by considering human influence and elements of conservation concern. More broadly, we demonstrate that widely available spatial datasets and straightforward approaches can improve the usefulness of existing land-use plans so that they more fully incorporate conservation goals.
Physiological attunement in mother–infant dyads at clinical high risk: The influence of maternal depression and positive parenting
Authors: Hendrix Cassandra L. , Stowe Zachary N. , Newport D. Jeffrey , Brennan Patricia A.
Published: September 2017

A growing number of research studies have examined the intradyadic coregulation (or attunement) of hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal axis functioning in mothers and their children. However, it is unclear how early this coregulation may be present in dyads at clinical high risk and whether certain factors, such as maternal depression or positive parenting, are associated with the strength of this coregulation. The present study examined cortisol attunement within mother–infant dyads in a high-risk sample of 233 mothers who received treatment for psychiatric illness during pregnancy and whose infants were 6 months old at the study visit. Results showed that maternal and infant cortisol covaried across four time points that included a stressor paradigm and a mother–infant interaction task. Greater maternal positive affect, but not depression, predicted stronger cortisol attunement. In addition, infants’ cortisol level following separation from the mother predicted mothers’ cortisol level at the next time point. Mothers’ cortisol level following the separation and the laboratory stress paradigm predicted infants’ cortisol levels at each successive time point, over and above infants’ own cortisol at the previous time point. These findings suggest that maternal and infant cortisol levels influence one another in a bidirectional fashion that may be temporally and context dependent.
Beliefs in social inclusion: Invariance in associations among hope, dysfunctional attitudes, and social inclusion across adolescence and young adulthood
Authors: Berry Clio , Greenwood Kathryn
Published: September 2017

Social disability in youth is an important precursor of long-term social and mental health problems. Social inclusion is a key policy driver and fits well within a new paradigm of health and well-being rather than illness-oriented services, yet little is known about social inclusion and its facilitators for “healthy” young people. We present a novel exploratory structural analysis of social inclusion using measures from 387 14- to 36-year-olds. Our model represents social inclusion as comprising social activity and community belonging, with both domains predicted by hopeful and dysfunctional self-beliefs but hopefulness more uniquely predicting social inclusion in adolescence. We conclude that social inclusion can be modeled for meaningful comparison across spectra of development, mental health, and functioning.
ON THE ROLE OF DEBT MATURITY IN A MODEL WITH SOVEREIGN RISK AND FINANCIAL FRICTIONS
Authors: Auray Stéphane , Eyquem Aurélien
Published: September 2017

We develop a model with financial frictions and sovereign default risk wherein the maturity of public debt is allowed to be larger than one period. When the debt portfolio has longer average maturities, public debt increases less in the event of a crisis, reducing the size of the subsequent fiscal consolidation through distorsionary taxes or public spending, with positive effects on welfare. In addition, we provide some results suggesting that optimized fiscal responses to a crisis depend on the average maturity of the debt portfolio.
Effects of Process and Outcome Accountability on Idea Generation
Authors: Häusser Jan Alexander , Frisch Johanna Ute , Wanzel Stella , Schulz-Hardt Stefan
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Previous research on the effects of outcome and process accountability on decision making has neglected the preceding phase of idea generation. We conducted a 2 (outcome accountability: yes vs. no) × 2 (process accountability: yes vs. no) experiment (N = 147) to test the effects of accountability on quantity and quality of generated ideas in a product design task. Furthermore, we examined potential negative side effects of accountability (i.e., stress and lengthened decision making). We found that (a) outcome accountability had a negative effect on quantity of ideas and (b) process accountability extended the idea generation process. Furthermore, any type of accountability (c) had a negative effect on uniqueness of ideas, (d) did not affect the quality of the idea that was selected, and (e) increased stress. Moreover, the negative effect of accountability on uniqueness of ideas was mediated by stress.
Envisioning and Sustaining Science at Summit Station, Greenland
Authors: Koenig Lora , Vaughn Bruce , Dibb Jack
Published: September 2017

Summit Station Science Summit; Arlington, Virginia, 28–29 March 2017
Towards individualized diagnostics of biofilm-associated infections: a case study
Authors: Müsken Mathias , Klimmek Kathi , Sauer-Heilborn Annette , Donnert Monique , Sedlacek Ludwig , Suerbaum Sebastian , Häussler Susanne
Published: September 2017

Organized within biofilm communities, bacteria exhibit resistance towards a broad spectrum of antibiotics. Thus, one might argue that bacteria isolated from biofilm-associated chronic infections should be subjected to resistance profiling under biofilm growth conditions. Various test systems have been developed to determine the biofilm-associated resistance; however, it is not clear to what extent the in vitro results reflect the situation in vivo, and whether the biofilm-resistance profile should guide clinicians in their treatment choice. To address this issue, we used confocal microscopy in combination with live/dead staining, and profiled biofilm-associated resistance of a large number (>130) of clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from overall 15 cystic fibrosis patients. Our results demonstrate that in addition to a general non-responsiveness of bacteria when grown under biofilm conditions, there is an isolate-specific and antibiotic-specific biofilm-resistance profile. This individual resistance profile is independent on the structural properties of the biofilms. Furthermore, biofilm resistance is not linked to the resistance profile under planktonic growth conditions, or a mucoid, or small colony morphology of the tested isolates. Instead, it seems that individual biofilm structures evolve during biofilm-associated growth and are shaped by environment-specific cues. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that biofilm resistance profiles are isolate specific and cannot be deduced from commonly studied phenotypes. Further clinical studies will have to show the added value of biofilm-resistance profiling. Individualized diagnosis of biofilm resistance might lead to more rational recommendations for antimicrobial therapy and, thus, increased effectiveness of the treatment of chronically infected patients.
OsSIZ2 exerts regulatory influences on the developmental responses and phosphate homeostasis in rice
Authors: Pei Wenxia , Jain Ajay , Sun Yafei , Zhang Zhantian , Ai Hao , Liu Xiuli , Wang Huadun , Feng Bing , Sun Rui , Zhou Hongmin , Xu Guohua , Sun Shubin
Published: September 2017

OsSIZ1, a small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) E3 ligase, exerts regulatory influences on the developmental responses and phosphate (Pi) homeostasis in rice (Oryza sativa). Whether paralogs OsSIZ1 and OsSIZ2 are functionally redundant or the latter regulates these traits independent of the former is not known. To determine this, in this study, OsSIZ2 was functionally characterized by employing reverse genetic approaches. Although the relative expression of OsSIZ2 was spatiotemporally regulated, it showed constitutive expression in root and leaf blade irrespective of Pi regime. Analysis of T-DNA insertion knockout (ossiz2) and RNAi-mediated knockdown (Ri1-3) mutants revealed positive influences on growth and developmental responses including yield-related traits. On the contrary, these mutants exhibited negative effects on the concentrations of Pi and total P in different tissues. The relative expression levels of some of the genes that are involved in Pi sensing and signaling cascades were differentially modulated in the mutants. Further, attenuation in the expression levels of OsSIZ2 in the roots of ossiz1 and relatively similar trend of the effects of the mutation in OsSIZ1 and OsSIZ2 on growth and development and total P concentration in different tissues suggested a prevalence of partial functional redundancy between these paralogs.
GRL-09510, a Unique P2-Crown-Tetrahydrofuranylurethane -Containing HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor, Maintains Its Favorable Antiviral Activity against Highly-Drug-Resistant HIV-1 Variants in vitro
Authors: Amano Masayuki , Miguel Salcedo-Gómez Pedro , Yedidi Ravikiran S. , Delino Nicole S. , Nakata Hirotomo , Venkateswara Rao Kalapala , Ghosh Arun K. , Mitsuya Hiroaki
Published: September 2017

We report that GRL-09510, a novel HIV-1 protease inhibitor (PI) containing a newly-generated P2-crown-tetrahydrofuranylurethane (Crwn-THF), a P2′-methoxybenzene, and a sulfonamide isostere, is highly active against laboratory and primary clinical HIV-1 isolates (EC50: 0.0014–0.0028 μM) with minimal cytotoxicity (CC50: 39.0 μM). Similarly, GRL-09510 efficiently blocked the replication of HIV-1NL4-3 variants, which were capable of propagating at high-concentrations of atazanavir, lopinavir, and amprenavir (APV). GRL-09510 was also potent against multi-drug-resistant clinical HIV-1 variants and HIV-2ROD. Under the selection condition, where HIV-1NL4-3 rapidly acquired significant resistance to APV, an integrase inhibitor raltegravir, and a GRL-09510 congener (GRL-09610), no variants highly resistant against GRL-09510 emerged over long-term in vitro passage of the virus. Crystallographic analysis demonstrated that the Crwn-THF moiety of GRL-09510 forms strong hydrogen-bond-interactions with HIV-1 protease (PR) active-site amino acids and is bulkier with a larger contact surface, making greater van der Waals contacts with PR than the bis-THF moiety of darunavir. The present data demonstrate that GRL-09510 has favorable features for treating patients infected with wild-type and/or multi-drug-resistant HIV-1 variants, that the newly generated P2-Crwn-THF moiety confers highly desirable anti-HIV-1 potency. The use of the novel Crwn-THF moiety sheds lights in the design of novel PIs.
ICM conversion to epiblast by FGF/ERK inhibition is limited in time and requires transcription and protein degradation
Authors: Bessonnard Sylvain , Coqueran Sabrina , Vandormael-Pournin Sandrine , Dufour Alexandre , Artus Jérôme , Cohen-Tannoudji Michel
Published: September 2017

Inner cell Mass (ICM) specification into epiblast (Epi) and primitive endoderm (PrE) is an asynchronous and progressive process taking place between E3.0 to E3.75 under the control of the Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)/Extracellular signal-Regulated Kinase (ERK) signaling pathway. Here, we have analyzed in details the kinetics of specification and found that ICM cell responsiveness to the up and down regulation of FGF signaling activity are temporally distinct. We also showed that PrE progenitors are generated later than Epi progenitors. We further demonstrated that, during this late phase of specification, a 4 hours period of FGF/ERK inhibition prior E3.75 is sufficient to convert ICM cells into Epi. Finally, we showed that ICM conversion into Epi in response to inhibition during this short time window requires both transcription and proteasome degradation. Collectively, our data give new insights into the timing and mechanisms involved in the process of ICM specification.
Microenvironment regulates the expression of miR-21 and tumor suppressor genes PTEN, PIAS3 and PDCD4 through ZAP-70 in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Carabia Júlia , Carpio Cecilia , Abrisqueta Pau , Jiménez Isabel , Purroy Noelia , Calpe Eva , Palacio Carles , Bosch Francesc , Crespo Marta
Published: September 2017

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells are highly dependent on microenvironment, being the BCR pathway one key player in this crosstalk. Among proteins participating, ZAP-70 enhances response to microenvironmental stimuli. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) is overexpressed in diverse neoplasias including CLL, where it has been associated to refractoriness to fludarabine and to shorter time to progression and survival. To further elucidate the role of ZAP-70 in the biology of CLL, we studied its involvement in miR-21 regulation. MiR-21 expression was higher in CLL cells with high ZAP-70. Ectopic expression of ZAP-70 induced transcription of miR-21 via MAPK and STAT3, which subsequently induced downregulation of tumor suppressors targeted by miR-21. The co-culture of primary CLL cells mimicking the microenvironment induced ZAP-70 and miR-21 expression, as well as downregulation of miR-21 targets. Interestingly, the increase in miR-21 after co-culture was significantly impaired by ibrutinib, indicating that the BCR signaling pathway is involved in its regulation. Finally, survival of CLL cells induced by the co-culture correlated with miR-21 upregulation. In conclusion, stimuli from the microenvironment regulate miR-21 and its targeted tumor suppressor genes via a signaling pathway involving ZAP-70, thus contributing to the cytoprotection offered by the microenvironment particularly observed in CLL cells expressing ZAP-70.
Use of antimicrobial peptides as a feed additive for juvenile goats
Authors: Liu Qi , Yao Shuhua , Chen Yun , Gao Shuang , Yang Yanyi , Deng Junliang , Ren Zhihua , Shen Liuhong , Cui Hengmin , Hu Yanchun , Ma Xiaoping , Yu Shumin
Published: September 2017

Although antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been used as feed additives, only a few studies have examined their use in ruminants. In this study, we evaluated the use of AMPs(recombinant swine defensin and a fly antibacterial peptide were mixed by 1:1) as a medicated feed additive for juvenile goats. Dietary treatments included control groups (group I: 300 g concentrate; group III: 600 g concentrate), and AMP-supplemented groups (group II: 300 g concentrate + 3.0 g AMPs; group IV: 600 g concentrate + 3.0 g AMPs). AMP-treated groups exhibited an increase in bacterial genera, including Fibrobacter, Anaerovibrio, and Succiniclasticum, and the ciliate genus Ophryoscolex; as well a reduction in bacterial genera, such as Selenomonas, Succinivibrio, and Treponema, and the ciliate genera Polyplastron, Entodinium, and Isotricha. The changes in Fibrobacter, Anaerovibrio, Ophryoscolex, Polyplastron, Entodinium, and Isotricha were related to the concentrate. AMP treatment led to increased body weight, average daily weight gain, enzymatic activity (pectinase, xylanase, and lipase), especially in the normal concentrate group, and influence on ruminal fermentation function. In addition, goats treated with AMPs had higher rumen microorganism diversity indices than the control groups. Our results demonstrate that AMPs can be utilized as feed additives for juvenile goats.
Group III phospholipase A2 promotes colitis and colorectal cancer
Authors: Murase Remi , Taketomi Yoshitaka , Miki Yoshimi , Nishito Yasumasa , Saito Moe , Fukami Kiyoko , Yamamoto Kei , Murakami Makoto
Published: September 2017

Lipid mediators play pivotal roles in colorectal cancer and colitis, but only a limited member of the phospholipase A2 (PLA2) subtypes, which lie upstream of various lipid mediators, have been implicated in the positive or negative regulation of these diseases. Clinical and biochemical evidence suggests that secreted PLA2 group III (sPLA2-III) is associated with colorectal cancer, although its precise role remains obscure. Here we have found that sPLA2-III-null (Pla2g3−/−) mice are highly resistant to colon carcinogenesis. Furthermore, Pla2g3−/− mice are less susceptible to dextran sulfate-induced colitis, implying that the amelioration of colonic inflammation by sPLA2-III ablation may underlie the protective effect against colon cancer. Lipidomics analysis of the colon revealed significant reduction of pro-inflammatory/pro-tumorigenic lysophosholipids as well as unusual steady-state elevation of colon-protective fatty acids and their oxygenated metabolites in Pla2g3−/− mice. Overall, our results establish a role of sPLA2-III in the promotion of colorectal inflammation and cancer, expand our understanding of the divergent roles of multiple PLA2 enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract, and point to sPLA2-III as a novel druggable target for colorectal diseases.
Unexpectedly strong hydrophilic character of free-standing thin films from carbon nanotubes
Authors: Janas Dawid , Stando Grzegorz
Published: September 2017

We report on the development of a method of formation of hydrophilic carbon nanotube (CNT) films. The technique is simple, straightforward and does not require specialized equipment or use of harsh chemical compounds. Elimination of the need for oxidizing agents has paramount implications because it preserves the inherent CNT properties. A reference study, in which the traditional method of oxidation of CNTs was used to introduce functional groups, gave smaller reduction of water contact angle and made a negative influence on the surface chemistry. From the practical point of view, this method is an important step towards implementation of CNTs in the real life by making them more compatible with interface materials. Interestingly, the method gives high level of control over the surface character of CNT films and hydrophilic character can be precisely patterned where required.
MiR-449a regulates caprine endometrial stromal cell apoptosis and endometrial receptivity
Authors: An Xiaopeng , Liu Xiaorui , Zhang Lei , Liu Junze , Zhao Xinyan , Chen Kaiwen , Ma Haidong , Li Guang , Cao Binyun , Song Yuxuan
Published: September 2017

In this study, an RT-qPCR analysis showed that the expression levels of miR-449a in the pre-receptive endometrium were lower compared to the receptive endometrium, which is consistent with previous sequencing data (previous investigations). To detect the role of miR-449a in endometrial receptivity, we transfected caprine endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) cultured in vitro with miR-449a mimics. The results revealed that miR-449a decreased the mRNA and protein levels of LGR4 by targeting its 3′-untranslated region. The miR-449a mimics significantly reduced the G1 cell population from 52.56% (mimic NC) to 42.19% with a concordant increase in the G2 and S cell populations from 47.44% (mimic NC) to 57.81%, suggesting that miR-449a caused ESC cell cycle arrest. In addition, the number of apoptotic cells was significantly higher in ESCs transfected with miR-449a mimics (P < 0.05) than in ESCs transfected with mimic NC. In vivo, rich pinopodes were observed on the endometrial surface in the miR-449a agomir group compared with the miR-449a antagomir group. The results of hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that endometrial thickness was significantly increased in the miR-449a agomir group compared with the miR-449a antagomir group. These results suggest that miR-449a could enhance endometrial receptivity.
Reverse Electrodialysis-Assisted Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Lee Jihye , Yun Jeongse , Kwon Seung-Ryong , Chang Woo Je , Nam Ki Tae , Chung Taek Dong
Published: September 2017

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting provides an attractive route for large-scale solar energy storage, but issues surrounding the efficiency and the stability of photoelectrode materials impose serious restrictions on its advancement. In order to relax one of the photoelectrode criteria, the band gap, a promising strategy involves complementing the conventional PEC setup with additional power sources. Here we introduce a new concept: solar water splitting combined with reverse electrodialysis (RED). RED is a membrane-based power generation technology that produces an electrochemical potential difference from a salinity gradient. In this study, the RED stack serves not only as a separator, but also as an additional tunable power source to compensate for the limited voltage produced by the photoelectrode. A hybrid system, composed of a single-junction p-Si and a RED stack, successfully enables solar water splitting without the need for an external bias. This system provides flexibility in photoelectrode material selection.
On the long-run efficacy of punishments and recommendations in a laboratory public goods game
Authors: Chaudhuri Ananish , Paichayontvijit Tirnud
Published: September 2017

We use decision-making experiments with human participants to study cooperation in a laboratory public goods game. Such games pose a conflict between cooperating, which is socially optimal and free-riding, which promotes individual self-interest. Prior research emphasizes the need for de-centralized peer-to-peer punishments as an evolutionarily stable response to the problem of free-riding, especially where interactions occur over long horizons. We show that a simple exhortative message appealing to participants’ goodwill can achieve high rates of cooperation in social dilemmas played over many rounds, even in the absence of punishments for free-riding.