bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatial distribution and morphological responses to predation in the salt marsh periwinkle
Authors: Rietl Anthony J. , Sorrentino Madelyn G. , Roberts Brian J. 
Published: June 2018

AbstractThe salt marsh periwinkle (Littoraria irrorata) is a common and often abundant mollusk in marshes of the Gulf and Atlantic coasts of the United States. Several studies have focused on the effects of periwinkles on Spartina alterniflora production and the effects of oil on periwinkle survivability, yet the general ecology of the snail has been underreported. In this study, we measured spatial distributions, biomass, shell repair frequency, and a suite of morphological characteristics of L. irrorata at three sites in each of five regions spanning the southeastern Louisiana Coast between the Atchafalaya and Mississippi rivers. Sampling was conducted along 50 m edge‐to‐interior transects in S. alterniflora‐dominated marshes. We found that L. irrorata density, individual biomass, and total areal biomass significantly varied by region. Each also significantly varied with distance from the marsh edge, with the exception of total periwinkle areal biomass. We saw a general trend across most regions where periwinkle density tended to be greatest 10 m from the marsh edge and biomass tended to be greatest 20–30 m from the marsh edge; however, neither periwinkle density nor biomass was related to S. alterniflora density or stem height. The allometric relationship between shell length and biomass varied significantly between all regions, indicating that this species has differing regional growth patterns. A possible driver of these regional patterns in allometry is differences in predation pressures, with increased predation scaring at Port Fourchon sites corresponding to snails with larger shells yet less internal biomass per length compared to other regions. This study provides the first large‐scale description of the spatial ecology and regional morphometry of the salt marsh periwinkle, an important organism in structuring salt marsh ecosystems, and suggests that the pressures exerted by L. irrorata on plant production found in other studies likely varies by geography and spatial location within a marsh.
Multilayer Ceramics for Electrocaloric Cooling Applications
Authors: Molin Christian , Neumeister Peter , Neubert Holger , Gebhardt Sylvia E. 
Published: June 2018

AbstractThe electrocaloric effect of 0.92 Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.08 PbTiO3 (PMN‐8 PT) bulk ceramics and multilayer ceramic (MLC) structures is reported. The results are compared to lead‐free, barium‐titanate‐based materials. Phase transition temperature and electrocaloric temperature change could be altered by targeted doping and this is discussed with the help of dielectric and electrocaloric measurements. By reduction of single layer thickness in MLCs, electrical loads and thus electrocaloric temperature changes of PMN‐8 PT based multilayers could be increased. Simulations that outline the intrinsic cooling performance of electrocaloric MLC components in dependence of the multilayer design and operation frequency for two different modes of heat transfer are presented. The performance of the fabricated MLC layout for a driving frequency of 1 Hz is discussed in detail and an optimum layout by varying of design parameters derived. Additionally, the effect of driving frequency on the electrocaloric cooling power is investigated.
Efficient computation of the joint probability of multiple inherited risk alleles from pedigree data
Authors: Madsen Thomas , Braun Danielle , Peng Gang , Parmigiani Giovanni , Trippa Lorenzo 
Published: June 2018

AbstractThe Elston–Stewart peeling algorithm enables estimation of an individual's probability of harboring germline risk alleles based on pedigree data, and serves as the computational backbone of important genetic counseling tools. However, it remains limited to the analysis of risk alleles at a small number of genetic loci because its computing time grows exponentially with the number of loci considered. We propose a novel, approximate version of this algorithm, dubbed the peeling and paring algorithm, which scales polynomially in the number of loci. This allows extending peeling‐based models to include many genetic loci. The algorithm creates a trade‐off between accuracy and speed, and allows the user to control this trade‐off. We provide exact bounds on the approximation error and evaluate it in realistic simulations. Results show that the loss of accuracy due to the approximation is negligible in important applications. This algorithm will improve genetic counseling tools by increasing the number of pathogenic risk alleles that can be addressed. To illustrate we create an extended five genes version of BRCAPRO, a widely used model for estimating the carrier probabilities of BRCA1 and BRCA2 risk alleles and assess its computational properties.
Selenium and tellurium concentrations of Carboniferous British coals
Authors: Bullock Liam A. , Parnell John , Feldmann Joerg , Armstrong Joseph G. , Henn Alessandra S. , Mesko Marcia F. , Mello Paola A. , Flores Erico M.M. 
Published: June 2018

Standard mode and collision/reaction cell mass spectroscopy methods have been utilized in order to overcome spectral interferences and provide ultra‐low quantification of selenium (Se) and tellurium (Te) in British Carboniferous coals for the first time. The accurate detection of Se and Te in coals is becoming increasingly important, as coals and pyrite have been identified as potentially significant trace element sources. The mean Se concentration of British coals bear comparison to that of world coals, with anomalous Se content (concentrations above 4 mg/kg) across westerly exposures, often coinciding with high sulphur (S) content and visible pyrite. New Te data for British coals gives a mean concentration of 0.02 mg/kg, with anomalous Te in Ayrshire. There is a positive correlation in the Te/Se ratio across the sample set. The close relationship between Se and Te, as well as Se–Te with both early syngenetic and later cleat‐filling pyrite, confirms an important role for sulphides in Se and Te sequestration in British coals. The high Se‐Bowland Shale and/or Ordovician volcanics may have provided the trace element source for British coals of similar or younger age. Regional intrusive activity (shallow tabular intrusions or more extensive plutons) and episodes of intense deformation can alter the thermal maturity of coals and may have driven the movement of trace element‐rich fluids through strata, locally enriching coals in Se and Te.
Parametric analysis of desiccant wheel for air conditioning application
Authors: Yadav Laxmikant , Yadav Avadhesh 
Published: June 2018

AbstractA one‐dimensional mathematical model is developed to evaluate the operating and design parameters of the desiccant wheel for air conditioning application. In this paper, dehumidification coefficient of performance (DCOP) and sensible energy ratio (SER) are adopted as a combined performance index to reflect the dehumidification and thermal performance of the desiccant wheel. The analysis of the results reveals that for lower SER, suitable wheel length, wall thickness, channel pitch, and channel height should be 100 mm, 0.2 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm, respectively. These design parameters have been analyzed under different operating conditions and it was found that for higher DCOP, rotational speed, regeneration temperature, process and regeneration velocity should be 20 rph, 60°C, and 2 m/s.
Impact of operational factors on HPV positivity rates in an HPV‐based screening study in Colombia
Authors: Robles Claudia , Wiesner Carolina , Martinez Sandra , Salgado Yuly , Hernandez Mariluz , Lucas Eric , Lineros Johana , Romero Pilar , Herrero Rolando , Almonte Maribel , Murillo Raul 
Published: June 2018

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the effect of operational factors on the positivity rates of three HPV assays.MethodsWithin the cross‐sectional ESTAMPA study, women aged 30–64 years were recruited at healthcare centers from Soacha, Colombia, during 2012–2015. Cervical samples were collected for cotesting with Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2; Qiagen, Gaithersburg, MD, USA), and either Aptima (Hologic, Marlborough, MA, USA) or Cobas 4800 (Roche Diagnostics, Indianapolis, IN, USA). The effect of operational factors on assay performance was assessed using adjusted positivity rates obtained from logistic regression models.ResultsThere were 4168 women included. For samples collected in assay‐specific medium, positivity rate differences were associated with the expertise of the nurse collecting the sample (P=0.014 HC2; P=0.091 Aptima) and if sample collection occurred after an initial cytology (P=0.025 HC2; P=0.033 Aptima). If PreservCyt medium (Hologic) was used, HC2 positivity differences were observed depending on the time between sample collection and processing (P=0.026) and on the laboratory technician processing the samples (P=0.003). No differences were observed for PreservCyt samples processed with Aptima or Cobas.ConclusionNurse expertise, collection of previous cytology, processing time, and laboratory technician could influence HPV assay performance. Suitable quality assurance protocols for HPV‐based screening programs are required.ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01881659.
The prevalence and clinical associations of hypovitaminosis D in pregnant women from Brazil
Authors: Chrisostomo Kadija R. , Skare Thelma L. , Kulak Jaime , Urbanetz Almir A. , Chrisostomo Eduardo R. , Nisihara Renato 
Published: June 2018

AbstractObjectiveTo study the prevalence and the clinical and demographic associations of hypovitaminosis D in pregnant women from southern Brazil.MethodsIn this cross‐sectional study, pregnant women attending prenatal care at two university clinics in Curitiba, Brazil, were investigated for clinical and demographic data and for serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, and parathyroid hormone. Data were collected during summer (January 26 to March 4, 2016) or winter (July 28 to August 31, 2016).ResultsThe study included 520 women, with 264 studied in winter and 256 in summer. The median vitamin D level was 53.41 nmol/L; 227 (43.7%) women had vitamin D deficiency (<49.92 nmol/L), 193 (37.1%) had vitamin D insufficiency, and 100 (19.2%) had a normal level (≥74.88 nmol/L). The vitamin D serum level was linked to the season (P<0.001) and the body mass index (P=0.026). Women with HIV infections had a lower prevalence and women with pre‐eclampsia had a higher prevalence of hypovitaminosis D (P<0.001 and P=0.025, respectively). The association between pre‐eclampsia and low vitamin D status was independent of body mass index, tobacco exposure, maternal age, and pregnancy duration (P=0.043; odds ratio 1.014–2.795).ConclusionThe rate of hypovitaminosis D in pregnant women from southern Brazil was high. Hypovitaminosis D was more common in winter and was associated with pre‐eclampsia.
Designing Literacy Leadership: Fractal Motifs for Teaching and Learning
Authors: Greenleaf Cynthia , Katz Mira‐Lisa , Wilson Aaron 
Published: June 2018

AbstractThis department focuses on literacy leaders, including school and instructional leaders, teachers, and external partners, who are working to improve outcomes for adolescent and adult learners in a wide range of education settings. Columns investigate the challenges and complexities inherent in such work and share lessons learned, impactful strategies and approaches, and promising pathways forward.
Leishmania donovani infection differentially regulates small G‐proteins
Authors: Husein Atahar , Jamal Azfar , Ahmed Mohammad Zulfazal , Arish Mohammad , Ali Rahat , Tabrez Shams , Rasool Fayyaz , Rub Abdur 
Published: June 2018

AbstractLeishmania is a protozoan parasite that resides and replicates in macrophages and causes leishmaniasis. The parasite alters the signaling cascade in host macrophages and evades the host machinery. Small G‐proteins are GTPases, grouped in 5 different families that play a crucial role in the regulation of cell proliferation, cell survival, apoptosis, intracellular trafficking, and transport. In particular, the Ras family of small G‐proteins has been identified to play a significant role in the cellular functions mentioned before. Here, we studied the differential expression of the most important small G‐proteins during Leishmania infection. We found major changes in the expression of different isoforms of Ras, mainly in N‐Ras. We observed that Leishmania donovani infection led to enhanced N‐Ras expression, whereas it inhibited K‐Ras and H‐Ras expression. Furthermore, an active N‐Ras pull‐down assay showed enhanced N‐Ras activity. L donovani infection also increased extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation and simultaneously decreased p38 phosphorylation. In contrast, pharmacological inhibition of Ras led to reduction in the phosphorylation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 and enhanced the phosphorylation of p38 in Leishmania‐infected cells, which could lead to increased interleukin‐12 expression and decreased interleukin‐10 expression. Indeed, farnesylthiosalicyclic acid (a Ras inhibitor), when used at the effective level in L donovani–infected macrophages, reduced amastigotes in the host macrophages. Thus, upregulated N‐Ras expression during L donovani infection could be a novel immune evasion strategy of Leishmania and would be a potential target for antileishmanial immunotherapy.
Retracted: MicroRNA‐198 inhibition of HGF/c‐MET signaling pathway overcomes resistance to radiotherapy and induces apoptosis in human non–small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhu Lin , Xue Feng , Xu Xiangying , Xu Jianyu , Hu Songliu , Liu Shanshan , Cui Ying , Gao Chunzi 
Published: June 2018

AbstractNon–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common cause of death from cancer worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of important regulators in NSCLC, including miR‐198. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of miR‐198 involvement in intrinsic resistance to radiotherapy in NSCLC remain to be elucidated. In this study, to investigate the clinical significance of miR‐198 in NSCLC in relation to the response to radiotherapy, we determined the expression patterns of miR‐198 between responders and nonresponders after 2 months of radiotherapy and found that decreased expressions of miR‐198 were associated with radiotherapy resistance. In addition, we altered the endogenous miR‐198 using mimics or inhibitors to examine the effects of miR‐198 on 4‐Gy–irradiated A549 and SPCA‐1 cells in vitro. Upregulating miR‐198 was shown to inhibit cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and induce apoptosis. MiR‐198 inhibition produced a reciprocal result. PHA665752, a selective small‐molecule c‐Met inhibitor, potently inhibited hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)‐stimulated and constitutive c‐Met phosphorylation and rescued 4‐Gy–irradiated A549 and SPCA‐1 cells from miR‐198 inhibition. Most importantly, we established tumor xenografts of 4‐Gy–irradiated A549 and SPCA‐1 cells in nude mice and found that miR‐198 could suppress tumor formation. Hence, our data delineates the molecular pathway by which miR‐198 inhibits NSCLC cellular proliferation and induces apoptosis following radiotherapy, providing a novel target aimed at improving the radiotherapeutic response in NSCLC.
Minimally invasive preservation versus splenectomy during distal pancreatectomy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nakata Kohei , Shikata Satoru , Ohtsuka Takao , Ukai Tomohiko , Miyasaka Yoshihiro , Mori Yasuhisa , Velasquez Vittoria Vanessa D. M. , Gotoh Yoshitaka , Ban Daisuke , Nakamura Yoshiharu , Nagakawa Yuichi , Tanabe Minoru , Sahara Yatsuka , Takaori Kyoichi , Honda Goro , Misawa Takeyuki , Kawai Manabu , Yamaue Hiroki , Morikawa Takanori , Kuroki Tamotsu , Mou Yiping , Lee Woo‐Jung , Shrikhande Shailesh V. , Tang Chung Ngai , Conrad Claudius , Han Ho‐Seong , Chinnusamy Palanivelu , Asbun Horacio J. , Kooby David A. , Wakabayashi Go , Takada Tadahiro , Yamamoto Masakazu , Nakamura Masafumi 
Published: June 2018

AbstractBackgroundMinimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (MIDP) has gained in popularity recently. However, there is no consensus on whether to preserve the spleen or not. In this study, we compared MIDP outcomes between spleen‐preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) and distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (DPS); as well as outcomes between splenic vessel preservation (SVP) and Warshaw's technique (WT).MethodsA systematic search of PubMed (MEDLINE) and Cochrane Library was conducted and the reference lists of review articles were hand‐searched.ResultsFifteen relevant studies with 769 patients were selected for meta‐analyses of DPS and SPDP, while another 15 studies with 841 patients were used for the analysis between SVP and WT. Compared with the DPS group, SPDP patients had significantly lower incidences of infectious complications (P = 0.006) and pancreatic fistula (P = 0.002), shorter operative time (P < 0.001), and less blood loss (P = 0.01). Compared with WT, SVP patients had significantly lower incidences of splenic infarction (P < 0.001) and secondary splenectomy (P = 0.003). Subanalysis for laparoscopic surgery alone had similar results.ConclusionsBased on this study, SPDP has significantly superior outcomes compared to DPS. When a spleen is preserved, SVP has better outcomes over WT for reducing splenic complications.
Study on the interaction of antidiabetic drug Pioglitazone with calf thymus DNA using spectroscopic techniques
Authors: Al Qumaizi Khalid I. , Anwer Razique , Ahmad Nazia , Alosaimi Saleh M. , Fatma Tasneem 
Published: June 2018

AbstractPioglitazone is an antidiabetic drug used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Interaction of Pioglitazone with calf thymus DNA was investigated using multispectroscopic techniques and molecular docking study. Quenching and binding constant was calculated at 3 different temperatures. The binding constant of Pioglitazone with calf thymus DNA was calculated to be 6.49 × 103M−1 at 293 K. The quenching mechanism was found to be a static process, and thermodynamic parameters revealed van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonds to be the major force working in Pioglitazone‐DNA interaction. Pioglitazone follows the nonintercalative mode of binding and was involved in complex formation with DNA through minor groove binding and electrostatic interactions. Experiments like KI quenching studies, dye displacement assays, Circular Dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, DNA melting study, and viscosity measurements studies supported the nonintercalative mode of binding. This was further corroborated by molecular docking studies.
The 1‐million‐year‐old quartz assemblage from Pont‐de‐Lavaud (Centre, France) in the European context
Authors: Despriée Jackie , Moncel Marie‐Hélène , Arzarello Marta , Courcimault Gilles , Voinchet Pierre , Bahain Jean‐Jacques , Falguères Christophe 
Published: June 2018

ABSTRACTThe Pont‐de‐Lavaud site, located in the Centre Region of France (Creuse Valley), yielded a quartz lithic assemblage composed of a few hundred artefacts with cores, pebble tools, flakes and flake‐tools, mixed with several thousand debris items and pebbles. The archaeological site is covered by a fossil fluvial deposit from the Creuse River (sheet I, with a relative altitude of + 90/105 m), dated by Electron Spin Resonance at the site itself to around 1 Ma. We will focus in this paper on the lithic assemblage with clear anthropogenic features to describe the technological strategies applied to quartz pebbles, with the help of experiments. The core technology is based on short ‘chaînes opératoires’ on local quartz aimed at producing pointed end‐products on pebbles and flakes. The methods and techniques include both the bipolar technique on an anvil and direct percussion with a hard hammer. The reduction sequences were strongly conditioned by the morphology and the physical characteristics of the raw material. Few flakes are retouched. The Pont‐de‐Lavaud lithic assemblage is one example of the diversity of the 1‐Ma European industries. The assemblage shows techno‐cultural behavioural variability at this period and adaptation to raw material constraints. Comparisons with series where the use of quartz is widespread demonstrate the ability of hominins to use stones of varying quality and to adapt technology to the raw material in zones located beyond the 45th parallel north.
The main beneficial effect of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) on obesity is not only related to its anthocyanin content
Authors: Morales‐Luna Elizabeth , Pérez‐Ramírez Iza F , Salgado Luis M , Castaño‐Tostado Eduardo , Gómez‐Aldapa Carlos A , Reynoso‐Camacho Rosalía 
Published: June 2018

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDThe calyxes of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) are recognized for their high nutraceutical value because they decrease body weight and obesity complications. These effects have been attributed mainly to anthocyanins. However, the calyxes comprise important concentration of flavonoids, phenolic, and organic acids, which could also contribute to these effects. The objective of this work was to determine the effect of the Alma Blanca white roselle variety on obesity and hepatic steatosis in high‐fat, high‐fructose, diet‐fed rats and compare its beneficial effects with the red variety (Criolla), which has been more extensively studied.RESULTSAqueous and methanolic extracts were prepared from two roselle varieties, Alma Blanca (white) and Criolla (red). The phytochemical profiles were determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS). Criolla extracts contain principally anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. Anthocyanins were not detected in Alma Blanca. The aqueous extracts of both varieties prevented body‐weight gain and decreased adipocytes hyperplasia on rats fed a hypercaloric diet. These extracts also protected against hepatic steatosis. These benefits were associated with hibiscus, dimethyl hibiscus, and hydroxycitric acid.CONCLUSIONThese results demonstrated that calyxes from Hibiscus sabdariffa contain compounds that are different from anthocyanins, with potential benefits to health. The organic acids were strongly associated with these beneficial health effects. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
The impact of a loss of hydrologic connectivity on boreal lake thermal and evaporative regimes
Authors: Spence Christopher , Beaty Ken , Blanchfield Paul J. , Hrenchuk Lee , MacKay Murray D. 
Published: June 2018

AbstractThis paper summarizes the initial results (first 4 yr) of a whole‐catchment manipulation to evaluate the impact of a loss of hydrologic connectivity of a boreal lake with its watershed on lake thermal and evaporative regimes. We diverted the upstream flow to a fourth order lake resulting in a marked reduction (81%) in watershed area, and compared the response to a comparable control lake in a headwater position. The manipulation reduced runoff into the experimental lake from 2400 mm to 90 mm, greatly increased theoretical residence time (from 2.3 yr to 18.3 yr), and reduced average dissolved organic carbon concentration from 5.8 ± 0.3 mg L−1 to 5.5 ± 0.3 mg L−1. Average Secchi depth was increased by 0.6 m, resulting in a 0.25 m deeper epilimnion and cooler surface water temperatures (8% of the time) than those predicted by pre‐manipulation relationships. There was some evidence that the response of evaporation to episodic events was altered, but this was not extensive enough to alter annual evaporation or median evaporation rates. Our findings show that the impacts of hydrologic connectivity on lake chemistry can cascade to alter the energy budgets of boreal lakes. These results can inform how differences in hydrological connectivity across the landscape due to lake‐watershed topology and climate will impact boreal lakes. Of note is that very clear lakes in the boreal region are highly sensitive to impacts from a change in clarity. Information on their spatial distribution will be necessary to assess impacts of hydrological connectivity on the boreal lake complex.