bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The function of geophagy in Nepal gray langurs: Sodium acquisition rather than detoxification or prevention of acidosis
Authors: Monaco Eliot T. , Borries Carola , Nikolei Julia , Chalise Mukesh K. , Ganzhorn Jörg U. , Wesche Karsten , Koenig Andreas 
Published: November 2018

AbstractObjectivesGeophagy has several hypothesized functions, among them (1) detoxification of plant secondary compounds, for example, tannins, (2) buffering stomach pH to alleviate acidosis caused by high sugar intake, and (3) supplementing the diet with mineral nutrients. We tested these hypotheses in Nepal gray langurs (Semnopithecus schistaceus), a foregut fermenter for which fruits and leaves dominate the diet at different times of the year.Materials and MethodsWe collected data on feeding time per food item for 21 unprovisioned adult langurs at Ramnagar, Nepal, for 1 year using instantaneous sampling (773 observation hours). We combined these data with relative sugar and tannin content of food items to estimate diet content. We collected rainfall data to distinguish the wet season (May–September) from the dry season (October–April). We collected soil samples from consumption and control sites to test for pH and sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium concentrations.ResultsLangurs consumed soil from two sources: termite structures (in almost all months) and river banks and beds (mainly in the dry season). Soil feeding was not positively correlated with dietary tannin or sugar content (GLMM). Soil pH was not high enough to buffer stomach contents. Only sodium was significantly higher in consumed soil.DiscussionThe most likely function of geophagy was the acquisition of sodium. This conclusion is consistent with reports for other animals. Buffering stomach pH, an often‐suggested function for animals with ruminant‐like digestion, was not supported. Detoxification, often proposed for animals with a diet high in secondary compounds, was also not supported.
Model Predictive Control of Nonlinear Discrete Time Systems with Guaranteed Stability
Authors: Shamaghdari Saeed , Haeri Mohammad 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThis paper presents the design of a new robust model predictive control algorithm for nonlinear systems represented by a linear model with unstructured uncertainty. The linear model is obtained by linearizing the nonlinear system at an operating point and the difference between the nonlinear and linear model is considered as a Lipschitz nonlinear function. The controller is designed for the linear model, which fulfills the stabilization condition for the nonlinear term. Unlike previous studies that have not considered a valid Lipschitz matrix of nonlinear term in the design process, we propose an algorithm in this paper in which it is considered. Therefore, the closed loop stability of the nonlinear system is guaranteed. A novel SOS optimization problem to determine design parameters is introduced, which leads to improved closed‐loop performance in comparison to a trial and error tuning procedure. Furthermore, an algorithm is presented to enlarge the region of attraction for the nonlinear closed‐loop system. Stability is improved by checking some additional conditions if which the system may be unstable if not considered. The validity of the proposed algorithm is confirmed by examples.
Systemic and local hepcidin as emerging and important peptides in renal homeostasis and pathology
Authors: Vela Driton 
Published: November 2018

AbstractRecent data suggest that the importance of hepcidin goes beyond its classical role in controlling systemic iron metabolism. Local hepcidins are emerging as important peptides for organ homeostasis in the brain, heart, blood vessels, and in cancer as well. Similarly, accumulating data indicate that hepcidin does seem to be an important factor in renal homeostasis. This review encompasses present knowledge concerning the role of hepcidin in renoprotection and its use as a biomarker of kidney diseases. Understanding the role of hepcidin in kidneys is important due to its relevance for kidney physiology and its potential therapeutic application in kidney pathologies. © 2018 BioFactors, 45(2):118–134, 2019
Nanocrystals: A perspective on translational research and clinical studies
Authors: Jarvis Maria , Krishnan Vinu , Mitragotri Samir 
Published: November 2018

AbstractPoorly soluble small molecules typically pose translational hurdles owing to their low solubility, low bioavailability, and formulation challenges. Nanocrystallization is a versatile method for salvaging poorly soluble drugs with the added benefit of a carrier‐free delivery system. In this review, we provide a comprehensive analysis of nanocrystals with emphasis on their clinical translation. Additionally, the review sheds light on clinically approved nanocrystal drug products as well as those in development.
Biologically inspired ant colony simulation
Authors: Xiang Wei , Ren Jiaping , Wang Kuan , Deng Zhigang , Jin Xiaogang 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWe present a unified biologically inspired approach to simulate ant colonies inspired by the key observation of collective behaviors of ants in nature. To generate the trajectories of virtual ants, we construct a motion controller to determine the motion states and the paths of virtual ants, considering dynamic internal and external interactions. The motion controller computes a target position for each ant at every time step according to its motion states. The motion states include four states: basic movement, the stop state, and two dynamic interactions (i.e., internal and external, respectively referring to interaction with neighbors for necessary information transfer about the destination, and interaction with surroundings such as food sources, nests, and obstacles) to represent basic exploration, casual or intentional stop, and purposeful movement, respectively. Based on the motion states, the motion controller plans an optimal path for each virtual ant. Through many simulation experiments, we demonstrate that our method is controllable, scalable, and flexible to simulate hybrid colonies with a large number of ants.
Effect of soybean bagasse addition on texture, sensory properties, and protein quality of maize tortillas
Authors: Hernández‐Reyes Karina Elizabeth , Montemayor‐Mora Gabriela , Pérez‐Carrillo Esther , De la Rosa‐Millán Julian , García‐Villanueva Cristina , Serna‐Saldívar Sergio O. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackground and objectivesNixtamalized dry masa flour was supplemented with 5% or 10% dry soybean bagasse (SB) and then processed into table tortillas. Proximate chemical composition, dietary fiber content, affective sensory analyses of corn tortillas prepared from dry masa flour enriched with 5% or 10% dried SB were determined. Also, the in vitro protein digestibility and protein digestibility‐corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of the tortillas were evaluated.FindingsTen per cent SB addition reduced masa hardness by about 32% and chewiness 47% without affecting adhesiveness. In terms of rapid viscosity analysis, the addition of incremental levels of SB decreased peak and final viscosities 42% and 49%, respectively. The tortilla insoluble and soluble dietary fiber contents increased 50% and fourfold, respectively, while the lysine daily requirement for preschool infants improved from 45.6% to 67.0% when 10% SB was used. Enriched tortillas showed a similar overall acceptance and had improved texture over storage time at room temperature (25% less force to rupture compared with the control tortilla stored for the same time).ConclusionsThe addition of 5% soybean bagasse to nixtamalized corn flour produced masa with good machinability and tortillas with better overall acceptance and textural shelf life and a product with four times more soluble dietary fiber, 10% less starch and with higher amounts of limiting amino acids lysine and tryptophan. The upgraded amino acid balance significantly improved PDCAAS from 41% to 59% in the tortilla containing 10% SB.Significance and noveltySoybean bagasse is a viable option to increased fiber and protein quality in nixtamalized corn flour tortillas, with a positive impact on texture during shelf life and consumer acceptance.
Unrecognized staphylococcal vertebral osteomyelitis leading to fatal outcome in a previously healthy patient
Authors: Zayed Yazan , Swaid Bakr , Gupta Rahul , Haykal Tarek , Osterholzer Danielle 
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical MessageNew onset low back pain which is recalcitrant to usual treatment should be evaluated aggressively even in the absence of fever or neurologic deficits. Corticosteroids given for back pain will accelerate occult spinal infection and may mask symptomatology leading to more severe disease.
Surgical repair of a depressed, comminuted fracture of the zygomatic process of the frontal bone using a locking compression plate in a Thoroughbred colt foal
Authors: Derham Ann M. , Johnson Jessica P. , Kearney Clodagh M. , O’Leary John M. 
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical MessageThis case report demonstrates the use of a 10‐hole 2.7‐mm locking compression plate (LCP) to repair a depressed, comminuted fracture of the zygomatic process of the frontal bone, in a foal. LCP fixation resulted in excellent cosmesis. The use of LCP fixation in this region has not been previously described.
Individual and organizational learning from inter‐firm knowledge sharing: A framework integrating inter‐firm and intra‐firm knowledge sharing and learning
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Ahmad Malik Imran , Burgoyne John 
Published: November 2018

AbstractLiterature has highlighted but not explored links between knowledge sharing and learning at inter‐firm and intra‐firm levels. Using the single case of an aviation refuelling company as the basis for our research methodology and collecting data through 34 semi‐structured interviews, we develop a framework that integrates knowledge sharing and learning at inter‐firm and intra‐firm levels. We show that intra‐firm knowledge sharing capabilities facilitate the diffusion of inter‐firm learning within organizations. Moreover, inter‐firm trust manifests in different forms that affect individual and organizational learning. The purpose of collaboration determines what a firm learns or discards. The findings are important for organizations facing a shortage of skills. © 2018 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evolution of the Ligand Shell Around Small ZnO Nanoparticles During the Exchange of Acetate by Catechol: A Small Angle Scattering Study
Authors: Schindler Torben , Lin Wei , Schmutzler Tilo , Lindner Peter , Peukert Wolfgang , Segets Doris , Unruh Tobias 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe core‐shell structure of colloids surrounded by ligands is of great importance for their later application as it can significantly alter the chemical and physical properties of the nanoparticles (NPs). A combination of small angle X‐ray and neutron scattering (SAXS/SANS) in the native solution with additional ex situ measurements (titration‐UV) was applied to study the NP/ligand interface of ZnO NPs after functionalization with catechol derivatives. Based on SAXS data, it was found that within the multimodal particle size distribution the fraction of agglomerates is shifted to smaller sizes and nearly disappeared upon the binding of ethyl 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoate (CAT) molecules. This is ascribed to improved stabilization at the primary particle level by CAT molecules. By combining the neutron scattering contrast with the input of bound CAT molecules from a previously developed titration‐UV method, the heterogeneous composition of the ligand shell became accessible for the first time.
Conjugated Alkylamine by Two‐Step Surface Ligand Engineering in CsPbBr3 Perovskite Nanocrystals for Efficient Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zhang Li , Zhang Qiong , Xing Xiangyu , Jiang Yuanzhi , He Tingwei , Huang Yanmin , Ma Zhiwei , Yang Jien , Yuan Mingjian 
Published: November 2018

AbstractLong alkyl‐chain capped ligands are prerequisites for preserving high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) in perovskite nanocrystals (NCs). Unfortunately, the insulating feature of surface ligands potentially hinders carrier transport in light‐emitting diode (LED) devices, which will degenerate the LED performance. To overcome this shortcoming, we introduce a conjugated molecule, 3‐phenyl‐2‐propen‐1‐amine (PPA), into CsPbBr3 NCs through a two‐step surface ligand engineering process. Owing to excellent electrical conductivity of PPA, PPA‐capped CsPbBr3 NCs LEDs exhibit a maximum current efficiency of 23.53 cd A−1, and a maximum luminance of 26,475 cd m−2 at the wavelength of 517 nm. This work offers a new strategy to improve the quality of CsPbBr3 NCs and LEDs by introducing conjugation molecular ligands into the all‐inorganic perovskite nanocrystals.
Label‐Free Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay (EMSA) for Measuring Dissociation Constants of Protein‐RNA Complexes
Authors: Seo Minguk , Lei Li , Egli Martin 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) is a well‐established method to detect formation of complexes between proteins and nucleic acids and to determine, among other parameters, equilibrium constants for the interaction. Mixtures of protein and nucleic acid solutions of various ratios are analyzed via polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) under native conditions. In general, protein–nucleic acid complexes will migrate more slowly than the free nucleic acid. From the distributions of the nucleic acid components in the observed bands in individual gel lanes, quantitative parameters such as the dissociation constant (Kd) of the interaction can be measured. This article describes a simple and rapid EMSA that relies either on precast commercial or handcast polyacrylamide gels and uses unlabeled protein and nucleic acid. Nucleic acids are instead detected with SYBR Gold stain and band intensities established with a standard gel imaging system. We used this protocol specifically to determine Kd values for complexes between the PAZ domain of Argonaute 2 (Ago2) enzyme and native and chemically modified RNA oligonucleotides. EMSA‐based equilibrium constants are compared to those determined with isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Advantages and limitations of this simple EMSA are discussed by comparing it to other techniques used for determination of equilibrium constants of protein‐RNA interactions, and a troubleshooting guide is provided. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Organic farming at local and landscape scales fosters biological pest control in vineyards
Authors: Muneret Lucile , Auriol Arthur , Thiéry Denis , Rusch Adrien 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWhile organic farming practices, which are often promoted as models of ecological intensification, generally enhance biodiversity, their effects on the delivery of ecosystem services, such as biological pest control, are still unknown. Here, using a multi‐scale hierarchical design in southwestern France, we examined the effects of organic farming and seminatural habitats at the local and landscape scales on biological control services of three pests, including weeds and insects, in 42 vineyards. Organic farming at the local and landscape scales was beneficial to the mean and temporal stability of biological control services, while the proportion of seminatural habitats in the landscape reduced the level of biological pest control potential. The effects of organic farming and seminatural habitats across spatial scales varied with the type of prey considered and with time. Egg moth removal rates were higher in fields under organic management compared to conventional management while weed seed removal rates increased with the proportion of organic farming in the landscape. Larval removal rates as well as seed removal rates were always more stable within time in organic fields than in conventional fields. Moreover, independently of farming system type, local variables describing the agricultural management intensity, such as pesticide use or crop productivity, were also found to be important variables explaining levels of biological control services. Pesticide use tended to reduce biological control potential, while crop productivity was associated with contrasting biological control responses depending on the pest type. Our study demonstrates the need to target multiple spatial scales and to consider farming practices, as well as the proportion of seminatural habitats, to design functional landscapes that optimize biological pest control services.
The effects of a stressed inshore urban reef on coral recruitment in Suva Harbour, Fiji
Authors: Lal Ronal , Kininmonth Stuart , N’Yeurt Antoine D. R. , Riley Ralph H. , Rico Ciro 
Published: November 2018

AbstractA relic inshore reef ecosystem adjacent to the Fijian capital of Suva and another remote inshore reef were monitored monthly from July 2014 to July 2015 for coral recruitment, sedimentation rates, coral cover, temperature, and light intensity. Despite a major sewage spill in Suva Harbour in December 2014, the municipal inshore site exposed to constant anthropogenic activity, recorded no significant differences in coral spat abundance (except for the family Poritidae) on artificial substrata compared to the remote inshore site. Total yearly spat abundance was 106 on municipal reef and 132 on remote reef, while average daily sediment trap collection rates (g cm2/day) were significantly higher in the municipal site for the entire duration of monitoring. Total annual particulate organic matter content in sediment was also significantly higher in the municipal site (107.51 g cm2), compared to the remote site (43.37 g cm2). Mean light intensity was significantly lower for the municipal site (69.81 lum/ft2) compared to the remote site (239.26 lum/ft2), with Photosynthetically Active Radiation also lower for the former (800–1,066.66 µmol m−2 s−1) compared to the latter (3,266.66–3,600 µmol m−2 s−1). The lack of significant differences in coral spat recruitment rates suggests that settling larvae may be unable to distinguish between sub‐optimal and optimal sites probably as a consequence of interference with coral settlement cues arising from anthropogenic development.
Potential of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance for a Discriminant Characterization of PDO VOOs
Authors: del Caño‐Ochoa Sofía , Ruiz‐Aracama Ainhoa , Guillén Lorén María D. 
Published: November 2018

Interest in virgin olive oil (VOO) is growing among consumers and industry due to its well‐received sensorial attributes and to its higher oxidative stability, as well as to its positive health effects. Furthermore, attention is being increasingly paid to other quality attributes of VOO, such as sustainability and geographical origin. For these reasons, this oil has an important added value and is exposed to fraudulent practices. In order to guarantee its origin, the European Union (EU) has developed the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) quality scheme that links the characteristics of a VOO to its geographical origin. In recent years attempts to develop tools that enable the authentication of PDO‐labeled VOOs are carried out. In this regard, studies using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) to this aim are here reviewed.Practical Applications: Due to the added value of PDO VOOs, their authentication is of great importance for administration, consumers and producers. The studies in which NMR spectroscopy has been used to this aim are analyzed here. In this context, this review provides a view of the state of the art that can be of practical interest not only for the researchers of the subject but also for the aforementioned groups.Approaches based on NMR spectroscopic data combined with different statistical analysis are used to develop predictive models with the aim of discriminating PDO VOOs from non‐PDO oils, or even to discriminate a VOO from a certain PDO from other different PDO oils.
Diversity Assessment of Algerian Wild and Cultivated Olives (Olea europeae L.) by Molecular, Morphological, and Chemical Traits
Authors: Boucheffa Saliha , Tamendjari Abderezak , Sanchez‐Gimeno Ana Cristina , Rovellini Pierangela , Venturini Stefania , di Rienzo Valentina , Miazzi Monica Marilena , Montemurro Cinzia 
Published: November 2018

Algeria has several genetic resources on olive trees, mainly made up of small indigenous cultivars, and a very important wild heritage. Twenty olive samples including eight cultivars and twelve wild trees from the province of Bejaia (Algeria) are characterized, by combining molecular data (13 SSRs), fruit and pit morphological traits, fatty acids composition, and phenolic compounds of the extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs). The genetic results based on PCoA, UPGMA, and AMOVA analyses demonstrate that olive cultivars and wild trees are mixed, suggesting kinship relationships between cultivated and wild olive trees and even cases of synonymy between some cultivars. PCA analysis on morphological traits shows a good separation of the two olive botanical varieties, the wild olive trees producing smaller fruits than those of the cultivated ones. Significant differences are also found in terms of fatty acids and phenol compounds composition of the EVOOs. Wild olive oils show the highest contents on phenolic compounds, mainly oleocanthal, as well as a considerable richness on oleic acid. The comparison of pairwise distances between olive trees obtained by genetic, morphological, fatty acids and phenolic compounds contents data using Mantel's test indicates a significant correlation among morphological characteristics, DNA polymorphism, and phenolic compounds. The results obtained in the present work contribute to reveal the diversity existing in the cultivated and wild olive trees of the region of Bejaia, shedding some light on the importance of Algerian olives germplasm.Practical Applications: Cultivated and wild olive diversity are assessed by genetic, morphological, fatty acids and phenolic composition. SSR marker analysis demonstrates the presence of a high genetic variation between the analyzed samples. A significant correlation of morphological characteristics with DNA polymorphism and phenolic compounds is found. A significant diversity in the wild and cultivated olive trees is observed.Kinship relationships between wild and cultivated Algerian olive trees are demonstrated using SSR markers, while the morphological parameters allow a good distinction between the two taxa. Significant differences are found for fatty acids and phenol compounds composition for the EVOOs; the wild olive oils present an interesting composition compared to the cultivated form.
Choosing goals that express the true self: A novel mechanism of the effect of self‐control on goal attainment
Authors: Stavrova Olga , Pronk Tila , Kokkoris Michail D. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWhy is trait self‐control associated with successful goal progress? Existing research has attempted to answer this question by focusing on individual differences in the process of goal pursuit. Herein, we propose and test a novel mechanism suggesting that self‐control facilitates goal attainment not only by affecting the process of goal pursuit but also the type of goals people select in the first place. Three studies showed that high (vs. low) self‐control individuals are more likely to report successful goal attainment and this association was mediated by their tendency to select the goals that reflect their true/authentic self. These results were obtained using cross‐sectional and longitudinal designs and were robust against controlling for previously established mechanisms of the effect of trait self‐control on goal attainment (habit strength, experiences of goal‐conflicting desires). Overall, there findings contribute to the literatures on self‐regulation, authenticity and goal management.