bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Interface Manipulation to Improve Plasmon‐Coupled Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting on α‐Fe2O3 Photoanodes
Authors: Xu Zhe , Fan Zhongwen , Shi Zhan , Li Mengyu , Feng Jianyong , Pei Lang , Zhou Chenguang , Zhou Junkang , Yang Lingxia , Li Wenchao , Xu Guangzhou , Yan Shicheng , Zou Zhigang 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThe plasmon resonance effect of metal nanoparticles (NPs) offers a promising route to improve the solar energy conversion efficiency of semiconductors. In this study, it is revealed that hot electrons generated by the plasmon resonance effect of Au NPs tend to inject into the surface states instead of the conduction band of Fe2O3 photoanodes, and then severe surface recombination occurs. Such an electron‐transfer process seems to be independent of external applied potentials, but is sensitive to metal–semiconductor interface properties. Passivating the surface states of Fe2O3 with a noncatalytic Al2O3 layer can construct an effective resonant energy‐transfer interface between Ti‐doped Fe2O3 (Ti‐Fe2O3) and Au NPs. In such a Ti‐Fe2O3/Al2O3/Au electrode configuration, the enhanced photoelectrochemical (PEC) water‐splitting performance can be attributed to the following two factors: 1) in the non‐light‐responsive wavelength range of Au NPs, both the relaxing Fermi pinning effect of the Al2O3 passivation layer and the higher work function of Au enlarge band bending; thus promoting the charge separation; and 2) in the light‐responsive wavelength range of Au NPs, the effective resonant energy transfer contributes to light harvesting and conversion. The interface manipulation proposed herein may provide a new route to design efficient plasmonic PEC devices for energy conversion.
Rapid comparative immunophenotyping of human mesenchymal stromal cells by a modified fluorescent cell barcoding flow cytometric assay
Authors: Lekishvili Tamara , Campbell Jonathan J. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractFlow cytometry immunophenotyping is a sensitive technique allowing rapid characterization of single cells within heterogeneous populations, but it includes several subjective steps during sample analysis that impact the development of standardized methodology. Proposed strategies to overcome these limitations include fluorescent cell barcoding (FCB), which facilitates multiplexed sample evaluation with increased data reproducibility whilst reducing labeling variation, materials, and time. To date, the FCB assay has found utility for analyzing the phosphorylation status of intracellular targets but has not been intensively employed for cellular immunophenotypic analyses using cell surface markers. In this study we developed a modified FCB assay for multiplexed analysis of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) to evaluate the quality of these cells during bioprocessing. A panel of fluorochrome‐conjugated antibodies was used to target 15 ubiquitously expressed or stage‐specific markers together with a fixable viability dye eFluor 506 acting as the cell barcoding agent. Critical technical considerations and validation steps were presented in the context of monitoring hMSC status, defined by generic, and specific surface markers for cell identity and quality. It was found that at discrete passages, inter‐analyst expression patterns between hMSCs cultures were similar, but in contrast, diverse marker expression was evident between passages. A side‐by‐side analysis of barcoded and non‐barcoded cells demonstrated the potential of this technique for the rapid phenotypic characterization of cells exposed to different bioprocessing conditions. Additionally, the method incorporates fewer subjective factors; including sample preparation and instrument day‐to‐day variations and is customizable across a diversity of cell types. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Cultivar mixtures: a meta‐analysis of the effect of intraspecific diversity on crop yield
Authors: Reiss Emily R. , Drinkwater Laurie E. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractExtensive research has shown that greater plant community diversity leads to higher levels of productivity and other ecosystem services, and such increased diversity has been suggested as a way to improve yield and agricultural sustainability. Increasing intraspecific diversity with cultivar mixtures is one way to increase diversity in agricultural systems. We examined the relationship between intraspecific diversity and yield in cultivar mixtures using a meta‐analysis of 91 studies and >3,600 observations. Additionally, we investigated how environmental and management factors might influence this relationship, and if the yield stability of cultivar mixtures differed from that of monocultures. We found that the yield increased by 2.2% overall in cultivar mixtures relative to their monoculture components. Mixtures with more cultivars and those with more functional trait diversity showed higher relative yields. Under biotic stressors, such as disease pressure, and abiotic stressors, such as low levels of soil organic matter and nutrient availability, this diversity effect was stronger, resulting in higher relative yields. Finally, cultivar mixtures generally showed higher yield stability compared to monocultures, especially in response to annual weather variability at a site over time. This practice of mixing cultivars can be integrated into intensified cropping systems where species monocultures dominate, as well as in smallholder cropping systems where low‐cost improvements are in demand. Overall, these results suggest that cultivar mixtures are a viable strategy to increase diversity in agroecosystems, promoting increased yield and yield stability, with minimal environmental impact.
Cumulative effects of climate and landscape change drive spatial distribution of Rocky Mountain wolverine (Gulo guloL.)
Authors: Heim Nicole , Fisher Jason T. , Clevenger Anthony , Paczkowski John , Volpe John 
Published: September 2017

AbstractContemporary landscapes are subject to a multitude of human‐derived stressors. Effects of such stressors are increasingly realized by population declines and large‐scale extirpation of taxa worldwide. Most notably, cumulative effects of climate and landscape change can limit species’ local adaptation and dispersal capabilities, thereby reducing realized niche space and range extent. Resolving the cumulative effects of multiple stressors on species persistence is a pressing challenge in ecology, especially for declining species. For example, wolverines (Gulo guloL.) persist on only 40% of their historic North American range. While climate change has been shown to be a mechanism of range retractions, anthropogenic landscape disturbance has been recently implicated. We hypothesized these two interact to effect declines. We surveyed wolverine occurrence using camera trapping and genetic tagging at 104 sites at the wolverine range edge, spanning a 15,000 km2gradient of climate, topographic, anthropogenic, and biotic variables. We used occupancy and generalized linear models to disentangle the factors explaining wolverine distribution. Persistent spring snow pack—expected to decrease with climate change—was a significant predictor, but so was anthropogenic landscape change. Canid mesocarnivores, which we hypothesize are competitors supported by anthropogenic landscape change, had comparatively weaker effect. Wolverine population declines and range shifts likely result from climate change and landscape change operating in tandem. We contend that similar results are likely for many species and that research that simultaneously examines climate change, landscape change, and the biotic landscape is warranted. Ecology research and species conservation plans that address these interactions are more likely to meet their objectives.
Genetic diversity, population structure, and traditional culture of Camellia reticulata
Authors: Xin Tong , Huang Weijuan , De Riek Jan , Zhang Shuang , Ahmed Selena , Van Huylenbroeck Johan , Long Chunlin 
Published: September 2017

AbstractCamellia reticulata is an arbor tree that has been cultivated in southwestern China by various sociolinguistic groups for esthetic purposes as well as to derive an edible seed oil. This study examined the influence of management, socio‐economic factors, and religion on the genetic diversity patterns of Camellia reticulata utilizing a combination of ethnobotanical and molecular genetic approaches. Semi‐structured interviews and key informant interviews were carried out with local communities in China's Yunnan Province. We collected plant material (n = 190 individuals) from five populations at study sites using single‐dose AFLP markers in order to access the genetic diversity within and between populations. A total of 387 DNA fragments were produced by four AFLP primer sets. All DNA fragments were found to be polymorphic (100%). A relatively high level of genetic diversity was revealed in C. reticulata samples at both the species (Hsp = 0.3397, Isp = 0.5236) and population (percentage of polymorphic loci = 85.63%, Hpop = 0.2937, Ipop = 0.4421) levels. Findings further revealed a relatively high degree of genetic diversity within C. reticulata populations (Analysis of Molecular Variance = 96.31%). The higher genetic diversity within populations than among populations of C. reticulata from different geographies is likely due to the cultural and social influences associated with its long cultivation history for esthetic and culinary purposes by diverse sociolinguistic groups. This study highlights the influence of human management, socio‐economic factors, and other cultural variables on the genetic and morphological diversity of C. reticulata at a regional level. Findings emphasize the important role of traditional culture on the conservation and utilization of plant genetic diversity.
Unsuccessful introduced biocontrol agents can act as pollinators of invasive weeds: Bitou Bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp. rotundata) as an example
Authors: Gross Caroline L. , Whitehead Joshua D. , Silveira de Souza Camila , Mackay David 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThe extent of self‐compatibility and reliance on pollinators for seed set are critical determinants of reproductive success in invasive plant species. Seed herbivores are commonly used as biocontrol agents but may also act as flower visitors, potentially resulting in pollination. However, such contrasting or potentially counterproductive interaction effects are rarely considered or evaluated for biological control programs. We investigated the breeding system and pollinators of Bitou Bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp. rotundata), an invasive species in Australia that has been the subject of biocontrol programs since 1987. We found the species to be obligate outcrossing in all six populations tested. From 150 video hours, we found 21 species of potential pollinators, including Mesoclanis polana, the Bitou Seedfly, native to South Africa and released in Australia as a biocontrol agent in 1996. Mesoclanis polana transferred pollen to stigmas and was the most common pollinator (52% of pollinator visits), followed by the syrphid fly Simosyrphus grandicornis (9%) and introduced honeybee, Apis mellifera (6.5%). Fruit‐to‐flower ratios ranged from 0.12 to 0.45 and were highest in the population with the greatest proportion of Mesoclanis polana visits. In an experimental trial, outside the naturalized range, the native bee Homalictus sphecodoides and the native syrphid Melangyna viridiceps were the primary pollinators, and fruit‐to‐flower ratios were 0.35, indicating that Bitou Bush would have ready pollinators if its range expanded inland. Synthesis. Invasive Bitou Bush requires pollinators, and this is effected by a range of generalist pollinators in eastern Australia including the Bitou Seedfly, introduced as a biocontrol agent, and the major pollinator detected in this study. Fruit‐to‐flower ratios were highest when the Bitou Seedfly was in high abundance. This study underscores the importance of evaluating the pollination biology of invasive species in their native ranges and prior to the introduction of biocontrol agents.
Production of MLM Type Structured Lipids From Grapeseed Oil Catalyzed by Non‐Commercial Lipases
Authors: Costa Carolina M. , Osório Natália M. , Canet Albert , Rivera Ivanna , Sandoval Georgina , Valero Francisco , Ferreira‐Dias Suzana 
Published: September 2017

Low calorie triacylglycerols (TAG) presenting medium‐chain fatty acids (M) at positions sn‐1,3 and long‐chain fatty acids (L) at position sn‐2 are known as MLM. This study aims at the production of MLM by acidolysis of grapeseed oil with medium‐chain caprylic (C8:0) or capric (C10:0) acids. Grapeseed oil is used as source of long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (FAs), especially linoleic acid, at sn‐2 position in TAG. Reactions are performed in batch, in solvent‐free systems, during 48 h. Novel non‐commercial sn‐1,3 regioselective lipases are used as alternative to high‐cost commercial biocatalysts, namely, the heterologous lipase from Rhizopus oryzae (rROL) immobilized in Amberlite™ IRA 96 and Carica papaya lipase (CPL) self‐immobilized in papaya latex. The highest productions of new TAG are achieved at 40 °C, molar ratio TAG:M of 1:2, after 48 h, with both biocatalysts, with yields varying between 38 and 69%. rROL immobilized in Amberlite IRA 96 shows a preference toward caprylic acid while CPL shows no preference toward caprylic or capric acid. First‐order deactivation kinetics is observed for both biocatalysts. Half‐lives at 40 °C are 166 and 118 h for rROL and 96 and 81 h for CPL, in the acidolysis of grapeseed oil with C8:0 or C10:0, respectively.Practical Applications: Grapeseeds of Vitis vinifera L. are a by‐product of the wine industry. Using grapeseed oil to produce added‐value functional oils rich in linoleic acid (essential fatty acid) may be a way of improving the revenues of the enological and oil sectors. Both lipases, and mainly Carica papaya lipase self‐immobilized in papaya latex, due to its low‐cost production and easy preparation, are promising non‐commercial biocatalysts for the synthesis of MLM in solvent‐free media. The use of a solvent‐free system, in addition of being a green option, is also preferred for economic reasons, avoiding the costs with solvent and solvent recovery. Also, the use of the stoichiometric molar ratio TAG:M of 1:2 will 1) decrease costs related with the recovery and reutilization of medium chain fatty acids in excess, product recovery and purification, and 2) avoid biocatalyst deactivation by high amounts of free fatty acids in reaction media.Both Carica papaya lipase (CPL) self‐immobilized in papaya latex and rROL in Amberlite IRA 96 catalyze the synthesis of MLM from grapeseed oil in solvent‐free medium. The highest productions of new TAG are achieved at 40 °C, molar ratio TAG:M of 1:2, after 48 h, with both biocatalysts, with yields varying between 38 and 69%. rROL immobilized in Amberlite IRA96 shows a preference toward caprylic acid while CPL shows no preference toward caprylic or capric acid.
Model for multiblock columns subjected to base excitation
Authors: Ther Tamás , Kollár László P. 
Published: September 2017

SummaryA new model is presented for multiblock columns subjected to earthquakes, which contains an impact and an opening model. Both in the impact and in the opening model, all the possible opening configurations are investigated because it was found that in many practical cases, unexpected patterns may occur. The model is purely mechanical: assuming rigid blocks and classical (inelastic) impact. The effect of energy dissipation during impact was investigated. Using our model in accordance with the literature, it was found that monolithic blocks are more vulnerable to overturning than multiblock systems.
Human mesenchymal factors induce rat hippocampal‐ and human neural stem cell dependent oligodendrogenesis
Authors: Jadasz Janusz J. , Tepe Lena , Beyer Felix , Samper Agrelo Iria , Akkermann Rainer , Spitzhorn Lucas‐Sebastian , Silva Maria Elena , Oreffo Richard O. C. , Hartung Hans‐Peter , Prigione Alessandro , Rivera Francisco J. , Adjaye James , Küry Patrick 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThe generation of new oligodendrocytes is essential for adult brain repair in diseases such as multiple sclerosis. We previously identified the multifunctional p57kip2 protein as a negative regulator of myelinating glial cell differentiation and as an intrinsic switch of glial fate decision in adult neural stem cells (aNSCs). In oligodendroglial precursor cells (OPCs), p57kip2 protein nuclear exclusion was recently found to be rate limiting for differentiation to proceed. Furthermore, stimulation with mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)‐derived factors enhanced oligodendrogenesis by yet unknown mechanisms. To elucidate this instructive interaction, we investigated to what degree MSC secreted factors are species dependent, whether hippocampal aNSCs respond equally well to such stimuli, whether apart from oligodendroglial differentiation also tissue integration and axonal wrapping can be promoted and whether the oligodendrogenic effect involved subcellular translocation of p57kip2. We found that CC1 positive oligodendrocytes within the hilus express nuclear p57kip2 protein and that MSC dependent stimulation of cultured hippocampal aNSCs was not accompanied by nuclear p57kip2 exclusion as observed for parenchymal OPCs after spontaneous differentiation. Stimulation with human MSC factors was observed to equally promote rat stem cell oligodendrogenesis, axonal wrapping and tissue integration. As forced nuclear shuttling of p57kip2 led to decreased CNPase‐ but elevated GFAP expression levels, this indicates heterogenic oligodendroglial mechanisms occurring between OPCs and aNSCs. We also show for the first time that dominant pro‐oligodendroglial factors derived from human fetal MSCs can instruct human induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived NSCs to differentiate into O4 positive oligodendrocytes.
Prevalence of conscientious objection to legal abortion among clinicians in northern Ghana
Authors: Awoonor‐Williams John K. , Baffoe Peter , Ayivor Philip K. , Fofie Chris , Desai Sheila , Chavkin Wendy 
Published: September 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of conscientious objection (CO), motivations, knowledge of Ghana's abortion law, attitudes, and behaviors toward abortion provision among medical providers in northern Ghana, and measures to regulate CO.MethodsBetween June and November 2015, the present cross‐sectional survey‐based descriptive study measured prevalence, knowledge, and attitudes about CO among 213 eligible health practitioners who were trained in abortion provision and working in hospital facilities in northern Ghana. Results were stratified by facility ownership and provider type.ResultsApproximately half (94/213, 44.1%) of trained providers reported that they were currently providing abortions. The overall prevalence of self‐identified and hypothetical objection was 37.9% and 33.8%, respectively. Among 87 physicians, 37 (42.5%) and 39 (44.8%) were categorized as self‐identified and hypothetical objectors, respectively. Among 126 midwives, nurses, and physician assistants, 43 (34.7%) and 33 (26.2%) were coded as self‐identified and hypothetical objectors, respectively. A high proportion of providers reported familiarity with Ghana's abortion law and supported regulation of CO.ConclusionCO based on moral and religious grounds is prevalent in northern Ghana. Providers indicated an acceptance of policies and guidelines that would regulate its application to reduce the burden that CO poses for women seeking abortion services.
Colorectal wall regeneration resulting from the association of chitosan hydrogel and stromal vascular fraction from adipose tissue
Authors: Denost Quentin , Pontallier Arnaud , Buscail Etienne , Montembault Alexandra , Bareille Reine , Siadous Robin , Durand Marlene , Delmond Samantha , David Laurent , Bordenave Laurence 
Published: September 2017

AbstractChitosan hydrogel and adipose derived stem cells (ADCS) have been reported as the optimal partnership for colorectal tissue engineering. In that field, the aim of the current experiment was to assess the interest of seeding ADSC on chitosan hydrogel patches in an in vivo comparative study and on a tube intended replace a colonic segment in an in vivo feasibility study. In the comparative study, a 2 × 3 cm colonic wall defect was performed in 20 swine and repaired by suturing a chitosan hydrogel patch: acellular matrix (group A, n = 10) versus matrix seeded with autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) (group B, n = 10). In the feasibility study, a circular colonic section was performed and a 2‐cm‐length chitosan hydrogel tube (seeded with autologous SVF) was implanted between the two edges of the colon in 3 pigs. Graft areas were explanted at 8 weeks for examinations. Endpoints were technical feasibility, fibrosis ratio, and smooth muscle layer regeneration. A complete coverage of the patched area was observed with an ad integrum regeneration of the colonic wall including smooth muscle cells layer around a thin fibrosis scare. Fibrosis ratio was significantly lower group B: 13% versus 55% (p = 0.013). Segmental colonic replacement appeared accurate. Our data confirmed in a large animal model the healing effect of chitosan on colorectal tissue. The very low rate of the fibrosis ratio in the cellularized group emphasizes inflammatory control effect of the chitosan hydrogel and SVF association. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 460–467, 2018.
Simple strategy for sensitive detection of dopamine using CdTe QDs modified glassy carbon electrode
Authors: Yu Hong‐wei , Zhang Ze , Jiang Jing‐hui , Pan Hong‐zhi , Chang Dong 
Published: September 2017

BackgroundCellular and brain metabolism of dopamine can be correlated with a number of neurodegenerative disorders, our study was to explore a simple and efficient method to detect dopamine in real samples.MethodsA new quantum dots (CdTe QDs) could be prepared using the hydrothermal method, the electrochemical biosensor was established by dropping CdTe QDs on the surface of glassy carbon electrode (GCE).ResultsThe CdTe QDs/GCE exhibited the excellent electrochemical catalytic activity toward dopamine (DA) with good stability and high sensitivity in presence of interfering substances. The detection limit of DA was calculated by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) as low as 0.3 μmol L−1 with a linear dynamic range of 1 μmol L−1 to 400 μmol L−1.ConclusionIn this paper, the proposed electrochemical biosensor could be effectively used for the direct and rapid detection of DA in human serum and urine samples.