bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nematode‐trapping fungi and fungus‐associated bacteria interactions: the role of bacterial diketopiperazines and biofilms on Arthrobotrys oligospora surface in hyphal morphogenesis
Authors: Li Lei , Yang Min , Luo Jun , Qu Qing , Chen Ying , Liang Lianming , Zhang Keqin
Published: May 2016

In soil, nematode‐trapping fungi and bacteria often share microhabitats and interact with each other, but effects of fungus‐associated bacteria on its trap formation are underestimated. We have ascertained the presence of Stenotrophomonas and Rhizobium genera associated with A. oligospora GJ‐1. After A. oligospora GJ‐1 without associated bacteria (cured Arthrobotrys) was co‐cultivated with Stenotrophomonas and its supernatant extract, microscopic study of hyphae from co‐cultivation indicated that bacterial biofilm formation on hyphae was related to trap formation in fungi and Stenotrophomonas supernatant extract. Four diketopiperazines (DKPs) were purified from Stenotrophomonas supernatant extract that could not induce traps in the cured Arthrobotrys. When cured Arthrobotrys was cultured with Stenotrophomonas and one of DKPs, polar attachment, bacterial biofilms on hyphae and trap formation in fungi were observed. After cured Arthrobotrys with bacterial biofilms was consecutively transferred several times on nutrient poor medium, trap formation disappeared with the disappearance of bacterial biofilms on hyphae. DKPs could facilitate chemotaxis of Stenotrophomonas towards fungal extract which was suggested to contribute to bacterial biofilms on hyphae. Furthermore, when cured Arthrobotrys was cultured with Stenotrophomonas and DKPs in soil, trap formation in fungi and bacterial biofilms on hyphae were also observed, and the fungal activity against nematode was enhanced.
Tree species, spatial heterogeneity, and seasonality drive soil fungal abundance, richness, and composition in Neotropical rainforests
Authors: Kivlin Stephanie N. , Hawkes Christine V.
Published: May 2016

Tropical ecosystems remain poorly understood and this is particularly true for belowground soil fungi. Soil fungi may respond to plant identity when, for example, plants differentially allocate resources belowground. However, spatial and temporal heterogeneity in factors such as plant inputs, moisture, or nutrients can also affect fungal communities and obscure our ability to detect plant effects in single time point studies or within diverse forests. To address this, we sampled replicated monocultures of four tree species and secondary forest controls sampled in the drier and wetter seasons over 2 years. Fungal community composition was primarily related to vegetation type and spatial heterogeneity in the effects of vegetation type, with increasing divergence partly reflecting greater differences in soil pH and soil moisture. Across wetter versus drier dates, fungi were 7% less diverse, but up to four‐fold more abundant. The combined effects of tree species and seasonality suggest that predicted losses of tropical tree diversity and intensification of drought have the potential to cascade belowground to affect both diversity and abundance of tropical soil fungi.
Insights into the biodiversity of the gut microbiota of broiler chickens
Authors: Mancabelli Leonardo , Ferrario Chiara , Milani Christian , Mangifesta Marta , Turroni Francesca , Duranti Sabrina , Lugli Gabriele Andrea , Viappiani Alice , Ossiprandi Maria Cristina , van Sinderen Douwe , Ventura Marco
Published: May 2016

The gastrointestinal tract of poultry is densely populated with microorganisms, which are presumed to interact with the host and ingested feed. Comparison of the gut microbiota of chickens used for large‐scale commercial production (Broiler Chicken, BC) and those grown in semi‐wild conditions (Free‐Range Chicken, FRC) revealed that at phylum level Firmicutes was the dominant phylum of the gut community in BC, while the gut microbiota of FRC contained higher levels of Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria. Such differences may be due to the diet and/or the intensive use of antibiotics in BC. Indeed, analysis of the resistome of the cecal microbiomes showed a marked richness in BC datasets, with a modulation of the cecal microbiota toward antibiotic resistant bacteria. Functional characterization of the microbiome of FRC samples revealed an increase in gene pathways involved in degradation of complex carbohydrates. Furthermore, in silico analyses of the microbiomes of FRC and BC revealed a higher presence in genes involved in formate production in BC samples. Notably, compared to the BC microbiomes the FRC microbiomes were shown to contain a higher abundance of genes involved in the pathway for acetate production.
Phosphate and ATP uptake by lake bacteria: does taxonomical identity matter?
Authors: Rofner Carina , Sommaruga Ruben , Teresa Pérez María
Published: May 2016

Phosphorus often limits bacterial production in freshwater ecosystems. However, little is known on whether different bacteria contribute to inorganic and organic phosphorus uptake proportionally to their relative abundance and production. Here, we followed the temporal dynamics of the main heterotrophic bacterial taxa taking up inorganic phosphate (33P‐Pi) and organic phosphorus (33P‐ATP) in two mountain lakes and compared them to their contribution to bacterial production (3H‐leucine uptake). The short turnover times for Pi and ATP suggested that in both lakes, phosphorus was limiting most of the year. The bulk uptake rates and the fractions of cells labelled positive for Pi and ATP uptake followed a seasonal trend with minima in winter and maxima in summer. Generally, the bacterial taxa examined contributed to Pi and ATP uptake proportionally to their relative abundance, but not always to their contribution to bacterial production. For instance, AcI Actinobacteria were often underrepresented in phosphorus uptake compared with leucine incorporation suggesting they might have high intracellular C:P ratios. Our results emphasize that ATP utilization is widespread among freshwater bacteria and indicate that members within the dominant bacterial taxa (Actinobacteria and Betaproteobacteria) have variable phosphorus requirements, probably due to their different growth potential and variable degrees of homeostasis.
Changes in the speed of ants as a result of aggressive interactions
Authors: Ślipiński Piotr , Żmihorski Michał
Published: May 2016

Subordinate ant species utilize different tactics to reduce competition with the stronger, larger and more aggressive individuals of a dominant species. In our experimental study, we assessed the behavioral response of individual workers of 4 subordinate ant species during their co‐occurrence with workers of a single dominant species. Contrary to most classical experiments focused on aggressive interactions, we assessed workers’ speed as a crucial factor in the outcome of co‐occurrence. Generally, there was a large intraspecific variation in the speed of the studied species—each had slow and fast individuals. Workers of all studied species moved faster just after interaction, suggesting that contact between 2 hostile workers is a stressful stimulus, generating a behavioral reaction of increasing speed. Also, the number of aggressive contacts experienced by a given individual positively affected its speed. Moreover, workers which were fast when exploring territory were also fast after interspecific interactions. The duration of aggression was significantly reduced by the speed and body size of a subordinate species worker—the more quickly a worker reacted and bigger it was, the shorter was the time of cumulative aggression. To our knowledge, this is the first study of this type to be conducted on ants and we conclude that speed is an overlooked and important characteristic of species and also individuals, therefore it should be considered as a driver of patterns of co‐occurrence in ant assemblages.
Diastolic Hypotension, Troponin Elevation, and Electrocardiographic Changes Associated With the Management of Moderate to Severe Asthma in Children
Authors: Fagbuyi Daniel B. , Venkataraman Shekhar , Ralphe J. Carter , Zuckerbraun Noel S. , Pitetti Raymond D. , Lin Yan , Jeong Kwonho , Saladino Richard A. , Manole Mioara D.
Published: May 2016

Objective

The objective was to determine the occurrence of, and the factors associated with, diastolic hypotension and troponin elevation or electrocardiogram (ECG) ST‐segment changes in a convenience sample of children with moderate to severe asthma receiving continuous albuterol nebulization.

Methods

This was a prospective, descriptive study in a pediatric emergency department and an intensive care unit of a tertiary academic center. Fifty children with moderate to severe asthma (clinical asthma score > 8) who received 10 to 15 mg/hour continuous albuterol for >2 hours between June 5, 2007, and February 4, 2008, were approached. Hourly diastolic blood pressures were recorded. Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and ECG tracings were obtained following the first 2 hours of albuterol and then subsequently every 12 hours while receiving continuous albuterol. Main outcome measures were: 1) incidence of diastolic hypotension, 2) incidence of troponin elevation, and 3) incidence of ECG ST‐depression.

Results

Fifty patients were enrolled. Thirty‐three (66%) patients developed diastolic hypotension during the first 6 hours of continuous albuterol. Diastolic blood pressure declined from baseline at 1–6 hours (p < 0.01 vs. baseline). Twelve patients (24%) had elevated cTnI, 15 patients (30%) had ST‐segment change, four patients (8%) had both, and 23 patients (46%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 32 to 60) had either a cTnI elevation or an ECG ST‐segment change. Troponin elevation and diastolic hypotension were not associated (RR = 1.2, 95% CI = 0.6 to 2.3).

Conclusions

In a subset of children with moderate to severe asthma, diastolic hypotension, troponin elevation, and ECG ST‐segment change occur during administration of continuous albuterol. Future studies are necessary to determine the clinical significance of these findings.
Associations Between Cerebellar Subregional Morphometry and Alcoholism History in Men and Women
Authors: Sawyer Kayle S. , Oscar‐Berman Marlene , Mosher Ruiz Susan , Gálvez Daniel A. , Makris Nikos , Harris Gordon J. , Valera Eve M.
Published: May 2016

Background

Alcoholism has been linked to deficits in cognitive, behavioral, and emotional functions, and the cerebellum is important for optimal functioning of these abilities. However, little is known about how individual differences such as gender and drinking history might influence regional cerebellar abnormalities.

Methods

Volumetric analyses of the cerebellum and its subregions were performed in relation to the interaction of gender and measures of drinking history. Structural magnetic resonance imaging scans of 44 alcoholic individuals (23 men) and 39 nonalcoholic controls (18 men) were obtained. In addition to measuring total cerebellar gray and white matter volumes, we measured 64 individual cerebellar parcellation units, as well as functionally defined a priori regions of interest that have been shown to correspond to functions impaired in alcoholism.

Results

Total cerebellar white matter volume was smaller in alcoholic relative to nonalcoholic participants. Moreover, volumes of parcellation units varied with drinking history, showing negative associations between years of heavy drinking and the anterior lobe, the vestibulocerebellar lobe, and the spinocerebellar subdivision. The negative association between anterior volume and years of heavy drinking was driven primarily by alcoholic men. Additionally, we observed larger white and gray matter volumes for alcoholic women than for alcoholic men.

Conclusions

The identification of drinking‐related abnormalities in cerebellar subregions lays a foundation that can be utilized to inform how cerebro‐cerebellar networks are perturbed in this pathological condition. These results also provide estimates of how gender and individual differences in drinking history can predict cerebellar volumes.
Hemodynamic aspects of normal human feto‐placental (umbilical) circulation
Authors: Acharya Ganesh , Sonesson Sven‐Erik , Flo Kari , Räsänen Juha , Odibo Anthony
Published: May 2016

Understanding the changes in normal circulatory dynamics that occur during the course of pregnancy is essential for improving our knowledge of pathophysiological mechanisms associated with feto‐placental diseases. The umbilical circulation is the lifeline of the fetus, and it is accessible for noninvasive assessment. However, not all hemodynamic parameters can be reliably measured in utero using currently available technology. Experimental animal studies have been crucial in validating major concepts related to feto‐placental circulatory physiology, but caution is required in directly translating the findings of such studies into humans due to species differences. Furthermore, it is important to establish normal reference ranges and take into account gestational age associated changes while interpreting the results of clinical investigation. Therefore, it is necessary to critically evaluate, synthesize and summarize the knowledge available from the studies performed on human pregnancies to be able to appropriately apply them in clinical practice. This narrative review is an attempt to present contemporary concepts on hemodynamics of feto‐placental circulation based on human studies.
Forward light scatter and visual acuity before and after intrastromal corneal ring segment implantation at different stages of keratoconus
Authors: Puell María Cinta , Carballo‐Álvarez Jesús
Published: May 2016

Purpose

To assess forward light scatter (stray light) before and after intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) implantation at different stages of keratoconus and to examine correlation between postoperative stray light and visual acuity (VA).

Methods

In 27 eyes of 27 subjects with keratoconus, stray light was determined using the compensation comparison technique before and 6 months after ICRS implantation. Monocular corrected distance VA (CDVA) was measured using a high‐contrast logMAR letter chart. Corneal higher‐order aberrations (HOAs), contrast sensitivity (CS) and minimum corneal thickness (CT) were also measured.

Results

Mean CDVA was 0.42 ± 0.28 preoperatively and 0.24 ± 0.15 logMAR postoperatively (p < 0.01). Mean corneal coma‐like aberration decreased postoperatively (RMS 0.55 ± 1.18 μm, p < 0.01). Minimum CT increased 25.31 ± 18.59 μm (p < 0.01). Mean preoperative and postoperative stray light were 1.36 ± 0.31 and 1.48 ± 0.32 log units, respectively (p < 0.01). Mean changes produced in stray light (worsening) were 0.03 ± 0.21 (p > 0.05) for stage I, 0.13 ± 0.14 (p = 0.013) for stage II and 0.18 ± 0.21 (p = 0.023) for stage III. Significant positive correlation (r = 0.47, p = 0.01) was detected between postoperative stray light and postoperative CDVA such that as stray light increased, CDVA worsened (higher logMAR values). Postoperative stray light was neither associated with HOAs, CS nor minimum CT.

Conclusions

Stray light values in these patients with keratoconus were higher than normal preoperatively. In eyes with stage II and III keratoconus, stray light increased 6 months after ICRS placement. Higher postoperative stray light was correlated with a worse visual acuity outcome.
Oleuropein aglycone and polyphenols from olive mill waste water ameliorate cognitive deficits and neuropathology
Authors: Pantano Daniela , Luccarini Ilaria , Nardiello Pamela , Servili Maurizio , Stefani Massimo , Casamenti Fiorella
Published: May 2016

Aim

In TgCRND8 (Tg) mice we checked the dose–response effect of diet supplementation with oleuropein aglycone (OLE) at 12.5 or 0.5 mg kg−1 of diet. We also studied the effects of dietary intake of the mix of polyphenols present in olive mill waste water administered at a total dose as high as the highest dose of OLE (50 mg kg−1 of diet) previously investigated.

Methods

Four month‐old Tg mice were equally divided into four groups and treated for 8 weeks with a modified low fat (5.0%) AIN‐76 A diet (10 g day−1 per mouse) as such, supplemented with OLE (12.5 or 0.5 mg kg−1 of diet) or with a mix of polyphenols (50 mg kg−1 of diet) found in olive mill waste water. Behavioural performance was evaluated by the step down inhibitory avoidance and object recognition tests. Neuropathology was analyzed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

OLE supplementation at 12.5 mg kg−1 of diet and the mix of polyphenols was found to improve significantly cognitive functions of Tg mice (P < 0.0001). Aß42 and pE‐3Aß plaque area and number were significantly reduced in the cortex by OLE and in the cortex and hippocampus by the mix of polyphenols (P < 0.01, P < 0.001 and P < 0.0001). Similar autophagy induction was found in the brain cortex of differently treated mice.

Conclusion

Our results extend previous data showing that the effects of OLE on behavioural performance and neuropathology are dose‐dependent and not closely related to OLE by itself. In fact, diet supplementation with the same dose of a mix of polyphenols found in olive mill waste water resulted in comparable neuroprotection.
Evaluations of moral and conventional intergroup transgressions
Authors: Mulvey Kelly Lynn
Published: May 2016

To investigate children's understanding of intergroup transgressions, children (3–8 years,N = 84) evaluated moral and conventional transgressions that occurred among members of the same gender group (ingroup) or members of different gender groups (outgroup). All participants judged moral transgressions to be more wrong than conventional transgressions. However, when asked to make a judgment after being told an authority figure did not see the transgression, younger participants still judged that moral violations were less acceptable than conventional transgressions, but judged both moral and conventional transgressions with an outgroup victim as more acceptable than the corresponding transgressions with an ingroup victim. Older children did not demonstrate the same ingroup bias; rather they focused only on the domain of the transgressions. The results demonstrate the impact intergroup information has on children's evaluations about both moral and conventional transgressions.
Serious games as a malleable learning medium: The effects of narrative, gameplay, and making on students’ performance and attitudes
Authors: Garneli Varvara , Giannakos Michail , Chorianopoulos Konstantinos
Published: May 2016

Research into educational technology has evaluated new computer‐based systems as tools for improving students’ academic performance and engagement. Serious games should also be considered as an alternative pedagogical medium for attracting students with different needs and expectations. In this field study, we empirically examined different forms of serious‐game use for learning on learning performance and attitudes of eighty 13‐year‐old students in the first grade of middle school. Divided into four groups of 20 students, each group practiced with a maths video game in three ways. The first group played the storytelling maths game, the second played the same game but with no story and the third played and modified the video game. Finally, a control group practised in a paper‐based (traditional) way by solving exercises. Although only minor differences in learning performance were identified, we found significant differences in the attitudes of the students toward learning through the video game. Students who are not motivated by conventional paper‐based assignments might be engaged better with the use of a video game. Our findings suggest that video game pedagogy could provide malleable learning for different groups of students using methods that move beyond the conventional tool‐based approach.

A video abstract of this article can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Kec_mSG-dE.
Interactions and learning outcomes in online language courses
Authors: Lin Chin‐Hsi , Zheng Binbin , Zhang Yining
Published: May 2016

Interactions are the central emphasis in language learning. An increasing number of K‐12 students take courses online, leading some critics to comment that reduced opportunities for interaction may affect learning outcomes. This study examined the relationship between online interactions and learning outcomes for 466 students who were taking high‐school level online language courses in a Midwestern virtual school. Regression analysis was employed to examine how three broad types of interactions, learner‐instructor, learner‐learner and learner‐content (Moore, ), affected students’ perceived progress and satisfaction. After controlling for demographic information, motivation and learning strategies, the results of multiple regression showed that learner‐instructor and learner‐content interactions had significantly positive effects on satisfaction, whereas learner‐learner interaction did not affect satisfaction. Learner‐content interaction was the only factor that affected perceived progress.
Mitogen‐inducible gene‐6 partly mediates the inhibitory effects of prenatal dexamethasone exposure on endochondral ossification in long bones of fetal rats
Authors: Zhang Xianrong , Shang‐Guan Yangfan , Ma Jing , Hu Hang , Wang Linlong , Magdalou Jacques , Chen Liaobin , Wang Hui
Published: May 2016

Background and Purpose

Prenatal exposure to dexamethasone slows down fetal linear growth and bone mineralization but the regulatory mechanism remains unknown. Here we assessed how dexamethasone regulates bone development in the fetus.

Experimental Approach

Dexamethasone (1 mg·kg−1·day−1) was injected subcutaneously every morning in pregnant rats from gestational day (GD)9 to GD20. Fetal femurs and tibias were harvested at GD20 for histological and gene expression analysis. Femurs of 12‐week‐old female offspring were harvested for microCT (μCT) measurement. Primary chondrocytes were treated with dexamethasone (10, 50, 250 and 1000 nM).

Key Results

Prenatal dexamethasone exposure resulted in accumulation of hypertrophic chondrocytes and delayed formation of the primary ossification centre in fetal long bone. The retardation was accompanied by reduced maturation of hypertrophic chondrocytes, decreased osteoclast number and down‐regulated expression of osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein in long bone. In addition, the mitogen‐inducible gene‐6 (Mig6) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression were stimulated, and the receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL) expression was repressed. Moreover, dexamethasone activated OPG and repressed RANKL expression in both primary chondrocytes and primary osteoblasts, and the knockdown of Mig6 abolished the effect of dexamethasone on OPG expression. Further, μCT measurement showed loss of bone mass in femur of 12‐week‐old offspring with prenatal dexamethasone exposure.

Conclusions and Implications

Prenatal dexamethasone exposure delays endochondral ossification by suppressing chondrocyte maturation and osteoclast differentiation, which may be partly mediated by Mig6 activation in bone. Bone development retardation in the fetus may be associated with reduced bone mass in later life.
Functional modulation of glycine receptors by the alkaloid gelsemine
Authors: Lara Cesar O , Murath Pablo , Muñoz Braulio , Marileo Ana M , Martín Loreto San , San Martín Victoria P , Burgos Carlos F , Mariqueo Trinidad A , Aguayo Luis G , Fuentealba Jorge , Godoy Patricio , Guzman Leonardo , Yévenes Gonzalo E
Published: May 2016

Background and Purpose

Gelsemine is one of the principal alkaloids produced by the Gelsemium genus of plants belonging to the Loganiaceae family. The extracts of these plants have been used for many years, for a variety of medicinal purposes. Coincidentally, recent studies have shown that gelsemine exerts anxiolytic and analgesic effects on behavioural models. Several lines of evidence have suggested that these beneficial actions were dependent on glycine receptors, which are inhibitory neurotransmitter‐gated ion channels of the CNS. However, it is currently unknown whether gelsemine can directly modulate the function of glycine receptors.

Experimental Approach

We examined the functional effects of gelsemine on glycine receptors expressed in transfected HEK293 cells and in cultured spinal neurons by electrophysiological techniques.

Key Results

Gelsemine directly modulated recombinant and native glycine receptors and exerted conformation‐specific and subunit‐selective effects. Gelsemine modulation was voltage‐independent and was associated with differential changes in the apparent affinity for glycine and in the open probability of the ion channel. In addition, the alkaloid preferentially targeted glycine receptors in spinal neurons and showed only minor effects on GABAA and AMPA receptors. Furthermore, gelsemine significantly diminished the frequency of glycinergic and glutamatergic synaptic events without altering the amplitude.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results provide a pharmacological basis to explain, at least in part, the glycine receptor‐dependent, beneficial and toxic effects of gelsemine in animals and humans. In addition, the pharmacological profile of gelsemine may open new approaches to the development of subunit‐selective modulators of glycine receptors.
Odontoblasts: Specialized hard‐tissue‐forming cells in the dentin‐pulp complex
Authors: Kawashima Nobuyuki , Okiji Takashi
Published: May 2016

Odontoblasts are specialized cells that produce dentin and exhibit unique morphological characteristics; i.e., they extend cytoplasmic processes into dentinal tubules. While osteoblasts, which are typical hard‐tissue‐forming cells, are generated from mesenchymal stem cells during normal and pathological bone metabolism, the induction of odontoblasts only occurs once during tooth development, and odontoblasts survive throughout the lives of healthy teeth. During the differentiation of odontoblasts, signaling molecules from the inner enamel epithelium are considered necessary for the differentiation of odontoblast precursors, i.e., peripheral dental papilla cells. If odontoblasts are destroyed by severe external stimuli, such as deep caries, the differentiation of dental pulp stem cells into odontoblast‐like cells is induced. Various bioactive molecules, such as non‐collagenous proteins, might be involved in this process, although the precise mechanisms responsible for odontoblast differentiation have not been fully elucidated. Recently, our knowledge about the other functional activities of odontoblasts (apart from dentin formation) has increased. For example, it has been suggested that odontoblasts might act as nociceptive receptors, and surveillance cells that detect the invasion of exogenous pathogens. The regeneration of the dentin‐pulp complex has recently gained much attention as a promising future treatment modality that could increase the longevity of pulpless teeth. Finally, congenital dentin anomalies, which are concerned with the disturbance of odontoblast functions, are summarized.
CD123 immunohistochemistry for plasmacytoid dendritic cells is useful in the diagnosis of scarring alopecia
Authors: Fening Katherine , Parekh Viswas , McKay Kristopher
Published: May 2016

Background

Distinguishing types of lymphocytic scarring alopecia is often difficult because of the overlapping features. Recently, the presence of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) in cutaneous lupus erythematosus (LE) was demonstrated and further shown to help distinguish lupus from other dermatoses.1‐6 This study aims to determine if the presence and distribution of PDCs can aid in the diagnosis of scarring alopecia.

Methods

Cases of scarring alopecia due to chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE), lichen planopilaris (LPP) and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) were examined histopathologically. A total of 45 total biopsies were evaluated and CD123 immunohistochemistry was performed on all samples. The relative percentage of PDCs, the presence of clusters and the distribution of CD123+ cells were noted.

Results

PDCs comprised a greater percentage of the infiltrate and were arranged in clusters in cases of CCLE vs. LPP or CCCA. In CCLE, the location of PDCs was perivascular, perifollicular, perieccrine and/or at the follicular junction. In LPP and CCCA, PDCs were mainly arranged as single, interstitial cells.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the presence and arrangement of CD123+ PDCs may assist in the diagnosis of scarring alopecia. We anticipate this will be of value in diagnosing challenging cases of highly inflammatory scarring alopecia.
Biochar: a potential route for recycling of phosphorus in agricultural residues
Authors: Dai Lichun , Li Hong , Tan Furong , Zhu Nengmin , He Mingxiong , Hu Guoquan
Published: May 2016

Phosphorus (P) is a finite and dwindling resource, while an enormous amount of P flows to agricultural residues with increasing agricultural production. Therefore, the recycling of P in agricultural residues is critical for P sustainability in agricultural systems, which is dominated by the route of direct land application. Biochar production from agricultural residues and its subsequent land application have been suggested as solutions for waste biomass disposal, carbon sequestration, soil amendment/remediation, and crop production promotion. However, little attention has been paid to the contrasting effects of the land application of biochar vs. agricultural residues on the recycling of P accumulated in agricultural residues. Phosphorus in agricultural residues can be retained and transformed into stable forms of P in the resulting biochar. Thus, compared to agricultural residues, biochar provides lower amounts of labile P and releases its P more slowly while providing a long‐lasting P source, and the loss potential of P from biochar is reduced by low mobility of its P, indicating that biochar‐based P recycling route could substantially promote P recycling by acting as sustainable P source and diminishing the loss of P applied to soil.
Association Between Accelerated Multimorbidity and Age‐Related Cognitive Decline in Older Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging Participants without Dementia
Authors: Fabbri Elisa , An Yang , Zoli Marco , Tanaka Toshiko , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Kitner‐Triolo Melissa H. , Studenski Stephanie A. , Resnick Susan M. , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To explore the association between rate of physical health deterioration, operationalized as rising multimorbidity overtime, and longitudinal decline in cognitive function in older adults without dementia.

Design

Longitudinal (Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA)).

Setting

Community.

Participants

BLSA participants aged 65 and older followed for an average of 3 years and free of dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) at baseline and follow‐up (N = 756).

Measurements

Standardized neurocognitive tests evaluating mental status, memory, executive function, processing speed, and verbal fluency were administered. Multimorbidity was assessed at each visit as number of diagnosed chronic diseases from a predefined list. Faster accumulation of chronic diseases was defined as upper quartile of rate of change in number of diseases over time (≥0.25 diseases/year).

Results

Faster accumulation of chronic diseases was significantly associated with greater rate of decline on the Category (P = .01) and Letter (P = .01) Fluency Tests. Similar trends were also found for the Trail‐Making Test Parts A (P = .08) and B (P = .07); no association was found with rate of change in visual and verbal memory.

Conclusion

Although further investigations are required to validate the results and fully understand the underlying mechanisms, these findings suggest that accelerated deterioration of physical health is associated with accelerated decline with aging in specific cognitive domains in older adults without dementia.
Assessment of Glioma Response to Radiotherapy Using Multiple MRI Biomarkers with Manual and Semiautomated Segmentation Algorithms
Authors: Yu Yang , Lee Dong‐Hoon , Peng Shin‐Lei , Zhang Kai , Zhang Yi , Jiang Shanshan , Zhao Xuna , Heo Hye‐Young , Wang Xiangyang , Chen Min , Lu Hanzhang , Li Haiyun , Zhou Jinyuan
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Multimodality magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide complementary information in the assessment of brain tumors. We aimed to segment tumor in amide proton transfer–weighted (APTw) images and to investigate multiparametric MRI biomarkers for the assessment of glioma response to radiotherapy. For tumor extraction, we evaluated a semiautomated segmentation method based on region of interest (ROI) results by comparing it with the manual segmentation method.

METHODS

Thirteen nude rats injected with U87 tumor cells were irradiated by an 8‐Gy radiation dose. All MRI scans were performed on a 4.7‐T animal scanner preradiation, and at day 1, day 4, and day 8 postradiation. Two experts performed manual and semiautomated methods to extract tumor ROIs on APTw images. Multimodality MRI signals of the tumors, including structural (T2 and T1), functional (apparent diffusion coefficient and blood flow), and molecular (APTw and magnetization transfer ratio or MTR), were calculated and compared quantitatively.

RESULTS

The semiautomated method provided more reliable tumor extraction results on APTw images than the manual segmentation, in less time. A considerable increase in the ADC intensities of the tumor was observed during the postradiation. A steady decrease in the blood flow values and in the APTw signal intensities were found after radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The semiautomated method of tumor extraction showed greater efficiency and stability than the manual method. Apparent diffusion coefficient, blood flow, and APTw are all useful biomarkers in assessing glioma response to radiotherapy.
Self‐concordance strategies as a necessary condition for self‐management
Authors: Unsworth Kerrie L. , Mason Claire M.
Published: May 2016

Self‐management is often seen as a panacea to problems encountered in autonomous working conditions in today's organizations. However, we theorize that these strategies, such as goal‐setting and self‐rewards, will not be effective when used in isolation. Instead, we hypothesize that self‐concordance strategies (i.e., self‐regulatory strategies that help to align daily tasks with a person's goals, identities, and values) will need to be used alongside self‐management strategies to achieve the highest levels of performance and creativity. We tested this hypothesis in two complementary studies. The first study revealed that the quality of individual student assignments (judged by external raters) was improved when self‐management strategies were used in conjunction with self‐concordance strategies but not when self‐management strategies were used on their own. The second study utilized a training intervention in a workplace setting and again found that those participants who reported increases in the use of both self‐management and self‐concordance strategies showed improvements in self‐reported creativity but those who increased only self‐management strategies did not. Our results suggest that self‐concordance strategies should be incorporated alongside the traditional elements of self‐management training (goal‐setting, self‐rewards, self‐observation, and cues) to maximize performance and creativity.

Practitioner points

Self‐management training and the use of self‐management skills are common across organizations and practitioners, but are less well suited to creative work or performance on complex tasks as they rely on controlled motivation alone.

Self‐concordance strategies (that help to align one's day‐to‐day tasks with one's values, identities, and goals) are required in addition to self‐management strategies to achieve higher levels of performance and creativity.

Self‐concordance strategies include focusing on the tasks that are most closely aligned with one's identities and values, changing one's tasks to be more aligned with identities and values, and thinking about the purpose of one's tasks and how they help to achieve longer term goals, identities, and values.
Assessment of the amount of tooth wear on dental casts and intra‐oral photographs
Authors: Wetselaar P. , Wetselaar‐Glas M. J. M. , Koutris M. , Visscher C. M. , Lobbezoo F.
Published: May 2016

Tooth wear is a multifactorial condition, leading to the loss of dental hard tissues. Many grading scales are available to assess the amount of tooth wear, one of which is the tooth wear evaluation system (TWES). A grading scale can be used chairside, on casts and on photographs. The aim was to test whether the grading scales of the TWES, used on casts and on photographs, resulted in comparable scores. In addition, it was tested whether these scales can be used to assess tooth wear reliably on photographs. Of 75 tooth wear patients, sets of casts and series of photographs were obtained and graded. Comparison of the grading on casts and on photographs revealed equal median values and percentiles for both occlusal/incisal grading and non‐occlusal/non‐incisal grading. The grading on casts and on photographs showed a high correlation for the occlusal/incisal grading and a low correlation for the non‐occlusal/non‐incisal grading (Spearman's rho = 0·74 and rho = 0·47; P < 0·001). Concerning the grading on photographs, the interexaminer reliability was fair‐to‐good (ICC = 0·41 to ICC = 0·55) while the intra‐examiner reliability was fair‐to‐good to excellent (ICC = 0·68 to ICC = 0·86) for the occlusal/incisal grading. For the non‐occlusal/non‐incisal grading, the interexaminer reliability was poor to fair‐to‐good (ICC = 0·22 to ICC = 0·59), while the intra‐examiner reliability was fair‐to‐good to excellent (ICC = 0·64 to ICC = 0·82). It was concluded that the scores obtained with the grading scales of the TWES on casts and on photographs are comparable. The grading scales can be used in a reliable way on photographs, which is especially the case for occlusal/incisal grading.
Lactate dehydrogenase as a biomarker in oral cancer and oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Kallalli Basavaraj N. , Rawson Kamala , Muzammil  , Singh Ankur , Awati Mohammed Arif , Shivhare Peeyush
Published: May 2016

Background

Oral cancer is the commonest cause of death in the Indian population, with a mortality rate of 0.3 million deaths per year. Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a potentially malignant disorder that has a high prevalence rate in India. It has been found that serum lactate dehydrogenase levels are increased in potentially malignant and malignant disorders. There are very few data on the application of salivary LDH in the detection of such disorders.

Aims and Objectives

The estimation of LDH levels in saliva as diagnostic markers, using a noninvasive method in patients with OSMF, oral cancer, and in the controls.

Methods

A total of 60 subjects with the age range of 20–70 years were selected from the Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology and were grouped into three groups. Twenty‐five subjects with clinically diagnosed OSMF (Group I), 25 subjects with histopathologically diagnosed oral cancer (Group II), and 10 subjects as control (Group III). Five milliliters of unstimulated whole saliva was aseptically collected. Following which, the collected saliva was centrifuged and then analyzed by ERBA‐CHEM 5 semi auto‐analyzer. The values obtained were statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t‐test using the SPSS software version 22. P‐value < 0.05‐ was taken as significant.

Results

The mean LDH levels were Group I 608.28 ± 30.22, Group II 630.96 ± 39.80, and Group III 182.21 ± 34.85. The P‐value obtained was 0.0009 for both Group I and Group II which was highly significant.

Conclusion

Salivary LDH levels were consistently higher in OSMF and oral cancer; hence, it could be a future biomarker.
Aligned olivine in the Springwater pallasite
Authors: Fowler‐Gerace Neva A. , Tait Kimberly T. , Moser Desmond E. , Barker Ivan , Tian Bob Y.
Published: May 2016

The mechanism by which olivine grains became embedded within iron‐nickel alloy in pallasite meteorites continues to be a matter of scientific debate. Geochemical and textural observations have failed to fully elucidate the origin and history of the olivine crystals; however, little research attention has been devoted to their crystallographic orientations within the metal matrix. Using electron backscatter diffraction, we have collected crystallographic orientation data for 296 crystals within ∼65 cm2 sample surface from Springwater. Though no global crystallographic preferred orientation exists, very low misorientations are observed among [100] axes of olivine crystals within specific texturally defined domains. Combined with a thorough characterization of large‐scale Springwater textures, the definitively nonrandom spatial distribution of olivine orientations provides clues regarding the nature of the olivine's initial formation environment as well as the sequence of events subsequent to metal incorporation.
Recovery of entire shocked samples in a range of pressure from ~100 GPa to Hugoniot elastic limit
Authors: Nagaki Keita , Kadono Toshihiko , Sakaiya Tatsuhiro , Kondo Tadashi , Kurosawa Kosuke , Hironaka Yoichiro , Shigemori Keisuke , Arakawa Masahiko
Published: May 2016

We carried out laser shock experiments and wholly recovered shocked olivine and quartz samples. We investigated the petrographic features based on optical micrographs of sliced samples and found that each recovered sample comprises three regions, I (optically dark), II (opaque), and III (transparent). Scanning electron microscopy combined with electron backscattered diffraction shows that there are no crystal features in the region I; the materials in the region I have once melted. Moreover, numerical calculations performed with the iSALE shock physics code suggest that the boundary between regions II and III corresponds to Hugoniot elastic limit (HEL). Thus, we succeeded in the recovery of the entire shocked samples experienced over a wide range of pressures from HEL (~10 GPa) to melting pressure (~100 GPa) in a hierarchical order.
In hip osteoarthritis, Nordic Walking is superior to strength training and home‐based exercise for improving function
Authors: Bieler T. , Siersma V. , Magnusson S. P. , Kjaer M. , Christensen H. E. , Beyer N.
Published: May 2016

This observer‐blinded, randomized controlled trial compared the short‐ and long‐term effects of 4 months of supervised strength training (ST) in a local fitness center, supervised Nordic Walking (NW) in a local park, and unsupervised home‐based exercise (HBE, control) on functional performance in 60+‐year‐old persons (n = 152) with hip osteoarthritis (OA) not awaiting hip replacement. Functional performance [i.e., 30‐s chair stand test (primary outcome), timed stair climbing, and 6‐min walk test] and self‐reported outcomes (i.e., physical function, pain, physical activity level, self‐efficacy, and health‐related quality of life) were measured at baseline and at 2, 4, and 12 months. Based on intention‐to‐treat‐analyses improvements [mean (95% CI)] after intervention in number of chair stands were equal in all three groups at 4 months [ST: 0.9 (0.2–1.6), NW: 1.9 (0.8–3.0), HBE: 1.1 (0.1–2.0)] but greater in the NW group [1.4 (0.02–2.8)] than in the ST group at 12 months. Generally, improvements in functional performance were greater (P < 0.001–P < 0.03) after NW compared with HBE and ST at all follow‐up time points. Furthermore, NW was superior (P < 0.01) to HBE for improving vigorous physical activity and to both ST and HBE for improving (P < 0.01) mental health. These data suggest that NW is the recommended exercise modality compared with ST and HBE.
Teachers’ Conceptions of Gifted and Average-Ability Students on Achievement-Relevant Dimensions
Authors: Baudson Tanja Gabriele , Preckel Franzis
Published: May 2016

Stereotyping of gifted students may not only hinder identification and actualization of potential but also personality development (“stigma of giftedness”). This is obvious in the case of negative stereotyping (e.g., the disharmony hypothesis, which sees gifted students as intellectually strong, but emotionally and socially inferior), but even overly positive stereotypes (e.g., the harmony hypothesis, which sees gifted students as superior in all respects) may prove harmful in that they put gifted students under pressure. In this study, we examined whether teachers’ conceptions of the gifted are in line with either of these stereotypes. In a between-subjects design using vignettes, 246 German teachers rated fictitious students varying in ability level (gifted/average), gender (girl/boy), and age (8/15 years) on intellectual ability, motivation, prosociality, and maladjustment. Strong measurement invariance across vignette types was demonstrated for all dimensions. A repeated-measures analysis of variance of latent factor scores of the four dimensions showed that teachers considered gifted students more able, but less prosocial and more maladjusted than average-ability students. Whereas higher intellectual ability is in line with empirical findings about the gifted, lower social ability and higher maladjustment are not. Implications for theory, research, and educational practice are discussed.
Exploring the Experiences of International Students in China
Authors: Ding Xiaojiong
Published: May 2016

In recent years, China has grown from an insignificant player to a major destination in the global market for international students. Based on a questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews conducted in 2013, this study uses Shanghai as an example to examine international students’ experiences in China. It is found that China has become a niche market for international students due to the distinctiveness of the Chinese language and the country’s continuous economic growth. However, the considerably and consistently low levels of international students’ satisfaction with their study and living experiences show that China has not paid sufficient attention to improving its supply of higher education and other support services, which may threaten its sustainable growth in the international student market.
Gaze direction detection in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Forgeot d’Arc Baudouin , Delorme Richard , Zalla Tiziana , Lefebvre Aline , Amsellem Frédérique , Moukawane Sanaa , Letellier Laurence , Leboyer Marion , Mouren Marie-Christine , Ramus Franck
Published: May 2016

Detecting where our partners direct their gaze is an important aspect of social interaction. An atypical gaze processing has been reported in autism. However, it remains controversial whether children and adults with autism spectrum disorder interpret indirect gaze direction with typical accuracy. This study investigated whether the detection of gaze direction toward an object is less accurate in autism spectrum disorder. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (n = 33) and intelligence quotients–matched and age-matched controls (n = 38) were asked to watch a series of synthetic faces looking at objects, and decide which of two objects was looked at. The angle formed by the two possible targets and the face varied following an adaptive procedure, in order to determine individual thresholds. We found that gaze direction detection was less accurate in autism spectrum disorder than in control participants. Our results suggest that the precision of gaze following may be one of the altered processes underlying social interaction difficulties in autism spectrum disorder.