bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrastructure features outperform environmental variables explaining rabbit abundance around motorways
Authors: Planillo Aimara , Malo Juan E.
Published: December 2017

Human disturbance is widespread across landscapes in the form of roads that alter wildlife populations. Knowing which road features are responsible for the species response and their relevance in comparison with environmental variables will provide useful information for effective conservation measures. We sampled relative abundance of European rabbits, a very widespread species, in motorway verges at regional scale, in an area with large variability in environmental and infrastructure conditions. Environmental variables included vegetation structure, plant productivity, distance to water sources, and altitude. Infrastructure characteristics were the type of vegetation in verges, verge width, traffic volume, and the presence of embankments. We performed a variance partitioning analysis to determine the relative importance of two sets of variables on rabbit abundance. Additionally, we identified the most important variables and their effects model averaging after model selection by AICc on hypothesis‐based models. As a group, infrastructure features explained four times more variability in rabbit abundance than environmental variables, being the effects of the former critical in motorway stretches located in altered landscapes with no available habitat for rabbits, such as agricultural fields. Model selection and Akaike weights showed that verge width and traffic volume are the most important variables explaining rabbit abundance index, with positive and negative effects, respectively. In the light of these results, the response of species to the infrastructure can be modulated through the modification of motorway features, being some of them manageable in the design phase. The identification of such features leads to suggestions for improvement through low‐cost corrective measures and conservation plans. As a general indication, keeping motorway verges less than 10 m wide will prevent high densities of rabbits and avoid the unwanted effects that rabbit populations can generate in some areas.
Sexually dimorphic swallows have higher extinction risk
Authors: Hasegawa Masaru , Arai Emi
Published: December 2017

The effect of sexual selection on extinction risk remains unclear. In theory, sexual selection can lead to both increase and decrease extinction probability depending on the ecology of the study system. Thus, combining different groups might obscure patterns that can be found in groups that share similar ecological features. Using phylogenetic comparative analysis, we studied sexual plumage dimorphism in relation to the perceived risk of extinction in hirundines (subfamily: Hirundininae), in which all species are socially monogamous aerial foragers. Among the 72 species studied, five species are facing a perceived threat of extinction. Species with sexually dimorphic plumage had a higher risk of extinction than did species with sexually monomorphic plumage. Likewise, when focusing solely on tail ornamentation, species that exhibit a sexual dimorphism in tail length had a higher risk of extinction than did other species. In Hirundininae, which are affected a great deal by severe weather, sexual selection and the resultant sexual dimorphism would increase extinction risk.
Diving behavior in a free‐living, semi‐aquatic herbivore, the Eurasian beaver Castor fiber
Authors: Graf Patricia Maria , Wilson Rory Paul , Sanchez Lea Cohen , Hacklӓnder Klaus , Rosell Frank
Published: December 2017

Semi‐aquatic mammals have secondarily returned to the aquatic environment, although they spend a major part of their life operating in air. Moving both on land, as well as in, and under water is challenging because such species are considered to be imperfectly adapted to both environments. We deployed accelerometers combined with a depth sensor to study the diving behavior of 12 free‐living Eurasian beavers Castor fiber in southeast Norway between 2009 and 2011 to examine the extent to which beavers conformed with mass‐dependent dive capacities, expecting them to be poorer than wholly aquatic species. Dives were generally shallow (<1 m) and of short duration (<30 s), suggesting that the majority of dives were aerobic. Dive parameters such as maximum diving depth, dive duration, and bottom phase duration were related to the effort during different dive phases and the maximum depth reached. During the descent, mean vectorial dynamic body acceleration (VeDBA—a proxy for movement power) was highest near the surface, probably due to increased upthrust linked to fur‐ and lung‐associated air. Inconsistently though, mean VeDBA underwater was highest during the ascent when this air would be expected to help drive the animals back to the surface. Higher movement costs during ascents may arise from transporting materials up, the air bubbling out of the fur, and/or the animals’ exhaling during the bottom phase of the dive. In a manner similar to other homeotherms, beavers extended both dive and bottom phase durations with diving depth. Deeper dives tended to have a longer bottom phase, although its duration was shortened with increased VeDBA during the bottom phase. Water temperature did not affect diving behavior. Overall, the beavers’ dive profile (depth, duration) was similar to other semi‐aquatic freshwater divers. However, beavers dived for only 2.8% of their active time, presumably because they do not rely on diving for food acquisition.
V‐set and Ig domain‐containing 4 (VSIG4)‐expressing hepatic F4/80+ cells regulate oral antigen‐specific responses in mouse
Authors: Shin Wonhwa , Jeon Youkyoung , Choi Inhak , Kim Yeon‐Jeong
Published: December 2017

Oral tolerance can prevent unnecessary immune responses against dietary antigens. Members of the B7 protein family play critical roles in the positive and/or negative regulation of T cell responses to interactions between APCs and T cells. V‐set and Ig domain‐containing 4 (VSIG4), a B7‐related co‐signaling molecule, has been known to act as a co‐inhibitory ligand and may be critical in establishing immune tolerance. Therefore, we investigated the regulation of VSIG4 signaling in a food allergy and experimental oral tolerance murine models. We analyzed the contributions of the two main sites involved in oral tolerance, the mesenteric lymph node (MLN) and the liver, in VSIG4‐mediated oral tolerance induction. Through the comparative analysis of major APCs, dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages, we found that Kupffer cells play a critical role in inducing regulatory T cells (Tregs) and establishing immune tolerance against oral antigens via VSIG4 signaling. Taken together, these results suggest the possibility of VSIG4 signaling‐based regulation of orally administered antigens.
Furan Ring Opening – Pyridine Ring Closure: An Efficient Approach towards 6H‐Isochromeno[4,3‐b]pyridin‐6‐ones from Readily Available Furans and Phthalaldehydic Acid Methyl Esters
Authors: Shpuntov Pavel M. , Kolodina Alexandra A. , Uchuskin Maxim G. , Abaev Vladimir T.
Published: December 2017

An efficient iodine‐catalyzed three‐component Mannich‐type reaction of various 2‐alkylfurans, methyl 2‐formylbenzoates and carbamates under mild reaction conditions was realized. Synthetic utility of the resulting N‐Boc‐1‐[2‐(carbomethoxy)aryl]furfurylamines was demonstrated by their facile two‐step transformation into 2‐methyl‐6H‐isochromeno[4,3‐b]pyridin‐6‐ones, which are employed in high‐performance cyclometalated OLEDs.
Fast and Selective Simultaneous Determination of Acetaminophen, Aspirin and Caffeine in Pharmaceutical Products by Batch Injection Analysis with Multiple Pulse Amperometric Detection
Authors: Machado Alencar Letícia , Backes dos Santos Rafael , de Jesus Guedes Tiago , Torres Pio dos Santos Wallans , Batista Gomes de Souza João , Souza Ferreira Valdir , Amorim Bezerra da Silva Rodrigo
Published: December 2017

In this work is presented a method for simultaneous determination of paracetamol (PA), acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and caffeine (CA) in pharmaceutical tablets, using a bare boron‐doped diamond working electrode (BDDE) coupled to batch injection analysis system with multiple pulse amperometric detection (BIA‐MPA). The optimized sequence of fast potential pulses were applied on BDDE for acquisition of independent amperograms: +1.0 V for PA oxidation, +1.3 V for oxidation of PA and salicylic acid (SA) generated from a previous alkaline hydrolysis of ASA and +1.6 V in which the three analytes are oxidized (PA, SA and CA). Selective determination of PA is performed using the currents obtained at +1.0 V, while SA and CA signals are indirectly obtained using simple subtraction operations between peak currents from each amperogram and correction factors (CF's). The limitations of such approach on the precision and accuracy as function of BIA‐MPA conditions are discussed. Simultaneous determination of the target drugs in pharmaceutical tablets was performed by BIA‐MPA and the results compared to a HPLC‐DAD method. Under optimized conditions, the proposed method exhibits fast responses (180 injections per hour for the simultaneous determination of the three analytes) and suitable precision (RSDPA: 0.78 %; RSDSA: 1.09 %; RSDCA: 2.73 %). BIA‐MPA method is simple, portable and presents relative low‐cost.
Geochemical fingerprinting of Maastrichtian oil shales from the Central Eastern Desert, Egypt: Implications for provenance, tectonic setting, and source area weathering
Authors: Fathy Douaa , Wagreich Michael , Zaki Rafat , Mohamed Ramadan S. A. , Gier Susanne
Published: December 2017

Upper Cretaceous oil shales accumulated in intracratonic sedimentary basins along the Central Eastern Desert. Comprehensive geochemical analyses have been applied on 3 Maastrichtian oil shale horizons from the Duwi and Dakhla formations (El‐Beida and El‐Nakheil mines). We provide significant clues for chemical weathering, sediment recycling, petrogenesis, and tectonic setting of oil shales' source material. The mineralogical composition of the studied oil shales is generally characterized by carbonates, phyllosilicates, quartz, fluorapatite, and sulphides. The geochemistry is characterized by high Ca, P, Ni, U, and Cr values compared to standard post‐Archean Australian shales (PAAS). Their chondrite‐normalized patterns are distinguished by LREE enrichment, HREE depletion, negative Eu anomaly, and typical shale‐like PAAS‐normalized REE patterns. Furthermore, the total REE content is positively correlated with Si, K, Na, Fe, Al, Ti, and Mn, indicating that the REE of the investigated oil shales originated from terrigenous sources. Diverse proxies (e.g., CIA, CPA, and PIA) and the A–CN–K ternary diagram suppose that the source rock succession of the oil shales experienced moderate to intensive chemical weathering. Various geochemical parameters suggest that the oil shales were predominately derived from intermediate, with a minor contribution from felsic, igneous source rocks without any remarkable recycling signals. The average values of (Gd/Yb)N (1.39), Eu/Eu* (0.76), Th/U (0.29), and discrimination diagrams reveal that the oil shales were derived from Neoproterozoic island arc parent rocks. The geochemical results for oil shale provenance are in accordance with the composition and the palaeotectonic history of the igneous rocks in the Central Eastern Desert of Egypt.
Petrogenesis of the Fe–P–REE mineralized Shangzhuang ultramafic intrusion in the Lajishan tectonic belt, South Qilian Belt: Implications for mantle metasomatism and tectonic setting
Authors: Wang Mengxi , Jiang Changyi , Xia Mingzhe , Du Wei
Published: December 2017

The Shangzhuang ultramafic intrusion in the Lajishan tectonic belt, South Qilian Belt, is mainly composed of serpentinite, biotite clinopyroxenite, apatite clinopyroxenite, and hornblendite. Zircon grains selected from biotite clinopyroxenite have distinctly oscillatory and sector zoning and yield a weighted average 206Pb/238U age of 492.6 ± 4.1 Ma, which can be considered as the crystallization age of the Shangzhuang intrusion. Initial 206Pb/204Pb and 87Sr/86Sr ratios of the intrusion suggest an enriched mantle I source origin. Rocks from the intrusion have Rb/Cs from 16 to 29 and Nb/U from 0.2 to 11.7, different from mid‐ocean ridge basalt and ocean island basalt from the convecting mantle, suggesting a subcontinental lithospheric mantle source. In comparison with Sr–Nd isotopes of the regional 456‐ to 441‐Ma mafic intrusions and basic volcanic rocks, a gradually decreasing trend of εNd(t) values from +0.90 via −0.86 to −2.57 from 493 to 441 Ma argued that the subcontinental lithospheric mantle source of the Shangzhuang intrusion was progressively enriched by mantle metasomatism in the Early Palaeozoic. The elevated (Tb/Yb)N ratios of the Shangzhuang intrusion and positive correlations between light rare earth elements (La and Nd) and P2O5 of metamorphosed basalts from the regional Hualong Group imply that the source region was an apatite‐bearing garnet‐facies peridotite as a result of modal metasomatism. In general, the Shangzhuang intrusion was formed due to the northward subduction of the Proto‐Tethys Ocean underneath the Qilian Block during late Cambrian. Together with the ~491‐Ma regional ophiolites, we suggest that the Early Palaeozoic magmatism in the Lajishan belt was formed in a subduction zone, rather than intracontinental rifting or mantle plume settings.
Initial results of population based cervical cancer screening program using HPV testing in one million Turkish women
Authors: Gultekin Murat , Zayifoglu Karaca Mujdegul , Kucukyildiz Irem , Dundar Selin , Boztas Guledal , Semra Turan Hatice , Hacikamiloglu Ezgi , Murtuza Kamil , Keskinkilic Bekir , Sencan Irfan
Published: December 2017

To evaluate the Turkey's nationwide HPV DNA screening program on the basis of first 1 million screened women. Women over age 30 were invited for population based screening via HPV DNA and conventional cytology. Samples were collected by family physicians and the evaluations and reports had been performed in the National Central HPV laboratories. The acceptance rate for HPV based cervical cancer screening after first invitation was nearly 36.5%. Since HPV DNA tests have been implemented, cervical cancer screening rates have shown 4–5‐fold increase in primary level. Through the evaluation of all, HPV positivity was seen in 3.5%. The commonest HPV genotypes were 16, followed by 51, 31, 52 and 18. Among the 37.515 HPV positive cases, cytological abnormality rate was 19.1%. Among HPV positive cases, 16.962 cases had HPV 16 or 18 or other oncogenic HPV types with abnormal cytology (>ASC‐US). These patients were referred to colposcopy. The colposcopy referral rate was 1.6%. Among these, final clinico‐pathological data of 3.499 patients were normal in 1.985 patients, CIN1 in 708, CIN2 in 285, CIN3 in 436 and cancer in 85 patients and only pap‐smear program could miss 45.9% of ≥CIN3 cases. The results of 1 million women including the evaluation of 13 HPV genotypes with respect to prevalence, geographic distribution and abnormal cytology results shows that HPV DNA can be used in primary level settings to have a high coverage rated screening program and is very effective compared to conventional pap‐smear.
Heat shock protein 70 and tumor‐infiltrating NK cells as prognostic indicators for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck after radiochemotherapy: A multicentre retrospective study of the German Cancer Consortium Radiation Oncology Group (DKTK‐ROG)
Authors: Stangl Stefan , Tontcheva Nikoletta , Sievert Wolfgang , Shevtsov Maxim , Niu Minli , Schmid Thomas E. , Pigorsch Steffi , Combs Stephanie E. , Haller Bernhard , Balermpas Panagiotis , Rödel Franz , Rödel Claus , Fokas Emmanouil , Krause Mechthild , Linge Annett , Lohaus Fabian , Baumann Michael , Tinhofer Inge , Budach Volker , Stuschke Martin , Grosu Anca‐Ligia , Abdollahi Amir , Debus Jürgen , Belka Claus , Maihöfer Cornelius , Mönnich David , Zips Daniel , Multhoff Gabriele
Published: December 2017

Tumor cells frequently overexpress heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and present it on their cell surface, where it can be recognized by pre‐activated NK cells. In our retrospective study the expression of Hsp70 was determined in relation to tumor‐infiltrating CD56+ NK cells in formalin‐fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tumor specimens of patients with SCCHN (N = 145) as potential indicators for survival and disease recurrence. All patients received radical surgery and postoperative cisplatin‐based radiochemotherapy (RCT). In general, Hsp70 expression was stronger, but with variable intensities, in tumor compared to normal tissues. Patients with high Hsp70 expressing tumors (scores 3–4) showed significantly decreased overall survival (OS; p = 0.008), local progression‐free survival (LPFS; p = 0.034) and distant metastases‐free survival (DMFS; p = 0.044), compared to those with low Hsp70 expression (scores 0–2), which remained significant after adjustment for relevant prognostic variables. The adverse prognostic value of a high Hsp70 expression for OS was also observed in patient cohorts with p16‐ (p = 0.001), p53‐ (p = 0.0003) and HPV16 DNA‐negative (p = 0.001) tumors. The absence or low numbers of tumor‐infiltrating CD56+ NK cells also correlated with significantly decreased OS (p = 0.0001), LPFS (p = 0.0009) and DMFS (p = 0.0001). A high Hsp70 expression and low numbers of tumor‐infiltrating NK cells have the highest negative predictive value (p = 0.00004). In summary, a strong Hsp70 expression and low numbers of tumor‐infiltrating NK cells correlate with unfavorable outcome following surgery and RCT in patients with SCCHN, and thus serve as negative prognostic markers.
Performance analysis of brain tissues and tumor detection and grading system using ANFIS classifier
Authors: Herald Anantha Rufus N. , Selvathi D.
Published: December 2017

Abnormal growth of cells in brain leads to the formation of tumors, which are categorized into benign and malignant. In this article, Co‐Active Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (CANFIS) classification based brain tumor detection and its grading system is proposed. It has two phases as brain tumor segmentation and brain tissue segmentation. In brain tumor segmentation, CANFIS classifier is used to classify the test brain image into benign or malignant. Then, morphological operations are applied over the malignant image in order to segment the tumor regions in brain image. The K‐means classifier is used to classify the brain tissues into Grey Matter (GM), White Matter (WM) and Cerebro Spinal Fluid (CSF) regions as three different classes. Next, the segmented tumor is graded as mild, moderate or severe based on the presence of segmented tumor region in brain tissues.
A novel brain image enhancement method based on nonsubsampled contourlet transform
Authors: Li Liangliang , Si Yujuan , Jia Zhenhong
Published: December 2017

In this article, a novel brain image enhancement approach based on nonsubsampled contourlet transform (NSCT) is proposed. First, the image is decomposed into a low‐frequency component and several high‐frequency components by the NSCT; Second, the gamma correction is applied to deal with the low‐frequency sub‐band coefficients, and the adaptive threshold is used to remove the noise of the high‐frequency sub‐bands coefficients; Third, the inverse nonsubsampled contourlet transform is adopted to reconstruct the processed coefficients; Finally, the unsharp filter is used to enhance the reconstructed image. The experimental results demonstrate that the performance of the proposed method is superior to the state‐of‐the‐art algorithms in terms of brain image enhancement.
Rs4705342 polymorphism is involved in the tumorigenesis of HBV positive HCC by altering the binding affinity of HBV induced NF‐kB with the promoter region of microRNA‐143
Authors: Yin Xiuli , Sun Shiying , Zhao Junyan , Yang Jing , Lei Xiaofei , Xu Changqing , Li Kun
Published: December 2017

The objective of this study was to explore the role of rs4705342 located in the miR‐143 promoter in relation to the control of HBV positive HCC and the underlying molecular mechanism. A luciferase assay was performed to explore the factors which influenced miR‐143 transcription activity and the target gene of miR‐143. This would further be confirmed by ChIP assay. Western blot and real‐time PCR were performed to identify the relationship between miR‐143 and ORP8. Luciferase activity of miR‐143 SNP was increased with the presence of C allele. The presence of T allele partially restored the transcription ability. NF‐κB displayed a much higher degree of luciferase activity in relation to the cells transfected with vectors containing either T or C allele rather than control cells with a greater extent in C allele group than T allele group. At the same time, ChIP assay indicated that the affinity of NF‐ΚB in the miR‐143 promoter was higher in C/C cells. The over‐expression of HBX promotes NF‐kB expression thus increasing the extent of binding of NF‐kB on the CC allele of the miR‐143 promoter. The binding is also abolished by NF‐kB siRNA. ORP8 was proven to be a target gene of miR‐143 using bioinformatics algorithm analysis. It was further confirmed by the luciferase assay that miR‐143 substantially inhibited luciferase activities of wild‐type ORP8. However, it did not affect the mutant ORP8. HBx induced by HBV infection up‐regulated miR‐143 expression. NF‐ kB can partially abolish the promotion effect of HBx on the miR‐143 level in cells genotyped as CC but not in cells genotyped as TT. Tissues derived from participants genotyped as CC exhibited a higher level of miR‐143, but a lower level of ORP8. The presence of the minor allele of rs4705342 in the promoter of miR‐143 attenuated the transcription ability. This promoted ORP8 expression and could be a factor contributing to the oncogenesis in HBV positive HCC.
Insulin induces an EMT‐like process in mammary epithelial cells MCF10A
Authors: Rodriguez‐Monterrosas Cecilia , Díaz‐Aragon Ricardo , Leal‐Orta Elizabeth , Cortes‐Reynosa Pedro , Perez Salazar Eduardo
Published: December 2017

Diabetes mellitus has been related with an increased risk of breast cancer, whereas it has been suggested that links between diabetes mellitus and cancer are hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and chronic inflammation induced by adipose tissue. Contribution of hyperinsulinemia to carcinogenesis is mediated through resistance to endogenous insulin and by exogenous insulin used in treatment. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process by which epithelial cells are transdifferentiated to a mesenchymal state that has been implicated in cancer progression. However, the role of insulin in EMT process has not been studied in detail. In the present study, we demonstrate that insulin induces downregulation of E‐cadherin expression, accompanied with an increase of N‐cadherin and vimentin expression, and an increase of MMP‐2 and ‐9 secretions. Insulin also induces FAK activation, an increase of NFκB DNA binding activity, migration, and invasion of mammary non‐tumorigenic epithelial cells MCF10A. In addition, migration requires the activity of insulin receptors and insulin‐like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF1R). In summary, our results demonstrate that insulin induces an EMT‐like process in MCF10A cells.
Effect and mechanism of long noncoding RNAs HOTAIR on occurrence and development of gastric cancer
Authors: Feng Xuan , Huang Suiping
Published: December 2017

Objective

In this study, we aimed at looking for the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) abnormally expressed in gastric cancer (GC) tissues and analyzing the association of its expression level with the clinicopathological feature and patient prognosis. The biological function of this lncRNA in occurrence and development of GC was studied in vivo and in vitro. The underlying molecular mechanism was further discussed.

Methods

We investigated the lncRNA expression level in GC tissues and normal gastric mucosa tissues by lncRNA chips analysis. The expression of lncRNA HOTAIR was detected by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The relationship between HOTAIR expression level and prognosis was investigated by analyzing clinical samples. The influence of HOTAIR downregulation on GC cell proliferation, chemosensitivity, apoptosis, and invasion were determined by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation assay, flow cytometry analysis, and transwell assay. Tumor xenograft model was developed to study the influence of downregulated HOTAIR on tumor growth and metastasis.

Results

lncRNA HOTAIR had an extremely high expression level in GC cells, and predicted poor prognosis in patients. Downregulation of HOTAIR could promote chemosensitivity, induce apoptosis of GC cells, and significantly inhibit GC cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

It was proved that HOTAIR played a positive role in GC occurrence and development according to the study in its mechanism, function, and clinical manifestation so that it could be expected to become a new target in GC prevention and treatment.
Enterovirus detection in patients with acute gastroenteritis in Switzerland
Authors: Gosert Rainer , Heininger Ulrich , Hirsch Hans H.
Published: December 2017

Acute gastroenteritis (GE) has a major impact on morbidity and mortality worldwide, yet comprehensive data regarding infectious agents including enteroviruses are scarce. We hypothesized that enteroviruses constitute a significant cause of acute GE. We analyzed 677 stool samples from 504 patients, which had been submitted for suspected infectious GE. 0.2 mL of stool suspension was extracted using the Abbott m2000sp robot and analysed by multiplex nucleic acid testing (NAT) using the Luminex xTAG gastrointestinal pathogen panel (GPP) as well as by specific NATs detecting enteroviruses and polioviruses. Median age of the patients was 6.6 years (IQR 1.1‐50.6; pediatric <18 years). 292 of 677 (43%) samples were positive for at least one pathogen. Enterovirus was detected in 5.3% (36/677) as sole pathogen (67%), and more frequently in children (P = 0.0054). Only rotavirus (18.6%) and norovirus (12.1%) were more frequent. Clostridium difficile and Campylobacter jejuni were detected in 5.5% and 2.2% of stools, respectively. Adenovirus, E. coli O157, Salmonella, Shiga toxin‐producing E. coli (STEC), Shigella, Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium, and Entamoeba histolytica were rare (<1% of samples). Vibrio cholerae, Yersinia enterocolitica, enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) and poliovirus were not detected. Thus, non‐polio enteroviruses are the third most frequent pathogen in acute GE suggesting that enteroviruses may play an important role in GE even in developed, industrial health care settings.
Analysing regional climate forcing on historical precipitation variability in Northeast Puerto Rico
Authors: Ramseyer Craig A. , Mote Thomas L.
Published: December 2017

The tropical forests of northeast Puerto Rico (NE PR) and the Luquillo Mountains (LM) are a large repository for biodiversity and have an important role in regional biogeochemical processes. Precipitation is a key driver of the productivity of these sensitive ecosystems. This study analyses historical precipitation variability from 1985 to 2014 at El Verde Field Station (EVFS) at 380 m on the north facing slope of the LM. The primary objective of this study is to identify atmospheric states that lead to extreme wet/dry conditions at EVFS. This study also investigates how those wet/dry atmospheric states change over the study period through an epoch approach on annual and seasonal timescales.

Self‐organizing maps (SOMs) are used to produce atmospheric states from ERA‐Interim low‐tropospheric moisture and circulation variables. These atmospheric states are downscaled to precipitation at the EVFS rain gauge. A probability density function of observed precipitation is calculated for each atmospheric state. Changes in node frequency, which is the number of days mapping to a particular node compared to the total number of days in the temporal period, are used to evaluate changes in wet/dry atmospheric states at EVFS.

Results indicate that low‐precipitation days at EVFS are associated with atmospheric states with high 1000–700 hPa bulk wind shear and decreased 700 hPa moisture. Wet days in the study region are associated with moist low‐tropospheric environments with low wind shear. Our results indicate an increased frequency of dry season atmospheric states with lower 700 hPa moisture. Over the study period, the dry season has a decrease in median and extreme precipitation during rainy days (days >0 mm). A decrease in early rainfall season median precipitation on rainy days is observed despite an increase in days with measurable precipitation, likely driven by an increase in light rainfall days (<5 mm).
Capturing the two‐way hydromechanical coupling effect on fluid‐driven fracture in a dual‐graph lattice beam model
Authors: Ulven Ole Ivar , Sun WaiChing
Published: December 2017

Fluid‐driven fractures of brittle rock is simulated via a dual‐graph lattice model. The new discrete hydromechanical model incorporates a two‐way coupling mechanism between the discrete element model and the flow network. By adopting an operator‐split algorithm, the coupling model is able to replicate the transient poroelasticity coupling mechanism and the resultant Mandel‐Cryer hydromechanical coupling effect in a discrete mechanics framework. As crack propagation, coalescence and branching are all path‐dependent and irreversible processes, capturing this transient coupling effect is important for capturing the essence of the fluid‐driven fracture in simulations. Injection simulations indicate that the onset and propagation of fractures is highly sensitive to the ratio between the injection rate and the effective permeability. Furthermore, we show that in a permeable rock, the borehole breakdown pressure, the pressure at which fractures start to grow from the borehole, depends on both the given ratio between injection rate and permeability and the Biot coefficient.
Loss of CYLD promotes cell invasion via ALK5 stabilization in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shinriki Satoru , Jono Hirofumi , Maeshiro Manabu , Nakamura Takuya , Guo Jianying , Li Jian‐Dong , Ueda Mitsuharu , Yoshida Ryoji , Shinohara Masanori , Nakayama Hideki , Matsui Hirotaka , Ando Yukio
Published: December 2017

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has a very poor prognosis because of its highly invasive nature, and the 5‐year survival rate has not changed appreciably for the past 30 years. Although cylindromatosis (CYLD), a deubiquitinating enzyme, is thought to be a potent tumour suppressor, its biological and clinical significance in OSCC is largely unknown. This study aimed to clarify the roles of CYLD in OSCC progression. Our immunohistochemical analyses revealed significantly reduced CYLD expression in invasive areas in OSCC tissues, whereas CYLD expression was conserved in normal epithelium and carcinoma in situ. Furthermore, downregulation of CYLD by siRNA led to the acquisition of mesenchymal features and increased migratory and invasive properties in OSCC cells and HaCaT keratinocytes. It is interesting that CYLD knockdown promoted transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signalling by inducing stabilization of TGF‐β receptor I (ALK5) in a cell autonomous fashion. In addition, the response to exogenous TGF‐β stimulation was enhanced by CYLD downregulation. The invasive phenotypes induced by CYLD knockdown were completely blocked by an ALK5 inhibitor. In addition, lower expression of CYLD was significantly associated with the clinical features of deep invasion and poor overall survival, and also with increased phosphorylation of Smad3, which is an indicator of activation of TGF‐β signalling in invasive OSCC. These findings suggest that downregulation of CYLD promotes invasion with mesenchymal transition via ALK5 stabilization in OSCC cells. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Weed resistance to synthetic auxin herbicides
Authors: Busi Roberto , Goggin Danica E , Heap Ian M , Horak Michael J , Jugulam Mithila , Masters Robert A , Napier Richard M , Riar Dilpreet S , Satchivi Norbert M , Torra Joel , Westra Phillip , Wright Terry R
Published: December 2017

Herbicides classified as synthetic auxins have been most commonly used to control broadleaf weeds in a variety of crops and in non‐cropland areas since the first synthetic auxin herbicide (SAH), 2,4‐D, was introduced to the market in the mid‐1940s. The incidence of weed species resistant to SAHs is relatively low considering their long‐term global application with 30 broadleaf, 5 grass, and 1 grass‐like weed species confirmed resistant to date. An understanding of the context and mechanisms of SAH resistance evolution can inform management practices to sustain the longevity and utility of this important class of herbicides. A symposium was convened during the 2nd Global Herbicide Resistance Challenge (May 2017; Denver, CO, USA) to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of SAH resistance mechanisms including case studies of weed species resistant to SAHs and perspectives on mitigating resistance development in SAH‐tolerant crops. © 2017 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Melaleuca alternifoliaand its application against dental plaque and periodontal diseases: A systematic review
Authors: Casarin Maísa , Pazinatto Josiele , Santos Roberto Christ Vianna , Zanatta Fabricio Batistin
Published: December 2017

This is a systematic review of clinical and laboratory studies evaluating the effect ofMelaleuca alternifoliaon periodontopathogens, dental plaque, gingivitis, periodontitis, and inflammatory responses. The PubMed, Cochrane, Web of science, Bireme, Lilacs, Prospero, Open Grey, and Clinical Trials databases were searched to identify potentially eligible studies through October 2016. Of 1,654 potentially eligible studies, 25 were included in the systematic review. Their methodology was evaluated through the Cochrane Handbook for clinical studies and the GRADE system for in vivo/in vitro studies. Although clinical studies must be interpreted with caution due to methodological limitations, laboratory studies have found promising results. In vitro evidences showed thatM. alternifoliahas bactericidal and bacteriostatic effects against the most prevalent periodontopathogens. Clinical studies found comparable effects to chlorhexidine 0.12% in reducing gingival inflammation, although the antiplaque effect was lower.M. alternifoliaalso showed antioxidant properties, which are beneficial to the host, allied to the reduction on immune‐inflammatory responses to pathogens. This systematic review suggests that theM. alternifoliahas potential anti‐inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can be easily applied to the periodontal tissues. However, further clinical trials are needed to elucidate the clinical relevance of its application.
Fuzheng Huayu capsule as an adjuvant treatment for HBV‐related cirrhosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhou Xuelin , Liu Honghong , Wang Jiabo , Zhang Ping , Zhu Yun , Li Kun , Wei Shizhang , Li Haotian , Wang Lifu , Wang Ruilin , Zhao Yanling
Published: December 2017

Fuzheng Huayu (FZHY) capsule, a formulated traditional Chinese medicine product with 6 Chinese herbs, is widely used for HBV‐related cirrhosis as an adjuvant treatment. However, the efficacy of FZHY capsule for HBV‐induced cirrhosis did not be comprehensively proved by systematic analysis. Our current analysis was aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of FZHY capsule by an evidence‐based method. Databases, including China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wangfang, VIP medicine information system, Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, were searched, and the randomized controlled trials of FZHY capsule were used for the treatment of HBV‐associated liver cirrhosis. Meta‐analysis was performed by Review Manager 5.3. The efficacy rate, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBIL), albumin (ALB), Procollagen III protein (PIIIP), hyaluronic acid (HA), laminin (LN), Collagen C Type IV (IV‐C), Child‐Pugh score, portal vein diameter, spleen thickness, HBeAg negative conversion rate, and HBV‐DNA negative conversion rate were systematically assessed. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to evaluate the methodological quality of eligible studies. Nineteen studies with 1,769 patients were included in the meta‐analysis. Compared to conventional treatment, FZHY capsule was effective by increasing the efficacy. FZHY capsule was more efficient in improving ALT, AST, TBIL, PIIIP, HA, LN, IV‐C, Child‐Pugh grading score, portal vein diameter, spleen thickness, and HBV‐DNA negative conversion rate with no serious adverse reactions. Nevertheless, a variety of well‐designed randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings since small samples were applied in the previous studies.
MVP and Faculty Evaluation
Authors: Theall Michael
Published: December 2017

This chapter considers faculty evaluation and motivational and volitional issues. The focus is on the ways in which faculty evaluation influences not only faculty attitudes and beliefs but also willingness to engage in professional development and instructional improvement programs. Recommendations for effective practice that enhances motivation are included.
Practising on the Moon: Globalization and Legal Consciousness of Foreign Corporate Lawyers in Myanmar
Authors: TUNGNIRUN Arm
Published: December 2017

This paper argues that there are two contrasting versions of legal consciousness among foreign corporate lawyers in Myanmar. The old hands—expatriates who have practised there prior to the opening-up of the country in 2011—depict an image of a fairly developed legal system and an appreciation of local law and practices. In contrast, the newcomers who came to Myanmar after 2011 tell accounts of the void of law. Contrary to the old hands who see themselves as mere translators of Myanmar’s local law and practices, the newcomers assume a more active role of importers and educators of modern business law and norms to fill the void. The paper uses two theoretical models in legal consciousness studies—the “community of meaning” model and the “power and resistance” model—to explain the difference between the two groups, as well as the implication the newcomers’ legal consciousness has for the globalization of law.
Is there a role for vitamin D in supporting cognitive function as we age?
Authors: Aspell Niamh , Lawlor Brian , O'Sullivan Maria
Published: December 2017

Globally, an estimated 46 million people are currently living with dementia and this figure is projected to increase 3-fold by 2050, highlighting this major public health concern and its substantial associated healthcare costs. With pharmacological treatment yet to reach fruition, the emphasis on evidence-based preventative lifestyle strategies is becoming increasingly important and several modifiable lifestyle factors have been identified that may preserve cognitive health. These include good cardiovascular health, physical activity, low alcohol intake, smoking and a healthy diet, with growing interest in vitamin D. The aim of the present paper is to review the evidence supporting the potential roles of vitamin D in ageing and cognitive health in community-dwelling older adults. Furthermore, to describe the utility and challenges of cognitive assessments and outcomes when investigating vitamin D in this context. Evidence indicates that serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) may impact brain health. There is a biological plausibility from animal models that vitamin D may influence neurodegenerative disorders, through several mechanisms. Epidemiological evidence supports associations between low serum 25(OH)D concentrations and poorer cognitive performance in community-dwelling older populations, although an optimal 25(OH)D level for cognitive health could not be determined. The effect of raising 25(OH)D concentrations on cognitive function remains unclear, as there is a paucity of interventional evidence. At a minimum, it seems prudent to aim to prevent vitamin D deficiency in older adults, with other known common protective lifestyle factors, as a viable component of brain health strategies.
Mommy or me? Who is the agent in a sense of agency in infant orofacial stereotypies?
Authors: Leisman Gerry
Published: December 2017

That neonates imitate is an assertion that lacks supporting evidence. Orofacial stereotypies are critical to optimizing food rejection. Matching of tongue-protrusion is not imitation, but a manifestation of the infant's arousal by the modeler's exhibition of the same behavior. The support for the nativist assertion that newborn infants imitate is not compelling, and we should proceed on the assumption that they do not.
Animal studies help clarify misunderstandings about neonatal imitation
Authors: Simpson Elizabeth A. , Maylott Sarah E. , Heimann Mikael , Subiaul Francys , Paukner Annika , Suomi Stephen J. , Ferrari Pier F.
Published: December 2017

Empirical studies are incompatible with the proposal that neonatal imitation is arousal driven or declining with age. Nonhuman primate studies reveal a functioning brain mirror system from birth, developmental continuity in imitation and later sociability, and the malleability of neonatal imitation, shaped by the early environment. A narrow focus on arousal effects and reflexes may grossly underestimate neonatal capacities.
Ecological validity, embodiment, and killjoy explanations in developmental psychology
Authors: Zappettini Shane
Published: December 2017

Keven & Akins (K&A) present a compelling alternative to the case for neonatal orofacial imitation, offered by Meltzoff and Moore. However, they provide little concerning what lessons their proposal has to offer developmental psychology more generally. I suggest three candidates and elaborate on how they raise outstanding methodological and philosophical questions for the approach taken in the target article.
Does smallpox vaccination modify HIV disease progression among ART-naive people living with HIV in Africa?
Authors: DIOUF A. , TROTTIER H. , YOUBONG T. J. , NGOM-GUÉYE N. F. , NDIAYE O. , SECK A. , SARR D. , DIOP S. , SEYDI M. , MBOUP S. , NGUYEN V. K. , JAYE A.
Published: December 2017

We examined the association between a history of smallpox vaccination and immune activation (IA) in a population of antiretroviral therapy-naïve people living with HIV (PLHIV). A cross-sectional study was conducted in Senegal from July 2015 to March 2017. Smallpox vaccination was ascertained by the presence of smallpox vaccine scar and IA by the plasma level ofβ-2-microglobulin (β2m). The association was analysed using logistic regression and linear regression models. The study population comprised 101 PLHIV born before 1980 with a median age of 47 years (interquartile range (IQR) = 42–55); 57·4% were women. Smallpox vaccine scar was present in 65·3% and the medianβ2m level was 2·59 mg/l (IQR = 2·06–3·86). After adjustment, the presence of smallpox vaccine scar was not associated with aβ2m level ⩾2·59 mg/l (adjusted odds ratio 0·94; 95% confidence interval 0·32–2·77). This result was confirmed by the linear regression model. Our study does not find any association between the presence of smallpox vaccine scar and theβ2m level and does not support any association between a previous smallpox vaccination and HIV disease progression. In this study, IA is not a significant determinant of the reported non-targeted effect of smallpox vaccination in PLHIV.
The ‘Historiated’ Neolithic Stele of Saint-Samson-sur-Rance (Côtes-d'Armor, France)
Authors: Cassen Serge , Grimaud Valentin , Lescop Laurent , Paitier Hervé , Rodríguez-Rellán Carlos , Vinçotte Armand
Published: December 2017

The stone of Saint-Samson is a Neolithic stele of 70 tons and 10 m of probable length. Its intriguing leaning position and its very regular morphology have aroused curiosity since medieval times. Three of its four faces—oriented towards the cardinal points—display engravings that were discovered in the 1970s. Now, a new recording protocol has combined 2D techniques for emphasizing the contrast of the engravings (oblique rotating lights) and 3D methods for restoring the volumes of the support (photogrammetry, structured-light scanner). The results obtained have made it possible to implement the first structural analysis of the stone. The north and west faces show an opposition between domestic (cattle, goats) and wild animals (suidae, cervidae, birds, cetaceans), depicted confronted and with their horns or tusks clearly visible. The south face was reserved for the human figure and for iconic artefacts (polished axe, throwing stick, ring disk, steering oar). The four faces have in common the presence of boats. The relationship linking the monument to waterways and the sea is approached by analysing both local legends and the phenomenon of the tidal wave.
Interannual variability of germination and cone/seed morphometric characteristics in the endemic Grecian fir (Abies cephalonica) over an 8-year-long study
Authors: Daskalakou Evangelia N. , Koutsovoulou Katerina , Mavroeidi Lida , Tsiamitas Charalambos , Kafali Eleftheria , Radaiou Panagiota-Effrosyni , Ganatsas Petros , Thanos Costas A.
Published: December 2017

Abies cephalonicacone and seed morphometric characteristics as well as seed germination behaviour were investigated during an 8-year-long diachronic study (2007–2015). The research was carried out in Parnitha National Park, in the part of this Greek endemic, silver fir population that was spared from an unprecedented wildfire (2007). A statistically significant interannual and among-tree variation of cone traits has been identified, except for cone diameter. Cone length is correlated to the number of seeds per cone, while the percentage of empty seeds has been consistently high, with extreme values of 29.3 and 81.8% in a masting (2015) and lean crop (2009) year, respectively. There is also a considerable proportion of dead (including infected) and non-germinated seeds, and the eventual germinable fraction is well below 25% with spikes in masting years (39.4 and 60.9% in 2010 and 2015, respectively). Untreated seeds have been tested at a wide range of constant and alternating temperatures and germination is completed within 4–5 weeks atT≥ 15°C andca15 weeks at 5–10°C. A chilling pretreatment of 4–8 weeks (at 2–4°C) concludes germination at 15–20°C within 2 weeks. A significant white light requirement has been observed for untreated seeds at 15–20°C, while germination was light indifferent at lower or higher temperatures. Data obtained in this study confirm the present, field seed germination during springtime; we may also predict an earlier germination (late autumn to mid-winter) in forest gaps, under the predicted, warmer conditions in the future.
Historians at War: History, Politics and Memory in Ukraine
Authors: VUSHKO IRYNA
Published: December 2017

The on-going military conflict in eastern Ukraine has revitalised historical discussion and history battles in the country rendering history more relevant than ever before. Since 2014 different sides in the conflict have used historical references, specifically to the Second World War, to validate their actions. Moscow most notably claimed to be protecting the population of eastern Ukraine from Ukrainian ‘fascists’: the story of a three-year Russian boy allegedly crucified by Ukrainian nationalists on Russian state television was enhanced by references to atrocities that Ukrainian nationalists allegedly perpetrated during the Second World War. It is not, of course, the first time a regime has used history as a justification for military aggression or territorial annexation. Across Europe in the twentieth century, history has been used to defend political goals, and politics has been used to write history. The bellicose politicisation of history became the norm in Ukraine in 2014.