bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Factors From an Epidemiologic Evaluation of Fibrous Dysplasia of Bone in a Modern Cohort: The FRANCEDYS Study
Authors: Benhamou Johanna , Gensburger Deborah , Messiaen Claude , Chapurlat Roland
Published: June 2016

Fibrous dysplasia of bone (FD) is a rare genetic but sporadic bone disease that can be responsible for bone pain, fracture, and bone deformity. The prognosis may be difficult to establish because of the wide spectrum of disease severity. We have analyzed the data from the French National Reference center for FD. We have established a database from standardized medical records. We have made descriptive statistics of the various forms of FD and examined the prognostic factors by multivariable logistic regression analysis, with a parsimonious stepwise method. The primary outcome was a clinically relevant composite index combining bone pain (visual analogic scale >3) and/or incident fracture. In our modern cohort of 372 patients, the median age at diagnosis was 23 years. The revealing symptom (at a median age of 18 years) was bone pain in 44% of patients and a fracture in 9%, but the diagnosis was fortuitous in 25% of cases. Monostotic forms represented 58% of patients and polyostotic forms 42%. The femur was the most commonly affected bone (44% of patients), followed by the skull (38%). Twelve percent of patients had McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS). With a median duration of follow-up of 7 years among 211 patients, we observed an incidence of fracture of 17% and 51% of patients had no bone pain at the end of follow-up (with or without bisphosphonate therapy). In univariate analysis, younger age at diagnosis, renal phosphate wasting, a polyostotic form, prevalent fracture, and bisphosphonate use were significant predictors. In the multivariate model, the polyostotic form and bisphosphonate use remained significant predictors. In conclusion, in a national referral center for FD, one patient on follow-up out of six had incident fracture. A polyostotic form was the main risk factor of a poorer outcome. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Utility of Acetylenedicarboxylate in Organic Synthesis
Authors: El‐Sheref Essmat M. , Brown Alan B.
Published: June 2016

Although, recent reviews demonstrated intensively on the reactivity of dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate (DMAD) in organic synthesis, its reactions have still get importance addition in that field. Moreover, and due to the huge amount of published literatures dealing with the reactions of DMAD, we are trying to give more focus on the important missed reactions in addition to give more light to updated publications. DMAD is an organic compound with the formula (C6H6O4), and it is a diester in which the ester groups are conjugated with a triple bond. As such, DMAD is highly electrophilic and a widely employed as a dienophile in cycloaddition reactions, like the Diels–Alder reaction. Many organic compounds specially the heterocyclic ones were prepared via its reactions.
Regioselective Synthesis, Antimicrobial Evaluation and QSAR Studies of Some 3‐Aryl‐1‐heteroarylindeno[1,2‐c]pyrazol‐4(1H)‐ones
Authors: Mor Satbir , Mohil Rajni , Nagoria Savita , Kumar Ashwani , Lal Kashmiri , Kumar Devinder , Singh Virender
Published: June 2016

A series of seventeen 3‐aryl‐1‐heteroarylindeno[1,2‐c]pyrazol‐4(1H)‐ones (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k, 4l, 4m, 4n, 4o, 4p, 4q) has been synthesized and characterized by spectral (IR, 1H NMR, and mass), X‐ray crystallography and analytical results. All the indenopyrazoles (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k, 4l, 4m, 4n, 4o, 4p, 4q) were tested for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against two Gram‐positive bacteria viz. Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 441) and Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 7443), two Gram‐negative bacteria, viz. Escherichia coli (MTCC 42) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 741) and two fungi, viz. Candida albicans (MTCC 183) and Aspergillus niger (MTCC 282) using ceftriaxone and fluconazole as standard references against bacterial and fungal strains, respectively. Among the synthesized derivatives, 4f against B. subtilis and S. aureus, 4e against E. coli, 4g and 4j against P. aeruginosa, 4k and 4l against C. albicans, and 4k against A. niger were found to exhibit appreciable antimicrobial activities. However, 4g (minimum inhibitory concentration, 0.0036 µmol/mL) was found to be more potent than the reference, that is, fluconazole (minimum inhibitory concentration, 0.0050 µmol/mL) against A. niger. Moreover, both antibacterial and antifungal activities were found to be prolific. The radial distribution function parameters were found to be important for description of activities against the modeled strains in quantitative structure–activity relationship studies.
A new method to classify ENSO events into eastern and central Pacific types
Authors: Jeong Hye‐In , Ahn Joong‐Bae
Published: June 2016

In order to clearly classify El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events into eastern Pacific (EP) and central Pacific (CP) types, we develop two new indices defined as pattern correlation coefficients (PCCs) between monthly sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies (SSTAs) and first two leading empirical orthogonal function modes of tropical Pacific (20°S–20°N, 110°E–70°W) SSTAs. These new indices not only show close relationships with ENSO indices derived from several previous methods, but also demonstrate reasonable abilities to distinguish between two types of ENSO event. The major characteristic features of the EP‐type and CP‐type ENSO forcings are well captured from SST responses regressed onto each new index. Furthermore, the monthly frequencies of occurrences derived from two indices are quite similar to variation patterns of phase‐locking behaviours of two types of ENSO event.
Extracting a primary Holocene crytoptephra record from Pupuke maar sediments, Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Zawalna‐Geer Aleksandra , Lindsay Jan M. , Davies Siwan , Augustinus Paul , Davies Sarah
Published: June 2016

Post‐depositional reworking of volcanic glass shards is a common problem in tephrochronological studies. Distinguishing between primary and reworked tephra is challenging, particularly in cryptotephra investigations that depend on identifying peaks of glass shard concentrations in sediment sequences rather than discrete macroscopic tephra layers. Here, we investigated macro‐ and cryptotephra in sediments of Lake Pupuke, New Zealand, to identify primary from reworked tephra and thus refine the record of tephra‐fall events in the region over the last ca. 9 cal ka. Geochemical fingerprinting, stratigraphic correlation, 14C ages and X‐ray fluorescence and magnetic susceptibility core scanning were employed to filter out reworked tephra and thus establish a new Holocene tephrochronological framework for the region. Five primary macrotephra layers and 18 primary cryptotephra were identified. Confidence levels are attached to the newly identified cryptotephra, and geochemical characterization of well‐dated rhyolite tephra was used to establish an associated age model. Our results suggest that Holocene tephra fall from both local and distal volcanoes affected Auckland more frequently than previously documented, with a possible average frequency of at least once every 424 years. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the importance of identifying the extent of post‐depositional reworking to establish the veracity of the cryptotephra record.
Novel LTPS technology for large substrate
Authors: Nodera Nobutake , Utsugi Satoru , Ishida Shigeru , Takakura Ryohei , Matsushima Yoshiaki , Michinaka Satoshi , Matsumoto Takao , Kobayashi Kazuki , Oketani Taimi
Published: June 2016

We developed partial laser anneal silicon (PLAS) thin‐film transistor (TFT) of novel low‐temperature polycrystalline‐silicon (LTPS) technology, which had the mobility of 28.1 cm2/Vs lager than that of mass produced oxide TFT and photo‐stability comparable with that of LTPS TFT in bottom gate structure. This innovative technology enables the conversion from an α‐Si TFT to a high‐mobility TFT most easily and inexpensively. Moreover, there is no limit of substrate size, such as Gen10 and more. Photo‐stability of PLAS will be suitable to organic light‐emitting diode backplane, high‐dynamic range TV, and outdoor IDP.
Lymphosome concept: Anatomical study of the lymphatic system
Authors: Suami Hiroo
Published: June 2016

The gross anatomical study of the lymphatic system in humans and animals has been suspended for almost 100 years. This article introduces the author's technique for investigating the lymphatic system using the concept of the lymphosome. In revisiting the anatomical study of the lymphatic system, our updated knowledge can potentially be utilized either to reassure surgeons about their current procedures in the surgical management of cancers and lymphedema or assist them to refine them. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:13–17. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterizing Electric Field Exposed P3HT Thin Films Using Polarized‐Light Spectroscopies
Authors: Bhattacharjee Ujjal , Elshobaki Moneim , Santra Kalyan , Bobbitt Jonathan M. , Chaudhary Sumit , Smith Emily A. , Petrich Jacob W.
Published: June 2016

P3HT (poly (3‐hexylthiophene)) has been widely used as a donor in the active layer in organic photovoltaic devices. Although moderately high‐power conversion efficiencies have been achieved with P3HT‐based devices, structural details, such as the orientation of polymer units and the extent of H‐ and J‐aggregation are not yet fully understood; and different measures have been taken to control the ordering in the material. One such measure, which has been exploited, is to apply an electric field from a Van de Graaff generator. Fluorescence (to measure anisotropy instead of polarization, which is more commonly measured) and Raman spectroscopy are used to characterize the order of P3HT molecules in thin films resulting from the field. Preferential orientations of the units in a thin film are determined, consistent with observed hole mobility in thin‐film transistors, and it is observed that the apparent H‐coupling strength changes when the films are exposed to oriented electrical fields during drying.

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A multi‐stage ‘infection’ model of stock investors' reaction to new product announcement signal
Authors: Hao Fanhao , Wang Tienan
Published: June 2016

Drawing on viral dynamics theory, this paper presents a differential equations model with time delay to investigate the stock investor behavior driven by new product announcement (NPA) signal. Visually, we look upon investors in stock market as cellsin vivoand the NPA signals as free virus. The potential investors will be ‘infected’ by the dissociative NPA signal and then make investment decisions. In order to better understand the ‘infection’ process, we extract and establish a multi‐stage process during which NPA signal is delivered and ‘infects’ the potential investors. A time‐delay effect is employed to reflect the evaluation stage at which potential investors comprehensively evaluate and decide whether to invest or not. In addition, we introduce a set of external and internal factors into the model, including information sensitivity and investor sentiment, and so on, which are pivotal for examining investor behavior. Equilibrium analysis and numerical simulations are employed to check out the properties of the model and highlight the practical application values of the model. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
BKM's criterion for the 3D nematic liquid crystal flows via two velocity components and molecular orientations
Authors: Zhao Jihong
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we provide a sufficient condition, in terms of the horizontal gradient of two horizontal velocity components and the gradient of liquid crystal molecular orientation field, for the breakdown of local in time strong solutions to the three‐dimensional incompressible nematic liquid crystal flows. More precisely, let T∗ be the maximal existence time of the local strong solution (u,d), then T∗<+∞ if and only if

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4014:mma4014-math-0001
where uh=(u1,u2), ∇h=(∂1,∂2). This result can be regarded as the generalization of the well‐known Beale‐Kato‐Majda (BKM) type criterion and is even new for the three‐dimensional incompressible Navier–Stokes equations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acute effects of dietary fatty acids on osteclastogenesis via RANKL/RANK/OPG system
Authors: Naranjo M. Carmen , Garcia Indara , Bermudez Beatriz , Lopez Sergio , Cardelo Magdalena P. , Abia Rocio , Muriana Francisco J. G. , Montserrat‐de la Paz Sergio
Published: June 2016

Scope

Postprandial state is directly linked with chronic diseases. We hypothesized that dietary fats may have acute effects on health status by modulating osteoclast differentiation and activation in a fatty acid‐dependent manner.

Methods and results

In healthy subjects, a fat‐enriched meal increased plasma levels of the RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand)/OPG (osteoprotegerin) ratio (SFAs > MUFAs = PUFAs) in the postprandial state. Postprandial TRL‐SFAs enhanced tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and the expression of osteoclast marker genes (TRAP, OSCAR, RANK, and CATHK) while downregulated the expression of OPG gene in human monocyte‐derived osteoclasts. These effects were not observed with monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA)‐enriched postprandial triglyceride‐rich lipoproteins (TRLs). Moreover, postprandial TRL‐SFAs increased the release of osteoclastogenic cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6) meanwhile TRL‐MUFAs and TRL‐PUFAs increased the release of anti‐osteoclastogenic cytokines (IL‐4 and IL‐10) in the medium of human monocyte‐derived osteoclasts.

Conclusion

For the first time, we show that postprandial TRLs are metabolic entities with osteoclastogenic activity and that this property is related to the type of dietary fatty acid in the meal. The osteoclastogenic potency was as follows: SFAs >>> MUFAs = PUFAs. These exciting findings open opportunities for developing nutritional strategies with olive oil as the principal dietary source of MUFAs, notably oleic acid, to prevent development and progression of osteoclast‐related diseases.
Non‐abelian T‐duality of Pilch‐Warner background
Authors: Dimov Hristo , Mladenov Stefan , Rashkov Radoslav C. , Vetsov Tsvetan
Published: June 2016

In this work we obtain the non‐abelian T‐dual geometry of the well‐known Pilch‐Warner supergravity solution in its infrared point. We derive the dual metric and the NS two‐form by gauging the isometry group of the initial theory and integrating out the introduced auxiliary gauge fields. Then we use the Fourier‐Mukai transform from algebraic geometry to find the transformation rules of the R‐R fields. The dual background preserves the supersymmetry of the original one due to the fact that the Killing spinor does not depend on the directions on which the N‐AT‐D is performed. Finally, we consider two different pp‐wave limits of the T‐dual geometry by performing Penrose limits for two light‐like geodesics.
A quantitative test case for global‐scale dynamical cores based on analytic wave solutions of the shallow‐water equations
Authors: Shamir Ofer , Paldor Nathan
Published: June 2016

Recently derived analytic wave solutions of the shallow‐water equations (SWEs) on the rotating spherical Earth are employed to construct a test case for hydrostatic dynamical cores of global‐scale general circulation models (GCMs). The proposed test case is more relevant to the SWEs than the frequently used Rossby–Haurwitz test case which is based on wave solutions of the non‐divergent barotropic vorticity equation and not the SWEs. The applicability of the proposed test case to operational GCMs is demonstrated by using the spectral Eulerian dynamical core of the atmospheric component of NCAR's Community Earth System Model to simulate the analytic solutions. An initial slowly propagating Rossby wave and a fast eastward propagating inertia–gravity wave are both accurately simulated for 100 wave periods. In order to quantify the accuracy of the simulations, two error‐measures are suggested which complement the conservation of global energy and, unlike the frequently used L2 error‐measure, provide independent assessments of the errors in the phase speeds and the meridional structures of the simulated waves and are therefore more relevant to periodic wave solutions.
Impact of different IFS microphysics on a warm conveyor belt and the downstream flow evolution
Authors: Joos H. , Forbes R. M.
Published: June 2016

The influence of microphysical processes on the upper‐level flow features associated with an extratropical cyclone is investigated with the ECMWF global atmospheric model. A control simulation with the model version operational at ECMWF during 2014/early 2015 and a simulation with new parametrizations of rain autoconversion/accretion, rain evaporation and snow riming operational since May 2015 are compared in detail. In order to investigate the impact of each microphysical process separately, the diabatic heating rate for each microphysical process and the associated change in potential vorticity (PV) is calculated and compared for the two simulations. The influence on the upper‐level ridge building and the downstream flow evolution is investigated. The changes in the microphysical parametrization led to differences in the position of the warm conveyor belt (WCB) outflow. The WCB reaches the upper troposphere with low PV values and shifts the location of the tropopause in a slightly different way in the two simulations. Although these differences are relatively small at the beginning, they are advected downstream and amplify, leading to distinct differences in the upper‐level PV pattern. These results highlight the importance of correct representation of microphysical processes for large‐scale flow features. Additionally they emphasise the need for detailed microphysical measurements in extratropical cyclones in order to better understand and constrain the microphysical processes in NWP models.
Recent Studies of Pickering Emulsions: Particles Make the Difference
Authors: Wu Jie , Ma Guang‐Hui
Published: June 2016

In recent years, emulsions stabilized by micro‐ or nanoparticles (known as Pickering emulsions) have attracted much attention. Micro‐ or nanoparticles, as the main components of the emulsion, play a key role in the preparation and application of Pickering emulsions. The existence of particles at the interface between the oil and aqueous phases affects not only the preparation, but also the properties of Pickering emulsions, affording superior stability, low toxicity, and stimuli‐responsiveness compared to classical emulsions stabilized by surfactants. These advantages of Pickering emulsions make them attractive, especially in biomedicine. In this review, the effects of the characteristics of micro‐ and nanoparticles on the preparation and properties of Pickering emulsions are introduced. In particular, the preparation methods of Pickering emulsions, especially uniform‐sized emulsions, are listed. Uniform Pickering emulsions are convenient for both mechanistic research and applications. Furthermore, some biomedical applications of Pickering emulsions are discussed and the problems hindering their clinical application are identified.
A Dual Modulated Homochiral Helical Nanofilament Phase with Local Columnar Ordering Formed by Bent Core Liquid Crystals: Effects of Molecular Chirality
Authors: Li Lin , Salamonczyk Miroslaw , Jákli Antal , Hegmann Torsten
Published: June 2016

Helical nanofilament (HNF) phases form as a result of an intralayer mismatch between top and bottom molecular halves in bent‐core liquid crystals (BC‐LCs) that is relieved by local saddle‐splay geometry. HNFs are immensely attractive for photovoltaic and chiral separation applications and as templates for the chiral spatial assembly of guest molecules. Here, the synthesis and characterization of two unichiral BC‐LCs and one racemic mixture with tris‐biphenyl‐diester cores featuring chiral (R,R) and (S,S) or racemic 2‐octyloxy aliphatic side chains are presented. In comparison to the achiral compound with linear side chains forming an intralayer modulated HNF phase (HNFmod), synchrotron small angle X‐ray diffraction indicates that the unichiral derivatives form a dual modulated HNF phase with intra‐ as well as interlayer modulations (HNFmod2) suggesting a columnar local structure of the nanofilaments. Transmission electron microscopy and circular dichroism spectropolarimetry confirm that the unichiral materials exclusively form homochiral HNFs with a twist sense‐matching secondary twist. A contact preparation provides the first example of two identical chiral liquid crystal phases only differing in their handedness that do not mix and form an achiral liquid crystal phase with an entirely different structure in the contact zone.
Wnt Signaling Regulates Airway Epithelial Stem Cells in Adult Murine Submucosal Glands
Authors: Lynch Thomas J. , Anderson Preston J. , Xie Weiliang , Crooke Adrianne K. , Liu Xiaoming , Tyler Scott R. , Luo Meihui , Kusner David M. , Zhang Yulong , Neff Traci , Burnette Daniel C. , Walters Katherine S. , Goodheart Michael J. , Parekh Kalpaj R. , Engelhardt John F.
Published: June 2016

Wnt signaling is required for lineage commitment of glandular stem cells (SCs) during tracheal submucosal gland (SMG) morphogenesis from the surface airway epithelium (SAE). Whether similar Wnt-dependent processes coordinate SC expansion in adult SMGs following airway injury remains unknown. We found that two Wnt-reporters in mice (BAT-gal and TCF/Lef:H2B-GFP) are coexpressed in actively cycling SCs of primordial glandular placodes and in a small subset of adult SMG progenitor cells that enter the cell cycle 24 hours following airway injury. At homeostasis, these Wnt reporters showed nonoverlapping cellular patterns of expression in the SAE and SMGs. Following tracheal injury, proliferation was accompanied by dynamic changes in Wnt-reporter activity and the analysis of 56 Wnt-related signaling genes revealed unique temporal changes in expression within proximal (gland-containing) and distal (gland-free) portions of the trachea. Wnt stimulation in vivo and in vitro promoted epithelial proliferation in both SMGs and the SAE. Interestingly, slowly cycling nucleotide label-retaining cells (LRCs) of SMGs were spatially positioned near clusters of BAT-gal positive serous tubules. Isolation and culture of tet-inducible H2B-GFP LRCs demonstrated that SMG LRCs were more proliferative than SAE LRCs and culture expanded SMG-derived progenitor cells outcompeted SAE-derived progenitors in regeneration of tracheal xenograft epithelium using a clonal analysis competition assay. SMG-derived progenitors were also multipotent for cell types in the SAE and formed gland-like structures in xenografts. These studies demonstrate the importance of Wnt signals in modulating SC phenotypes within tracheal niches and provide new insight into phenotypic differences of SMG and SAE SCs.
A Novel Role for miR-1305 in Regulation of Pluripotency-Differentiation Balance, Cell Cycle, and Apoptosis in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Jin Shibo , Collin Joseph , Zhu Lili , Montaner David , Armstrong Lyle , Neganova Irina , Lako Majlinda
Published: June 2016

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are defined as pluripotent in view of their self-renewal ability and potential to differentiate to cells of all three germ layers. Recent studies have indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in the maintenance of pluripotency and cell cycle regulation. We used a microarray based approach to identify miRNAs that were enriched in hESCs when compared to differentiated cells and at the same time showed significant expression changes between different phases of cell cycle. We identified 34 candidate miRNAs and performed functional studies on one of these, miR-1305, which showed the highest expression change during cell cycle transition. Overexpression of miR-1305 induced differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, increased cell apoptosis and sped up G1/S transition, while its downregulation facilitated the maintenance of pluripotency and increased cell survival. Using target prediction software and luciferase based reporter assays we identified POLR3G as a downstream target by which miR-1305 regulates the fine balance between maintenance of pluripotency and onset of differentiation. Overexpression of POLR3G rescued pluripotent stem cell differentiation induced by miR-1305 overexpression. In contrast, knock-down of POLR3G expression abolished the miR-1305-knockdown mediated enhancement of pluripotency, thus validating its role as miR-1305 target in human pluripotent stem cells. Together our data point to an important role for miR-1305 as a novel regulator of pluripotency, cell survival and cell cycle and uncovers new mechanisms and networks by which these processes are intertwined in human pluripotent stem cells.
Relaxing effect of lower leg acupuncture in sedentary university students with regard to physical movement and autonomic nerve activity: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Motoyama Hiroie , Mukaino Yoshito , Isogai Hirohisa
Published: June 2016

Aim

To demonstrate the utility of press needles on the lower limbs in improving response to straight leg raise (SLR) test and cervical movement.

Method

A group of 28 university students with abnormal response to SLR test and cervical movement were randomly divided into an acupuncture group and a control group. The acupuncture group was treated with press needles at four acupoints on both lower limbs. In addition to evaluating movement in left–right SLR test and cervical movement using numerical rating scale, changes in heart rate were also monitored.

Results

No significant differences were noted between the acupuncture and control groups at baseline before treatment. After acupuncture treatment, mean score for left and right SLR test in the acupuncture group decreased by –3.79 ± 1.53 and –3.79 ± 1.37, respectively. Marked decrease was also noted for this group in the left–right cervical lateroflexion (by –1.29 ± 1.44 and –1.64 ± 1.91, respectively). Changes were also observed in the low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) ratio after treatment in the acupuncture group, in that HF after treatment (converted to log10) was significantly higher than before (LF/HF ratio, decrease by –1.20 ± 0.60; HF, 0.12 ± 0.13). No significant changes from baseline were noted in the control group.

Conclusion

Stimulation using press needles to the lower limbs can improve abnormalities in SLR and cervical movement, while additionally having a relaxing effect, which controls sympathetic activity and accelerates parasympathetic activity.
The value of plasma vitamin B6 profiles in early onset epileptic encephalopathies
Authors: Mathis Déborah , Abela Lucia , Albersen Monique , Bürer Céline , Crowther Lisa , Beese Karin , Hartmann Hans , Bok Levinus A. , Struys Eduard , Papuc Sorina M. , Rauch Anita , Hersberger Martin , Verhoeven‐Duif Nanda M. , Plecko Barbara
Published: June 2016

Background

Recent decades have unravelled the molecular background of a number of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) causing vitamin B6‐dependent epilepsy. As these defects interfere with vitamin B6 metabolism by different mechanisms, the plasma vitamin B6 profile can give important clues for further molecular work‐up. This has so far been investigated in only a small number of patients.

Methods

We evaluated the vitamin B6 vitamers pyridoxal 5’‐phosphate (PLP), pyridoxal (PL), pyridoxamine (PM), pyridoxine (PN) and the catabolite pyridoxic acid (PA) in the so far largest patient cohort: reference (n = 50); pyridox(am)ine 5’‐phosphate oxidase (PNPO) deficiency (n = 6); antiquitin (ATQ) deficiency (n = 21); tissue non‐specific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP) deficiency (n = 2) and epileptic encephalopathy (EE) of unknown etiology tested negative for ATQ and PNPO deficiency (n = 64).

Results

High plasma PM concentration was found in all patients with PNPO deficiency irrespective of vitamin B6 supplementation. Their PM concentration and the PM/PA ratio was significantly higher (p < 0.0001), compared to any other patients analysed. One patient with TNSALP deficiency and sampling prior to PN supplementation had markedly elevated plasma PLP concentration. On PN supplementation, patients with TNSALP deficiency, ATQ deficiency and patients of the EE cohort had similar plasma vitamin B6 profiles that merely reflect the intake of supra‐physiological doses of vitamin B6. The interval of sampling to the last PN intake strongly affected the plasma concentrations of PN, PL and PA.

Conclusions

PM concentrations and the PM/PA ratio clearly separated PNPO‐deficient patients from the other cohorts. The plasma PM/PA ratio thus represents a robust biomarker for the selective screening of PNPO deficiency.
Effect of temperate forest tree species on soil dehydrogenase and urease activities in relation to other properties of soil derived from loess and glaciofluvial sand
Authors: Błońska Ewa , Lasota Jarosław , Gruba Piotr
Published: June 2016

We investigated the effects of several tree species on dehydrogenase and urease activities in soils derived from two different parent materials (glaciofluvial sand and loess) in forested areas in southern Poland. We hypothesized that coniferous forests (pine, spruce) alter the soil cation exchange capacity (CEC) and decrease soil pH and, therefore, might decrease soil enzyme activities compared with broadleaf species growing on similar soils. Eight paired plots (12 × 12 m) were established on glaciofluvial sand in pine (Pinus sylvestris) + oak (Quercus robur) and spruce (Picea abies) + pine stands, as well as on loess‐derived soils: beech (Fagus sylvatica) + pine and hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) + pine stands. Each plot was a 4 × 4 m grid with 16 sampling points. In soil samples pH, soil texture, and organic carbon, nitrogen, base cation contents, dehydrogenase and urease activities were determined. On both parent materials, the soil pH was lower under coniferous species than under broadleaf species. The acidifying effect of tree species on sandy soil was in the order of spruce = pine > oak, while that on loess was pine > beech > hornbeam. Hornbeam and oak increased the soil pH and stimulated enzyme activity in the soil. The content of fine fraction enhanced potential enzyme activities in soils, thus the loess soils had greater dehydrogenase and urease activity. The results suggest that pine stores more soil organic C in association with silt increasing the pool of stabilized soil organic C.
A review on soil–structure interaction analysis of laterally loaded piles
Authors: Kavitha P. E. , Beena K. S. , Narayanan K. P.
Published: June 2016

Soil–structure interaction plays an important role in the behavior of structure under static or dynamic loading. It influences the behavior of soil, as well as the response of pile under loading. The analysis is highly essential for predicting a more accurate structural behavior so as to improve the safety of structures under extreme loading conditions. The soil–pile system behavior is predominantly nonlinear and this makes the problem complicated. In a laterally loaded pile the load is resisted by the soil–pile interaction effect, which in turn depends on soil properties, pile material, pile diameter, loading type and bed slope of ground. The difficulty in the accountability of the influencing factors necessitates a careful study on soil–structure interaction problem. The analysis became easier with the debut of powerful computers and simulation tools such as finite element analysis software. A detailed literature review on soil–structure interaction analysis of laterally loaded piles is presented in this paper.
Rapid 14C Analysis of Dissolved Organic Carbon in Non-Saline Waters
Authors: Lang Susan Q , McIntyre Cameron P , Bernasconi Stefano M , Früh-Green Gretchen L , Voss Britta M , Eglinton Timothy I , Wacker Lukas
Published: June 2016

The radiocarbon content of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in rivers, lakes, and other non-saline waters can provide valuable information on carbon cycling dynamics in the environment. DOC is typically prepared for 14C analysis by accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) either by ultraviolet (UV) oxidation or by freeze-drying and sealed tube combustion. We present here a new method for the rapid analysis of 14C of DOC using wet chemical oxidation (WCO) and automated headspace sampling of CO2. The approach is an adaption of recently developed methods using aqueous persulfate oxidant to determine the δ13C of DOC in non-saline water samples and the 14C content of volatile organic acids. One advantage of the current method over UV oxidation is higher throughput: 22 samples and 10 processing standards can be prepared in one day and analyzed in a second day, allowing a full suite of 14C processing standards and blanks to be run in conjunction with samples. A second advantage is that there is less potential for cross-contamination between samples.
Legislator Dissent as a Valence Signal
Authors: Campbell Rosie , Cowley Philip , Vivyan Nick , Wagner Markus
Published: June 2016

Existing research suggests that voters tend to respond positively to legislator independence due to two types of mechanism. First, dissent has an indirect effect, increasing a legislator’s media coverage and personal recognition among constituents (profile effects). Secondly, constituents react positively to dissent when this signals that the legislator has matching political or representational preferences (conditional evaluation). This article presents a third effect: dissent acts as avalence signalof integrity and trustworthiness. Consistent with the valence signalling mechanism, it uses new observational and experimental evidence to show that British voters have a strong and largely unconditional preference for legislators who dissent. The findings pose a dilemma for political systems that rely on strong and cohesive parties.
Circadian rhythms, food timing and obesity
Authors: Lopez-Minguez J. , Gómez-Abellán P. , Garaulet M.
Published: June 2016

It is known that our physiology changes throughout the day and that several physiological hormones display circadian rhythmicity. The alteration of this normal pattern is called chronodisruption (CD). In recent years, it has been demonstrated that CD is related to obesity. Although several factors may be causing CD, one important aspect to consider is the failure in our internal clock. Indeed, studies performed in mutant animals have demonstrated that mutations in clock genes are related to obesity. In human subjects, mutations are rare (<1 % of the population). Nevertheless, it is rather common to have genetic variations in one SNP, which underlie differences in our vulnerability to disease. Several SNP in clock genes are related to obesity and weight loss. Taking into account that genetics is behind CD, as has already been demonstrated in twins’ models, the question is: Are we predestinated? We will see along these lines that nutrigenetics and epigenetics answer: ‘No, we are not predestinated’. Through nutrigenetics we know that our behaviours may interact with our genes and may decrease the deleterious effect of one specific risk variant. From epigenetics the message is even more positive: it is demonstrated that by changing our behaviours we can change our genome. Herein, we propose modifying ‘what, how, and when we eat’ as an effective tool to decrease our genetic risk, and as a consequence to diminish CD and decrease obesity. This is a novel and very promising area in obesity prevention and treatment.
Risperidone-induced topological alterations of anatomical brain network in first-episode drug-naive schizophrenia patients: a longitudinal diffusion tensor imaging study
Authors: Hu M. , Zong X. , Zheng J. , Mann J. J. , Li Z. , Pantazatos S. P. , Li Y. , Liao Y. , He Y. , Zhou J. , Sang D. , Zhao H. , Tang J. , Chen H. , Lv L. , Chen X.
Published: June 2016

Background

It remains unclear whether the topological deficits of the white matter network documented in cross-sectional studies of chronic schizophrenia patients are due to chronic illness or to other factors such as antipsychotic treatment effects. To answer this question, we evaluated the white matter network in medication-naive first-episode schizophrenia patients (FESP) before and after a course of treatment.

Method

We performed a longitudinal diffusion tensor imaging study in 42 drug-naive FESP at baseline and then after 8 weeks of risperidone monotherapy, and compared them with 38 healthy volunteers. Graph theory was utilized to calculate the topological characteristics of brain anatomical network. Patients’ clinical state was evaluated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) before and after treatment.

Results

Pretreatment, patients had relatively intact overall topological organizations, and deficient nodal topological properties primarily in prefrontal gyrus and limbic system components such as the bilateral anterior and posterior cingulate. Treatment with risperidone normalized topological parameters in the limbic system, and the enhancement positively correlated with the reduction in PANSS-positive symptoms. Prefrontal topological impairments persisted following treatment and negative symptoms did not improve.

Conclusions

During the early phase of antipsychotic medication treatment there are region-specific alterations in white matter topological measures. Limbic white matter topological dysfunction improves with positive symptom reduction. Prefrontal deficits and negative symptoms are unresponsive to medication intervention, and prefrontal deficits are potential trait biomarkers and targets for negative symptom treatment development.
Could resource rents finance universal access to infrastructure? A first exploration of needs and rents
Authors: Fuss Sabine , Chen Claudine , Jakob Michael , Marxen Annika , Rao Narasimha D. , Edenhofer Ottmar
Published: June 2016

It is often argued that, ethically, resource rents should accrue to all citizens. Yet, in reality, the rents from exploiting national resources are often concentrated in the hands of a few. If resource rents were to be taxed, on the other hand, substantial amounts of public money could be raised and used to cover the population's infrastructure needs, such as access to electricity, water, sanitation, communication technology and roads, which all play important roles in a nation's economic development process. Here, the authors examine to what extent existing resource rents could be used to provide universal access to these infrastructures.
Mortality outcomes associated with intake of fast-food items and sugar-sweetened drinks among older adults in the Vitamins and Lifestyle (VITAL) study
Authors: Barrington Wendy E , White Emily
Published: June 2016

Objective

To evaluate associations of fast-food items (FFI) and sugar-sweetened drinks (SSD) with mortality outcomes including deaths due to any cause, CVD and total cancers among a large sample of adults.

Design

Using a prospective design, risk of death was compared across baseline dietary exposures. Intakes of FFI and SSD were quantified using a semi-quantitative FFQ (baseline data collected 2000–2002). Deaths (n4187) were obtained via the Washington State death file through 2008, excluding deaths in the first year of follow-up. Causes of death were categorized as due to CVD (I00–I99) or cancer (C00–D48). Cox models were used to estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95 % CI.

Setting

The Vitamins and Lifestyle (VITAL) study among adults living in Western Washington State.

Subjects

Men and women (n69 582) between 50 and 76 years of age at baseline.

Results

Intakes of FFI and SSD were higher among individuals who were younger, female, African-American, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian-American or Pacific Islander, of lower educational attainment, and of lower income (P<0·0001 for all). Higher risk of total mortality was associated with greater intake of FFI (HR=1·16; 95 % CI 1·04, 1·29;P=0·004; comparing highestv. lowest quartile) and SSD (HR=1·19; 95 % CI 1·08, 1·30;P<0·0001; comparing highestv. lowest quartile). Higher intake of FFI was associated with greater cancer-specific mortality while an association with CVD-specific mortality was suggested. Associations between intake of SSD and cause-specific mortality were less clear.

Conclusions

Intake of FFI and SSD has a detrimental effect on future mortality risk. These findings may be salient to socially patterned disparities in mortality.
Dietary fried fish intake increases risk of CVD: the REasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study
Authors: Nahab Fadi , Pearson Keith , Frankel Michael R , Ard Jamy , Safford Monika M , Kleindorfer Dawn , Howard Virginia J , Judd Suzanne
Published: June 2016

Objective

The objective of the present study was to examine the relationship of dietary fried fish consumption and risk of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality.

Design

Prospective cohort study among participants of the REasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study who resided in the USA.

Setting

The primary outcome measures included the hazard ratios (HR) of incident CVD including first incident fatal or non-fatal ischaemic stroke or myocardial infarction and all-cause mortality, based on cumulative average fish consumption ascertained at baseline.

Subjects

Participants (n 16 479) were enrolled between 2003 and 2007, completed the self-administered Block98 FFQ and were free of CVD at baseline.

Results

There were 700 cardiovascular events over a mean follow-up of 5·1 years. After adjustment for sociodemographic variables, health behaviours and other CVD risk factors, participants eating ≥2 servings fried fish/week (v. <1 serving/month) were at a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular events (HR=1·63; 95 % CI 1·11, 2·40). Intake of non-fried fish was not associated with risk of incident CVD. There was no association found with dietary fried or non-fried fish intake and cardiovascular or all-cause mortality.

Conclusions

Fried fish intake of two or more servings per week is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Given the increased intake of fried fish in the stroke belt and among African Americans, these data suggest that dietary fried fish intake may contribute to geographic and racial disparities in CVD.
SEM morphological studies of carbonates and the search for ancient life on Mars
Authors: D'Elia M. , Blanco A. , Galiano A. , Orofino V. , Fonti S. , Mancarella F. , Guido A. , Russo F. , Mastandrea A.
Published: June 2016

Next space missions will investigate the possibility of extinct or extant life on Mars. Studying the infrared spectral modifications, induced by thermal processing on different carbonate samples (recent shells and fossils of different ages), we developed a method able to discriminate biogenic carbonates from their abiogenic counterparts. The method has been successfully applied to microbialites, i.e. bio-induced carbonates deposits, and particularly to stromatolites, the laminated fabric of microbialites, some of which can be ascribed to among the oldest traces of biological activity known on Earth. These results are of valuable importance since such carbonates are linked to primitive living organisms that can be considered as good analogues for putative Martian life forms. Considering that the microstructures of biogenic carbonate are different from those of abiogenic origin, we investigated the micromorphology of shells, skeletal grains and microbialites at different scale with a scanning electron microscope. The results show that this line of research may provide an alternative and complementary approach to other techniques developed in the past by our group to distinguish biotic from abiotic carbonates. In this paper, we present some results that can be of valuable interest since they demonstrate the utility for a database of images concerning the structures and textures of relevant carbonate minerals. Such data may be useful for the analysis of Martian samples, coming from sample return missions or investigated by futurein situexplorations, aimed to characterize the near-subsurface of Mars in search for past or present life.
Struggles for a global Internet constitution: protecting global communication structures against surveillance measures
Authors: FISCHER-LESCANO ANDREAS
Published: June 2016

In 2014, the UN Human Rights Committee published its Concluding Observations on the United States’ fourth periodic report on the progress of the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (UN Doc CCPR/C/SR/3061), in which also the US surveillance practices are criticised. The Committee’s insistence on the right to privacy and its exterritorial effect is an important first step, but it is not comprehensive, as by remaining within the individual rights framework the UN Human Rights Committee fails to sufficiently take into account the systemic challenges in play. Developing a constitution of the Internet would necessitate not only protecting individual fundamental rights against state interference, but protecting communicative spheres by guaranteeing institutional autonomies and subjecting all social spheres to democratic control; this also requires opening up spaces for a critical public, including whistleblowers, and establishing a right to cryptography – a crucial refraction in the polycentric panoptic schema.
Relations Between Nonsuicidal Self-Injury and Suicide Attempt Characteristics in a Sample of Recent Suicide Attempters
Authors: Ward-Ciesielski Erin F. , Schumacher Julie A. , Bagge Courtney L.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Background: Although nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is known to be associated with increased risk of death by suicide and suicide attempts, minimal research has focused on comparing recent suicide attempters with and without NSSI on suicide attempt characteristics (frequency and severity of suicide attempts). Understanding how NSSI impacts suicide attempt characteristics can help providers to enhance their assessment and treatment strategies so as to prevent future suicidal behaviors. Aims: The present study investigated the extent to which a history of NSSI was related to the frequency and severity of suicide attempts in a sample of recent suicide attempters. Method: Participants included 171 adult patients who presented to the hospital within 24 hr of a suicide attempt. Information about their suicide attempts and NSSI was gathered using self-report questionnaires and interviews. Results: Suicide attempters with a history of NSSI reported significantly more suicide attempts and more suicide attempts requiring medical attention, after controlling for important clinical covariates. Conclusion: NSSI was uniquely associated with suicide attempt characteristics, highlighting the importance of NSSI in suicide assessment, prevention, and treatment efforts.
Suicide, Satisfaction With Life, and Insight Capacity Among Adolescents With Mental Disorders
Authors: Schapir Lior , Zalsman Gil , Hasson-Ohayon Ilanit , Gaziel Meyrav , Morag-Yaffe Mayad , Sever Jonathan , Weizman Abraham , Shoval Gal
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Background: Little is known about the role of insight and satisfaction with life in adolescent suicidal behavior. Aims: The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between suicide risk, insight, and satisfaction with life among adolescents with mental disorders. Method: A total of 30 adolescents were evaluated using self-report measures of insight, satisfaction with life, and suicide risk. Regression analysis was used to assess the contribution of each factor to suicide risk. Results: Positive correlations were found between suicide risk and insight dimensions. Satisfaction with life correlated negatively with suicide risk and insight dimensions. Insight explained 27.3% of suicide risk (p = .003). Both insight and satisfaction with life explained 39.0% of suicide risk (p = .031). Conclusion: Among adolescents with mental disorders, insight is a risk factor, whereas satisfaction with life is a protective factor for suicidality. Insight affects suicide risk of adolescents with mental disorders via reduction of satisfaction with life.