bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ investigation of the formation and metastability of formamidinium lead tri-iodide perovskite solar cells
Authors: Aguiar Jeffery A. , Wozny Sarah , Holesinger Terry G. , Aoki Toshihiro , Patel Maulik K. , Yang Mengjin , Berry Joseph J. , Al-Jassim Mowafak , Zhou Weilie , Zhu Kai
Published: May 2016

Organic–inorganic perovskites have emerged as an important class of next generation solar cells due to their remarkable low cost, band gap, and sub-900 nm absorption onset.
Coulomb blockade based field-effect transistors exploiting stripe-shaped channel geometries of self-assembled metal nanoparticles
Authors: Lehmann Hauke , Willing Svenja , Möller Sandra , Volkmann Mirjam , Klinke Christian
Published: May 2016

Stipes of metal nanoparticles show pronounced Coulomb oscillations and function as channels in field-effect transistors.
Cooperative catalysis by bovine serum albumin–iodine towards cascade oxidative coupling-C(sp2)–H sulfenylation of indoles/hydroxyaryls with thiophenols on water
Authors: Saima Saima , Equbal Danish , Lavekar Aditya G. , Sinha Arun K.
Published: May 2016

Bovine serum albumin–iodine acts as a cooperative catalyst for C(sp2)–H sulfenylation of indoles and hydroxyaryls (i.e. 2-naphthol/4-hydroxycoumarin) with diverse thiols (aryl/heteroaryl) using water under aerobic conditions.
Spread and set silicone–boronic acid elastomers
Authors: Zepeda-Velazquez Laura , Macphail Benjamin , Brook Michael A.
Published: May 2016

Silicone boronates efficiently spread on water and then form resilient elastomers as shown by the colored water-on-silicone-on-water films that form.
Fine tuning the band-gap of graphene by atomic and molecular doping: a density functional theory study
Authors: Hussain Akhtar , Ullah Saif , Farhan M. Arshad
Published: May 2016

First-principles density functional theory (DFT) based calculations were carried out to investigate the structural and electronic properties of beryllium and nitrogen co-doped and BeN/BeO molecules-doped graphene systems.
A two in one approach: renewable support and enhanced catalysis for sweetening using chicken feather bound cobalt(ii) phthalocyanine under alkali free environment
Authors: Chauhan Deepak K. , Patnam Padma L. , Ganguly Sudip K. , Jain Suman L.
Published: May 2016

Poultry waste chicken feathers, an inexpensive and abundantly available material has been used as a renewable support for immobilizing a cobalt phthalocyanine catalyst.
Enhanced stability of perovskite-like SrVO3-based anode materials by donor-type substitutions
Authors: Macías Javier , Yaremchenko Aleksey A. , Frade Jorge R.
Published: May 2016

Phase stability domain of SrVO3-based SOFC anode materials is expanded towards higher oxygen partial pressures by donor-type substitutions into strontium and/or vanadium sublattices.
Executive Function and Ambiguous Sentence Comprehension
Authors: Key-DeLyria Sarah E. , Altmann Lori J. P.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Sentence comprehension is a critical skill in today's literate society. Recent evidence suggests that processing and comprehending language taps cognitive as well as linguistic abilities, a finding that has critical import for clinicians who have clients with language disorders. To promote awareness of the impact of cognition, especially executive function (EF) and working memory (WM), this opinion article presents current views of how sentences are processed and links the various steps of the process to specific EF and WM subcomponents.

Method

The article focuses on ambiguous sentences, pointing out the similar types of processing needed when resolving an ambiguity and performing EF tasks.

Results

We discuss the potential overlap between the neurobiology of sentence processing and EF and the evidence supporting a link between EF and sentence processes.

Conclusion

Awareness of the potential role of EF and WM in sentence comprehension will help clinicians be more aware of potential cognitive-linguistic deficits in their clients. Future research will help to clarify the link between EF and sentence comprehension.
3.1 Heck Reactions
Authors: Andersson C. M. , Andersson M.
Published: May 2016

The arylation of terminal alkenes bearing mesomerically electron-withdrawing groups is the archetypal palladium(0)-catalyzed Heck reaction, also known as the Mizoroki–Heck reaction. These substrates generally provide a very high regioselectivity, with both steric and electronic factors favoring arylation at the terminal position of the alkene. Additionally, diastereoselectivity is generally very high, and products with an E configuration are obtained exclusively in most cases. In the wake of the pioneering studies on this reaction in which stoichiometric amounts of palladium reagents were used, iodoarenes were introduced as arylating agents in a catalytic version of the reaction; these were later supplemented by bromo- and chloroarenes. Subsequently, many other arylating agents, such as pseudohalides, aroyl chlorides, and diazonium or iodonium salts, have been introduced as electrophiles in the Mizoroki–Heck reaction. Later advances include the development of oxidative Heck arylations catalyzed by palladium(II) species.

This chapter aims to provide a general perspective on the applicability of this type of coupling chemistry, and to describe the depth and breadth of various aspects that have been researched and refined in making the Heck reaction of alkenes bearing electron-withdrawing groups a cornerstone of the art of C—C bond formation.
3.2 C—C Cross Coupling via Single C—H Activation
Authors: Kantak A. , DeBoef B.
Published: May 2016

The synthesis of biaryl C—C bonds via the arylation of the C—H bonds of either simple arenes or heteroarenes is a rapidly expanding field. In particular, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iron, and copper catalysts can be used to couple a C—H carbon of one arene with a carbon bearing a reactive moiety such as a halogen, pseudohalogen, borane, or silane. Due to the ubiquity of C—H bonds in organic molecules, it is tempting to assume that these reactions will be plagued by the formation of multiple regioisomers; however, it has been repeatedly demonstrated that specific C—H bonds can be functionalized. The regioselectivity is often governed by the substrate, catalyst, or reaction conditions. This chapter describes the current state of the art in this field and guides the reader in choosing the appropriate reaction conditions for forming biaryl C—C bonds via C—H arylation. Particular focus is placed on substrates containing directing groups to achieve regioselectivity and on heteroaromatic substrates.
3.2.3 Coupling via C(sp3)—H Activation under Palladium Catalysis
Authors: Kalyani D. , Desai L.
Published: May 2016

This chapter describes the synthetic and mechanistic aspects of palladium-catalyzed arylation, carbonylation, alkenylation, and alkylation of C(sp3)—H bonds. Recent accomplishments in the enantioselective construction of C(sp3)—C bonds via C(sp3)—H activation are also detailed. Additionally, the few reported examples of the strategic application of these powerful C(sp3)—C bond forming transformations toward complex molecule synthesis are presented.
2.3.3 Addition of Ammonia and Amines to C=C Bonds
Authors: Bartsch S. , Vogel A.
Published: May 2016

Ammonia lyases and aminomutases catalyze the reversible, nonreductive, asymmetric amination of α, β-unsaturated carboxylic acids. They utilize ammonia and, to a lesser extent, substituted amines as substrates. The most common acceptors are fumarate and aromatic α, β-unsaturated carboxylic acids. Typical products are optically pure α-amino acids, but production of β-amino acids is also described. No cofactor recycling is required and, by using high concentrations of ammonia, conversion up to 100% can be reached with excellent enantioselectivity. Ammonia lyases comprise a very heterogeneous group of enzymes from plants and microbes, showing diverse substrate selectivities and reaction mechanisms. The most commonly used members are the aspartate and phenylalanine ammonia lyases.
2.3.4 Enzymatic Carbon—Carbon Bond-Forming Michael-Type Additions
Authors: Geertsema E. M. , Poelarends G. J.
Published: May 2016

This chapter gives an overview of practical biocatalytic procedures for C—C bond-forming Michael(-type) additions suitable for organic synthesis purposes. Reported product yields, workup and isolation methods, stereoselectivity, and availability of the applied enzymes are assessed. All methodologies involve promiscuous enzyme activities, since natural enzyme-catalyzed C—C bond-forming Michael additions are extremely rare.
2.6.3 Epoxide Hydrolysis
Authors: Wohlgemuth R.
Published: May 2016

This chapter focuses on the selective biocatalytic ring opening of epoxides by water, leading to vicinal diols or other reaction products. This strategy is also used by nature to prepare a range of important metabolites and natural products by epoxide hydrolase catalyzed ring-opening reactions. The hydrolysis of easily accessible racemic epoxides to enantiomerically pure epoxides or vicinal diols has become of increasing interest as a method for preparing a great variety of chiral intermediates for the synthesis of pharmacologically active compounds, agrochemicals, flavors and fragrances, and metabolites.
Aggregation Behaviours of Surface-Active Ionic Liquids 1-Alkyl-3-methylimidazolium Bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate
Authors: Wu Jiequn , Yin Tianxiang , Shi Shaoxiong , Shen Weiguo
Published: May 2016

The systematic investigation of the aggregation behaviours of newly synthesised surface-active ionic liquids 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate ([Cnmim][AOT], n = 2, 3, 5, 6, 7) by various techniques is reported. The critical aggregation concentrations (CACs) and the standard Gibbs free energies of aggregation () were determined from measurements on conductivity, fluorescence, and surface tension, which suggested a stronger self-assembly ability in the bulk solution for [Cnmim][AOT] surfactants with longer alkyl chain cations. An interesting structure transition driven by the penetration of the imidazolium cation into the aggregate when n > 4 was found by analysis of the variations of the values of CAC, , the degree of counter ion binding (β), and the micropolarity (I1/I3) immediately after the CAC with changing alkyl chain length of the imidazolium cation, which was further confirmed by 1H NMR measurements.
Estimating the Relationship between Food Prices and Food Consumption—Methods Matter
Authors: Cornelsen Laura , Mazzocchi Mario , Green Rosemary , Dangour Alan D. , Smith Richard D.
Published: May 2016

Concerns about the growing prevalence of obesity worldwide have led researchers and policy makers to investigate the potential health impact of fiscal policies such as taxes on unhealthy foods. A common instrument used to measure the relationship between food prices and food consumption is the price elasticity of demand. Using meta‐regression analysis we assessed how differences in methodological approaches to estimating demand affected food price elasticities. Most methodological differences had a statistically significant impact on elasticity estimates, which stresses the importance of using meta‐estimates or testing the sensitivity of simulation outcomes to a range of elasticity parameters before drawing policy conclusions.
GlutoPeak: A Breeding Tool for Screening Dough Properties of Durum Wheat Semolina
Authors: Sissons Mike
Published: May 2016

A rapid shear‐based test using a GlutoPeak instrument was compared with tests commonly used by durum wheat breeders to assess the potential of this instrument to discriminate between samples. Thirty‐two durum wheat semolina samples were analyzed by mixograph, SDS sedimentation (SDSS), gluten index (GI), and GlutoPeak testing. A subset was also tested for pasta quality. GlutoPeak peak maximum time (PMT) was the best indicator of gluten strength and correlated well with the other tests except SDSS. Samples with higher levels of SDS‐unextractable glutenin (insoluble protein [IP]) had stronger dough and longer PMT, but the GlutoPeak test only correlated with pasta stickiness using a smaller set of samples. The range in mixogram profiles encountered in breeding material was related to the IP content, and the pasta made from the different types was of similar quality, differing more because of protein content rather than mixogram type. The GlutoPeak test is faster than GI and uses less sample, requires little technical skill, and is suitable for evaluating large numbers of breeder's lines. The GlutoPeak test is best suited to discriminating weak from strong dough samples and allows for testing with small samples, thus facilitating quality evaluations at early stages of a breeding program.
Giving Economically Disadvantaged, Minority Food Pantry Patrons' a Voice
Authors: Greer Anna E. , Cross-Denny Bronwyn , McCabe Michelle , Castrogivanni Brianna
Published: May 2016

This study provides economically disadvantaged, minority food pantry patrons (hereafter, patrons) a meaning-ful voice by examining their experiences trying to obtain sufficient, nutritious food. Five focus groups were conducted using a semistructured discussion guide. Atlast.ti software was used to manage and analyze the data. Patrons reported that pantry staff who preserved their dignity by showing compassion were highly valued. Stigma and shame associated with pantry use were major concerns. Patrons suggested environmental and policy changes to improve their food acquisition experiences. These findings suggest that multilevel interventions addressing food access, food distribution policies, and patron-staff interactions are warranted.
Active Spinal Orthosis to Reduce Lumbar Postural Muscle Activity in Flexed Postures
Authors: Johnson Daniel D. , Ashton-Miller James A. , Shih Albert J.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

This article describes a prototype actively powered lumbar spinal orthosis that can be programmed to permit a gradual increase in range of motion. The hypothesis was that wearing the brace would reduce trunk extensor muscle activity in a range of flexed postures. Feasibility tests were performed in acute experiments on a single healthy subject.

Methods

The subject was asked to assume a quasi-static trunk flexion posture of 5°, 10°, 15°, or 20° repeated in a pseudorandomized order, both with and without use of the prototype orthosis. Muscle activity was measured from medial and lateral bipolar surface electrodes located bilaterally at the L3 level. Data were filtered and scaled to percent maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC).

Results

The results show that, for the range of postures studied, wearing the brace reduced mean observed %MVC values in every posture in both muscle groups studied, up to a maximum reduction of 9%.

Discussion

These pilot results suggest that this powered lumbar spinal orthosis has the potential to reduce postural muscle activity over a range of trunk flexion.
Early Versus Late Cholecystectomy After Clearance of Common Bile Duct Stones by Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: El Nakeeb Ayman , Ezzet Helmy , Askar Waleed , El Hanafy Ehab , Hamdy Emad , Atef Ehab , Youssef Mohamed , Talaat Hussein , Hamed Hosam , Abdallah Talaat
Published: May 2016

Introduction:

The time interval between endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is a matter of debate. This study was planned to compare early LC versus late LC.

Patients and Methods:

This is a prospective randomized study on patients who are presented with concomitant gallbladder and common bile duct stone. The study population was divided into two groups; group (A) managed by early LC within three days after ERCP; and group (B) managed by late LC one month after ERCP.

Results:

No significant difference between both groups as regards the conversion rate, the degree of adhesion, cystic duct diameter, and intraoperative common bile duct injury or bleeding. Recurrent biliary symptoms were significantly more in delayed LC group in 7 (12.71%) patient versus 1 patient in early LC (P=0.03).

Conclusions:

No significant difference between both groups as regards the conversion rate. Recurrent biliary symptoms were significantly more in delayed LC while waiting LC. Morbidity was significantly more in delayed LC.
A Proposal for Early Dosing Regimens in Heart Transplant Patients Receiving Thymoglobulin and Calcineurin Inhibition
Authors: Barten Markus J. , Schulz Uwe , Beiras-Fernandez Andres , Berchtold-Herz Michael , Boeken Udo , Garbade Jens , Hirt Stephan , Richter Manfred , Ruhpawar Arjang , Schmitto Jan Dieter , Schönrath Felix , Schramm Rene , Schweiger Martin , Wilhelm Markus , Zuckermann Andreas
Published: May 2016

There is currently no consensus regarding the dose or duration of rabbit antithymocyte globulin (rATG) induction in different types of heart transplant patients, or the timing and intensity of initial calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) therapy in rATG-treated individuals. Based on limited data and personal experience, the authors propose an approach to rATG dosing and initial CNI administration. Usually rATG is initiated immediately after exclusion of primary graft failure, although intraoperative initiation may be appropriate in specific cases. A total rATG dose of 4.5 to 7.5 mg/kg is advisable, tailored within that range according to immunologic risk and adjusted according to immune monitoring. Lower doses (eg, 3.0 mg/kg) of rATG can be used in patients at low immunological risk, or 1.5 to 2.5 mg/kg for patients with infection on mechanical circulatory support. The timing of CNI introduction is dictated by renal recovery, varying between day 3 and day 0 after heart transplantation, and the initial target exposure is influenced by immunological risk and presence of infection. Rabbit antithymocyte globulin and CNI dosing should not overlap except in high-risk cases. There is a clear need for more studies to define the optimal dosing regimens for rATG and early CNI exposure according to risk profile in heart transplantation.
High-throughput mapping of single neuron projections by sequencing of barcoded RNA
Authors: Kebschull Justus M , Garcia da Silva Pedro , Reid Ashlan P , Peikon Ian D , Albeanu Dinu F , Zador Anthony M
Published: May 2016

Neurons transmit information to distant brain regions via long-range axonal projections. In the mouse, area-to-area connections have only been systematically mapped using bulk labeling techniques, which obscure the diverse projections of intermingled single neurons. Here we describe MAPseq (Multiplexed Analysis of Projections by Sequencing), a technique that can map the projections of thousands or even millions of single neurons by labeling large sets of neurons with random RNA sequences ("barcodes"). Axons are filled with barcode mRNA, each putative projection area isdissected, and the barcode mRNA is extracted and sequenced. Applying MAPseq to the locus coeruleus (LC), we find that individual LC neurons have preferred cortical targets. By recasting neuroanatomy, which is traditionallyviewed as a problem of microscopy, as a problem of sequencing, MAPseq harnesses advances in sequencing technology to permit high-throughput interrogation of brain circuits.
Substoichiometric molecular control and amplification of the initiation and nature of amyloid fibril formation: lessons from and for blood clotting
Authors: Kell Douglas B. , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: May 2016

The chief and largely terminal element of normal blood clotting is considered to involve the polymerisation of the mainly α-helical fibrinogen to fibrin, with a binding mechanism involving ‘knobs and holes’ but with otherwise littl change in protein secondary structure. We recognise, however, that extremely unusual mutations, or mechanical stressing,cancause fibrinogen to adopt a conformation containing extensive β-sheets. Similarly, prions can change morphology from a largely alpha-helical to a largely β-sheet conformation, and the latter catalyses both the transition and the self-organising polymerisation of the β-sheet structures. Many other proteins can do this, where it is known as amyloidogenesis. When fibrin is formed in samples from patients harbouring different diseases it can have widely varying diameters and morphologies. We here develop the idea, and summarise the evidence, that in many cases the anomalous fibrin fibre formation seen in such diseases actually amounts to amyloidogenesis. In particular, fibrin can interact withthe amyloid-β (Aβ) protein that is misfolded in Alzheimer's disease. Seeing these unusual fibrin morphologies as true amyloids explains a great deal about fibrin(ogen) biology that was previously opaque, and provides novel strategies for treating such coagulopathies. The literature on blood clotting can usefully both inform and be informed by that on prions and on the many other widely recognised (β)-amyloid proteins.

“Novel but physiologically important factors that affect fibrinolysis have seldom been discovered and characterized in recent years” [1]
Apontic regulates cell proliferation and development by activating the expression ofhedgehogandcyclin E
Authors: Wang Xian-Feng , Cheng Qian , Fu Chong-Lei , Zhou Zi-Zhang , Hirose Susumu , Hirose Susumu
Published: May 2016

Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway and Cyclin E are key players in cell proliferation and development. Hyperactivation ofhhandcyclin E.has been linked to several types of cancer. However, transcriptional regulation ofhhandcyclin E.are not well understood. Here we show that an evolutionarily conserved transcription factor Apontic (Apt) is an activator ofhhandcyclin E.inDrosophila. Apt directly promotes the expression ofhhandcyclin E.through its binding site in the promoter regions ofhhandcyclin E.during wing development. This Apt-dependent proper expression ofhhandcyclin E.is required for cell proliferation and development of the wing. Apt-mediated expression ofhhandcyclin E.can direct proliferation of Hh-expressing cells and simultaneous growth, patterning and differentiation of Hh-recipient cells. The discovery of the coordinated expression of Hh and principal cell-cycle regulator Cyclin E. by Apt implicates insight into the mechanism by which deregulatedhhandcyclin Epromotes tumor formation.

Summary statement

We identified a novel role for Apontic as an important common regulator of the transcription ofhedgehogandcyclin E.Our study provides important insights into the mechanism of organ development.
Transnational activities of Colombians in the US
Authors: Santamaria Alvarez Sandra Milena , S′liwa Martyna
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the transnational activities of Colombian migrants in the USA; the reasons why migrants engage, or not, in these activities; and the impact of migrants’ transnational activities at the household, community and national levels.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyses data obtained from focus groups with migrant families and interviews with government officials and an expert researcher, as well as secondary data sources.

Findings

The main transnational activities in which Colombian migrants engage in are individually oriented, while participation in collective actions such as philanthropy or membership of political parties and hometown associations is limited. The impact of those activities varies when analysed at different levels. Overall, transnational activities of Colombian migrants can be seen as contributing to the perpetuation of south–north dependency, even if they help improve the socioeconomic situation of migrants and their families.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the migration–development nexus debate by pointing to the significance of distinguishing the level of analysis (micro, meso and macro) when studying the impacts of transnationalism on development.
Shareholder activism and the ethical harnessing of institutional investors
Authors: Ivanova Mila
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This study aims to foster a deeper understanding of socio-ethical shareholder activism by outlining the corporate campaigning strategies of a UK-based non-governmental organisation (NGO) and by assessing their impact on both institutional investors and the practices of two multinational companies. As we move into a world where shareholder ownership is becoming more democratised, shareholder activism is gaining prominence in the USA, Europe and Asia, opening new avenues for participation in corporate governance by stakeholders such as NGOs who have traditionally been uninvolved in corporate decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The article adopts a qualitative methodology and case study research design. It relies on semi-structured interviews, analysis of documents and participant observation.

Findings

First, the study sheds light into the ways in which NGOs are connecting themselves to the financial sector. It argues that they can pursue their political goals by framing their arguments in a way that emphasises the short-term financial risks/benefits for investors. Secondly, it demystifies the term “shareholder activism”, transforming it from an action tool belonging only to big and powerful institutions, to a tool which gives other stakeholders such as NGOs and ordinary people a real stake in companies’ affairs. What is more, the study highlights the divergent nature of institutional shareholder activist intervention in the USA and the UK.

Research Limitations/implications

Given the generally long-term nature of shareholder campaigns, which can sometimes span over several years, it could be beneficial to adopt a longitudinal research design. Future research can endeavour to focus on a number of different campaigns over a period that exceeds three years.

Practical Implications

The research has implications for NGOs adopting a shareholder activist campaigning model and for policy makers aiming to encourage investor stewardship.

Originality/value

The fact that the research field of NGO socio-ethical shareholder activism is relatively new and under-explored by academia, coupled with the growing incidence of the phenomenon in the UK and across the world, as well as its potential benefits for society as a whole, renders further investigation into the topic necessary.
CDS and bank ownership structures: does the credit side show who advocates more risk?
Authors: Froneberg Dennis , Kiesel Florian , Schiereck Dirk
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether ownership compositions effect credit risk profiles of banks prior to and during the financial crisis. In detail, this study examines whether more powerful owners of a bank impact the credit risk profile.

Design/methodology/approach

The effects of the ownership structure on credit risk are estimated using credit default swap (CDS) spreads. Therefore, 86 global privately held and publicly listed banks from 23 countries are considered in a panel analysis for the period 2005-2008.

Findings

The results indicate that banks with a more concentrated ownership structure tend to be riskier, as they have larger CDS spreads. Furthermore, we observe that bank regulation has a negative impact on banks’ credit risk. Larger banks exhibit significantly lower risk than smaller banks.

Originality/value

These findings are of high relevance for the respective national regulative environment and for the respective financial institutions themselves. Regulatory bodies have to be aware of whether certain ownership compositions lead to a significant risk factor and which risk indicators exhibit the risk more precisely and in timely fashion.
Exploring the bacterial assemblages along the human nasal passage
Authors: Wos‐Oxley Melissa L. , Chaves‐Moreno Diego , Jáuregui Ruy , Oxley Andrew P. A. , Kaspar Ursula , Plumeier Iris , Kahl Silke , Rudack Claudia , Becker Karsten , Pieper Dietmar H.
Published: May 2016

The human nasal passage, from the anterior nares through the nasal vestibule to the nasal cavities, is an important habitat for opportunistic pathogens and commensals alike. This work sampled four different anatomical regions within the human nasal passage across a large cohort of individuals (n = 79) comprising individuals suffering from chronic nasal inflammation clinically known as chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and individuals not suffering from inflammation (CRS‐free). While individuals had their own unique bacterial fingerprint that was consistent across the anatomical regions, these bacterial fingerprints formed into distinct delineated groups comprising core bacterial members, which were consistent across all four swabbed anatomical regions irrespective of health status. The most significant observed pattern was the difference between the global bacterial profiles of swabbed and tissue biopsy samples from the same individuals, being also consistent across different anatomical regions. Importantly, no statistically significant differences could be observed concerning the global bacterial communities, any of the bacterial species or the range of diversity indices used to compare between CRS and CRS‐free individuals, and between two CRS phenotypes (without nasal polyps and with nasal polyps). Thus, the role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of sinusitis remains uncertain.
Climate change and human impact in a sensitive ecosystem: the Holocene environment of the Northwest Icelandic highland margin
Authors: Eddudóttir Sigrún D. , Erlendsson Egill , Tinganelli Leone , Gísladóttir Guðrún
Published: May 2016

Complex interactions of climate and volcanic activity have shaped the environment of Iceland during the Holocene. Palaeoecological records from Iceland offer a unique look at a Holocene environment that was uninhabited by humans and free of mammal herbivores until about AD 870. We present a new reconstruction of Holocene vegetation and landscape dynamics from a small lake, Barðalækjartjörn, located near the highland margin in Northwest Iceland. A multi‐proxy approach was used to reconstruct vegetation based on pollen and plant macrofossil analysis and landscape stability based on lithological proxies. The record covers the period c. 10 300–200 cal. a BP. For the first two millennia aeolian processes probably played a part in vegetation development. This period is characterized by high input of minerogenic material into the lake and a vegetation assemblage in which plants tolerant of aeolian deposition are prominent. Betula pubescens woodland reached a maximum between c. 7400 and 6500 cal. a BP. Betula nana‐dominated dwarf shrub heath replaced woodland after c. 4000 cal. a BP, following the onset of Neoglaciation. Land use following human settlement caused an environmental shift at the highland margin. Betula pubescens probably disappeared from the vicinity of the lake soon thereafter. Large‐scale soil erosion began at c. 1000 cal. a BP in the wake of human activities, such as introduction of grazing livestock and woodcutting. This study offers an important long‐term perspective of the development of the highland ecosystem under both wholly natural and human‐influenced conditions.
Syndromic microphthalmia‐3 caused by a mutation on gene SOX2 in a Colombian male patient
Authors: Ramirez‐Botero Andrés Felipe , Pachajoa Harry
Published: May 2016

Syndromic microphthalmia‐3 is a rare congenital syndrome associated with brain anomalies, esophageal atresia and genital anomalies. This is the case of a 4‐year‐old male with bilateral microphthalmia, short stature, neurodevelopmental delay, genital anomalies, and maternal exposition to glyphosate during pregnancy. Genetic testing detected a previously reported pathogenic heterozygous mutation in the SOX2 gene, confirming a diagnosis of syndromic microphthalmia‐3. Whenever a patient presents bilateral microphthalmia, it is necessary to determine whether it is isolated or syndromic; afterwards, genetic testing should be performed in order to offer an effective genetic counseling.
Effects of different titanium zirconium implant surfaces on initial supragingival plaque formation
Authors: John Gordon , Becker Jürgen , Schwarz Frank
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The aim of the current study was the evaluation of biofilm development on different implant surfaces.

Material and Methods

Initial biofilm formation was investigated on five different implant surfaces, machined titanium (MTi), modified machined acid‐etched titanium (modMATi), machined titanium zirconium (MTiZr), modified machined and acid‐etched titanium zirconium (modMATiZr) and sandblasted large grid and acid‐etched titanium zirconium surface (SLATiZr) for 24 and 48 h. Biocompatibility was tested after tooth brushing of the samples via cell viability testing with human gingival fibroblasts.

Results

After 24 h of biofilm collection, mean plaque surface was detected in the following descending order:

After 24 h: MTiZr > MTi > SLATiZr > modMATiZr > modMATi. Both M surfaces showed significant higher biofilm formation than the other groups.

After 48 h: MTiZr > MTi > SLATiZr > modMATiZr > modMATi.

After tooth brushing: SLATiZr > modMATi > modMATiZr > MTi > MTiZr. All native samples depicted significant higher cell viability than their corresponding surfaces after biofilm removal procedure.

Conclusions

The TiZr groups especially the modMATiZr group showed slower and less biofilm formation. In combination with the good biocompatibility, both modMA surfaces seem to be interesting candidates for surfaces in transgingival implant design.
Putting insects on the map: near‐global variation in sphingid moth richness along spatial and environmental gradients
Authors: Ballesteros‐Mejia Liliana , Kitching Ian J. , Jetz Walter , Beck Jan
Published: May 2016

Despite their vast diversity and vital ecological role, insects are notoriously underrepresented in biogeography and conservation, and key broad‐scale ecological hypotheses about them remain untested – largely due to generally incomplete and very coarse spatial distribution knowledge. Integrating records from publications, field work and natural history collections, we used a mixture of species distribution models and expert estimates to provide geographic distributions and emergent richness patterns for all ca 1000 sphingid moth species found outside the Americas in high spatial detail. Total sphingid moth richness, the first for a higher insect group to be documented at this scale, shows distinct maxima in the wet tropics of Africa and the Oriental with notable decay toward Australasia. Using multivariate models controlling for spatial autocorrelation, we found that primary productivity is the dominant environmental variable associated with moth richness, while temperature, contrary to our predictions, is an unexpectedly weak predictor. This is in stark contrast to the importance we identify for temperature as a niche variable of individual species. Despite divergent life histories, both main sub‐groups of moths exhibit these relationships. Tribal‐level deconstruction of richness and climatic niche patterns indicate idiosyncratic effects of biogeographic history for some of the less species‐rich tribes, which in some cases exhibit distinct richness peaks away from the tropics. The study confirms, for a diverse insect group, overall richness associations of remarkable similarity to those documented for vertebrates and highlights the significant within‐taxon structure that underpins emergent macroecological patterns. Results do not, however, meet predictions from vertebrate‐derived hypotheses on how thermoregulation affects the strength of temperature–richness effects. Our study thus broadens the taxonomic focus in this data‐deficient discourse. Our procedures of processing incomplete, scattered distribution data are a template for application to other taxa and regions.
Involvement of microRNAs in epileptogenesis
Authors: Cattani Adriano A. , Allene Camille , Seifert Volker , Rosenow Felix , Henshall David C. , Freiman Thomas M.
Published: May 2016

Patients who have sustained brain injury or had developmental brain lesions present a non‐negligible risk for developing delayed epilepsy. Finding therapeutic strategies to prevent development of epilepsy in at‐risk patients represents a crucial medical challenge. Noncoding microRNA molecules (miRNAs) are promising candidates in this area. Indeed, deregulation of diverse brain‐specific miRNAs has been observed in animal models of epilepsy as well as in patients with epilepsy, mostly in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Herein we review deregulated miRNAs reported in epilepsy with potential roles in key molecular and cellular processes underlying epileptogenesis, namely neuroinflammation, cell proliferation and differentiation, migration, apoptosis, and synaptic remodeling. We provide an up‐to‐date listing of miRNAs altered in epileptogenesis and assess recent functional studies that have interrogated their role in epilepsy. Last, we discuss potential applications of these findings for the future development of disease‐modifying therapeutic strategies for antiepileptogenesis.
Perennial species mixtures for multifunctional production of biomass on marginal land
Authors: Carlsson Georg , Mårtensson Linda‐Maria , Prade Thomas , Svensson Sven‐Erik , Jensen Erik S.
Published: May 2016

Multifunctional agriculture provides noncommodity functions and services along with food, feed and bioenergy feedstocks, for example by preserving or promoting biodiversity, improving soil fertility, mitigating climate change and environmental degradation, and contributing to the socio‐economic viability of rural areas. Producing biomass for bioenergy from low‐input perennial species mixtures on marginal land has the potential to support biodiversity and soil carbon sequestration in synergy with greenhouse gas mitigation. We compared biomass production in species‐rich mixtures of perennial grasses, legumes and forbs with pure‐stand grasses and relatively species‐poor mixtures under different nitrogen fertilization regimes. Field experiments were performed on different types of marginal land, that is agricultural field margins and land with poor soil fertility, at four sites in southernmost and western Sweden. Biomass production was measured for three years in perennial grasses grown as pure stands, in legume‐grass mixtures, and legume‐grass‐forb mixtures across a species richness gradient. In unfertilized species‐rich mixtures, average biomass yields per experimental site and year were in the range from 3 to 9 metric ton DM ha−1 yr−1. While the most productive pure‐stand grasses fertilized with 60–120 kg N ha−1 yr−1 often produced higher biomass yields than unfertilized mixtures, these differences were generally smaller than the variations between years and sites. Calculations of climate impact using the harvested biomass for conversion to biogas as vehicle fuel showed that the average greenhouse gas emissions per energy unit were about 50% lower in unfertilized systems than in treatments fertilized with 100–120 kg N ha−1 yr−1. Our findings thereby show that unfertilized species‐rich perennial plant mixtures on marginal land provide resource‐efficient biomass production and contribute to the mitigation of climate change. Perennial species mixtures managed with low inputs thus promote synergies between productivity and biodiversity in the perspective of climate‐smart and multifunctional biomass production.
Follicular dendritic cell tumour/sarcoma: a commonly misdiagnosed tumour in the thorax
Authors: Viola Patrizia , Vroobel Katherine M , Devaraj Anand , Jordan Simon , Ladas George , Dusmet Michael , Montero Angeles , Rice Alexandra , Wotherspoon Andrew C , Nicholson Andrew G
Published: May 2016

Aims

Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma is a rare tumour reported to occur occasionally in association with the hyaline‐vascular type of Castleman's disease (HVCD). Most cases arise in lymph nodes, although extranodal presentation is described.

Methods and results

Clinical, radiological and histological characteristics, including diagnosis on pre‐resection material, were assessed in seven intrathoracic cases from five males and two females with a median age of 38 years. Clinical symptoms were related to mass location, six cases presenting within central and/or posterior mediastinal compartments and one within the lungs. Positron emission tomography–computed tomography demonstrated marked fluoro‐deoxy‐glucose avidity and the prominent vessels traversing the lesions. Four of six cases (67%) were misdiagnosed initially. HVCD was present in three cases. Two cases with high mitotic rates recurred after resection. All were positive for at least one of the follicular dendritic cell markers (CD21, CD35 and CD23). Six of seven cases (86%) show cyclin D1 expression ranging from 5% to 90%.

Conclusions

Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma is often misdiagnosed on biopsy and pathologists need to be aware of the tumour to request the relevant immunohistochemistry, especially in masses presenting in the central/posterior mediastinum with high vascularity and standardized uptake values. Background HVCD appears more common than previously thought.
Groups and Oppression
Authors: Taylor Elanor
Published: May 2016

Oppression is a form of injustice that occurs when one social group is subordinated while another is privileged, and oppression is maintained by a variety of different mechanisms including social norms, stereotypes, and institutional rules. A key feature of oppression is that it is perpetrated by and affects social groups. In this article I show that because of the central role that groups play in theories of oppression, those theories face significant, and heretofore mostly unrecognized, metaphysical problems. I then identify resources from analytic metaphysics that can be used to address these problems. I show that, although we should not be pessimistic about the prospects for a viable theory of oppression, it will take serious metaphysical work to develop a plausible ontology of oppression, and existing theories have for the most part failed to respond to this challenge.
Serum GDF‐15 level in Behçet's disease: relationships between disease activity and clinical parameters
Authors: Sarıyıldız Mustafa Akif , Yazmalar Levent , Batmaz İbrahim , Alpaycı Mahmut , Burkan Yahya Kemal , Sula Bilal , Kaplan İbrahim , Yıldız Mehmet , Akar Zeynel Abidin , Bozkurt Mehtap
Published: May 2016

Growth differentiation factor‐15 (GDF‐15), a member of the transforming growth factor‐β superfamily of cytokines, plays an important role in cell growth, signal transduction, and apoptosis regulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum GDF‐15 levels and their relationships with disease‐related variables in patients with Behçet's disease (BD). Forty‐six patients diagnosed with BD and 30 demographically matched healthy control subjects participated in the study. GDF‐15 levels were measured in blood samples from patients and controls. The Behçet's Disease Current Activity Form (BDCAF) was used to evaluate the disease activity of BD. There were no significant differences between the two groups in C‐reactive protein (CRP) level, mean erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), age, body mass index, and mean GDF‐15 levels (P > 0.05). Serum GDF‐15 levels were positively correlated with findings for peripheral arthritis and CRP, and with BDCAF erythema nodosum, BDCAF arthralgia, and BDCAF arthritis scores. Patients with BD were divided into two groups according to the presence of peripheral arthritis; nine subjects (20%) were positive for peripheral arthritis. Serum ESR, CRP, white blood cell counts, and GDF‐15 levels were significantly higher in the group that was positive for peripheral arthritis (P < 0.05). GDF‐15 may play a role in the progression and pathway of Behçet's joint involvement and erythema nodosum that is independent of classic inflammatory response measures.
Diversity matters – heterogeneity of dopaminergic neurons in the ventral mesencephalon and its relation to Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Vogt Weisenhorn Daniela Maria , Giesert Florian , Wurst Wolfgang
Published: May 2016

Dopaminergic neurons in the ventral mesencephalon (the ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic complex) are known for their role in a multitude of behaviors, including cognition, reward, addiction and voluntary movement. Dysfunctions of these neurons are the underlying cause of various neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression, addiction and schizophrenia. In addition, Parkinson's disease (PD), which is the second most common degenerative disease in developed countries, is characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, leading to the core motor symptoms of the disease. However, only a subset of dopaminergic neurons in the ventral mesencephalon is highly vulnerable to the disease process. Indeed, research over several decades revealed that the neurons in the ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic complex do not form a homogeneous group with respect to anatomy, physiology, function, molecular identity or vulnerability/dysfunction in different diseases. Here, we review how the concept of dopaminergic neuron diversity, assisted by the advent and application of new technologies, evolved and was refined over time and how it shaped our understanding of PD pathogenesis. Understanding this diversity of neurons in the ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic complex at all levels is imperative for the development of new and more selective drugs for both PD and various other neuropsychiatric diseases.

image

Several decades of research revealed that the neurons in the ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic complex do not form a homogeneous group in respect to anatomy, physiology, function, molecular identity or vulnerability/dysfunction in diseases like Parkinson's disease (PD). Here, we review how this concept evolved and was refined over time and how it shaped our understanding of the pathogenesis of PD. Source of the midbrain image: www.wikimd.org/wiki/index.php/The_Midbrain_or_Mesencephalon; downloaded 28.01.2016. See also Figures and of the paper.

This article is part of a special issue on Parkinson disease.
Sensorimotor Incongruence in People with Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Don Sanneke , Voogt Lennard , Meeus Mira , De Kooning Margot , Nijs Jo
Published: May 2016

Objectives

Musculoskeletal pain has major public health implications, but the theoretical framework remains unclear. It is hypothesized that sensorimotor incongruence (SMI) might be a cause of long‐lasting pain sensations in people with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Research data about experimental SMI triggering pain has been equivocal, making the relation between SMI and pain elusive. The aim of this study was to systematically review the studies on experimental SMI in people with musculoskeletal pain and healthy individuals.

Methods

Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses guidelines were followed. A systematic literature search was conducted using several databases until January 2015. To identify relevant articles, keywords regarding musculoskeletal pain or healthy subjects and the sensory or the motor system were combined. Study characteristics were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed using the Dutch Institute for Healthcare Improvement (CBO) checklist for randomized controlled trials, and level of evidence was judged.

Results

Eight cross‐over studies met the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the studies varied, and populations were heterogeneous. In populations with musculoskeletal pain, outcomes of sensory disturbances and pain were higher during all experimental conditions compared to baseline conditions. In healthy subjects, pain reports during experimental SMI were very low or did not occur at all.

Discussion

Based on the current evidence and despite some methodological issues, there is no evidence that experimental SMI triggers pain in healthy individuals and in people with chronic musculoskeletal pain. However, people with chronic musculoskeletal pain report more sensory disturbances and pain during the experimental conditions, indicating that visual manipulation influences pain outcomes in this population.
On the image of complex conjugation in certain Galois representations
Authors: Caraiani Ana , Le Hung Bao V.
Published: May 2016

We compute the image of any choice of complex conjugation on the Galois representations associated to regular algebraic cuspidal automorphic representations and to torsion classes in the cohomology of locally symmetric spaces for $\text{GL}_{n}$ over a totally real field $F$.