bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparisons of hyphal growth of Raffaelea quercivora among four Japanese Fagaceae species
Authors: Torii M. , Matsuda Y. , Ito S.
Published: May 2017

Japanese oak wilt causes widespread oak mortality in Japan. Possible differences in susceptibility to the causal fungus, Raffaelea quercivora, may be due to vessel arrangements in host trees. To clarify whether constitutive defence mechanisms including vessel arrangements or induced defence mechanisms are the main determinants of host susceptibility, we inoculated the fungus into living seedlings or sterilized stem segments of four Japanese fagaceous species. In seedlings, water conductance was assessed with dye. In both seedlings and stem segments, hyphal growth was examined by fluorescence microscopy. In seedlings, the area of non‐conductive sapwood in stem cross sections and hyphal growth differed significantly among species. In the susceptible species Quercus crispula and Quercus serrata, hyphal growth was significantly and positively correlated with the proportion of non‐conductive sapwood. In stem segments, hyphal growth was not significantly different among species or between vessel arrangements and was similar to or greater than that in seedlings. These results suggest that the extent of sapwood colonization by R. quercivora could be used as a marker for susceptibility and that susceptibility is determined mainly by induced defence responses.
Copper adsorption on composites of goethite, cells of Pseudomonas putida and humic acid
Authors: Du H. H. , Lin Y. P. , Chen W. L. , Cai P. , Rong X. M. , Shi Z. H. , Huang Q. Y.
Published: May 2017

In the soil environment, iron oxides co‐occur commonly with different types of organic constituents to produce iron oxide–organic composites that play an important role in the biogeochemical cycling of trace metals. We investigated copper (Cu) adsorption on synthetic goethite, Pseudomonas putida (CCTCC M209319) bacterial cells, humic acid (HA) and their binary and ternary composites with batch adsorption experiments coupled with isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Morphological characterizations show that the three components can form closely combined and heterogeneous aggregates with one another. The kinetics of sorption of Cu to these composite materials conforms to the pseudo‐second‐order model, whereas the Cu sorptivities deviate from linear additivity. Specifically, Cu sorptivities on the binary goethite–P. putida and P. putida–HA and ternary goethite–P. putida–HA composites are less than expected assuming additivity, whereas the opposite is seen for the binary goethite–HA composite. There is considerable masking of adsorption sites in the ternary goethite–P. putida–HA system, but the binding sites on bacteria are not completely covered, as shown by the adsorption enthalpy and entropy (19.60 kJ mol−1 and 120.9 J mol−1 K−1, respectively) for the ternary composite. We conclude that the binding affinity of Cu for the binary goethite–humic acid composite is larger than that for the bacterial composites with goethite or humic acid, or both. This research indicates that bacteria, iron oxide and humic substances exhibit different behaviour in the sequestration of heavy metals when they form various binary and ternary complexes in natural environments.

Highlights

How does mineral–organic interaction affect the binding behaviour of trace elements?

First investigation of Cu sorption to goethite–bacteria–humic acid composites.

Goethite–HA shows enhanced Cu adsorption, whereas the opposite is true for bacterial complexes.

Various bacteria–iron oxide–humic substance composites behave differently in metal sequestration.
Efficacy and feasibility of antidepressants for the prevention of migraine in adults: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu X.‐M. , Yang C. , Liu Y. , Dong M.‐X. , Zou D.‐Z. , Wei Y.‐D.
Published: May 2017

Background and purpose

Migraine has greatly impacted the quality of life for migraineurs and was ranked as the seventh highest specific cause of disability worldwide in 2012. Because of the role of serotonin in migraine mechanisms, antidepressants have been used in the prevention of migraine. However, the role of antidepressants for migraine prophylaxis in adults has not been completely established. Our aim was systematically to assess the efficacy and feasibility of antidepressants for the prevention of migraine in adults based on currently available literature.

Methods

A comprehensive search of databases was conducted including the Cochrane, PubMed, Web of Science and Embase databases from inception to July 2016. Randomized controlled trials that assigned adults with a clinical diagnosis of migraine to antidepressant or placebo treatment were included. The primary outcome was the reduction of migraine frequency or index.

Results

Overall, 16 randomized controlled trials including 1082 participants were identified. Antidepressants had a significant advantage over placebo in reducing the migraine frequency or index of adults with a standardized mean difference of −0.79 [95% confidence interval (CI) −1.13 to −0.45, P < 0.00001]. Patients receiving antidepressant therapy were more likely to experience an at least 50% reduction of headache burden than those receiving placebo (28.9% vs. 20.2%; risk ratio 1.40; 95% CI 0.97–2.02; P = 0.07). However, antidepressants were less well tolerated than placebo because of some adverse events (risk ratio 1.74, 95% CI 1.05–2.89, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Antidepressants are effective in the prophylaxis of migraine in adults, but the level of evidence for antidepressants except for amitriptyline seems to be quite shaky.
Multiple male morphs in the leaf‐footed bug Mictis longicornis (Hemiptera: Coreidae)
Authors: Emberts Zachary , Miller Christine W. , Li Daiqin , Hwang Wei Song , St. Mary Colette M.
Published: May 2017

Species within the coreid clade (Hemiptera: Coreidae) can often be observed competing in intrasexual competitions over access to mates and territories. Coreids that partake in these competitions typically possess sexually dimorphic hind legs that are used to strike and squeeze their rivals. In addition to their weaponized legs, some coreid species also possess sexually dimorphic abdominal tubercles, which are assumed to be sexually selected weapons. Still, much remains unknown about the morphology of these structures. Here, using the species Mictis longicornis Westwood, we investigate the frequency distribution and static allometry of abdominal thickness, a measure that includes tubercle length. Furthermore, we also investigate the morphological relationship between abdominal tubercles and weaponized hind legs. We find that male abdominal thickness is best explained by a bimodal distribution, thereby describing the first observed male polymorphism in the coreid clade; a phenomenon typically associated with alternative reproductive tactics. Additionally, we find that major males are characterized primarily by having large weaponized legs and abdominal tubercles, which further suggests that abdominal tubercles are used in male–male competition.
The Contentious Politics of Hospitality: Intra‐EU Mobility and Social Rights
Authors: Ferrera Maurizio
Published: May 2017

Intra‐Eu mobility has become increasingly contested. Despite empirical evidence showing that migrants are not a burden for the receiving countries, a growing number of voters think that nationals should have priority in terms of jobs and welfare. In a realist perspective, this “nativist” turn cannot be ignored, as it might undermine the very idea of EU citizenship. While nondiscrimination, as enshrined in the Treaties, should certainly remain the first order principle to defend free movement from a legal and normative point of view, in the present predicament it might be reasonable to complement it with the less demanding principle of “hospitality”. Practically, this would mean to give back to Member States a modicum of autonomy in filtering the access to social benefits for inactive or non‐resident persons.
Parasagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx in Thoroughbred racehorses in theUK: Outcome of repaired fractures in 113 cases (2007–2011)
Authors: Smith M. R. W. , Corletto F. C. , Wright I. M.
Published: May 2017

Background

Thirty years have elapsed since the last published review of outcome following fracture of the proximal phalanx in Thoroughbred racehorses in theUKand contemporary results are needed to be able to advise of expected outcome.

Objectives

Collect and analyse outcome data following repair of fractures of the proximal phalanx in Thoroughbred racehorses in theUK.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Case records of all Thoroughbred racehorses admitted to Newmarket Equine Hospital for evaluation of a parasagittal fracture of the proximal phalanx during a 5 years period were reviewed. Follow‐up data regarding racing careers was collected for horses that underwent repair. Following exclusion of outliers, cases with incomplete data sets and comminuted fractures, mixed effect logistic regression was used to identify variables affecting returning to racing and odds ratios and confidence intervals calculated.

Results

Of 113 repaired cases, fracture configurations included short incomplete parasagittal (n = 12), long incomplete parasagittal (n = 86), complete parasagittal (n = 12) and comminuted (n = 3). A total of 54 (48%) cases raced after surgery. Horses that fractured at 2 years of age had increased odds of racing following surgery than those older than 2 years of age (OR1.34; 95%CI1.13–1.59, P = 0.002). Horses sustaining short incomplete parasagittal fractures had increased odds of racing following surgery compared with those with complete parasagittal fractures (OR2.62; 95%CI1.36–5.07, P = 0.006). No horses with comminuted fractures returned to racing.

Main limitations

Data are relevant only to Thoroughbred racehorses in theUK.

Conclusions

Approximately half of the cases in this series raced following surgical repair. More 2‐year‐old horses raced following surgery, but this likely reflects horses, specifically older horses, passing out of training from unrelated factors. Fracture configuration affects odds of racing, which is relevant to owners when deciding on treatment.
How planting configuration influences plant secondary metabolites and total N in tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.): Implications for grazing management
Authors: Clemensen A. K. , Rottinghaus G. E. , Lee S. T. , Provenza F. D. , Villalba J. J.
Published: May 2017

Theories suggest that incorporating alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.; Alf) or birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.; BFT) into endophyte‐infected tall fescue (Festuca arundinaceas Schreb.; E+TF) pasturelands may improve livestock production. We investigated how planting configuration might influence plant secondary metabolites (PSM) and nitrogen concentration in these forages. Total nitrogen (N), in addition to condensed tannins (CT), saponins and ergovaline (EV), was compared in BFT, Alf and E+TF, respectively, when forages grew in monocultures and all possible two‐way “mixtures” using a block design with repeated measures in three blocks. Ergovaline (p < .01) and N (p < .001) concentrations in E+TF were greater when growing adjacent to legumes than when growing in monoculture, and N and EV concentrations in E+TF were positively correlated (r = .51; p = .001). No differences in saponins or CT were found when Alf or BFT grew in monoculture or in two‐way mixtures (p > .10). We conducted an in vitro trial to determine whether CT or saponins isolated from BFT and Alf, respectively, would bind to EV in water. Ergovaline bound to saponins to a greater extent (39%; SE = 0.25) than CT (5.1%; SE = 5.13; p < .05). Because EV was lower in E+TF monocultures than in E+TF–legume mixtures, and because CT and saponins may form complexes with EV which may alleviate fescue toxicosis, animals may benefit from systems which allow them to graze monoculture patches of E+TF and Alf or BFT rather than grass–legume mixtures.
Flamingos, salt lakes and volcanoes: hunting for evidence of past climate change on the high Altiplano of Bolivia
Authors: Clark Nicola , Wallis Simon
Published: May 2017

Hidden within the vast Bolivian Altiplano are archives of past climate change in the form of remarkable carbonate rocks surrounding lakes long since disappeared. Beyond the Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world, lies a relatively untouched realm of volcanoes and salt lakes. Ancient shorelines from intervals in the Altiplano history, when large lakes were more abundant, may hold important information about a time when the climate in this region was punctuated by much wetter phases before present day aridity took a hold. Previous studies in this region have reconstructed robust chronological timelines for such events and highlight two large lake phases over the last 18 thousand years (the Tauca and Coipasa lake phases); however higher resolution climate data are scarce. Current studies on climate proxies from smaller lakes in southern Bolivia may shed light on some of these higher resolution climate events including El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. Laminated tufa found around the palaeoshorelines of the West Lípez Lakes is one such proxy, and can be analysed to investigate the potential roles of annual versus shorter‐term climatic variation in the evolving Altiplano climate at the time.
Increased frequency of bronchiolar histotypes in lung carcinomas associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Caliò Anna , Lever Veronica , Rossi Andrea , Gilioli Eliana , Brunelli Matteo , Dubini Alessandra , Tomassetti Sara , Piciucchi Sara , Nottegar Alessia , Rossi Giulio , Kambouchner Marianne , Cancellieri Alessandra , Barbareschi Mattia , Pelosi Giuseppe , Doglioni Claudio , Cavazza Alberto , Carella Rodolfo , Graziano Paolo , Murer Bruno , Poletti Venerino , Chilosi Marco
Published: May 2017

Aims

The association between lung cancer and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is well known, but the significance of this association is poorly understood. Bronchiolar honeycomb cysts have been proposed as possible precursors for the development of carcinoma, but limited evidence in support of this hypothesis is available. The aim of this study was to investigate this hypothesis analysing a series of carcinomas arising in IPF by immunohistochemistry.

Methods and results

Thirty‐three lung carcinomas arising in patients with IPF were analysed with a panel of immunohistochemical markers. The antibodies included those against pneumocyte markers [thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF1), napsin‐A, and surfactant protein A], the goblet cell marker mucin 5AC, markers of basal/squamous cell differentiation [cytokeratin (CK) 5/6 and ΔN‐p63], and markers related to enteric differentiation (CDX2, mucin 2, CK20, and villin). A series of 100 consecutive lung adenocarcinomas arising in smokers without IPF were investigated as controls. All carcinomas arising in IPF patients were peripherally located on imaging analysis. The diagnoses were: eight squamous cell carcinomas, 20 adenocarcinomas, three small‐cell carcinomas (including one composite small‐cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma), and two large‐cell carcinomas. Among adenocarcinomas, a ‘pneumocyte’ profile (TTF1/napsin‐A/SPA1‐triple‐positive) was observed in seven of 20 (35% versus 84% in non‐IPF controls, P = 0.0001). The remaining 13 adenocarcinomas (65%) showed rare histotypes: four invasive mucinous adenocarcinomas (20% in IPF patients versus 1% in non‐IPF controls, P = 0.002), seven tumours (35%) that were characterized by variable expression of markers of enteric differentiation, and two tumours (10%) that showed a peculiar basaloid component.

Conclusions

The immunohistochemical characterization of carcinomas arising in IPF patients shows striking divergence from that in non‐IPF smokers. The prevalence of rare entities showing bronchiole‐related markers is in line with the hypothesis that these tumours arise from transformed small airways in honeycomb lung areas where abnormal bronchiolar proliferation takes place.
Elasmobranch fauna from the upper most part of the Cretaceous Bagh Group, Narmada valley, India
Authors: Prasad Guntupalli V. R. , Verma Vishal , Sahni Ashok , Lourembam Ranjit S. , Rajkumari Priyadarshini
Published: May 2017

In India, Cretaceous elasmobranchs are known from the uppermost Cretaceous Deccan intertrappean sedimentary sequences of peninsular India and the lower Upper Cretaceous (Cenomanian) Karai Formation of the Cauvery basin, South India. The intertrappean elasmobranchs are represented mainly by rays and skates, whereas the Karai fauna is known by hexanchiform, squaliform, and lamniform sharks. The latter assemblage is dominated by cool temperate water forms in addition to some cosmopolitan forms. Here new shark teeth recovered from the upper part of the marine Cretaceous Bagh Group, in the lower Narmada valley, Western India are described. This is the first detailed description of sharks from the Bagh Group and the first record of sharks from the youngest horizons (Coniacian to Late Maastrichtian) of this marine sedimentary sequence. The fauna, recovered from an oyster shell‐rich green sandstone at the top of the youngest geological unit (the Coralline Limestone) of the Bagh Group, is assigned to Ptychodus sp., Scapanorhynchus sp. aff. S. raphiodon (Agassiz, 1844), Cretodus sp. aff. C. crassidens (Dixon, 1850), Cretalamna sp., Squalicorax sp. aff. S. falcatus Agassiz, 1843, and Elasmobranchii indet. This assemblage, previously widely documented from the Cretaceous deposits of North and South Americas, Europe, North and West Africa, Far East and Near East, demonstrates that there is a clear change in elasmobranch faunal composition of India from cool temperate water forms in the early Late Cretaceous to essentially cosmopolitan forms in the Late Cretaceous.
Effects of exercise training on breast cancer metastasis in a rat model
Authors: Alvarado Antonieta , Gil da Costa Rui M. , Faustino‐Rocha Ana I. , Ferreira Rita , Lopes Carlos , Oliveira Paula A. , Colaço Bruno
Published: May 2017

Exercise training is thought to play a protective role against cancer development and metastasis, either by reducing hormonal stimulation of hormone‐dependent cancers or by reducing the permeability of vascular walls towards invading metastatic cells. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the role of long‐term exercise training in the development and metastasis of breast cancer, in an immune‐competent 1‐methyl‐1‐nitrosourea (MNU) induced rat model. A single MNU dose was administered to Sprague‐Dawley rats at 50 days of age and the rats were subjected to exercise training on a treadmill at 20 m/min, 60 min/day, 5 days/week for 35 weeks. Exercised animals developed slightly less (2.30 ± 1.42) tumours per animal than sedentary animals (2.55 ± 1.44) and did not develop any metastasis, while two pulmonary metastases were observed in the sedentary group. All primary neoplasms and their metastases were positive for oestrogen (ER) α and progesterone (PR) receptors, indicating high hormonal sensitivity. Interestingly, exercise training increased circulating oestrogen levels, thus suggesting that the mechanism might involve either or both of a protective hormone‐independent effect and modulation of tumoural vascularization.
THE OPTIMAL LISTING STRATEGIES IN ONLINE AUCTIONS
Authors: Chen Kong‐Pin , Ho Szu‐Hsien , Liu Chi‐Hsiang , Wang Chien‐Ming
Published: May 2017

This article proposes a unified framework to completely characterize the seller's optimal listing strategy in the online auction as a function of her rate of time impatience. Specifically, the fixed‐price listing, the regular auction, and the buy‐it‐now (BIN) auction are each a solution of the seller's single optimization problem under different values of the rate of intertemporal discount: The perfectly patient seller adopts the regular auction, the sellers with a medium range of time impatience adopt the BIN auction, and the most impatient of sellers adopt the fixed‐price listing. Moreover, under mild conditions, the reverse price is inversely related to the value of the seller's discount factor, either within or across formats. This in turn implies that the posted price in the fixed‐price sale is greater than the reserve price of the BIN auction, followed by that of the regular auction. These predictions offer clear empirical implications.
IMPERFECTLY INFORMED VOTERS AND STRATEGIC EXTREMISM
Authors: Aragonès Enriqueta , Xefteris Dimitrios
Published: May 2017

We analyze a two‐candidate Downsian model considering that voters use shortcuts (e.g., interest‐group/media endorsements) to infer candidates' policy platforms. That is, voters do not observe candidates' exact platforms but only which candidate offers the more leftist/rightist platform (relative positions). In equilibrium, candidates' behavior tends to maximum extremism, but it may converge or diverge depending on how voters behave when indifferent policywise between the candidates. When the tie‐breaking rule used by the voters is sufficiently fair, candidates converge to the extreme preferred by the median voter, but when it strongly favors a certain candidate, each candidate specializes in a different extreme.
SCREENING AS A UNIFIED THEORY OF DELINQUENCY, RENEGOTIATION, AND BANKRUPTCY
Authors: Kovrijnykh Natalia , Livshits Igor
Published: May 2017

We propose a parsimonious model with adverse selection where delinquency, renegotiation, and bankruptcy all occur in equilibrium as a result of a simple screening mechanism. A borrower has private information about her endowment, and a lender uses random contracts to screen different types of borrowers. In equilibrium, some borrowers choose not to repay and thus become delinquent. The lender renegotiates with some delinquent borrowers. In the absence of renegotiation, delinquency leads to bankruptcy. Applied to mortgage restructuring, our mechanism generates amplification of house‐price shocks through foreclosure spillovers. We also show that government intervention aimed at limiting foreclosures may have unintended consequences.
Membrane‐bound Dickkopf‐1 in Foxp3+ regulatory T cells suppresses T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune colitis
Authors: Chae Wook‐Jin , Park Jong‐Hyun , Henegariu Octavian , Yilmaz Saliha , Hao Liming , Bothwell Alfred L. M.
Published: May 2017

Induction of tolerance is a key mechanism to maintain or to restore immunological homeostasis. Here we show that Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells use Dickkopf‐1 (DKK‐1) to regulate T‐cell‐mediated tolerance in the T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune colitis model. Treg cells from DKK‐1 hypomorphic doubleridge mice failed to control CD4+ T‐cell proliferation, resulting in CD4 T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune colitis. Thymus‐derived Treg cells showed a robust expression of DKK‐1 but not in naive or effector CD4 T cells. DKK‐1 expression in Foxp3+ Treg cells was further increased upon T‐cell receptor stimulation in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, Foxp3+ Treg cells expressed DKK‐1 in the cell membrane and the functional inhibition of DKK‐1 using DKK‐1 monoclonal antibody abrogated the suppressor function of Foxp3+ Treg cells. DKK‐1 expression was dependent on de novo protein synthesis and regulated by the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway but not by the canonical Wnt pathway. Taken together, our results highlight membrane‐bound DKK‐1 as a novel Treg‐derived mediator to maintain immunological tolerance in T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune colitis.
Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 signalling is essential for germinal centre reaction
Authors: Li Bingshou , Li Zhirong , Wang Pengcheng , Huang Qizhao , Xu Lifan , He Ran , Ye Lilin , Bai Qiang
Published: May 2017

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a serine‐threonine kinase that has been shown to be essential for the differentiation and function of various immune cells. Earlier in vitro studies showed that mTOR signalling regulates B‐cell biology by supporting their activation and proliferation. However, how mTOR signalling temporally regulates in vivo germinal centre B (GCB) cell development and differentiation into short‐lived plasma cells, long‐lived plasma cells and memory cells is still not well understood. In this study, we used a combined conditional/inducible knock‐out system to investigate the temporal regulation of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) in the GCB cell response to acute lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection by deleting Raptor, a main component of mTORC1, specifically in B cells in pre‐ and late GC phase. Early Raptor deficiency strongly inhibited GCB cell proliferation and differentiation and plasma cell differentiation. Nevertheless, late GC Raptor deficiency caused only decreases in the size of memory B cells and long‐lived plasma cells through poor maintenance of GCB cells, but it did not change their differentiation. Collectively, our data revealed that mTORC1 signalling supports GCB cell responses at both early and late GC phases during viral infection but does not regulate GCB cell differentiation into memory B cells and plasma cells at the late GC stage.
Growth modes for monoclinic yttria‐stabilized zirconia during the martensitic transformation
Authors: Wang Yongzhe , Xu Fangfang , Gauvin Raynald , Kong Mingguang , Khan Matiullah , Liu Ziwei , Zeng Yi
Published: May 2017

The tetragonal to monoclinic martensitic transformation of plasma‐sprayed 3 mol% Y2O3–ZrO2 coatings is investigated by electron backscatter diffraction. The original metastable tetragonal phase shows an approximate “basal” texture with {001}t parallel to the coating surface. Based on the orientation analysis, plenty of monoclinic variants with atypical correspondence which indicates the ct axis transforms to the am axis where (100)m//(001)t, (010)m, and (001)m//{110}t are clearly identified in addition to the correspondence where the ct axis transforms to the cm axis. Moreover, three growth modes are proposed and discussed according to strain accommodation. The observed sequential growth obeys the correspondence of the ct axis to the cm axis. Fourfold growth combines the correspondences of the ct axis to the cm and am axes. The interleaving growth follows the correspondences of the ct axis to the cm axis within three tetragonal domains. These phenomena demonstrate the typical twin‐related and self‐accommodating configuration, which is in agreement with the phenomenological theory. These finding provide fundamental insight into the martensitic transformation mechanism and demonstrate a route for increasing the lifetime by controlling the tetragonal to monoclinic phase transformation.
Synthesis and conductivity behaviour of proton conducting (1−x)Ba0.6Sr0.4Ce0.75Zr0.10Y0.15O3−δ‐xGDC (x=0, 0.2, 0.5) composite electrolytes
Authors: Jaiswal Shivendra K. , Hong Jongsup , Yoon Kyung J. , Son Ji‐Won , Lee Jong‐Ho
Published: May 2017

An attempt has been made here to synthesize (1−x)Ba0.6Sr0.4CZY‐xGDC (x=0, 0.2, 0.5) composite electrolytes and investigated their phase(s), X‐ray photo spectra (XPS) and conduction properties. All compositions possess dual phases (perovskite‐type as well as cubic fluorite structure) and show proton conduction in various atmospheres. Homogeneous formation and compatibility between phases have been confirmed from X‐ray diffraction analysis. Detailed X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies on the oxidation states of barium, strontium, gadolinium, cerium, zirconium, yttrium, and oxygen was performed. With increasing “x”, oxygen vacancy concentration increases as cerium ions in 4+ oxidation state decreases. The conduction behavior of composites depicts the protonic in nature and total activation energy lying in the range of 0.16‐0.24 eV. This study indicates that the conductivity increases with GDC content in composite electrolytes and highest conductivity is found for composite with x=0.5. These characteristics are useful to make (1−x)Ba0.6Sr0.4CZY‐xGDC composite electrolytes as promising candidate of central membrane for advanced fuel cell technology.
Unmanned aircraft systems to unravel spatial and temporal factors affecting dynamics of colony formation and nesting success in birds
Authors: Sardà‐Palomera Francesc , Bota Gerard , Padilla Núria , Brotons Lluis , Sardà Francesc
Published: May 2017

Collecting information of ecological and behavioural processes often requires continuous field monitoring, however, reiterative human presence necessary to obtain monitoring data can disturb both the environment and the study species. An example of this phenomenon is the monitoring of the formation and dynamics of seabird colonies; one of the reasons for colony failure is disturbances caused by the presence of researchers or conservation managers during data collection. In this study, an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) was used throughout the breeding period to monitor the temporal and spatial dynamics of a black‐headed gull colony in the interior of a difficult‐to‐access island. This methodology permitted weekly visits to the colony without disturbance, which allowed for the continuous collection of spatial and temporal data on the process of colony formation. We obtained detailed information about nesting success and its relation with the distance to the nearest incubating neighbour, as well as the colony boundary along breeding season. Thus, we successfully monitored the dynamics of a bird colony and identified factors affecting individual decision making in colony formation using a UAS.
A case study integrating CBT with narrative therapy externalizing techniques with a child with OCD: How to flush away the Silly Gremlin. A single‐case experimental design
Authors: Banting Rosemary , Lloyd Susannah
Published: May 2017

Problem

Evidence exists for the use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) combined with externalizing techniques from narrative therapy for pediatric obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD); however, no research gives a detailed account of what the externalizing process looks like in session or how it is incorporated into conceptualization. Literature is appraised with respect to the referral, assessment, formulation, intervention and outcome.

Methods

The case describes a 10‐year‐old boy who was referred with severe OCD. The evidence‐based CBT model for OCD in child and adolescent populations was applied to the case. This was integrated with the externalizing technique from narrative therapy. Using these models, a shared formulation of the difficulties was developed, and created a new narrative. The intervention was assessed using the single‐case experimental design.

Findings and Conclusions

On all but one routine outcome measure positive clinically significant changes were made, and the young person managed to reach his therapeutic goals. Gains maintained over a month follow‐up period. The use of externalizing was an effective and developmentally appropriate intervention and is discussed further. The case highlighted the need for more research detailing externalizing processes.
RPA3 is a potential marker of prognosis and radioresistance for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Qu Chen , Zhao Yiying , Feng Guokai , Chen Chen , Tao Yalan , Zhou Shu , Liu Songran , Chang Hui , Zeng Musheng , Xia Yunfei
Published: May 2017

Radioresistance‐induced residual and recurrent tumours are the main cause of treatment failure in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Thus, the mechanisms of NPC radioresistance and predictive markers of NPC prognosis and radioresistance need to be investigated and identified. In this study, we identified RPA3 as a candidate radioresistance marker using RNA‐seq of NPC samples. In vitro studies further confirmed that RPA3 affected the radiosensitivity of NPC cells. Specifically, the overexpression of RPA3 enhanced radioresistance and the capacity for DNA repair of NPC cells, whereas inhibiting RPA3 expression sensitized NPC cells to irradiation and decreased the DNA repair capacity. Furthermore, the overexpression of RPA3 enhanced RAD51 foci formation in NPC cells after irradiation. Immunohistochemical assays in 104 NPC specimens and 21 normal epithelium specimens indicated that RPA3 was significantly up‐regulated in NPC tissues, and a log‐rank test suggested that in patients with NPC, high RPA3 expression was associated with shorter overall survival (OS) and a higher recurrence rate compared with low expression (5‐year OS rates: 67.2% versus 86.2%; 5‐year recurrence rates: 14.8% versus 2.3%). Moreover, TCGA data also indicated that high RPA3 expression correlated with poor OS and a high recurrence rate in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) after radiotherapy. Taken together, the results of our study demonstrated that RPA3 regulated the radiosensitivity and DNA repair capacity of NPC cells. Thus, RPA3 may serve as a new predictive biomarker for NPC prognosis and radioresistance to help guide the diagnosis and individualized treatment of patients with NPC.
Extracellular vesicles do not contribute to higher circulating levels of soluble LRP1 in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Roura Santiago , Gálvez‐Montón Carolina , de Gonzalo‐Calvo David , Valero Ana Gámez , Gastelurrutia Paloma , Revuelta‐López Elena , Prat‐Vidal Cristina , Soler‐Botija Carolina , Llucià‐Valldeperas Aida , Perea‐Gil Isaac , Iborra‐Egea Oriol , Borràs Francesc E. , Lupón Josep , Llorente‐Cortés Vicenta , Bayes‐Genis Antoni
Published: May 2017

Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM) is a frequent cause of heart transplantation. Potentially valuable blood markers are being sought, and low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 1 (LRP1) has been linked to the underlying molecular basis of the disease. This study compared circulating levels of soluble LRP1 (sLRP1) in IDCM patients and healthy controls and elucidated whether sLRP1 is exported out of the myocardium through extracellular vesicles (EVs) to gain a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease. LRP1 α chain expression was analysed in samples collected from the left ventricles of explanted hearts using immunohistochemistry. sLRP1 concentrations were determined in platelet‐free plasma by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Plasma‐derived EVs were extracted by size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC) and characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis and cryo‐transmission electron microscopy. The distributions of vesicular (CD9, CD81) and myocardial (caveolin‐3) proteins and LRP1 α chain were assessed in SEC fractions by flow cytometry. LRP1 α chain was preferably localized to blood vessels in IDCM compared to control myocardium. Circulating sLRP1 was increased in IDCM patients. CD9‐ and CD81‐positive fractions enriched with membrane vesicles with the expected size and morphology were isolated from both groups. The LRP1 α chain was not present in these SEC fractions, which were also positive for caveolin‐3. The increase in circulating sLRP1 in IDCM patients may be clinically valuable. Although EVs do not contribute to higher sLRP1 levels in IDCM, a comprehensive analysis of EV content would provide further insights into the search for novel blood markers.
PTEN inhibits replicative senescence‐induced MMP‐1 expression by regulating NOX4‐mediated ROS in human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Noh Eun‐Mi , Kim Jeong‐Mi , Hong On‐Yu , Song Hyun‐Kyung , Kim Jong‐Suk , Kwon Kang‐Beom , Lee Young‐Rae
Published: May 2017

The biological function of NADPH oxidase (NOX) is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS, primarily arising from oxidative cell metabolism, play a major role in both chronological ageing and photoageing. ROS in extrinsic and intrinsic skin ageing may be assumed to induce the expression of matrix metalloproteinases. NADPH oxidase is closely linked with phosphatidylinositol 3‐OH kinase (PI3K) signalling. Protein kinase C (PKC), a downstream molecule of PI3K, is essential for superoxide generation by NADPH oxidase. However, the effect of PTEN and NOX4 in replicative‐aged MMPs expression has not been determined. In this study, we confirmed that inhibition of the PI3K signalling pathway by PTEN gene transfer abolished the NOX‐4 and MMP‐1 expression. Also, NOX‐4 down‐expression of replicative‐aged skin cells abolished the MMP‐1 expression and ROS generation. These results suggest that increase of MMP‐1 expression by replicative‐induced ROS is related to the change in the PTEN and NOX expression.
Neutral processes forming large clones during colonization of new areas
Authors: Rafajlović M. , Kleinhans D. , Gulliksson C. , Fries J. , Johansson D. , Ardehed A. , Sundqvist L. , Pereyra R. T. , Mehlig B. , Jonsson P. R. , Johannesson K.
Published: May 2017

In species reproducing both sexually and asexually clones are often more common in recently established populations. Earlier studies have suggested that this pattern arises due to natural selection favouring generally or locally successful genotypes in new environments. Alternatively, as we show here, this pattern may result from neutral processes during species’ range expansions. We model a dioecious species expanding into a new area in which all individuals are capable of both sexual and asexual reproduction, and all individuals have equal survival rates and dispersal distances. Even under conditions that favour sexual recruitment in the long run, colonization starts with an asexual wave. After colonization is completed, a sexual wave erodes clonal dominance. If individuals reproduce more than one season, and with only local dispersal, a few large clones typically dominate for thousands of reproductive seasons. Adding occasional long‐distance dispersal, more dominant clones emerge, but they persist for a shorter period of time. The general mechanism involved is simple: edge effects at the expansion front favour asexual (uniparental) recruitment where potential mates are rare. Specifically, our model shows that neutral processes (with respect to genotype fitness) during the population expansion, such as random dispersal and demographic stochasticity, produce genotype patterns that differ from the patterns arising in a selection model. The comparison with empirical data from a post‐glacially established seaweed species (Fucus radicans) shows that in this case, a neutral mechanism is strongly supported.
A component‐by‐component characterisation of high‐risk atherosclerotic plaques by multiphoton microscopic imaging
Authors: JAIN M. , WU B. , PISAPIA D. , SALVATORE S. , MUKHERJEE S. , NARULA N.
Published: May 2017

Aims: Atherosclerotic plaques vulnerable to rupture are almost always inflamed, and carry a large lipid core covered by a thin fibrous cap. The other components may include neovascularisation, intraplaque haemorrhage and spotty calcification. In contrast, stable plaques are characterised by a predominance of smooth muscle cells and collagen, and lipid core is usually deep seated or absent. This study is a proof of principle experiment to evaluate the feasibility of multiphoton microscopy (MPM) to identify aforementioned plaque components.

Methods and Results: MPM is a nonlinear optical technique that allows imaging based on intrinsic tissue signals including autofluorescence and higher‐order scattering. In our study, MPM imaging was performed on morphologically diverse aortic and coronary artery plaques obtained during autopsy. Various histologically verified plaque components including macrophages, cholesterol crystals, haemorrhage, collagen and calcification were recognised by MPM.

Conclusions: Recognition of the distinct signatures of various plaque components suggests that MPM has the potential to offer next‐generation characterisation of atherosclerotic plaques. The higher lateral resolution (comparable to histology) images generated by MPM for identifying plaque components might complement larger field of view and greater imaging depth currently available with optical coherence tomography imaging. As the next step MPM would need to be evaluated for intact vessel imaging ex vivo and in vivo.
Perceptually accurate display of two greyscale images as a single colour image
Authors: TAYLOR A.B. , IOANNOU M.S. , WATANABE T. , HAHN K. , CHEW T.‐L.
Published: May 2017

Life scientists often desire to display the signal from two different molecular probes as a single colour image, so as to convey information about the probes’ relative concentrations as well as their spatial corelationship. Traditionally, such colour images are created through a merge display, where each greyscale signal is assigned to different channels of an RGB colour image. However, human perception of colour and greyscale intensity is not equivalent. Thus, a merged image display conveys to the typical viewer only a subset of the absolute and relative intensity information present in and between two greyscale images. The Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage L*a*b* colour space (CIELAB) has been designed to specify colours according to the perceptually defined quantities of hue (perceived colour) and luminosity (perceived brightness). Here, we use the CIELAB colour space to encode two dimensions of information about two greyscale images within these two perceptual dimensions of a single colour image. We term our method a Perceptually Uniform Projection display and show using biological image examples how these displays convey more information about two greyscale signals than comparable RGB colour space‐based techniques.
The elusive ettringite under the high‐vacuum SEM – a reflection based on natural samples, the use of Monte Carlo modelling of EDS analyses and an extension to the ettringite group minerals
Authors: THIÉRY VINCENT , TRINCAL VINCENT , DAVY CATHERINE A.
Published: May 2017

Ettringite, Ca6Al2(SO4)3(OH)12.26H2O, or C6A3H32 as it is known in cement chemistry notation, is a major phase of interest in cement science as an hydration product and in polluted soil treatment since its structure can accommodate with many hazardous cations. Beyond those anthropogenic features, ettringite is first of all a naturally occurring mineral (although rare). An example of its behaviour under the scanning electron microscope and during energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) qualitative analysis is presented, based on the study of natural ettringite crystals from the N'Chwaning mine in South Africa. Monte Carlo modelling of the electron‐matter interaction zone at various voltages is presented and confronted with actual, observed beam damage on crystals, which burst at the analysis spot. Finally, theoretical energy dispersive spectroscopy spectra for all the ettringite group minerals have been computed as well as Monte Carlo modelling of the electron‐matter interaction zone. The knowledge of the estimation of the size of this zone may thus be helpful for the understanding of energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis in cement pastes or ettringite‐remediated soils.
Dealing with end of life—New graduated nurse experiences
Authors: Croxon Lyn , Deravin Linda , Anderson Judith
Published: May 2017

Aims and objectives

This article explores the perceptions of new graduate nurses around their readiness for practice when faced with death and dying within the workplace, particularly in rural hospital and community nursing settings.

Background

An essential consideration for nurses in the care of people with life‐limiting illness is the extent of their preparation for this area of practice. Nurses need to be aware of a multitude of compounding factors that will influence how and where the person is cared for. Despite significant literature about how to provide end of life education to undergraduate nurses there is little in the literature that explores the experiences of new graduate nurses.

Design

This paper reports on a qualitative interpretative study with data collected in seven semi‐structured interviews.

Method

Participants were invited to be interviewed with an online mail‐out to Alumni who had graduated between 1–2 years earlier. A thematic analysis of the interviews was then conducted.

Results

Four themes emerged from the thematic analysis of the interviews. These were; the role of the new graduate in palliative care, preparation for palliative care in undergraduate nursing curricula, readiness for dealing with death and dying, and gaps in educational preparation.

Conclusions

While palliative care is viewed as an important aspect of undergraduate nursing education, it is recognised as an area of practice that undergraduate nurses feel they are not adequately prepared for. This study identifies the need to incorporate skills such as having conversations and communicating effectively with patients and families experiencing end of life issues.

Relevance to clinical practice

Graduate nurses feel they are not adequately prepared for end of life care which demonstrates the need for quality end of life care education in undergraduate nursing curricula.
Using action research to develop midwives’ skills to support women with perinatal mental health needs
Authors: Madden Deirdre , Sliney Annmarie , O'Friel Aoife , McMackin Barbara , O'Callaghan Bernie , Casey Kate , Courtney Lisa , Fleming Valerie , Brady Vivienne
Published: May 2017

Aims and objectives

The aim of the research was to identify and develop midwives’ skills to support women with mental health needs during pregnancy, using an action research approach.

Background

A review of perinatal mental health services in a large Dublin maternity unit revealed a high number of referred women who ‘did not attend’ the perinatal mental health service with few guidelines in place to support midwives in identifying and referring women for specialist help.

Design

Action research using cooperative inquiry involved a mental health nurse specialist and a team of midwives, who were drawn to each other in mutual concern about an area of practice.

Methods

Data were gathered from three Cooperative Inquiry meetings, which incorporated one main Action Research Cycle of constructing, planning, taking and evaluating action. Data were analysed using a thematic content analysis framework.

Results

Participants experienced varying levels of uncertainty about how to support women with perinatal mental health needs. Cooperative inquiry supported participants in making sense of how they understood perinatal mental health and how they managed challenges experienced when caring for women with perinatal mental health issues. Participants developed a referral pathway, highlighted the significance of education to support women with perinatal mental health issues and identified the value of using open questions to promote conversation with pregnant women about mental health.

Conclusions

Midwives value education and support to identify and refer women at risk of perinatal mental health issues. Cooperative inquiry, with a focus on action and shared reflection, facilitated the drawing together of two professional groups with diverse knowledge bases to work together to develop practice in an area of mutual concern.

Relevance to clinical practice

Perinatal mental health is a significant public health issue and midwives need support to make psychosocial assessments and to negotiate access to specialist services where available and when required.