bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inversion of the Main Mineral Compositions and Subdivision of Tectonic Units on Lunar LQ‐4 based on Chang'e Data
Authors: Xiang WANG , Jianping CHEN , Yanbo XU , Yongchun ZHENG , Bokun YAN , Yunzhao WU
Published: December 2015

Spectra are sensitive in detecting main minerals on the lunar surface from visible light to infrared light. Since spectral characteristics of minerals are closely related to their compositions and the maturity level of soil on the Moon, studying the compositions and distribution of elements and minerals on the lunar surface can help to understand the evolution of the Moon through remote sensing technology. The correlation between the spectral characteristics of Chang'e‐1 interference imaging spectrometry (IIM) reflectance images and the mineral contents of LSCC (Lunar Soil Characterization Consortium) lunar surface mineral samples was discussed and the spatial distributions of FeO and Al2O3 contained in both pyroxene and plagioclase on LQ‐4 were studied using the improved angle parameter method, MNF, and band ratio statistics. A comparison of the mapping results of the optical models by Lucey, Shkuractov and other researchers on Clementine and the gamma ray spectrometry data shows that the content error is within 0.6% for lunar mare areas and close to 1% for the highland areas. The tectonic framework on the lunar surface was also investigated. And based on integrated analysis of previous findings on topography of the lunar surface, Chang'e LAM, CCD and LOLA images and the gravity anomalies data (Clementine GLGM‐2), the tectonic unit subdivision was established for LQ‐4, the idea of subdividing the lunar tectonic units was proposed, and this will provide a good foundation for studying the lunar tectonic evolution.
A Novel Approach in Hydrogeochemical Exploration for Uranium Mineralization: an Example from West Central Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Ahmed E. EL‐RAYES , Mohamed O. ARNOUS
Published: December 2015

Groundwater in contact with ore deposits may acquire a chemical composition that could be used as a guide for exploration. Eight well‐water samples are collected from a known uranium‐mineralized area near Abu Zenima, west central Sinai to examine the applicability of using the hydrogeochemical technique in the search for uranium mineralization in similar arid areas. The analytical chemical data of the ground water is compared with ground radiometric measurements. The obtained results indicate that groundwater affected by uranium mineralization has a specific relativity of major anions expressed essentially as SO4>Cl>HCO3 and to a lesser extent as C1>SO4>HCO3, associated as a rule with low magnesium content. This association constitutes a signature of uranium mineralization on the composition of groundwater in west central Sinai and could be used as an important exploration guide in the search for uranium deposits in similar areas. Anomalies in Ni, Fe, Zn and Cr and other pathfinder elements in groundwater can furnish geochemical guides to uranium ores. The immobile trace element anomalies, including Zn, Ni and Fe are strongly distributed near the orebody; whereas the relatively mobile trace elements, including Co, U, V and Cr, constitute the dispersion haloes away from the orebody. A new hydrogeochemical discrimination diagram is constructed to be used as a quick and cost effective exploration tool in the search for uranium occurrences in environmentally similar arid areas. Based on the obtained results, a new site for uranium occurrence, west of W. Baba, is delineated and recommended for future detailed geological and geochemical surveying.
Division of Matrix‐ and Fracture‐Type Shale Oils in the Jiyang Depression and Their Differences
Authors: Fangxing NING , Xuejun WANG , Xuefeng HAO , Deyan ZHU , Deshun ZHU
Published: December 2015

This study discussed the division of matrix‐ and fracture‐type shale oils in the Jiyang Depression, and proposed the concept of fracture development coefficient. The fracture development coefficient is defined as the ratio of fault throw to the distance between a shale oil well and the nearest fault. Based on CO2 content, state of water, oil production and logging response of shale oil formations, the classification of shale oils was established, Le., a fracture‐type shale oil well has a fracture development coefficient greater than 0.2, while a matrix‐type one has a fracture development coefficient less than 0.2. Furthermore, the key control factors of matrix‐ and fracture‐type shale oil enrichment were analyzed using typical anatomical and statistical methods. For matrix‐type shale oil enrichment, these factors are lithofacies, total organic carbon (TOC), shale porosity and abnormal pressure; for fracture‐type shale oil enrichment, they are lithofacies, extent of fracture development, and abnormal pressure. This study also first described the differences between matrix‐ and fracture‐type shale oils. The results provide reference for the exploration of terrestrial faulted basins in eastern China.
Insights into the Tectonic Fractures in the Yanchang Formation Interbedded Sandstone‐Mudstone of the Ordos Basin Based on Core Data and Geomechanical Models
Authors: Wei JU , Weifeng SUN , Guiting HOU
Published: December 2015

The distribution and intensity of tectonic fractures within geologic units are important to hydrocarbon exploration and development. Taken the Upper Triassic Yanchang Formation interbedded sandstone‐mudstone in the Ordos Basin as an example, this study used the finite element method (FEM) based on geomechanical models to study the development of tectonic fractures. The results show that the sandstones tend to generate tectonic fractures more easily than mudstones with the same layer thickness, and the highest degree of tectonic fractures will be developed when the sandstone‐mudstone thickness ratio is about 5.0. A possible explanation is proposed for the tectonic fracture development based on two important factors of rock brittleness and mechanical layer thickness. Generally, larger rock brittleness and thinner layer thickness will generate more tectonic fractures. In interbedded sandstone‐mudstone formations, the rock brittleness increases with the increasing mechanical layer thickness, hence, these two factors will achieve a balance for the development of tectonic fractures when the sandstone‐mudstone thickness ratio reaches a specific value, and the development degree of tectonic fractures is the highest at this value.
Isotopic Geochemistry of Cadmium: A Review
Authors: Chuanwei ZHU , Hanjie WEN , Yuxu ZHANG , Yizhang LIU , Rongfei WEI
Published: December 2015

Cadmium (Cd) is a scarce, but not an extremely rare element in the Earth's crust (crustal average: 0.2 ppm Cd). Geochemically, Cd exhibits thiophile, lithophile, and volatile behavior in different geologic processes. Biologically, it is a nutrient‐like element that is closely related to P and Zn and is toxic element to organisms. Presently, Cd isotopes have been successfully utilized to trace Cd sources and nutrient cycling in marine systems in addition to unearthing other geochemical processes. Using published studies and our recent work, this survey summarizes the chemical preparation and mass spectrometry of Cd isotopes. It also reviews Cd isotopic compositions and fractionation mechanisms in nature as well as experiments.
Hydrogen and thiosulfate limits for growth of a thermophilic, autotrophic Desulfurobacterium species from a deep‐sea hydrothermal vent
Authors: Stewart Lucy C. , Llewellyn James G. , Butterfield David A. , Lilley Marvin D. , Holden James F.
Published: December 2015

Hydrothermal fluids (341°C and 19°C) were collected < 1 m apart from a black smoker chimney and a tubeworm mound on the Boardwalk edifice at the Endeavour Segment in the northeastern Pacific Ocean to study anaerobic microbial growth in hydrothermal mineral deposits. Geochemical modelling of mixed vent fluid and seawater suggests the mixture was anoxic above 55°C and that low H2 concentrations (79 μmol kg−1 in end‐member hydrothermal fluid) limit anaerobic hydrogenotrophic growth above this temperature. A thermophilic, hydrogenotrophic sulfur reducer, Desulfurobacterium strain HR11, was isolated from the 19°C fluid raising questions about its H2‐dependent growth kinetics. Strain HR11 grew at 40–77°C (Topt 72–75°C), pH 5–8.5 (pHopt 6–7) and 1–5% (wt vol−1) NaCl (NaClopt 3–4%). The highest growth rates occurred when S2O32− and S° were reduced to H2S. Modest growth occurred by NO3− reduction. Monod constants for its growth were Ks of 30 μM for H2 and Ks of 20 μM for S2O32− with a μmax of 2.0 h−1. The minimum H2 and S2O32− concentrations for growth were 3 μM and 5 μM respectively. Possible sources of S2O32− and S° are from abiotic dissolved sulfide and pyrite oxidation by O2.
The Hostile Audience: The Effect of Access to Broadband Internet on Partisan Affect
Authors: Lelkes Yphtach , Sood Gaurav , Iyengar Shanto
Published: December 2015

Over the last two decades, as the number of media choices available to consumers has exploded, so too have worries over self‐selection into media audiences. Some fear greater apathy, others heightened polarization. In this article, we shed light on the latter possibility. We identify the impact of access to broadband Internet on affective polarization by exploiting differences in broadband availability brought about by variation in state right‐of‐way regulations (ROW). We merge state‐level regulation data with county‐level broadband penetration data and a large‐N sample of survey data from 2004 to 2008 and find that access to broadband Internet increases partisan hostility. The effect occurs in both years and is stable across levels of political interest. We also find that access to broadband Internet boosts partisans' consumption of partisan media, a likely cause of increased polarization.
Modified TB rapid test by proteinase K for rapid diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis
Authors: Yari Shamsi , Hadizadeh Tasbiti Alireza , Ghanei Mostafa , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali , Fateh Abolfazl , Yari Fatemeh , Bahrmand Ahmadreza
Published: December 2015

The diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis continues to be a challenge due to the low sensitivity of traditional diagnostic methods. Better and more rapid tests are needed for diagnosis of pleural TB. In this study, pleural fluids were tested with rapid test to determine Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB antigen). Affinity chromatography was used to purify specific polyclonal antibodies against MTB antigen. Pleural samples after decontamination were treated with proteinase K. Rapid test for pleural fluids was prepared by specific antibody. Rapid test was performed on 85 pleural fluid patients. The patients had a mean age of 46.55 ± 15.96 years and 38 were men. The performance of rapid test, using proteinase K, was found to be the most impressive: sensitivity 93%, specificity 94%, PPV 90%, and NPV 96% compared with adenosine deaminase test (ADA), PCR, smear, and culture. The present study did demonstrate that modified TB rapid test can substantially improve the diagnosis of extrapulmonary TB.
Developing a validated instrument to measure preservice teachers’ ICT competencies: Meeting the demands of the 21st century
Authors: Tondeur Jo , Aesaert Koen , Pynoo Bram , van Braak Johan , Fraeyman Norbert , Erstad Ola
Published: December 2015

The main objective of this study is to develop a self‐report instrument to measure preservice teachers’ ICT competencies in education. The questionnaire items of this instrument are based on an existing comprehensive framework and were created with input from experts in the field. The data were collected from a sample of 931 final‐year preservice teachers in Flanders (Belgium). A first subsample was used for an exploratory factor analysis, and a second one to verify the identified factor structure via confirmatory factor analysis. A two‐factor structure of ICT competencies was identified: (1) competencies to support pupils for ICT use in class and (2) competencies to use ICT for instructional design. This two‐factor structure was confirmed in the confirmatory factor analysis. Recommendations are made on how this reliable instrument can help assess the level and progress of preservice teachers’ ICT competencies.
Structure–activity relationship studies of citalopram derivatives: examining substituents conferring selectivity for the allosteric site in the 5‐HT transporter
Authors: Larsen M Andreas B , Plenge Per , Andersen Jacob , Eildal Jonas NN , Kristensen Anders S , Bøgesø Klaus P , Gether Ulrik , Strømgaard Kristian , Bang‐Andersen Benny , Loland Claus J
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose

The 5‐HT transporter (SERT) is a target for antidepressant drugs. SERT possesses two binding sites: the orthosteric (S1) binding site, which is the presumed target for current SERT inhibitors, and an allosteric (S2) site for which potential therapeutic effects are unknown. The antidepressant drug citalopram displays high‐affinity S1 binding and low‐affinity S2 binding. To elucidate a possible therapeutic role of allosteric inhibition of SERT, a drug that specifically targets the allosteric site is required. The purpose of this study was to find a compound having higher selectivity towards the S2 site.

Experimental Approach

We performed a systematic structure–activity relationship study based on the scaffold of citalopram and the structurally closely related congener, talopram, which shows low‐affinity S1 binding in SERT. The role of the four chemical substituents, which distinguish citalopram from talopram in conferring selectivity towards the S1 and S2 site, respectively, was assessed by determining the binding of 14 citalopram/talopram analogous to the S1 and S2 binding sites in SERT using membranes of COS7 cells transiently expressing SERT.

Key Results

The structure–activity relationship study revealed that dimethyl citalopram possesses the highest affinity for the allosteric site relative to the S1 site in SERT and has approximately twofold selectivity for the allosteric site relative to the S1 site in SERT.

Conclusions and Implications

The compound could be a useful lead for future synthesis of drugs with high affinity and high selectivity towards the allosteric binding site.
Efficacy and safety of Gammaplex® 5% in children and adolescents with primary immunodeficiency diseases
Authors: Melamed I R , Gupta S , Stratford Bobbitt M , Hyland N , Moy J N
Published: December 2015

This open-label multi-centre study evaluated Gammaplex® 5%, a human intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) 5% liquid, in 25 children and adolescent patients (aged 3–16 years) with primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDs). Subjects received Gammaplex 5% (at doses of 300–800 mg/kg/infusion) for 12 months, with a 3-month follow-up. The primary efficacy end-point was the incidence of serious acute bacterial infections (SABIs) during the 12-month treatment period. Secondary objectives assessed safety and tolerability. Nineteen males and six females were treated using the same infusion schedule as their prior IVIG treatment (14 and 11 subjects on 21- and 28-day dosing schedules, respectively). Two SABIs of pneumonia were reported, resulting in an annual SABI event rate of 0·09 [upper one-sided 99% confidence interval (CI) = 0·36]. Twenty-one subjects (84%) experienced ≥ 1 infection during the study, with a median infective episode per subject/year of 3·08 (range = 0–10·4). Sixteen subjects (64%) missed ≥ 1 day of nursery or school because of infection or other illness. All trough immunoglobulin G levels exceeded 7·00 g/l after 15 weeks (mean = 9·69 g/l; range = 7·04–15·35 g/l). Product-related adverse events occurred in 14 subjects (56%); none were serious. Of 368 total infusions, 97 (26%) were associated temporally with an adverse event (≤ 72 h after infusion), regardless of causality. Laboratory test results and adverse-reaction data showed no evidence of product-related haemolysis or thromboembolic events. These data demonstrate that Gammaplex 5% is effective in preventing SABIs and well tolerated in children and adolescents with PID.
Phenibut (4‐amino‐3‐phenyl‐butyric acid): Availability, prevalence of use, desired effects and acute toxicity
Authors: Owen David R. , Wood David M. , Archer John R. H. , Dargan Paul I.
Published: December 2015

Introduction and Aims

There has been a global increase in the availability and use of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) over the last decade. Phenibut (β‐phenyl‐γ‐aminobutyric acid) is a GABAB agonist that is used as an NPS. Here, we bring together published scientific and grey information sources to further understand the prevalence of use, desired effects and acute toxicity of phenibut.

Design and Methods

Using European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction Internet snapshot methodology, we undertook an English language Internet snapshot survey in May 2015 to gather information on the availability and price of phenibut from Internet NPS retailers. To gather information on prevalence of use, desired effects and/or adverse effects, we searched grey literature (online drug discussion forums) and medical literature (PubMed and abstracts from selected International Toxicology conferences).

Results

We found 48 unrelated Internet suppliers selling phenibut in amounts ranging from 5 g (US$1.60, £1.01/g) to 1000 kg (US$0.23, £0.14/g). Capsules containing 200–500 mg of phenibut were available in packs of between 6 (US$4.45, £2.80/g) and 360 (US$0.43, £0.27/g). According to the grey literature, phenibut is taken for its anxiolytic and euphoric properties, with tolerance and withdrawal syndromes commonly reported adverse effects. Phenibut is taken orally at an average dose of 2.4 g. Case reports in the medical literature feature users who present to emergency departments heavily sedated or experiencing withdrawal. There have been no reported deaths relating to phenibut use.

Discussion and Conclusions

Phenibut is readily available in the UK from Internet sites selling NPS. Its desired and adverse effects appear similar to other gamma‐aminobutyric acid receptor agonists. [Owen DR, Wood DM, Archer JRH, Dargan PI. Phenibut (4‐amino‐3‐phenyl‐butyric acid): Availability, prevalence of use, desired effects and acute toxicity. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:591–596]
Role of the general practitioner in providing early intervention for youth mental health: a mixed methods investigation
Authors: Leahy Dorothy , Schaffalitzky Elisabeth , Saunders Jean , Armstrong Claire , Meagher David , Ryan Patrick , Dooley Barbara , McNicholas Fiona , McGorry Patrick , Cullen Walter
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Youth suicide in Ireland is now the second highest in the European Union. General practitioners (GPs), as the health‐care professional most often consulted by young people, have a central role in early detection of youth mental health problems. However, evidence regarding the perspectives of young people and health‐care workers towards screening and treatment for such issues in primary care in Ireland is lacking.

Aim

This study aimed to examine the role of GP in providing early intervention and treatment for youth mental health problems.

Methods

A mixed methods study that involved qualitative interviews with health‐care workers from primary care, secondary care and community agencies (n = 37) and young people (n = 20) in two of Ireland's most socioeconomically disadvantaged areas and a national cross‐sectional survey of GPs (n = 175) were carried out.

Results

GP satisfaction rates were low in regard to postgraduate training received in child and adolescent mental health (17%) and substance use (21%). Key barriers to treatment included the attitude of patients/families, lack of specialist staff, poor service availability and time. Access to services (66%), knowing which interventions can be initiated in primary care (44%), having appropriate time and space (47%) and access to a youth worker (42%) were the interventions most commonly identified that would facilitate screening and treatment.

Conclusion

The research outlined potential implications for clinical practice, research and education such as promoting awareness of mental health and the role of the GP in helping these issues, education of practitioners and improving access to psychological treatments.
Parallel declines in species and genetic diversity driven by anthropogenic disturbance: a multispecies approach in a French Atlantic dune system
Authors: Frey David , Arrigo Nils , Granereau Gilles , Sarr Anouk , Felber François , Kozlowski Gregor
Published: December 2015

Numerous studies assess the correlation between genetic and species diversities, but the processes underlying the observed patterns have only received limited attention. For instance, varying levels of habitat disturbance across a region may locally reduce both diversities due to extinctions, and increased genetic drift during population bottlenecks and founder events. We investigated the regional distribution of genetic and species diversities of a coastal sand dune plant community along 240 kilometers of coastline with the aim to test for a correlation between the two diversity levels. We further quantify and tease apart the respective contributions of natural and anthropogenic disturbance factors to the observed patterns. We detected significant positive correlation between both variables. We further revealed a negative impact of urbanization: Sites with a high amount of recreational infrastructure within 10 km coastline had significantly lowered genetic and species diversities. On the other hand, a measure of natural habitat disturbance had no effect. This study shows that parallel variation of genetic and species diversities across a region can be traced back to human landscape alteration, provides arguments for a more resolute dune protection, and may help to design priority conservation areas.
Scn1a dysfunction alters behavior but not the effect of stress on seizure response
Authors: Sawyer N. T. , Helvig A. W. , Makinson C. D. , Decker M. J. , Neigh G. N. , Escayg A.
Published: December 2015

Mutations in the voltage‐gated sodium channel gene SCN1A are responsible for a number of epilepsy disorders, including genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+) and Dravet syndrome. In addition, dysfunction in SCN1A is increasingly being linked to neuropsychiatric abnormalities, social deficits and cognitive disabilities. We have previously reported that mice heterozygous for the SCN1A R1648H mutation identified in a GEFS+ family have infrequent spontaneous seizures, increased susceptibility to chemically and hyperthermia‐induced generalized seizures and sleep abnormalities. In this study, we characterized the behavior of heterozygous mice expressing the SCN1A R1648H mutation (Scn1aRH/+) and the effect of stress on spontaneous and induced seizures. We also examined the effect of the R1648H mutation on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis response. We confirmed our previous finding that Scn1aRH/+ mutants are hyperactive, and also identified deficits in social behavior, spatial memory, cued fear conditioning, pre‐pulse inhibition and risk assessment. Furthermore, while exposure to a stressor did increase seizure susceptibility, the effect seen in the Scn1aRH/+ mutants was similar to that seen in wild‐type littermates. In addition, Scn1a dysfunction does not appear to alter HPA axis function in adult animals. Our results suggest that the behavioral abnormalities associated with Scn1a dysfunction encompass a wider range of phenotypes than previously reported and factors such as stress exposure may alter disease severity in patients with SCN1A mutations.
Species turnover in vertebrate communities along elevational gradients is idiosyncratic and unrelated to species richness
Authors: McCain Christy M. , Beck Jan
Published: December 2015

Aim

Studies of species turnover commonly assume that turnover is a critical determinant of species richness patterns. But the concordance in patterns of turnover and species richness along gradients is poorly known. Here we characterize elevational patterns of species turnover and test whether turnover and species richness are strongly related.

Location

Sixty‐two elevation gradients world‐wide, from 17° S to 43° N.

Methods

We used elevational range data for six terrestrial vertebrate groups to characterize species turnover between neighbouring elevational bands. We measured turnover as Simpson's dissimilarity, a metric that is unaffected by measured differences in species richness among recorded samples. To assess differences from random patterns, elevational turnover was compared with three null models (hard, soft and no boundaries). Lastly, elevational turnover was compared with the combined species richness of neighbouring elevational bands. Analyses were conducted at three grain sizes (200, 400 and 800 m elevation).

Results

We found no consistent, repeated patterns in elevational turnover. Variability among gradients was very high, with most datasets displaying multiple but inconsistently located peaks. Concordance between null predictions and empirical turnover was poor (average r2 for 200, 400 and 800m grains were: hard boundaries 0.06, 0.12 and 0.15; soft boundaries 0.06, 0.11 and 0.14; unbounded 0.03, 0.07 and 0.10; respectively), although many empirical values fell within the confidence intervals of the null model. Correlations of turnover and species richness were generally poor, but increased with analysis grain (average r2 = 0.19, 0.33 and 0.54, respectively).

Main conclusions

Turnover cannot serve as a general explanation for richness patterns within elevational gradients. Elevational turnover patterns are highly idiosyncratic, change with scale, and are often indistinguishable from random patterns. Despite the common assertion that the highest species richness occurs where distinct, dominant communities turn over on mountains (e.g. low‐ and high‐elevation communities at a middle ecotone), we found no strong support for such Clementsian‐structured patterns.
Night as Fragmenting Frontier: Understanding the Night that Remains in an era of 24/7
Authors: Shaw Robert
Published: December 2015

Social scientists have previously understood the night through a frontier metaphor. This has pitched night as an empty or lightly inhabited space into which the urban, capitalist day has been expanding. The contemporary increase in nocturnal research has complicated this picture, showing an increasing multiplicity of complexly lived, structured and experienced nights across the globe. This paper looks to retrieve the concept of night as frontier by drawing on postcolonial theories to generate a more subtle conceptualisation of ‘frontier’, while also arguing that recent research reveals that this frontier is now fragmenting. By exploring research into a series of core themes – artificial light at night and darkness; night‐lives; and global nights – I then explore what such an understanding of night allows us to say about current research. As nocturnal social science continues to mature, a more critical eye will need to be paid to the complexity of shifting power relations and identities within this fragmenting nocturnal frontier.
Discursive Constructions of Low‐income Neighbourhoods
Authors: Lombard Melanie
Published: December 2015

This article provides a critical review of debates relating to discursive constructions of low‐income neighbourhoods. Drawing on literature from urban and development studies, it examines these issues in diverse contexts across the global North and South, in order to explore divergent and cross‐cutting themes from different periods and settings. In this way, it aims to show how interrogating apparently diverse and disconnected discourses may help to more clearly reveal their effects on low‐income neighbourhoods, in terms of the reflection and reproduction of marginalisation. It begins with a consideration of the power of discourses in terms of their potential for tangible effects in already marginalised neighbourhoods, including compounding existing spatial and social marginalisation. It then gives a brief relation of the historical context of discursive constructions of low‐income neighbourhoods, drawing on accounts which respond to processes of urbanisation in different times and places, to show how the same discursive tropes recur. This is followed by a section which explores resistance to these discursive tropes, and their enduring nature. The penultimate section examines recent theoretical interpretations which may hold the potential to account for both the place‐specific nature and the structural conditions of such discourses. The article concludes with a suggestion of how such an approach, even while offering a selective and partial view of discursive constructions of urban poverty, may offer the basis from which to contest them.
Aging well: Processing speed inhibition and working memory related to balance and aerobic endurance
Authors: Zettel‐Watson Laura , Suen Meagan , Wehbe Lara , Rutledge Dana N , Cherry Barbara J
Published: December 2015

Aim

The present study explored whether certain physical performance measures could be linked to specific cognitive domains in healthy older adults.

Method

A total of 50 adults (mean age 69.5 years, SD 8.1) were evaluated on physical performance using measures of balance (Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale), functional mobility (8‐ft up‐and‐go), lower body strength (30‐s chair stand), gait (30‐ft walk velocity) and aerobic endurance (6‐min walk). Cognitive measures included Stroop Color–Word Test, Digit Span Backward, Trail Making Tests, Everyday Problems Test, Digit Symbol Substitution and a Brown–Peterson test. Principal component analyses reduced cognition to domains of processing speed, inhibition and working memory.

Results

Hierarchical regression analyses were carried out with age and each physical measure as potential predictors of the three cognitive domains. The balance scale and 6‐min walk were specifically associated with processing speed, inhibition and working memory.

Conclusions

Better dynamic balance and aerobic endurance predicted enhanced processing speed, inhibition and working memory in older adults, with these last two domains considered components of executive function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 108–115.
Effect of Excess Magnesia on the Preparation of Cordierite Based on Waste Foundry Sand
Authors: Xiang Ruofei , Li Yuanbing , Li Shujing , Li Yawei , Sang Shaobai
Published: December 2015

Waste foundry sand collected from lost foam casting industry is a solid waste that contains ZrSiO4. For the purpose of re‐utilization, it is adopted to synthesize cordierite with the addition of MgO powders and fused silica by direct sintering, meanwhile the effect of various MgO mole ratios on the sintering behaviors is investigated using XRD, SEM, and mercury porosimetry. The lowest temperature corresponding to the formation of cordierite is 1150°C, and the increase of MgO mole ratio does not reduce the temperature for cordierite crystallization but increase the microhardness and thermal expansion coefficients.
Expression of angiopoietin‐1, angiopoietin‐2, and their receptor Tie2 in verruca vulgaris (common skin warts)
Authors: El‐Nabarawy Eman A. , El‐Hanafy Ghada M. , Rashed Laila A. , Yasin Fatma S.
Published: December 2015

Background

Angiogenesis and vasodilatation are reported associated with the development of verruca vulgaris, yet vascular endothelial growth factor overexpression was not detected in the lesions of common warts. Angiopoietins, as angiogenesis factors, have not been studied before in warts.

Objectives

To assess tissue expression of angiopoietin 1 (Ang1), angiopoietin 2 (Ang2), and their receptor Tie2 in the lesions of common warts to try to identify their role as pro‐angiogenic factors in the development of these lesions.

Patients and methods

Fifty patients with common skin warts and 50 age‐ and sex‐matched controls were included in this study. Four millimeter punch skin biopsies were taken from warts and from normal skin of controls for the detection of gene expression of Ang1, Ang2, and Tie2 using real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The mean levels of Ang1, Ang2, and Tie2 were significantly higher in the lesions of common warts compared to the normal skin of controls (P < 0.001 for all).

Conclusions

Upregulation of Ang1, Ang2, and Tie2 seems to play a possible role in the angiogenesis associated with common skin warts.
The home environment and toddler physical activity: an ecological momentary assessment study
Authors: Hager E.R. , Tilton N.A. , Wang Y. , Kapur N.C. , Arbaiza R. , Merry B.C. , Black M.M.
Published: December 2015

Background

Physical activity (PA) promotion/obesity prevention in toddlerhood should include home environments.

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine social/physical home environment factors associated with toddler PA using ecological momentary assessment (EMA, real‐time data collection).

Methods

Low‐income mother–toddler dyads were recruited and given a handheld EMA device (53 random beeps followed by social/physical environment survey over 8 d). Simultaneously, PA was assessed via accelerometry (data extracted 15 min before/after response, average activity counts per minute). Linear mixed‐effects models were used, adjusting for toddler age, urban/suburban residence and time of day; covariate moderating effects were examined; within‐subjects and between‐subjects findings were reported. PA was hypothesized to be greater when toddlers are outside (vs. inside), children are nearby (vs. alone), toddlers are interacting with their mothers (vs. not) and TV is off (vs. on).

Results

The final count was 2454 EMA/PA responses for 160 toddlers (mean age 20 months, range 12–31; 55% male, 66% Black and 54% urban). Associations with PA include (within subjects) the following: outside location (212 additional counts min−1), children nearby (153 additional counts min−1) and interacting with mother (321 additional counts min−1), compared with alternatives. Age was moderated by outside location/PA association (within subjects), with 90 additional counts min−1 per 3‐month age group outside vs. inside. No between‐subjects or television/PA associations were found.

Conclusions

Home environment factors were associated with PA, including outside location, children nearby and mother interaction. EMA is a novel method, allowing identification of contextual factors associated with behaviours in natural environments.
Transplantation tolerance – a historical introduction
Authors: Brent Leslie
Published: December 2015

The concept of immunological tolerance – the state of specific unresponsiveness to allogeneic transplants and all manner of other antigens – began in 1945 with R.D. Owen's finding that cattle dizygotic twins are red blood cell chimeras. Peter Medawar's group in Birmingham likewise discovered, quite independently, that cattle dizygotic twins accept each others’ skin grafts. These findings, together with F.M. Burnet and F. Fenner's speculations in 1949, prompted Medawar, together with R.E. Billingham and L. Brent, now at University College London, to embark on an extensive series of experiments that established immunological tolerance as a fundamental phenomenon, forming a new branch of immunology.
Interleukin‐17A neutralization alleviated ocular neovascularization by promoting M2 and mitigating M1 macrophage polarization
Authors: Zhu Yanji , Tan Wei , Demetriades Anna M. , Cai Yujuan , Gao Yushuo , Sui Ailing , Lu Qing , Shen Xi , Jiang Chunhui , Xie Bing , Sun Xinghuai
Published: December 2015

Neovascularization (NV), as a cardinal complication of several ocular diseases, has been intensively studied, and research has shown its close association with inflammation and immune cells. In the present study, the role of interleukin‐17A (IL‐17A) in angiogenesis in the process of ocular NV both in vivo and in vitro was investigated. Also, a paracrine role of IL‐17A was demonstrated in the crosstalk between endothelial cells and macrophages in angiogenesis. In the retinas of mice with retinopathy of prematurity, the IL‐17A expression increased significantly at postnatal day 15 (P15) and P18 during retinal NV. Mice given IL‐17A neutralizing antibody (NAb) developed significantly reduced choroidal NV and retinal NV. Studies on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) over‐expressing mice suggested that IL‐17A modulated NV through the VEGF pathway. Furthermore, IL‐17A deficiency shifted macrophage polarization toward an M2 phenotype during retinal NV with significantly reduced M1 cytokine expression compared with wild‐type controls. In vitro assays revealed that IL‐17A treated macrophage supernatant gave rise to elevated human umbilical vascular endothelial cell proliferation, tube formation and VEGF receptor 1 and receptor 2 expression. Therefore, IL‐17A could potentially serve as a novel target for treating ocular NV diseases. The limitation of this study involved the potential mechanisms, such as which transcription accounted for macrophage polarization and how the subsequent cytokines were modulated when macrophages were polarized. Further studies need to be undertaken to definitively determine the extent to which IL‐17A neutralizing anti‐angiogenic activity depends on macrophage modulation compared with anti‐VEGF treatment.
A Practical Method for Accurate Measurement of Trace Level Fluorine in Mg‐ and Fe‐Bearing Minerals and Glasses Using Electron Probe Microanalysis
Authors: Zhang Chao , Koepke Jürgen , Wang Lian‐Xun , Wolff Paul E. , Wilke Sören , Stechern André , Almeev Renat , Holtz Francois
Published: December 2015

Fluorine plays an important role in magmatic and hydrothermal processes, but due to its low abundance in geological samples determining F is difficult by electron probe microanalysis. By using a W‐Si multi‐layered pseudocrystal as the diffraction crystal instead of thallium acid phthalate (TAP), count rates were considerably higher, which however introduced spectral interferences between FKα and FeLα and MgKβ lines when normal integral mode is applied. In this study, we developed a protocol using a W‐Si multi‐layered pseudocrystal for measuring accurately trace level F in both minerals and glasses. First, we used differential mode with an optimised PHA (pulse height analysis) setting in signal processing, instead of normal integral mode, which completely eliminated the second‐order MgKβ line. Second, the overlap of the first‐order FeLα on FKα peak, which cannot be filtered by modifying the PHA setting, was calibrated quantitatively using F‐free minerals and silicate glasses. Applying this two‐step method, F was determined in a number of reference glasses, as well as in glasses synthesised from powders of the rock reference materials AC‐E, GS‐N and DR‐N. Our data are consistent within error with F concentrations determined by other methods, demonstrating the reliability of this method.
Reference Values Following ISO Guidelines for Frequently Requested Rock Reference Materials
Authors: Jochum Klaus Peter , Weis Ulrike , Schwager Beate , Stoll Brigitte , Wilson Stephen A. , Haug Gerald H. , Andreae Meinrat O. , Enzweiler Jacinta
Published: December 2015

We present new reference values for nineteen USGS, GSJ and GIT‐IWG rock reference materials that belong to the most accessed samples of the GeoReM database. The determination of the reference values and their uncertainties at the 95% confidence level follows as closely as possible ISO guidelines and the Certification Protocol of the International Association of Geoanalysts. We used analytical data obtained by the state‐of‐the‐art techniques published mainly in the last 20 years and available in GeoReM. The data are grouped into four categories of different levels of metrological confidence, starting with isotope dilution mass spectrometry as a primary method. Data quality was checked by careful investigation of analytical procedures and by the application of the Horwitz function. As a result, we assign a new and more reliable set of reference values and respective uncertainties for major, minor and a large group of trace elements of the nineteen investigated rock reference materials.
Photosynthesis and Remobilization of Dry Matter in Wheat as Affected by Progressive Drought Stress at Stem Elongation Stage
Authors: Tatar Ö. , Brück H. , Asch F.
Published: December 2015

With increasingly erratic rainfall patterns particularly in drought‐prone production systems, the capacity of plants to recover productively from drought spells becomes an important feature for yield stability in rainfed agriculture. Consequently, effects of water management at the stem elongation stage on partitioning and remobilization of dry matter, alteration in photosynthesis and water‐use efficiency (WUE), and yield components of wheat plants were studied in a glasshouse pot experiment. The plants were subjected to three soil moisture regimes: well watered during all phenological stages (WW), drought affected during stem elongation and post‐anthesis stages (DD) and drought affected during stem elongation and rewatered at post‐anthesis stage (DW). Total dry weight substantially decreased by both drought treatments. However, DD plants allocated relatively higher assimilates to roots whereas DW plants remobilized them to the grains. Drought applications resulted in a decrease of grain yield and thousand grain weight while reduction was more pronounced in DD treatment. Relative contribution of post‐anthesis photosynthesis to dry matter formation in grain was higher in WW treatment (72.6 %) than DD (68.5 %) and DW (68.2 %) treatments. Photosynthetic rate, gas exchange and transpiration decreased whereas leaf (photosynthetic) and plant level WUE increased with drought applications. However, all these parameters were rapidly and completely reversed by rewatering. Our findings showed that partitioning of dry weight to grain increases with rewatering of wheat plants subjected to drought during stem elongation phase, but the relative contributions of remobilization of stem reserves and post‐anthesis photosynthesis to grain did not change. Moreover, rewatering of plants at booting stage after a drought period lead to full recovery in photosynthesis and WUE, and a significant although partial recovery of yield components, such as grain yield, TGW and harvest index.
Comparison of phylogeographical structures of a lichen‐forming fungus and its green algal photobiont in western North America
Authors: Chen Jin‐Ming , Werth Silke , Sork Victoria L.
Published: December 2015

Aim

Lichens comprise a symbiosis of two separate taxa that share geographical distribution but not necessarily the same evolutionary history. Comparison of phylogeographical structures of lichen symbionts provides valuable insight about the processes shaping the lichen's biogeographical pattern. In this study, we tested the extent to which the shared distribution of the widespread lichen‐forming fungus Ramalina menziesii and its photobiont Trebouxia decolorans across six major ecoregions reflect parallel genetic structure and gene flow.

Location

Western North America.

Methods

Based on DNA sequences from multiple genes, we employed distance‐based methods to assess co‐divergence of symbiosis partners. To assess historical opportunity for co‐evolution, we compare migrations among six ecoregions.

Results

Tests of genetic concordance between the mycobiont and the photobiont genetic variation revealed an overall significant congruent genetic structure across ecoregions. However, the photobiont and the mycobiont do not have high congruencies within ecoregions and the two taxa have different histories of migration among ecoregions.

Main conclusions

Congruent phylogeographical patterns in several clades between the mycobiont and the photobiont on a large spatial scale can be explained either by parallel isolation due to ecological and geographical discontinuities or by similar selective pressures on the symbionts due to common environmental conditions within each ecoregion leading to co‐divergence. At the regional spatial scale, the two taxa share some degree of evolutionary history but the weak phylogeographical congruence within ecoregions and the lack of shared migration history both indicate a flexible association between mutualists. This flexibility may facilitate the widespread geographical distribution of the lichen.
The Role of Plasma Triglyceride/High‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio to Predict New Cardiovascular Events in Essential Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Turak Osman , Afşar Barış , Ozcan Fırat , Öksüz Fatih , Mendi Mehmet Ali , Yayla Çagrı , Covic Adrian , Bertelsen Nathan , Kanbay Mehmet
Published: December 2015

Triglyceride (TG) to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) ratio (TG/HDL‐C) has been suggested as a simple method to identify unfavorable cardiovascular outcomes in the general population. The effect of the TG/HDL‐C ratio on essential hypertensive patients is unclear. About 900 consecutive essential hypertensive patients (mean age 52.9±12.6 years, 54.2% male) who visited our outpatient hypertension clinic were analyzed. Participants were divided into quartiles based on baseline TG/HDL‐C ratio and medical records were obtained periodically for the occurrence of fatal events and composite major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) including transient ischemic attack, stroke, aortic dissection, acute coronary syndrome, and death. Participants were followed for a median of 40 months (interquartile range, 35–44 months). Overall, a higher quartile of TG/HDL‐C ratio at baseline was significantly linked with higher incidence of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events. Using multivariate Cox regression analysis, plasma TG/HDL‐C ratio was independently associated with increased risk of fatal events (hazard ratio [HR], 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13–1.37; P≤.001] and MACEs (HR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.06–1.21; P≤.001). Increased plasma TG/HDL‐C ratio was associated with more fatal events and MACEs in essential hypertensive patients.
Study of Demodex mites: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Lacey N. , Russell‐Hallinan A. , Powell F.C.
Published: December 2015

Demodex mites are the largest and most complex organisms of the skin microflora. How they interact with the innate and adaptive immune systems is unknown. Their potential to have a pathogenic role in the causation of human skin disorders causes continued speculation. With growing interest in the microflora of human skin and its relevance to cutaneous health, the role of Demodex mites needs to be better understood. The main challenges facing scientists investigating the role of these organisms and possible solutions are reviewed under the following headings: (1) Determining the mite population in skin, (2) Transporting, extracting and imaging live mites, (3) Maintaining mites viable ex vivo and (4) Establishing methods to determine the immune response to Demodex mites and their internal contents.