bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apolipoprotein E‐ε4 deficiency and cognitive function in hepatitis C virus‐infected patients
Authors: Wozniak M. A. , Lugo Iparraguirre L. M. , Dirks M. , Deb‐Chatterji Milani , Pflugrad H. , Goldbecker A. , Tryc A. B. , Worthmann H. , Gess M. , Crossey M. M. E. , Forton D. M. , Taylor‐Robinson S. D. , Itzhaki R. F. , Weissenborn K.
Published: August 2015

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes not only liver damage in certain patients but can also lead to neuropsychiatric symptoms. Previous studies have shown that the type 4 allele of the gene for apolipoprotein E (APOE) is strongly protective against HCV‐induced damage in liver. In this study, we have investigated the possibility that APOE genotype is involved in the action of HCV in brain. One hundred HCV‐infected patients with mild liver disease underwent a neurological examination and a comprehensive psychometric testing of attention and memory function. In addition, patients completed questionnaires for the assessment of fatigue, health‐related quality of life and mood disturbances. Apolipoprotein E gene genotyping was carried out on saliva using buccal swabs. The APOE‐ε4 allele frequency was significantly lower in patients with an impairment of working memory, compared to those with a normal working memory test result (P = 0.003). A lower APOE‐ε4 allele frequency was also observed in patients with definitely altered attention ability (P = 0.008), but here, the P‐value missed the level of significance after application of the Bonferroni correction. Our data suggest that the APOE‐ε4 allele is protective against attention deficit and especially against poor working memory in HCV‐infected subjects with mild liver disease. Considering the role of apolipoprotein E in the life cycle of the virus, the findings shed interesting new light upon possible pathomechanisms behind the development of neuropsychiatric symptoms in hepatitis C infection.
Hydrothermal assemblages associated with different foundation species on the East Pacific Rise and Mid‐Atlantic Ridge, with a special focus on mytilids
Authors: Rybakova (Goroslavskaya) Elena , Galkin Sergey
Published: August 2015

This study was aimed at comparing the composition and structure of macrofauna assemblages living on mytilid foundations from different hydrothermal vent areas and depths and comparing their composition with that of other foundation species (alvinellids, siboglinids and alvinocaridid shrimps) from various ecotopes within the same vent field, attempting to identify unique features of mytilid assemblages. Areas investigated were located at different depths on the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge (MAR; Menez Gwen – 850 m, Lucky Strike – 1650 m, Rainbow – 2300 m, Broken Spur – 3000 m, Snake Pit – 3480 m, Logatchev – 3000 m) and at the depth of 2500 m on the East Pacific Rise (EPR; 9° N, 11° N, 17° S). Mussels occur at temperatures from 2 to 20 °C, whereas shrimps and alvinellids inhabit warmer zones with temperatures ranging from 20 to 40 °C. Siboglinids may occur together with mytilids, but more often they settle closer to hydrothermal vent emissions and live at temperatures exceeding 20 °C. Four main geographic groups of mytilid assemblages were distinguished: the northern EPR (9° N and 11° N) and southern EPR groups (17° S) and the more northern MAR (Lucky Strike and Rainbow) and more southern MAR groups (Broken Spur, Snake Pit and Logatchev). The most northern and shallow Atlantic area, Menez Gwen (850 m), differed from other Atlantic and Pacific areas by specific taxa composition and dominance of one taxon, the lepetodrilid gastropod, Lepetodrilus atlanticus (59%). Family richness was higher in mytilid assemblages than in shrimp and alvinellid assemblages: 2 and 2.5 times, respectively. Species composition in shrimp and alvinellid assemblages was poorer than in mytilid assemblages from the same field: 35% of species penetrated from mytilid to shrimp assemblages and 22% from mytilid to alvinellid assemblages. The percentage of species unique to shrimp or alvinellid assemblages was relatively low: 0% and 32%, respectively. On the MAR, similarity among assemblages of different foundation species within the same hydrothermal field was higher than among assemblages of the same foundation species from different fields and depths. On the EPR, similarity was higher among assemblages of the same foundation species from different fields at the same depth than among assemblages of different foundation species from the same field.
Comparative wood anatomy of Indian Drypetes and Putranjiva (Putranjivaceae): systematic implications, identification and comments on the synonymy of D. sumatrana
Authors: Jangid Prem Prakash , Gupta Sangeeta
Published: August 2015

The family Putranjivaceae is taxonomically enigmatic, especially the genera Drypetes and Putranjiva. The systematic position of the family has been controversial for a long period. The present study provides comprehensive descriptions of the wood microstructure of eleven species belonging to the two Indian genera Drypetes and Putranjiva. These woods show large similarity in qualitative and quantitative anatomical features. A species identification key is presented for the separation of the Indian species based on constant wood anatomical characters. Three distinct infra‐generic groups are recognised within Drypetes on the basis of differential perforation plates in the vessels. The wood microstructure of Putranjiva was found to be highly similar to that of Drypetes, suggesting its inclusion in Drypetes. Dissimilarities in anatomical as well as morphological features among D. sumatrana, D. kurziana and D. lanceolata indicate that these taxa are three distinct. In addition to taxonomic interpretations, ecological and evolutionary aspects of wood anatomy are also discussed.
Subversion of plant cellular functions by bacterial type‐III effectors: beyond suppression of immunity
Authors: Macho Alberto P.
Published: August 2015

Most bacterial plant pathogens employ a type‐III secretion system to inject type‐III effector (T3E) proteins directly inside plant cells. These T3Es manipulate host cellular processes in order to create a permissive niche for bacterial proliferation, allowing development of the disease. An important role of T3Es in plant pathogenic bacteria is the suppression of plant immune responses. However, in recent years, research has uncovered T3E functions different from direct immune suppression, including the modulation of plant hormone signaling, metabolism or organelle function. This insight article discusses T3E functions other than suppression of immunity, which may contribute to the modulation of plant cells in order to promote bacterial survival, nutrient release, and bacterial replication and dissemination.

Contents

Summary
51

I.
Introduction
51

II.
Beyond suppression of immunity: Xanthomonas transcription activator‐like effectors
52

III.
Type‐III effector manipulation of plant hormone signaling
53

IV.
Type‐III effectors remodel cell biology and plant metabolism
53

V.
Type‐III effector manipulation of chloroplast and mitochondria
54

VI.
Conclusions
54

Acknowledgements
55

References
56
Realist evaluation: an immanent critique
Authors: Porter Sam
Published: August 2015

This paper critically analyses realist evaluation, focussing on its primary analytical concepts: mechanisms, contexts, and outcomes. Noting that nursing investigators have had difficulty in operationalizing the concepts of mechanism and context, it is argued that their confusion is at least partially the result of ambiguities, inconsistencies, and contradictions in the realist evaluation model. Problematic issues include the adoption of empiricist and idealist positions, oscillation between determinism and voluntarism, subsumption of agency under structure, and categorical confusion between context and mechanism. In relation to outcomes, it is argued that realist evaluation's adoption of the fact/value distinction prevents it from taking into account the concerns of those affected by interventions. The aim of the paper is to use these immanent critiques of realist evaluation to construct an internally consistent realist approach to evaluation that is more amenable to being operationalized by nursing researchers.
Why the cognitive science of religion cannot rescue ‘spiritual care’
Authors: Paley John
Published: August 2015

PeterKevern believes that the cognitive science of religion (CSR) provides a justification for the idea of spiritual care in the health services. In this paper, I suggest that he is mistaken on two counts. First,CSRdoes not entail the conclusionsKevern wants to draw. His treatment of it consists largely of nonsequiturs. I show this by presenting an account ofCSR, and then explaining whyKevern's reasons for thinking it rescues ‘spirituality’ discourse do not work. Second, the debate about spirituality‐in‐health is about classification: what shall count as a ‘spiritual need’ and what shall count as ‘spiritual care’. It is about the politics of meaning, an exercise in persuasive definition. The function of ‘spirituality’ talk in health care is to change the denotation of ‘spiritual’, and attach its indelibly religious connotations to as many health‐related concepts and practices as possible.CSR, however plausible it may be as a theory of the origins and pervasiveness of religious belief, is irrelevant to this debate.
Plant species control and soil faunal involvement in the processes of above‐ and below‐ground litter decomposition
Authors: Fujii Saori , Makita Naoki , Mori Akira S. , Takeda Hiroshi
Published: August 2015

Among the factors determining litter decomposition rates, the role of soil fauna as decomposers still remains unclear, especially for how they are involved in decomposing below‐ground root litter compared to their relatively‐known contributions to decomposing above‐ground leaf litter. We conducted a litterbag experiment using two sizes of meshes and pursued the leaf and root decomposition of six major tree species in a Japanese temperate forest over 411‐days to test the interactive effects of soil mesofauna and litter quality addressed based on two features (litter types and species) on the process. Moreover, given a possible correlation between litter traits of the leaves and roots, we examined whether soil mesofauna alters the relationship between leaf and root decomposition across species. We found that the effects of plant species identity was stronger than that of soil mesofauna for determining the litter mass loss rate and the microbial respiration rate in both above‐ground and below‐ground decomposition. In addition, we found a significant positive correlation between leaf and root litter decomposition processes, regardless of the involvement soil mesofauna. On the other hand, the presence of soil mesofauna increased microbial respiration rates in the early stage of leaf decomposition; however, soil mesofauna did not affect root microbial respiration rates during the experiment. Such differential involvement of mesofauna in the leaf and root litter decomposition may drive the general patterns of faster and slower decomposition of plant leaves and roots in the soil, respectively.
Niche‐dependent trophic position distributions among primary, secondary and tertiary consumers
Authors: Woodland Ryan J. , Warry Fiona Y. , Evrard Victor , Clarke Rohan H. , Reich Paul , Cook Perran L. M.
Published: August 2015

Many consumers display flexible feeding strategies that vary among individuals or populations, through life‐history, or spatiotemporally. Despite the recognized influence of flexible feeding on the structure and dynamics of food webs, the consequences of these feeding strategies on the actual shape and characteristics of trophic position distributions have received less attention. We proposed and tested several a priori hypotheses to predict the likely effect of niche‐dependent (e.g. herbivore, secondary consumer) foraging on the shape and statistical properties of consumer trophic position distributions using natural abundance stable isotope data from a diverse dataset of consumers. We found evidence that the structural characteristics of consumer trophic position distributions varied as a function of trophic niche. Herbivores and tertiary consumers tended to be ‘packed’ closely near their mean trophic position, with few individuals realizing trophic positions markedly higher or lower than the mean. Conversely, secondary consumers often displayed broad trophic position distributions with many individuals dispersed away from the center of the distribution. We examined the effect of applying constant versus dynamic isotope trophic fractionation models and found that both models yielded similar although not identical results. Our findings suggest that trophic level omnivory supports a larger fraction of consumer diet at intermediate trophic positions than at either the lowest or the highest positions in aquatic food webs. These results suggest that vertical trophic niche declines among higher order consumers despite general evidence that the range of potential foraging options (i.e. horizontal trophic niche) tends to increase at higher trophic positions. Although further work is needed to test the generality of these patterns in other ecosystems, proactively examining trophic position distributions and reporting appropriate measures of central tendency (e.g. arithmetic versus geometric means) will increase the accuracy of individual trophic studies as well as the applicability of results for meta‐analytical food web models.
Termite mounds differ in their importance for herbivores across savanna types, seasons and spatial scales
Authors: Davies Andrew B. , Levick Shaun R. , Robertson Mark P. , van Rensburg Berndt J. , Asner Gregory P. , Parr Catherine L.
Published: August 2015

Herbivores do not forage uniformly across landscapes, but select for patches of higher nutrition and lower predation risk. Macrotermes mounds contain higher concentrations of soil nutrients and support grasses of higher nutritional value than the surrounding savanna matrix, attracting mammalian grazers that preferentially forage on termite mound vegetation. However, little is known about the spatial extent of such termite influence on grazing patterns and how it might differ in time and space. We measured grazing intensity in three African savanna types differing in rainfall and foliar nutrients and predicted that the functional importance of mounds for grazing herbivores would increase as the difference in foliar nutrient levels between mound and savanna matrix grasses increases and the mounds become more attractive. We expected this to occur in nutrient‐poor areas and during the dry season when savanna matrix grass nutrient levels are lower. Tuft use and grass N and P content were measured along transects away from termite mounds, enabling calculation of the spatial extent of termite influence on mammalian grazing. Using termite mound densities estimated from airborne light detection and ranging (LiDAR), we further upscaled field‐based results to determine the percentage of the landscape influenced by termite activity. Grasses in close proximity to termite mounds were preferentially grazed at all sites and in both seasons, but the strength of mound influence varied between savanna types and seasons. In the wet season, mounds had a relatively larger effect on grazers at the landscape scale in the nutrient‐poor, wetter savanna, whereas in the dry season the pattern was reversed with more of the landscape influenced at the nutrient‐rich, driest site. Our results reveal that termite mounds enhance the value of savanna landscapes for herbivores, but that their functional importance varies across savanna types and seasons.
Penaeid shrimp cell culture and its applications
Authors: Ma Jie , Zeng Lingbing , Lu Yuanan
Published: August 2015

The aquaculture of penaeid shrimp has grown rapidly during the past three decades. However, shrimp aquaculture continues to be plagued by infectious disease, particularly of viral aetiology. Urgently needed are in vitro biological tools to facilitate early detection and diagnosis of penaeid shrimp viruses. An immediate need is the establishment of stable or continuous shrimp cell lines, which remains to be an elusive goal. Researchers have made significant advancements in the methodologies for primary shrimp cell culture. Also, new media and technologies including cell immortalization are presently under development. The principal goal of this review paper is to collate current attempts in the establishment of permanent shrimp cell lines by summarizing the latest research progress on penaeid shrimp cell culture studies, including general cultivation conditions, methods of cell preparation, types of media and their utilization and the development of immortal cell lines. In addition, current and potential applications of penaeid shrimp cell cultures in the various related research fields are also discussed in this review.
Knowledge Transfer for Large‐Scale Urban Growth Modeling Based on Formal Concept Analysis
Authors: Lin Jinyao , Li Xia
Published: August 2015

Cellular automata (CA) are useful for studies on urban growth and land‐use changes. Although various methods have been developed to define transition rules, modeling urban growth of large areas remains a tough challenge owing to heterogeneous geographical features. To address the problem, we present a novel method based on the combination of Formal Concept Analysis (FCA) and knowledge transfer techniques. FCA is used to solicit association rules among cities within a large area. This method can provide a theoretical basis for the knowledge transfer process. A cutting‐edge algorithm called TrAdaBoost is then integrated with the commonly‐used Logistic‐CA as the modeling framework. The proposed method is applied to the urban growth modeling of Guangdong Province, a large region with 21 cities in China, from 2005 to 2008. Compared with traditional methods, this method can achieve better results at the provincial and local levels, according to the experiments. The combination of FCA and knowledge transfer is expected to provide a useful tool for calibrating large‐scale urban CA models.
Rhizobacterial volatiles and photosynthesis‐related signals coordinate MYB72 expression in Arabidopsis roots during onset of induced systemic resistance and iron‐deficiency responses
Authors: Zamioudis Christos , Korteland Jolanda , Van Pelt Johan A. , van Hamersveld Muriël , Dombrowski Nina , Bai Yang , Hanson Johannes , Van Verk Marcel C. , Ling Hong‐Qing , Schulze‐Lefert Paul , Pieterse Corné M.J.
Published: August 2015

In Arabidopsis roots, the transcription factor MYB72 plays a dual role in the onset of rhizobacteria‐induced systemic resistance (ISR) and plant survival under conditions of limited iron availability. Previously, it was shown that MYB72 coordinates the expression of a gene module that promotes synthesis and excretion of iron‐mobilizing phenolic compounds in the rhizosphere, a process that is involved in both iron acquisition and ISR signaling. Here, we show that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from ISR‐inducing Pseudomonas bacteria are important elicitors of MYB72. In response to VOC treatment, MYB72 is co‐expressed with the iron uptake‐related genes FERRIC REDUCTION OXIDASE 2 (FRO2) and IRON‐REGULATED TRANSPORTER 1 (IRT1) in a manner that is dependent on FER‐LIKE IRON DEFICIENCY TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR (FIT), indicating that MYB72 is an intrinsic part of the plant's iron‐acquisition response that is typically activated upon iron starvation. However, VOC‐induced MYB72 expression is activated independently of iron availability in the root vicinity. Moreover, rhizobacterial VOC‐mediated induction of MYB72 requires photosynthesis‐related signals, while iron deficiency in the rhizosphere activates MYB72 in the absence of shoot‐derived signals. Together, these results show that the ISR‐ and iron acquisition‐related transcription factor MYB72 in Arabidopsis roots is activated by rhizobacterial volatiles and photosynthesis‐related signals, and enhances the iron‐acquisition capacity of roots independently of the iron availability in the rhizosphere. This work highlights the role of MYB72 in plant processes by which root microbiota simultaneously stimulate systemic immunity and activate the iron‐uptake machinery in their host plants.
Identification of putative target genes of bZIP19, a transcription factor essential for Arabidopsis adaptation to Zn deficiency in roots
Authors: Inaba Shoko , Kurata Rie , Kobayashi Mami , Yamagishi Yoko , Mori Izumi , Ogata Yoshiyuki , Fukao Yoichiro
Published: August 2015

Zinc (Zn) depletion adversely affects plant growth. To avoid lethal depletion of cellular Zn, plants have evolved mechanisms to adjust the expression of genes associated with Zn homeostasis, the details of which are poorly understood. In the present study, we isolated an Arabidopsis thaliana T‐DNA insertion mutant that exhibited hypersensitivity to Zn depletion. By monitoring root development under Zn‐deficient conditions, we isolated a single mutant lacking the basic‐region leucine‐zipper transcription factor gene bZIP19. To identify proteins whose expression is affected by bZIP19, an iTRAQ‐based quantitative proteomics analysis was performed using microsomal proteins from wild‐type and the bzip19 mutant A. thaliana roots grown on Basal and Zn‐deficient media. Of the 797 proteins identified, expression of two members of the Zrt‐ and Irt‐related protein family, ZIP3 and ZIP9, and three defensin‐like family proteins was markedly induced in wild‐type but not in the bzip19 mutant under Zn‐deficient conditions. Furthermore, selected reaction monitoring and quantitative real‐time PCR revealed that ZIP9 expression is mediated by bZIP19 and may be partly supported by bZIP23, a homolog of bZIP19. Mutant analysis revealed that ZIP9 is involved in uptake of Zn by the roots, and the mutant lacking ZIP9 was significantly more sensitive to Zn depletion than the wild‐type. These results demonstrate that bZIP19 mainly contributes to expression of genes, such as ZIP9, under Zn‐deficient conditions.
Phylogeography of the Chinese endemic freshwater crab Sinopotamon acutum (Brachyura, Potamidae)
Authors: Fang Fang , Ji Yongkun , Zhao Qiang , Wang Yujuan , Gao Wei , Chu Kelin , Sun Hongying
Published: August 2015

Phylogeographical inferences based on multiple molecular markers from different modes of inheritance (i.e. mtDNA and nucDNA) can help to explore drivers of current species divergence over different timescales and allow a deeper understanding of evolutionary processes. River systems and mountains, owing to their drainage networks and complex topography, are often a high priority when inferring external causes of phylogeographical patterns. Here, we selected the Chinese endemic freshwater crab Sinopotamon acutum inhabiting drainage networks across the Qinling–Daba Mountains, a watershed that divides northern from southern fauna in China, as a model species (1) to investigate whether river networks and mountain systems act as barriers in shaping the phylogeography of freshwater crabs and (2) to test the impact of historic environments and ecological habitats on crab distribution. Phylogenetic tree and network analyses based on mtDNA revealed divergence between eastern and western populations, but microsatellite DNA did not recover this. Frequent and male‐biased gene flow is evident. The adjacent tributaries, such as Weihe River 1 and Hanjiang River 1, although isolated by Qinling Mts, have low genetic variation in mtDNA. In addition, microsatellite DNA showed low variation between all rivers. Frequent gene flow, genetic variation and mitochondrial genetic structure in S. acutum indicated that the Qinling–Daba Mountains have had no effect on divergence in this species; instead, hydrological networks across these mountains serve as a continuous migration corridor for these crabs. Glacial refugia are probably responsible for the initial isolation of the eastern and western clades, and local adaptations after dispersal have further driven divergence. Cytonuclear discordance in phylogeographical patterns may be attributable to ongoing male‐biased gene flow.
Etch characteristics of magnetic tunnel junction materials using substrate heating in the pulse-biased inductively coupled plasma
Authors: Jeon Min Hwan , Yang Kyung Chae , Lee Sehan , Yeom Geun Young
Published: August 2015

Magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ)-related materials such as CoFeB, MgO, and W were etched in a pulse-biased inductively coupled plasma etch system using a CO/NH3 gas combination, and the effects of substrate temperature (room temperature ∼200 °C) in the pulse-biased condition on the etch characteristics of the MTJ-related material were investigated. The etch selectivity of MTJ materials over W was improved by substrate heating possibly due to the easy removal of the compounds from the etched CoFeB surface during the pulse-on time at the elevated substrate temperature. At high substrate temperature, decreased thickness of etch residue was observed not only on the bottom surface but also on the sidewall surface during the etching, which indirectly indicated the increased volatility of the etch compounds at higher substrate temperature. The etching of CoFeB features masked with W also showed a more anisotropic etch profile by heating the substrate up to 200 °C possibly due to the increased the etch selectivity of CoFeB over W and the decreased redeposition of etch products on the sidewall of the CoFeB features.
Demonstration of 22-nm half pitch resolution on the SHARP EUV microscope
Authors: Benk Markus P. , Goldberg Kenneth A. , Wojdyla Antoine , Anderson Christopher N. , Salmassi Farhad , Naulleau Patrick P. , Kocsis Michael
Published: August 2015

The Semiconductor High-Numerical-aperture (NA) Actinic Reticle Review Project (SHARP) is an extreme ultraviolet (EUV)-wavelength, synchrotron-based microscope dedicated to advanced EUV photomask research. The instrument is designed to emulate current and future generations of EUV lithography (EUVL). The performance of the SHARP microscope has been well characterized for its low-NA lenses, emulating imaging in 0.25 and 0.33 NA lithography scanners. Evaluating the resolution of its higher-NA lenses, intended to emulate future generations of EUV lithography, requires a photomask with features down to 22-nm half pitch. The authors fabricated a sample with features down to 20-nm half pitch, exposing a wafer with a standard multilayer coating in the Berkeley microfield exposure tool, and used it to demonstrate real-space imaging down to 22-nm half pitch on the SHARP microscope. The demonstrated performance of SHARP's high-NA zoneplates, together with the extended capabilities of the tool, provide a platform that is available today, suited for research targeted at upcoming generations of EUVL many years into the future.
Oxidation behavior and tribological properties of multilayered Ti-Al-N/Mo-Si-B thin films
Authors: Riedl Helmut , Koller Christian Martin , Limbeck Andreas , Kalaš Jiri , Polcik Peter , Mayrhofer Paul Heinz
Published: August 2015

The impact of highly oxidation resistant Mo1−x−ySixBy on the oxidation resistance and tribological properties of arc evaporated face-centered-cubic Ti0.57Al0.43N is investigated in detail through Mo1−x−ySixBy/Ti0.57Al0.43N and Mo1−x−ySixByN/Ti0.57Al0.43N compound coatings as well as Ti0.57Al0.43N/Mo1−x−ySixBy multilayer coatings. The Ti0.57Al0.43N/Mo0.54Si0.30B0.16 and Ti0.57Al0.43N/Mo0.68Si0.12B0.20 multilayers with bilayer periods of 35 and 70 nm (consisting of 6 and 15 nm thin sputtered Mo0.54Si0.30B0.16 and Mo0.68Si0.12B0.20 layers), respectively, significantly outperform all coatings investigated during 900 °C ambient-air-oxidation treatments. Consequently, the oxidation resistance of the multilayer coatings is higher as compared with their individual layers. Even after 1000 min exposure, only ∼1.0 μm of the Ti0.57Al0.43N/Mo0.68Si0.12B0.20 multilayer is consumed to form a dense adherent and protective oxide scale. The latter is composed of Si-, Al-, Ti-, and Al-rich layered outer oxides preventing the volatilization of the Mo-rich layered oxide at the interface to the Ti0.57Al0.43N/Mo0.68Si0.12B0.20 multilayer. Whereas both multilayers, Ti0.57Al0.43N/Mo0.54Si0.30B0.16 and Ti0.57Al0.43N/Mo0.68Si0.12B0.20, exhibit excellent mechanical properties (hardnesses of 32–34 GPa and indentation moduli of 385–405 GPa) and oxidation resistance, the higher Mo-containing Ti0.57Al0.43N/Mo0.68Si0.12B0.20 multilayer outperforms all coatings investigated during ball-on-disk tests. The steady state coefficients of friction are ∼0.5 combined with wear rates below 10−6 mm3/Nm after 500 m sliding against Al2O3 at room temperature, 500, and 700 °C.
Breaking the Myth That Relay Swimming Is Faster Than Individual Swimming
Authors: Skorski Sabrina , Etxebarria Naroa , Thompson Kevin G.
Published: August 2015

Purpose:

To investigate if swimming performance is better in a relay race than in the corresponding individual race.

Methods:

The authors analyzed 166 elite male swimmers from 15 nations in the same competition (downloaded from www.swimrankings.net). Of 778 observed races, 144 were Olympic Games performances (2000, 2004, 2012), with the remaining 634 performed in national or international competitions. The races were 100-m (n = 436) and 200-m (n = 342) freestyle events. Relay performance times for the 2nd–4th swimmers were adjusted (+ 0.73 s) to allow for the “flying start.”

Results:

Without any adjustment, mean individual relay performances were significantly faster for the first 50 m and overall time in the 100-m events. Furthermore, the first 100 m of the 200-m relay was significantly faster (P > .001). During relays, swimmers competing in 1st position did not show any difference compared with their corresponding individual performance (P > .16). However, swimmers competing in 2nd–4th relay-team positions demonstrated significantly faster times in the 100-m (P < .001) and first half of the 200-m relays than in their individual events (P < .001, ES: 0.28–1.77). However, when finishing times for 2nd–4th relay team positions were adjusted for the flying start no differences were detected between relay and individual race performance for any event or split time (P > .17).

Conclusion:

Highly trained swimmers do not swim (or turn) faster in relay events than in their individual races. Relay exchange times account for the difference observed in individual vs relay performance.
The Relative Age Effect in Elite German Youth Soccer: Implications for a Successful Career
Authors: Skorski Sabrina , Skorski Stefan , Faude Oliver , Hammes Daniel , Meyer Tim
Published: August 2015

Purpose:

To investigate whether anthropometric profiles and fitness measures vary according to birth-date distribution in the German national youth soccer teams and to analyze whether there is a difference in the chance of becoming a professional soccer player depending on birth quarter (BQ).

Methods:

First, 554 players were divided into 6 age groups (U16–U21), each subdivided into 4 BQs. Every player performed at least one 30-m sprint, a countermovement jump, and an incremental test to determine individual anaerobic threshold. For players performing more than 1 test within a team, the best 1 was included. Since some players were part of several different teams, a total of 832 data sets from 495 individual soccer players, all born from 1987 to 1995, divided into 6 age categories (U16–U21) were included.

Results:

Overall, more players were born in BQ1 than in all other BQs (P < .05). No significant difference between BQs could be observed in any anthropometric or performance characteristics (P > .18). Players born in BQ4 were more likely to become professional than those born in BQ1 (odds ratio 3.04, confidence limits 1.53–6.06).

Conclusion:

A relative age effect exists in elite German youth soccer, but it is not explained by an advantage in anthropometric or performance-related parameters. Younger players selected into national teams have a greater chance to become professionals later in their career.
Repeated Kicking Actions in Karate: Effect on Technical Execution in Elite Practitioners
Authors: Quinzi Federico , Camomilla Valentina , Di Mario Alberto , Felici Francesco , Sbriccoli Paola
Published: August 2015

Purpose:

Training in martial arts is commonly performed by repeating a technical action continuously for a given number of times. This study aimed to investigate if the repetition of the task alters the proper technical execution, limiting the training efficacy for the technical evaluation during competition. This aim was pursued analyzing lower-limb kinematics and muscle activation during repeated roundhouse kicks.

Methods:

Six junior karate practitioners performed continuously 20 repetitions of the kick. Hip and knee kinematics and sEMG of vastus lateralis, biceps (BF), and rectus femoris were recorded. For each repetition, hip abduction–adduction and flexion–extension and knee flexion–extension peak angular displacements and velocities, agonist and antagonist muscle activation were computed. Moreover, to monitor for the presence of myoelectric fatigue, if any, the median frequency of the sEMG was computed. All variables were normalized with respect to their individual maximum observed during the sequence of kicks. Linear regressions were fitted to each normalized parameter to test its relationship with the repetition number.

Results:

Linear-regression analysis showed that, during the sequence, the athletes modified their technique: Knee flexion, BF median frequency, hip abduction, knee-extension angular velocity, and BF antagonist activation significantly decreased. Conversely, hip flexion increased significantly.

Conclusions:

Since karate combat competitions require proper technical execution, training protocols combining severe fatigue and technical actions should be carefully proposed because of technique adaptations. Moreover, trainers and karate masters should consider including specific strength exercises for the BF and more generally for knee flexors.
Reliability of the 505 Change-of-Direction Test in Netball Players
Authors: Barber Olivia R. , Thomas Christopher , Jones Paul A. , McMahon John J. , Comfort Paul
Published: August 2015

Purpose:

To determine the reliability of the 505 change-of-direction (COD) test performed with both a stationary and a flying start.

Methods:

Fifty-two female netball players (age 23.9 ± 5.4 y, height 169.9 ± 3.3 cm, body mass 65.2 ± 4.6 kg) performed 6 trials of the 505 COD test, 3 with a flying start and 3 with a stationary start, once per week over a 4-wk period to determine within- and between-sessions reliability.

Results:

Testing revealed high within-session reliability for the stationary start (ICC = .96–.97) and for the flying start (ICC = .90–.97). Similarly, both the stationary start (ICC = .965) and the flying start (ICC = .951) demonstrated high reliability between sessions, although repeated-measures analysis of variance (P < .001) revealed learning effects between sessions for both tests. Performances stabilized on day 2 for the static start and on day 3 for the flying start.

Conclusions:

The 505 COD test is a reliable test in female netball players, with either a stationary or flying start. Smallest detectable differences of 3.91% and 3.97% for the stationary start and the flying start, respectively, allow practitioners to interpret whether changes in time taken to complete the 505 COD test reflect genuine improvements in performance or are measurement errors. It is suggested that 1 d of familiarization testing be performed for the stationary start and 2 d of familiarization for the flying start, to minimize learning effects.
Validity of Torque-Data Collection at Multiple Sites: A Framework for Collaboration on Clinical-Outcomes Research in Sports Medicine
Authors: Kuenze Christopher , Eltouhky Moataz , Thomas Abbey , Sutherlin Mark , Hart Joseph
Published: August 2015

Context:

Collecting torque data using a multimode dynamometer is common in sports-medicine research. The error in torque measurements across multiple sites and dynamometers has not been established.

Objective:

To assess the validity of 2 calibration protocols across 3 dynamometers and the error associated with torque measurement for each system.

Design:

Observational study.

Setting:

3 university laboratories at separate institutions.

Equipment:

2 Biodex System 3 dynamometers and 1 Biodex System 4 dynamometer.

Interventions:

System calibration was completed using the manufacturer-recommended single-weight method and an experimental calibration method using a series of progressive weights. Both calibration methods were compared with a manually calculated theoretical torque across a range of applied weights.

Main Outcome Measures:

Relative error, absolute error, and percent error were calculated at each weight. Each outcome variable was compared between systems using 95% confidence intervals across low (0–65 Nm), moderate (66–110 Nm), and high (111–165 Nm) torque categorizations.

Results:

Calibration coefficients were established for each system using both calibration protocols. However, within each system the calibration coefficients generated using the single-weight (System 4 = 2.42 [0.90], System 3a = 1.37 [1.11], System 3b = –0.96 [1.45]) and experimental calibration protocols (System 4 = 3.95 [1.08], System 3a = –0.79 [1.23], System 3b = 2.31 [1.66]) were similar and displayed acceptable mean relative error compared with calculated theoretical torque values. Overall, percent error was greatest for all 3 systems in low-torque conditions (System 4 = 11.66% [6.39], System 3a = 6.82% [11.98], System 3b = 4.35% [9.49]). The System 4 significantly overestimated torque across all 3 weight increments, and the System 3b overestimated torque over the moderate-torque increment.

Conclusions:

Conversion of raw voltage to torque values using the single-calibration-weight method is valid and comparable to a more complex multiweight calibration process; however, it is clear that calibration must be done for each individual system to ensure accurate data collection.
A DLL3-targeted antibody-drug conjugate eradicates high-grade pulmonary neuroendocrine tumor-initiating cells in vivo
Authors: Saunders Laura R. , Bankovich Alexander J. , Anderson Wade C. , Aujay Monette A. , Bheddah Sheila , Black KristenAnn , Desai Radhika , Escarpe Paul A. , Hampl Johannes , Laysang Amy , Liu David , Lopez-Molina Javier , Milton Milly , Park Albert , Pysz Marybeth A. , Shao Hui , Slingerland Brian , Torgov Michael , Williams Samuel A. , Foord Orit , Howard Philip , Jassem Jacek , Badzio Andrzej , Czapiewski Piotr , Harpole David H. , Dowlati Afshin , Massion Pierre P. , Travis William D. , Pietanza M. Catherine , Poirier J. T. , Rudin Charles M. , Stull Robert A. , Dylla Scott J.
Published: August 2015

Targeting DLL3 with an antibody-drug conjugate eliminates tumor-initiating cells in high-grade pulmonary neuroendocrine cancers.
Inheritance of fear and trauma
Authors: Brennand Kristen
Published: August 2015

Holocaust survivors and their adult offspring show differences in DNA methylation, indicating that the effects of trauma can be passed down from human parents to their offspring.
Fight fire with fire
Authors: Nalepa Grzegorz
Published: August 2015

A new drug kills cancer cells by hyperactivating oncogenes.
A soothing MSC-based ulcer treatment
Authors: Traverso Giovanni
Published: August 2015

Targeting MSCs to regions of the gut containing ulcers enables mucosal healing in a VEGF-dependent manner.
Levamisole-contaminated cocaine: a hairy affair
Authors: van der Veer Tjeerd , Pennings Ed , Tervaert J W Cohen , Korswagen Lindy-Anne
Published: August 2015

Levamisole-contaminated cocaine can induce severe systemic vasculitis. The diagnosis can be challenging, especially when substance abuse is uncertain. We present the case of a 42-year-old woman suffering from vasculitis due to levamisole-contaminated cocaine, who persistently denied substance abuse. Symptoms included ulcerating skin lesions, arthralgia and myalgia, and the occurrence of an ileal intussusception. The definitive diagnosis was made using hair testing for toxins. She recovered through cocaine abstinence, but re-exposure resulted in a severe relapse with glomerulonephritis. Importantly, at time of the relapse, the patient became positive for both myeloperoxidase-antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) and proteinase 3-ANCA. Cocaine–levamisole-induced vasculitis poses a great clinical challenge. The proper diagnostic strategy and therapy is still controversial. We highlight our diagnostic and therapeutic considerations, including hair testing for definitive proof of exposure.
Malrotation of the gut harbouring midgut volvulus in an adult with situs inversus totalis: a clinical delay and treatment dilemma
Authors: Chumber Sunil , Pol Manjunath Maruti , Akhtar Jawed , Uniyal Madhur
Published: August 2015

A 22-year-old man experiencing infrequent episodes of abdominal pain, distension, non-bilious vomiting and constipation, was diagnosed with malrotation of the gut. He was treated conservatively over the past 10 years. He was referred to our hospital owing to recent aggravation of symptoms. He had no signs of peritonitis. On imaging, malrotation of the gut, with midgut volvolus and situs inversus totalis, was found. Diagnosis was confirmed during laparotomy. A large sac was present to the right of midline. Detorsion of the sac was performed and the sac was opened. The duodenum and caecum were found in the left upper abdomen adherent to the lateral abdominal wall. Adhesiolysis was performed and extrinsic compression at the duodenum relieved. The large bowel was placed on the right side and small bowel was placed on the left. Appendectomy and feeding jejunostomy were performed. Thorough analysis (clinicoradiological) is necessary before considering conservative management in patients known to harbour a congenital anomaly of the gut.
Digit ratio and autism spectrum disorders in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children: a birth cohort study
Authors: Guyatt Anna Louise , Heron Jon , Knight Bernice Le Cornu , Golding Jean , Rai Dheeraj
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To investigate whether second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D), a measure commonly used as a proxy for fetal testosterone exposure, is associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), as predicted by the extreme male brain theory of autism.

Design

A birth cohort study.

Setting

The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC).

Participants

6015 ALSPAC children with data on digit ratio, at least 1 outcome measure and information on potential confounding variables (parental occupational class, maternal education and age at digit ratio measurement). Digit ratio was measured by the photocopy and calliper method.

Outcomes

ASD diagnosis (cases were identified previously by record linkage or maternal report) and 4 measures that combine optimally within ALSPAC to predict ASD: the Children's Communication Checklist (coherence subscale), the Social and Communication Disorders Checklist, a repetitive behaviour measure, and the Emotionality, Activity and Sociability scale (sociability subscale). These measures were dichotomised, with approximately 10% defined as the ‘risk’ group.

Results

Using logistic regression, we examined the association of 2D:4D with ASDs and 4 dichotomised ASD traits. Covariates were occupational class, maternal education and age at 2D:4D measurement. 2D:4D was not associated with ASDs in males (adjusted OR per 1 SD increase in mean 2D:4D, 0.88 (95% CI 0.65 to 1.21), p=0.435) or females (adjusted OR=1.36 (95% CI 0.81 to 2.28), p=0.245). Similar results were observed after adjustment for IQ. There was 1 weak association between reduced coherence and increased left 2D:4D in males, in the opposite direction to that predicted by the extreme male brain theory (adjusted OR=1.15 (95% CI 1.02 to 1.29), p=0.023). Given multiple comparisons, this is consistent with chance.

Conclusions

In this population-based study, there was no strong evidence of an association between 2D:4D and ASD diagnosis or traits, although the CIs were wide. These results are not consistent with the extreme male brain theory.
Risk factors for maternal morbidity in Victoria, Australia: a population-based study
Authors: Lindquist Anthea C , Kurinczuk Jennifer J , Wallace Euan M , Oats Jeremy , Knight Marian
Published: August 2015

Objectives

The aim of this analysis was to quantify the risk factors associated with maternal morbidity among women in Victoria, Australia, focusing particularly on sociodemographic factors.

Design

Case–control analysis.

Participants

Data on all maternities in Victoria from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2008.

Methods

A case–control analysis was conducted using unconditional logistic regression to calculate adjusted ORs (aORs). Cases were defined as all women noted to have had a severe complication during the index pregnancy. Severe maternal morbidity was defined by the validated, composite Australian Maternal Morbidity Outcome Indicator. Socioeconomic position was defined by Socio-Economic Indices for Areas (SEIFA), specifically the Index of Relative Socioeconomic Disadvantage (IRSD), and other variables analysed were age, parity, Indigenous background, multiple pregnancy, country of birth, coexisting medical condition, previous caesarean section, spontaneous abortion or ectopic pregnancy.

Results

The study population comprised 211 060 women, including 1119 cases of severe maternal morbidity (0.53%). Compared with the highest IRSD quintile, the aOR for the 2nd quintile was 1.23 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.49), 0.98 (95% CI 0.79 to 1.21) for the 3rd quintile, 1.55 (95% CI 1.28 to 1.87) for the 4th and 1.21 (95% CI 1.00 to 1.47) for the lowest (most deprived) quintile. Indigenous status was associated with twice (aOR 2.02; 95% CI 1.32 to 3.09) the odds of being a case. Other risk factors for severe maternal morbidity were age ≥35 years (aOR 1.22; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.44), coexisting medical condition (aOR 1.39; 95% CI 1.16 to 1.65), multiple pregnancy (aOR 2.30; 95% CI 1.71 to 3.10), primiparity (aOR 1.36; 95% CI 1.18 to 1.57), previous caesarean section (aOR 1.79; 95% CI 1.53 to 2.10) and previous spontaneous miscarriage (aOR 1.25; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.44).

Conclusions

The findings from Victoria strongly suggest that social disadvantage needs to be acknowledged and further investigated as an independent risk factor for adverse maternal outcomes in Australia and incorporated into appropriate policy planning and healthcare programmes.