bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressure-sensing properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes covered with a corona-poled piezoelectric polymer
Authors: Ikawa Takeshi , Tabata Hiroshi , Yoshizawa Takeshi , Utaka Ken , Kubo Osamu , Katayama Mitsuhiro
Published: July 2016

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been studied extensively as sensing elements for chemical and biochemical sensors because of their excellent electrical properties, their ultrahigh ratio of surface area to volume, and the consequent extremely high sensitivity of their surface to the surrounding environment. The extremely high sensitivity indicates that SWNTs can operate as excellent transducers when combined with piezoelectric materials. In this paper, we present a touch sensor based on SWNT thin-film transistors (SWNT-TFTs) covered with a thin film of the piezoelectric polymer poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF-TrFE)). Devices were fabricated by spin-coating a P(VDF-TrFE) layer on an SWNT-TFT, which was followed by in situ corona poling to polarize the P(VDF-TrFE) layer. We studied the effect of the corona polarity on the device characteristics and revealed that poling with a negative corona discharge induced a large amount of hole doping in the SWNTs and improved the touch-sensing performance of the devices, while a positive discharge had a negligible effect. The poled devices exhibited regular, stable, and positive drain current modulation in response to intermittent pressing, and the response was proportional to the magnitude of the applied pressure, suggesting that it was caused by the piezoelectric effect of the polarized P(VDF-TrFE) layer. Furthermore, we also fabricated a device using horizontally aligned SWNTs with a lower SWNT density as an alternative transducer to an SWNT thin film, which demonstrated sensitivity as high as 70%/MPa.
Isotope Effects on Two-Photon Population Transfer Processes of HF and DF
Authors: Pang Yu-hui , Wang Bin-bin , Han Yong-chang , Cong Shu-lin , Niu Ying-yu
Published: July 2016

The isotope effects of XF (X=H, D) on the population transfer process via two-photon resonance excitation are investigated by solving the time-dependent Schrödinger equation. The vibrational levels υ=0 and 2 of the ground electronic state are taken to be the initial and target states, respectively, for the two molecular systems. The influences of the field peak amplitude and pulse duration on the population transfer process are discussed in detail. The pulse duration is required to be longer than 860 fs for the DF molecule to achieve a relatively high transfer probability (more than 80%), while the one for the HF molecule is just required to be longer than 460 fs. Moreover, the intermediate level υ=1 and the higher level υ=3 may play more important roles in the two-photon resonance process for the DF molecule, compared to the roles in the process for the HF molecule.
Chapter 4. Are cognate words “special”?
Authors: Santesteban Mikel , Costa Albert
Published: July 2016

One of the most remarkable abilities of bilingual speakers is that of keeping their two languages apart during speech production. Several researchers have argued that the attentional mechanisms responsible for this ability may vary depending on the L2-proficiency achieved by the bilinguals (Green, 1986; Costa & Santesteban, 2004). Here we use a language-switching task to further explore the extent to which these different attentional strategies depend on the cognate status of the words (Costa, Santesteban, & Caño, 2005). We also explore whether the production of cognates facilitates language-switching (Broersma & De Bot, 2006). Twenty-four low-proficient (L2-Learners) and twenty-four high-proficient (Bilinguals) Spanish-Catalan bilinguals performed a cued language-switching task including cognate and non-cognate words. Our results revealed the following: (a) responses to cognates were faster than to non-cognates; (b) the magnitude of the switching cost was similar regardless of the cognate status of either the preceding or the target word; (c) L2-Learners vs. Bilinguals showed different language switching cost patterns (replicating Costa & Santesteban, 2004). Overall, these findings suggest that the cognate status of words does not facilitate language switching and it does not alter the lexical selection mechanisms’ implicated during production.
Chapter 6. Influence of preparation time on language control
Authors: Festman Julia , Mosca Michela
Published: July 2016

In this study we investigated how preparation time influences speed of naming single digits in three languages under frequent switch conditions. Twenty native speakers of English (mean age 19.9 years; 3 male) with good proficiency in French and German participated in a trilingual digit naming experiment with short (150ms) or long (1000ms) preparation time (between language cue and stimulus, CSI) and unpredictable switch sequence. Participants responded on average significantly faster on trials with long CSI (562ms) compared to short CSI (657ms). A 2 (Short vs. Long CSI) × 3 (L1, L2, L3) ANOVA showed a significant interaction. The preparation effect was largest for L1 (137ms) and decreased with decreasing proficiency (L2 84ms; L3 65ms). The paper describes preparation time in relation to naming speed, response accuracy, language proficiency and switching costs.
Chapter 9. The locus of cross-language activation
Authors: Guo Taomei , Kang Chunyan
Published: July 2016

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the locus of cross-language activation and the lexical selection mechanism in bilingual language production. In Experiment 1, a picture naming paradigm was used to examine how far the activation of the native language (L1) was during the second language (L2) production. Unbalanced but relatively proficient Chinese-English bilinguals were asked to name pictures in English. If a Chinese character was visually presented following a picture, participants were required to name the character instead of the picture. Both the behavioral and ERP results demonstrate that during the planning of L2 speech, Chinese-English bilinguals activate their L1 to the lemma level but not to the level of the phonology. In Experiment 2, the Go/Nogo paradigm was employed to examine why the activation of L1 did not spread to the phonological level. In one block, Chinese-English bilinguals were required to classify pictures according to the initial phoneme of a picture’s Chinese name. In the other block, they were instructed to do this based on the initial phoneme of a picture’s English name. Although the behavioral data showed that it was relatively easier to perform this task in L2 than in L1, the mean amplitude of N200 elicited by L2 was much more negative, suggesting that stronger inhibition was recruited to retrieve the phonological information in L2.
Chapter 10. Syntactic interference in bilingual naming during language switching
Authors: Rodriguez-Fornells Antoni , Münte Thomas F.
Published: July 2016

Bilinguals need effective mechanisms to prevent interference of one language when involved in the other language. An unresolved issue in bilingualism concerns the cognitive mechanisms that regulate and control the use of different languages and prevent interference between them. In the present investigation we used event-related brain potentials (ERPs) in a tacit Go/noGo picture naming task in which a group of German/Spanish bilinguals and a group of monolinguals indicated the syntactic gender of an object presented in the center of a video monitor. For bilinguals, a language switch was introduced every eighteen trials. Critically, half of the stimuli presented had the same gender in Spanish and German (coincidence condition) and the other half not (non-coincidence condition). Bilinguals showed grammatical gender interference compared to monolingual performance. In addition, the Go/noGo – switching paradigm allowed a fine-grained investigation of the interaction between switching and gender interference by comparing switch-trials vs. non-switch trials in both gender conditions. Electrophysiological and behavioral data of the present study show that bilinguals could not easily avoid or suppress the gender representation of the non-target language completely, at least in mixed-language environments.
Chapter 14. Home language usage and executive function in bilingual preschoolers
Authors: Leon Guerrero Sibylla , Smith Sara A. , Luk Gigi
Published: July 2016

Executive function (EF) is fundamental to successful learning and goal-directed behavior in both adults and children. Bilingual experience has been shown to facilitate EF across the lifespan, likely due to the increased cognitive demand required for managing multiple languages on a daily basis. Building on previous research that primarily compared monolinguals and bilinguals categorically, the present study examined whether variation in non-dominant language use moderates the developmental trajectory of EF in a sample of 71 heterogeneous Spanish-English bilingual preschoolers. Using a general linear model, we found a significant interaction between the proportions of Spanish use, chronological age and performance on an EF task. Results suggest that daily bilingual use moderates preschoolers’ development in EF. Bilingualism is a multidimensional experience, and for developing children, daily use is an important quantifiable indicator of bilingualism when considering EF. Research and educational implications are discussed in light of these findings.
Chapter 15. Cognitive mechanisms underlying performance differences between monolinguals and bilinguals
Authors: Grundy John G. , Timmer Kalinka
Published: July 2016

Lifelong experience with multiple languages is believed to produce a number of executive function advantages including enhanced top-down control, improved attention, and greater working memory capacity. This bilingual advantage is generally believed to be the result of having multiple lexical representations in each language that compete for selection. More specifically, the control that is required to select the relevant from the irrelevant language in any given context is believed to require cognitive control, and practicing this control leads to enhanced executive functioning. However, the specific underlying mechanisms of language control, including inhibition, monitoring, attention, and disengagement, that lead to enhanced executive functioning are still largely unknown. This is partly due to the complex nature of both language and domain general executive functions, which are multi-faceted. Here, we highlight some possibilities for disentangling the underlying mechanisms of executive function contributing to performance differences between monolinguals and bilinguals, and suggest that disengagement of attention from previous information is an important mechanism to consider.
Unconscious ties that bind – attending to complexes in the classroom: part 1
Authors: Fidyk Alexandra L.
Published: July 2016

Recognized by few in theory and practice, unconscious dynamics affect all aspects of education, including teaching and learning, as well as assessment, coding, and teacher preparation. Jung proposed that the collective unconscious is akin to a very deep psychosocial well from which individuals, families, and cultures across time and place draw in order to organize and make meaning of life. If we accept this claim, then the ways we understand and attend to interpersonal dynamics within the classroom radically change. Here, in two conjoining parts, a case is made for the vital importance of acknowledging and working with the unconscious, particularly the cultural layer (Part 1) and the familial layer (Part 2) of the psyche. Attention in Part 1 is given to the social and political turn in Jungian psychology and its importance to the dramatically changing ethnocultural character of Canada’s classrooms (likewise with many countries today). The cultural unconscious, cultural complexes, scapegoating, and the critical intersection between groups and individuals are examined in relation to education.
A single-headed fission yeast myosin V transports actin in a tropomyosin-dependent manner
Authors: Tang Qing , Billington Neil , Krementsova Elena B. , Bookwalter Carol S. , Lord Matthew , Trybus Kathleen M.
Published: July 2016

Myo51, a class V myosin in fission yeast, localizes to and assists in the assembly of the contractile ring, a conserved eukaryotic actomyosin structure that facilitates cytokinesis. Rng8 and Rng9 are binding partners that dictate the cellular localization and function of Myo51. Myo51 was expressed in insect cells in the presence or absence of Rng8/9. Surprisingly, electron microscopy of negatively stained images and hydrodynamic measurements showed that Myo51 is single headed, unlike most class V myosins. When Myo51–Rng8/9 was bound to actin-tropomyosin, two attachment sites were observed: the typical ATP-dependent motor domain attachment and a novel ATP-independent binding of the tail mediated by Rng8/9. A modified motility assay showed that this additional binding site anchors Myo51–Rng8/9 so that it can cross-link and slide actin-tropomyosin filaments relative to one another, functions that may explain the role of this motor in contractile ring assembly.
Critical role of fatty acid metabolism in ILC2-mediated barrier protection during malnutrition and helminth infection
Authors: Wilhelm Christoph , Harrison Oliver J. , Schmitt Vanessa , Pelletier Martin , Spencer Sean P. , Urban Joseph F. , Ploch Michelle , Ramalingam Thirumalai R. , Siegel Richard M. , Belkaid Yasmine
Published: July 2016

Innate lymphoid cells (ILC) play an important role in many immune processes, including control of infections, inflammation, and tissue repair. To date, little is known about the metabolism of ILC and whether these cells can metabolically adapt in response to environmental signals. Here we show that type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2), important mediators of barrier immunity, predominantly depend on fatty acid (FA) metabolism during helminth infection. Further, in situations where an essential nutrient, such as vitamin A, is limited, ILC2 sustain their function and selectively maintain interleukin 13 (IL-13) production via increased acquisition and utilization of FA. Together, these results reveal that ILC2 preferentially use FAs to maintain their function in the context of helminth infection or malnutrition and propose that enhanced FA usage and FA-dependent IL-13 production by ILC2 could represent a host adaptation to maintain barrier immunity under dietary restriction.
Changes in insulin and insulin signaling in Alzheimer’s disease: cause or consequence?
Authors: Stanley Molly , Macauley Shannon L. , Holtzman David M.
Published: July 2016

Individuals with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD), although the causal relationship remains poorly understood. Alterations in insulin signaling (IS) are reported in the AD brain. Moreover, oligomers/fibrils of amyloid-β (Aβ) can lead to neuronal insulin resistance and intranasal insulin is being explored as a potential therapy for AD. Conversely, elevated insulin levels (ins) are found in AD patients and high insulin has been reported to increase Aβ levels and tau phosphorylation, which could exacerbate AD pathology. Herein, we explore whether changes in ins and IS are a cause or consequence of AD.
Biophysical characterization of the honeybee DSC1 orthologue reveals a novel voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel subfamily: CaV4
Authors: Gosselin-Badaroudine Pascal , Moreau Adrien , Simard Louis , Cens Thierry , Rousset Matthieu , Collet Claude , Charnet Pierre , Chahine Mohamed
Published: July 2016

Bilaterian voltage-gated Na+ channels (NaV) evolved from voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (CaV). The Drosophila melanogaster Na+ channel 1 (DSC1), which features a D-E-E-A selectivity filter sequence that is intermediate between CaV and NaV channels, is evidence of this evolution. Phylogenetic analysis has classified DSC1 as a Ca2+-permeable Na+ channel belonging to the NaV2 family because of its sequence similarity with NaV channels. This is despite insect NaV2 channels (DSC1 and its orthologue in Blatella germanica, BSC1) being more permeable to Ca2+ than Na+. In this study, we report the cloning and molecular characterization of the honeybee (Apis mellifera) DSC1 orthologue. We reveal several sequence variations caused by alternative splicing, RNA editing, and genomic variations. Using the Xenopus oocyte heterologous expression system and the two-microelectrode voltage-clamp technique, we find that the channel exhibits slow activation and inactivation kinetics, insensitivity to tetrodotoxin, and block by Cd2+ and Zn2+. These characteristics are reminiscent of CaV channels. We also show a strong selectivity for Ca2+ and Ba2+ ions, marginal permeability to Li+, and impermeability to Mg2+ and Na+ ions. Based on current ion channel nomenclature, the D-E-E-A selectivity filter, and the properties we have uncovered, we propose that DSC1 homologues should be classified as CaV4 rather than NaV2. Indeed, channels that contain the D-E-E-A selectivity sequence are likely to feature the same properties as the honeybee’s channel, namely slow activation and inactivation kinetics and strong selectivity for Ca2+ ions.
Rigorous asymptotics of traveling-wave solutions to the thin-film equation and Tanner’s law
Authors: Giacomelli Lorenzo , Gnann Manuel V , Otto Felix
Published: July 2016

We are interested in traveling-wave solutions to the thin-film equation with zero microscopic contact angle (in the sense of complete wetting without precursor) and inhomogeneous mobility

h

3

+

λ

3
−
n

h
n

, where h, λ, and

n
∈

(

3
2

,

7
3

)

denote film height, slip parameter, and mobility exponent, respectively. Existence and uniqueness of these solutions have been established by Maria Chiricotto and the first of the authors in previous work under the assumption of sub-quadratic growth as

h
→
∞

.

In the present work we investigate the asymptotics of solutions as

h
↘
0

(the contact-line region) and

h
→
∞

. As

h
↘
0

we observe, to leading order, the same asymptotics as for traveling waves or source-type self-similar solutions to the thin-film equation with homogeneous mobility h

n
and we additionally characterize corrections to this law. Moreover, as

h
→
∞

we identify, to leading order, the logarithmic Tanner profile, i.e. the solution to the corresponding unperturbed problem with

λ
=
0

that determines the apparent macroscopic contact angle. Besides higher-order terms, corrections turn out to affect the asymptotic law as

h
→
∞

only by setting the length scale in the logarithmic Tanner profile. Moreover, we prove that both the correction and the length scale depend smoothly on n. Hence, in line with the common philosophy, the precise modeling of liquid–solid interactions (within our model, the mobility exponent) does not affect the qualitative macroscopic properties of the film.
The Italian food industry in the era of the TTIP negotiate
Authors: Banterle Alessandro , Cavaliere Alessia , De Marchi Elisa
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to focus, first, on the analysis of recent trends of the European and Italian food industries, and, second, on the possible implications that the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) negotiate can exert on the Italian agri-food system.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study is based on an in-depth analysis of current economic trends, characteristics of production structure, and the trade balance of Italy-USA commercial relationship in the context of EU market. The main advantages and disadvantages that can be derived from the TTIP negotiation are pointed out.

Findings

– The analysis of the Italian food industry highlights a very fragmented production structure characterized by the coexistence on the market of a small number of big companies and a large number of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. Such bipolar structure constitutes a constraint to internationalization and limits the quantities of exportable products. The TTIP can represent an opportunity for the Italian food small businesses. On the other hand, the main disadvantages are related to the agricultural raw materials market.

Originality/value

– The study offers an in-depth analysis of the main features of the Italian food industry and of its role in international agri-food trades, describing the scenario that could be opened by the TTIP negotiation.
Direct selling in the wine sector: lessons from cellars in Italy’s Apulia region
Authors: Fiore Mariantonietta
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– Buying process directly from producers is an expanding trend in advanced economies; then direct sales can be considered a crucial driver in wine sector in order to cope with global challenges and achieve a competitive advantage. The purpose of this paper is to investigate if management aspects and marketing innovation propensity could have an important role in choosing direct sale tool.

Design/methodology/approach

– A qualitative analysis in Apulia region (Italy) was carried out. Data have been collected through a face to face and web-based exploratory survey submitted to a sample of 280 cellars participating in an Integrated Projects of Food Chains. A logit regression model was run in the research design.

Findings

– Findings showed that most of interviewed wineries, mainly characterized by agricultural production and direct approach to customers, are more likely inclined to direct sales choice.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample size could be expanded (e.g. to include farms from other regions or not belonging to an integrated projects).

Practical implications

– Managerial implications give insight on the role of direct sales as an opportunity to obtain aggregated value for agri-products and to increase bargaining power of farmers.

Social implications

– Food direct sales could have the important task of straightening the social proximity between rural and urban stakeholders, increasing trust and connection between producers and consumers.

Originality/value

– This paper can shed some light on this topic, since direct food sales across regions is less investigated than direct marketing.
Congenital heart diseases and their association with the variant distribution features on susceptibility genes
Authors: Su W. , Zhu P. , Wang R. , Wu Q. , Wang M. , Zhang X. , Mei L. , Tang J. , Kumar M. , Wang X. , Su L. , Dong N.
Published: July 2016

Congenital heart disease (CHD), one of the causes of childhood morbidity and mortality, is mainly triggered by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Several susceptible genes, such as NKX2‐5, GATA4 and TBX5, have been reported as closely related to heart and vessel development. CHD subtypes are classified into diverse clinical phenotypes, such as atrial septal defects (ASD), ventricular septal defects (VSD), tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), and Holt–Oram syndrome (HOS). Here, we summarize the associations of the genetic variants in these three genes with CHD subtypes. CHD‐associated variants of NKX2‐5 locate mainly in the tinman domain and the homeodomain. Mutations in the homeodomain are correlated with ASD and atrioventricular (AV) block subtypes. VSD‐associated variants of GATA4 are mainly at its terminal ends. Variants of TBX5 gene are primarily in exons 3, 4, 5 and 7 and highly associated with HOS subtype. Hence, the variant distribution of NKX2‐5, GATA4 and TBX5 are tightly associated with particular CHD subtypes. Further structure‐modelling analysis revealed that these mutated amino acid residuals maintain their DNA‐binding ability and structural stability. Therefore structural features of these genes may be used to predict the high risk of CHD subtypes in infants.
Spectrum of anemia after kidney transplantation: pathophysiology and therapeutic implications
Authors: Bamgbola Oluwatoyin F.
Published: July 2016

The prevalence of anemia in the first month after transplant is 70%–80%. The rate declines to 30%–40% at 3 months and 20% by 12 months. Its occurrence is influenced by the quality of the transplanted organ, bone marrow regenerative capacity, amount of surgical blood loss, and increased iron recycling. There is also a blunted response by oxidative inflammation to the effectiveness of supranormal levels of erythropoietin (EPO) release during ischemic‐reperfusion allograft injury. The prevalence rate of late‐onset post‐transplant anemia (PTA) is 30%–50%. This category of patients falls into two ill‐defined groups: (i) those with impaired renal capacity for EPO synthesis and (ii) those with bone marrow resistance. Given the difference in pathophysiology, the current KDIGO guideline that adopts uniform therapeutic approach for the two groups may be inappropriate. Comorbidity due to iron deficiency is common. Anemia is predictive of cardiovascular morbidity and shorter graft survival. Perhaps due to concern for the safe use of EPO stimulating agent (ESA) to correct anemia, there is often inadequate treatment of late‐onset PTA. However, universal application of ESA may be harmful. Therefore, clinical trials are needed to define parameters for selecting patients (e.g., EPO assay) that will benefit the most from therapy for anemia.
Lichen striatus with syringotropism and hyperplasia of eccrine gland cells: a rare phenomenon that should not be confused with syringotropic mycosis fungoides
Authors: Wang Lei , Chen Fengming , Liu Yu , Gao Tianwen , Wang Gang
Published: July 2016

Background

Syringotropism is characterized by lymphocyte infiltration in the eccrine gland and is usually associated with various degrees of hyperplasia of eccrine gland cells. This phenomenon has been reported in rare cases of mycosis fungoides, which are also called as syringotropic mycosis fungoides.

Methods

We studied seven cases of lichen striatus associated with syringotropism and hyperplasia of eccrine gland cells, diagnosed at our dermatology department in the past 5 years. The hematoxylin and eosin‐stained slides from these cases were analyzed, and immunohistochemical and T‐cell receptor gene rearrangement studies were performed.

Results

Of the seven cases, two showed prominent and five showed subtle syringotropism and hyperplasia of eccrine gland cells. Immunohistochemical study showed mixed infiltration by T‐cells and B‐cells around the eccrine glands. The T‐cells were composed of CD4 and CD8‐positive cells. T‐cell receptor gene rearrangement study showed negative results in all the cases.

Conclusion

Syringotropism and hyperplasia of eccrine gland cells is a rare phenomenon in lichen striatus. Dermatopathologists should be aware of this to avoid misdiagnosis as syringotropic mycosis fungoides.
China, the G20 and the International Investment Regime
Authors: Sauvant Karl P.
Published: July 2016

China has become a major home country for outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) flows. As a result, the country is increasingly concerned with protecting its OFDI and facilitating the operations of its firms investing abroad and creating a strong universal international investment law and policy regime. This article briefly reviews the emergence of China as an outward investor. It continues with an analysis of some policy issues related to the rise of FDI from emerging markets. A brief discussion of issues central to the future of the international investment law and policy regime follows, before focusing on several outcomes that could be pursued under China's G20 leadership: nonbinding shared principles that could outline the architecture of a universal framework on international investment; an international support program for sustainable investment facilitation; and the creation of an additional intergovernmental platform that would allow for a continued systematic intergovernmental process to discuss the range of issues related to the governance of international investment, preferably paralleled by an informal, inclusive and result‐oriented consensus‐building process that takes place outside intergovernmental settings.
Stimulated urine C‐peptide creatinine ratio vs serum C‐peptide level for monitoring of β‐cell function in the first year after diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Tatovic D. , Luzio S. , Dunseath G. , Liu Y. , Alhadj Ali M. , Peakman M. , Dayan C. M. ,   MonoPepT1De Study Group
Published: July 2016

Aims

To determine if urine C‐peptide/creatinine ratio is a useful tool for monitoring β‐cell function in new‐onset Type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Data were obtained from a prospective immunomodulation study in people with Type 1 diabetes ≤ 3 months from diagnosis, with a standard mixed‐meal tolerance test and measurement of urine C‐peptide/creatinine ratio carried out at 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. The change in the insulin‐dose‐adjusted HbA1c level was also correlated with the change in serum/urine C‐peptide level during the 12‐month follow‐up period.

Results

A significant reduction in urine C‐peptide/creatinine ratio, measured after a mixed‐meal, was reached at 9 months (−45.4%), whilst the reduction in stimulated serum C‐peptide level reached significance after 3 months (−54.7%) in placebo‐treated participants. Neither change in stimulated serum C‐peptide nor change in urine C‐peptide level correlated with each other, and nor did change in insulin‐dose‐adjusted HbA1c level in the first 6 months, but all measures correlated significantly in the second half of the 12‐month follow‐up period.

Conclusion

Mixed‐meal‐stimulated urine C‐peptide/creatinine ratio was similar to, although less sensitive than, stimulated serum C‐peptide level in monitoring β‐cell function during the first year after diagnosis. Because the former is significantly less invasive, it warrants inclusion in further studies in Type 1 diabetes and may represent an attractive alternative outcome measure in cohort studies and in children.
Fine‐scale spatiotemporal dynamics of fungal fruiting: prevalence, amplitude, range and continuity
Authors: Heegaard E. , Boddy L. , Diez J. M. , Halvorsen R. , Kauserud H. , Kuyper T. W. , Bässler C. , Büntgen U. , Gange A. C. , Krisai‐Greilhuber I. , Andrew C. J. , Ayer F. , Høiland K. , Kirk P. M. , Egli S.
Published: July 2016

Despite the critical importance of fungi as symbionts with plants, resources for animals, and drivers of ecosystem function, the spatiotemporal distributions of fungi remain poorly understood. The belowground life cycle of fungi makes it difficult to assess spatial patterns and dynamic processes even with recent molecular techniques. Here we offer an explicit spatiotemporal Bayesian inference of the drivers behind spatial distributions from investigation of a Swiss inventory of fungal fruit bodies. The unique inventory includes three temperate forest sites in which a total of 73 952 fungal fruit bodies were recorded systematically in a spatially explicit design between 1992 and 2006.

Our motivation is to understand how broad‐scale climate factors may influence spatiotemporal dynamics of fungal fruiting within forests, and if any such effects vary between two functional groups, ectomycorrhizal (ECM) and saprotrophic fungi. For both groups we asked: 1) how consistent are the locations of fruiting patches, the sizes of patches, the quantities of fruit bodies, and of prevalence (occupancy)? 2) Do the annual spatial characteristics of fungal fruiting change systematically over time? 3) Are spatial characteristics of fungal fruiting driven by climatic variation?

We found high inter‐annual continuity in fruiting for both functional groups. The saprotrophic species were characterised by small patches with variable fruit body counts. In contrast, ECM species were present in larger, but more distinctly delimited patches. The spatial characteristics of the fungal community were only indirectly influenced by climate. However, climate variability influenced overall yields and prevalence, which again links to spatial structure of fruit bodies. Both yield and prevalence were correlated with the amplitudes of occurrence and of fruit body counts, but only prevalence influenced the spatial range. Summarizing, climatic variability affects forest‐stand fungal distributions via its influence on yield (amount) and prevalence (occupancy), whereas fungal life‐history strategies dictate fine‐scale spatial characteristics.
Seascape structure and complexity influence temperate seagrass fish assemblage composition
Authors: Staveley Thomas A. B. , Perry Diana , Lindborg Regina , Gullström Martin
Published: July 2016

Understanding how spatial patterning relates to ecological processes is fundamental to define important species–environment associations at broader scales. Analyses targeting habitat structure (i.e. composition and configuration) in terrestrial landscapes are increasing, but similar studies in marine landscapes are still relatively uncommon. In this study, we explored how seascape structure and complexity (determined from significant spatial pattern metrics) influenced summer and autumn fish assemblage composition in 30 seagrass (Zostera marina) meadows along the west coast of Sweden. Species density was not influenced by seascape structure in any season. In contrast, the majority of significant fish assemblage variables were influenced by seascape structure during the summer (i.e. abundance and proportion of juveniles, abundance of Labridae and abundance of occasional shallow‐water visitors) whilst fewer in the autumn (i.e. abundance of occasional shallow‐water visitors and Synganthidae). For instance, less complex seascapes were more suitable for juvenile assemblages in summer, as these seascapes exhibit larger patch sizes of appropriate habitat (e.g. Z. marina) and less edge boundaries providing refuges from predators and food resources. Abundances of migrating fish, such as the sea trout Salmo trutta, also responded positively to a less complex seascape in the summer though perhaps ecological processes, such as prey availability, were additional contributing factors driving this relationship. High complexity seascapes only had a positive influence on the abundance of taxa using multiple habitats (Labridae during the summer). Our study shows that fish assemblages in temperate marine environments are significantly linked to spatial habitat patterning and seascape complexity. This offers valuable insights into species–habitat–seascape linkages, information important for coastal conservation and marine spatial planning.
Disease burden morbidity assessment by self‐report: Psychometric properties in older adults in Spain
Authors: Wijers Irene GM , Ayala Alba , Rodriguez‐Blazquez Carmen , Rodriguez‐Laso Angel , Rodriguez‐Rodriguez Vicente , Forjaz Maria João
Published: July 2016

Aim

To carry out an analysis of the psychometric properties of the Disease Burden Morbidity Assessment (DBMA) according to the assumptions of the Classical Test Theory.

Methods

A sample of 707 community‐dwelling adults aged 65 years and older, living in Spain, completed the DBMA. Psychometric properties of the scale (feasibility, acceptability, scaling assumptions, reliability and construct validity) were analyzed.

Results

The mean DBMA score was 6.8. Feasibility and acceptability were satisfactory, except for large floor effects (>50%), as well as a skewed distribution (1.8). Item‐total corrected correlation ranged 0.10–0.49, item homogeneity index was 0.09 and Cronbach's alpha was 0.72. Disease burden correlated strongly with physical functioning (r = –0.56) and perceived health (r = –0.56), and moderately with depression (r = 0.41) and the Personal Wellbeing Index (r = –0.41). Exploratory factor analysis extracted five factors, explaining 44% of the variance.

Conclusions

The DBMA is an acceptable and valid instrument for measuring disease burden in older adults. Future studies should include Rasch analysis to further assess dimensionality and explore other measurement properties. Geriatr Gerontol 2017; 17: 1102–1108.
Potency of Different Carbon Sources in Reduction of Microsilica to Synthesize SiC from Mechanically Activated Powder Mixtures
Authors: Jamshidi Amin , Tajizadegan Hamid , Torabi Omid
Published: July 2016

In the present study, the influences of three different types of carbon (carbon black, graphite, and petroleum coke) on SiC synthesis via mechanical activation and sintering were evaluated. In this regard, the phase components, morphology, and the formation mechanism were investigated. SiC nanoparticles were detected to be formed after 4 h of milling and sintering at 1450°C, regardless of the sources of carbon. The carbon types exert their effects on the morphology of the as‐synthesized particles, where carbon black leads to form rod‐like SiC particles and the other two carbon types result in semi‐spherical SiC particles. This is due to the dominant mechanism in the mentioned process. The rod‐like particles obtained from the carbon black‐containing powder were synthesized via the VSL mechanism, whereas the solid‐state reactions occurred to form the SiC particles in the graphite‐ or petroleum coke‐containing samples. In the VSL mechanism, any increase in the milling time leads to facilitate the SiC formation due to entrance of Fe debris, whereas in the other samples (graphite or petroleum coke) the procedure is reversed.
Networks fighting networks: Understanding and combatting extremism and radicalisation on a smaller scale
Authors: Toft Monica Duffy
Published: July 2016

Monica Duffy Toft argues that the trend of extremist violence in the UK and Europe towards smaller, softer targets demands a networked response capable of understanding and outmaneuvering the loose affiliations of radicalised individuals and groups that inspire and perpetrate these attacks.
Reconstruction of the absorption spectrum of an object spot from the colour values of the corresponding pixel(s) in its digital image: the challenge of algal colours
Authors: COLTELLI PRIMO , BARSANTI LAURA , EVANGELISTA VALTER , FRASSANITO ANNA MARIA , GUALTIERI PAOLO
Published: July 2016

A novel procedure for deriving the absorption spectrum of an object spot from the colour values of the corresponding pixel(s) in its image is presented. Any digital image acquired by a microscope can be used; typical applications are the analysis of cellular/subcellular metabolic processes under physiological conditions and in response to environmental stressors (e.g. heavy metals), and the measurement of chromophore composition, distribution and concentration in cells. In this paper, we challenged the procedure with images of algae, acquired by means of a CCD camera mounted onto a microscope. The many colours algae display result from the combinations of chromophores whose spectroscopic information is limited to organic solvents extracts that suffers from displacements, amplifications, and contraction/dilatation respect to spectra recorded inside the cell. Hence, preliminary processing is necessary, which consists of in vivo measurement of the absorption spectra of photosynthetic compartments of algal cells and determination of spectra of the single chromophores inside the cell. The final step of the procedure consists in the reconstruction of the absorption spectrum of the cell spot from the colour values of the corresponding pixel(s) in its digital image by minimization of a system of transcendental equations based on the absorption spectra of the chromophores under physiological conditions.
Comparison of 2 Doses for ACTH Stimulation Testing in Dogs Suspected of or Treated for Hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Aldridge C. , Behrend E.N. , Kemppainen R.J. , Lee‐Fowler T.M. , Martin L.G. , Ward C.R. , Bruyette D. , Pannu J. , Gaillard P. , Lee H.P.
Published: July 2016

Background

Lowering the cosyntropin dose needed forACTHstimulation would make the test more economical.

Objectives

To compare the cortisol response to 1 and 5 μg/kg cosyntropinIVin dogs being screened for hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) and in dogs receiving trilostane or mitotane for pituitary‐dependentHAC.

Animals

Healthy dogs (n = 10); client‐owned dogs suspected of havingHAC(n = 39) or being treated for pituitary‐dependentHACwith mitotane (n = 12) or trilostane (n = 15).

Procedures

In this prospective study, healthy dogs had consecutiveACTHstimulation tests to ensure 2 tests could be performed in sequence. For the first test, cosyntropin (1 μg/kgIV) was administered; the second test was initiated 4 hours after the start of the first (5 μg/kg cosyntropinIV). Dogs suspected of havingHACor being treated with mitotane were tested as the healthy dogs. Dogs receiving trilostane treatment were tested on consecutive days at the same time post pill using the low dose on day 1.

Results

In dogs being treated with mitotane or trilostane, the 2 doses were pharmacodynamically equivalent (90% confidence interval, 85.1–108.2%;P= 0.014). However, in dogs suspected of havingHAC, the doses were not pharmacodynamically equivalent (90% confidence interval, 73.2–92.8%;P= 0.37); furthermore, in 23% of the dogs, clinical interpretation of test results was different between the doses.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

For dogs suspected of havingHAC, 5 μg/kg cosyntropinIVis still recommended forACTHstimulation testing. For dogs receiving mitotane or trilostane treatment, a dose of 1 μg/kg cosyntropinIVcan be used.
Spatial variations in sedimentary organic matter in surficial lake sediments of Nyanza Gulf (Lake Victoria, Kenya) after invasion of water hyacinth
Authors: Mwamburi Job
Published: July 2016

No detailed studies have been conducted on the spatial distribution of sediment characteristics within Nyanza Gulf of Lake Victoria, especially after the invasion of water hyacinth. Accordingly, a rapid, inexpensive method was used to determine the spatial sediment organic matter variations, expressed as loss on ignition (LOI). Surficial sediments were collected during different survey periods from about thirty‐two sampling sites between 1994 and 2012, in order to characterize the sediments. Although the deeper (>40 m) depositional areas are located in the open lake, visual observations indicate that most of the offshore sediments consist of muddy deposits, plus significant shell remains, with a more sandy type of sediments located in some areas off the inflowing river mouths. The surficial sediments were characterized by a relatively high water content, with over 89% of the samples containing water contents greater than 75%. The sediment organic matter contents from the 2012 survey were more variable, ranging from 1.90% to 33.47%. The sediment organic carbon contents varied spatially, although there were no significant variations between the different sampling periods. Evaluating the SOM at different heating durations at a constant temperature (550 °C) and a very high temperatures (950 °C) did not identify any significant differences. High primary production and greater settling in the deeper areas contribute to the nature of sediments deposited, also being reflected in the relatively high OC contents. Spatially, it is thought that detritus from water hyacinth and terrestrial external loads are important sources of organic matter deposited on the lake bottom within the gulf and may support its growth because of enrichment of nutrient elements. The importance of sediments in adsorption of contaminant substances and influencing geochemical processes within the lake is also emphasized.
Public Expectations of State Legislators
Authors: Wolak Jennifer
Published: July 2016

When members of Congress neglect the needs of their districts or vote contrary to the wishes of their constituents, their public approval suffers. Does the same hold true for representatives at the state level? Using experiments, I explore whether people dole out similar rewards and penalties to state legislators and members of Congress for their successes and shortfalls in representing constituents. I find that a similar model of political accountability travels from national politics to state politics. People value policy representation, casework, and attention to the district as much from state legislators as they do from members of Congress.
How Has the Behavior of Cross‐Market Correlations Altered During Financial and Debt Crises?
Authors: Demiralay Sercan , Ulusoy Veysel
Published: July 2016

In this paper, we analyze the time‐varying behavior of cross‐market correlations between emerging and developed markets. For this, we conduct the Asymmetric Dynamic Conditional Correlation ‐EGARCH model, which captures asymmetries both in the conditional variances and correlations. Our main results suggest the upward patterns of correlations, reflecting the increased equity market integration over time, and also provide that asymmetric behavior in the correlations is not as common as in the volatilities. We further analyze time‐paths of the correlations during the two latest crises; namely global financial crisis (GFC) and European Sovereign Debt Crisis to investigate whether the crises induce contagion effects and significant structural shifts. The empirical findings reveal that the correlation levels significantly increase and the emerging markets recouple in the latest two turmoil episodes, providing evidence of contagion incidences. Moreover, we examine whether the dynamic correlations possess abrupt changes in times of the crisis via multiple structural breakpoint tests and demonstrate that substantial regime shifts in the conditional correlations are present during both the GFC and the ESDC. Our results provide insights and have potential implications for global investors to optimize their portfolios as well as for authorities to handle contagion risk and prevent its adverse impacts.
Challenges in the management of chronic diffuse sclerosing osteomyelitis of the mandible: report of two cases
Authors: Tsegga T.M. , Smith C.
Published: July 2016

Non‐suppurative inflammatory jaw bone disease can be a challenge to succinctly diagnose and provide reproducible treatment options. Often times there are multiple confounding contributors towards disease progression that makes precise diagnostic isolation a challenge. This case report highlights the challenges of a specific subset of mandibular inflammatory bone condition with a description of definitive therapy.
Endowments, Culture and Economic Development
Authors: Khalifa Sherif
Published: July 2016

This paper investigates whether the geographic characteristics of a country can explain cross‐country variations in income levels through their ability to explain cross‐country variations in cultural traits that enhance economic development. In other words, this paper attempts to determine whether the geographic endowment can serve as an instrument in examining the effect of culture on economic development. The paper conducts two‐stage least‐squares regressions. The second stage is a regression of the logarithm of real gross domestic product per capita on each of the cultural attributes that are considered in this study. In the first stage, the geographic factors that statistically explain a cultural aspect are used as instrumental variables. The results of the empirical estimation show that the cultural variables, instrumented by the geographic variables, explain cross‐country variations in economic development.