bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic structure in the European endemic seabird, Phalacrocorax aristotelis, shaped by a complex interaction of historical and contemporary, physical and nonphysical drivers
Authors: Thanou Evanthia , Sponza Stefano , Nelson Emily J. , Perry Annika , Wanless Sarah , Daunt Francis , Cavers Stephen
Published: December 2016

Geographically separated populations tend to be less connected by gene flow, as a result of physical or nonphysical barriers preventing dispersal, and this can lead to genetic structure. In this context, highly mobile organisms such as seabirds are interesting because the small effect of physical barriers means nonphysical ones may be relatively more important. Here, we use microsatellite and mitochondrial data to explore the genetic structure and phylogeography of Atlantic and Mediterranean populations of a European endemic seabird, the European shag, Phalacrocorax aristotelis, and identify the primary drivers of their diversification. Analyses of mitochondrial markers revealed three phylogenetic lineages grouping the North Atlantic, Spanish/Corsican and eastern Mediterranean populations, apparently arising from fragmentation during the Pleistocene followed by range expansion. These traces of historical fragmentation were also evident in the genetic structure estimated by microsatellite markers, despite significant contemporary gene flow among adjacent populations. Stronger genetic structure, probably promoted by landscape, philopatry and local adaptation, was found among distant populations and those separated by physical and ecological barriers. This study highlights the enduring effect of Pleistocene climatic changes on shag populations, especially within the Mediterranean Basin, and suggests a role for cryptic northern refugia, as well as known southern refugia, on the genetic structure of European seabirds. Finally, it outlines how contemporary ecological barriers and behavioural traits may maintain population divergence, despite long‐distance dispersal triggered by extreme environmental conditions (e.g. population crashes).
Population genomic analyses reveal a history of range expansion and trait evolution across the native and invaded range of yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis)
Authors: Barker Brittany S. , Andonian Krikor , Swope Sarah M. , Luster Douglas G. , Dlugosch Katrina M.
Published: December 2016

Identifying sources of genetic variation and reconstructing invasion routes for non‐native introduced species is central to understanding the circumstances under which they may evolve increased invasiveness. In this study, we used genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms to study the colonization history of Centaurea solstitialis in its native range in Eurasia and invasions into the Americas. We leveraged this information to pinpoint key evolutionary shifts in plant size, a focal trait associated with invasiveness in this species. Our analyses revealed clear population genomic structure of potential source populations in Eurasia, including deep differentiation of a lineage found in the southern Apennine and Balkan Peninsulas and divergence among populations in Asia, eastern Europe and western Europe. We found strongest support for an evolutionary scenario in which western European populations were derived from an ancient admixture event between populations from eastern Europe and Asia, and subsequently served as the main genetic ‘bridgehead’ for introductions to the Americas. Introductions to California appear to be from a single source region, and multiple, independent introductions of divergent genotypes likely occurred into the Pacific Northwest. Plant size has evolved significantly at three points during range expansion, including a large size increase in the lineage responsible for the aggressive invasion of the California interior. These results reveal a long history of colonization, admixture and trait evolution in C. solstitialis, and suggest routes for improving evidence‐based management decisions for one of the most ecologically and economically damaging invasive species in the western United States.
Obama's legacy and beyond
Authors: Anderson Elizabeth , Purdy Jedediah , Moyn Samuel , Yeselson Richard , Bruenig Elizabeth , Kenworthy Lane , Garman Joss , Finlayson Alan , Azari Julia , Shenk Timothy
Published: December 2016

Leading journalists and academics from both sides of the Atlantic review Obama's presidency and legacy and look ahead to Trump's term in the most powerful office in the world.
What lies ahead: 12 predictions for 2017
Authors: Colebrook Catherine , Gardiner Laura , Kelly Gavin , Griffiths Rita , Gildea Robert , Glennie Alex , Torfeh Massoumeh , de Vos Pierre , Breimaier Silke , Taylor Matthew , Murray Chris , Fakih Bissan
Published: December 2016

2016 blows other recent years out of the water for political, economic, social and environmental turbulence. Amid an apparently bleak landscape of rising nationalism, a refugee crisis, continued war and terrorism, and the warmest year on record, can any of our leading commentators see a glimmer of light ahead?
Remain in light: What do Labour's many Remain supporters want to happen next?
Authors: Curtice John
Published: December 2016

Using the latest polling data, John Curtice investigates Labour supporters' stance on the EU referendum result – do they favour immigration controls over free trade? Hard or soft Brexit? He finds plenty of contradictions in a complex picture – but what should the party do to reflect its voters' views?
Allelic loss in amalgam‐associated oral lichenoid lesions compared to oral lichen planus and mucosa
Authors: Rodrigues LN , Sousa SF , Silva RCC , Abreu MHG , Pires FR , Mesquita RA , Bastos‐Rodrigues L , De Marco L , Gomes CC , Gomez RS , Bernardes VF
Published: December 2016

Background

The amalgam‐associated oral lichenoid lesion (AAOLL) shows clinical and histopathological features similar to oral lichen planus (OLP). Molecular researches to improve knowledge of pathogenesis and clinical behavior of AAOLL are still scarce.

Objective

We investigated for the first time the use of loss of heterozygosity (LOH) as a molecular approach for genetic characterization of AAOLL in comparison with OLP and evaluated the cell proliferation index.

Materials and Methods

The sample comprised nine AAOLLs, 10 OLPs, and eight NOMs matched by patients’ gender and age. LOH was assessed using polymorphic microsatellite markers at chromosomes 9p (D9S157, D9S162, D9S171), 11q (D11S1369), and 17p (TP53, AFM238WF2). Cell proliferation was assessed by immunohistochemical expression of Ki‐67 (MIB‐1). The association between LOH and Ki‐67 was investigated.

Results

Loss of heterozygosity occurred in 5/9 AAOLLs and in 2/10 OLPs in at least one marker each, while NOM showed no LOH. Cell proliferation index in AAOLL ranged from 2 to 23%. There was no association between cell proliferation and LOH, independent of the marker.

Conclusion

Our study shows that the profile of molecular changes in AAOLL and OLP, evaluated by LOH and Ki‐67 expression, is similar. Additional studies including larger samples should be performed to confirm or to refute our findings.
Leadership and Evidence‐Based Performance
Authors: Eckerd Adam
Published: December 2016

Related Content: Balfour and Newbold (PAR January/February 2017)

Related Content: Roberts (PAR January/February 2017)

Related Content: Vidal‐Aparicio (PAR January/February 2017)

Related Content: Gerrits and Verweij (PAR January/February 2017)

Related Content: Robbins (PAR January/February 2017)
Commentary: A Virtuous Circle? Open Data Should Drive Records Request Response
Authors: Larrick Stephen
Published: December 2016

Related Content: ben‐Aaron et al. (PAR January/February 2017)
Wages and Wage Inequality in South Africa 1994–2011: Part 2 – Inequality Measurement and Trends
Authors: Wittenberg Martin
Published: December 2016

We analyse the long‐term trends in wage inequality in South Africa, using household survey data. We show that the trends in household income inequality are largely driven by changes in wage inequality. Given the detailed nature of our series we show that measurement issues and breaks in the series need to be dealt with in order to draw robust conclusions from the data. Most standard inequality measures show that wage inequality has increased over the period. Nevertheless the choice of measure matters, because there are different trends in different parts of the distribution. It appears that the distribution below the median has become more compressed, while the top of the wage distribution has moved away from the median. The inequality in the labour market translates into even higher inequality in society given that high earners tend to live together with other high earners while low wage individuals often end up sharing their incomes with the unemployed. Furthermore there are many South Africans with access to no wage income. Given the trends analysed here it is not surprising that overall inequality in South Africa has not come down or has even increased since the end of apartheid.
Does physical education influence eye‐hand coordination? The Lifestyles of our Kids intervention study
Authors: Wicks L. J. , Telford R. M. , Cunningham R. B. , Semple S. J. , Telford R. D.
Published: December 2016

In Australian government‐funded primary schools, the responsibility for physical education (PE) falls mainly on general classroom teachers, many of whom possess limited PE training. This study sought to examine the impact of specialist‐taught PE on eye‐hand coordination (EHC) development. In this 4‐year cluster‐randomized intervention, participants were 187 boys and 172 girls initially in grade 2 in 29 primary schools, where no school employed university‐trained specialist PE teachers. In 13 (intervention) schools, specialist PE teachers conducted 268 PE classes (two 45‐minute sessions/wk) from grade 2 to grade 6. The intervention was based on traditional PE educational objectives, including fundamental motor skills, but did not specifically focus on EHC. The remaining 16 (control) schools continued with common‐practice PE taught by general classroom teachers (30‐60 min/wk). EHC was measured by a ball throw and wall‐rebound catch test and recorded at ages 8, 10, and 12 (SD 0.3) at ends of grades 2, 4, and 6, respectively. There was steady yearly improvement of EHC in both groups, but no evidence of any intervention effect in boys (P=.88) or girls (P=.20). The introduction of specialist‐taught PE during 4 years of primary school did not influence EHC development. Considering evidence that classroom teachers make little contribution to PE in this jurisdiction, together with the steady progression of EHC over the 4 years, other influences such as organized sport, after‐school activities, natural development, and parental instruction are conceivably more influential factors in EHC development during primary school years.
Factors affecting pain relief in response to physical exercise interventions among healthcare workers
Authors: Jakobsen M. D. , Sundstrup E. , Brandt M. , Andersen L. L.
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study is to identify factors associated with musculo‐skeletal pain reduction during workplace‐based or home‐based physical exercise interventions among healthcare workers. Two hundred female healthcare workers (age: 42.0, BMI: 24.1, average pain intensity: 3.1 on a scale of 0‐10) from three hospitals participated. Participants were randomly allocated at the cluster level (18 departments) to 10 weeks of (i) workplace physical exercise (WORK) performed in groups during working hours for 5 × 10 minutes per week and up to five group‐based coaching sessions on motivation for regular physical exercise, or (ii) home‐based physical exercise (HOME) performed alone during leisure‐time for 5 × 10 minutes per week. Linear mixed models accounting for cluster identified factors affecting pain reduction. On average 2.2 (SD: 1.1) and 1.0 (SD: 1.2) training sessions were performed per week in WORK and HOME, respectively. The multi‐adjusted analysis showed a significant effect on pain reduction of both training adherence (P=.04) and intervention group (P=.04) with participants in WORK experiencing greater reductions compared with HOME. Obesity at baseline was associated with better outcome. Leisure‐time exercise, daily patient transfer, age, and chronic pain did not affect the changes in pain. In conclusion, even when adjusted for training adherence, performing physical exercise at the workplace is more effective than home‐based exercise in reducing musculo‐skeletal pain in healthcare workers. Noteworthy, obese individuals may especially benefit from physical exercise interventions targeting musculo‐skeletal pain.
Neuromuscular performance of maximal voluntary explosive concentric contractions is influenced by angular acceleration
Authors: Hahn D. , Bakenecker P. , Zinke F.
Published: December 2016

Torque production during maximal voluntary explosive contractions is considered to be a functionally more relevant neuromuscular measure than steady‐state torque, but little is known about accelerated concentric contractions. This study investigated torque, muscle activity, and fascicle behavior during isometric and fast concentric contractions of quadriceps femoris. Ten participants performed maximal voluntary explosive isometric, isovelocity, and additional concentric knee extensions at angular accelerations ranging from 700 to 4000° s−2 that resulted in an angular velocity of 300° s−1 at 40° knee flexion. Concentric torque at 40° knee flexion was corrected for inertia, and the corresponding isometric torque was matched to the time when the target knee angle of 40° was reached during concentric contractions. Electromyography of quadriceps femoris and hamstrings and ultrasound of vastus lateralis were measured to determine muscle activity, fascicle length, and fascicle velocity (FV). The faster the acceleration, the more torque was produced during concentric contractions at 40° knee flexion, which was accompanied by a reduction in FV. In comparison with isometric conditions, concentric quadriceps muscle activity was increased and torque during accelerations ≥3000° s−2 equaled the time‐matched isometric torque. Our results provide novel evidence that acceleration influences torque production during maximal voluntary explosive concentric contractions. This is suggested to be due to series elasticity and reduced force depression.
Attacking 22 entries in rugby union: running demands and differences between successful and unsuccessful entries
Authors: Tierney P. , Tobin D. P. , Blake C. , Delahunt E.
Published: December 2016

Global Positioning System (GPS) technology is commonly utilized in team sports, including rugby union. It has been used to describe the average running demands of rugby union. This has afforded an enhanced understanding of the physical fitness requirements for players. However, research in team sports has suggested that training players relative to average demands may underprepare them for certain scenarios within the game. To date, no research has investigated the running demands of attacking 22 entries in rugby union. Additionally, no research has been undertaken to determine whether differences exist in the running intensity of successful and unsuccessful attacking 22 entries in rugby union. The first aim of this study was to describe the running intensity of attacking 22 entries. The second aim of this study was to investigate whether differences exist in the running intensity of successful and unsuccessful attacking 22 entries. Running intensity was measured using meters per minute (m min−1) for (a) total distance, (b) running distance, (c) high‐speed running distance, and (d) very high‐speed running distance. This study provides normative data for the running intensity of attacking 22 entries in rugby union. Forwards achieved greater high‐speed running intensity in successful (3.6 m min−1) compared to unsuccessful (1.8 m min−1) attacking 22 entries. Forwards should try and achieve greater high‐speed running intensity in attacking 22 entries to increase the likelihood of successful outcomes during this period of gameplay.
Evaluation of a scoring system based on conformation factors to predict cranial cruciate ligament disease in Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Griffon Dominique J. , Cunningham Devin , Gordon‐Evans Wanda J. , Tanaka Rei , Bruecker K. A. , Boudrieau Randy J.
Published: December 2016

Objective

To determine the association of a radiographic score derived from tibial plateau angle (TPA) and femoral anteversion (FAA) with an outcome of cranial cruciate ligament deficiency (CCLD) in large dogs.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Animals

167 Labrador Retrievers.

Methods

Hind limbs of sound Labrador Retrievers over 6 years of age were considered at low risk for CCLD. Limbs were considered high risk for CCLD if they were affected or predisposed (sound contralateral limb in dogs with unilateral CCLD). The radiographic CCLD score was calculated for each limb. The TPA, FAA, and CCLD scores were compared between limbs of the same dog and between risk categories. A contingency table was used to evaluate the association of the CCLD score with the CCLD status of limbs.

Results

TPA, FAA, and CCLD scores were greater in limbs categorized as high risk for CCLD than in normal limbs. The sensitivity and specificity of the CCLD score was 87% and 79%, respectively. The positive predictive value was 92% and the negative predictive value was 69%. Scores were similar between paired right and left limbs, but did not agree for predicted status in 14/106 dogs.

Discussion

Our study supports an association between TPA, FAA, and CCLD in Labrador Retrievers. The negative predictive value of the CCLD score supports its application for screening dogs considered at low risk for CCLD. Positive CCLD scores should be interpreted with caution and the status of a dog may be undetermined if scores obtained on each limb disagree.
Comparison of maximum force to failure of 4 thoracostomy tube connecting devices*
Authors: Psathas Ιoannis , Papazoglou Lysimachos G. , Bikiaris Dimitrios , Savvas Ioannis , Kazakos Georgios , Basdani Eleni
Published: December 2016

Objective

To compare the maximum force and displacement to failure of 4 different types of thoracostomy tube connecting devices.

Study Design

Experimental in vitro study.

Study Population: Four types of thoracostomy tube connecting devices (n = 10 each).

Methods

Four different connecting device configurations (10 constructs each) were tested by maximum distraction to failure using a dynamometer: (1) CTTWW—a 3‐way connector with a male luer slip attached to a thoracostomy tube by a Christmas tree adapter and secured to the tube with 21 gauge orthopedic wire; (2) CTTWRCW—a 3‐way connector with a male luer lock with a rotating collar attached to a tube by a Christmas tree adapter and secured to the tube with 21 gauge orthopedic wire; (3) LVSBC—a Lopez valve attached to a tube with its short‐barbed connector; and (4) LVLBC—a Lopez valve attached to a tube with its long‐barbed connector.

Results

The maximum distraction force to failure was significantly greater for CTTWRCW (250.9 N; range 143.7‐293.6) than CTTWW (132.9 N; range 84.2‐224.1), LVLBC (90.8 N; range 74.0‐123.4), and LVSBC (54.6 N; range 39.6‐164.2). The median displacement to failure of CTTWRCW (150 mm; range 54‐190) was significantly longer than that of CTTWW (34.5 mm; range 22‐70), LVLBC (32.5 mm; range 24‐57), and LVSBC (16 mm; range 11‐69).

Conclusion

The CTTWRCW group required greater force to create failure and had a longer displacement to failure, making it a more secure choice for connection to thoracostomy tubes.
The linguistic landscape of Brunei
Authors: COLUZZI PAOLO
Published: December 2016

This article looks at the role and meaning of street signs in Brunei Darussalam with a focus on the use of English. The linguistic landscape of one of the main streets in the capital of Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan, has been analysed. What is immediately noticeable is a high level of diversity, with three languages in common use (Malay, English and, to a lesser extent, Chinese), written in three different scripts (Roman, Arabic and Chinese characters). Even though Malay is the only official language in the country, English has a strong presence in the linguistic landscape. English as the international language related to glamour and economic success seems to enjoy higher prestige than Malay, the language most closely related to nationhood and Malayness. In addition, English appears to play an interesting role as an impartial and neutral language, accepted and promoted by Malays and non‐Malays as well as the Brunei government.
Question intonation in Brunei English
Authors: GUT ULRIKE
Published: December 2016

This article explores the prosodic marking of questions in Brunei English. Ten ethnically Malay female speakers of Brunei English were recorded doing a Map Task in pairs. From these dialogues, 94 questions were identified and classified according to their syntactic and functional type. Their nuclear pitch movement and overall intonation contour was determined auditorily and pitch alignment for rising nuclei was measured acoustically. The results show that the Brunei speakers of English use systematic prosodic marking of different syntactic and functional types of question that differs from British English usage. No evidence for an influence of their L1 Malay prosodic patterns was found. Differences from question intonation produced by Malaysian and Singaporean speakers of English are explained by the Brunei speakers’ different norm orientation.
The grammar of Brunei English
Authors: HO DEBBIE G. E. , DETERDING DAVID
Published: December 2016

This article provides an overview of past and current studies on the grammar of Brunei English with a focus on prominent features that distinguish it from standardised varieties of English: the simplified use of tense; the flexible use of plural suffixes, especially on logically plural nouns; the variable occurrence of verbal suffixes; non‐standard use of modal verbs like will, would, can and could; article usage; insertion of a preposition after transitive verbs; and topic‐fronting. In addition, the article discusses the question of whether there is a distinct and identifiable grammar operating in Brunei English based on the presence of systematic and recurrent patterns of occurrence of such features.
Code‐switching in Bruneian online retail transactions
Authors: HENRY ALEX , HO DEBBIE G. E.
Published: December 2016

The tools of Swalesean genre analysis have been used for a variety of purposes in applied linguistics including in the teaching of English for Specific Purposes and in tracking historical change of specific genres. Another research area gaining significance in applied linguistics is code‐switching. The purpose of this study was to use the tools of genre analysis to investigate code‐switching in an online multilingual environment and to evaluate the genre approach by trying to identify any significant relationships between code‐switching and specific communicative purpose. Forty Facebook retail transactions were analysed to investigate Brunei Malay and English code‐switching. It was found that code‐switching was an unmarked feature in the genre and it was used as a specific tactic in specific parts of the interactions to help both buyers and sellers achieve their communicative goals.
Identification of Justification Types and Discourse Markers in Turkish Language Teacher Candidates’ Argumentative Texts
Authors: Tiryaki Esra Nur
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this research is to identify discourse markers used in justification types in Turkish language teacher candidates' argumentative texts. Survey model was used since it was aimed to determine the categories into which support and refutation justifications are split and to identify the discourse markers which express these categories. It is a descriptive field research in which qualitative data analysis techniques were employed. The pool of the research was obtained from the texts of 3rd and 4th year students (N=100) in Turkish Language Teaching Department at Mustafa Kemal University, in 2014-2015 academic year (N=100). "Argumentative Text Writing Form" and "Justification Type Identification Form" developed by researcher used as data collection tools. Texts were by using content analysis method. Descriptive statistics (frequency (f), percentage (%)) analyses were used in the analysis of the data collected in this study. According to the results of this study; a total of 275 justifications including support justifications (f = 225) and refutation justifications (f = 50) were presented in the texts given by the students. Justification types, which are most widely used for support justifications, are reasoning (% 19.11), addition (%14.22), exemplification (%13.77) and opposition (%11.55). The least used justification types are distinction (%2.66), condition (%2.22) and sequencing (%1.77). Opposition (%34) is the most widely used justification type for refutation justifications whereas conclusion, distinction and sequencing (%2) are the least used ones. Discourse markers (n=62) were identified in 11 justification types. Examples, where these discourse markers were employed, are presented in the study through sample sentences.
Physiological limits to endurance exercise performance: influence of sex
Authors: Joyner Michael J.
Published: December 2016

This brief review summarizes factors associated with elite endurance performance, trends in distance running training, and participation by men and more recently women. It is framed in the context of key ideas about the physiological determinants of endurance performance but also touches on some historical and sociological factors relevant to the overall topic. Historical trends that served to increase women's participation in elite endurance events are also discussed as is the role of increased volume and intensity of training. The rapid improvement in women's world record marathon times in the 1970s and 80s are emblematic of these trends and represent a combination of increased training volume and intensity and more competitive opportunities. This occurred as bans on participation by women in endurance events were lifted. For men these same trends evolved over a much longer time frame. The main physiological factor responsible for 10–12% slower times in women compared to men at the elite level are also considered and probably centre around.

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A mechanism for sickness sleep: lessons from invertebrates
Authors: Davis Kristen C. , Raizen David M.
Published: December 2016

During health, animal sleep is regulated by an internal clock and by the duration of prior wakefulness. During sickness, sleep is regulated by cytokines released from either peripheral cells or from cells within the nervous system. These cytokines regulate central nervous system neurons to induce sleep. Recent research in the invertebrates Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster has led to new insights into the mechanism of sleep during sickness. Sickness is triggered by exposure to environments such as infection, heat, or ultraviolet light irradiation, all of which cause cellular stress. Epidermal growth factor is released from stressed cells and signals to activate central neuroendocrine cell(s). These neuron(s) release neuropeptides including those containing an amidated arginine(R)‐phenylalanine(F) motif at their C‐termini (RFamide peptides). Importantly, mechanisms regulating sickness sleep are partially distinct from those regulating healthy sleep. We will here review key findings that have elucidated the central neuroendocrine mechanism of sleep during sickness. Adaptive mechanisms employed in the control of sickness sleep may play a role in correcting cellular homeostasis after various insults. We speculate that these mechanisms may play a maladaptive role in human pathological conditions such as in the fatigue and anorexia associated with autoimmune diseases, with major depression, and with unexplained chronic fatigue.

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A novel mechanism of tandem activation of ryanodine receptors by cytosolic and SR luminal Ca2+ during excitation–contraction coupling in atrial myocytes
Authors: Maxwell Joshua T. , Blatter Lothar A.
Published: December 2016

Key points

In atrial myocytes excitation–contraction coupling is strikingly different from ventricle because atrial myocytes lack a transverse tubule membrane system: Ca2+ release starts in the cell periphery and propagates towards the cell centre by Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ store.

The cytosolic Ca2+ sensitivity of the ryanodine receptor (RyRs) Ca2+ release channel is low and it is unclear how Ca2+ release can be activated in the interior of atrial cells.

Simultaneous confocal imaging of cytosolic and intra‐SR calcium revealed a transient elevation of store Ca2+ that we termed ‘Ca2+ sensitization signal’.

We propose a novel paradigm of atrial ECC that is based on tandem activation of the RyRs by cytosolic and luminal Ca2+ through a ‘fire–diffuse–uptake–fire’ (or FDUF) mechanism: Ca2+ uptake by SR Ca2+ pumps at the propagation front elevates Ca2+ inside the SR locally, leading to luminal RyR sensitization and lowering of the cytosolic Ca2+ activation threshold.

In atrial myocytes Ca2+ release during excitation–contraction coupling (ECC) is strikingly different from ventricular myocytes. In many species atrial myocytes lack a transverse tubule system, dividing the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ store into the peripheral subsarcolemmnal junctional (j‐SR) and the much more abundant central non‐junctional (nj‐SR) SR. Action potential (AP)‐induced Ca2+ entry activates Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release (CICR) from j‐SR ryanodine receptor (RyR) Ca2+ release channels. Peripheral elevation of [Ca2+]i initiates CICR from nj‐SR and sustains propagation of CICR to the cell centre. Simultaneous confocal measurements of cytosolic ([Ca2+]i; with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator rhod‐2) and intra‐SR ([Ca2+]SR; fluo‐5N) Ca2+ in rabbit atrial myocytes revealed that Ca2+ release from j‐SR resulted in a cytosolic Ca2+ transient of higher amplitude compared to release from nj‐SR; however, the degree of depletion of j‐SR [Ca2+]SR was smaller than nj‐SR [Ca2+]SR. Similarly, Ca2+ signals from individual release sites of the j‐SR showed a larger cytosolic amplitude (Ca2+ sparks) but smaller depletion (Ca2+ blinks) than release from nj‐SR. During AP‐induced Ca2+ release the rise of [Ca2+]i detected at individual release sites of the nj‐SR preceded the depletion of [Ca2+]SR, and during this latency period a transient elevation of [Ca2+]SR occurred. We propose that Ca2+ release from nj‐SR is activated by cytosolic and luminal Ca2+ (tandem RyR activation) via a novel ‘fire—diffuse–uptake–fire’ (FDUF) mechanism. This novel paradigm of atrial ECC predicts that Ca2+ uptake by sarco‐endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA) at the propagation front elevates local [Ca2+]SR, leading to luminal RyR sensitization and lowering of the activation threshold for cytosolic CICR.
Investigations on the long-term performance of gated p-type silicon tip arrays with reproducible and stable field emission behavior
Authors: Prommesberger Christian , Langer Christoph , Ławrowski Robert , Schreiner Rupert
Published: December 2016

The authors report on the fabrication and characterization of p-type Si tip arrays with an integrated gate electrode for applications as field emission electron sources. After the reactive ion etching of the emitters, the combined thermal dry and wet oxidation was used for both the sharpening of the emitters and for the realization of an enhanced insulation layer. Au was evaporated in a self-aligned process as gate electrode. Arrays of 16 Si tips were fabricated with tip heights of about 3 μm and tip radii of about 20 nm with integrated gate electrode concentrically positioned ≈2 μm below the tip apex. Integral measurements with an additional anode showed improved field emission properties with a reproducible and stable emission behavior. A fast activation of the tips, low onset voltages of about 30 V, and moderate field emission currents up to 0.55 μA were noticed. The field emission parameters were calculated using the Fowler–Nordheim characteristics. A pronounced saturation regime was observed, and current fluctuations of less than ±1% were investigated for 30 min. Long-term measurements were carried out for a period of more than 8 h. In the first 6 h of operation, the authors observed a drift of the emission current from 0.35 to 0.55 μA caused by an increased emission surface.
Growth of aluminum oxide on silicon carbide with an atomically sharp interface
Authors: Silva Ana Gomes , Pedersen Kjeld , Li Zheshen , Hvam Jeanette , Dhiman Rajnish , Morgen Per
Published: December 2016

The development of SiC wafers with properties suitable for electronic device fabrication is now well established commercially. A critical issue for developing metal–oxide–semiconductor field effect transistor devices of SiC is the choice of dielectric materials for surface passivation and insulating coatings. Although SiO2 grown thermally on SiC is a possibility for the gate dielectric, this system has a number of problems related to the higher band gap of SiC, which energetically favors more interface states than for SiO2 on Si, and the low dielectric constant of SiO2 leading to 2.5× higher electric fields across the oxide than in the surface of SiC, and to a premature breakdown at the higher fields and higher temperatures that SiC devices are designed to operate under. As a replacement for SiO2, amorphous Al2O3 thin film coatings have some strong advocates, both for n- and p-type SiC, due to the value of its band gap and the position of its band edges with respect to the band edges of the underlying semiconductor, a number of other material properties, and not the least due to the advances of the atomic-layer-deposition process. Exploring the fact that the chemical bonding of Al2O3 is the strongest among the oxides and therefore stronger than in SiO2, the authors have previously shown how to form an Al2O3 film on Si (111) and Si (100), by simply depositing a few atomic layers of Al on top of an ultrathin (0.8 nm) SiO2 film previously grown on Si surfaces [Si (111) and Si (100)] and heating this system up to around 600 °C (all in ultrahigh vacuum). This converts all the SiO2 into a uniform layer of Al2O3 with an atomically sharp interface between the Al2O3 and the Si surface. In the present work, the same procedures are applied to form Al2O3 on a SiC film grown on top of Si (111). The results indicate that a similar process, resulting in a uniform layer of 1–2 nm of Al2O3 with an atomically sharp Al2O3/SiC interface, also works in this case.
Stress modulation of titanium nitride thin films deposited using atomic layer deposition
Authors: Nahar Manuj , Rocklein Noel , Andreas Michael , Funston Greg , Goodner Duane
Published: December 2016

Stress engineering of thin titanium nitride (TiN) films is of considerable importance to the memory industry, where these thin films are free to deform and need to be structurally robust to the deposition of overlying films and processing steps that are a part of the fabrication flow. TiN films in the thickness range of 50 to 100 Å are deposited at 425 °C using atomic layer deposition and are tensile in nature. The as-deposited films are partially surface oxidized due to exposure to atmosphere. The films are subsequently oxidized in an ozone/oxygen ambient at temperatures lower than 275 °C to form a surface oxide layer comprising of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and titanium oxynitride (TiOxNy). Volumetric expansion associated with oxide formation is found to induce compressive stress in the film, while oxidation had the undesirable effect of increasing film resistivity. A dilute hydrofluoric acid solution is used to etch the surface TiO2 layer, while a thin TiOxNy layer remains intact on the film surface. The removal of surface TiO2 results in restoring the resistivity of the films to values comparable to that of as-deposited TiN, while maintaining the compressive stress induced by film oxidation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows that the processing scheme results in increasing the amount of TiOxNy in the near-surface region of the films. The authors postulate that the higher molar volume TiOxNy layer exerts a compressive force on the underlying TiN film, and prevents a full relaxation of the films to their original tensile stress state. Further, the authors show that by controlling the oxidation conditions, it is possible to modulate the film stress in the range of −750 to +750 MPa. The processing scheme thus allows for stress engineering of thin TiN films at processing temperatures lower than 275 °C.
The effect of vocal fold vertical stiffness variation on voice production
Authors: Geng Biao , Xue Qian , Zheng Xudong
Published: December 2016

A parametric study was conducted using the numerical technique that coupled a three-dimensional continuum vocal fold model with a one-dimensional Bernoulli flow model to investigate the effect of vocal fold vertical stiffness variation on voice production. Vertical stiffness gradient was defined as the ratio of the inferior–superior stiffness difference to the mean stiffness and was introduced in the cover layer. The results showed that increasing the vertical stiffness gradient would increase the peak flow rate and sound intensity and decrease the open quotient and threshold pressure. The effect was found to be more prominent at low subglottal pressures. The underlying mechanism might be that the reduced stiffness at the superior aspect of the vocal fold would allow a larger lateral displacement and result in a larger vibration. Increasing the vertical stiffness gradient was also found to increase the vertical phase difference and glottal divergent angle during the vocal fold vibration. Meanwhile, increasing the vertical stiffness variation only slightly increased the mean flow rate, which is important to maintaining the speech time between breaths.
Effectiveness of Interventions for Children With Developmental Coordination Disorder in Physical Therapy Contexts: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Offor Nkechi , Ossom Williamson Peace , Caçola Priscila
Published: December 2016

Purpose:

The purpose of this systematic literature review and meta-analysis is to identify the types of interventions in physical therapy contexts that have been explored in children with developmental coordination disorder, the most common variables being addressed, and whether these interventions are effective.

Method:

This systematic search of MEDLINE, PEDro, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library identified interventions in physical therapy contexts for children and adolescents with DCD, and studies were screened using these criteria and assessed using the PEDro and NIH quality assessment scales. AMSTAR was used to evaluate systematic reviews and a meta-analysis was conducted.

Results:

From the articles reviewed, 29 articles of moderate to good quality were included in the qualitative analysis. Task-oriented approaches as well as motor skill training–based interventions have shown beneficial effects in improving motor function in children with DCD. Data from 14 articles was extracted for inclusion in the meta-analysis, providing support for the effectiveness of physical therapy interventions against inaction.

Conclusion:

Researchers recommend the use of task-oriented and traditional physical therapy interventions for children with DCD. In addition, interventions in physical therapy contexts need clear goals and outcome measures for individual children.
Temporal-Comparative Feedback Affects Motor Learning
Authors: Chiviacowsky Suzete , Drews Ricardo
Published: December 2016

In this experiment, we investigated the motivational effects of feedback on motor learning observing the impact of temporal-comparison feedback on the learning of a coincident timing task. Two groups of participants, a positive (PTC) and a negative temporal-comparison group (NTC), received veridical feedback about their accuracy scores after every other practice trial (50%). In addition, after each block of 10 trials, the PTC group was given bogus feedback suggesting that their average performance was better than it was in the previous block, while the NTC group received bogus feedback suggesting that their average performance was worse than it was in the previous block. A retention test was performed one day after the practice phase, without feedback, to observe learning effects. In addition, after the practice phase and before the retention test, all participants filled out questionnaires to report their self-efficacy levels. The results demonstrate that temporal-comparison feedback affects the learning of motor skills. Participants of the PTC group showed greater timing accuracy and reported higher self-efficacy levels than the NTC group on the retention test. The findings further support the important motivational role of feedback for motor learning.
Expecting to Teach Enhances Learning: Evidence From a Motor Learning Paradigm
Authors: Daou Marcos , Buchanan Taylor L. , Lindsey Kyle R. , Lohse Keith R. , Miller Matthew W.
Published: December 2016

There is some evidence that people learn academic (declarative) information better when studying with the expectation of having to teach, but this has not been demonstrated for perceptual-motor skills, which also rely on declarative information but more heavily on procedural knowledge. To address this possibility, participants studied golf-putting instructions and practiced putting with the expectation of having to teach another participant how to putt or the expectation of being tested on their putting. One day later, learning was assessed by testing all participants on their golf putting. Results revealed that expecting to teach enhanced learning, even after controlling for the amount of studying and practicing. Therefore, we have presented the first findings that expecting to teach enhances motor learning. Taking these findings together with similar studies focusing on declarative information, we suggest that expecting to teach yields a general learning benefit to different types of skills.
Bimanual Coordination Development Is Enhanced in Young Females and Experienced Athletes
Authors: Albines David , Granek Joshua A. , Gorbet Diana J. , Sergio Lauren E.
Published: December 2016

We characterize bimanual coordination development for the first time in a large sample of children (n = 303) in relation to age, sex, and athletic experience. A further aim is to document the effect of these factors on development to indirectly gain insight into the neural processes that underlie this advanced level of eye–hand coordination. This was a cross-sectional design involving three age groups (range: 9–15 years) that were further separated by sex and level of athletic experience. Participants completed two bimanual tasks and a unimanual control task. While there was no significant change in unimanual movement speed, we observed that females performed the bimanual tasks faster, compared with males. Further, we found that select-level athletes had superior bimanual abilities. Lastly, we found an interaction of sex and skill across age. All groups achieved significant improvement in bimanual coordination with the exception of nonselect males. These data provide a description of normal bimanual coordination development in children during the developmentally crucial ages of 9–15 years, taking account of sex- and experience-related differences.
Direction and Relevance of the Focus of Attention in Dart Throwing With and Without Concurrent Visual Feedback
Authors: Sherwood David , Lohse Keith , Healy Alice
Published: December 2016

Many research studies have shown the advantage of directing the focus of attention (FOA) externally as opposed to internally. However, it is not clear how the availability of concurrent visual feedback might impact attentional processes as the FOA is shifted between internal, external, relevant, and irrelevant sources of attention. The current experiment varied the FOA by asking the participants to judge joint angles (internal-relevant), respiration (internal-irrelevant), dart release angle (external-relevant), and tone loudness (external-irrelevant) at dart release in which task-intrinsic concurrent visual feedback was available or not. Spatial errors and trial-to-trial variability in the outcome were reduced when vision was available. Spatial errors were greater during internal judgments compared with external judgments particularly when vision was not available and when making judgments about task-relevant factors. A focus on irrelevant factors generally did not affect performance compared with relevant factors. These findings suggest that availability of concurrent visual feedback modulates focus of attention effects in motor control.
Content analysis of UK newspaper and online news representations of women's and men's ‘binge’ drinking: a challenge for communicating evidence-based messages about single-episodic drinking?
Authors: Patterson C , Emslie C , Mason O , Fergie G , Hilton S
Published: December 2016

Objectives

In the UK, men's alcohol-related morbidity and mortality still greatly exceeds women's, despite an increase in women's alcohol consumption in recent decades. New UK alcohol guidelines introduce gender-neutral low-risk alcohol consumption guidance. This study explores how UK newspaper and online news represent women's and men's ‘binge’ drinking to identify opportunities to better align reporting of harmful drinking with evidence.

Design

Quantitative and qualitative content analysis of 308 articles published in 7 UK national newspapers and the BBC News website between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2013.

Results

Articles associated women with ‘binge’ drinking more frequently than men, and presented women's drinking as more problematic. Men were more frequently characterised as violent or disorderly, while women were characterised as out of control, putting themselves in danger, harming their physical appearance and burdening men. Descriptions of female ‘binge’ drinkers' clothing and appearance were typically moralistic.

Conclusions

The UK news media's disproportionate focus on women's ‘binge’ drinking is at odds with epidemiological evidence, may reproduce harmful gender stereotypes and may obstruct public understandings of the gender-neutral weekly consumption limits in newly proposed alcohol guidelines. In order to better align reporting of harmful drinking with current evidence, public health advocates may engage with the media with a view to shifting media framing of ‘binge’ drinking away from specific groups (young people; women) and contexts (public drinking) and towards the health risks of specific drinking behaviours, which affect all groups regardless of context.