bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breast Cancer in Europe: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Policies and Strategies. A Literature Review
Authors: Aljohar Bashaier Abdullah , Kilani Mohammed Ahmedhani
Published: October 2018

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in European women, accounting for 28.8% of the total number of cancer diagnosis in Europe. Over the past few decades, several factors have led to remarkable improvements in overall breast cancer outcomes in Europe, such as early detection, screening, and progresses in treatment. However, breast cancer remains the most common cancer in females in Europe, yet more there is an increase in the incidence and mortality rates in some European countries. This research summarizes the current status of breast cancer in Europe, including epidemiology, risk factors, policies, and strategies. The results can help to better identify this health problem, which could help in developing better breast cancer control or prevention strategies and policies.

METHODS: A literature review was conducted using five electronic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, ProQuest, Eurostat, BioMed) and the European Commission reports for studies that reported on epidemiology and risk factors of breast cancer, or policies and strategies that target it in Europe. In addition, the Social Ecological Model (SEM) was used in categorizing the breast cancer risk factors into different levels.

RESULTS: Europe and North America have the highest rate of breast cancer globally. Incidence and prevalence of breast cancer vary across Europe, and so does its mortality rates. Breast cancer was found to be associated with a number of risk factors, including but not limited to aging, use of hormone therapy, older age at the first birth, and smoking which are common in Europe. Cancer in general, and breast cancer have attracted specific attention, and the European Union has focused many of the resources and expertise on the topic.

CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS: Breast cancer remains a major public health issue in Europe, despite the efforts and actions being taken. Therefore, current efforts against breast cancer in Europe need to be revisited and improved.
Demography as a Determinant of Awareness, Knowledge and Attitude of Asaba Youth to Media Advocacy Campaign on Sickle Cell Disorder
Authors: Ajilore Kolade , Onyenankeya Kevin , Morka Emmanuel , Akoja Mofoluke , Akintayo Babafemi , Ojomo Olusegun
Published: October 2018

In a localized attempt to address the inevitable status of Nigeria as the biggest host of patients of sickle cell anaemia, the Delta state government sponsored a media centered initiative to attract public attention to sickle cell disease as well as to the victims of the disorder. This study examined the influence of the media advocacy campaign on youth’s awareness, knowledge and attitude to the disease using the questionnaire survey method involving 300 participants randomly selected from the capital city, Asaba. The results showed that demographic variables such as age, gender, income and religious affiliations had varying influence on awareness, knowledge and attitude of respondents. Although respondents exhibited modest awareness and knowledge of the disorder, it emerged that they arrived at this level of knowledge through information acquired from sources other than the state sponsored media campaign on sickle cell. The study concluded that the media advocacy campaign on sickle cell disorder was yet to resonate with the target population.
Motor Imagery Training for Gait Rehabilitation of People With Post-Stroke Hemiparesis: Practical Applications and Protocols
Authors: Dunsky Ayelet , Dickstein Ruth
Published: October 2018

Over the last two decades, the use of motor imagery (MI) for post-stroke rehabilitation has significantly increased. Previous findings support the feasibility of the incorporation of specific MI exercises to improve walking skills in individuals with post-stroke hemiparesis. However, detailed practical applications and specific protocols for the implementation of MI are scarce. The objective of this manuscript is to propose practical applications for a structured MI regimen, including detailed protocols of a six-week intervention targeting gait improvement following stroke. The proposed regimen is based on previous experience with MI rehabilitation programs for gait improvement following stroke, motor learning principles with applications for stroke rehabilitation, and the PETTLEP model. The proposed detailed protocols were found to be adjusted for gait improvement of post-stroke survivors as described in several studies, and may address the targets of different rehabilitation programs. Based on motor learning principles and guidelines, an example of verbal instructions for each treatment session during six weeks of intervention is proposed. The potential of this training program to augment and extend the rehabilitation process was proven in several studies. The variety of possibilities of scenes to image allows the clinician to target specific impaired performance and disabilities. By using the proposed structure and protocols, a large number of therapists may be able to address these targets.
Burnout Syndrome in Medical Students in the Kingdom of Bahrain
Authors: Al Ubaidi Basem Abbas , Jassim Ghufran , Salem Abdelhalim
Published: October 2018

OBJECTIVES: To assess stress and burnout, and identify common stressors, among medical students in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional study with students being evaluated from March to September 2017 at two medical colleges in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

METHODOLOGY: Survey conducted on a total sample of 533 clerkship-training students with a total of 347 respondents. The instruments used were Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale; the Maslach Burnout Inventory; and a common stressors questionnaire.

RESULTS: 65% (347/533) of the students from the two medical colleges responded to the questionnaire. It was found that the mean (SD) of Cohen stress score in this study was 21.76 (5.60), with a stress and burnout prevalence of 47% and 43.43% respectively. A high percentage of respondent students (68%) also exhibited high emotional exhaustion scores > 14. More than half of the respondents (53.3%) exhibited high cynicism score > 6. Statistically significant differences were observed across gender categories with Cohen mean score, emotional exhaustion and cynicism. Multiple linear regressions revealed gender to be the only statistically significant predictor of the Cohen score (p. value 0.042).

CONCLUSION: Clerkship medical students displayed high levels of both stress and burnout prevalence. Medical educators must be aware of the early signs, causes and consequences of student stress. They should also be able to encourage students to improve their mental and physical health, promote mental well-being and teach stress management.
A Relationship Between the One-Way MANOVA Test Statistic and the Hotelling Lawley Trace Test Statistic
Authors: Arachchige Don Hasthika S. Rupasinghe
Published: October 2018

The One-Way MANOVA model is a special case of the multivariate linear model, and this paper shows that the One-Way

MANOVA test statistic and the Hotelling Lawley trace test statistic are equivalent if the design matrix is carefully chosen.
A Generalized Algorithm for Solving Nonlinear Equations Using Distributions
Authors: Houssein Houssam
Published: October 2018

In this paper we introduce a method for solving the nonlinear equation $f(x)=0$ where $x, f(x)$ are two vectors. This method uses the theory of distributions, and it's a non-iterative method, indeed it creates a sequence of vectors with an explicit formula and this sequence will converge to the solution of the nonlinear equation.
Het hoger beroep inzake het schietincident in Alphen aan den Rijn: hoe gerechtigheid zegevierde, en de geest in de fles bleef
Authors: Maes K.L.
Published: October 2018

Het hoger beroep inzake het schietincident in Alphen aan den Rijn: hoe gerechtigheid zegevierde, en de geest in de fles bleef

Op 27 maart 2018 is de politie door het Gerechtshof Den Haag aansprakelijk gehouden voor de door de slachtoffers en nabestaanden geleden letsel- en overlijdensschade vanwege het ten onrechte verstrekken van de wapenvergunning aan Tristan van der V., nadat deze aansprakelijkheid eerder op relativiteitsgronden strandde bij de Rechtbank Den Haag. In het onderhavige artikel worden beide uitspraken besproken en de afwijkende oordelen tegen elkaar afgezet. De kritieken waarmee met name het vonnis is ontvangen, geven bovendien aanleiding om de daarmee verweven secundaire aansprakelijkheidsproblematiek nader onder de loep te nemen. Want waarom hield de rechtbank de aansprakelijkheidsdeur zo krampachtig dicht, en zet het hof deze desondanks (meer) open?
U vraagt, wij draaien iets anders
Authors: van Dijck G.
Published: October 2018

U vraagt, wij draaien iets anders. Een empirische studie naar wat benadeelden zoeken en krijgen in zaken over seksueel misbruik door de rooms-katholieke kerk

De wereldwijde belangstelling die het seksueel misbruik door de rooms-katholieke kerk heeft gekregen, heeft in Nederland geresulteerd in een procedure voor slachtoffers van dit seksueel misbruik in Nederland. Deze bijdrage doet verslag van een onderzoek waarin is geanalyseerd (1) of benadeelden kregen wat zij zochten, en (2) wat daarnaast verklaarde waarom de geschilbeslechters overgingen tot het toekennen van niet-financiële compensatie zoals excuses, erkenning van het leed en erkenning van het seksueel misbruik.
Open Innovation and Cocreation in the Development of New Products: the role of design thinking
Authors: Santos Adriana Baraldi Alves dos , Bianchi Caio Giusti , Borini Felipe Mendes
Published: October 2018

Perfumes industry has been exponentially developing due to last decade’s technological development, requiring larger investments and creative capacity from fine chemicals industry. Since creative capacity may be maximized through creation strategies and methodologies such as co-creation and design thinking, the aim of this paper is to analyze the role of design thinking in the process of co-creation among competitors. In order to achieve such aim, a unique case study was conducted in a representative enterprise in the Brazilian perfume industry, which was responsible for a triad co-creation process of a new product, involving two foreign competing companies in the fine chemicals industry. It is possible to assert that the paradigm shift with co-creation and design thinking strategies in such a knowledge and technology intensive industry maximized new products development process
The Impact of Organizational Innovativeness on Product-oriented innovativeness in Agro-industrial micro and small businesses
Authors: Carvalho Gustavo Dambiski Gomes de , Kovaleski João Luiz , Carvalho Hélio Gomes de , Corrêa Rúbia Oliveira , Sokulski Carla Cristiane , Kolotelo Jorge Luciano Gil
Published: October 2018

By means of the Local Innovation Agents (LIA) Program, the Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service (SEBRAE) has conveyed innovation to Brazilian micro and small businesses (MSBs). Within this setting, this paper aims to analyze the impact of organizational innovativeness on product-oriented innovativeness in agroindustry small businesses. Regarding methodology, Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was employed in order to validate constructs and to analyze causal effects. The sample comprises secondary data from 249 agroindustry MSBs that participated in the LIA program between 2012 and 2014. Regarding results, the final models fulfills all constructs validation criteria and structural analysis indicated that both loading factors and path coefficients were statistically significant, besides presenting predictive relevance and explained variance (R²) of 57,9%. In sum, the results show that organizational innovativeness impacts positively product-oriented innovativeness, corroborating other studies that show the importance of organizational innovations.
The coach’s role in shaping the attitudes and values of a competitor in Poland after World War II on the example of Wunderteam
Authors: Bednarska Bożena
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this publication is to present the concept of sport philosophy, implemented on the basis of certain values between individuals and trainers – Jan Mulak and the Wunderteam - in historically and politically challenging conditions. The article shows certain values, which were headed via outstanding individual cooperation with other great personalities from the world of sports in a way to fulfill a masterpiece – the Wunderteam. The project of creating Polish athletics team was not a programme of self-improvement of outstanding individuals, but was joint international work, which was to serve the Polish society. That concept of genius of Jan Mulak as a coordinator, and his cooperators, initiated huge progress in Polish sports.
Impact of European Junior Swimming Championships in Poznan on Tourism and City Image in the opinion of Athletes
Authors: Malchrowicz-Mośko Ewa , Rozmiarek Mateusz
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this article is to examine tourist behaviour of participants of the European Junior Swimming Championships in Poznan and to examine the opinions of participants regarding this sporting event on its influence on the image of the city. Through the use of simple random sampling, a number of 210 swimmers participated in the study during the European Junior Swimming Championships held in 2013 in Poznan, Poland. Methods of the study included a diagnostic survey, a standardized interview technique and an interview questionnaire. All questions were closed-ended in nature and were analysed using the Likert-scale. Results show that more than 60% of respondents claimed that the European Junior Swimming Championships has positive impact on the image of the city of Poznan. More than 70% of them rated the impact of the event on the city to be 10.0 (on the Likert-scale). More than 70% of athletes participated in tourist activities such as sightseeing (70.7%). The average rating of satisfaction of the event was rated at 8.8 (Likert-scale) and 82.8% of athletes claimed they would return to Poznan in the future. The survey results additionally indicated gaps regarding the city’s cultural offers for tourists during the sporting event. A sample of 210 swimmers completed the questionnaire. The sample was selected in such a way as to ensure proper representation of the obtained results. Simple random sampling, which is a draw without return, was used. Information on the expected number of participants was used to determine the sample size. Calculations were used for the sample size, for the finite population. It was assumed that the maximum error of estimation (e) at a 95% confidence level did not exceed 4%. Results of this empirical case study provide a source of information for event organisers, and those responsible for the development of sport and tourism on the scale of impact of international sporting events. While most research participants in the current literature were sports fans, this study addressed the topic from the perspective of active participants of the event (e.g. athletes). The paper presents the results of empirical research, case study – European Junior Swimming Championships.
Psychological ways of preparing to start by athletes; pre-performance language routines
Authors: Kotek Joanna , Maciuszek Józef
Published: October 2018

INTRODUCTION
Article investigates direct psychological preparation to start by analysing techniques used by athletes to indicate an optimal starting state. Main goal was to differentiate pre-performance routines from sport mantras, understood as repetitive use of language, and to answer the question if the mantras have different effects on the process of preparation to start. The article is based on own research and literature.
SUBJECTS AND PROCEDURE
Research contains survey, covering the issue of mental techniques used by athletes before the start (146 respondents). 15 interviewees were chosen for semi-structured interviews about use of pre-performance mantras.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS
The outcome was the definition of sport mantra and description of variations of its use. Differences between this technique and other strategies of mental preparation to start were described. The results of the study address that and the characteristics of the mantas technique. It also provides clues for teaching pre-performance preparation.
Evaluation of Carabelli’s trait in a group of Turkish patients
Authors: KAZAK Mağrur
Published: October 2018

Objectives: Dental
morphological characteristics are useful for providing information in phylogenic
and genetic studies and also for understanding variations within and among
species. Carabelli cusp is expressed in several degrees and in different
frequencies among humans; thus, it is helpful in comparing and characterizing
populations. The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate
Carabelli’s trait (CT) in a group of Turkish patients. Materials and Methods: In this study, 213
patients between age of 14-65 (mean age 29.99 ± 10.04) were analyzed
retrospectively according to presence or absence of CT on permanent maxillary
first and second molars. All data were statistically analyzed using the IBM
SPSS version 22 program (IBM SPSS, Turkey) and the chi-squared test; p < 0.05 was considered as
statistically significant. Results: Prevalence of CT was found to be 47.9% in the
selected Turkish group. Incidence of CT in any of the teeth on #16/26 was 46.9%
and 4.2% on #17/27. Incidence was detected more on #26 (43.2%) than on #16
(40.4%). Bilateral presence of CT on #16/26 was detected in 78%. CT was seen in
50.7% of females and in 42.9% of males. There was no statistically significant
difference between genders (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Expression of CT can be placed in moderate prevalence group. There was no
sexual dimorphism in its occurrence in the studied group.  CT can be a valuable criterion to determine differences
among various populations and a significant insight into the migratory patterns
in a selected geographical area.
Number of File Usage on Dentinal Defect Incidence of WaveOne GOLD and Reciproc NiTi Instruments
Authors: YILMAZ Koray , ÖZYÜREK Taha , USLU Gülşah
Published: October 2018

AbstractObjectives:To compare the incidences of dentinal defects caused by Reciproc and WaveOne GOLD NiTi files during root canal preparation and to exam the effect of number of file usage on the incidence of dentinal defect. Materials and Methods:Two hundred seventy mandibular incisor teeth were randomly divided into 3 different groups as follows: negative control (no preparation performed) (n: 30), Reciproc (n: 120) and WaveOne GOLD (n: 120) groups. The specimens were sliced at 3, 6 and 9 mm from the apex. Microscopic pictures of the specimens were taken with the aid of light emitting diode and the dentinal defects were examined. Results:There was no statistically difference among the WaveOne GOLD, Reciproc and control groups in terms of dentinal defect formation. The number of dentinal defects occurred in apical region in Reciproc group following 4thuse was found to be statistically higher than 1st, 2nd, and 3rduse in WaveOne GOLD group (P< .05).Conclusion:All the NiTi files tested in present study were found to cause defect in root canal dentin but there were not significant difference among the WaveOne GOLD, Reciproc and control groups in term of total dentinal defect formation
Human Osteoblast Hücre Hattı Üzerinde Qmix, Etilen Diamintetraasetik Asit ve Klorhheksidin’in Sitotoksisitesinin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: UĞUR AYDIN Zeliha , AKPINAR Kerem Engin , HEPOKUR Ceylan , ALTUNBAŞ Demet
Published: October 2018

Amaç:
Bu çalışmada, QMix ™, etilendiamintetraasetik asit ve klorheksidin irrigasyon
solüsyonlarının human osteoblast hücreleri hattı üzerindeki zamana bağlı toksik
etkisi değerlendirdi.

Materyal ve metod: Human
osteoblast hücreleri, % 5 CO2 ve% 100 bağıl nem içeren bir ortamda 37ºC'de
tek tabakalı olacak şekilde kültüre edildi. Hücreler 4 saat ve 24 saat boyunca etilendiamintetraasetik
asit (EDTA), klorheksidin (CHX) ve QMix ™ 'e maruz bırakıldı. Hücre canlılığı
2,3-bis (2-metoksi-4-nitro-5-sülfenil) -5 - [(fenilamino) karbonil] -2H-tetrazolyum
hidroksit kiti (XTT) ile değerlendirildi. Human osteoblast hücrelerinin
ortalama yaşayabilirliğindeki farklılıklar istatistiksel olarak
değerlendirildi.

Bulgular:
Deney solüsyonlarındaki ve kontrol grubundaki canlı hücrelerin ortalama yüzdesi
 arasında hem 4 saatlik (p˂0,001) hem de
24 saatlik (p =0,004)  uygulamanın
sonrasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı 
fark görüldü. Canlı hücrelerin ortalama yüzdesi, EDTA, CHX ve QMixTM
grubunda uygulama süresinin artması ile istatistiksel olarak anlamlı derecede
azaldı (p˂0,05). 4 saat süresince uygulamanın ardından CHX ‘e göre EDTA ve Qmix
istatistiksel olarak anlamı derecede daha az toksik etki gösterdi
(p˂0,05).  24 saat süresince uygulamanın
ardından ise irrigasyon solüsyonlarının toksisitesi arasında istatistiksel
olarak anlamlı fark bulunmadı (p>0,05).

Sonuç: Bu
çalışmada kullanılan irrigasyon solüsyonları human osteoblast hücre hattı
üzerinde çeşitli derecede toksik etki gösterdi. Uygulama süresinin artması kullanılan
irrigasyon solüsyonlarının  human
osteoblast hücre hattı üzerindeki toksisitesini de  arttırdı.
Toward open-ended fraternal transitions in individuality
Authors: Moreno Matthew A , Ofria Charles
Published: October 2018

The emergence of new replicating entities from the union of simpler entities represent some of the most profound events in natural evolutionary history. Such transitions in individuality are essential to the evolution of the most complex forms of life. As such, understanding these transitions is critical to building artificial systems capable of open-ended evolution. Alas, these transitions are challenging to induce or detect, even with computational organisms. Here, we introduce the DISHTINY (DIStributed Hierarchical Transitions in IndividualitY) platform, which provides simple cell-like organisms with the ability and incentive to unite into new individuals in a manner that can continue to scale to subsequent transitions. The system is designed to encourage these transitions so that they can be studied: organisms that coordinate spatiotemporally can maximize the rate of resource harvest, which is closely linked to their reproductive ability. We demonstrate the hierarchical emergence of multiple levels of individuality among simple cell-like organisms that evolve parameters for manually-designed strategies. During evolution, we observe reproductive division of labor and close cooperation among cells, including resource-sharing, aggregation of resource endowments for propagules, and emergence of an apoptosis response to somatic mutation. Many replicate populations evolved to direct their resources toward low-level groups (behaving like multi-cellular individuals) and many others evolved to direct their resources toward high-level groups (acting as larger-scale multi-cellular individuals).
Flexible piecewise linear model for investigating dose-response relationship in meta-analysis: methodology, examples, and comparison
Authors: Xu Chang , Thabane Lehana , Liu Tong-Zu , Li Ling , Borhan Sayem , Sun Xin
Published: October 2018

Objectives: Dose-response meta-analysis (DRMA) is widely employed to establishing the potential dose-response relationship between continuous exposures and disease outcomes. However, no method is readily available for exploring the relation between a discrete exposure and a binary or continuous outcome. We proposed a piecewise linear (PL) DRMA model as a solution to this issue.

Methods: We illustrated the methodology of PL model in both one-stage DRMA approach and two-stage DRMA approach. The method by testing the equality of slopes of each piecewise was employed to judge if there is “piecewise effect” against simple linear trend. We then used sleep (continuous exposure) and parity (discrete exposure) data as examples to illustrate how to apply PL model in DRMA using the Stata code attached. We also empirically compared the slopes of PL model with simple linear as well as restricted cubic spline (RCS) model.

Results: Both one-stage and two-stage PL DRMA model fitted well in our examples, and the results were similar. Obvious “piecewise effects” were detected in both the two examples by the method we used. In our example, the PL model showed better fitting effect and practical reliable results compared to simple linear model, while similar results for to RCS model.

Conclusion: Piecewise linear function is a simple and valid method for DRMA and can be used for discrete exposures. It also represents a superior model to linear model in DRMA and may be an alternative model to non-linear model.
Do mothers also “manipulate” grandparental care?
Authors: Busch Mari , Olaisen Sandra , Bruksås Ina Jeanette , Folstad Ivar
Published: October 2018

Paternity uncertainty has proven to be a robust ultimate hypothesis for predicting the higher investment in grandchildren observed among maternal grandparents compared to that of the paternal grandparents. Yet, the proximate mechanisms for generating such preferred biases in grandparental investment remain unclear. Here we address two different questions for better understanding the proximate mechanisms leading to the observed bias in grandparental investments: (i) is there a larger emphasis on resemblance descriptions (between grandchildren and grandparent) among daughters than among sons, and (ii) do mothers really believe that their offspring more resemble their parents, i.e., the children’s grandparents, than fathers do? From questioning grandparents, we find that daughters more often and more intensely than sons express opinions about resemblance between their children and their parents, i.e., about grandchild-grandparent resemblance. Moreover, daughters also seem to believe that their children more resemble their grandmother than sons do. The latter is however not the case for beliefs about children’s resemblance to grandfathers. In sum, our results suggest that even in a population of Norwegians, strongly influenced by ideas concerning gender equality, there exist a sexual bias among parents in opinions and descriptions about grandparent-grandchild resemblance. This resemblance bias, which echoes that of mothers biasing resemblance descriptions of newborns to putative fathers, does not seem to represent a conscious manipulation. Yet, it could be instrumental for influencing grandparental investments. We believe that a “manipulative mother hypothesis” might parsimoniously account for many of the results relating to biased alloparenting hitherto not entirely explained by “the paternity uncertainty hypothesis”.
Landscape dynamics of Paspalum quadrifarium grasslands analyzed by Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA)
Authors: Gandini Marcelo L , Lara Bruno D , Moreno Laura Beatriz , Cañibano Maria A , Gandini Patricia A
Published: October 2018

Background. Despite its wide distribution worldwide, only 4.6% of temperate grasslands are included within systems of protected areas. In Argentina, this situation is even more alarming: only 1.05% is protected. The study area (central area of the southern Salado River basin) has a large extent of grasslands of Paspalum quadrifarium (Pq) which has been target since the last century of a variety of agricultural management practices including fire burning for cattle grazing.

Methods. Binary images of presence-absence data of Pq from a 42-year (1974-2016) land cover change study were used as base data. MSPA (Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis) and Network Analysis were performed to the data using Guidos Toolbox for the estimation of habitat and connectivity dynamics of the Pq patches (fragments).

Results. A loss of the coverage area and habitat nuclei of this grassland was observed between the beginning and the end of the study period. A drastic reduction in connectivity was also evident in resulting maps. The number of large Pq grassland fragments (> 50 ha) decreased during the study period, and fragmentation measured as number of components (patches) was higher at the end of study period. The Pq pajonal nuclei had their minimum representativeness in 2000, and recovered slightly in 2011, but with a significant percentage increase of the small patches (=islets) and linear elements as bridges and branches. Large corridors (mainly edge of roads) could be observed at the end of study period, while the total connectivity of the landscape pattern drops abruptly.

Discussion. The habitat reduction could have an impact on the ecosystem functioning and the mobility of some species of native fauna. The connecting elements of the landscape were maintained and/or recovered in percentage in 2011 and 2016. This fact, although favoring the dispersion of the present diversity in the habitat nuclei could cause degradation by an edge effect. On the methodological side, the use of a proved tool as Guidos Toolbox for evaluating forest fragmentation could also be useful for monitoring dynamics of a grassland-habitat fragmentation.
New old news on the “Lobo cerval” (Lynx lynx?) in NE Spain
Authors: Jiménez Juan , Clavero Miguel , Reig-Ferrer Abilio
Published: October 2018

There is growing evidence that two Lynx species were present in Spain until recent times: the Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) in Mediterranean areas and the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in the Atlantic and Alpine ones. The recent presence of the Eurasian lynx is mainly deduced from stories and news about fierce animals known as “lobos cervales” or “tigres”, these being dangerous beasts for livestock, a condition that is difficult to associate with the Iberian lynx. In this work, we provide new records of lynx in NE Iberian Peninsula that blur the geographic boundaries between both species. The contact between the Iberian and Eurasian lynxes could explain the signs of hybridization detected between them.
Species and cell-type properties of classically defined human and rodent neurons and glia
Authors: Xu Xiao , Stoyanova Elitsa I , Lemiesz Agata E , Xing Jie , Mash Deborah C , Heintz Nathaniel
Published: October 2018

Determination of the molecular properties of genetically targeted cell types has led to fundamental insights into mouse brain function and dysfunction. Here, we report an efficient strategy for precise exploration of gene expression and epigenetic events in specific cell types in a range of species, including postmortem human brain. We demonstrate that classically defined, homologous neuronal and glial cell types differ between rodent and human by the expression of hundreds of orthologous, cell specific genes. Confirmation that these genes are differentially active was obtained using epigenetic mapping and immunofluorescence localization. Studies of sixteen human postmortem brains revealed gender specific transcriptional differences, cell-specific molecular responses to aging, and the induction of a shared, robust response to an unknown external event evident in three donor samples. Our data establish a comprehensive approach for analysis of molecular events associated with specific circuits and cell types in a wide variety of human conditions.
RalB directly triggers invasion downstream Ras by mobilizing the Wave complex
Authors: Zago Giulia , Veith Irina , Singh Manish Kumar , Fuhrmann Laetitia , De Beco Simon , Remorino Amanda , Takaoka Saori , Palmeri Marjorie , Berger Frédérique , Brandon Nathalie , El Marjou Ahmed , Vincent-Salomon Anne , Camonis Jacques , Coppey Mathieu , Parrini Maria Carla
Published: October 2018

The two Ral GTPases, RalA and RalB, have crucial roles downstream Ras oncoproteins in human cancers; in particular, RalB is involved in invasion and metastasis. However, therapies targeting Ral signalling are not available yet. By a novel optogenetic approach, we found that light-controlled activation of Ral at plasma-membrane promotes the recruitment of the Wave Regulatory Complex (WRC) via its effector exocyst, with consequent induction of protrusions and invasion. We show that active Ras signals to RalB via two RalGEFs (Guanine nucleotide Exchange Factors), RGL1 and RGL2, to foster invasiveness; RalB contribution appears to be more important than that of MAPK and PI3K pathways. Moreover, on the clinical side, we uncovered a potential role of RalB in human breast cancers by determining that RalB expression at protein level increases in a manner consistent with progression toward metastasis. This work highlights the Ras-RGL1/2-RalB-exocyst-WRC axis as appealing target for novel anticancer strategies.
Regulatory Fate of Cancer Indications in the European Union After Accelerated Approval in the US
Authors: Petersen Tonny Studsgaard , Karstoft Kristian , Sørup Freja Karuna Hemmingsen , Lund Marie , Cramer Allan
Published: November 2024

This cohort study investigates the regulatory fate in the European Union for drugs that received accelerated approval for cancer indications in the US.
Implications of Diagnostic Error in Ocular Surface Disease
Authors: Margolis Todd P. , Galor Anat , Novack Gary D.
Published: November 2024

This Viewpoint addresses the high rate of incorrect ophthalmological diagnoses and harm experienced by patients and examines causes.
Long-Term Blood Pressure Variability and Visual Field Progression in Glaucoma
Authors: Pham Vincent Q. , Nishida Takashi , Moghimi Sasan , Girkin Christopher A. , Fazio Massimo A. , Liebmann Jeffrey M. , Zangwill Linda M. , Weinreb Robert N.
Published: November 2024

Importance

Long-term variability of blood pressure may be associated with visual field (VF) progression in patients with glaucoma.

Objectives

To investigate the association between blood pressure parameters and VF progression over time in patients with glaucoma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study of longitudinal data included patients with suspected or confirmed glaucoma who were selected from the Diagnostic Innovations in Glaucoma Study and the African Descent and Glaucoma Evaluation Study. Patients underwent blood pressure and VF testing from November 2000 to December 2022, and data were analyzed in October 2023.

Exposure

Suspected or confirmed glaucoma.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Mean and SD values of blood pressure variables were calculated for systolic and diastolic arterial pressures. These parameters were incorporated into multivariable mixed-effect models to investigate the association between blood pressure parameters and mean intraocular pressure with rates of VF mean deviation loss. Interaction terms between blood pressure parameters and mean intraocular pressure were also included in the models.

Results

A total of 1674 eyes from 985 patients were assessed (mean [SD] age, 61.2 [0.4] years; 563 female [57.2%]). The mean rate of VF mean deviation change was −0.13 (95% CI, −0.16 to −0.10) dB/y over a mean follow-up of 8.0 (95% CI, 7.7-8.2) years. The interaction terms of higher mean blood pressure and higher SD of blood pressure were associated with faster annual mean deviation changes for both mean arterial pressure (0.02 [95% CI, 0.01-0.04] dB/y per 1-mm Hg higher; P = .001) and diastolic arterial pressure (0.02 [95% CI, 0.01-0.03] dB/y per 1-mm Hg higher; P < .001). The interaction term of higher SD of blood pressure and higher mean intraocular pressure was associated with faster annual mean deviation changes for both mean arterial pressure (0.01 [95% CI, 0.00-0.02] μm per 1-mm Hg higher; P = .003) and diastolic arterial pressure (0.01 [95% CI, 0.00-0.01] μm per 1-mm Hg higher; P = .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, higher mean blood pressure and higher SD of blood pressure were associated with faster VF progression. These findings suggest that long-term variability of blood pressure may be a modifier of the association between intraocular pressure and VF progression in glaucoma.
High‐Performance Circularly Polarized Phosphorescence by Confining Isolated Chromophores with Chiral Counterions
Authors: Ye Wenpeng , Meng Zhengong , Zhan Guixiang , Lv Anqi , Gao Yanhua , Shen Kang , Ma Huili , Shi Huifang , Yao Wei , Wang Lin , Huang Wei , An Zhongfu
Published: November 2024

Organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) featuring circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) is highly valuable in chiroptoelectronics, but the trade‐off issue between luminescence efficiency (Φ) and dissymmetry factor (glum) is still challenging to be solved. Here, chiroptical ionic crystals (R/S‐DNP) are constructed through ionization‐induced assembly, in which isolated chromophore of carboxylic anion is tightly confined by the surrounding chiral counterions. The long‐range ordered and chiral counterions with asymmetric stacking are closely connected with isolated chromophores for molecular assembly via high‐density electrostatic interactions, thus enabling the simultaneous realization of excellent single‐molecule RTP emission and efficient chirality transfer. The synchronous enhancement of ΦP and glum is further achieved as 43.2% and 0.13, respectively. In view of the excellent CPL performances, the ionic materials hold the promising chiroptical encryption via programmable control in an electric‐driven circularly polarized phosphorescent device. This result not only makes deeper insights into the relationship between the structure and chiral RTP property but also provides a guide to developing highly efficient chiroptical materials for potential applications.
Strong Chiral Response of Chiral Plasmonic Nanoparticles to Photonic Orbital Angular Momentum
Authors: Lim Yae‐Chan , Kim Ryeong Myeong , Han Jeong Hyun , Aharonovich Igor , Nam Ki Tae , Kim Sejeong
Published: November 2024

Chiral plasmonic nanomaterials have been widely utilized to study light‐matter interactions due to its capability to amplify chiroptic signals. Conventionally, chiro‐optic experiments have demonstrated interactions between circularly polarized light and materials. However, employing light with chiral phase, i.e., optical vortex, can generate a strong chiral response and holds the potential to unveil extensive material information owing to the infinite topological numbers. In this work, an array of 3D chiral nanoparticles is employed to demonstrate large helical dichroism (HD). Chiral gold nanoparticle arrays are illuminated by vortex beams of opposite helicity, which revealed the high HD value of 0.93. The chiral interaction is theoretically investigated, and enantioselective interaction can be explained by multipole analysis. It is determined that the strong HD is attributed to the interaction of higher‐order multipole moments such as electric quadrupole and magnetic quadrupole moments. This study provides deeper insight into understanding of the interaction between optical vortex and chiral plasmonic nanostructures and paves the way for next‐generation chiroptical applications ranging from ultrasensitive chiral spectroscopy to chiral quantum optics.
Synthesis of Tetrahydro‐β‐carbolines via Cascade Sigmatropic Rearrangements
Authors: Oka Daiki , Ohtsuka Tomomi , Takao Ken‐ichi , Ogura Akihiro
Published: November 2024

We have developed a synthesis for tetrahydro‐β‐carbolines involving cascade sigmatropic rearrangements. The substrates were conveniently prepared from parent anilines via a [2,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement and cyanomethylation. Silver‐mediated decyanation afforded the corresponding iminium cation, which underwent a cascade consisting of an aza‐Cope rearrangement, an aza‐oxa‐Cope rearrangement, an aromatization, and a Pictet‐Spengler reaction, and tetrahydro‐β‐carbolines were obtained as the single product. The reaction involved seven bond scissions and four bond formations and was triggered by a single reagent.
Real‐Time Lactate Detection in A Dynamic Environment Using Micrsensing Needles
Authors: Tang Yuan‐Sin , Huang Ting‐Wei , Yang Tung‐Lin , Cheng Huei‐Ying , Cheng Yu‐Ting , Tsai Hsiao‐En , Lo Yung‐Chieh , Chen Y. S.
Published: November 2024

This study introduces a novel microneedle‐based lactate sensor with SU‐8 micropillar enhancement, designed for real‐time monitoring in dynamic environments. Utilizing inkjet‐printing technology, the sensor demonstrates enhanced sensitivity and a reduced limit of detection (LoD), addressing critical challenges in clinical applications like hemodialysis and patient monitoring in ICU. Design enhancements in the medical steel needle improve stress resistance during insertion, contributing to the sensor's reliability. The experimental findings demonstrate that the microneedle is capable of achieving a high level of linearity at 0.99, with a sensitivity of 3.38 µA mM−1/mm−2–0.5 µA mM−1/mm−2 observed within the range of 0.1–0.5 mM and 1–10 mM, respectively. Meanwhile, the microneedle exhibits a low limit of detection (LoD) of 0.01 mM when tested in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) with varying lactate concentrations. Moreover, it demonstrates a linearity of 0.98, sensitivity of 1.13 µA mM−1 mm−2, and the same LoD of 0.01 mM in urine. The sensor maintains its performance at flow rates up to 500 mL min−1. Overall, this flexible and inkjet‐printed lactate sensor represents a significant advancement in real‐time clinical monitoring technology.
Caboxylative Coupling of N‐(Arylmethyl)sulfonimides with Allyltributylstannane Catalyzed by Palladium Nanoparticles Involving Benzylic C−N Cleavage
Authors: Wu Chaolin , Xie Yanlong , Song Jiliang , Feng Xiujuan , Jian Siqi , Lu Wenchao , Zhu Jiuzhen , Yamamoto Yoshinori , Bao Ming
Published: November 2024

The palladium‐catalyzed three‐component coupling of aryl (hetero) methylsulfonamide, allyltributyltin and carbon dioxide (carboxylative Stille coupling reaction) was successfully conduced to produce β,γ‐unsaturated esters in satisfactory to good yields. The reaction was carried out under mild conditions by using in situ generated palladium nanoparticles as catalyst through the formation of π‐allylpalladium sulfonamide intermediates in the presence of tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB).
Selective SNH Alkylamination of 3(5,6,7,8)‐Nitroquinoline and 5‐Nitroisoquinoline in an Aqueous Medium
Authors: Larin Alexander N. , Borovleva Anastasia A. , Demidov Oleg P. , Avakyan Elena K. , Zubenko Alexander A. , Pobedinskaya Diana Yu. , Ermolenko Artem P. , Kolosov Stepan E. , Borovlev Ivan V.
Published: November 2024

Direct oxidative SNH alkylamination of 3‐, 5‐, 6‐, 7‐, 8‐nitroquinolines and 5‐nitroisoquinoline in an aqueous solution of an aliphatic amines gives rise to the corresponding alkylamino and dialkylamino derivatives of these nitrohetarenes. The nitro group solely dictates the regioselectivity of reactions. The antibacterial activity of some of them has been studied.
Zinc‐Catalysed (3+2) Cycloaddition of Enaminone with Tosylhydrazide to Synthesise 1H‐Pyrazole via C−N and S−N Bond Cleavage
Authors: Roy Sanjukta , Chatterjee Rana , Dandela Rambabu
Published: November 2024

A novel and practical zinc‐catalysed synthesis of 1H‐pyrazole has been developed. The one‐pot protocol enables the cycloaddition of enaminone and tosylhydrazide via C−N and S−N bond breaking process, leading to diverse mono‐substituted pyrazole derivatives in high yields. Moreover, the easily accessible materials, broad substrate scope with excellent functional group tolerance, ease of isolation and open‐air conditions are the key features of the present method.
Distinct Constructs Underlie Patient‐Reported and Performance‐Rated Outcomes after Stroke
Authors: DiCarlo Julie A. , Jaywant Abhishek , Gochyyev Perman , Bonkhoff Anna K. , Hardstone Richard , Erler Kimberly S. , Ranford Jessica , Cloutier Alison , Ward Nathan , Sloane Kelly L. , Schwamm Lee H. , Cramer Steven C. , Lin David J.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs), which capture patients' perspectives on the consequences of health and disease, are widely used in neurological care and research. However, it is unclear how PROMs relate to performance‐rated impairments. Sociodemographic factors are known to affect PROMs. Direct damage to brain regions critical for self‐awareness (i.e., parietal regions and the salience/ventral‐attention network) may also impair self‐report outcomes. This study examined the relationship between PROMs and performance‐based measures in stroke survivors with arm motor impairments. We hypothesized that PROMs would be distinct from performance‐based outcomes, influenced by sociodemographic factors, and linked to damage in brain circuits involved in self‐perception.

Methods

We longitudinally assessed 54 stroke survivors using patient‐reported and performance‐rated measures at 4 timepoints. We used factor analysis to reveal the outcome battery's factorial structure. Linear regression examined the association between classes of measures and sociodemographics. Voxel‐lesion‐symptom‐mapping, region‐of‐interest‐based analysis, and voxel‐lesion‐network‐mapping investigated the relationship between classes of outcomes and stroke‐related injury.

Results

Performance‐based and patient‐reported measures formed distinct factors, consistent across recovery phases. Higher education (β1 = 0.36, p = 0.02) and income adequacy (β2 = 0.48, p = 0.05) were associated with patient‐reported, but not performance‐rated outcomes. Greater parietal lobe injury, irrespective of hemisphere, was associated with worse patient‐reported outcomes; greater corticospinal tract injury related to worse performance‐rated outcomes. Lesions with greater functional connectivity to the salience/ventral‐attention network were associated with worse patient‐reported outcomes (r = −0.35, p = 0.009).

Interpretation

Our findings reveal important differences between performance‐rated and patient‐reported outcomes, each with specific associated factors and anatomy post‐stroke. Incorporating sociodemographic and neuroanatomic characteristics into neurorehabilitation strategies may inform and optimize patient outcomes. ANN NEUROL 2025;97:242–253
Production of Branched Alkanes by Upcycling of Waste Polyethylene over Controlled Acid Sites of SO4/ZrO2‐Al2O3 Catalyst
Authors: Han Wanying , Lin Longfei , Cen Ziyu , Ke Yubin , Xu Qian , Zhu Junfa , Mei Xuelei , Xia Zhanghui , Zheng Xinrui , Wang Yaqin , Liu Yani , He Mingyuan , Wu Haihong , Han Buxing
Published: November 2024

Branched alkanes, which enhance the octane number of gasoline, can be produced from waste polyethylene. However, achieving highly selective production of branched alkanes presents a significant challenge in the upcycling of waste polyethylene. Here, we report a one‐pot process to convert polyethylene into gasoline‐range hydrocarbons (C4–C13) with yield of 73.3 % over SO4/ZrO2‐Al2O3 catalyst at 280 °C. The proportion of branched alkanes reaches 90.1 % within the C4–C13 fraction. Incorporation of sulfate group endows the catalyst with strong Lewis acid sites and weak and moderate Brønsted acid sites. In situ X‐ray absorption, in situ infrared spectroscopy, in situ small angle neutron scattering, and DFT calculations reveal that polyethylene activation occurs through the synergy between sulfate groups and strong Lewis acid sites (Zr sites). The weak and moderate Brønsted acid sites preferentially catalyze the isomerization and type A β‐scission processes, which favors the formation of branched alkanes, while suppressing competing reactions that produce straight‐chain alkanes.