bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistent involvement of anterior mesorectal fascia in carcinoma rectum – extended resection of rectum vs total pelvic exenteration: results from a single‐centre retrospective study
Authors: Verma K. , Engineer R. , Ostwal V. , Kumar S. , Arya S. , Desouza A. L. , Saklani A. P.
Published: July 2018

Aim

Involvement of the anterior mesorectal fascia (iAMRF) after neoadjuvant treatment leads to either resection of the involved organ alone [extended resection of the rectum (ERR)] or total pelvic exenteration (TPE). The purpose of this study was to compare the rate of recurrence and survival of patients undergoing ERR or TPE for iAMRF after neoadjuvant treatment. The outcome of patients who underwent total mesorectal excision after downstaging was also compared.

Method

This was a retrospective study of primary rectal cancer patients.

Results

Of 237 patients, 61 (21.5%) patients with nonmetastatic carcinoma rectum had iAMRF at baseline. Ten patients defaulted before completion of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. After neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, 22 patients (43.1%) developed systemic metastases, seven patients (13.8%) were downstaged to free anterior mesorectal fascia and underwent total mesorectal excision (anterior resection/abdominoperineal resection) and the remaining 22 patients (43.1%) had persistent iAMRF. Thirteen patients with persistent iAMRF underwent ERR, whereas nine patients underwent TPE. The median duration of hospital stay in the TPE group was 13 days (10–26), whereas it was 7 days (5–21) in the ERR group. A clear circumferential resection margin, R0 resection, was achieved in all patients with TPE and ERR. After a median follow‐up of 31.6 months, five patients with TPE (55.6%), four patients with ERR (30.7%) and three patients in the downstaged group (42.9%) developed systemic recurrence. None of the patients with TPE and the downstaged group developed local recurrence, whereas three patients with ERR (23.1%) developed local recurrence. Median disease‐free survival was 12.3 months in the TPE group, 18.9 months in the ERR group and 10.6 months in the downstaged group, whereas mean overall survival was 36.2, 32.8 and 27.9 months, respectively.

Conclusion

Although there is no significant difference in the overall survival and disease‐free survival, ERR is associated with a high risk of local recurrence compared to TPE and the downstaged group.
Up‐scaling local‐habitat models for large‐scale conservation: Assessing suitable areas for the brown bear comeback in Europe
Authors: Scharf Anne K. , Fernández Néstor
Published: July 2018

Aim

Large carnivore populations in Europe are expanding into new areas. This generates opportunities to improve their conservation status, but also creates a need to address new conflicts with humans. Species management units are constrained by administrative boundaries, but effective conservation and conflict management require a continental‐scale perspective on the opportunities and limitations for expanding populations. We assessed the conservation applicability and the uncertainties of transferring and up‐scaling local habitat suitability models from multiple populations in support of large‐scale, transboundary species conservation.

Location

Europe.

Methods

We evaluated the accuracy of local population models to predict European brown bear (Ursus arctos) distribution patterns in other populations and at the continental scale. We also assessed the benefits of combining predictions from multiple local population models, and we evaluated the limitations of transferring models among populations and environmental settings. Last, we estimated the availability of unoccupied suitable habitats in Europe for colonization by expanding populations.

Results

We found that integrating habitat predictions from multiple populations outperformed predictions from most individual populations. Results showed that about 37% of potentially suitable brown bear habitat in Europe remains unoccupied. As a synthesis of our results, we provide a set of predictive maps for the expansion of brown bears at the continental scale, including predictions from individual habitat models and a multimodel predictive map.

Main conclusions

We show that integrating habitat models from multiple populations provides richer and more reliable information on the distribution of suitable habitats in data deficient areas. This integration yields more reliable predictions compared to those based on individual populations and has important implications to manage species expansions and the associated conflicts. We also identified major limitations in transferring predictions among habitats; therefore, it is critical to enhance the reproducibility of habitat suitability models to apply local‐scale habitat studies to broader‐scale conservation practice.
Water level influences migratory patterns of anadromous brown trout in small streams
Authors: Jonsson Bror , Jonsson Nina , Jonsson Marius
Published: July 2018

Habitats modify the population ecology of species. Here, we show how low water level influences abundance and size of adult anadromous brown trout (Salmo trutta) entering a small, South Norwegian stream for spawning. After smolting, the fish appear chiefly to feed within 10 km of the home stream. In the autumn, South Norwegian streams typically flood because of heavy rainfall, when the anadromous brown trout entered from the sea. Mean annual duration of the upstream migration period was 34 days and ended when the flooding ended and the water temperature dropped to below 4°C. During most of the migration period, on average two trout ascended the river per day. The sexes entered the spawning area concurrently, and the male:female ratio of the anadromous trout was 1.27. No fish entered when the water depth just downstream of the spawning area was below 5 cm, and mean number of fish increased with increasing water depth to ca. 30 cm, but not at higher flows when the ascent gradually decreased. Mean and maximum size of the entering spawners increased with water depth between 5 and 16 cm. Among those that had been to sea, most were recaptured in the home stream, 4% in other streams, but only two of the strays were caught close to spawning time. The present results illustrate that population traits of anadromous brown trout from a small stream differ from those in larger rivers, probably because of selection associated with water flow.
Soil microbial community and activity are affected by integrated agricultural practices in China
Authors: Zhu X. C. , Sun L. Y. , Song F. B. , Liu S. Q. , Liu F. L. , Li X. N.
Published: July 2018

Sustainable agricultural management practices improve soil processes, prevent soil erosion and consequently enhance crop productivity. The integrated agricultural practice (IP) developed in northeast China, by altering row spacing of planting, adopting no‐tillage and returning all crop residues, showed great benefit in sustaining crop yield. However, its effect on the soil microbiome remains largely elusive. This study evaluated the effect of 12‐year integrated agricultural practice on the structure and activity of the soil microbial community at different soil depths in China's Mollisols zone. The experiment consisted of integrated agricultural practice and conventional practice (CP) treatments in a split‐plot arrangement. The soil microbial community was characterized by MiSeq sequencing. The results showed that agricultural practices affected 12 phyla, 24 classes, 32 orders and 75 families in the bacterial community and one phyla, four classes, 12 orders and 18 families in the fungal community. Integrated agricultural practice resulted in greater bacterial richness and diversity, and increased the relative abundances of Actinobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, Verrucomicrobia and Ascomycota, but reduced Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes and Basidiomycota in the dominant bacterial and fungal phyla. These findings suggested that integrated agricultural practice modified the soil physiochemical properties and consequently altered microbial community structure and diversity, which in turn affected soil microbial biomass and enzyme activities. These changes under integrated agricultural practice could have contributed to the enhanced crop yield, suggesting that IP is a sustainable agricultural practice.

Highlights

How does soil microbial community change in the IP and CP soils?

IP affected the soil microbial community and activity.

Bacterial and fungal community structure correlated significantly with soil physiochemical properties.

IP is a promising sustainable agricultural practice.
Response of the mouse sublingual gland to spaceflight
Authors: Dagdeviren Didem , Beallias John , Khan Izaz , Mednieks Maija I. , Hand Arthur R.
Published: July 2018

The ultrastructure and immunohistochemistry of secretory proteins of sublingual glands were studied in mice flown on the US space shuttles Discovery [Space Transportation System (STS)‐131] and Atlantis (STS‐135). No differences in mucous acinar or serous demilune cell structure were observed between sublingual glands of ground (control) and flight mice. In contrast, previous studies showed autophagy and apoptosis of parotid serous acinar cells in flight mice. The expression of parotid secretory protein (PSP) in sublingual demilune cells of STS‐131 flight mice was significantly increased compared with ground (control) mice but decreased in STS‐135 flight mice. Similarly, expression of mucin (MUC‐19) in acinar cells and expression of the type II regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PKA‐RII) in demilune cells were increased in STS‐131 flight mice and decreased in STS‐135 flight mice, but not significantly. Demilune cell and parotid protein (DCPP) was slightly decreased in mice from both flights, and nuclear PKA‐RII was slightly increased. These results indicate that the response of salivary glands to spaceflight conditions varies among the different glands, cell types, and secretory proteins. Additionally, the spaceflight environment, including the effects of microgravity, modifies protein expression. Determining changes in salivary proteins may lead to development of non‐invasive methods to assess the physiological status of astronauts.
Feasibility and effectiveness of home‐based exercise programs on physical performance and health‐related quality of life of the older people dwelling on an isolated, doctor‐less island
Authors: Akihiro Shintaro , Taira Yaeko , Maeda Keita , Natsume Keisuke , Sakakima Harutoshi
Published: July 2018

Aim

To promote preventive care among older individuals dwelling on an isolated, doctor‐less island, we investigated the feasibility and the efficacy of a home‐based exercise program, depending on their functional status and health‐related quality of life.

Methods

A total of 23 older (mean age 72.6 years) participants were assigned to a home‐based exercise program (intervention group), and 34 older (mean age 74.2 years) participants were assigned to a group without any intervention (control group). The participants of the intervention group attended the exercise program three times a week for 3 months. The exercise program consisted of various exercises involving stretching, muscle strengthening, balance retraining and walking. The physical performance, Functional Independence Measure and Short‐Form 36‐item health survey were used to assess the physical and the mental wellbeing of the participants.

Results

There was no significant difference between the changes in physical performance at baseline and post 3 months in both groups. However, the motor and the cognitive Functional Independence Measure scores significantly improved in the intervention group post 3 months. The domains of the Short‐Form 36‐item health survey improved post 3 months; particularly, significant improvement was observed in the physical functions, general health, vitality, mental health and mental component summary.

Conclusions

Although an isolated island has several problems to support preventive care services, such as a lack of medical resources and availability of only a few healthcare workers, the present study provides evidence on the feasibility and efficacy of nurse‐led home‐based exercise programs for improving the physical and mental health of the older people dwelling on an isolated, doctor‐less island. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1313–1317.
Recognition of Regional Water Table Patterns for Estimating Recharge Rates in Shallow Aquifers
Authors: Gilmore Troy E. , Zlotnik Vitaly , Johnson Mason
Published: July 2018

We propose a new method for groundwater recharge rate estimation in regions with stream‐aquifer interactions, at a linear scale on the order of 10 km and more. The method is based on visual identification and quantification of classically recognized water table contour patterns. Simple quantitative analysis of these patterns can be done manually from measurements on a map, or from more complex GIS data extraction and curve fitting. Recharge rate is then estimated from the groundwater table contour parameters, streambed gradients, and aquifer transmissivity using an analytical model for groundwater flow between parallel perennial streams. Recharge estimates were obtained in three regions (areas of 1500, 2200, and 3300 km2) using available water table maps produced by different methods at different times in the area of High Plains Aquifer in Nebraska. One region is located in the largely undeveloped Nebraska Sand Hills area, while the other two regions are located at a transition zone from Sand Hills to loess‐covered area and include areas where groundwater is used for irrigation. Obtained recharge rates are consistent with other independent estimates. The approach is useful and robust diagnostic tool for preliminary estimates of recharge rates, evaluation of the quality of groundwater table maps, identification of priority areas for further aquifer characterization and expansion of groundwater monitoring networks prior to using more detailed methods.
TERT promoter mutations in solitary fibrous tumour
Authors: Demicco Elizabeth G , Wani Khalida , Ingram Davis , Wagner Michael , Maki Robert G , Rizzo Anthony , Meeker Alan , Lazar Alexander J , Wang Wei‐Lien
Published: July 2018

Aims

TERT promoter mutations have been reported in 22% of solitary fibrous tumours (SFT) and have been associated with poor outcomes. We performed testing for TERT hot‐spot mutations in a large series of SFT in order to confirm this finding and explore clinicopathological correlates of mutation status.

Methods and results

PCR for TERT hot‐spot mutations C250T and C228T was performed on DNA extracted from 216 SFT and mutation status correlated with clinicopathological factors, including predicted risk for metastasis using a previously published model. Testing was successful in 189 tumours from 172 patients, and mutations were present in 29%. The presence of TERT promoter mutation was associated with larger primary tumour size, necrosis and older patient age. TERT promoter mutations were most common in high‐risk tumours (nine of 20, 45%), and were present in 11 of 26 (42%) moderate‐risk tumours and 14 of 67 (21%) low‐risk tumours (P = 0.004). Overall, TERT mutations were associated with shorter time to first metastasis (P = 0.04), but had no impact on overall survival. TERT promoter mutation status was found not to provide additional prognostic information in low‐ and high‐risk SFT, but did identify a group of patients with intermediate risk SFT who had an increased risk of metastasis.

Conclusions

TERT promoter mutations were more frequent in SFT with higher risk of metastasis, but TERT promoter mutation status was not a reliable predictor of clinical outcome by itself. However, mutations in the TERT promoter may be useful in further stratifying patients with intermediate risk tumours.
Association between smoking status assessed with plasma‐cotinine and inflammatory and endothelial biomarkers in HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative individuals
Authors: Ahlström MG , Knudsen A , Ullum H , Gerstoft J , Kjaer A , Lebech A‐M , Hasbak P , Obel N
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Smoking is a major contributor to mortality and morbidity in HIV‐positive individuals. Our primary objective was to evaluate the association between smoking status determined by plasma cotinine (P‐cotinine) concentration and inflammatory and endothelial biomarkers in HIV‐positive versus HIV‐negative individuals.

Methods

We studied eight inflammatory/endothelial biomarkers [high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), E‐selectin, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM‐1), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM‐1), matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP‐9), myeloperoxidase (MPO), tissue type plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (tPAI) and endothelin] in 105 HIV‐positive individuals and 105 HIV‐negative individuals matched on age, sex and self‐reported smoking status. Smoking status was determined using P‐cotinine (a concentration > 14 ng/mL was defined as demonstrating exposure to smoke). We used linear regression models to (1) examine the association between smoking status and inflammatory/endothelial biomarkers in HIV‐positive compared with HIV‐negative individuals, and (2) to determine whether there was evidence to suggest that the impact of smoking status on the biomarkers differed between HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative individuals.

Results

Of the eight biomarkers, smokers had increased hsCRP, sICAM‐1 and MMP‐9 concentrations irrespective of HIV status and increasing P‐cotinine concentration was associated with increasing hsCRP concentration. We found no interaction between smoking and HIV status. HIV infection was associated with increased hsCRP, E‐selectin, sVCAM‐1, sICAM‐1 and MMP‐9 concentrations. Self‐reported smoking status differed substantially from smoking status assessed with P‐cotinine.

Conclusions

Several biomarkers were associated with smoking status and HIV status. However, our data do not indicate that the effects of smoking on the biomarkers differ between HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative individuals.
Comparison of the effectiveness of various rotary and reciprocating systems with different surface treatments to remove gutta‐percha and an epoxy resin‐based sealer from straight root canals
Authors: Bago I. , Suk M. , Katić M. , Gabrić D. , Anić I.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To compare the Reciproc Blue, Reciproc and ProTaper Universal Retreatment systems with regard to the effective removal of epoxy resin‐based sealer and gutta‐percha during the retreatment of oval, straight root canals.

Methodology

Forty‐five extracted, human mandibular first premolars with single straight oval canals were selected on the basis of cone beam computed tomography evaluations. The root canals were instrumented with the ProTaper Next system up to the X2 file, and filled with gutta‐percha and epoxy resin‐based sealer using the cold lateral condensation technique. After 1 month, the samples were randomly divided into three groups (n = 15) according to the retreatment system used: Reciproc Blue R40, Reciproc R40 and ProTaper Universal. The specimens were scanned at the resolution of 1.2 μm by a microcomputed tomography device after the root filling and retreatment procedures, and the decrease in the volume of filling material after each retreatment protocol was measured. The results were analysed using the Kruskal–Wallis test and additional box‐and‐whisker plots.

Results

Although the volume of the filling material decreased significantly in all three groups (P < 0.05), none of the systems removed the material completely. The Reciproc system removed significantly more material than the ProTaper Universal (P < 0.001) and Reciproc Blue (P = 0.005) systems, with the latter two exhibiting equal volumes of remaining material (P = 0.068).

Conclusion

The Reciproc system was more effective than the Reciproc Blue and ProTaper Universal Retreatment systems during the removal of filling material from oval, straight canals, although none of the systems completely removed the filling material.
Low accuracy and confidence in chest radiograph interpretation amongst junior doctors and medical students
Authors: Cheung Timothy , Harianto Harry , Spanger Manfred , Young Alan , Wadhwa Vikas
Published: July 2018

Accurate chest X‐ray (CXR) interpretation is an essential skill in clinical practice. Previous studies have shown poor accuracy and confidence rates (CR) of CXR interpretation by junior doctors and medical students. We presented 10 chest radiographs via an online questionnaire to Australian medical students and junior doctors, who were asked to identify the radiographic abnormality from a list of 15 options and to rate their confidence for each answer. Of 67 complete responses, junior doctors achieved a mean score of 57.6% and medical students 56.1%, with CR of 67 versus 58% respectively. There was a significant positive relationship between accuracy and CR among junior doctors (Pearson's coefficient + 0.798, P = 0.006) and students (Pearson's coefficient + 0.716, P = 0.020). This study identified similarities in strength and weakness in CXR interpretation between medical students and junior doctors. There was a positive association between test scores and self‐rated confidence scores.
Access and utilization of mental health services for immigrants and refugees: Perspectives of immigrant service providers
Authors: Salami Bukola , Salma Jordana , Hegadoren Kathleen
Published: July 2018

Immigrant and refugee populations experience life stressors due to difficult migration journeys and challenges in leaving one country and adapting to another. These life stressors result in adverse mental health outcomes when coupled with a lack of adequate support‐enhancing resources. One area of support is access to and use of mental health services to prevent and address mental health concerns. Immigrant service providers in Canada support the integration and overall well‐being of newcomers. This study focuses on immigrant service providers’ perceptions of access to and use of mental health services for immigrants and refugees in Alberta. A qualitative descriptive design was used to collect and analyse the perspectives of 53 immigrant service providers recruited from nine immigrant serving agencies in Alberta between November 2016 and January 2017. Data were collected using a combination of individual interviews and focus groups, followed by thematic data analysis to identify relevant themes. Barriers to access and use of mental health services include language barriers, cultural interpretations of mental health, stigma around mental illness, and fear of negative repercussions when living with a mental illness. Strategies to improve mental health service delivery include developing community‐based services, attending to financial barriers, training immigrant service providers on mental health, enhancing collaboration across sectors in mental health service delivery, and advancing the role of interpreters and cultural brokers. Overall, immigrant service providers present a nuanced view of the complex and inter‐related barriers immigrants and refugees experience and identify potential approaches to enhancing mental health service delivery.
A systematic literature review of the effect of anthocyanins on gut microbiota populations
Authors: Igwe E. O. , Charlton K. E. , Probst Y. C. , Kent K. , Netzel M. E.
Published: July 2018

Background

Evidence has shown that anthocyanins, a subclass of polyphenol, are metabolised in the gut, modulate bacterial species and exert bioactive effects through this interaction.

Methods

A systematic literature review was undertaken to determine the level of current evidence for the association between anthocyanin intake and changes in gut microbiota populations. The studies included were also assessed for the different techniques used in microbiota determination. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) guidelines, scientific databases, including Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and MEDLINE, were searched up to June 2017. Details on population/sample, study design, intervention/control, dosage and method of microbiota determination were extracted.

Results

Six studies (three in vitro, two animal and one human trials) were included in the review, which showed that anthocyanins induced a significant proliferative effect on Bifidobacterium spp., known for their wide use in probiotics and for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. There was also an observed inhibition of Clostridium histolyticum, which was shown to be pathogenic in humans. The depth of analysis is an important consideration for the choice of microbiota determination technique with respect to a comprehensive, high‐resolution microbiota analysis or analysis of the main microbiota taxa.

Conclusions

Very limited research has been carried out in the area of anthocyanins and gut microbiota; beneficial effects have generally been observed, and further clinical trials in humans are needed to confirm changes to gut microbes in relation to dietary anthocyanin intake and potential health benefits.
Repeated Stops for a Red Light Induced a Left‐Superior Asymmetrical Brain Activity in the Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy Reflecting Approach Motivation of Anger in Elderly Adults but not in Younger Adults
Authors: Nakata Ryuzaburo , Kubo‐Kawai Namiko , Okanoya Kazuo , Kawai Nobuyuki
Published: July 2018

Previous electroencephalography studies on anger suggest that greater left than right frontal cortical activity is associated with approach motivation of anger. Our previous study showed that greater left‐superior frontal activation of electroencephalography was associated with subjective anger during a traffic jam simulation that forced participants to maintain a slower speed than expected in elderly adults, but not in young adults. We subsequently observed similar left‐superior frontal brain activity using near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in elderly adults in the same driving situation. Using NIRS, the present study demonstrated that the elderly, but not young adults, exhibited left‐superior brain activity in the front‐dorsolateral area when they were forced to stop four times at a red traffic light in a driving simulator. Driving through the same intersections with green lights did not elicit brain activation in either age group. After four red lights, but not after four green lights, a yellow light induced left‐superior brain activity in elderly adults. This asymmetric brain activity is associated with Trail Making Test score, which reflects executive functioning. These results are discussed with regard to the inhibitory potential of aged adults.
The LaCEP1 peptide modulates cluster root morphology in Lupinus albus
Authors: Zhou Yaping , Sarker Upama , Neumann Günter , Ludewig Uwe
Published: July 2018

White lupin cluster roots are specialized brush‐like root structures that are formed in some species under phosphorus (P)‐deficient conditions. They intensely secrete protons and organic acid anions for solubilization and acquisition of sparingly soluble phosphates. Phytohormones and sucrose modulate cluster root number, but the molecular mechanisms of cluster root formation have been elusive. Here, a novel peptide phytohormone was identified that affects cluster root development. It belongs to the C‐TERMINALLY-ENCODED PEPTIDE (CEP) family. Members of that family arrest root growth and modulate branching in model species. LaCEP1 was highly expressed in the pre‐emergence zone of clusters. Over‐expression of the gene encoding the LaCEP1 propeptide resulted in moderate inhibition of cluster root formation. The primary and lateral root lengths of lupin were little affected by the overexpression, but LaCEP1 reduced cluster rootlet and root hair elongation. Addition of a 15‐mer core peptide derived from LaCEP1 similarly altered root morphology and modified cluster activity, suggesting that a core sequence of the propeptide is functionally sufficient. Stable overexpression in Arabidopsis confirmed the LaCEP1 function in root growth inhibition across species. Taken together, the root inhibitory effects of the LaCEP1 phytohormone suggest a role as of a regulatory module involved in cluster root development in white lupin.
Regulation and governance versus criminology: Disciplinary divides, intersections, and opportunities
Authors: Almond Paul , van Erp Judith
Published: July 2018

This paper seeks to bridge the disciplinary gap between regulation and governance studies, and criminology. Based on a review of theoretical and empirical work on corporate crime, this paper argues that divergent approaches to questions of individual agency, localized variety, and political context, have drawn these two disciplines in different directions. Regulatory governance scholarship has thrived as a discipline, but has also narrowed its focus around these issues. Corporate criminology offers a means of broadening this focus by drawing attention to the normative theorizing behind the regulatory project. At the same time, however, insights drawn from regulatory governance scholarship can prompt corporate criminology to innovate by broadening the scope of its engagement beyond the sphere of traditional criminal justice. The paper argues for the development of a research agenda to sit at their intersection, to engage with the challenges that exist at the interface between criminal and regulatory law.
Comparison of Mental Skills of Elite and Non-Elite Athletes
Authors: Erciş Sertaç
Published: July 2018

The main purpose of this reseach was to compare mental skills of elite and non-elite boys team athletes by Ottawa Questionnare. The reseach study was a descriptive-applied one. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire based on Ottawa questionnare that measured some mental skills factors. The subjects were 40 elite athletes and 40 non-elite athletes that they were randomaly taken up of basketball, volleyball, handball and futsall sport tournaments. T independent test was applied in order to analyze the related data to compare the results at p<0.05 level. The results indicated that the rate of Goal setting, self-confidence, Commitment, Stress reactions, Relaxation, Fear control, Activation, Focusing, Imagery, Competion planning, Mental practice and Refocusing skills is higher in elite athletic boy students in compare to non-elite ones.
Thoughts Behaviors of Parents on Motivating Their Children Aged 4-6 for Music
Authors: Göncü İlknur Özal
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study is to identify the thoughts and behaviors of parents in motivating their children aged 4-6 for music, and for a hobby or profession related to music.While collecting the qualitative data for the study, literature review model has been used. For the collection of the quantitative data, on the other hand, a questionnaire has been applied to the parents of children. Collected data has been processed on SPSS and displayed in tables consisting of frequency (n) and percentage (%) values.Population of the research consists of the parents of children enrolled to the preschools affiliated to the official primary schools of Ministry of Education, located in the center of Ankara. The sample of the research, on the other hand, consists of 150 parents of children aged 4-6, who were enrolled to a total of 10 official preschool education institutions in the 2017-2018 school year, affiliated to the Ministry of Education and located in in the center of Ankara. The sample group has been determined through random sampling method. Findings of the study mainly reveal that; even though the parents encourage their children to listen to music, sing and engage in music most of the time, they do not want their children to choose a profession related to this field.
Nitrogen acceptor in 2H-polytype synthetic MoS2 assessed by multifrequency electron spin resonance
Authors: Schoenaers Ben , Stesmans Andre , Afanas’ev Valery V.
Published: July 2018

Electron spin resonance (ESR) study on 2H-polytype synthetic MoS2 revealed the N acceptor dopants as being characterized by a spectrum of axial symmetry [g∥ = 2.032(2); g⊥ = 2.270(2)], typical for a hole-type center in MoS2. The N impurities substitute for S sites, with a density of ∼2.3 × 1017 cm−3, which accounts for the overall p-type doping. With respect to measurements for the applied magnetic field directed along the c-axis, the signal consists of a 14N primary hyperfine triplet of splitting constant A∥ = 14.7 ± 0.2 G superimposed on a correlated Gaussian single central line of peak-to-peak width ΔBpp = 15.3 ± 0.5 G, the latter making up only ∼26% of the total signal intensity. The current work extends on these results through extensive monitoring of the temperature (T) dependence of salient ESR parameters and studying the impact of thermal treatment. ESR signal saturation studies indicate a N acceptor spin–lattice relaxation time T1 (4.2 K) ≈ 3 × 10−4 s, notably different from the much smaller As acceptor’s T1 in geological MoS2. Concerning the thermal stability of the dopant, the N acceptor is found to be drastically passivated when exposed to H2 at ∼500 °C. Yet, subsequent reactivation attempts in vacuum at temperatures up to 740 °C appear unsuccessful, urging great caution with conventional forming gas treatments at T ≳ 500 °C. Combination of careful K- and Q-band ESR monitoring of the T-dependent signal intensity resulted in the consolidation of the N dopant as a shallow acceptor of activation energy Ea = 45 ± 7 meV. The consolidated results establish N as a promising candidate for stable covalently bonded p-type doping of MoS2 layers intended for application in novel nanoelectronic devices.
Investigation of phonatory characteristics using ex vivo rabbit larynges
Authors: Döllinger Michael , Kniesburges Stefan , Berry David A. , Birk Veronika , Wendler Olaf , Dürr Stephan , Alexiou Christoph , Schützenberger Anne
Published: July 2018

Quantitative analysis of phonatory characteristics of rabbits has been widely neglected. However, preliminary studies established the rabbit larynx as a potential model of human phonation. This study reports quantitative data on phonation using ex vivo rabbit larynx models to achieve more insight into dependencies of three main components of the phonation process, including airflow, vocal fold dynamics, and the acoustic output. Sustained phonation was induced in 11 ex vivo rabbit larynges. For 414 phonatory conditions, vocal fold vibrations, acoustic, and aerodynamic parameters were analyzed as functions of longitudinal vocal fold pre-stress, applied air flow, and glottal closure insufficiency. Dimensions of the vocal folds were measured and histological data were analyzed. Glottal closure characteristics improved for increasing longitudinal pre-stress and applied airflow. For the subglottal pressure signal only the cepstral peak prominence showed dependency on glottal closure. In contrast, vibrational, acoustic, and aerodynamic parameters were found to be highly dependent on the degree of glottal closure: The more complete the glottal closure during phonation, the better the aerodynamic and acoustic characteristics. Hence, complete or at least partial glottal closure appears to enhance acoustic signal quality. Finally, results validate the ex vivo rabbit larynx as an effective model for analyzing the phonatory process.
Modeling sound scattering using a combination of the edge source integral equation and the boundary element method
Authors: Martin Sara R. , Svensson U. Peter , Slechta Jan , Smith Julius O.
Published: July 2018

A hybrid method for sound scattering calculations is presented in this paper. The boundary element method (BEM) is combined with a recently developed edge source integral equation (ESIE) [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 133, 3681–3691 (2013)]. Although the ESIE provides accurate results for convex, rigid polyhedra, it has several numerical challenges, one of which applies to certain radiation directions. The proposed method, denoted ESIEBEM, overcomes this problem with certain radiation directions by applying a similar approach as BEM. First, the sound pressure is calculated on the surface of the scattering object using the ESIE, and then second, the scattered sound is obtained at the receiver point using the Kirchhoff-Helmholtz boundary integral equation, as BEM does. The three methods have been compared for the scattering by a rigid cube. Based on results from several discretizations, ESIE and ESIEBEM results are typically (90% quartile) within 3–4 · 10−4 for a kL-value of 1.83 and 2 · 10−3 for kL = 9.15, L being the cube length, of reference results computed with the BEM. The computational cost of ESIEBEM appears to be lower than BEM.
The Integrative Conjugative Element (ICE) of
Mycoplasma agalactiae
: Key Elements Involved in Horizontal Dissemination and Influence of Coresident ICEs
Authors: Baranowski Eric , Dordet-Frisoni Emilie , Sagné Eveline , Hygonenq Marie-Claude , Pretre Gabriela , Claverol Stéphane , Fernandez Laura , Nouvel Laurent Xavier , Citti Christine
Published: July 2018

The discovery of integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) in wall-less mycoplasmas and the demonstration of their role in massive gene flows within and across species have shed new light on the evolution of these minimal bacteria. Of these, the ICE of the ruminant pathogen
Mycoplasma agalactiae
(ICEA) represents a prototype and belongs to a new clade of the Mutator-like superfamily that has no preferential insertion site and often occurs as multiple chromosomal copies. Here, functional genomics and mating experiments were combined to address ICEA functions and define the minimal ICEA chassis conferring conjugative properties to
M. agalactiae
. Data further indicated a complex interaction among coresident ICEAs, since the minimal ICEA structure was influenced by the occurrence of additional ICEA copies that can
trans
-complement conjugation-deficient ICEAs. However, this cooperative behavior was limited to the CDS14 surface lipoprotein, which is constitutively expressed by coresident ICEAs, and did not extend to other ICEA proteins, including the
cis
-acting DDE recombinase and components of the mating channel whose expression was detected only sporadically. Remarkably, conjugation-deficient mutants containing a single ICEA copy knocked out in
cds14
can be complemented by neighboring cells expressing CDS14. This result, together with those revealing the conservation of CDS14 functions in closely related species, may suggest a way for mycoplasma ICEs to extend their interaction outside their chromosomal environment. Overall, this report provides a first model of conjugative transfer in mycoplasmas and offers valuable insights into understanding horizontal gene transfer in this highly adaptive and diverse group of minimal bacteria.

IMPORTANCE
Integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) are self-transmissible mobile genetic elements that are key mediators of horizontal gene flow in bacteria. Recently, a new category of ICEs was identified that confer conjugative properties to mycoplasmas, a highly adaptive and diverse group of wall-less bacteria with reduced genomes. Unlike classical ICEs, these mobile elements have no preferential insertion specificity, and multiple mycoplasma ICE copies can be found randomly integrated into the host chromosome. Here, the prototype ICE of
Mycoplasma agalactiae
was used to define the minimal conjugative machinery and to propose the first model of ICE transfer in mycoplasmas. This model unveils the complex interactions taking place among coresident ICEs and suggests a way for these elements to extend their influence outside their chromosomal environment. These data pave the way for future studies aiming at deciphering chromosomal transfer, an unconventional mechanism of DNA swapping that has been recently associated with mycoplasma ICEs.
Viral Entry Properties Required for Fitness in Humans Are Lost through Rapid Genomic Change during Viral Isolation
Authors: Iketani Sho , Shean Ryan C. , Ferren Marion , Makhsous Negar , Aquino Dolly B. , des Georges Amedee , Rima Bert , Mathieu Cyrille , Porotto Matteo , Moscona Anne , Greninger Alexander L.
Published: July 2018

IMPORTANCE

Human parainfluenza virus 3 is an important cause of morbidity and mortality among infants, the immunocompromised, and the elderly. Using deep genomic sequencing of HPIV-3-positive clinical material and its subsequent viral isolate, we discover a number of known and novel coding mutations in the main HPIV-3 attachment protein HN during brief exposure to immortalized cells. These mutations significantly alter function of the fusion complex, increasing fusion promotion by HN as well as generally decreasing neuraminidase activity and increasing HN-receptor engagement. These results show that viruses may evolve rapidly in culture even during primary isolation of the virus and before the first passage and reveal features of fitness for humans that are obscured by rapid adaptation to laboratory conditions.
Neutralization Mechanisms of Two Highly Potent Antibodies against Human Enterovirus 71
Authors: Zhu Ling , Xu Kangwei , Wang Nan , Cao Lei , Wu Junlan , Gao Qiang , Fry Elizabeth E. , Stuart David I. , Rao Zihe , Wang Junzhi , Wang Xiangxi
Published: July 2018

Despite significant advances in health care, outbreaks of infections by enteroviruses (EVs) continue to plague the Asia-Pacific region every year. Enterovirus 71 (EV71) causes hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD), for which there are currently no therapeutics. Here, we report two new antibodies, A9 and D6, that potently neutralize EV71. A9 exhibited a 50% neutralizing concentration (neut
50
) value of 0.1 nM against EV71, which was 10-fold lower than that observed for D6. Investigation into the mechanisms of neutralization revealed that binding of A9 to EV71 blocks receptor binding but also destabilizes and damages the virus capsid structure. In contrast, D6 destabilizes the capsid only slightly but interferes more potently with the attachment of the virus to the host cells. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of A9 and D6 bound with EV71 shed light on the locations and nature of the epitopes recognized by the two antibodies. Although some regions of the epitopes recognized by the two antibodies overlap, there are differences that give rise to dissimilarities in potency as well as in the mechanisms of neutralization. Interestingly, the overlapping regions of the epitopes encompass the site that the virus uses to bind SCARB2, explaining the reason for the observed blocking of the virus-receptor interaction by the two antibodies. We also identified structural elements that might play roles in modulating the stability of the EV71 particles, including particle integrity. The molecular features of the A9 and D6 epitopes unveiled in this study open up new avenues for rationally designing antiviral drugs.

IMPORTANCE
During the course of viral infections, the human body produces neutralizing antibodies which play a defining role in clearing the virus. From this study, we report two new, highly potent neutralizing antibodies, A9 and D6, against enterovirus 71 (EV71), the causative agent of HFMD. Both antibodies prevent the virus from entering the host cell, a step that is important for establishing a successful infection. A9 destabilizes and damages the virus capsid that forms an outer protective covering around the genome of the virus, while also interfering with virus attachment to the host cells. In contrast, D6 only prevents binding of the virus to its receptor(s). The mechanism of neutralization of A9 is unique and has not been observed before for neutralizing antibodies targeting EVs. The two antibodies that we are reporting in this study have potential to be developed into much-needed therapeutic interventions for treatment of HFMD, outbreaks of which are reported every year in the Asia-Pacific region.
Ligand-Mediated Biofilm Formation via Enhanced Physical Interaction between a Diguanylate Cyclase and Its Receptor
Authors: Giacalone David , Smith T. Jarrod , Collins Alan J. , Sondermann Holger , Koziol Lori J. , O’Toole George A.
Published: July 2018

The bacterial intracellular second messenger, cyclic dimeric GMP (c-di-GMP), regulates biofilm formation for many bacteria. The binding of c-di-GMP by the inner membrane protein LapD controls biofilm formation, and the LapD receptor is central to a complex network of c-di-GMP-mediated biofilm formation. In this study, we examine how c-di-GMP signaling specificity by a diguanylate cyclase (DGC), GcbC, is achieved via interactions with the LapD receptor and by small ligand sensing via GcbC’s
ca
lcium channel
che
motaxis (CACHE) domain. We provide evidence that biofilm formation is stimulated by the environmentally relevant organic acid citrate (and a related compound, isocitrate) in a GcbC-dependent manner through enhanced GcbC-LapD interaction, which results in increased LapA localization to the cell surface. Furthermore, GcbC shows little ability to synthesize c-di-GMP in isolation. However, when LapD is present, GcbC activity is significantly enhanced (~8-fold), indicating that engaging the LapD receptor stimulates the activity of this DGC; citrate-enhanced GcbC-LapD interaction further stimulates c-di-GMP synthesis. We propose that the I-site of GcbC serves two roles beyond allosteric control of this enzyme: promoting GcbC-LapD interaction and stabilizing the active conformation of GcbC in the GcbC-LapD complex. Finally, given that LapD can interact with a dozen different DGCs of
Pseudomonas fluorescens
, many of which have ligand-binding domains, the ligand-mediated enhanced signaling via LapD-GcbC interaction described here is likely a conserved mechanism of signaling in this network. Consistent with this idea, we identify a second example of ligand-mediated enhancement of DGC-LapD interaction that promotes biofilm formation.

IMPORTANCE
In many bacteria, dozens of enzymes produce the dinucleotide signal c-di-GMP; however, it is unclear how undesired cross talk is mitigated in the context of this soluble signal and how c-di-GMP signaling is regulated by environmental inputs. We demonstrate that GcbC, a DGC, shows little ability to synthesize c-di-GMP in the absence of its cognate receptor LapD; GcbC-LapD interaction enhances c-di-GMP synthesis by GcbC, likely mediated by the I-site of GcbC. We further show evidence for a ligand-mediated mechanism of signaling specificity via increased physical interaction of a DGC with its cognate receptor. We envision a scenario wherein a “cloud” of weakly active DGCs can increase their activity by specific interaction with their receptor in response to appropriate environmental signals, concomitantly boosting c-di-GMP production, ligand-specific signaling, and biofilm formation.