bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cranial arterial pattern of the Sri Lankan spotted chevrotain,Moschiola memmina, and comparative basicranial osteology of the Tragulidae
Authors: O’Brien Haley D.
Published: December 2015

The cranial arterial pattern of artiodactyls deviates significantly from the typical mammalian pattern. One of the most striking atypical features is the rete mirabile epidurale: a subdural arterial meshwork that functionally and anatomically replaces the arteria carotis interna. This meshwork facilitates an exceptional ability to cool the brain, and was thought to be present in all artiodactyls. Recent research, however, has found that species of mouse deer (Artiodactyla: Tragulidae) endemic to the Malay Archipelago possess a complete a. carotis interna instead of a rete mirabile epidurale. As tragulids are the sister group to pecoran ruminants, the lack of a rete mirabile epidurale in these species raises intriguing evolutionary questions about the origin and nature of artiodactyl thermoregulatory cranial vasculature. In this study, cranial arterial patterns are documented for the remaining species within the Tragulidae. Radiopaque latex vascular injection, computed tomography (CT-scanning), and digital 3-dimensional anatomical reconstruction are used to image the cranial arteries of a Sri Lankan spotted chevrotain,Moschiola meminna. Sites of hard and soft tissue interaction were identified, and these osteological correlates were then sought in nine skulls representative of the remaining tragulid species. Both hard and soft tissue surveys confirm that the presence of an a. carotis interna is the common condition for tragulids. Moreover, the use of a 3-D, radiographic anatomical imaging technique enabled identification of a carotico-maxillary anastomosis that may have implications for the evolution of the artiodactyl rete mirabile epidurale.
Temporal comparison and predictors of fish species abundance and richness on undisturbed coral reef patches
Authors: Wagner Elena L.E.S. , Roche Dominique G. , Binning Sandra A. , Wismer Sharon , Bshary Redouan
Published: December 2015

Large disturbances can cause rapid degradation of coral reef communities, but what baseline changes in species assemblages occur on undisturbed reefs through time? We surveyed live coral cover, reef fish abundance and fish species richness in 1997 and again in 2007 on 47 fringing patch reefs of varying size and depth at Mersa Bareika, Ras Mohammed National Park, Egypt. No major human or natural disturbance event occurred between these two survey periods in this remote protected area. In the absence of large disturbances, we found that live coral cover, reef fish abundance and fish species richness did not differ in 1997 compared to 2007. Fish abundance and species richness on patches was largely related to the presence of shelters (caves and/or holes), live coral cover and patch size (volume). The presence of the ectoparasite-eating cleaner wrasse,Labroides dimidiatus, was also positively related to fish species richness. Our results underscore the importance of physical reef characteristics, such as patch size and shelter availability, in addition to biotic characteristics, such as live coral cover and cleaner wrasse abundance, in supporting reef fish species richness and abundance through time in a relatively undisturbed and understudied region.
The association of parental temperament and character on their children’s behavior problems
Authors: Lee Soo Jin , Cloninger C. Robert , Park Soo Hyun , Chae Han
Published: December 2015

Purpose.Parents have important roles in child rearing, but the influence of their personality on rearing practices and their impact on the behavior of children has received surprisingly little attention. The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between parents’ personality and children’s problem behaviors.

Materials and Methods.Participants consisted of 190 preschool outpatients (104 boys, 86 girls) and their parents who visited traditional Korean pediatric clinics with minor physical symptoms as chief complaints. The personality profiles of the both parents were measured by the Temperament and Character Inventory and children’s behavior problems by the Child Behavior Checklist 1.5–5. Correlation and stepwise regression analysis were employed for the statistical analyses.

Results.The temperament trait of Harm Avoidance and the character traits of Self-Directedness and Self-Transcendence of the parents were significantly correlated with children’s problem behaviors. Character as well as temperament, played an important role in explaining children’s problem behaviors after age and gender of children were taken into account.

Conclusion.The maturity of parents’ character appears to have a key role in reducing the risk of behavior problems in their children. Suggestions are made for parental education and future research.
Voluntary Wheel Running in Mice
Authors: Goh Jorming , Ladiges Warren
Published: December 2015

Voluntary wheel running in the mouse is used to assess physical performance and endurance and to model exercise training as a way to enhance health. Wheel running is a voluntary activity in contrast to other experimental exercise models in mice, which rely on aversive stimuli to force active movement. This protocol consists of allowing mice to run freely on the open surface of a slanted, plastic saucer‐shaped wheel placed inside a standard mouse cage. Rotations are electronically transmitted to a USB hub so that frequency and rate of running can be captured via a software program for data storage and analysis for variable time periods. Mice are individually housed so that accurate recordings can be made for each animal. Factors such as mouse strain, gender, age, and individual motivation, which affect running activity, must be considered in the design of experiments using voluntary wheel running. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A Mouse Primary Hepatocyte Culture Model for Studies of Circadian Oscillation
Authors: Molyneux Penny C. , Pyle Lorna A. , Dillon Martha , Harrington Mary E.
Published: December 2015

Circadian rhythms regulate many aspects of behavior and physiological processes, and, through external signals, help an organism entrain to its environment. These rhythms are driven by circadian clocks in many cells and tissues within our bodies, and are synchronized by a central pacemaker in the brain, the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Peripheral oscillators include the liver, whose circadian clock controls persistent daily rhythms in gene expression and in liver‐specific functions such as metabolic homeostasis and drug metabolism. Chronic circadian clock disruption, as in rotating shiftwork, has been linked to disorders including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The mouse primary hepatocyte culture model allows the examination of circadian rhythms in these cells. This article describes a transgenic mouse model that uses a bioluminescent reporter to examine the circadian properties of a core clock gene Period2. Hepatocytes are isolated using a modified collagenase perfusion technique and cultured in a sandwich configuration, then sealed in a buffered medium containing luciferin for detection of whole‐culture or single‐cell bioluminescence. After synchronization by a medium change, cultures demonstrate coherent circadian period and phase measures of bioluminescence from the PERIOD2::LUCIFERASE reporter. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Communication Accommodation Theory
Authors: Dragojevic Marko , Gasiorek Jessica , Giles Howard
Published: December 2015

Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) is a general theoretical framework of both interpersonal and intergroup communication. It seeks to explain and predict why, when, and how people adjust their communicative behavior during social interaction, and what social consequences result from those adjustments. In this entry, a brief historical overview of CAT's development is first provided, and some of its basic concepts are introduced. Second, the different adjustment strategies that speakers may enact are explained, and objective and subjective measures of accommodation are distinguished. Third, the motivations underlying communicative adjustment are examined, and the ways in which they can be shaped by the sociohistorical context in which an interaction is embedded are discussed. Fourth, the social consequences of communicative adjustment (and nonadjustment) are explored, and some of the many factors that mediate and moderate people's evaluations of others’ behavior are discussed. Finally, previous CAT principles are refined and elaborated, and directions for future research are suggested.
Expectancy Violations Theory
Authors: Burgoon Judee K.
Published: December 2015

Expectancy violations theory predicts and explains the effects of nonverbal behavior violations on interpersonal communication outcomes such as attraction, credibility, persuasion, and smooth interactions. Human interactions are strongly governed by expectations which, if violated, are arousing and trigger an appraisal process that may be moderated by the rewardingness of the violator. Violation interpretations and evaluations determine whether they are positive or negative violations. Positive violations are predicted to produce more favorable outcomes, and negative violations less favorable outcomes, than positive and negative confirmations respectively. Many of the theory's propositions have been supported empirically. Some contrary findings have led to revision of the theory. The theory has also been expanded to several kinds of nonverbal violations, including personal space, eye contact, posture, touch, involvement, and immediacy violations. The theory also spawned the investigation of the meanings associated with violations and the kinds of arousal that violations provoke.
Identity Negotiation Theory
Authors: Ting‐Toomey Stella
Published: December 2015

Identity negotiation theory concerns the importance of negotiating sociocultural membership identity and personal identity issues in intercultural and interpersonal communication settings. The entry is organized in five sections. First, the historical background of the identity negotiation theory (INT) is introduced. Second, the 10 core assumptions of INT are mapped out. Third, recent research evidence and findings that draw from the INT are discussed. Fourth, the concept of mindful identity attunement as the optimal process and outcome of INT is further explicated. Fifth, theoretical and research directions for the next 10 years of INT extensions are proposed.
Girls’ physical activity and sedentary behaviors: Does sexual maturation matter? A cross‐sectional study with HBSC 2010 Portuguese survey
Authors: Marques Adilson , Branquinho Cátia , De Matos Margarida Gaspar
Published: December 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between girls’ sexual maturation (age of menarche) and physical activity and sedentary behaviors.

Methods

Data were collected from a national representative sample of girls in 2010 (pre‐menarcheal girls n = 583, post‐menarcheal girls n = 741). Physical activity (times/week and hours/week) and screen‐based sedentary time (minutes/day) including television/video/DVD watching, playing videogames, and computer use were self‐reported.

Results

Pre‐menarcheal girls engaged significantly more times in physical activity in the last 7 days than post‐menarcheal girls (3.5 ± 1.9 times/week vs. 3.0 ± 1.7 times/week, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between pre‐menarcheal and post‐menarcheal girls in time (hours/week) spent in physical activity. Post‐menarcheal girls spent significantly more minutes per day than pre‐menarcheal girls watching TV, playing videogames, and using computers on weekdays (TV: 165.2 ± 105.8 vs. 136.0 ± 106.3, P < 0.001; videogames 72.0 ± 84.8 vs. 60.3 ± 78.9, P = 0.015; computer: 123.3 ± 103.9 vs. 82.8 ± 95.8, P < 0.001) and on weekends (TV: 249.0 ± 116.2 vs. 209.3 ± 124.8, P < 0.001; videogames: 123.0 ± 114.0 vs. 104.7 ± 103.5, P = 0.020; computer: 177.0 ± 122.2 vs. 119.7 ± 112.7, P < 0.001). After adjusting analyses for age, BMI, and socioeconomic status, differences were still significant for physical activity and for computer use.

Conclusion

Specific interventions should be designed for girls to increase their physical activity participation and decrease time spent on the computer, for post‐menarcheal girls in particular. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:471–475, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bactericidal antibiotics promote reactive oxygen species formation and inflammation in human sinonasal epithelial cells
Authors: Kohanski Michael A. , Tharakan Anuj , Lane Andrew P. , Ramanathan Murugappan
Published: December 2015

Background

Bactericidal antibiotics have been shown to stimulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in mammalian cells through mitochondrial dysfunction. This results in oxidative tissue damage that may have negative consequences for long‐term antibiotic use. Antibiotics are widely and heavily used in the treatment of acute and chronic sinusitis; however, the relationship between antibiotics and ROS formation in sinonasal epithelial cells (SNECs) has not yet been demonstrated.

Methods

Human SNECs were collected from patients during endoscopic sinus surgery and grown in culture at the air‐liquid interface. Differentiated SNECs were stimulated with the bactericidal antibiotics amoxicillin and levofloxacin and the bacteriostatic antibiotic clarithromycin for 24 hours. ROS were quantified via fluorescence. Cell death was quantified by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) secretion. Expression of inflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) and nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2)‐mediated antioxidant genes were measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results

Cultured SNECs treated with the bactericidal antibiotics amoxicillin and levofloxacin resulted in a significant increase in production of ROS (p < 0.05) and secretion of LDH (p < 0.05). The increase in ROS formation correlated with an increase in expression of Nrf2‐mediated antioxidant genes as well as the expression and production of proinflammatory cytokine TNF‐α, and interleukin 1 β (IL‐1β) (p < 0.05). SNECs treated with clarithromycin did not demonstrate statistically significant increases in ROS or proinflammatory cytokine production.

Conclusion

In this study, we show that treatment of cultured human SNECs with bactericidal antibiotics leads to formation of ROS with an associated increase in inflammatory and antioxidant gene expression and cell death. This suggests that long‐term or inappropriate antibiotic use in the treatment of sinusitis may result in oxidative tissue damage to the sinonasal epithelium. Future studies will explore the clinical implications of such damage to the sinonasal epithelium.
Prevalence of sinusitis and efficacy of intranasal corticosteroid treatment on asthmatic symptoms in asthmatic patients with rhinosinusitis: a pilot study
Authors: Yatera Kazuhiro , Yamasaki Kei , Noguchi Shingo , Nishida Chinatsu , Oda Keishi , Akata Kentarou , Kido Takashi , Ishimoto Hiroshi , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: December 2015

Background

Prevalence of sinusitis on sinus computed tomography (CT) in asthmatic patients and efficacy of intranasal corticosteroid treatment on asthmatic symptoms in asthmatic patients with rhinosinusitis on sinus CT is unclear.

Methods

Sinus CT of asthmatic patients were evaluated using the Lund‐Mackay system (LMS). Intranasal corticosteroid treatment (mometasone furoate) was newly added to symptomatic asthmatic patients with rhinosinusitis treated without intranasal corticosteroids, and the findings of the Asthma Control Test (ACT), Asthma Control Questionnaire in 5 items (ACQ5), spirometry, and sinus CT were evaluated before and 3 months after additional intranasal corticosteroid treatment.

Results

In a total of 160 asthmatic patients, rhinosinusitis and maxillary, ethmoidal, sphenoidal, and frontal sinusitis were observed in 75.0%, 70.0%, 53.1%, 33.1%, and 28.8%, respectively. Nasal symptoms and rhinophonia were observed in 81.9% and 72.5%, respectively, and patients with nasal symptoms and those with rhinophonia both showed significantly higher LMS scores in each sinus. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) was observed in 66.9%, and these patients had significantly more severe asthma than the patients without CRS. In patients with CRS, patients with rhinophonia showed significantly higher LMS scores than those without rhinophonia. ACT, ACQ5, and the value of the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) all significantly improved 3 months after the additive intranasal corticosteroid treatment in 24 patients, despite the fact that their LMS scores remained unchanged.

Conclusion

Additive intranasal corticosteroid treatment may be an effective treatment option for symptomatic asthmatic patients with rhinosinusitis.
Tailoring in thermomechanical properties of ethylene propylene diene monomer elastomer with silane functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Iqbal Sadia Sagar , Iqbal Nadeem , Jamil Tahir , Bashir Arshad , Khan Zaffer M.
Published: December 2015

The incorporation of silane treated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (S‐MWCNTs) is used as an effective path for tailoring thermomechanical properties of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). In this study, S‐MWCNTs were introduced into EPDM using internal dispersion kneader and two roller mixing mill. By altering the mass ratio of S‐MWCNTs from 0 to 1, thermal conductivity, thermal stability and phase transition temperatures and their respective enthalpies are discussed of the fabricated nanocomposites. It is observed that silane modification improves their dispersion and increases the interfacial bonding between MWCNTs and polymer matrix. Scanning electron microscopy along energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis is performed to confirm the silane functionalized MWCNTs are selectively distributed in the host polymer. More importantly, an important increase in mechanical properties like ultimate tensile strength and hardness is achieved through introducing silane functionalized MWCNTs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43221.
Syntheses of Phoyunbenes A‐D and Thunalbene for their Anti‐Inflammatory Evaluation
Authors: Moon Insu , Kim Jin‐Kyung , Jun Jong‐Gab
Published: December 2015

Simple and efficient first syntheses of phoyunbenes A‐D and thunalbene have been developed using Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reaction as a key step. Later, their anti‐inflammatory effects were investigated in lipopolysaccharide‐induced RAW‐264.7 macrophages. The results revealed that phoyunbenes A‐D and thunalbene showed weak inhibitory activities without cytotoxicity on the production of nitric oxide (NO) which is an important inflammatory mediator.
Prediction of 1‐year mortality and impact of bivalirudin therapy according to level of baseline risk: A patient‐level pooled analysis from three randomized trials
Authors: Yu Jennifer , Mehran Roxana , Clayton Tim , Gibson C. Michael , Brodie Bruce R. , Witzenbichler Bernhard , Lincoff A. Michael , Deliargyris Efthymios N. , Gersh Bernard J. , Pocock Stuart J. , Stone Gregg W. , Dangas George D.
Published: December 2015

Objectives: We aimed to construct a predictive model for one‐year mortality in patients undergoing invasive coronary evaluation and to examine the impact of bivalirudin on survival according to the level of baseline risk.

Background: Compared to heparin plus GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors (HEP/GPI), bivalirudin decreases bleeding complications in a range of clinical presentations. The impact of preprocedural risk assessment on survival and whether this is modified by bivalirudin, has not been investigated in detail.

Methods: We examined patient‐level data from the REPLACE‐2, ACUITY, and HORIZONS‐AMI trials (n = 18,819) to construct a risk‐adjusted mortality model using baseline clinical variables.

Results: One‐year mortality occurred in 287 patients (3.1%) assigned to bivalirudin and 336 patients (3.6%) assigned to HEP/GPI (HR 0.85; 95% CI, 0.73–1.00; P = 0.048). Using 11 highly significant predictors of mortality, we developed an integer‐risk score to classify patients into risk tertiles. High‐risk patients had a rate of 1‐year mortality over 9‐fold greater than low‐risk patients. Consequently, the absolute mortality reduction attributed to bivalirudin was more marked in high‐risk patients: 3.1% (−0.8% to 7.0%) in the overall cohort, 4.8% (0.5% to 9.2%) in the PCI cohort (P‐interaction versus intermediate and low risk categories, 0.09 and P = 0.02, respectively).

Conclusions: In patients undergoing invasive coronary evaluation, 1‐year mortality can be predicted using baseline variables. Bivalirudin treatment (versus HEP/GPI) conferred a survival benefit. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A case of primary biliary cirrhosis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Bekki Norifumi , Bae Sung Kwan , Yoshizawa Seiji , Shiota Ayaka , Gushima Toshifumi , Motoshita Junichi , Shimoda Shinji , Aiba Yoshihiro , Komori Atsumasa , Nakamura Minoru , Takahashi Kazuhiro
Published: December 2015

Key Clinical Message

The true prevalence of PBC in RA is not well known. Herein, we report an unusual case of a patient with PBC and RA, and discuss the association between these two diseases. PBC should be ruled out in the differential diagnosis of patients with RA having abnormal liver function tests.
Resilience and Decision‐Making Strategies as Predictors of Career Decision Difficulties
Authors: Shin Yun‐Jeong , Kelly Kevin R.
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine resilience and decision‐making strategies as predictors of difficulties experienced during the career decision‐making process. College students (N = 364) responded to measures of resilience, career decision‐making strategies, and career decision difficulties. Results indicated that resilience and decision‐making strategies accounted for 46% of the variance in career decision difficulties. Resilience had a greater influence on problems encountered during decision making than on problems encountered at the outset of the process. Different decision‐making strategies appeared to be related to difficulties encountered at different stages of the decision‐making process. For example, aspiration for an ideal occupation was positively associated only with lack of readiness. Procrastination was the only strategy related to all three decision difficulties: lack of readiness, lack of information, and inconsistent information. The results indicated the importance of decreasing procrastination at all stages of decision making and the need to promote resilience to deal with decision difficulties.
Dispositional Affect and Career Barriers: The Moderating Roles of Gender and Coping
Authors: Novakovic Alexandra , Gnilka Philip B.
Published: December 2015

This study examined whether gender and coping efficacy for career barriers moderated the relationship between both positive and negative dispositional affect and perceptions of career barriers. The sample included 294 undergraduate students (195 women, 99 men) from a large, midwestern university. Gender and coping efficacy did not moderate the relationship between negative dispositional affect and perceptions of career barriers. Coping efficacy for career barriers did moderate the relationship between positive dispositional affect and perceptions of career barriers for both women and men in different directions. When investigating women separately, the results revealed a weakening of the negative beta weight between positive affect and perception of career barriers as coping scores increased. An opposite effect was found for men; there was a reduction of the positive beta weight between positive affect and perception of career barriers as coping scores increased. Interventions to address perceptions of career barriers based on gender and dispositional affect are discussed.
A Content Analysis of 10 Years of Clinical Supervision Articles in Counseling
Authors: Bernard Janine M. , Luke Melissa
Published: December 2015

This content analysis follows Borders's (2005) review of counseling supervision literature and includes 184 counselor supervision articles published over the past 10 years. Articles were coded as representing 1 of 3 research types or 1 of 3 conceptual types. Articles were then analyzed for main topics producing 11 topic categories.
A First‐in‐Patient, Multicenter, Double‐Blind, 2‐Arm, Placebo‐Controlled, Randomized Safety and Tolerability Study of a Novel Oral Drug Candidate, CTP‐499, in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Sabounjian LuAnn , Graham Philip , Wu Lijun , Braman Virginia , Cheng Changfu , Liu Julie , Shipley James , Neutel Joel , Dao Michael
Published: December 2015

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) related to type 2 diabetes is increasing worldwide. In addition to standard of care, treatment with anti‐inflammatory and antifibrotic agents such as CTP‐499, a novel oral, multisubtype selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterases, may be important in CKD treatment. A phase 1b randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial of CTP‐499 in CKD patients (25 active, 8 placebo) with an estimated glomerular filtration rate of 30–59 mL/min/1.73 m2 was conducted to assess safety and tolerability. Secondary outcomes included pharmacokinetics and exploratory effects on inflammatory and hematology markers. Patients received 600 mg CTP‐499 or matching placebo tablets orally once daily for 2 weeks, then twice daily for 2 additional weeks. CTP‐499 was well tolerated with no serious or severe adverse events, or adverse events leading to discontinuation. CTP‐499 was rapidly absorbed and produced acceptable interpatient variability. Of the 5 metabolites (M1–M5), M5 was the most abundant in plasma and urine. Exposure to CTP‐499 and metabolites was higher in CKD patients than previously reported in healthy volunteers. No statistically significant differences were detected between the CTP‐499‐ and placebo‐treated groups for any of the biomarkers tested. This study provides data supporting further evaluation of CTP‐499 in CKD patients.
Feasibility and Effectiveness of Memory Specificity Training in Depressed Outpatients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Eigenhuis Eline , Seldenrijk Adrie , van Schaik Anneke , Raes Filip , van Oppen Patricia
Published: December 2015

Background

Research has shown that depressed patients suffer from reduced autobiographical memory specificity (rAMS). This cognitive phenomenon is associated with the maintenance and recurrence of depressive symptoms.

Objectives

This pilot study aims to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of a relatively new group‐based intervention (Memory Specificity Training; MeST) that aims to reduce rAMS in an outpatient setting.

Methods

Twenty‐six depressed outpatients received MeST during the waiting period prior to psychotherapy. The Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ‐8) was used to measure client satisfaction after the training. The Autobiographical Memory Test (AMT) was used to measure memory specificity before and after the training. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI‐II) and the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), before and after the training, and at a 3‐month follow‐up.

Results

Participants as well as trainers were positive about the use of MeST. Participants also showed an increase in memory specificity and a decrease in depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

This study suggests that MeST is feasible in an outpatient setting, that it increases autobiographical memory specificity and that it may decrease depressive symptoms. A randomized controlled trial is recommended to examine MeST and its effects on autobiographical memory specificity, depressive symptoms and depressive relapse more extensively. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

Research suggests that modification of rAMS can advance recovery and reduce the chance of developing a depression relapse. However, most existing psychotherapies for depression do not include these specific interventions.

This is the first study to show that MeST in an outpatient setting is feasible and can lead to an increase in autobiographical memory specificity and that it may decrease depressive symptoms.

A larger scale randomized controlled trial is required to examine whether the addition of MeST to care as usual decreases depressive symptoms more effectively than care as usual without MeST, and to examine whether subgroups of patients benefit specifically from this intervention (e.g. patients with more severely decreased memory specificity).
Norcocaine and cocaethylene distribution patterns in hair samples from light, moderate, and heavy cocaine users
Authors: Gambelunghe Cristiana , Rossi Riccardo , Aroni Kyriaki , Gili Alessio , Bacci Mauro , Pascali Vincenzo , Fucci Nadia
Published: December 2015

Even though hair analysis often seems to be the best choice for retrospective monitoring of cocaine intake, differentiating between incorporated cocaine and external contamination is widely debated. In this study we report results obtained in 90 hair samples from addicts. All samples were analyzed for cocaine, benzoylecgonine, norcocaine, cocaethylene, and tropococaine by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) techniques coupled with direct immersion solid‐phase micro‐extraction. Cocaine concentrations were stratified into three classes of usage: light (0.5–3 ng/mg), moderate (3.1–10 ng/mg) and heavy (10.1–40 ng/mg). The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration cut‐off criteria for establishing active cocaine use were applied to the results. For all samples criteria were cocaine levels above 0.5 ng/mg (ranging from 1.63 to 39.29 ng/mg, mean 9.49 ng/mg), benzoylecgonine concentrations ≥ 0.05 ng/mg (ranging from 0.19 to 5.77 ng/mg, mean 1.40), and benzoylecgonine to cocaine % ratio ≥5% (from 6.43 to 26.09%). Norcocaine was present in 58.9% of samples (concentration range: 0.22–3.14 ng/mg) and was strongly predictive only of heavy cocaine use (sensitivity 100% for cocaine concentrations above 9.58 ng/mg). Twenty hair samples from moderate and heavy users tested positive for cocaethylene (concentration range: 0.22–1.98 ng/mg, mean 0.73 ng/mg). This study on hair samples with no chance of false positive cases highlights the very limited applications of testing minor cocaine metabolites for definitive proof of active cocaine consumption. © 2015 The Authors. Drug Testing and Analysis Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A simulation study of sample size for DNA barcoding
Authors: Luo Arong , Lan Haiqiang , Ling Cheng , Zhang Aibing , Shi Lei , Ho Simon Y. W. , Zhu Chaodong
Published: December 2015

For some groups of organisms,DNAbarcoding can provide a useful tool in taxonomy, evolutionary biology, and biodiversity assessment. However, the efficacy ofDNAbarcoding depends on the degree of sampling per species, because a large enough sample size is needed to provide a reliable estimate of genetic polymorphism and for delimiting species. We used a simulation approach to examine the effects of sample size on four estimators of genetic polymorphism related toDNAbarcoding: mismatch distribution, nucleotide diversity, the number of haplotypes, and maximum pairwise distance. Our results showed that mismatch distributions derived from subsamples of ≥20 individuals usually bore a close resemblance to that of the full dataset. Estimates of nucleotide diversity from subsamples of ≥20 individuals tended to be bell‐shaped around that of the full dataset, whereas estimates from smaller subsamples were not. As expected, greater sampling generally led to an increase in the number of haplotypes. We also found that subsamples of ≥20 individuals allowed a good estimate of the maximum pairwise distance of the full dataset, while smaller ones were associated with a high probability of underestimation. Overall, our study confirms the expectation that larger samples are beneficial for the efficacy ofDNAbarcoding and suggests that a minimum sample size of 20 individuals is needed in practice for each population.
Genetic differentiation of the regional Plutella xylostella populations across the Taiwan Strait based on identification of microsatellite markers
Authors: Ke Fushi , You Shijun , He Weiyi , Liu Tiansheng , Vasseur Liette , Douglas Carl J. , You Minsheng
Published: December 2015

Movement of individuals through events, such as storms or crop transportation, may affect survival and distribution of insect pests, as well as population genetic structure at a regional scale. Understanding what factors contribute to gene flow in pest populations remains very important for sustainable pest management. The diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) is an insect pest well known for its capacity of moving over short to long distances. Here, we used newly isolated microsatellite markers to analyze the genetic structure of nine populations across the Taiwan Strait of China (Taiwan and Fujian). A total of 12,152 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were initially identified from the P. xylostella transcriptome (~94 Mb), with an average of 129 SSRs per Mb. Nine SSRs were validated to be polymorphic markers, and eight were used for this population genetic study. Our results showed that the P. xylostella populations could be divided into distinct two clusters, which is likely due to the year‐round airflows in this region. A pattern of isolation by distance among the local populations within Fujian was found, and may be related to vegetable transportation. Considering the complexity of the P. xylostella population genetic structure from local and regional to global levels, we propose that developing ecologically sound strategies for managing this pest will require knowledge of the link between behavioral and population ecology and its genetic structure.
Absence of nonhematopoietic MHC class II expression protects mice from experimental autoimmune myocarditis
Authors: Thelemann Christoph , Haller Sergio , Blyszczuk Przemyslaw , Kania Gabriela , Rosa Muriel , Eriksson Urs , Rotman Samuel , Reith Walter , Acha‐Orbea Hans
Published: December 2015

Experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) is a CD4+ T‐cell‐mediated model of human inflammatory dilated cardiomyopathies. Heart‐specific CD4+ T‐cell activation is dependent on autoantigens presented by MHC class II (MHCII) molecules expressed on professional APCs. In this study, we addressed the role of inflammation‐induced MHCII expression by cardiac nonhematopoietic cells on EAM development. EAM was induced in susceptible mice lacking inducible expression of MHCII molecules on all nonhematopoietic cells (pIV−/− K14 class II transactivator (CIITA) transgenic (Tg) mice) by immunization with α‐myosin heavy chain peptide in CFA. Lack of inducible nonhematopoietic MHCII expression in pIV−/− K14 CIITA Tg mice conferred EAM resistance. In contrast, cardiac pathology was induced in WT and heterozygous mice, and correlated with elevated cardiac endothelial MHCII expression. Control mice with myocarditis displayed an increase in infiltrating CD4+ T cells and in expression of IFN‐γ, which is the major driver of nonhematopoietic MHCII expression. Mechanistically, IFN‐γ neutralization in WT mice shortly before disease onset resulted in reduced cardiac MHCII expression and pathology. These findings reveal a previously overlooked contribution of IFN‐γ to induce endothelial MHCII expression in the heart and to progress cardiac pathology during myocarditis.
Optimizing Carbon Nanotubes Dispersing Agents from the Point of View of Ion‐selective Membrane Based Sensors Performance – Introducing Carboxymethylcellulose as Dispersing Agent for Carbon Nanotubes Based Solid Contacts
Authors: Jaworska Ewa , Maksymiuk Krzysztof , Michalska Agata
Published: December 2015

The influence of dispersing agent used to prepare carbon nanotubes solid‐contact on the performance of all‐solid state ion‐selective electrodes has been evaluated. It is shown that excess of surfactant dispersing agent is leading to deterioration of sensor performance, however, removal of dispersing agent – a typically applied approach – is resulting in substantial change of transducer layer physical properties, which can influence sensor performance. As remedy we propose application of a polymeric dispersing agent – carboxymethylcellulose. Thus obtained ion‐selective electrodes are characterized by high potential readings stability both within day and between days.
A Putative Association of COMT Val(108/158)Met with Impulsivity in Binge Eating Disorder
Authors: Leehr Elisabeth J. , Schag Kathrin , Brückmann Christof , Plewnia Christian , Zipfel Stephan , Nieratschker Vanessa , Giel Katrin E.
Published: December 2015

Objective

This study aims to investigate the influence of the COMT Val(108/158)Met polymorphism on trait and behavioural impulsivity in binge eating disorder (BED). COMT Val(108/158)Met has been related to impulsivity in previous studies, but so far no study has investigated the role of this polymorphism in the context of BED.

Method

Impulsivity was assessed via a questionnaire (trait) and on a behavioural level via the antisaccade task in a sample of 69 participants classified into one out of three age‐matched groups: (1) obese individuals with BED according to DMS‐IV (BED+); (2) obese individuals without BED, matched with the BED+ sample according to body weight (OBED–); and (3) normal‐weight healthy controls (NWC). The COMT Val(108/158)Met polymorphism was genotyped in all samples.

Results

As expected, the BED+ sample showed higher trait and behavioural impulsivity. Furthermore, within the BED+ group, COMT Met/Met homozygous individuals showed stronger deficits in inhibitory control.

Discussion

COMT Met/Met homozygous individuals with BED might represent a specific group in the BED spectrum, which shows a higher behavioural impulsivity. The association between COMT Val(108/158)Met with inhibitory control should be interpreted with caution because of the small sample size. Larger replication studies are needed to further elucidate the role of the COMT Val(108/158)Met polymorphism in the regulation of disordered eating behaviour.
On the use of Darcy's law and invasion‐percolation approaches for modeling large‐scale geologic carbon sequestration
Authors: Oldenburg Curtis M. , Mukhopadhyay Sumit , Cihan Abdullah
Published: December 2015

Most large‐scale flow and transport simulations for geologic carbon sequestration (GCS) applications are carried out using simulators that solve flow equations arising from Darcy's law. Recently, the computational advantages of invasion‐percolation (IP) modeling approaches have been presented. We show that both the Darcy's‐law‐ and the gravity‐capillary balance solved by IP approaches can be derived from the same multiphase continuum momentum equation. More specifically, Darcy's law arises from assuming creeping flow with no viscous momentum transfer to stationary solid grains, while it is assumed in the IP approach that gravity and capillarity are the dominant driving forces in a quasi‐static two‐phase (or more) system. There is a long history of use of Darcy's law for large‐scale GCS simulation. However, simulations based on Darcy's law commonly include significant numerical dispersion as users employ large grid blocks to keep run times practical. In contrast, the computational simplicity of IP approaches allows large‐scale models to honor fine‐scale hydrostratigraphic details of the storage formation which makes these IP models suitable for analyzing the impact of small‐scale heterogeneities on flow. However, the lack of time‐dependence in the IP models is a significant disadvantage, while the ability of Darcy's law to simulate a range of flows from single‐phase‐ and pressure‐gradient‐driven flows to buoyant multiphase gravity‐capillary flow is a significant advantage. We believe on balance that Darcy's law simulations should be the preferred approach to large‐scale GCS simulations. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Turkish Children's Expression of Negative Emotions: Intracultural Variations Related to Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Okur Zeynep Emine , Corapci Feyza
Published: December 2015

The goal of the present study was to examine intracultural variations in Turkish children's emotion expression in relation to socioeconomic status (SES) characteristics, alone and in combination with child gender and their interaction partners. Children's expectations about outcomes from expressing and their reasons for hiding their felt emotion in situations that involved unfairness, disappointment, public failure and a mishap were also delineated. A total of 123 school‐aged Turkish children responded to hypothetical vignettes. Boys and girls from middle‐high SES families were equally likely to endorse shame expression. However, lower SES boys were more likely to endorse hiding shame than lower SES girls. Middle‐high SES children showed a tendency for expressing anger and sadness more than lower SES children. Turkish children primarily expected interpersonal support from emotion expression. Upon anger, disappointment and sadness expression, Turkish children expected instrumental support more from their parents than their peers. The intracultural differences are discussed in light of sociodemographic changes accompanied by cultural value shifts that differentially impact socialization goals and practices of families with different SES. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Behavioural Problems in Children with Headache and Maternal Stress: Is Children's Attachment Security a Protective Factor?
Authors: Barone Lavinia , Lionetti Francesca , Dellagiulia Antonio , Galli Federica , Molteni Silvia , Balottin Umberto
Published: December 2015

Headache is a potentially disabling condition involving enduring pain that negatively influences the quality of family life. Behavioural problems are more common in children with headache and are potentially associated with higher levels of parental stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extent to which children's behavioural problems were associated with maternal stress and how the child's perception of security in the maternal attachment relationship moderates this association. Seventy‐one school‐aged children with headache (headache group (HG), age M = 9.8 years old, SD = 1.3) and 71 children from a low‐risk normative population (control group (CG), age M = 9.2 years old, SD = 1) and their mothers were involved in the study. Mothers' reports of children's behavioural problems were associated with higher maternal stress in the caring task both in the HG and in the CG. Results also showed that the HG was more at risk for behavioural problems, whereas no difference between groups was detected for parenting stress and for attachment insecurity. In children with headache, perception of attachment security decreased the strength of the association between maternal stress and externalizing behavioural problems. Secure attachment may provide children with headache and their parents with support in managing the negative emotions that arise in the context of significant health issues. Implications for practice are discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recalibration of the earthworm tier 1 risk assessment of plant protection products
Authors: Christl Heino , Bendall Julie , Bergtold Matthias , Coulson Mike , Dinter Axel , Garlej Barbara , Hammel Klaus , Kabouw Patrick , Sharples Amanda , von Mérey Georg , Vrbka Silvie , Ernst Gregor
Published: December 2015

In the first step of earthworm risk assessment for plant protection products (PPPs), the risk is assessed by comparing the no-observed effect levels (NOELs) from laboratory reproduction tests with the predicted exposure of the PPP in soil, while applying a trigger value (assessment factor [AF]) to cover uncertainties. If this step indicates a potential risk, field studies are conducted. However, the predicted environmental concentration in soil, which can be calculated, for example, for different soil layers (ranging from 0–1 cm to 0–20 cm), and the AF determine the conservatism that is applied in this first step. In this review paper, the tier 1 earthworm risk assessment for PPPs is calibrated by comparing the NOEL in earthworm reproduction tests with effect levels on earthworm populations under realistic field conditions. A data set of 54 pairs of studies conducted in the laboratory and in the field with the same PPP was compiled, allowing a direct comparison of relevant endpoints. The results indicate that a tier 1 AF of 5 combined with a regulatory relevant soil layer of 0 to 5 cm provides a conservative tier 1 risk assessment. A risk was identified by the tier 1 risk assessment in the majority of the cases at application rates that were of low risk for natural earthworm populations under field conditions. Increasing the conservatism in the tier 1 risk assessment by reducing the depth of the regulatory relevant soil layer or by increasing the tier 1 AF would increase the number of false positives and trigger a large number of additional field studies. This increased conservatism, however, would not increase the margin of safety for earthworm populations. The analysis revealed that the risk assessment is conservative if an AF of 5 and a regulatory relevant soil layer of 0 to 5 cm is used. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:643–650. © 2015 SETAC
1H NMR metabolomics analysis of renal cell carcinoma cells: Effect of VHL inactivation on metabolism
Authors: Cuperlovic‐Culf Miroslava , Cormier Kevin , Touaibia Mohamed , Reyjal Julie , Robichaud Sarah , Belbraouet Mehdi , Turcotte Sandra
Published: December 2015

Von Hippel‐Lindau (VHL) is an onco‐suppressor involved in oxygen and energy‐dependent promotion of protein ubiquitination and proteosomal degradation. Loss of function mutations of VHL (VHL‐cells) result in organ specific cancers with the best studied example in renal cell carcinomas. VHL has a well‐established role in deactivation of hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF‐1) and in regulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR activity. Cell culture metabolomics analysis was utilized to determined effect of VHL and HIF‐1α or HIF‐2α on metabolism of renal cell carcinomas (RCC). RCC cells were stably transfected with VHL or shRNA designed to silence HIF‐1α or HIF‐2α genes. Obtained metabolic data was analysed qualitatively, searching for overall effects on metabolism as well as quantitatively, using methods developed in our group in order to determine specific metabolic changes. Analysis of the effect of VHL and HIF silencing on cellular metabolic footprints and fingerprints provided information about the metabolic pathways affected by VHL through HIF function as well as independently of HIF. Through correlation network analysis as well as statistical analysis of significant metabolic changes we have determined effects of VHL and HIF on energy production, amino acid metabolism, choline metabolism as well as cell regulation and signaling. VHL was shown to influence cellular metabolism through its effect on HIF proteins as well as by affecting activity of other factors.