bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Brief Memory and Executive Test (BMET): A cognitive screening tool to detect and differentiate vascular cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Hollocks Matthew J. , Brookes Rebecca L. , Morris Robin G. , Markus Hugh S.
Published: September 2017

Objective

While there are several cognitive screening tests available for the detection of cortical dementias such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), these are rarely designed to be sensitive to vascular cognitive impairment (VCI). The Brief Memory and Executive Test (BMET) is a screening measure designed to be sensitive to the cognitive profile of both VCI and AD. This study investigated the ability of the BMET to detect AD, and to differentiate between VCI and AD.

Methods

This study included 150 patients, with either SVD, both with (n = 48) and without VCI (n = 51), or AD (N = 51) and 51 healthy controls. Participants were aged between 40 and 90 years of age and completed both the BMET and the MMSE.

Results

Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed as before the BMET is a good predictor SVD. Additionally, the BMET was a good predictor of AD (AUC = 0.96) and performed at least as well as the MMSE (AUC = 0.92) when differentiating AD patients from healthy controls. The BMET had a sensitivity of 86% and specificity of 100% for detecting AD patients from control subjects. Using the difference in cognitive profile between the AD and VCI group, we developed an index score which correctly classified 76% of patients as either having VCI or AD.

Conclusion

The BMET is a brief and sensitive tool for the detection of cognitive impairment due to both SVD and AD and can be used to aid in the differentiation of the 2 diseases.
GABAergic inhibition gates excitatory LTP in perirhinal cortex
Authors: Kotak Vibhakar C. , Mirallave Ana , Mowery Todd M. , Sanes Dan H.
Published: September 2017

The perirhinal cortex (PRh) is a key region downstream of auditory cortex (ACx) that processes familiarity linked mnemonic signaling. In gerbils, ACx‐driven EPSPs recorded in PRh neurons are largely shunted by GABAergic inhibition (Kotak et al., 2015, Frontiers in Neural Circuits, 9). To determine whether inhibitory shunting prevents the induction of excitatory long‐term potentiation (e‐LTP), we stimulated ACx‐recipient PRh in a brain slice preparation using theta burst stimulation (TBS). Under control conditions, without GABA blockers, the majority of PRh neurons exhibited long‐term depression. A very low concentration of bicuculline increased EPSP amplitude, but under this condition TBS did not significantly increase e‐LTP induction. Since PRh synaptic inhibition included a GABAB receptor‐mediated component, we added a GABAB receptor antagonist. When both GABAA and GABAB receptors were blocked, TBS reliably induced e‐LTP in a majority of PRh neurons. We conclude that GABAergic transmission is a vital mechanism regulating e‐LTP induction in the PRh, and may be associated with auditory learning.
Combining growth factor releasing microspheres within aligned nanofibers enhances neurite outgrowth
Authors: Whitehead Tonya J. , Avila Christian Oliver C. , Sundararaghavan Harini G.
Published: September 2017

Current treatments for peripheral nerve injuries include autografts, the gold standard, and commercially available nerve growth conduits (NGCs). Autografts have several drawbacks including donor site morbidity and nerve size mismatch, which lead to incomplete recovery. However, even with these drawbacks, autografts work better then commercially available NGCs that lack sufficient cues to promote complete regeneration. This study evaluated a combination of biomaterial components that can be added to the hollow internal space of a NGC to promote and direct nerve regeneration; specifically, mechanical, chemical, and topographical cues. Methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MeHA, mechanical cue) is electrospun into aligned fibers (topographical cue), with poly‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid microspheres to deliver nerve growth factor (NGF, chemical cue). The properties of the scaffold were evaluated under physiological conditions using environmental scanning electron microscopy and mechanical testing. The resulting scaffolds have hydrated porosities of 35–55% and Young's modulus in the range of 0.43–2.86 MPa. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay showed that NGF is released from the microspheres for up to 4 weeks. Dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons showed that the released NGF is bioactive. DRG testing on the scaffolds also showed that the combination of NGF released from the microspheres and the aligned nanofibers significantly enhanced neurite outgrowth. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 17–25, 2018.
Biochemical and aerosol characterization of ricin for use in non‐clinical efficacy studies
Authors: Barnewall Roy E. , Riffle Carol G. , Jones Randy L. , Guistino David J. , Chou Richard M. , Anderson Mike S. , Vassar Michelle L. , Howland Carrie A.
Published: September 2017

Ricin toxin may be used as a biological warfare agent and no medical countermeasures are currently available. Here, a well‐characterized lot of ricin was aerosolized to determine the delivered dose for future pre‐clinical efficacy studies.  Mouse intraperitoneal (IP) median lethal dose (LD50) bioassay measured potency at 5.62 and 7.35 μg/kg on Days 0 and 365, respectively. Additional analyses included total protein, sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, and rabbit reticulocyte lysate activity assay. The nebulizer aerosol produced consistent concentrations (2.5 × 103, 5.0 × 103, 1.0 × 104, and 1.5 × 104 μg/mL) and spray factor values. The aerosol particle size distribution was of sufficient size to deposit in lung alveoli (1.12–1.43 μm). Ricinus communis Agglutinin II (RCA 60), prepared at 19 mg/mL in phosphate‐buffered saline, pH 7.8, and stored at −70°C, maintained attributes for toxicity following 1‐year storage and aerosolized consistently.
Facile Synthesis of Novel Amino Acids Derivatives as Potential Antibacterial Agents using Sustainable Materials
Authors: Behalo Mohamed S.
Published: September 2017

Following the principles of green chemistry, cardanol derivatives have been used as renewable, low‐cost, and available natural starting materials to construct a variety of protected and unprotected amino acids derivatives. The reaction of cardanol derivatives with different phthaloylamino acids including glycine, alanine, phenylalanine, and valine in the presence N,N'‐dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) as coupling reagent afforded high yields of the target compounds. Deprotection of phthaloylamino acids derivatives was achieved by heating with hydrazine hydrate. The chemical structures of all products were confirmed by spectral data (IR, MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR) and elemental analyses. Antibacterial evaluation of the synthesized products was performed, which exhibited potent to weak activity in comparison with a standard drug.
Exposure to suicide in the family: Suicide risk and psychache in individuals who have lost a family member by suicide
Authors: Campos Rui C. , Holden Ronald R. , Santos Sara
Published: September 2017

Objective

The aim of the present study was to compare a sample of Portuguese individuals exposed to suicide in their families with a control group, for lifetime suicidality. This study also evaluated the incremental value of psychache (i.e., extreme psychological pain) in determining suicide risk beyond the contribution associated with having lost a family member by suicide.

Method

A total of 225 community adults participated. Two groups were defined: a group exposed to suicide (n = 53), and a control group (n = 172).

Results

Results demonstrated that groups did significantly differ on the total score of the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire‐Revised (SBQ‐R), on the four individual SBQ‐R items, and on psychache. Results from a hierarchical multiple regression analysis demonstrated that having lost a family member by suicide and the construct of psychache each provided a significant unique contribution to explaining variance in suicide risk. The interaction between group membership and psychache also provided a further enhancement to the statistical prediction of suicide risk.

Conclusion

Findings are discussed with regard to their implications for clinical intervention and postvention.
Characterizing changes in rainfall: a case study for New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Hajani Evan , Rahman Ataur
Published: September 2017

This paper examines changes in rainfall in New South Wales (NSW), Australia using daily rainfall data from 200 rainfall stations covering the period of 1945–2014. The Mann–Kendall test is applied to identify trends in the selected rainfall indices, while the Pettitt change point test is employed to determine the direction and timing of a change point. Van Bell and Hughes homogeneity test is applied to examine homogeneity of the observed trends. It is found that the southern half of NSW is dominated by a negative trend in annual total rainfall, and autumn and spring rainfall. Based on the Pettitt change point test, it is found that annual maximum 24‐h rainfall data in NSW is dominated by a negative shift. Based on the Van Belle and Hughes method, it is found that NSW is dominated by non‐homogeneous trends in monthly maximum daily rainfall data. Overall, the results do not show any consistent pattern of rainfall trends in NSW. The findings of this study contribute towards the growing body of knowledge on the nature of changes in rainfall based on the latest data in NSW.
Assessment of NASA/POWER satellite‐based weather system for Brazilian conditions and its impact on sugarcane yield simulation
Authors: Monteiro Leonardo A. , Sentelhas Paulo C. , Pedra George U.
Published: September 2017

The gridded database provided by National Aeronautics and Space Administration/Prediction of World Wide Energy Resources (NASA/POWER) presents a global coverage of complete weather data at horizontal resolution of 1° latitude–longitude, becoming a potential source for agrometeorological studies. Once Brazil is a country with continental dimensions and the major sugarcane world producer, and its density of ground weather stations suitable for an efficient agricultural planning is sparse, the objectives of this study were to test how robust is the NASA/POWER database through its comparison with the Brazilian ground weather stations network records (INMET) and to quantify the impacts on potential (Yp) and attainable (Yatt) sugarcane yield simulations when setting NASA/POWER as source of input weather data. The comparisons for weather data records and sugarcane yield simulations were carried out from 1997 to 2016. Statistical indices presented a satisfactory performance for average air temperature (R2 = 0.73; d = 0.91), minimum air temperature (R2 = 0.72; d = 0.91), maximum air temperature (R2 = 0.57; d = 0.84), solar radiation (SR) (R2 = 0.71; d = 0.92), sunshine hours (R2 = 0.68; d = 0.90) and reference evapotranspiration, when calculated through Priestley–Taylor (ETo‐PT) method (R2 = 0.76; d = 0.93). When the weather variables were aggregated and compared with a 10‐day time scale, a strong improvement of statistical indices was obtained. Yp presented root mean square error (RMSE) smaller than 10 t ha−1 while relative mean error (RME) ranged between ±10% for majority of grid cells, with exception for southern Brazil due to low and frost temperatures that satellite cannot capture accurately. Even NASA/POWER offering a relatively coarse grid size database and perhaps some regional data fitting would give better results at higher latitudes and elevation. The results found in this study proved that NASA/POWER products could be used as a source of climatic data for agricultural activities with a reasonable confidence for regional and national spatial scales.
The association between anticoagulation therapy, maternal characteristics, and a failed cfDNA test due to a low fetal fraction
Authors: Burns Whitney , Koelper Nathanael , Barberio Andrea , Deagostino‐Kelly Mary , Mennuti Michael , Sammel Mary D. , Dugoff Lorraine
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The objective of this study was to identify maternal characteristics associated with a failed cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) test due to a low fetal fraction (FF).

Method

Retrospective cohort study of women with singleton pregnancies who had cfDNA screening at 10–25 weeks gestation between October 2011 and January 2016. cfDNA screening was performed using methylation techniques until October 2013; thereafter, samples were run with massively parallel sequencing. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify maternal characteristics associated with no cell free DNA result secondary to low FF.

Results

Thirty‐three (1.2%) of 2890 eligible women had a failed cfDNA test, including 18 (0.6%) cases with a low FF. A failed cfDNA test due to a low FF was associated with obesity (aOR 1.11, CI 1.05–1.18, p = 0.0003) and treatment with enoxaparin (aOR 37.5, 11.19–125.87, p < 0.0001). 5 of 28 (18%, 95% CI: 6.1%–36.9%) women on enoxaparin had a failed cfDNA test secondary to a low FFx.

Conclusion

Enoxaparin therapy and obesity were associated with an increased incidence of a failed cfDNA test due to low FF. Further research is needed to determine the mechanism by which anticoagulation therapy alters cfDNA test functionality and identify approaches to improve test performance in these women.
Isothermal crystallization kinetics of polypropylene in melt‐mixed composites of polypropylene and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Banerjee Joyita , Parija Suchitra , Panwar Ajay S. , Mukhopadhyay Kingsuk , Saxena A. K. , Bhattacharyya Arup R.
Published: September 2017

The isothermal crystallization behaviour of the polypropylene (PP) phase in PP/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) composites has been investigated via differential scanning calorimetric analysis, which showed the influence of the varying dispersion level of MWCNTs in the respective PP matrix. PP/MWCNTs composites were prepared via melt‐blending technique, wherein two different grades of MWCNTs of varying average “agglomerate” size and varying entanglements (N‐MWCNTs and D‐MWCNTs) were utilized. Furthermore, the influence of melt‐viscosity of the PP phase was investigated on the crystallization kinetics of the PP/MWCNTs composites. Heterogeneous nucleation ability of MWCNTs has resulted in a decrease in half time of crystallization (t1/2) from ∼14 min for pure PP to ∼6 min for PP/N‐MWCNTs and ∼11 min for PP/D‐MWCNTs composites at 1 wt% of MWCNTs at 132 °C. Overall rate of crystallization (k) has significantly increased to 4.9 × 10−2 min−1 for PP/N‐MWCNTs composite as compared with 6.2 × 10−3 min−1 for PP/D‐MWCNTs composite at 0.5 wt% of MWCNTs at 132 °C. Moreover, the effect of a novel organic modifier, Li‐salt of 6‐amino hexanoic acid along with a compatibilizer (PP‐g‐MA) has also been investigated on the crystallization kinetics of the PP phase in PP/MWCNTs composites. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:1136–1146, 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of atmospheric pressure plasma generated in GlidArc reactor on Lavatera thuringiaca L. seeds’ germination
Authors: Pawlat Joanna , Starek Agnieszka , Sujak Agnieszka , Kwiatkowski Michał , Terebun Piotr , Budzeń Małgorzata
Published: September 2017

The paper presents experimental results concerning pre‐sowing stimulation of Thuringian Mallow (Lavatera thuringiaca L.) seeds with non‐thermal plasma generated in GlidArc reactor (dry nitrogen, atmospheric pressure) and its effect on the germination process. Five groups of seeds characterized by different exposure times were used. The effect of cold plasma on seeds was analyzed by investigation of microscopic pictures of carbon coated seed surfaces registered by means of electron scanning microscope. Visible changes in the seed surface structure could enhance the formation of micro‐pores which may be involved in water absorption, thus facilitating faster seed germination. Pre‐sowing plasma stimulation of seeds improved germination parameters such as germination capacity and germination energy for all tested groups, relative to control. The highest germination parameters were obtained for seeds stimulated with plasma for the exposure times of 2 and 5 min.
Nasal high‐frequency oscillatory ventilation impairs heated humidification: A neonatal bench study
Authors: Ullrich Tim L. , Czernik Christoph , Bührer Christoph , Schmalisch Gerd , Fischer Hendrik S.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Nasal high‐frequency oscillatory ventilation (nHFOV) is a novel mode of non‐invasive ventilation used in neonates. However, upper airway obstructions due to viscous secretions have been described as specific adverse effects. We hypothesized that high‐frequency oscillations reduce air humidity in the oropharynx, resulting in upper airway desiccation. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of nHFOV ventilatory settings on oropharyngeal gas conditions.

Methods

NHFOV or nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) was applied, along with heated humidification, to a previously established neonatal bench model that simulates oropharyngeal gas conditions during spontaneous breathing through an open mouth. A digital thermo‐hygro sensor measured oropharyngeal temperature (T) and humidity at various nHFOV frequencies (7, 10, 13 Hz), amplitudes (10, 20, 30 cmH2O), and inspiratory‐to‐expiratory (I:E) ratios (25:75, 33:66, 50:50), and also during nCPAP.

Results

Relative humidity was always >99%, but nHFOV resulted in lower mean T and absolute humidity (AH) in comparison to nCPAP (P < 0.001). Specifically, decreasing the nHFOV frequency and increasing nHFOV amplitude caused a decline in T and AH (P < 0.001). Mean T and AH were highest during nCPAP (T 34.8 ± 0.6°C, AH 39.3 ± 1.3 g · m−3) and lowest during nHFOV at a frequency of 7 Hz and an amplitude of 30 cmH2O (T 32.4 ± 0.3°C, AH 34.7 ± 0.5 g · m−3). Increasing the I:E ratio also reduced T and AH (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Intensified nHFOV settings with low frequencies, high amplitudes, and high I:E ratios may place infants at an increased risk of upper airway desiccation. Future studies should investigate strategies to optimize heated humidification during nHFOV.
Reduced number of CD169+ macrophages in pre‐metastatic regional lymph nodes is associated with subsequent metastatic disease in an animal model and with poor outcome in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Strömvall Kerstin , Sundkvist Kristoffer , Ljungberg Börje , Halin Bergström Sofia , Bergh Anders
Published: September 2017

Background

Tumor‐derived antigens are captured by CD169+ (SIGLEC1+) sinus macrophages in regional lymph nodes (LNs), and are presented to effector cells inducing an anti‐tumor immune response. Reduced CD169 expression in pre‐metastatic regional LNs is associated with subsequent metastatic disease and a poor outcome in several tumor types, but if this is the case in prostate cancer has not been explored.

Methods

CD169 expression was measured with immunohistochemistry in metastasis‐free regional LNs from 109 prostate cancer patients treated with prostatectomy (January 1996 to April 2002). Possible associations of CD169 expression with PSA‐relapse, prostate cancer death, Gleason score, and other clinical data were assessed using Kaplan‐Meier survival‐ and Cox regression analysis. In addition, the Dunning rat prostate tumor model was used to examine CD169 expression in pre‐metastatic LNs draining either highly metastatic MatLyLu‐ or poorly metastatic AT1‐tumors.

Results

In patients with low CD169 immunostaining in metastasis‐free regional LNs, 8 of the 27 patients died from prostate cancer compared with only three of the 82 patients with high immunostaining (P < 0.001). CD169 expression in regional LNs was not associated with PSA‐relapse. Rats with highly metastatic tumors had decreased CD169 immunoreactivity in pre‐metastatic regional LNs compared with rats with poorly metastatic tumors.

Conclusion

Low expression of CD169 in metastasis‐free regional LNs indicates a reduced anti‐tumor immune response. If verified in other studies, CD169 expression in regional LNs could, in combination with other factors, potentially be used as a marker of prostate cancer aggressiveness.
Why are marriage and family formation increasingly disconnected across Europe? A multilevel perspective on existing theories
Authors: Lappegård Trude , Klüsener Sebastian , Vignoli Daniele
Published: September 2017

Childbearing outside of marriage has increased drastically in recent decades. However, the existing explanations for this development are not coherent. Proponents of the Second Demographic Transition framework view the rise in nonmarital childbearing as part of a pattern of progress driven by processes such as emancipation from traditional social norms, whereas other scholars perceive this trend in the context of a “pattern of disadvantage,” as nonmarital births are often concentrated among lower socioeconomic groups. In this paper, we posit that the relevance of the aforementioned theoretical explanations might vary depending on the geographic scale at which variation occurs: that is, across nation states, subnational regions, or individuals. To explore this hypothesis, we analyse harmonised survey data from 16 European countries. We apply hierarchical models to study how the likelihood that a woman living in a couple will have her first child either within nonmarital cohabitation or within marriage is linked to national and subnational regional variation in socioeconomic conditions that are related to explanations based on the existing theoretical considerations. Our results suggest that the Second Demographic Transition framework is very important for understanding variation between countries, whereas arguments pointing to a pattern of disadvantage seem to be more relevant at the individual and subnational regional level. It thus appears that taking a multilevel perspective can help us better understand why the existing theoretical explanations are not fully coherent.
Understanding MCP‐MOD dose finding as a method based on linear regression
Authors: Thomas Neal
Published: September 2017

MCP‐MOD is a testing and model selection approach for clinical dose finding studies. During testing, contrasts of dose group means are derived from candidate dose response models. A multiple‐comparison procedure is applied that controls the alpha level for the family of null hypotheses associated with the contrasts. Provided at least one contrast is significant, a corresponding set of “good” candidate models is identified. The model generating the most significant contrast is typically selected. There have been numerous publications on the method. It was endorsed by the European Medicines Agency.

The MCP‐MOD procedure can be alternatively represented as a method based on simple linear regression, where “simple” refers to the inclusion of an intercept and a single predictor variable, which is a transformation of dose. It is shown that the contrasts are equal to least squares linear regression slope estimates after a rescaling of the predictor variables. The test for each contrast is the usual t statistic for a null slope parameter, except that a variance estimate with fewer degrees of freedom is used in the standard error. Selecting the model corresponding to the most significant contrast P value is equivalent to selecting the predictor variable yielding the smallest residual sum of squares. This criteria orders the models like a common goodness‐of‐fit test, but it does not assure a good fit. Common inferential methods applied to the selected model are subject to distortions that are often present following data‐based model selection.
Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) as Functional Supramolecular Architectures for Anion Recognition and Sensing
Authors: Mandal Tarak Nath , Karmakar Avishek , Sharma Shivani , Ghosh Sujit K.
Published: September 2017

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have experienced a tremendous growth during last few decades as porous crystalline molecular materials. The comprehensive effect of structural diversity, tunability and high surface area makes MOFs suitable for multifarious applications. MOFs can act as potential receptors toward different target components along with ionic species, small molecules, solvents, explosives etc. Anion recognition remains an important phenomena due to its involvement in many chemical and biological processes. Ligand designing, incorporation of appropriate functional groups and post‐synthetic modifications are key strategies in MOFs for selective recognition and scavenging of environmentally toxic and detrimental anions (i. e. cyanide, oxo‐anions etc.). The main focus of this personal account is on our research towards development and potential applications of MOFs with special emphasis on selective and sensitive anion sensing.
The disengagement of visual attention in the gap paradigm across adolescence
Authors: Van der Stigchel S. , Hessels R. S. , van Elst J. C. , Kemner C.
Published: September 2017

Attentional disengagement is important for successful interaction with our environment. The efficiency of attentional disengagement is commonly assessed using the gap paradigm. There is, however, a sharp contrast between the number of studies applying the gap paradigm to clinical populations and the knowledge about the underlying developmental trajectory of the gap effect. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to investigate attentional disengagement in a group of children aged 9–15. Besides the typically deployed gap and the overlap conditions, we also added a baseline condition in which the fixation point was removed at the moment that the target appeared. This allowed us to reveal the appropriate experimental conditions to unravel possible developmental differences. Correlational analyses showed that the size of the gap effect became smaller with increasing age, but only for the difference between the gap and the overlap conditions. This shows that there is a gradual increase in the capacity to disengage visual attention with increasing age, but that this effect only becomes apparent when the gap and the overlap conditions are compared. The gradual decrease of the gap effect with increasing age provides additional evidence that the attentional system becomes more efficient with increasing age and that this is a gradual process.
Larval assemblages of large saproxylic cerambycids in Iberian oak forests: wood quality and host preference shape resource partitioning
Authors: Torres‐Vila Luis M. , Zugasti‐Martínez Carlos , Mendiola‐Díaz F. Javier , De‐Juan‐Murillo José M. , Sánchez‐González Álvaro , Conejo‐Rodríguez Yolanda , Ponce‐Escudero Francisco , Fernández‐Moreno Félix
Published: September 2017

Oak open woodlands are widespread in southwestern Iberia and present outstanding ecological, biodiversity and socio‐economic values. Evergreen species (holm and cork oaks) are prevalent but deciduous oaks may be also locally important. Three large xylophagous cerambycids are associated to these oaks, Cerambyx welensii (Cw), C. cerdo (Cc) and Prinobius myardi (Pm). Like other saproxylic insects, these cerambycids are essential to the nutrient cycle, wood degradation and tree hollow formation, significantly contributing to biodiversity in oak forests. These cerambycids may also potentially colonise healthy living trees and become harmful or pest species. Factors driving their larval ecology are almost unknown, especially in oak forests harbouring mixed populations living in sympatry. Wood samples (n = 500 bolts) from 348 colonised trees were examined during 2011–2016 across the Extremadura region (41,634 km2). Bolts were measured, scored into five wood quality classes, dissected, and all target cerambycids were collected, measured, reared and taxonomically identified. We then determined species‐specific prevalence, niche breadth, niche overlap, age structure and population density depending on wood quality, host preference, tree part, wood size, altitude and sun exposure. Wood quality and host preference were major factors segregating interspecific resource partitioning. Cw was prevalent on cork oak decayed wood, and Pm on holm oak degraded wood. Host tree part was involved in Cerambyx larval niche segregation, with Cw prevalent in the fork/branches and Cc in the trunk/base. Pm was never found inhabiting deciduous oaks. Our results may be useful to improve sustainable forest management practices in Iberian oak open woodlands.
Role of head‐up tilt table testing in patients with syncope or transient loss of consciousness
Authors: Furukawa Toshiyuki
Published: September 2017

The tilt table test (TTT) is a useful method for the management of reflex syncope. However, the TTT is incomplete and has several problems. The indications for this test are established using guidelines. The TTT is not suitable for all syncopal patients. It is currently unclear (1) When should the TTT be used, (2) for which types of patients TTT should be performed, and (3) does the TTT provide useful information to guide indication for pacing therapy for reflex syncope. The answers to these questions appear in recent reports from two guidelines published by the European Society of Cardiology and the Japan Circulation Society. The indications for TTT do not apply to all syncopal patients, but selected patients. For patients with low risks and rare syncopal events, the TTT is not necessary, even when diagnoses are unconfirmed. The TTT is used not only for diagnosis of reflex syncope, but also for many clinical management of several conditions (i.e., exclusion of cardiac syncope). Positive TTT results cannot predict the effects of pacing therapy for reflex syncope. The decision to use pacing therapy should be based on documented electrocardiograms and other findings, including TTT results.
CONFIRMATION, CAUSATION, AND SIMPSON'S PARADOX
Authors: Fitelson Branden
Published: September 2017

In this paper, I review some recent treatments of Simpson's Paradox, and I propose a new rationalizing explanation of its (apparent) paradoxicality.
The Kvabebi Canidae record revisited (late Pliocene, Sighnaghi, eastern Georgia)
Authors: Rook Lorenzo , Bartolini Lucenti Saverio , Bukhsianidze Maia , Lordkipanidze David
Published: September 2017

Unlike the Asian and North American Pliocene record, fossil occurrences of Canidae in Europe (and Africa) are uncommon and fragmentary. The revision of canid material from the late Pliocene site of Kvabebi (eastern Georgia) revealed the contemporaneous occurrence of three different taxa: (1)Nyctereutes megamastoides(a derived species of the Eurasian Pliocene raccoon dog-like canids); (2)Vulpescf.V.alopecoides(representing the first occurrence of a member of the vulpine taxonV.alopecoides, a species that was the most widespread fox in the early Pleistocene in western Europe); and (3)Eucyonsp. The latter occurrence at Kvabebi completes our knowledge of the late Pliocene evolutionary history of the latest representatives of the genus in Western Europe and Central Asia. Our revision of Kvabebi canids registers a previously undocumented case of established niche partitioning among early Pliocene sympatric Canidae.
The impact of pathogen burden on leukocyte telomere length in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: AIELLO A. E. , JAYABALASINGHAM B. , SIMANEK A. M. , DIEZ-ROUX A. , FEINSTEIN L. , MEIER H. C. S. , NEEDHAM B. L. , DOWD J. B.
Published: September 2017

Several infections have been linked to telomere shortening and in some cases these associations have varied by sex. We assessed the association between seropositivity to four persistent pathogens (cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus-1,Helicobacter pylori,Chlamydia pneumoniae), and total pathogen burden on leukocyte telomere length in a diverse US sample. Data came from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, a population-based cohort study. We utilized cross-sectional survey data, and biological samples from participants tested for pathogens and telomere length (N= 163). Linear regression was used to examine the association between seropositivity for individual pathogens as well as total pathogen burden and telomere length, adjusting for various confounders. CMV seropositivity and increased total pathogen burden level were significantly associated with shorter telomere length among females (β= −0·1204 (standard error (s.e.) 0·06),P= 0·044) and (β= −0·1057 (s.e.= 0·05),P= 0·033), respectively. There was no statistically significant association among males. Our findings suggest that prevention or treatment of persistent pathogens, in particular CMV, may play an important role in reducing telomere shortening over the life course among women. Future research is needed to confirm these novel findings in larger longitudinal samples.
Effects of the Healthy Start randomized intervention on dietary intake among obesity-prone normal-weight children
Authors: Rohde Jeanett F , Larsen Sofus C , Ängquist Lars , Olsen Nanna J , Stougaard Maria , Mortensen Erik L , Heitmann Berit L
Published: September 2017

Objective

The study aimed to evaluate the impact of a 15-month intervention on dietary intake conducted among obesity-prone normal-weight pre-school children.

Design

Information on dietary intake was obtained using a 4 d diet record. A diet quality index was adapted to assess how well children’s diet complied with the Danish national guidelines. Linear regression per protocol and intention-to-treat analyses of differences in intakes of energy, macronutrients, fruit, vegetables, fish, sugar-sweetened beverages and diet quality index between the two groups were conducted.

Setting

The Healthy Start study was conducted during 2009–2011, focusing on changing diet, physical activity, sleep and stress management to prevent excessive weight gain among Danish children.

Subjects

From a population of 635 Danish pre-school children, who had a high birth weight (≥4000 g), high maternal pre-pregnancy BMI (≥28·0 kg/m2) or low maternal educational level (<10 years of schooling), 285 children completed the intervention and had complete information on dietary intake.

Results

Children in the intervention group had a lower energy intake after the 15-month intervention (group means: 5·29 v. 5·59 MJ, P=0·02) compared with the control group. We observed lower intakes of carbohydrates and added sugar in the intervention group compared with the control group after the intervention (P=0·002, P=0·01).

Conclusions

The intervention resulted in a lower energy intake, particularly from carbohydrates and added sugar after 15 months of intervention, suggesting that dietary intake can be changed in a healthier direction in children predisposed to obesity.
First-time mothers’ breast-feeding maintenance: role of experiences and changes in maternal perceptions
Authors: Schafer Ellen J , Campo Shelly , Colaizy Tarah T , Mulder Pamela J , Breheny Patrick , Ashida Sato
Published: September 2017

Objective

Breast-feeding initiation rates have increased in the USA; however, maintenance of breast-feeding for recommended durations is low. The objective of the present study was to identify factors that may facilitate breast-feeding for longer durations among first-time mothers, including physiological and social experiences and changes in maternal perceptions.

Design

Survival analysis and linear regression methods were used to explore the relationship between experiences and breast-feeding duration, and the possible mediating effect of changes in maternal perceptions.

Setting

Secondary data from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II, conducted in the USA between 2005 and 2007.

Subjects

Data from 762 first-time mothers who ever breast-fed were analysed.

Results

Experiencing trouble with baby’s latch, problems with milk flow/supply and painful breast-feeding were significantly associated with breast-feeding duration (64, 26 and 36 % shorter duration, respectively). Meanwhile, positive changes in perception with respect to breast-feeding self-efficacy, opinion about infant feeding and belief about breast milk were associated with 16–27 % longer duration. Furthermore, changes in perception were observed to partially mediate the impact of physiological experiences on breast-feeding duration.

Conclusions

Perceptions of breast-feeding self-efficacy, beliefs and opinions can change over time and are influenced by breast-feeding experiences. The combined effect of experience and perception plays a key role in influencing breast-feeding duration. Future research should explore interventions to maintain or improve these perceptions while accounting for physiological experiences to support breast-feeding for recommended durations among first-time mothers.
Legal advocacy as a tool to advance Roma Health
Authors: Ezer Tamar , Abdikeeva Alphia , McKee Martin
Published: September 2017

Roma in central Europe face many violations of their rights, including those that impede their access to high-quality health care. Legal frameworks have the potential to address these violations, whereas legal advocacy services offer a means for enforcement of rights. We undertook key informant interviews with Roma civil society organisations and selected knowledgeable individuals in Macedonia, Romania and Serbia to identify lessons from the development of these services. Achievements were reported in four areas. Legal empowerment, with employment of Roma paralegals was especially effective, increasing awareness of the ability to challenge violations. Documentation of human rights violations is an important basis for advocacy, but does not guarantee redress, and may work best in combination with legal empowerment or international pressure. Strategic litigation can play a key role in removing bureaucratic obstacles that prevent Roma from exercising their right to access to health care. Progress in changing the narrative on Roma in the mainstream media has been limited but examples of good practice exist. Although much remains to be done, Roma groups report that legal advocacy has strengthened their ability to challenge rights violations, thereby enhancing their ability to access effective and responsive care.
Knockdown of SIRT7 enhances the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells partly via activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Erman E M , Zhang Wei , Ye Chenyi C Y , Gao Xiang , Jiang Liangjun L J , Zhao Tengfei T F , Pan Zhijun Z J , Xue Deting D T
Published: September 2017

Sirtuin 7 (SIRT7) is a NAD+-dependent deacetylase in the sirtuin family. In a previous study, human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) with reduced SIRT7 activity were developed to evaluate the effect of SIRT7 on osteogenesis. SIRT7 knockdown significantly enhanced osteoblast-specific gene expression, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineral deposition in vitro. Additionally, SIRT7 knockdown upregulated β-catenin. The enhanced osteogenesis due to SIRT7 knockdown was partially rescued by a Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor. Furthermore, SIRT7 knockdown hBMSCs combined with a chitosan scaffold significantly promoted bone formation in a rat tibial defect model, as determined by imaging and histological examinations. These findings suggest that SIRT7 has an essential role in osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs, partly by activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
An in planta biolistic method for stable wheat transformation
Authors: Hamada Haruyasu , Linghu Qianyan , Nagira Yozo , Miki Ryuji , Taoka Naoaki , Imai Ryozo
Published: September 2017

The currently favoured method for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) transformation is inapplicable to many elite cultivars because it requires callus culture and regeneration. Here, we developed a simple, reproducible, in planta wheat transformation method using biolistic DNA delivery without callus culture or regeneration. Shoot apical meristems (SAMs) grown from dry imbibed seeds were exposed under a microscope and subjected to bombardment with different-sized gold particles coated with the GFP gene construct, introducing DNA into the L2 cell layer. Bombarded embryos were grown to mature, stably transformed T0 plants and integration of the GFP gene into the genome was determined at the fifth leaf. Use of 0.6-µm particles and 1350-psi pressure resulted in dramatically increased maximum ratios of transient GFP expression in SAMs and transgene integration in the fifth leaf. The transgene was integrated into the germ cells of 62% of transformants, and was therefore inherited in the next generation. We successfully transformed the model wheat cultivar ‘Fielder’, as well as the recalcitrant Japanese elite cultivar ‘Haruyokoi’. Our method could potentially be used to generate stable transgenic lines for a wide range of commercial wheat cultivars.
Correction: Corrigendum: Guilty repair sustains cooperation, angry retaliation destroys it
Authors: Skatova Anya , Spence Alexa , Leygue Caroline , Ferguson Eamonn
Published: September 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 46709; published online: 27 April 2017; updated: 07 September 2017. In this Article, Figure 2b is a duplication of Figure 2c. The correct Figure 2b appears below as Fig. 1.
The effect of Mg and Sr on the crystallinity of bones evaluated through Raman spectroscopy and laser ablation-ICPMS analysis
Authors: Tanaka Yu-ki , Yajima Nobuyuki , Okada Masahiro , Matsumoto Takuya , Higuchi Yusuke , Miyazaki Shigeaki , Yamato Hideyuki , Hirata Takafumi
Published: September 2017

We investigated the possible linkage between the crystallinity and elemental ratios (Mg/Ca and Sr/Ca) of the femoral cortical bones of rats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or diabetes mellitus (DM).
Assessment of PGAA capability for low-level measurements of H in Ti alloys
Authors: Turkoglu Danyal , Chen-Mayer Heather , Paul Rick , Zeisler Rolf
Published: September 2017

The accuracy of low-level hydrogen measurements with prompt gamma-ray activation analysis (PGAA) depends on identifying and accounting for all background H signals, including interfering signals, which are investigated and quantified in this work.
Hydration of hydrogels regulates vascularization in vivo
Authors: Wu Jie , Zhang Kunxi , Yu Xi , Ding Jianxun , Cui Lei , Yin Jingbo
Published: September 2017

The key barrier to the clinical application of tissue engineering scaffolds is the limitation of rapid and sufficient vascularization.
Highly efficient electrocatalytic oxidation of urea on a Mn-incorporated Ni(OH)2/carbon fiber cloth for energy-saving rechargeable Zn–air batteries
Authors: Zhang Xian , Liu Guoqiang , Zhao Cuijiao , Wang Guozhong , Zhang Yunxia , Zhang Haimin , Zhao Huijun
Published: September 2017

The introduction of Mn can effectively regulate the electronic structure of Ni hydroxides on CFC, exhibiting superior electrocatalytic oxidation activity toward urea and potential applications in energy-saving rechargeable Zn–air batteries.
Harnessing sunlight without a photosensitizer for highly efficient consecutive [3+2]/[4+2] annulation to synthesize fused benzobicyclic skeletons
Authors: Zhou Nengneng , Cheng Yixiang , Xie Jin , Zhu Chengjian
Published: September 2017

A photosensitizer-free, highly efficient sunlight-promoted tandem [3+2]/[4+2] annulation of unsaturated α-bromocarbonyls with o-alkynylanilines was described, and allowed for convenient synthesis of fused benzobicyclic skeletons.
Bonding and spectroscopic analyses of N2O–CS2and N2O–OCS heterodimer complexes and their atmospheric consequences
Authors: Begum Samiyara , Subramanian Ranga
Published: September 2017

Different isomers of the valence isoelectronic pairs of the heterodimers N2O–SCS and N2O–OCS were investigated using MP2 and CCSD(T) methods with the aug-cc-pVXZ (X = D, T) basis set with anharmonic frequency calculations.
Unprecedented family of heterometallic LnIII[18-metallacrown-6] complexes: syntheses, structures, and magnetic properties
Authors: Yang Wei , Yang Hua , Zeng Su-Yuan , Li Da-Cheng , Dou Jian-Min
Published: September 2017

A novel family LnIII[18-metallacrown-6] was synthesized with the molecular formula [Fe6O2Ln(tBu-sao)6(OH)(MeO)4(MeOH)(H2O)]·6MeOH (where, Ln = DyIII (1), TbIII (2), GdIII (3), and YIII (4)) using 3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylaldoxime (tBu-saoH2). Magnetic measurements indicate slow magnetic relaxation for complexes 1–3.
The necessity of bioanalytical tools for advancing water and sediment quality assessment
Authors: Kolodziej Edward P. , Choi Kyungho , Marfil-Vega Ruth , Brooks Bryan W.
Published: September 2017

Guest editors Edward Kolodziej, Kyungho Choi, Ruth Marfil-Vega and Bryan Brooks introduce the “Bioanalytical tools for water and sediment quality assessment” themed issue of Environmental Science: Processes & Impacts.
Hydrolysis of cellulose to glucose over carbon catalysts sulfonated via a plasma process in dilute acids
Authors: Li Oi Lun , Ikura Ryuhei , Ishizaki Takahiro
Published: September 2017

A sulfonation route for carbon materials under dilute acid conditionsviaa plasma process.
A roadmap towards green packaging: the current status and future outlook for polyesters in the packaging industry
Authors: Rabnawaz M. , Wyman I. , Auras R. , Cheng S.
Published: September 2017

Approximately 99% of the plastics used in the packaging industry today are petroleum-based. However, the adoption of biobased plastics could help to greatly reduce the environmental footprint of packaging materials and help to conserve our non-renewable petroleum resources. This tutorial review provides an overview of renewable polyesters and their potential packaging materials.
Simple adjustments to the molecular planarity of organic sensitizers: towards highly selective optimization of energy levels
Authors: Wang Ran , Chen Qinghua , Feng Haijing , Liu Bo
Published: September 2017

Along with the specified planarization of molecular π-bridges, the LUMO levels of dyes can be effectively and selectively stabilized.
Organo-clay hybrid hydrophobic spherical styrene divinylbenzene crosslink beads for high-performance carbon dioxide capture
Authors: Nande Smita S. , Garnaik Baijayantimala
Published: September 2017

Synthesis of industrially most valuable and low-cost materials for repeated CO2 adsorption at low temperatures and desorption without energy.
Carboxylic acid functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube assisted centri-voltammetry as a new approach for caffeine detection
Authors: Ören Tuğba , Anık Ülkü
Published: September 2017

Centri-voltammetry provides centrifugation and voltammetry in a single cell and was applied to the caffeine detection for the first time.
Palladium-catalyzed, unsymmetrical homocoupling of thiophenes via carbon–sulfur bond activation: a new avenue to homocoupling reactions
Authors: Vahabi Amir Hossein , Alizadeh Abdolali , Khavasi Hamid Reza , Bazgir Ayoob
Published: September 2017

Introduction of an unprecedented pattern of reactivity, namely the C–N unsymmetrical homocoupling by joining the electrophilic and nucleophilic motifs of the substrate through transition-metal catalysis.
Quantum dot light-emitting diodes using a graphene oxide/PEDOT:PSS bilayer as hole injection layer
Authors: Song Dae-Ho , Song Suk-Ho , Shen Tian-Zi , Lee Jun-Seo , Park Won-Hyeok , Kim Sang-Soo , Song Jang-Kun
Published: September 2017

Adoption of graphene oxide/PEDOT:PSS as a HIL layer dramatically improves the electro-optical performance of QLED devices.
Observation of chemically protected polydimethylsiloxane: towards crack-free PDMS
Authors: Adly N. Y. , Hassani H. , Tran A. Q. , Balski M. , Yakushenko A. , Offenhäusser A. , Mayer D. , Wolfrum B.
Published: September 2017

We demonstrate a method for crack-free PDMS based on chemical protection using MPTMS.
Buckling-driven self-assembly of self-similar inspired micro/nanofibers for ultra-stretchable electronics
Authors: Bian Jing , Ding Yajiang , Duan Yongqing , Wan Xiaodong , Huang YongAn
Published: September 2017

A printing-based buckling-driven self-assembly method for the fabrication of ultra-stretchable electronics with self-similar fiber-based structures is proposed.
Halide anion–fullerene π noncovalent interactions: n-doping and a halide anion migration mechanism in p–i–n perovskite solar cells
Authors: Sun X. , Ji L. Y. , Chen W. W. , Guo X. , Wang H. H. , Lei M. , Wang Q. , Li Y. F.
Published: September 2017

Iodide–fullerene π interactions play decisive roles in n-doping and electron transport of fullerenes at the perovskite–PCBM interface in the devices of perovskite solar cells (Pero-SCs).