bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Luck of The Withdrawal
Authors: Rogers Jennifer
Published: October 2016

What are the chances that you find yourself withdrawing a £10 note that was signed a decade ago by a work colleague? It happened to a BBC employee, and Jennifer Rogers was called in to calculate the probabilities
Climate Change in Pictures
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: October 2016

Artist Alisa Singer is inspired by data. In turn, she hopes to inspire the public to explore the science of climate change
The Frequency of “America” in America
Authors: Kashlak Adam B.
Published: October 2016

The State of the Union address has been a fixture of the US political calendar for two centuries. In that time, use of the word “America” has increased substantially. Adam B. Kashlak charts its evolution, and predicts its future
Highly Stable Red‐Emitting Sr2Si5N8:Eu2+ Phosphor with a Hydrophobic Surface
Authors: Zhang Bi , Wang Jun‐Wei , Hao Lu‐Yuan , Xu Xin , Agathopoulos Simeon , Yin Liang‐Jun , Wang Cheng‐Ming , Hintzen Hubertus T. (Bert)
Published: October 2016

One of the biggest problems in white light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs) is the moisture‐induced degradation of phosphors. This paper proposes a simple and feasible surface modification method to solve it, whereby a hydrophobic surface layer is developed on the surface of the phosphors. The particular case of orange‐red‐emitting Sr2Si5N8:Eu2+ (SSN) phosphor was investigated. The mechanism to develop the hydrophobic layer involves hydrolysis and polymerization of tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The experimental results showed that the surface layer of SSN phosphor was successfully modified to a hydrophobic nanolayer (8 nm) of amorphous silicon dioxide that contains CH3 groups in the surface. This hydrophobic surface layer gives the modified phosphor superior stability in high‐pressure water steam conditions at 150°C.
A Soft Chemistry‐Based Route to Near‐Infrared Luminescent Bismuth‐Activated Glass Films
Authors: Yong Zi‐Jun , Zhou Yang , Liu Bo‐Mei , Zhou Dan‐Dan , Sun Hong‐Tao
Published: October 2016

Near‐infrared (NIR) luminescent materials activated by bismuth are of fundamental and technological importance because of a broad diversity of high‐value applications for optical telecommunications and biomedicine. The preparation of Bi‐activated films commonly relies on the physical vapor deposition technique including cosputtering and pulse laser deposition. Such conventional methods consist of the preparation of targets, exploring various preparation parameters using expensive experimental apparatuses, and in situ or postthermal treatment of the as‐prepared films. Here, we report on a soft chemistry‐based approach for the fabrication of NIR luminescent bismuth‐activated glass films. The resulting films demonstrate ultrabroad, long‐lived photoluminescence in the range 950–1500 nm. This approach is very flexible, permitting the selection of unusual combinations of active centers to tailor functionality. This strategy greatly enriches the techniques for the preparation of bismuth‐activated films, providing great promise for the realization of waveguide‐type optical amplifiers and lasers.
Effect of Sintering Additives on Relative Density and Li‐ion Conductivity of Nb‐Doped Li7La3ZrO12 Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Rosero‐Navarro Nataly Carolina , Yamashita Taira , Miura Akira , Higuchi Mikio , Tadanaga Kiyoharu
Published: October 2016

Lithium ion conductors with garnet‐type structure are promising candidates for applications in all solid‐state lithium ion batteries, because these materials present a high chemical stability against Li metal and a rather high Li+ conductivity (10−3–10−4 S/cm). Producing densified Li‐ion conductors by lowering sintering temperature is an important issue, which can achieve high Li conductivity in garnet oxide by preventing the evaporation of lithium and a good Li‐ion conduction in grain boundary between garnet oxides. In this study, we concentrate on the use of sintering additives to enhance densification and microstructure of Li7La3ZrNbO12 at sintering temperature of 900°C. Glasses in the LiO2‐B2O3‐SiO2‐CaO‐Al2O3 (LBSCA) and BaO‐B2O3‐SiO2‐CaO‐Al2O3 (BBSCA) system with low softening temperature (<700°C) were used to modify the grain‐boundary resistance during sintering process. Lithium compounds with low melting point (<850°C) such as LiF, Li2CO3, and LiOH were also studied to improve the rearrangement of grains during the initial and middle stages of sintering. Among these sintering additives, LBSCA and BBSCA were proved to be better sintering additives at reducing the porosity of the pellets and improving connectivity between the grains. Glass additives produced relative densities of 85–92%, whereas those of lithium compounds were 62–77%. Li7La3ZrNbO12 sintered with 4 wt% of LBSCA at 900°C for 10 h achieved a rather high relative density of 85% and total Li‐ion conductivity of 0.8 × 10−4 S/cm at room temperature (30°C).
ExplorinG frailty and mild cognitive impairmEnt in kidney tRansplantation to predict biomedicAl, psychosocial and health cost outcomeS (GERAS): protocol of a nationwide prospective cohort study
Authors: Mauthner Oliver , Claes Veerle , Walston Jeremy , Engberg Sandra , Binet Isabelle , Dickenmann Michael , Golshayan Déla , Hadaya Karine , Huynh‐Do Uyen , Calciolari Stefano , De Geest Sabina ,   the GERAS study consortium; For the Psychosocial Interest Group; Swiss Transplant Cohort Study (STCS)
Published: October 2016

Aim

To present the rationale, design and methodology of theGERASproject, which examines whether assessment of frailty and mild cognitive impairment could enhance risk prediction for biomedical, psychosocial outcomes and foster efficient resource allocation in kidney transplantation.

Background

For the burgeoning cohort of older patients considered for kidney transplantation, evidence gaps regarding frailty and mild cognitive impairment limit clinical decision‐making and medical management. As known risk factors for ‘hard’ clinical outcomes in chronic illness, both require further study in transplantation. Integrating these and other bio‐psychosocial factors into a comprehensive pre‐transplant patient assessment will provide insights regarding economic implications and may improve risk prediction.

Design

A nation‐wide multi‐centre prospective cohort study nested in the Swiss Transplant Cohort Study.

Methods

Our nationally representative convenience sample includes 250 adult kidney transplant recipients. Data sources include the Swiss Transplant Cohort Study and primary data collected at time of transplantation, 6 months, 1 and 2 years post‐transplant via established measures (the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Psychosocial Questionnaire, Fried Frailty Instrument and a blood analysis), investigator‐developed instruments and datasets compiled by hospitals’ management control units, sickness funds, the Swiss Federal Statistical Office and the European Renal Association. Descriptive, competing risk survival and mixed effects analyses will be performed. Research Ethics Committee approval was obtained in January 2016.

Discussion

This pioneering project jointly examines frailty and mild cognitive impairment from bio‐psychosocial and health economic perspectives. Results may significantly inform risk prediction, care tailoring and resource optimization to improve health outcomes in the ageing kidney transplant cohort.
What can the parameters of the species–area relationship (SAR) tell us? Insights from Mediterranean islands
Authors: Fattorini Simone , Borges Paulo A.V. , Dapporto Leonardo , Strona Giovanni
Published: October 2016

Aim

The species–area relationship (SAR) is often modelled by the linearized power function logS = logc + zlogA, whereSis species richness,Ais area, logcis the intercept andzis the slope. Although investigating howcandzvalues vary across taxa and archipelagos can provide insights into the biology of theSAR, this approach has many caveats. In this study, we aim to clarify how and whySARs should be properly compared for the same taxon among different areas, or among different taxa in the same area.

Location

Mediterranean. We considered 18–46 Tyrrhenian islands (0.000024–223 km2) and 32–65 Aegean islands (0.0058–8261 km2).

Methods

We usedOLSregressions to estimatecandzvalues for various taxonomic groups: land snails, isopods, centipedes, tenebrionids and reptiles. We usedANCOVAs to test (1) if different taxa have differentzandcvalues within the same island group (possibly due to their dispersal ability and ecological characteristics), and (2) if the same taxon has differentzandcvalues in different island groups (possibly due to differences in historical processes and isolation).

Results

zvaried between 0.141 and 0.309, whilecvaried between 2.717 and 12.286 species per unit area (1 km2). For tenebrionids, centipedes and land snails, we found highercvalues in the Tyrrhenian islands than in the Aegean islands. Overall,cvalues were highest for land snails.

Main conclusions

Our results demonstrate the importance of comparingSARs either of different groups within the same area, or of the same group in different areas. Furthermore, we identify the intercept, rather than the slope, as being dependent on the biogeographical dynamics (relict versus equilibrium faunas) and species ecology (dispersal capabilities and population abundance).
Giant tortoises spread to western Indian Ocean islands by sea drift in pre‐Holocene times, not by later human agency – response to Wilmé et al. (2016a)
Authors: Cheke Anthony S. , Pedrono Miguel , Bour Roger , Anderson Atholl , Griffiths Christine , Iverson John B. , Hume Julian P. , Walsh Martin
Published: October 2016

Evidence from DNA phylogeny, Plio‐Pleistocene ocean currents, giant tortoise dispersal, evolution of plant defences, radiocarbon dates and archaeology indicates that the endemic giant tortoises on the Mascarenes and Seychelles colonized naturally and were not translocated there by humans.
Soft tissue volume augmentation at dental implant sites using a volume stable three‐dimensional collagen matrix – histological outcomes of a preclinical study
Authors: Thoma Daniel S. , Naenni Nadja , Benic Goran I. , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E.
Published: October 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to test whether or not soft tissue augmentation with a collagen matrix (VCMX) leads to a similar increase in ridge width around dental implants compared to the use of an autogenous subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG).

Materials and Methods

In 12 dogs, immediate dental implants were placed with simultaneous guided bone regeneration. Three months later, soft tissue volume augmentation was performed by randomly allocating three treatment modalities to these sites [VCMX, SCTG, sham‐operated group (control)]. Dogs were sacrificed at 1 (n = 4), 2 (n = 4) or 6 months (n = 4). Descriptive histology and histomorphometric measurements for soft tissue thickness were performed on non‐decalcified sections.

Results

The horizontal soft tissue thickness was maximal at the most coronal level (alveolar crest) at 1 month (VCMX: 2.1 ± 1.6 mm; SCTG: 2.5 ± 1.7 mm; p = 0.877) and decreased until 6 months. At 6 months, the greatest mucosal thickness was at a level 3.5 mm below the crest (VCMX: 0.8 ± 0.3 mm; SCTG: 0.7 ± 0.2 mm) (p = 0.754). Control sites revealed no relevant soft tissue augmentation at any level and any time‐point. Tissue integration for VCMX and SCTG were favourable with minimal inflammatory reactions.

Conclusions

Soft tissue volume augmentation at implant sites was obtained to a similar extent using VCMX and SCTG up to 2 months. Thereafter, degradation and remodelling processes were enhanced leading to a minimal increase in soft tissue thickness at 6 months for VCMX and SCTG.
A cluster‐randomised, controlled trial of the impact of Cogmed Working Memory Training on both academic performance and regulation of social, emotional and behavioural challenges
Authors: Hitchcock Caitlin , Westwell Martin S.
Published: October 2016

Background

We explored whether school‐based Cogmed Working Memory Training (CWMT) may optimise both academic and psychological outcomes at school. Training of executive control skills may form a novel approach to enhancing processes that predict academic achievement, such as task‐related attention, and thereby academic performance, but also has the potential to improve the regulation of emotion, social problems and behavioural difficulties.

Methods

Primary school children (Mean age = 12 years, N = 148) were cluster‐randomised to complete active CWMT, a nonadaptive/placebo version of CWMT, or no training.

Results

No evidence was found for training effects on task‐related attention when performing academic tasks, or performance on reading comprehension and mathematics tasks, or teacher‐reported social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Conclusions

CWMT did not improve control of attention in the classroom, or regulation of social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.
A DRD4 gene by maternal sensitivity interaction predicts risk for overweight or obesity in two independent cohorts of preschool children
Authors: Levitan Robert D. , Jansen Pauline , Wendland Barbara , Tiemeier Henning , Jaddoe Vincent W. , Silveira Patricia P. , Kennedy James L. , Atkinson Leslie , Fleming Alison , Sokolowski Marla , Gaudreau Helene , Steiner Meir , Dubé Laurette , Hamilton Jill , Moss Ellen , Wazana Ashley , Meaney Michael
Published: October 2016

Background

Recent evidence suggests that early exposure to low maternal sensitivity is a risk factor for obesity in children and adolescents. A separate line of study shows that the seven‐repeat (7R) allele of the dopamine‐4 receptor gene (DRD4) increases susceptibility to environmental factors including maternal sensitivity. The current study integrates these lines of work by examining whether preschoolers carrying the 7R allele are more vulnerable to low maternal sensitivity as it relates to overweight/obesity risk.

Method

The Maternal Adversity Vulnerability and Neurodevelopment (MAVAN) project in Canada was used as the discovery cohort (N = 203), while the Generation R study in the Netherlands was used as a replication sample (N = 270). Regression models to predict both continuous BMI z‐scores and membership in any higher BMI category based on established World Health Organization (WHO) cutoffs for 48 months of age were completed.

Results

In both cohorts, there was a significant maternal sensitivity by DRD4 by sex interaction predicting higher body mass indices and/or obesity risk. As hypothesized, post hoc testing revealed an inverse relationship between maternal sensitivity and body mass indices in 7R allele carriers relative to noncarriers. This finding was strongest in girls in the Canadian cohort and in boys in the Dutch cohort.

Conclusions

Many children who carry the 7R allele of DRD4 appear to be more influenced by maternal sensitivity as it relates to overweight/obesity risk, consistent with a plasticity effect. Given the relatively small sample sizes available for these analyses, further replications will be needed to confirm and extend these results.
Meta‐analysis of magnitudes, differences and variation in evolutionary parameters
Authors: Morrissey M. B.
Published: October 2016

Meta‐analysis is increasingly used to synthesize major patterns in the large literatures within ecology and evolution. Meta‐analytic methods that do not account for the process of observing data, which we may refer to as ‘informal meta‐analyses’, may have undesirable properties. In some cases, informal meta‐analyses may produce results that are unbiased, but do not necessarily make the best possible use of available data. In other cases, unbiased statistical noise in individual reports in the literature can potentially be converted into severe systematic biases in informal meta‐analyses. I first present a general description of how failure to account for noise in individual inferences should be expected to lead to biases in some kinds of meta‐analysis. In particular, informal meta‐analyses of quantities that reflect the dispersion of parameters in nature, for example, the mean absolute value of a quantity, are likely to be generally highly misleading. I then re‐analyse three previously published informal meta‐analyses, where key inferences were of aspects of the dispersion of values in nature, for example, the mean absolute value of selection gradients. Major biological conclusions in each original informal meta‐analysis closely match those that could arise as artefacts due to statistical noise. I present alternative mixed‐model‐based analyses that are specifically tailored to each situation, but where all analyses may be implemented with widely available open‐source software. In each example meta‐re‐analysis, major conclusions change substantially.
Ordinary least squares regression is indicated for studies of allometry
Authors: Kilmer J. T. , Rodríguez R. L.
Published: October 2016

When it comes to fitting simple allometric slopes through measurement data, evolutionary biologists have been torn between regression methods. On the one hand, there is the ordinary least squares (OLS) regression, which is commonly used across many disciplines of biology to fit lines through data, but which has a reputation for underestimating slopes when measurement error is present. On the other hand, there is the reduced major axis (RMA) regression, which is often recommended as a substitute for OLS regression in studies of allometry, but which has several weaknesses of its own. Here, we review statistical theory as it applies to evolutionary biology and studies of allometry. We point out that the concerns that arise from measurement error for OLS regression are small and straightforward to deal with, whereas RMA has several key properties that make it unfit for use in the field of allometry. The recommended approach for researchers interested in allometry is to use OLS regression on measurements taken with low (but realistically achievable) measurement error. If measurement error is unavoidable and relatively large, it is preferable to correct for slope attenuation rather than to turn to RMA regression, or to take the expected amount of attenuation into account when interpreting the data.
Can estimates of genetic effective population size contribute to fisheries stock assessments?
Authors: Ovenden J. R. , Leigh G. M. , Blower D. C. , Jones A. T. , Moore A. , Bustamante C. , Buckworth R. C. , Bennett M. B. , Dudgeon C. L.
Published: October 2016

Sustainable exploitation of fisheries populations is challenging to achieve when the size of the population prior to exploitation and the actual numbers removed over time and across fishing zones are not clearly known. Quantitative fisheries' modeling is able to address this problem, but accurate and reliable model outcomes depend on high quality input data. Much of this information is obtained through the operation of the fishery under consideration, but while this seems appropriate, biases may occur. For example, poorly quantified changes in fishing methods that increase catch rates can erroneously suggest that the overall population size is increasing. Hence, the incorporation of estimates of abundance derived from independent data sources is preferable. We review and evaluate a fisheries‐independent method of indexing population size; inferring adult abundance from estimates of the genetic effective size of a population (Ne). Recent studies of elasmobranch species have shown correspondence between Ne and ecologically determined estimates of the population size (N). Simulation studies have flagged the possibility that the range of Ne/N ratios across species may be more restricted than previously thought, and also show that declines in Ne track declines in the abundance of model fisheries species. These key developments bring this new technology closer to implementation in fisheries science, particularly for data‐poor fisheries or species of conservation interest.
The effect of substratum type on aspects of swimming performance and behaviour in shortnose sturgeonAcipenser brevirostrum
Authors: May L. E. , Kieffer J. D.
Published: October 2016

The swimming performance and associated swimming behaviour (i.e.substratum‐skimming, station‐holding and free swimming) were assessed in shortnose sturgeonAcipenser brevirostrumduring critical swimming and endurance swimming tests over a rough and a smooth substratum. It was hypothesized that the addition of a rough substratum in the swimming flume may provide a surface for theA. brevirostrumto grip and offer an energetic advantage. Substratum type did not affect the critical swimming performance, butA. brevirostrumconsistently performed more bottom behaviours (i.e.substratum‐skimming and station‐holding) while on a smooth substratum.Acipenser brevirostrumhad little contact with the rough substratum until the velocity was >1 body length s−1. Endurance swimming time was significantly lower forA. brevirostrumover the rough bottom at the highest velocity (30 cm s−1) which may be attributed to the observed increase in free swimming and decrease in bottom behaviours. During endurance swimming, the rough substratum was mainly used at intermediate velocities, suggesting that there may be a stability cost associated with being in contact with the rough substratum at certain velocities.
Dielectric properties and microwave and infrared‐microwave combination drying characteristics of banana and kiwifruit
Authors: Öztürk Sevgi , Şakıyan Özge , Özlem Alifakı Yaşar
Published: October 2016

The scope of this study was to investigate the effects of initial moisture content, different drying methods and different microwave power on quality and dielectric properties of banana (Musa cavendishii) and kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) and it was also aimed to examine the correlation between dielectric properties and microwave and microwave‐infrared combination (MW‐IR) drying characteristics of banana and kiwifruit. Samples with different initial moisture contents were dried by using different microwave powers (180 W, 270 W, 360 W for banana) and (350 W, 420 W, 490 W for kiwifruit). For combination drying of banana, the application parameters were adjusted as 360 W for microwave power and 600 W for upper and lower halogen lamps (600 W) and for kiwifruit those were adjusted as 420 W and 600 W, respectively. The drying characteristics investigated throughout the study were moisture content and color values (L*, a*, and b*). Dielectric properties of fresh and processed samples were also detected. It was observed that an increase in microwave power resulted in an increase in rate of drying and a decrease in processing time. It was also found that combining infrared with microwaves resulted in higher rates of moisture loss from the product. Dielectric properties of banana and kiwifruit samples decreased with increasing microwave power and initial moisture content. When microwave and combination dried samples were compared with conventionally dried ones, products with lower final moisture content and higher quality could be produced with a time saving of approximately 98%.

Practical applications

Conventional drying like hot‐air drying takes a long time even at high temperatures which results in a decrement of the dried product quality. To overcome such a problem, as well as to obtain a product with better nutritional and sensory properties, the process could be speeded up by the application of microwave energy. In this study, both microwave and microwave‐infrared combination drying were investigated. The most important property of combination drying is the ability to combine the time saving advantages of microwave with surface moisture removal advantage of infrared heating. There is a lack of knowledge of literature about an appropriate drying method to preserve the best quality of banana and kiwifruit samples, thus in this study the basic scope is developing an efficient, time‐saving drying method to improve quality characteristics of banana and kiwifruit samples.
Health literacy, literacy, numeracy and nutrition label understanding and use: a scoping review of the literature
Authors: Malloy‐Weir L. , Cooper M.
Published: October 2016

Background

Low health literacy, literacy and numeracy have been identified as barriers to consumer understanding and the interpretation of nutrition‐related information. To inform policy and dietetic practice, we examined the extent, range and nature of research on empirical relationships between health literacy, literacy or numeracy and the understanding and use of nutrition labels.

Methods

A scoping review of the literature was conducted. A search of eight databases on 15 April 2014 and 26 May 2016 returned 651 and 173 records, respectively. After de‐duplication and two levels of relevance screening, 16 studies were deemed eligible for inclusion in the present review.

Results

The majority of studies were conducted in the USA and focused primarily on the use of back‐of‐pack nutrition labels. Empirical relationships reported between health literacy and nutrition label use were inconsistent and, in some cases, contradictory. The findings from studies examining empirical relationships between literacy, numeracy and nutrition label use suggest that consumers with lower literacy and numeracy: (i) differ from those with higher levels in some of the judgements that they make about food and (ii) may benefit from interventions designed to improve their understanding and use of nutrition label information. Measurement‐related issues were identified, such as a reliance on self‐reports of nutrition label use, as well as a lack of independence between some measures of health literacy and nutrition label understanding and use.

Conclusions

The empirical relationships between health literacy, literacy, numeracy and nutrition label understanding and use have not been well‐studied. Additional attention is needed regarding the measurement‐related issues identified in the present review.
Effects of Using Heterogeneous Prices on the Allocation of Impacts from Electricity Use: A Mixed‐Unit Input‐Output Approach
Authors: Vendries Algarin Jorge , Hawkins Troy R. , Marriott Joe , Khanna Vikas
Published: October 2016

Economic input‐output life cycle assessment (IO‐LCA) models allow for quick estimation of economy‐wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with goods and services. IO‐LCA models are usually built using economic accounts and differ from most process‐based models in their use of economic transactions, rather than physical flows, as the drivers of supply‐chain GHG emissions. GHG emissions estimates associated with input supply chains are influenced by the price paid by consumers when the relative prices between individual consumers are different. We investigate the significance of the allocation of GHG emissions based on monetary versus physical units by carrying out a case study of the U.S. electricity sector. We create parallel monetary and mixed‐unit IO‐LCA models using the 2007 Benchmark Accounts of the U.S. economy and sector specific prices for different end users of electricity. This approach is well suited for electricity generation because electricity consumption contributes a significant share of emissions for most processes, and the range of prices paid by electricity consumers allows us to explore the effects of price on allocation of emissions. We find that, in general, monetary input‐output models assign fewer emissions per kilowatt to electricity used by industrial sectors than to electricity used by households and service sectors, attributable to the relatively higher prices paid by households and service sectors. This fact introduces a challenging question of what is the best basis for allocating the emissions from electricity generation given the different uses of electricity by consumers and the wide variability of electricity pricing.
Problem behaviour in adolescent boys with fragile X syndrome: relative prevalence, frequency and severity
Authors: Hall S. S. , Barnett R. P. , Hustyi K. M.
Published: October 2016

Background

A large proportion of boys with fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common known inherited form of intellectual disability (ID), exhibit problem behaviours (e.g. aggression, self‐injury, property destruction and stereotypy) that can negatively impact the health and safety of others as well as the individual concerned. However, data are limited concerning the relative prevalence, frequency and severity of problem behaviours exhibited by boys with FXS compared with those by boys with mixed‐aetiology ID who also exhibit problem behaviours.

Method

As part of a larger study on problem behaviour, we obtained survey data on 85 adolescent boys with FXS and 155 age‐matched boys with mixed‐aetiology ID who exhibited at least one form of problem behaviour.

Results

For boys with FXS, stereotypy was reported to be more prevalent (χ2 = 4.52, P = 0.012), self‐injury was reported to more frequent (U = 2525, P = 0.010) and aggression was reported to be less severe (U = 4176, P = 0.029) than for boys with mixed‐aetiology ID. Ratings of aggression and property destruction were highly correlated in each group in terms of both frequency and severity (r = 0.60 to 0.71). Examination of the data by age indicated that the relative frequency of self‐injury decreased with age in boys with FXS (χ2 = 8.29, P = 0.040).

Conclusions

Taken together, these results refine and extend previous studies concerning the specificity of the behavioural phenotype in FXS and indicate that specific forms of problem behaviour shown by boys with FXS appear to differ from those exhibited by boys with mixed‐aetiology ID in terms of prevalence, frequency and severity. Studies employing more objective measures of frequency and severity, including direct observations, are needed to confirm these findings.
Development of an evidence‐based fall risk assessment tool and evaluation of interrater reliability and nurses’ perceptions of the tool's clarity and usability
Authors: Higaonna Miki , Enobi Maki , Nakamura Shizuka
Published: October 2016

Aim

To develop and test interrater reliability of an evidence‐based fall risk assessment tool for nurses and to investigate how nurses perceived the clarity and usability of the tool.

Methods

In phase 1, an evidence‐based fall risk assessment tool was developed based on a literature review and expert discussion. The finalized tool assessed 11 risk factors and comprised 23 items. In phase 2, reliability testing was done. Two nurses out of a possible 125 participating nurses independently assessed each participating patient on admission with the assessment tool. The nurses then provided feedback on the clarity and usability of the tool. The interrater reliability was estimated by the percentage agreement, Cohen's kappa, and prevalence‐ and bias‐adjusted kappa.

Results

Of the 164 patients who were recruited, 114 patients participated. After adjustment for prevalence and bias, only “frequent urination” and “night‐time toileting” showed a less‐than‐substantial interrater agreement. Assessment of the items “cognitive impairment” and “night‐time toileting” were most frequently reported to be problematic.

Conclusion

The evidence‐based fall risk assessment tool requires further modification and re‐examination of interrater reliability is warranted. In particular, the cognitive impairment items need to be reconsidered in order to enable nurses to better assess patient cognition on the admission day.
Prevalence and geographical distribution of Papio hamadryas papillomavirus 1 (PhPV1) in Kenyan baboons
Authors: Chai Daniel , Bassis Christine M. , Bergin Ingrid L. , Bell Jason D. , Nyachieo Atunga , Gathumbi Peter K.
Published: October 2016

Papio hamadryas papillomavirus (PhPV) 1, 2, and 3, are Alphapapillomaviruses that have been detected in Kenyan Olive baboons but the distribution is unknown. Therefore, cervical screening for PhPV1 was performed in baboons from various areas in Kenya using a nested polymerase chain reaction. The prevalence rate was 33%.
Trafficking of adeno‐associated virus vectors across a model of the blood–brain barrier; a comparative study of transcytosis and transduction using primary human brain endothelial cells
Authors: Merkel Steven F. , Andrews Allison M. , Lutton Evan M. , Mu Dakai , Hudry Eloise , Hyman Bradley T. , Maguire Casey A. , Ramirez Servio H.
Published: October 2016

Developing therapies for central nervous system (CNS) diseases is exceedingly difficult because of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Notably, emerging technologies may provide promising new options for the treatment of CNS disorders. Adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) has been shown to transduce cells in the CNS following intravascular administration in rodents, cats, pigs, and non‐human primates. These results suggest that AAV9 is capable of crossing the BBB. However, mechanisms that govern AAV9 transendothelial trafficking at the BBB remain unknown. Furthermore, possibilities that AAV9 may transduce brain endothelial cells or affect BBB integrity still require investigation. Using primary human brain microvascular endothelial cells as a model of the human BBB, we performed transduction and transendothelial trafficking assays comparing AAV9 to AAV2, a serotype that does not cross the BBB or transduce endothelial cells effectively in vivo. Results of our in vitro studies indicate that AAV9 penetrates brain microvascular endothelial cells barriers more effectively than AAV2, but has reduced transduction efficiency. In addition, our data suggest that (i) AAV9 penetrates endothelial barriers through an active, cell‐mediated process, and (ii) AAV9 fails to disrupt indicators of BBB integrity such as transendothelial electrical resistance, tight junction protein expression/localization, and inflammatory activation status. Overall, this report shows how human brain endothelial cells configured in BBB models can be utilized for evaluating transendothelial movement and transduction kinetics of various AAV capsids. Importantly, the use of a human in vitro BBB model can provide import insight into the possible effects that candidate AVV gene therapy vectors may have on the status of BBB integrity.

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Read the Editorial Highlight for this article on page 192.
C2‐domain containing calcium sensors in neuroendocrine secretion
Authors: Pinheiro Paulo S. , Houy Sébastien , Sørensen Jakob B.
Published: October 2016

The molecular mechanisms for calcium‐triggered membrane fusion have long been sought for, and detailed models now exist that account for at least some of the functions of the many proteins involved in the process. Key players in the fusion reaction are a group of proteins that, upon binding to calcium, trigger the merger of cargo‐filled vesicles with the plasma membrane. Low‐affinity, fast‐kinetics calcium sensors of the synaptotagmin family – especially synaptotagmin‐1 and synaptotagmin‐2 – are the main calcium sensors for fast exocytosis triggering in many cell types. Their functions extend beyond fusion triggering itself, having been implicated in the calcium‐dependent vesicle recruitment during activity, docking of vesicles to the plasma membrane and priming, and even in post‐fusion steps, such as fusion pore expansion and endocytosis. Furthermore, synaptotagmin diversity imparts distinct properties to the release process itself. Other calcium‐sensing proteins such as Munc13s and protein kinase C play important, but more indirect roles in calcium‐triggered exocytosis. Because of their higher affinity, but intrinsic slower kinetics, they operate on longer temporal and spatial scales to organize assembly of the release machinery. Finally, the high‐affinity synaptotagmin‐7 and Doc2 (Double C2‐domain) proteins are able to trigger membrane fusion in vitro, but cellular measurements in different systems show that they may participate in either fusion or vesicle priming. Here, we summarize the properties and possible interplay of (some of) the major C2‐domain containing calcium sensors in calcium‐triggered exocytosis.

This article is part of a mini review series: “Synaptic Function and Dysfunction in Brain Diseases”.

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Reevaluation of the arterial blood supply of the auricle
Authors: Zilinsky Isaac , Erdmann Detlev , Weissman Oren , Hammer Niels , Sora Mircea‐Constantin , Schenck Thilo L. , Cotofana Sebastian
Published: October 2016

The anatomical basis for auricular flaps used in multiple aesthetic and reconstructive procedures is currently based on a random distribution of the underlying arterial network. However, recent findings reveal a systematic pattern as opposed to the present concepts. Therefore, we designed this study to assess the arterial vascular pattern of the auricle in order to provide reliable data about the vascular map required for surgical interventions. Sixteen human auricles from eight body donors (five females/three males, 84.33 ± 9.0 years) were investigated using the unique ‘Spalteholz’ method. After arterial injection of silicone, a complete transparency of the tissue was achieved and the auricular arteries and branches were visible. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the arterial vascular pattern was performed. The superior and the inferior anterior auricular artery provided the vascular supply to the helical rim, forming an arcade, i.e. helical rim arcade. On the superior third of the helical rim another arcade was confirmed between the superior anterior auricular artery and the posterior auricular artery (PAA), i.e. the helical arcade. The perforators of the PAA were identified lying in a vertical line 1 cm posterior to the tragus, supplying the concha, inferior crus, triangular fossa, antihelix and the earlobe. The results of this study confirmed the constant presence of the helical rim arcade (Zilinsky‐Cotofana), consistent perforating branches of the PAA, and the helical arcade (Erdman), and will help and guide physicians performing auricular surgeries toward fast and simple procedures with optimal patient satisfaction.
Factors related to fear of falling among community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Hoang Oanh Tran Thi , Jullamate Pornchai , Piphatvanitcha Naiyana , Rosenberg Edwin
Published: October 2016

Aims and objectives

To investigate the relationship between age, gender, history of falls, balance and gait status, general health perception, activities of daily living and depression to fear of falling in community‐dwelling older people in Danang, Vietnam.

Background

Fear of falling is a common and consequential psychosocial problem for older people and can lead to decreased quality of life. There is only limited research on fear of falling in Vietnam.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional descriptive study.

Methods

One hundred fifty‐three community‐dwelling older people were recruited from seven communities of different districts in Danang. Data were collected using six instruments: a demographic questionnaire, the Fall Efficacy Scale‐International, the General Health Perception questionnaire, the Barthel Activities of Daily Living, the Geriatric Depression Scale and the Timed Up and Go test. Data were analysed using descriptive and correlational statistics.

Results

The mean Fall Efficacy Scale‐International score was 35, indicating a high level of fear of falling. ADLs, general health perception and Timed Up and Go were significantly and negatively related to fear of falling (rp = −0·80, rsp = −0·77 and rp = −0·75, respectively). Age, depression and history of falls were significantly and positively related to fear of falling (rp = 0·54, rp = 0·45 and rs = 0·39, respectively). Women were significantly more likely than men to have higher fear of falling (rpb = −0·28).

Conclusion

Fear of falling is more common in older people who are female, have a history of falls, have poor balance and gait status, have poor health perception, have greater ADL dependency, are depressed and, within the older people population, are older. Further research could examine additional correlates of fear of falling and develop/evaluate factor‐specific intervention strategies to reduce fear of falling among community‐dwelling older people.

Relevance to clinical practice

Understanding correlates of fear of falling among older Vietnamese people contributes to healthcare professionals’ ability to develop effective cross‐cultural and culture‐specific interventions to reduce older people's fear of falling and to improve quality of life.
A qualitative study of advanced nurse practitioners’ use of physical assessment skills in the community: shifting skills across professional boundaries
Authors: Raleigh Mary , Allan Helen
Published: October 2016

Aims and objectives

To explore multiple perspectives on the use of physical assessment skills by advanced nurse practitioners in the UK.

Background

Physical assessment skills practices are embedded in advanced nursing practice roles in the UK. There is little evidence on how these skills are used by advanced nurse practitioners in the community.

Design

Case study.

Methods

A qualitative interpretative single‐embedded case study of 22 participants from South of England. A framework method analysed interview data collected by the researcher between March–August 2013. Participants included nurses, doctors, nurse educators and managers.

Findings

Physical assessment skills education at universities is part of a policy shift to develop a flexible workforce in the UK. Shared physical assessment practices are less to do with role substitution and more about preparing practitioners with skills that are fit for purpose. Competence, capability and performance with physical assessment skills are an expectation of advanced nursing practice.

Conclusions

These skills are used successfully by community advanced nurse practitioners to deliver a wide range of services in response to changing patient need. The introduction of physical assessment skills education to undergraduate professional preparation would create a firm foundation to develop these skills in postgraduate education.

Relevance to clinical practice

Physical assessment education prepares nurses with the clinical competencies to carry out healthcare reforms in the UK. Shared sets of clinical assessment competencies between disciplines have better outcomes for patients. Levels of assessment competence can depend on the professional attributes of individual practitioners. Unsupportive learning cultures can hinder professional development of advanced nursing practice.
Usefulness of a management protocol for patients with cervical multicystic lesions: A retrospective analysis of 94 cases and the significance of GNAS mutation
Authors: Ando Hirofumi , Miyamoto Tsutomu , Kashima Hiroyasu , Takatsu Akiko , Ishii Keiko , Fujinaga Yasunari , Shiozawa Tanri
Published: October 2016

Aim

The proper preoperative diagnosis and management of cervical proliferative disorders presenting with multiple cysts, including minimal deviation adenocarcinoma (MDA), lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia (LEGH), and nabothian cyst (NC), have not been fully established. We previously proposed a management protocol comprising a diagnostic approach using cytology, magnetic resonance imaging, and gastric‐type mucin and subsequent treatment. We herein evaluate the usefulness of this protocol and implications of GNAS mutations in LEGH.

Methods

The clinical courses of 94 patients with cervical multicystic lesions who visited our hospital between June 1995 and September 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. GNAS mutations were investigated in 10 LEGH, five LEGH with atypia, and two MDA cases.

Results

Of the 94 patients, the conditions of 10, 59, and 25 were clinically diagnosed as suspicious of MDA or carcinoma (S/O MDA‐Ca), suspicious of LEGH (S/O LEGH), and NC, respectively. Ten patients each with S/O MDA‐Ca and S/O LEGH underwent hysterectomy, and the correct ratio for diagnosis was 90% (18/20). Of the 42 S/O LEGH cases followed‐up for more than 12 months, three showed an increase in tumor size. After hysterectomy, two were LEGH with atypia while one was NC. The GNAS mutation was detected in two cases of LEGH with atypia, one of which showed an increase in tumor size during follow‐up.

Conclusion

The management protocol we propose herein will be useful. An increase in tumor size is important to detect potentially malignant LEGH. GNAS mutations may be involved in the tumorigenesis of potentially malignant LEGH.
Duration of reproductive lifespan and age at menarche in relation to metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal Chinese women
Authors: Cao Xia , Zhou Jiansong , Yuan Hong , Chen Zhiheng
Published: October 2016

Aim

This study aimed to assess the associations between menstrual characteristics and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with a sample of 1625 postmenopausal women in China. Subjects were classified into three groups according to the tertiles of some variables related to the reproductive life. We assessed associations in multivariable‐adjusted analyses, using logistic regressions.

Results

After adjustments for confounding factors, the odds ratios (OR) for predicting the presence of MetS increased gradually: as the years of menstruation increased (18–34 years vs 35–37 years vs 38–46 years: OR [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 1 vs 1.231 [0.942–1.610] vs 1.309 [0.985–1.740], respectively); as age at menopause increased (31–48 years vs 49–51 years vs 52–59 years: OR [95%CI] = 1 vs 1.115 [0.846–1.469] vs 1.315 [0.986–1.753], respectively); and as age at menarche decrease (11–13 years vs 14–15 years vs 16–20 years: OR [95%CI] = 1 vs 0.950 [0.728–1.240] vs 0.862 [0.610–1.119], respectively). Among the components of MetS, the highest tertile of years of menstruation was significantly associated with elevated waist circumference (OR =1.401 [95%CI = 1.092–1.798]), and elevated triglyceride (OR =1.220 [95%CI = 0.934–1.593]). Nevertheless, the association between these reproductive factors and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease was not significant.

Conclusion

Longer duration of menstruation and earlier age at menarche were significantly associated with a higher risk of central obesity and MetS in postmenopausal Chinese women.
Which type of placenta previa requires blood transfusion more frequently? A new concept of indiscernible edge total previa
Authors: Baba Yosuke , Takahashi Hironori , Ohkuchi Akihide , Usui Rie , Matsubara Shigeki
Published: October 2016

Aim

During cesarean section (CS) for placenta previa (PP), the size/area/portion of the lower uterine segment occupied by the placenta may affect the bleeding amount and the subsequent need for a blood transfusion (BT). We propose a new concept, indiscernible edge total PP (IEPP), when vaginal ultrasound does not discern the lower placental edge because the placenta covers the visible lower segment. We characterized IEPP, focusing on its allogeneic BT requirement.

Methods

We classified PP (n = 307) into four types: marginal, partial, discernible edge total PP (DEPP) and IEPP: internal ostium (os)‐placental edge distance measurable or unmeasurable on vaginal ultrasound in DEPP or IEPP, respectively. We determined the clinical characteristics according to the four types; the relationship between the intraoperative blood loss and os‐edge distance in DEPP; and risk factors for allogeneic BT.

Results

The following were significantly higher/larger in cases of IEPP: previous CS; anterior placentation; lacunae; elective cesarean hysterectomy; intraoperative blood loss; autologous BT; allogeneic BT; intensive care unit admission; and an abnormally invasive placenta (AIP). In DEPP, the os‐edge distance was weakly correlated with the bleeding amount (r = 0.214). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that previous CS, lacunae, AIP and IEPP were independent risk factors for allogeneic BT (odds ratios 3.8, 3.1, 13.8 and 4.6, respectively). After excluding patients undergoing hemostatic procedures during CS, IEPP remained the only independent risk factor for allogeneic BT (odds ratio 5.2).

Conclusions

The new concept of IEPP may be useful for predicting BT in CS for patients with PP.