bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling Structural Effects on Single Romney Wool Fibre Stress-Strain Relationship, Bending Stiffness, and Curvature
Authors: Liu Huawu , Bryson Warren G.
Published: April 2016

Using the stress-strain relationship of wool cells, a three-component model (cuticle, ortho-, and para-/mesocortex) was developed to model the bending properties and behaviour of the wool. The bending rigidity varied with not only the elastic moduli and geometry, but also the direction of the applied moment, whereas bending stiffness is insensitive to the direction of the load. The simulations indicated that the cuticle might contribute 25% of the bending stiffness in extreme cases and should not be ignored, as has been the case in previous studies.

Single fibre curvature (SFC), as a particular bending behaviour associated with the removal of moisture, was illustrated using finite element analysis. The physical properties of the three components (cuticle, ortho-, and para-/mesocortex) of Romney wool fibres are estimated using the stress-strain relationship models. The geometric configuration of the samples is built from true fibre images. The simulations are validated to be qualitatively consistent with the observations of SFC. The displacement, stress and strain energy of the wool fibre due to moisture desorption are mapped using coloured figures.
The Modeling of Insulin Controlled Release Process From Fibrous Artificial Store
Authors: Medovic Adela , Skundric Petar
Published: April 2016

In the past, insulin was frequently administered by hypodermic injection, as liquids forms. To avoid problems incurred through the utilization of the injectable route of insulin administration, new dosage forms containing the insulin were introduced. Therefore, insulin delivery systems were developed to optimize the therapeutic properties of drug products and render them safer, more effective, and more reliable.

The aim of this article is to present the modeling of the controlled releasing process of insulin from a fibrous artificial store. The release of insulin has been evaluated in both a physiological solution and blood serum in vitro and on experimental animals (mice) in vivo. On the basis of experimental results a mathematical model of diffusion-mediated release of insulin from cation-exchange fiber has been developed and presented in this paper.
Color on Demand for Jacquard Fabrics
Authors: Mathur K. , Donaldson A. , Hinks D. , Seyam A.M.
Published: April 2016

Jacquard weaving provides the opportunity for designing an enormous number of complex pictorial and other patterning effects using combinations of warp colors, filling colors and integrated weaves. Traditionally, in the fabric design process, the resultant visual perception of the design using different colored yarns can be attained only through the production of actual fabric samples. This is a very time consuming and costly process. In Jacquard woven fabrics, the use of graphical imaging in the creation of the weave structure is very useful, but the accuracy of color rendering is a far more critical attribute. Multiple trials might be required for successful color reproduction in textiles in order to match the desired artwork. In this paper, the problem of achieving accurate color fidelity in the color reproduction of woven fabrics has been addressed, and our attempt to achieve the highest possible color matching accuracy in Jacquard woven fabrics is described. So far, we are quite successful in creating a database of color/weave structures for the quality color reproduction of Jacquard fabrics. Our research places emphasis on synthesizing computer generated color images that are perceptually close to the actual woven samples, with a high degree of color accuracy.
Energy storage and fecundity explain deviations from ecological stoichiometry predictions under global warming and size‐selective predation
Authors: Zhang Chao , Jansen Mieke , De Meester Luc , Stoks Robby
Published: April 2016

A key challenge for ecologists is to predict how single and joint effects of global warming and predation risk translate from the individual level up to ecosystem functions. Recently, stoichiometric theory linked these levels through changes in body stoichiometry, predicting that both higher temperatures and predation risk induce shifts in energy storage (increases in C‐rich carbohydrates and reductions in N‐rich proteins) and body stoichiometry (increases in C : N and C : P). This promising theory, however, is rarely tested and assumes that prey will divert energy away from reproduction under predation risk, while under size‐selective predation, prey instead increase fecundity.

We exposed the water flea Daphnia magna to 4 °C warming and fish predation risk to test whether C‐rich carbohydrates increase and N‐rich proteins decrease, and as a result, C : N and C : P increase under warming and predation risk.

Unexpectedly, warming decreased body C : N, which was driven by reductions in C‐rich fat and sugar contents while the protein content did not change. This reflected a trade‐off where the accelerated intrinsic growth rate under warming occurred at the cost of a reduced energy storage. Warming reduced C : N less and only increased C : P and N : P in the fish‐period Daphnia. These evolved stoichiometric responses to warming were largely driven by stronger warming‐induced reductions in P than in C and N and could be explained by the better ability to deal with warming in the fish‐period Daphnia.

In contrast to theory predictions, body C : N decreased under predation risk due to a strong increase in the N‐rich protein content that offsets the increase in C‐rich fat content. The higher investment in fecundity (more N‐rich eggs) under predation risk contributed to this stronger increase in protein content. Similarly, the lower body C : N of pre‐fish Daphnia also matched their higher fecundity.

Warming and predation risk independently shaped body stoichiometry, largely by changing levels of energy storage molecules. Our results highlight that two widespread patterns, the trade‐off between rapid development and energy storage and the increased investment in reproduction under size‐selective predation, cause predictable deviations from current ecological stoichiometry theory.
Landscape connectivity predicts chronic wasting disease risk in Canada
Authors: Nobert Barry R. , Merrill Evelyn H. , Pybus Margo J. , Bollinger Trent K. , Hwang Yeen Ten
Published: April 2016

Predicting the spatial pattern of disease risk in wild animal populations is important for implementing effective control programmes. We developed a risk model predicting the probability that a deer harvested in a wild population was chronic wasting disease positive (CWD+) and evaluated the importance of landscape connectivity based on deer movements.

We quantified landscape connectivity from deer ‘resistance’ to move across the landscape similar to the flow of electrical current across a hypothetical electronic circuit. Resistance values to deer movement were derived as the inverse of step selection function values constructed using movement data fromGPS‐collared deer.

The topCWDrisk model indicated risk increased over time was higher among mule deerOdocoileus hemionusthan white‐tailed deerOdocoileus virginianus, males than females, and was greater in areas with high stream density and abundant agriculture. A metric of connectivity derived from mule deer movements outperformed models including Euclidean distance, with high connectivity being associated with highCWDrisk.

TheCWDrisk model was a good predictor ofCWDoccurrence among an independent set of surveillance data collected in subsequent years.

Synthesis and applications. We found that landscape connectivity was a major contributor to the spatial pattern of chronic wasting disease (CWD) risk on a heterogeneous landscape. For this reason, future disease surveillance programmes and models of disease spread should consider landscape connectivity. In the aspen parkland ecosystem, we recommend managers focus surveillance and control efforts along river valleys surrounded by agriculture where mule deer abound, because of the high risk ofCWDinfection.
Comparison of Morphology and Physicochemical Properties of Starch Among 3 Arrowhead Varieties
Authors: Li Aimin , Zhang Yunhong , Zhang Yongji , Yu Xurun , Xiong Fei , Zhou Rumei , Zhang Yongtai
Published: April 2016

Arrowhead (Sagittaria trifolia var. sinensis) is a source of starch worldwide, but arrowhead starch has been rarely studied. In this work, starch was separated from arrowhead corm. The morphology and physicochemical properties of starch were then investigated and compared among 3 different arrowhead varieties (Purple‐corm, Hongta, and Japanese). Results showed that starches from the 3 varieties similarly featured an oval shape containing a visible polarization cross, a CA‐type crystalline structure, and an ordered structure in the external granule region. However, starch content, granule size, crystal characteristics, and pasting properties differed among the 3 varieties. Japanese arrowhead exhibited the highest starch content and degree of ordered structure in the external granule region, as well as onset, peak, and final gelatinization temperature. Purple‐corm arrowhead starch demonstrated the highest amylose content and relative degree of crystallinity, smallest granule size, and lowest swelling power and solubility. Purple‐corm arrowhead starch also showed the highest gelatinization enthalpy, as well as peak, trough, final, and setback viscosities. This starch further presented the lowest breakdown viscosity and degree of hydrolysis by HCl and porcine pancreatic α‐amylase. These findings can provide useful references for arrowhead variety selection in food and nonfood industries.
Early Australian experience in robotic sleeve gastrectomy: a single site series
Authors: Silverman Candice D. , Ghusn Michael A.
Published: April 2016

Background

The use of robotic platforms in bariatric surgery has recently gained relevance. With an increased use of this technology come concerns regarding learning curve effects during the initial implementation phase. The sleeve gastrectomy though may represent an ideal training procedure for introducing the robot into bariatric surgical practice. The present review of the first 10 consecutive robotic sleeve gastrectomy procedures performed in an Australian bariatric programme by a single surgeon describes the evolution of the technique, learning curve and initial patient outcomes.

Methods

Between 2014 and 2015, robotic sleeve gastrectomies were performed as primary and revisional procedures by a consistent surgeon–assistant team. Technique evolution and theatre set‐up were documented. Patient demographics, operative time (robot docking and total operation time), additional operative procedures performed, operative and post‐operative complications at 1, 3 and 6 months post‐procedure and weight loss achieved at 6 months were retrospectively reviewed from a prospectively maintained database.

Results

Ten robotic sleeve gastrectomies were performed without significant operative complications. One patient was treated as an outpatient with oral antibiotics for a superficial wound infection. The median total operative time was 123 min (interquartile range (IQR) 108.8–142.5), with a median incision to docking time of 19 min (IQR 15.0–31.8). Length of stay in hospital was 2–3 days. Median excess weight loss achieved at 6 months was 50% (IQR 33.9–66.5).

Conclusion

This study describes a method of safely introducing the da Vinci robot into bariatric surgical practice.
Gesture and Symbolic Representation in Italian and English‐Speaking Canadian 2‐Year‐Olds
Authors: Marentette Paula , Pettenati Paola , Bello Arianna , Volterra Virginia
Published: April 2016

Analyses of elicited pantomime, primarily of English‐speaking children, show that preschool‐aged children are more likely to symbolically represent an object with gestures depicting an object's form rather than its function. In contrast, anecdotal reports of spontaneous gesture production in younger children suggest that children use multiple representational techniques. This study examined the spontaneous gestures of sixty‐four 2‐year‐old Italian children and English‐speaking Canadian children, primarily from middle‐class Caucasian families. The Italian children produced twice as many gestures as Canadian children in a picture‐naming task but produced a similar range of representational techniques. Two‐year‐olds were equally likely to produce gestures depicting function as form. These data suggest young children's communicative skills are supported by a symbolic capacity that reflects contextual communicative demands.
Extended boiling of peanut progressively reduces IgE allergenicity while retaining T cell reactivity
Authors: Tao B. , Bernardo K. , Eldi P. , Chegeni N. , Wiese M. , Colella A. , Kral A. , Hayball J. , Smith W. , Forsyth K. , Chataway T.
Published: April 2016

Background

Current peanut oral immunotherapy is hampered by frequent adverse events. It has been shown that boiling can reduce peanut allergenicity. Hypoallergenic peanut products have the potential to reduce treatment‐related reactions during desensitization.

Objective

To show that extended boiling (for up to 12 h) can progressively reduce peanut allergenicity while retaining T cell reactivity.

Methods

Raw peanuts were boiled for half, 1, 2, 4 and 12 h in deionized water. After dehydration, boiled and raw peanuts were ground, defatted and soluble proteins extracted in PBS and cooking water (leachate) retained. SDS‐PAGE, Western blot, inhibition ELISA, mass spectrometry and skin prick test were used to characterize changes to peanut allergens and human IgE reactivity. T cell responses to raw and boiled peanut extracts were determined by proliferation of CD4+/CD25+/CD134+ T cells in peanut‐allergic and non‐allergic individuals.

Results

Extended boiling progressively reduced peanut allergenicity through a combination of leaching of allergens into cooking water, fragmentation of allergens and denaturation of conformational epitopes. Two‐hour boiling led to an eightfold reduction in IgE binding capacity of boiled peanuts as determined by inhibition ELISA, while 12‐h boiling led to a 19‐fold reduction. Mass spectrometry revealed an increasing number of unique allergen peptides with longer boiling times. Raw, 2‐ and 12‐h boiled peanut extracts were equivalent in their ability to stimulate T cell activation and proliferation.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Progressive reduction in peanut allergenicity with extended boiling does not affect T cell reactivity. Boiled peanuts may be a candidate for oral immunotherapy.
Down syndrome in adults: a 27‐year follow‐up of adaptive skills
Authors: Arvio M. , Luostarinen L.
Published: April 2016

In 1988, we assessed the adaptive skills of 45 adults with Down syndrome (DS) (21 women and 24 men, age 20–58) with the Portage scale. Since then, we have followed them and also screened for signs of clinical dementia with the Present Psychiatric State – Learning Disabilities assessment. The mean adaptive age (AA) of the study group decreased with increasing age; the age of 35 being the turning point in the clinical course of DS. The mean AA was 4.4 years between ages 20 and 34, 3.4 years between ages 35 and 49, and 2.4 years between ages 50 and 66. Inter‐individual variation was, however, large. Between ages 20 and 25, the AA of the study subjects ranged from 2.3 to 6 years; and after the age of 50, from 0.3 to 4.8 years. By the end of the study, all subjects showed signs of clinical dementia. These appeared most frequently as reduced self‐care skills, loss of energy, forgetfulness, and impaired understanding. We found no connection between apolipoprotein E genotype and the clinical course of DS. We recommend follow‐up of adaptive skills and screening for dementia signs in adults with DS.
7,8‐dihydroxyflavone Ameliorates Motor Deficits Via Suppressing α‐synuclein Expression and Oxidative Stress in the MPTP‐induced Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Li Xiao‐Huan , Dai Chun‐Fang , Chen Long , Zhou Wei‐Tao , Han Hui‐Li , Dong Zhi‐Fang
Published: April 2016

Background

Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) and diminished dopamine content in the striatum, which is at least partly associated with α‐synuclein protein overexpression in these neurons. Recent reports show that 7,8‐dihydroxyflavone (DHF), a TrkB agonist, has beneficial effects in animal model of PD. However, it is unclear whether the therapeutic effects of DHF are associated with the expression of α‐synuclein.

Aims

In this study, we investigated the protective effects of DHF on 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐induced deficit of motor functions, the loss of dopaminergic neurons and the expression of α‐synuclein as well as antioxidative activity in the C57BL/6 mice.

Results

Mice were treated with MPTP (30 mg/kg, i.p.) once a day for 5 days to induce dopaminergic neuron death in the SN. DHF (5 mg/kg, i.p.) was administrated once a day from the first day of MPTP injection until 9 days after the last injection of MPTP. Behavioral tests showed that DHF succeeded in ameliorating the impaired motor functions in the MPTP‐treated mice. The immunohistochemical assay showed that the amelioration of motor function was accompanied by a reduction in the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the SN and striatum. Western blot analyses showed that DHF prevented the inactivation of TrkB and suppressed α‐synuclein overexpression in the SN and striatum following MPTP treatment. Antioxidative activity detection revealed that DHF prevented MPTP‐induced reduction in glutathione and total superoxide dismutase activity in the SN and striatum.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results indicate that DHF treatment may suppress the accumulation of α‐synuclein and oxidative stress via activating TrkB and subsequently block the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the SN and striatum, thereby ameliorating MPTP‐induced motor deficits in the C57BL/6 mice.
Characterization of the tumor microenvironment in primary cutaneous CD30‐positive lymphoproliferative disorders: a predominance of CD163‐positive M2 macrophages
Authors: De Souza Aieska , Tinguely Marianne , Burghart Daniel R. , Berisha Arbeneshe , Mertz Kirsten D. , Kempf Werner
Published: April 2016

Background

The tumor microenvironment is essential for tumor survival, growth and progression. There are only a few studies on the tumor microenvironment in cutaneous CD30‐positive lymphoproliferative disorders.

Methods

We assessed the composition of the tumor microenvironment using immunohistochemistry studies in skin biopsies from cases diagnosed with lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP: 18 specimens), primary cutaneous anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma (PC‐ALCL: 8 specimens), and reactive diseases harboring CD30‐positive cells (18 specimens).

Results

The predominant cells present in LyP and PC‐ALCL were CD163+ M2 macrophages (44.7%, 35%), followed by CD8+ tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (11%, 15%), FOXP3+ T‐regulatory cells (9%, 4.5%) and programmed cell death 1(PD‐1) + lymphocytes (2.2%, 6.8%). In contrast, CD30‐positive reactive inflammatory and infectious disorders were characterized by higher numbers of CD123+ plasmacytoid dendritic cells (6.3%) when compared to LyP (1%), and PC‐ALCL (1.1%).

Conclusions

Key differences exist between the microenvironment of CD30‐positive lymphoproliferative disorders and reactive conditions harboring CD30‐positive lymphocytes. The high number of tumor associated macrophages, and the close vicinity of these immune cells to the CD30‐positive tumor cells might suggest that tumor associated macrophages have direct influence on tumorigenesis in LyP and ALCL. Therefore, modulation of M2 macrophages may represent a new therapeutic strategy in cutaneous CD30‐positive lymphoproliferative disorders.
Lymph node location of a clear cell hidradenoma: report of a patient and review of literature
Authors: Tingaud Claire , Costes Valérie , Frouin Eric , Delfour Christophe , Cribier Bernard , Guillot Bernard , Szablewski Vanessa
Published: April 2016

Cutaneous clear cell hidradenoma is an uncommon benign adnexal tumor which is not supposed to metastasize, contrary to its rare malignant counterpart, hidradenocarcinoma. We report the case of a 49‐year‐old man, who had had a stable inguinal lymph node enlargement for 6 years. An excision was performed and revealed an intra‐nodal tumor, made of large clear cells with abundant cytoplasm and round nuclei without atypia or mitosis. The immunohistochemical staining showed diffuse positivity for keratin AE1/AE3, keratin 5/6 and p63, and focal staining with keratin 7, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and carcinous epithelial antigen (CEA), which underlined some ductular structures. Tumor cells were negative for renal markers PAX8 and CD10. Ki67 stained less than 1% of tumor cells. A translocation involving MAML2 gene was evidenced by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis. No primary cutaneous tumor was found after extensive examination. Altogether, these results are in favor of an isolated nodal hidradenoma, for which we discuss two hypothesis: a primary nodal lesion, or a ‘benign metastasis’ of a cutaneous tumor. Cases of morphologically benign hidradenoma with lymph node involvement are exceptional. Our case, similar to every other reported case, was associated with an excellent prognosis, supporting the idea that these patients should not be overtreated.
Effect of the quorum‐sensing luxS gene on biofilm formation by Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: He Zhiyan , Liang Jingping , Zhou Wei , Xie Qian , Tang Zisheng , Ma Rui , Huang Zhengwei
Published: April 2016

Enterococcus faecalis is the species of bacterium most frequently isolated from the root canals of teeth that exhibit chronic apical periodontitis refractory to endodontic treatment. In this study, we evaluated the effect of the S‐ribosylhomocysteine lyase (luxS) quorum‐sensing gene on E. faecalis biofilm formation by constructing a knockout mutant. The biofilms formed by both E. faecalis and its luxS mutant strain were evaluated using the MTT method. Important parameters that influence biofilm formation, including cell‐surface hydrophobicity and the nutrient content of the growth medium, were also studied. Biofilm structures were observed using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), and expression of biofilm‐related genes was investigated using RT‐PCR. The results showed that the luxS gene can affect biofilm formation, whereas it does not affect the bacterial growth rate. Deletion of the luxS gene also increased cell‐surface hydrophobicity. Biofilm formation was accelerated by the addition of increasing concentrations of glucose. The CLSM images revealed that the luxS mutant strain tends to aggregate into distinct clusters and relatively dense structures, whereas the wild‐type strain appears confluent and more evenly distributed. All genes examined were up‐regulated in the biofilms formed by the luxS mutant strain. The quorum‐sensing luxS gene can affect E. faecalis biofilm formation.
Pattern of xylem phenology in conifers of cold ecosystems at the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Rossi Sergio , Anfodillo Tommaso , Čufar Katarina , Cuny Henri E. , Deslauriers Annie , Fonti Patrick , Frank David , Gričar Jožica , Gruber Andreas , Huang Jian‐Guo , Jyske Tuula , Kašpar Jakub , King Gregory , Krause Cornelia , Liang Eryuan , Mäkinen Harri , Morin Hubert , Nöjd Pekka , Oberhuber Walter , Prislan Peter , Rathgeber Cyrille B.K. , Saracino Antonio , Swidrak Irene , Treml Václav
Published: April 2016

The interaction between xylem phenology and climate assesses forest growth and productivity and carbon storage across biomes under changing environmental conditions. We tested the hypothesis that patterns of wood formation are maintained unaltered despite the temperature changes across cold ecosystems. Wood microcores were collected weekly or biweekly throughout the growing season for periods varying between 1 and 13 years during 1998–2014 and cut in transverse sections for assessing the onset and ending of the phases of xylem differentiation. The data set represented 1321 trees belonging to 10 conifer species from 39 sites in the Northern Hemisphere and covering an interval of mean annual temperature exceeding 14 K. The phenological events and mean annual temperature of the sites were related linearly, with spring and autumnal events being separated by constant intervals across the range of temperature analysed. At increasing temperature, first enlarging, wall‐thickening and mature tracheids appeared earlier, and last enlarging and wall‐thickening tracheids occurred later. Overall, the period of wood formation lengthened linearly with the mean annual temperature, from 83.7 days at −2 °C to 178.1 days at 12 °C, at a rate of 6.5 days °C−1. April–May temperatures produced the best models predicting the dates of wood formation. Our findings demonstrated the uniformity of the process of wood formation and the importance of the environmental conditions occurring at the time of growth resumption. Under warming scenarios, the period of wood formation might lengthen synchronously in the cold biomes of the Northern Hemisphere.
Persistent high temperature and low precipitation reduce peat carbon accumulation
Authors: Bragazza Luca , Buttler Alexandre , Robroek Bjorn J.M. , Albrecht Remy , Zaccone Claudio , Jassey Vincent E.J. , Signarbieux Constant
Published: April 2016

Extreme climate events are predicted to become more frequent and intense. Their ecological impacts, particularly on carbon cycling, can differ in relation to ecosystem sensitivity. Peatlands, being characterized by peat accumulation under waterlogged conditions, can be particularly sensitive to climate extremes if the climate event increases soil oxygenation. However, a mechanistic understanding of peatland responses to persistent climate extremes is still lacking, particularly in terms of aboveground–belowground feedback. Here, we present the results of a transplantation experiment of peat mesocosms from high to low altitude in order to simulate, during 3 years, a mean annual temperature c. 5 °C higher and a mean annual precipitation c. 60% lower. Specifically, we aim at understanding the intensity of changes for a set of biogeochemical processes and their feedback on carbon accumulation. In the transplanted mesocosms, plant productivity showed a species‐specific response depending on plant growth forms, with a significant decrease (c. 60%) in peat moss productivity. Soil respiration almost doubled and Q10 halved in the transplanted mesocosms in combination with an increase in activity of soil enzymes. Spectroscopic characterization of peat chemistry in the transplanted mesocosms confirmed the deepening of soil oxygenation which, in turn, stimulated microbial decomposition. After 3 years, soil carbon stock increased only in the control mesocosms whereas a reduction in mean annual carbon accumulation of c. 30% was observed in the transplanted mesocosms. Based on the above information, a structural equation model was built to provide a mechanistic understanding of the causal connections between peat moisture, vegetation response, soil respiration and carbon accumulation. This study identifies, in the feedback between plant and microbial responses, the primary pathways explaining the reduction in carbon accumulation in response to recurring climate extremes in peat soils.
CIC–DUX4 fusion‐positive round‐cell sarcomas of soft tissue and bone: a single‐institution morphological and molecular analysis of seven cases
Authors: Gambarotti Marco , Benini Stefania , Gamberi Gabriella , Cocchi Stefania , Palmerini Emanuela , Sbaraglia Marta , Donati Davide , Picci Piero , Vanel Daniel , Ferrari Stefano , Righi Alberto , Dei Tos Angelo P
Published: April 2016

Aims

Round‐cell sarcomas lacking specific translocations represent a diagnostic challenge. The aim of this study was to describe seven cases of CIC–DUX4 fusion‐positive sarcomas, including the first reported example arising primarily in bone.

Methods and results

Patients ranged in age from 15 years to 44 years (median: 33 years). Six cases arose from the soft tissues, and one from the iliac bone. Morphologically, all cases showed an undifferentiated round‐cell population with greater atypia and pleomorphism than Ewing sarcoma. Immunohistochemically, all tumours showed focal and weak positivity for CD99, and five of seven showed nuclear and/or cytoplasmic positivity for Wilms tumour 1. Five patients had lung metastases at presentation. All patients received chemotherapy according to Ewing sarcoma protocols. All but one patient (the one with a bone tumour) died of disease after a mean of 14.5 months from the diagnosis (range: 8–20 months).

Conclusions

Our series confirms that CIC–DUX4 fusion‐positive sarcomas are aggressive tumours with an adverse prognosis, and with clinical, histological and genetic differences from Ewing sarcoma. The best therapeutic approach needs to be investigated.
Genome‐wide analysis of chitinase genes and their varied functions in larval moult, pupation and eclosion in the rice striped stem borer, Chilo suppressalis
Authors: Su C. , Tu G. , Huang S. , Yang Q. , Shahzad M. F. , Li F.
Published: April 2016

Some insect chitinases are required to degrade chitin and ensure successful metamorphosis. Although chitinase genes have been well characterized in several model insects, no reports exist for the rice striped stem borer, Chilo suppressalis, a highly destructive pest that causes huge yield losses in rice production. Here, we conducted a genome‐level analysis of chitinase genes in C. suppressalis. After amplification of full‐length transcripts with rapid amplification of cDNA ends, we identified 12 chitinase genes in C. suppressalis. All these genes had the conserved domains and motifs of glycoside hydrolase family 18 and grouped phylogenetically into five subgroups. C. suppressalis chitinase 1 (CsCht1) was highly expressed in late pupae, whereas CsCht3 was abundant in early pupae. Both CsCht2 and CsCht4 were highly expressed in larvae. CsCht2 was abundant specifically in the third‐instar larvae and CsCht4 showed periodic high expression in 2‐ to 5‐day‐old larvae in each instar. Tissue specific expression analysis indicated that CsCht1 and CsCht3 were highly expressed in epidermis whereas CsCht2 and CsCht4 were specifically abundant in the midgut. Knockdown of CsCht1 resulted in adults with curled wings, indicating that CsCht1 might have an important role in wing expansion. Silencing of CsCht2 or CsCht4 arrested moulting, suggesting essential roles in larval development. When the expression of CsCht3 was interfered, defects in pupation occurred. Overall, we provide here the first catalogue of chitinase genes in the rice striped stem borer and have elucidated the functions of four chitinases in metamorphosis.
Coexistence of Ferroelectric Phases and Phonon Dynamics in Relaxor Ferroelectric Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 Based Single Crystals
Authors: Zhu Jiajun , Zhang Jinzhong , Jiang Kai , Zhang Haiwu , Hu Zhigao , Luo Haosu , Chu Junhao
Published: April 2016

A combination of polarized Raman technique, infrared reflectance spectra, and first‐principles density‐functional theoretical calculations were used to investigate structure transformation and lattice vibrations of Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3, Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–5%BaTiO3, and Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–8%K0.5Bi0.5TiO3 single crystals. It was found that Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 is of a two‐phase mixture with rhombohedral and monoclinic structures at room temperature. Correspondingly, three Raman‐active phonon modes located at 395, 790, and 868 cm−1, which were previously assumed as A1 modes of rhombohedral phase have been reassigned as A′′, A′, and A′ modes of monoclinic phase in the present work. In particular, a strong low‐frequency A′′ mode at 49 cm−1 was found and its temperature dependence was revealed. Two deviations from linearity for the abrupt frequency variation in the A′′ mode and Ti–O bond have been detected at temperatures of ferroelectric to antiferroelectric phase transition TF–AF and dielectric maximum temperature Tmax. The appearance of Na–O vibrations at 150 cm−1 was found below Tmax, indicating the existence of nanosized Na+TiO3 clusters. The observed Raman and infrared active modes belonging to distinct irreducible representations are in good agreement with group‐theory predictions, which suggests 9A1+9E and 36A′′+24A′ modes for the rhombohedral and monoclinic phases of Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3, respectively.
Supporting pre‐service teachers in designing technology‐infused lesson plans
Authors: Janssen N. , Lazonder A. W.
Published: April 2016

The present study compared the effectiveness of two types of just‐in‐time support for lesson planning. Both types contained the same technological information but differed regarding pedagogical and content information. The first type presented this information separately (i.e., separate support); the second type presented this information in an integrated way (i.e., integrated support). In an experimental design pre‐service biology teachers received either the integrated support (n = 26) or separate support (n = 27). They were instructed to create a technology‐infused lesson plan and justify their design decisions. Results showed that pre‐service teachers who used the integrated support had more integrated pedagogical and content‐related justifications and higher quality lesson plans than the group who received separate support. Both groups had few technology‐related justifications, and technology integration was of low quality. These findings confirm the alleged superiority of integrated support over separate support, and suggest that additional guidance is needed for pre‐service teachers to fully integrate technological, pedagogical and content information during lesson planning.
Structural brain correlates of adolescent resilience
Authors: Burt Keith B. , Whelan Robert , Conrod Patricia J. , Banaschewski Tobias , Barker Gareth J. , Bokde Arun L.W. , Bromberg Uli , Büchel Christian , Fauth‐Bühler Mira , Flor Herta , Galinowski André , Gallinat Juergen , Gowland Penny , Heinz Andreas , Ittermann Bernd , Mann Karl , Nees Frauke , Papadopoulos‐Orfanos Dimitri , Paus Tomas , Pausova Zdenka , Poustka Luise , Rietschel Marcella , Robbins Trevor W. , Smolka Michael N. , Ströhle Andreas , Schumann Gunter , Garavan Hugh ,   the IMAGEN Consortium
Published: April 2016

Background

Despite calls for integration of neurobiological methods into research on youth resilience (high competence despite high adversity), we know little about structural brain correlates of resilient functioning. The aim of the current study was to test for brain regions uniquely associated with positive functioning in the context of adversity, using detailed phenotypic classification.

Methods

1,870 European adolescents (Mage = 14.56 years, SDage = 0.44 years, 51.5% female) underwent MRI scanning and completed behavioral and psychological measures of stressful life events, academic competence, social competence, rule‐abiding conduct, personality, and alcohol use.

Results

The interaction of competence and adversity identified two regions centered on the right middle and superior frontal gyri; grey matter volumes in these regions were larger in adolescents experiencing adversity who showed positive adaptation. Differences in these regions among competence/adversity subgroups were maintained after controlling for several covariates and were robust to alternative operationalization decisions for key constructs.

Conclusions

We demonstrate structural brain correlates of adolescent resilience, and suggest that right prefrontal structures are implicated in adaptive functioning for youth who have experienced adversity.
Parent education programmes for special health care needs children: a systematic review
Authors: Jackson Alun C , Liang Rachel P‐T , Frydenberg Erica , Higgins Rosemary O , Murphy Barbara M
Published: April 2016

Aims and objectives

The aim of this review was to examine parent education programmes for families with children with special health care needs, to better design interventions focusing on the psychosocial aspects of living with a child's chronic condition.

Background

Studies of familial coping with children with special health care needs indicate high levels of parenting stress, with families with children with special health care needs at risk of major psychological and social disturbances and financial strain. Despite increased knowledge of the factors affecting children with special health care needs themselves, evidence for the effectiveness of preventative and treatment interventions in the form of parent education programmes remains limited.

Design

Systematic review using PRISMA guidelines.

Method

Multi database Boolean searches in EBSCO Discovery Services using the search terms ‘complex/special health care needs children’, ‘child/pediatric/congenital heart disease’, ‘chronic illness (including diabetes, cancer and cystic fibrosis)’, ‘family coping’, ‘siblings’ AND ‘parenting/family support programs’ were conducted.

Results

Analysis of 13 included studies showed evidence for the effectiveness of both mixed‐health condition and condition‐specific parenting programmes delivered in a variety of modes. Three common core intervention approaches were: use of narrative therapy enabling families to tell their own stories, thus facilitating emotional processing and (co‐) construction of meaning; a focus on strengthening protective factors such as enhancing parents’ skills in communication, and behavioural management and provision of psycho‐education to deepen parents’ understanding of their child's condition and associated developmental challenges.

Conclusion

Irrespective of the type of outcome measures used in the studies, the review showed that there were positive gains and improvements across a range of areas of family functioning such as mental health, parenting, communication and problem‐solving skills postprogramme.

Relevance to clinical practice

Identification of what programme characteristics enhance functioning for families with children with special health care needs should encourage the design of effective interventions.
It Pays to Set the Menu: Mutual Fund Investment Options in 401(k) Plans
Authors: POOL VERONIKA K. , SIALM CLEMENS , STEFANESCU IRINA
Published: April 2016

This paper investigates whether mutual fund families acting as service providers in 401(k) plans display favoritism toward their own affiliated funds. Using a hand‐collected data set on the menu of investment options offered to plan participants, we show that fund deletions and additions are less sensitive to prior performance for affiliated than unaffiliated funds. We find no evidence that plan participants undo this affiliation bias through their investment choices. Finally, we find that the subsequent performance of poorly performing affiliated funds indicates that this favoritism is not information driven.
Tubo‐ovarian abscess with endometrial cyst probably infected by Campylobacter fetus: Two cases
Authors: Kitamura Sachiko , Matsumura Noriomi , Ohtake Noriko , Kita Masato , Konishi Ikuo
Published: April 2016

Campylobacter fetus often causes systemic infection in immunocompromised or older patients, and prenatal infection, but Campylobacter has rarely been reported as a cause of adnexitis in healthy young women. Here we report two cases of endometriotic cysts infected by C. fetus for the first time. In case 1, a 28‐year‐old woman with a left adnexal cyst was hospitalized for left tubo‐ovarian abscess and underwent left salpingo‐oophorectomy. In case 2, a 22‐year‐old woman with a right adnexal cyst was hospitalized for a bilateral tubo‐ovarian abscess and underwent right salpingo‐oophorectomy and left salpingectomy. In both cases, C. fetus was detected on culture, and histopathology indicated a purulent endometriotic cyst. The present findings suggest that endometriotic cyst can be a focus of C. fetus infection.
Relationship between Apparent Diffusion Coefficients and MR Spectroscopy Findings in High‐Grade Gliomas
Authors: Gadda Davide , Mazzoni Lorenzo Nicola , Pasquini Luca , Busoni Simone , Simonelli Paolo , Giordano Gian Paolo
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The role of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) for preoperative grading and treatment planning of high‐grade gliomas (HGG) is still debated since the assumption of inverse correlation between ADC and cellularity is not completely coherent with the results of some studies. It has been recently hypothesized that restricted diffusivity in HGG may be related to hypoxic/ischemic changes inside the tumor. We therefore investigated the differences of ADC values between areas with magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) markers of hypoxia and necrosis (lactate and lipid compounds) and regions with lack of both metabolites.

METHODS

The MRS datasets and the corresponding ADC maps of 28 patients with HGG were retrospectively reviewed. Circular regions of interest (ROIs) were placed on ADC maps by means of spectral characteristics, considering the solid portions of gliomas. One‐way ANOVA or Welch test were performed for multiple comparison of the Mean ADC, minimum ADC (minADC), and standard deviation of pixel‐by‐pixel ADC measurements (ADC SD) values among the groups of ROIs with lactate, lipids, and lack of both metabolites (LAC, LIP, and NEG group, respectively).

RESULTS

The minADC values in LAC group (908 ± 161 × 10−6 mm2s−1) were found to be significantly (P = .03) higher than in NEG group (792 ± 122 × 10−6 mm2s−1). We did not find other significant differences by the multiple comparison tests.

CONCLUSIONS

HGG areas with MRS markers of hypoxia and necrosis are not associated with restricted diffusivity. To explain the trend to diffusion facilitation in HGG lactate‐expressing regions, we hypothesize a possible hypoxia‐induced volume reduction of glioma cells with extracellular shift of cytoplasmic water.
Numerical and Experimental Analyses on the Temperature Distribution in the Dental Implant Preparation Area when Using a Surgical Guide
Authors: Liu Yun‐feng , Wu Jian‐lei , Zhang Jian‐xing , Peng Wei , Liao Wen‐qing
Published: April 2016

Purpose

During dental implantation, if the temperature within the bone tissue exceeds a critical value, the thermal necrosis of bone cells may take place, inhibiting osseointegration. In contrast to conventional dental implant surgery, a surgery guided by a surgical template is a safer and more efficient technique; however, the temperature within the implant field is more difficult to control, because the surgical guide blocks irrigation water. The purpose of this study was to investigate the temperature distribution in the drilling site when preparing for dental implant placement with a surgical guide, and to derive suggestions for clinical operation.

Materials and Methods

Initially, the sources of heat during drilling were investigated, and theoretical equations were listed. Subsequently, a measurement system using thermocouples was constructed, with which the temperature increments at specific points in the simulated bone samples were recorded during guided drilling with different cooling methods. Based on the equations and data assessed, a thermal simulation model with a finite element method (FEM) was created, and the temperature change of the whole surgical field was calculated on the basis of the numerical simulation results. Consequently, the point experiencing the highest temperature within the bone was determined.

Results

From the experimental measurements, the highest temperature increment was located at a depth of 6 mm without irrigation and at 8 mm with cooling, rather than at the deepest point of the prepared hole. Because the surgical guide blocks the cooling water from entering the drilling site, the biggest increment of temperature using conventional irrigation with the surgical guide was 1.95 times that recorded when using a surgical guide consisting of cooling channels, and 3.6 times that recorded using a drill with an internal cooling hole. And from numerical analysis, during drilling for implant placement site with conventional irrigation, the highest temperature (45.6°C) was close to the critical point at which bone necrosis occurs.

Conclusions

Based on theoretical analysis, experimentation, and FEM simulation, the temperature distribution of the drilling area in the placement of dental implants under surgical guide was determined. For clinical operation, improved cooling methods, such as using a drill with an internal cooling channel, should be used, and the drill should be regularly withdrawn during drilling.
Influence of partial replacement of ground wheat with whole wheat and exogenous enzyme supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and energy utilization in young broilers
Authors: Abdollahi M. R. , Ravindran V. , Amerah A. M.
Published: April 2016

This study investigated the influence of pre‐pelleting inclusion of whole wheat (WW) and exogenous enzyme supplementation on growth performance, coefficient of apparent ileal nutrient digestibility (CAID) and apparent metabolizable energy (AME) in broilers fed wheat‐based pelleted diets. A 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments was used with two methods of wheat inclusion [622 g/kg ground wheat (GW) and 250 g/kg WW replaced GW (wt/wt) pre‐pelleting (PWW)] and three enzymes (xylanase, phytase and xylanase plus phytase). A total of 288, one‐day‐old male broilers (Ross 308) were individually weighed and allocated to 36 cages (8 broilers/cage), and the cages were randomly assigned to the six dietary treatments. Birds fed PWW diets gained more (p < 0.05) weight than those fed GW diets. There was no effect (p > 0.05) of WW inclusion on feed intake (FI). Phytase alone increased (p < 0.05) FI compared to xylanase or the combination. Whole wheat inclusion increased (p < 0.05) the gain‐to‐feed ratio (G:F). Feeding xylanase plus phytase and phytase‐added diets resulted in the greatest and lowest G:F, respectively, with xylanase supplemented diets being intermediate. Birds fed PWW diets had greater (p < 0.05) relative gizzard weights than those fed GW diets. There was no effect (p > 0.05) of WW inclusion on the CAID of nitrogen (N), starch and fat. Combination of xylanase and phytase resulted in greater (p < 0.05) digestibility of N, starch and fat than that of individual additions. Feeding PWW diets resulted in greater (p < 0.05) AME values than GW diets. Combination of xylanase and phytase increased (p < 0.05) the AME compared to the diets with individual additions of xylanase or phytase. The current results suggest that the influence of pre‐pelleting WW inclusion and exogenous enzymes on nutrient digestibility and broiler performance is not additive.