bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trans Tasman Radiation Oncology Group: Development of the Assessment of New Radiation Oncology Technology and Treatments (ANROTAT) Framework
Authors: Duchesne Gillian M , Grand Mel , Kron Tomas , Haworth Annette , Corry June , Jackson Michael , Ng Michael , Besuijen Deidre , Carter Hannah E , Martin Andrew , Schofield Deborah , Gebski Val , Torony Joan , Kovacev Olga , Amin Rowena , Burmeister Bryan
Published: October 2014

Introduction

The study aim was to develop a generic framework to derive the parameters to populate health‐economic models for the rapid evaluation of new techniques and technologies in radiation oncology.

Methods

A draft framework was developed through horizon scanning for relevant technologies, literature review to identify framework models, and a workshop program with radiation oncology professionals, biostatisticians, health economists and consumers to establish the Framework's structure. It was tested using four clinical protocols, comparing intensity modulated with 3D conformal therapy (post‐prostatectomy, anal canal and nasopharynx) and image‐guided radiation therapy techniques with off‐line review of portal imaging (in the intact prostate).

Results

The draft generic research framework consisted of five sequential stages, each with a number of components, and was assessed as to its suitability for deriving the evidence needed to populate the decision‐analytic models required for the health‐economic evaluations. A final Framework was established from this experience for use by future researchers to provide evidence of clinical efficacy and cost‐utility for other novel techniques. The four clinical treatment sites tested during the project were considered suitable to use in future evaluations.

Conclusions

Development of a generic research framework to predict early and long‐term clinical outcomes, combined with health‐economic data, produced a generally applicable method for the rapid evaluation of new techniques and technologies in radiation oncology. Its application to further health technology assessments in the radiation oncology sector will allow further refinement and support its generalisability.
Decomposing changes in phylogenetic and functional diversity over space and time
Authors: Chalmandrier Loïc , Münkemüller Tamara , Devictor Vincent , Lavergne Sébastien , Thuiller Wilfried
Published: October 2014

The α‐, β‐, γ‐diversity decomposition methodology is commonly used to investigate changes in diversity over space or time but rarely conjointly. However, with the ever‐increasing availability of large‐scale biodiversity monitoring data, there is a need for a sound methodology capable of simultaneously accounting for spatial and temporal changes in diversity.

Using the properties of Chao's index, we adapted Rao's framework of diversity decomposition between orthogonal dimensions to a multiplicative α‐, β‐, γ‐decomposition of functional or phylogenetic diversity over space and time, thereby combining their respective properties. We also developed guidelines for interpreting both temporal and spatial β‐diversities and their interaction.

We characterized the range of β‐diversity estimates and their relationship to the nested decomposition of diversity. Using simulations, we empirically demonstrated that temporal and spatial β‐diversities are independent from each other and from α‐ and γ‐diversities when the study design is balanced, but not otherwise. Furthermore, we showed that the interaction term between the temporal and the spatial β‐diversities lacked such properties.

We illustrated our methodology with a case study of the spatio‐temporal dynamics of functional diversity in bird assemblages in four regions of France. Based on these data, our method makes it possible to discriminate between regions experiencing different diversity changes in time. Our methodology may therefore be valuable for comparing diversity changes over space and time using large‐scale data sets of repeated surveys.
Modelling demographic processes in marked populations: proceedings of theEURING2013 analytical meeting
Authors: Francis Charles M. , Barker Richard J. , Cooch Evan G.
Published: October 2014

This article introduces a special issue of papers presented at the EURING 2013 technical conference on the analysis of data from marked individuals.

The EURING technical conferences were originally established to bring together ecologists and statisticians to develop methods to estimate demographic parameters such as survival, recruitment, density, population size and movement from the large accumulated datasets on marked birds, but many methods are also relevant to other taxa.

Papers in this issue cover a range of topics include new statistical modelling approaches, spatially explicit modelling, experimentation and hypothesis testing, integrating data from multiple sources and occupancy modelling.
Renal P2 receptors and hypertension
Authors: Menzies R. I. , Unwin R. J. , Bailey M. A.
Published: October 2014

The regulation of extracellular fluid volume is a key component of blood pressure homeostasis. Long‐term blood pressure is stabilized by the acute pressure natriuresis response by which changes in renal perfusion pressure evoke corresponding changes in renal sodium excretion. A wealth of experimental evidence suggests that a defect in the pressure natriuresis response contributes to the development and maintenance of hypertension. The mechanisms underlying the relationship between renal perfusion pressure and sodium excretion are incompletely understood. Increased blood flow through the vasa recta increases renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure, thereby reducing the driving force for transepithelial sodium reabsorption. Paracrine signalling also contributes to the overall natriuretic response by inhibiting tubular sodium reabsorption in several nephron segments. In this brief review, we discuss the role of purinergic signalling in the renal control of blood pressure. ATP is released from renal tubule and vascular cells in response to increased flow and can activate P2 receptor subtypes expressed in both epithelial and vascular endothelial/smooth muscle cells. In concert, these effects integrate the vascular and tubular responses to increased perfusion pressure and targeting P2 receptors, particularly P2X7, may prove beneficial for treatment of hypertension.
Adenosine, type 1 receptors: role in proximal tubule Na+ reabsorption
Authors: Welch W. J.
Published: October 2014

Adenosine type 1 receptor (A1‐AR) antagonists induce diuresis and natriuresis in experimental animals and humans. Much of this effect is due to inhibition of A1‐ARs in the proximal tubule, which is responsible for 60–70% of the reabsorption of filtered Na+ and fluid. Intratubular application of receptor antagonists indicates that A1‐AR mediates a portion of Na+ uptake in PT and PT cells, via multiple transport systems, including Na+/H+ exchanger‐3 (NHE3), Na+/PO4− co‐transporter and Na+‐dependent glucose transporter, SGLT. Renal microperfusion and recollection studies have shown that fluid reabsorption is reduced by A1‐AR antagonists and is lower in A1‐AR KO mice, compared to WT mice. Absolute proximal reabsorption (APR) measured by free‐flow micropuncture is equivocal, with studies that show either lower APR or similar APR in A1‐AR KO mice, compared to WT mice. Inhibition of A1‐ARs lowers elevated blood pressure in models of salt‐sensitive hypertension, partially due to their effects in the proximal tubule.
Exercise training and DNA methylation in humans
Authors: Voisin S. , Eynon N. , Yan X. , Bishop D. J.
Published: October 2014

The response to exercise training (trainability) has been shown to have a strong heritable component. There is growing evidence suggesting that traits such as trainability do not only depend on the genetic code, but also on epigenetic signals. Epigenetic signals play an important role in the modulation of gene expression, through mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone modifications. There is an emerging evidence to show that physical activity influences DNA methylation in humans. The present review aims to summarize current knowledge on the link between DNA methylation and physical activity in humans. We have critically reviewed the literature and only papers focused on physical activity and its influence on DNA methylation status were included; a total of 25 papers were selected. We concluded that both acute and chronic exercises significantly impact DNA methylation, in a highly tissue‐ and gene‐specific manner. This review also provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of exercise‐induced DNA methylation changes, and recommendations for future research.
Enhancing the authenticity of assessments through grounding in first impressions
Authors: Humă Bogdana
Published: October 2014

This article examines first impressions through a discursive and interactional lens. Until now, social psychologists have studied first impressions in laboratory conditions, in isolation from their natural environment, thus overseeing their discursive roles as devices for managing situated interactional concerns. I examine fragments of text and talk in which individuals spontaneously invoke first impressions of other persons as part of assessment activities in settings where the authenticity of speakers’ stances might be threatened: (1) in activities with inbuilt evaluative components and (2) in sequential contexts where recipients have been withholding affiliation to speakers’ actions. I discuss the relationship between authenticity, as a type of credibility issue related to intersubjective trouble, and the characteristics of first impression assessments, which render them useful for dealing with this specific credibility concern. I identify four features of first impression assessments which make them effective in enhancing authenticity: witness positioning (Potter, 1996, Representing reality: Discourse, rhetoric and social construction, Sage, London), (dis)location in time and space, automaticity, and extreme formulations (Edwards, 2003, Analyzing race talk: Multidisciplinary perspectives on the research interview, Cambridge University Press, New York).
Equivalence tests for comparing correlation and regression coefficients
Authors: Counsell Alyssa , Cribbie Robert A.
Published: October 2014

Equivalence tests are an alternative to traditional difference‐based tests for demonstrating a lack of association between two variables. While there are several recent studies investigating equivalence tests for comparing means, little research has been conducted on equivalence methods for evaluating the equivalence or similarity of two correlation coefficients or two regression coefficients. The current project proposes novel tests for evaluating the equivalence of two regression or correlation coefficients derived from the two one‐sided tests (TOST) method (Schuirmann, 1987, J. Pharmacokinet. Biopharm, 15, 657) and an equivalence test by Anderson and Hauck (1983, Stat. Commun., 12, 2663). A simulation study was used to evaluate the performance of these tests and compare them with the common, yet inappropriate, method of assessing equivalence using non‐rejection of the null hypothesis in difference‐based tests. Results demonstrate that equivalence tests have more accurate probabilities of declaring equivalence than difference‐based tests. However, equivalence tests require large sample sizes to ensure adequate power. We recommend the Anderson–Hauck equivalence test over the TOST method for comparing correlation or regression coefficients.
Imaging Neuroinflammation? A Perspective from MR Spectroscopy
Authors: Zahr Natalie M. , Mayer Dirk , Rohlfing Torsten , Sullivan Edith V. , Pfefferbaum Adolf
Published: October 2014

Neuroinflammatory mechanisms contribute to the brain pathology resulting from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) has been touted as a suitable method for discriminating in vivo markers of neuroinflammation. The present MRS study was conducted in four groups: alcohol dependent (A, n = 37), HIV‐infected (H, n = 33), alcohol dependent + HIV infected (HA, n = 38) and healthy control (C, n = 62) individuals to determine whether metabolites would change in a pattern reflecting neuroinflammation. Significant four‐group comparisons were evident only for striatal choline‐containing compounds (Cho) and myo‐inositol (mI), which follow‐up analysis demonstrated were due to higher levels in HA compared with C individuals. To explore the potential relevance of elevated Cho and mI, correlations between blood markers, medication status and alcohol consumption were evaluated in H + HA subjects. Having an acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)‐defining event or hepatitis C was associated with higher Cho; lower Cho levels, however, were associated with low thiamine levels and with highly active antiretroviral HIV treatment (HAART). Higher levels of mI were related to greater lifetime alcohol consumed, whereas HAART was associated with lower mI levels. The current results suggest that competing mechanisms can influence in vivo Cho and mI levels, and that elevations in these metabolites cannot necessarily be interpreted as reflecting a single underlying mechanism, including neuroinflammation.
Alterations in Immune Cells and Mediators in the Brain: It's Not Always Neuroinflammation!
Authors: Estes Myka L. , McAllister A. Kimberley
Published: October 2014

Neuroinflammation was once a clearly defined term denoting pathological immune processes within the central nervous system (CNS). Historically, this term was used to indicate the four hallmarks of peripheral inflammaton that occur following severe CNS injuries, such as stroke, injury or infection. Recently, however, the definition of neuroinflammation has relaxed to the point that it is often now assumed to be present when even only a single classical hallmark of inflammation is measured. As a result, a wide range of disorders, from psychiatric to degenerative diseases, are now assumed to have an integral inflammatory component. Ironically, at the same time, research has revealed unexpected nonclassical immune actions of immune mediators and cells in the CNS in the absence of pathology, increasing the likelihood that homeostatic and adaptive immune processes in the CNS will be mistaken for neuroinflammation. Thus, we suggest reserving the term neuroinflammation for contexts where multiple signs of inflammation are present to avoid erroneously classifying disorders as inflammatory when they may instead be caused by nonimmune etiologies or secondary immune processes that serve adaptive roles.
Mismatch repair genes founder mutations and cancer susceptibility in Lynch syndrome
Authors: Ponti G. , Castellsagué E. , Ruini C. , Percesepe A. , Tomasi A.
Published: October 2014

Founder mutations in specific populations are common in several Mendelian disorders. They are shared by apparently unrelated families that inherited them from a common ancestor that existed hundreds to thousands of years ago. They have been proven to impact in molecular diagnostics strategies in specific populations, where they can be assessed as the first screening step and, if positive, avoid further expensive gene scanning. In Lynch syndrome (LS), a dominantly inherited colorectal cancer disease, more than 50 founder pathogenic mutations have been described so far in the mismatch repair (MMR) genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2). We here provide a comprehensive summary of the founder mutations found in the MMR genes and an overview of their main characteristics. At a time when high‐throughput strategies are being introduced in the molecular diagnostics of cancer, genetic testing for founder mutations can complement next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies to most efficiently identify MMR gene mutations in any given population. Additionally, special attention is paid to MMR founder mutations with interesting anthropological significance.
Filtering Multi‐Layer Shadow Maps for Accurate Soft Shadows
Authors: Selgrad K. , Dachsbacher C. , Meyer Q. , Stamminger M.
Published: October 2014

In this paper, we introduce a novel technique for pre‐filtering multi‐layer shadow maps. The occluders in the scene are stored as variable‐length lists of fragments for each texel. We show how this representation can be filtered by progressively merging these lists. In contrast to previous pre‐filtering techniques, our method better captures the distribution of depth values, resulting in a much higher shadow quality for overlapping occluders and occluders with different depths. The pre‐filtered maps are generated and evaluated directly on the GPU, and provide efficient queries for shadow tests with arbitrary filter sizes. Accurate soft shadows are rendered in real‐time even for complex scenes and difficult setups. Our results demonstrate that our pre‐filtered maps are general and particularly scalable.
Horizontal Resorption of Fresh‐Frozen Corticocancellous Bone Blocks in the Reconstruction of the Atrophic Maxilla at 5 Months
Authors: Pereira Eugénio , Messias Ana , Dias Ricardo , Judas Fernando , Salvoni Alexander , Guerra Fernando
Published: October 2014

Background

Reliable implant‐supported rehabilitation of an alveolar ridge needs sufficient volume of bone. In order to achieve a prosthetic‐driven positioning, bone graft techniques may be required.

Purpose

This prospective cohort study aims to clinically evaluate the amount of resorption of corticocancellous fresh‐frozen allografts bone blocks used in the reconstruction of the severe atrophic maxilla.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐two partial and totally edentulous patients underwent bone augmentation procedures with fresh‐frozen allogenous blocks from the iliac crest under local anesthesia. Implants were inserted into the grafted sites after a healing period of 5 months. Final fixed prosthesis was delivered ± 4 months later. Ridge width analysis and measurements were performed with a caliper before and after grafting and at implant insertion. Bone biopsies were performed in 16 patients.

Results

A total of 98 onlay block allografts were used in 22 patients with an initial mean alveolar ridge width of 3.41 ± 1.36 mm. Early exposure of blocks was observed in four situations and one of these completely resorbed. Mean horizontal bone gain was 3.63 ± 1.28 mm (p < .01). Mean buccal bone resorption between allograph placement and the reopening stage was 0.49 ± 0.54 mm, meaning approximately 7.1% (95% confidence interval: [5.6%, 8.6%]) of total ridge width loss during the integration period. One hundred thirty dental implants were placed with good primary stability (≥ 30 Ncm). Four implants presented early failure before the prosthetic delivery (96.7% implant survival). All patients were successfully rehabilitated. Histomorphometric analysis revealed 20.9 ± 5.8% of vital bone in close contact to the remaining grafted bone. A positive strong correlation (adjusted R2 = 0.44, p = .003) was found between healing time and vital bone percentage.

Conclusions

Augmentation procedures performed using fresh‐frozen allografts from the iliac crest are a suitable alternative in the reconstruction of the atrophic maxilla with low resorption rate at 5 months, allowing proper stability of dental implants followed by fixed prosthetic rehabilitation.
miR‐99a directly targets the mTOR signalling pathway in breast cancer side population cells
Authors: Yang Z. , Han Y. , Cheng K. , Zhang G. , Wang X.
Published: October 2014

Objectives

miR‐99a has been reported to function as a tumour suppressor in breast cancer. However, its role in the regulation of breast cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype has up to now remained unknown.

Materials and methods

In this study, we isolated the side population (SP) cells by staining cultured MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells with fluorescent DNA‐binding dye Hoechst 33342, then by flow cytometric sorting. Next, we detected expression of miR‐99a in the SP cells compared to non‐SP cells using real‐time PCR, and explored effects of miR‐99a on the CSC phenotype of the breast cancer cells, including sphere formation, self‐renewal, tumourigenicity and cell migratory capability.

Results

We found that expression of miR‐99a was down‐regulated in the SP cells compared to non‐SP cells. Restoration of expression of miR‐99a inhibited cell migration and invasion, reduced sphere formation of breast SP cells in vitro, and suppressed tumour growth in vivo. Finally, bioinformatic prediction suggested the oncogene, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) – a downstream effector of the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, was a target gene of miR‐99a in SP cells. Further, quantitative RT‐PCR and western blot assays identified that overexpression of miR‐99a suppressed expression of mTOR and its downstream gene, HIF‐1α.

Conclusion

Collectively, these data suggest that miR‐99a reversed the breast cancer malignant CSC phenotype, probably by targeting the mTOR signalling pathway.
Metastatic Cardiac Sarcoma Arising from the Left Posterior Pulmonary Vein Treated with Combination Therapy of Surgical Resection and Preoperative Chemotherapy Treatment
Authors: Aggeli Constantina , Kastellanos Stilianos , Pliarchopoulou Kika , Felekos Ioannis , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: October 2014

Mini‐Abstract

A 44‐year‐old man with pulmonary sarcoma presented symptoms of dyspnea, cough, chest pain, and fatigue. During echocardiographic examination, a large mass was revealed inside the left atrium causing severe mitral valve obstruction. The patient underwent chemotherapy with alleviation of symptoms. Follow‐up echocardiogram revealed decreased mass size and no mitral valve obstruction. The mass stemmed from the left posterior pulmonary vein. After surgical resection, the mass was revealed to be a sarcoma. Postsurgery echocardiogram was normal. The patient has remained asymptomatic. Chemotherapy may decrease the size of a cardiac sarcoma and alleviate mitral valve obstruction symptoms, thus facilitating complete resection.
The Effects of Successful Percutaneous Mitral Balloon Valvuloplasty on Acute and Intermediate Term Aortic Stiffness
Authors: Inci Sinan , Nar Gökay , Erol Mustafa Kemal , Demirelli Selami , Duman Hakan , Serdar Serkan , Erol Fatih
Published: October 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMBV) on short‐ and intermediate‐term aortic stiffness in patients with mitral stenosis.

Materials and Methods

This prospective study included 56 patients with critical mitral stenosis in normal sinus rhythm (68% female; mean age: 42 ± 11 years) and 37 healthy controls. Aortic stiffness was measured using transthoracic echocardiography before PMBV, and 24–48 hours and 1 year post procedure.

Results

Aortic strain and distensibility were significantly higher in the patients with mitral stenosis, both after PMBV and 1 year post procedure, whereas the aortic stiffness index (ASI) was significantly lower. There was also a significant decrease in mitral mean gradient (MMG) and systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) after PMBV, based on echocardiography and catheterization. Mitral valve area (MVA) significantly increased after PMBV. There was a significant correlation between change in ∆MVA and ∆MMG and aortic elastic properties. There was a significantly negative correlation between the ∆MVA and ∆∆ aortic stiffness (r = −0.62, P < 0.001), and a significantly positive correlation between ∆MMG and ∆ASI (r = 0.60, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Mitral valve stenosis was associated with impaired aortic stiffness and following PMBV, aortic stiffness decreased during both the acute period and the intermediate period.
Patterns of host utilisation by herbivore assemblages of the genus Caloptilia (Lepidoptera; Gracillariidae) on congeneric maple tree (Acer) species
Authors: NAKADAI RYOSUKE , MURAKAMI MASASHI
Published: October 2014

1. The pattern of host utilisation by congeneric Caloptilia caterpillars on 14 different species of Acer (maple) was investigated in temperate mixed forests of central Japan. A multi‐filtering model of host plant utilisation was proposed to address how phylogenetically related herbivore assemblages are constructed on phylogenetically related host plant species.

2. Two hypotheses were examined. The first questioned whether a negative relationship exists between the phylogenetic distance of plants from the most suitable host species and the abundance of herbivorous insects on the host. Regarding the second, it was investigated whether the assemblage dissimilarity of herbivorous insects among host plant species increases with increasing distance of plant phylogeny and traits.

3. Mantel and partial Mantel tests were used to measure the relationship between assemblage dissimilarity of Caloptilia species and the distance of plant phylogeny and leaf traits.

4. Both hypotheses were confirmed, clearly suggesting that the utilisation and suitability of hosts for Caloptilia caterpillars were strongly influenced by phylogenetic relatedness and leaf trait similarity among Acer species. This implies that phylogenetic distance is an integrated measure of phenotypic and ecological attributes of congeneric Acer species that can be used to explain specialisation and constraints of host utilisation of congeneric herbivore species even on a short evolutionary timescale.
Larval food composition affects courtship song and sperm expenditure in a lekking moth
Authors: CORDES NILS , ALBRECHT FREDERIK , ENGQVIST LEIF , SCHMOLL TIM , BAIER MARKUS , MÜLLER CAROLINE , REINHOLD KLAUS
Published: October 2014

1. Variation in larval food composition can have far‐reaching effects on the adult phenotype of insects. To maximise reproductive output, it is therefore beneficial if insects are able to plastically adapt to nutritional cues in their larval diet.

2. The expression of sexual traits implicated in pre‐ and postcopulatory sexual selection of the lesser wax moth, Achroia grisella Fabricius, across different rearing environments of varying diet composition was investigated.

3. Moths reared on diet with relatively low amounts of carbohydrate, but more protein and fats, had lower survival rates, decreased body mass, and longer development times. Males reared on this diet produced songs with higher pulse pair rates (which are attractive to females) and transferred more sperm per copulation than males reared on the alternative diets.

4. There was no evidence for a trade‐off between pre‐ and postcopulatory traits. Interestingly, individuals with both higher pulse pair rates and more transferred sperm came from the treatment group with higher mortality rates and generally poorer development. The present results suggest that both of these sexual characteristics are developmentally plastic, but that only moths reared on the protein‐rich diet were able to benefit from this plasticity.
Moving beyond the guild concept: developing a practical functional trait framework for terrestrial beetles
Authors: FOUNTAIN‐JONES NICHOLAS M. , BAKER SUSAN C. , JORDAN GREGORY J.
Published: October 2014

1. New logical and analytical frameworks for studying functional traits have led to major advances in plant and freshwater ecology at local and global scales. The ecological and taxonomic diversity of terrestrial adult beetles (Coleoptera) means that functional trait approaches should have considerable power to illuminate the function not only of these animals but also of the ecosystems in which they occur.

2. Even though the functional trait concept is not new in ecology, it is still plagued with inconsistencies in methodology and terminology. Plant‐based studies have shown that an integrated and relatively consistent functional trait approach facilitates comparisons between studies, and allows the full utility and predictive capacity of trait‐based approaches to be realised.

3. This review outlines a logical framework for adult beetle functional trait studies using uniform terminology and methodology similar to those used by plant ecologists. Beetle life‐history and ecomorphological trait studies are synthesised and it is shown that a combination of both is analogous to the functional trait approach. A general functional trait list for beetles and potential functional links is outlined, as are potential analysis approaches. A consistent functional trait approach, coupled with advances in molecular techniques, has the capability to provide deeper insights into beetle community assembly and how beetles impact ecosystems and will enable worldwide comparisons and predictions to be made.
Impacts of exotic spider spillover on resident arthropod communities in a natural habitat
Authors: HOGG BRIAN N. , DAANE KENT M.
Published: October 2014

1. The spillover of exotic predators from managed ecosystems into natural habitats may exacerbate the biodiversity losses caused by land‐use intensification.

2. In the present study, the impacts of the exotic wandering spider Cheiracanthium mildei L. Koch in an oak woodland ecosystem adjacent to an intensively‐managed agricultural system were examined.

3. Abundance and species richness of resident spiders and insects in oak branches were reduced in the presence of C. mildei. Contrary to expectations, C. mildei did not disproportionately affect other wandering spider species, but appeared to impact spiders from all tested functional groups. Numbers of herbivorous and predatory insects were also lower in the presence of C. mildei.

4. Although the apparent effects of this spider extend to multiple trophic levels in oak woodland, its voracity and relatively large size may ultimately strengthen herbivore suppression in the vineyard–oak woodland landscape.
Unilateral medial frontal cortex lesions cause a cognitive decision‐making deficit in rats
Authors: Croxson Paula L. , Walton Mark E. , Boorman Erie D. , Rushworth Matthew F. S. , Bannerman David M.
Published: October 2014

The medial frontal cortex (MFC) is critical for cost–benefit decision‐making. Generally, cognitive and reward‐based behaviour in rodents is not thought to be lateralised within the brain. In this study, however, we demonstrate that rats with unilateral MFC lesions show a profound change in decision‐making on an effort‐based decision‐making task. Furthermore, unilateral MFC lesions have a greater effect when the rat has to choose to put in more effort for a higher reward when it is on the contralateral side of space to the lesion. Importantly, this could not be explained by motor impairments as these animals did not show a turning bias in separate experiments. In contrast, rats with unilateral dopaminergic midbrain lesions did exhibit a motoric turning bias, but were unimpaired on the effort‐based decision‐making task. This rare example of a cognitive deficit caused by a unilateral cortical lesion in the rat brain indicates that the MFC may have a specialised and lateralised role in evaluating the costs and benefits of actions directed to specific spatial locations.
Factors affecting the measurement of soil pH buffer capacity: approaches to optimize the methods
Authors: Wang X. , Tang C. , Mahony S. , Baldock J. A. , Butterly C. R.
Published: October 2014

An accurate measurement of soil pH buffer capacity (pHBC) is essential for estimating lime requirement and predicting soil acidification in farming systems. The soil pHBC is commonly determined by acid‐base titration (1:5 soil : solution); however, no standardized equilibration time, type of acid and alkali or concentration of electrolyte has been recommended. This study aimed to establish a standard procedure that is relatively method‐independent and reflects the actual soil pH buffering ability. Nineteen soils with a wide range of pH, clay and organic carbon contents were used. Measuring pHBC in a 0.01 m CaCl2 suspension minimized the effects of both ionic strength and cation valence after addition of different types and rates of alkalis and acids. The time required to reach near equilibrium (1 hour to 28 days) was greatly expedited by sonication pretreatment. For soils with a large carbon content, biological reactions alone could elevate soil pHBC and addition of biocides was essential during pHBC measurement. When compared with two commonly used methods, 1:1 soil : water extraction and field moist incubation, the 1:5 CaCl2 method was less affected by ionic strength and biological activity, and more suitable for use as a standard method. We recommend using 0.01 m CaCl2 at a soil‐to‐solution ratio of 1:5, with addition of HCl and NaOH or Ca(OH)2, chloroform and sonication for pHBC determination.
The use of spearfishing competition data in fisheries management: evidence for a hidden near collapse of a coastal fish community of Galicia (NE Atlantic Ocean)
Authors: Pita P. , Freire J.
Published: October 2014

The use of commercial catch statistics to estimate overfishing consequences has been criticised, but alternative long‐term data sets are rare. Long time‐series data sets from recreational fisheries competitions have been used to infer trends in coastal fish communities. Here an historic archive (1953–2007) of recreational spear fisheries in Galicia (NW Spain) was employed to estimate long‐term changes in coastal ecosystems. Using generalised additive regression models, decreases in the abundances of coastal rocky reef fishes of up to 76% over the last 50 years were found. In the same period, the mean body weight also decreased by 76%. In addition, relative catch frequency has decreased for the most valuable commercial species. Overfishing, amongst other human impacts, has brought these ecosystems so close to collapse that it is urgent to implement measures to ensure their recovery.
Neural and behavioral epigenetics; what it is, and what is hype
Authors: Isles A. R.
Published: October 2014

The ability to examine epigenetic mechanisms in the brain has become readily available over the last 20 years. This has led to an explosion of research and interest in neural and behavioral epigenetics. Of particular interest to researchers, and indeed the lay public, is the possibility that epigenetic processes, such as changes in DNA‐methylation and histone modification, may provide a biochemical record of environmental effects. This has led to some fascinating insights into how molecular changes in the brain can control behavior. However, some of this research has also attracted controversy and, as is dealt with here, some overblown claims. This latter problem is partly linked to the shifting sands of what is defined as ‘epigenetics’. In this review, I provide an overview of what exactly epigenetics is, and what is hype, with the aim of opening up a debate as to how this exciting field moves forward.
Ischemia‐modified albumin and advanced oxidation protein products as potential biomarkers of protein oxidation in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Altunoglu Esma , Guntas Gulcan , Erdenen Fusun , Akkaya Esen , Topac Ibrahim , Irmak Hulya , Derici Himmet , Yavuzer Hakan , Gelisgen Remise , Uzun Hafize
Published: October 2014

Background

The aim of the present study was to determine the systemic levels of oxidative stress markers, such as ischemia‐modified albumin (IMA), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and the prooxidant–antioxidant balance (PAB), to clarify protein redox homeostasis in patients with Alzheimer's disease, and to compare them with mentally healthy persons of the same age.

Methods

A total of 38 patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 34 sex‐ and age‐matched mentally healthy control subjects were included in this study.

Results

The patients had significantly higher AOPP, IMA and PAB in the patient group than in the control group (P = 0.004, P = 0.001, P = 0.007, respectively). The FRAP was significantly lower in the patients with AD than in the control subjects (P = 0.002), and according to the receiver operating characteristic curves, the IMA and AOPP areas are below the 0.700 receiver operating characteristic curve line (area under the curve 0.817 and 0.730, respectively; 95% CI 0.709–0.898 and 0.612–0.828, respectively).

Conclusions

Increased IMA, AOPP and PAB, and decreased FRAP are likely to be results of oxidative stress, a condition in which an imbalance occurs between the production and inactivation of reactive oxygen species in AD. The IMA could be used for the better evaluation of clinical status, as well as the independent characteristic symptoms of AD, for the purposes of routine clinical laboratory analysis. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 872–880.
Rotating pigment cells exhibit an intrinsic chirality
Authors: Yamanaka Hiroaki , Kondo Shigeru
Published: October 2014

In multicellular organisms, cell properties, such as shape, size and function are important in morphogenesis and physiological functions. Recently, ‘cellular chirality’ has attracted attention as a cellular property because it can cause asymmetry in the bodies of animals. In recent in vitro studies, the left–right bias of cellular migration and of autonomous arrangement of cells under some specific culture conditions were discovered. However, it is difficult to identify the molecular mechanism underlying their intrinsic chirality because the left–right bias observed to date is subtle or is manifested in the stable orientation of cells. Here, we report that zebrafish (Danio rerio) melanophores exhibit clear cellular chirality by unidirectional counterclockwise rotational movement under isolated conditions without any special settings. The chirality is intrinsic to melanophores because the direction of the cellular rotation was not affected by the type of extracellular matrix. We further found that the cellular rotation was generated as a counter action of the clockwise movement of actin cytoskeleton. It suggested that the mechanism that directs actin cytoskeleton in the clockwise direction is pivotal for determining cellular chirality.
Canada and the Human Rights Framework: Historiographical Trends
Authors: Tunnicliffe Jennifer
Published: October 2014

This article examines trends in Canadian human rights history, with a focus on three major themes that have guided the scholarship: challenges to the characterization of Canada as a historically tolerant nation; a study of how, when, and through what mechanisms human rights became an important project for Canadians; and a critical assessment of the historical effectiveness of the human rights movement in promoting equality within Canadian society. In assessing where this vibrant and growing field of study could expand in the future, the article also contextualizes the Canadian historiography in the international literature on the development of the global human rights framework.
The pathology of hereditary polyposis syndromes
Authors: Novelli Marco
Published: October 2014

Our understanding of the genetics and pathology of familial colorectal cancer continues to evolve with both the discovery of underlying genetic defects and the description of entirely new entities. Genetic analysis has demonstrated phenotypic overlap between some of these syndromes, such that their nosology is rapidly becoming based on genetics with clinicopathological features playing a secondary, but important, role. Further clinical characterization of these syndromes has also demonstrated widely differing risks for the development of colorectal cancer and a range of other malignancies with implications for both the affected patient and members of their families. This review aims to outline the clinical, pathological and genetic features of this increasingly complex group of diseases.
Effects of Deposition Conditions of TiO2 Film and Substrate Prestrain on Film Void Geometries and Optical Properties in TiO2/PET Specimens
Authors: Li Tse‐Chang , Han Chang‐Fu , Chung Chung‐Jen , Huang Cheng‐Hung , Lin Jen‐Fin
Published: October 2014

TiO2/poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) specimens with various PET substrate prestrains are prepared to investigate the effect of the deposition conditions of the TiO2 film on the geometries of TiO2 film porosities and the effect of these void geometries on three optical parameters. The response surface methodology is used to express these three geometric parameters and three optical parameters as functions of the substrate prestrain and four deposition parameters. An increase in the O2/Ar flow ratio increases the mean width of voids. The trends of the curved surface of optical transmittance with L* and L*/W* are opposite to those of reflection. The highest transmittance is obtained with the largest L*/W* and the smallest L*. A nonzero flow rate of O2 gas in the deposition process reduces the optical band gap and increases the TiO2 film thickness generally, thus resulting in a reduction in transmittance and an increase in absorption. An increase in the prestrain of the PET substrate decreases the TiO2 film thickness. Both the mean index of refraction (n)mean and the mean extinction coefficient (k)mean due to the provision of the O2 gas are reduced. The n and k parameters for various wavelengths vary in a narrow range.
Effect of fermentation by Bacillus subtilis on antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of black rice bran
Authors: Yoon Hyun Joo , Lee Kyoung Ah , Lee Jae Hoon , Jin Hyue Ju , Kim Hyun Jung , Kim Kee‐Tae , Paik Hyun‐Dong
Published: October 2014

Black rice bran was fermented with Bacillus subtilis KU3 isolated from Korean traditional food, Kimchi. Antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of the fermented black rice bran were investigated. Total phenolic and anthocyanin contents decreased from 171.54 mg GAE g−1 and 2.31 mg g−1 to 139.13 mg GAE g−1 and 2.12 mg g−1, respectively, after fermentation. Antioxidant activities determined by 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, β‐carotene bleaching and ferric thiocyanate assay were correlated with total phenolic and anthocyanin contents. Non‐fermented black rice bran extract (NFBE) showed greater antioxidant activities than fermented black rice bran extract (FBE). Cytotoxic activities measured by MTT assay showed that both NFBE and FBE had over 50% activities. The cytotoxic activities of FBE against MCF‐7 and HeLa cells were 71.65% and 68.07%, respectively, at 8.0 mg mL−1, but those of NFBE were lower than 50%. These results suggested that the cytotoxic activity of black rice bran improved through fermentation, while antioxidant activity reduced.
Next generation sequencing: considering the ethics
Authors: Davey S.
Published: October 2014

This review article discusses some of the ethical challenges posed by next generation sequencing (NGS), both in the clinical and research setting. Concerns such as how to deal with unexpected results apply equally to conventional techniques. However, these incidental findings are far more likely with the use of NGS and whole genome sequencing. Whilst the lines of responsibility are better defined in the clinical environment, disclosure of such findings in the research setting is less clear. Recruitment of volunteers for public biobank research, in particular, also raises questions regarding consent and confidentiality.
An Evaluation of Spearman's Hypothesis by Manipulating g Saturation
Authors: McDaniel Michael A. , Kepes Sven
Published: October 2014

Spearman's Hypothesis holds that the magnitude of mean White–Black differences on cognitive tests covaries with the extent to which a test is saturated with g. This paper evaluates Spearman's Hypothesis by manipulating the g saturation of cognitive composites. Using a sample of 16,384 people from the General Aptitude Test Battery database, we show that one can decrease mean racial differences in a g test by altering the g saturation of the measure. Consistent with Spearman's Hypothesis, the g saturation of a test is positively and strongly related to the magnitude of White–Black mean racial differences in test scores. We demonstrate that the reduction in mean racial differences accomplished by reducing the g saturation in a measure is obtained at the cost of lower validity and increased prediction errors. We recommend that g tests varying in mean racial differences be examined to determine if the Spearman's Hypothesis is a viable explanation for the results.
Does Child Sex Moderate Vulnerability to Postpartum Risk among Infants of Mothers at Risk for Psychopathology?
Authors: McGinnis Ellen , Bocknek Erika , Beeghly Marjorie , Rosenblum Katherine L. , Muzik Maria
Published: October 2014

Early childhood behavior problems may indicate risk for subsequent psychopathology (Shaw, Gilliom, Ingoldsby, & Nagin, Developmental Psychology, 39, 2003, 189). There is some evidence to suggest that boys and girls may be differentially susceptible to postpartum risk factors that predict problem behaviors in early childhood (Kochanska, Coy, & Murray, Child Development, 72, 2001, 1091; Martel, Klump, Nigg, Breedlove, & Sisk, Hormones and Behavior , 55, 2009, 465). The main aim of this study is to examine whether child sex moderates the effect of infant and maternal predictors of toddler problem behaviors in a unique sample of high‐risk mother–child dyads. Analyses were based on data collected for 198 mother–child dyads (52% male offspring) followed longitudinally from birth to 18 months. Maternal and infant variables, including maternal PTSD and depression symptoms, maternal maltreatment history, observed maternal parenting quality, demographic risk, and infant negative emotionality and night waking, were used to predict toddler behavior problems. Although boys and girls displayed similar levels of total problem behaviors at 18 months overall, the specific set of infant and maternal variables that predicted toddler problems varied by child sex. The significant predictor for boys was maternal PTSD symptoms, whereas significant predictors for girls were infant negative emotionality and sleep problems. Results suggest that sex‐differentiated transmission of risk can be identified as early as 18 months postpartum. These differences suggest a gender‐specific biological sensitivity to maternal psychopathology, or alternatively, a gender‐specific reporting bias among mothers with childhood maltreatment histories.
Polyol Synthesis and Investigation of Ce1−xRExO2−x/2 (RE = Sm, Gd, Nd, La, 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.25) Electrolytes for IT‐SOFCs
Authors: Dönmez Göknur , Sarıboğa Vedat , Gürkaynak Altınçekiç Tuba , Öksüzömer Mehmet Ali Faruk
Published: October 2014

In this study, we aimed to examine the effect of dopant type and concentration on the ionic conductivity of ceria‐based electrolytes. Ceria electrolytes doped with samarium (SDC), gadolinium (GDC), neodymium (NDC), and lanthanum (LDC) for solid oxide fuel cells were prepared through the polyol process. Acetate compounds of cerium and dopants were used as starting materials, and triethylene glycol was used as a solvent. Prepared powders and pellets were characterized by TG/DTA, XRD, FTIR, SEM, EIS, and EDS techniques. The results of the TG/DTA and XRD indicated that a single‐phase fluorite structure formed at the relatively low calcination temperature of 500°C. The relative densities of the pellets were higher than 90% and these finding were supported by the SEM images. The lattice parameters of the samples increased with the dopant concentration. According to the electrochemical analysis results, the samples with maximum conductivity values were SDC‐20, GDC‐15, NDC‐15, and LDC‐15. The results of the impedance spectroscopy revealed that the SDC‐20 sample exhibited the highest ionic conductivity with a value of 4.29 × 10−2 S/cm at 800°C in air.