bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure, Microwave Dielectric Properties, and Novel Low‐Temperature Sintering of xSrTiO3–(1−x)LaAlO3 Ceramics with LTCC Application
Authors: Lei Shenhui , Fan Huiqing , Chen Weina , Liu Zhiyong , Li Mengmeng
Published: October 2016

xSrTiO3–(1−x)LaAlO3 ceramics with ZnO–B2O3 sintering aid were prepared by solid‐state reaction method leading to a significant decrease in sintering temperature from 1550°C to 1050°C. The structure, microwave dielectric properties, and low‐temperature sintering behavior were systematically investigated. The results revealed the relationships among ionic size, ionic polarizability and cell volume. With increasing additive, chemical ordering of B‐site cations was indicated with selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns, HRTEM images and Raman spectrum, which contributed to the greatly enhanced microwave dielectric properties. Particularly, the 0.7Sr0.85 Mg0.15TiO3–0.3LaAlO3 ceramics modified with 10 wt % ZnO‐B2O3 can further decrease the sintering temperature down to 950°C without deteriorating its performance. Thermal tests implied ceramics featured good chemical compatibility with Cu/Ag electrode. Thus, they can be cofired with internal Cu/Ag electrodes in special patterns to fulfill different electrical functions for LTCC (low‐temperature cofired ceramic) application.
Influence of ordered carbon‐vacancy networks on the electronic structures and elastic properties of Nb4AlC3−x
Authors: Zhang Hui , Hu Tao , Li Zhaojin , Zhang Yanhui , Hu Minmin , Wang Xiaohui , Zhou Yanchun
Published: October 2016

Carbon‐vacancy‐bearing Nb4AlC3−x has the best high‐temperature mechanical robustness among MAX phases. The existing form of the vacancies has been long overlooked. Recently, the vacancies in Nb4AlC3−x have been identified to be ordered, establishing an ordered compound Nb12Al3C8. Here, the spatial distribution of the ordered vacancies and their influences on bonding characteristics and elastic properties are unraveled by thoroughly comparing Nb12Al3C8 and vacancy‐free Nb4AlC3. In Nb12Al3C8, the carbon vacancies break only relatively weak Nb–C bonds and form ordered equilateral triangular carbon‐vacancy networks (OETCVNs) to maximize the bond strengthening effect. The networks slightly shift partial and total density of states toward the Fermi energy level, and bring about a feature of “de‐metallization”. Meanwhile, the presence of OETCVNs results in the softening of elastic modulus, decreasing of the anisotropy of Young's modulus, yet increasing that of shear modulus. These results shed lights on the carbon‐vacancy ordering behavior of MAX phases, and provide an opportunity to tailor their electronic structures and elastic properties through defect engineering.
SiCNO–GO composites with the negative temperature coefficient of resistance for high‐temperature sensor applications
Authors: Yu Yuxi , Huang Qifan , Rhodes Samuel , Fang Jiyu , An Linan
Published: October 2016

We report the synthesis of silicon oxycarbonitride ceramic‐graphene oxide (SiCNO–GO) composites by using polyvinylsilazne (PVSZ) and GO as precursors through cross‐linking processes, in which GO organizes into microspheres in the SiCNO matrix. The formation of GO microspheres significantly enhances the electrical conductivity of SiCNO. The electrical resistivity of SiCNO–GO composites shows a negative temperature coefficient in the range from 25°C to 600°C. We demonstrate the application of SiCNO–GO composites as the functional component of high‐temperature sensors.
Effect of Fe/Ta doping on structural, dielectric, and electrical properties of Bi4Ti2.5Fe0.25Ta0.25O12 ceramics
Authors: Rehman Fida , Wang Lin , Jin Hai‐Bo , Bukhtiar Arfan , Zhang Ruibo , Zhao Yongjie , Li Jing‐Bo
Published: October 2016

Aurivillius single‐phase Bi4Ti2.5Fe0.25Ta0.25O12 ceramics was prepared via high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method. The detailed structural analysis of the doped Bi4Ti3O12 compound was carried out by Rietveld refinement of the full XRD Pattern. Dielectric and electrical properties were studied in a wide range of temperature and frequency by dielectric/impedance spectroscopies. The comprehensive analysis of frequency spectrum reveals the occurrence of two relaxation behaviors in the ceramics at low frequency and high frequency, respectively. A phase transition was observed at ~650°C in Bi4Ti2.5Fe0.25Ta0.25O12 somewhat lower than the ferroelectric transition temperature of Bi4Ti3O12. The possible reason for the decrease of ferroelectric transition temperature was discussed based on the structural analysis. The present results could be useful for designing and/or modifying properties of Bi4Ti3O12‐related ceramics.
Minimum time heating cycles for diffusion‐ versus permeability‐controlled binder removal from ceramic green bodies
Authors: Lombardo Stephen J.
Published: October 2016

A comparison of minimum time heating cycles (MTHCs) was conducted for binder removal from ceramic green bodies for two mass transfer mechanisms: diffusion and gas permeability. The MTHCs were determined by combining approximate analytic solutions to the governing reaction‐diffusion and reaction‐gas permeability equations with a variational calculus algorithm containing a constraint on pressure buildup within the green body. Both the temperature‐time profile and duration of the MTHCs were sensitive to the operative transport process as well as to a number of model parameters including the pressure constraint, the total furnace pressure, the reaction kinetics, the gas permeability, and the diffusivity as described by the free volume theory. Strategies were identified which are most effective for decreasing the cycle time for each mass transfer mechanism.
Composition and temperature dependence of structure and piezoelectricity in (1−x)(K1−yNay)NbO3‐x(Bi1/2Na1/2)ZrO3 lead‐free ceramics
Authors: Wang Dawei , Hussain Fayaz , Khesro Amir , Feteira Antonio , Tian Ye , Zhao Quanliang , Reaney Ian M.
Published: October 2016

Lead‐free piezoceramics with the composition (1−x)(K1−yNay)NbO3‐x(Bi1/2Na1/2)ZrO3 (KNyN‐xBNZ) were prepared using a conventional solid‐state route. X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and dielectric measurements as a function of temperature indicated the coexistence of rhombohedral (R) and tetragonal (T) phase, typical of a morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) as the BNZ concentration increased and by adjusting the K/Na ratio. High remnant polarization (Pr=24 μC/cm2), piezoelectric coefficient (d33=320 pC/N), effective piezocoefficient ({d_{33}^*}=420 pm/V), coupling coefficient (kp=48%), and high strain (S=0.168%) were obtained at room temperature, but significant deterioration of Pr, {d_{33}^*}, and kp were observed by increasing from room temperature to 160°C (17.5 μC/cm2, 338 pm/V, and 32%, respectively) associated with a transition to a purely T phase. Despite these compositions showing promise for room‐temperature applications, the deterioration in properties as a function of increasing temperature poses challenges for device design and remains to be resolved.
Nurse Competence Scale: a systematic and psychometric review
Authors: Flinkman Mervi , Leino‐Kilpi Helena , Numminen Olivia , Jeon Yunsuk , Kuokkanen Liisa , Meretoja Riitta
Published: October 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to report a systematic and psychometric review.

Background

The Nurse Competence Scale is currently the most widely used generic instrument to measure Registered Nurses’ competence in different phases of their careers. Based on a decade of research, this review provides a summary of the existing evidence.

Design

A systematic literature review of research evidence and psychometric properties.

Data sources

Nine databases from 2004 ‐ October 2015.

Review methods

We retrieved scientific publications in English and Finnish. Two researchers performed data selection and appraised the methodological quality using the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments checklist.

Results

A total of 30 studies reported in 43 publications were included. These consisted of over 11,000 competence assessments. Twenty studies were from Europe and 10 from outside Europe. In addition to experienced nurses, the Nurse Competence Scale has been used for the competence assessment of newly graduated nurses and nursing students, mainly in hospital settings. Length of work experience, age, higher education, permanent employment and participation in educational programmes correlated positively with competence. Variables including empowerment, commitment, practice environment, quality of care and critical thinking were also associated with higher competence. The Nurse Competence Scale has demonstrated good content validity and appropriate internal consistency.

Conclusion

The value of Nurse Competence Scale has been confirmed in determining relationships between background variables and competence. The instrument has been widely used with experienced and newly graduated nurses and their managers. Cross‐cultural validation must be continued using rigorous methods.
Age‐related prenatal maternal effects and postnatal breeding experience have different influences on nestling development in an altricial passerine
Authors: Bitton Pierre‐Paul , Dawson Russell D.
Published: October 2016

Reproductive success and nestling performance are related to the age of parents across several vertebrate taxa. However, because breeding experience and prenatal maternal investment in reproduction often covary, the source of these age‐related differences can be difficult to determine. In this study, we evaluated the influence of prenatal maternal effects and postnatal breeding experience on the performance of nestling tree swallows Tachycineta bicolor by conducting a carefully controlled partial cross‐fostering experiment. We swapped half‐broods of nestlings between the nest of a young first‐time breeding female and the nest of a female known to have previously raised and fledged young. Our manipulation did not influence the within‐brood nestling hierarchies, and controlled for the effects of egg laying order. We found that nestlings of older females were heavier just prior to fledging regardless of the breeding experience of the attending female. In addition, fledglings raised by experienced females grew their flight feathers faster, and had greater probability of fledging. Our study demonstrates that prenatal investment in reproduction by older females can have long‐term consequences on nestling mass, and suggests limited potential for compensatory mass gains prior to fledging. Because our analyses controlled for feeding rates, our results also suggest that foraging quantity and quality are not the only benefits nestlings gain by being raised by an experienced female.
Cenozoic dynamics of shallow‐marine biodiversity in the Western Pacific
Authors: Yasuhara Moriaki , Iwatani Hokuto , Hunt Gene , Okahashi Hisayo , Kase Tomoki , Hayashi Hiroki , Irizuki Toshiaki , Aguilar Yolanda M. , Fernando Allan Gil S. , Renema Willem
Published: October 2016

Aim

Cenozoic dynamics of large‐scale species diversity patterns remain poorly understood, especially for the Western Pacific, in part, because of the paucity of well‐dated fossil records from the tropics. This article aims to reveal the spatiotemporal dynamics of species diversity in the Western Pacific through the Cenozoic, focusing on the tropical Indo‐Australian Archipelago (IAA) biodiversity hotspot.

Location

Tropical and north‐western Pacific Ocean.

Methods

We analysed well‐preserved fossil ostracodes from the tropical Western Pacific and combined their diversity data with other published data from the region to reconstruct Cenozoic dynamics of species diversity in the tropical and north‐western Pacific Ocean. We fitted generalized additive models to test for differences in richness over time and across geographical regions while accounting for sample‐size variation among samples.

Results

Low‐, mid‐ and high‐latitude regions all show a similar diversity trajectory: diversity is low in the Eocene and Oligocene, increases from the Early Miocene to the Plio‐Pleistocene but then declines to the present day. Present‐day high biodiversity in these regions was established during the Pliocene with a remarkable diversity increase at that time. Latitudinal diversity patterns are relatively flat and never show a simple decline from the tropics to higher latitudes.

Main conclusions

Western Pacific Cenozoic ostracodes exhibit a spatiotemporal pattern of species diversity that is inconsistent with the commonly reported and persistent pattern of declining diversity from the tropics to the extratropics. While this inconsistency could be interpreted as evidence that ostracodes are a contrarian clade, Atlantic ostracodes display a standard latitudinal species diversity gradient. Contrasting patterns between oceans suggest an important role for regional factors (e.g. plate tectonics and temporal geomorphological dynamics) in shaping the biodiversity of the Western Pacific.
International Adjudication as a Mode of EU External Governance? The WTO Seal Case
Authors: Krämer‐Hoppe Rike U. , Krüger Tilman
Published: October 2016

The literature on EU external governance has greatly advanced our understanding of rule transfers beyond Europe's borders. Contributions highlight different modes of such EU external governance. This contribution proposes to add international adjudication as another form of EU external governance. Acknowledging the important role of judicial decision‐making in shaping the international order, this article uses the example of WTO adjudication to add to existing conceptualizations of EU external governance. In our view, WTO dispute settlement offers possibilities for the EU to transfer EU norms to the international level and beyond its own borders. As we illustrate through an exploratory case study of the recent WTO seal dispute, the EU's internal setup matters greatly for its success.
In the CJEU Judges Trust: A New Approach in the Judicial Construction of Europe
Authors: Mayoral Juan A.
Published: October 2016

This article aims to highlight the relevance of judicial trust in international courts, focusing on national judges' trust in the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). EU scholars have put a great deal of effort into explaining how legal and political factors affect the use of preliminary references by national courts. However, there is still a gap in the literature on the development of trust as a functional principle encouraging co‐operation between national and international courts. This article explores the nature, causes and potentials of judicial trust for the EU judicial system. A theory is offered in the article, which links national judges' trust in the CJEU to their corporatist identification and profile, to their attitudes towards the EU, and to their beliefs about the CJEU's ability to provide decisions that: 1) offer a clear guidance on European Union law, and 2) will not undermine Member States' legal order.
Delay of insulin initiation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled with oral hypoglycemic agents (analysis of patient‐ and physician‐related factors): A prospective observational DIPP‐FACTOR study in Korea
Authors: Kim Sin Gon , Kim Nam Hoon , Ku Bon Jeong , Shon Ho Sang , Kim Doo Man , Park Tae Sun , Kim Yong‐Seong , Kim In Joo , Choi Dong Seop
Published: October 2016

Aims/Introduction

To assess the time to initiation of insulin therapy, and concurrently investigate both patient‐ and physician‐related factors associated with delaying insulin therapy in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes uncontrolled by oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs).

Materials and Methods

This prospective, observational disease registry study was carried out across 69 centers in Korea. Type 2 diabetes patients who had received two or more OHAs within the past 5 years, had a glycated hemoglobin ≥8% in the past 6 months and had not received insulin were included. Data recorded on data collection forms during a 12‐month period were analyzed.

Results

Of 2168 patients enrolled, 1959 were evaluated and classified as the insulin‐initiated or insulin‐delayed group. Insulin was prescribed for just 20% of the patients during a 1‐year follow‐up period, and less than half (44.5%) of the patients who were taking two OHAs started insulin after 6 years. Patient‐related factors for delay in insulin initiation included older age, shorter duration of diabetes and lower glycated hemoglobin. Physician‐related factors included age (~50 to <60 years), sex (women) and number (<1000) of patients consulted per month. Patient refusal (33.6%) and physicians’ concerns of patient non‐compliance (26.5%) were the major physician‐reported reasons for delaying insulin therapy. Inconvenience of insulin therapy (51.6%) and fear of injection (48.2%) were the major reasons for patient refusal.

Conclusions

Insulin initiation is delayed in patients with type 2 diabetes uncontrolled by two or more OHAs in Korea. Patient‐ and physician‐related factors associated with this delay need to be addressed for better diabetes management.
Adaptive dynamics of cuticular hydrocarbons in Drosophila
Authors: Rajpurohit S. , Hanus R. , Vrkoslav V. , Behrman E. L. , Bergland A. O. , Petrov D. , Cvačka J. , Schmidt P. S.
Published: October 2016

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) are hydrophobic compounds deposited on the arthropod cuticle that are of functional significance with respect to stress tolerance, social interactions and mating dynamics. We characterized CHC profiles in natural populations of Drosophila melanogaster at five levels: across a latitudinal transect in the eastern United States, as a function of developmental temperature during culture, across seasonal time in replicate years, and as a function of rapid evolution in experimental mesocosms in the field. Furthermore, we also characterized spatial and temporal changes in allele frequencies for SNPs in genes that are associated with the production and chemical profile of CHCs. Our data demonstrate a striking degree of parallelism for clinal and seasonal variation in CHCs in this taxon; CHC profiles also demonstrate significant plasticity in response to rearing temperature, and the observed patterns of plasticity parallel the spatiotemporal patterns observed in nature. We find that these congruent shifts in CHC profiles across time and space are also mirrored by predictable shifts in allele frequencies at SNPs associated with CHC chain length. Finally, we observed rapid and predictable evolution of CHC profiles in experimental mesocosms in the field. Together, these data strongly suggest that CHC profiles respond rapidly and adaptively to environmental parameters that covary with latitude and season, and that this response reflects the process of local adaptation in natural populations of D. melanogaster.
Phylogenetic Position of Parasitic Chytrids on Diatoms: Characterization of a Novel Clade in Chytridiomycota
Authors: Seto Kensuke , Kagami Maiko , Degawa Yousuke
Published: October 2016

Chytrids are true fungi that reproduce with posteriorly uniflagellate zoospores. In the last decade, environmental DNA surveys revealed a large number of uncultured chytrids as well as undescribed order‐level novel clades in Chytridiomycota. Although many species have been morphologically described, only some DNA sequence data of parasitic chytrids are available from the database. We herein discuss five cultures of parasitic chytrids on diatoms Aulacoseira spp. and Asterionella formosa. In order to identify the chytrids examined, thallus morphologies were observed using light microscopy. We also conducted a phylogenetic analysis using 18S, 5.8S, and 28S rDNA sequences to obtain their phylogenetic positions. Based on their morphological characteristics, two cultures parasitic on As. formosa were identified as Rhizophydium planktonicum and Zygorhizidium planktonicum. The other three cultures infecting Aulacoseira spp. (two on Aulacoseira ambigua and the other on Aulacoseira granulata) were regarded as Zygorhizidium aff. melosirae. The results of the molecular phylogenetic analysis revealed that R. planktonicum belonged to the known order Chytridiales, while the two species of Zygorhizidium were placed in a novel clade that was previously reported as an undescribed clade composed of only the environmental sequences of uncultured chytrids.
Energy allocation strategy of skipjack tuna Katsuwonus pelamis during their reproductive cycle
Authors: Grande M. , Murua H. , Zudaire I. , Arsenault‐Pernet E. J. , Pernet F. , Bodin N.
Published: October 2016

The lipid composition of somatic and reproductive tissues was determined for female skipjack tuna Katsuwonus pelamis caught in the western Indian Ocean between latitude 10° N and 20° S and longitude 40° and 70° E. The highest total lipid (TL) contents were in the liver and gonads, with white muscle levels approximately three‐fold lower. Three lipid classes dominated: triacylglycerols (TAG), sterol esters and wax esters (SE‐WE) and phospholipids (PL). Collectively, these accounted for between 70 and 80% of TLs. Changes in lipid concentrations were evaluated over the maturation cycle. Immature fish had the lowest gonad and liver TL levels; concentrations of TL, TAG, SE‐WE and PL accumulated from immature to mature (spawning‐capable) phase, reflecting sustained vitellogenic activity of the liver and a transfer of lipids to developing oocytes from the onset of vitellogenesis. Gonado‐somatic and hepato‐somatic indices were positively correlated with each other and positively related to TL in the gonads and liver. Fulton's condition index and lipid concentrations in muscle did not vary significantly over the maturation cycle; fat content in the main storage tissues was undepleted as the ovary developed. Hence, K. pelamis apparently supports reproduction directly from food intake over the breeding season. In the gonads, reserve lipids (SE‐WE and TAG) and sterols were related to batch fecundity but this was not the case for somatic and hepatic tissues. These results suggest that K. pelamis utilizes an income breeding strategy.
Tiny estimates of the Ne/N ratio in marine fishes: Are they real?
Authors: Waples R. S.
Published: October 2016

Theory and empirical estimates agree that the ratio of effective size (Ne) to census size (N) falls roughly in the range 0·1–0·5 for most populations. In a number of marine species, however, genetic estimates of contemporary Ne/N are as much as 5–6 orders of magnitude lower. Although some mechanisms that could produce such tiny Ne/N ratios have been proposed, the subject remains controversial. This issue is important to resolve: if Ne/N can be 10−3 or smaller, marine fish populations that are quite large could be at genetic risk. Based on a recently‐improved understanding of factors that influence Ne and Ne/N in species with overlapping generations, this paper evaluates conditions necessary to produce tiny Ne/N ratios in actual populations. These analyses show that although increased longevity, fecundity and variance in reproductive success that increase with age, and increased egg quality with age [the big old fat fecund female fish (BOFFFF) hypothesis] all reduce Ne/N, extreme scenarios are required to reduce Ne/N below about 0·01. Therefore, tiny Ne/N ratios require some version of Hedgecock's ‘sweepstakes’ hypothesis, whereby only a few families reproduce successfully. Simulations using common genetically‐based estimators show that, when true Ne is very large (≥106), a substantial fraction of point estimates of Ne/N can be 10−3 or smaller. These results mean that tiny, genetically‐based point estimates of Ne/N in large marine populations are expected to be quite common, even when the true Ne/N ratio is ‘normal’ (∼0·1 or higher). Very large samples of individuals can reduce, but not eliminate, this problem. The simulation results also emphasize the importance of considering deviations from model assumptions (e.g. non‐random sampling; weak selection or migration) that may be relatively small (and hence can generally be ignored when the signal is strong) but can lead to substantial biases when the drift signal is weak, as is likely for large marine populations. Empirical studies of this topic need to be able to distinguish between episodes of sweepstakes reproductive success that are ephemeral and lead to chaotic genetic patchiness, and those that are consistent enough across space and time to produce persistent evolutionary consequences.
Influence of streamflow on spawning‐related movements of golden perch Macquaria ambigua in south‐eastern Australia
Authors: Koster W. M. , Dawson D. R. , Liu C. , Moloney P. D. , Crook D. A. , Thomson J. R.
Published: October 2016

In this study, linkages were examined between movement and spawning behaviour for golden perch Macquaria ambigua in a lowland river by integrating acoustic telemetry and egg and larval drift sampling over 4 years. Movement was strongly seasonal, being most prevalent during the spawning season (spring to early summer), and occurred primarily downstream into the lower river reaches during elevated flows. A very strong association was found between the occurrence of spawning and long‐distance M. ambigua movement. The results also revealed that targeted environmental water allocation can promote movement and spawning of this species. By integrating multiple analytical approaches and focusing on key life‐history events, this study provides an improved picture of the life history and flow requirements of M. ambigua. The findings can help guide the development of effective environmental flow recommendations.
Saving the spandrels? Adaptive genomic variation in conservation and fisheries management
Authors: Pearse D. E.
Published: October 2016

As highlighted by many of the papers in this issue, research on the genomic basis of adaptive phenotypic variation in natural populations has made spectacular progress in the past few years, largely due to the advances in sequencing technology and analysis. Without question, the resulting genomic data will improve the understanding of regions of the genome under selection and extend knowledge of the genetic basis of adaptive evolution. What is far less clear, but has been the focus of active discussion, is how such information can or should transfer into conservation practice to complement more typical conservation applications of genetic data. Before such applications can be realized, the evolutionary importance of specific targets of selection relative to the genome‐wide diversity of the species as a whole must be evaluated. The key issues for the incorporation of adaptive genomic variation in conservation and management are discussed here, using published examples of adaptive genomic variation associated with specific phenotypes in salmonids and other taxa to highlight practical considerations for incorporating such information into conservation programmes. Scenarios are described in which adaptive genomic data could be used in conservation or restoration, constraints on its utility and the importance of validating inferences drawn from new genomic data before applying them in conservation practice. Finally, it is argued that an excessive focus on preserving the adaptive variation that can be measured, while ignoring the vast unknown majority that cannot, is a modern twist on the adaptationist programme that Gould and Lewontin critiqued almost 40 years ago.
Assessment of interbreeding and introgression of farm genes into a small Scottish Atlantic salmon Salmo salar stock: ad hoc samples – ad hoc results?
Authors: Verspoor E. , Knox D. , Marshall S.
Published: October 2016

An eclectic set of tissues and existing data, including purposely collected samples, spanning 1997–2006, was used in an ad hoc assessment of hybridization and introgression of farmed wild Atlantic salmon Salmo salar in the small Loch na Thull (LnT) catchment in north‐west Scotland. The catchment is in an area of marine farm production and contains freshwater smolt rearing cages. The LnT S. salar stock was found to be genetically distinctive from stocks in neighbouring rivers and, despite regular reports of feral farm S. salar, there was no evidence of physical or genetic mixing. This cannot be completely ruled out, however, and low level mixing with other local wild stocks has been suggested. The LnT population appeared underpinned by relatively smaller effective number of breeders (Neb) and showed relatively low levels of genetic diversity, consistent with a small effective population size. Small sample sizes, an incomplete farm baseline and the use of non‐diagnostic molecular markers, constrain the power of the analysis but the findings strongly support the LnT catchment having a genetically distinct wild S. salar population little affected by interbreeding with feral farm escapes.
Dicephalous v. diprosopus sharks: record of a two‐headed embryo of Galeus atlanticus and review of the literature
Authors: Sans‐Coma V. , Rodríguez C. , López‐Unzu M. A. , Lorenzale M. , Fernández B. , Vida L. , Durán A. C.
Published: October 2016

As far as is known, this paper gives the first description of a two‐headed shark embryo belonging to an oviparous species, Galeus atlanticus (Carcharhiniformes: Scyliorhinidae). The specimen was detected among 797 embryos intended for cardiovascular studies, which represents a defect incidence of 0·13%. Each head had a mouth, two eyes, a brain, a notochord and five gill openings on each side. The two heads fused behind the gills. On the single body, there were four anticipated dorsal fins, two anterior, right and left and two posterior, right and left. Ventrally, the specimen possessed two pairs of pectoral fins, a pair of pelvic fins and one anal fin. Two adjacent notochords, two neural tubes and two dorsal aortas ran along the body, which bent 180° at its posterior portion. There were two hearts, two oesophaguses, two stomachs, two livers, but a single intestine with a spiral valve. Previous reports of conjoined twins in sharks are scarce and only refer to oviparous and ovoviviparous species. Seven dicephalous sharks reported so far were similar to the specimen described here, namely, with two totally separated heads on one body. Instead, only one case of diprosopus shark has been reported; it had a single body and a single head with partial duplication of the face. Two further cases described in the literature as dicephalous or simply as abnormal sharks should be better regarded as diprosopus, while another three cases, also considered dicephalous, showed a mixture of characteristics of diprosopia and dicephalia.
Modelling urban floods at submetre resolution: challenges or opportunities for flood risk management?
Authors: de Almeida G.A.M. , Bates P. , Ozdemir H.
Published: October 2016

In this study, we investigate the influence of fine‐scale changes in the elevation of urban terrains on the dynamics and final distribution of flood inundation generated by intense rainfall. Numerical experiments have been performed combining two‐dimensional shallow water model with extremely fine‐resolution (10 cm) terrain data. Our results reveal that localised, decimetric‐scale alterations in the elevation of streets can lead to remarkable differences in the flood inundation. These results confirm the important role played by finely resolved and accurate terrain data in capturing flow patterns that have a central impact on model predictions of flood inundation. Also, we argue that the observed sensitivity of flood inundation to small‐scale topographical features paves the way to new opportunities for flood risk management measures. In particular, engineering flood resilient urban surfaces using fine‐resolution models has a potential to considerably reduce flood impacts at a relatively low cost.
Dietary intake in people consuming a reduced‐carbohydrate diet in the National Diet and Nutrition Survey
Authors: Guess N.
Published: October 2016

Background

Diets reduced or low in carbohydrates are becoming increasingly popular. The replacement foods and their accompanying nutrients determine the health effects of such diets. However, little is known about the dietary intake of people consuming reduced or low carbohydrate diets.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, the dietary and nutrient intake of individuals aged 16–75 years consuming less than 40% of energy from carbohydrate (n = 430) was compared with individuals consuming equal to or more than 40% energy from carbohydrate (n = 1833) using the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey.

Results

Those consuming less than 40% of total energy from carbohydrate reported a higher consumption of red and processed meat, butter, oily fish and vegetables, as well as a lower consumption of soft drinks and pulses, than those with a normal carbohydrate intake. After adjusting for socio‐economic status, only red meat intake was different between the groups, and reached the maximum recommended daily intake daily intake. There were no significant differences in micronutrient intakes between the groups, although magnesium, selenium and potassium, along with fibre, were lower than recommended amounts across the cohort.

Conclusions

Individuals consuming reduced or low carbohydrate diets could benefit from replacing some red meats with white meats and vegetable sources of protein, and increasing vegetable intake.
Food‐based anthocyanin intake and cognitive outcomes in human intervention trials: a systematic review
Authors: Kent K. , Charlton K. E. , Netzel M. , Fanning K.
Published: October 2016

Background

Preclinical evidence suggests that the anthocyanins, which comprise a subclass of dietary flavonoids providing the purple and red pigmentation in plant‐based foods, may have a beneficial impact on cognitive outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted to identify the published literature on food‐based anthocyanin consumption and cognitive outcomes in human intervention trials. The literature search followed PRISMA guidelines and included six databases, as well as additional hand searching.

Results

Seven studies were included in this review, comprising acute trials (n = 4) and longer‐term (n = 3) interventions that assessed multiple cognitive outcomes in children, adults and older adults with cognitive impairment. Six of seven studies reported improvements in either a single, or multiple, cognitive outcomes, including verbal learning and memory, after anthocyanin‐rich food consumption. As a result of methodological limitations and the large clinical and methodological diversity of the studies, the pooling of data for quantitative analysis was not feasible.

Conclusions

The impact of food‐based anthocyanin consumption on both acute and long‐term cognition appears promising. However, adequately powered studies that include sensitive cognitive tasks are needed to confirm these findings and allow the translation of research into dietary messages.
Evaluating Measuring Techniques for Occupational Exposure during Additive Manufacturing of Metals: A Pilot Study
Authors: Graff Pål , Ståhlbom Bengt , Nordenberg Eva , Graichen Andreas , Johansson Pontus , Karlsson Helen
Published: October 2016

Additive manufacturing that creates three‐dimensional objects by adding layer upon layer of material is a new technique that has proven to be an excellent tool for the manufacturing of complex structures for a variety of industrial sectors. Today, knowledge regarding particle emissions and potential exposure‐related health hazards for the operators is limited. The current study has focused on particle numbers, masses, sizes, and identities present in the air during additive manufacturing of metals. Measurements were performed during manufacturing with metal powder consisting essentially of chromium, nickel, and cobalt. Instruments used were Nanotracer (10 to 300 nanometers [nm]), Lighthouse (300 nm to 10 micrometers), and traditional filter‐based particle mass estimation followed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results showed that there is a risk of particle exposure at certain operations and that particle sizes tended to be smaller in recycled metal powder compared to new. In summary, nanosized particles were present in the additive manufacturing environment and the operators were exposed specifically while handling the metal powder. For the workers’ safety, improved powder handling systems and measurement techniques for nanosized particles will possibly have to be developed and then translated into work environment regulations. Until then, relevant protective equipment and regular metal analyses of urine is recommended.
Health care utilisation among older persons with intellectual disability and dementia: a registry study
Authors: Axmon A. , Karlsson B. , Ahlström G.
Published: October 2016

Background

Both persons with intellectual disability (ID) and persons with dementia have high disease burdens, and consequently also high health care needs. As life expectancy increases for persons with ID, the group of persons with the dual diagnosis of ID and dementia will become larger.

Method

Through national registries, we identified 7936 persons who had received support directed to persons with ID during 2012, and an age‐ and gender‐matched sample from the general population. A national registry was also used to collect information on health care utilisation (excluding primary care) for the period 2002–2012. Health care utilisation was measured as presence and number of planned and unplanned in‐patient and out‐patient visits, as well as length of stay.

Results

In comparison with persons with ID but without dementia, persons with ID and dementia were more likely to have at least one planned out‐patient visit (odds ratio [OR] 8.07), unplanned out‐patient visit (OR 2.41), planned in‐patient visit (OR 2.76) or unplanned in‐patient visit (OR 4.19). However, among those with at least one of each respective outcome, the average number of visits did not differ between those with and without dementia. Persons with ID and dementia were less likely to have at least one planned out‐patient visit than persons with dementia in the general population sample (OR 0.40), but more likely to have at least one unplanned in‐patient visit (OR 1.90). No statistically significant differences were found for having at least one unplanned out‐patient or planned in‐patient visit. Nevertheless, among those with at least one unplanned out‐patient visit, the number of visits was higher in the general population sample.

Conclusions

Persons with ID and dementia are less likely to receive planned health care than persons with dementia in the general population. They have, however, higher levels of unplanned health care utilisation. This may be an indication that the current support system is not sufficient to meet the challenges of increased longevity among persons with ID.
Children with autism spectrum disorder: teaching conversation involving feelings about events
Authors: Conallen K. , Reed P.
Published: October 2016

Background

Two procedures were developed to teach individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders labels (tacts) for various private events (emotions): Study 1 attempted to distinguish them from pure tacts and mands (requests); and Study 2 attempted to train initiating a conversation with grammatically correct subject–verb–comment construction.

Methods

A multiple treatment reversal design was used in both studies, followed by a probe to see if the tacts were used across novel settings.

Results

The children were prompted to initiate a series of language exchanges, which resulted in an increased ability to participate in conversations about private events.

Conclusions

Together, the results of both studies suggest that, by providing an effective and reinforcing means of teaching both the function and the form of these tacts, conversations can be successfully initiated by children with ASD.
“You Cannot be Here”: The Urban Poor and the Specter of the Indian in Neoliberal Mexico City
Authors: Martínez Alejandra Leal
Published: October 2016

Este artículo analiza las ansiedades de las élites y las clases medias sobre los vendedores ambulantes en el Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México, en el contexto de un proyecto de renovación urbana dirigido a transformar el área en un espacio seguro y habitable. Con base en trabajo etnográfico con los nuevos habitantes de clase media del Centro Histórico, me aproximo a sus ansiedades sobre los vendedores ambulantes como inmersas en formas del urbanismo neoliberal que incluyen una proliferación de discursos y prácticas de la ciudadanía y la ley. Al mismo tiempo arguyo que las preocupaciones sobre los vendedores ambulantes deben ser entendidas a la luz de una larga historia de ansiedades de las élites y las clases medias sobre los pobres urbanos, mismas que se encuentran al centro de la ideología, racialista y modernizante, del mestizaje. El artículo examina la manera en que los discursos neoliberales sobre el (des) orden urbano se entretejen con ansiedades de largo aliento, al tiempo que las reconfiguran.
New transgenic ALS/FTD models on the rat‐walk
Authors: Stegmüller Judith , Synofzik Matthis
Published: October 2016

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This Editorial highlights a study by Huang and colleagues in the current issue of Journal of Neurochemistry. The authors introduce a novel ALS‐FTD (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis‐frontotemporal dementia) rat model to explore the role of the UBLQN2 gene that has previously been associated with familial ALS‐FTD. Over‐expression of ubiquilin 2 in the cortex (CTX) and hippocampus of the rat results in ubiquilin 2 aggregates and neurodegeneration together with cognitive deficits. The new rat model not only gives insight into potential molecular underpinnings of ALS‐FTD, but also represents an important new tool for future research and therapeutic approaches.

Read the highlighted article ‘Increased Ubqln2 expression causes neuron death in transgenic rats’ on page 285.
Histopathological features of a patient with Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease type 2U/AD‐CMTax‐MARS
Authors: Hirano Makito , Oka Nobuyuki , Hashiguchi Akihiro , Ueno Shuichi , Sakamoto Hikaru , Takashima Hiroshi , Higuchi Yujiro , Kusunoki Susumu , Nakamura Yusaku
Published: October 2016

Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease is a complex of peripheral nervous system disorders. CMT type 2U (CMT2U) is an autosomal dominant (AD) disease caused by mutations in the MARS gene encoding methionyl‐tRNA synthetase; this disease has thus been newly called AD‐CMTax‐MARS. A few families with mutations in the MARS gene have been reported, without detailed histopathological findings. We describe a 70‐year‐old woman who had bilateral dysesthesia of the soles since the age of 66 years. Sural nerve biopsy showed a decrease in the density of large myelinated nerve fibers. Increased clusters of regenerating myelinated nerve fibers were noted. Electron microscopic analyses revealed degeneration of unmyelinated nerves. There was no vasculitis or inflammatory cell infiltration. Genetic analysis identified a heterozygous p.P800T mutation, a reported mutation in the MARS gene. We report the detailed histopathological findings in a patient with CMT2U/AD‐CMTax‐MARS. The findings are similar to those found in CMT2D caused by mutations in the GARS gene, encoding glycyl‐tRNA synthetase.
Prenatal growth stages show the development of the ruminant bony labyrinth and petrosal bone
Authors: Costeur Loïc , Mennecart Bastien , Müller Bert , Schulz Georg
Published: October 2016

Foetuses are a source of scientific information to understand the development and evolution of anatomical structures. The bony labyrinth, surrounding the organ of balance and hearing, is a phylogenetically and ecologically informative structure for which still little concerning growth and shape variability is known in many groups of vertebrates. Except in humans, it is poorly known in many other placentals and its prenatal growth has almost never been studied. Ruminants are a diversified group of placentals and represent an interesting case study to understand the prenatal growth of the ear region. We computed tomography ‐scanned five cow foetuses and an adult petrosal bone (Bos taurus, Artiodactyla, Mammalia), and describe the bony labyrinth when already ossified. The foetuses encompass the second half of the 9.3‐month‐long gestation period of the cow. They were sampled at different ontogenetic stages to understand how and when the petrosal bone and bony labyrinth ossify in ruminants. The petrosal bone and bony labyrinth ossify within about 20 days in the fourth month of gestation. The bony labyrinth is already fully ossified at least in the 6th month, while only the cochlea, most of the vestibule and the common crus are already ossified at the beginning of the 4th month. The pars canalicularis of the petrosal thus ossifies at last. The size and volume of the bony labyrinth stay similar from the 6th month (possibly even from the 5th). From the end of the 4th month of gestation, a progressive lengthening of the cochlear aqueduct and endolymphatic sac occurs, culminating in the adult form and partly explaining the larger volume of the later. The inner ear in the cow ossifies quickly during the gestation period, being fully ossified around mid‐gestation time, as in humans. The adult size and most of its volume are reached by mid‐gestation time while the petrosal bone and skull still grow. A negative ontogenetic allometry between the bony labyrinth and the petrosal bone and skull is thus observed. It matches the evolutionary negative allometry of the structure observed in earlier studies. Few changes occur after ossification is achieved; only open structures (i.e. cochlear aqueduct and endolymphatic sac) continue to grow after birth and reflect size increase of the petrosal bone.
Self‐management programmes in temporomandibular disorders: results from an international Delphi process
Authors: Durham J. , Al‐Baghdadi M. , Baad‐Hansen L. , Breckons M. , Goulet J. P. , Lobbezoo F. , List T. , Michelotti A. , Nixdorf D. R. , Peck C. C. , Raphael K. , Schiffman E. , Steele J. G. , Story W. , Ohrbach R.
Published: October 2016

Self‐management (SM) programmes are commonly used for initial treatment of patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The programmes described in the literature, however, vary widely with no consistency in terminology used, components of care or their definitions. The aims of this study were therefore to construct an operationalised definition of self‐management appropriate for the treatment of patients with TMD, identify the components of that self‐management currently being used and create sufficiently clear and non‐overlapping standardised definitions for each of those components. A four‐round Delphi process with eleven international experts in the field of TMD was conducted to achieve these aims. In the first round, the participants agreed upon six principal concepts of self‐management. In the remaining three rounds, consensus was achieved upon the definition and the six components of self‐management. The main components identified and agreed upon by the participants to constitute the core of a SM programme for TMD were as follows: education; jaw exercises; massage; thermal therapy; dietary advice and nutrition; and parafunctional behaviour identification, monitoring and avoidance. This Delphi process has established the principal concepts of self‐management, and a standardised definition has been agreed with the following components for use in clinical practice: education; self‐exercise; self‐massage; thermal therapy; dietary advice and nutrition; and parafunctional behaviour identification, monitoring and avoidance. The consensus‐derived concepts, definitions and components of SM offer a starting point for further research to advance the evidence base for, and clinical utility of, TMD SM.