bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geographic variation in hybridization across a reinforcement contact zone of chorus frogs (Pseudacris)
Authors: Lemmon Emily Moriarty , Juenger Thomas E.
Published: October 2017

Reinforcement contact zones, which are secondary contact zones where species are diverging in reproductive behaviors due to selection against hybridization, represent natural laboratories for studying speciation‐in‐action. Here, we examined replicate localities across the entire reinforcement contact zone between North American chorus frogsPseudacris feriarumandP. nigritato investigate geographic variation in hybridization frequencies and to assess whether reinforcement may have contributed to increased genetic divergence within species. Previous work indicated these species have undergone reproductive character displacement (RCD) in male acoustic signals and female preferences due to reinforcement. We also examined acoustic signal variation across the contact zone to assess whether signal characteristics reliably predict hybrid index and to elucidate whether the degree ofRCDpredicts hybridization rate. Using microsatellites, mitochondrial sequences, and acoustic signal information from >1,000 individuals across >50 localities and ten sympatric focal regions, we demonstrate: (1) hybridization occurs and (2) varies substantially across the geographic range of the contact zone, (3) hybridization is asymmetric and in the direction predicted from observed patterns of asymmetricRCD, (4) in one species, genetic distance is higher between conspecific localities where one or both have been reinforced than between nonreinforced localities, after controlling for geographic distance, (5) acoustic signal characters strongly predict hybrid index, and (6) the degree ofRCDdoes not strongly predict admixture levels. By showing that hybridization occurs in all sympatric localities, this study provides the fifth and final line of evidence that reproductive character displacement is due to reinforcement in the chorus frog contact zone. Furthermore, this work suggests that the dual action of cascade reinforcement and partial geographic isolation is promoting genetic diversification within one of the reinforced species.
Using multiple data types and integrated population models to improve our knowledge of apex predator population dynamics
Authors: Bled Florent , Belant Jerrold L. , Van Daele Lawrence J. , Svoboda Nathan , Gustine David , Hilderbrand Grant , Barnes Victor G.
Published: October 2017

Current management of large carnivores is informed using a variety of parameters, methods, and metrics; however, these data are typically considered independently. Sharing information among data types based on the underlying ecological, and recognizing observation biases, can improve estimation of individual and global parameters. We present a general integrated population model (IPM), specifically designed for brown bears (Ursus arctos), using three common data types for bear (U. spp.) populations: repeated counts, capture–mark–recapture, and litter size. We considered factors affecting ecological and observation processes for these data. We assessed the practicality of this approach on a simulated population and compared estimates from our model to values used for simulation and results from count data only. We then present a practical application of this general approach adapted to the constraints of a case study using historical data available for brown bears on Kodiak Island, Alaska, USA. The IPM provided more accurate and precise estimates than models accounting for repeated count data only, with credible intervals including the true population 94% and 5% of the time, respectively. For the Kodiak population, we estimated annual average litter size (within one year after birth) to vary between 0.45 [95% credible interval: 0.43; 0.55] and 1.59 [1.55; 1.82]. We detected a positive relationship between salmon availability and adult survival, with survival probabilities greater for females than males. Survival probabilities increased from cubs to yearlings to dependent young ≥2 years old and decreased with litter size. Linking multiple information sources based on ecological and observation mechanisms can provide more accurate and precise estimates, to better inform management. IPMs can also reduce data collection efforts by sharing information among agencies and management units. Our approach responds to an increasing need in bear populations’ management and can be readily adapted to other large carnivores.
Impact of atrial fibrillation on rest and exercise haemodynamics in heart failure with mid‐range and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Kaye David M. , Silvestry Frank E. , Gustafsson Finn , Cleland John G. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Ponikowski Piotr , Komtebedde Jan , Nanayakkara Shane , Burkhoff Dan , Shah Sanjiv J.
Published: October 2017

Aims

Heart failure with preserved (HFpEF) and mid‐range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) are becoming the most prevalent forms of heart failure. Patients with HFpEF/HFmrEF in atrial fibrillation (AF) have poorer survival and quality of life, but the mechanism underpinning this is unknown. We sought to investigate the influence of AF on the haemodynamic profile of HFpEF/HFmrEF patients at rest and during exercise.

Methods and results

We invasively measured central haemodynamics at rest and during symptom‐limited supine bicycle exercise in HFpEF/HFmrEF patients, 35 in sinus rhythm and 20 in AF with matched left ventricular ejection fraction. At rest, AF patients had significantly increased pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, lower cardiac index and reduced left ventricular stroke work index, despite similar resting heart rate. Under resting conditions, calculated oxygen consumption and systemic arteriovenous oxygen gradient were not different between the two groups. During supine cycling at similar levels of workload, AF patients exhibited a reduced capacity to increase their oxygen consumption and this was accompanied by a persistently impaired cardiac index and left ventricular stroke work index.

Conclusions

The adverse interaction of AF and HFpEF/HFmrEF may be accounted for by an adverse impact on left ventricular systolic function and peripheral oxygen kinetics.
Effects of fluoride on morphology, growth, development, and thyroid hormone of Chinese toad (Bufo gargarizans) embryos
Authors: Zhang Yuhui , Xie Lei , Li Xinyi , Chai Lihong , Chen Mengxing , Kong Xiaojing , Wang Qingqing , Liu Jingfei , Zhi Lijuan , Yang Chang , Wang Hongyuan
Published: October 2017

Excessive fluoride in natural water ecosystem has the potential to detrimentally affect amphibians, but little is known of such effects or underlying mechanisms in Bufo gargarizans embryos. In the present study, the effects of fluoride exposure on B. gargarizans embryos were investigated. First, fluoride teratogenic experiment showed that the 9 days EC50 of fluoride on B. gargarizans embryos was 177.62 mg/L. Then, we studied the sublethal effects of fluoride on B. gargarizans embryos at control, 0.7, 4.1, 19.6, 41.9, and 62.7 mg/L fluoride concentration. Malformation, growth, and development of embryos were monitored, and type 2 and 3 iodothyronine deiodinase (Dio2 and Dio3), thyroid hormone receptors (TRα and TRβ) mRNA levels were measured. Our results showed the morphological malformations, such as tail curvature (lordosis), edema, cuticularized ciliated cells, and hyperplasia were occurred during fluoride exposure. Growth and development were all inhibited at 19.5, 41.9, and 62.7 mg/L fluoride‐treated groups after 9 days’ exposure. According to real‐time PCR results, exposure to fluoride upregulated Dio3 and TRβ mRNA expression and downregulated Dio2 and TRα mRNA level. All above indicated that excessive fluoride could induce morphology malformations, inhibit embryonic growth and development, and disrupt the normal function of maternal thyroid hormone in B. gargarizans embryos. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:123–133, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hematological indices of injury to lightly oiled birds from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill
Authors: Fallon Jesse A. , Smith Eric P. , Schoch Nina , Paruk James D. , Adams Evan A. , Evers David C. , Jodice Patrick G.R. , Perkins Christopher , Schulte Shiloh , Hopkins William A.
Published: October 2017

Avian mortality events are common following large-scale oil spills. However, the sublethal effects of oil on birds exposed to light external oiling are not clearly understood. We found that American oystercatchers (area of potential impact n = 42, reference n = 21), black skimmers (area of potential impact n = 121, reference n = 88), brown pelicans (area of potential impact n = 91, reference n = 48), and great egrets (area of potential impact n = 57, reference n = 47) captured between 20 June 2010 and 23 February 2011 following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill experienced oxidative injury to erythrocytes, had decreased volume of circulating erythrocytes, and showed evidence of a regenerative hematological response in the form of increased reticulocytes compared with reference populations. Erythrocytic inclusions consistent with Heinz bodies were present almost exclusively in birds from sites impacted with oil, a finding pathognomonic for oxidative injury to erythrocytes. Average packed cell volumes were 4 to 19% lower and average reticulocyte counts were 27 to 40% higher in birds with visible external oil than birds from reference sites. These findings provide evidence that small amounts of external oil exposure are associated with hemolytic anemia. Furthermore, we found that some birds captured from the area impacted by the spill but with no visible oiling also had erythrocytic inclusion bodies, increased reticulocytes, and reduced packed cell volumes when compared with birds from reference sites. Thus, birds suffered hematologic injury despite no visible oil at the time of capture. Together, these findings suggest that adverse effects of oil spills on birds may be more widespread than estimates based on avian mortality or severe visible oiling. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:451–461. © 2017 SETAC
Biodiverse green spaces: a prescription for global urban health
Authors: Flies Emily J , Skelly Chris , Negi Sagri Singh , Prabhakaran Poornima , Liu Qiyong , Liu Keke , Goldizen Fiona C , Lease Chris , Weinstein Philip
Published: October 2017

The world is urbanizing and chronic health conditions associated with urban living are on the rise. There is mounting evidence that people with a diverse microbiome (bacteria that inhabit the human body) or who interact with green spaces enjoy better health. However, studies have yet to directly examine how biodiverse urban green spaces (BUGS) might modify the human microbiome and reduce chronic disease. Here we highlight the potential for green spaces to improve health by exposing people to environmental microorganisms that diversify human microbiomes and help regulate immune function. We present four international perspectives (from Australia, China, India, and the UK) on the major challenges and benefits of using BUGS to alleviate health burdens. We propose solutions to these challenges and outline studies that can test the connections between BUGS, immune function, and human health and provide the evidence base for effective BUGS design and use. If further studies reinforce this hypothesis, then BUGS may become a viable tool to stem the global burden of urban‐associated chronic diseases.
Multifaceted brain networks reconfiguration in disorders of consciousness uncovered by co‐activation patterns
Authors: Di Perri Carol , Amico Enrico , Heine Lizette , Annen Jitka , Martial Charlotte , Larroque Stephen Karl , Soddu Andrea , Marinazzo Daniele , Laureys Steven
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Given that recent research has shown that functional connectivity is not a static phenomenon, we aim to investigate the dynamic properties of the default mode network's (DMN) connectivity in patients with disorders of consciousness.

Methods

Resting‐state fMRI volumes of a convenience sample of 17 patients in unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and controls were reduced to a spatiotemporal point process by selecting critical time points in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). Spatial clustering was performed on the extracted PCC time frames to obtain 8 different co‐activation patterns (CAPs). We investigated spatial connectivity patterns positively and negatively correlated with PCC using both CAPs and standard stationary method. We calculated CAPs occurrences and the total number of frames.

Results

Compared to controls, patients showed (i) decreased within‐network positive correlations and between‐network negative correlations, (ii) emergence of “pathological” within‐network negative correlations and between‐network positive correlations (better defined with CAPs), and (iii) “pathological” increases in within‐network positive correlations and between‐network negative correlations (only detectable using CAPs). Patients showed decreased occurrence of DMN‐like CAPs (1–2) compared to controls. No between‐group differences were observed in the total number of frames

Conclusion

CAPs reveal at a more fine‐grained level the multifaceted spatial connectivity reconfiguration following the DMN disruption in UWS patients, which is more complex than previously thought and suggests alternative anatomical substrates for consciousness. BOLD fluctuations do not seem to differ between patients and controls, suggesting that BOLD response represents an intrinsic feature of the signal, and therefore that spatial configuration is more important for consciousness than BOLD activation itself. Hum Brain Mapp 39:89–103, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Summary statement on screening for prostate cancer in Europe
Authors: Heijnsdijk Eveline A.M. , Bangma Chris H. , Borràs Josep M. , de Carvalho Tiago M. , Castells Xavier , Eklund Martin , Espinàs Josep A. , Graefen Markus , Grönberg Henrik , Lansdorp‐Vogelaar Iris , Leeuwen Pim J. van , Nelen Vera , Recker Franz , Roobol Monique J. , Vandenbulcke Pieter , de Koning Harry J.
Published: October 2017

The European Randomised Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC) showed that Prostate‐Specific Antigen (PSA) based screening results in a significant prostate cancer mortality reduction. Although there are concerns on overdiagnosis and overtreatment, it has been shown that the benefits can outweigh the harms if screening is stopped in older ages to prevent overdiagnosis. A limited screening program (for example screening at ages 55–59 years), including active surveillance for men with low‐risk tumors, can even be cost‐saving, compared with testing in an opportunistic setting in the wrong ages, as currently in Europe. Further improvements are expected in the use of active surveillance and in discrimination between indolent and significant disease due to new biomarkers and magnetic resonance imaging. However, these future developments are no reason to postpone feasibility studies of high‐quality PSA screening and reduce opportunistic testing at old ages.
Central bank swap lines and CIP deviations
Authors: Allen William A. , Galati Gabriele , Moessner Richhild , Nelson William
Published: October 2017

We study the use of U.S. dollar central bank swap lines as a tool for addressing dislocations in the foreign currency swap market against the USD since the global financial crisis. We find that the use of the Federal Reserve's USD central bank swap lines was mainly related to tensions in U.S. money markets during times of financial crisis, and less to tensions that were confined to foreign exchange swap markets. In particular, we find that the use of USD central bank swap lines did not react significantly to the recent period of persistent deviations of covered interest parity since 2014. These results are consistent with the view that the Federal Reserve was guided by enlightened self‐interest when providing swap lines to foreign central banks, in order to reduce dislocations in U.S. financial markets and support financial stability. In recent years, foreign exchange swap markets have not functioned properly, but it appears that now that the crisis is over, the Federal Reserve and other central banks have decided against trying permanently to fill the gap left by the dysfunction in the commercial foreign exchange swap market.
Cross‐sectional study of associations between prior spontaneous abortions and preterm delivery
Authors: Omani‐Samani Reza , Mansournia Mohammad A. , Sepidarkish Mahdi , Almasi‐Hashiani Amir , Safiri Saeid , Vesali Samira , Amini Payam , Maroufizadeh Saman
Published: October 2017

Objective

To evaluate associations between a history of spontaneous abortion and preterm delivery during subsequent pregnancies.

Methods

The present secondary analysis included cross‐sectional survey data related to all deliveries at 103 hospitals in Tehran, Iran, between July 6 and 21, 2015. Trained midwives interviewed patients within 24 hours of delivery. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to investigate associations between spontaneous abortion and preterm delivery.

Results

Data were included from 4991 deliveries. A history of spontaneous abortion (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.21–1.87; P=0.001) and history of recurrent spontaneous abortion (OR 3.74, 95% CI 1.90–7.37; P=0.001) were associated with increased odds of preterm delivery in comparison with no such history. Similarly, one (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.04–1.70; P=0.023), two (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.15–2.74; P=0.009), or at least three prior spontaneous abortions (OR 4.10, 95% CI 2.08–8.08; P=0.001) were associated with increased odds of preterm delivery compared with none. Population attributable fractions of 9.49% (95% CI 3.36–15.12) and 2.00% (95% CI 0.57–3.56) were calculated for histories of spontaneous abortion and recurrent pregnancy loss, respectively.

Conclusion

History of spontaneous abortion and history of recurrent pregnancy loss were associated with increased odds of preterm delivery. A greater number of spontaneous abortions corresponded to greater odds of preterm delivery.
Changes in polyphenol profile of dried apricots containing SO2 at various concentrations during storage
Authors: Altındağ Melek , Türkyılmaz Meltem , Özkan Mehmet
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Changes in polyphenols have important effects on the quality (especially color) and health benefits of dried apricots. SO2 concentration, storage and the activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) were factors which had significant effects on polyphenols. Polyphenol profile and activities of PPO and PAL in sulfured dried apricots (SDAs, 0, 451, 832, 2112 and 3241 mg SO2 kg−1) were monitored during storage at 4, 20 and 30 °C for 379 days for the first time.

RESULTS

Even the lowest SO2 concentration (451 mg kg−1) was sufficient to inactivate PPO during the entire storage period. However, while SO2 led to the increase in PAL activity of the samples (r = 0.767) before storage, PAL activities of SDAs decreased during storage. After 90 days of storage, PAL activity was determined in only non‐sulfured dried apricots (NSDAs) and dried apricots containing 451 mg SO2 kg−1. Although the major polyphenol in NSDAs was epicatechin (611.4 mg kg−1), that in SDAs was chlorogenic acid (455–1508 mg kg−1), followed by epicatechin (0–426.8 mg kg−1), rutin (148.9–477.3 mg kg−1), ferulic acid (23.3–55.3 mg kg−1) and gallic acid (2.4–43.6 mg kg−1). After storage at 30 °C for 379 days, the major polyphenol in SDAs was gallic acid (706–2324 mg kg−1). However, the major polyphenol in NSDAs did not change after storage. The highest total polyphenol content was detected in SDAs containing 2112 mg SO2 kg−1 and stored at 30 °C.

CONCLUSION

To produce dried apricots having high polyphenol content, ∼2000 mg SO2 kg−1 should be used. Low storage temperature (<30 °C) was not necessary for the protection of polyphenols. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Examining a Dual‐Process Model of Desensitization and Hypersensitization to Community Violence in African American Male Adolescents
Authors: Gaylord‐Harden Noni K. , Bai Grace J. , Simic Dusan
Published: October 2017

The purpose of the current study was to examine a dual‐process model of reactivity to community violence exposure in African American male adolescents from urban communities. The model focused on desensitization and hypersensitization effects as well as desensitization and hypersensitization as predictors of aggressive behavior. Participants were 133 African American male high school students, mean age = 15.17 years, SD = 0.96. Participants completed measures of exposure to community violence, depressive symptoms, hyperarousal symptoms, aggressive beliefs, and aggressive behaviors at two time points. Community violence exposure predicted changes in aggression, β = .25, p = .004, and physiological arousal, β = .22, p = .010, over time, but not aggressive beliefs. The curvilinear association between community violence exposure and changes in depression over time was not significant, β = .42, p = .083, but there was a significant linear association between the exposure to community violence (ECV) and changes in levels of depression over time, β = .21, p = .014. Results indicated a significant mediation effect for hyperarousal on the association between community violence exposure and aggressive behavior, B = 0.20, 95% CI = [0.04, 0.54]. Results showed support for physiological hypersensitization, with hypersensitization increasing the risk for aggressive behavior.
Emotion Dysregulation and Social Support in PTSD and Depression: A Study of Trauma‐Exposed Veterans
Authors: Cox Daniel W. , Bakker A. Myfanwy , Naifeh James A.
Published: October 2017

Emotion dysregulation has been associated with impaired interpersonal functioning and increased risk of posttraumatic psychopathology. Given that social support is a robust predictor of psychiatric morbidity following trauma exposure, we examined whether emotion dysregulation was associated with posttraumatic psychopathology through its negative effect on social support. Using self‐report data from 90 military veterans (89.9% men) enrolled in an outpatient psychotherapy program for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), we found that social support partially mediated the effect of emotion dysregulation on PTSD (PM = .10) and depression symptoms (PM = .14). When source of support was considered, friend (PM = .08) and significant other support (PM = .06) were greater mediators of the effect of emotion dysregulation on depression symptoms than family support (PM = .01). There were no differential mediating effects for support providers on PTSD symptoms. Our findings indicate that social support is a statistically significant yet clinically limited mechanism through which emotion dysregulation is linked with psychiatric symptoms. Implications for these limitations and alternative potentially relevant interpersonal mechanisms are discussed.
Hierarchical Structures Formed by Flexible Dendrimeric Molecules Based on Gallic Acid
Authors: Matraszek Joanna , Gorecka Ewa , Mieczkowski Józef , Hejko Monika , Pociecha Damian
Published: October 2017

Behavior of first‐generation dendrons based on gallic acid is found to be strongly dependent on the number of terminal alkyl chains attached to the outer phenyl rings; only molecules having three alkyl chains per phenyl ring are mesogenic. Due to the hydrogen bonding, they form micelles that are arranged into cubic Pm3n structure. The cubic phase is also found for dimeric and trimeric gallic ester analogues; it is shown that the size of the crystallographic unit cell correlates with the isotropization temperature, apparently small micelles with high density of alkyl chains at the micelle surface interact more strongly stabilizing the cubic phase. Also behavior of gallic acid dendrons in solution is defined by the number of terminal chains, formation of either large liposomes or gel is observed.
Carboxylated Lignin as an Effective Cohardener for Enhancing Strength and Toughness of Epoxy
Authors: Sun Jiaotong , Wang Cun , Stubbs Ludger P. , He Chaobin
Published: October 2017

It is demonstrated that pristine or functionalized lignin can be used in epoxy as a cohardener or comonomer; however either unsatisfactory mechanical properties or low lignin content remains a challenge in utilizing the sustainable biomass to replace petrochemical product. In this study, carboxylic acid‐modified kraft lignin (lignin–COOH) is synthesized and used as a cohardener for epoxy with loading content of up to 10.0 wt%. With incorporation of 10.0 wt% of lignin–COOH, the resulting composite exhibits increments of 16%, 13%, 20%, and 95% on tensile modulus, flexural modulus, tensile strength, and toughness respectively, in contrast to neat epoxy. The good dispersion of lignin–COOH in epoxy, rigid aromatic structure of lignin, and the reduced crosslink density in the composite can simultaneously contribute to the high mechanical performance, which is verified by the thermal and mechanical analysis results. It suggests that lignin can be converted to effective alternative curing agents for epoxy thermosets.
Regulation of nonylphenol‐induced reproductive toxicity in mouse spermatogonia cells by miR‐361‐3p
Authors: Tang Liyan , Zhao Bo , Zhang Hui , Du Qiao , Zhu Jiang , Zhao Zhijiang , Chen Ce , Luo Cheng , Kang Qiyuan , Yuan Wenbing , Bian Shaohua , Bi Hang , Sun Huimin , Li Yingyi
Published: October 2017

Nonylphenol (NP) is an environmental chemical that affects apoptosis and male infertility. In our study, we found that a high concentration of NP could down‐regulate the expression of microRNA‐361‐3p (miR‐361‐3p) in the murine GC‐1 spermatogonia cell line and in vivo in murine spermatogonia. Additionally, one direct target of this miR, the 3′ untranslated region of Killin (Klln) mRNA, was identified. Klln encodes a transcription factor that directly regulates the expression of Tp73 (transcriptionally active p73), whose encoded protein can up‐regulate the expression of Puma (p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis). Thus, our investigation revealed that the expression of Klln, Tp73, and Puma increased upon NP‐dependent down‐regulation of miR‐361‐3p, which eventually leads to apoptosis of spermatogonia.
Locomotor and skeletal muscle abnormalities in trembler J neuropathic mice
Authors: Falk Darin J. , Galatas Tori , Todd Adrian G. , Soto Elliott P. , Harris Andrew B. , Notterpek Lucia
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Patients with hereditary peripheral neuropathies exhibit characteristic deformities of the hands and feet and have difficulty ambulating. To examine to what extent neuropathic animals recapitulate these deficits, we studied trembler J (TrJ) mice, which model early‐onset demyelinating neuropathy.

Methods

A cohort of 4‐month‐old female wild type and neuropathic mice were evaluated for locomotor measurements, neuromuscular function, and skeletal muscle proteolysis and morphometry.

Results

Utilizing the DigiGait imaging system, we identified pronounced alterations in forepaw and hindpaw angles and a decrease in hindpaw area on the treadmill in neuropathic rodents. Torque production by the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle was significantly weakened and was paralleled by a decrease in myofiber cross‐sectional area and an increase in muscle tissue proteolysis.

Discussion

Our findings in TrJ mice reflect the phenotypic presentation of the human neuropathy in which patients exhibit weakness of the TA muscle resulting in foot drop and locomotor abnormalities. Muscle Nerve 57: 664–671, 2018
An incidental finding of maternal multiple myeloma by non invasive prenatal testing
Authors: Imbert‐Bouteille Marion , Chiesa Jean , Gaillard Jean‐Baptiste , Dorvaux Véronique , Altounian Lucille , Gatinois Vincent , Mousty Eve , Finge Sanae , Bourquard Pascal , Vermeesch Joris Robert , Legius Eric , Vandenberghe Peter
Published: October 2017

What is already known about this subject?

Non invasive prenatal testing for fetal trisomies 13, 18, and 21 occasionally identifies maternal cancer.

What does this study add?

A further case of maternal cancer incidentally diagnosed by routine NIPT.

Extensive NIPT abnormalities are unlikely to be of fetal origin.

Information given to patients should also adequately advise patients on potential incidental findings and might offer the option to opt out of receiving results beyond the trisomy report.

International guidelines would improve patient counseling.
Covalent fixed multicyclic polystyrene conformers
Authors: Jung Ji‐Hye , Kumar Mohanty Aruna , Ye Jihwa , Lee Taeheon , Ahn Junyoung , Lim Yeong‐Gweon , Chang Taihyun , Paik Hyun‐Jong
Published: October 2017

Covalent fixed multicyclic polystyrene conformers were synthesized from inconvertible polystyrene conformers based on p‐tert‐butylthiacalix[4]arene by azidation and subsequent click coupling. Selective 1D NOESY analyses confirmed that the spatial structures of star polystyrene precursors and multicyclic polystyrenes were preserved during the azidation and click coupling processes. The conformation of star polymers affected degree of decrease in the hydrodynamic volume after cyclization but had little effect on glass transition behavior. The rigid core of star polymer increased the Tg but in the case of multicyclic polymer, this influence of core structure was reduced. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 4020–4026
Enhanced interfacial interaction by grafting carboxylated‐macromolecular chains on nanodiamond surfaces for epoxy‐based thermosets
Authors: Zhang Yinhang , Park Soo‐Jin
Published: October 2017

A novel core‐shell‐structured carboxylated‐styrene butadiene rubber (XSBR)‐functionalized nanodiamond (ND‐XSBR) was synthesized and characterized. Epoxy (EP) nanocomposites toughened by pristine ND and ND‐XSBR were investigated and compared. The ND‐XSBR‐reinforced nanocomposite exhibited mechanical properties superior to those of the one filled by pristine ND. At a low‐filler loading, the ND‐XSBR exhibited an impressive toughening effect. The maximum flexural strength was shown when the filler loading was as low as 0.1 wt % for the EP/ND‐XSBR nanocomposite. Furthermore, enhanced fracture toughness and fracture energy were shown by surface functionalization, representing enhanced compatibility between the ND‐XSBR and EP matrix. The glass transition temperature (Tg) and storage modulus of the nanocomposites were studied, and the EP/ND‐XSBR0.1 nanocomposite exhibited the highest Tg owing to the stronger interfacial interaction. The EP/ND‐XSBR0.2 exhibited higher storage modulus and Tg than the EP/ND0.2, because the higher interfacial interaction can restrict the molecular mobility of the EP by the functionalized ND‐XSBR. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 1890–1898
An idealized LES study of urban modification of moist convection
Authors: Zhu Xiaoliang , Li Dan , Zhou Wenyu , Ni Guangheng , Cong Zhentao , Sun Ting
Published: October 2017

To understand the impacts of urbanization on moist convection, we explore how an idealized circular urban island affects the diurnal cycle and spatial distribution of rainfall over urban and surrounding rural areas at the diurnal equilibrium state using large‐eddy simulations (LES) performed with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. Compared to the control case where the whole domain is covered by grassland, the existence of an urban island significantly enhances the rainfall rate over the urban area as the stronger surface heating creates convergence zones and stronger vertical motions over the urban area. A suite of experiments is then conducted to investigate the effects of soil moisture of the surrounding rural land and the urban size on precipitation. Results show that as the rural soil moisture increases, both urban and rural precipitation rates increase almost linearly. This increase is not attributed to the urban heat island (UHI) effect but rather a stronger moisture deficit effect in the urban area creating a stronger moisture inflow. When the urban area becomes larger but the initial available water remains the same in the domain, the UHI effect and moisture deficit effect increase but the total water supply decreases. As a result, the urban rainfall rate increases first and then decreases as the urban size increases. This suggests that there is an ‘optimal’ scale at which the urban rainfall rate is maximized, at least in our modelling framework. Our simulations further suggest that this optimal scale occurs when the urban fraction lies between 1 and 10%.
A Near‐Infrared Responsive Drug Sequential Release System for Better Eradicating Amyloid Aggregates
Authors: Ma Mengmeng , Gao Nan , Sun Yuhuan , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: October 2017

Polyphenol compounds, such as curcumin, rutin, rifampicin, can inhibit Aβ aggregation and decrease reactive oxygen species (ROS), and have received much attention in recent years for Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatment. However, the excess metal ions in amyloid plaque can chelate to polyphenol compounds. It significantly declines the efficacy of polyphenol compounds when used in the clinic. In this report, a near‐infrared (NIR)‐caged upconversion responsive system UCNP@SiO2@Cur/CQ is designed and synthesized to control drug sequential release by regulating NIR laser. When the system is irradiated at low intensity of the NIR laser, the caged metal chelator, clioquinol (CQ), is first released for removing free metal ions, which affects the efficacy of curcumin. Subsequently, the strongly caged curcumin is released with increasing the intensity of NIR light. In this way, the treatment efficacy of curcumin is improved. This NIR‐caged drug release system can not only remove Cu2+ but also clean superfluous ROS. Therefore, developing controllable sequential drug releasing may provide clinical benefits of combination treatment of AD. To the best of our knowledge, this work reports for the first time that a sequentially controlled system can overcome the interference of metal ions on polyphenol compounds for AD treatment.
T‐Nb2O5/C Nanofibers Prepared through Electrospinning with Prolonged Cycle Durability for High‐Rate Sodium–Ion Batteries Induced by Pseudocapacitance
Authors: Yang Leping , Zhu Yuan‐En , Sheng Jian , Li Feng , Tang Bin , Zhang Yue , Zhou Zhen
Published: October 2017

Homogeneous ultrasmall T‐Nb2O5 nanocrystallites encapsulated in 1D carbon nanofibers (T‐Nb2O5/CNFs) are prepared through electrospinning followed by subsequent pyrolysis treatment. In a Na half‐cell configuration, the obtained T‐Nb2O5/CNFs with the merits of unique microstructures and inherent pseudocapacitance, deliver a stable capacity of 150 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 over 5000 cycles. Even at an ultrahigh charge–discharge rate of 8 A g−1, a high reversible capacity of 97 mAh g−1 is still achieved. By means of kinetic analysis, it is demonstrated that the larger ratio of surface Faradaic reactions of Nb2O5 at high rates is the major factor to achieve excellent rate performance. The prolonged cycle durability and excellent rate performance endows T‐Nb2O5/CNFs with potentials as anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries.
Functional Engineering of Perovskite Nanosheets: Impact of Lead Substitution on Exfoliation in the Solid Solution RbCa2–xPbxNb3O10
Authors: Ziegler Christian , Dennenwaldt Teresa , Weber Daniel , Duppel Viola , Kamella Claudia , Podjaski Filip , Tuffy Brian , Moudrakovski Igor , Scheu Christina , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: October 2017

Tuning the chemical composition and structure for targeted functionality in two‐dimensional (2D) nanosheets has become a major objective in the rapidly growing area of 2D materials. In the context of photocatalysis, both miniaturization and extending the light absorption of UV active photocatalysts are major assets. Here, we investigate the solid solution between two photocatalytic systems known from literature to evolve H2 from water/methanol under UV – RbCa2Nb3O10 (Eg = 3.7 eV) – and visible light irradiation – RbPb2Nb3O10 (Eg = 3.0 eV) – by synthesizing hypothetical RbCa2–xPbxNb3O10. While the calcium niobate can easily be exfoliated into individual nanosheets via cation–proton exchange and subsequent treatment with tetra‐n‐butylammonium hydroxide (TBAOH), the lead niobate barely yields nanosheets. Spectroscopic and microscopic analysis suggest that this is caused by volatilization of Pb during synthesis, leading to a local 3D linkage of RbPb2Nb3O10 perovskite units with Pb deficient units. On the one hand, this linkage progressively prevents exfoliation along with an increasing Pb content. On the other hand, introducing Pb into the perovskite blocks successively leads to bandgap narrowing, thus gradually enhancing the light harvesting capability of the solid solution. Finding a compromise between this narrowing of the bandgap and the possibility of exfoliation, visible light sensitized nanosheets can be engineered in good yield for an initial molar ratio of Ca:Pb ≥ 1:1.
Does prior domain‐specific content knowledge influence students' recall of arguments surrounding interdisciplinary topics?
Authors: Schmidt Hiemke K. , Rothgangel Martin , Grube Dietmar
Published: October 2017

Awareness of various arguments can help interactants present opinions, stress points, and build counterarguments during discussions. At school, some topics are taught in a way that students learn to accumulate knowledge and gather arguments, and later employ them during debates. Prior knowledge may facilitate recalling information on well structured, fact‐based topics, but does it facilitate recalling arguments during discussions on complex, interdisciplinary topics? We assessed the prior knowledge in domains related to a bioethical topic of 277 students from Germany (approximately 15 years old), their interest in the topic, and their general knowledge. The students read a text with arguments for and against prenatal diagnostics and tried to recall the arguments one week later and again six weeks later. Prior knowledge in various domains related to the topic individually and separately helped students recall the arguments. These relationships were independent of students' interest in the topic and their general knowledge.
Hypersexual Disorder According to the Hypersexual Disorder Screening Inventory in Help-Seeking Swedish Men and Women With Self-Identified Hypersexual Behavior
Authors: Öberg Katarina Görts , Hallberg Jonas , Kaldo Viktor , Dhejne Cecilia , Arver Stefan
Published: October 2017

Introduction

The Hypersexual Disorder Screening Inventory (HDSI) was developed by the American Psychiatric Association for clinical screening of hypersexual disorder (HD).

Aims

To examine the distribution of the proposed diagnostic entity HD according to the HDSI in a sample of men and women seeking help for problematic hypersexuality and evaluate some psychometric properties.

Methods

Data on sociodemographics, the HDSI, the Sexual Compulsivity Scale (SCS), and the Cognitive and Behavioral Outcomes of Sexual Behavior were collected online from 16 women and 64 men who self-identified as hypersexual. Respondents were recruited by advertisements offering psychological treatment for hypersexual behavior.

Main Outcome Measures

The HDSI, covering the proposed criteria for HD.

Results

Of the entire sample, 50% fulfilled the criteria for HD. Compared with men, women scored higher on the HDSI, engaged more often in risky sexual behavior, and worried more about physical injuries and pain. Men primarily used pornography, whereas women had sexual encounters. The HD group reported a larger number of sexual specifiers, higher scores on the SCS, more negative effects of sexual behavior, and more concerns about consequences compared with the non-HD group. Sociodemographics had no influence on HD. The HDSI’s core diagnostic criteria showed high internal reliability for men (α = 0.80) and women (α = 0.81). A moderate correlation between the HDSI and the SCS was found (0.51). The vast majority of the entire sample (76 of 80, 95%) fulfilled the criteria for sexual compulsivity according to the SCS.

Conclusion

The HDSI could be used as a screening tool for HD, although further explorations of the empirical implications regarding criteria are needed, as are refinements of cutoff scores and specific sexual behaviors. Hypersexual problematic behavior causes distress and impairment and, although not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, HD should be endorsed as a diagnosis to develop evidence-based treatment and future studies on its etiology.
Relationship of Blood Pressure and Erectile Dysfunction in Men Without Previously Diagnosed Hypertension
Authors: Heikkilä Arto , Kaipia Antti , Venermo Maarit , Kautiainen Hannu , Korhonen Päivi
Published: October 2017

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most common male sexual disorder that affects all age groups and has a close association with essential hypertension.

Aim

To characterize the relation of blood pressure and ED in detail.

Methods

A cross-sectional population-based study of 45- to 70-year-old men without previously diagnosed hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, renal disease, or diabetes was conducted from 2005 to 2007 in southwestern Finland. A total of 665 men with at least one cardiovascular risk factor were studied. ED was defined by the five-item International Index of Erectile Function.

Outcomes

We found a U-shaped association between diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and prevalence of ED.

Results

The average age of the study subjects was 56 ± 6 years and 52% had ED. After adjustment for age, cohabitation status, education, fasting plasma glucose level, waist circumference, and prevalence of depressive symptoms, the curve relating DBP to the prevalence of ED was U-shaped with a nadir of DBP 90 mm Hg.

Clinical Implications

Our findings emphasize the importance of blood pressure measurement in the physical examination of men with ED.

Strengths and Limitations

This was a cross-sectional study, which prevents the evaluation of causality between ED and hypertension. However, this community-based study population is well defined and the anthropologic measurements were made by trained medical staff.

Conclusion

We found a U-shaped correlation between ED and DBP, which confirms the link between ED and hypertension.
Microarray expression profile analysis of long non‐coding RNAs in thoracic aortic aneurysm
Authors: Li Yang , Yang Nan
Published: October 2017

Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a highly lethal vascular disease. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are newly discovered as a regulator of protein genes and play critical roles in cardiovascular physio‐pathological processes. However, there were a few studies looking at lncRNAs in TAA. In this study, we profiled differential expression of lncRNAs between TAA (TAA group, N = 6) and normal thoracic aorta (control group, n = 6) by third‐generation lncRNA microarray. We identified 1352 up‐regulated and 1624 down‐regulated lncRNAs with differential expression (log fold‐change > 2.0, p < 0.01). Through nearby protein‐coding gene associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolism and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) apoptosis, 12 up‐regulated and 9 down‐regulated lncRNAs were selected for further analysis. By calculating phastCons score of base, we identified 8 candidate lncRNAs (4 up‐regulated and 4 down‐regulated) with high conservation across species. By tissue specificity analysis, we found that 5 lncRNAs (HIF1A‐AS1, RP11‐465L10.10, LOC100506472, CTD‐2184D3.5 and RP‐399O19.5) were highly expressed in aortic tissues, suggested that they may be closely associated with TAA. Among them, 2 lncRNAs (RP11‐465L10.10 and CTD‐2184D3.5) with higher specificity in aorta (p < 0.01) were analyzed by bioinformatics. Further catRAPID analysis revealed a strong RNA‐protein interaction between RP11‐465L10.10 and myeloid zinc finger gene 1 (MZF1), a transcription factor of MMP9. However, no intense RNA‐protein interactions were observed between CTD‐2184D3.5 and transcript factors of MAPK6. In conclusions, our study showed differential expression profiles of lncRNAs in TAA and revealed the interaction between certain lncRNAs and coding genes. These data provides insights into new biomarker and therapeutic targets for TAA.
Isolated Neck Extensor Myopathy: A Case Presentation of Rapid Onset and Spontaneous Recovery
Authors: Mirchandani Anish , Chen Allen S.
Published: October 2017

Patients presenting with a chin‐on‐chest deformity, or dropped head syndrome, may have a diagnosis of isolated neck extensor myopathy (INEM). INEM is a diagnosis of exclusion occurring primarily in elderly patients. INEM usually has a benign progression, which may involve the shoulder girdle but does not advance to other muscle groups. Patients without an inflammatory etiology typically experience minimal or no recovery of their symptoms. Dropped head syndrome has various implications on a patient's quality of life and activities of daily living. We present a unique case of INEM with rapid onset and complete clinical recovery within a time frame of 4 months.

Level of Evidence

V
The impact of age groups on consumption of residential electricity in Azerbaijan
Authors: Hasanov Fakhri J. , Mikayilov Jeyhun I.
Published: October 2017

In this study, we examined the impacts of population age groups of 0–14, 15–64 and 65-above on residential electricity consumption in Azerbaijan within the STIRPAT framework. Unlike many prior studies of STIRPAT framework, we analyzed this impact, employing co-integration and error correction method in order to rule out possible spurious estimation results caused by non-stationary data used. Results from the Autoregressive Distributed Lags Bounds Testing approach, which is the preferred method among alternatives in the case of small samples, indicated that the affluence together with age groups have significant impact on the residential electricity consumption in Azerbaijan and the biggest effect comes from the age group of 15–64, which is the working age population. Another finding of the study is that if there is any (economic, social, environmental, etc.) shock to the system that initially affect residential electricity consumption and affluence, the whole shock will be absorbed by the system less than in one year. Findings of the study may be useful in making appropriate decisions in the fields of residential electricity consumption.
EARLY CHINESE MANUSCRIPT WRITINGS FOR THE NAME OF THE SAGE EMPEROR SHUN 舜, AND THE LEGACY OF WARRING STATES-PERIOD ORTHOGRAPHIC VARIATION IN EARLY CHINESE RECEIVED TEXTS
Authors: Smith Adam D.
Published: October 2017

The graph used to write the name of the mythical emperor Shun 舜 in received texts is a puzzling one. It is not obvious that any component in the graph, as it appears today, is semantically motivated, nor is there any element well suited to representing the name Shun phonetically. Texts like the Shuowen jiezi 說文解字 preserve an alternate writing of the name under the rubric “guwen 古文,” but this too is hard to analyze in terms of the semantic and phonological motivation of the graph components. Without a clear understanding of why the name Shun is written the way it is, a reliable reconstruction of its Old Chinese pronunciation is difficult, and many of the graphic and phonological associations with “Shun” and related words made by early Chinese script, texts, and commentaries would be opaque.

A graph that is clearly writing the name Shun, seen for the first time in two of the Warring States-period manuscripts from Guodian 郭店, partially resolved these difficulties, and in particular the question of the phonological spelling of the name. This in turn allows a series of interesting textual problems to be resolved. This article presents a selection of these, and discusses their implications for the history of the Chinese script and for textual transmission.