bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low bone mineral density in patients with type 1 diabetes: association with reduced expression of IGF1, IGF1R and TGF B 1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: de Souza Karla Simone Costa , Ururahy Marcela Abbott Galvão , da Costa Oliveira Yonara Monique , Loureiro Melina Bezerra , da Silva Heglayne Pereira Vital , Bortolin Raul Hernandes , Melo dos Santos Fabricio , Luchessi André Ducati , Neto José Jorge Maciel , Arrais Ricardo Fernando , Hirata Rosario Dominguez Crespo , das Graças Almeida Maria , Hirata Mario Hiroyuki , de Rezende Adriana Augusto
Published: December 2015

Background

The negative effects of type 1 diabetes (T1D) on growth factors of bone metabolism lead to a reduction in bone mineral density. This study aimed to evaluate the association between bone mineral density and insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1), insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1) expressions in children and adolescents with T1D. Moreover, the influences of age at diagnosis, time since diagnosis, glycaemic control and albuminuria on bone mineral density were investigated.

Methods

Eighty‐six T1D children/adolescents (T1D group) and ninety normoglycaemic controls (normoglycaemic group) were included. T1D patients were analysed as a whole and also in subsets of patients with good glycaemic control (glycated hemoglobin concentration ≤7.5%) and with poor glycaemic control (glycated hemoglobin concentration >7.5%). Bone mineral density was assessed by dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry. Glycaemic control, renal function and bone markers were also assessed. IGF1, IGF1R and TGFB1 expressions were determined in peripheral blood mononuclear cells by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Patients with T1D showed low bone mineral density and poor glycaemic control. Serum total calcium and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio were higher in patients with poor glycaemic control compared to those with good glycemic control (p = 0.003 and p = 0.035, respectively). There was a reduction of IGF1, IGF1R and TGFB1 expressions in the T1D patients and in the subset with poor glycaemic control compared to normoglycaemic controls (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The decreased IGF1, IGF1R and TGFB1 expressions in the T1D patients, who presented with T1D at an early age, had been diagnosed with T1D for a longer time, had poor glycaemic control and albuminuria may contribute to low bone mineral density. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biocrusts positively affect the soil water balance in semiarid ecosystems
Authors: Chamizo Sonia , Cantón Yolanda , Rodríguez‐Caballero Emilio , Domingo Francisco
Published: December 2015

Biocrusts play crucial roles in hydrological processes by controlling soil water availability and regulating water redistribution from source to sink areas. Most studies have examined the influence of biocrusts on isolated components of the soil water balance, but few have addressed this matter from an integrated point of view, involving their influence on all components together. Such integration is crucial to elucidate the overall effects of biocrusts on the soil water balance. The aim of this study was to review the role of biocrusts in the soil water balance, by examining their influence on infiltration, evaporation and soil moisture at plot scale, in two contrasting ecosystems of SE Spain. Our results show that biocrust infiltration was higher in flat soils with sandy loam texture than in steep soils with silty loam texture. The influence of biocrusts on infiltration depended on rainfall intensity. Biocrusts increased infiltration with respect to biocrust‐removed soils during low intensity rainfalls but showed similar or even lower infiltration than biocrust‐removed soils during high‐intensity events. As a result of the increase in infiltration and a decrease in evaporation during wet cold periods, biocrusts increased soil moisture when compared with biocrust‐removed soils. However, during warm periods, biocrusts and biocrust‐removed soils lost water very quickly, thus resulting in similar water losses and moisture content under both types of surfaces. We conclude that biocrusts increase water input by increasing infiltration and soil moisture, and reduce water output by reducing soil evaporation, thus eventually enhancing the available water to plants. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Digital data collection in paleoanthropology
Authors: Reed Denné , Barr W. Andrew , Mcpherron Shannon P. , Bobe René , Geraads Denis , Wynn Jonathan G. , Alemseged Zeresenay
Published: December 2015

Understanding patterns of human evolution across space and time requires synthesizing data collected by independent research teams, and this effort is part of a larger trend to develop cyber infrastructure and e‐science initiatives. At present, paleoanthropology cannot easily answer basic questions about the total number of fossils and artifacts that have been discovered, or exactly how those items were collected. In this paper, we examine the methodological challenges to data integration, with the hope that mitigating the technical obstacles will further promote data sharing. At a minimum, data integration efforts must document what data exist and how the data were collected (discovery), after which we can begin standardizing data collection practices with the aim of achieving combined analyses (synthesis). This paper outlines a digital data collection system for paleoanthropology. We review the relevant data management principles for a general audience and supplement this with technical details drawn from over 15 years of paleontological and archeological field experience in Africa and Europe. The system outlined here emphasizes free open‐source software (FOSS) solutions that work on multiple computer platforms; it builds on recent advances in open‐source geospatial software and mobile computing.
Rapid detection of bovine adipose tissue using lateral flow strip assay
Authors: Hsieh Yun‐Hwa P. , Gajewski Kamil
Published: December 2015

Currently no rapid immunoassays are developed to identify the species content of fat tissue in mixtures. We report a simple protocol enabling the effective detection of bovine fat in highly processed materials using a lateral flow (LF) immunoassay which targets a ruminant‐specific muscle protein. A portion (50 gm) of muscle‐free fat samples was rendered to separate the molten fat from the proteinaceous residue, then soluble proteins were extracted from the solid residue with 0.5 mol/L NaCl for the LF analysis. The assay could detect 2% bovine fat‐in‐pork fat, 1% bovine fat‐in‐porcine meat‐and‐bone meal, and 0.5% bovine fat‐in‐soy meal mixtures. Rendered bovine fat could be detected up to 213°C. These results demonstrate that low levels of bovine fat tissue can be detected in processed materials using an immunoassay based on the presence of the muscle protein which serves as a species marker in the fat tissue.
A novel long noncoding RNA Lnc‐HC binds hnRNPA2B1 to regulate expressions of Cyp7a1 and Abca1 in hepatocytic cholesterol metabolism
Authors: Lan Xi , Yan Jidong , Ren Juan , Zhong Bo , Li Jing , Li Yue , Liu Li , Yi Jing , Sun Qingzhu , Yang Xudong , Sun Jian , Meng Liesu , Zhu Wenhua , Holmdahl Rikard , Li Dongmin , Lu Shemin
Published: December 2015

Cholesterol metabolism disorder in hepatocytes predicts a higher risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as critical players in cellular cholesterol metabolism, but their functions are not systematically clarified. Here, we have identified a novel lncRNA named lnc‐HC negatively regulating cholesterol metabolism within hepatocytes through physical interaction with hnRNPA2B1. By further binding to the target messenger RNA of Cyp7a1 or Abca1, the lnc‐HC‐hnRNPA2B1 complex decreases expressions of the two genes that are implicated in cellular cholesterol excretion. lnc‐HC knockdown can strongly recover the cholesterol disorder in vivo. In the upstream pathway, lnc‐HC is up‐regulated by high cholesterol by the transcription activator, CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein beta. Conclusion: These findings suggest a subtle feed‐forward regulation of lnc‐HC in cholesterol metabolism and define a novel line of evidence by which lncRNAs modulate the metabolic system at the post‐transcriptional level. (Hepatology 2016;64:58‐72)
First record of toxins associated with cyanobacterial blooms in oligotrophic North Patagonian lakes of Chile—a genomic approach
Authors: Nimptsch Jorge , Woelfl Stefan , Osorio Sebastian , Valenzuela Jose , Moreira Cristiana , Ramos Vitor , Castelo‐Branco Raquel , Leão Pedro Nuno , Vasconcelos Vitor
Published: December 2015

Blooms of cyanobacteria have negative effects on aquatic organisms and even on human health, since many species can synthesize dangerous toxins. Studies on cyanobacteria and their potential toxicity have been very scarce in Chile and have been limited to lakes of the central zone. Recently, North‐Patagonian lakes, although characterized by their low nutrient concentration and low productivity, revealed also the presence of blooms of cyanobacteria, mainly constituted by Microcystis and Dolichospermum species (former Anabaena sp.). To identify potential toxicological risk associated to these blooms, six North Patagonian lakes (Lakes Caburgua, Villarrica, Calafquen, Panguipulli, Ranco, and Puyehue) were sampled during the summer period and screened for the presence of cyanobacteria and different toxins. Our results revealed for the first time the presence of microcystins in all studied lakes, whereas other toxins such as cylindrospermopsin, saxitoxin, and anatoxin were negative for all sites. By applying a genomic approach, Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii was found in one lake (Lake Ranco) constituting the first report of this cyanobacterium in a Chilean lake. This study highlights the effectiveness of molecular methods as a first approach to describe cyanobacteria and their potential cyanotoxins in Chilean North‐Patagonian lakes.
Incorporation of Mg particles into PDLLA regulates mesenchymal stem cell and macrophage responses
Authors: Cifuentes Sandra C. , Bensiamar Fátima , Gallardo‐Moreno Amparo M. , Osswald Tim A. , González‐Carrasco José L. , Benavente Rosario , González‐Martín María L. , García‐Rey Eduardo , Vilaboa Nuria , Saldaña Laura
Published: December 2015

In this work, we investigated a new approach to incorporate Mg particles within a PDLLA matrix using a solvent‐free commercially available process. PDLLA/Mg composites were manufactured by injection moulding and the effects of Mg incorporated into PDLLA on MSC and macrophage responses were evaluated. Small amounts of Mg particles (≤1 wt %) do not cause thermal degradation of PDLLA, which retains its mechanical properties. PDLLA/Mg composites release hydrogen, alkaline products and Mg2+ ions without changing pH of culture media. Mg‐containing materials provide a noncytotoxic environment that enhances MSC viability. Concentration of Mg2+ ions in extracts of MSCs increases with the increment of Mg content in the composites. Incorporation of Mg particles into PDLLA stimulates FN production, ALP activity, and VEGF secretion in MSCs, an effect mediated by degradation products dissolved from the composites. Degradation products of PDLLA induce an increase in MCP‐1, RANTES, and MIP‐1α secretion in macrophages while products of composites have minimal effect on these chemokines. Regulation of MSC behavior at the biomaterial's interface and macrophage‐mediated inflammatory response to the degradation products is related to the incorporation of Mg in the composites. These findings suggest that including small amounts of Mg particles into polymeric devices can be a valuable strategy to promote osseointegration and reduce host inflammatory response. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 866–878, 2016.
Mitochondrial Damage and Apoptosis Induced by Adenosine Deaminase Inhibition and Deoxyadenosine in Human Neuroblastoma Cell Lines
Authors: Garcia‐Gil Mercedes , Tozzi Maria Grazia , Balestri Francesco , Colombaioni Laura , Camici Marcella
Published: December 2015

The treatment with deoxycoformycin, a strong adenosine deaminase inhibitor, in combination with deoxyadenosine, causes apoptotic cell death of two human neuroblastoma cell lines, SH‐SY5Y and LAN5. Herein we demonstrate that, in SH‐SY5Y cells, this combination rapidly decreases mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and, in parallel, increases mitochondrial mass, while, later, induces nuclear fragmentation, and activation of caspase‐8, ‐9, and ‐3. In previous papers we have shown that a human astrocytoma cell line, subjected to the same treatment, undergoes apoptotic death as well. Therefore, both astrocytoma and neuroblastoma cell lines undergo apoptotic death following the combined treatment with deoxycoformycin and deoxyadenosine, but several differences have been found in the mode of action, possibly reflecting a different functional and metabolic profile of the two cell lines. Overall this work indicates that the neuroblastoma cell lines, like the line of astrocytic origin, are very sensitive to purine metabolism perturbation thus suggesting new therapeutic approaches to nervous system tumors. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1671–1679, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mitochondrial Inhibitory Factor Protein 1 Functions as an Endogenous Inhibitor for Coupling Factor 6
Authors: Kawai Misato , Osanai Tomohiro , Tanaka Makoto , Magota Koji , Tomita Hirofumi , Okumura Ken
Published: December 2015

Coupling factor 6 (CF6) forces a counter‐clockwise rotation of plasma membrane F1Fo complex unlike a proton‐mediated clockwise rotation in the mitochondria, resulting in ATP hydrolysis, proton import, and apoptosis. Inhibitory peptide 1 (IF1) inhibits a unidirectional counter‐clockwise rotation of F1Fo complex without affecting ATP synthesis by a clockwise rotation. We tested the hypothesis that IF1 may antagonize the biological action of CF6 in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. We generated mature and immature IF1 expression vectors and those labeled with GFP at the C‐terminus. In the immature IF1‐GFP overexpressing cells, the mitochondrial network of IF1‐GFP was newly found at the plasma membrane after peripheral translocation, whereas in mature IF1‐GFP transfected cells, a less punctuate rather homogenous pattern was found in the cytoplasm. IF1 protein was detected in the exosome fraction of culture media, and it was enhanced by mature or immature IF1 transfection. Extracellular ATP hydrolysis was enhanced by CF6, whereas immature or mature IF1 transfection suppressed ATP hydrolysis in response to CF6. Intracellular pH was decreased by CF6 but was unchanged after immature IF1 transfection. CF6‐induced increase in apoptotic cells was blocked by immature or mature IF1, being accompanied by protein kinase B (PKB) phosphorylation. IF1 antagonizes the pro‐apoptotic action of CF6 by relief of intracellular acidification and resultant phosphorylation of PKB. Given the widespread biological actions of CF6, the physiological and pathological functions of IF1 may be expected to be complex. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1680–1687, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Purification of α‐glucosidase from mouse intestine by countercurrent chromatography coupled with a reverse micelle solvent system
Authors: He Kai , Zou Zongyao , Hu Yinran , Yang Yong , Xiao Yubo , Gao Pincao , Li Xuegang , Ye Xiaoli
Published: December 2015

Countercurrent chromatography coupled with a reverse micelle solvent was applied to separate α‐glucosidase, which is stable at pH 6.0–8.8, 15–50°C. The separation conditions are as follows: stationary phase: pH 4.0 Tris–HCl buffer phase containing 50 mM Tris–HCl and 50 mM KCl; mobile phase A: isooctane containing 50 mM anionic surfactant sodium di(2‐ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate; mobile phase B: 50 mM Tris–HCl buffer containing 500 mM KCl (pH 8.0); In total, 25 mL (23.9 mg) crude enzyme was injected through the injection valve, the enzymatic reaction and sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis results imply that the activity of purified α‐glucosidase is 6.63‐fold higher than that of the crude enzyme. Therefore, countercurrent chromatography coupled with a reverse micelle solvent is capable for protein separation and enrichment.
Mid1/Mid2 expression in craniofacial development and a literature review of X‐linked Opitz syndrome
Authors: Li Bijun , Zhou Tianhong , Zou Yi
Published: December 2015

Background

Opitz syndrome (OS) is a genetic disorder that affects mainly the development of midline structures, including the craniofacial region, embryonic heart, and urogenital system. The manifestations of X‐linked OS are believed to be results of a malfunctioned gene, MID1, whose product has been shown to have ubiquitin E3 ligase activity and regulate the turnover of microtubular protein phosphatase 2Ac. MID2, a homolog of MID1, shares high structural and functional similarities with MID1. Identification of a missense mutation in MID2 in an Indian family causing overlapping phenotypes with OS provided the first evidence that MID2 might be involved in similar pathogenesis.

Methods

The clinic features and the genetic findings of all reported X‐linked OS were collectively summarized in this research. Real‐time RT‐PCR and in situ hybridization were used in the expression studies of Mid1/Mid2 in mouse embryos.

Results

Up‐to‐date, 88 different mutations have been identified in MID1 and most mutations occurred on the conserved amino acids of MID1 and MID2. Expression studies using real‐time RT‐PCR implicated a tendency of a mutually repressive expression pattern between Mid1 and Mid2 in mouse embryos. Further investigations using in situ hybridization revealed strong expressions of Mid1 and Mid2 in the epithelium of approaching facial prominences and downregulated expressions after fusion in mouse embryos.

Conclusions

Our results support the hypothesis of functional redundancy of Mid1/Mid2 and their potential roles in regulating tissue remodelling in early development.
Stimulated jitter analysis for the evaluation of neuromuscular junction disorders in children
Authors: Verma Sumit , Lin Jenny
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Stimulated jitter analysis (stim‐JA) using a concentric needle electrode is a technique used to study the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) without voluntary activation. Our objective was to study the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and feasibility of stim‐JA in infants and children with suspected NMJ defects.

Methods

Sixteen infants and young children ages 2 months to 17 years with suspected NMJ disorders were evaluated using stim‐JA over a period of 12 months.

Results

Subjects with suspected NMJ defects and abnormal stim‐JA subsequently had laboratory confirmation of myasthenia gravis (n = 5) and infant botulism (n = 2). Turnaround time for confirmatory laboratory tests was 6.0 ± 4.3 days, whereas stim‐JA results were available immediately. All subjects tolerated stim‐JA well without complications or need for sedation.

Conclusions

Stim‐JA is a sensitive and safe first‐line diagnostic test for evaluation of suspected pediatric NMJ disorders. Stim‐JA results precede assay results and may guide early treatment. Muscle Nerve 53: 471–472, 2016
Decreased thickness of the lower trapezius muscle in patients with unilateral neck pain
Authors: Uthaikhup Sureeporn , Pensri Chalomjai , Kawsoiy Kanokon
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Thickness of the lower trapezius muscle in patients with neck pain has not been established. We examined the thickness of the lower trapezius muscle in patients with and without unilateral neck pain.

Methods

Twenty women with unilateral (right) neck pain and 20 matched controls participated in the study. Thickness of the lower trapezius muscles was measured bilaterally at rest (0 ° and 120 ° of shoulder abduction) and during contraction (120 ° of shoulder abduction) using ultrasound imaging.

Results

The neck pain group had smaller thickness of the lower trapezius muscle on the painful side compared with controls both at rest and during contraction (P < 0.05). However, the percentage change in the lower trapezius thickness from rest to contraction (120 ° of shoulder abduction) was not different between groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with neck pain had smaller thickness of the lower trapezius muscle on the painful side compared with healthy controls. Muscle Nerve 54: 439–443, 2016
A novel unified wall slip model for Poiseuille flow of polymer melt in the circular tube
Authors: Ren Zhong , Huang Xingyuan , Liu Hesheng
Published: December 2015

In this study, to better reflect the slip effect of Poiseuille flow for polymer melt extruded through a circular tube, a novel unified wall slip model and flow equation based on two phase fluid system were proposed via a purely phenomenological approach. According to the different combinations of boundary conditions and flow parameters, the novel slip model was transformed into other models, such as adsorption–desorption model, entanglement–disentanglement model, lubrication layer model, Z–W model, and no‐slip model. The numerical simulation based on computed fluid dynamics was performed to verify the feasibility of the novel slip model. In the simulations, the radial flow velocity profile, shear rate, and viscosity distribution were obtained for six different models. Moreover, the effect of different slip coefficient combinations for the novel slip model on the radial flow velocity, slip velocity, volumetric flow rate error, and viscosity distribution of melt were also investigated and discussed. Results showed that the novel unified slip model not only incorporated the characteristics of other five models above mentioned, but also well interpreted the reason of simultaneously occurring the sharkskin surface defect and gross melt fracture phenomenon when flow rate of melt was extremely large. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 56:328–341, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Responses of the two‐spotted oak buprestid, Agrilus biguttatus (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), to host tree volatiles
Authors: Vuts József , Woodcock Christine M , Sumner Mary E , Caulfield John C , Reed Katy , Inward Daegan JG , Leather Simon R , Pickett John A , Birkett Michael A , Denman Sandra
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Agrilus bigutattus (Fabricius) is a forest pest of increasing importance in the United Kingdom. The larvae damage weakened native oaks and are thought to contribute to premature tree death. Suspected links with acute oak decline (AOD) are not yet confirmed, but AOD‐predisposed trees appear to become more susceptible to A. biguttatus attack. Thus, management may be necessary for control of this insect. To explore the possibility of monitoring beetle populations by baited traps, the host tree volatiles regulating A. biguttatus–oak interactions were studied.

RESULTS

Biologically active volatile organic compounds in dynamic headspace extracts of oak foliage and bark were identified initially by coupled gas chromatography–electroantennography (GC‐EAG) and GC–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS), and the structures were confirmed by GC coinjection with authentic compounds. Of two synthetic blends of these compounds comprising the active leaf volatiles, the simpler one containing three components evoked strongly positive behavioural responses in four‐arm olfactometer tests with virgin females and males, although fresh leaf material was more efficient than the blend. The other blend, comprising a five‐component mixture made up of bark volatiles, proved to be as behaviourally active for gravid females as bark tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

These initial results on A. biguttatus chemical ecology reveal aspects of the role of attractive tree volatiles in the host‐finding of beetles and underpin the development of semiochemically based surveillance strategies for this forest insect. © 2015 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
The potential and prospects of proximal remote sensing of arthropod pests
Authors: Nansen Christian
Published: December 2015

Bench‐top or proximal remote sensing applications are widely used as part of quality control and machine vision systems in commercial operations. In addition, these technologies are becoming increasingly important in insect systematics and studies of insect physiology and pest management. This paper provides a review and discussion of how proximal remote sensing may contribute valuable quantitative information regarding identification of species, assessment of insect responses to insecticides, insect host responses to parasitoids and performance of biological control agents. The future role of proximal remote sensing is discussed as an exciting path for novel paths of multidisciplinary research among entomologists and scientists from a wide range of other disciplines, including image processing engineers, medical engineers, research pharmacists and computer scientists. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Seven‐inch large‐size synthesis of monolayer hexagonal BN film by low‐pressure CVD
Authors: Wu Chenping , Soomro Abdul Majid , Sun Feipeng , Wang Huachun , Liu Chuan , Yang Xiaodong , Kang Junyong , Cai Duanjun
Published: December 2015

We report the large‐size synthesis of atomic monolayer hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) film on flexible Cu foil by a low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. The borazane powder was used as the precursor carried by mixed hydrogen/argon gases. By rolling the Cu foil substrate into a cylindrical shape, wafer‐scale monolayer h‐BN film has been achieved at a size over 7 in. With the aid of PMMA, the h‐BN monolayer was transferred onto a 4″ Si wafer for characterization and further electrical applications. This technique could be transferred to thin‐film growth on any flexible substrates.
Structure and composition of non‐polar (11‐20) InGaN nanorings grown by modified droplet epitaxy
Authors: Springbett Helen , Griffiths James , Ren Christopher , O'Hanlon Tom , Barnard Jonathan , Sahonta Suman‐Lata , Zhu Tongtong , Oliver Rachel
Published: December 2015

Droplets grown by modified droplet epitaxy on non‐polar (11‐20) surfaces of InGaN epilayers on GaN have been seen to be associated with underlying ring‐like structures. This work discusses droplet etching as a possible mechanism for ring formation, and droplet creeping as a possible explanation for the droplets sitting askew of the ring centre. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis shows the droplets to move along the c‐axis, and indicates that they have a very high indium content.

The image shows atomic force microscopy (AFM) data of a double‐ring structure, rendered in 3D.
Toward defect‐free semi‐polar GaN templates on pre‐structured sapphire
Authors: Han Yisong , Caliebe Marian , Hage Fredrik , Ramasse Quentin , Pristovsek Markus , Zhu Tongtong , Scholz Ferdinand , Humphreys Colin
Published: December 2015

The microstructure of semi‐polar (11–22) GaN templates grown on pre‐structured r‐plane sapphire by MOVPE has been characterized by TEM. Cross‐sectional observations indicate that defects are generated in three regions of the layers: threading dislocations at the inclined GaN/sapphire interface, basal plane stacking faults (BSFs) at the c−‐wing, BSFs and threading dislocations at the coalescence between neighboring GaN stripes. An in situ SiN interlayer deposited at an early stage of the growth is shown to be effective in blocking the propagation of dislocations, which is mainly attributed to SiN formed on the c‐plane rather than on the (11–22) plane. Si‐doped marker layers have been used to study the evolution of the growth front before coalescence as a function of temperature. A high growth temperature is associated with the formation of highly faceted GaN stripes. Dislocations originally running along the c‐direction are bent to the [11–20] direction driven by a progressing (11–22) facet. An efficient defect reduction is realized as a result of terminating these dislocations at voids partially defined by the (11–20) facet.
Britain in Decline
Authors: Gamble Andrew
Published: December 2015

For a hundred years, Britain's decline as a great power has gone hand in hand with the relative decline of the British economy. Andrew Gamble's much acclaimed book provides a historical account of Britain's rise and fall and a succinct introduction to the main explanations of decline and political strategies for reversing it. The fourth edition has been updated throughout and a new concluding chapter assesses the state of debate and of the British economy after the Thatcher decade.
Implantation of SphinKeeperTM: a new artificial anal sphincter
Authors: Ratto C. , Donisi L. , Litta F. , Campennì P. , Parello A.
Published: December 2015

Introduction

A new artificial anal sphincter, SphinKeeperTM, was devised with the aim to treat fecal incontinence (FI) by implanting specifically designed self-expandable prostheses into the intersphincteric space. Preliminary data concerning the procedure feasibility and prosthesis localization at 3 months are presented.

Methods

SphinKeeperTM prostheses in the native state are dehydrated, thin, solid cylinder (length 29 mm, diameter 3 mm), changing their state (shorter—length 23 mm, thicker—diameter 7 mm—and softer, with shape memory) within 48 h of contact with fluids. In this study, 10 prostheses were implanted in each patient with FI under local anesthesia and under endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) guidance, into the upper-middle intersphincteric space of the anal canal by a specifically designed delivery system. EAUS was used postoperatively to assess prostheses dislocation.

Results

Ten patients (5 females; median age 58 years, range 20–75) were enrolled and treated with SphinKeeperTM implantation. Median duration of procedure (performed by endoanal ultrasound guidance) was 40 min (range 30–45). Neither intraoperative nor postoperative complications were reported after a 3-month follow-up. In one patient, a partial dislocation of a single prosthesis was documented by EAUS, causing anal discomfort which resolved after 1 week.

Conclusion

SphinKeeperTM can be safely implanted in patients with FI of different etiology. Implantation was well tolerated with no dislodgment of implants at 3-month follow-up.
Plant Cytosolic Acyl‐CoA‐Binding Proteins
Authors: Ye Zi‐Wei , Chye Mee‐Len
Published: December 2015

A gene family encoding six members of acyl‐CoA‐binding proteins (ACBP) exists in Arabidopsis and they are designated as AtACBP1–AtACBP6. They have been observed to play pivotal roles in plant lipid metabolism, consistent to the abilities of recombinant AtACBP in binding different medium‐ and long‐chain acyl‐CoA esters in vitro. While AtACBP1 and AtACBP2 are membrane‐associated proteins with ankyrin repeats and AtACBP3 contains a signaling peptide for targeting to the apoplast, AtACBP4, AtACBP5 and AtACBP6 represent the cytosolic forms in the AtACBP family. They were verified to be subcellularly localized in the cytosol using diverse experimental methods, including cell fractionation followed by western blot analysis, immunoelectron microscopy and confocal laser‐scanning microscopy using autofluorescence‐tagged fusions. AtACBP4 (73.2 kDa) and AtACBP5 (70.1 kDa) are the largest, while AtACBP6 (10.4 kDa) is the smallest. Their binding affinities to oleoyl‐CoA esters suggested that they can potentially transfer oleoyl‐CoA esters from the plastids to the endoplasmic reticulum, facilitating the subsequent biosynthesis of non‐plastidial membrane lipids in Arabidopsis. Recent studies on ACBP, extended from a dicot (Arabidopsis) to a monocot, revealed that six ACBP are also encoded in rice (Oryza sativa). Interestingly, three small rice ACBP (OsACBP1, OsACBP2 and OsACBP3) are present in the cytosol in comparison to one (AtACBP6) in Arabidopsis. In this review, the combinatory and distinct roles of the cytosolic AtACBP are discussed, including their functions in pollen and seed development, light‐dependent regulation and substrate affinities to acyl‐CoA esters.
On the interplay between academic achievement and educational identity: A longitudinal study
Authors: Pop Eleonora Ioana , Negru‐Subtirica Oana , Crocetti Elisabetta , Opre Adrian , Meeus Wim
Published: December 2015

The present three‐wave longitudinal study provides empirical evidence for the mechanisms of the bright and dark sides of identity development in the academic context. First, we investigated the patterns of stability and change in educational identity and academic achievement among adolescents. Second, we examined the reciprocal associations between identity processes (i.e., commitment, in‐depth exploration, and reconsideration of commitment) and academic achievement. The main results of the study highlighted that academic achievement predicts the manner in which adolescents deal with their identity issues in the academic context. Thus, high academic achievement leads to high levels of commitment (identity synthesis), while low academic achievement leads to high levels of reconsideration of commitment (identity confusion). This unidirectional pattern of effects applied equally to adolescent boys and girls, early‐to‐middle and middle‐to‐late adolescents, and to adolescents attending theoretical and vocational schools. Practical implications are discussed.
Variant rs2237892 of KCNQ1 is Potentially Associated with Hypertension and Macrovascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Zhang Wanlin , Wang Hailing , Guan Xiaomin , Niu Qing , Li Wei
Published: December 2015

KCNQ1 has been identified as a susceptibility gene of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Asian populations through genome-wide association studies. However, studies on the association between gene polymorphism of KCNQ1 and T2DM complications remain unclear. To further analyze the association between different alleles at the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs2237892 within KCNQ1 and TD2M and its complications, we conducted a case-control study in a Chinese Han population. The C allele of rs2237892 variant contributed to susceptibility to T2DM (odds ratio [OR], 1.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20–1.75). Genotypes CT (OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.24–3.15) and CC (OR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.57–3.95) were associated with an increased risk of T2DM. Multivariate regression analysis was performed with adjustment of age, gender, and body mass index. We found that systolic blood pressure (P  = 0.015), prevalence of hypertension (P  = 0.037), and risk of macrovascular disease (OR, 2.10; CI, 1.00–4.45) were significantly higher in subjects with the CC genotype than in the combined population with genotype either CT or TT. Therefore, our data support that KCNQ1 is associated with an increased risk for T2DM and might contribute to the higher incidence of hypertension and macrovascular complications in patients with T2DM carrying the risk allele C though it needs further to be confirmed in a larger population.
Prenatal undernutrition results in greater lipopolysaccharide‐induced changes in hypothalamic TNF‐α expression, but does not affect the equivalent changes in the serum levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, in adult male rats
Authors: Iwasa Takeshi , Matsuzaki Toshiya , Tungalagsuvd Altankhuu , Munkhzaya Munkhsaikhan , Yiliyasi Mayila , Kato Takeshi , Kuwahara Akira , Irahara Minoru
Published: December 2015

Immune stress can cause reproductive dysfunction. Some hypothalamic factors such as pro‐inflammatory cytokines play pivotal roles in reproductive disorders under immune stress conditions. Recently, it has been reported that prenatal undernutrition affects not only metabolic functions, but also the responses of physiological functions to immune stress in adulthood. In this study, the long‐term effects of prenatal undernutrition on the responses of hypothalamic pro‐inflammatory cytokine (interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and IL‐6) expression; reproductive endocrine factors; i.e., the serum levels of gonadotropins and testosterone; and hypothalamic kisspeptin expression to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were examined in male rats. Pregnant rats were divided into two groups; i.e., the normally nourished group and the undernourished (50% food restricted) group. The offspring of the normally nourished mothers (control) and undernourished mothers (the intrauterine growth restriction [IUGR] group) were sub‐divided into saline‐injected and LPS (500 μg, i.p.)‐injected groups at 10 weeks of age. The rats' hypothalamic pro‐inflammatory cytokine levels and serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels were measured and compared between the control and IUGR groups. The hypothalamic pro‐inflammatory cytokine mRNA levels of the LPS‐injected rats were significantly higher than those of the saline‐injected rats in both the control and IUGR groups. The changes in the hypothalamic expression level of TNF‐α, but not those of the other cytokines, induced in response to LPS were more marked in the IUGR group than in the control group. On the other hand, although the serum LH and testosterone levels of the LPS‐injected rats were significantly lower than those of the saline‐injected rats in both the control and IUGR groups, their levels did not differ between the control and IUGR groups under the LPS‐injected conditions. These results suggest that prenatal undernutrition results in more marked LPS‐induced changes in hypothalamic TNF‐α expression, but does not alter the effects of LPS on the serum levels of LH or testosterone, in adult male rats.
Accountability for quality of care: Monitoring all aspects of quality across a framework adapted for action
Authors: Hulton Louise , Matthews Zoë , Bandali Sarah , Izge Abubakar , Daroda Ramatu , Stones William
Published: December 2015

Quality of care is essential to maternal and newborn survival. The multidimensional nature of quality of care means that frameworks are useful for capturing it. The present paper proposes an adaptation to a widely used quality of care framework for maternity services. The framework subdivides quality into two inter‐related dimensions—provision and experience of care—but suggests adaptations to reflect changes in the concept of quality over the past 15 years. The application of the updated framework is presented in a case study, which uses it to measure and inform quality improvements in northern Nigeria across the reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health continuum of care. Data from 231 sampled basic and comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care (BEmONC and CEmONC) facilities in six northern Nigerian states showed that only 35%–47% of facilities met minimum quality standards in infrastructure. Standards for human resources performed better with 49%–73% reaching minimum standards. A framework like this could form the basis for a certification scheme. Certification offers a practical and concrete opportunity to drive quality standards up and reward good performance. It also offers a mechanism to strengthen accountability.
Gestión académica de los ciclos clínicos: relaciones y tensiones entre la universidad y el hospital
Authors: Hamui Sutton Alicia , Varela Ruiz Margarita E. , González Quintanilla Eduardo , Vives Varela Tania , Uribe Martínez Grisel E. , Morales-Castillo José Daniel
Published: December 2015

Introducción: La relación entre las escuelas de medicina que dependen de las universidades y las sedes donde los estudiantes de pregrado realizan sus prácticas clínicas vinculan a las instituciones educativas con los centros de atención a la salud que forman parte del Sistema Nacional de Salud.
Objetivo: Se analizaron las relaciones y las tensiones en las relaciones de los sujetos posicionados de la educación clínica a partir de las transformaciones introducidas por el Plan de Estudios 2010 de la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México.
Método: Estudio cualitativo interpretativo cuya muestra recuperó la experiencia narrada por estudiantes y profesores relativa a la gestión académica y la relación interinstitucional entre la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México y las sedes clínicas. Se realizaron 39 grupos focales donde participaron 321 personas (180 estudiantes y 141 profesores) entre octubre de 2013 y marzo de 2014.
Resultados: Se identificaron 3 temas relevantes relativos a la gestión académica presentes en las relaciones interinstitucionales: 1) la implementación del Plan 2010, estructurado en cursos intensivos por especialidad; 2) los nuevos criterios para la contratación del personal académico y la redistribución de horas laborales de los profesores por asignaturas en la clínica, y 3) cambios en las relaciones de poder entre los sujetos pedagógicos.
Conclusiones: La implementación del Plan 2010, estructurado en cursos intensivos por especialidad, los nuevos criterios para la contratación del personal académico y la redistribución de horas laborales de los profesores por asignatura en la clínica alteraron la dinámica de las relaciones entre los sujetos pedagógicos, así como la distribución del poder en las mismas.
Geochemical “fingerprints” for Olduvai Gorge Bed II tuffs and implications for the Oldowan–Acheulean transition
Authors: McHenry Lindsay J. , Njau Jackson K. , Torre Ignacio de la , Pante Michael C.
Published: December 2015

Bed II is a critical part of early Pleistocene Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania. Its deposits include transitions from humid to more arid conditions (with associated faunal changes), fromHomo habilistoerectus, and from Oldowan to Acheulean technology. Bed II (~ 1.8–1.2 Ma) is stratigraphically and environmentally complex, with facies changes, faulting, and unconformities, making site-to-site correlation over the ~ 20 km of exposure difficult. Bed II tuffs are thinner, less evenly preserved, and more reworked than those of Bed I. Five marker tuffs (Tuffs IIA–IID, Bird Print Tuff (BPT)), plus local tephra, were collected from multiple sites and characterized using stratigraphic position, mineral assemblage, and electron probe microanalysis of phenocryst (feldspar, hornblende, augite, titanomagnetite) and glass (where available) composition. Lowermost Bed II tuffs are dominantly nephelinitic, Middle Bed II tuffs (BPT, Tuff IIC) have basaltic components, and upper Bed II Tuff IID is trachytic. The BPT and Tuff IID are identified widely using phenocryst compositions (high-Ca plagioclase and high-Ti hornblende, respectively), though IID was originally (Hay, 1976) misidentified as Tuff IIC at Loc 91 (SHK Annexe) in the Side Gorge. This work helps establish a high-resolution basin-wide paleolandscape context for the Oldowan–Acheulean transition and helps link hominin, faunal and archaeological records.
Newsround
Authors: Smith David Michael
Published: December 2015

The very positive reception granted to last year's inaugural ‘Newsround’, and the clear demand for an authoritative annual brief of current work in Greece, has ensured its return as a regular feature. As last year, this section is not intended to be exhaustive, but is designed to draw attention to those discoveries which do not appear elsewhere within Archaeological Reports but which nevertheless deserve to be highlighted in a manner which complements those more specialized contributions within the current volume and that content available digitally through AGOnline/Chronique des fouilles en ligne (www.chronique.efa.gr). Again, the very varied nature of this material has meant that, for the most part, it has proved preferable to organize this section chronologically (Palaeolithic through to Early Modern), rather than thematically.
New discoveries in the Piraeus
Authors: Papadopoulou Chryssanthi
Published: December 2015

Numerous archaeological finds have come to light in the Piraeus in the last 15 years. These finds enrich our knowledge of the deme's city planning, domestic architecture, water system, quarries, ports and walls in the Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Since Klaus-Valtin von Eickstedt's (1991) seminal study on the Hippodamian development of the Piraeus, which was based on excavation data for houses and roads, more evidence has become available. Numerous new domestic complexes have been excavated on the Akte (ID1718, ID4907, ID4908, ID4909, ID4935, ID4981, ID4982, ID4983, ID4984, ID4985; ADelt 56-59 [2001-2004] B1: 441-42) and on the rest of the peninsula (ID4877, ID4910, ID4914, ID4915, ID4932). New roads and sections of roads already included in Höpfner and Schwandner 1994 (fig. 14) have been revealed in several areas (ID1718, ID2438, ID4907, ID4908, ID4909, ID4921, ID4935, ID4937; ADelt 56-59 [2001-2004] B1: 442). Amongst these is the road that ran between the Long Stoa and the walls of the Piraeus (ID4937). Additionally, a horos stone, marking the limits of the Emporion and its adjacent road, was found in Akte Miaouli. The inscription had been built into the wall of a small rubble structure; the date of the structure has not been identified, but it is thought to postdate the Classical period (ID4935).
Recent epigraphic research in Thasos, Aegean Thrace & Samothrace (2005-2015)
Authors: Fournier J. , Hamon P. , Parissaki M.G.
Published: December 2015

In 2011 the École française d'Athènes celebrated the centenary of its activities on Thasos (Muller and Mulliez 2012). Apart from the publication of a modern Greek translation of the second edition of the Guide de Thasos (Grandjean and Salviat 2000; 2012), the centenary was the occasion for the publication of a number of thematic studies, based on past archaeological research (Muller 2011; Picard 2011; Marc 2012). More generally, current research on Thasos focuses on all aspects of archaeology, including excavation and field survey (mainly within the ancient urban area), as well as study of archaeological material kept in the museum's collections. This work benefits from the unfailing support of the Ephoreia of Antiquities in Kavala.
Recent research into Minoan extra-urban sanctuaries
Authors: Haysom Matthew
Published: December 2015

In keeping with the new format of Archaeological Reports, this contribution takes a thematic approach. It seeks to draw wider attention to some of the diverse new primary research that has taken place since 2000 on Minoan (here glossed as Proto- and Neopalatial) extra-urban sanctuaries. For many years, discussion of these sites has largely involved synthesis. No example of a Minoan extra-urban sanctuary has ever progressed all the way from systematic excavation to full publication. Some of the best reported examples, such as the Psychro Cave (Watrous 1996) or the peak sanctuary of Petsophas (Rutkowski 1991), were excavated at the beginning of the 20th century. Until the period covered by this review, there were only one or two cases where sites excavated more recently had benefited from extended preliminary publications. This has meant that synthetic treatments have been highly dependent, in the majority of cases, on extremely brief notices of excavations or on scholars' impressions from simply visiting sites. The last 15 years have witnessed a marked change of pace. New sites have been discovered and excavated, extensive studies of old material have been produced and, most importantly, the first comprehensive studies of some of the assemblages of objects from these sites have come into the public domain. As a result, this is an opportune time to highlight a dynamically evolving field of research.
General Synod of the Church of England
Authors: Slack Stephen
Published: December 2015

This report covers the final three of the groups of sessions of the General Synod elected in 2010.
General Synod of the Church of Ireland
Authors: Davey Michael
Published: December 2015

This year's General Synod, the first meeting of the triennium, was held in the now familiar surroundings of the City Hotel, Armagh. Over the past few years there has been a heavy emphasis on finance in the legislative programme, principally with regard to pensions. This year there was one Pensions Bill. It merely formalised the arrangements governing the separate Defined Contributions Schemes that have operated for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland since 2013. The Bill duly passed.