bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Site‐adapted admixed tree species reduce drought susceptibility of mature European beech
Authors: Metz Jérôme , Annighöfer Peter , Schall Peter , Zimmermann Jorma , Kahl Tiemo , Schulze Ernst‐Detlef , Ammer Christian 
Published: October 2015

AbstractSome forest‐related studies on possible effects of climate change conclude that growth potential of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) might be impaired by the predicted increase in future serious drought events during the growing season. Other recent research suggests that not only multiyear increment rates but also growth resistance and recovery of beech during, respectively, after dry years may differ between pure and mixed stands. Thus, we combined dendrochronological investigations and wood stable isotope measurements to further investigate the impact of neighborhood diversity on long‐term performance, short‐term drought response and soil water availability of European beech in three major geographic regions of Germany. During the last four decades, target trees whose competitive neighborhood consisted of co‐occurring species exhibited a superior growth performance compared to beeches in pure stands of the same investigation area. This general pattern was also found in exceptional dry years. Although the summer droughts of 1976 and 2003 predominantly caused stronger relative growth declines if target trees were exposed to interspecific competition, with few exceptions they still formed wider annual rings than beeches growing in close‐by monocultures. Within the same study region, recovery of standardized beech target tree radial growth was consistently slower in monospecific stands than in the neighborhood of other competitor species. These findings suggest an improved water availability of beech in mixtures what is in line with the results of the stable isotope analysis. Apparently, the magnitude of competitive complementarity determines the growth response of target beech trees in mixtures. Our investigation strongly suggest that the sensitivity of European beech to environmental constrains depends on neighborhood identity. Therefore, the systematic formation of mixed stands tends to be an appropriate silvicultural measure to mitigate the effects of global warming and droughts on growth patterns of Fagus sylvatica.
Earthquake‐related temperature changes in two neighboring hot springs at Xiangcheng, China
Authors: Ma Y. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractPre‐earthquake and postearthquake temperature changes were documented in two hot springs at Xiangcheng. Pre‐earthquake changes were documented in spring I, 13 days before and 106 km away from the Ms 5.8 Zhongdian earthquake. The 11‐year cutoff spring spouted again, and the spouted water was 24°C hotter than the former escaping gas. Postearthquake changes were documented in spring II following the 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan earthquake, approximately 425 km away from the epicenter. Temperature in spring II showed a step‐like increase with a magnitude of 4°C induced by the earthquake. Spring I which is 0.3 m apart from spring II did not show a sudden change following the earthquake. However, temperatures in the two springs were identical after the Wenchuan earthquake. It indicates that the earthquake generated new hydraulic connectivity between springs I and II, and the heat transport between the two springs accounts for the postearthquake temperature changes.
Building intentions with the theory of planned behaviour: a qualitative assessment of salient beliefs about pharmacy value added services in Malaysia
Authors: Tan Christine Liang Hoay , Hassali Mohamed Azmi , Saleem Fahad , Shafie Asrul Akmal , Aljadhay Hisham , Gan Vincent B. Y. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractObjectiveTo improve pharmaceutical care delivery in Malaysia, the Ministry of Health (MOH) had introduced the concept of value added services (VAS). Despite its reported convenience and advantages, VAS utilization rate is low in the country. The study aims to explore patients’ understanding, beliefs and expectations towards VAS in Malaysia using the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) as the theoretical model.MethodsA qualitative methodology was used whereby face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with 12 patients who collected partial medicine supplies from government pharmacies. Participants were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling method in the state of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. Interviews were audio‐recorded. Verbatim transcription and thematic content analysis were performed on the data.ResultsThematic content analysis yielded five major themes: (i) attitudes towards using VAS, (ii) subjective norms, (iii) perceived behavioural control, (iv) lack of knowledge and understanding of VAS and (v) expectations towards VAS.ConclusionThe interviews explored and informed new information about salient beliefs towards pharmacy VAS. The findings suggest that VAS is still in its infancy and a more robust and effective advertising and marketing campaign is needed to boost the adoption rate. Behavioural attitudes, subjective norms and perceived control elements were discussed and serve as important variables of interest in future study. Expectations towards VAS serve as an important guideline to further improve patient‐oriented services.
Lack of PRKD2 and PRKD3 kinase domain somatic mutations in PRKD1 wild‐type classic polymorphous low‐grade adenocarcinomas of the salivary gland
Authors: Piscuoglio Salvatore , Fusco Nicola , Ng Charlotte K Y , Martelotto Luciano G , da Cruz Paula Arnaud , Katabi Nora , Rubin Brian P , Skálová Alena , Weinreb Ilan , Weigelt Britta , Reis‐Filho Jorge S 
Published: October 2015

AimsPolymorphous low‐grade adenocarcinoma (PLGA) is the second most common intra‐oral salivary gland malignancy. The vast majority of PLGAs harbour a PRKD1 E710D hot‐spot somatic mutation or somatic rearrangements of PRKD1, PRKD2 or PRKD3. Given the kinase domain homology among PRKD1, PRKD2 and PRKD3, we sought to define whether PLGAs lacking PRKD1 somatic mutations or PRKD gene family rearrangements would be driven by somatic mutations affecting the kinase domains of PRKD2 or PRKD3.Methods and resultsDNA was extracted from eight microdissected PLGAs lacking PRKD1 somatic mutations or PRKD gene family rearrangements. Samples were thoroughly centrally reviewed, microdissected and subjected to Sanger sequencing of the kinase domains of the PRKD2 and PRKD3 genes. None of the PLGAs lacking PRKD1 somatic mutations or PRKD gene family rearrangements harboured somatic mutations in the kinase domains of the PRKD2 or PRKD3 genes.ConclusionPLGAs lacking PRKD1 somatic mutations or PRKD gene family rearrangements are unlikely to harbour somatic mutations in the kinase domains of PRKD2 or PRKD3. Further studies are warranted to define the driver genetic events in this subgroup of PLGAs.
9‐Month‐Old Infants Recognize Individual Unfamiliar Faces in a Rapid Repetition ERP Paradigm
Authors: Peykarjou Stefanie , Pauen Sabina , Hoehl Stefanie 
Published: October 2015

To investigate whether infants show neural signatures of recognizing unfamiliar human faces, we tested 9‐month‐olds (N = 31) in a rapid repetition ERP paradigm. Pictures of unfamiliar male and female faces (targets) were preceded either by a central attractor (Unprimed) or by a face (Primed). In the latter case, the prime faces were either identical to the target (Repeated) or not (Unrepeated). We compared processing of primed versus unprimed faces as well as processing of repeated versus unrepeated faces. Primed stimuli elicited decreased P1 amplitude, P1 latency and N290 amplitude, indicating categorical repetition effects very early during the stream of processing. For repeated relative to unrepeated faces, N290 latency was reduced. In addition, we observed an enhanced late positivity at occipital channels for unrepeated compared to repeated male faces, but no difference for female faces. Taken together, these results suggest that 9‐month‐olds categorize faces before discriminating them individually. Furthermore, infants' ability to recognize face identity seems to depend on familiarity with the given face category, as indicated by differences in brain responses to male and female faces.
Age‐associated changes in regenerative capabilities of mesenchymal stem cell: impact on chronic wounds repair
Authors: Yao Bin , Huang Sha , Gao Dongyun , Xie Jiangfan , Liu Nanbo , Fu Xiaobing 
Published: October 2015

AbstractMesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent an ideal source of autologous cell‐based therapy for chronic wounds. Functional characteristics of MSCs may benefit wound healing by exerting their multi‐regenerative potential. However, cell ageing resulting from chronic degenerative diseases or donor age could cause inevitable effects on the regenerative abilities of MSCs. A variety of studies have shown the relationship between MSC ageing and age‐related dysfunction, but few associate these age‐related impacts on MSCs with their ability of repairing chronic wounds, which are common in the elderly population. Here, we discuss the age‐associated changes of MSCs and describe the potential impacts on MSC‐based therapy for chronic wounds. Furthermore, critical evaluation of the current literatures is necessary for understanding the underlying mechanisms of MSC ageing and raising the corresponding concerns on considering their possible use for chronic wound repair.
Needs and Supports of People with Intellectual Disability and Their Families in Catalonia
Authors: Vilaseca Rosa , Gràcia Marta , Beltran Francesc S. , Dalmau Mariona , Alomar Elisabeth , Adam‐Alcocer Ana Luisa , Simó‐Pinatella David 
Published: October 2015

BackgroundThe study assesses the support needs of individuals with intellectual disability and their families in Catalonia. The present authors examine family quality of life (FQoL), identify the individual services required and assess families' perceptions of the extent to which their family member with intellectual disability and they themselves receive the services they need.Materials and MethodsThe N&S questionnaire (Needs and Supports for people with intellectual disability and their families) was administered to 2160 families with a family member with intellectual disability aged under 70 in Catalonia (Spain).ResultsOverall mean FQoL was quite high. FQoL was associated with family income, education, employment and percentage level of disability. Neither people with intellectual disability nor their families receive the specific support they need.ConclusionsBesides providing specific support for individuals with intellectual disability, local policymakers and practitioners should apply a family‐centred approach to the provision of support for families in order to improve FQoL.
The effect of a streptococci containing probiotic in periodontal therapy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Laleman Isabelle , Yilmaz Eftal , Ozcelik Onur , Haytac Cenk , Pauwels Martine , Herrero Esteban R. , Slomka Vera , Quirynen Marc , Alkaya Bahar , Teughels Wim 
Published: October 2015

AbstractAimTo evaluate the adjunctive effects of a Streptococcus oralis KJ3, Streptococcus uberis KJ2 and Streptococcus rattus JH145 containing probiotic tablet after scaling and root planing (SRP).Materials and MethodsForty‐eight periodontitis patients were included in this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial. After root planing, patients used either a placebo or a probiotic tablet twice a day for 12 weeks. The pocket probing depth (primary outcome measure), bleeding on probing and relative attachment levels were measured at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks. At baseline, 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks, microbiological sampling was performed and plaque and gingival indices were recorded.ResultsThe primary and secondary outcome measures were significantly (p < 0.05) improved at the 12‐ and the 24‐week evaluation in both groups. However, no significant inter‐group differences could be detected at any time point, except from the % of sites with plaque that were significantly lower in the probiotic group than in the control group at the 24‐week evaluation. In addition, at the 12‐week time point, the salivary Prevotella intermedia counts were significantly lower in the probiotic group.ConclusionsNo differences were detected when comparing the adjunctive use of a placebo or the investigated streptococci containing probiotic tablet after SRP. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02403960.
Expression of amelogenin and effects of cyclosporin A in developing hair follicles in rats
Authors: Yoo Hong‐Il , Lee Gye‐Hyeok , Lee Su‐Young , Kang Jee‐Hae , Moon Jung‐Sun , Kim Min‐Seok , Kim Sun‐Hun 
Published: October 2015

AbstractAmelogenin, an enamel matrix protein has been considered to be exclusively expressed by ameloblasts during odontogenesis. However, burgeoning evidence indicates that amelogenin is also expressed in non‐mineralizing tissues. Under the hypothesis that amelogenin may be a functional molecule in developing hair follicles which share developmental features with odontogenesis, this study for the first time elucidated the presence and functional changes of amelogenin and its receptors during rat hair follicle development. Amelogenin was specifically localized in the outer epithelial root sheath of hair follicles. Its expression appeared in the deeper portion of hair follicles, i.e. the bulbar and suprabulbar regions rather than the superficial region. Lamp‐1, an amelogenin receptor, was localized in either follicular cells or outer epithelial sheath cells, reflecting functional changes during development. The expression of amelogenin splicing variants increased in a time‐dependent manner during postnatal development of hair follicles. Amelogenin expression was increased by treatment with cyclosporin A, which is an inducer of anagen in the hair follicle, whereas the level of Lamp‐1 and ‐2 was decreased by cyclosporin A treatment. These results suggest that amelogenin may be a functional molecule involved in the development of the hair follicle rather than an inert hair shaft matrix protein.
Melatonin attenuates (‐)‐epigallocatehin‐3‐gallate‐triggered hepatotoxicity without compromising its downregulation of hepatic gluconeogenic and lipogenic genes in mice
Authors: Wang Dongxu , Wei Yaqing , Wang Taotao , Wan Xiaochun , Yang Chung S. , Reiter Russel J. , Zhang Jinsong 
Published: October 2015

Abstract(‐)‐Epigallocatehin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), a major constituent of green tea, can ameliorate metabolic syndrome at least in part through reducing gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis. Green tea extracts, of which EGCG is a key constituent, have been used for weight loss in humans. A potential adverse effect of high‐dose EGCG or green tea extracts is hepatotoxicity. Melatonin, an endogenous antioxidant with a high safety profile, is effective in preventing various types of tissue damage. The current study investigated the influence of melatonin on EGCG‐triggered hepatotoxicity and EGCG‐downregulated hepatic genes responsible for gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis in mice. We found that (i) melatonin extended survival time of mice intoxicated with lethal doses of EGCG; (ii) melatonin ameliorated acute liver damage and associated hepatic Nrf2 suppression caused by a nonlethal toxic dose of EGCG; (iii) melatonin reduced subacute liver injury and hepatic Nrf2 activation caused by lower toxic doses of EGCG; and (iv) melatonin did not compromise the action of pharmacological doses of EGCG in downregulating a battery of hepatic genes responsible for gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis, including G6Pc, PEPCK, FOXO1α, SCD1, Fasn, leptin, ACCα, ACCβ, GAPT, and Srebp‐1. Taken together, these results suggest that the combination of EGCG and melatonin is an effective approach for preventing potential adverse effects of EGCG as a dietary supplement for metabolic syndrome alleviation and body weight reduction.
Cohort Study of the Success of Controlled Weight Loss Programs for Obese Dogs
Authors: German A.J. , Titcomb J.M. , Holden S.L. , Queau Y. , Morris P.J. , Biourge V. 
Published: October 2015

BackgroundMost weight loss studies in obese dogs assess rate and percentage of weight loss in the first 2–3 months, rather than the likelihood of successfully reaching target weight.ObjectiveTo determine outcome of controlled weight loss programs for obese dogs, and to determine the factors associated with successful completion.Animals143 obese dogs undergoing a controlled weight loss program.MethodsThis was a cohort study of obese dogs attending a referral weight management clinic. Dogs were studied during their period of weight loss, and cases classified according to outcome as “completed” (reached target weight), “euthanized” (was euthanized before reaching target weight), or “stopped prematurely” (program stopped early for other reasons). Factors associated with successful completion were assessed using simple and multiple logistic regression.Results87/143 dogs (61%) completed their weight loss program, 11 [8%] died or were euthanized, and the remaining 45 [32%] stopped prematurely. Reasons for dogs stopping prematurely included inability to contact owner, refusal to comply with weight management advice, or development of another illness. Successful weight loss was positively associated with a faster rate (P < .001), a longer duration (P < .001), and feeding a dried weight management diet (P = .010), but negatively associated with starting body fat (P < .001), and use of dirlotapide (P = .0046).Conclusions and Clinical RelevanceJust over half of all obese dogs on a controlled weight loss program reach their target weight. Future studies should better clarify reasons for success in individual cases, and also the role of factors such as activity and behavioral modification.
Connectivity and management enables fast recovery of plant diversity in new linear grassland elements
Authors: Jakobsson Simon , Fukamachi Katsue , Cousins Sara A. O. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractQuestionsHow does small linear grassland elements (paddy levees and road verges) contribute to plant diversity patterns in sites with modern or traditional management? Which factors determine small‐scale plant species richness of small linear grassland elements in a Japanese agricultural landscape?LocationShiga Prefecture, Japan.MethodsAerial photos from 1963, 1985, 1995 and 2008 were used to investigate landscape changes and to measure landscape structures within a typical agricultural landscape (~25 km2). Plant diversity was investigated in ten paddy levees and ten road verges in each of four traditional (barely any land cover alterations after 1963) and five modern (almost completely changed after 1985) sites. α‐diversity (mean number of species per plot) and γ‐diversity (total number of species) for all species, specialist and invasive species, respectively, were analysed in relation to site history types and landscape structures. Plot species richness was analysed in relation to site history type, patch age and width, proximity to forest and litter removal.ResultsIn total, 204 plant species were found, 55 species unique to traditional sites and 13 unique to modern sites. α‐ and γ‐diversity of paddy levees and road verges was significantly higher in traditional sites. Number of specialist species on paddy levees and number of invasive species in road verges was also higher in traditional sites. Age was the strongest predictor of plot species richness on levees; older levees supported higher species richness than younger ones. Litter removal was the strongest predictor (positive effect) of plot species richness in road verges.ConclusionsThese results suggest that the colonization credit of new levees in modern sites is decreasing quite rapidly as species quickly establish, approaching almost the same richness values as in traditional sites. However, long continuity of traditional management is still one of the most important contributors to plant diversity and crucial for many species. But small grassland elements can still be of great significance for preserving and enhancing plant diversity in otherwise depleted landscapes, as long as they are managed and connected throughout the landscape.
Estimating glomerular filtration rate by serum creatinine or/and cystatin C equations: An analysis of multi‐centre Chinese subjects
Authors: Ye Xiaoshuang , Liu Xun , Song Dan , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Zhu Bei , Wei Lu , Pei Xiaohua , Wu Jianqing , Lou Tanqi , Zhao Weihong 
Published: October 2015

AbstractAimVarious equations based on serum creatinine or/and cystatin C, required further validation in a Chinese population. We compared the performance of six Chinese equations (Mascr, Peiscr, Macys, Fengcys, Mascr‐cys and Fengscr‐cys) with the CKD‐EPI equations in multi‐centre Chinese subjects and evaluated their applicability in clinical practice.MethodsA total of 1522 adult patients from four different hospitals of China were enrolled in the study. 99mTc‐DTPA renal dynamic imaging was used as the reference GFR (rGFR), and serum creatinine and cystatin C were measured by standardized assays. An optimal score system was implemented in the study.ResultsThe average rGFR of recruited subjects was 67.30±28.89 mL/min per 1.73m2. All estimated GFR (eGFR) correlated well with rGFR. In accordance with Bland–Altman analysis, the Fengscr‐cys equations achieved optimal overall performance (score 14 vs 0–6), with least bias (median difference, −0.57 mL/min per 1.73m2; median absolute difference, 8.83 mL/min per 1.73m2), best precision (17.99 mL/min per 1.73m2), highest accuracy (percentage of eGFR within 15%, 30% and 50% of the rGFR (P15, P30 and P50; 49.7%, 78.7% and 91.8%, respectively); root‐mean‐square‐error (RMSE, 16.28)). The Fengcys equation, a typical cystatin C based equation, was another well‐behaved formula with an impressive performance. The Ma equations performed much poorer than the CKD‐EPI equations. Consistent results can be observed in the GFR‐ /age‐ and sex‐specific subgroups, while none equation yielded ideal accuracy in GFR<60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 subgroup.ConclusionThe Fengscr‐cys equation appeared to achieve the best performance for GFR estimation in overall Chinese adult patients. However, further research is warranted to improve the accuracy of available equations in GFR less than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 individuals.
A New Argument from Interpersonal Variation to Subjectivism about Color: A Response to Gómez‐Torrente
Authors: Hansen Nat 
Published: October 2015

AbstractI describe a new, comparative, version of the argument from interpersonal variation to subjectivism about color. The comparative version undermines a recent objectivist response to standard versions of that argument (Gómez‐Torrente 2016).
Blue aleurone trait diagnoses developmental origin of three pistils in a floret in common wheat
Authors: Watanabe Nobuyoshi , Mochida Mika , Martinek Petr , Peng Zhengsong 
Published: October 2015

AbstractThe common ‘three‐pistil’ (TP) wheat mutation line expresses TPs in a floret normally containing TPs forming three grains set close back‐to‐back. The developmental origin of the TP trait in common wheat had been diagnosed non‐destructively using the blue aleurone trait. The aleurone colour of F2 seeds grown in F1 plants of cross TP/UC66049 was evaluated. Due to xenia, the hue of blue grain colour depended on dose of the Ba1 gene for blue aleurone in the triploid endosperm. The TP trait produced four types of segregation in three‐seed clusters: (i) white grain only, (ii) two white grains and one blue, (iii) one white grain and two blue, and (iv) three blue grains only. The observed frequency of blue–white seed within clusters followed the binominal distribution 3Cr (0.75)r·(0.25)3–r, where r is the number of colour variants in three‐seed clusters (r = 0–3). Intrafloret segregation of seed colour and F2 segregation derived from aleurone colour of F3 seeds indicated an independent origin of the TP trait.