bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
FALCON: a software package for analysis of nestedness in bipartite networks
Authors: Beckett Stephen J. , Boulton Chris A. , Williams Hywel T. P. 
Published: August 2014

Nestedness is a statistical measure used to interpret bipartite interaction data in several ecological and evolutionary contexts, e.g. biogeography (species-site relationships) and species interactions (plant-pollinator and host-parasite networks). Multiple methods have been used to evaluate nestedness, which differ in how the metrics for nestedness are determined. Furthermore, several different null models have been used to calculate statistical significance of nestedness scores. The profusion of measures and null models, many of which give conflicting results, is problematic for comparison of nestedness across different studies. We developed the FALCON software package to allow easy and efficient comparison of nestedness scores and statistical significances for a given input network, using a selection of the more popular measures and null models from the current literature. FALCON currently includes six measures and five null models for nestedness in binary networks, and two measures and four null models for nestedness in weighted networks. The FALCON software is designed to be efficient and easy to use. FALCON code is offered in three languages (R, MATLAB, Octave) and is designed to be modular and extensible, enabling users to easily expand its functionality by adding further measures and null models. FALCON provides a robust methodology for comparing the strength and significance of nestedness in a given bipartite network using multiple measures and null models. It includes an “adaptive ensemble” method to reduce undersampling of the null distribution when calculating statistical significance. It can work with binary or weighted input networks. FALCON is a response to the proliferation of different nestedness measures and associated null models in the literature. It allows easy and efficient calculation of nestedness scores and statistical significances using different methods, enabling comparison of results from different studies and thereby supporting theoretical study of the causes and implications of nestedness in different biological contexts.
Midwifery care in the UK for older mothers
Authors: O'Connor Anita , Doris Faye , Skirton Heather 
Published: August 2014

In many countries, care during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period is often provided by a practising midwife. Despite specific risks associated with pregnancy in advanced maternal age, attention has shifted away from this group of women with regard to fetal screening and testing. This study aimed to explore the experiences of mothers aged 35 years and over during pregnancy and the perinatal period, as it is unclear whether their needs are currently being met by midwives. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected via an online survey tool between May and August 2012 and the study was advertised on the social networking site Twitter. Of the 397 mothers who completed the survey, many reported receiving good midwifery care, but others felt their care needs were not met or were offered inadequate support. Continuing education for midwives and professional leadership is needed, to support practitioners in developing skills essential to care for women.
Three-axis vibration measurement by using a grating-interferometric vibrometer
Authors: Ito So , Aihara Ryo , Kim Woo Jae , Shimizu Yuki , Gao Wei 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Three-axis vibration measurement of the linear air-bearing stage demonstrated by utilizing the method of the multi-axis laser interferometer is discussed. In order to detect the X-Y-Z directional vibration of the positioning stage table simultaneously, two-dimensional XY gratings are utilized as the scale grating and the reference grating of the interferometer. The X- and Y-directional positive and negative first-order diffracted beams are superimposed to generate the interference signals on the photodetectors. When the multi-axis vibration is applied to the scale grating, the intensities of the interference signals in X- and Y-directions varied corresponding to the vibration of the scale grating. Consequently, three-axis vibrations of the scale grating can be calculated by processing the X- and Y-directional positive and negative first-order interference signals. In this paper, a three-axis vibrometer based on the grating-interferometer has been developed for measurement of the positioning stage table vibration. The detection method of the vibration based on the Doppler frequency shift has been demonstrated. As an application of the multi-axis grating-interferometric vibrometer, multi-axis vibrations of the linear air-bearing stage are measured by using the developed vibrometer.
Rapid functionalisation of cellulose-based materials using a mixture containing laccase activated lauryl gallate and sulfonated lignin
Authors: Cusola Oriol , Valls Cristina , Vidal Teresa , Roncero M. Blanca 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
An innovative method has been developed for the surface hydrophobisation of cellulose-based materials by coating it with a functionalised solution (FS), in which sonicated lauryl gallate (LG, dodecyl 3,4,5,-trihydroxybenzoate), sulfonated kraft lignin, and the enzyme laccase play a pivotal role. The rapid treatment with FS increases the hydrophobicity of cellulose sheets considerably. The FS retention on the paper surface was analysed as a function of refining and application of additives. The properties of the functionalised sheets were assessed by the water-drop test (WDT), and the surface free energy (SFE) was determined via contact angle (CA) measurements in a goniophotometer. WDT resulted in long absorption times of up to 4000 s and CA values were around 130°. Functionalised solution modification of eucalyptus paper sheets decreased SFE essentially from 55 mJ m-2 to 10 mJ m-2. ATR-FTIR suggested that FS was grafted onto the cellulosic sheets. The stability of FS and the control solutions were characterised by Z potential and light scattering measurements. The functionalised solution method is a one-step roll-to-roll process, which is easy to perform also in industrial application without additional investments. It has a potential to substitute the traditional hydrophobing processes.
Sweetened kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs): glycan trees as potential regulators of activation and activity
Authors: Guo Shihui , Skala Wolfgang , Magdolen Viktor , Brandstetter Hans , Goettig Peter 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Most kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) are N-glycosylated with N-acetylglucosamine2-mannose9 units at Asn-Xaa-Ser/Thr sequons during protein synthesis and translocation into the endoplasmic reticulum. These N-glycans are modified in the Golgi machinery, where additional O-glycosylation at Ser and Thr takes place, before exocytotic release of the KLKs into the extracellular space. Sequons are present in all 15 members of the KLKs and comparative studies for KLKs from natural and recombinant sources elucidated some aspects of glycosylation. Although glycosylation of mammalian KLKs 1, 3, 4, 6, and 8 has been analyzed in great detail, e.g., by crystal structures, the respective function remains largely unclear. In some cases, altered enzymatic activity was observed for KLKs upon glycosylation. Remarkably, for KLK3/PSA, changes in the glycosylation pattern were observed in samples of benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer with respect to healthy individuals. Potential functions of KLK glycosylation in structural stabilization, protection against degradation, and activity modulation of substrate specificity can be deduced from a comparison with other glycosylated proteins and their regulation. According to the new concept of protein sectors, glycosylation distant from the active site might significantly influence the activity of proteases. Novel pharmacological approaches can exploit engineered glycans in the therapeutical context.
Kallikrein-related peptidase 6 (KLK6) expression in the progression of colon adenoma to carcinoma
Authors: Vakrakou Athina , Devetzi Marina , Papachristopoulou Georgia , Malachias Apostolos , Scorilas Andreas , Xynopoulos Dimitris , Talieri Maroulio 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
KLK6 is a secreted trypsin-like serine protease. KLK6 mRNA expression and its association with colon cancer (CC) progression was studied using quantitative real-time PCR. We examined the expression of KLK6 in 232 colon tissues (cancerous, non-cancerous, and adenomatous). We proved that KLK6 expression in CC behaves as a continuous variable, as its expression correlates significantly with increasing tumor stage (p=0.004) and histological grade (p=0.007). Interestingly, the expression of KLK6 in adenomas was significantly higher than that in the cancerous or non-cancerous tissues examined (p<0.001). Cox proportional hazard regression model using univariate analysis revealed that positive KLK6 expression is a significant factor for disease-free survival (DFS) (p=0.017) and overall survival (OS) (p=0.002) of patients. Kaplan-Meier survival curves demonstrated that KLK6-negative expression is significantly associated with longer DFS (p=0.009) and OS (p=0.001). ROC analysis showed that KLK6 expression has significant discriminatory power in distinguishing cancerous from non-cancerous colon tissues (p<0.001), or cancerous from adenoma tissues (p=0.001), or adenoma from non-cancerous colon tissues (p<0.001). Additionally, strong KLK6 immunostaining was seen in the cancer cells of selected CC sections, as well as in glandular cells and inflammatory cells of adenomas. In conclusion, KLK6 may represent a potential unfavorable prognostic biomarker for CC.
Biaxial Ratcheting of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene: Experiments and Constitutive Modeling
Authors: Asmaz Kerem , Çolak Özgen Ü , Hassan Tasnim 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Responses of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) under biaxial cyclic loading were investigated through systematically conducting experiments. Biaxial experiments on UHMWPE tubular specimens were conducted first by prescribing a steady internal pressure followed by a symmetric axial-strain controlled cycle. The steady internal pressure induced a steady nominal circumferential stress, which under the application of the axial strain-controlled cycle, induced circumferential strain ratcheting in the UHMWPE tubular specimens. Experimentally observed ratcheting responses of UHMWPE under biaxial cyclic loading was simulated using one of the unified state variable theories, the viscoplasticity theory based on overstress for polymers (VBOP). To improve the circumferential strain ratcheting simulation of the VBOP model, the Chaboche kinematic hardening rule was implemented in the model. The simulation of the VBOP model with the classical kinematic hardening model was also carried out to demonstrate the current state of the modeling for UHMWPE. Improvement of the circumferential strain ratcheting simulation by the modified VBOP model is demonstrated; however, simulations also indicate that further model modification will be needed.
Stress–Strain Characteristics and Elastic–Plastic Damage Constitutive Equation of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete Under Cyclic Compression at Medium Strain Rate
Authors: Bai Wei , Wang Qian-Feng 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
An experimental investigation was performed on dynamic compressive stress–strain relationships for steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) with various steel fiber volumetric contents under cyclic compression at a medium strain rate. Results indicate that the mechanical properties of SFRC are not only affected by strain rates but are also influenced by loading modes. The envelope curves of unconfined SFRC are different from those of specimens under monotonic compression. Dynamic compressive strength presents a non-monotonic enhancement with increasing steel fiber content. On the basis of the experimental results of cyclic compression at a medium strain rate, the elastic–plastic damage constitutive equations are proposed to describe the dynamic compressive stress–strain relationships of SFRC under cyclic compression at a medium strain rate. These equations match the test results well.
The Influence of Binder Rheology on the Cracking of Asphalt Mixes in Airport and Highway Projects
Authors: Rowe G. M. , King G. , Anderson M. 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
It is well known that asphalt rheology affects the cracking performance of asphalt binders. For many years researchers have struggled to develop tests that adequately deal with this aspect of pavement performance in a manner that can be incorporated rapidly into a specification. The use of the fatigue parameter developed during the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP), G*sin δ, has been shown to be a poor surrogate for cracking performance. Other tests, such as the direct tension test, used for cold-temperature cracking, also have been implemented poorly into specifications. However, use of the bending beam rheometer as an indicator of cold-temperature cracking has been widely adopted. As a result, a pavement stiffness of 300 MPa has been regarded as a reasonable parameter for cold-temperature cracking performance. The interrelationship between cold-temperature cracking parameters and those selected for fatigue cracking is not well understood. The onset of brittle behavior that occurs around 300 MPa stiffness and the selection of a fatigue parameter G*sin δ at 5 MPa are not wildly divergent in concept. More recently, the Glover–Rowe parameter has been revealed as a good indicator of cracking performance. In this paper we explore those differences that have occurred and make suggestions for the use of alternate parameters to better define the rheology of the binder as it relates to cracking.
Effect of Specimen Thickness and Punch Diameter in Evaluation of Small Punch Test Parameters Toward Characterization of Mechanical Properties of Cr–Mo Steels
Authors: Kannan C. , Bhattacharya S. , Sehgal D. K. , Pandey R. K. 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Small punch tests on circular specimens were conducted using hemispherical tipped punches on Chromium–Molybdenum (Cr–Mo) steels of varying thermal histories. Combinations of punch diameters and sample thicknesses were used to obtain load–load line displacement (LLD) responses of these steels. Characteristic load, displacement, and energy values at transition points on LLD curves were identified and their dependency on punch diameter and sample thicknesses were studied. From the studies, sample thicknesses in the range of 0.4 to 0.5 mm and a punch tip diameter of more than 1.7 mm have been suggested to be used for the application of the SPT test procedure in the assessment of mechanical properties of in-service Cr–Mo steel components.
Selective Whole Genome Amplification for Resequencing Target Microbial Species from Complex Natural Samples
Authors: Leichty Aaron R , Brisson Dustin 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Population genomic analyses have demonstrated power to address major questions in evolutionary and molecular microbiology. Collecting populations of genomes is hindered in many microbial species by the absence of a cost effective and practical method to collect ample quantities of sufficiently pure genomic DNA for next-generation sequencing. Here we present a simple method to amplify genomes of a target microbial species present in a complex, natural sample. The selective whole genome amplification (SWGA) technique amplifies target genomes using nucleotide sequence motifs that are common in the target microbe genome, but rare in the background genomes, to prime the highly processive phi29 polymerase. SWGA thus selectively amplifies the target genome from samples in which it originally represented a minor fraction of the total DNA. The post-SWGA samples are enriched in target genomic DNA, which are ideal for population resequencing. We demonstrate the efficacy of SWGA using both laboratory-prepared mixtures of cultured microbes as well as a natural host–microbe association. Targeted amplification of Borrelia burgdorferi mixed with Escherichia coli at genome ratios of 1:2000 resulted in &gt;105-fold amplification of the target genomes with &lt;6.7-fold amplification of the background. SWGA-treated genomic extracts from Wolbachia pipientis-infected Drosophila melanogaster resulted in up to 70% of high-throughput resequencing reads mapping to the W. pipientis genome. By contrast, 2–9% of sequencing reads were derived from W. pipientis without prior amplification. The SWGA technique results in high sequencing coverage at a fraction of the sequencing effort, thus allowing population genomic studies at affordable costs.
Localized Juvenile Spongiotic Gingival Inflammation: A Report on 3 Cases
Authors: Petruțiu Ștefan Adrian , Roman Alexandra , Soancă Andrada , Sârbu Ciprian , Stratul Ștefan Ioan 
Published: August 2014

Background and Aims: A new pathological entity with distinct clinico-pathological features has been recently described and termed as juvenile spongiotic gingivitis. Histopathological associated features are unique and characterized by prominent intercellular edema (spongiosis) and neutrophil infiltrate. The aims of this paper were to: introduce juvenile spongiotic gingivitis to the dental and pediatric communities, to report three cases based on clinical and histopathological findings, and to discuss the most common clinical differential diagnoses. The cases were documented at baseline and follow-ups. The clinical appearance of the lesions described in this paper correspond to the pattern described by the literature: 1) localized lesions as bright red slightly raised overgrowths, most often with a subtle papillary or finely granular surface; or 2) multifocal masses or raised papular lesions with a pebbly texture. The first intention treatment approach was personal and professional plaque control. Because of the lack of a good clinical response to conventional therapy, excisional biopsies were performed, which helped establish the diagnosis. The plaque control was reinforced and additional antiseptic local treatment was administered. A real improvement in the local gingival conditions was recorded for all the patients. However, because of the persistence of some bright reddish gingival masses in one of the patients these lesions were treated by surgical excision. The overall clinical outcome was good and stable after one year. Conclusions: The presented cases might raise awareness of this condition among orthodontic specialists because orthodontic treatment could not be applied until the gingival gum disease was resolved
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is associated with intestinal inflammation in the irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: David Liliana , Babin Alexandru , Picos Alina , Dumitrascu Dan Lucian 
Published: August 2014

Background and aim. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is encountered in bowel disorders, including irritable bowel symptoms. Low degrees of inflammation have been recently reported in the irritable bowel syndrome. We looked for the association between intestinal inflammation and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in irritable bowel syndrome.Methods. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth was assessed by the H2 glucose breath test in 90 consecutive patients with irritable bowel syndrome. A check-up of the oral cavity was carried out before the breath testing. Further on, the patients were classified into two groups, positive and negative, at the breath test. Then they were tested for intestinal inflammation with a fecal test for calprotectin. We used a semiquantitative test for this study. Both groups were compared for the association of intestinal inflammation with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.Results. A number of 24/90 (26.7%) patients with irritable bowel syndrome had small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. A positive test for intestinal inflammation was significantly more frequent in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (chi2: p<0.05).Conclusions. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is present in almost one quarter of patients with irritable bowel syndrome. It is significantly associated with intestinal inflammation.
Distúrbios de fala e dificuldades de aprendizagem no ensino fundamental
Authors: Goulart Bárbara Niegia Garcia de , Chiari Brasília M. 
Published: August 2014

Objetivo verificar a associação entre distúrbios de fala e repetência escolar. Métodos uma amostra aleatória de 1.810 crianças regularmente matriculadas na 1ª série do ensino fundamental de escolas públicas foram submetidas a um teste de rastreamento de distúrbios de fala (TERDAF). Os dados referentes à idade e ao histórico de repetência das crianças foram coletados nos registros da escola. A associação entre distúrbios de fala e repetência escolar foram calculadas pela razão de prevalência e intervalo de confiança 95%. Resultados a prevalência de distúrbio de fala nesta amostra foi de 25%, considerando os valores de sensibilidade e especificidade do teste de triagem utilizado. Também foi verificado que as crianças com distúrbios de fala possuem 1,3 vezes (IC 95% 1,1-1,5) o risco de apresentar história de repetência, quando comparadas aos seus pares sem distúrbio de fala. O risco de repetência atribuível ao distúrbio de fala foi de 6,2. Conclusão o distúrbio de fala entre crianças que frequentam a primeira série do ensino fundamental apresenta alta prevalência e está associado com dificuldades de aprendizagem que venham a resultar em repetência escolar, mesmo quando na ausência de dificuldade auditiva detectável.
Clinical Benefits of Above-Standard Dose of Octreotide LAR in Patients With Neuroendocrine Tumors for Control of Carcinoid Syndrome Symptoms: A Multicenter Retrospective Chart Review Study
Authors: Strosberg Jonathan R. , Benson Al B. , Huynh Lynn , Duh Mei Sheng , Goldman Jamie , Sahai Vaibhav , Rademaker Alfred W. , Kulke Matthew H. 
Published: August 2014

Abstract

Background.
Octreotide LAR is used in patients for control of carcinoid syndrome (CS) and other symptoms of hormone hypersecretion. The aim of this study was to examine reasons for octreotide LAR dose escalation and observe CS symptom improvement in patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) who underwent octreotide LAR dose escalation at three cancer referral centers.

Methods.
Medical records for patients with diagnosis of carcinoid or pancreatic NET who had received one dose or more of octreotide LAR above 30 mg every 4 weeks from 2000 to 2012 were reviewed. Reasons for dose escalation and symptomatic outcomes were abstracted for each patient 3 months prior to and up to 12 months following the dose escalation.

Results.
Of the evaluated 239 NET patients, 53% were male, mean age at first dose escalation was 60 years (standard deviation [SD]: 11 years), and mean time from octreotide LAR initiation to first dose escalation was 1.7 years (SD: 2.0 years). The primary reasons reported for dose escalation were carcinoid or hormonal syndrome (62%) or radiographic progression (28%). The most common dose changes at the first dose escalation were 40 mg every 4 weeks (71%) and 60 mg every 4 weeks (18%). Of 90 patients in whom flushing was reported prior to first dose escalation, 73 (81%) were reported to have experienced improvement or resolution of their symptoms following the dose escalation. Of 107 patients who were reported to have experienced diarrhea before the first dose escalation, 85 (79%) were reported to have experienced improvement or resolution after first dose escalation.

Conclusion.
The goal of improved symptom control is a common reason for dose escalation of octreotide LAR. This study suggests that escalation to above the standard dose of octreotide LAR of 30 mg every 4 weeks may result in improved CS symptom control.