bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between high cumulative dose of benzodiazepine in Chinese patients and risk of dementia: a preliminary retrospective case–control study
Authors: Chan Tsz‐tai , Leung William Chun‐yin , Li Victor , Wong Kin‐yiu Wesley , Chu Wing‐ming , Leung Ka‐chun , Ng Yuey‐zhun , Kai Yuen‐ming Gary , Shea Yat‐fung , Chang Shek‐kwan Richard , Chu Leung‐wing
Published: February 2017

Background

Evidence describing the association between high‐dose benzodiazepine use and dementia has been conflicting. Most previous studies involved Caucasian populations, with only limited data on Chinese subjects. Possible differences exist between Chinese and Caucasian populations with regard to metabolism and prescription practice. This study aimed to assess the association between high‐dose benzodiazepine use and dementia in a Chinese population.

Method

A retrospective case–control study was carried out in all public hospitals under the Hong Kong Hospital Authority Hong Kong West Cluster between 2000 and 2015. The study recruited 273 Chinese adults (91 cases, 182 controls) aged 75 and over, with at least 6 years of follow‐up data. Each dementia case was matched with two controls according to sex, age group, and duration of follow‐up. The number of patients with benzodiazepine ever‐use and the exposure density based on the prescribed daily doses were assessed. Prescribed daily doses were categorized as either <1096 or ≥1096. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were computed by multivariate analysis.

Results

The difference in exposure density between the dementia and control groups was statistically significant between prescribed daily doses <1096 and ≥1096 (P = 0.02). There were two multivariate analyses models; one factored in depression (model 1), and the other (model 2) did not. Model 2 showed a statistically significant association (odds ratio = 1.71, 95% confidence intervals = 1.02–2.89, P = 0.04) between benzodiazepine exposure density and dementia.

Conclusion

High‐dose benzodiazepine use may be associated with dementia in the Chinese population. Prospective studies are required.
Tree and bird functional groups as indicators of recovery of regenerating subtropical coastal dune forests
Authors: Rolo Victor , Olivier Pieter I. , van Aarde Rudolph
Published: February 2017

Functional diversity indicators are increasingly used to monitor forest function recovery because they connect biodiversity to ecosystem functions. However, identifying which functions deviate from a reference forest has not received much attention, despite its potential to inform restoration interventions. In this study, we used functional groups to assess the recovery of ecosystem functions in regenerating coastal dune forests. We surveyed birds and trees in forest of different ages and a reference old‐growth forest in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa. We classified species into functional groups for each taxa based on functional traits or a priori defined categories (i.e. guilds) and quantified the number of species within functional groups as a proxy of function stability. Bird species density followed an asymptotic trajectory, reaching old‐growth forest values after 25 years. Insectivores and granivores showed saturating trajectories, whereas small frugivores and generalists increased linearly. With the exception of large frugivores, relative abundances of bird functional groups progressed towards old‐growth forest values as the forest aged. Tree species density increased linearly with forest age. In contrast to old‐growth forests, large‐canopy trees and understory shrubs were under‐represented, while mid‐canopy trees dominated regenerating forests. Our result suggests that most bird, but not tree, functions may have been restored. The trend in large frugivore numbers may warrant further investigation, as their low numbers may have hampered the recovery of tree functions. We conclude that functional group trajectories can track functions that deviate from a benchmark, and may therefore direct adaptive actions to recover the stability of regenerating forest.
Aid, Environment and Climate Change
Authors: Arndt Channing , Tarp Finn
Published: February 2017

Aid and aid institutions constitute an important element of the global response to interlinked global developmental and environmental challenges. As such, these institutions are now being drawn into new arenas beyond the traditional focus on improving the livelihoods of poor people in low‐income countries. Development aid, by itself, cannot “save the planet.” Nevertheless, development aid and development institutions do have the potential to become important catalytic actors in achieving developmental and global environmental objectives. This requires bold reforms and political action. Without appropriate restructuring of the international institutional architecture to confront the new development context combined with the necessary complementary policy frameworks, future aid, including aid for environmental objectives, risks substantially under‐performing.
Facilitating and inhibiting factors in transition to parenthood – ways in which health professionals can support parents
Authors: Barimani Mia , Vikström Anna , Rosander Michael , Forslund Frykedal Karin , Berlin Anita
Published: February 2017

Background

The transition to parenthood is an overwhelming life event. From a theoretical perspective, transition to parenthood is a developmental transition that contains certain phases and patterns.

Aim

This study aim was twofold (i) discover, describe and comprehend transitional conditions that parents perceive as facilitating and inhibiting during transition to parenthood and to (ii) use that knowledge to develop recommendations for professional interventions that support and facilitate transition to parenthood.

Design

Meleis transition theory framed the study's deductive qualitative approach – from planning to analysis.

Methods

In a secondary analysis, data were analysed (as per Meleis transition theory) from two studies that implemented interviews with 60 parents in Sweden between 2013 and 2014. Interview questions dealt with parents’ experiences of the transition to parenthood – in relation to experiences with parent‐education groups, professional support and continuity after childbirth.

Ethical issues

A university research ethics board has approved the research.

Results

These factors facilitated transition to parenthood: perceiving parenthood as a normal part of life; enjoying the child's growth; being prepared and having knowledge; experiencing social support; receiving professional support, receiving information about resources within the health care; participating in well‐functioning parent‐education groups; and hearing professionals comment on gender differences as being complementary. These factors inhibited transition to parenthood: having unrealistic expectations; feeling stress and loss of control; experiencing breastfeeding demands and lack of sleep; facing a judgmental attitude about breastfeeding; being unprepared for reality; lacking information about reality; lacking professional support and information; lacking healthcare resources; participating in parent‐education groups that did not function optimally; and hearing professionals accentuate gender differences in a problematic way.

Conclusion

Transition theory is appropriate for helping professionals understand and identify practices that might support parents during transition to parenthood. The study led to certain recommendations that are important for professionals to consider.
How do low‐birthweight neonates fare 2 years after discharge from a low‐technology neonatal care unit in a rural district hospital in Burundi?
Authors: van den Boogaard W. , Zuniga I. , Manzi M. , Van den Bergh R. , Lefevre A. , Nanan‐N'zeth K. , Duchenne B. , Etienne W. , Juma N. , Ndelema B. , Zachariah R. , Reid A.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

As neonatal care is being scaled up in economically poor settings, there is a need to know more on post‐hospital discharge and longer‐term outcomes. Of particular interest are mortality, prevalence of developmental impairments and malnutrition, all known to be worse in low‐birthweight neonates (LBW, <2500 g). Getting a better handle on these parameters might justify and guide support interventions. Two years after hospital discharge, we thus assessed: mortality, developmental impairments and nutritional status of LBW children.

Methods

Household survey of LBW neonates discharged from a neonatal special care unit in Rural Burundi between January and December 2012.

Results

Of 146 LBW neonates, 23% could not be traced and 4% had died. Of the remaining 107 children (median age = 27 months), at least one developmental impairment was found in 27%, with 8% having at least five impairments. Main impairments included delays in motor development (17%) and in learning and speech (12%). Compared to LBW children (n = 100), very‐low‐birthweight (VLBW, <1500 g, n = 7) children had a significantly higher risk of impairments (intellectual – P = 0.001), needing constant supervision and creating a household burden (P = 0.009). Of all children (n‐107), 18% were acutely malnourished, with a 3½ times higher risk in VLBWs (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Reassuringly, most children were thriving 2 years after discharge. However, malnutrition was prevalent and one in three manifested developmental impairments (particularly VLBWs) echoing the need for support programmes. A considerable proportion of children could not be traced, and this emphasises the need for follow‐up systems post‐discharge.
The Roles of Teacher and Students in Self-directed Learning Process Through Blended Problem-Based Learning
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd Mokhzani , Arshad Mohammad Yusof , Rosli Mohd Shafie , A.Shukor Nurbiha
Published: February 2017

Self-directed learning is an important skill highlighted in the 21st century learning. Hence, developing this skill through problem-based learning (PBL) is deemed to be potentially effective. However, PBL is still not widely implemented in Malaysian classrooms. The integration of face-to-face and online learning known as blended problem-based learning (BPBL) is potentially effective in improving PBL by enhancing teacher’s and students’ roles in self-directed learning. Thus, this research aims to investigate the roles of teacher and students in the process of self-directed learning (formulating learning issues) in BPBL by using basic qualitative approach. Data was collected from observations, interviews and documents (FILA chart). By using purposive sampling, twenty-five (25) students and a teacher from a school in Johor district were selected as the sample. The students were divided into five groups. The teacher and students’ roles in two randomly selected groups were compared. The results indicated that the teacher faced difficulties in monitoring students’ progress and some students were passive in the BPBL.
Wrinkling of Tympanic Membrane Under Unbalanced Pressure
Authors: Wang Bo , Ghanta Pravarsha , Vinnikova Sandra , Bao Siyuan , Liang Junfeng , Lu Hongbing , Wang Shuodao
Published: February 2017

Mechanics of tympanic membrane (TM) is crucial for investigating the acoustic transmission through the ear. In this study, we studied the wrinkling behavior of tympanic membrane when it is exposed to mismatched air pressure between the ambient and the middle ear. The Rayleigh–Ritz method is adopted to analyze the critical wrinkling pressure and the fundamental eigenmode. An approximate analytical solution is obtained and validated by finite element analysis (FEA). The model will be useful in future investigations on how the wrinkling deformation of the TM alters the acoustic transmission function of the ear.
A Reflective Case Study of Sport Psychology Support at the Lacrosse World Cup
Authors: McGregor Philippa , Winter Stacy
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this paper is to share and reflect on personal experiences of providing sport psychology support to an international lacrosse squad during their World Cup participation. Based on the needs analysis assessments from observation reports and informal communications, key areas of support included: (1) creating structure and routine, (2) facilitating team reflections, (3) goal setting, (4) game preparation, and (5) providing off-field support. Working with this team exposed the dynamic nature of sport psychology consultancy, and the unpredictability of what is required from a team in a high-performance setting. Individual consultancy through informal communications with players signaled the importance of supporting the person beyond their role as an athlete. Team-level support via group workshop sessions was predominantly performance-related, and required the adoption of solution-focused approaches given the time pressure on strategies to be effective. The support facilitated team organization and preparation, which enabled players to be both mentally and physically ready for each game. Establishing stable routines, game plans, and clear goals, and having adequate reflection and feedback time were reported by the players as important facets of their World Cup experience and success.
Therapy with CTLA4-Ig and an antiviral monoclonal antibody controls chikungunya virus arthritis
Authors: Miner Jonathan J. , Cook Lindsey E. , Hong Jun P. , Smith Amber M. , Richner Justin M. , Shimak Raeann M. , Young Alissa R. , Monte Kristen , Poddar Subhajit , Crowe James E. , Lenschow Deborah J. , Diamond Michael S.
Published: February 2017

Combination therapy with CTLA4-Ig and an antiviral human monoclonal antibody controls chikungunya virus arthritis in mice.
Platelet-localized FXI promotes a vascular coagulation-inflammatory circuit in arterial hypertension
Authors: Kossmann Sabine , Lagrange Jeremy , Jäckel Sven , Jurk Kerstin , Ehlken Moritz , Schönfelder Tanja , Weihert Yvonne , Knorr Maike , Brandt Moritz , Xia Ning , Li Huige , Daiber Andreas , Oelze Matthias , Reinhardt Christoph , Lackner Karl , Gruber Andras , Monia Brett , Karbach Susanne H. , Walter Ulrich , Ruggeri Zaverio M. , Renné Thomas , Ruf Wolfram , Münzel Thomas , Wenzel Philip
Published: February 2017

Blockade of an inflammatory, thrombin-activated feedback loop on platelets controls high blood pressure.
2-Hydroxyglutarate produced by neomorphic IDH mutations suppresses homologous recombination and induces PARP inhibitor sensitivity
Authors: Sulkowski Parker L. , Corso Christopher D. , Robinson Nathaniel D. , Scanlon Susan E. , Purshouse Karin R. , Bai Hanwen , Liu Yanfeng , Sundaram Ranjini K. , Hegan Denise C. , Fons Nathan R. , Breuer Gregory A. , Song Yuanbin , Mishra-Gorur Ketu , De Feyter Henk M. , de Graaf Robin A. , Surovtseva Yulia V. , Kachman Maureen , Halene Stephanie , Günel Murat , Glazer Peter M. , Bindra Ranjit S.
Published: February 2017

The oncometabolite 2-hydroxyglutarate renders IDH1/2 mutant cancer cells deficient in homologous recombination and confers vulnerability to synthetic lethal targeting with PARP inhibitors.
Differential Binding of Mitochondrial Transcripts by MRB8170 and MRB4160 Regulates Distinct Editing Fates of Mitochondrial mRNA in Trypanosomes
Authors: Dixit Sameer , Müller-McNicoll Michaela , David Vojtěch , Zarnack Kathi , Ule Jernej , Hashimi Hassan , Lukeš Julius
Published: February 2017

A dozen mRNAs are edited by multiple insertions and/or deletions of uridine residues in the mitochondrion of
Trypanosoma brucei
. Several protein complexes have been implicated in performing this type of RNA editing, including the mitochondrial RNA-binding complex 1 (MRB1). Two paralogous novel RNA-binding proteins, MRB8170 and MRB4160, are loosely associated with the core MRB1 complex. Their roles in RNA editing and effects on target mRNAs are so far not well understood. In this study, individual-nucleotide-resolution UV-cross-linking and affinity purification (iCLAP) revealed a preferential binding of both proteins to mitochondrial mRNAs, which was positively correlated with their extent of editing. Integrating additional
in vivo
and
in vitro
data, we propose that binding of MRB8170 and/or MRB4160 onto pre-mRNA marks it for the initiation of editing and that initial binding of both proteins may facilitate the recruitment of other components of the RNA editing/processing machinery to ensure efficient editing. Surprisingly, MRB8170 also binds never-edited mRNAs, suggesting that at least this paralog has an additional role outside RNA editing to shape the mitochondrial transcriptome.

IMPORTANCE
Trypanosoma brucei
mitochondrial mRNAs undergo maturation by RNA editing, a unique process involving decrypting open reading frames by the precise deletion and/or insertion of uridine (U) residues at specific positions on an mRNA. This process is catalyzed by multiprotein complexes, such as the RNA editing core complex, which provides the enzymatic activities needed for U insertion/deletion at a single editing site. Less well understood is how RNA editing occurs throughout an mRNA bearing multiple sites. To address this question, we mapped at single-nucleotide resolution the RNA interactions of two unique RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). These RBPs are part of the mitochondrial RNA-binding complex 1, hypothesized to mediate multiple rounds of RNA editing. Both RBPs were shown to mark mRNAs for the process in correlation with the number of editing sites on the transcript. Surprisingly, one also binds mRNAs that bypass RNA editing, indicating that it may have an additional role outside RNA editing.
Risk of cumulative toxicity after complete melanoma response with pembrolizumab
Authors: Hsieh Amy Hsin-Chieh , Faithfull Sarah , Brown Michael P
Published: February 2017

Pembrolizumab is an approved first-line systemic therapy for unresectable metastatic melanoma. Despite the achievement of complete and durable responses in a small subgroup of patients, it is standard practice that pembrolizumab therapy continues beyond complete response. Nevertheless, the incidence of immune-related toxicities gradually increases with continuing pembrolizumab therapy. We report a case highlighting the occurrence of serious induced immune-related adverse events, which were attributed to pembrolizumab in a patient with metastatic melanoma who obtained a complete response (CR) after receiving pembrolizumab for a total of 6.5 months. Although mild pembrolizumab-related toxicity persists, the patient remains disease-free 5.5 months after discontinuation of pembrolizumab. Accordingly, we believe that cessation of pembrolizumab should be considered in patients who achieve a CR because of the ongoing risk of toxicity with extended pembrolizumab administration.
Density functional study of metal–phosphorene interfaces
Authors: Maity Ajanta , Sen Prasenjit
Published: February 2017

Properties of interfaces of a phosphorene monolayer with six different low-index metal surfaces are calculated using density functional methods. Pd(111), Pd(110), Pd(100), Ti(0001), Au(110) and Ni(110) surfaces have been considered as these metals have been used as electrodes in experimental studies of phosphorene-based field effect transistor (FET) devices. In order to understand the chemistry of metal–phosphorene bonding, adsorption of individual atoms of these four metals on a phosphorene monolayer has also been studied. In addition to structural and electronic properties, barriers for charge injection at these metal–phosphorene interfaces have been studied by calculating the Schottky and tunneling barrier heights. Ti appears to be the best choice for metal electrode in phosphorene devices.
Screening masses of photons interacting with a two-species fermionic system in relativistic BCS–BEC crossover
Authors: Huang Xun , Cai Wei-Min , Guo Hao
Published: February 2017

We address the behavior of Debye and Meissner masses of photons in a condensate of fermion pairs in the presence of number density asymmetry. Our formalism applies to a two-species fermionic system with number density asymmetry in BCS–Bose–Einstein condensation (BEC)–relativistic BEC crossover and with variable rapidity. Our results recover the known results of the photon self-energy in the ultrarelativistic limit and the superfluid density in the nonrelativistic limit. We further consider the electromagnetic stability of the condensate and show that the Meissner mass squared can become negative in the weakly coupling BCS regime and the strongly coupling relativistic BEC regime. The electromagnetic instability is compared to the mechanical stability discussed in previous works.
Light dynamics in nonlinear trimers and twisted multicore fibers
Authors: Castro-Castro Claudia , Shen Yannan , Srinivasan Gowri , Aceves Alejandro B. , Kevrekidis Panayotis G.
Published: February 2017

Novel photonic structures such as multicore fibers and graphene based arrays present unique opportunities to manipulate and control the propagation of light. Here, we discuss nonlinear dynamics for structures with a few (2–6) elements for which linear and nonlinear properties can be tuned. Specifically, we show how nonlinearity, coupling, and parity–time ([Formula: see text]) symmetric gain/loss relate to existence, stability and in general, dynamical properties of nonlinear optical modes. The main emphasis of our presentation will be on systems with few degrees of freedom, most notably couplers, trimers and generalizations thereof to systems with six nodes.
A note on Li’s coefficients for Hecke L-functions
Authors: Omar Sami , Ouni Raouf
Published: February 2017

Recently, the Li criterion for the Riemann hypothesis has been extended for a general class of [Formula: see text]-functions, so-called the Selberg class [S. Omar and K. Mazhouda, Le critère de Li et l’hypothèse de Riemann pour la classe de Selberg, J. Number Theory 125(1) (2007) 50–58; Corrigendum et addendum à “Le critère de Li et l’hypothèse de Riemann pour la classe de Selberg” [J. Number Theory 125(1) (2007) 50–58], J. Number Theory 130(4) (2010) 1109–1114]. Further numerical computations have been done to verify the positivity of some Li coefficients for the Dirichlet [Formula: see text]-functions and the Hecke [Formula: see text]-functions [S. Omar, R. Ouni and K. Mazhouda, On the zeros of Dirichlet [Formula: see text]-functions, LMS J. Comput. Math. 14 (2011) 140–154; On the Li coefficients for the Hecke [Formula: see text]-functions, Math. Phys. Anal. Geom. 17(1–2) (2014) 67–81]. Based on the latter numerical experiments, it was conjectured that those coefficients are increasing in [Formula: see text]. In this note, we show actually that the Riemann hypothesis holds if and only if the Li coefficients for the Hecke [Formula: see text]-functions are increasing in [Formula: see text].
Digital Receivers for Low-Frequency Radio Telescopes UTR-2, URAN, GURT
Authors: Zakharenko V. , Konovalenko A. , Zarka P. , Ulyanov O. , Sidorchuk M. , Stepkin S. , Koliadin V. , Kalinichenko N. , Stanislavsky A. , Dorovskyy V. , Shepelev V. , Bubnov I. , Yerin S. , Melnik V. , Koval A. , Shevchuk N. , Vasylieva I. , Mylostna K. , Shevtsova A. , Skoryk A. , Kravtsov I. , Volvach Y. , Plakhov M. , Vasilenko N. , Vasylkivskyi Y. , Vavriv D. , Vinogradov V. , Kozhin R. , Kravtsov A. , Bulakh E. , Kuzin A. , Vasilyev A. , Ryabov V. , Reznichenko A. , Bortsov V. , Lisachenko V. , Kvasov G. , Mukha D. , Litvinenko G. , Brazhenko A. , Vashchishin R. , Pylaev O. , Koshovyy V. , Lozinsky A. , Ivantyshyn O. , Rucker H. O. , Panchenko M. , Fischer G. , Lecacheux A. , Denis L. , Coffre A. , Grießmeier J.-M.
Published: February 2017

This paper describes digital radio astronomical receivers used for decameter and meter wavelength observations. Since 1998, digital receivers performing on-the-fly dynamic spectrum calculations or waveform data recording without data loss have been used at the UTR-2 radio telescope, the URAN VLBI system, and the GURT new generation radio telescope. Here, we detail these receivers developed for operation in the strong interference environment that prevails in the decameter wavelength range. Data collected with these receivers allowed us to discover numerous radio astronomical objects and phenomena at low frequencies, a summary of which is also presented.
Investigation of the Effect of “Fog of War” in the Prediction of StarCraft Strategy Using Machine Learning
Authors: Cho Hochul , Park Hyunsoo , Kim Chang-Yeun , Kim Kyung-Joong
Published: February 2017

StarCraft is a well-known real-time strategy game developed by Blizzard Entertainment in 1998. One of the characteristics of this game is “fog of war,” which refers to the fact that players cannot see their opponents' regions but only their own unit. This characteristic of the game means that the information required in order to predicting the opponent's strategy is only available through “scouting.” Although the “fog of war” is one of the most important features of the game, it has not been deeply understood in the design of artificial intelligence. In this work, we propose to investigate the effect of the “fog of war” in the prediction of opponent's strategy using machine learning for human players and artificial intelligence (AI) bots. To realize this analysis, we develop a customized replay analyzer that exports the internal game events with/without the fog of war. In the experimental results, we collect replays from various sources: human vs. human, human vs. AI bots, and AI bots vs. AI bots. This systematic analysis with “fog of war” reveals the predictability of the machine-learning algorithms on different conditions and the directions for designing new artificial intelligence for the game.
Political Economy of Taxation
Authors: Kiser Edgar , Karceski Steven M.
Published: February 2017

This review uses theories of political economy to provide an analytical history of systems of taxation, focusing on the determinants of total tax revenue, tax structure, and tax administration. We show that most premodern states extracted very little revenue and that total revenue increased substantially in the nineteenth century, and we explore the possibility that tax revenues have hit a ceiling in the developed world. Our history of tax structure begins by discussing the highly regressive premodern tax systems, turns to the causes of the rise of progressive taxation in the twentieth century, and concludes by arguing that the short era of progressive taxation may be ending. The sections on tax administration discuss the many varieties of premodern patrimonialism, the determinants of the development and diffusion of bureaucratic administration, and the difficulty of taxing wealth in the modern world.
Rest interval duration does not influence adaptations in acid/base transport proteins following 10 wk of sprint-interval training in active women
Authors: McGinley Cian , Bishop David J.
Published: February 2017

The removal of protons (H+) produced during intense exercise is important for skeletal muscle function, yet it remains unclear how best to structure exercise training to improve muscle pH regulation. We investigated whether 4 wk of work-matched sprint-interval trining (SIT), performed 3 days/wk, with either 1 ( Rest-1; n = 7) or 5 ( Rest-5; n = 7) min of rest between sprints, influenced adaptations in acid/base transport protein content, nonbicarbonate muscle buffer capacity (βmin vitro), and exercise capacity in active women. Following 1 wk of posttesting, comprising a biopsy, a repeated-sprint ability (RSA) test, and a graded-exercise test, maintenance of adaptations was then studied by reducing SIT volume to 1 day/wk for a further 5 wk. After 4 wk of SIT, there was increased protein abundance of monocarboxylate transporter (MCT)-1, sodium/hydrogen exchanger (NHE)-1, and carbonic anhydrase (CA) XIV for both groups, but rest interval duration did not influence the adaptive response. In contrast, greater improvements in total work performed during the RSA test after 4 wk of SIT were evident for Rest-5 compared with Rest-1 (effect size: 0.51; 90% confidence limits ±0.37), whereas both groups had similarly modest improvements in V̇o2peak. When training volume was reduced to 1 day/wk, enhanced acid/base transport protein abundance was maintained, although NHE1 content increased further for Rest-5 only. Finally, our data support intracellular lactate as a signaling molecule for inducing MCT1 expression, but neither lactate nor H+ accumulation appears to be important signaling factors in MCT4 regulation.
Mitochondrial Ferritin Deletion Exacerbates β‐Amyloid‐Induced Neurotoxicity in Mice
Authors: Wang Peina , Wu Qiong , Wu Wenyue , Li Haiyan , Guo Yuetong , Yu Peng , Gao Guofen , Shi Zhenhua , Zhao Baolu , Chang Yan-Zhong
Published: February 2017

Mitochondrial ferritin (FtMt) is a mitochondrial iron storage protein which protects mitochondria from iron‐induced oxidative damage. Our previous studies indicate that FtMt attenuates β‐amyloid‐ and 6‐hydroxydopamine‐induced neurotoxicity in SH‐SY5Y cells. To explore the protective effects of FtMt on β‐amyloid‐induced memory impairment and neuronal apoptosis and the mechanisms involved, 10‐month‐old wild‐type and Ftmt knockout mice were infused intracerebroventricularly (ICV) with Aβ25–35 to establish an Alzheimer’s disease model. Knockout of Ftmt significantly exacerbated Aβ25–35‐induced learning and memory impairment. The Bcl‐2/Bax ratio in mouse hippocampi was decreased and the levels of cleaved caspase‐3 and PARP were increased. The number of neuronal cells undergoing apoptosis in the hippocampus was also increased in Ftmt knockout mice. In addition, the levels of L‐ferritin and FPN1 in the hippocampus were raised, and the expression of TfR1 was decreased. Increased MDA levels were also detected in Ftmt knockout mice treated with Aβ25–35. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the neurological impairment induced by Aβ25–35 was exacerbated in Ftmt knockout mice and that this may relate to increased levels of oxidative stress.
A Hybrid Domain Degradation Feature Extraction Method for Motor Bearing Based on Distance Evaluation Technique
Authors: Chen Baiyan , Li Hongru , Yu He , Wang Yukui
Published: February 2017

The vibration signal of the motor bearing has strong nonstationary and nonlinear characteristics, and it is arduous to accurately recognize the degradation state of the motor bearing with traditional single time or frequency domain indexes. A hybrid domain feature extraction method based on distance evaluation technique (DET) is proposed to solve this problem. Firstly, the vibration signal of the motor bearing is decomposed by ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD). The proper intrinsic mode function (IMF) component that is the most sensitive to the degradation of the motor bearing is selected according to the sensitive IMF selection algorithm based on the similarity evaluation. Then the distance evaluation factor of each characteristic parameter is calculated by the DET method. The differential method is used to extract sensitive characteristic parameters which compose the characteristic matrix. And then the extracted degradation characteristic matrix is used as the input of support vector machine (SVM) to identify the degradation state. Finally, It is demonstrated that the proposed hybrid domain feature extraction method has higher recognition accuracy and shorter recognition time by comparative analysis. The positive performance of the method is verified.
Using an Integrated Group Decision Method Based on SVM, TFN‐RS‐AHP, and TOPSIS‐CD for Cloud Service Supplier Selection
Authors: Li Lian-hui , Hang Jiu-cheng , Gao Yang , Mu Chun-yang
Published: February 2017

To solve the cloud service supplier selection problem under the background of cloud computing emergence, an integrated group decision method is proposed. The cloud service supplier selection index framework is built from two perspectives of technology and technology management. Support vector machine‐ (SVM‐) based classification model is applied for the preliminary screening to reduce the number of candidate suppliers. A triangular fuzzy number‐rough sets‐analytic hierarchy process (TFN‐RS‐AHP) method is designed to calculate supplier’s index value by expert’s wisdom and experience. The index weight is determined by criteria importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC). The suppliers are evaluated by the improved TOPSIS replacing Euclidean distance with connection distance (TOPSIS‐CD). An electric power enterprise’s case is given to illustrate the correctness and feasibility of the proposed method.
Modelling the Potential Role of Media Campaigns in Ebola Transmission Dynamics
Authors: Djiomba Njankou Sylvie Diane , Nyabadza Farai
Published: February 2017

A six-compartment mathematical model is formulated to investigate the role of media campaigns in Ebola transmission dynamics. The model includes tweets or messages sent by individuals in different compartments. The media campaigns reproduction number is computed and used to discuss the stability of the disease states. The presence of a backward bifurcation as well as a forward bifurcation is shown together with the existence and local stability of the endemic equilibrium. Results show that messages sent through media have a more significant beneficial effect on the reduction of Ebola cases if they are more effective and spaced out.
Dual Roles of IL-27 in Cancer Biology and Immunotherapy
Authors: Fabbi Marina , Carbotti Grazia , Ferrini Silvano
Published: February 2017

IL-27 is a pleiotropic two-chain cytokine, composed of EBI3 and IL-27p28 subunits, which is structurally related to both IL-12 and IL-6 cytokine families. IL-27 acts through a heterodimer receptor consisting of IL-27Rα(WSX1) and gp130 chains, which mediate signaling predominantly through STAT1 and STAT3. IL-27 was initially reported as an immune-enhancing cytokine that supports CD4+T cell proliferation, T helper (Th)1 cell differentiation, and IFN-γproduction, acting in concert with IL-12. However, subsequent studies demonstrated that IL-27 displays complex immune-regulatory functions, which may result in either proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory effects in relationship to the biological context and experimental models considered. Several pieces of evidence, obtained in preclinical tumor models, indicated that IL-27 has a potent antitumor activity, related not only to the induction of tumor-specific Th1 and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses but also to direct inhibitory effects on tumor cell proliferation, survival, invasiveness, and angiogenic potential. Nonetheless, given its immune-regulatory functions, the effects of IL-27 on cancer may be dual and protumor effects may also occur. Here, we will summarize IL-27 biological activities and its functional overlaps with the IFNs and discuss its dual role in tumors in the light of potential applications to cancer immunotherapy.
Fixation of a Proximal Humeral Fracture Using a Novel Intramedullary Cage Construct following a Failed Conservative Treatment
Authors: Macy John
Published: February 2017

A majority of proximal humeral fractures are preferably treated conservatively. However, surgical management may be beneficial in proximal humeral fractures with significant displacement or angulation. Unfortunately, the complication rates associated with current surgical procedures for fracture fixation, ORIF and IM devices, can be unacceptably high. A new technology, termed the PH Cage, addresses the technical limitations associated with current technologies available for fixation of proximal humeral fractures. It allows for intramedullary fixation of a PH fracture and provides direct load bearing support to the articular surface and buttresses the medial column during healing. We are presenting our first experience with the PH Cage for the fixation of a PH fracture, which had previously failed conservative management.
A Study on the Convergence of Family Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: An Zhenzhou , Wang Xiaoyan , Shi Xinling
Published: February 2017

The sociological concept of family has been introduced in the particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the family PSO (FPSO) has been proposed, in which the particle swarm consisted of different families, each family consisted of different members, and there were different constraint relationships between family members. To further study the sensitivity of FPSO to the control parameters, this paper proposed a special model of FPSO and analyzed the convergence of FPSO theoretically. This model offered a new view to research the particle trajectory and divided the position sequence of particle into the even and odd subsequences. By mathematical analysis, the condition of two subsequences convergence was obtained and the related convergent theories and corollaries were proved. Simulations for benchmark functions showed that the convergence behavior of model and experimental results provided a valuable guideline for selecting control parameters.
Thermodynamics in f(T) Gravity with Nonminimal Coupling to Matter
Authors: Azizi Tahereh , Borhani Najibeh
Published: February 2017

In the present paper, we study the thermodynamics behavior of the field equations for the generalized f(T) gravity with arbitrary coupling between matter and the torsion scalar. In this regard, we explore the verification of the first law of thermodynamics at the apparent horizon of the Friedmann-Robertson-Walker universe in two different perspectives, namely, the nonequilibrium and equilibrium descriptions of thermodynamics. Furthermore, we investigate the validity of the second law of thermodynamics for both descriptions of this scenario with the assumption that the temperature of matter inside the horizon is similar to that of horizon.
Pathological Complete Response to Neoadjuvant Trastuzumab Is Dependent on HER2/CEP17 Ratio in HER2-Amplified Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Singer Christian F. , Tan Yen Y. , Fitzal Florian , Steger Guenther G. , Egle Daniel , Reiner Angelika , Rudas Margaretha , Moinfar Farid , Gruber Christine , Petru Edgar , Bartsch Rupert , Tendl Kristina A. , Fuchs David , Seifert Michael , Exner Ruth , Balic Marija , Bago-Horvath Zsuzsanna , Filipits Martin , Gnant Michael
Published: February 2017

Purpose: To evaluate whether pathologic complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant trastuzumab is dependent on the level of HER2 amplification.

Experimental Design: 114 HER2-overexpressing early breast cancer patients who had received neoadjuvant trastuzumab were included in this study. Absolute HER2 and chromosome 17 centromere (CEP17) were measured by in situ hybridization analysis, and associations were examined between HER2/CEP17 ratio and tumor pCR status (commonly defined by ypT0 ypN0, ypT0/is ypN0, and ypT0/is).

Results: In trastuzumab-treated patients, ypT0 ypN0 was achieved in 69.0% of patients with high-level amplification (HER2/CEP17 ratio > 6), but only in 30.4% of tumors with low-level amplification (ratio ≤ 6; P = 0.001). When pCR was defined by ypT0/is ypN0 or ypTis, 75.9% and 82.8% of tumors with high-level amplification had a complete response, whereas only 39.1%, and 38.3% with low-level amplification achieved pCR (P = 0.002 and P < 0.001, respectively). Logistic regression revealed that tumors with high-level amplification had a significantly higher probability achieving ypT0 ypN0 (OR, 5.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.86–13.90; P = 0.002) than tumors with low-level amplification, whereas no other clinicopathologic parameters were predictive of pCR. The association between high-level HER2 amplification and pCR was almost exclusively confined to hormone receptor (HR)–positive tumors (ypT0 ypN0: 62.5% vs. 24.0%, P = 0.014; ypT0/is ypN0: 75.0% vs. 28.0%, P = 0.005; and ypT0/is: 87.5% vs. 28.0%, P < 0.001), and was largely absent in HR-negative tumors.

Conclusions: An HER2/CEP17 ratio of >6 in the pretherapeutic tumor biopsy is associated with a significantly higher pCR rate, particularly in HER2/HR copositive tumors, and can be used as a biomarker to predict response before neoadjuvant trastuzumab is initiated. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3676–83. ©2017 AACR.
Does First-Trimester Screening Modify the Natural History of Congenital Heart Disease?
Authors: Jicinska Hana , Vlasin Pavel , Jicinsky Michal , Grochova Ilga , Tomek Viktor , Volaufova Julia , Skovranek Jan , Marek Jan
Published: February 2017

Background:

The study analyzed the impact of first-trimester screening on the spectrum of congenital heart defects (CHDs) later in pregnancy and on the outcome of fetuses and children born alive with a CHD.

Methods:

The spectrum of CHDs, associated comorbidities, and outcome of fetuses, either diagnosed with a CHD in the first trimester (Group I, 127 fetuses) or only in the second-trimester screening (Group II, 344 fetuses), were analyzed retrospectively between 2007 and 2013. Second-trimester fetuses diagnosed with a CHD between 2007 and 2013 were also compared with Group III (532 fetuses diagnosed with a CHD in the second trimester from 1996 to 2001, the period before first-trimester screening was introduced).

Results:

The spectrum of CHDs diagnosed in the first and second trimesters in the same time period differed significantly, with a greater number of comorbidities (
P
<0.0001), CHDs with univentricular outcome (
P
<0.0001), intrauterine deaths (
P
=0.01), and terminations of pregnancy (
P
<0.0001) in Group I compared with Group II. In Group III, significantly more cases of CHDs with univentricular outcome (
P
<0.0001), intrauterine demise (
P
=0.036), and early termination (
P
<0.0001) were identified compared with fetuses diagnosed with CHDs in the second trimester between 2007 and 2013. The spectrum of CHDs seen in the second-trimester groups differed after first-trimester screening was implemented.

Conclusions:

First-trimester screening had a significant impact on the spectrum of CHDs and the outcomes of pregnancies with CHDs diagnosed in the second trimester. Early detection of severe forms of CHDs and significant comorbidities resulted in an increased pregnancy termination rate in the first trimester.
Cerebral Microbleeds as Predictors of Mortality
Authors: Romero José R. , Preis Sarah R. , Beiser Alexa , Himali Jayandra J. , Shoamanesh Ashkan , Wolf Philip A. , Kase Carlos S. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , DeCarli Charles , Seshadri Sudha
Published: February 2017

Background and Purpose—

Cerebral microbleeds (CMB) represent a common magnetic resonance imaging marker of cerebral small vessel disease, increasingly recognized as a subclinical marker of stroke and dementia risk. CMB detection may reflect the cumulative effect of vascular risk burden and be a marker of higher mortality. We investigated the relation of CMB to risk of death in community dwelling participants free of stroke and dementia.

Methods—

We evaluated 1963 Framingham Original and Offspring Cohort participants (mean age 67 years; 54% women) with available brain magnetic resonance imaging and mortality data. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we related CMB to all-cause, cardiovascular, and stroke-related mortality.

Results—

Participants with CMB (8.9%) had higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and use of preventive medications. During a mean follow-up of 7.2±2.6 years, we observed 296 deaths. In age- and sex-adjusted analysis, CMB were associated with increased all-cause mortality (hazards ratio, 1.39; 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.88), a relation that was no longer significant after adjustment for cardiovascular risk and preventive medication use (hazards ratio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 0.82–1.63).

Conclusions—

CMBs may represent the deleterious effect of cardiovascular risk factors in the cerebral vasculature. Although their presence was associated with increased all-cause mortality, the effect was no longer present after accounting for vascular risk factors and preventive treatment use. Further studies are required to clarify the role of cardiovascular preventive therapies for prevention of mortality in persons with incidental detection of CMB.
Proportional Motor Recovery After Stroke
Authors: Stinear Cathy M. , Byblow Winston D. , Ackerley Suzanne J. , Smith Marie-Claire , Borges Victor M. , Barber P. Alan
Published: February 2017

Background and Purpose—

Recovery of upper-limb motor impairment after first-ever ischemic stroke is proportional to the degree of initial impairment in patients with a functional corticospinal tract (CST). This study aimed to investigate whether proportional recovery occurs in a more clinically relevant sample including patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and previous stroke.

Methods—

Patients with upper-limb weakness were assessed 3 days and 3 months poststroke with the Fugl–Meyer scale. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to test CST function, and patients were dichotomized according to the presence of motor evoked potentials in the paretic wrist extensors. Linear regression modeling of Δ Fugl–Meyer score between 3 days and 3 months was performed, with predictors including initial impairment (66 − baseline Fugl–Meyer score), age, sex, stroke type, previous stroke, comorbidities, and upper-limb therapy dose.

Results—

One hundred ninety-two patients were recruited, and 157 completed 3-month follow-up. Patients with a functional CST made a proportional recovery of 63% (95% confidence interval, 55%–70%) of initial motor impairment. The recovery of patients without a functional CST was not proportional to initial impairment and was reduced by greater CST damage.

Conclusions—

Recovery of motor impairment in patients with intact CST is proportional to initial impairment and unaffected by previous stroke, type of stroke, or upper-limb therapy dose. Novel interventions that interact with the neurobiological mechanisms of recovery are needed. The generalizability of proportional recovery is such that patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and previous stroke may usefully be included in interventional rehabilitation trials.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.anzctr.org.au
. Unique identifier: ANZCTR12611000755932.
Deepening and Widening of Production Networks in ASEAN
Authors: Obashi Ayako , Kimura Fukunari
Published: February 2017

This paper assesses the recent widening and deepening of machinery production networks in ASEAN by using highly disaggregated international trade data over 2007–13. Based on both traditional trade value data analysis and a novel approach to the diversification of exported products and destinations, we confirm the steady development of back-and-forth trade links, notably with East Asian partners, centering on Singapore and Thailand. In addition to the five ASEAN forerunners, Vietnam is an increasingly active player in such networking. Although their degree of participation is still limited, Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar also show signs of joining production networks.