bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of site occupancy disorder on martensitic properties of Mn2NiIn type alloys: X-ray absorption fine structure study
Authors: Lobo D. N. , Priolkar K. R. , Koide A. , Emura S.
Published: February 2017

We have carried out ab-initio calculations of the local structure of Mn and Ni in the Mn2Ni1.5In0.5 alloy with different site occupancies in order to understand the similarities in martensitic and magnetic properties of Mn2Ni1+xIn1−x and Ni2Mn1+xIn1−x alloys. Our results show that in Mn2Ni1+xIn1−x alloys, there is a strong possibility of Mn atoms occupying all the three X, Y, and Z sites of the X2YZ Heusler structure, while Ni atoms preferentially occupy the X sites. Such a site occupancy disorder of Mn atoms is in addition to a local structural disorder due to size differences between Mn and In atoms, which is also present in Ni2Mn1+xIn1−x alloys. Further, a comparison of the calculations with experimental x-ray absorption fine structure at the Mn and Ni K edges in Mn2−yNi1.6+yIn0.4 (−0.08 ≤ y ≤ 0.08) indicates a strong connection between martensitic transformation and occupancy of Z sites by Mn atoms.
Infrared absorption and visible transparency in heavily doped p-type BaSnO3
Authors: Li Yuwei , Sun Jifeng , Singh David J.
Published: February 2017

The recent experimental work shows that perovskite BaSnO3 can be heavily doped by K to become a stable p-type semiconductor. Here, we find that p-type perovskite BaSnO3 retains transparency for visible light while absorbing strongly in the infrared below 1.5 eV. The origin of the remarkable optical transparency even with heavy doping is that the interband transitions that are enabled by empty states at the top of the valence band are concentrated mainly in the energy range from 0.5 to 1.5 eV, i.e., not extending past the near IR. In contrast to n-type, the Burstein-Moss shift is slightly negative, but very small reflecting the heavier valence bands relative to the conduction bands.
Effect of hydrogenation disproportionation conditions on magnetic anisotropy in Nd-Fe-B powder prepared by dynamic hydrogenation disproportionation desorption recombination
Authors: Yamazaki Masao , Horikawa Takashi , Mishima Chisato , Matsuura Masashi , Tezuka Nobuki , Sugimoto Satoshi
Published: February 2017

Various anisotropic Nd-Fe-B magnetic powders were prepared by the dynamic hydrogenation disproportionation desorption recombination (d-HDDR) treatment with different hydrogenation disproportionation (HD) times (tHD). The resulting magnetic properties and microstructural changes were investigated. The magnetic anisotropy was decreased with increasing tHD. In the d-HDDR powders with higher magnetic anisotropy, fine (200–600 nm) and coarse (600–1200 nm) Nd2Fe14B grains were observed. The coarse Nd2Fe14B grains showed highly crystallographic alignment of the c-axis than fine Nd2Fe14B grains. In the highly anisotropic Nd2Fe14B d-HDDR powder, a large area fraction of lamellar-like structures consisting of NdH2 and α-Fe were observed after HD treatment. Furthermore, the mean diameter of the lamellar-like regions, where lamellar-like structures orientate to the same direction in the HD-treated alloys was close to that of coarse Nd2Fe14B grains after d-HDDR treatment. Thus, the lamellar-like regions were converted into the crystallographically aligned coarse Nd2Fe14B grains during desorption recombination treatment, and magnetic anisotropy is closely related to the volume fraction of lamellar-like regions observed after HD treatment.
A pathway of targeted autophagy is induced by DNA damage in budding yeast
Authors: Eapen Vinay V. , Waterman David P. , Bernard Amélie , Schiffmann Nathan , Sayas Enrich , Kamber Roarke , Lemos Brenda , Memisoglu Gonen , Ang Jessie , Mazella Allison , Chuartzman Silvia G. , Loewith Robbie J. , Schuldiner Maya , Denic Vladimir , Klionsky Daniel J. , Haber James E.
Published: February 2017

Significance

The DNA damage response (DDR) is a well-orchestrated and tightly regulated process. The DDR pathway does not act in isolation; indeed, evidence of cross-talk between the DDR and numerous signaling pathways affecting cytoskeletal integrity, nutrient sensing, and autophagy has been demonstrated. In this paper, we report that the DDR induces a distinct pathway of autophagy: genotoxin-induced targeted autophagy (GTA). GTA requires the action of the checkpoint kinases Mec1/ATR, Tel1/ATM, and Rad53/CHEK2. Rad53 mediates the transcriptional up-regulation of autophagy genes via negative regulation of the repressor Rph1/KDM4. GTA requires components of the selective autophagy machinery and is distinct from canonical autophagy pathways. A genome-wide screen for GTA modulators identifies genes required for genotoxin-induced autophagy and starvation-induced autophagy.
Biosynthesis of cabbage phytoalexins from indole glucosinolate
Authors: Klein Andrew P. , Sattely Elizabeth S.
Published: February 2017

Significance

Cruciferous vegetables—such as broccoli, mustard greens, and turnip—produce a variety of indole- and sulfur-containing chemicals when attacked by pathogens. These compounds, termed phytoalexins, are thought to serve as an important defense mechanism for the plant. Several phytoalexins have been shown to also have anticancer properties, raising the possibility that dietary exposure may be important to human health. Here, we report a minimal set of enzymes required to make brassinin, the parent cruciferous phytoalexin, from the well-studied glucosinolates. These genes enabled production of brassinin and related phytoalexins in tobacco leaves at levels comparable to those measured in cruciferous vegetables. The complete biosynthetic pathway to brassinin is critical for using metabolic engineering to characterize the biological role of indole–sulfur phytoalexins.
MONITORING FOR CLUSTERS OF DISEASE: APPLICATION TO LEUKEMIA INCIDENCE IN UPSTATE NEW YORK
Authors: TURNBULL BRUCE W. , IWANO ERIC J. , BURNETT WILLIAM S. , HOWE HOLLY L. , CLARK LARRY C.
Published: February 2017

The authors propose a procedure for the detection of significant clusters of chronic diseases, with particular reference to cancer. The procedure allows for variations in population density and avoids the problem of “post hoc” formation of hypotheses or self-defined populations. This accounts for several of the principal problems of cluster evaluations. The techniques are practical but “computer-intensive.” The procedure, termed the “duster evaluation permutation procedure”, is applied to leukemia incidence data for an Upstate New York region obtained from the New York State Cancer Registry and census files. Comparisons are made with two other recently proposed clustering methods, namely the U-statistic method of WhKtemore et al. (Biometrika 1987;74:631–7) and the “geographical analysis machine” of Openshaw et al. (Lancet 1988; 1:272–3). Routine examination of disease occurrence with the cluster evaluation permutation procedure would allow state health officials to prioritize case investigations and to respond in a timely and efficient manner to inquiries of reported clusters.
TSEE Glow Curve Variation with Incident Beta Radiation Energy Observed in CaF2 and LiF Crystals
Authors: Okabe S. , Aoki M. , Nishikawa T.
Published: February 2017

The (100), (110) and (111) surfaces of CaF2 and LiF crystals were irradiated with beta radiation from various radionuclides with maximum energies in the range 0.066-2.28 MeV. The shapes of the TSEE glow curves from these surfaces were different, showing two or three peaks. It was found that the efficiency of TSEE (i.e. the ratio of the number of emitted exoelectrons to the number of incident beta particles) of the first peak at a low temperature decreased with increasing beta radiation energy, but was approximately proportional to the stopping power dE/dx of the thin surface layer. The efficiency of the second peak, obtained at a higher temperature, had the same tendency as the first peak, and it increased, compared with the first peak, when the mean beta energy was greater than 0.1 MeV.
Kerma Factors of Oxygen, Aluminium, and Silicon for 15 to 20 MeV Neutrons
Authors: DeLuca Jr. P.M. , Barschall H.H. , Sun Y. , Haight R.C.
Published: February 2017

The previously reported measurements of the kerma factor of carbon have been extended to O, Al, and Si. Cylindrical proportional counters were constructed with walls of Zr, ZrO, Al, and Si. Charged particles produced in the walls deposited energy in the low pressure filling gas. The resulting microdosimetric spectra yielded kerma values. The kerma for O was obtained from the difference between spectra obtained with the ZrO and Zr counters. A similar counter constructed of A-150 tissue-equivalent plastic and an A-150 walled ionisation chamber served to determine the neutron fluence. 15 MeV neutrons were produced with the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Rotating Target Neutron Source. 17 to 19 MeV neutrons were obtained by bombarding a tritium gas target with deuterons from the University of Wisconsin electrostatic accelerator.
Reduction of Radon from Household Water Supplies
Authors: Shapiro P.S. , Sorg T.J.
Published: February 2017

Groundwater can be a major source of indoor radon in homes that use individual wells or are served by very small community water systems. In the United States, several wells have been found to contain more than 37,000,000 Bq.m-3 of radon dissolved in the water. This radon can be released in the indoor air in the course of using water for normal household activities. A measurement of the radon in the drinking water can be made when an indor radon problem is suspected. While ventilation may reduce indoor radon levels that result from household water usage, the most common control technique presently applied is removing the radon from the water using a granular activated carbon (GAC) treatment system. Aeration methods are also effective and have been proven to be economical for small community water supplies. Some of the issues faced in using GAC are sizing and maintaining the unit and shielding and disposing of the GAC to prevent exposure from gamma radiation.
A Track Structure Model for the Spatial Energy Deposition of Ionising Radiation
Authors: Pruppers M.J.M. , Leenhouts H.P. , Chadwick K.H.
Published: February 2017

The development of a track structure model for the spatial distribution of energy deposition events is given. The aim of this model is to explain the different effectiveness of various radiation types. It is shown that the track structure of electrons and ions can be approximated by a function of energy in terms of the stopping power, the average energy loss per event and the average radius of the track. By carefully considering the complete slowing down process of a primary particle an approximation to the distribution of locally dissipated energy, which is used to explain the radiation effectiveness, is obtained.
Chromosomal Changes per Cell Nucleus per Charged Particle
Authors: Geard C.R. , Brenner D.J.
Published: February 2017

The pre-eminent role of the lineal energy density of ionising radiations in eliciting biological effects has been recognised for many years. The pre-eminent role of chromosomal changes in the manifestation of human cancers, of mutational and lethal changes has attained equivalent recognition in recent years. Chromosomal alterations can be observed at the single cell level, and in in vitro systems the effects of defined fluences of charged particles can be related to cellular nuclear cross sectional area and hence changes can be assessed on a per particle per cell nucleus basis. This approach transcends reliance on the concept of absorbed dose. Charged particles generated in the Van de Graaff accelerator of the Radiological Research Accelerator Facility (RARAF) have been used to irradiate mammalian cells attached to Mylar substrates. The linear energy transfer (LET) ranged from 10 to 130 keV.µm-1. All classes of chromosomal changes were assessed as a function of fluence and of LET. When the frequency of 'two-break' aberrations per charged particle per cell nucleus is plotted against LET a quadratic relationship results from 10 to 80 keV.µm-1 with indications of saturation at 130 keV.µm-1. Analysis of the frequencies and types of 'two-break' aberrations in conjunction with spatial chromosomal allocation in cell nuclei enables assessment of proximities for lesion interaction and emphasises the dynamism associated with charged particle effects in mammalian cells. Hazards associated with low fluences, i.e. single or low numbers of high LET particle traversals, as might be expected from radon daughter irradiations, will probably not be uniform over the 80-200 keV.µm-1 LET range and will also probably vary based on cell nucleus presentation to incoming particles.
P-I-N Diodes with a Wide Measurement Range of Fast Neutron Doses
Authors: Rosenfeld A.B. , Anokhin I.E. , Barabash L.I. , Zinets O.S. , Litovchenko P.G. , Khivrich V.I. , Belovodskiy L.F. , Dumik A.I. , Forminych V.I. , Petrov V.I. , Sluchenkov G.F. , Koval G.N.
Published: February 2017

The effect of fast neutron irradiation on the properties of wide-base p-i-n diodes has been investigated both theoretically and experimentally. Dependence of the base voltage on irradiation dose was studied for diodes at intermediate level injection. The change in resistivity of silicon under neutron irradiation should be taken into account as well as change in the carrier lifetime. The main contribution to the I-V curve shift of the wide-base p-i-n diode arises from the resistivity change for doses larger than 20-30 Gy. Such diodes have a high radiation sensitivity (above 5 V.Gy-1 for diodes with base width of 0.5 cm made of silicon with resistivity of 5x104 O.cm). Using p-i-n diodes at intermediate level injection one can significantly widen the measurement range of fast neutron doses.
Precision and Lower Detection Limit of TLD-100 with Glow Curve Analysis
Authors: de Vries W. , Bos A.J.J.
Published: February 2017

A computer program for glow curve analysis in routine dosimetry with LiF:Mg,Ti (TLD-100) has been developed. The program is based on advanced knowledge of the physical parameters of the glow peaks 2, 3, 4 and 5 of TLD-100, i.e. the order of kinetics of the peaks, the activation energies E and the escape frequency factors s. For fixed procedures, these parameters are constant for varying doses and radiation energies. Therefore a glow curve can be described by only four parameters: the areas of the four main glow peaks in TLD-100. This method of glow curve analysis was tested for a fixed readout procedure. Precision of dose measurement and lower detection limit were used as test parameters. Using the method of glow curve analysis the precision of dose measurement at a 0.5 mGy level is 1%, compared to 4% by using the method of integrating part of the glow curve. The detection limit decreases from 0.1 mGy with the integration method to 0.05 mGy with glow curve analysis.
Thermoluminescence Characteristics of Various Detectors for X Ray Diagnostic Measurements
Authors: Ranogajec-Komor M. , Muhiy-Ed-Din F. , Milkovic D. , Veckic B.
Published: February 2017

The photon energy dependence of LiF:Mg,Cu,P (produced in Poland) as compared to LiF:Mg,Ti, TLD-700 and CaF2:Mn was measured using X rays and 60Co and 137Cs gamma ray radiation in two Secondary Standard Dosimetric Laboratories. The reproducibility of the response of all dosimetric systems was also studied at the primary beam of a diagnostic X ray unit. LiF:Mg,Ti and TLD-700 have been used to measure patient doses during chest organ examinations in diagnostic radiology of children to analyse the dose estimations in radiation fields that were not well defined.
Calibration of Far West Technology (FWT-60) Radiochromic Dye Dosemeters
Authors: Mincher B.J. , Zaidi M.K.
Published: February 2017

Radiochromatic dye dosimetry was used to measure kilogray doses absorbed by various liquid samples during gamma ray exposure in a spent nuclear fuel pool. The source of nuclear fuel was the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL). Calibrations were performed using a 60Co source and were run on bare dosemeters, as well as on dosemeters which were mocked to simulate the samples. These dosemeters were prepared as a dye-impregnated nylon film and are commercially available. When exposed to gamma ray doses of 0.5 to 200 kGy, a colour change occurs which has an optical density proportional to absorbed dose. The difference in the calibration curves demonstrates the importance of irradiation of dosemeters under conditions as close to the actual samples as possible. Since these dosemeters could not be immersed directly in the organic solutions of interest, they were sandwiched between layers of Lucite and stainless steel. This simulated the conditions inside an irradiated sample and provides a practical method of measuring absorbed doses. The reproducibility of measurements using the radiochromic dye dosemeters is also shown.
DNA Double Strand Breaks from Two Single Strand Breaks and Cell Cycle Radiation Sensitivity
Authors: Chadwick K.H. , Leenhouts H.P.
Published: February 2017

One of the central assumptions of modern radiation biology is, that irrespective of the radiation sort, DNA double strand breaks are induced in direct proportion to radiation dose. However, recent studies of DNA replication have led to the proposal that a local unwinding of the DNA helix occurs in the replication initiation region. Thus, it can be expected that during the DNA replication phase the induction of DNA double strand breaks would contain a quadratic dose component as the consequence of two independently induced single strand breaks. Indeed, the quadratic component does have a maximum value in the DNA replication phase. This process has important implications for radiation biology in general, and the measurement of DNA double strand breaks as a function of dose, in particular.
Logic and Logistics of Radon Surveys
Authors: Green B.M.R. , Lomas P.R.
Published: February 2017

Surveys of radon in homes need to have a clear purpose and be executed in an effective manner. In the UK, surveys are designed to identify the most affected homes in the simplest way. The programme is based on measurements provided free to homeowners by Government. Contact with homeowners is exclusively through the National Radiological Protection Board. The nature of the work imposes stringent requirements with regard to clarity of communication, quality of operation, and confidentiality of information. The magnitude of the task - with above 75,000 new participants in the programme each year - requires considerable effort and streamlined procedures. Superimposed on all of this is persistent media interest and the need to maintain good liaison with other professions engaged in radon work.
Track Structure Theory - Track Intersection Model for Heavy Charged Particle Thermoluminescence Dose Response Curves
Authors: Horowitz Y.S. , Moscovitch M.
Published: February 2017

Alpha particle thermoluminescence (TL) dose response curves are almost always linear-sublinear rather than linear-supralinear-sublinear as observed with gamma rays and electrons. The model presented herein is a variable ionisation density track intersection model which shows that heavy charged particle (HCP) supralinearity does not exist because the highly localised nature of the HCP track radial dose distribution suppresses the probability of significant track intersection at dose levels where gamma ray or electron supralinearity is normally encountered. The model calculates the TL yield due to intersecting alpha particle tracks by folding in the summed dose from two alpha particle tracks with the TL dose response generated by low energy electrons matched as closely as possible in energy to the primary electron spectrum liberated by the alpha particles. The calculations show that there is no inter-track distance for which the total TL yield for two intersecting alpha particle tracks is greater than twice the TL yield of a single alpha particle track. The immediate conclusion is that alpha particle supralinearity cannot exist for glow peaks with electron TL dose response curves normally encountered in most TL materials.
International Intercomparison of Standards for Low Collision Kerma Rates in Air by Means of Low Dose TLD Techniques
Authors: Spanne P. , Carlsson C.A. , Alm Carlsson G.
Published: February 2017

An international intercomparison of standards for calibration of radiation protection instruments is described. The intercomparison involved collision kerma rates in air in the range 5.7 to 7,400 µGy.h-1 and was performed using low dose TLD techniques with TL-LiF dosemeters. The dosemeters were specifically tested with regard to their dose rate dependence, but none was found.
Multiple Dose Re-Assessment in Thermoluminescent Materials
Authors: O'Hagan J.B. , Pearson A.J. , Driscoll C.M.H.
Published: February 2017

Thermoluminescence dosemeters are widely used in a number of applications and the techique of phototransferred thermoluminescence by ultraviolet radiation at elevated temperatures is used for re-assessment of absorbed dose. Work has been done to investigate phototransfer processes in lithium fluorde, beryllium oxide, and calcium sulphate doped with dysprosium and with thulium and to gain information on the multiple re-assessment of absorbed dose. The latter enables high primary absorbed doses to be assessed within the normal sensitivity range of thermoluminescence detecting systems.
Microdosimetric Track Interaction Model Applied to Alpha Particle Induced Supralinearity and Linearity in LiF:Mg,Ti
Authors: Moscovitch M. , Horowitz Y.S.
Published: February 2017

A microdosimetric, track interaction model for heavy charged particles has been developed which is capable of quantitatively predicting the experimentally observed supralinearity of the alpha particle TL dose response of peak 8 in LiF:Mg,Ti as well as the linear behaviour of the lower temperature glow peaks. The linear behaviour at low dose is due to lack of track interaction arising from the highly localised nature of the alpha particle dose deposition profile. Track dose overlap in the radiation absorption stage is shown to be incapable of increasing the TL efficiency at virtually all values of the nearest neighbour track axis separation distance. The alpha induced supralinearity of peak 8 can therefore be explained only via greatly increased charge carrier migration lengths in the glow curve heating stage which brings about significant nearest neighbour track interactions above approximately 108 alpha particles per cm2 (approximately 10 Gy in LiF). The linear behaviour of the lower temperature peaks (up to a fluence of approximately 1010 particles per cm2) yields a charge carrier mean free path of approximately 250 Å (cf. 5000 Å for peak 8) which implies that at low glow peak temperatures there is little inter-track migration of charge carriers in the luminescence recombination stage.
Influence of Radiation Quality on Heavy Ion Induced Chromosome Aberrations in V79 Cells
Authors: Ritter S. , Kraft-Weyrather W. , Scholz M. , Kraft G.
Published: February 2017

The induction of chromosome aberrations after irradiation of V79 Chinese hamster cells with Ar ions at energies of 10.5 MeV.u-1 (LET 1100 keV.µm-1) and 75 MeV.u-1 (LET 250 keV.µm-1) was studied up to 24 h after irradiation. For comparison X ray experiments were also performed. Analysis of data was based on the same level of cell survival (20%). Our data indicate a correlation between the radiation quality determined by track parameters and the induction of chromosome aberrations. 75 MeV.u-1 Ar ions characterised by a lower ionisation density are more effective in the induction of chromosome damage than 10.5 MeV.u-1 Ar ions. Also, the induction of a special aberration type, i.e. the formation of exchanges, is favoured by the lower ionisation density. Additionally the radiation quality influences the progression of cells through the cell cycle. Immediately after irradiation a mitotic delay can be observed. With increasing ionisation density the mitotic delay is more pronounced. The response of cells to particle radiation differs quite considerably from those observed after X ray irradiation.
Isothermal Decay of Peak V in the PTTL of LiF(TLD-100)
Authors: Delgado A. , Gómez-Ros J.M.
Published: February 2017

Recent controversy about the order of kinetics of peak V in the TL of LiF TLD-100 centres on whether the departure from a single exponential behaviour of the 165 oC isothermal decay (ID) is due to the peak V decay, this peak not following first order kinetics, or to some remaining peak IV, not completely removed by the pretreatment employed. Results obtained for the isothermal decay of peak V detected in the TLD-100 photo-transferred thermoluminescence (PTTL) glow curve are presented. The PTTL curve is very convenient for this kind of measurement, as it is known that peak IV is not excited by UV light, so that the ID recorded at 165 oC can be unambiguously associated with peak V, free from possible interference coming from peak IV when the the direct TL emissions are employed for the ID measurements. The results obtained confirm the intrinsic complexity of the 165 oC decay found previously, showing the existence of a weak rapid initial stage. As in the case of the ID for TL, this initial stage is erased by adequate thermal treatment, producing the purely exponential decay typical of first order kinetics. The origin of the perturbing rapid initial component is discussed in the light of the differences found between ID recorded for TL or PTTL emissions.
Comparative PITL and PTTL Investigations on TL Detectors
Authors: Osvay M. , Ranogajec-Komor M. , Golder F.
Published: February 2017

The photo-induced intrinsic thermoluminescence (PITL) and phototransferred thermoluminescence (PTTL) characteristics of various detectors - TLD-100 (Harshaw), LiF:Mg,Ti (Poland), CaF2:Mn (Yugoslavia) and two types of Al2O3:Mg,Y (Hungary) - were examined to determine the possibility of their re-estimation. The re-estimation limit by PTTL was found to be 1.5 mGy, 2 mGy, 4 mGy and 12 mGy for CaF2, LiF(P), TLD-100 and Al2O3 (D-3), respectively. The PITL response of Al2O3:Mg,Y depends on the grain size of the polycrystal and on the oxidative/reductive character of the atmosphere during preparation.
Group-level progressive alterations in brain connectivity patterns revealed by diffusion-tensor brain networks across severity stages in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Rasero J. , Alonso-Montes C. , Diez I. , Olabarrieta-Landa L. , Remaki L. , Escudero I. , Mateos B. , Bonifazi P. , Fernandez M. , Arango-Lasprilla J.C. , Stramaglia S. , Cortes J.M. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: February 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronically progressive neurodegenerative disease highly correlated to aging. Whether AD originates by targeting a localized brain area and propagates to the rest of the brain across disease-severity progression is a question with an unknown answer. Here, we aim to provide an answer to this question at the group-level by looking at differences in diffusion-tensor brain networks. In particular, making use of data from Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), four different groups were defined (all of them matched by age, sex and education level):G1(N1=36, healthy control subjects, Control),G2(N2=36, early mild cognitive impairment, EMCI),G3(N3=36, late mild cognitive impairment, LMCI) andG4(N4=36, AD). Diffusion-tensor brain networks were compared across three disease stages: stage I 3(Control vs EMCI), stage II (Control vs LMCI) and stage III (Control vs AD). The group comparison was performed using the multivariate distance matrix regression analysis, a technique that was born in genomics and was recently proposed to handle brain functional networks, but here applied to diffusion-tensor data. The results were three-fold: First, no significant differences were found in stage I. Second, significant differences were found in stage II in the connectivity pattern of a subnetwork strongly associated to memory function (including part of the hippocampus, amygdala, entorhinal cortex, fusiform gyrus, inferior and middle temporal gyrus, parahippocampal gyrus and temporal pole). Third, a widespread disconnection across the entire AD brain was found in stage III, affecting more strongly the same memory subnetwork appearing in stage II, plus the other new subnetworks,including the default mode network, medial visual network, frontoparietal regions and striatum. Our results are consistent with a scenario where progressive alterations of connectivity arise as the disease severity increases and provide the brain areas possibly involved in such a degenerative process. Further studies applying the same strategy to longitudinal data are needed to fully confirm this scenario.
Do hospital balanced scorecard measures reflect cause-effect relationships?
Authors: Porporato Marcela , Tsasis Peter , Marin Vinuesa Luz Maria
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether first level measures in the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) declaring a cause-effect relationship by design are composite indices of lower measures, and if they converge into a single factor as is traditionally accepted in the BSC literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reports results of a quantitative case study that focusses on an Ontario (Canada) community hospital that has been using the BSC.

Findings

The results of this study challenge the cause-effect assumption of the BSC, particularly in a cascading context, and suggest that a lack of attention of how composite indices of lower measures converge into a single higher level measure may be the reason for ineffective use of the BSC.

Research limitations/implications

The BSC is a dynamic tool; as such there are several measures that have a very short history, thus limiting the observations available to be used in statistical models.

Practical implications

A key recommendation for practice that emerges from this study is the need to test if lower level metrics do merge naturally in the upper level measure of the BSC; if not, the upper level measure might not be linked to other measures rendering the BSC ineffective in the context of causality.

Originality/value

Although several studies have argued in favour of the cause-effect relationship of the BSC, none of those found in the literature have paid attention to the way in which first level measures are constructed. This may explain why certain measures are linked, while others are not, to those that are calculated as composite indices of several lower level indicators.
New product performance and the benefit of periodically changing the relative influence balance between marketing and R&D
Authors: Situmeang Frederik B.I. , Leenders Mark A.A.M. , Wijnberg Nachoem M.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between changes in relative influence between marketing and R&D and new product performance (NPP). The aim is to theorize and test whether relative influence changes are beneficial for NPP.

Design/methodology/approach

An international survey was sent out to pharmaceutical companies worldwide, resulting in 106 usable questionnaires from knowledgeable senior managers. A model is estimated that relates recent and historic changes in relative influence to NPP.

Findings

There is a positive relationship between recent relative influence changes and subsequent NPP. Moreover, this paper finds that having a history of adaptation with respect to relative influence can serve organizations to build up capabilities that, in turn, strengthen the positive effects of recent relative influence changes on NPP. Finally, the paper shows that relative influence changes and integration between marketing and R&D positively affect NPP jointly.

Originality/value

A core finding, that is quite counterintuitive, is that instability with respect to relative influence changes can help organizations to become more competitive in new product development.
3D seismic residual statics solutions derived from refraction interferometry
Authors: Gao Han , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2017

We apply interferometric theory to solve a three‐dimensional seismic residual statics problem to improve reflection imaging. The approach calculates the static solutions without picking the first arrivals from the shot or receiver gathers. The static correction accuracy can be significantly improved by utilising stacked virtual refraction gathers in the calculations. Shots and receivers may be placed at any position in a three‐dimensional seismic land survey. Therefore, it is difficult to determine stationary shots and receivers to form the virtual refraction traces that have identical arrival times, as in a two‐dimensional scenario. To overcome this problem, we use a three‐dimensional super‐virtual interferometry method for residual static calculations. The virtual refraction for a stationary shot/receiver pair is obtained via an integral along the receiver/shot lines, which does not require knowledge of the stationary locations. We pick the maximum energy times on the interferometric stacks and solve a set of linear equations to derive reliable residual static solutions. We further apply the approach to both synthetic and real data.
Multiparity upregulates placental plasminogen and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator
Authors: Cortina María E. , Litwin Silvana , Rial Hawila María R. , Miranda Silvia
Published: February 2017

Problem

Multiparity increased the number of trophoblast cells in decidua of both low and high fetal loss mouse models. However, they differ in fetal survival rate and maternal thymocyte subpopulations, suggesting that trophoblast invasiveness is not equivalent. Our aim was to explore the involved mechanism.

Method of study

We studied placentae from primiparous and multiparous females of low and high fetal loss models. We investigated invasiveness in vitro, expression of plasminogen, and its activators: tissue type (tPA)‐urokinase type (uPA), and activity and expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)‐2 and MMP‐9.

Results

Placental invasiveness is upregulated by multiparity, but lesser in the high fetal loss model. Multiparous animals showed elevated expression of plasminogen and uPA. However, the high fetal loss combination showed higher expression of a short and less active fragment of uPA (LMW‐uPA). MMP‐2, MMP‐9, and tPA were unaffected.

Conclusion

uPA would participate in the increased multiparity‐associated placental invasiveness.
Comparison of treatment outcome using two definitions of rapid cycling in subjects with bipolar II disorder
Authors: Amsterdam Jay D , Lorenzo‐Luaces Lorenzo , DeRubeis Robert J
Published: February 2017

Objectives

We examined differences in treatment outcome between Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV)‐defined rapid cycling and average lifetime‐defined rapid cycling in subjects with bipolar II disorder. We hypothesized that, compared with the DSM‐IV definition, the average lifetime definition of rapid cycling may better identify subjects with a history of more mood lability and a greater likelihood of hypomanic symptom induction during long‐term treatment.

Methods

Subjects ≥18 years old with a bipolar II major depressive episode (n=129) were categorized into DSM‐IV‐ and average lifetime‐defined rapid cycling and prospectively treated with either venlafaxine or lithium monotherapy for 12 weeks. Responders (n=59) received continuation monotherapy for six additional months.

Results

These exploratory analyses found moderate agreement between the two rapid‐cycling definitions (κ=0.56). The lifetime definition captured subjects with more chronic courses of bipolar II depression, whereas the DSM‐IV definition captured subjects with more acute symptoms of hypomania. There was no difference between rapid‐cycling definitions with respect to the response to acute venlafaxine or lithium monotherapy. However, the lifetime definition was slightly superior to the DSM‐IV definition in identifying subjects who went on to experience hypomanic symptoms during continuation therapy.

Conclusions

Although sample sizes were limited, the findings suggest that the lifetime definition of rapid cycling may identify individuals with a chronic rapid‐cycling course and may also be slightly superior to the DSM‐IV definition in identifying individuals with hypomania during relapse‐prevention therapy. These findings are preliminary in nature and need replication in larger, prospective, bipolar II studies.
Predicting cetacean distributions in data‐poor marine ecosystems
Authors: Redfern Jessica V. , Moore Thomas J. , Fiedler Paul C. , de Vos Asha , Brownell Robert L. , Forney Karin A. , Becker Elizabeth A. , Ballance Lisa T.
Published: February 2017

Aim

Human activities are creating conservation challenges for cetaceans. Spatially explicit risk assessments can be used to address these challenges, but require species distribution data, which are limited for many cetacean species. This study explores methods to overcome this limitation. Blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) are used as a case study because they are an example of a species that have well‐defined habitat and are subject to anthropogenic threats.

Location

Eastern Pacific Ocean, including the California Current (CC) and eastern tropical Pacific (ETP), and northern Indian Ocean (NIO).

Methods

We used 12 years of survey data (377 blue whale sightings and c. 225,400 km of effort) collected in the CC and ETP to assess the transferability of blue whale habitat models. We used the models built with CC and ETP data to create predictions of blue whale distributions in the data‐poor NIO because key aspects of blue whale ecology are expected to be similar in these ecosystems.

Results

We found that the ecosystem‐specific blue whale models performed well in their respective ecosystems, but were not transferable. For example, models built with CC data could accurately predict distributions in the CC, but could not accurately predict distributions in the ETP. However, the accuracy of models built with combined CC and ETP data was similar to the accuracy of the ecosystem‐specific models in both ecosystems. Our predictions of blue whale habitat in the NIO from the models built with combined CC and ETP data compare favourably to hypotheses about NIO blue whale distributions, provide new insights into blue whale habitat, and can be used to prioritize research and monitoring efforts.

Main conclusions

Predicting cetacean distributions in data‐poor ecosystems using habitat models built with data from multiple ecosystems is potentially a powerful marine conservation tool and should be examined for other species and regions.
Impact of osteoblast maturation on their paracrine growth enhancing activity on cord blood progenitors
Authors: Alsheikh Manal , Abu‐Khader Ahmad , Michalicka Matthew , Pasha Roya , Pineault Nicolas
Published: February 2017

Background

Osteoblasts possess strong growth modulatory activity on haematopoietic stem cells and progenitors. We sought to characterise the growth and differentiation modulatory activities of human osteoblasts at distinct stages of maturation on cord blood (CB) progenitors in the context of osteoblast conditioned medium (OCM).

Methods

OCM was produced from MSC‐derived osteoblasts (M‐OST) at distinct stages of maturation. The growth modulatory activities of the OCM were tested on CB CD34+ cells using different functional assays.

Results

OCMs raised the growth of CB cells and expansion of CD34+ cells independently of the maturation status of M‐OST. However, productions of immature CB cells including committed and multipotent progenitors were superior with OCM produced with immature osteoblasts. Osteogenic differentiation was accompanied by the upregulation of IGFBP‐2, by several members of the Angpt‐L family of growth factor, and by the Notch ligands Dll‐1 and Dll‐4. However, the growth activity of OCM and the in vivo engraftment properties of OCM‐expanded CB cells were retained after IGFBP‐2 neutralisation. Similarly, OCM‐mediated expansion of CB myeloid progenitors was largely independent of Notch signalling.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that immature osteoblasts possess greater regulatory activity over haematopoietic progenitors, and that this activity is not entirely dependent on Notch signalling.
Overcoming cell death resistance in skin cancer therapy: Novel translational perspectives
Authors: Feoktistova Maria , Panayotova‐Dimitrova Diana
Published: February 2017

In the last decade, significant progress has been made in understanding skin cancer cell death resistance mechanisms, and a number of new treatment strategies have been developed. Systematic approach genomic studies of various cancer types have opened new possibilities for the development of anticancer therapies. However, there are still fundamental gaps in the challenging biomedical puzzle, which will form a complete picture for curing cancer. Thus, herein, we describe some of the current cancer treatment strategies and discuss additional cell signalling pathways that could be potential targets for skin cancer treatment.
Do we all agree what “good health care” looks like? Views from those who are “seldom heard” in health research, policy and service improvement
Authors: Ryan Sara , Hislop Jenny , Ziebland Sue
Published: February 2017

Context

The aim of this study was to ask whether there are shared ideas about what good health care looks like that apply across different populations and conditions. Do priorities among “seldom heard” groups differ from mainstream views and, if so, how might we understand these differences?

Design

Focus groups were recruited with the help of our study patient representatives. Participants discussed and prioritized a set of eight “core components” of good care. We recorded and transcribed the data for thematic analysis.

Setting and participants

We recruited people who are seldom heard in health and policy research for separate focus group discussions (one each with illegal drug users, Irish Travellers, migrant workers, young men and learning disabled people). We also ran a reference group of educated, older adults and an online group with people with long‐term conditions.

Results

There were few differences in what participants thought was important in health care but considerable differences in their expectations that they might personally receive good care. Differences related to participants' previous experiences. The drug users group reported particularly poor experiences and low expectations of good care.

Discussion

Differences in what is regarded as an entitlement or privilege in health care underline the persistence of structural and relational differences in how services are experienced. While we can be reassured that core aspects of care are similarly prioritized across different patient groups, including those who are seldom heard, a more intractable challenge remains: how to provide equitable health care for marginalized groups in an unequal society.
Effects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder signs and socio‐economic status on sleep bruxism and tooth wear among schoolchildren: structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Mota‐Veloso Isabella , Celeste Roger Keller , Fonseca Cynthia Pimenta , Soares Maria Eliza Consolação , Marques Leandro Silva , Ramos‐Jorge Maria Letícia , Ramos‐Jorge Joana
Published: February 2017

Background

The prevalence of both bruxism and attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) has increased in recent years.

Aim

This study evaluated the direct and indirect effects of signs of ADHD, reported by parents/caregivers and teachers, with sleep bruxism. In addition, this study explores the effects of socio‐economic status (SES) on sleep bruxism.

Design

This cross‐sectional study was performed in Diamantina, Brazil, with 851 randomly selected schoolchildren aged 6–12 years. The schoolchildren were underwent an oral examination for the evaluation of bruxism. Moreover, parents/caregivers fill out a form for the assessment of sleep bruxism and sociodemographic factors. Parents/caregivers and teachers responded to the Swanson, Nolan and Pelham scale – version IV (SNAP‐IV) for the assessment of ADHD signs. The structural equation modelling approach was used, and standardized coefficients to direct, indirect and total effects were calculated.

Results

ADHD signs had a significant moderate (SC = −0.19, P < 0.01) effect on sleep bruxism. SES had a significant indirect effect on bruxism via sucking habits. Moreover, SES had a significant direct (SC = −0.16, P = 0.01) and total effect on tooth wear (SC = −0.17, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

This study concluded that signs of ADHD and SES have a complex direct and indirect effects on sleep bruxism among schoolchildren.
Mortality from aortic stenosis: prospective study of serum calcium and phosphate
Authors: Wald D. S. , Bangash F. A. , Morris J. K. , Wald N. J.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To investigate the associations between levels of serum calcium and phosphate and subsequent death from aortic stenosis, and the implications for prevention.

Methods

A prospective (nested case–control) analysis of serum calcium and phosphate levels was performed in stored samples from the British United Provident Association prospective study of 21 520 men aged 35–64, followed for up to 32 years. There were 49 men without baseline valvular heart disease who subsequently died of aortic stenosis. Each was matched, for age, duration of sample storage and number of freeze–thaw cycles, with four unaffected control subjects. Odds ratios for death from aortic stenosis were estimated by logistic regression.

Results

Mean serum calcium concentration was higher in men who died of aortic stenosis than in those who did not (2.44 vs. 2.39 mmol L−1; P = 0.01). The risk of death from aortic stenosis in the highest calcium tertile was 2.87‐fold higher than in the lowest tertile (95% confidence interval 1.22–6.76). There was a continuous dose–response relationship; risk of death from aortic stenosis increased by 51% (11–105%) per 0.1 mmol L−1 increase in serum calcium, equivalent to a 34% (10–52%) lower risk per 0.1 mmol L−1 decrease. Serum phosphate was not significantly higher in men who died of aortic stenosis than in those who did not (1.0 vs. 0.99 mmol L−1; P = 0.76).

Conclusions

The association between serum calcium and subsequent mortality from aortic stenosis is of potential preventive significance. If confirmed quantitatively in other similar cohort studies, the results suggest that a very small reduction in serum calcium (about 5%) could translate into a large (about one‐third) reduction in aortic stenosis.