bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Molecular Subtypes and New Targets for Therapy
Authors: Lehmann Brian D. , Pietenpol Jennifer A. , Tan Antoinette R.
Published: May 2015

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a molecularly diverse disease. This heterogeneity has limited the success of targeted therapy in unselected patients to date. Recent transcriptional analysis has divided TNBC into transcriptionally similar subtypes that may have different sensitivity to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and targeted therapy. At present, chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for early-stage and advanced TNBC; however, several actionable targets show promise in preclinical studies. Novel therapeutic strategies are currently being tested in phase II and phase III trials and will likely require patient stratification before therapy. Examples of these tailored approaches include poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors for BRCA-mutated TNBC, antiandrogens for androgen receptor (AR)–positive TNBC, fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitors for TNBC harboring FGFR amplifications, and gamma-secretase inhibitors for TNBC with mutations in the PEST domain of NOTCH proteins. Treatment of TNBC based on molecular subsets represents a potential algorithm for the future. Well-designed clinical trials with incorporation of integrated biomarkers are necessary to advance the development of molecularly targeted therapy for different subgroups of TNBC.
The Value of Lung Cancer CT Screening: It Is All about Implementation
Authors: Goulart Bernardo H.L.
Published: May 2015

Hospitals have been gradually implementing new lung cancer CT screening programs following the release of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force grade B recommendation to screen individuals at high risk for lung cancer. Policy makers have legitimately questioned whether adoption of CT screening in the community will reproduce the mortality benefits seen in the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) and whether the benefits of screening will justify the potentially high costs. Although three annual CT screening exams proved cost-effective for the patient population enrolled in the NLST, uncertainty still exists about whether CT screening will be cost-effective in practice. The value of CT screening will depend largely on the strategies used to implement it. This manuscript reviews the current reimbursement policies for CT screening and explains the relationship between implementation strategies and screening value on the basis of the NLST cost-effectiveness analysis and other published data. A subsequent discussion ensues about the potential implementation inefficiencies that can negatively affect the value of CT screening (e.g., selection of low-risk individuals for screening, inappropriate follow-up visits for screening-detected lung nodules, failure to offer smoking cessation interventions, and overuse of medical resources for clinically irrelevant incidental findings) and the actions that can be taken to mitigate these inefficiencies and increase the value of screening.
Neoadjuvant Therapy for Melanoma: A Promising Therapeutic Approach and an Ideal Platform in Drug Development
Authors: Tarhini Ahmad A.
Published: May 2015

Patients with locoregionally advanced but surgically operable melanoma continue to carry a high risk of relapse and death despite the best available standard management approaches. Neoadjuvant studies targeting this patient population tested chemotherapy with temozolomide and biochemotherapy (BCT), in which BCT demonstrated high tumor response rates but was eventually abandoned with the failure of BCT to deliver survival benefits in randomized trials of metastatic disease. Smaller neoadjuvant immunotherapy studies with interferon (IFN) alfa and ipilimumab have yielded promising clinical activity and important mechanistic insights and biomarker findings. Newer targeted and immunotherapeutic agents and combinations currently are being translated into the neoadjuvant setting at an accelerated pace and carry significant clinical promise. In drug development, the neoadjuvant approach allows access to blood and tumor tissue before and after initiation of systemic therapy, which allows for the conduct of novel mechanistic and biomarker studies in the circulation and the tumor microenvironment. Such studies may guide drug development and allow for the discovery of predictive biomarkers selected on the basis of their capacity to classify patients according to the degree of benefit from treatment or the risk for significant toxicity.
Assuring Quality Cancer Survivorship Care: We've Only Just Begun
Authors: Mayer Deborah K. , Shapiro Charles L. , Jacobson Paul , McCabe Mary S.
Published: May 2015

Clinical practice guidelines, quality metrics, and performance improvement projects are the key tools of the national movement to improve and assure quality cancer care. Each of these evaluation instruments is intended to assess quality from a unique perspective, including that of the individual provider, the practice/hospital, and the health care system. A number of organizations have developed or endorsed quality measures specific to cancer, however, these have not formally included survivorship measures. Fortunately, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, the American Cancer Society, and the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) have taken a leadership role in developing survivorship guidelines and quality metrics. Both ASCO and ACoS have focused their efforts on the treatment summary and care plan, a document that was proposed in the 2006 Institute of Medicine report on cancer survivorship. ASCO has proposed a care plan template for implementation and incorporation into the electronic health records (EHR), which will lend itself to structure, process, and outcome measurement. ACoS, conversely, has included the care plan in its cancer program standards with annual evaluation metrics. In addition, ASCO has developed a number of key survivorship-relevant metrics as part of its Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI), a tool developed to measure quality cancer care and assess adherence to guidelines across academic and community practices. Together, these efforts will direct us to more effective ways to disseminate guideline recommendations and to better methods of assessing quality survivorship care nationally.
Systemic Therapy for Osteosarcoma and Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Meyers Paul A.
Published: May 2015

Curative therapy for both osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma requires the combination of effective systemic therapy and local control of all macroscopic tumors. Systemic therapy for osteosarcoma consists of multiagent chemotherapy. The most common regimen uses cisplatin, doxorubicin, and high-dose methotrexate. Addition of ifosfamide and etoposide to treatment for patients with poor initial response to therapy does not improve outcome. Addition of interferon to treatment for patients with favorable initial response does not improve outcome. Addition of liposomal muramyl tripeptide to chemotherapy may improve overall survival. Systemic therapy for Ewing sarcoma consists of multiagent chemotherapy including doxorubicin, vincristine, etoposide, and cyclophosphamide and/or ifosfamide. Increased dose intensity of therapy, either by shortening the intervals between cycles of chemotherapy or by increasing doses of chemotherapy, improves outcome. Regimens such as irinotecan/temozolomide or cyclophosphamide/topotecan have shown activity in metastatic recurrent Ewing sarcoma. Trials are ongoing to evaluate the addition of these drugs to existing multiagent regimens in order to test their ability to improve outcome. High-dose systemic therapy with autologous stem cell reconstitution is being tested for patients at high risk for recurrence; definitive results await completion of a prospective randomized trial.
Chemotherapy for Bone Sarcomas in Adults: The MD Anderson Experience
Authors: Benjamin Robert S. , Wagner Michael J. , Livingston J. Andrew , Ravi Vinod , Patel Shreyaskumar R.
Published: May 2015

Increasing age is an adverse prognostic factor in the treatment of primary bone tumors. There are few published data on treatment of primary bone tumors in adults. This paper presents data from the Department of Sarcoma Medical Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, summarizing our treatment results. To treat primary osteosarcoma, we used 90 mg/m2 of doxorubicin as a continuous intravenous infusion over 48 to 96 hours and 120 to 160 mg/m2 of cisplatin intravenously or intra-arterially. Initially, we found a marked difference in postoperative continuous disease-free survival (CDFS) between those with 90% or greater (i.e., good response) tumor necrosis and those with less than 90% (i.e., poor response) tumor necrosis. The sequential addition of high-dose methotrexate and ifosfamide to patients with poorly responding disease improved their CDFS to that of patients with good response. Older patients and those who have tumors with variant histology have inferior outcomes. Evaluation of subsequent patients revealed similar outcomes for those with good or poor response to induction therapy, supporting our practice of adaptation of postoperative chemotherapy to the results of preoperative chemotherapy. PET-CT is the best imaging modality to screen for a response with tumors inside bone. To treat Ewing sarcoma, we have employed 2 mg of vincristine, 75 to 90 mg/m2 of doxorubicin as a 72-hour infusion, and 2.5 g/m2 of ifosfamide over 3 hours daily for 4 doses (i.e., vincristine, doxorubicin, and ifosfamide [VAI]). Preliminary analysis indicates a higher CDFS when adjusted for patient age than seen with the standard alternating regimen used in pediatrics. A screening MRI of the pelvis and spine can detect subtle metastatic disease in bone or bone marrow that is missed by other imaging modalities or blind biopsy. Chondrosarcoma is treated surgically or on investigational protocols. Giant cell tumor of bone is usually managed surgically, but multiple options exist for medical treatment, and therapy is individualized with embolization, denosumab, and interferon.
Whole-Brain Radiotherapy and Stereotactic Radiosurgery in Brain Metastases: What Is the Evidence?
Authors: Mehta Minesh P. , Ahluwalia Manmeet S.
Published: May 2015

The overall local treatment paradigm of brain metastases, which includes whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), continues to evolve. Local therapies play an important role in the management of brain metastases. The choice of local therapy depends on factors that involve the patient (performance status, expected survival, and age), the prior treatment history, and the tumor (type and subtype, number, size, location of metastases, and extracranial disease status). Multidisciplinary collaboration is required to facilitate an individualized plan to improve the outcome of disease in patients with this life-limiting complication. There has been concern about the neurocognitive effects of WBRT. A number of approaches that mitigate cognitive dysfunction, such as pharmacologic intervention (memantine) or a hippocampal-sparing strategy, have been studied in a prospective manner with WBRT. Although there has been an increase in the use of SRS in the management of brain metastases in recent years, WBRT retains an important therapeutic role.
Consumption Constraints and Entrepreneurial Intentions in Subsistence Marketplaces
Authors: Venugopal Srinivas , Viswanathan Madhubalan , Jung Kiju
Published: May 2015

More than a billion entrepreneurs worldwide live in subsistence contexts and run microenterprises to meet life's basic consumption needs. In this article, the authors investigate how two types of consumption constraints in poverty, chronic and periodic constraints, combine to influence entrepreneurial intention. Chronic and periodic constraints are concomitant in subsistence marketplaces and represent consumption-side constraints. A field experiment shows that chronic constraints amplify entrepreneurial intention, but this effect is contingent on the level of periodic constraints. When experiencing low periodic constraints, people with high chronic constraints have greater entrepreneurial intentions than do those with low chronic constraints. When experiencing more periodic constraints, however, the authors do not find this difference. Another field experiment shows the effectiveness of marketplace literacy education in alleviating the adverse impact of periodic constraints through enhancing entrepreneurial self-efficacy. The authors present specific policy recommendations for government, social enterprise, and business relating to enhancing entrepreneurship among the poor in the face of such constraints.
Release of rosmarinic acid from semisolid formulations and its penetration through human skin ex vivo
Authors: Stelmakienė Ada , Ramanauskienė Kristina , Briedis Vitalis
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the release of rosmarinic acid (RA) from the experimental topical formulations with the Melissa officinalis L. extract and to evaluate its penetration through undamaged human skin ex vivo. The results of the in vitro release study showed that higher amounts of RA were released from the emulsion vehicle when lemon balm extract was added in its dry form. An inverse correlation was detected between the released amount of RA and the consistency index of the formulation. Different penetration of RA into the skin may be influenced by the characteristics of the vehicle as well as by the form of the extract. The results of penetration assessment showed that the intensity of RA penetration was influenced by its lipophilic properties: RA was accumulating in the epidermis, while the dermis served as a barrier, impeding its deeper penetration.
The role of phosphodiesterase 4B in IL-8/LTB4-induced human neutrophil chemotaxis evaluated with a phosphodiesterase 4B inhibitor
Authors: Suzuki Osamu , Goto Taĳi , Yoshino Toshiharu , Nakamura Satoshi , Maeda Hiroaki
Published: May 2015

PDE4B was previously shown to be a dominant PDE4 subtype of neutrophils. However, its physiological role in the neutrophil function has not been evaluated. In this study, the inhibitory effects of a phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B)- selective inhibitor (compound A) and subtype non-selective PDE4 inhibitors (roflumilast and cilomilast) were evaluated in human peripheral blood cells. Compound A, roflumilast and cilomilast in a similar manner inhibited TNF-α production by LPS-stimulated human mononuclear cells. However, the inhibitory effect of compound A on IL-8 or LTB4-induced chemotactic response of neutrophils was modest even at the highest concentration (10 μmol L-1), whereas roflumilast and cilomilast inhibited IL-8 or LTB4-induced neutrophil chemotaxis. Our results suggest that PDE4B does not play an important role during the chemotactic response of human neutrophils.
Determination of ramipril in human plasma and its fragmentation by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS with positive electrospray ionization
Authors: Szpot Paweł , Buszewicz Grzegorz
Published: May 2015

This report presents the application of ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry with positive electrospray ionization, to determine ramipril in human plasma. First, the proteins in human plasma were precipitated using acetonitrile, then the supernatant was extracted by ethyl acetate at pH 3 and finally, the extract was analyzed using a UPLC-QTOF- MS system. The method was validated and the coefficient of determination (R2) was > 0.999, the lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) was 0.5 ng mL-1. Precision, recovery and stability were determined for three different concentrations of ramipril. RSD for this method ranged from 3.3 to 8.6 %. The intra-day mean recovery was from 65.3 to 97.3 %. In addition, the fragmentation of ramipril was studied. Due to high resolution of the spectrometer, it was possible to measure fragment masses accurately and determine their molecular and chemical formulas with high accuracy.
Are semen quality parameters sufficient for biomonitoring spermatozoa DNA integrity and oxidatively damaged DNA
Authors: Jeng Hueiwang Anna , Li Ruei-Nian , Lin Wen-Yi
Published: May 2015

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between semen quality parameters and DNA integrity, and determine whether semen quality parameters could serve as a reliable biomarker for monitoring sperm DNA damage. Conventional semen parameters from a total of 202 male human subjects were analyzed. DNA fragmentation and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′- deoxyguanosine (8-oxoGuo) were used to assess sperm DNA integrity. DNA fragmentation was analyzed by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), while 8-oxodGuo was quantified by the liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) coupled with an on-line solid phase system. The levels of 8-oxodGuo levels in sperm were related to the percentages of DNA fragmentation measured by both the TUNEL and SCSA (r = 0.22, p = 0.048; r = 0.12, p = 0.039). Sperm vitality, motility and morphology from all of the participants exhibited a weak correlation with the levels of 8-oxodGuo and the percentages of DNA fragmentation. Semen quality parameters may be independent of the formation of DNA fragmentation and oxidative adducts in sperm. Semen quality parameters may be insufficient to monitor sperm DNA fragmentation and oxidative damage. DNA damage in sperm is recommended to be included in routine measurements.
Genetic diversity and taxonomy of foliose Bangiales (Rhodophyta) from Taiwan based on rbcL and cox1 sequences
Authors: Xie Zhen-You , Lin Showe-Mei , Liu Li-Chia , Ang Put O. , Shyu Jhen-Fong
Published: May 2015

Molecular analyses of >80 specimens of foliose Bangiales from the coasts of Taiwan reveal that only two species are present: Pyropia acanthophora and Pyropia haitanensis. These species had been previously identified as Pyropia suborbiculata (obovoid form), Porphyra yamadae (crisped form), and Pyropia dentata (ribbon-like form) based on morphology. Populations previously identified as P. yamadae from Taiwan and those from the type locality of this species (Ojika Island, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan) are genetically identical to Py. acanthophora and should be treated as a later synonym of Py. acanthophora, a species originally described from Brazil. Thalli with obovoid blades from northeastern Taiwan that resemble Py. suborbiculata and those with lanceolate or linear blades from Penghu Archipelago that resemble Py. dentata are also genetically identical to Py. acanthophora. In contrast to the widespread Py. acanthophora, Py. haitanensis (previously misidentified as Py. dentata) was found only at two sites, both in Keelung City. Among the nine cox1 haplotypes of Py. acanthophora identified worldwide, eight are present in Taiwan. At least five out of the eight cox1 haplotypes are present in populations from the eastern coast of Keelung City. The high level of genetic diversity within a single species supports the need for establishment of a marine ecological area in this region.
Quality of Slab Track Construction – Track Alignment Design and Track Geometry
Authors: Šestáková Janka
Published: May 2015

The slab track superstructure design (without ballast) is a perspective construction especially for building tunnels and bridges in the modernized sections of railway tracks in Slovakia. Monitoring of the structure described in this article is focused on the transition areas between standard structure with ballast and slab track construction.
Determination of Stress in Spread Foundation Subsoil by Various Approaches
Authors: Nguyen Giang
Published: May 2015

The paper deals with the determination of stress induced in spread foundation subsoil by Slovak Technical Standard STN 73 1001:2010 (STN) and Polish Standard PN-81/B-03020 (PN). While STN does not consider with stress state in subsoil just after carrying out excavation and the stress is determined from overloading only, PN considers with stress states after carrying out excavation and follows loading. Differences are also in determination of foundation stiffness and taking into account soil structural strength. It will be shown that different approaches make difference in the value of additional stress up to 18.6 %.
Evaluation of Dynamic Methods for Earthwork Assessment
Authors: Vlček Jozef , Ďureková Dominika , Zgútová Katarína
Published: May 2015

Rapid development of road construction imposes requests on fast and quality methods for earthwork quality evaluation. Dynamic methods are now adopted in numerous civil engineering sections. Especially evaluation of the earthwork quality can be sped up using dynamic equipment. This paper presents the results of the parallel measurements of chosen devices for determining the level of compaction of soils. Measurements were used to develop the correlations between values obtained from various apparatuses. Correlations show that examined apparatuses are suitable for examination of compaction level of fine-grained soils with consideration of boundary conditions of used equipment. Presented methods are quick and results can be obtained immediately after measurement, and they are thus suitable in cases when construction works have to be performed in a short period of time.
Application of Economic Indicators to Asses the Bridges of Rehablitation
Authors: Pitoňák Martin , Valuch Milan
Published: May 2015

The aim of this paper is to point out the advantage of Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) and its economic indicators to assess a rehabilitation of bridges. The paper includes short example of assessment of the project economic efficiency in which economic indicators are applied in order to evaluate of two technology project variants of bridge object rehabilitation. It quantifies and compares the economic results of alternative 1 with the monolithic prestress construction and alternative 2, with the composite steel - concrete bridge. The contribution reflects the current practice of economic analysis recommended by the Ministry of Transport, Construction and Regional Development.
Synthesis and Study of Ni-Mo-Co Catalysts for Hydroprocessing of Oil Fractions
Authors: Yunusov M.P. , Saidaxmedov Sh.M. , Djalаlova Sh.B. , Nasullaev Kh.A. , Gulyamov Sh.T. , Isaeva N.F. , Mirzaeva E.I.
Published: May 2015

The problems of synthesis of Ni-Mo, Ni-Mo
Co and Co-Mo oxide catalysts for hydrodesulfurization
and hydrogenation of aromatic hydrocarbons in the
composition of kerosene, diesel and oil fractions are
discussed. The influence of spent adsorbent and kaolin
as the additives on the physical-chemical and catalytic
properties of bimetallic and trimetallic catalysts is
established.
On the construction of low-parametric families of min-stable multivariate exponential distributions in large dimensions
Authors: Bernhart German , Mai Jan-Frederik , Scherer Matthias
Published: May 2015

Min-stable multivariate exponential (MSMVE) distributions constitute an important family of distributions,
among others due to their relation to extreme-value distributions. Being true multivariate exponential
models, they also represent a natural choicewhen modeling default times in credit portfolios. Despite
being well-studied on an abstract level, the number of known parametric families is small. Furthermore, for
most families only implicit stochastic representations are known. The present paper develops new parametric
families of MSMVE distributions in arbitrary dimensions. Furthermore, a convenient stochastic representation
is stated for such models, which is helpful with regard to sampling strategies.
Keeping it small: towards a molecular definition of nanotoxicology
Authors: Gallud Audrey , Fadeel Bengt
Published: May 2015

In this essay, we offer the opinion that engineered nanomaterials are, by definition, materials that can interact with biological systems at the nanoscale, and that this very fact underlies both the promise and the peril of this multifaceted class of materials. Furthermore, nanomaterials are cloaked in host-derived proteins, lipids, or other biomolecules as they enter into a living organism and this so-called bio-corona may impact on subsequent interactions with biological structures. We will explore some examples of nanoscale effects of engineered nanomaterials, and discuss how such interactions may underpin toxicity, and, conversely, how nanoscale interactions may be harnessed for clinical applications, including the use of nanoparticles as drugs per se.
The impact of revitalization on the evolution of urban space on former iron and steel works areas in Ruhr region (Germany)
Authors: Chmielewska Marta , Otto Marius
Published: May 2015

The aim of the paper was to consider the extent of the impact of revitalization on the evolution of post-industrial sites, which manifests itself in morphological and functional changes of urban space. Research was performed on three former iron and steel works areas located in the Ruhr region in Germany: one of the Thyssen's ironworks in Duisburg - Meiderich, the area of steelworks complex Gute-Hoffnungs-Hütte in Oberhausen and the area of the iron and steel works Phönix in Dortmund - Hörde. Methods were applied specific to urban morphology. For each object of study a comparative analysis of the town plan was carried out. Town plans were compared before and after the revitalization process and special attention was paid to land use. This allowed us to observe morphological and functional changes which occurred as a result of the revitalization of the study areas. The research showed that the revitalization of post-industrial space may be conducted in many different directions but irrespective of that it has a huge impact on the evolution of urban space in both a morphological and a functional way. The extent to which revitalization affects morphological and functional structure of urban space depends on the future plan for the spatial development of the site and its attitude to its post-industrial heritage.
Course of ice phenomena in small water reservoir in Katowice (Poland) in the winter season 2011/2012
Authors: Machowski Robert
Published: May 2015

Investigations on the ice phenomena were carried out on a small water reservoir located in the northern part of Katowice, at A4 motorway, in terrains of the Shopping-Service Centre “3 Ponds” (“Trzy Stawy”). Observations on the course of ice phenomena were performed in the winter season 2011/2012. Measurements were started in the moment occurrence of the first forms of the ice phenomena and were finished after their complete disappearance. The investigations had a character of systematic, daily observations and consisted in the mapping of ice phenomena. Among basic research aims should be numbered as follows: evaluation of the ice phenomena course, the identification of the ice phenomena forms, determination of changes in the range of ice cover and its characteristics in terms of recreational use as well. The first effects of low air temperatures occurred on the 19th November of 2011. At the beginning the ice phenomena in a form of so-called shore naledi and shore ice appeared. The formation of a compact ice cover happened not before than after nearly two months. Permanent ice cover formed on 16th January 2012. At the end of ice cover occurrence its crashing followed, reflecting in a form of numerous fissures in the ice. The complete disappearance of processes and forms ice phenomena happened on the 21st March 2012. Ice phenomena in the winter season 2011/2012 occurred for 124 days from the 18th November 2011 till the 21st March 2012, including uninterruptedly for 65 days. Ice cover in the initial stage had an ephemeral character. Safe recreational use of ice cover at the reservoir (e.g. walking, fishing, ice skating) was possible only for about 20 days, when its thickness exceeded 15 cm and ice composition had a homogenous (crystalline) structure. The course of ice phenomena indicates their quasinatural character, resulting from the natural conditions.
Excessive TV viewing time and associated factors in Brazilian adolescents from a rural area
Authors: Fronza Fernanda Cerveira Abuana Osório , Minatto Giseli , Martins Cilene Rebolho , Petroski Edio Luiz
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Sedentary behavior has been identified as a risk factor for chronic non-communicable diseases. This study identified the prevalence of excessive TV viewing time during the week and weekend and associated factors in adolescents living in a small urban and rural area.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving 283 students (aged 10–19 years) from Brazil was conducted in 2010. Data on TV viewing time and sociodemographic information were collected by questionnaires, cardiorespiratory fitness was evaluated by the 20-m shuttle run test, and anthropometric characteristics were obtained by measuring waist circumference and skinfold thickness. Statistical analysis involved binary logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of excessive TV viewing time (> 2 h) was 76.7% during on weekdays and 78.4% on the weekend. Adolescents aged 10–12 years (OR = 6.20; 95% CI = 2.91, 13.19; p < 0.001) and 13–15 years (OR = 2.57; 95% CI = 1.28, 5.18; p = 0.008) were more exposed to excessive TV viewing time during the week. No associations were found for excessive TV viewing time on the weekend.

Conclusions

Approximately 8 in 10 adolescents presented excessive TV viewing time; excessive TV viewing time during the week was associated with age.
The Dynamics of a Parametrically Driven Damped Pendulum
Authors: Das A. , Kumar K.
Published: May 2015

Ordered and chaotic states of a parametrically driven planar pendulum with viscous damping are numerically investigated. The damping makes the number of chaotic windows fewer but with larger width. Stroboscopic maps of the chaotic motion of the pendulum, driven either subharmonically or harmonically, show strange attractors with inversion symmetry in the phase plane.
Screening of lysyl oxidase (LOX) and lysyl oxidase like (LOXL) enzyme expression and activity in preterm prelabor rupture of fetal membranes
Authors: Polettini Jossimara , Silva Marcia G. , Kacerovsky Marian , Syed Tariq A. , Saade George R. , Menon Ramkumar
Published: May 2015

Lysyl oxidase (LOX) and LOX like enzymes (LOXL1–4) physiologically remodel extracellular matrix and pathologically contribute to cellular senescence under oxidative stress (OS). We characterized LOX and LOXL expressions and activity in human fetal membranes.

Human fetal membranes from women with uncomplicated pregnancies at term, preterm birth with intact membranes (PTB) or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (pPROM), and

Increase of LOX expression in pPROM, an OS-related disease, and the apparent inhibition of LOX activity by CSE restored by antioxidant treatment suggest that reactive oxygen species might influence LOX-mediated tissue remodeling in fetal membranes. Balanced antioxidant supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk of pPROM by increasing LOX activity.
Diagnostic accuracy of cervical elastography in predicting labor induction success: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Londero Ambrogio P. , Schmitz Ralf , Bertozzi Serena , Driul Lorenza , Fruscalzo Arrigo
Published: May 2015

To determine the accuracy of cervical elastography in predicting labor induction success.

A systematic search, review, and meta-analysis of observational studies published in English language between January 2000 and October 2014 was performed. It included studies considering cervix sonoelastography as the index test and successful labor or vaginal delivery as the reference standard. As cervix length and Bishop score were considered comparator tests, the quality of the included studies was assessed using quality assessment tool for diagnostic accuracy studies (QUADAS) tool.

A total of four studies assessing 323 women before medical induction of labor were included. Cervical elastography, cervical length, and Bishop score showed a diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for successful labor prediction of 3.50 (1.93–6.35), 3.35 (1.94–5.77), and 1.45 (0.33–6.41), respectively. In addition, cervical elastography, cervical length, and Bishop score showed a DOR with 95% CI for successful vaginal delivery prediction of 5.24 (3.23–8.50), 4.94 (2.72–8.98), and 4.62 (0.69–30.94), respectively. Considering the summary of receiver operating characteristic curves we show that cervical elastography or length are similarly reliable, and both are more reliable to predict successful labor than the Bishop score. Two studies were excluded because it was not possible to retrieve data for the meta-analysis. Among the excluded studies, one found no significant contribution from elastography for prediction of successful labor induction.

Even though there is a limited number of studies included and the heterogeneity of the methods used, cervical elastography seems to be a promising tool for predicting successful labor induction and vaginal delivery in women treated by medical induction of labor.
Two new bat species for Swaziland and a revised list for the country
Authors: Shapiro Julie Teresa , Monadjem Ara
Published: May 2015

Bat distributions are still comparatively poorly known in Africa and updated national species lists do not exist for many countries. We present a revised checklist of the bats of Swaziland, which includes seven species not previously listed. Of these, two species are recent additions (
Nanowire Lasers
Authors: Couteau C. , Larrue A. , Wilhelm C. , Soci C.
Published: May 2015

We review principles and trends in the use of semiconductor nanowires as gain media for stimulated emission and lasing. Semiconductor nanowires have recently been widely studied for use in integrated optoelectronic devices, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), solar cells, and transistors. Intensive research has also been conducted in the use of nanowires for subwavelength laser systems that take advantage of their quasione- dimensional (1D) nature, flexibility in material choice and combination, and intrinsic optoelectronic properties. First, we provide an overview on using quasi-1D nanowire systems to realize subwavelength lasers with efficient, directional, and low-threshold emission. We then describe the state of the art for nanowire lasers in terms of materials, geometry, andwavelength tunability.Next,we present the basics of lasing in semiconductor nanowires, define the key parameters for stimulated emission, and introduce the properties of nanowires. We then review advanced nanowire laser designs from the literature. Finally, we present interesting perspectives for low-threshold nanoscale light sources and optical interconnects. We intend to illustrate the potential of nanolasers inmany applications, such as nanophotonic devices that integrate electronics and photonics for next-generation optoelectronic devices. For instance, these building blocks for nanoscale photonics can be used for data storage and biomedical applications when coupled to on-chip characterization tools. These nanoscale monochromatic laser light sources promise breakthroughs in nanophotonics, as they can operate at room temperature, can potentially be electrically driven, and can yield a better understanding of intrinsic nanomaterial properties and surface-state effects in lowdimensional semiconductor systems.
Green synthesis of nanoparticles: current prospectus
Authors: Thunugunta Tejaswi , Reddy Anand C. , Reddy D.C. Lakshmana
Published: May 2015

In the past few years, nanoparticles have been applied in various fields of science and technology, ranging from material science to biotechnology. Thus, the synthesis of nanoparticles can be considered as a dynamic area in research and application of nanoparticles. The different methods of nanoparticle synthesis include physical, chemical, and biological methods. Of these methods, the biological synthesis is to be comparatively widely used due to its advantages of being low cost, nontoxic and environmental friendly. Bio-applications of nanoparticles have pawed way for green synthesis of nanoparticles. In this review, we have provided brief information on various biological agents used for the synthesis of nanoparticles.
Otoconia: Mimicking a calcite-based functional material of the human body. From basic research to medical aspects
Authors: Kniep Rüdiger
Published: May 2015

Otoconia (calcite-based biominerals) are part of the sensory system in the inner ear of vertebrates, acting as gravity receptors responding to linear accelerations. Biomimetic otoconia are grown by double-diffusion into gelatine-gel matrices, and represent the first example of successful imitation of a biomineral, not only in outer shape but also in composite structure and hierarchical inner architecture. Biomimetic and biogenic (human) otoconia are investigated by X-ray methods, chemical analytics, ESEM, and TEM. Shape development (morphogenesis) as well as (partial) dissolution of the calcite component of the composite underline the hierarchical inner architecture built of more dense rhombohedral branches (with plane end-faces) and a rounded, more porous belly area. Atomistic simulations are performed in order to get insight into very first nucleation steps. Based on the detailed observations made up to now, first assumptions for the function of otoconia are developed, including the questions of density distribution within the volume of the specimen, the surrounding endolymph, as well as anchoring and interconnections of otoconia. A final point concerns the degeneration of otoconia which is caused by complexing agents and/or changes in ion concentrations (and pH) of the endolymph.
The Assessment of the Quality of Life in Visually Impaired People with Different Level of Physical Activity
Authors: Kamelska Anna Malwina , Mazurek Krzysztof
Published: May 2015

Quality of life (QOL) is associated with factors such as health, physical functioning, life satisfaction, a sense of happiness, and others. In case of disabled people, much attention is paid to their QOL rather than only the improvement of physiological variables. In a group of blind and visually impaired people, the effect of physical activity (PA) on the socialization process, the ability to explore own personality traits, developing creativity, and more motivation and desire to overcome the difficulties associated with visual impairment were observed.

The study involved 53 people: visually impaired (NT) sedentary lifestyle people (n=18; 51±12 years) and visually impaired tandem cycling athletes (N) (n=17; 42±13 years). Properly sighted people (P) (n=18; 38±12 years) were partners in tandem with visually impaired athletes. To determine the level of PA, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used. The WHO-Quality of Life (WHO-QOL-BREF), the National Eye Institute 25-item Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25, version 2000), and the Retina AMD Poland Association questionnaire were used to assess QOL.

In visually impaired athletes, significantly greater PA with moderate intensity, moving by bike, and energy expenditure for vigorous recreational exercise and sport in leisuretime was found. Sedentary lifestyle people mainly participated in moderate physical activity around the house. Significant greater satisfaction with health was observed in the case of visually impaired athletes in comparison with NT. All disabled groups rarely had negative feelings such as despair, depression, and anxiety.

Moderate correlations between variables according to physical activity and quality of life in all participants were observed. The meaningfulness of life and life satisfaction also depended on cycling training and moderate physical activity around the house. The obtained data indicate that all available forms of regular PA in visually impaired people could have a beneficial effect on their quality of life.
Prediction Of Mechanical Properties Of Quench Hardening Steel*
Authors: Chotěborský R. , Linda M.
Published: May 2015

The present study investigated the application of finite element method for prediction of mechanical properties of quench hardening steel. Based on the experimental results obtained, a numerical model for simulation of continuous cooling of quench hardening steel was developed. For the simulation of the kinetics of diffusion phase transformations, the Avrami equation and additive rule were applied. A new model was also developed for martensitic transformation which was validated using metallographic analysis and hardness tests. Experimental and simulation results indicated a good agreement. The developed model information provided here could be used for simulation of continuous cooling and kinetics phase transformation as well as for prediction of final distribution of microstructures and hardness of alloy steels.
First-Principles Study of Electronic and Elastic Properties of Hexagonal Layered Crystal MoS2 Under Pressure
Authors: Yuan Jiao-Nan , Cheng Yan , Zhang Xiu-Qing , Chen Xiang-Rong , Cai Ling-Cang
Published: May 2015

The structural, electronic, and elastic properties of hexagonal layered crystal MoS2 under pressure are investigated using first-principles calculations within the local density approximation (LDA). The calculated lattice parameters a
0, c
0, and cell volume V
0 of MoS2 are in good agreement with the available experimental data. Our calculations show that MoS2 is an indirect band gap semiconductor and there is a vanishing anisotropy in the rate of structural change at around 25 GPa, which is consistent with the experimental result. We also analyse the partial density of states (PDOS) of MoS2 at 0 and 14 GPa, which indicate that the whole valence bands of MoS2 are mainly composed by the Mo-4d and S-3s states at 0 GPa, while they are mainly composed by the Mo-4p, Mo-4d, and S-3p states at 14 GPa. The electronic charge density difference maps show the covalent characteristic of Mo–S, and the bonding properties of MoS2 are investigated by using the Mulliken overlap population. In addition, the elastic constants C

ij
, bulk modulus B, shear modulus G, Young’s modulus Y, the Debye temperature Θ
D
, and hardness H of MoS2 are also obtained successfully. It is found that they all increase monotonically with the increasing pressure.
Eigenvalue Problem, Spin Systems, Lie Groups, and Parameter Dependence
Authors: Steeb Willi-Hans , Hardy Yorick
Published: May 2015

We study square matrices F(α) over ℂ with α∈ℝ, where the eigenvalues depend on the parameter α but not the eigenvectors, and vice versa, where the eigenvectors depend on the parameter α but not the eigenvalues. We derive sufficient conditions for such properties. Applications to Lie groups and spin systems are provided. Both normal and nonnormal matrices are investigated.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A Case Report With Premature Teeth Exfoliation and Bone Resorption
Authors: Angelopoulou Matina V. , Kontogiorgos Elias , Emmanouil Dimitris
Published: May 2015

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder characterized by insufficient production of cortisol. The aim of this case report was to present a child with CAH, premature exfoliation of primary teeth and accelerated eruption of his permanent teeth related to bone resorption. A 4.5-year-old Caucasian boy with CAH and long-term administration of glucocorticoids was referred for dental restoration. Clinical examination revealed primary molars with worn stainless steel crowns, severe attrition of the upper canines, and absence of the upper incisors. Before the completion of treatment, abnormal mobility of the first upper primary molars and the lower incisors was detected, and a few days later the teeth exfoliated prematurely. Histologic examination revealed normal tooth structure. Alkaline phosphatase and blood cells values were normal. Eruption of the permanent dentition was also accelerated. Tooth mobility was noticed in the permanent teeth as soon as they erupted, along with bone destruction. Examination revealed an elevated level of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand and lower-than-normal osteoprotegerin and vitamin D levels. The patient was treated with vitamin D supplements, and his teeth have been stable ever since. CAH is a serious chronic disorder appearing in children with accelerated dental development and possibly premature loss of primary teeth.
The Emerging Role of PCSK9 Inhibitors in Preventive Cardiology
Authors: Pitts Reynaria N , Eckel Robert H ,   Charles A. Boettcher II Chair in Atherosclerosis, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, US,   Division of Cardiology, Charles A Boettcher II Chair in Atherosclerosis, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Ave, RC1 South, Room 7107, Aurora CO 80045. E: robert.eckel@ucdenver.edu
Published: May 2015

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a most important risk factor for developing coronary artery disease (CAD) and other forms of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) and a major focus of CVD risk reduction with lifestyle and statins. Unfortunately residual risk of CVD remains in patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia and/or statin intolerance in whom adequate LDL-C lowering is not accomplished with lifestyle and statins. PCSK9 is a serine protease that binds the LDL receptor (LDL-R) and acts as a chaparone for endocytosis and shuttling the PCSK9-LDLR complex to lysosomes for degradation. In the absence of PCSK9 the LDLR-LDL-C complex dissociates and LDL-R is recycled back to the cell surface. Humanised monoclonal antibodies (evolocumab, alirocumab, bocolicumab) have been developed that increase LDL-R by ~2-fold and lower LDL-C by up to 75 percent. This effect is synergistic to that of statins with the only common adverse effect is a local injection site reaction. At present, ongoing Phase III CVD outcome trials with PCSK9 inhibitors offer promise that patients with LDL-C levels that remain elevated can decrease CVD events and related mortality.
Statins: Practical Considerations – A Review
Authors: Abdullah Kazeen , Rohatgi Anand ,   Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Texas, US,   Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Sountwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75390, US. E: Anand.Rohatgi@utsouthwestern.edu
Published: May 2015

Statins are currently the most efficacious and widely prescribed lipid-lowering medications. The 2013 ACC/AHA cholesterol guidelines provide a dramatic shift in treatment approach with a focus on fixed-dose statins matched to individual risk scores. Statin intolerance is not uncommon and can be challenging to diagnose and manage; however, several therapeutic strategies have been successful in achieving statin tolerance. Statin use is also associated with liver enzyme elevations and increased risk of incident diabetes, but studies show these individuals benefit from statins. Several guidelines exist and statin use is expected to increase with the new cholesterol guidelines bringing along new challenges for prescribers. This review article will provide practical considerations for statin use and management of statin intolerance.