bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Total Homocysteine Levels Predict the Risk of Incident Dementia Independent of Cerebral Small-Vessel Diseases and Vascular Risk Factors
Authors: Miwa Kaori , Tanaka Makiko , Okazaki Shuhei , Yagita Yoshiki , Sakaguchi Manabu , Mochizuki Hideki , Kitagawa Kazuo
Published: November 2015

Background: Homocysteine has been identified as a potential risk factor for stroke, cerebral small-vessel diseases (SVD), and dementia. Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the predictive value of homocysteine levels on incident dementia while simultaneously controlling for MRI findings and vascular risk factors. Methods: Within a Japanese cohort of participants with vascular risk factors in an observational study, we evaluated the association between baseline total homocysteine (tHcy) levels (per 1 μmol/L and the tertile of tHcy), the prevalence of MRI-findings at baseline, and incident all-cause dementia. Baseline brain MRI was used to determine SVD (lacunas, white matter hyperintensities, and cerebral microbleeds [CMBs]) and atrophy (medial-temporal lobe atrophy and bicaudate ratio). Logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the cross-sectional association between tHcy and each of MRI findings. Cox proportional hazards analyses were performed to estimate the longitudinal association between tHcy and dementia. Results: In the 643 subjects (age: 67.2 ± 8.4 years, male: 59% ; education: 12.9 ± 2.6 years), multivariable analyses adjusted for several potential confounders, including estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and intima-media thickness, showed that highest tHcy tertile was associated with lacunas, CMBs, and strictly deep CMBs. During the mean 7.3-year follow-up (range: 2–13), 47 patients were diagnosed with dementia (Alzheimer’s disease: 24; vascular dementia: 18; mixed-type: 3; other: 2). After adjusting for age, gender, APOE ɛ4, education, BMI, MMSE, hypertension, cerebrovascular events, eGFR, and MRI-findings, tHcy level (hazard ratios [HR]: 1.08, p = 0.043) and the highest tertile of tHcy (HR: 2.50, p = 0.047) for all-cause dementia remained significant. Conclusions: Our results provide additional evidence of tHcy that contributes to increased susceptibility to dementia risk.
Cost Related to Dementia in the Young and the Impact of Etiological Subtype on Cost
Authors: Kandiah Nagaendran , Wang Vivian , Lin Xuling , Nyu Mei Mei , Lim Linda , Ng Adeline , Hameed Shahul , Wee Hwee Lin
Published: November 2015

Background: Young onset dementia (YOD) presents in individuals who are economically productive and socially active. While the cost related to dementia in the elderly has been widely studied, the cost related to YOD is largely unknown. Objective: To study the economic burden of community dwelling YOD in relation to late onset dementia (LOD) and cost of YOD based on etiology. Methods: In this prospective cross-sectional study of 255 patients attending a tertiary neurology center, data on economic burden, clinical features, and caregiver burden were collected using structured financial questionnaire, standard cognitive and neuropsychiatric measures, and Zarit caregiver burden scale. Cost components were grouped into those relating to direct medical costs, direct non-medical costs, and those related to indirect costs. Cost was also categorized based on etiology of YOD. Results: The mean age at symptom onset in the YOD and LOD cohort was 57.0 (SD 5.1) and 75.0 (SD 5.9) years, respectively. The median annual cost for patients with YOD was almost twice that of LOD (USD 15,815 versus USD 8,396). Indirect cost contributed heavily to cost related to YOD. Even when grouped by dementia etiology, YOD patients with Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and vascular dementia had higher cost compared to their elderly counterparts. Young onset FTD had the highest cost. 43.2% of YOD reported loss of employment due to dementia, which was significantly higher than that in LOD (2.4%). Conclusion: Patients with YOD have a high economic burden. Young patients with FTD have the highest cost followed by vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
First Aid Oxygen Treatment for Decompression Illness in the Goat After Simulated Submarine Escape
Authors: Loveman Geoff A. M. , Seddon Fiona M. , Jurd Karen M. , Thacker Julian C. , Fisher Arran S.
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: Personnel responding to a distressed submarine incident require information on likely casualty levels and the severity and progression of decompression illness (DCI). Recompression may not be immediately available. First aid oxygen (FAo2) can be administered;
however, there is no direct evidence of its efficacy in this scenario.METHODS: Trials were conducted between 2004 and 2006. Goats exposed to raised pressure for 24 h (‘saturation’) were either returned directly to atmospheric pressure (Phase A, N = 40) or exposed
to simulated submarine escape at a depth of 656 ft (200 m; assumed seawater density = 1019.72 kg · m−3; Phase B, N = 39). The pressure during saturation was selected to provoke 50% DCI. Cases of DCI were randomly assigned to receive FAo2 or air.RESULTS:
DCI cases were: limb pain in 39 subjects, neurological in 6, respiratory in 4, and pulmonary barotrauma in 1 subject. In Phase A, 5/12 subjects in the FAo2 group and 0/11 in the air control group achieved permanent resolution of DCI. In Phase B, 6/8 subjects in the FAo2
group and 5/8 in the air control group achieved permanent resolution. In both Phases, levels of venous gas bubbles reduced sooner with FAo2. Of three cases of neurological DCI receiving FAo2, two showed permanent resolution. In total, four cases of respiratory DCI occurred;
none of these resolved, with three being treated with FAo2 and one in the air control.DISCUSSION: Oxygen can be an effective first aid measure for DCI following submarine escape. However, it should not be used as a replacement for recompression therapy.Loveman GAM,
Seddon FM, Jurd KM, Thacker JC, Fisher AS. First aid oxygen treatment for decompression illness in the goat after simulated submarine escape. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(12):1020–1027.
Scrotal Hematoma Precipitated by Centrifuge Training in a Fighter Pilot with an Asymptomatic Varicocele
Authors: Kampel Liyona , Klang Eyal , Winkler Harry , Gordon Barak , Frenkel-Nir Yael , Shoam Yifat Erlich
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: Varicocele is quite common in the general population, affecting up to 15% of men. It is not considered disqualifying for the pilot’s training program of the Israeli Air Force as long as there are no related symptoms or associated pathologies. During combat flight,
increased venous pressure due to acceleration forces and anti-G straining maneuvers, used to counteract high gravitational G forces, can theoretically aggravate the venous blood pooling in varicocele, leading to rupture.CASE REPORT: We describe a case of a young fighter-jet pilot
presenting with a painful inguinal hematoma extending to the scrotum a day after participating in centrifuge training. Sonographic examination demonstrated dilated spermatic veins and intratesticular varicocele along with subcutaneous thickening of the scrotal wall consistent with hematoma.DISCUSSION:
The effects of high G loads on blood flow in spermatic veins, and especially in varicocele, still need to be determined. Varicocele rupture has been described in relation to increased intra-abdominal pressure and could theoretically occur during anti-G straining maneuvers. Such an acute adverse
event during combat flight can be detrimental to flight safety and the pilot’s well-being.Kampel L, Klang E, Winkler H, Gordon B, Frenkel-Nir Y, Shoam YE. Scrotal hematoma precipitated by centrifuge training ina fighter pilot with an asymptomatic varicocele. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(12):1063–1065.
Cervical Manipulation Leading to Cerebellar Stroke in a Pilot
Authors: Mukherjee Samir T.
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: Stroke is a decidedly devastating event for any patient, but particularly for a military aviator in a single-seat aircraft. Incidence of acute ischemic infarct in men ages 25 to 29 ranges from 3.4 to 5.6/100,000. The neurological sequelae of stroke can have a lasting
and profound impact on an aviator’s career. Literature review revealed a relatively small number of cases where stroke was attributable to cervical manipulation.CASE REPORT: A 29-yr-old male jet pilot with a 2-wk history of cervicalgia following a mountain bike ride performed
self-manipulation of his neck at home following a visit to a chiropractor. He sustained an immediate onset of euphoria, nausea, dysarthria, vertigo, diploplia, and occipital headache, and was transported via ambulance to the nearest emergency department. The patient’s MRI/MRA imaging
revealed a dissection of his right vertebral artery, as well as bilateral cerebellar infarcts. During the course of the following months, the patient’s residual symptoms included neck pain, headaches, disequilibrium, and quadrantanopia.DISCUSSION: The ability to recognize
the symptoms of stroke and seek treatment in a timely manner are paramount and can drastically reduce the potential for permanent deficit. The evaluation of residual sequelae in military aviators who fly single-seat aircraft is of particular interest to aerospace medicine physicians when it
comes time to return a pilot to flight duties. Additionally, the link between cervical manipulation and vertebral artery dissection leading to stroke remains equivocal, and further research is warranted.Mukherjee ST. Cervical manipulation leading to cerebellar stroke in a pilot.
Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(12):1066–1069.
Evaluating Bone Loss in ISS Astronauts
Authors: Sibonga Jean D. , Spector Elisabeth R. , Johnston Smith L. , Tarver William J.
Published: November 2015

INTRODUCTION: The measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the Medical Assessment Test used at the NASA Johnson Space Center to evaluate whether prolonged exposure to spaceflight increases the risk for premature osteoporosis in International
Space Station (ISS) astronauts. The DXA scans of crewmembers’ BMD during the first decade of the ISS existence showed precipitous declines in BMD for the hip and spine after the typical 6-mo missions. However, a concern exists that skeletal integrity cannot be sufficiently assessed solely
by DXA measurement of BMD. Consequently, use of relatively new research technologies is being proposed to NASA for risk surveillance and to enhance long-term management of skeletal health in long-duration astronauts.Sibonga JD, Spector ER, Johnston SL, Tarver WJ. Evaluating bone loss in ISS astronauts. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(12, Suppl.):A38–A44.
Isokinetic Strength Changes Following Long-Duration Spaceflight on the ISS
Authors: English Kirk L. , Lee Stuart M.C. , Loehr James A. , Ploutz–Snyder Robert J. , Ploutz–Snyder Lori L.
Published: November 2015

INTRODUCTION: Long-duration spaceflight results in a loss of muscle strength that poses both operational and medical risks, particularly during emergency egress, upon return to Earth, and during future extraterrestrial exploration. Isokinetic testing of the knee, ankle, and trunk
quantifies movement-specific strength changes following spaceflight and offers insight into the effectiveness of in-flight exercise countermeasures.METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated changes in isokinetic strength for 37 ISS crewmembers (Expeditions 1–25) following 163
± 38 d (mean ± SD) of spaceflight. Gender, in-flight resistance exercise hardware, and preflight strength were examined as potential modifiers of spaceflight-induced strength changes.RESULTS: Mean isokinetic strength declined 8–17% following spaceflight. One
month after return to Earth, strength had improved, but small deficits of 1–9% persisted. Spaceflight-induced strength losses were not different between men and women. Mean strength losses were as much as 7% less in crewmembers who flew after the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED)
replaced the interim Resistive Exercise Device (iRED) as the primary in-flight resistance exercise hardware, although these differences were not statistically significant. Absolute and relative preflight strength were moderately correlated (r = −0.47 and −0.54, respectively) with
postflight strength changes.DISCUSSION: In-flight resistance exercise did not prevent decreased isokinetic strength after long-duration spaceflight. However, continued utilization of ARED, a more robust resistance exercise device providing higher loads than iRED, may result in greater
benefits as exercise prescriptions are optimized. With reconditioning upon return to Earth, strength is largely recovered within 30 d.English KL, Lee SMC, Loehr JA, Ploutz-Snyder RJ, Ploutz-Snyder LL. Isokinetic strength changes following long-duration spaceflight on the ISS. Aerosp Med Human Perform. 2015; 86(12, Suppl.):A68–A77.
‘Did you read my mind on that too?’: Empathy and Masculinity in Japanese Film and Television
Authors: Barber Christie
Published: November 2015

Empathy involves both affective and cognitive processes: experiencing the other person's emotion and the attribution of theory of mind, which refers to the ability to ascribe an independent mental life to oneself and others. Strategies of engagement used in film and television can invite viewers to apply empathic processes to fictional characters. Such empathic engagement provides stimulation and enjoyment, and prompts viewers to anticipate and integrate information about characters and the narrative. This article examines the ways in which empathic engagement is developed in various Japanese film or television texts. These texts encourage viewers to empathise with young male protagonists who embody forms of marginalised or subordinated masculinity. As a result, the texts not only create a space for viewers to empathise in thought-provoking ways with fictional others, but also invite readers to interpret the protagonists as models of behaviour for dealing with common problems faced by young people, such as the pressure of social expectations and rejection by peers. Further, the films present a challenge to established gender norms through positive portrayals of marginalised or subordinated male protagonists.
Cognitive Maps and Social Ecology in Young Adult Fiction (Based on a keynote address presented at the fifth national conference of the Shiraz University Centre for Research in Children's Literature Studies, Shiraz, Iran, May 2015)
Authors: Stephens John
Published: November 2015

The nexus of the conceptual domains of cognitive mapping and social ecology offers a constructive methodology for examining some aspects of Young Adult fiction, and in this article I explore what I see as the possibilities of this conjunction. On the one hand, social ecology (also referred to as ecocultural theory or the bioecological model) impacts upon representations of subjectivity within YA fiction, and on the other, the literal and metaphorical interpretations of space and place enabled by cognitive mapping function as a framework to structure discussion of the relationship between ecology and subjectivity. Because mapping is an activity performed both by characters within the text and through narrator–narratee transactions, it has a narrative function that mediates the core social ecology foci of proximal processes, characterisation, ecocultural orientation and the experience of temporality. Taking examples from Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book, David Almond's The Fire-Eaters and John Green's Paper Towns, the article explores some of the interactions between key cognitive and social processes and the narrative structures within which they are expressed.
Fish Peroxiredoxins and Their Role in Immunity
Authors: Valero Yulema , Martínez-Morcillo Francisco , Esteban M. , Chaves-Pozo Elena , Cuesta Alberto
Published: November 2015

Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) are a family of antioxidant enzymes that protect cells from oxidative damage. In addition, Prxs may act as modulators of inflammation, protect against cell death and tumour progression, and facilitate tissue repair after damage. The most studied roles of Prx1 and Prx2 are immunological. Here we present a review on the effects of some immunostimulant treatments and bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections on the expression of fish Prxs at the gene and/or protein level, and point to their important role in immunity. The Prxs show antioxidant activity as well as a protective effect against infection. Some preliminary data are presented about the role of fish Prx1 and Prx2 in virus resistance although further studies are needed before the role of fish Prx in immunity can be definitively defined.
RNA-Binding Proteins in Trichomonas vaginalis: Atypical Multifunctional Proteins
Authors: Figueroa-Angulo Elisa , Calla-Choque Jaeson , Mancilla-Olea Maria , Arroyo Rossana
Published: November 2015

Iron homeostasis is highly regulated in vertebrates through a regulatory system mediated by RNA-protein interactions between the iron regulatory proteins (IRPs) that interact with an iron responsive element (IRE) located in certain mRNAs, dubbed the IRE-IRP regulatory system. Trichomonas vaginalis, the causal agent of trichomoniasis, presents high iron dependency to regulate its growth, metabolism, and virulence properties. Although T. vaginalis lacks IRPs or proteins with aconitase activity, possesses gene expression mechanisms of iron regulation at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. However, only one gene with iron regulation at the transcriptional level has been described. Recently, our research group described an iron posttranscriptional regulatory mechanism in the T. vaginalis tvcp4 and tvcp12 cysteine proteinase mRNAs. The tvcp4 and tvcp12 mRNAs have a stem-loop structure in the 5'-coding region or in the 3'-UTR, respectively that interacts with T. vaginalis multifunctional proteins HSP70, α-Actinin, and Actin under iron starvation condition, causing translation inhibition or mRNA stabilization similar to the previously characterized IRE-IRP system in eukaryotes. Herein, we summarize recent progress and shed some light on atypical RNA-binding proteins that may participate in the iron posttranscriptional regulation in T. vaginalis.
Wind Energy Based Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Sitting. A GIS/Wind Resource Assessment Approach
Authors: Xydis George , Nanaki Evanthia
Published: November 2015

The transportation sector is severely correlated with major problems in environment, citizens’ health, climate and economy. Issues such as traffic, fuel cost and parking space have make life more difficult, especially in the dense urban environment. Thus, there is a great need for the development of the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The number of cars in cities has increased so much that the current transportation system (roads, parking places, traffic lights, etc.) cannot accommodate them properly. The increasing number of vehicles does not affect only humans but also the environment, through air and noise pollution. According to EPA, the 39.2% of total gas emissions in 2007 was caused by transportation activities. Studies have shown that the pollutants are not only gathered in the major roads and/or highways but can travel depending on the meteorological conditions leading to generic pollution. The promotion of EVs and the charging stations are both equally required to be further developed in order EVs to move out of the cities and finally confront the range problem. In this work, a wind resource and a GIS analysis optimizes in a wider area the sitting of wind based charging stations and proposes an optimizing methodology.
Impact Study of PMSG-Based Wind Power Penetration on Power System Transient Stability Using EEAC Theory
Authors: Liu Zhongyi , Liu Chongru , Li Gengyin , Liu Yong , Liu Yilu
Published: November 2015

Wind turbines with direct-driven permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSGs) are widely used in wind power generation. According to the dynamic characteristics of PMSGs, an impact analysis of PMSG-based wind power penetration on the transient stability of multi-machine power systems is carried out in this paper based on the theory of extended equal area criterion (EEAC). Considering the most severe PMSG integration situation, the changes in the system’s equivalent power-angle relationships after integrating PMSGs are studied in detail. The system’s equivalent mechanical input power and the fault period electrical output power curves are found to be mainly affected. The analysis demonstrates that the integration of PMSGs can cause either detrimental or beneficial effects on the system transient stability. It is determined by several factors, including the selection of the synchronous generators used to balance wind power, the reactive power control mode of PMSGs and the wind power penetration level. Two different simulation systems are also adopted to verify the analysis results.
A New Method for State of Charge Estimation of Lithium-Ion Battery Based on Strong Tracking Cubature Kalman Filter
Authors: Xia Bizhong , Wang Haiqing , Wang Mingwang , Sun Wei , Xu Zhihui , Lai Yongzhi
Published: November 2015

The estimation of state of charge (SOC) is a crucial evaluation index in a battery management system (BMS). The value of SOC indicates the remaining capacity of a battery, which provides a good guarantee of safety and reliability of battery operation. It is difficult to get an accurate value of the SOC, being one of the inner states. In this paper, a strong tracking cubature Kalman filter (STCKF) based on the cubature Kalman filter is presented to perform accurate and reliable SOC estimation. The STCKF algorithm can adjust gain matrix online by introducing fading factor to the state estimation covariance matrix. The typical second-order resistor-capacitor model is used as the battery’s equivalent circuit model to dynamically simulate characteristics of the battery. The exponential-function fitting method accomplishes the task of relevant parameters identification. Then, the developed STCKF algorithm has been introduced in detail and verified under different operation current profiles such as Dynamic Stress Test (DST) and New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). Making a comparison with extended Kalman filter (EKF) and CKF algorithm, the experimental results show the merits of the STCKF algorithm in SOC estimation accuracy and robustness.
Energy Policy and Climate Change: A Multidisciplinary Approach to a Global Problem
Authors: Dovì Vincenzo , Battaglini Antonella
Published: November 2015

In the period between the end of the Second World War and the oil crises of 1973 and 1979, the most critical issues in the energy debate were the impending depletion of non-renewable resources and the level of pollution that the environment is able to sustain. [...]
Improving the Reinforcement of Polyolefin Fiber Reinforced Concrete for Infrastructure Applications
Authors: Alberti Marcos , Enfedaque Alejandro , Gálvez Jaime
Published: November 2015

The increase in the use of polyolefin fiber-reinforced concrete (PFRC) is in contrast to the limited amount of published research about its fracture behavior. This study assesses the main mechanical and fracture properties of PFRC by using conventional and self-compacting concrete with various dosages. The results highlight the significant performance of PFRC and revealed that improving its residual strength for small deformations would enhance its use for structural purposes. For that matter, a combination of polyolefin and steel-hooked fibers was used, improving the results and showing synergies between the two types of fibers that could be exploited for infrastructure applications. The significance of this research is, in addition to the characterization of PFRC, the optimum selection and definition of the proportions and characteristics of the types of fibers chosen for the combination. The results proved that, by combining hooked-steel fibers and macro-polyolefin fibers, it is possible to preserve the high-performance fresh properties and obtain a reliable behavior with synergies in the fracture results. The latter provides an efficient use of the materials, as well as a better mechanical behavior in both service and failure states.
“Oh, this is What It Feels Like”: A Role for the Body in Learning an Evidence-Based Practice
Authors: Allan Robert , Eatough Virginia , Ungar Micahel
Published: November 2015

This paper will present research that explored the experiences of couple and family therapists learning about and using an evidence-based practice (EBP). Using a phenomenological approach called Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, three themes emerged from the participants’ experiences: the supports and challenges while learning an EBP, the experience of shame while learning, and the embodiment of a therapy practice. This paper will focus on the theme of embodiment. Research participants’ experiences will be reviewed and further explored using Merleau-Ponty’s notion of embodiment and Gendlin’s (1978) more internally focused understanding of how awareness of a felt sense is experienced as a move “inside of a person”. As researchers, educators, administrators, policy makers, and counsellors struggle with what works best with which populations and when, how best to allocate resources, how best to educate and support counsellors, and the complexity of doing research in real-life settings, this research has the potential to contribute to those varied dialogues.
Perinatal Maternal Mental Health, Fetal Programming and Child Development
Authors: Lewis Andrew , Austin Emma , Knapp Rebecca , Vaiano Tina , Galbally Megan
Published: November 2015

Maternal mental disorders over pregnancy show a clear influence on child development. This review is focused on the possible mechanisms by which maternal mental disorders influence fetal development via programming effects. This field is complex since mental health symptoms during pregnancy vary in type, timing and severity and maternal psychological distress is often accompanied by higher rates of smoking, alcohol use, poor diet and lifestyle. Studies are now beginning to examine fetal programming mechanisms, originally identified within the DOHaD framework, to examine how maternal mental disorders impact fetal development. Such mechanisms include hormonal priming effects such as elevated maternal glucocorticoids, alteration of placental function and perfusion, and epigenetic mechanisms. To date, mostly high prevalence mental disorders such as depression and anxiety have been investigated, but few studies employ diagnostic measures, and there is very little research examining the impact of maternal mental disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and personality disorders on fetal development. The next wave of longitudinal studies need to focus on specific hypotheses driven by plausible biological mechanisms for fetal programming and follow children for a sufficient period in order to examine the early manifestations of developmental vulnerability. Intervention studies can then be targeted to altering these mechanisms of intergenerational transmission once identified.
Meta-Analysis of the Copper, Zinc, and Cadmium Absorption Capacities of Aquatic Plants in Heavy Metal-Polluted Water
Authors: Li Jing , Yu Haixin , Luan Yaning
Published: November 2015

The use of aquatic plants for phytoremediation is an important method for restoring polluted ecosystems. We sought to analyze the capacity of different aquatic plant species to absorb heavy metals and to summarize available relevant scientific data on this topic. We present a meta-analysis of Cu, Zn, and Cd absorption capacities of aquatic plants to provide a scientific basis for the selection of aquatic plants suitable for remediation of heavy-metal pollution. Plants from the Gramineae, Pontederiaceae, Ceratophyllaceae, Typhaceae and Haloragaceae showed relatively strong abilities to absorb these metals. The ability of a particular plant species to absorb a given metal was strongly correlated with its ability to absorb the other metals. However, the absorption abilities varied with the plant organ, with the following trend: roots > stems > leaves. The pH of the water and the life habits of aquatic plants (submerged and emerged) also affect the plant’s ability to absorb elements. Acidic water aids the uptake of heavy metals by plants. The correlation observed between element concentrations in plants with different aquatic life habits suggested that the enrichment mechanism is related to the surface area of the plant exposed to water. We argue that this meta-analysis would aid the selection of aquatic plants suitable for heavy-metal absorption from polluted waters.
Role of Acclimatization in Weather-Related Human Mortality During the Transition Seasons of Autumn and Spring in a Thermally Extreme Mid-Latitude Continental Climate
Authors: De Freitas Christopher , Grigorieva Elena
Published: November 2015

Human mortality is closely related to natural climate-determined levels of thermal environmental stress and the resulting thermophysiological strain. Most climate-mortality research has focused on seasonal extremes during winter and summer when mortality is the highest, while relatively little attention has been paid to mortality during the transitional seasons of autumn and spring. The body acclimatizes to heat in the summer and cold in winter and readjusts through acclimatization during the transitions between the two during which time the body experiences the thermophysiological strain of readjustment. To better understand the influences of weather on mortality through the acclimatization process, the aim here is to examine the periods that link very cold and very warms seasons. The study uses the Acclimatization Thermal Strain Index (ATSI), which is a comparative measure of short-term thermophysiological impact on the body. ATSI centers on heat exchange with the body’s core via the respiratory system, which cannot be protected. The analysis is based on data for a major city in the climatic region of the Russian Far East characterized by very hot summers and extremely cold winters. The results show that although mortality peaks in winter (January) and is at its lowest in summer (August), there is not a smooth rise through autumn nor a smooth decline through spring. A secondary peak occurs in autumn (October) with a smaller jump in May. This suggests the acclimatization from warm-to-cold produces more thermophysiological strain than the transition from cold-to-warm. The study shows that ATSI is a useful metric for quantifying the extent to which biophysical adaptation plays a role in increased strain on the body during re-acclimatization and for this reason is a more appropriate climatic indictor than air temperature alone. The work gives useful bioclimatic information on risks involved in transitional seasons in regions characterized by climatic extremes. This could be handy in planning and managing health services to the public and measures that might be used to help mitigate impacts.
Spatial Evaluation of Heavy Metals Concentrations in the Surface Sediment of Taihu Lake
Authors: Niu Yong , Jiao Wei , Yu Hui , Niu Yuan , Pang Yong , Xu Xiangyang , Guo Xiaochun
Published: November 2015

With regard to the size of China’s freshwater lakes, Taihu Lake ranks third and it plays an important role in the supply of drinking water, flood prevention, farming and navigation, as well as in the travelling industry. The problem of environmental pollution has attracted widespread attention in recent years. In order to understand the levels, distribution and sources of heavy metals in sediments of Taihu Lake, random selection was carried out to obtain 59 samples of surface sediment from the entire lake and study the concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cu, Zn, Cr and Ni. Toxic units were also calculated to normalize the toxicities caused by various heavy metals. As a result, Cd and Cu in sediment were considered lower than the effect range low (ERL) at all regions where samples were gathered, while Pb and Ni were categorized into ERL-effect range median (ERM) at over 22% of the regions where samples were obtained. Nevertheless, all average concentrations of the samples were below the level of potential effect. According to the findings of this research, significant spatial heterogeneity existed in the above heavy metals. In conclusion, the distribution areas of heavy metals with higher concentrations were mainly the north bays, namely Zhushan Bay, Meiliang Bay as well as Gonghu Bay. The distribution areas of Cu, Zn, Cr and Ni with higher concentration also included the lake’s central region, whereas the uniform distribution areas of those with lower concentrations were the lake’s southeast region. In addition, it was most probable that the spatial distribution of heavy metals was determined by river inputs, whereas atmospheric precipitation caused by urban and traffic contamination also exerted considerable effects on the higher concentrations of Pb and Cd. Through evaluating the total amount of toxic units (ΣTU), it was found that higher toxicity existed primarily in the north bays and central region of the lake. If the heavy metals were sorted by the reduction of mean heavy metal toxic units in Taihu Lake in descending order, it would be Pb, Cr, Ni, Cd, Zn and Cu. Generally speaking, these result of analyses are conducive to alleviating the contamination of heavy metals in Taihu Lake.
Lane-Level Road Information Mining from Vehicle GPS Trajectories Based on Naïve Bayesian Classification
Authors: Tang Luliang , Yang Xue , Kan Zihan , Li Qingquan
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we propose a novel approach for mining lane-level road network information from low-precision vehicle GPS trajectories (MLIT), which includes the number and turn rules of traffic lanes based on naïve Bayesian classification. First, the proposed method (MLIT) uses an adaptive density optimization method to remove outliers from the raw GPS trajectories based on their space-time distribution and density clustering. Second, MLIT acquires the number of lanes in two steps. The first step establishes a naïve Bayesian classifier according to the trace features of the road plane and road profiles and the real number of lanes, as found in the training samples. The second step confirms the number of lanes using test samples in reference to the naïve Bayesian classifier using the known trace features of test sample. Third, MLIT infers the turn rules of each lane through tracking GPS trajectories. Experiments were conducted using the GPS trajectories of taxis in Wuhan, China. Compared with human-interpreted results, the automatically generated lane-level road network information was demonstrated to be of higher quality in terms of displaying detailed road networks with the number of lanes and turn rules of each lane.
High SPARC Expression Starting from Dysplasia, Associated with Breast Carcinoma, Is Predictive for Bone Metastasis without Enhancement of Plasma Levels
Authors: Maroni Paola , Bendinelli Paola , Morelli Daniele , Drago Lorenzo , Luzzati Alessandro , Perrucchini Giuseppe , Bonini Chiara , Matteucci Emanuela , Desiderio Maria
Published: November 2015

In order to become established in the skeleton, metastatic cells disseminating from the breast carcinoma need to acquire organ-specific traits. There are no effective predictors for who will develop bone metastasis to guide long-term predictive therapy. Our purpose was to individuate events critical for bone colonization to make a molecular classification of breast carcinoma useful for bone-metastasis outcome. In dysplasia adjacent to carcinoma and in pair-matched specimens of bone metastasis we examined SPARC expression and localization as well as Endothelin 1/ETAR signals by immunohistochemistry, and the evaluation of plasma levels of SPARC by ELISA was also performed. In patients with breast carcinoma metastasizing to bone, SPARC and Endothelin 1/ETAR axis were highly expressed from dysplasia until bone metastasis, but the SPARC plasma level was as low as that of normal women, in contrast to patients that never develop bone metastasis, suggesting that circulating SPARC was counter adhesive. Altogether, the early identification of SPARC/Endothelin 1/ETAR in dysplastic lesions would be important to devise therapies preventing metastasis engraftment, since often carcinoma cells spread to distant organs at the time or even before patients present with cancer.
ITSN2L Interacts with and Negatively Regulates RABEP1
Authors: Yang Xiaoxu , Yan Feng , He Zhicheng , Liu Shan , Cheng Yeqing , Wei Ke , Gan Shiquan , Yuan Jing , Wang Shang , Xiao Ye , Ren Kaiqun , Liu Ning , Hu Xiang , Ding Xiaofeng , Hu Xingwang , Xiang Shuanglin
Published: November 2015

Intersectin-2Long (ITSN2L) is a multi-domain protein participating in endocytosis and exocytosis. In this study, RABEP1 was identified as a novel ITSN2L interacting protein using a yeast two-hybrid screen from a human brain cDNA library and this interaction, specifically involving the ITSN2L CC domain and RABEP1 CC3 regions, was further confirmed by in vitro GST (glutathione-S-transferase) pull-down and in vivo co-immunoprecipitation assays. Corroboratively, we observed that these two proteins co-localize in the cytoplasm of mammalian cells. Furthermore, over-expression of ITSN2L promotes RABEP1 degradation and represses RABEP1-enhanced endosome aggregation, indicating that ITSN2L acts as a negative regulator of RABEP1. Finally, we showed that ITSN2L and RABEP1 play opposite roles in regulating endocytosis. Taken together, our results indicate that ITSN2L interacts with RABEP1 and stimulates its degradation in regulation of endocytosis.
The Formation of pH-Sensitive Wormlike Micelles in Ionic Liquids Driven by the Binding Ability of Anthranilic Acid
Authors: You Qing , Zhang Yan , Wang Huan , Fan Hongfu , Guo Jianping , Li Ming
Published: November 2015

Wormlike micelles are typically formed by mixing cationic and anionic surfactants because of attractive interactions in oppositely charged head-groups. The structural transitions of wormlike micelles triggered by pH in ionic liquids composed of N-alkyl-N-methylpyrrolidinium bromide-based ILs (ionic liquids) and anthranilic acid were investigated. These structures were found responsible for the variations in flow properties identified by rheology and dynamic light scattering, and account for the structures observed with cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (Cryo-TEM). High-viscosity, shear-thinning behavior, and Maxwell-type dynamic rheology shown by the system at certain pH values suggested that spherical micelles grow into entangled wormlike micelles. Light scattering profiles also supported the notion of pH-sensitive microstructural transitions in the solution. Cryo-TEM images confirmed the presence of spherical micelles in the low-viscosity sample and entangled wormlike micelles in the peak viscosity sample. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy analysis revealed that the pH sensitivity of ionic liquid systems originated from the pH-dependent binding ability of anthranilic acid to the cationic headgroup of ionic liquids.
The Effect of Replacing Fish Meal in the Diet with Enzyme-Treated Soybean Meal (HP310) on Growth and Body Composition of Rainbow Trout Fry
Authors: Haghbayan Samira , Shamsaie Mehrgan Mehdi
Published: November 2015

The potential of enzyme-treated soybean meal powder (HP310) as fish meal alternative in diets for rainbow trout weighing 1.17 ± 0.3 g was evaluated for 60 days. Fish meal was replaced with HP310 at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of experimental diets. A control group was also considered. The results showed that diets containing 75% and 100% HP310 had significantly higher feed conversion ratio and lower feed intake, weight gain and specific growth rate compared to fish feed diets containing higher levels of fish protein ingredients (p < 0.05). Results suggested use of 50% HP310 in trout diet had a positive effect on growth performance (p < 0.05). All fish feed diets with HP310 had lower hematocrit, hemoglobin and red blood cells compared to the control group, but the differences between the control and the other treatments up to 75% HP310 replacement levels of diet (p > 0.05). However increasing in level of HP310 in the diet caused a significant increase of the white blood cells (p < 0.05). The fish fed with a diet totally replaced by HP310 showed the highest values of ash and moisture content among the diets and showed significantly different levels when compared with the control and other feeding treatments (p < 0.05).
Antioxidant Phytochemicals for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases
Authors: Zhang Yu-Jie , Gan Ren-You , Li Sha , Zhou Yue , Li An-Na , Xu Dong-Ping , Li Hua-Bin
Published: November 2015

Overproduction of oxidants (reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species) in the human body is responsible for the pathogenesis of some diseases. The scavenging of these oxidants is thought to be an effective measure to depress the level of oxidative stress of organisms. It has been reported that intake of vegetables and fruits is inversely associated with the risk of many chronic diseases, and antioxidant phytochemicals in vegetables and fruits are considered to be responsible for these health benefits. Antioxidant phytochemicals can be found in many foods and medicinal plants, and play an important role in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress. They often possess strong antioxidant and free radical scavenging abilities, as well as anti-inflammatory action, which are also the basis of other bioactivities and health benefits, such as anticancer, anti-aging, and protective action for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, obesity and neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes recent progress on the health benefits of antioxidant phytochemicals, and discusses their potential mechanisms in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.
Chronic Zinc Deficiency Alters Chick Gut Microbiota Composition and Function
Authors: Reed Spenser , Neuman Hadar , Moscovich Sharon , Glahn Raymond , Koren Omry , Tako Elad
Published: November 2015

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a prevalent micronutrient insufficiency. Although the gut is a vital organ for Zn utilization, and Zn deficiency is associated with impaired intestinal permeability and a global decrease in gastrointestinal health, alterations in the gut microbial ecology of the host under conditions of Zn deficiency have yet to be studied. Using the broiler chicken (Gallus gallus) model, the aim of this study was to characterize distinct cecal microbiota shifts induced by chronic dietary Zn depletion. We demonstrate that Zn deficiency induces significant taxonomic alterations and decreases overall species richness and diversity, establishing a microbial profile resembling that of various other pathological states. Through metagenomic analysis, we show that predicted Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways responsible for macro- and micronutrient uptake are significantly depleted under Zn deficiency; along with concomitant decreases in beneficial short chain fatty acids, such depletions may further preclude optimal host Zn availability. We also identify several candidate microbes that may play a significant role in modulating the bioavailability and utilization of dietary Zn during prolonged deficiency. Our results are the first to characterize a unique and dysbiotic cecal microbiota during Zn deficiency, and provide evidence for such microbial perturbations as potential effectors of the Zn deficient phenotype.
Spatial Accuracy Assessment and Integration of Global Land Cover Datasets
Authors: Tsendbazar Nandin-Erdene , De Bruin Sytze , Fritz Steffen , Herold Martin
Published: November 2015

Along with the creation of new maps, current efforts for improving global land cover (GLC) maps focus on integrating maps by accounting for their relative merits, e.g., agreement amongst maps or map accuracy. Such integration efforts may benefit from the use of multiple GLC reference datasets. Using available reference datasets, this study assesses spatial accuracy of recent GLC maps and compares methods for creating an improved land cover (LC) map. Spatial correspondence with reference dataset was modeled for Globcover-2009, Land Cover-CCI-2010, MODIS-2010 and Globeland30 maps for Africa. Using different scenarios concerning the used input data, five integration methods for an improved LC map were tested and cross-validated. Comparison of the spatial correspondences showed that the preferences for GLC maps varied spatially. Integration methods using both the GLC maps and reference data at their locations resulted in 4.5%–13% higher correspondence with the reference LC than any of the input GLC maps. An integrated LC map and LC class probability maps were computed using regression kriging, which produced the highest correspondence (76%). Our results demonstrate the added value of using reference datasets and geostatistics for improving GLC maps. This approach is useful as more GLC reference datasets are becoming publicly available and their reuse is being encouraged.
Glyphosate in Runoff Waters and in the Root-Zone: A Review
Authors: Saunders Lyndsay , Pezeshki Reza
Published: November 2015

Glyphosate is the most commonly-used herbicide in the world. The present review summarizes the discovery, prevalence, chemical and physical properties, mode of action and effects in plants, glyphosate resistance and the environmental fate of glyphosate. Numerous studies are reviewed that demonstrate that glyphosate may run off of fields where it is applied, while other studies provide evidence that plant roots can take up glyphosate. Non-target vegetation may be exposed to glyphosate in the root-zone, where it has the potential to remove aqueous glyphosate from the system. Further study on the effects of root-zone glyphosate on non-target vegetation is required to develop best management practices for land managers seeking to ameliorate the effects of root-zone glyphosate exposure.
Qualitative and Quantitative Detection of Botulinum Neurotoxins from Complex Matrices: Results of the First International Proficiency Test
Authors: Worbs Sylvia , Fiebig Uwe , Zeleny Reinhard , Schimmel Heinz , Rummel Andreas , Luginbühl Werner , Dorner Brigitte
Published: November 2015

In the framework of the EU project EQuATox, a first international proficiency test (PT) on the detection and quantification of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT) was conducted. Sample materials included BoNT serotypes A, B and E spiked into buffer, milk, meat extract and serum. Different methods were applied by the participants combining different principles of detection, identification and quantification. Based on qualitative assays, 95% of all results reported were correct. Successful strategies for BoNT detection were based on a combination of complementary immunological, MS-based and functional methods or on suitable functional in vivo/in vitro approaches (mouse bioassay, hemidiaphragm assay and Endopep-MS assay). Quantification of BoNT/A, BoNT/B and BoNT/E was performed by 48% of participating laboratories. It turned out that precise quantification of BoNT was difficult, resulting in a substantial scatter of quantitative data. This was especially true for results obtained by the mouse bioassay which is currently considered as “gold standard” for BoNT detection. The results clearly demonstrate the urgent need for certified BoNT reference materials and the development of methods replacing animal testing. In this context, the BoNT PT provided the valuable information that both the Endopep-MS assay and the hemidiaphragm assay delivered quantitative results superior to the mouse bioassay.