bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergence of the Yang–Mills–Higgs flow on Gauged Holomorphic maps and applications
Authors: Trautwein Samuel
Published: March 2018

The symplectic vortex equations admit a variational description as global minimum of the Yang–Mills–Higgs functional. We study its negative gradient flow on holomorphic pairs [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a connection on a principal [Formula: see text]-bundle [Formula: see text] over a closed Riemann surface [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is an equivariant map into a Kähler Hamiltonian [Formula: see text]-manifold. The connection [Formula: see text] induces a holomorphic structure on the Kähler fibration [Formula: see text] and we require that [Formula: see text] descends to a holomorphic section of this fibration.

We prove a Łojasiewicz type gradient inequality and show uniform convergence of the negative gradient flow in the [Formula: see text]-topology when [Formula: see text] is equivariantly convex at infinity with proper moment map, [Formula: see text] is holomorphically aspherical and its Kähler metric is analytic.

As applications we establish several results inspired by finite dimensional GIT: First, we prove a certain uniqueness property for the critical points of the Yang–Mills–Higgs functional which is the analogue of the Ness uniqueness theorem. Second, we extend Mundet’s Kobayashi–Hitchin correspondence to the polystable and semistable case. The arguments for the polystable case lead to a new proof in the stable case. Third, in proving the semistable correspondence, we establish the moment–weight inequality for the vortex equation and prove the analogue of the Kempf existence and uniqueness theorem.
Size and Effort Estimation Based on Problem Domain Measures for Object-Oriented Software
Authors: Ayyildiz Tülin Erçelebi , Koçyiğit Altan
Published: March 2018

This paper analyzes the correlations between the problem domain measures such as the number of distinct nouns and distinct verbs in the requirements artifacts and the solution domain measures such as the number of software classes and methods in the corresponding object-oriented software. For this purpose, 14 completed software development projects of a CMMI Level-3 certified defense industry company have been analyzed. The observed strong correlation is taken as the indication of linear relationship between the measures and a size estimation model based on linear regression analysis is proposed. Prediction performance of the method is analyzed on the 14 software projects. Moreover, it has been observed that there is a high correlation between the problem domain measures and the development effort. Therefore, the linear regression analysis is also used to estimate the effort in terms of the problem domain measures. The effort estimations are also evaluated and compared with the efforts predicted using the size measured by the COSMIC Function Point (CFP) method. The results show that the proposed method provides more accurate effort estimates compared to the effort estimated by using CFP size measurement.
An Edge-Based Smoothed Discrete Shear Gap Method for Static and Free Vibration Analyses of FG-CNTRC Plates
Authors: Nguyen-Quoc T. , Nguyen-Hoai S. , Mai-Duc D.
Published: March 2018

In this paper, an edge-based smoothed stabilized discrete shear gap method (ES-DSG) is integrated with the C0-type high-order shear deformation plate theory (C0-HSDT) for free vibration and static analyses of functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) plates. The material properties of FG-CNTRC are assumed to be graded through the thickness direction according to several distributions of the volume fraction of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The stiffness formulation of the ES-DSG based on C0-HSDT is performed by using the strain smoothing technique over the smoothing domains associated with edges of elements. This hence does not require shear correction factors. The accuracy and reliability of the proposed method are confirmed in several numerical examples.
Zarqa megafacies: widespread subglacial deformation in the Sarah Formation of Saudi Arabia and implications for the sequence stratigraphy of the Hirnantian glaciation
Authors: Melvin John
Published: March 2018

The late Ordovician glaciation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is spectacularly represented in the rocks of the Sarah Formation, although relatively little has been published about this formation. This paper describes and discusses the Zarqa megafacies of the Sarah Formation, which crops out across a distance of 720 km in the NW of the Kingdom as a heavily deformed diamicton, representing an example of widespread subglacial deformation. At outcrop, this Zarqa megafacies consists of two major subfacies. Subfacies (M) consists of a deformed, pebble-bearing substrate of interstratified, argillaceous, very fine- to fine-grained sandstones and siltstones. It displays a glacio-tectonically derived internal stratigraphy consisting of two units. Unit (i) is a pebbly diamictite displaying recumbent folding and thrusting indicative of progressive simple shear and manifest in a number of glacio-tectonically stacked detachment sheets. Unit (i) is abruptly overlain by Unit (ii). This consists of a lower Unit (iia), which displays soft sediment folding, including common sheath folds, as well as dewatering phenomena, passing up gradationally into almost completely homogenized sandy siltstone of Unit (iib) with rare detached masses of contorted sandstone. Subfacies (M) represents subglacial deforming bed conditions that reflect variable, but overall upwardly increasing, pore fluid overpressure in the pre-glacial substrate as it was overridden by the advancing Hirnantian ice sheet. It has been identified in subsurface core material, displaying asymmetrical strain profiles that also indicate subglacial deforming bed conditions. Subfacies (N) is a heavily deformed, boulder-bearing subglacial tillite commonly expressed in a distinctive mounded landscape of irregular piles of debris up to 8 m high. Extremely poorly sorted, it contains outsize boulders of glaciogenically deformed Lower Paleozoic sediments and striated Precambrian crystalline rocks. This subfacies represents a subglacially uprooted substrate that was transported considerable distances by the overriding ice sheet. Aspects of the Zarqa megafacies have parallels in coeval glaciogenic rocks identified from across northern Gondwana and beyond. This megafacies is therefore considered to have considerable sequence stratigraphic significance, representing deformed lowstand substrate and subglacial deposits associated with the accumulation and advance(s) of the late Ordovician ice sheets.
Nanoscale Electrochemical Sensing and Processing in Microreactors
Authors: Odijk Mathieu , van den Berg Albert
Published: March 2018

In this review, we summarize recent advances in nanoscale electrochemistry, including the use of nanoparticles, carbon nanomaterials, and nanowires. Exciting developments are reported for nanoscale redox cycling devices, which can chemically amplify signal readout. We also discuss promising high-frequency techniques such as nanocapacitive CMOS sensor arrays or heterodyning. In addition, we review electrochemical microreactors for use in (drug) synthesis, biocatalysis, water treatment, or to electrochemically degrade urea for use in a portable artificial kidney. Electrochemical microreactors are also used in combination with mass spectrometry, e.g., to study the mimicry of drug metabolism or to allow electrochemical protein digestion. The review concludes with an outlook on future perspectives in both nanoscale electrochemical sensing and electrochemical microreactors. For sensors, we see a future in wearables and the Internet of Things. In microreactors, a future goal is to monitor the electrochemical conversions more precisely or ultimately in situ by combining other spectroscopic techniques.
The multiple faces of inflammatory enteric glial cells: is Crohn’s disease a gliopathy?
Authors: Pochard Camille , Coquenlorge Sabrina , Freyssinet Marie , Naveilhan Philippe , Bourreille Arnaud , Neunlist Michel , Rolli-Derkinderen Malvyne
Published: March 2018

Gone are the days when enteric glial cells (EGC) were considered merely satellites of enteric neurons. Like their brain counterpart astrocytes, EGC express an impressive number of receptors for neurotransmitters and intercellular messengers, thereby contributing to neuroprotection and to the regulation of neuronal activity. EGC also produce different soluble factors that regulate neighboring cells, among which are intestinal epithelial cells. A better understanding of EGC response to an inflammatory environment, often referred to as enteric glial reactivity, could help define the physiological role of EGC and the importance of this reactivity in maintaining gut functions. In chronic inflammatory disorders of the gut such as Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis, EGC exhibit abnormal phenotypes, and their neighboring cells are dysfunctional; however, it remains unclear whether EGC are only passive bystanders or active players in the pathophysiology of both disorders. The aim of the present study is to review the physiological roles and properties of EGC, their response to inflammation, and their role in the regulation of the intestinal epithelial barrier and to discuss the emerging concept of CD as an enteric gliopathy.
Time-resolved proteome profiling of normal lung development
Authors: Moghieb Ahmed , Clair Geremy , Mitchell Hugh D. , Kitzmiller Joseph , Zink Erika M. , Kim Young-Mo , Petyuk Vladislav , Shukla Anil , Moore Ronald J. , Metz Thomas O. , Carson James , McDermott Jason E. , Corley Richard A. , Whitsett Jeffrey A. , Ansong Charles
Published: March 2018

Biochemical networks mediating normal lung morphogenesis and function have important implications for ameliorating morbidity and mortality in premature infants. Although several transcript-level studies have examined normal lung development, corresponding protein-level analyses are lacking. Here we performed proteomics analysis of murine lungs from embryonic to early adult ages to identify the molecular networks mediating normal lung development. We identified 8,932 proteins, providing a deep and comprehensive view of the lung proteome. Analysis of the proteomics data revealed discrete modules and the underlying regulatory and signaling network modulating their expression during development. Our data support the cell proliferation that characterizes early lung development and highlight responses of the lung to exposure to a nonsterile oxygen-rich ambient environment and the important role of lipid (surfactant) metabolism in lung development. Comparison of dynamic regulation of proteomic and recent transcriptomic analyses identified biological processes under posttranscriptional control. Our study provides a unique proteomic resource for understanding normal lung formation and function and can be freely accessed at Lungmap.net.
Locomotor-respiratory coupling is maintained in simulated moderate altitude in trained distance runners
Authors: Fulton Timothy J. , Paris Hunter L. , Stickford Abigail S. L. , Gruber Allison H. , Mickleborough Timothy D. , Chapman Robert F.
Published: March 2018

To determine whether acute exposure to simulated moderate altitude alters locomotor-respiratory coupling (LRC) patterns in runners, 13 trained male distance runners performed a running economy and maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max) test in normoxia (NORM) and hypoxia (HYP) ([Formula: see text]= 15.8%; ~2,400 m/8,000 ft) on separate days. Running economy (RE), the degree of LRC, stride frequency-to-breathing frequency quotients (SF/fb), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and dyspnea were assessed at three common submaximal speeds and V̇o2max. SF/fb were significantly lower at each submaximal speed in HYP (12.9 km/h: 2.91 ± 0.20 vs. 2.45 ± 0.17, 14.3 km/h: 2.53 ± 0.17 vs. 2.21 ± 0.14, 16.1 km/h: 2.22 ± 0.14 vs. 1.95 ± 0.09; P < 0.05). The degree of LRC (range: 36–99%) in HYP was not significantly different than NORM at any of the three common submaximal speeds. However, the degree of LRC was significantly higher at V̇o2max in HYP than NORM (43.8 ± 3.4% vs. 57.1 ± 3.8%; P < 0.05). RE and RPE were similar at all running speeds. Dyspnea was significantly greater in HYP compared with NORM at 16.1 km/h ( P < 0.05). Trained distance runners are able to maintain LRC in HYP, despite increases in breathing frequency. Within this unique population, years of training may enhance and optimize the ability to maintain LRC to minimize metabolic costs and dyspnea.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Exposure to acute altitude causes increases in ventilation at rest and any submaximal exercising workload, which may alter locomotor-respiratory coupling (LRC). Our data suggest that trained distance runners can maintain LRC during acute exposure to simulated moderate altitude, even when breathing frequency is increased at any submaximal pace.
The Association between Obesity and Cognitive Function in Otherwise Healthy Premenopausal Arab Women
Authors: Farooq Abdulaziz , Gibson Ann-Marie , J. Reilly John , Gaoua Nadia
Published: March 2018

Objective. To examine the association between obesity and cognitive function in healthy premenopausal women. Methods. From a cohort of 220 women, 98 were randomly selected that provided complete data. Body composition was examined by dual-energy X-ray scan. All participants completed the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) to assess cognitive performance in three domains: attention, memory, and planning executive function. The Reaction Time (RTI) test was used to assess motor and mental response speeds; the Stockings of Cambridge (SOC) test was used to assess planning executive function. For memory assessment, the Delayed Match to Sample (DMS), Pattern Recognition Memory (PRM), and Spatial Span (SSP) tests were used to assess forced choice recognition memory, visual pattern recognition memory, and working memory capacity, respectively. Results. 36 (36.7%) were morbidly obese, 22 (22.4%) obese, and 23 (23.5%) overweight. Performance on RTI and SOC planning ability were not associated with body mass index (BMI). DMS mean time to correct response, when stimulus is visible or immediately hidden (0 ms delay), was higher by 785 ± 302 ms (milliseconds) (p=0.011) and 587 ± 259 ms (p=0.026) in morbidly obese women compared to normal weight women. Memory span length was significantly lower in overweight (5.5 ± 1.3, p=0.008) and obese women (5.6 ± 1.6, p=0.007) compared to normal weight (6.7 ± 0.9). DEXA-assessed body fat (%) showed similar associations as BMI, and latency to correct response on DMS and PRM was positively correlated with percentage of body fat, but not with VO2 max. Conclusion. In otherwise healthy premenopausal women, obesity did not impact accuracy on cognitive tasks related to attention, memory, or planning executive function, but morbid obesity was associated with higher latency to correct response on memory-specific tasks and lower memory span length.
The Unifying Frameworks of Information Measures
Authors: Yu Shiwei , Huang Ting-Zhu
Published: March 2018

Information measures are capable of providing us with fundamental methodologies to analyze uncertainty and unveiling the substantive characteristics of random variables. In this paper, we address the issues of different types of entropies through q-generalized Kolmogorov-Nagumo averages, which lead to the propositions of the survival Rényi entropy and survival Tsallis entropy. Therefore, we make an inventory of eight types of entropies and then classify them into two categories: the density entropy that is defined on density functions and survival entropy that is defined on survival functions. This study demonstrates that, for each type of the density entropy, there exists a kind of the survival entropy corresponding to it. Furthermore, the similarity measures and normalized similarity measures are, respectively, proposed for each type of entropies. Generally, functionals of different types of information-theoretic metrics are equally diverse, while, simultaneously, they also exhibit some unifying features in all their manifestations. We present the unifying frameworks for entropies, similarity measures, and normalized similarity measures, which helps us deal with the available information measures as a whole and move from one functional to another in harmony with various applications.
A Designer’s Approach for Estimation of Nuclear‐Air‐Blast‐Induced Ground Motion
Authors: Pathak Shashank , Ramana G. V.
Published: March 2018

A reliable estimate of free‐field ground displacement induced by nuclear‐air‐blast is required for design of underground strategic structures. A generalized pseudostatic formulation is proposed to estimate nuclear‐air‐blast‐induced ground displacement that takes into account nonlinear stress‐strain behaviour of geomaterials, stress‐dependent wave propagation velocity, and stress wave attenuation. This proposed formulation is utilized to develop a closed‐form solution for linearly decaying blast load applied on a layered ground medium with bilinear hysteretic behaviour. Parametric studies of closed‐form solution indicated that selection of appropriate constrained modulus consistent with the overpressure is necessary for an accurate estimation of peak ground displacement. Stress wave attenuation affects the computed displacement under low overpressure, and stress‐dependent wave velocity affects mainly the occurrence time of peak displacement and not its magnitude. Further, peak displacements are estimated using the proposed model as well as the UFC manual and compared against the field data of atmospheric nuclear test carried out at Nevada test site. It is found that the proposed model is in good agreement with field data, whereas the UFC manual significantly underestimates the peak ground displacements under higher overpressures.
Optimization of Microwave Vacuum Drying and Pretreatment Methods for Polygonum cuspidatum
Authors: Xu Wanxiu , Zhu Guanyu , Song Chunfang , Hu Shaogang , Li Zhenfeng
Published: March 2018

This study was conducted to optimize the drying process of Polygonum cuspidatum slices using an orthogonal experimental design. The combined effects of pretreatment methods, vacuum pressure and temperature of inner material, drying kinetics, color value, and retention of the indicator compounds were investigated. Seven mathematical models on thin-layer drying were used to study and analyze the drying kinetics. Pretreatment method with blanching for 30 s at 100°C increased the intensity of the red color of P. cuspidatum slices compared with other pretreatment methods and fresh P. cuspidatum slices. P. cuspidatum slices dried at 60°C retained more indicator compounds. Furthermore, microwave pretreatment methods, followed by microwave vacuum for 200 mbar at 50°C, resulted in high concentration of indicator compounds, with short drying time and less energy. This optimized condition for microwave vacuum drying and pretreatment methods would be useful for processing P. cuspidatum. The Newton, Page, and Wang and Singh models slightly fitted the microwave vacuum drying system. The logarithmic, Henderson and Pabis, two-term, and Midilli et al. models can be used to scale up the microwave vacuum drying system to a commercial scale. The two-term and Midilli et al. models were the best fitting mathematical models for the no-pretreatment case at 600 mbar and 60°C.
Use of Acoustic Emission for the Detection of Brittle Rock Failure under Various Loading Rates
Authors: Shuang Hai-qing , Li Shu-gang , Liu Lang , Chen Gao-feng , Song Ki-Il
Published: March 2018

Acoustic emission has a direct correspondence to the internal damage of a material. To determine the effects of the loading rate on the mechanical properties of rock, the initial damage was characterized using the acoustic emission technique when a uniaxial preloading was imposed on a cylindrical rock sample. On this basis, the uniaxial compression test was conducted on sandstone that contains initial damage induced under a range of loading rates. The effects of the initial damage and loading rate on the mechanical properties of rock were analyzed. The uniaxial preloading generated randomly distributed microcracks in the natural rock. The results showed that the acoustic emission and positioning technique can characterize accurately the damage and its position due to preloading. The development of microcracks was found to be strongly dependent on the loading rate. Moreover, the loading rate accelerated the degradation of the rock strength. The effects of the loading rate and initial damage on the mechanical properties of rock are a complicated coupled process. From the experimental test result, a constitutive equation was constructed based on the damage mechanics.
The Evolving Role of Information Technology in Haemovigilance Systems
Authors: Ramoa Augusto , Condeço Jorge , Escoval Maria Antónia , Faber Jean-Claude , Fdez-Riverola Florentino , Lourenço Anália
Published: March 2018

This work provides an overview and appraisal of the general evolution of IS/IT in haemovigilance, from which lessons can be learned for its future strategic management. An electronic survey was conducted among the members of the International Haemovigilance Network to compile information on the mechanisms implemented to gather, process, validate, and store these data, to monitor haemovigilance activity, and to produce analytical reports. Survey responses were analysed by means of descriptive statistics, and comments/observations were considered in the final discussion. The answers received from 23 haemovigilance organizations show a direct relationship between the number of collected notifications (i.e., communication of adverse effects and events) and the technical specifications of the haemovigilance system in use. Notably, IT is used in the notification reception of 17 of these systems, out of which 8 systems are exclusively based on Web solutions. Most assessments of the evolution of IS/IT tend to focus on the scalability and flexibility of data gathering and reporting, considering the ever-changing requirements of haemovigilance. Data validation is poorly implemented, and data reporting has not reached its full potential. Web-based solutions are seen as the most intuitive and flexible for a system-user interaction.
Low-Density Asymptotic Behavior of Observables of Hard Sphere Fluids
Authors: Gerasimenko Viktor , Gapyak Igor
Published: March 2018

The paper deals with a rigorous description of the kinetic evolution of a hard sphere system in the low-density (Boltzmann–Grad) scaling limit within the framework of marginal observables governed by the dual BBGKY (Bogolyubov–Born–Green–Kirkwood–Yvon) hierarchy. For initial states specified by means of a one-particle distribution function, the link between the Boltzmann–Grad asymptotic behavior of a nonperturbative solution of the Cauchy problem of the dual BBGKY hierarchy for marginal observables and a solution of the Boltzmann kinetic equation for hard sphere fluids is established. One of the advantages of such an approach to the derivation of the Boltzmann equation is an opportunity to describe the process of the propagation of initial correlations in scaling limits.
High-Resolution Monthly Precipitation Fields (1913–2015) over a Complex Mountain Area Centred on the Forni Valley (Central Italian Alps)
Authors: Alessio Golzio , Alice Crespi , Bollati Irene Maria , Antonella Senese , Diolaiuti Guglielmina Adele , Manuela Pelfini , Maurizio Maugeri
Published: March 2018

Mountain environments are extremely influenced by climate change but are also often affected by the lack of long and high-quality meteorological data, especially in glaciated areas, which limits the ability to investigate the acting processes at local scale. For this reason, we checked a method to reconstruct high-resolution spatial distribution and temporal evolution of precipitation. The study area is centred on the Forni Glacier area (Central Italian Alps), where an automatic weather station is present since 2005. We set up a model based on monthly homogenised precipitation series and we spatialised climatologies and anomalies on a 30-arc-second-resolution DEM, using Local Weighted Linear Regression (LWLR) and Regression Kriging (RK) of precipitation versus elevation, in order to test the most suitable approach for this complex terrain area. The comparison shows that LWLR has a better reconstruction ability for winter while RK slightly prevails during summer. The results of precipitation spatialisation were compared with station observations and with data collected at the weather station on Forni Glacier, which were not used to calibrate the model. A very good agreement between observed and modelled precipitation records was pointed out for most station sites. The agreement is lower, but encouraging, for Forni Glacier station data.
Apparent Diffusion Coefficient of the Placenta in Twin versus Singleton Pregnancies
Authors: Shapira-Zaltsberg Gali , Grynspan David , Reddy Deepti , Miller Elka
Published: March 2018

Previous studies in singleton pregnancies reported conflicting trends in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values with gestational age (GA) and stable relative ADC (rADC; ADC placenta divided by ADC globe) throughout pregnancy. The purpose of our study was to compare the ADC and rADC of placentas of twin and singleton pregnancies. Materials and Methods: Fetal MRI of 11 twin and 23 singleton pregnancies were retrospectively analyzed. Each group was further divided by GA (≤24 and >24 weeks). On ADC, 3 regions of interest were selected in the placenta and 1 in the globe. ADC and rADC measurements were compared between different GA and between singleton and twin placentas. Results: No significant difference was shown between ADC and rADC values of singleton and twin placentas as well as between ADC and rADC values of singleton and twin placentas at different GA. No significant difference was shown when accounting for both GA and number of fetuses. Conclusion: The diffusion characteristics of twin placentas are similar to those of singleton placentas. ADC and rADC remain stable throughout pregnancy in twin and singleton placentas, reflecting stable extracellular water diffusion, despite changes associated with placental maturation.
The International Caries Detection and Assessment System – ICDAS: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ekstrand Kim Rud , Gimenez Thais , Ferreira Fernanda R. , Mendes Fausto M. , Braga Mariana M.
Published: March 2018

The aims of this study were: (1) to evaluate the overall reproducibility and accuracy of the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) for assessing coronal caries lesions, and (2) to investigate the use of systems associated with the ICDAS for activity assessment of coronal caries lesions. Specific search strategies were adopted to identify studies published up to 2016. For the first objective, we selected studies that assessed primary coronal caries lesions using the ICDAS as a reference standard. A total of 54 studies were included. Meta-analyses summarized the results concerning reproducibility and accuracy (correlation with histology, summary ROC curves [SROC], and diagnostic odds ratio [DOR]). The latter 2 were expressed at D1/D3 levels. The heterogeneity of the studies was also assessed. Reproducibility values (pooled) were > 0.65. The ICDAS mostly presented a good overall performance as most areas under SROC were > 0.75 at D1 and > 0.90 at D3; DOR ≥6. For the second objective, we selected studies investigating activity assessment associated with the ICDAS. The meta-analyses pooled results based on the same methodology and parameters as above. Longitudinal findings regarding caries progression were described to estimate the validity of these systems. On average, the systems for activity assessment of caries lesions showed moderate values concerning reproducibility and overall performance. Active caries lesions were more prone to progress than inactive ones after 2 years. In conclusion, the ICDAS presented a substantial level of reproducibility and accuracy for assessing primary coronal caries lesions. Additional systems associated with the ICDAS that classify caries lesion activity can be useful as they are moderately reproducible and accurate.
Does Age-Adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Score Impact Survival Endpoints in Women with Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics-Stage III Endometrial Cancer?
Authors: Ghanem Ahmed I. , Modh Ankit , Burmeister Charlotte , Munkarah Adnan R. , Elshaikh Mohamed A.
Published: March 2018

Objectives: We sought to evaluate the impact of age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (AACCI) score on survival endpoints for women with advanced stage endometrial carcinoma (EC). Methods and Materials: We identified 238 women with stage III EC. AACCI score was calculated and 3 groups were created accordingly; group 1 with a score of 0–2, group 2 with score 3–4, and group 3 with score ≥5. Significant predictors of recurrence-free (RFS), disease-specific (DSS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. Results: Median follow-up was 54 months and median age was 65 years. Stage IIIC was the most common stage (69%). The 3 groups were well-balanced except for less utilization of adjuvant chemotherapy in group 3 (p = 0.01). Five-year OS was significantly lower in group 3 compared to groups 1 and 2 (23 vs. 65 and 51%, respectively). Similarly, 5-year RFS was 54, 41, and 33% and DSS was 65, 54, and 35% for groups 1, 2, and 3 respectively. On multivariate analyses, AACCI group 3, cervical stromal involvement, positive peritoneal cytology, and higher tumor grade were predictors for shorter OS. Cervical stromal involvement and higher grade were independent predictors for worse RFS and DSS. Additionally, positive cytology, lymphovascular space invasion, and stage IIIC2 were significantly detrimental for RFS. Conclusions: Our study suggests that comorbidity burden is a strong predictor of worse OS in women with stage III EC. Women with higher AACCI are less likely to receive adjuvant chemotherapy. Comorbidity score can significantly impact survival endpoints for women with advanced EC.
A Novel Concept of Amino Acid Supplementation to Improve the Growth of Young Malnourished Male Rats
Authors: Furuta Chie , Murakami Hitoshi
Published: March 2018

Backgrounds/Aims: This study was aimed at understanding the relationship between plasma amino acids and protein malnutrition and at determining whether amino acid supplementation associated with malnutrition and growth improves linear growth in growing rats. Methods: Body length and plasma amino acids were measured in young male rats that were fed the following diet for 3 weeks, mimicking a low and imbalanced protein diets based on maize, a major staple consumed in developing countries: a 70% calorically restricted cornmeal-based diet (C), C + micronutrients (CM), CM + casein (CMC), CM + soy protein (CMS) or CMS + 0.3% lysine. Results: A correlation analysis of linear growth and plasma amino acids indicated that lysine, tryptophan, branched-chain amino acids, methionine, and phenylalanine significantly correlated with body length. Supplementation with these 5 amino acids (AA1) significantly improved the body length in rats compared to CMC treatment whereas, nitrogen-balanced amino acid supplemented controls (AA2) did not (CM +1.2 ± 0.2, CMC +2.7 ± 0.3, CMS +2.1 ± 0.3, AA1 +2.8 ± 0.2, and AA2 +2.5 ± 0.3 cm). Conclusion: With securing proper amino acid balance, supplementing growth-related amino acids is more effective in improving linear growth in malnourished growing male rats. Analysis of the correlation between plasma amino acids and growth represents a powerful tool to determine candidate amino acids for supplementation to prevent malnutrition. This technology is adaptable to children in developing countries.
Why Food System Transformation Is Essential and How Nutrition Scientists Can Contribute
Authors: Lartey Anna , Meerman Janice , Wijesinha-Bettoni Ramani
Published: March 2018

Background: The International Union of Nutritional Sciences held its 21st International Congress of Nutrition in October 2017 in Buenos Aires, Argentina under the theme – From Sciences to Nutrition Security. In addition to multiple sessions on food systems and their links to diet, nutrition and health, the Congress closing lecture focused on the need to transform food systems so as to increase their capacity to provide healthy diets, making a call for greater involvement of nutrition scientists. Summary: This article presents the main messages of that lecture, providing (i) an overview of global nutrition trends and their links to diets, food environments and food systems, (ii) a synopsis of the current global momentum for food system transformation and (iii) the need for nutrition scientists to leverage this momentum in terms of increased evidence generation and policy advocacy. Key Messages: Poor quality diets are increasingly leading to the compromising of human health as never before; the prevalence of undernutrition persists and remains acute in vulnerable regions, and hunger is increasing concomitantly with an unprecedented rise in overweight, obesity and nutrition-related non-communicable diseases. Increasing access to healthy diets through faster, stronger implementation of supply and demand-side strategies that address the underlying drivers of today’s faulty food systems is imperative to solve these problems, as well as to address related environmental and economic costs. The global momentum for such action is increasing, but the evidence base needed to galvanize governments and hold stakeholders accountable remains yet a fledgling. To date, inputs from nutrition scientists to this reform agenda have been weak, especially given the unique contributions the field can make in terms of rigorous analysis and technical advice. Strengthened participation will require innovations in metrics and methodologies, combined with new thinking on what constitutes viable evidence and a greater willingness to engage with private sector agri-food actors.
miR-194 Suppresses Proliferation and Migration and Promotes Apoptosis of Osteosarcoma Cells by Targeting CDH2
Authors: Miao Jinglei , Wang Weiguo , Wu Song , Zang Xiaofang , Li Yuezhan , Wang Jianlong , Zhan Ruisen , Gao Minwei , Hu Minghua , Li Jinsong , Chen Shijie
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: Studies have shown that miR-194 functions as a tumour suppressor and is associated with tumour growth and metastasis. This study intends to uncover the mechanism of tumour suppression by miR-194. The expression of miR-194 in osteosarcoma cell lines and tissues were monitored by real-time PCR. Methods: The proliferation ability was examined by MTT assay. Migration and apoptosis of cells were monitored by migration assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The regulation of miR-194 on CDH2 was determined by luciferase assays and western blot assays. Results: The results showed that miR-194 was significantly reduced in osteosarcoma compared with that in normal bone tissue. Overexpression of miR-194 significantly attenuated the proliferation and migration and induced the apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that miR-194 has inhibited the malignant behaviour of osteosarcoma by downregulating CDH2 expression. Conclusions: These findings suggested that miR-194 may act as a tumour suppressor in osteosarcoma. miR-194/CDH2 may be a novel therapeutic target in the treatment of osteosarcoma.
Genome-Wide DNA Methylation Profiles of Phlegm-Dampness Constitution
Authors: Yao Haiqiang , Mo Shanlan , Wang Ji , Li Yingshuai , Wang Chong-Zhi , Wan Jin-Yi , Zhang Zengliang , Chen Yu , Sun Ranran , Yuan Chun-Su , Liu Xin , Li Lingru , Wang Qi
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: Metabolic diseases are leading health concerns in today’s global society. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), one body type studied is the phlegm-dampness constitution (PC), which predisposes individuals to complex metabolic disorders. Genomic studies have revealed the potential metabolic disorders and the molecular features of PC. The role of epigenetics in the regulation of PC, however, is unknown. Methods: We analyzed a genome-wide DNA methylation in 12 volunteers using Illumina Infinium Human Methylation450 BeadChip on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Eight volunteers had PC and 4 had balanced constitutions. Results: Methylation data indicated a genome-scale hyper-methylation pattern in PC. We located 288 differentially methylated probes (DMPs). A total of 256 genes were mapped, and some of these were metabolic-related. SQSTM1, DLGAP2 and DAB1 indicated diabetes mellitus; HOXC4 and SMPD3, obesity; and GRWD1 and ATP10A, insulin resistance. According to Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), differentially methylated genes were abundant in multiple metabolic pathways. Conclusion: Our results suggest the potential risk for metabolic disorders in individuals with PC. We also explain the clinical characteristics of PC with DNA methylation features.
Espaços movediços e conflitantes na Manaus de Milton Hatoum
Authors: Beal Sophia
Published: March 2018

As práticas espaciais destruidoras que tiveram lugar em Manaus durante a ditadura militar assombram Cinzas do Norte, de Milton Hatoum, de 2005. A ambientação do romance nos faz considerar como a cidade é significativa tanto para a narrativa imaginária, quanto para além dos limites do romance. Descobrimos, neste processo, uma Manaus em mudança contínua, que desafia a representação e ostenta as marcas de lutas de poder e violência histórica. A arquitetura da belle époque e a Cidade Flutuante são topoi que são significativos para esse jogo de interpretação espacial. A Cidade Flutuante é ao mesmo tempo um bairro real e uma metáfora que sugere um espaço vulnerável, muitas vezes eclipsado pelo peso imponente das estruturas neoclássicas da belle époque de Manaus.
Tortura e violência de Estado em dois contos de Caio Fernando Abreu
Authors: Umbach Rosani Ketzer
Published: March 2018

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar imagens da violência de Estado em contos de Caio Fernando Abreu referentes ao período da Ditadura Militar no Brasil. A análise baseia-se na concepção de violência proposta por Hannah Arendt, que a relaciona ao conceito de poder, e leva em conta, também, o contexto sociohistórico brasileiro da época.
Association of Atrial Fibrillation With Cognitive Decline and Dementia Over 20 Years: The ARIC‐NCS (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Neurocognitive Study)
Authors: Chen Lin Y. , Norby Faye L. , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Mosley Thomas H. , Soliman Elsayed Z. , Agarwal Sunil K. , Loehr Laura R. , Folsom Aaron R. , Coresh Josef , Alonso Alvaro
Published: March 2018

Background

Previous studies have reported that atrial fibrillation (
AF
) is associated with cognitive decline and dementia. These studies, however, had limited follow‐up, were based mostly on white and highly selected populations, and did not account for attrition. We evaluated the association of incident
AF
with 20‐year change in cognitive performance (accounting for attrition) and incident dementia in the ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) Study.

Methods and Results

We analyzed data from 12 515 participants (mean age, 56.9 [
SD
, 5.7] years in 1990–1992; 56% women and 24% black) from 1990 to 1992 through 2011 to 2013. Incident
AF
was ascertained from study
ECG
s and hospital discharge codes. Cognitive tests were performed in 1990 to 1992, 1996 to 1998, and 2011 to 2013. Incident dementia was clinician adjudicated. We used generalized estimating equations and Cox proportional hazards models to assess the association of time‐dependent
AF
with change in
Z
scores of cognitive tests and incident dementia, respectively. During 20 years, 2106 participants developed
AF
and 1157 participants developed dementia. After accounting for cardiovascular risk factors, including ischemic stroke, the average decline over 20 years in global cognitive
Z
score was 0.115 (95% confidence interval, 0.014–0.215) greater in participants with
AF
than in those without
AF
. Further adjustment for attrition by multiple imputation by chained equations strengthened the association. In addition, incident
AF
was associated with an increased risk of dementia (hazard ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–1.45), after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, including ischemic stroke.

Conclusions

AF
is associated with greater cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia, independent of ischemic stroke. Because cognitive decline is a precursor to dementia, our findings prompt further investigation to identify specific treatments for
AF
that will delay the trajectory of cognitive decline and, thus, prevent dementia in patients with AF.
Large-Eddy Simulation Study of Log Laws in a Neutral Ekman Boundary Layer
Authors: Jiang Qingfang , Wang Shouping , Sullivan Peter
Published: March 2018

The characteristics of wind profiles in a neutral atmospheric boundary layer and their dependence on the geostrophic wind speed Ug, Coriolis parameter f, and surface roughness length z0 are examined utilizing large-eddy simulations. These simulations produce a constant momentum flux layer and a log-law layer above the surface characterized by a logarithmic increase of wind speed with height. The von Kármán constant derived from the mean wind profile is around 0.4 over a wide range of control parameters. The depths of the simulated boundary layer, constant-flux layer, and surface log-law layer tend to increase with the wind speed and decrease with an increasing Coriolis parameter. Immediately above the surface log-law layer, a second log-law layer has been identified from these simulations. The depth of this upper log-law layer is comparable to its counterpart in the surface layer, and the wind speed can be scaled as , as opposed to just in the surface log-law layer, implying that in addition to surface processes, the upper log-law layer is also influenced by Earth’s rotation and large-scale conditions. Here is the friction velocity at the surface, and h is the boundary layer depth. An analytical model is proposed to assist in the interpretation of the log laws in a typical Ekman boundary layer. The physics and implications of the upper log-law layer are discussed.
Strongly Coupled Data Assimilation Experiments with Linearized Ocean–Atmosphere Balance Relationships
Authors: Storto Andrea , Martin Matthew J. , Deremble Bruno , Masina Simona
Published: March 2018

Coupled data assimilation is emerging as a target approach for Earth system prediction and reanalysis systems. Coupled data assimilation may be indeed able to minimize unbalanced air–sea initialization and maximize the intermedium propagation of observations. Here, we use a simplified framework where a global ocean general circulation model (NEMO) is coupled to an atmospheric boundary layer model [Cheap Atmospheric Mixed Layer (CheapAML)], which includes prognostic prediction of near-surface air temperature and moisture and allows for thermodynamic but not dynamic air–sea coupling. The control vector of an ocean variational data assimilation system is augmented to include 2-m atmospheric parameters. Cross-medium balances are formulated either through statistical cross covariances from monthly anomalies or through the application of linearized air–sea flux relationships derived from the tangent linear approximation of bulk formulas, which represents a novel solution to the coupled assimilation problem. As a proof of concept, the methodology is first applied to study the impact of in situ ocean observing networks on the near-surface atmospheric analyses and later to the complementary study of the impact of 2-m air observations on sea surface parameters, to assess benefits of strongly versus weakly coupled data assimilation. Several forecast experiments have been conducted for the period from June to December 2011. We find that especially after day 2 of the forecasts, strongly coupled data assimilation provides a beneficial impact, particularly in the tropical oceans. In most areas, the use of linearized air–sea balances outperforms the statistical relationships used, providing a motivation for implementing coupled tangent linear trajectories in four-dimensional variational data assimilation systems. Further impacts of strongly coupled data assimilation might be found by retuning the background error covariances.
Minor Physical Anomalies and Obstetric Complications in Schizophrenia
Authors: McNeil Thomas F. , Cantor-Graae Elizabeth
Published: March 2018

Objective

To evaluate the possibility of using congenital minor physical anomalies (MPA) and obstetric complications (OC) as individual-orientated, early life markers signalling increased risk for schizophrenia.

Method

Previous findings using Waldrop and colleagues' MPA scale (and additional items) and systematic study of OC history are summarised concerning schizophrenia patients and individuals at heightened genetic risk for schizophrenia.

Results

Significantly increased rates of both MPA and OC are consistently found in patients with schizophrenia. Minor physical anomalies are stable characteristics over time and can be studied efficiently from early childhood onward. Minor physical anomalies predict a variety of mental disorders in normal-risk children, but the predictive efficiency of MPA for schizophrenia in genetic high-risk samples and in the general population is unknown. Obstetric complications predict serious mental disturbance and neurodisorder in genetic high-risk cases, as well as doubling or tripling the individual's risk for schizophrenia in the general population. Obstetric complication results are sensitive to methodology and are best investigated using prospectively recorded information and an efficient OC scale for scoring the information.

Conclusions

Both MPA and OC should be included in batteries of methods for identifying individuals at an increased risk for schizophrenia. However, increased rates of MPA and OC are not pathognomonic for schizophrenia, but rather characterise individuals at risk of a much broader range of mental and physical abnormality, as well as normality. Minor physical anomalies and OC are not in themselves stigmatising, but their possible identification as markers for ‘increased risk for schizophrenia’ should be used judiciously. Further research is recommended regarding the MPA and OC patterns related to schizophrenia.
Preventing the Entrenchment of High Expressed Emotion in First Episode Psychosis: Early Developmental Attachment Pathways
Authors: Patterson Paul , Birchwood Max , Cochrane Ray
Published: March 2018

Objective

As part of a strategy to consider the options for preventing the developmental entrenchment of expressed emotion (EE), we examine the early ontogeny of EE in a first-episode sample of individuals with psychosis and its links with the process of adaptation to change.

Methods

The key relatives of 50 first-episode psychosis patients from two locations were interviewed soon after patient referral and again 9 months later using measures of expressed emotion and loss.

Results

The developmental pathways of components of expressed emotion, particularly criticism and emotional over-involvement, were independent despite having a similar effect on outcome for patients. Initially, high levels of emotional over-involvement were reduced by follow up, with 37% resolving into high criticism. Overall expressed emotion status changed in 28.2% of key relatives (all parental), predominantly from high to low. High emotional over-involvement and low criticism are associated with significantly high levels of perceived loss in relatives. The metamorphosis of emotional over-involvement to criticism was linked to a reduction in perceived loss.

Conclusions

Expressed emotion is not a stable index in relatives of first-episode psychosis samples. Appraisals of loss by relatives may be driving high emotional over-involvement with implications for family intervention programs. Attachment theory may help to explain some of the processes underlying resistance to change in some of the high-EE behaviours measured by expressed emotion.