bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deletion of Rapgef6, a candidate schizophrenia susceptibility gene, disrupts amygdala function in mice
Authors: Levy R J , Kvajo M , Li Y , Tsvetkov E , Dong W , Yoshikawa Y , Kataoka T , Bolshakov V Y , Karayiorgou M , Gogos J A
Published: June 2015

In human genetic studies of schizophrenia, we uncovered copy-number variants in RAPGEF6 and RAPGEF2 genes. To discern the effects of RAPGEF6 deletion in humans, we investigated the behavior and neural functions of a mouse lacking Rapgef6. Rapgef6 deletion resulted in impaired amygdala function measured as reduced fear conditioning and anxiolysis. Hippocampal-dependent spatial memory and prefrontal cortex-dependent working memory tasks were intact. Neural activation measured by cFOS phosphorylation demonstrated a reduction in hippocampal and amygdala activation after fear conditioning, while neural morphology assessment uncovered reduced spine density and primary dendrite number in pyramidal neurons of the CA3 hippocampal region of knockout mice. Electrophysiological analysis showed enhanced long-term potentiation at cortico–amygdala synapses. Rapgef6 deletion mice were most impaired in hippocampal and amygdalar function, brain regions implicated in schizophrenia pathophysiology. The results provide a deeper understanding of the role of the amygdala in schizophrenia and suggest that RAPGEF6 may be a novel therapeutic target in schizophrenia.
Oxides in silver–graphene nanocomposites: electrochemical signatures and electrocatalytic implications
Authors: Bhat Sajad Ahmad , Rather Mudasir Ahmad , Pandit Sarwar Ahmad , Ingole Pravin Popinand , Bhat Mohsin Ahmad
Published: June 2015

Electrochemical investigations establish that the electroreduction of oxide form of silver present in Ag-reduced graphene oxide nanoassembly enhances its efficiency towards electro-oxidation of ascorbic acid (AA).
Highly sensitive detection of carbon dioxide by a pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazole derivative: combining experimental and theoretical studies
Authors: Xia Guomin , Ruan Chengyan , Wang Hongming
Published: June 2015

In the present paper, a “light-up” chemsensor with a high specificity for carbon dioxide detection using a pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazole derivative (P1H) in liquid media has been developed.
N-Alkylated aziridines are easily-prepared, potent, specific and cell-permeable covalent inhibitors of human β-glucocerebrosidase
Authors: Adams B. T. , Niccoli S. , Chowdhury M. A. , Esarik A. N. K. , Lees S. J. , Rempel B. P. , Phenix C. P.
Published: June 2015

N-Octyl conduritol aziridine is a potent and specific covalent inactivator of β-glucocerebrosidase (GBA1) inside live human cells.
Spatiotemporal control over the co-conformational switching in pH-responsive flavylium-based multistate pseudorotaxanes
Authors: Diniz Ana Marta , Basílio Nuno , Cruz Hugo , Pina Fernando , Parola A. Jorge
Published: June 2015

A multistate molecular dyad containing flavylium and viologen units was synthesized and the pH dependent thermodynamics of the network completely characterized by a variety of spectroscopic techniques such as NMR, UV-vis and stopped-flow. The flavylium cation is only stable at acidic pH values. Above pH ≈ 5 the hydration of the flavylium leads to the formation of the hemiketal followed by ring-opening tautomerization to give the cis-chalcone. Finally, this last species isomerizes to give the trans-chalcone. For the present system only the flavylium cation and the trans-chalcone species could be detected as being thermodynamically stable. The hemiketal and the cis-chalcone are kinetic intermediates with negligible concentrations at the equilibrium. All stable species of the network were found to form 1 : 1 and 2 : 1 host : guest complexes with cucurbit[7]uril (CB7) with association constants in the ranges 105–108 M−1 and 103–104 M−1, respectively. The 1 : 1 complexes were particularly interesting to devise pH responsive bistable pseudorotaxanes: at basic pH values (≈12) the flavylium cation interconverts into the deprotonated trans-chalcone in a few minutes and under these conditions the CB7 wheel was found to be located around the viologen unit. A decrease in pH to values around 1 regenerates the flavylium cation in seconds and the macrocycle is translocated to the middle of the axle. On the other hand, if the pH is decreased to 6, the deprotonated trans-chalcone is neutralized to give a metastable species that evolves to the thermodynamically stable flavylium cation in ca. 20 hours. By taking advantage of the pH-dependent kinetics of the trans-chalcone/flavylium interconversion, spatiotemporal control of the molecular organization in pseudorotaxane systems can be achieved.
Inhibitory effects of high stability fucoxanthin on palmitic acid-induced lipid accumulation in human adipose-derived stem cells through modulation of long non-coding RNA
Authors: Lin Wen-Chuan , Shih Ping-Hsiao , Wang Weu , Wu Chi-Hao , Hsia Shih-Min , Wang Hsian-Jenn , Hwang Pai-An , Wang Chuan-Yu , Chen Shu-Huey , Kuo Yung-Ting
Published: June 2015

Obesity is a serious worldwide disease, which is growing in epidemic proportions.
Deep desulfurization of fuels based on an oxidation/extraction process with acidic deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Yin Jingmei , Wang Jinping , Li Zhuo , Li Dan , Yang Guang , Cui Yingna , Wang Ailing , Li Changping
Published: June 2015

A series of acidic deep eutectic solvents were designed and synthesized, which could be used for the successful oxidation/extraction desulfurization of fuels.
Ring closing metathesis reactions of α-methylene-β-lactams: application to the synthesis of a simplified phyllostictine analogue with herbicidal activity
Authors: Coe Samuel , Pereira Nicole , Geden Joanna V. , Clarkson Guy J. , Fox David J. , Napier Richard M. , Neve Paul , Shipman Michael
Published: June 2015

The first RCM reactions of α-methylene-β-lactams are used to construct strained macrocycles that mimic elements of phyllostictine A.
A potent and selective C-11 labeled PET tracer for imaging sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 in the CNS demonstrates sexually dimorphic expression
Authors: Yue Xuyi , Jin Hongjun , Liu Hui , Rosenberg Adam J. , Klein Robyn S. , Tu Zhude
Published: June 2015

Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2) plays an essential role in regulating blood–brain barrier (BBB) function during demyelinating central nervous system (CNS) disease.
Synthesis of 5A zeolite coating/PSSF composites and the application for adsorption of methane from air
Authors: Zhang Dong , Zhang Huiping , Yan Ying
Published: June 2015

We fabricated 5A zeolite/PSSF composites and applied it in the end of the fixed bed to improve the bed utilization and to reduce the bed pressure drop.
Cellulose nanocrystals as non-innocent supports for the synthesis of ruthenium nanoparticles and their application to arene hydrogenation
Authors: Kaushik Madhu , Friedman Hava Meira , Bateman Mary , Moores Audrey
Published: June 2015

Ru nanoparticles deposited onto cellulose nanocrystals are highly active arene hydrogenation catalysts under mild conditions.
Effect of different substituents on the one-pot formation of 3,4,5-substituted furan-2(5H)-ones: a kinetics and mechanism study
Authors: Shahraki Mehdi , Habibi-Khorassani Sayyed Mostafa , Dehdab Maryam
Published: June 2015

This work focused on the effects of temperature and different para-substituted anilines on the activation parameters and kinetics of the synthesis reaction of 3,4,5-substituted furan-2(5H)-ones which were studied spectrally at different temperatures in formic acid.
Nitrogen-rich energetic 4-R-5-nitro-1,2,3-triazolate salts (R = –CH3, –NH2, –N3, –NO2 and –NHNO2) as high performance energetic materials
Authors: Liu Long , Zhang Yanqiang , Li Zhimin , Zhang Suojiang
Published: June 2015

4-R-5-Nitro-1,2,3-triazolate salts (R = –CH3, –NH2, –NO2, –N3, and –NHNO2) were systematically synthesized with nitrogen-rich cations. Among the energetic salts, dihydroxylaminium 4-nitramino-5-nitro-1,2,3-triazolate exhibits excellent energetic performance (38.8 GPa, 9464 m s−1).
A technology review of electrodes and reaction mechanisms in vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Kim Ki Jae , Park Min-Sik , Kim Young-Jun , Kim Jung Ho , Dou Shi Xue , Skyllas-Kazacos M.
Published: June 2015

The vanadium redox flow battery, which was first suggested by Skyllas-Kazacos and co-workers in 1985, is an electrochemical storage system which allows energy to be stored in two solutions containing different redox couples.
Three dimensional architectures: design, assembly and application in electrochemical capacitors
Authors: Yu Minghao , Qiu Weitao , Wang Fuxin , Zhai Teng , Fang Pingping , Lu Xihong , Tong Yexiang
Published: June 2015

This review presents the current progress of 3D structured electrodes, mainly focusing on their design, assembly and applications in supercapacitors. The main challenges and new trends in 3D electrode development have also been proposed.
Design and analysis of a spread‐spectrum communication system with chaos‐based variation of both phase‐coded carrier and spreading factor
Authors: Quyen Nguyen Xuan , Yem Vu Van , Duong Trung Q.
Published: June 2015

This study designs and analyses a new phase‐coded spread‐spectrum communication system where both phase‐coded carrier and spreading factor are varied based on a chaotic behaviour in the communication process. This design aims to reduce the probability of interception of the considered system. Discrete values generated by a chaotic map are exploited to create a non‐return‐to‐zero (NRZ)‐chaos sequence and simultaneously make bit duration variable. The NRZ‐chaos sequence is then modulated by binary phase‐shift keying technique to produce the phased‐coded carrier. Owing to chip duration being constant, the variation of bit duration also leads to the variation of spreading factor. Spectrum spreading in the transmitter is performed by multiplying directly the variable‐duration bits with the phase‐coded carrier. A coherent receiver relying on a direct correlator is used for recovering the data. Design of the transmitter and receiver as well as analysis of bit error probability for the proposed system in cases of single‐user and multi‐user under additive white Gaussian noise channel is presented. Simulation results are shown to confirm the operation of the designed structures and the obtained analytical performance.
Lactoferrin and ovotransferrin contribute toward antioxidative effects of Edible Bird’s Nest against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in human SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Hou Zhiping , Imam Mustapha Umar , Ismail Maznah , Azmi Nur Hanisah , Ismail Norsharina , Ideris Aini , Mahmud Rozi
Published: June 2015

There are reports of improved redox outcomes due to consumption of Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN). Many of the functional effects of EBN can be linked to its high amounts of antioxidants. Interestingly, dietary components with high antioxidants have shown promise in the prevention of aging and its related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease. In this study, the antioxidative potentials of EBN and its constituents, lactoferrin (LF) and ovotransferrin (OVF), were determined and protective effects against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)- induced toxicity on SH-SY5Y cells using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and acridine orange and propidium iodide (AO/PI) staining with microscopy were examined. Results showed that EBN and its constituents attenuated H2O2-induced cytotoxicity, and decreased radical oxygen species (ROS) through increased scavenging activity. Furthermore, LF, OVF, and EBN produced transcriptional changes in antioxidant related genes that tended towards neuroprotection as compared to H2O2-treated group. Overall, the results suggest that LF and OVF may produce synergistic or all-or-none antioxidative effects in EBN.
A multistate mark–recapture approach to estimating survival ofPIT‐tagged salamanders following timber harvest
Authors: Connette Grant M. , Semlitsch Raymond D.
Published: June 2015

Survival is a critical component of individual fitness, population dynamics and the landscape ecology of organisms. Survival in animal populations is frequently estimated from capture–mark–recapture studies, yet these estimates are biased low when the permanent emigration of individuals is confounded with mortality. This systematic bias can limit the value of demographic information available for conservation and management efforts.

We developed a novel multistate mark–recapture model for survival estimation in fossorial organisms that incorporates auxiliary passive integrated transponder (PIT‐tag) detection data to account for the possibility of permanent emigration from our study area as well as the imperfect detection of individuals. Our study provides a direct comparison of mortality, emigration and reduced ground surface activity as explanations for declines in terrestrial salamander counts which are commonly reported following timber harvest.

Reduced ground surface activity was not supported as a likely cause for reduced counts of plethodontid salamanders after timber harvest. Instead, ground surface activity was predicted to be considerably higher after timber harvest, suggesting that surface counts would under‐represent the extent of population losses relative to control areas.

Controlling for multiple causes for non‐detection of salamanders, we found evidence that survival probability was reduced while permanent emigration rates may also be elevated in the initial months after timber harvest. However, a substantial majority of salamanders were known to survive the process of initial forest stand entry and timber removal.

Synthesis and applications. Our analysis of passive integrated transponder (PIT‐tag) detection data with a novel multistate mark–recapture model indicated that mortality and emigration are both potential causes for short‐term reductions in salamander abundance following timber harvest. We suggest that salamander mortality is likely tied to habitat or microclimate conditions in early successional timber cuts, rather than the physical process of timber removal.
Communicated Values as Informal Controls: Promoting Quality While Undermining Productivity?
Authors: Kachelmeier Steven J. , Thornock Todd A. , Williamson Michael G.
Published: June 2015

We find that the effectiveness of piece‐rate compensation relative to fixed pay in a laboratory letter‐search task hinges on the presence or absence of a nonbinding statement to participants that the experimenter values correct responses. In the absence of the value statement, participants with piece‐rate rewards for correct responses generate more correct and incorrect responses than do their counterparts with fixed pay, correcting errors as they go along to maximize compensation. Essentially, piece‐rate compensation acts as an output control, incentivizing participants to maximize correct responses through a “produce‐and‐improve” strategy. The value statement suppresses this strategy because participants appear to perceive it as an input constraint, prompting greater initial care at the expense of lower overall productivity. As a result, the value statement eliminates the gains in correct responses that piece‐rate incentivized participants otherwise realize. Thus, in settings in which individuals can gain efficiency by working expeditiously and improving quality when necessary, our results suggest the possibility that organizations could be better off just letting incentive schemes operate, rather than emphasizing quality in ways that could overly constrain productivity.
Proliferation and differentiation characteristics of neural stem cells during course of cerebral cortical histogenesis
Authors: Mitsuhashi Takayuki , Takahashi Takao
Published: June 2015

Recent advancements in the research field of stem cell biology have enabled the realization of regenerative medicine in various systems of the body, including the central nervous system. However, fundamental knowledge regarding how neural stem cells divide and generate young neurons in mammals, especially in vivo, is still inadequate. In this article, we shall summarize the concept of cell cycle/division of neural stem cells that generate projection neurons in the murine cerebral cortex. We shall also review the molecular mechanisms that modulate the critical parameters related to the cell cycle regulatory mechanisms, with special reference to the cell cycle regulatory protein p27Kip1, an inhibitor of progression of the cell cycle at the G1 phase. A better understanding of the mechanisms controlling cell cycle progression is expected to contribute to the development of novel strategies to increase the efficiency of neural cell/tissue production, both in vivo and in vitro.
One ring (or two) to hold them all – on the structure and function of protein nanotubes
Authors: Angelucci Francesco , Bellelli Andrea , Ardini Matteo , Ippoliti Rodolfo , Saccoccia Fulvio , Morea Veronica
Published: June 2015

Understanding the structural determinants relevant to the formation of supramolecular assemblies of homo‐oligomeric proteins is a traditional and central scope of structural biology. The knowledge thus gained is crucial both to infer their physiological function and to exploit their architecture for bionanomaterials design. Protein nanotubes made by one‐dimensional arrays of homo‐oligomers can be generated by either a commutative mechanism, yielding an ‘open’ structure (e.g. actin), or a noncommutative mechanism, whereby the final structure is formed by hierarchical self‐assembly of intermediate ‘closed’ structures. Examples of the latter process are poorly described and the rules by which they assemble have not been unequivocally defined. We have collected and investigated examples of homo‐oligomeric circular arrangements that form one‐dimensional filaments of stacked rings by the noncommutative mechanism in vivo and in vitro. Based on their quaternary structure, circular arrangements of protein subunits can be subdivided into two groups that we term Rings of Dimers (e.g. peroxiredoxin and stable protein 1) and Dimers of Rings (e.g. thermosome/rosettasome), depending on the sub‐structures that can be identified within the assembly (and, in some cases, populated in solution under selected experimental conditions). Structural analysis allowed us to identify the determinants by which ring‐like molecular chaperones form filamentous‐like assemblies and to formulate a novel hypothesis by which nanotube assembly, molecular chaperone activity and macromolecular crowding may be interconnected.
Product Assortment and Price Competition under Multinomial Logit Demand
Authors: Besbes Omar , Sauré Denis
Published: June 2015

The role of assortment planning and pricing in shaping sales and profits of retailers is well documented and studied in monopolistic settings. However, such a role remains relatively unexplored in competitive environments. In this study, we study equilibrium behavior of competing retailers in two settings: (i) when prices are exogenously fixed, and retailers compete in assortments only; and (ii) when retailers compete jointly in assortment and prices. For this, we model consumer choice using a multinomial Logit, and assume that each retailer selects products from a predefined set, and faces a display constraint. We show that when the sets of products available to retailers do not overlap, there always exists one equilibrium that Pareto‐dominates all others, and that such an outcome can be reached through an iterative process of best responses. A direct corollary of our results is that competition leads a firm to offer a broader set of products compared to when it is operating as a monopolist, and to broader offerings in the market compared to a centralized planner. When some products are available to all retailers, that is, assortments might overlap, we show that display constraints drive equilibrium existence properties.
Reliable implementation of evidence: a qualitative study of antenatal corticosteroid administration in Ohio hospitals
Authors: Kaplan Heather C , Sherman Susan N , Cleveland Charlena , Goldenhar Linda M , Lannon Carole M , Bailit Jennifer L
Published: June 2015

Background

Antenatal corticosteroids (ANCS) reduce complications of preterm birth; however, not all eligible women receive them. Many hospitals and providers do not have the right processes and conditions to enable ANCS administration with high reliability. The objective of this study was to understand conditions that enable delivery of ANCS with high reliability among hospitals participating in an Ohio Perinatal Quality Collaborative (OPQC) ANCS project.

Methods

We conducted focus groups and semistructured interviews with members of the OPQC project team (n=27) and other care providers (n=70) using a purposeful sample of 6 sites involved in the OPQC ANCS project. Participants including nurses (n=57), attending obstetricians (n=17), physician trainees (n=21) and certified nurse midwives (n=2) were asked to reflect on their experiences and to identify factors contributing to optimal use of ANCS. Focus groups and interviews were transcribed verbatim and were analysed by a multidisciplinary team using an iterative approach that combined inductive and deductive methods to identify and categorise themes.

Results

Six major themes supporting reliable implementation of ANCS at these hospitals emerged including: (1) presence of a high reliability culture, (2) processes that emphasise high reliability, (3) timely and efficient administration process, (4) multiple disciplines are involved, (5) evidence of benefit supports ANCS use and (6) benefit is recognised at all levels of the care team.

Conclusions

Our findings identify the key processes and supports needed to ensure delivery of ASCS with high reliability and are reinforced by implementation and reliability science. They are useful for foundation of the successful implementation of other evidence-based practices at high levels of reliability.
Conceptualising a New Knowledge Management Logic Model for Global Health: A Case-Study Approach
Authors: Ohkubo Saori , Harlan Sarah V. , Ahmed Naheed , Salem Ruwaida M.
Published: June 2015

Over the past few decades, knowledge management (KM) has become well-established in many fields, particularly in business. Several KM models have been at the forefront of promoting KM in businesses and organisations. However, the applicability of these traditional KM models to the global health field is limited by their focus on KM processes and activities with few linkages to intended outcomes. This paper presents the new Knowledge Management for Global Health (KM4GH) Logic Model, a practical tool that helps global health professionals plan ways in which resources and specific KM activities can work together to achieve desired health program outcomes. We test the validity of this model through three case studies of global and field-level health initiatives: an SMS-based mobile phone network among community health workers (CHWs) and their supervisors in Malawi, a global electronic Toolkits platform that provides health professionals access to health information resources, and a netbook-based eHealth pilot among CHWs and their clients in Bangladesh. The case studies demonstrate the flexibility of the KM4GH Logic Model in designing various KM activities while defining a common set of metrics to measure their outcomes, providing global health organisations with a tool to select the most appropriate KM activities to meet specific knowledge needs of an audience. The three levels of outcomes depicted in the model, which are grounded in behavioural theory, show the progression in the behaviour change process, or in this case, the knowledge use process, from raising awareness of and using the new knowledge to contributing to better health systems and behaviours of the public, and ultimately to improving the health status of communities and individuals. The KM4GH Logic Model makes a unique contribution to the global health field by helping health professionals plan KM activities with the end goal in mind.
Attenuation of the unfolded protein response and endoplasmic reticulum stress after mechanical unloading in dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Castillero Estibaliz , Akashi Hirokazu , Pendrak Klara , Yerebakan Halit , Najjar Marc , Wang Catherine , Naka Yoshifumi , Mancini Donna , Sweeney H. Lee , D′Armiento Jeanine , Ali Ziad A. , Schulze P. Christian , George Isaac
Published: June 2015

Abnormal intracellular calcium (Ca2+) handling can trigger endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, leading to activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in an attempt to prevent cell death. Mechanical unloading with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) relieves pressure-volume overload and promotes reverse remodeling of the failing myocardium. We hypothesized that mechanical unloading would alter the UPR in patients with advanced heart failure (HF). UPR was analyzed in paired myocardial tissue from 10 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy obtained during LVAD implantation and explantation. Samples from healthy hearts served as controls. Markers of UPR [binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP), phosphorylated (P-) eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF2α), and X-box binding protein (XBP1)] were significantly increased in HF, whereas LVAD support significantly decreased BiP, P-eIF2α, and XBP1s levels. Apoptosis as reflected by C/EBP homologous protein and DNA damage were also significantly reduced after LVAD support. Improvement in left ventricular dimensions positively correlated with P-eIF2α/eIF2α and apoptosis level recovery. Furthermore, significant dysregulation of calcium-handling proteins [P-ryanodine receptor, Ca2+ storing protein calsequestrin, Na+-Ca2+ exchanger, sarcoendoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2a), ER chaperone protein calreticulin] was normalized after LVAD support. Reduced ER Ca2+ content as a causative mechanism for UPR was confirmed using AC16 cells treated with a calcium ionophore (A23187) and SERCA2a inhibitor (thapsigargin). UPR activation and apoptosis are reduced after mechanical unloading, which may be mediated by the improvement of Ca2+ handling in patients with advanced HF. These changes may impact the potential for myocardial recovery.
Chronic endurance exercise affects paracrine action of CD31+ and CD34+ cells on endothelial tube formation
Authors: Landers-Ramos Rian Q. , Sapp Ryan M. , Jenkins Nathan T. , Murphy Anna E. , Cancre Lucile , Chin Eva R. , Spangenburg Espen E. , Hagberg James M.
Published: June 2015

We aimed to determine if chronic endurance-exercise habits affected redox status and paracrine function of CD34+ and CD34−/CD31+ circulating angiogenic cells (CACs). Subjects were healthy, nonsmoking men and women aged 18–35 yr and categorized by chronic physical activity habits. Blood was drawn from each subject for isolation and culture of CD34+ and CD34−/CD31+ CACs. No differences in redox status were found in any group across either cell type. Conditioned media (CM) was generated from the cultured CACs and used in an in vitro human umbilical vein endothelial cell-based tube assay. CM from CD34+ cells from inactive individuals resulted in tube structures that were 29% shorter in length ( P < 0.05) and 45% less complex ( P < 0.05) than the endurance-trained group. CD34−/CD31+ CM from inactive subjects resulted in tube structures that were 26% shorter in length ( P < 0.05) and 42% less complex ( P < 0.05) than endurance-trained individuals. Proteomics analyses identified S100A8 and S100A9 in the CM. S100A9 levels were 103% higher ( P < 0.05) and S100A8 was 97% higher in the CD34−/CD31+ CM of inactive subjects compared with their endurance-trained counterparts with no significant differences in either protein in the CM of CD34+ CACs as a function of training status. Recombinant S100A8/A9 treatment at concentrations detected in inactive subjects' CD34−/CD31+ CAC CM also reduced tube formation ( P < 0.05). These findings are the first, to our knowledge, to demonstrate a differential paracrine role in CD34+ and CD34−/CD31+ CACs on tube formation as a function of chronic physical activity habits and identifies a differential secretion of S100A9 by CD34−/CD31+ CACs due to habitual exercise.
A database of virtual healthy subjects to assess the accuracy of foot-to-foot pulse wave velocities for estimation of aortic stiffness
Authors: Willemet Marie , Chowienczyk Phil , Alastruey Jordi
Published: June 2015

While central (carotid-femoral) foot-to-foot pulse wave velocity (PWV) is considered to be the gold standard for the estimation of aortic arterial stiffness, peripheral foot-to-foot PWV (brachial-ankle, femoral-ankle, and carotid-radial) are being studied as substitutes of this central measurement. We present a novel methodology to assess theoretically these computed indexes and the hemodynamics mechanisms relating them. We created a database of 3,325 virtual healthy adult subjects using a validated one-dimensional model of the arterial hemodynamics, with cardiac and arterial parameters varied within physiological healthy ranges. For each virtual subject, foot-to-foot PWV was computed from numerical pressure waveforms at the same locations where clinical measurements are commonly taken. Our numerical results confirm clinical observations: 1) carotid-femoral PWV is a good indicator of aortic stiffness and correlates well with aortic PWV; 2) brachial-ankle PWV overestimates aortic PWV and is related to the stiffness and geometry of both elastic and muscular arteries; and 3) muscular PWV (carotid-radial, femoral-ankle) does not capture the stiffening of the aorta and should therefore not be used as a surrogate for aortic stiffness. In addition, our analysis highlights that the foot-to-foot PWV algorithm is sensitive to the presence of reflected waves in late diastole, which introduce errors in the PWV estimates. In this study, we have created a database of virtual healthy subjects, which can be used to assess theoretically the efficiency of physiological indexes based on pulse wave analysis.
Inhibition of cyclooxygenase attenuates the blood pressure response to plantar flexion exercise in peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Muller Matthew D. , Drew Rachel C. , Ross Amanda J. , Blaha Cheryl A. , Cauffman Aimee E. , Kaufman Marc P. , Sinoway Lawrence I.
Published: June 2015

Prostanoids are produced during skeletal muscle contraction and subsequently stimulate muscle afferent nerves, thereby contributing to the exercise pressor reflex. Humans with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) have an augmented exercise pressor reflex, but the metabolite(s) responsible for this augmented response is not known. We tested the hypothesis that intravenous injection of ketorolac, which blocks the activity of cyclooxygenase, would attenuate the rise in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) evoked by plantar flexion exercise. Seven PAD patients underwent 4 min of single-leg dynamic plantar flexion (30 contractions/min) in the supine posture (workload: 0.5–2.0 kg). MAP and HR were measured on a beat-by-beat basis; changes from baseline in response to exercise were determined. Ketorolac did not affect MAP or HR at rest. During the first 20 s of exercise with the most symptomatic leg, ΔMAP was significantly attenuated by ketorolac (2 ± 2 mmHg) compared with control (8 ± 2 mmHg, P = 0.005), but ΔHR was similar (6 ± 2 vs. 5 ± 1 beats/min). Importantly, patients rated the exercise bout as “very light” to “fairly light,” and average pain ratings were 1 of 10. Ketorolac had no effect on perceived exertion or pain ratings. Ketorolac also had no effect on MAP or HR in seven age- and sex-matched healthy subjects who performed a similar but longer plantar flexion protocol (workload: 0.5–7.0 kg). These data suggest that prostanoids contribute to the augmented exercise pressor reflex in patients with PAD.
The Combination of Gastroschisis, Jejunal Atresia, and Colonic Atresia in a Newborn
Authors: Bauman Zachary , Nanagas Victor
Published: June 2015

We encountered a rare case of gastroschisis associated with jejunal atresia and colonic atresia. In our case, the jejunal atresia was not discovered for 27 days after the initial abdominal wall closure. The colonic atresia was not discovered for 48 days after initial repair of the gastroschisis secondary to the rarity of the disorder. Both types of atresia were repaired with primary hand-sewn anastomoses. Other than the prolonged parenteral nutrition and hyperbilirubinemia, our patient did very well throughout his hospital course. Based on our case presentation, small bowel atresia and colonic atresia must be considered in patients who undergo abdominal wall closure for gastroschisis with prolonged symptoms suggestive of bowel obstruction. Our case report also demonstrates primary enteric anastomosis as a safe, well-tolerated surgical option for patients with types of intestinal atresia.
ПРО ДОСВІД МІГРАЦІ ДАНИХ ПАЦІЄНТІВ ПРИ ВПРОВАДЖЕННІ ВІЛЬНО РОЗПОВСЮДЖУВАНОГО ПРОГРАМНОГО ЗАБЕЗПЕЧЕННЯ МІС ЕМК З ВІДКРИТИМ КОДОМ
Authors: Semenets A. V.
Published: June 2015

An alternative approaches to the implementation of software applications in medical practice and education are shown. Examples of the EMR software application in Ternopil State Medical University by I. Ya. Horbachevsky divisionsins are presented. The disadvantages of the MIS “Medical reception” are shown. The method of the patient data migration between different MIS database types is propoused. The reverse engineering of the MIS “Medical reception” and MIS OpenEMR databases is done with investigation of the patient data storage organization principles. The complex of the SQL queries for the support of the data migration process are created. An example of the data migration between MIS “Medical reception” and MIS OpenEMR databases is given.
ПРО КЛІНІЧНУ ЕКСПЕРТНУ СИСТЕМУ, ЩО ГРУНТУЄТЬСЯ НА ПРАВИЛАХ, НА ОСНОВІ ТЕХНОЛОГІ DATA MINING
Authors: Martsenyuk V. P. , Stakhanska O. O.
Published: June 2015

In the work the topics of software implementation of rule induction method based on sequential covering algorithm are considered. Such approach allows us to develop clinical decision support system. The project is implemented within Netbeans IDE based on Java-classes.
КРИТЕРІ ОПТИМІЗАЦІ ПРИ ТРАНСФОРМАЦІ ЗНАНЬ У ДИСЦИПЛІНАХ МОРФОЛОГІЧНОГО НАПРЯМКУ
Authors: Kefeli-Yanovska О. І.
Published: June 2015

The manage decision making are discussed by the example of training programs optimizing. The optimization criteria to select the effective ways to teach subjects in the first years of training in medical universities. The transformation of medical knowledge are recommend to base on the “spiral of knowledge”.
ПРО ДОСВІД ВПРОВАДЖЕННЯ СИСТЕМИ ЕЛЕКТРОННОГО ДОКУМЕНТООБІГУ У МЕДИЧНОМУ ВНЗ
Authors: Semenets A. V. , Kovalok V. Yu.
Published: June 2015

An importance of the application of the electronic document management to the Ukraine healthcare is shown. The electronic document management systems market overview is presented. Example of the usage of the open-source electronic document management system in the Ternopil State Medical University by I. Ya. Horbachevsky is shown. The implementation capabilities of the electronic document management system within a cloud services are shown. The electronic document management features of the Microsoft Office 365 and Google Apps For Education are compared. Some results of the usage of the Google Apps For Education inTSMUas electronic document management system are presented.
ІНФОРМАЦІЙНА ТЕХНОЛОГІЯ ОЦІНКИ СТАНУ СЕРЦЕВО-СУДИННОЇ СИСТЕМИ З ВИКОРИСТАННЯМ МЕТОДІВ ЧАСОВОГО АНАЛІЗУ ОСЦИЛОГРАМ
Authors: Vakulenko D. V. , Vakulenko L. A.
Published: June 2015

The information technology of the time analysis arterial oscilogram allows to significantly expand the information capabilities of the measurement procedure arterial pressure using E-blood pressure.
МОБІЛЬНІ ДОДАТКИ ДЛЯ ЗДОРОВ’Я
Authors: Abdulayev V. H. , Chuba I. V.
Published: June 2015

The article briefly describes review of market of applications in field of health care. Statistical data describing strategy development are indicated herein. Tasks to be solved for implementation of application launch as well as methods of their solution are described. Indisputable arguments in favor of launch of medical applications are indicated.
Beyond Prejudice? Young Whites’ Racial Attitudes in Post–Civil Rights America, 1976 to 2000
Authors: Forman Tyrone A. , Lewis Amanda E.
Published: June 2015

A key finding from previous research on trends in Whites’ racial attitudes is that much of the decline in the expression of racial prejudice over the past seven decades can be attributed to the replacement of older, less tolerant White cohorts by younger, more tolerant cohorts of Whites in the U.S. population (i.e., cohort replacement). An implicit assumption of much of this work is that cohort replacement will continue to produce unidirectional liberalizing trends in Whites’ racial attitudes because of the more tolerant attitudes of each younger cohort. In this article, we reexamine the cohort replacement hypothesis focusing on young Whites’ racial attitudes and whether change is in substance or form. We develop a theoretical argument about the shifting nature of young Whites’ racial attitudes and understandings in the post–civil rights era by building on Forman’s concept of racial apathy and the expanding literature on color-blind racism, which posits that during the post–civil rights era, subtle forms of racial prejudice have become more prevalent than overt forms. We empirically test this argument by investigating trends in, and determinants of, young Whites’ racial attitudes from 1976 to 2000, using nationally representative samples of White high school seniors. Although we find a liberalizing trend for some racial attitudes, we do not find a similar pattern for contemporary forms of prejudice, particularly racial apathy. In addition, we find that the social determinants of young Whites’ social distance attitudes (traditional prejudice) and expressions of racial apathy (contemporary prejudice) have been remarkably consistent over time. Collectively, these results indicate the need for greater attention to the expression of subtle forms of prejudice among young Whites generally, and to the potentially destructive force of rising levels of racial apathy specifically.
Narrow Band Imaging
Authors: Dippold Sebastian , Becker Christoph , Nusseck Manfred , Richter Bernhard , Echternach Matthias
Published: June 2015

Objectives:

Narrow band imaging (NBI) is supposed to be a technique for a better visualization of vessel structures in superficial tissue as it selects the wavelengths of hemoglobin. It was hypothesized that, in the regular follow-up examination of patients with recurrent laryngeal papillomatosis, NBI enables a better detection of laryngeal papillomatosis in contrast to normal white light endoscopy.

Methods:

Eleven patients, 10 with a known recurrent papillomatosis (8 with a relapse, 2 without) and 1 with a primary diagnosis of papillomatosis, were examined with normal white light and NBI endoscopy. Twenty-six video sequences (11 white, 11 NBI, 4 doubled for validity) were generated and randomly presented to 20 otolaryngologists who rated the videos in terms of lesions seen and number of lesions identified. Results were compared with the histopathologic findings of microlaryngoscopy.

Results:

Detection of papillomatosis and the correct number of lesions identified were more accurate with NBI than with normal white light endoscopy. There was a significantly higher probability of detecting laryngeal papillomata with NBI.

Conclusions:

NBI endoscopy enables a more accurate detection of laryngeal papillomatosis than white light endoscopy.
Removal of Dental Biofilms with an Ultrasonically Activated Water Stream
Authors: Howlin R.P. , Fabbri S. , Offin D.G. , Symonds N. , Kiang K.S. , Knee R.J. , Yoganantham D.C. , Webb J.S. , Birkin P.R. , Leighton T.G. , Stoodley P.
Published: June 2015

Acidogenic bacteria within dental plaque biofilms are the causative agents of caries. Consequently, maintenance of a healthy oral environment with efficient biofilm removal strategies is important to limit caries, as well as halt progression to gingivitis and periodontitis. Recently, a novel cleaning device has been described using an ultrasonically activated stream (UAS) to generate a cavitation cloud of bubbles in a freely flowing water stream that has demonstrated the capacity to be effective at biofilm removal. In this study, UAS was evaluated for its ability to remove biofilms of the cariogenic pathogen Streptococcus mutans UA159, as well as Actinomyces naeslundii ATCC 12104 and Streptococcus oralis ATCC 9811, grown on machine-etched glass slides to generate a reproducible complex surface and artificial teeth from a typodont training model. Biofilm removal was assessed both visually and microscopically using high-speed videography, confocal scanning laser microscopy (CSLM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Analysis by CSLM demonstrated a statistically significant 99.9% removal of S. mutans biofilms exposed to the UAS for 10 s, relative to both untreated control biofilms and biofilms exposed to the water stream alone without ultrasonic activation ( P < 0.05). The water stream alone showed no statistically significant difference in removal compared with the untreated control ( P = 0.24). High-speed videography demonstrated a rapid rate (151 mm2 in 1 s) of biofilm removal. The UAS was also highly effective at S. mutans, A. naeslundii, and S. oralis biofilm removal from machine-etched glass and S. mutans from typodont surfaces with complex topography. Consequently, UAS technology represents a potentially effective method for biofilm removal and improved oral hygiene.
Metacognitive Strategies
Authors: Schiff Rachel , Nuri Ben-Shushan Yohi , Ben-Artzi Elisheva
Published: June 2015

This study assessed the effect of metacognitive instruction on the spelling and word reading of Hebrew-speaking children with specific language impairment (SLI). Participants were 67 kindergarteners with SLI in a supported learning context. Children were classified into three spelling instruction groups: (a) metalinguistic instruction (ML), (b) ML that integrates metacognitive strategies (MCML), and (c) a control group. Letter naming, letter sounding, word spelling, and word recognition were assessed at pretest and posttest. Findings from spelling and reading tests as well as interviews indicated that both the ML and MCML groups made statistically significant gains in all measures, whereas the control group did not. However, children with SLI who received training in metacognitive strategies significantly outperformed those who received ML alone in spelling and reading skills. This study provides evidence that children with SLI benefit from applying of metacognitive strategies to spelling practices when acquiring early spelling and reading skills.
Excited delirium: A psychiatric review
Authors: Lipsedge Maurice
Published: June 2015

The term ‘excited delirium’ (ED) is used to explain sudden and unexpected restraint-related deaths. Since the 1990s, ED has often been identified as the principal cause of death in restrained individuals, rather than the restraint procedure itself. Forensic pathologists and psychiatrists attach different meanings to the term delirium. For psychiatrists, delirium is a specific technical term, which implies a grave and potentially life-threatening underlying physical illness. If a patient dies during a bout of delirium, psychiatrists assume that there will be autopsy evidence to demonstrate the primary underlying organic cause. Conversely, pathologists appear to be using the term ED to refer to restraint-related deaths in either highly disturbed cocaine users or psychiatric patients in a state of extreme agitation. In these cases, there is no underlying physical disorder other than a terminal cardiac arrhythmia. As the term ED has different meanings for psychiatrists and for pathologists, it would be helpful for these two professional groups to develop a mutually agreed terminology.
Long-term outcome in a case of shaken baby syndrome
Authors: Bartschat Svenja , Richter Carolin , Stiller Dankwart , Banschak Sibylle
Published: June 2015

Shaken baby syndrome is one of the most common causes of disability and death in infants younger than one year of age. The syndrome is the result of major mechanical forces affecting the head and central nervous system. The outcome for surviving children is often poor, with both physical and mental disabilities. Multicystic encephalomalacia has been reported as a finding after such shaking. The present case involves a one-month-old boy who was brought to hospital by his father because of somnolence and feeding aversion. Radiological imaging revealed subdural haematomas, and fundoscopy found retinal haemorrhages. During police interrogation, the father confessed to having shaken the infant. Cranial ultrasonography subsequently showed increasing damage of the brain; the boy’s general condition worsened. Eight weeks after admission, he died due to renal insufficiency. Upon autopsy, the brain was atrophic, with massive pseudocystic changes of the parenchyma. The case presented impressively shows the possible serious outcome of an admitted incident of shaking and emphasises the importance of an accurate education of parents about its severe and possible lethal consequences.
Access to a Car and the Self-Reported Health and Mental Health of People Aged 65 and Older in Northern Ireland
Authors: Doebler Stefanie
Published: June 2015

This article examines relationships between access to a car and the self-reported health and mental health of older people. The analysis is based on a sample of N = 65,601 individuals aged 65 years and older from the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study linked to 2001 and 2011 census returns. The findings from hierarchical linear and binary logistic multilevel path models indicate that having no access to a car is related to a considerable health and mental health disadvantage particularly for older people who live alone. Rural–urban health and mental health differences are mediated by access to a car. The findings support approaches that emphasize the importance of autonomy and independence for the well-being of older people and indicate that not having access to a car can be a problem for older people not only in rural but also in intermediate and urban areas, if no sufficient alternative forms of mobility are provided.
A front-page news-selection algorithm based on topic modelling using raw text
Authors: Toraman Cagri , Can Fazli
Published: June 2015

Front-page news selection is the task of finding important news articles in news aggregators. In this study, we examine news selection for public front pages using raw text, without any meta-attributes such as click counts. A novel algorithm is introduced by jointly considering the importance and diversity of selected news articles and the length of front pages. We estimate the importance of news, based on topic modelling, to provide the required diversity. Then we select important documents from important topics using a priority-based method that helps in fitting news content into the length of the front page. A user study is subsequently conducted to measure effectiveness and diversity, using our newly-generated annotation program. Annotation results show that up to seven of 10 news articles are important and up to nine of them are from different topics. Challenges in selecting public front-page news are addressed with an emphasis on future research.
Asbestosis in a Japanese Macaque (Macaca fuscata)
Authors: Tsugo Kosuke , Kashimura Akane , Une Yumi
Published: June 2015

Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhalation of asbestos, a fibrous mineral. It is one of the most severe diseases resulting from environmental contamination. We found asbestosis in a female Japanese macaque over 25 years of age that died from senility. Clear needle-like crystals were deposited throughout the lung lobes, particularly in the perivascular areas. Asbestos bodies were observed in some of these crystals. Fibrosis without inflammation was observed in the periarterial and peribronchiolar regions. The crystals were identified as tremolite, and a total of 16,633,968 asbestos bodies and 465,334,411 tremolite fibers were observed in 1 g of dry lung tissue. No tumors or pleural adhesions were seen. This is the first report of spontaneous asbestosis in a nonhuman animal.