bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the introduction of an integrated adult retrieval service on major trauma outcomes
Authors: Kennedy Marcus P , Gabbe Belinda J , McKenzie Ben A
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The primary aim of this study was to examine the impact of the introduction of an integrated adult critical care patient retrieval system in Victoria, Australia, on early clinical outcomes for major trauma patients who undergo interhospital transfer. The secondary aims were to examine the impact on quality and process measures for interhospital transfers in this population, and on longer-term patient-reported outcomes.

Methods

This is a cohort study using data contained in the Victorian State Trauma Registry (VSTR) for major trauma patients >18 years of age between 2009 and 2013 who had undergone interhospital transfer. For eligible patients, data items were extracted from the VSTR for analysis: demographics, injury details, hospital details, transfer details, Adult Retrieval Victoria (ARV) coordination indicator and transfer indicator, key clinical observations and outcomes.

Results

There were 3009 major trauma interhospital transfers in the state with a transfer time less than 24 h. ARV was contacted for 1174 (39.0%) transfers. ARV-coordinated metropolitan transfers demonstrated lower adjusted odds of inhospital mortality compared with metropolitan transfers occurring without ARV coordination (OR 0.39, 0.15 to 0.97). Adjusting for destination hospital type demonstrates that this impact was principally due to ARV facilitation of a Major Trauma Service as the destination for transferred patients (OR 0.41, 0.16 to 1.02). The median time spent at the referral hospital was lower for ARV-coordinated transfers (5.4 h (3.8 to 7.5) vs 6.1 (4.2 to 9.2), p<0.0001).

Conclusions

In a mature trauma system, an effective retrieval service can further reduce mortality and improve long-term outcomes.
Context-dependent responses to light contribute to responses by Black-bellied Salamanders (Desmognathusquadramaculatus) to landscape disturbances
Authors: Cecala K.K. , Maerz J.C.
Published: September 2015

Behaviour often regulates population responses to environmental change, but linking behavioural responses to population patterns can be challenging because behavioural responses are often context-dependent, have an instinctive component, and yet may be modified by experience. Black-bellied Salamanders (Desmognathus quadramaculatus (Holbrook, 1840)) occupy forested streams where dense canopies create cool, dark environments. Because riparian deforestation negatively affects salamander-population connectivity yet some individuals choose to persist in these gaps, we sought to evaluate whether phototaxis could explain these patterns and whether phototactic behaviour would be influenced by experience (capture from forested or deforested areas) or context (refuge type and availability). Our results demonstrated that larval D. quadramaculatus exhibited negative phototaxis, but that larvae from forested streams exhibited stronger negative phototaxis than individuals from deforested streams. Larvae also selected habitat closer to light when refuge was available. Our results show that light alters habitat use by larval D. quadramaculatus, but the magnitude of that effect depends on refuge availability and experience with well-lit conditions associated with forest removal. As human activities reduce canopy cover and refuge availability, negative phototaxis may be one explanation for behavioural barriers to movement. Ultimately, the ability of salamanders to exhibit behavioural plasticity will determine their potential for local adaptation facilitating persistence in the face of environmental change.
Information entropy of multi-qubit Rabi system
Authors: Abo-Kahla D. A. M. , Abdel-Aty M.
Published: September 2015

We consider quantum information entropy phenomenon for multi-qubit Rabi system. By introducing different measurements schemes, we establish the relation between information entropy approach and Von Neumann entropy. It is shown that the information entropy is more sensitive to the time development than the Von Neumann entropy. Furthermore, the suggested protocol exhibits excellent scaling of relevant characteristics, with respect to population dynamics, such that more accurate dynamical results may be obtained using information entropy due to variation of the frequency detuning and the coupling constant.
Theoretical study of quantum capacitance and associated delay in armchair-edge graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Hassan Asif , Hossain MD. Faruque , Rana MD. Sohel , Kouzani Abbas Z.
Published: September 2015

This work presents a comprehensive investigation of the quantum capacitance and the associated effects on the carrier transit delay in armchair-edge graphene nanoribbons (A-GNRs) based on semi-analytical method. We emphasize on the realistic analysis of bandgap with taking edge effects into account by means of modified tight binding (TB) model. The results show that the edge effects have significant influence in defining the bandgap which is a necessary input in the accurate analyses of capacitance. The quantum capacitance is discussed in both nondegenerate (low gate voltage) and degenerate (high gate voltage) regimes. We observe that the classical capacitance limits the total gate (external) capacitance in the degenerate regime, whereas, quantum capacitance limits the external gate capacitance in the nondegenerate regime. The influence of gate capacitances on the gate delay is studied extensively to demonstrate the optimization of switching time. Moreover, the high-field behavior of a GNR is studied in the degenerate and nondegenerate regimes. We find that a smaller intrinsic capacitance appears in the channel due to high velocity carrier, which limits the quantum capacitance and thus limit the gate delay. Such detail analysis of GNRs considering a realistic model would be useful for the optimized design of GNR-based nanoelectronic devices.
Barriers, Limits and Limitations to Resilience
Authors: Leichenko Robin , McDermott Melanie , Bezborodko Ekaterina
Published: September 2015

Enhancing resilience has become a key element of preparedness for extreme events and climate change. While much progress has been made in defining components of resilience, many questions remain about identification of appropriate strategies for building resilience, barriers to implementation of these strategies, and limits to the potential effectiveness of these efforts. New questions are also emerging about inherent limitations of resilience-based approaches, suggesting that resiliency efforts must be coupled with broader transformations of the social and political conditions that create and perpetuate vulnerabilities. Investigation of resilience options and barriers has particular resonance for urbanized coastal communities, many of which face significant climate hazards and development-related pressures and are also encountering a suite of technical, political, financial, legal, and policy hurdles to adaptation. This study explored these issues in coastal New Jersey, USA. The methodology entailed a co-production approach, whereby stakeholders and researchers collaborated in the development of climate risk and vulnerability information and identification of resilience options and barriers. The collaboration provided important insights into barriers, limits and limitations of on-going resilience-building efforts but also revealed potential openings for transformation.
Selective TNF-α targeting with infliximab attenuates impaired oxygen metabolism and contractile function induced by an acute exposure to air particulate matter
Authors: Marchini Timoteo , D'Annunzio Verónica , Paz Mariela L. , Cáceres Lourdes , Garcés Mariana , Perez Virginia , Tasat Deborah , Vanasco Virginia , Magnani Natalia , Gonzalez Maglio Daniel , Gelpi Ricardo J. , Alvarez Silvia , Evelson Pablo
Published: September 2015

Inflammation plays a central role in the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases associated with the exposure to air pollution particulate matter (PM). The aim of this work was to analyze the cardioprotective effect of selective TNF-α targeting with a blocking anti-TNF-α antibody (infliximab) in an in vivo mice model of acute exposure to residual oil fly ash (ROFA). Female Swiss mice received an intraperitoneal injection of infliximab (10 mg/kg body wt) or saline solution, and were intranasally instilled with a ROFA suspension (1 mg/kg body wt). Control animals were instilled with saline solution and handled in parallel. After 3 h, heart O2consumption was assessed by high-resolution respirometry in left ventricle tissue cubes and isolated mitochondria, and ventricular contractile reserve and lusitropic reserve were evaluated according to the Langendorff technique. ROFA instillation induced a significant decrease in tissue O2consumption and active mitochondrial respiration by 32 and 31%, respectively, compared with the control group. While ventricular contractile state and isovolumic relaxation were not altered in ROFA-exposed mice, impaired contractile reserve and lusitropic reserve were observed in this group. Infliximab pretreatment significantly attenuated the decrease in heart O2consumption and prevented the decrease in ventricular contractile and lusitropic reserve in ROFA-exposed mice. Moreover, infliximab-pretreated ROFA-exposed mice showed conserved left ventricular developed pressure and cardiac O2consumption in response to a β-adrenergic stimulus with isoproterenol. These results provides direct evidence linking systemic inflammation and altered cardiac function following an acute exposure to PM and contribute to the understanding of PM-associated cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Coagulation Parameters and Risk of Progressive Hemorrhagic Injury after Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Danfeng , Gong Shun , Jin Hai , Wang Junyu , Sheng Ping , Zou Wei , Dong Yan , Hou Lijun
Published: September 2015

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) after traumatic brain injury (TBI) commonly increases in size and coagulopathy has been implicated in such progression. Our aim is to perform a meta-analysis to assess their relationship. Cochrane library, PubMed, and EMBASE were searched for literatures. Pooled effect sizes and 95% confidential intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects model. We included six studies, involving 1700 participants with 540 progressive hemorrhagic injuries (PHIs). Our findings indicate that PT, D-dimer level, and INR value are positively associated with the risk of PHI. Higher level of PLT and Fg seemed to suggest a lower risk of PHI. Among these parameters, higher D-dimer level and INR value would possess more powerful strength in predicting PHI.
New Results on Passivity for Discrete-Time Stochastic Neural Networks with Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Kang Wei , Cheng Jun , Cheng Xiangyang
Published: September 2015

The problem of passivity analysis for discrete-time stochastic neural networks with time-varying delays is investigated in this paper. New delay-dependent passivity conditions are obtained in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Less conservative conditions are obtained by using integral inequalities to aid in the achievement of criteria ensuring the positiveness of the Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional. At last, numerical examples are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Radiometric Wireless Sensor Network Monitoring of Partial Discharge Sources in Electrical Substations
Authors: Zhang Yong , Upton David , Jaber Adel , Ahmed Hamd , Saeed Bahghtar , Mather Peter , Lazaridis Pavlos , Mopty Alexandre , Tachtatzis Christos , Atkinson Robert , Judd Martin , Vieira Maria de Fatima Queiroz , Glover Ian
Published: September 2015

A wireless sensor network (WSN) with the potential to monitor and locate partial discharge (PD) in high-voltage electricity substations using only received signal strength (RSS) is proposed. The advantages of an RSS-based operating principle over more traditional methods (e.g., time-of-arrival and time-difference-of-arrival) are described. Laboratory measurements of PD that emulate the operation of a PD WSN are presented. The hardware architecture of a prototype PD WSN is described and the particular challenges of an RSS-based location approach in an environment with an unknown, and spatially varying, path-loss index are discussed. It is concluded that an RSS-based PD WSN is a plausible solution for the monitoring of insulation integrity in electricity substations.
Study on the Effect of Air Throttling on Flame Stabilization of an Ethylene Fueled Scramjet Combustor
Authors: Tian Ye , Yang Shunhua , Le Jialing
Published: September 2015

The effect of air throttling on flame stabilization of an ethylene fueled scramjet combustor was investigated by numerical simulation and experiments in this paper. The results were obtained under the inflow condition with Mach number of 2.0, total temperature of 900 K, total pressure of 0.8 MPa, and total equivalence ratio of 0.5. The shock train generated by air throttling had a big effect on the flow structure of the scramjet combustor. Compared with the combustor without air throttling, the flow field with air throttling had a lower velocity and higher pressure, temperature, and vortices intensity. Air throttling was an effective way to achieve flame stabilization; the combustion in the combustor without air throttling was nearly blowout. In the experiment, the combustion was nearly blowout with air throttling location of 745 mm, and the fuel/air mixture in the combustor with air throttling location of 875 mm was burned intensively. It was important to choose the location and time sequence of air throttling for fuel ignition and flame stabilization. The numerical simulation results agreed well with experimental measurements.
Passive Control of Switched Singular Systems via Output Feedback
Authors: Shi Shuhui , Wang Guoliang , Wang Jianhua , Li Hong
Published: September 2015

An instrumental matrix approach to design output feedback passive controller for switched singular systems is proposed in this paper. The nonlinear inequality condition including Lyapunov inverse matrix and controller gain matrix is decoupled by introducing additional instrumental matrix variable. Combined with multiple Lyapunov function method, the nonlinear inequality is transformed into linear matrix inequality (LMI). An LMI condition is presented for switched singular system to be stable and passive via static output feedback under designed switching signal. Moreover, the conditions proposed do not require the decomposition of Lyapunov matrix and its inverse matrix or fixing to a special structure. The theoretical results are verified by means of an example. The method introduced in the paper can be effectively extended to a single singular system and normal switched system.
Minimization of the Total Traveling Distance and Maximum Distance by Using a Transformed-Based Encoding EDA to Solve the Multiple Traveling Salesmen Problem
Authors: Chen S. H.
Published: September 2015

Estimation of distribution algorithms (EDAs) have been used to solve numerous hard problems. However, their use with in-group optimization problems has not been discussed extensively in the literature. A well-known in-group optimization problem is the multiple traveling salesmen problem (mTSP), which involves simultaneous assignment and sequencing procedures and are shown in different forms. This paper presents a new algorithm, namedEDAMLA, which is based on self-guided genetic algorithm with a minimum loading assignment (MLA) rule. This strategy uses the transformed-based encoding approach instead of direct encoding. The solution space of the proposed method is onlyn!. We compare the proposed algorithm against the optimal direct encoding technique, the two-part encoding genetic algorithm, and, in experiments on 34 TSP instances drawn from the TSPLIB, find that its solution space isn!n-1m-1. The scale of the experiments exceeded that presented in prior studies. The results show that the proposed algorithm was superior to the two-part encoding genetic algorithm in terms of minimizing the total traveling distance. Notably, the proposed algorithm did not cause a longer traveling distance when the number of salesmen was increased from 3 to 10. The results suggest that EDA researchers should employ the MLA rule instead of direct encoding in their proposed algorithms.
Recent Developments in β‐Zn4Sb3 Based Thermoelectric Compounds
Authors: Zou Tianhua , Xie Wenjie , Feng Jian , Qin Xiaoying , Weidenkaff Anke
Published: September 2015

Thermoelectricity has been recognized as an environmentally friendly energy conversion technology due to its ability to directly achieve conversion between heat and electricity for a long time. β‐Zn4Sb3 has attracted considerable interest as promising thermoelectric material in the moderate temperature range (500 K–900 K), which is the temperature range of most industrial waste heat sources. In this paper, first we present the structure of β‐Zn4Sb3 and the traditional doping strategy used to enhance its performance. Next, we review the details of some new methods utilized for improving the thermoelectric properties of β‐Zn4Sb3 and its thermal stability as well as reliability. Finally, the review finishes with highlighting some promising strategies for future research directions in the material.
Construction of a gE-Deleted Pseudorabies Virus and Its Efficacy to the New-Emerging Variant PRV Challenge in the Form of Killed Vaccine
Authors: Wang Tongyan , Xiao Yan , Yang Qingyuan , Wang Yuzhou , Sun Zhe , Zhang Chaoling , Yan Shijun , Wang Juan , Guo Linghua , Yan He , Gao Zhiyu , Wang Lilin , Li Xiangdong , Tan Feifei , Tian Kegong
Published: September 2015

The new-emerging PRV variants plague the vaccinated pigs and caused huge economic loss to local pig industry in China since 2011. The current commercial PRV vaccines cannot provide complete protection as the new-emerging PRV variants are antigenically different from the classical viruses. It is urgent to develop more safe and effective PRV vaccines based on the current circulating field isolates. In this study, a gE gene-deleted PRV based on the PRV HN1201, a representative PRV variant, was generated and the efficacy was tested on 3-week-old pigs in the form of killed vaccine. After fatal PRV HN1201 challenge, all vaccinated pigs survived without showing any clinical symptoms, but all unvaccinated pigs exhibited pseudorabies-specific respiratory and neurological signs with 100% mortality rate within 6 days after infection. The vaccinated pigs developed high level of gB and neutralizing antibodies after vaccination which may correlate to the protection provided by vaccine. Therefore, this gE gene-deleted PRV could be a promising vaccine candidate for the control of currently epidemic pseudorabies in China.
An Efficient Key Management Scheme Based on ECC and AVL Tree for Large Scale Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Qin Zhongyuan , Zhang Xinshuai , Feng Kerong , Zhang Qunfang , Huang Jie
Published: September 2015

With the wide adoption of wireless sensor network (WSN), security problems emerge as a challenging issue because of the limited computational power and energy of the sensor nodes. Furthermore, the deployment of WSN in the hostile area with a large number of nodes also poses a threat. In this paper, we proposed a new efficient key management scheme based on Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and AVL tree for large scale WSNs. In our scheme the Elliptic Curve Paillier Encryption (ECPE) cryptography is adopted for communication and the AVL tree is used to store the neighbors' ID and public key. The number of keys used in our scheme is smaller than the proposed schemes as we store these keys using AVL tree to shorten the search time. Regular key updates are also designed to further improve the security of the whole network. Our scheme has a good scalability where the node addition and deletion are supported. Experimental results and analysis show our scheme can significantly reduce the energy consumed by the node and reduce the memory and computational overhead.
Diffuse Hair Loss Induced by Sertraline Use
Authors: Kıvrak Yüksel , Yağcı İbrahim , Üstündağ Mehmet Fatih , Özcan Halil
Published: September 2015

Hair loss is a rare side effect of psychotropic drugs. The most related drug class with this side effect is the mood stabilizers. Studies reporting the sertraline-induced alopecia are limited in number. Sertraline is a potent antidepressant which inhibits the serotonin reuptake from the presynaptic terminals selectively. The reason for hair loss could not be elucidated completely. Psychotropic drugs are usually considered to lead to hair loss through influencing the telogen phase of hair follicle. This paper reports a 21-year-old male with diffuse hair loss induced by sertraline use and improved by quitting the drug. To the best of our knowledge, there are no other case reports on sertraline-induced alopecia within 2 weeks.
Progress in the Characterization of the Surface Species in Activated Carbons by means of INS Spectroscopy Coupled with Detailed DFT Calculations
Authors: Piovano Andrea , Lazzarini Andrea , Pellegrini Riccardo , Leofanti Giuseppe , Agostini Giovanni , Rudić Svemir , Bugaev Aram L. , Lamberti Carlo , Groppo Elena
Published: September 2015

Activated carbons are materials with relevance in different industrial applications. Due to the inherent complexity and heterogeneity of their structures, an easy assignment of the species present on their surface has a challenging result. Only recently, with the possibility to collect well-resolved inelastic neutron spectra and to simulate by DFT methods more or less extended graphitic clusters, this task is starting to become feasible. Here we report our investigation on a steam activated carbon and we show that different vibrations in the region of out-of-plane C-H bending modes are specifically connected to hydrogen terminations belonging to extended and regular borders or to short and defective ones. Furthermore, simulations including heteroatoms such as oxygen allowed us to point out spectral regions with a contribution from carboxyl species.
Trichobezoar Causing Airway Compromise during Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Authors: Kao Erica Y. , Scalzitti Nicholas J. , Dion Gregory R. , Bowe Sarah N.
Published: September 2015

Objectives. (1) Report the case of a 5-year-old female with trichotillomania and trichophagia that suffered airway compromise during esophagogastroduodenoscopy for removal of a trichobezoar. (2) Provide management recommendations for an unusual foreign body causing extubation and partial airway obstruction.Methods. Case report of a rare situation of airway compromise caused by a trichobezoar.Results. A 5-year-old patient underwent endoscopic retrieval of a gastric trichobezoar (hairball) by the gastroenterology service under general endotracheal anesthesia in a sedation unit. During removal, the hairball, due to its large size, dislodged the endotracheal tube, effectively extubating the patient. The bezoar became lodged at the cricopharyngeus muscle. Attempts to remove the bezoar or reintubation were unsuccessful. The child was able to be mask ventilated while the otolaryngology service was called. Direct laryngoscopy revealed a hairball partially obstructing the view of the glottis from its position in the postcricoid area. The hairball, still entrapped in the snare from the esophagoscope, was grasped with Magill forceps and slowly extracted. The patient was then reintubated and the airway and esophagus were reevaluated.Conclusions. Trichobezoar is an uncommon cause of airway foreign body. Careful attention to airway management during these and similar foreign body extractions can prevent inadvertent extubations.
Evaluation of Novel Multiplex Antibody Kit for Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1/2 and Hepatitis C Virus Using Sol-Gel Based Microarray
Authors: Yun Seung Gyu , Jang Jin Woo , Lee Jong Han , Lim Chae Seung , Kim Jinhong , Ki Yeona , Jo Minjoung , Kim Soyoun
Published: September 2015

Background. Microarrays enable high-throughput screening (HTS) of disease-related molecules, including important signaling proteins/peptides and small molecules that are in low abundance. In this study, we developed a multiplex blood bank screening platform, referred to as the Hi3-1 assay, for simultaneous detection of human immunodeficiency virus 1/2 (HIV 1/2) and hepatitis C virus (HCV).Methods. The Hi3-1 assay was tested using four panels (Panel 1,n=4,581patient samples; Panel 2,n=15seroconversion samples; Panel 3,n=4performance samples; and Panel 4,n=251purchased positive control samples), and the results were collected by the Department of Laboratory Medicine, Korea University Medical College, Republic of Korea. The present study compares the sensitivity of the multiplex detection platform for both HIV and HCV using a sol-gel based microarray, which was based on a reference test (Architect HIV Ag/Ab Combo and Architect anti-HCV assays), in Korean patients.Results. The sensitivity of the multiplex detection platform for both HIV and HCV was 100%, and the specificity was 99.96% for HIV and 99.76% for HCV, which is equivalent to that of the reference test.Conclusion. We have successfully applied a novel screening technology to multiplex HIV and HCV diagnoses in a blood bank screening test.
Topological and Functional Properties of SomeF-Algebras of Holomorphic Functions
Authors: Meštrović Romeo
Published: September 2015

LetNp  (1
1, we also consider the countably normed Fréchet algebraFpof holomorphic functions onDwhich is the Fréchet envelope of the spaceNp. Notice that the spacesFpandNphave the same topological duals. In this paper, we give a characterization of bounded subsets of the spacesFpand weakly bounded subsets of the spacesNpwithp>1. If(Fp)∗denotes the strong dual space ofFpandNpw∗denotes the spaceSpof complex sequencesγ={γn}nsatisfying the conditionγn=Oexp-cn1/(p+1), equipped with the topology of uniform convergence on weakly bounded subsets ofNp, then we prove thatFp∗=Npw∗both set theoretically and topologically. We prove that for eachp>1  Fpis a Montel space and that both spacesFpand(Fp)∗are reflexive.
A Novel Consensus Protocol for Two-Dimension First-Order Multiagent Systems
Authors: Zhang Yibo , Gao Jinfeng , Ren Jia
Published: September 2015

A novel consensus protocol for two-dimension first-order multiagent systems (MAS) is proposed. After a novel protocol for two-dimension first-order MAS is adopted; consensus and two kinds of possible results are concerned. Then consensus asymptotical conditions and ranges of key parameters are given, and convergence speed is analyzed. Numerical examples illustrate effectiveness of the proposed consensus protocol.
Vector Control Algorithm for Electric Vehicle AC Induction Motor Based on Improved Variable Gain PID Controller
Authors: Qin Gang , Liu Mushuang , Zou Jianxiao , Xin Xiaoshuai
Published: September 2015

The acceleration performance of EV, which affects a lot of performances of EV such as start-up, overtaking, driving safety, and ride comfort, has become increasingly popular in recent researches. An improved variable gain PID control algorithm to improve the acceleration performance is proposed in this paper. The results of simulation with Matlab/Simulink demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm through the control performance of motor velocity, motor torque, and three-phase current of motor. Moreover, it is investigated that the proposed controller is valid by comparison with the other PID controllers. Furthermore, the AC induction motor experiment set is constructed to verify the effect of proposed controller.
Molecular Pathways: Hippo Signaling, a Critical Tumor Suppressor
Authors: Sebio Ana , Lenz Heinz-Josef
Published: September 2015

The Salvador–Warts–Hippo pathway controls cell fate and tissue growth. The main function of the Hippo pathway is to prevent YAP and TAZ translocation to the nucleus where they induce the transcription of genes involved in cell proliferation, survival, and stem cell maintenance. Hippo signaling is, thus, a complex tumor suppressor, and its deregulation is a key feature in many cancers. Recent mounting evidence suggests that the overexpression of Hippo components can be useful prognostic biomarkers. Moreover, Hippo signaling appears to be intimately linked to some of the most important signaling pathways involved in cancer development and progression. A better understanding of the Hippo pathway is thus essential to untangle tumor biology and to develop novel anticancer therapies. Here, we comment on the progress made in understanding Hippo signaling and its connections, and also on how new drugs modulating this pathway, such as Verteporfin and C19, are highly promising cancer therapeutics. Clin Cancer Res; 21(22); 5002–7. ©2015 AACR.
MicroRNA-21 Negatively Regulates Treg Cells Through a TGF-β1/Smad-Independent Pathway in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Li Sihui , Fan Qian , He Shaolin , Tang Tingting , Liao Yuhua , Xie Jiangjiao
Published: September 2015

Background: CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Treg cells) play a protective role against the development and progression of the inflammatory disease atherosclerosis (AS). MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) is expressed in Treg cells and is up-regulated in the context of AS and other inflammatory diseases. Aims: This study aimed to determine the role of miR-21 in Treg cell regulation and gene expression during the development of AS in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods and Results: MiR-21 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was significantly up-regulated in patients with CHD (acute myocardial infarction (AMI) group, n=24; unstable angina (UA) group, n=21; stable angina (SA) group, n=24) compared with patients with chest pain syndrome (CPS, n=27), and miR-21 expression showed an increasing trend from SA to UA to AMI patients. Moreover, flow cytometry analysis indicated that the frequencies of circulating Treg cells decreased in a manner proportionate opposite with the level of miR-21. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) revealed a decrease in mRNA expression of forkhead box P3 (foxp3), transforming cell growth factor beta 1(TGF-β1) and smad7 (a known target gene of miR-21). ELISA analysis revealed a decrease in TGF-β1 secreted into the plasma. In addition, we transfected PBMCs with a miRNA negative control (NS-m), a miR-21 mimic (miR-21-m), a miRNA inhibitor negative control (NS-i), or a miR-21 inhibitor(miR-21-i). Up-regulation of miR-21 decreased the frequency of circulating Treg cells, decreased the expression levels of foxp3, TGF-β1 and smad7, and decreased the amount of TGF-β1 secreted into the plasma. Consistent with these observations, miR-21 down-regulation increased the frequency of circulating Treg cells, increased the expression of foxp3, TGF-β1 and smad7, and increased the amount of TGF-β1 secreted into the plasma. Conclusions: Because the smad7 expression pattern was similar to that of TGF-β, our study suggests that miR-21 can negatively regulate the frequency of circulating Treg cells through a TGF-β1/smad-independent signaling pathway in PBMCs.
Fluoride Modulates Parathyroid Hormone Secretion in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Puranik Chaitanya P. , Ryan Kathleen A. , Yin Zhaoyu , Martinez-Mier E. Angeles , Preisser John S. , Everett Eric T.
Published: September 2015

The study objective was to investigate the effects of fluoride on intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) secretion. Thyro-parathyroid complexes (TPC) from C3H (n = 18) and B6 (n = 18) mice were cultured in Ca2+-optimized medium. TPC were treated with 0, 250, or 500 µM NaF for 24 h and secreted iPTH assayed by ELISA. C3H (n = 78) and B6 (n = 78) mice were gavaged once with distilled or fluoride (0.001 mg [F-]/g of body weight) water. At serial time points (0.5-96 h) serum iPTH, fluoride, total calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium levels were determined. Expression of genes involved in mineral regulation via the bone-parathyroid-kidney (BPK) axis, such as parathyroid hormone (Pth), calcium-sensing receptor (Casr), vitamin D receptor (Vdr), parathyroid hormone-like hormone (Pthlh), fibroblast growth factor 23 (Fgf23), α-Klotho (αKlotho), fibroblast growth factor receptor 1c (Fgf1rc), tumor necrosis factor 11 (Tnfs11), parathyroid hormone receptor 1 (Pth1r), solute carrier family 34 member 1 (Slc34a1), solute carrier 9 member 3 regulator 1 (Slc9a3r1), chloride channel 5 (Clcn5), and PDZ domain-containing 1 (Pdzk1), was determined in TPC, humeri, and kidneys at 24 h. An in vitro decrease in iPTH was seen in C3H and B6 TPC at 500 µM (p < 0.001). In vivo levels of serum fluoride peaked at 0.5 h in both C3H (p = 0.002) and B6 (p = 0.01). In C3H, iPTH decreased at 24 h (p < 0.0001), returning to baseline at 48 h. In B6, iPTH increased at 12 h (p < 0.001), returning to baseline at 24 h. Serum total calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium levels did not change significantly. Pth, Casr,αKlotho,Fgf1rc,Vdr, and Pthlh were significantly upregulated in C3H TPC compared to B6. In conclusion, the effects of fluoride on TPC in vitro were equivalent between the 2 mouse strains. However, fluoride demonstrated an early strain-dependent effect on iPTH secretion in vivo. Both strains demonstrated differences in the expression of genes involved in the BPK axis, suggesting a possible role in the physiologic handling of fluoride.
The Influence of Clinical Experience and Photographic Presentation on Age Assessment of Women
Authors: Nielsen Barbara Rubek , Linneberg Allan , Christensen Kaare , Forman Julie Lyng , Schwarz Peter
Published: September 2015

Background: Epidemiological studies have reported that a higher perceived age is associated with poor health and higher mortality. However, the method used for the assessment of perceived age differs between studies with regard to age, gender, the number and occupation of assessors as well as the presentation of participants. Objective: It is not known whether the clinical experience of the assessor or photographic presentation have an influence on the assessment of perceived age, which the present study aimed to investigate. Methods: In a cross-sectional study of 460 women aged 25-93 years, 10 consultants and 10 residents were asked to estimate the age of each participant using three different photographic presentations: facial photograph, whole-body photograph, and combined facial and whole-body photographs. Data were analyzed by means of summary statistics and linear mixed models. Results: The inter-class correlation coefficient within each assessor group and photographic presentation varied from 0.66 to 0.75. Limits of agreement were in a broad range but were similar in the two assessor groups. The best inter-assessor agreement was obtained from photographs of both the face and the whole body. Intra- and inter-assessor agreements between photographic presentations were similar among both assessor groups. The accuracy in age assessment was significantly influenced by the photographic presentation but not by the clinical experience of the assessor. The difference in the mean perceived age of a participant of average age was estimated as +0.40 years (95% CI: -1.80; 2.59) for consultants versus residents, -2.05 years (95% CI: -2.90; -1.19) for facial photographs versus both facial and whole-body photographs, and -1.44 years (95% CI: -2.30; -0.58) for whole-body photographs versus both facial and whole-body photographs. A regression towards the mean age was seen. Conclusion: The assessment of perceived age was influenced by the photographic presentation but not by the clinical experience of the assessor.
Glucocorticoid-Induced Leucine Zipper Is Expressed in Human Neutrophils and Promotes Apoptosis through Mcl-1 Down-Regulation
Authors: Espinasse Marie-Alix , Pépin Aurélie , Virault-Rocroy Pauline , Szely Natacha , Chollet-Martin Sylvie , Pallardy Marc , Biola-Vidamment Armelle
Published: September 2015

Glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is a potent anti-inflammatory protein, the expression of which is mainly induced by glucocorticoids (GCs) in haematopoietic cells. GILZ regulates signal transduction pathways of inflammation and plays a role in cell survival. The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression and mechanisms of action of GILZ in the apoptosis of human neutrophils. GILZ expression was induced by GCs in human neutrophils, enhanced upon phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibition and resulted in apoptosis amplification. We then stably transfected PLB-985 cells with the human gilz gene and differentiated both control and GILZ-overexpressing clones in neutrophil-like cells. GILZ overexpression in PLB-985 cells led to an exacerbated apoptosis, associated with caspase-3, caspase-9 and caspase-8 activations, and a loss of mitochondrial potential, suggesting that GILZ-induced apoptosis used the mitochondrial pathway. The expression of BH3 interacting domain death agonist, Bcl-2 interacting mediator of cell death, annexin-A1 and Bcl-2-associated X was not affected in PLB-985-GILZ clones, but phosphorylation and subsequent proteasomal degradation of myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1) were observed. Noteworthy, Mcl-1 phosphorylation was related to a significant and sustained activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in PLB-985-GILZ clones. These results reveal GILZ to be a new actor in apoptosis regulation in neutrophil-like cells involving JNK and Mcl-1.
Cerebellar Cortical Infarct Cavities
Authors: De Cocker Laurens J.L. , Kloppenborg Raoul P. , van der Graaf Yolanda , Luijten Peter R. , Hendrikse Jeroen , Geerlings Mirjam I. ,   Members of the SMART study group are, Algra A. , Grobbee D.E. , Rutten G.E.H.M. , Visseren F.L.J. , Moll F.L. , Kappelle L.J. , Mali W.P.T.M. , Doevendans P.A.
Published: September 2015

Background and Purpose—

Small cerebellar infarct cavities have been recently found on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to preferentially involve the cerebellar cortex, but epidemiological studies are lacking. We aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factor profiles of cerebellar cortical infarct cavities (≤1.5 cm) as well as their association with MRI markers of cerebrovascular disease and functioning.

Methods—

We analyzed the 1.5 Tesla MRI of 636 patients (mean age, 62±9 years; 81% men) from the Second Manifestations of Arterial Disease-Memory, Depression and Aging (SMART-Medea) study. Logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the associations of age, sex, vascular risk factors, MRI markers of cerebrovascular disease, and functioning with cerebellar cortical cavities, adjusted for age and sex.

Results—

Cerebellar cortical infarct cavities occurred on MRI in 10% of patients and were significantly associated with age, intima-media thickness (odds ratio [OR], 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–3.7), high levels of homocysteinemia (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.0–3.3), cortical infarcts (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.6–5.4), gray matter lacunes of presumed vascular origin (OR, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.6–5.8), brain stem infarcts (OR, 5.1; 95% CI, 1.9–13.6), and decreased brain parenchymal fraction (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.74–0.94), but not with white matter hyperintensities (OR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.8–1.8) or white matter lacunes of presumed vascular origin (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.5–2.5). They were also associated with worse physical functioning (OR 0.96; 95% CI, 0.94 to 0.99) but not with mental functioning.

Conclusions—

Cerebellar cortical infarct cavities are far more common than previously assumed based on symptomatic case series and are associated with markers of atherothromboembolic cerebrovascular disease.
Ultrasound and Clinical Predictors of Recurrent Ischemia in Symptomatic Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion
Authors: Schneider Juliane , Sick Beate , Luft Andreas R. , Wegener Susanne
Published: September 2015

Background and Purpose—

Occlusion of the internal carotid artery puts patients at risk of recurrent ischemic events because of hemodynamic compromise. Our goal was to characterize clinical and duplex parameters indicating patients at risk of recurrent ischemia.

Methods—

We retrospectively identified patients with symptomatic internal carotid artery occlusion. Clinical characteristics and ultrasound parameters, including collateral networks, were analyzed. Predictors for recurrent ipsilateral ischemia were investigated by Cox regression analysis.

Results—

Of 68 patients, at least 1 recurrent ischemic event within the same vascular territory was observed in 14 patients (20.6%) within 2 to 92 days (median, 29.5 days). The median follow-up period was 6 months. Diabetes mellitus and previous transient ischemic attack were associated with recurrence, as was activation of the maximum number of collateral pathways on transcranial ultrasound (28.6% versus 5.6%;
P
=0.03). Furthermore, flow in the posterior cerebral arteries was higher in patients with recurrence in ipsilateral and contralateral posterior cerebral artery P2 segments (76 IQR 37.5 versus 59, IQR 22.5 cm/s and 68, IQR 35.6 versus 52, IQR 21 cm/s;
P
<0.01 and 0.02).

Conclusions—

Flow increases in both posterior cerebral artery P2 segments suggest intensified compensatory efforts when other collaterals are insufficient. Together with the presence of diabetes mellitus and a history of transient ischemic attack, this duplex parameter indicates that patients with internal carotid artery are at particular risk of recurrent ischemia.
Hierarchical Error Representation: A Computational Model of Anterior Cingulate and Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Alexander William H. , Brown Joshua W.
Published: September 2015

Anterior cingulate and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (ACC and dlPFC, respectively) are core components of the cognitive control network. Activation of these regions is routinely observed in tasks that involve monitoring the external environment and maintaining information in order to generate appropriate responses. Despite the ubiquity of studies reporting coactivation of these two regions, a consensus on how they interact to support cognitive control has yet to emerge. In this letter, we present a new hypothesis and computational model of ACC and dlPFC. The error representation hypothesis states that multidimensional error signals generated by ACC in response to surprising outcomes are used to train representations of expected error in dlPFC, which are then associated with relevant task stimuli. Error representations maintained in dlPFC are in turn used to modulate predictive activity in ACC in order to generate better estimates of the likely outcomes of actions. We formalize the error representation hypothesis in a new computational model based on our previous model of ACC. The hierarchical error representation (HER) model of ACC/dlPFC suggests a mechanism by which hierarchically organized layers within ACC and dlPFC interact in order to solve sophisticated cognitive tasks. In a series of simulations, we demonstrate the ability of the HER model to autonomously learn to perform structured tasks in a manner comparable to human performance, and we show that the HER model outperforms current deep learning networks by an order of magnitude.
The origin and distribution of Neotropical species of Campylopus

Authors: Frahm Jan-Peter
Published: September 2015

Of the 65 species of Campylopus known from tropical America, 33 are andine in distribution, 16 are found only in SE Brazil, 8 have wide ranges through Central and South America, 3 species are disjunct in SE-North America and Brazil, 3 are confined to the Caribbean and one species belongs to the circum-pacific and one to the tethyan element. For different parts of the Neotropics, the composition of phytogeographical elements is calculated. For the first time, bryophyte distributions are compared to the Pleistocene forest refuges proposed by zoologist and phanerogamists. The distribution of several rainforest species of Campylopus coincides with the major part of the montane refugia. Using an interpretation of the present-day ranges, a hypothetical survey is given of the origin and evolution of this genus in tropical South and Central America. The ranges of part of the species can be explained only by long distance dispersal, while the ranges of other species seem to be relictual.
Additional notes on Neckeropsis. 3. On the identity of Thamnium quisumbingii Veloira

Authors: Touw Andries
Published: September 2015

The diagnosis and illustration Veloira (1959) published of her new species Thamnium quisumbingii have made me assume that the species might in fact belong to Neckeropsis. This assumption proved to be correct upon the examination of an isotype present in E.B. Bartram’s herbarium. The plants represent a rather unusual form of Neckeropsis boniana (Besch.) Touw et Ochyra. In her description Veloira stressed the presence of numerous flagelliform branchlets. More or less attenuate, microphyllous branchlets are commonly found in N. boniana, but they are exceptionally numerous in the type of Thamnium quisumbingii. Many stem apices are flagelliform as well, and some stems show an alternation of microphyllous and normally foliate parts. In a second collection made at the same occasion (Edaño 15938), and reported before (Touw 1987) microphyllous parts are less numerous. Both collections probably have been taken from the same population.
Lizard Island Polychaete Workshop: sampling sites and a checklist of polychaetes
Authors: RIBAS JULIA , HUTCHINGS PAT
Published: September 2015

In August 2013, a two week polychaete workshop was held at Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef. Twenty-one sites representing 121 collection events were sampled for polychetes around Lizard and on the Outer Barrier. Workshop participants sorted polychaetes to family and each participant received on loan selected families to work up. This Zootaxa monograph describes 91 new species, 67 new records for Lizard Island, and 19 for Australia. Details regarding the habitats and locations are provided in Table 2 together with two maps (Figs 1, 2) showing sampling locations. In this paper we also list previously collected polychaete material from the region together with any published records for families which are not included in this volume.
Syllidae (Annelida: Phyllodocida) from Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Authors: AGUADO M. TERESA , MURRAY ANNA , HUTCHINGS PAT
Published: September 2015

Thirty species of the family Syllidae (Annelida, Phyllodocida) from Lizard Island have been identified. Three subfamilies (Eusyllinae, Exogoninae and Syllinae) are represented, as well as the currently unassigned genera Amblyosyllis and Westheidesyllis. The genus Trypanobia (Imajima & Hartman 1964), formerly considered a subgenus of Trypanosyllis, is elevated to genus rank. Seventeen species are new reports for Queensland and two are new species. Odontosyllis robustus n. sp. is characterized by a robust body and distinct colour pattern in live specimens consisting of lateral reddish-brown pigmentation on several segments, and bidentate, short and distally broad falcigers. Trypanobia cryptica n. sp. is found in association with sponges and characterized by a distinctive bright red colouration in live specimens, and one kind of simple chaeta with a short basal spur.