bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Susceptibility of Malassezia pachydermatis to aminoglycosides
Authors: Silva Freddy Alejandro , Conde‐Felipe Magnolia , Rosario Inmaculada , Ferrer Otilia , Real Fernando , Déniz Soraya , Acosta Félix , Padilla Daniel , Acosta‐Hernández Begoña
Published: September 2017

Previous studies have evaluated the action of gentamicin against Malassezia pachydermatis. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro susceptibility of M. pachydermatis to the aminoglycosides— gentamicin, tobramycin, netilmicin and framycetin. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of gentamicin was determined following methods M27‐A3 microdilution and Etest®. The Etest® was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the tobramycin and netilmicin. The Kirby‐Bauer test was used to determine the antibiotic susceptibility to the framycetin. The MIC50 and MIC90 were 8.12 μg/mL and 32.5 μg/mL by microdilution method for gentamicin. The MIC50, determined by the Etest®, was 8 μg/mL for gentamicin and netilmicin and 64 μg/mL for tobramycin. The MIC90 was 16 and 32 μg/mL for gentamicin and netilmicin respectively. The MIC90 was outside of the detectable limits for tobramycin. To framycetin, 28 strains (40%) of the 70 M. pachydermatis isolates tested showed a diameter of 22 mm, 22 strains (31.42%) showed a diameter of 20 mm, 16 strains showed a diameter of ≤ 18 mm, and only 5.71% of the isolates showed a diameter of ≥ 22 mm. This study provides evidence of high in vitro activity of the aminoglycosides—gentamicin, tobramycin, netilmicin and framycetin against M. pachydermatis. For gentamicin Etest® showed similar values of MIC50 y MIC90 that the obtained by microdilution method. We considered Etest® method could be a good method for these calculations with aminoglycosides.
Patient‐reported outcomes from two randomised studies comparing once‐weekly application of amorolfine 5% nail lacquer to other methods of topical treatment in distal and lateral subungual onychomycosis
Authors: Schaller Martin , Sigurgeirsson Bardur , Sarkany Marlis
Published: September 2017

Patient adherence is a key consideration in the choice of a topical regimen for the treatment of onychomycosis. The objective of this study was to investigate patient‐reported outcomes (treatment utilisation, adherence and satisfaction) in onychomycosis treated with once‐weekly amorolfine 5% nail lacquer versus once‐daily ciclopirox 8% nail lacquer (Study A) or once‐daily urea 40% ointment/bifonazole 1% cream combination regimen (Study B). Study A: Subjects received amorolfine and ciclopirox on opposite feet for 12 weeks. Study B: Subjects received amorolfine and urea/bifonazole on opposite feet for 6‐7 weeks. Assessments included subject adherence as per label, treatment preference and questionnaire. Study A: More subjects adhered to amorolfine (85%) than to ciclopirox (60%) (P = .025). Overall, subjects were satisfied (95% vs 100%, respectively) and the treatments were balanced in terms of preference (50% vs 45%) at week 12. Study B: More subjects adhered to amorolfine dosage (81.8%) than to the dosage of the urea/bifonazole combination regimen (59.1%) (P = .096). At the end of study, 85.7% of subjects preferred amorolfine versus 14.3% for urea/bifonazole. Fewer subjects experienced local side effects with amorolfine (4.5%) compared to urea (27.3%) and bifonazole (15%). Amorolfine 5% nail lacquer offers a simple and convenient treatment option, which may result in improved patient adherence and consequently lead to improved efficacy and patient satisfaction.
Achieving recovery in patients with schizophrenia through psychosocial interventions: A retrospective study
Authors: Buonocore Mariachiara , Bosia Marta , Baraldi Maria A. , Bechi Margherita , Spangaro Marco , Cocchi Federica , Bianchi Laura , Guglielmino Carmelo , Mastromatteo Antonella R. , Cavallaro Roberto
Published: September 2017

Aim

Recovery, or functional remission, represents the ultimate treatment goal in schizophrenia. Despite its importance, a standardized definition of remission is still lacking, thus reported rates significantly vary across studies. Moreover, the effects of rehabilitative interventions on recovery have not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to evaluate recovery in a sample of patients with chronic schizophrenia engaged in rehabilitation programs and to explore contributing factors, with a focus on sociocognitive rehabilitative interventions.

Methods

Data from 104 patients with schizophrenia treated either with a standard rehabilitation program, including cognitive remediation (n = 46), or the latter plus a specific sociocognitive intervention (n = 58), and assessed for psychopathology, cognition, social cognition, and Quality of Life Scale, were retrospectively analyzed for this study.

Results

Recovery, evaluated with the Quality of Life Scale, was achieved by 56.76% of patients in our sample. While no effects were observed for clinical, cognitive, or sociocognitive variables, participation in the sociocognitive rehabilitative interventions was positively associated with recovery.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that high rates of recovery can be achieved in patients treated with psychosocial interventions and suggest that rehabilitative programs targeting social cognition may further facilitate the process of recovery. If confirmed, these results may have relevant implications for daily clinical practice and service provision, allowing clinicians to develop and optimize specific rehabilitation programs in order to promote recovery.
Optimizing hepatic venous outflow reconstruction for hepatic vein stenosis with indwelling stent in living donor liver retransplantation
Authors: Shigeta Takanobu , Sakamoto Seisuke , Sasaki Kengo , Uchida Hajime , Narumoto Soichi , Fukuda Akinari , Kasahara Mureo
Published: September 2017

The patient was a boy of 7 years and 5 months of age, who underwent LDLT for acute liver failure at 10 months of age. HV stent placement was performed 8 months after LDLT because of intractable HV stenosis. At 7 years of age, his liver function deteriorated due to chronic rejection. The patient therefore underwent living donor liver retransplantation from his father. The HV was transected with the stent in situ. The IVC was resected due to stenosis. The pericardial cavity was opened and detached around the IVC to elongate the IVC. The divided ends of the IVC were joined by suturing to the posterior wall of the IVC. A new triangular orifice was made by adding an incision on the anterior wall of the IVC. The graft HV was then anastomosed to the new orifice with continuous sutures in the posterior wall and interrupted sutures in the anterior wall using 5‐0 non‐absorbable sutures. Doppler ultrasound showed a triphasic waveform. We successfully performed HV reconstruction without a vascular graft. This is a feasible procedure for overcoming HV stenosis in LDLT patients with an indwelling stent.
ACA Exchange Competitiveness In Texas
Authors: Morrisey Michael A. , Radcliff Tiffany A.
Published: September 2017

The health insurance exchange in Texas began with some timidity in 2014. However, it saw rapid entry of insurers and plans, and the lowering of many plan premiums relative to those of the dominant Blue Cross Blue Shield offerings in 2015 and 2016. By 2017 insurers had reliable information on the utilization experience. Several insurers withdrew from the exchange; others reduced the number of counties in which they offered coverage. In the 2017 open enrollment period, only health maintenance organizations (HMOs) were offered and premiums increased dramatically for most remaining insurers.
ACA Exchange Competitiveness in North Carolina
Authors: Hall Mark A.
Published: September 2017

North Carolina is a populous state (10 million) with lower‐than‐average income (42nd nationally) and a historically high uninsurance rate (6th nationally). Thus, the state had a large number of potential new applicants eligible for subsidized coverage, and in fact has achieved the fourth highest exchange enrollment in the country (approximately 600,000). North Carolina is also notable for being the second largest state to have only one carrier statewide—Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina.
When and how can nephrologists treat hepatitis C virus infection in dialysis patients?
Authors: Davis Maya I. , Chute Donald F. , Chung Raymond T. , Sise Meghan E.
Published: September 2017

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, a major cause of end‐stage liver disease, is a common comorbidity in patients on dialysis and causes increased morbidity and mortality. Historically HCV has been extremely difficult to cure with interferon and ribavirin‐based therapies, which are also associated with significant side effects, and few dialysis patients ever received HCV treatment. However, in the last 4 years, interferon‐free direct‐acting antiviral therapies have been approved, and several combinations have been studied in dialysis patients. A recently approved, pan‐genotypic, direct‐acting antiviral regimen, glecaprevir and pibrentasvir, may simplify prescribing. The simplicity of these new therapies, with few side effects, makes it possible for nephrologists to treat HCV infection in their patients on dialysis. We review the workflow and motivation behind nephrology‐led management of HCV infection. We highlight the importance of identifying which patients need referral to a hepatologist or HCV specialist prior to treatment and which can be managed by their nephrologist. Nephrologist involvement would lead to improved access to treatment and ensure that appropriate patients are referred for HCV treatment. In this paper, we review the background of HCV infection, its effect on dialysis patients, and impact on kidney transplantation. In addition, we outline the therapy options for each genotype of HCV, and we discuss the benefits and barriers to nephrology‐led HCV treatment.
Adaptation of Individual and Team Character in Sport Questionnaire to Turkish
Authors: Görgüt İlyas , Tutkun Erkut
Published: September 2017

The aim of this study was to make validity and reliability of Turkish form of the individual and team character in sport questionnaire (ITCSQ) which was developed by Davidson et al., (2000). Scale was designed to measure outcomes related with character in the sport environment. 438 participants were voluntarily included into the study in two stages as pilot and main study. After the controlling of the answers, incorrect and incompletely filled scale forms were taken out, 170 people were taken for the pilot study and 268 people were taken into the consideration for the validity and reliability of the scale. Firstly, language validity was provided through expert opinion. Validity of scale to Turkish culture was assessed with confirmatory factor analysis and reliability of scale was assessed with split-half reliability methods and it was seen that fit indices were in acceptable level for six subscales. In conclusion, the internal consistency for all scale was .83 and for the six subscale respectively were .74, .80, .82. Obtained data by the application of Turkish form of scale showed that adapted scale which had 3 factors, 44 items and 5 Likert type scoring tool, was a valid and reliable scale.
Making Visual Illustrations of Physics Accessible to Blind Students
Authors: Torres Josiane Pereira , Mendes Enicéia Gonçalves
Published: September 2017

The teaching of physics often involves the use of illustrations that complement and assist the understanding of a particular situation or physical phenomenon. Overall, the proper use of illustrations can maximize the learning and understanding of concepts and phenomena related to the teaching of science (physics, chemistry, biology) and mathematics.
Gaining Perspective on Paintings and Photographs: A Study in the Optics of Seeing
Authors: Carroll Bradley W.
Published: September 2017

Everyone who has visited an art museum and stood before a masterful painting has admired the artist’s clever use of accurate perspective to bring a third dimension to the flat canvas. The mathematical theory of perspective is almost 600 years old, having been pioneered by Leon Battista Alberti (1404–1472) in his treatise De Pictura (1435). Standing in front of a painting, you usually give little thought about precisely where to stand, relative to the canvas, in order to appreciate the three-dimensionality of the scene. Yet Alberti writes, on p. 57, “Know that a painted thing can never appear truthful when there is not a definite distance for seeing it.” You, the viewer, must assume the responsibility for accurately viewing the perspective intended by the artist. This article is intended to help viewers of art determine where to stand before a painting or a photograph. It is based on the idea from ray optics that light travels in straight lines from its source to the viewer’s eye.
Devices that can identify positive vs. negative charge
Authors: Lincoln James
Published: September 2017

When your clothes come out of the dryer, covered with static, do you know whether they are positively or negatively charged? In this article, I discuss a variety of devices that can determine sign of the charge on an insulator or conductor. Purposefully, none of these methods utilize comparison with a known charge. Some of these ideas have been previously published, and I am extending them, but many are original. These demonstrations provide students and teachers with an opportunity to contrast the actual flow of charge with conventional current and to compare the behavior of positive and negative charges with what we expect from protons and electrons.
Highlight: RNA-binding proteins in cancer
Authors: Yaffe Michael B.
Published: September 2017

ADAR promotes lung adenocarcinoma migration and invasion through stabilization of FAK.
H-IPSE Is a Pathogen-Secreted Host Nucleus-Infiltrating Protein (Infiltrin) Expressed Exclusively by the Schistosoma haematobium Egg Stage
Authors: Pennington Luke F. , Alouffi Abdulaziz , Mbanefo Evaristus C. , Ray Debalina , Heery David M. , Jardetzky Theodore S. , Hsieh Michael H. , Falcone Franco H.
Published: September 2017

Urogenital schistosomiasis, caused by the parasitic trematode
Schistosoma haematobium
, affects over 112 million people worldwide. As with
Schistosoma mansoni
infections, the pathology of urogenital schistosomiasis is related mainly to the egg stage, which induces granulomatous inflammation of affected tissues. Schistosoma eggs and their secretions have been studied extensively for the related organism
S. mansoni
, which is more amenable to laboratory studies. Indeed, we have shown that IPSE/alpha-1 (here M-IPSE), a major protein secreted from
S. mansoni
eggs, can infiltrate host cells. Although the function of M-IPSE is unknown, its ability to translocate to the nuclei of host cells and bind DNA suggests a possible role in immune modulation of host cell tissues. Whether IPSE homologs are expressed in other schistosome species has not been investigated. Here, we describe the cloning of two paralog genes, H03-IPSE and H06-IPSE, which are orthologs of M-IPSE, from egg cDNA of
S. haematobium
. Using PCR and immunodetection, we confirmed that the expression of these genes is restricted to the egg stage and female adult worms, while the H-IPSE protein is detectable only in mature eggs and not adults. We show that both H03-IPSE and H06-IPSE proteins can infiltrate HTB-9 bladder cells when added exogenously to culture medium. Monopartite C-terminal nuclear localization sequence (NLS) motifs conserved in H03-IPSE, SKRRRKY, and H06-IPSE SKRGRKY, are responsible for targeting the proteins to the nucleus of HTB-9 cells, as demonstrated by site-directed mutagenesis and green fluorescent protein (GFP) tagging. Thus,
S. haematobium
eggs express IPSE homologs that appear to perform similar functions in infiltrating host cells.
Cytoplasmic Copper Detoxification in Salmonella Can Contribute to SodC Metalation but Is Dispensable during Systemic Infection
Authors: Fenlon Luke A. , Slauch James M.
Published: September 2017

Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium is a leading cause of foodborne disease worldwide. Severe infections result from the ability of
S
. Typhimurium to survive within host immune cells, despite being exposed to various host antimicrobial factors. SodCI, a copper-zinc-cofactored superoxide dismutase, is required to defend against phagocytic superoxide. SodCII, an additional periplasmic superoxide dismutase, although produced during infection, does not function in the host. Previous studies suggested that CueP, a periplasmic copper binding protein, facilitates acquisition of copper by SodCII. CopA and GolT, both inner membrane ATPases that pump copper from the cytoplasm to the periplasm, are a source of copper for CueP. Using
in vitro
SOD assays, we found that SodCI can also utilize CueP to acquire copper. However, both SodCI and SodCII have a significant fraction of activity independent of CueP and cytoplasmic copper export. We utilized a series of mouse competition assays to address the
in vivo
role of CueP-mediated SodC activation. A
copA golT cueP
triple mutant was equally as competitive as the wild type, suggesting that sufficient SodCI is active to defend against phagocytic superoxide independent of CueP and cytoplasmic copper export. We also confirmed that a strain containing a modified SodCII, which is capable of complementing a
sodCI
deletion, was fully virulent in a
copA golT cueP
background competed against the wild type. These competitions also address the potential impact of cytoplasmic copper toxicity within the phagosome. Our data suggest that
Salmonella
does not encounter inhibitory concentrations of copper during systemic infection.

IMPORTANCE
Salmonella
is a leading cause of gastrointestinal disease worldwide. In severe cases,
Salmonella
can cause life-threatening systemic infections, particularly in very young children, the elderly, or people who are immunocompromised. To cause disease,
Salmonella
must survive the hostile environment inside host immune cells, a location in which most bacteria are killed. Our work examines how one particular metal, copper, is acquired by
Salmonella
to activate a protein important for survival within immune cells. At high levels, copper itself can inhibit
Salmonella
. Using a strain of
Salmonella
that cannot detoxify intracellular copper, we also addressed the
in vivo
role of copper as an antimicrobial agent.
Red flag screening for low back pain: nothing to see here, move along: a narrative review
Authors: Cook Chad E , George Steven Z , Reiman Michael P
Published: September 2017

Screening for red flags in individuals with low back pain (LBP) has been a historical hallmark of musculoskeletal management. Red flag screening is endorsed by most LBP clinical practice guidelines, despite a lack of support for their diagnostic capacity. We share four major reasons why red flag screening is not consistent with best practice in LBP management: (1) clinicians do not actually screen for red flags, they manage the findings; (2) red flag symptomology negates the utility of clinical findings; (3) the tests lack the negative likelihood ratio to serve as a screen; and (4) clinical practice guidelines do not include specific processes that aid decision-making. Based on these findings, we propose that clinicians consider: (1) the importance of watchful waiting; (2) the value-based care does not support clinical examination driven by red flag symptoms; and (3) the recognition that red flag symptoms may have a stronger relationship with prognosis than diagnosis.
The anticipatory stress response to sport competition; a systematic review with meta-analysis of cortisol reactivity
Authors: van Paridon Kjell N , Timmis Matthew A , Nevison Charlotte M , Bristow Matt
Published: September 2017

Objective

Athletes anticipating sport competition regularly experience distinct emotional and physiological responses as a result of the expected psychosocial and physical stress. Specifically, cortisol, an indicator of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activation, prepares the athlete for the psychological and physiological demands of competition. The objective of this meta-analysis is to analyse the magnitude of the anticipatory cortisol response in athletes preparing to participate in sport competition and to examine the influence of gender, level of competition and data collection time.

Design

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Data sources

Four electronic databases were searched to March 2017: PubMed, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus and Scopus.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

(1) Athletes participating in real sport competition;(2) salivary cortisol concentration collected before competition in addition to baseline sample(s);(3) original research article published in English language.

Results

Data from 25 studies provided 27 effect sizes. A significant anticipatory cortisol response of g=0.85, p<0.001 was identified. Males had a stronger trend for greater cortisol reactivity (g=1.07) than females (g=0.56, p=0.07). Females and athletes competing at international level did not demonstrate a significant anticipatory stress response. There were no significant differences between level of competition, type of sport or time of competition. Meta-regression indicated that the anticipatory cortisol response is greater when assessed closer to the start of competition (Q=6.85, p=0.009).

Summary/conclusion

The anticipatory cortisol response before sport competition reflects moderate cortisol reactivity that prepares athletes optimally for the demands of sport competition via the influence on cognitive processes and attentional control. However, both female athletes and international competitors did not demonstrate a significant anticipatory cortisol response, possibly due to differences in appraisal of the stress of sport competition.
Diagnosis and control of a severe outbreak of lameness caused byMycoplasma hyosynoviaein a closed pig unit
Authors: Moronato Maria Luisa , Ustulin Martina , Vio Denis , Nicholas Robin A J , Catania Salvatore
Published: September 2017

Mycoplasma hyosynoviaeis a swine pathogen causing arthritic diseases and severe economic losses. The authors report an outbreak of severe lameness in a pig farm in northern Italy in which approximately 35% of the growing herd showed clinical signs. Lameness was not associated with fever, change in appetite or stiffness in the limbs but was mostly related to swelling of the affected joint.M hyosynoviaewas cultured from joints and identified by PCR; tests failed to detect the presence of other infectious causes of arthritic diseases. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were carried out on isolates ofM hyosynoviaetaken from the tissues in order to guide the choice of antibiotics for treatment. In consultation with the farm’s private veterinary surgeon, this was recommended to be a combination of spectinomycin and lincomycin. However the pigs frequently relapsed indicating the need for longer‐term control such as vaccination which should also reduce antibiotic usage.
Imaging diagnosis: azygos continuation of a discontinuous caudal vena cava associated with portocaval shunting, incomplete situs inversus and polysplenia in a dog
Authors: Martinez Miryam , Carrillo Juana , Soler Marta , Skelly Cliona , Agut Amalia
Published: September 2017

A four‐month‐old, intact female, Greyhound‐cross dog was presented with history of weight loss, lethargy and intermittent vomiting. Abdominal ultrasound revealed microhepatia, reversed position of the kidneys, polysplenia and suspicion of extrahepatic portosystemic (portoazygos) shunt. CT angiography confirmed the visceral anomalies and showed a left‐sided azygos vein continuation of an interrupted caudal vena cava, associated with an extrahepatic portosystemic (portocaval) shunt. The extrahepatic portosystemic shunt was surgically corrected, and the dog had uneventful recovery. CT angiography was imperative in evaluating the characteristics of vascular anomalies and determining the required surgical correction in this complex case.
Grain Price Forecasting Using a Hybrid Stochastic Method
Authors: Zhao Yu , Zhang Xi , Shi Zhongshun , He Lei
Published: September 2017

Grain price forecasting is significant for all market participants in managing risks and planning operations. However, precise forecasting of price series is difficult because of the inherent stochastic behavior of grain price. In this paper, a novel hybrid stochastic method for grain price forecasting is introduced. The proposed method combines decomposed stochastic time series processes with artificial neural networks. The initial parameters of the hybrid stochastic model are optimized by a random search using a genetic algorithm. The proposed method is finally validated in China’s national grain market and compared with several recent price forecasting models. Results indicate that the proposed hybrid stochastic method provides a satisfactory forecasting performance in grain price series.
Surface polaritons in grating composed of left-handed materials
Authors: Tiwari D. C. , Premlal P. L. , Chaturvedi Vandana
Published: September 2017

In this work, we developed a unique mathematical model to solve dispersion relation for surface polaritons (SPs) in artificial composite materials grating. Here, we have taken two types of materials for analysis. In the first case, the grating composed of epsilon-negative (ENG) material and air interface. In second case, grating composed of left-handed materials (LHMs) and ENG medium interface is considered. The dispersion curves of both p and s polarized SPs modes are obtained analytically. In the case of ENG grating and air interface, polaritons dispersion curves exist for p-polarization only, whereas for LHM grating and ENG medium interface, the polaritons dispersion curves for both p and s polarization are observed.
Non-homotopicity of the linking set of algebraic plane curves
Authors: Guerville-Ballé Benoît , Shirane Taketo
Published: September 2017

The linking set is an invariant of algebraic plane curves introduced by Meilhan and the first author. It has been successfully used to detect several examples of Zariski pairs, i.e. curves with the same combinatorics and different embedding in [Formula: see text]. Differentiating Shimada's [Formula: see text]-equivalent Zariski pair by the linking set, we prove, in the present paper, that this invariant is not determined by the fundamental group of the curve.
Cross-scene hyperspectral image classification based on DWT and manifold-constrained subspace learning
Authors: Ye Minchao , Zheng Wenbin , Lu Huijuan , Zeng Xianting , Qian Yuntao
Published: September 2017

Hyperspectral image (HSI) classification draws a lot of attentions in the past decades. The classical problem of HSI classification mainly focuses on a single HSI scene. In recent years, cross-scene classification becomes a new problem, which deals with the classification models that can be applied across different but highly related HSI scenes sharing common land cover classes. This paper presents a cross-scene classification framework combining spectral–spatial feature extraction and manifold-constrained feature subspace learning. In this framework, spectral–spatial feature extraction is completed using three-dimensional (3D) wavelet transform while manifold-constrained feature subspace learning is implemented via multitask nonnegative matrix factorization (MTNMF) with manifold regularization. In 3D wavelet transform, we drop some coefficients corresponding to high frequency in order to avoid data noise. In feature subspace learning, a common dictionary (basis) matrix is shared by different scenes during the nonnegative matrix factorization, indicating that the highly related scenes should share than same low-dimensional feature subspace. Furthermore, manifold regularization is applied to force the consistency across the scenes, i.e. all pixels representing the same land cover class should be similar in the low-dimensional feature subspace, though they may be drawn from different scenes. The experimental results show that the proposed method performs well in cross-scene HSI datasets.
Destriping hyperspectral imagery via spectral–spatial low-rank representation
Authors: Wang Yulong , Zou Cuiming
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we address the problem of removing striping noise in hyperspectral images (HSI). To this end, we develop a novel destriping method by taking advantage of the spectral and spatial information of the hyperspectral image simultaneously. To obtain satisfactory destriped results, our consideration is two-fold: (1) To model the spectral information of HSI, we utilize low-rank representation to exploit the low-rank property of HSI; (2) To incorporate the spatial information into our method, we adopt the Huber-Markov random field (HMRF) prior model to preserve the edge information of HSI while reducing the striping noise. Finally, we integrate the spectral and spatial model into a unified objective function. In addition, we also devise an effective optimization algorithm to minimize the objective function. The experimental results on real-world HSI data validate the efficacy of the proposed scheme for destriping of HSI.
The Cauchy problem for the Aw–Rascle–Zhang traffic model with locally constrained flow
Authors: Garavello Mauro , Villa Stefano
Published: September 2017

We study the Cauchy problem for the Aw–Rascle–Zhang model for traffic flow with a flux constraint located at [Formula: see text]. The purpose of such a traffic model is to describe an obstruction in a road, such as a toll gate or a construction site. We consider here the concept of solutions introduced by Garavello and Goatin in 2011, which conserves the total number of cars flowing through the obstruction, but does not conserve the generalized momentum. We prove the existence of such solutions to the Cauchy problem by using the wavefront tracking method. We also compare our results with another concept of solutions introduced also by Garavello and Goatin in 2011 for the same model with a flux constraint. For this second formulation, Andreianov, Donadello, and Rosini had also proved the existence of solutions to the Cauchy problem.
Data dependence of approximate current-vortex sheets near the onset of instability
Authors: Morando Alessandro , Secchi Paolo , Trebeschi Paola
Published: September 2017

The paper is concerned with the free boundary problem for two-dimensional current-vortex sheets in ideal incompressible magneto-hydrodynamics near the transition point between the linearized stability and instability. In order to study the dynamics of the discontinuity near the onset of the instability, Hunter and Thoo [On the weakly nonlinear Kelvin–Helmholtz instability of tangential discontinuities in MHD, J. Hyperbolic Differ. Equations 8(4) (2011) 691–726] have introduced an asymptotic quadratically nonlinear integro-differential equation for the amplitude of small perturbations of the planar discontinuity. The local-in-time existence of smooth solutions to the Cauchy problem for the amplitude equation was shown in [Approximate current-vortex sheets near the onset of instability, J. Math. Pures Appl. 105(4) (2016) 490–536; Existence of approximate current-vortex sheets near the onset of instability, J. Hyperbolic Differ. Equations]. In the present paper, we prove the continuous dependence in strong norm of solutions on the initial data. This completes the proof of the well-posedness of the problem in the classical sense of Hadamard.
Ethnic Migration, Embedded Settlement and the Development of Low-Carbon Willingness: A Field Survey on the Reservoir Emigrants of She Minority and the Inhabitants of Immigration Areas in Longyou County, Zhejiang Province
Authors: JIANG Wei
Published: September 2017

The development of low-carbon willingness is one of the inherent conditions for the construction of low-carbon cities. This paper focuses on a case study of the embedded settlement of She immigrants from Muchen Reservoir (in Zhejiang Province) and inhabitants of immigration areas. Based on a survey sampling of the above-mentioned She emigrants and inhabitants, the author conducts an experimental study, which divides research subjects into four groups: A1 of Han ethnic group settling in single-Han communities in immigration areas; A2 of Han ethnic group settling with She immigrants in immigration areas; B1 of She immigrants settling in single-She communities after migration; B2 of She immigrants settling with Han ethnic group after migration. A1 and B1 are reference groups, while A2 and B2 are experimental groups. The study analyzes and compares the low-carbon awareness of Han ethnic group and She minority in different modes of living (single-ethnic settlement and embedded settlement) in the immigrant area after the reservoir resettlement, so as to identify whether embedded settlement helps foster low-carbon awareness. The results show that Han ethnic group settling with She immigrants consumed less luxuries and is better at applying traditional local knowledge compared with its reference group; meanwhile, She minority settling with Han ethnic group has more low-carbon knowledge and stronger low-carbon willingness. The study proves that when an ethnic minority migrates from a single-ethnicity community to one featuring embedded settlement of different ethnic groups, the communication among them helps to spread and strengthen low-carbon awareness; besides, traditional local knowledge of ethnic minorities contributes to the low-carbon development of the immigration areas.
A comparison of option pricing models
Authors: Dastranj Elham , Latifi Roghaye
Published: September 2017

Option pricing under two stochastic volatility models, double Heston model and double Heston with three jumps, is done. Firstly, the efficiency of the second model is shown via FFT method, and numerical examples using power call options. Then it is shown that power option yields more premium income under the second model, double Heston with three jumps, than another one.
Efficient valuation and exercise boundary of American fractional lookback option in a mixed jump-diffusion model
Authors: Yang Zhaoqiang
Published: September 2017

This study presents an efficient method for pricing the American fractional lookback option in the case where the stock price follows a mixed jump diffusion fraction Brownian motion. By using It ô formula and Wick–It ô–Skorohod integral, a new market pricing model is built. The fundamental solutions of stochastic parabolic partial differential equations are estimated under the condition of Merton assumptions. The explicit integral representation of early exercise premium and the critical exercise price are also given. Numerical simulation illustrates some notable features of American fractional lookback options.
The Efficacy of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for HER-2-Positive Locally Advanced Breast Cancer and Survival Analysis
Authors: Zhang Wei , Tian Huan , Yang Shi-hong
Published: September 2017

To provide reference data, we retrospectively investigated the effects of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) on 119 patients with HER-2+locally advanced breast cancer, treated from November 2010 to July 2016, with respect to influencing factors and survival. They were divided into the pathological complete response (pCR;n=15; 12.6%) and non-pCR (n=104; 87.4%) groups. We usedΧ2and logistic tests to the analyze effect and influencing factors. Survival rate was analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method and Log-rank test. We lost 12 patients (including 1 pCR patient) and followed 107 patients, of whom 31 (all in the non-pCR group) had local recurrences or distant metastasis. The two groups significantly differed in 3-year disease-free survival (pCR group: 100%; non-pCR group: 59.0%;P=0.039); pCR was significantly affected by histological grade, PR status, Ki67 index, primary tumor size, clinical staging, and number of trastuzumab cycles. The model was tested, and the difference was statistically significant (Χ2 = 31.938,P=0.032). Patients with HER-2+locally advanced breast cancer with pCR responses to NAC have improved prognoses. Patients without pCR have increased risk for relapse. The use of a combination of NAC, such as trastuzumab and chemotherapy, and more cycles should be considered to increase the likelihood of pCR.
Birds in New York State Have Altered Their Migration Timing and Are Experiencing Different Thermal Regimes While Breeding or on Stopover from 2010 to 2015
Authors: Pudalov Natalie , Ziatek Sydney , Jimenez Ana Gabriela
Published: September 2017

Migration represents a significant physiological challenge for birds, and increasing ambient temperatures due to global climate change may add to birds’ physiological burden during migration. We analyzed migration timing in a central New York county and two counties in the Adirondack region by using data from the citizen science network, eBird, and correlating it with historical temperature data. Species of birds sighted in Central NY (N=195) and the Adirondack region (N=199) were categorized into year-round residents and one- and two-stopover groupings based on eBird observations. Using linear regressions, we looked at various relationships between temperature and variables relating to birds’ migration across 2010–2015. Of the total 195 species used within this data in Central NY, 35 species showed some alteration in their migration timing or in the temperature regime they experienced while breeding or on migration stopover. In the Adirondack region, of the total 199 species used within this dataset, 43 species showed some alteration in their migration timing or experienced significantly colder or warmer temperatures while breeding or on migration stopover during 2010–2015. Additionally, many of the bird species affected by temperature changes in the state of New York and those that altered migration timing tended to be long-distance migrants.
Acid-Sensing Ion Channels as Potential Therapeutic Targets in Neurodegeneration and Neuroinflammation
Authors: Ortega-Ramírez Audrey , Vega Rosario , Soto Enrique
Published: September 2017

Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) are a family of proton-sensing channels that are voltage insensitive, cation selective (mostly permeable to Na+), and nonspecifically blocked by amiloride. Derived from 5 genes (ACCN1–5), 7 subunits have been identified, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3, 4, and 5, that are widely expressed in the peripheral and central nervous system as well as other tissues. Over the years, different studies have shown that activation of these channels is linked to various physiological and pathological processes, such as memory, learning, fear, anxiety, ischemia, and multiple sclerosis to name a few, so their potential as therapeutic targets is increasing. This review focuses on recent advances that have helped us to better understand the role played by ASICs in different pathologies related to neurodegenerative diseases, inflammatory processes, and pain.
The Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in People with Neurological Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mackay Christopher P. , Kuys Suzanne S. , Brauer Sandra G.
Published: September 2017

Objective.To determine the effect of aerobic exercise on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in people with neurological disorders.Data Sources.Six electronic databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Cochrane, PsycINFO, SportDiscus, and Web of Science) were searched until the end of December 2016.Study Selection.Experimental or observational studies of people with neurological disorders who undertook an exercise intervention with BDNF as an outcome measure. The search strategy yielded 984 articles.Data Extraction.Study data were independently extracted from each article. Methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. A meta-analysis was planned based on the assessment of predetermined criteria.Data Synthesis.Eleven articles were included. Studies employed either a program of aerobic exercise, a single bout of aerobic exercise, or both. A meta-analysis of studies comparing a program of aerobic exercise against usual care/nil therapy showed a large effect (SMD: 0.84, 95% CI 0.47–1.20,p<0.001) in favour of aerobic exercise to increase levels of BDNF. Findings for a single bout of aerobic exercise were mixed. Quality of studies was low (PEDro average score 4.3/10).Conclusions.A program of aerobic exercise may contribute to increased levels of BDNF in neurological populations.
Sterilization of Biofilm on a Titanium Surface Using a Combination of Nonthermal Plasma and Chlorhexidine Digluconate
Authors: Gupta Tripti Thapa , Karki Surya B. , Matson Jyl S. , Gehling Daniel J. , Ayan Halim
Published: September 2017

Nosocomial infections caused by opportunistic bacteria pose major healthcare problem worldwide. Out of the many microorganisms responsible for such infections,Pseudomonas aeruginosais a ubiquitous bacterium that accounts for 10–20% of hospital-acquired infections. These infections have mortality rates ranging from 18 to 60% and the cost of treatment ranges from $20,000 to $80,000 per infection. The formation of biofilms on medical devices and implants is responsible for the majority of those infections. Only limited progress has been made to prevent this issue in a safe and cost-effective manner. To address this, we propose employing jet plasma to break down and inactivate biofilmsin vitro. Moreover, to improve the antimicrobial effect on the biofilm, a treatment method using a combination of jet plasma and a biocide known as chlorhexidine (CHX) digluconate was investigated. We found that complete sterilization ofP. aeruginosabiofilms can be achieved after combinatorial treatment using plasma and CHX. A decrease in biofilm viability was also observed using confocal laser scanning electron microscopy (CLSM). This treatment method sterilized biofilm-contaminated surfaces in a short treatment time, indicating it to be a potential tool for the removal of biofilms present on medical devices and implants.
Mitochondria‐Targeted Antioxidants SkQ1 and MitoTEMPO Failed to Exert a Long‐Term Beneficial Effect in Murine Polymicrobial Sepsis
Authors: Rademann Pia , Weidinger Adelheid , Drechsler Susanne , Meszaros Andras , Zipperle Johannes , Jafarmadar Mohammad , Dumitrescu Sergiu , Hacobian Ara , Ungelenk Luisa , Röstel Franziska , Kaszaki Jozsef , Szabo Andrea , Skulachev Vladimir P. , Bauer Michael , Bahrami Soheyl , Weis Sebastian , Kozlov Andrey V. , Osuchowski Marcin F.
Published: September 2017

Mitochondrial‐derived reactive oxygen species have been deemed an important contributor in sepsis pathogenesis. We investigated whether two mitochondria‐targeted antioxidants (mtAOX; SkQ1 and MitoTEMPO) improved long‐term outcome, lessened inflammation, and improved organ homeostasis in polymicrobial murine sepsis. 3‐month‐old female CD‐1 mice (n = 90) underwent cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and received SkQ1 (5 nmol/kg), MitoTEMPO (50 nmol/kg), or vehicle 5 times post‐CLP. Separately, 52 SkQ1‐treated CLP mice were sacrificed at 24 h and 48 h for additional endpoints. Neither MitoTEMPO nor SkQ1 exerted any protracted survival benefit. Conversely, SkQ1 exacerbated 28‐day mortality by 29%. CLP induced release of 10 circulating cytokines, increased urea, ALT, and LDH, and decreased glucose but irrespectively of treatment. Similar occurred for CLP‐induced lymphopenia/neutrophilia and the NO blood release. At 48 h post‐CLP, dying mice had approximately 100‐fold more CFUs in the spleen than survivors, but this was not SkQ1 related. At 48 h, macrophage and granulocyte counts increased in the peritoneal lavage but irrespectively of SkQ1. Similarly, hepatic mitophagy was not altered by SkQ1 at 24 h. The absence of survival benefit of mtAOX may be due to the extended treatment and/or a relatively moderate‐risk‐of‐death CLP cohort. Long‐term effect of mtAOX in abdominal sepsis appears different to sepsis/inflammation models arising from other body compartments.
Central Poststroke Pain: Its Profile among Stroke Survivors in Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Bashir Abdulbaki Halliru , Abdullahi Auwal , Abba Muhammad Aliyu , Mukhtar Naziru Bashir
Published: September 2017

Background. Central poststroke pain (CPSP) caused by sensory dysfunction of central origin is a disabling condition that significantly affects the quality of life of stroke patients. Aim. The aim of this study is to determine the clinical profiles and pattern of CPSP among stroke patients in Kano, Nigeria. Methods. The study was a cross-sectional design involving stroke survivors who were ≥18 years old and with no significant cognitive impairment approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. Participants were assessed using diagnostic criteria form, the douleur neuropathique 4 questions (DN4 questionnaire), and Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs (LANNS). Results. A total of 120 stroke patients participated in the study, in which 6 (5%) were diagnosed with CPSP occurring within the first 3 months in 50% of the participants. The pain characteristics were mainly moderate (83.3%), burning (62.5%), and continuously experienced (66.7%). The frequently affected parts were extremities or occurring as hemisyndrome. Conclusion. Prevalence of CPSP following stroke is low. The clinical features are variable and can occur at a varied time and different intensities and locations. However, it majorly occurs within the first few months post stroke.
Immunosurveillance and Immunoediting of Breast Cancer via Class I MHC Receptors
Authors: Tu Megan M. , Rahim Mir Munir A. , Sayed Céline , Mahmoud Ahmad Bakur , Makrigiannis Andrew P.
Published: September 2017

Ly49 receptors, which recognize “self” class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC-I) molecules, enable natural killer (NK) cells to detect loss of MHC-I expression on transformed and virally infected cells. The impact of NK cell–mediated MHC-I surveillance on immunoediting of breast cancer is still not fully understood. This work assesses the impact of Ly49 receptors on tumor development in terms of cancer control and in driving immune-evading cancer mutations. Genetically modified Ly49-deficient mice and those lacking NK cells through antibody depletion were less able to control E0771-derived mammary tumors in an MHC-I–dependent fashion. Similarly, Ly49-deficient MMTV-PyVT–transgenic mice developed spontaneous mammary tumors faster than Ly49-sufficient MMTV-PyVT mice. Fewer CD69+ and granzyme B+ NK cells were detected among the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in Ly49-deficient than in Ly49-sufficient MMTV-PyVT mice. Furthermore, tumors from Ly49-deficient mice displayed reduced MHC-I expression, suggesting that tumors growing in these mice lacked an Ly49-derived pressure to maintain MHC-I expression. These same MHC-I-low tumors from Ly49-deficient mice were unable to flourish when transferred to Ly49-sufficient hosts, confirming that this tumor mutation was in response to an Ly49-deficient environment. This work demonstrates a role for Ly49 receptors in the control of mammary cancer, and provides evidence to support a model of tumor immunoediting, in which selective pressures from the immune system drive immune-evasive cancer mutations. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(11); 1016–28. ©2017 AACR.