bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weighted Energy-Balanced Efficient Routing Algorithm for Wireless Body Area Network
Authors: Li Zhuoming , Xu Zhenyu , Mao Shengge , Tong Xing , Sha Xuejun
Published: February 2016

Wireless Body Area Network (WBAN) is a small-scaled sensor network consisting of a series of medical devices attributed to, around, or implanted in a human body, providing continuous monitoring by different sensors to collect vital signals or motion and GPS. This paper proposes an effective routing algorithm to balance the energy consumption within a WBAN in order to prolong the overall lifetime of the network, called dynamic routing algorithm (DRA) and its improved version based on a multipath choice mechanism. Theoretical analysis and simulation result are demonstrated to evaluate the performance of the algorithm and represent that energy consumption of sensors in the network is reasonably scheduled and life cycle of the network is significantly extended. The routing algorithm proposed in this paper may be potentially applied to significantly save energy of multiple types of sensors during vital signals aggregating and transmitting under the WBAN.
The Correlation of PPARαActivity and Cardiomyocyte Metabolism and Structure in Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy during Heart Failure Progression
Authors: Czarnowska E. , Domal-Kwiatkowska D. , Reichman-Warmusz E. , Bierla J. B. , Sowinska A. , Ratajska A. , Goral-Radziszewska K. , Wojnicz R.
Published: February 2016

This study aimed to define relationship between PPARαexpression and metabolic-structural characteristics during HF progression in hearts with DCM phenotype. Tissue endomyocardial biopsy samples divided into three groups according to LVEF ((I) 45–50%,n=10; (II) 30–40%,n=15; (III) <30%,n=15; and control (donor hearts, >60%,n=6)) were investigated. The PPARαmRNA expression in the failing hearts was low in Group (I), high in Group (II), and comparable to that of the control in Group (III). There were analogous changes in the expression of FAT/CD36 and CPT-1 mRNA in contrast to continuous overexpression of GLUT-4 mRNA and significant increase of PDK-4 mRNA in Group (II). In addition, significant structural changes of cardiomyocytes with glycogen accumulation were accompanied by increased expression of PPARα. For the entire study population with HF levels of FAT/CD36 mRNA showed a strong tendency of negative correlation with LVEF. In conclusion, PPARαelevated levels may be a direct cause of adverse remodeling, both metabolic and structural. Thus, there is limited time window for therapy modulating cardiac metabolism and protecting cardiomyocyte structure in failing heart.
Optimized Synthesis of FeS Nanoparticles with a High Cr(VI) Removal Capability
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Xiao Wenyan , Wang Jiajia , Mirza Zakaria A. , Wang Tao
Published: February 2016

FeS nanoparticles were synthesized using chemical precipitation method involving sulfide and ferrous solutions. Effects of important synthesis parameters including stabilizer, time taken for titration, horizontal oscillation speed, and initial salt concentration on the size of synthesized FeS nanoparticles were investigated by Orthogonal Array design. Increasing the CMC dosage significantly made the hydrodynamic diameter decrease between 0.05 wt.% and 0.15 wt.% while Na2S titration, oscillation rate, and Na2S concentration did not show significant influence on the hydrodynamic diameter of FeS nanoparticles. The synthesized FeS nanoparticles were characterized by using XRD (X-ray diffraction), TEM (transmission electron microscopy), and XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy). The as-synthesized FeS nanoparticles had an average size of 25 ± 10 nm and had a better long-term stability after storage for 150 days compared to bare FeS particles. Because of the optimized process parameters, the synthesized FeS nanoparticles had a higher Cr(VI) removal capacity of 683 mg per gram of FeS in comparison to the previously reported cases, and up to 92.48% Cr(VI) was removed from aqueous solutions. The small size, special surface property, and high reactivity make the synthesized FeS nanoparticles a promising tool for the remediation of Cr(VI) contaminated soil and groundwater.
Evaluation of the Mechanical Properties of Microcapsule-Based Self-Healing Composites
Authors: Guadagno Liberata , Raimondo Marialuigia , Vietri Umberto , Naddeo Carlo , Stojanovic Anja , Sorrentino Andrea , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: February 2016

Self-healing materials are beginning to be considered for applications in the field of structural materials. For this reason, in addition to self-healing efficiency, also mechanical properties such as tensile and compressive properties are beginning to become more and more important for this kind of materials. In this paper, three different systems based on epoxy-resins/ethylidene-norbornene (ENB)/Hoveyda-Grubbs 1st-generation (HG1) catalyst are investigated in terms of mechanical properties and healing efficiency. The experimental results show that the mechanical properties of the self-healing systems are mainly determined by the chemical nature of the epoxy matrix. In particular, the replacement of a conventional flexibilizer (Heloxy 71) with a reactive diluent (1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether) allows obtaining self-healing materials with better mechanical properties and higher thermal stability. An increase in the curing temperature causes an increase in the elastic modulus and a slight reduction of the healing efficiency. These results can constitute the basis to design systems with high regenerative ability and appropriate mechanical performance.
Biological Impact of Pd (II) Complexes: Synthesis, Spectral Characterization, In Vitro Anticancer, CT-DNA Binding, and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Sharma Nitin Kumar , Ameta Rakesh Kumar , Singh Man
Published: February 2016

A new series of Pd (II) complexes of methyl substituted benzylamine ligands (BLs) has been synthesized and characterized via spectroscopic techniques such as UV/Vis. FTIR, LCMS, 1H, and 13C NMR. The UV/Vis study in DMSO, DMSO + water, and DMSO + PBS buffer (pH = 7.2) confirmed their molecular sustainability in liquids. Their in vitro anticancer activity against breast cancer cell lines such as MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 makes them interesting for in vivo analysis. Their stronger DNA binding activity (DBA) compared with free ligand suggested them as a good DNA binder. DBA was further confirmed by physicochemical studies such as surface tension and viscosity of complex + DNA which inferred the disruption of DNA and intercalation of complexes, respectively. Their % binding activity, % disruption of DNA base pairs (DNABP), and % intercalating strength are reported in this paper for the first time for better understanding of DNA binding mechanism. Along with this, their scavenging activity (SA) determined through DPPH free radical and the results indicate good antioxidant behaviour of complexes.
Density by Moduli and Lacunary Statistical Convergence
Authors: Bhardwaj Vinod K. , Dhawan Shweta
Published: February 2016

We have introduced and studied a new concept off-lacunary statistical convergence, wherefis an unbounded modulus. It is shown that, under certain conditions on a modulusf, the concepts of lacunary strong convergence with respect to a modulusfandf-lacunary statistical convergence are equivalent on bounded sequences. We further characterize thoseθfor whichSθf=Sf, whereSθfandSfdenote the sets of allf-lacunary statistically convergent sequences andf-statistically convergent sequences, respectively. A general description of inclusion between two arbitrary lacunary methods off-statistical convergence is given. Finally, we give anSθf-analog of the Cauchy criterion for convergence and a Tauberian theorem forSθf-convergence is also proved.
Detail Enhancement for Infrared Images Based on Propagated Image Filter
Authors: Peng Yishu , Yan Yunhui , Zhao Jiuliang
Published: February 2016

For displaying high-dynamic-range images acquired by thermal camera systems, 14-bit raw infrared data should map into 8-bit gray values. This paper presents a new method for detail enhancement of infrared images to display the image with a relatively satisfied contrast and brightness, rich detail information, and no artifacts caused by the image processing. We first adopt a propagated image filter to smooth the input image and separate the image into the base layer and the detail layer. Then, we refine the base layer by using modified histogram projection for compressing. Meanwhile, the adaptive weights derived from the layer decomposition processing are used as the strict gain control for the detail layer. The final display result is obtained by recombining the two modified layers. Experimental results on both cooled and uncooled infrared data verify that the proposed method outperforms the method based on log-power histogram modification and bilateral filter-based detail enhancement in both detail enhancement and visual effect.
Optimization Model of Transit Signal Priority Control for Intersection and Downstream Bus Stop
Authors: Li Rui , Zheng Changjiang , Li Wenquan
Published: February 2016

Transit signal priority has a positive effect on improving traffic condition and level of transit service in the urban area. In this paper, a passenger-based transit signal priority (TSP) optimization model is formulated to optimize intersection signal phasing based on minimizing accessibility-based passenger delay at the intersection and increased waiting-delay at the downstream bus stop simultaneously. Genetic Algorithm is utilized to calculate passenger-based optimization model that is calibrated by evening rush hour actual traffic data (17:30–18:30, October 13th–October 15th, 2015) along Shuiximen Boulevard in Nanjing, China. The performance of the proposed optimization model in decreasing delay and improving system reliability is simulated and evaluated by VISSIM-based simulation platform, and the results illustrate that the proposed optimization model presents promising outcomes in decreasing accessibility-based passenger delay at intersection (average reduction of 12%) and passenger waiting-delay at downstream bus service stop (average reduction of 18%) compared with traditional vehicle-based TSP optimization method in rush hour.
Redundant Innate and Adaptive Sources of IL17 Production Drive Colon Tumorigenesis
Authors: Housseau Franck , Wu Shaoguang , Wick Elizabeth C. , Fan Hongni , Wu Xinqun , Llosa Nicolas J. , Smith Kellie N. , Tam Ada , Ganguly Sudipto , Wanyiri Jane W. , Iyadorai Thevambiga , Malik Ausama A. , Roslani April C. , Vadivelu Jamunarani S. , Van Meerbeke Sara , Huso David L. , Pardoll Drew M. , Sears Cynthia L.
Published: February 2016

IL17-producing Th17 cells, generated through a STAT3-dependent mechanism, have been shown to promote carcinogenesis in many systems, including microbe-driven colon cancer. Additional sources of IL17, such as γδ T cells, become available under inflammatory conditions, but their contributions to cancer development are unclear. In this study, we modeled Th17-driven colon tumorigenesis by colonizing MinApc+/− mice with the human gut bacterium, enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF), to investigate the link between inflammation and colorectal cancer. We found that ablating Th17 cells by knocking out Stat3 in CD4+ T cells delayed tumorigenesis, but failed to suppress the eventual formation of colonic tumors. However, IL17 blockade significantly attenuated tumor formation, indicating a critical requirement for IL17 in tumorigenesis, but from a source other than Th17 cells. Notably, genetic ablation of γδ T cells in ETBF-colonized Th17-deficient Min mice prevented the late emergence of colonic tumors. Taken together, these findings support a redundant role for adaptive Th17 cell- and innate γδT17 cell-derived IL17 in bacteria-induced colon carcinogenesis, stressing the importance of therapeutically targeting the cytokine itself rather than its cellular sources. Cancer Res; 76(8); 2115–24. ©2016 AACR.
Small-Molecule Inhibition of GCNT3 Disrupts Mucin Biosynthesis and Malignant Cellular Behaviors in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Rao Chinthalapally V. , Janakiram Naveena B. , Madka Venkateshwar , Kumar Gaurav , Scott Edgar J. , Pathuri Gopal , Bryant Taylor , Kutche Hannah , Zhang Yuting , Biddick Laura , Gali Hariprasad , Zhao Yan D. , Lightfoot Stan , Mohammed Altaf
Published: February 2016

Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive neoplasm with almost uniform lethality and a 5-year survival rate of 7%. Several overexpressed mucins that impede drug delivery to pancreatic tumors have been therapeutically targeted, but enzymes involved in mucin biosynthesis have yet to be preclinically evaluated as potential targets. We used survival data from human patients with pancreatic cancer, next-generation sequencing of genetically engineered Kras-driven mouse pancreatic tumors and human pancreatic cancer cells to identify the novel core mucin-synthesizing enzyme GCNT3 (core 2 β-1,6 N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase). In mouse pancreatic cancer tumors, GCNT3 upregulation (103-fold; P < 0.0001) was correlated with increased expression of mucins (5 to 87-fold; P < 0.04–0.0003). Aberrant GCNT3 expression was also associated with increased mucin production, aggressive tumorigenesis, and reduced patient survival, and CRISPR-mediated knockout of GCNT3 in pancreatic cancer cells reduced proliferation and spheroid formation. Using in silico small molecular docking simulation approaches, we identified talniflumate as a novel inhibitor that selectively binds to GCNT3. In particular, docking predictions suggested that three notable hydrogen bonds between talniflumate and GCNT3 contribute to a docking affinity of −8.3 kcal/mol. Furthermore, talniflumate alone and in combination with low-dose gefitinib reduced GCNT3 expression, leading to the disrupted production of mucins in vivo and in vitro. Collectively, our findings suggest that targeting mucin biosynthesis through GCNT3 may improve drug responsiveness, warranting further development and investigation in preclinical models of pancreatic tumorigenesis. Cancer Res; 76(7); 1965–74. ©2016 AACR.
Novel Approach to Securing Deep Brain Stimulation Leads: Technique and Analysis of Lead Migration, Breakage, and Surgical Infection
Authors: White-Dzuro Gabrielle A. , Lake Wendell , Eli Ilyas M. , Neimat Joseph S.
Published: February 2016

Background: Fixation of the electrode during deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery is an important aspect of the procedure. We have developed an alternative method for securing leads that utilizes a titanium hemoclip and cement. This technique is described, and the rates of complications are compared to conventional methods of securing leads. Methods: A total of 291 DBS operations performed by a single surgeon were retrospectively analyzed. We reviewed medical records to look for complications. We compared rates of complications based on the technique used. Re sults: 9 patients (3.1%) developed surgical site infections (SSIs), 4 (1.3%) with SSI of the internal pulse generator pocket. Of the 5 SSIs around the leads, none occurred with StimLoc and 5 (1.1%) with the novel technique. Eight patients (2.7%) required surgical readjustment of the DBS leads due to suboptimal clinical benefit; all 8 (1.8%) occurred with the novel technique. Four patients (1.4%) had lead fractures, 2 (2.2%) with StimLoc and 2 (0.5%) with the novel technique. Conclusions: We described a method for securing DBS leads and showed an acceptable incidence of hardware complications when compared to the conventional method. We feel this technique has improved cosmetic results and should be considered as a method for securing DBS leads.
Abnormal White Matter Integrity in Elderly Patients with Idiopathic Normal-Pressure Hydrocephalus: A Tract-Based Spatial Statistics Study
Authors: Kang Kyunghun , Choi Woohyuk , Yoon Uicheul , Lee Jong-Min , Lee Ho-Won
Published: February 2016

We investigated white matter integrity utilizing diffusion tensor imaging in patients with idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (INPH) who had a positive response to the cerebrospinal fluid tap test and in age- and gender-matched Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. We enrolled 28 patients with INPH, 28 patients with AD and 20 healthy controls. Tract-based spatial statistics demonstrated that INPH patients had lower fractional anisotropy (FA) in the anterior corona radiate (bilateral), corpus callosum, superior longitudinal fasciculus (bilateral), posterior thalamic radiation (bilateral), external capsule (bilateral) and middle cerebellar peduncle in comparison with the AD and control groups. Volume-of-interest analysis revealed that INPH patients, when compared to the AD and control groups, showed higher mean diffusivity in the anterior corona radiate (bilateral), corpus callosum, superior longitudinal fasciculus (bilateral), posterior thalamic radiation (left), external capsule (bilateral) and middle cerebellar peduncle. And gait dysfunction was significantly correlated with decreased FA in the splenium of the corpus callosum and right external capsule in INPH patients. Our findings may suggest a possibility for considering microstructural changes in white matter integrity in elderly patients as potential imaging markers for differentiation between INPH and AD and may help us understand the potential pathophysiology of gait disturbances associated with INPH.
Prechemotherapy Touch Sensation Deficits Predict Oxaliplatin-Induced Neuropathy in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Xin Shelley , Shi Qiuling , Dougherty Patrick M. , Eng Cathy , Mendoza Tito R. , Williams Loretta A. , Fogelman David R. , Cleeland Charles S.
Published: February 2016

Objective: We examined the emergence of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), a dose-limiting toxicity of oxaliplatin, over the course of oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy for colorectal cancer (CRC). Predicting which patients will likely develop CIPN is an ongoing clinical challenge. Methods: Oxaliplatin-naïve patients with CRC underwent quantitative sensory testing (QST) before beginning oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy and then rated CIPN-related symptoms via the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI) weekly for 26 weeks. Mixed modeling examined the value of QST for predicting higher CIPN (MDASI numbness/tingling) during treatment. Trajectory analysis identified a patient subgroup with consistently higher CIPN symptoms. Results: Numbness/tingling was the most frequent, most severe symptom, with 51% of patients clustering into a high CIPN subgroup. Touch sensation deficits (Bumps Detection test) significantly predicted the development of more severe numbness/tingling [estimate (est) = 0.106, p = 0.0003]. The high CIPN subgroup reported increased pain (est = 0.472, p < 0.0001) and interference with walking (est = 0.840, p < 0.0001). In the high CIPN subgroup, patient-reported numbness/tingling worsened rapidly in weeks 0-5 (est = 0.57, p < 0.0001) and then more gradually in weeks 6-26 (est = 0.07, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Prechemotherapy screening with a simple, easily administered objective measure of touch sensation deficits (Bumps Detection test) and monitoring of patient-reported numbness/tingling during the first 2-3 chemotherapy cycles may support improved personalized care of CRC patients with oxaliplatin-induced CIPN.
Partial Reversal of Tissue Calcification and Extension of Life Span following Ammonium Nitrate Treatment of Klotho-Deficient Mice
Authors: Leibrock Christina B. , Feger Martina , Voelkl Jakob , Kohlhofer Ursula , Quintanilla-Martinez Leticia , Kuro-o Makoto , Lang Florian
Published: February 2016

Background/Aims: Klotho is required for the inhibitory effect of FGF23 on 1,25(OH)2D3 formation and Klotho-hypomorphic mice (kl/kl) suffer from severe tissue calcification due to excessive 1,25(OH)2D3 formation with subsequent increase of Ca2+ and phosphate concentrations and stimulation of osteogenic signaling. The excessive tissue calcification dramatically accelerates aging and leads to premature death of the animals. Osteogenic signaling in those mice is disrupted by treatment with NH4Cl, which prevents tissue calcification and early death of kl/kl mice. The present study explored whether the beneficial effects of NH4Cl treatment could be mimicked by NH4NO3 treatment. Methods: The kl/kl mice had free access to tap water either without or with addition of NH4NO3 (0.28 M) starting with the mating of the parental generation. Calcification of trachea, lung, kidney, stomach, heart and vessels was visualized by histology with von Kossa staining. Plasma phosphate concentration was determined utilizing photometry, blood gas and electrolytes utilizing a blood Gas and Chemistry Analysis System and plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 concentration with ELISA. Results: In untreated kl/kl mice plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 and phosphate concentrations were elevated, and the mice suffered from marked calcification of all tissues analyzed. Untreated kl/kl mice further suffered from respiratory acidosis due to marked lung emphysema. NH4NO3-treatment decreased both, blood pCO2 and HCO3-, decreased calcification of trachea, lung, kidney, stomach, heart and vessels and increased the life span of kl/kl mice more than 1.7-fold (♂) or 1.6-fold (♀) without significantly affecting extracellular pH or plasma concentrations of 1,25(OH)2D3, Ca2+, phosphate, Na+, and K+. Conclusions: NH4NO3-treatment turns respiratory acidosis into metabolic acidosis and mitigates calcification thus leading to a substantial extension of kl/kl mice survival.
Die Allegianz von Forschenden als versteckter Moderator in der Psychotherapieforschung
Authors: Gerger Heike , Gaab Jens
Published: February 2016

Der direkte randomisierte Vergleich zwischen Behandlungen gilt als Standarddesign zur Ermittlung derjenigen Bestandteile komplexer psychotherapeutischer Behandlungen, die die Symptomverbesserung entscheidend beeinflussen. Die vorliegende Arbeit untersucht den Einfluss einseitiger Allegianz von Forschenden - d.h. deren Präferenz für eine bestimmte Behandlung - als extra-therapeutischen Moderator des Behandlungseffekts. Da die Allegianz von Forschenden nur auf Studienebene gemessen werden kann, sind metaanalytische Strategien erforderlich, um mögliche Zusammenhänge zwischen einseitiger Allegianz und Studienergebnissen zu untersuchen. In der Übersichtsarbeit soll gezeigt werden, dass eine einseitige Allegianz von Forschenden bedeutsam mit Studienergebnissen korreliert. Auch wenn dieser Zusammenhang bei verschiedenen Behandlungsansätzen und Störungen beobachtet werden kann, sind die Ursachen und verantwortlichen Prozesse noch nicht weitgehend bekannt. Aufgrund der Vielfalt an potenziellen kausalen Erklärungen für den beobachteten Zusammenhang zwischen Allegianz und Studienergebnissen schlussfolgern wir, dass die explizite Nennung der Allegianz ein möglicher und sinnvoller Schritt zur besseren Beurteilung von Schlussfolgerungen in der Psychotherapieforschung sein kann.
An Age-Standardized Prevalence Estimate and a Sex and Age Distribution of Myotonic Dystrophy Types 1 and 2 in the Rome Province, Italy
Authors: Vanacore Nicola , Rastelli Emanuele , Antonini Giovanni , Bianchi Maria Laura Ester , Botta Annalisa , Bucci Elisabetta , Casali Carlo , Costanzi-Porrini Sandro , Giacanelli Manlio , Gibellini Manuela , Modoni Anna , Novelli Giuseppe , Pennisi Elena Maria , Petrucci Antonio , Piantadosi Carlo , Silvestri Gabriella , Terracciano Chiara , Massa Roberto
Published: February 2016

Background: Prevalence estimates for the 2 forms of myotonic dystrophy types 1 and 2 (DM1 and DM2) are not exhaustive or non-available. Our aim was to estimate the minimum prevalence of DM1 and DM2 in Italy in the Rome province, applying standards of descriptive epidemiology. Methods: All patients with a molecular diagnosis of DM1/DM2 and residents in the Rome province in 2013 have been enrolled, and the age-standardized prevalence has been calculated, assuming a Poisson distribution and adjusting for age. Results: We identified 395 DM1 patients: the age-standardized prevalence for total, females and males was 9.65, 8.35 and 11.07/100,000, respectively. The mean age of subjects differed considerably according to CTG repeat length (p = 0.001). Forty DM2 patients were identified. The age-standardized prevalence for total, females and males was 0.99, 1.07 and 0.90/100,000, respectively. The mean age was 57.05. Conclusions: We estimated for the first time the age-standardized prevalence and the sex and age distribution of DM1 and DM2 in a general population. A higher prevalence of males in DM1 and females in DM2 and a higher mean age of DM2 patients (+8 years) were ascertained. Prevalence of DM2 was 10% that of DM1. These prevalence values are probably lower than mutational rates due to the incomplete penetrance of DM1 mutations and to the clinical elusiveness of DM2. Our findings will be useful in designing cohort studies and for developing a disease registry.
Interfaces in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: Who Should Do It?
Authors: Lang Thomas
Published: February 2016

Background: Gastrointestinal endoscopy is one of the most frequently performed diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in children nowadays. Methods: Since the size of endoscopes has been adapted to pediatric patients, endoscopic procedures are performed almost routinely in pediatric gastrointestinal patients. However, this is an invasive procedure done under deep sedation, and procedure-related or sedation-related complications can occur more easily in pediatric patients. The endoscopist must consider various aspects (e.g., indications and contraindications for endoscopy, monitoring during and after the procedure) to ensure the procedure is performed successfully and safely. Results: In our opinion, pediatric endoscopy should be carried out by pediatric endoscopists at specialized pediatric clinics. In Germany, there are regulatory demands dictating that in order to become a pediatric gastroenterologist, further education is necessary. Experienced centers which offer this education including training programs for pediatric endoscopy can be found on www.gpge.de. Conclusion: Provided these preconditions are adhered to, gastrointestinal endoscopy is a safe and efficient technique with minimal complications even in children and infants.
Retrospective Cohort Study of Gender Differential in Risk of Multiple Sclerosis in Kuwait
Authors: Akhtar Saeed , Alroughani Raed , Ahmed Samar F. , Al-Hashel Jasem Y.
Published: February 2016

Background: Despite an increase in the incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the Middle-East, there is a paucity of published data on sex ratio among MS patients in the region. Therefore, this retrospective cohort study determined sex ratio by year of birth of MS patients born from January 1, 1950, to December 31, 2000, who were diagnosed and registered in the Kuwait National MS Registry till April 30, 2013. Methods: Patients were classified into 5-year periods according to their year of birth. Sex ratio (female:male) and its 95% CI for each period were computed. Using binomial logistic regression, sex ratio in MS patients was modeled with respect to year of birth and nationality. Results: Of 1,035 patients with MS, 675 (65.2%) were women and 798 (77.1%) Kuwaiti. Sex ratio (female:male) of MS cases for entire study period was 1.9 (range 0.4-3.0). Multivariable logistic regression model showed that with each passing year of birth, there was statistically significant 8% increase in sex ratio (female:male) for vulnerability to MS risk (adjusted OR 1.08; 95% CI 1.06-1.09; p < 0.001). Conclusions: There was a statistically significant steady increase on logarithmic scale in the gender disparity for MS risk over the study period. This study from the Middle-East adds to the existing persuasive evidence of enhanced MS risk in women. Further insight in the context of differential risk factors including the role of sex hormones and vitamin D deficiency in MS pathogenesis may help designing preventive strategies.
Understanding the Activity of Antibiotics in Cerebrospinal Fluid in vitro
Authors: Matzneller Peter , Burian Angela , Zeitlinger Markus , Sauermann Robert
Published: February 2016

Background: In vitro studies suggest that antimicrobial activity of antibiotics meant to treat central nervous system infections such as meningitis or ventriculitis may be altered by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This could explain the reason behind the often observed discrepancies between the activity of antibiotics determined in artificial growth media in vitro, and their sometimes reduced clinical efficacy in CSF in vivo. If conducted in CSF, in vitro microbiological investigations might predict the ability of antibiotic drugs to treat CSF infections better than experiments in artificial growth media. In addition, they are less expensive, critical and time consuming than animal studies, and might potentially be appreciated in drug development as a rapid and cost-effective means to gain valuable information on drugs meant to treat infections residing in CSF. Summary: Data from microbiological in vitro experiments performed in CSF were compiled for fosfomycin, rifampicin, cefepime, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin and vancomycin. Where possible, correlations between in vitro data and evidence from in vivo studies were established. Key Messages: As discussed in the text, no clear correlations between in vitro studies in CSF and clinical outcomes could be identified. Methodological recommendations derived from the collected studies are summarized in order to optimize future research on the topic.
First record of the copepod Neomormonilla minor (Giesbrecht, 1891) (Mormonilloida, Mormonillidae) for the Humboldt Current System off the Chilean coast
Authors: Fierro P. A. , Hidalgo P. , Pino-Pinuer P. , Marchant M.
Published: February 2016

Neomormonilla minor (Giesbrecht, 1891) is a small planktonic copepod distributed widely in intermediate and deep waters of the ocean, mainly at depths of 400-1000 m. The species was reported earlier only for the tropical Pacific Ocean (Central America, Galapagos Islands, and north of Peru). The present study provides the first record of females of the species for the southeastern Pacific, i.e., in the Humboldt Current System off the coast of northern Chile (23-27°S). Here we describe and illustrate the taxonomic characteristics of this species that will allow its identification and differentiation with respect to other species of the genus and of the family Mormonillidae.
Checklist of the green (Ulvophyceae) macroalgae from the Gulf of California, México
Authors: Mora-Valdez Laura Areli , Riosmena-Rodriguez Rafael
Published: February 2016

The Gulf of California is an area characterized by a high diversity and abundance of seaweeds. There are a large number of endemic, economically or ecologically relevant and little studied species. However, until now, detailed reports of species in the Gulf of California are lacking. Our aim is to provide a revised list of green macroalgae species in the region. Our deep analysis revealed 169 species have been cited in the region, but only 124 are confirmed as valid species. The available catalog also includes their current known distribution in the area and taxonomic status. The taxonomic boundaries of many species are not clear and suggests the need for modern studies that include monographic and molecular work. The comparisons with recent catalogs from the Mexican Pacific (178 in Pedroche et al. 2005) and Northern Gulf of California (63 in Norris 2010) suggest that the Gulf of California, as a whole, has a higher diversity of green algae than other does nearby areas along the Eastern Pacific.
EPIDENDRUM YANATILENSE (ORCHIDACEAE: LAELIINAE), A NEW SPECIES, FROM CUSCO, PERU
Authors: Damian Alexander L. , Hagsater Eric
Published: February 2016

A new species of Epidendrum from southern Peru is described and illustrated. Epidendrum yanatilense is similar to Ecuadorian E. pucunoënse, but differs in the small habit; non-resupinate flowers; small flowers; sepals oblong-lanceolate; petals apex rounded; 3-lobed lip and; two calli, large, laminar, rhomboid, leaning inwards, without mid-rib in the middle. Information on its distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status, as well as traits that distinguish it from similar species are provided.
Castillón, E.E. & Quintanilla, J.A.V. (2016) A new species of Dalea (Fabaceae, Faboideae) from Jalisco, México. Phytotaxa 246 (1): 90–92.
Authors: Castillón Eduardo Estrada , Quintanilla José Angel Villarreal
Published: February 2016

N/A
A revision of Japanese Epuraeinae (Coleoptera, Nitidulidae). Part I. Epuraea subgenera: Dadopora Thomson, Epuraea Erichson, and Epuraeanella Crotch
Authors: HISAMATSU SADATOMO
Published: February 2016

Three subgenera of Epuraea: Dadopora Thomson, Epuraea Erichson, and Epuraeanella Crotch, are revised for Japan. Thirty-six species are recognized. The following six are new records for Japan: Epuraea (Epuraea) laferi Kirejtshuk; E. (E.) melina Erichson; E. (E.) pygmaea (Gyllenhal); E. (E.) quadrangula Motschulsky; E. (E.) reichardti Sjöberg; and E. (Dadopora) vicaria Kirejtshuk & Kvamme. The following species are synonymized: E. (E.) hisamatsui Nakane with E. (E.) rufomarginata (Stephens) syn. nov.; and E. (E.) alpicola Nakane with E. (E.) terminalis (Mannerheim) syn. nov. The following two species are removed from the Japanese fauna: E. (Dadopora) fuscicollis (Stephens) and E. (E.) longula Erichson; the former was erroneously recorded as E. fuscicollis (Stephens, 1835) by Kashizaki & Hisamatsu (2011), and the latter is corrected as E. (E.) pseudorapax Kirejtshuk. The following three species are described as new: E. (E.) apiciclara sp. nov.; E. (E.) camura sp. nov.; and E. (E.) foramina sp. nov. Dorsal habitus, antenna, protibia, male and female genitalia, internal sac sclerites of male genitalia, and other important diagnostic characters of all species are illustrated. Keys are presented to Epuraeinae tribes, genera, subgenera, and Epuraea species of in the following subgenera: Dadopora, Epuraea, and Epuraeanella.
Low Gasoline Prices
Authors: Bonn Mark A. , Line Nathaniel D. , Cho Meehee
Published: February 2016

While the fluctuating price of gasoline has affected numerous industries throughout the world, very few entities in the global economy are more impacted than tourism and hospitality businesses located in destinations relying heavily on visitor demand generated by automobile travel. This study examines the effect of decreases in gasoline prices on travel expenditures and behavior among visitors arriving by auto to Florida destination areas. Data on travel expenditures, behavioral characteristics, selected demographics, revisit intention, and overall satisfaction with the on-site experience were collected at random from in-state and out-of-state travelers. A two-level hierarchical linear modeling approach was used to provide an accurate picture of the effects that decreasing gasoline prices have on auto visitor expenditures specific to restaurants, entertainment, admission to attractions and events, numbers of activities pursued during their on-site visit to the destination, and their impact on satisfaction and revisit intention.
Pyrolysis of cherry laurel (Prunus Laurocerasus L.) seed in the presence of sodium carbonate
Authors: Balat Mustafa
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to obtain pyrolysis products from cherry laurel seed in the presence of Na2CO3. Bio-liquid, solid, and gaseous products were obtained from pyrolysis of cherry laurel seed samples. Cherry laurel seed samples were heated at a rate of 15 K/min from 298 K to a maximum temperature of 775 K. The nominal heating time was 30 min. The highest yield of bio-liquid product was 39.3%, which can be obtained from the pyrolysis with 5% Na2CO3. It was observed that the yield of bio-liquid product decreases with further increase of catalyst ratio.
Conscientious objection and the limits of dialogue
Authors: Cowley Christopher
Published: February 2016

In Kimberly Brownlee’s book, Conscience and Conviction, she argues that Thomas More’s paradigmatic ‘personal objection’ successfully meets the 4 conditions of her ‘Communicative Principle’ (2012: 29). In this article I want to challenge Brownlee’s ‘universality’ condition and the ‘dialogical’ condition by focusing on a counter-example of a British GP conscientiously objecting to authorizing an abortion. I argue that such an objection can be morally admirable, even though the GP is not politically active, even though she is not open-minded to the possibility that she might be wrong, and even if she refuses to condemn her non-objecting colleagues. I suggest that this particular counter-example can tell us more general things about the nature of ethical disagreement and ethical incomprehension.
What Edward Snowden can teach theorists of conscientious law-breaking
Authors: Scheuerman William E.
Published: February 2016

The article recalls the triple-pronged normative structure of familiar liberal democratic theorists of civil disobedience, who argued that conscientious law-breaking should rest on political, moral and legal claims. In opposition to a certain tendency among recent theoreticians of civil disobedience to reduce this complex multi-pronged normativity to one or two prongs (i.e. the political or the moral), I use the case of Edward Snowden’s whistle-blowing to illustrate and defend the triple-pronged approach. In particular, any sound as well as effective model of civil disobedience needs to highlight its legal underpinnings: conscientious law-breaking should be conceived as ultimately resting on – or expressing basic fidelity to – the law or legality. Only by taking this legal prong seriously can civil disobedients fully acknowledge the pluralistic character of modern societies. Against some radical critics, I argue that this legal approach does not in fact necessarily favor the legal or political status quo. Despite the many strengths of Kimberley Brownlee’s model of conscientious law-breaking, it misses the importance of this legal prong and sometimes rests on a problematic anti-legalism. Consequently, she offers an incomplete model of civil disobedience that cannot sufficiently explain why Snowden and others whose actions fall under the rubric of civil disobedience rely so extensively on legal arguments.
Recommendations from the INHAND Apoptosis/Necrosis Working Group
Authors: Elmore Susan A. , Dixon Darlene , Hailey James R. , Harada Takanori , Herbert Ronald A. , Maronpot Robert R. , Nolte Thomas , Rehg Jerold E. , Rittinghausen Susanne , Rosol Thomas J. , Satoh Hiroshi , Vidal Justin D. , Willard-Mack Cynthia L. , Creasy Dianne M.
Published: February 2016

Historically, there has been confusion relating to the diagnostic nomenclature for individual cell death. Toxicologic pathologists have generally used the terms “single cell necrosis” and “apoptosis” interchangeably. Increased research on the mechanisms of cell death in recent years has led to the understanding that apoptosis and necrosis involve different cellular pathways and that these differences can have important implications when considering overall mechanisms of toxicity, and, for these reasons, the separate terms of apoptosis and necrosis should be used whenever differentiation is possible. However, it is also recognized that differentiation of the precise pathway of cell death may not be important, necessary, or possible in routine toxicity studies and so a more general term to indicate cell death is warranted in these situations. Morphological distinction between these two forms of cell death can sometimes be straightforward but can also be challenging. This article provides a brief discussion of the cellular mechanisms and morphological features of apoptosis and necrosis as well as guidance on when the pathologist should use these terms. It provides recommended nomenclature along with diagnostic criteria (in hematoxylin and eosin [H&E]-stained sections) for the most common forms of cell death (apoptosis and necrosis). This document is intended to serve as current guidance for the nomenclature of cell death for the International Harmonization of Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria Organ Working Groups and the toxicologic pathology community at large. The specific recommendations are: Use necrosis and apoptosis as separate diagnostic terms. Use modifiers to denote the distribution of necrosis (e.g., necrosis, single cell; necrosis, focal; necrosis, diffuse; etc.). Use the combined term apoptosis/single cell necrosis when There is no requirement or need to split the processes, or When the nature of cell death cannot be determined with certainty, or When both processes are present together. The diagnosis should be based primarily on the morphological features in H&E-stained sections. When needed, additional, special techniques to identify and characterize apoptosis can also be used.
Creating a Community of Practice to Prevent Suicide Through Multiple Channels: Describing the Theoretical Foundations and Structured Learning of PC CARES
Authors: Wexler Lisa , McEachern Diane , DiFulvio Gloria , Smith Cristine , Graham Louis F. , Dombrowski Kirk
Published: February 2016

It is critical to develop practical, effective, ecological, and decolonizing approaches to indigenous suicide prevention and health promotion for the North American communities. The youth suicide rates in predominantly indigenous small, rural, and remote Northern communities are unacceptably high. This health disparity, however, is fairly recent, occurring over the last 50 to 100 years as communities experienced forced social, economic, and political change and intergenerational trauma. These conditions increase suicide risk and can reduce people’s access to shared protective factors and processes. In this context, it is imperative that suicide prevention includes—at its heart—decolonization, while also utilizing the “best practices” from research to effectively address the issue from multiple levels. This article describes such an approach: Promoting Community Conversations About Research to End Suicide (PC CARES). PC CARES uses popular education strategies to build a “community of practice” among local and regional service providers, friends, and families that fosters personal and collective learning about suicide prevention in order to spur practical action on multiple levels to prevent suicide and promote health. This article will discuss the theoretical underpinnings of the community intervention and describe the form that PC CARES takes to structure ongoing dialogue, learning, solidarity, and multilevel mobilization for suicide prevention.
Health sector changes must reach further
Authors: Overbo Wayne
Published: February 2016

Change management is relevant for healthcare leaders at all levels. This article offers a literature review and pulls from the author’s own experience to emphasize the importance of transformative, sustainable change. Leaders are reminded that change comes from within, draws from all levels of the organization, and must be pervasive throughout a project.
Gendered effects of intensified care burdens: employment and sickness absence in families with chronically sick or disabled children in Norway
Authors: Brekke Idunn , Nadim Marjan
Published: February 2016

Using longitudinal register data from Norway, the article examines the impact of having a child with intensified care needs on maternal and paternal employment, within a gender equality promoting welfare state. The hypothesis is that parents with a chronically sick or disabled child will have lower employment probabilities, lower labour earnings and higher sickness absence than parents with a healthy child, and that mothers are more affected than fathers when having a child with extra care needs. A quasi-experimental difference-in-difference regression model shows that the employment probabilities of parents with a sick or disabled child are comparable to those of parents with a healthy child, both for mothers and fathers. The analyses further reveal that having a chronically sick or disabled child reduces labour earnings and increases long-term sickness absence among mothers, while fathers’ labour earnings and sickness absence are less affected.
A precision generating hobbing method for face-gear based on worm hob
Authors: Wang Yan-zhong , Hou Liang-wei , Lan Zhou , Wu Can-hui , Lv Qing-jun , Zhao Xing-fu
Published: February 2016

In order to improve the machining accuracy and production efficiency of face-gear, a method of face-gear generating hobbing by worm is provided in this paper. The principle of face-gear hobbing worm is analyzed, and the mathematical model of the worm is presented based on the principle and the theory of meshing. Taking the hobbing needs into account, the special machine tool is provided, and the movement control method of face-gear hobbing by the worm on the machine tool is proposed. The equation of face-gear tooth surface is calculated, and the 3-D model of face-gear is established based on CATIA software. To reduce the face-gear tooth profile errors induced by ratio errors, an error analysis model of face-gear hobbing is established. The experiment is carried out, and the completed specimen is detected by Coordinate Measuring Machining (CMM). The processing parameter is amended according to the tooth flank detection results, and the maximum normal deviation of the whole tooth surface of the face-gear specimen is improved from 243.2 µm to 61.0 µm. Experiment results demonstrate that the method of face-gear hobbing by worm is an effective approach to achieve the precision face-gear with high dimensional accuracy.
Feminism, psychology and becoming a mother
Authors: Hollway Wendy
Published: February 2016

The period of becoming a mother is a fundamental issue for feminism and a challenging one for psychology, involving a specific set of psychological processes and psychic changes that are hard to access through available language and discourses. How we understand, theorise and represent the perinatal period of mothering reaches into questions of gender equality and gender difference, parenting and how feminist psychology has tended to treat women’s reproductive bodies and the biological. To explore these themes, the article draws on a piece of empirical research about becoming a mother for the first time, using matrixial theory to point beyond the binaries in feminist psychological accounts of women’s reproductive capacities, parental care and gender equality.
Psychiatric risk factors predicting post-liver transplant physical and psychiatric complications: a literature review
Authors: Eftekar Mahdod , Pun Paul
Published: February 2016

Objectives:

The psychiatric assessment of potential liver transplant recipients is becoming increasingly common in clinical practice. In such assessments, the psychiatrist is invited by the transplant team to assess the patient prior to the patient receiving a transplant liver to identify factors that could predict an unsuccessful post-transplant course, whether this is from a psychiatric or physical perspective. This review examined published research from 2000 to 2014 on psychological risk factors predicting post-transplant physical and psychiatric complications.

Conclusions:

Based on the strength of the evidence available, our review identified four risk factors: mood disorders; social supports; substance misuse; and alcohol dependence. These factors could potentially provide a framework to guide the evaluation and prediction of psychological and physical complications post-liver transplantation.