bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting heart failure decompensation using cardiac implantable electronic devices: a review of practices and challenges
Authors: Hawkins Nathaniel M. , Virani Sean A. , Sperrin Matthew , Buchan Iain E. , McMurray John J.V. , Krahn Andrew D.
Published: December 2015

Cardiac implantable electronic devices include remote monitoring tools intended to guide heart failure management. The monitoring focus has been on averting hospitalizations by predicting worsening heart failure. However, although device measurements including intrathoracic impedance correlate with risk of decompensation, they individually predict hospitalizations with limited accuracy. Current ‘crisis detection’ methods involve repeatedly screening for impending decompensation, and do not adhere to the principles of diagnostic testing. Complex substrate, limited test performance, low outcome incidence, and long test to outcome times inevitably generate low positive and high negative predictive values. When combined with spectrum bias, the generalizability, incremental value, and cost‐effectiveness of device algorithms are questionable. To avoid these pitfalls, remote monitoring may need to shift from crisis detection to health maintenance, keeping the patient within an ideal physiological range through continuous ‘closed loop’ interaction and dynamic therapy adjustment. Test performance must also improve, possibly through combination with physiological sensors in different dimensions, static baseline characteristics, and biomarkers. Complex modelling may tailor monitoring to individual phenotypes, and thus realize a personalized medicine approach. Future randomized controlled trials should carefully consider these issues, and ensure that the interventions tested are generalizable to clinical practice.
Enhancing the solar still yield by increasing the surface area of water—A review
Authors: Harris Samuel D.G. , Nagarajan P.K. , Arunkumar T. , Kannan E. , Sathyamurthy Ravishankar
Published: December 2015

This article reviews different methods employed to enhance the yield of solar still by increasing the surface area of water. As the area of stacked water increases, there is a greater possibility of an increase in temperature of the water and hence the evaporation rate from the top layer of basin water. Wick materials—though there may be evaporation rate and have a good capillary effect to absorb the saline water, intolerable smell, and turbidity—contribute to increased operational and maintenance cost. Use of sponge materials increases the surface area of water; as salt is trapped in pores of the sponge, yield of fresh water was decreased. It is concluded that the surface area of water in the solar still can be improved by using sensible heat storage material such as salt or/and molten salt, encapsulated in cuboid boxes. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 815–822, 2016
Systematic development of a new hysteretic damper based on torsional yielding: part II—experimental phase
Authors: Salem Milani Ali , Dicleli Murat
Published: December 2015

This paper reports on experimental studies carried out on a 200 kN, 120 mm‐capacity prototype of the newly developed multidirectional torsional hysteretic damper for seismic protection of structures. The main goal of the experiments is to test the validity of the theory developed in a companion paper and to evaluate the low‐cycle fatigue performance of the energy dissipaters of the damper. Because the design and configuration of the damper allow easy replacement of the energy dissipaters, four sets of energy dissipaters were produced out of S355J2 + N, C45 (two sets), and 42CrMo4 + QT steel grades. Force–displacement response of the multidirectional torsional hysteretic damper is studied through fully reversed cyclic quasi‐static displacement‐controlled tests that were carried out in compliance with EN 15129. Following the verification tests, with the aim of studying fatigue and fracture behavior of the cylindrical energy dissipaters of the device, certain numbers of them were subjected to further cyclic tests up to failure, and observations on their fatigue/fracture behavior are reported. The experimental verification test results proved the validity of the developed theory and component design assumptions presented in a companion paper. Furthermore, the energy dissipaters exhibited excellent torsional low‐cycle fatigue performance with number of cycles to failure reaching 118 at a maximum shear strain of 8% for S355J2 + N steel grade. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerically based proposals for the stiffness and strength of masonry infills with openings in reinforced concrete frames
Authors: Akhoundi Farhad , Lourenço Paulo B. , Vasconcelos Graça
Published: December 2015

Aimed at investigating the effect of openings on the in‐plane behaviour of masonry infills in reinforced concrete frames, a parametric study is presented based on model calibration via experimental tests. Two types of openings are investigated: central window openings and different combinations of door and window openings based on the typologies of southern European countries. First, a finite element model of the structure is made using the DIANA software program. Then, after calibration with experimental results, a parametric analysis is carried out to investigate the effect of the presence and location of the different types of openings on the in‐plane behaviour of the infilled frame. Finally, different equations for predicting the initial stiffness and lateral strength of infilled frames with any types of openings were obtained. An α factor related to the geometry of the piers between openings is proposed to take into account the location of the openings in the developed equations. Subsequently, the masonry infill panel is replaced by a diagonal strut. An empirical equation is also proposed for the width of an equivalent strut to replace a masonry infill panel with openings in such a way that they possess the same initial stiffness. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How long is a hillslope?
Authors: Grieve Stuart W.D. , Mudd Simon M. , Hurst Martin D.
Published: December 2015

Hillslope length is a fundamental attribute of landscapes, intrinsically linked to drainage density, landslide hazard, biogeochemical cycling and hillslope sediment transport. Existing methods to estimate catchment average hillslope lengths include inversion of drainage density or identification of a break in slope–area scaling, where the hillslope domain transitions into the fluvial domain. Here we implement a technique which models flow from point sources on hilltops across pixels in a digital elevation model (DEM), based on flow directions calculated using pixel aspect, until reaching the channel network, defined using recently developed channel extraction algorithms. Through comparisons between these measurement techniques, we show that estimating hillslope length from plots of topographic slope versus drainage area, or by inverting measures of drainage density, systematically underestimates hillslope length. In addition, hillslope lengths estimated by slope–area scaling breaks show large variations between catchments of similar morphology and area. We then use hillslope length–relief structure of landscapes to explore nature of sediment flux operating on a landscape. Distinct topographic forms are predicted for end‐member sediment flux laws which constrain sediment transport on hillslopes as being linearly or nonlinearly dependent on hillslope gradient. Because our method extracts hillslope profiles originating from every ridgetop pixel in a DEM, we show that the resulting population of hillslope length–relief measurements can be used to differentiate between linear and nonlinear sediment transport laws in soil mantled landscapes. We find that across a broad range of sites across the continental United States, topography is consistent with a sediment flux law in which transport is nonlinearly proportional to topographic gradient. © 2016 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Epigenetics in the Neoliberal “Regime of Truth”
Authors: Dupras Charles , Ravitsky Vardit
Published: December 2015

Recent findings in epigenetics have been attracting much attention from social scientists and bioethicists because they reveal the molecular mechanisms by which exposure to socioenvironmental factors, such as pollutants and social adversity, can influence the expression of genes throughout life. Most surprisingly, some epigenetic modifications may also be heritable via germ cells across generations. Epigenetics may be the missing molecular evidence of the importance of using preventive strategies at the policy level to reduce the incidence and prevalence of common diseases. But while this “policy translation” of epigenetics introduces new arguments in favor of public health strategies and policy‐making, a more “clinical translation” of epigenetics is also emerging. It focuses on the biochemical mechanisms and epigenetic variants at the origin of disease, leading to novel biomedical means of assessing epigenetic susceptibility and reversing detrimental epigenetic variants.

In this paper, we argue that the impetus to create new biomedical interventions to manipulate and reverse epigenetic variants is likely to garner more attention than effective social and public health interventions and therefore also to garner a greater share of limited public resources. This is likely to happen because of the current biopolitical context in which scientific findings are translated. This contemporary neoliberal “regime of truth,” to use a term from Michel Foucault, greatly influences the ways in which knowledge is being interpreted and implemented. Building on sociologist Thomas Lemke's Foucauldian “analytics of biopolitics” and on literature from the field of science and technology studies, we present two sociological trends that may impede the policy translation of epigenetics: molecularization and biomedicalization. These trends, we argue, are likely to favor the clinical translation of epigenetics—in other words, the development of new clinical tools fostering what has been called “personalized” or “precision” medicine. In addition, we argue that an overemphasized clinical translation of epigenetics may further reinforce this biopolitical landscape through four processes closely related to neoliberal pathways of thinking: the internalization and isolation (aspects of liberal individualism) of socioenvironmental determinants of health and increased opportunities for commodification and technologicalization (aspects of economic liberalism) of health care interventions.
Using video feedback to improve horseback‐riding skills
Authors: Kelley Heather , Miltenberger Raymond G.
Published: December 2015

This study used video feedback to improve the horseback‐riding skills of advanced beginning riders. We focused on 3 skill sets: those used in jumping over obstacles, dressage riding on the flat, and jumping position riding on the flat. Baseline consisted of standard lesson procedures. Intervention consisted of video feedback in which a recorded attempt at the target behavior was immediately shown to the rider and the instructor. The rider and instructor reviewed the video while the instructor delivered feedback. After the lesson, experimenters scored riding position according to checklists that corresponded to each skill. For all participants, video feedback increased their correct riding skills.
Changing preference from tangible to social activities through an observation procedure
Authors: Leaf Justin B. , Oppenheim‐Leaf Misty L. , Townley‐Cochran Donna , Leaf Jeremy A. , Alcalay Aditt , Milne Christine , Kassardjian Alyne , Tsuji Kathleen , Dale Stephanie , Leaf Ronald , Taubman Mitchell , McEachin John
Published: December 2015

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have qualitative impairments in social interaction and often prefer food or tangible reinforcement to social reinforcement. Thus, therapists who work with children with ASD often use food or tangible items as reinforcers to increase appropriate behaviors or decrease problem behaviors. The goal of the present study was to shift children's preferences from a highly preferred tangible item to an initially nonpreferred social reinforcer using an observational conditioning procedure. Participants observed a known peer engage in a simple task and select the social reinforcer that was not preferred by the participant. This procedure resulted in a shift of preference toward the social reinforcer by all participants. Maintenance data showed that although the preference change did not maintain for 1 of the participants, it was quickly reestablished with additional observational trials. Results provide further support for the use of observational procedures to alter preferences.
Effect of Adipocyte Secretome in Melanoma Progression and Vasculogenic Mimicry
Authors: Coelho Pedro , Almeida Joana , Prudêncio Cristina , Fernandes Rúben , Soares Raquel
Published: December 2015

Obesity, favored by the modern lifestyle, acquired epidemic proportions nowadays. Obesity has been associated with various major causes of death and morbidity including malignant neoplasms. This increased prevalence has been accompanied by a worldwide increase in cutaneous melanoma incidence rates during the last decades. Obesity involvement in melanoma aetiology has been recognized, but the implicated mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we address this relationship and investigate the influence of adipocytes secretome on B16‐F10 and MeWo melanoma cell lines. Using the 3T3‐L1 adipocyte cell line, as well as ex vivo subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral (VAT) adipose tissue conditioned medium, we were able to show that adipocyte‐released factors play a dual role in increasing melanoma cell overall survival, both by enhancing proliferation and decreasing apoptosis. B16‐F10 cell migration and cell–cell and cell–matrix adhesion capacity were predominantly enhanced in the presence of SAT and VAT released factors. Melanocytes morphology and melanin content were also altered by exposure to adipocyte conditioned medium disclosing a more dedifferentiated phenotype of melanocytes. In addition, exposure to adipocyte‐secreted molecules induced melanocytes to rearrange, on 3D cultures, into vessel‐like structures, and generate characteristic vasculogenic mimicry patterns. These findings are corroborated by the released factors profile of 3T3‐L1, SAT, and VAT assessed by microarrays, and led us to highlight the mechanisms by which adipose secretome from sub‐cutaneous or visceral depots promote melanoma progression. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1697–1706, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of Polytyramine Nanoparticles to the Corrosion Protection of Copper
Authors: Farhadi Khalil , Banisaeid Sepideh , Jamali Arezu , Zebhi Hamid , Ghelichkhah Zahed , Khalili Hedayat , Abbasi Robab
Published: December 2015

Electrochemical polymerization of tyramine was achieved on copper electrode surface from tyramine in 0.3 M oxalic acid (pH=1.2) solution by using cyclic voltammetry technique. The formation of polytyramine nanoparicles (PTN) were characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV), fourier transform infrared‐attenuated total reflectance (FTIR‐ATR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The corrosion behavior of PTN coated copper was investigated by means of the change of open circuit potential with exposure time (Eocpt), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and anodic polarization curves in 3.5 % NaCl solutions at room temperature. The obtained results showed the shift of corrosion potential toward positive values for electropolymerized copper and a significant decrease in corrosion current and corrosion rate in comparison with bare copper, so that the PTNs coating could be used as an important protection against corrosion of copper.
Synthesis of Amino Acid‐comprising Sialyltransferase Inhibitors and Their Antimetastatic Activities against Human Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Fu Chih‐Wei , Chang Kai‐Hsuan , Jen Ya Ching , Chang Tzu Ting , Li Wen‐Shan
Published: December 2015

The amino acid‐containing lithocholic acids (LCA) represent a new class of human sialyltransferase (ST) inhibitors. In this study, we have reported their design, synthesis, and inhibitory activity against human STs. Among these derivatives, D‐Glu‐LCA 7, L‐Asp‐L‐Asp‐LCA 13, and L‐Asp‐L‐Asp‐Gly‐Gly‐LCA 22 with specific amino acid sequence were the most active ones with IC50 values of 2.3–5.6 and 4.2‐6.2 μM toward α‐2,3‐ST and α‐2,6‐ST, respectively. The current study demonstrates that the new class of ST in‐ hibitors inhibit cell migration in breast cancer cells by preventing closure of the wound rather than involv‐ ing a direct antiproliferative effect.
Utilization and effectiveness of pharmacotherapy for Tobacco use following admission for exacerbation of COPD
Authors: Melzer Anne C. , Feemster Laura C. , Collins Margaret P. , Au David H.
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Patients admitted for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) commonly continue to smoke. The utilization and effectiveness of tobacco cessation medications after discharge is largely unknown. We sought to examine whether pharmacologic treatment of tobacco use following admission for COPD was associated with smoking cessation at 6 to 12 months.

METHODS

Multivariable logistic regression analysis of a cohort of 1334 smokers, discharged from hospital with a COPD exacerbation between 2005 and 2012, identified administratively within the Veterans Affairs Veterans Integrated Service Network‐20, adjusted for variables chosen a priori. Our primary exposure was treatment with any 1 or combination of smoking cessation medications within 90 days of discharge determined from pharmacy records, with the outcome of smoking cessation at 6 to 12 months after discharge.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Four hundred fifty (33.7%) of the patients were dispensed a smoking cessation medication, with 53.4% receiving a nicotine patch alone. Overall, 19.8% of patients reported quitting smoking at 6 to 12 months. Compared to those not receiving medications, the odds of quitting were not greater among patients dispensed any single or combination of smoking cessation medications within 90 days of discharge (odds ratio [OR]: 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.74‐1.04). Among patients treated with medications compared to nicotine patch alone, varenicline (OR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.48‐4.05) was associated with increased odds of cessation, and short‐acting nicotine replacement therapy alone (OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.51‐0.85) was associated with decreased odds of cessation.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment was provided to a minority of subjects and was not associated with cessation, with potential differences observed in effectiveness between medications. Systems‐based changes may improve delivery of this key intervention. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:257–263. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Systematic Review of Physiologic Monitor Alarm Characteristics and Pragmatic Interventions to Reduce Alarm Frequency
Authors: Paine Christine Weirich , Goel Veena V. , Ely Elizabeth , Stave Christopher D. , Stemler Shannon , Zander Miriam , Bonafide Christopher P.
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Alarm fatigue from frequent nonactionable physiologic monitor alarms is frequently named as a threat to patient safety.

PURPOSE

To critically examine the available literature relevant to alarm fatigue.

DATA SOURCES

Articles published in English, Spanish, or French between January 1980 and April 2015 indexed in PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov.

STUDY SELECTION

Articles focused on hospital physiologic monitor alarms addressing any of the following: (1) the proportion of alarms that are actionable, (2) the relationship between alarm exposure and nurse response time, and (3) the effectiveness of interventions in reducing alarm frequency.

DATA EXTRACTION

We extracted data on setting, collection methods, proportion of alarms determined to be actionable, nurse response time, and associations between interventions and alarm rates.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Our search produced 24 observational studies focused on alarm characteristics and response time and 8 studies evaluating interventions. Actionable alarm proportion ranged from <1% to 36% across a range of hospital settings. Two studies showed relationships between high alarm exposure and longer nurse response time. Most intervention studies included multiple components implemented simultaneously. Although studies varied widely, and many had high risk of bias, promising but still unproven interventions include widening alarm parameters, instituting alarm delays, and using disposable electrocardiographic wires or frequently changed electrocardiographic electrodes.

CONCLUSIONS

Physiologic monitor alarms are commonly nonactionable, and evidence supporting the concept of alarm fatigue is emerging. Several interventions have the potential to reduce alarms safely, but more rigorously designed studies with attention to possible unintended consequences are needed. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:136–144. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
The Michigan Appropriateness Guide for Intravenous Catheters (MAGIC) initiative: A summary and review of peripherally inserted central catheter and venous catheter appropriate use
Authors: Woller Scott C. , Stevens Scott M. , Evans R. Scott
Published: December 2015

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are being selected for venous access more frequently today than ever before. Often the choice of a PICC, when compared with other vascular access devices (VADs), is attractive because of perceived safety, availability, and ease of insertion. However, complications associated with PICCs exist, and there is a paucity of evidence to guide clinician choice for PICC selection and valid use. An international panel with expertise in the arena of venous access and populations associated with these devices was convened to clarify approaches for the optimal use of PICCs and VADs. Here we present for the busy hospital‐based practitioner the methodology, key outcomes, and recommendations of the Michigan Appropriateness Guide for Intravenous Catheters (MAGIC) panelists for the appropriate use of VADs. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:306–310. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Adjoint sensitivity analysis of the T, Π, and L types of microstripline low noise amplifiers
Authors: Demirel Salih , Güneş Filiz , Mahouti Peyman
Published: December 2015

In this work, the sensitivities of the Gain GT, noise figure F, magnitudes and phases of the input Γin and output Γout reflection coefficients of low noise amplifier are carried out analytically with respect to the matching mirostrips' widths and lengths depending upon the position and the configuration types, using adjoint network method via wave approach for different types of matching networks. Thus, not only these analytical gradient expressions can be implemented with either the gradient‐based or non‐gradient optimization algorithms even simple metaheuristic algorithm for a high‐speed and improved design of the microstrip amplifiers but at the same time the tolerance limitations of the designs can be provided depending on type of the matching network. As a case study, performance sensitivities of the T, Π, L types of microstrip low noise amplifier with the design target parameters of GTmax, Fmin and |Γin| = 0.3 with the operation bandwidth of 10–18 GHz are worked out and compared with results of the numerical perturbation and chain sensitivity matrix methods. Furthermore, performance sensitivity characteristics of the microstrip lines for all types of amplifier circuits are given, and comparisons are made among microstrip lines at the same positions along the operation bandwidths. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cloning, characterization, and production of three α‐l‐fucosidases from Clostridium perfringens ATCC 13124
Authors: Fan Shuquan , Zhang Huaqin , Chen Xiaodi , Lu Lili , Xu Li , Xiao Min
Published: December 2015

α‐l‐Fucosidases are key enzymes for the degradation of intestinal glycans by gut microbes. In this work, three putative α‐l‐fucosidases (Afc1, Afc2, and Afc3) genes from Clostridium perfringens ATCC 13124 were cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Afc1 had the α‐l‐fucosidase domain of glycoside hydrolase (GH) 29 family but showed no enzyme activity toward all the substrates examined. The putative acid/base residue of Afc1, Ser205, was replaced by a glutamic acid which is conserved in GH29‐B α‐l‐fucosidases. However, the mutant Afc1‐S205E still failed to show enzyme activity. Afc2 and Afc3 were determined to be 1,3‐1,4‐α‐l‐fucosidase of GH29‐B subfamily and 1,2‐α‐l‐fucosidase of GH95 family, respectively, and both of them could release fucose from porcine gastric mucin (PGM). When C. perfringens ATCC 13124 grew with the presence of PGM, the transcription of afc1 decreased slightly, while those of afc2 and afc3 increased to 2.2‐fold and 1.4‐fold, respectively, and the enzyme activities of Afc2 and Afc3 in the culture increased to 2.2‐fold and 2.6‐fold, respectively. These results suggest that Afc2 and Afc3 are involved in the degradation of intestinal fucosyl glycans by C. perfringens ATCC 13124.
Administration duration influences the effects of low‐magnitude, high‐frequency vibration on ovariectomized rat bone
Authors: Qing Fangzhu , Xie Pengfei , Liem Yacincha Selushia , Chen Ying , Chen Xuening , Zhu Xiangdong , Fan Yujiang , Yang Xiao , Zhang Xingdong
Published: December 2015

Low‐magnitude, high‐frequency vibration (LMHFV) has been proposed as a non‐drug anti‐osteoporosis treatment. However, the influence of administration duration on its effect is seldom investigated. In this study, the effect of 16‐week LMHFV (0.3 g, 30 Hz, 20 min/day) on the bone mineral densities (BMDs), bone mechanical properties, and cellular responses of osteoporotic and healthy rats was examined by in vivo peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), fracture tests, cell assays, and mRNA quantification. Forty‐eight adult rats were equally assigned to sham surgery (SHM), sham surgery with LMHFV (SHM+V), ovariectomy (OVX), and ovariectomy with LMHFV (OVX+V) groups. At week 8, LMHFV ameliorated ovariectomy‐induced deterioration of trabecular bone, with a significantly higher tibia trabecular BMD (+11.2%) being noted in OVX+V rats (vs. OVX). However, this positive effect was not observed at later time points. Furthermore, 16 weeks of LMHFV caused significant reductions in the vertebral mean BMD (−13.0%), trabecular BMD (−15.7%), and maximum load (−21.5%) in OVX+V rats (vs. OVX). Osteoblasts derived from osteoporotic rat bone explants showed elevated BSP and OSX mRNA expression induced by LMHFV on day 1. However, no further positive effect on osteoblastic mRNA expression, alkaline phosphatase activity, or calcium deposition was observed with prolonged culture time. A higher ratio of RANKL/OPG induced by LMHFV suggests that osteoclastogenesis may be activated. Together, these results demonstrate that administration duration played an important role in the effect of LMHFV. Early exposure to LMHFV can positively modulate osteoporotic bone and osteoblasts; however, the beneficial effect seems not to persist over time. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1147–1157, 2016.
The distribution and climatic implications of periglacial landforms in eastern Australia
Authors: Slee Adrian , Shulmeister James
Published: December 2015

Mapping of over 4000 block deposits and scree slopes in eastern Australia is used to determine the extent of past strong freeze–thaw activity. Freeze–thaw landforms are common in the high country as far north as 30°S. There is a clear association between the locations of relict periglacial landforms and areas that receive more than 50 modern frost days. We infer about 10.5 °C cooling north of 35°S in the Diving Range, about 9 °C in the Australian Alps and about 5 °C in Tasmania during the phases when the lowest block deposits were active. An unexpected observation is the importance of precipitation in the distribution of block deposits north of 35°S. Here, the majority of block deposits have a southerly or westerly aspect, and lie in a narrow modern precipitation band of ca. 900–1050 mm. To the east, high‐elevation areas appear to have weaker diurnal oscillations limiting freeze–thaw activity. To the west, block deposits are absent, probably due to insufficient moisture to drive freeze–thaw processes. We cannot define specific last glaciation precipitation but the maintenance of a strong east–west precipitation gradient during glacial times is consistent with the maintenance of onshore easterlies during cold periods.
Investigation of some Chinese jade artifacts (5000 BC to 771 BC) by confocal laser micro‐Raman spectroscopy and other techniques
Authors: Zhao H. X. , Li Q. H. , Liu S.
Published: December 2015

The study on material properties of ancient stone or jade artifacts is essential to trace the trade routes of raw materials, the tools used to making them, and moreover the social function of the artifacts. In present research, we focused on 23 intact samples that were made of versatile rocks. These samples dated from 5000 bc to 771 bc were unearthed from the Yellow River and Yangtze River basins in China. Based on the analytical results of confocal laser micro‐Raman spectroscopy, 14 minerals consisted of these rocks such as muscovite, antigorite, calcite, quartz, diopside, turquoise, corundum, and sillimanite were identified. The obtained scientific information about their primary material properties helps us to better understand their social functions and technologically related issues. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changing trends in the clinicopathological features and clinical outcomes of medullary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Kwon Hyemi , Kim Won Gu , Sung Tae‐Yon , Jeon Min Ji , Song Dong Eun , Lee Yu‐Mi , Yoon Jong Ho , Chung Ki‐Wook , Hong Suck Joon , Baek Jung Hwan , Lee Jeong Hyun , Kim Tae Yong , Shong Young Kee , Kim Won Bae
Published: December 2015

Background

The early detection of papillary thyroid cancer has contributed to the increase in the incidence and improved clinical outcomes. However, recent changes of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) over time remain unclear. We evaluated changes of the clinicopathological characteristics and clinical outcomes in patients with MTC in recent years.

Methods

A total of 109 MTC patients were classified based on the year of initial surgery: 1996–2000 (n = 14), 2001–2006 (n = 39), and 2007–2011 (n = 56).

Results

The primary tumor size significantly decreased and the proportion of microMTCs (size ≤1 cm) increased over time (P = 0.002 and P < 0.001, respectively). The proportion of patients with cervical lymph node (LN) metastasis significantly decreased (P = 0.037), and the ratio of metastatic LNs significantly decreased (P = 0.011). Disease‐free survival (DFS) rate of patients was significantly improved over time (P = 0.007). There was no significant difference in DFS between microMTC and macroMTC patients. However, more advanced LN stage patients demonstrated more recurrences (P < 0.001). Especially, there were significantly more recurrences in patients with N1b diseases in comparison with patients without cervical LN metastases (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The prognosis of MTC patients has significantly improved in recent years. These changes could be associated with the early diagnosis before development of lateral and extensive cervical LN metastases. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:152–158. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of a carbon‐nanoparticle‐coated stirrer for stir bar sorptive extraction by a simple carbon deposition in flame
Authors: Feng Juanjuan , Sun Min , Bu Yanan , Luo Chuannan
Published: December 2015

Stir bar sorptive extraction is an environmentally friendly microextraction technique based on a stir bar with various sorbents. A commercial stirrer is a good support, but it has not been used in stir bar sorptive extraction due to difficult modification. A stirrer was modified with carbon nanoparticles by a simple carbon deposition process in flame and characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry. A three‐dimensional porous coating was formed with carbon nanoparticles. In combination with high‐performance liquid chromatography, the stir bar was evaluated using five polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as model analytes. Conditions including extraction time and temperature, ionic strength, and desorption solvent were investigated by a factor‐by‐factor optimization method. The established method exhibited good linearity (0.01–10 μg/L) and low limits of quantification (0.01 μg/L). It was applied to detect model analytes in environmental water samples. No analyte was detected in river water, and five analytes were quantified in rain water. The recoveries of five analytes in two samples with spiked at 2 μg/L were in the range of 92.2–106% and 93.4–108%, respectively. The results indicated that the carbon nanoparticle‐coated stirrer was an efficient stir bar for extraction analysis of some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Interleukin‐6 increases expression of serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 through STAT3 in colorectal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Räsänen Kati , Lehtinen Elina , Nokelainen Kristiina , Kuopio Teijo , Hautala Laura , Itkonen Outi , Stenman Ulf‐Håkan , Koistinen Hannu
Published: December 2015

Inflammation promotes colorectal cancer (CRC) tumorigenesis, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still being uncovered. Proinflammatory cytokine interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) stimulates survival signaling in CRC; inflammatory signals also regulate production and activity of proteases and their inhibitors. Over‐expression of serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 (SPINK1) predicts an unfavorable outcome in colon cancer. The SPINK1 gene contains an IL‐6 responsive element, suggesting it could act as an acute phase reactant. We assessed the connection between IL‐6 and SPINK1, and the function and mechanism of this signaling. Our results show that Colo205 and HT‐29 cells express and secrete SPINK1, and both fibroblast‐derived and recombinant IL‐6 further increased the SPINK1 levels. Concurrently CRC cells augmented the IL‐6 production in fibroblasts. In CRC tissues cancer cells were positive for SPINK1, whereas IL‐6 was found in stromal cells. In Colo205 cells IL‐6 also stimulated the secretion of trypsin‐1 and ‐2, the key targets of SPINK1 protease inhibition, whereas in HT‐29 cells trypsin‐1 and ‐2 levels remained constantly low. Functionally, both IL‐6 and SPINK1 increased the motility of the CRC cells. Mechanistically, IL‐6 activated the canonical STAT3 pathway and inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation decreased the levels of SPINK1, trypsin‐1 and ‐2. Taken together, our results indicate a novel link between inflammatory signals originating from the tumor microenvironment and increased SPINK1 levels. This finding has potential therapeutic implications for targeted therapy, as it confirms that SPINK1 acts as an acute phase reactant and that it participates in the paracrine crosstalk with the tumor microenvironment of colon cancer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Failing as doorman and disc jockey at the same time: Amygdalar dysfunction in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Diederich Nico J. , Goldman Jennifer G. , Stebbins Glenn T. , Goetz Christopher G.
Published: December 2015

In Braak's model of ascending degeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD), involvement of the amygdala occurs simultaneously with substantia nigra degeneration. However, the clinical manifestations of amygdalar involvement in PD have not been fully delineated. Considered a multitask manager, the amygdala is a densely connected “hub,” coordinating and integrating tasks ranging from prompt, multisensorial emotion recognition to adequate emotional responses and emotional tuning of memories. Although phylogenetically predisposed to handle fear, the amygdala handles both aversive and positive emotional inputs. In PD, neuropathological and in vivo studies suggest primarily amygdalar hypofunction. However, as dopamine acts as an inverted U‐shaped amygdalar modulator, medication‐induced hyperactivity of the amygdala can occur. We propose that amygdalar (network) dysfunction contributes to reduced recognition of negative emotional face expressions, impaired theory of mind, reactive hypomimia, and impaired decision making. Similarly, impulse control disorders in predisposed individuals, hallucinations, anxiety, and panic attacks may be related to amygdalar dysfunction. When available, we discuss amygdala‐independent trigger mechanisms of these symptoms. Although dopaminergic agents have mostly an activation effect on amygdalar function, adaptive and compensatory network changes may occur as well, but these have not been sufficiently explored. In conclusion, our model of amygdalar involvement brings together several elements of Parkinson's disease phenomenology heretofore left unexplained and provides a framework for testable hypotheses in patients during life and in autopsy analyses. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Existence and concentration of solutions for Schrödinger–Poisson system with steep potential well
Authors: Zhang Wen , Tang Xianhua , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2015

This paper is concerned with the nonlinear Schrödinger–Poisson system

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma3712:mma3712-math-0001
where λ > 0 is a parameter. We require that V≥0 and has a bounded potential well V−1(0). Combining this with other suitable assumptions on K and f, the existence of nontrivial solutions is obtained by using variational methods. Moreover, the concentration of solutions is also explored on the set V−1(0) as λ→∞. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global attractor for thermoelasticity in shape memory alloys without viscosity
Authors: Fastovska Tamara
Published: December 2015

We consider a nonlinear system of thermoelasticity in shape memory alloys without viscosity. The existence and uniqueness of strong and weak solutions and the existence of a compact global attractor in an appropriate space are proved. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A quasi‐optimal coarse problem and an augmented Krylov solver for the variational theory of complex rays
Authors: Kovalevsky Louis , Gosselet Pierre
Published: December 2015

The variational theory of complex rays (VTCR) is an indirect Trefftz method designed to study systems governed by Helmholtz‐like equations. It uses wave functions to represent the solution inside elements, which reduces the dispersion error compared with classical polynomial approaches, but the resulting system is prone to be ill‐conditioned. This paper gives a simple and original presentation of the VTCR using the discontinuous Galerkin framework, and it traces back the ill‐conditioning to the accumulation of eigenvalues near zero for the formulation written in terms of wave amplitude. The core of this paper presents an efficient solving strategy that overcomes this issue. The key element is the construction of a search subspace where the condition number is controlled at the cost of a limited decrease of attainable precision. An augmented LSQR solver is then proposed to solve efficiently and accurately the complete system. The approach is successfully applied to different examples. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proxy measures of vitamin D status – season and latitude – correlate with adverse outcomes after bariatric surgery in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, 2001–2010: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Peterson L. A. , Canner J. K. , Cheskin L. J. , Prokopowicz G. P. , Schweitzer M. A. , Magnuson T. H. , Steele K. E.
Published: December 2015

Objective

To investigate the association between adverse surgical outcomes following bariatric surgery and proxy measures of vitamin D (VitD) status (season and latitude) in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS).

Background

Obesity is an independent risk factor for VitD deficiency (25(OH)D < 20 ng ml−1). VitD deficiency compounds the chronic inflammation of obesity, increasing the risk of adverse outcomes following bariatric surgery. Epidemiology has long used season and latitude as proxies for group VitD, as VitD status is largely determined by sun exposure, which is greatest during summer and at the Equator.

Methods

We assessed proxy measures of group VitD status. We compared surgeries in VitD Summer (July to September), Winter (January to March), and Fall/Spring (October to December and April to June) and in the North (≥37°N) vs. the South (<37°N).

Results

We identified 932,091 bariatric surgeries; 81.2% were women and 74.4% were white. Sex was unequally distributed by season (p = 0.005). Median age was 43.0 years (all groups). Most surgeries occurred in the North (64.8%). Adverse outcome rates ranged from 0.01% (wound infections) to 39.4% [prolonged length of stay {LOS}]. Season was inversely associated with wound infection (p = 0.018) and dehiscence (p = 0.001). Extended LOS was inversely correlated with season (p < 0.001). These relationships held after adjustment. Prolonged LOS (p < 0.001) and any complication (p = 0.108) were more common in the North.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated a graded relationship between seasonality and adverse outcomes following bariatric surgery. The association was strongest for dehiscence and prolonged LOS. These relationships held when using latitude. A prospective study measuring pre‐operative 25(OH)D concentration would strengthen the case for causality in adverse surgical outcomes.
Half‐Heusler superlattices as model systems for nanostructured thermoelectrics
Authors: Komar Paulina , Jaeger Tino , Euler Christoph , Chávez Angel Emigdio , Kolb Ute , Müller Mathis M. , Balke Benjamin , Aguirre Myriam Haydee , Populoh Sascha , Weidenkaff Anke , Jakob Gerhard
Published: December 2015

The efficiency of thermoelectric materials is directly related to the dimensionless figure of merit , therefore, one of the means to improve ZT is to reduce the thermal conductivity. Our research focuses on half‐Heusler superlattices (SLs) and the relationship between the SL period and the thermal conductivity. The cross‐plane thermal conductivity of DC‐sputtered TiNiSn/HfNiSn SLs was measured by the 3 method at room temperature and a clear reduction of was achieved for all SL periods, in particular for periods smaller than 20 nm. Moreover, the thermal conductivities of TiNiSn and HfNiSn single films display reduced values compared to the literature data for bulk materials. Furthermore, we also found that the quality of interfaces has an influence on , namely, SLs with rougher interfaces exhibit an about 20% lower thermal conductivity compared to samples with sharp interfaces.
The impact of the QNSE‐EDMF scheme and its modifications on boundary layer parameterization in WRF: modelling of CASES‐97
Authors: Tastula Esa‐Matti , LeMone Margaret A. , Dudhia Jimy , Galperin Boris
Published: December 2015

In recent years, many eddy‐diffusivity mass‐flux (EDMF) planetary boundary layer (PBL) parametrizations have been introduced. Yet most validations are based on idealized set‐ups and/or single‐column models. To address this gap, this article focuses on the effect the mass‐flux part has on the performance in the Quasi‐Normal Scale Elimination‐EDMF (QNSE‐EDMF) PBL scheme in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model by comparing the results to observations from the CASES‐97 field campaign. In addition, two refined versions, one introducing the parametrized clouds to the WRF radiation scheme, and the second adding a different entrainment formulation, have been evaluated.

The introduction of mass flux reduced errors in the average moisture profile, but virtual temperature and wind speed profiles did not change as much. The modelled mixed‐layer depth, while still low compared to observations, was closer to observed values with the addition of mass flux. The major changes in the virtual potential temperature flux profiles were an increase in entrainment ratios and a slight decrease in surface values. Allowing for biases in the observed fluxes, modelled and observed flux profiles had a similar shape. However, the agreement among the modelled and between the modelled and observed water‐vapour flux profiles and vertical flux divergence was often poor, a likely result of the model's failure to capture the timing of the morning boundary‐layer water‐vapour maximum. Further, both virtual potential temperature and water‐vapour flux profiles display spurious spikes attributed to the way the non‐local and local terms interact in the model. Adding mass‐flux‐based clouds to the radiation calculation improved the time‐and space‐averaged modelled incoming short‐wave flux. The choice of the representation for entrainment/detrainment often affected the results to the same extent as adding mass flux.
Consensus for constrained multi‐agent systems with input saturation
Authors: Lyu Jianting , Qin Jiahu , Gao Dai , Liu Qingqing
Published: December 2015

The consensus problem for multi‐agent systems with input saturation is addressed in this paper. For agents with double‐integrator dynamics, we first propose two consensus algorithms, respectively, for the cases with and without velocity measurements. Based on graph theory, homogeneous method and the Lyapunov stability theory, it is proved that the proposed algorithms can guarantee not only the state agreement in finite time for all the agents but also the input saturation requirement. Then, the obtained results and techniques are extended to the finite‐time consensus problem for multiple mechanical systems. Numerical simulations are finally provided to verify the effectiveness of the theoretical results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Background to the European seismic design provisions for retrofitting RC elements using FRP materials
Authors: Pantazopoulou Stavroula J. , Tastani Souzana P. , Thermou Georgia E. , Triantafillou Thanasis , Monti Giorgio , Bournas Dionysios , Guadagnini Maurizio
Published: December 2015

This paper is a comprehensive background document on the state of the art in European seismic design provisions which was assembled by fib committee 5.1 to support the development of design guidelines regarding the use of externally applied fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) materials in the seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete structures. In the context of developing design guidelines, the underlying mechanistic models that support the derivation of provisions were assembled following critical evaluation of the existing proposals and with careful reference to the experimental evidence available, the comparative assessment of past models in the literature and requirements established from first principles.
The Military Orders
Authors: Forey Alan
Published: December 2015

This comprehensive survey of the military orders is based on a wide range of primary sources. Besides giving a clear account of the emergence of the orders, it investigates their military significance and the ways in which they obtained necessary funds and manpower. Their governmental structure and daily life are examined, together with the increasing criticisms they faced in the thirteenth century. The book ends with a discussion of the fall of the Templars and the changing roles of other orders in the early fourteenth century.