bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macro-fiber composite–based structural health monitoring system for axial cracks in cylindrical structures
Authors: Cui Lin , Liu Yu , Soh Chee K
Published: July 2013

In cylindrical structures such as pipelines and pressure vessels, cracks are most likely to occur along the longitudinal (axial) direction, and they can be fatal to the serviceability of the structures. However, the conventional wave propagation–based crack detection techniques are not sensitive to this type of cracks. This article focuses on the identification of axial cracks in cylindrical structures using torsional wave generated by piezoelectric macro-fiber composite. The first-order torsional wave, which is a nondispersive pure shear wave propagating at a fixed wave speed, is utilized in this work because, intuitively, it is more sensitive to axial cracks than the longitudinal waves. The crack position is determined by the time of flight of the wave pack, while the crack propagation is monitored by measuring the variation in the crack-induced disturbances. Numerical simulations have been conducted to investigate the feasibility of the proposed method, and experimental tests on aluminum pipes have been carried out for verification. Macro-fiber composite transducers oriented at 45° against the axis of the specimen were used to generate and receive the torsional waves. The experimental results demonstrated that the crack position can be identified, and its growth can be well monitored with the proposed approach.
Using Informal Education Through Music Video Creation
Authors: Cayari Christopher
Published: July 2013

Music video creation provides students a new way to express themselves and become better performers and consumers of media. This article provides a new perspective on Lucy Green’s informal music pedagogy by enabling students to create music videos in music classrooms; thus, students are able to create music videos that informally develop skills in music and technology. The author offers his own experiences as a junior high and high school ensemble director and general music teacher that led to his students engaging technology in new ways both inside and outside the classroom. Video sharing websites such as YouTube have provided a new way for musicians to create and distribute their art, and by encouraging students to create music videos, students have the potential to learn lifelong music making skills. Practical advice on how to embark on a music video project is provided, and project outcomes are reported.
Modelling mental rotation in cognitive robots
Authors: Seepanomwan Kristsana , Caligiore Daniele , Baldassarre Gianluca , Cangelosi Angelo
Published: July 2013

Mental rotation concerns the cognitive processes that allow an agent mentally to rotate the image of an object in order to solve a given task, for example to say if two objects with different orientations are the same or different. Here we present a system-level bio-constrained model, developed within a neurorobotics framework, that provides an embodied account of mental rotation processes relying on neural mechanisms involving motor affordance encoding, motor simulation and the anticipation of the sensory consequences of actions (both visual and proprioceptive). This model and methodology are in agreement with the most recent theoretical and empirical research on mental rotation. The model was validated through experiments with a simulated humanoid robot (iCub) engaged in solving a classical mental rotation test. The results of the test show that the robot is able to solve the task and, in agreement with data from psychology experiments, exhibits response times linearly dependent on the angular disparity between the objects. This model represents a novel detailed operational account of the embodied brain mechanisms that may underlie mental rotation.
Memory, Imagination, and Predicting the Future
Authors: Mullally Sinéad L. , Maguire Eleanor A.
Published: July 2013

On the face of it, memory, imagination, and prediction seem to be distinct cognitive functions. However, metacognitive, cognitive, neuropsychological, and neuroimaging evidence is emerging that they are not, suggesting intimate links in their underlying processes. Here, we explore these empirical findings and the evolving theoretical frameworks that seek to explain how a common neural system supports our recollection of times past, imagination, and our attempts to predict the future.
Daclizumab reduces CD25 levels on T cells through monocyte-mediated trogocytosis
Authors: Zhang Y , McClellan M , Efros L , Shi D , Bielekova B , Tang MT , Vexler V , Sheridan JP
Published: July 2013

Daclizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that prevents interleukin-2 (IL-2) binding to CD25, blocking IL-2 signaling by cells that require high-affinity IL-2 receptors to mediate IL-2 signaling. The phase 2a CHOICE study evaluating daclizumab as a treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) included longitudinal analysis of activated T cell counts. Whereas an exposure-dependent relationship was observed between daclizumab and reductions in HLA-DR+-activated T cells, a similar relationship was not observed for reductions in CD25 levels. The objective of this report is to determine the mechanism by which daclizumab reduces CD25 levels on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using cytometric techniques. Daclizumab reduced T cell CD25 levels through a mechanism that required the daclizumab-Fc domain interaction with Fc receptors (FcR) on monocytes, but not on natural killer (NK) cells, and was unrelated to internalization or cell killing. Activated CD4+ T cells and FoxP3+ Treg cells showed evidence of trogocytosis of the CD25 antigen in the presence of monocytes. A daclizumab variant that retained affinity for CD25 but lacked FcR binding did not induce trogocytosis and was significantly less potent as an inhibitor of IL-2-induced proliferation of PBMCs. In conclusion, Daclizumab-induced monocyte-mediated trogocytosis of CD25 from T cells appears to be an additional mechanism contributing to daclizumab inhibition of IL-2 signaling.
Lesion-to-ventricle distance and other risk factors for the persistence of newly formed black holes in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Papadopoulou Athina , Menegola Milena , Kuhle Jens , Ramagopalan Sreeram V , D’Souza Marcus , Sprenger Till , Radue Ernst-Wilhelm , Kappos Ludwig , Yaldizli Özgür
Published: July 2013

Background:

Progenitor cells from the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricles are assumed to contribute to remyelination and resolution of black holes (BHs) in multiple sclerosis (MS). This process may depend on the distance between the lesion and the SVZ.

Objective:

The objective of this paper is to investigate the relationship between lesion-to-ventricle (LV) distance and persistence of new BHs.

Methods:

We analysed the magnetic resonance images (MRIs) of 289 relapsing–remitting (RR) MS patients, obtained during a multi-centre, placebo-controlled phase II trial over one year.

Results:

Overall, 112/289 patients showed 367 new BHs at the beginning of the trial. Of these, 225 were located in 94/112 patients at the level of the lateral ventricles on axial MRIs and included in this analysis. In total, 86/225 (38%) BHs persisted at month 12. LV distance in persistent BHs (PBHs) was not longer than in transient BHs. In fact PBHs tended to be closer to the SVZ than transient BHs. A generalised linear mixed multivariate model adjusted for BHs clustered within a patient and including patient- as well as lesion-specific factors revealed size, ring contrast enhancement, and shorter LV distance as independent predictors for BH persistence.

Conclusion:

Location of BHs close to the lateral ventricles does not appear to favourably influence the resolution of new BHs in RRMS.
Incidence of myocardial infarction among Swedish and immigrant smoking women: Can physical activity modify the risk? An epidemiological study on the Malmö Diet and Cancer study
Authors: Nayak Raj Kumar , Zdravkovic Slobodan , Janzon Ellis
Published: July 2013

Background: Sweden has shown a decreasing tendency in the incidence of myocardial infarction (MI), except among middle-aged women. The incidence among middle-aged immigrant women is less explored. Aim: To determine if foreign-born women have a higher risk of MI as compared to women born in Sweden. Furthermore, to examine if physical activity (PA) modifies the risk of MI regardless of immigration status and smoking habits. Methods: The Malmö Diet and Cancer Study was used for analyses. A total of 16,776 women aged 45–73 years participated. The mean follow-up time was 13.8±4 years. Results: Mean age was 57.4±7.9 years. No difference was found in incidence of MI between Swedish and immigrant women ( p=0.72). For current smokers among Swedish women, the relative risk (RR) with no/low PA was 2.93 (95% CI 2.07–4.14) and with moderate/high PA, the RR was 2.21 (95% CI 1.61–3.03) with no/low PA-never smoker as the reference group. Among immigrant smoking women, the RR with no/low PA was 4.56 (95% CI 1.62–12.8) and with moderate/high PA, the RR was 3.27 (95% CI 1.21–8.84) with no/low PA-never smoker as the reference group. Conclusions: PA reduces the risk of MI in non-smokers as well as in smokers, regardless of immigration status. Furthermore, PA was even more beneficial for women born outside Sweden. Against this background, immigrant women ought to get special consideration and attention from both caregivers and public health workers.
Unraveling the effects of active and passive forms of political Internet use: Does it affect citizens’ political involvement?
Authors: Kruikemeier Sanne , van Noort Guda , Vliegenthart Rens , de Vreese Claes H
Published: July 2013

In the time since the rise of the Internet, it has often been claimed that it has the potential to contribute to the quality of democracy by fostering citizens’ involvement in politics. So far, empirical evidence regarding this purported effect has been mixed, and many questions about the consequences of specific forms of political Internet use (PIU) have remained unanswered. This study expands the knowledge about the relation between PIU and political involvement by examining the effect of active and passive forms of PIU on citizens’ political involvement: more specifically, interest and voter turnout during election times. The results obtained from a panel study of a representative sample of the Dutch population ( N = 985) reveal a positive relation between particular forms of PIU on the one hand and voter turnout and political interest on the other hand. In addition, for two specific forms of PIU, the positive effect on voter turnout is more prevalent for citizens who exhibit lower levels of political interest.
Thermal simulation and validation of LED-based luminaires using two-resistor compact thermal model
Authors: Yurtseven MB , Onaygil S , Ogus G
Published: July 2013

The increase in the LED junction temperature is an important problem since it directly affects the lumen output and the colour characteristics of the LED chips, resulting in low performance in LED-based lighting systems. In this study, commercial computational fluid dynamics software is used with the JEDEC’s two-resistor compact thermal model to analyse the temperature distribution in two selected luminaires. It is aimed to show that use of the two-resistor model and measurement combination is a fast and easy way of predicting thermal behaviour of the system and LED junction temperatures instead of trial and error designs and thus ensures a better estimation for the total luminous flux of the luminaire and lowers the costs and time required for the prototyping processes.
Eliciting Personal Network Data in Web Surveys through Participant-generated Sociograms
Authors: Tubaro Paola , Casilli Antonio A. , Mounier Lise
Published: July 2013

The article presents a method to elicit personal network data in Internet surveys, exploiting the renowned appeal of network visualizations to reduce respondent burden and risk of dropout. It is a participant-generated computer-based sociogram, an interactive graphical interface enabling participants to draw their own personal networks with simple and intuitive tools. In a study of users of websites on eating disorders, we have embedded the sociogram within a two-step approach aiming to first elicit the broad ego network of an individual and then to extract subsets of issue-specific support ties. We find this to be a promising tool to facilitate survey experience and adaptable to a wider range of network studies.
Operative Fixation of Chondral Loose Bodies in Osteochondritis Dissecans in the Knee
Authors: Anderson Christian N. , Magnussen Robert A. , Block John J. , Anderson Allen F. , Spindler Kurt P.
Published: July 2013

Background:

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) can progress to loose body formation, with or without subchondral bone attachment to the lesion. The efficacy of internal fixation of chondral loose bodies has not been determined.

Hypothesis:

Operative fixation of cartilaginous loose bodies would result in (1) healed OCD at second-look arthroscopy, (2) restored cartilage appearance on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and (3) nearly normal knee function, as determined by patient-reported outcome scores.

Study Design:

Retrospective case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Five patients who underwent cartilaginous loose body fixation were identified. Lesions were located on the lateral trochlea (n = 2) and medial femoral condyle (n = 3) (mean size, 2.5 cm2). Loose bodies were reattached with compression screws through mini-arthrotomy or arthroscopy. Patients were nonweightbearing for 12 weeks postoperatively. After 12 weeks, screws were removed arthroscopically, and OCD stability was evaluated. Three patients underwent MRI to determine articular cartilage status. Images were evaluated using the magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) score. Patients were interviewed and completed the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaire.

Results:

Four patients had stable lesions at 12 weeks after surgery. One patient had slight motion to one-third of the lesion and stability to the remaining two-thirds. Three patients underwent an MRI. The mean time from surgery to MRI was 3.1 years. Mean MOCART score was 72.0 ± 10.4. One patient required repeat arthroscopy 1 year after initial fixation for debridement and arthroscopic drilling of an incompletely healed area of the lesion. Four patients completed the KOOS questionnaire. The mean time to KOOS completion was 4.6 years. Mean KOOS subscales for knee pain (91.0 ± 8.9), knee symptoms (83.0 ± 7.9), and function in activities of daily living (91.9 ± 10.6) were similar to published age-matched controls; however, scores for sports and recreation function (70.0 ± 17.8) and knee-related quality of life (67.2 ± 12.9) were lower.

Conclusion:

Operative fixation of chondral loose bodies, without macroscopically visible subchondral bone attachment, resulted in lesion stability at second-look arthroscopy. At final follow-up, patients had no substantial pain and normal function in activities of daily life compared with controls; however, knee-related quality of life and sport and recreation function were reduced, and 1 patient required reoperation for an unhealed portion of the lesion.
Performance and Return to Sport After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Male Major League Soccer Players
Authors: Erickson Brandon J. , Harris Joshua D. , Cvetanovich Gregory L. , Bach Bernard R. , Bush-Joseph Charles A. , Abrams Geoffrey D. , Gupta Anil K. , McCormick Frank M. , Cole Brian J.
Published: July 2013

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a significant injury in male Major League Soccer (MLS) players in the United States.

Purpose:

To determine (1) return-to-sport (RTS) rate in MLS following ACL reconstruction (ACLR), (2) timing of RTS, (3) performance upon RTS, and (4) the difference in RTS and performance between players who underwent ACL reconstruction (ACLR) and controls.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

MLS players undergoing ACLR between 1996 and 2012 were evaluated. Player data were extracted from publically available sources. All demographic data were analyzed. A control group of players matched by age, body mass index (BMI), sex, position, performance, and MLS experience (occurred at 2.6 years into career, designated “index year”) was selected from the MLS during the same years as those undergoing ACLR. The RTS and performance in the MLS were analyzed and compared between cases and controls. Student ttests were performed for analysis of within- and between-group variables.

Results:

A total of 52 players (57 knees) that met inclusion criteria underwent ACLR while in the MLS. Mean player age was 25.6 ± 3.98 years. Forty players were able to resume play (77%). Of the 40 players (45 knees), 38 (43 knees; 95%) resumed play the season following ACLR (mean, 10 ± 2.8 months after surgery). Mean career length in the MLS after ACLR was 4.0 ± 2.8 years. The revision rate was 10%. There was a significant increase in the incidence of ACL tears in the MLS by year ( P < .001), and there was a significantly ( P= .002) greater number of ACL tears on the left knee as opposed to the right. Performance in the MLS upon RTS after ACLR was not significantly different versus preinjury. There was no significant difference in survival in the MLS between cases and controls after ACLR or index year. The only significant performance differences between cases and controls were that cases had significantly greater shots taken per season ( P= .005) and assists ( P= .005) than did controls after the index year.

Conclusion:

There is a high RTS rate in the MLS following ACLR. Nearly all players resumed play the season after surgery. Performance was not significantly different from preinjury. Only 2 performance measures (shots taken and assists) were significantly different between cases and controls. A significantly greater number of ACL tears occur in the left versus the right knee.
Examination of Intracranial Translucency as a Marker for Early Detection of Open Spina Bifida
Authors: Tonni Gabriele
Published: July 2013

This article focuses on the sonographic examination technique for evaluation of intracranial translucencies during the first trimester scan. Appropriate knowledge of the sonographic landmarks is the most important factor for evaluating normal as well as abnormal brain structure, and this examination may enable detection of open spina bifida at an early stage of fetal development.
Intravenous immunoglobulin expands regulatory T cells via induction of cyclooxygenase-2–dependent prostaglandin E2 in human dendritic cells
Authors: Trinath Jamma , Hegde Pushpa , Sharma Meenu , Maddur Mohan S. , Rabin Magalie , Vallat Jean-Michel , Magy Laurent , Balaji Kithiganahalli N. , Kaveri Srini V. , Bayry Jagadeesh
Published: July 2013

Key Points

IVIg expands Tregs in vitro and in vivo via induction of COX-2–dependent PGE2 in DCs. These functions of IVIg are mediated in part via interaction of IVIg and F(ab′)2 fragments of IVIg with DC-SIGN on DCs.
Partial ADAMTS13 deficiency in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome
Authors: Feng Shuju , Eyler Stephen J. , Zhang Yuzhou , Maga Tara , Nester Carla M. , Kroll Michael H. , Smith Richard J. , Afshar-Kharghan Vahid
Published: July 2013

Key Points

Reduction in ADAMTS13 function and complement dysregulation coexist in a significant number of patients with aHUS. Variations in the ADAMTS13 gene (polymorphisms and rare variants) are partly responsible for the reduced ADAMTS13 function in aHUS.
Impact of donor source on hematopoietic cell transplantation outcomes for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)
Authors: Saber Wael , Cutler Corey S. , Nakamura Ryotaro , Zhang Mei-Jie , Atallah Ehab , Rizzo J. Douglas , Maziarz Richard T. , Cortes Jorge , Kalaycio Matt E. , Horowitz Mary M.
Published: July 2013

Key Points

For patients with acute myelogenous leukemia, post-transplant survival is not determined by donor source (unrelated vs related). However, for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, donor source remains an important determinant of post-transplantation outcomes.
Methylation levels at IGF2 and GNAS DMRs in infants born to preeclamptic pregnancies
Authors: He Jing , Zhang Aiping , Fang Min , Fang Rong , Ge Jiamei , Jiang Yuan , Zhang Hong , Han Cong , Ye Xiaoqun , Yu Danqing , Huang Hefeng , Liu Yun , Dong Minyue
Published: July 2013

Background

Offspring of pregnancy complicated with preeclampsia are at high risk for hypertension, stroke and possibly obesity. The mechanisms behind the association of intrauterine exposure to preeclampsia and high risk of health problems in the later life remain largely unknown. The aims of the current investigation were to determine the changes in DNA methylation at IGF2 and GNAS DMR in offspring of preeclamptic pregnancy and to explore the possible mechanisms underlying the association between maternal preeclampsia and high risk for health problems in the later life of their offspring.

Results

Umbilical cord blood was taken from infants born to women of preeclampsia (n=56), gestational hypertension (n=23) and normal pregnancy (n=81). DNA methylation levels of IGF2 and GNAS DMR were determined by Massarray quantitative methylation analysis. Methylation levels at IGF2 DMR were significantly lower in preeclampsia than normal pregnancy. The average methylation level at IGF2 DMR was significantly correlated with preeclampsia even after birth weight, maternal age, gestational age at delivery and fetal gender were adjusted. The difference in methylation level was not significantly different between mild and severe preeclampsia. The methylation level at GNAS DMR was not significantly correlated with birth weight, maternal age, gestational age at delivery, fetal gender, preeclampsia or gestational hypertension.

Conclusions

We concluded preeclampsia induced a decrease in methylation level at IGF 2 DMR, and this might be among the mechanisms behind the association between intrauterine exposure to preeclampsia and high risk for metabolic diseases in the later life of the infants.
ACE-inhibition, but not weight reduction restores cardiomyocyte response to β-adrenergic stimulation in the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Nevelsteen Ines , Bito Virginie , Van der Mieren Gerry , Vanderper Annelies , Van den Bergh An , Sipido Karin R , Mubagwa Kanigula , Herijgers Paul
Published: July 2013

Background

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is characterized by systolic and early diastolic ventricular dysfunction. In the metabolic syndrome (MS), ventricular stiffness is additionally increased in a later stage. It is unknown whether this is related to intrinsic cardiomyocyte dysfunction, extrinsic factors influencing cardiomyocyte contractility and/or cardiac function, or a combination of both. A first aim was to study cardiomyocyte contractility and Ca2+ handling in vitro in a mouse model of MS. A second aim was to investigate whether in vivo hypocaloric diet or ACE-inhibition (ACE-I) improved cardiomyocyte contractility in vitro, contractile reserve and Ca2+ handling.

Methods

This study was performed in LDL-receptor (LDLR−/−) and leptin-deficient (ob/ob), double knock-out mice (DKO), featuring obesity, type II diabetes, atherogenic dyslipidemia and hypertension. Single knock-out LDLR−/−, ob/ob and wild type mice were used as controls. Cellular contractility, Ca2+ handling and their response to in vivo treatment with diet or ACE-I were studied in isolated cardiomyocytes at baseline, during β-adrenergic stimulation or increased extracellular Ca2+, using field stimulation and patch-clamp.

Results

In untreated conditions, prolongation of contraction-relaxation cycle and altered Ca2+ handling are observed in MS. Response to increased extracellular Ca2+ and β-adrenergic stimulation is impaired and could not be rescued by weight loss. ACE-I restored impaired response to β-adrenergic stimulation in MS, but not the decreased response to increased extracellular Ca2+.

Conclusions

Cardiomyocyte contractility and β-adrenergic response are impaired in MS, due to alterations in cellular Ca2+ handling. ACE-I, but not weight loss, is able to restore cardiomyocyte response to β-adrenergic stimulation in MS.
Inequalities in self-rated health among 45+ year-olds in Almaty, Kazakhstan: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Abikulova Akmaral K , Tulebaev Kazbek A , Akanov Aikan A , Turdalieva Botagoz S , Kalmahanov Sundetgali B , Kumar Ainur B , Izekenova Aigulsum K , Mussaeva Bakhyt A , Grjibovski Andrej M
Published: July 2013

Background

Self-rated health (SRH) has been widely studied to assess health inequalities in both developed and developing countries. However, no studies have been performed in Central Asia. The aim of the study was to assess gender-, ethnic-, and social inequalities in SRH in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Methods

Altogether, 1500 randomly selected adults aged 45 years or older were invited to participate in a cross-sectional study and 1199 agreed (response rate 80%). SRH was classified as poor, satisfactory, good and excellent. Multinomial logistic regression was applied to study associations between SRH and socio-demographic characteristics. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) for poor vs. good and for satisfactory vs. good health were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Altogether, poor, satisfactory, good and excellent health was reported by 11.8%, 53.7%, 31.0% and 3.2% of the responders, respectively. Clear gradients in SRH were observed by age, education and self-reported material deprivation in both crude and adjusted analyses. Women were more likely to report poor (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.2-3.1) or satisfactory (OR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.2-2.1) than good health. Ethnic Russians and unmarried participants had greater odds for poor vs. good health (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.5-3.7 and OR = 4.0, 95% CI: 2.7-6.1, respectively) and for satisfactory vs. good health (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1-1.9 and OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.4-2.5, respectively) in crude analysis, but the estimates were reduced to non-significant levels after adjustment. Unemployed and pensioners were less likely to report good health than white-collar workers while no difference in SRH was observed between white- and blue-collar workers.

Conclusion

Considerable levels of inequalities in SRH by age, gender, education and particularly self-reported material deprivation, but not by ethnicity or marital status were found in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Further research is warranted to identify the factors behind the observed associations in Kazakhstan.
Social firms as a means of vocational recovery for people with mental illness: a UK survey
Authors: Gilbert Eleanor , Marwaha Steven , Milton Alyssa , Johnson Sonia , Morant Nicola , Parsons Nicholas , Fisher Adrian , Singh Swaran , Cunliffe Di
Published: July 2013

Background

Employment is associated with better quality of life and wellbeing in people with mental illness. Unemployment is associated with greater levels of psychological illness and is viewed as a core part of the social exclusion faced by people with mental illness. Social Firms offer paid employment to people with mental illness but are under-investigated in the UK. The aims of this phase of the Social Firms A Route to Recovery (SoFARR) project were to describe the availability and spread of Social Firms across the UK, to outline the range of opportunities Social Firms offer people with severe mental illness and to understand the extent to which they are employed within these firms.

Method

A UK national survey of Social Firms, other social enterprises and supported businesses was completed to understand the extent to which they provide paid employment for the mentally ill. A study-specific questionnaire was developed. It covered two broad areas asking employers about the nature of the Social Firm itself and about the employees with mental illness working there.

Results

We obtained returns from 76 Social Firms and social enterprises / supported businesses employing 692 people with mental illness. Forty per cent of Social Firms were in the south of England, 24% in the North and the Midlands, 18% in Scotland and 18% in Wales. Other social enterprises/supported businesses were similarly distributed. Trading activities were confined mainly to manufacturing, service industry, recycling, horticulture and catering. The number of employees with mental illness working in Social Firms and other social enterprises/supported businesses was small (median of 3 and 6.5 respectively). Over 50% employed people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, though the greatest proportion of employees with mental illness had depression or anxiety. Over two thirds of Social Firms liaised with mental health services and over a quarter received funding from the NHS or a mental health charity. Most workers with mental illness in Social Firms had been employed for over 2 years.

Conclusions

Social Firms have significant potential to be a viable addition to Individual Placement and Support (IPS), supporting recovery orientated services for people with the full range of mental disorders. They are currently an underdeveloped sector in the UK.
Inhibition of the angiogenesis and growth of Aloin in human colorectal cancer in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Pan Qin , Pan Hongming , Lou Haizhou , Xu Yinghua , Tian Lu
Published: July 2013

Background

Angiogenesis has been an attractive target for drug therapy. Aloin (AL), an natural compound derived fromAloe barbadensisMiller leaves, has been shown to possess anti-cancer potential activities. However, its roles in tumor angiogenesis and the involved molecular mechanism are unknown.

Method

To evaluate the antiangiogenic and anticancer activities of AL, endothelial cell scratch, modified Boyden chamber inserts and tube formation assays were done in HUVECs, and MTT and Live-Dead assays were used to determine the proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction of colorectal cancer cellsin vitro.The inhibition effects of AL were further confirmed by a mouse xenograft modelin vivo. The expression levels of STAT3 signaling pathway and that mediated-target genes were measured in HUVECs and SW620 cells by Western blots.

Results

Here, we demonstrated that AL significantly inhibited HUVECs proliferation, migration and tube formationin vitro. Western blotting showed that AL suppressed activation of VEGF receptor (VEGFR) 2 and STAT3 phosphorylation in endothelial cells. In addition, the constitutively activated STAT3 protein, and the expression of STAT3-regulated antiapoptotic (Bcl-xL), proliferative (c-Myc), and angiogenic (VEGF) proteins were also down-regulated in response to AL in human SW620 cancer cells. Consistent with the above findings, AL inhibited tumor cell viability and induced cell apoptosisin vitro, and substantially reduced tumor volumes and weight invivomouse xenografts, without obviously toxicity.

Conclusion

Our studies provided the first evidence that AL may inhibit tumor angiogenesis and growthviablocking STAT3 activation, with the potential of a drug candidate for cancer therapy.
Students’ awareness of malaria at the beginning of national malaria elimination programme in China
Authors: Yin Jian-hai , Wang Ru-bo , Xia Zhi-gui , Zhou Shui-sen , Zhou Xiao-nong , Zhang Qing-feng , Feng Xin-yu
Published: July 2013

Background

In the battle against malaria in China, the rate of elementary and high school students’ awareness on malaria knowledge is an important index for malaria elimination, but only rare data is available. This study aimed to investigate the level of malaria awareness in students at elementary and high schools in malaria endemic areas of China, and to provide the baseline information for the malaria elimination.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey was conducted in 20 different malaria-endemic provinces in the first year of China’s National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP). A structured questionnaire was administrated to students at elementary and high schools enrolled. A total of 44,519 questionnaires were effective while 1,220 were excluded because of incomplete survey responses.

Results

More than 60% of students were aware of malaria, but only 9,013 of them answered correctly to all five questions, and there were still 1,862 students unaware of malaria. There were significant differences of the awareness of malaria among different age groups, between male and female, between two different education levels.

Discussion

The study reveals that students at elementary and high school levels did not have adequate knowledge of malaria about biology, pathogenicity, transmitting vectors and preventive methods and so on at the beginning of NMEP in China. Further emphasis should be paid on health education campaigns in China to increase students’ public awareness of malaria about vector control, treatment, prevention.
An iterative approach to mixed equilibrium problems and fixed points problems
Authors: Yao Yonghong , Liou Yeong-Cheng , Kang Shin Min
Published: July 2013

In the present paper, an iterative algorithm for solving mixed equilibrium problems and fixed points problems has been constructed. It is shown that under some mild conditions, the sequence generated by the presented algorithm converges strongly to the common solution of mixed equilibrium problems and fixed points problems. As an application, we can find the minimum norm element without involving projection.

MSC:47J05, 47J25, 47H09.
Successive iteration and positive solutions of a fractional boundary value problem on the half-line
Authors: Xie Wenzhe , Luo Zhiguo , Xiao Jing
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we study the existence of positive solutions for a nonlinear fractional boundary value problem on the half-line. Based on the monotone iterative technique, we obtain the existence of positive solutions of a fractional boundary value problem and establish iterative schemes for approximating the solutions. As application, an example is presented to illustrate the main results.

MSC:34A08, 34A12, 34B40.
Vitamin D receptor ChIP-seq in primary CD4+ cells: relationship to serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and autoimmune disease
Authors: Handel Adam E , Sandve Geir K , Disanto Giulio , Berlanga-Taylor Antonio J , Gallone Giuseppe , Hanwell Heather , Drabløs Finn , Giovannoni Gavin , Ebers George C , Ramagopalan Sreeram V
Published: July 2013

Background

Vitamin D insufficiency has been implicated in autoimmunity. ChIP-seq experiments using immune cell lines have shown that vitamin D receptor (VDR) binding sites are enriched near regions of the genome associated with autoimmune diseases. We aimed to investigate VDR binding in primary CD4+ cells from healthy volunteers.

Methods

We extracted CD4+ cells from nine healthy volunteers. Each sample underwent VDR ChIP-seq. Our results were analyzed in relation to published ChIP-seq and RNA-seq data in the Genomic HyperBrowser. We used MEMEChIP for de novo motif discovery. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D levels were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and samples were divided into vitamin D sufficient (25(OH)D ≥75 nmol/L) and insufficient/deficient (25(OH)D <75 nmol/L) groups.

Results

We found that the amount of VDR binding is correlated with the serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (r = 0.92, P= 0.0005). In vivo VDR binding sites are enriched for autoimmune disease associated loci, especially when 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels (25(OH)D) were sufficient (25(OH)D ≥75: 3.13-fold, P<0.0001; 25(OH)D <75: 2.76-fold, P<0.0001; 25(OH)D ≥75 enrichment versus 25(OH)D <75 enrichment: P= 0.0002). VDR binding was also enriched near genes associated specifically with T-regulatory and T-helper cells in the 25(OH)D ≥75 group. MEME ChIP did not identify any VDR-like motifs underlying our VDR ChIP-seq peaks.

Conclusion

Our results show a direct correlation between in vivo 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and the number of VDR binding sites, although our sample size is relatively small. Our study further implicates VDR binding as important in gene-environment interactions underlying the development of autoimmunity and provides a biological rationale for 25-hydroxyvitamin D sufficiency being based at 75 nmol/L. Our results also suggest that VDR binding in response to physiological levels of vitamin D occurs predominantly in a VDR motif-independent manner.
Low-cost evaluation and real-time feedback of static and dynamic weight bearing asymmetry in patients undergoing in-patient physiotherapy rehabilitation for neurological conditions
Authors: Foo Joanna , Paterson Kade , Williams Gavin , Clark Ross
Published: July 2013

Background

Weight bearing asymmetry is common in patients with neurological conditions, and recent advances in gaming technology have produced force platforms that are suitable for use in a clinical setting. The aim of this research is to determine whether commercially-available Wii Balance Boards with customized software providing real-time feedback could be used in a clinical setting to evaluate and improve weight-bearing asymmetry in people with various neurological conditions.

Methods

Twenty participants (age = 43.25 ± 19.37 years) receiving physiotherapy as a result of a neurological condition performed three trials each of two tasks (static standing and sit-to-stand) with and without visual feedback. Vertical forces were measured using available Wii Balance Boards coupled with customized software that displayed visual feedback in real-time. Primary outcome measures included weight-bearing asymmetry as a percentage of body mass, peak force symmetry index, and a visual analogue scale score rating self-perceived level of asymmetry.

Results

Weight-bearing asymmetry during the static balance task was significantly reduced (Z = −2.912,p = 0.004, ES = 0.65) with visual feedback. There was no significant difference (Z = −0.336,p = 0.737) with visual feedback for the dynamic task, however subgroup analysis indicated that those with higher weight-bearing asymmetry responded the most to feedback. Correlation analysis revealed little or no relationship between participant perception of weight-bearing asymmetry and the results for the static or dynamic balance task (Spearman’s rho: ρ = 0.138,p = 0.561 and ρ = 0.018, ρ =0.940 respectively).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that weight-bearing asymmetry can be reduced during static tasks in patients with neurological conditions using inexpensive commercially-available Wii Balance Boards coupled with customized visual feedback software. Further research is needed to determine whether real-time visual feedback is appropriate for reducing dynamic weight-bearing asymmetry, whether improvements result in improved physical function, and how cognitive and physical impairments influence the patient’s ability to respond to treatment.
Obesity and the risk of late mortality after aortic valve replacement with small prosthesis
Authors: Wang Biao , Yang Hongyang , Wu Shuming , Cao Guangqing , Yang Hongling
Published: July 2013

Background

Whether obesity is related to late mortality with implantation of small aortic prosthesis remains to be clarified. This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of obesity on late survival of patients after aortic valve replacement (AVR) with implantation of small aortic prosthesis (size ≤ 21 mm).

Methods

From January 1998 to December 2008, 307 patients in our institution who underwent primary AVR with smaller prostheses survived the 30 days after surgery. Patients were defined as normal if body mass index (BMI) was < 24 kg/m2, as overweight if BMI 24–27.9 kg/m2, and as obese if BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2. Data of New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), effective orifice area index (EOAI), and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) of the patients collected at the 3rd month (M), 6th M, 1st year (Y), 3rd Y, 5th Y, 8th Y after operation respectively.

Results

By multivariable analysis, obesity was an independent factor of late mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.62; P = 0.01). The obesity and overweight group had more poor survival (p < 0.001) and higher proportion of NYHA class III/IV (p < 0.01) compared with the normal group. Lower EOAI and higher LVMI were found in obesity and overweight group, but we saw no significant difference about LVEF among the three groups.

Conclusions

Obesity was associated with increased late mortality of patients after AVR with implantation of small aortic prosthesis. Being obese or and overweight may also affect the NYHA classification, even in the longer term. EOAI should be improved where possible, as it may reduce late mortality and improve quality of life in obese or overweight patients.
A core microbiome associated with the peritoneal tumors of pseudomyxoma peritonei
Authors: Gilbreath Jeremy J , Semino-Mora Cristina , Friedline Christopher J , Liu Hui , Bodi Kip L , McAvoy Thomas J , Francis Jennifer , Nieroda Carol , Sardi Armando , Dubois Andre , Lazinski David W , Camilli Andrew , Testerman Traci L , Merrell D Scott
Published: July 2013

Background

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a malignancy characterized by dissemination of mucus-secreting cells throughout the peritoneum. This disease is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and despite effective treatment options for early-stage disease, patients with PMP often relapse. Thus, there is a need for additional treatment options to reduce relapse rate and increase long-term survival. A previous study identified the presence of both typed and non-culturable bacteria associated with PMP tissue and determined that increased bacterial density was associated with more severe disease. These findings highlighted the possible role for bacteria in PMP disease.

Methods

To more clearly define the bacterial communities associated with PMP disease, we employed a sequenced-based analysis to profile the bacterial populations found in PMP tumor and mucin tissue in 11 patients. Sequencing data were confirmed by in situ hybridization at multiple taxonomic depths and by culturing. A pilot clinical study was initiated to determine whether the addition of antibiotic therapy affected PMP patient outcome.

Main results

We determined that the types of bacteria present are highly conserved in all PMP patients; the dominant phyla are the Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. A core set of taxon-specific sequences were found in all 11 patients; many of these sequences were classified into taxonomic groups that also contain known human pathogens. In situ hybridization directly confirmed the presence of bacteria in PMP at multiple taxonomic depths and supported our sequence-based analysis. Furthermore, culturing of PMP tissue samples allowed us to isolate 11 different bacterial strains from eight independent patients, and in vitro analysis of subset of these isolates suggests that at least some of these strains may interact with the PMP-associated mucin MUC2. Finally, we provide evidence suggesting that targeting these bacteria with antibiotic treatment may increase the survival of PMP patients.

Conclusions

Using 16S amplicon-based sequencing, direct in situ hybridization analysis and culturing methods, we have identified numerous bacterial taxa that are consistently present in all PMP patients tested. Combined with data from a pilot clinical study, these data support the hypothesis that adding antimicrobials to the standard PMP treatment could improve PMP patient survival.
Protein biomarkers distinguish between high- and low-risk pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a tissue specific manner
Authors: Braoudaki Maria , Lambrou George I , Vougas Konstantinos , Karamolegou Kalliopi , Tsangaris George T , Tzortzatou-Stathopoulou Fotini
Published: July 2013

The current study evaluated the differential expression detected in the proteomic profiles of low risk- and high risk- ALL pediatric patients to characterize candidate biomarkers related to diagnosis, prognosis and patient targeted therapy. Bone marrow and peripheral blood plasma and cell lysates samples were obtained from pediatric patients with low- (LR) and high-risk (HR) ALL at diagnosis. As controls, non-leukemic pediatric patients were studied. Cytogenetic analysis was carried out by G- banding and interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization. Differential proteomic analysis was performed using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and protein identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The differential expression of certain proteins was confirmed by Western blot analysis. The obtained data revealed that CLUS, CERU, APOE, APOA4, APOA1, GELS, S10A9, AMBP, ACTB, CATA and AFAM proteins play a significant role in leukemia prognosis, potentially serving as distinctive biomarkers for leukemia aggressiveness, or as suppressor proteins in HR-ALL cases. In addition, vitronectin and plasminogen probably contributed to leukemogenesis, whilst bicaudal D-related protein 1 could afford a significant biomarker for pediatric ALL therapeutics.
A big data approach to the ultra-fast prediction of DFT-calculated bond energies
Authors: Qu Xiaohui , Latino Diogo ARS , Aires-de-Sousa Joao
Published: July 2013

Background

The rapid access to intrinsic physicochemical properties of molecules is highly desired for large scale chemical data mining explorations such as mass spectrum prediction in metabolomics, toxicity risk assessment and drug discovery. Large volumes of data are being produced by quantum chemistry calculations, which provide increasing accurate estimations of several properties, e.g. by Density Functional Theory (DFT), but are still too computationally expensive for those large scale uses. This work explores the possibility of using large amounts of data generated by DFT methods for thousands of molecular structures, extracting relevant molecular properties and applying machine learning (ML) algorithms to learn from the data. Once trained, these ML models can be applied to new structures to produce ultra-fast predictions. An approach is presented for homolytic bond dissociation energy (BDE).

Results

Machine learning models were trained with a data set of >12,000 BDEs calculated by B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p)//DFTB. Descriptors were designed to encode atom types and connectivity in the 2D topological environment of the bonds. The best model, an Associative Neural Network (ASNN) based on 85 bond descriptors, was able to predict the BDE of 887 bonds in an independent test set (covering a range of 17.67–202.30 kcal/mol) with RMSD of 5.29 kcal/mol, mean absolute deviation of 3.35 kcal/mol, and R
2 = 0.953. The predictions were compared with semi-empirical PM6 calculations, and were found to be superior for all types of bonds in the data set, except for O-H, N-H, and N-N bonds. The B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p)//DFTB calculations can approach the higher-level calculations B3LYP/6-311++G(3df,2p)//B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) with an RMSD of 3.04 kcal/mol, which is less than the RMSD of ASNN (against both DFT methods). An experimental web service for on-line prediction of BDEs is available at http://joao.airesdesousa.com/bde.

Conclusion

Knowledge could be automatically extracted by machine learning techniques from a data set of calculated BDEs, providing ultra-fast access to accurate estimations of DFT-calculated BDEs. This demonstrates how to extract value from large volumes of data currently being produced by quantum chemistry calculations at an increasing speed mostly without human intervention. In this way, high-level theoretical quantum calculations can be used in large-scale applications that otherwise would not afford the intrinsic computational cost.