bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Statistical Method for Reassociating Human Tali and Calcanei from a Commingled Context
Authors: Anastopoulou Ioanna , Karakostis Fotios A. , Borrini Matteo , Moraitis Konstantinos
Published: June 2017

In a commingled context, assessing that a talus and a calcaneus correspond to the same individual could become a primary step for accurately sorting human remains. For this purpose, the lengths and widths of the trochlea, posterior calcaneal articular surface, and posterior talar articular surface were measured in 197 individuals (105 males, 92 females) from the Athens Collection. A total of 12 highly accurate equations for reassociating tali and calcanei were developed, using simple and multiple linear regression analysis and they were found to be suitable for sorting commingled human remains. Bilateral asymmetry and sex did not have an effect on the accuracy of the method.
Atypical intraductal proliferation and intraductal carcinoma of the prostate on core needle biopsy: a comparative clinicopathological and molecular study with a proposal to expand the morphological spectrum of intraductal carcinoma
Authors: Shah Rajal B , Yoon Jiyoon , Liu Gang , Tian Wei
Published: June 2017

Aims

Atypical intraductal proliferation (AIP) of the prostate is histologically worse than high‐grade prostate intraepithelial neoplasia, but lacks the diagnostic criteria of intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDC‐P). The aim of this study was to compare the clinicopathological and molecular characteristics (ERG overexpression and PTEN loss) of AIP and IDC‐P in core needle biopsies.

Methods and results

One hundred and six [84 (5.6%) of 1480 consecutive and 22 retrospectively collected] cases met the criteria: AIP only (2.4%), IDC‐P only (1.3%), and IDC‐P coexisting with AIP (2%). Invasive adenocarcinoma [prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa)] was present in 96% and 97% cases of AIP and IDC‐P, respectively. The mean number of glands/focus and the largest gland diameter for AIP and IDC‐P were 7.6 (range, 2–27) and 11.7 (range, 1–51), and 0.59 mm (range, 0.2–1.1 mm) and 0.75 mm (range, 0.2–1.8 mm), respectively. For AIP, loose cribriform architecture was the most common (93%) morphology. IDC‐P‐associated PCa had more aggressive pathology, including the highest combined Gleason score (GS), high‐grade GS ≥ 4 + 3, and largest percentage involvement of core by PCa and percentage positive cores, than AIP‐associated PCa (P < 0.05). Within the AIP group, ERG status and PTEN status were similar to those of adjacent PCa in 97% and 88% of cases, respectively. Within the IDC‐P group, ERG status and PTEN status were similar among IDC‐P, AIP and PCa in 96% and 91% of cases, respectively. PTEN loss was frequently heterogeneous in PCa, and localized adjacent to AIP or IDC‐P.

Conclusions

AIP represents a lower‐grade morphological spectrum of IDC‐P, associated with intermediate‐risk PCa. Patients with only AIP need an immediate repeat biopsy to rule out clinically significant PCa.
Lysyl oxidase‐mediated VEGF‐induced differentiation and angiogenesis in human dental pulp cells
Authors: Bae W‐J. , Yi J‐K. , Park J. , Kang S‐K. , Jang J‐H. , Kim E‐C.
Published: June 2017

Aim

To investigate the effects of recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor (rhVEGF) on odontoblastic differentiation, in vitro angiogenesis, and expression and activity of lysyl oxidase (LOX) in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs), compared with rhFGF‐2. To identify the underlying molecular mechanisms, the study focused on whether LOX was responsible for the actions of rhVEGF.

Methodology

Recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor (rhVEGF) was constructed using the pBAD‐HisA plasmid in Escherichia coli. HDPCs were treated with 1–50 μg mL−1 rhVEGF for 14 days. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was measured, and the formation of calcified nodules was assessed using alizarin red staining after the induction of odontogenic differentiation of HDPCs. The expression level of the odontogenic differentiation markers was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Signal pathways were assessed by Western blot and immunocytochemistry. The data were analysed by anova with Bonferroni's test (α = 0.05).

Results

Recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor significantly increased cell growth (P < 0.05), ALP activity (P < 0.05) and mineralization nodule formation and upregulated the mRNA expression levels of the osteogenic/odontogenic markers that were lower with rhFGF‐2. rhVEGF significantly increased amine oxidase activity (P < 0.05) and upregulated LOX and LOXL mRNA expression in HDPCs. Additionally, rhVEGF dose‐dependently upregulated angiogenic gene mRNAs and capillary tube formation to a greater degree than rhFGF‐2. Inhibition of LOX using β‐aminopropionitrile (BAPN) and LOX or LOXL gene silencing by RNA interference attenuated rhVEGF‐induced growth, ALP activity, mineralization, the expression of marker mRNAs and in vitro angiogenesis. Furthermore, treatment with rhVEGF resulted in phosphorylation of Akt, ERK, JNK and p38, and activation of NF‐κB, which was inhibited by LOX or LOXL silencing and BAPN.

Conclusion

Recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor promoted cell growth, odontogenic potential and in vitro angiogenesis via modulation of LOX expression. These results support the concept that rhVEGF may offer therapeutic benefits in regenerative endodontics.
Age of onset of disease in subjects with severe periodontitis: A 9‐ to 34‐year retrospective study
Authors: Thorbert‐Mros Sara , Cassel Björn , Berglundh Tord
Published: June 2017

Aim

The aim was to retrospectively assess the age of onset of disease in a group of patients, 30‐45 years of age, diagnosed with severe, generalised periodontitis.

Material & methods

Seventy‐four patients agreed to be part of the study. Patient files and radiographs of 42 patients were retrieved from >80 private and public dental clinics. Interproximal sites in radiographs presenting with identifiable cement‐enamel junction (CEJ) and alveolar bone crest (BC) were analysed. The distance between CEJ and BC was measured, and two thresholds were used; ≥3 mm and ≥5 mm. The lowest patient age at which a radiographic examination revealed a CEJ‐BC distance of ≥3 mm (F3) and ≥5 mm (F5) at any site was recorded. Similarly, the highest patient age at which a radiographic examination revealed absence of sites with CEJ‐BC ≥3 mm (L0) was assessed.

Results

Complete sets of radiographs including periods prior to periodontal breakdown (L0) and disease stages F3, F5 and at recruitment were retrieved in 19 patients. Onset of disease, that is, the interval between L0 and F3, occurred on the average between 22.3 and 28.1 years of age and sites exhibiting severe bone loss (F5) were detected at the age of about 32.4 years.

Conclusion

Severe, generalised periodontitis in 30‐ to 45‐year‐old subjects of the current sample commenced mainly between 22 and 28 years of age.
A New Statistic for Detection of Aberrant Answer Changes
Authors: Sinharay Sandip , Duong Minh Q. , Wood Scott W.
Published: June 2017

As noted by Fremer and Olson, analysis of answer changes is often used to investigate testing irregularities because the analysis is readily performed and has proven its value in practice. Researchers such as Belov, Sinharay and Johnson, van der Linden and Jeon, van der Linden and Lewis, and Wollack, Cohen, and Eckerly have suggested several statistics for detection of aberrant answer changes. This article suggests a new statistic that is based on the likelihood ratio test. An advantage of the new statistic is that it follows the standard normal distribution under the null hypothesis of no aberrant answer changes. It is demonstrated in a detailed simulation study that the Type I error rate of the new statistic is very close to the nominal level and the power of the new statistic is satisfactory in comparison to those of several existing statistics for detecting aberrant answer changes. The new statistic and several existing statistics were shown to provide useful information for a real data set. Given the increasing interest in analysis of answer changes, the new statistic promises to be useful to measurement practitioners.
Long‐term fertilizer regimes have both direct and indirect effects on arthropod community composition and feeding guilds
Authors: Evans E. C. , Sanderson R. A.
Published: June 2017

Vegetation species composition and structure are known to affect taxonomic composition and life‐history characteristics of arthropod communities. Soil conditions alter vegetation composition and structure, and thus, soils have indirect effects on arthropods. Whilst grassland management affects soil properties, and hence vegetation, the direct effects of soil on arthropod communities within the sward are less clear. We used a long‐term hay meadow experiment to assess both direct and indirect effects of various fertilizer regimes on arthropod community composition and feeding guilds. Arthropods were sampled via pitfall traps and sweep nets and then analysed using principal components and redundancy analyses (RDA) to determine relationships between soil properties, vegetation community, forage quality and arthropod community. Vegetation community composition, measured by the first vegetation principal component, was used as a constraining variable in partial RDA, to estimate direct effects of soil on the arthropods. Variance partitioning quantified the relative roles of vegetation and soil on the arthropod community. Our results indicate that available soil nitrogen and carbon–nitrogen ratios are important determinants of arthropod community composition. Once the effects of the vegetation were removed, it was found the soil acidity and the available potassium altered arthropod community composition. Further research is required to determine the mechanisms by which these soil properties affect arthropod communities.
Suitability assessment of three Trichogramma species in the control of Mythimna separata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Huang J. , Hua H.‐Q. , Zhang F. , Li Y.‐X.
Published: June 2017

Mythimna separata (Walker) is a serious cosmopolitan pest. Trichogramma species have been used worldwide as biological control agents of lepidopteran pests. However, no data on the control efficiency of Trichogramma species on this pest have been reported. We evaluated the suitability of M. separata eggs for three Trichogramma species, Trichogramma dendrolimi Matsumura, T. ostriniae Pang et Chen and T. japonicum Ashmead, and compared the suitability with that of Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) eggs. The parasitism rate, development time, emergence rate, female proportion, body size and egg load of female offspring indicated that the M. separata egg is a suitable host for the three Trichogramma species. On the other hand, the non‐emergence rate and the relationship between egg load and body size reflected that M. separata eggs are less suitable for the three Trichogramma species than C. cephalonica eggs. Egg resorption occurred in T. japonicum 4 days after emergence.
Sexual Minority Stress and Same‐Sex Relationship Well‐being: A Meta‐analysis of Research Prior to the U.S. Nationwide Legalization of Same‐Sex Marriage
Authors: Cao Hongjian , Zhou Nan , Fine Mark , Liang Yue , Li Jiayao , Mills‐Koonce W. Roger
Published: June 2017

Meta‐analytic methods were used to analyze 179 effect sizes retrieved from 32 research reports on the implications that sexual minority stress may have for same‐sex relationship well‐being. Sexual minority stress (aggregated across different types of stress) is moderately and negatively associated with same‐sex relationship well‐being (aggregated across different dimensions of relationship well‐being). Internalized homophobia is significantly and negatively associated with same‐sex relationship well‐being, whereas heterosexist discrimination and sexual orientation visibility management are not. Moreover, the effect size for internalized homophobia is significantly larger than those for heterosexist discrimination and sexual orientation visibility management. Sexual minority stress is significantly and negatively associated with same‐sex relationship quality but not associated with closeness or stability. Sexual minority stress is significantly and negatively associated with relationship well‐being among same‐sex female couples but not among same‐sex male couples. The current status of research approaches in this field is also summarized and discussed.
Effect of iron supplementation in children with breath holding spells
Authors: Jain Rahul , Omanakuttan Divin , Singh Amitabh , Jajoo Mamta
Published: June 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of iron supplementation in children with breath holding spells, irrespective of their iron status and study the factors associated with the response.

Methods

This was a prospective interventional study. Study population comprised of patients aged 6–36 months, attending a paediatric outpatient department with recurrent episodes (more than three in last 4 weeks) of breath holding spells. Children with loss of consciousness or convulsive movements associated with breath holding spells were considered as severe. After baseline investigations, all enrolled patients were given elemental iron at the dose of 3 mg/kg/day as a single daily dose. Four weekly follow‐ups were done until 3 months after initiation of the intervention. At 12 weeks, investigations were repeated and outcome assessed for remission or decrease in severity of breath holding episodes.

Results

A total of 100 children with breath holding spells received iron supplementation. Almost 73% of children showed complete response, with another 23% showing greater than 50% reduction in frequency. Frequency of spells at diagnosis and intolerance to oral iron were significantly associated with poor response to iron supplementation. Other factors such as age at onset, age at presentation, severity of spells, anaemia and serum iron parameters had no significant association with the response. Of the 27 children without iron deficiency (serum ferritin ≥ 30 µg/L), 77.7% responded completely to iron supplementation, similar to the iron‐deficient group.

Conclusions

Iron supplementation is effective in the management of breath holding spells. Non‐anaemic and iron‐replete children with breath holding spells also respond well to iron supplementation.
Fungi inhabiting knotwood ofPinus sylvestrisinfected byPorodaedalea pini
Authors: Szewczyk Wojciech , Kwaśna Hanna , Behnke‐Borowczyk Jolanta
Published: June 2017

Abundance and diversity of fungi in naturally formed knots ofPinus sylvestrisaffected byPorodaedalea piniwere investigated. Samples were taken from trees that were (i) affected, with internal heartwood decay and no conks, (ii) affected, with internal heartwood decay and conks and (iii) controls. The Illumina sequencing technology was used for amplification ofDNA, sequencing and analysis. In total, 566,279 raw sequences were obtained from six samples. Sequences included 74% of culturable and 8.4% of non‐culturable fungi and 17.6% of organisms with no reference sequences inNCBI. Abundance of organisms in knotwood, measured as number ofOTUs, ranged from 36,272 (29,506 for fungi) to 178,535 (177,484 for fungi) and differed significantly between two trees in a stand and between stands. The highest and lowest average number of fungalOTUs occurred in infected trees with no conks and in trees with conks, respectively. Number of taxa ranged from 171 to 415 and often differed significantly between two trees in one stand and between stands. Greatest diversity occurred in control trees. The number of fungal taxa shared by two trees in one stand was 67–152 and that shared by two stands was 51–141. The majority of fungi were Ascomycota. Those most common in pines affected byP. piniwereConiochaeta hoffmanniiandC. fodinicola(19.65%–59.92%).Infundichalara microchona,Leotiomycetes spp. andRhinocladiella atrovirenswere also present. Another common species,Lecanora conizaeoides,occurred most often in control trees (0.30%–8.82%).Porodaedalea piniwas detected only sporadically. Non‐culturable fungi were most frequent in the control trees. The greater average abundance and smaller average diversity of fungi in knots of trees infected byP. pinisuggest that the pathogen successfully competes with some fungal species and does not inhibit the growth of survivors. Some fungi detected may contribute to production of natural biocides.
Red blood cells for transfusion in patients with sepsis: respective roles of unit age and exposure to recipient plasma
Authors: Chadebech Philippe , Bodivit Gwellaouen , Razazi Keyvan , de Vassoigne Christophe , Pellé Laurence , Burin‐des‐Roziers Nicolas , Bocquet Thibault , Bierling Philippe , Djoudi Rachid , Mekontso‐Dessap Armand , Pirenne France
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Red blood cell (RBC) storage in blood banks is not exempt from cellular injury. Alterations not observed on RBCs freshly isolated from units can rapidly appear in circulation. The transfusion of old blood units, even if this is a controversial issue, could therefore have adverse effects on the recipient. We wanted to determine the respective effects of storage duration and recipient plasma on RBCs for transfusion into patients with severe sepsis.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Eleven stored RBC units were sampled at various time points, approximately Days 3 to 8 (referred to as fresh RBCs) and Days 38 to 42 (old RBCs) and tested in coincubation experiments with plasma obtained from 13 patients with severe sepsis and 17 healthy donors as controls. RBCs were tested after 24 or 48 hours at 37°C for the detection of senescence markers (phosphatidylserine exposure, calcium influx, and reactive oxygen species detection and decrease in size) with or without exposure to plasma.

RESULTS

We confirmed that a 42‐day refrigerated storage of RBCs alone (without any incubation in plasma) had no significant effect on RBCs and no senescence marker detected. By contrast, ex vivo exposure to plasma samples altered both fresh and old RBCs, with a much larger effect for old RBCs, regardless of the plasma used (sepsis vs. control).

CONCLUSION

We show that the main factor affecting the senescence of RBCs for transfusion into patients with severe sepsis is the age of the stored units rather than the clinical status of the recipient.
The Relationship between Entrepreneurial Orientation and Performance; Evidence from Turkish SMEs
Authors: Platin Nida , Ergun Hande Sinem
Published: June 2017

This research aims to find the factors linked to Entrepreneurial orientation and corporate entrepreneurship that effect export and sales growth performance of SMEs. Thereby a model was developed to reveal the relationship between these factors. The questionnaire had parts such as general information about firm and owner/manager, entrepreneurial orientation, corporate entrepreneurship and growth in sales revenue and exportation rate over the most recent 3 year period of the SMEs. The measurements have been gathered together in 72 item in survey and applied to 163 SMEs manufacturing generally in Ankara and Bursa, Turkey. The result showed that entrepreneurial orientation is positively and significantly related with SMEs’ sales growth and exportation performances. SMEs have to be proactive in any circumstances and especially exporter SMEs need to be more risk taking than proactive and least innovative. Also organizational boundaries has greater effect on performance than other dimensions of corporate entrepreneurship.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Willianms Ellery
Published: June 2017

Business and Management Studies (BMS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether BMS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 3, Number 2 Andrzej Niemiec, Poznań University of Economics and Business, PolandArash Riasi, University of Delaware, USAAshford Chea, Benedict College, USABashar Y. Almansour, Taibah University, JordanFlorin Peci, University of Peja, KosovoFouad Jawab, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben, MoroccoGongyan Yang, Liaoning University, ChinaJayalakshmy Ramachandran, Multimedia University, MalaysiaKenichi Shimizu, Technical University of Braunschweig, GermanyKherchi Ishak, UHBC University, AlgeriaMarica Ion Dumitrasco, Academy of Sciences of Moldova, MoldovaMartin Sung, Hubei Economic and Finance University, ChinaMike Rayner, University of Portsmouth, UKMohammad Sadeghi, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, IranMohammad Soliman, Fayoum University, EgyptMythili Kolluru, Ibra College of Technology, OmanOmbretta Caldarice, Politecnico di Milano, ItalyOnur Dogan, Dokuz Eylül University, TurkeyRashedul Hasan, International Islamic University Malaysia, MalaysiaRegina Lenart-Gansiniec, Jagiellonian University, PolandRocsana Tonis, Spiru Haret University, RomaniaRuoniu Wang, University of Florida, USATaro Abe, Nagoya Gakuin University, JapanTetiana Paientko, National University of Tax Service of Ukraine, UkraineXhavit Islami, University of Prishtina, KosovoYang Zhao, Sanofi Genzyme, USAYanzhe Zhang, University of Canberra, AustraliaYao Liu, University Malaysia Pahang, MalaysiaZeki Atıl Bulut, Dokuz Eylul University, TurkeyZoran Mastilo, University of East Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina  Ellery WillianmsEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Business and Management StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://bms.redfame.com
Rapid Engineering of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine and Challenge Viruses
Authors: Lee Seo-Yong , Lee Yeo-Joo , Kim Rae-Hyung , Park Jeong-Nam , Park Min-Eun , Ko Mi-Kyeong , Choi Joo-Hyung , Chu Jia-Qi , Lee Kwang-Nyeong , Kim Su-Mi , Tark Dongseob , Lee Hyang-Sim , Ko Young-Joon , Seo Min-Goo , Park Jung-Won , Kim Byounghan , Lee Myoung-Heon , Lee Jong-Soo , Park Jong-Hyeon
Published: June 2017

There are seven antigenically distinct serotypes of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), each of which has intratypic variants. In the present study, we have developed methods to efficiently generate promising vaccines against seven serotypes or subtypes. The capsid-encoding gene (P1) of the vaccine strain O1/Manisa/Turkey/69 was replaced with the amplified or synthetic genes from the O, A, Asia1, C, SAT1, SAT2, and SAT3 serotypes. Viruses of the seven serotype were rescued successfully. Each chimeric FMDV with a replacement of P1 showed serotype-specific antigenicity and varied in terms of pathogenesis in pigs and mice. Vaccination of pigs with an experimental trivalent vaccine containing the inactivated recombinants based on the main serotypes O, A, and Asia1 effectively protected them from virus challenge. This technology could be a potential strategy for a customized vaccine with challenge tools to protect against epizootic disease caused by specific serotypes or subtypes of FMDV.

IMPORTANCE
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) virus (FMDV) causes significant economic losses. For vaccine preparation, the selection of vaccine strains was complicated by high antigenic variation. In the present study, we suggested an effective strategy to rapidly prepare and evaluate mass-produced customized vaccines against epidemic strains. The P1 gene encoding the structural proteins of the well-known vaccine virus was replaced by the synthetic or amplified genes of viruses of seven representative serotypes. These chimeric viruses generally replicated readily in cell culture and had a particle size similar to that of the original vaccine strain. Their antigenicity mirrored that of the original serotype from which their P1 gene was derived. Animal infection experiments revealed that the recombinants varied in terms of pathogenicity. This strategy will be a useful tool for rapidly generating customized FMD vaccines or challenge viruses for all serotypes, especially for FMD-free countries, which have prohibited the import of FMDVs.
Classical stability of higher-derivative q-theory in the four-form-field-strength realization
Authors: Klinkhamer F. R. , Mistele T.
Published: June 2017

We show that higher-derivative q-theory in the four-form-field-strength realization does not suffer from the Ostrogradsky instability at the classical level.
Effects of element doping on electronic structures and optical properties in cubic boron nitride from first-principles
Authors: Wei Yin , Wang Hongjie , Lu Xuefeng , Fan Xingyu , Wei Heng
Published: June 2017

Attractive potential applications of cubic boron nitride (c-BN) derive from the properties of semiconductors, widely used in optoelectronic and microelectronic devices. In this paper, the effects of element doping on the electronic structures and optical properties in cubic boron nitride are investigated. The Al- and Ga-doped systems have the lower bonding energies of −11.544 eV and −5.302 eV, respectively, indicating better stability. Difference charge density maps demonstrate that the electron loss increases after P doping and decreases after Al, Ga and As dopings, indicating that the covalent character of polar covalent bonds decreases by doping in the range of P, Al, Ga and As, which is in accordance with the calculated atom population values. The Al- and Ga-doped systems show lower dielectric loss, absorption and reflectivity in the lower energy region, displaying the “transparent-type” characteristic and their potential applications in electron devices.
Generalized graph states and mutually unbiased bases from multi-qudits phase states
Authors: Achkir O. , Daoud M. , Mansour M.
Published: June 2017

The description of qudits in a formalism based on a generalized variant of Weyl–Heisenberg algebras is discussed. The unitary phase operators for a multi-qudit system and the corresponding phase states (the eigenstates of the phase operator) are constructed. We discuss the dynamics of multi-qudit phase states governed by a generalized Hamiltonian involving one- and two-body interactions which offer a remarkable connection between phase states, generalized graph states and the mutually unbiased bases. The entangled phase states are shown to possess the following properties simultaneously, namely the mutually unbiasedness of phase states resulting from the one-body generalized oscillator Hamiltonian and the entanglement properties of generalized graph states resulting from the two-body interaction Hamiltonian.
Forest Pruning Based on Branch Importance
Authors: Jiang Xiangkui , Wu Chang-an , Guo Huaping
Published: June 2017

A forest is an ensemble with decision trees as members. This paper proposes a novel strategy to pruning forest to enhance ensemble generalization ability and reduce ensemble size. Unlike conventional ensemble pruning approaches, the proposed method tries to evaluate the importance of branches of trees with respect to the whole ensemble using a novel proposed metric called importance gain. The importance of a branch is designed by considering ensemble accuracy and the diversity of ensemble members, and thus the metric reasonably evaluates how much improvement of the ensemble accuracy can be achieved when a branch is pruned. Our experiments show that the proposed method can significantly reduce ensemble size and improve ensemble accuracy, no matter whether ensembles are constructed by a certain algorithm such as bagging or obtained by an ensemble selection algorithm, no matter whether each decision tree is pruned or unpruned.
The Impact of Community Structure on the Convergence Time of Opinion Dynamics
Authors: Lu An , Sun Chunhua , Liu Yezheng
Published: June 2017

We analyze the convergence time of opinion dynamics in a social network with community structure. Using matrix analysis, we prove that the convergence time is determined by the second largest eigenvalue modulus. This modulus is close to 1 if the social influence matrix is nearly uncoupled. Furthermore, we discuss and analyze the factors of community structure affecting the convergence time.
Cancer Screening Recommendations for Individuals with Li-Fraumeni Syndrome
Authors: Kratz Christian P. , Achatz Maria Isabel , Brugières Laurence , Frebourg Thierry , Garber Judy E. , Greer Mary-Louise C. , Hansford Jordan R. , Janeway Katherine A. , Kohlmann Wendy K. , McGee Rose , Mullighan Charles G. , Onel Kenan , Pajtler Kristian W. , Pfister Stefan M. , Savage Sharon A. , Schiffman Joshua D. , Schneider Katherine A. , Strong Louise C. , Evans D. Gareth R. , Wasserman Jonathan D. , Villani Anita , Malkin David
Published: June 2017

Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is an autosomal dominantly inherited condition caused by germline mutations of the TP53 tumor suppressor gene encoding p53, a transcription factor triggered as a protective cellular mechanism against different stressors. Loss of p53 function renders affected individuals highly susceptible to a broad range of solid and hematologic cancers. It has recently become evident that children and adults with LFS benefit from intensive surveillance aimed at early tumor detection. In October 2016, the American Association for Cancer Research held a meeting of international LFS experts to evaluate the current knowledge on LFS and propose consensus surveillance recommendations. Herein, we briefly summarize clinical and genetic aspects of this aggressive cancer predisposition syndrome. In addition, the expert panel concludes that there are sufficient existing data to recommend that all patients with LFS be offered cancer surveillance as soon as the clinical or molecular LFS diagnosis is established. Specifically, the panel recommends adoption of a modified version of the “Toronto protocol” that includes a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and imaging. The panel also recommends that further research be promoted to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of these risk-adapted surveillance and cancer prevention strategies while addressing the psychosocial needs of individuals and families with LFS. Clin Cancer Res; 23(11); e38–e45. ©2017 AACR.

See all articles in the online-only CCR Pediatric Oncology Series.
Effect of Permanent Right Internal Mammary Artery Closure on Coronary Collateral Function and Myocardial Ischemia
Authors: Stoller Michael , Seiler Christian
Published: June 2017

Background—

The objective of this study is to test the effect of permanent right internal mammary artery device closure on coronary collateral function and myocardial ischemia.

Methods and Results—

This was a prospective, open-label clinical trial in 50 patients with coronary artery disease. The primary study end point was coronary collateral flow index as obtained during a 1-minute proximal right coronary artery (RCA) and left coronary artery balloon occlusion at baseline before and at follow-up examination 6 weeks after distal right internal mammary artery device closure. Collateral flow index is the ratio between simultaneously recorded mean coronary occlusive pressure divided by mean aortic pressure, both subtracted by central venous pressure. Secondary study end points were fractional flow reserve during vessel patency, the quantitative intracoronary ECG ST-segment elevation, and angina pectoris during the same 1-minute coronary occlusion. Collateral flow index in the untreated RCA and left coronary artery changed from 0.071±0.082 at baseline to 0.132±0.117 (
P
<0.0001) at follow-up examination and from 0.106±0.092 to 0.081±0.079 (
P
=0.29), respectively. RCA fractional flow reserve increased significantly (
P
=0.0029) from baseline to follow-up examination, despite deferral of coronary intervention in all patients. There was a decrease in intracoronary ECG ST-elevation during RCA occlusion from baseline to follow-up examination (
P
=0.0015); it did not change in the left coronary artery. Angina pectoris during RCA occlusion tended to occur in fewer patients at follow-up versus baseline examination (
P
=0.06).

Conclusions—

Permanent right internal mammary artery device closure seems to augment extracardiac ipsilateral coronary supply to the effect of reducing ischemia in the dependent myocardial region.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02475408.
Significance of Microvascular Function in Visual—Functional Mismatch Between Invasive Coronary Angiography and Fractional Flow Reserve
Authors: Yonetsu Taishi , Murai Tadashi , Kanaji Yoshihisa , Lee Tetsumin , Matsuda Junji , Usui Eisuke , Hoshino Masahiro , Araki Makoto , Niida Takayuki , Hada Masahiro , Ichijo Sadamitsu , Hamaya Rikuta , Kanno Yoshinori , Kakuta Tsunekazu
Published: June 2017

Background

Despite a moderate correlation between angiographical stenosis and physiological significance, the mechanism of discordance has not been fully elucidated, particularly regarding the significance of microvascular function. This study sought to clarify whether microvascular function affects visual‐functional mismatch between quantitative coronary angiography (
QCA
) and fractional flow reserve (
FFR
).

Methods and Results

We assessed
QCA
,
FFR
, coronary flow reserve, and the index of microcirculatory resistance in 849 non‐left‐main coronary lesions with visually estimated intermediate stenoses from 532 patients. Clinical and lesion‐specific characteristics and physiological parameters associated with mismatch and reverse mismatch were studied. Coronary flow reserve and index of microcirculatory resistance showed a weak, but significant, correlation with
FFR
(R=0.306,
P
<0.001 and R=0.158,
P
<0.001, respectively). Four hundred twenty‐two lesions were visually nonsignificant (diameter stenosis assessed by QCA [
QCA
‐
DS
] ≤50%) and 427 lesions were visually significant (
QCA
‐
DS
>50%). Among visually nonsignificant lesions,
FFR
≤0.80 (reverse mismatch) was observed in 129 lesions (30.6%). Among visually significant lesions,
FFR
>0.80 (mismatch) were observed in 179 lesions (41.9%). The significant predictors of reverse mismatch were male sex, nonculprit lesions of acute coronary syndrome, left anterior descending artery location, smaller QCA reference diameter, greater
QCA
‐
DS
, lower coronary flow reserve, and lower index of microcirculatory resistance. Mismatch was associated with right coronary artery location, greater QCA reference diameter, smaller
QCA
‐
DS
, lesion length, higher coronary flow reserve, and higher index of microcirculatory resistance.

Conclusions

There was a high prevalence of visual‐functional mismatches between
QCA
and
FFR
. The discrepancy was related to clinical characteristics, lesion‐specific factors, and microvascular resistance that was undistinguishable by coronary angiography, thus suggesting the importance of physiological lesion assessment.
An annotated catalogue of the gamasid mites associated with small mammals in Asiatic Russia. The family Haemogamasidae (Acari: Mesostigmata: Gamasina)
Authors: VINARSKI MAXIM V. , KORALLO-VINARSKAYA NATALIA P.
Published: June 2017

We provide a list of the species of the family Haemogamasidae Oudemans, 1926 living in Asiatic Russia, with data on their synonymy, distribution, and relationships with mammal hosts. In total, 23 species of mites distributed between two genera (Eulaelaps Berlese, 1903, and Haemogamasus Berlese, 1889) are covered.
Preparation of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate)/silicon dioxide nanoparticles composite films with large thermoelectric power factor
Authors: Liu Endou , Liu Congcong , Zhu Zhengyou , Xu Jingkun , Jiang Fengxing , Wang Tongzhou , Li Changcun
Published: June 2017

Herein, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)/silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2-NPs) composite films were prepared via a simple method by direct vacuum filtration technique. The effect of SiO2-NPs contents on the thermoelectric performance of PEDOT:PSS was investigated systematically. PEDOT:PSS nanofilm without SiO2-NPs exhibited a maximum electrical conductivity of 1487 S cm−1 and a Seebeck coefficient of 17.4 µV/K. When the SiO2-NPs were introduced, the Seebeck coefficient of PEDOT:PSS/SiO2-NPs nanocomposite films increased to a peak value of 24.2 µV/K at 20 wt% SiO2-NPs, and the corresponding electrical conductivity was 1132 S/cm. Although a compromise in electrical conductivity, a large optimized power factor up to be 66.29 µW/m K2 was achieved due to the contribution of improved Seebeck coefficient. The presence of SiO2-NPs in the composite films with small-size structure and abundant grain boundaries may cause the carrier scattering and filtering effect, which accounts for the enhanced Seebeck coefficient.
Silver nanoparticles deposited on pyrogenic silica solids: Preparation and textural properties
Authors: Zienkiewicz-Strzałka M , Błachnio M , Deryło-Marczewska A , Kozakevych RB , Bolbukh YM , Tertykh VA
Published: June 2017

Silver-based nanomaterials and composites are important components in materials science and engineering due to the reactivity of silver nanophase based on exceptional surface effects. Ag-doped SiO2 nanocomposites were synthesized by wet impregnation procedure of aminopropyl-functionalized silica materials with submicrometer structure. Aminopropyl-functionalized pyrogenic silicon dioxide with amount of amino groups established as half and close to full monolayer was used to immobilize the nanosilver phase obtained from ammoniacal silver complex as a noble metal precursor. Pyrogenic silicon dioxide as an inexpensive nanostructured material with useful properties including adsorptive affinity for noble metal ions and organic macromolecules was applied as a support for diamminesilver(I) ions and finally for silver nanoparticles. In the present study, the effect of amino-functionalization and silver nanoparticles deposition was monitored by investigation of the textural properties and thermal stability of obtained nanocomposites. The properties of the nanocomposites were investigated by transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms, and thermal analysis (thermogravimetry/differential scanning calorimetry).
Improving the effectiveness of alcohol interlocks in New Zealand
Authors: Chester Caitlin , Roberts Hester
Published: June 2017

An alcohol interlock device is a breathalyser that is connected to the ignition of a car. To start the car, participants must provide an alcohol-free breath sample. During the trip, breath test updates will be requested, and details including distances and violations are recorded for monthly evaluation. The purpose of the device is to prevent individuals from driving under the influence of alcohol – a universal issue that impacts public safety. Alcohol interlock programmes have the potential to be effective while the device is fitted; however, success rates in reducing driving under the influence of alcohol are limited by factors such as low participation rates, and ineffectual long-term behavioural change. This article presents (1) a brief description of the research on alcohol interlock programmes, (2) barriers to low installation rates, (3) the impact interlocks have on daily life, and (4) showcase the approach that the Department of Corrections New Zealand is taking to maximise interlock effectiveness.
Comparison of quantitative Holocene temperature reconstructions using multiple proxies from a northern boreal lake
Authors: Shala Shyhrete , Helmens Karin F , Luoto Tomi P , Salonen J Sakari , Väliranta Minna , Weckström Jan
Published: June 2017

Four biotic proxies (plant macrofossils, pollen, chironomids and diatoms) are employed to quantitatively reconstruct variations in mean July air temperatures ( Tjul) at Lake Loitsana (northern Finland) during the Holocene. The aim is to evaluate the robustness and biases in these temperature reconstructions and to compare the timing of highest Tjul in the individual reconstructions. The reconstructed Tjul values are evaluated in relation to local-scale/site-specific processes associated with the Holocene lake development at Loitsana as these factors have been shown to significantly influence the fossil assemblages found in the Lake Loitsana sediments. While pollen-based temperatures follow the classical trend of gradually increasing early-Holocene Tjul with a mid-Holocene maximum, the aquatic/wetland assemblages reconstruct higher-than-present Tjul already during the early Holocene, that is, at the peak of summer insolation. The relatively low early-Holocene July temperatures recorded by the pollen are the result of site-specific factors possibly combined with a delayed response of the terrestrial ecosystem compared with the aquatic ecosystem. Our study shows that all reconstructions are influenced at least to some extent by local factors. This finding stresses the need to evaluate quantitatively reconstructed climate values against local lake development and highlights the benefit of using multi-proxy data in Holocene climate reconstructions.
Pollen-based temperature and precipitation records of the past 14,600 years in northern New Zealand (37°S) and their linkages with the Southern Hemisphere atmospheric circulation
Authors: Jara Ignacio A , Newnham Rewi M , Alloway Brent V , Wilmshurst Janet M , Rees Andrew BH
Published: June 2017

Regional vegetation, climate history, and local water table fluctuations for the past 14,600 years are reconstructed from pollen and charcoal records of an ombrogenous peatbog in northern New Zealand (38°S). A long-term warming trend between 14,600 and 10,000 cal. yr BP is punctuated by two brief plateaux between 14,200–13,800 and 13,500–12,000 cal. yr BP. Periods of relatively drier conditions are inferred between 14,000–13,400 and 12,000–10,000 cal. yr BP, while a long-term wet period is observed between 10,000 and 6000 cal. yr BP. The last 7000 years feature relatively stable temperatures, a long-term drying trend that culminates with persistent drier conditions over the last 3000 years and cyclical fluctuations in the bog’s water table and fires. Present-day climate controls and comparisons with other climate reconstructions from New Zealand, the Southern Hemisphere mid-latitudes and the tropical Pacific suggest that complex and temporally variable teleconnections exist between northern New Zealand and the Southern Hemisphere low- and high-latitude circulation.
Self-noise of NACA 0012 and NACA 0021 aerofoils at the onset of stall
Authors: Laratro Alex , Arjomandi Maziar , Cazzolato Benjamin , Kelso Richard
Published: June 2017

The aerodynamic noise of a NACA 0012 and NACA 0021 aerofoil is measured and compared in order to determine whether there are differences in their noise signatures with a focus on the onset of stall. Measurements of the self-noise of each aerofoil are measured in an open-jet Anechoic Wind Tunnel at Reynolds numbers of 64,000 and 96,000, at geometric angles of attack from −5° through 40° at a resolution of 1°. Further measurements are taken at Re = 96,000 at geometric angles of attack from −5 through 16° at a resolution of 0.5°. Results show that while the noise generated far into the stall regime is quite similar for both aerofoils the change in noise level at the onset of stall is significantly different between the two aerofoils with the NACA 0021 exhibiting a much sharper increase in noise levels below a chord-based Strouhal number of Stc = 1.1. This behaviour is consistent with the changes in lift of these aerofoils as well as the rate of collapse of the suction peak of a NACA 0012 aerofoil under these flow conditions.
Systematic Review of the Outcomes of Surgical Treatment of Prostate Metastases to the Spine
Authors: Clarke Michelle J. , Molina Camilo A. , Fourney Daryl R. , Fisher Charles G. , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Schmidt Meic H. , Rhines Laurence D. , Fehlings Michael G. , Laufer Ilya , Patel Shreyaskumar R. , Rampersaud Y. Raja , Reynolds Jeremy , Chou Dean , Bettegowda Chetan , Mendel Ehud , Weber Michael H. , Sciubba Daniel M.
Published: June 2017

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Objective:

Surgical decompression and reconstruction of symptomatic spinal metastases has improved the quality of life in cancer patients. However, most data has been collected on cohorts of patients with mixed tumor histopathology. We systematically reviewed the literature for prognostic factors specific to the surgical treatment of prostate metastases to the spine.

Methods:

A systemic review of the literature was conducted to answer the following questions: Question 1. Describe the survival and functional outcomes of surgery or vertebral augmentation for prostate metastases to the spine. Question 2. Determine whether overall tumor burden, Gleason score, preoperative functional markers, and hormonal naivety favor operative intervention. Question 3. Establish whether clinical outcomes vary with the evolution of operative techniques.

Results:

A total of 16 studies met the preset inclusion criteria. All included studies were retrospective series with a level of evidence of IV. Included studies consistently showed a large effect of hormone-naivety on overall survival. Additionally, studies consistently demonstrated an improvement in motor function and the ability to maintain/regain ambulation following surgery resulting in moderate strength of recommendation. All other parameters were of insufficient or low strength.

Conclusions:

There is a dearth of literature regarding the surgical treatment of prostate metastases to the spine, which represents an opportunity for future research. Based on existing evidence, it appears that the surgical treatment of prostate metastases to the spine has consistently favorable results. While no consistent preoperative indicators favor nonoperative treatment, hormone-naivety and high Karnofsky performance scores have positive effects on survival and clinical outcomes.
Human Papilloma Virus–Associated Lips Verrucous Carcinoma in HIV-Infected Male
Authors: De Socio Giuseppe Vittorio , Bidovanets Olena , Tomassini Gian Marco , Fanelli Luca , Simonetti Stefano
Published: June 2017

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, widely known as the necessary cause of cervical cancer, has been established as a major etiologic factor for head and neck cancer (HNC). HIV-infected individuals are at higher risk of HPV-associated cancers than the general population. We describe a 45-year-old man with HIV and HPV coinfection, who presented progressively enlarging verrucous neoformations of the lips. The final diagnosis of verrucous carcinoma was delayed. Early detection of HPV lesions in oral mucosa and HPV screening activities could be important in improving the diagnostic sensitivity for the HIV-infected patients with oral cancer.
Noise properties of Fourier deconvolution for time-domain electromagnetic soundings
Authors: Rasmussen Søren , Nyboe Nicklas Skovgaard , Mai Sune , Juul Larsen Jakob
Published: June 2017

The transient electromagnetic method (TEM) is widely used for mapping the earth’s subsurface resistivity structures, e.g., for groundwater or mineral exploration, using airborne and ground-based systems. Data from TEM surveys can be modified using Fourier deconvolution to correct for instrument drift, increase apparent bandwidth, or alter the apparent excitation waveform, e.g., to fuse or compare measurements from different systems, for visual presentation purposes, or to make the data compatible with a specific processing or inversion code. Although this method has been applied in several studies, little attention has been devoted to its properties with regard to noise. Using a generic analytical system model and examples featuring synthetic and field data, we perform a detailed analysis of the noise properties of Fourier deconvolution in the context of TEM. We find that although the effects from stationary noise are trivial, effects from nonstationary noise are less intuitive and more severe, e.g., causing on-time noise phenomena to degrade off-time data. In general, we observe that the method decreases the signal-to-noise ratio, and our recommendation is therefore that Fourier deconvolution should only be applied when it is desirable for presentation purposes or when strictly necessary for processing or inversion.