bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric properties of the apathy evaluation scale in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lueken Ulrike , Evens Ricarda , Balzer‐Geldsetzer Monika , Baudrexel Simon , Dodel Richard , Gräber‐Sultan Susanne , Hilker‐Roggendorf Rüdiger , Kalbe Elke , Kaut Oliver , Mollenhauer Brit , Reetz Kathrin , Schäffer Eva , Schmidt Nele , Schulz Jörg B. , Spottke Annika , Witt Karsten , Linse Katharina , Storch Alexander , Riedel Oliver
Published: April 2017

Parkinson's disease (PD) frequently entails non‐motor symptoms, worsening the course of the disease. Apathy is one of the core neuropsychiatric symptoms that has been investigated in recent years; research is however hampered by the limited availability of well‐evaluated apathy scales for these patients. We evaluated the psychometric properties of the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES) in a sample of PD patients. Psychometric properties, convergent and discriminant validity and sensitivity/specificity were evaluated in patients with (n = 582) or without dementia/depression (n = 339). Internal consistency was high in the entire sample as well as in patients without dementia/depression. Correlations were moderate for convergent validity (UPDRS I item 4: motivation). While apathy could be differentiated from cognitive decline, it was related to depression (Geriatric Depression Scale, GDS‐15). The overall classification accuracy based on the UPDRS I item 4 was comparable for AES and GDS scores. The AES exhibits good psychometric properties in PD patients with and without dementia and/or depression. Commonly used screenings on the presence of apathy had low detection rates compared to the AES and reflected both apathetic and depressive symptoms. Psychometric evaluation of available instruments will support further research on the clinical relevance of apathy for disease progression and treatment approaches in PD patients.
Pregnant women models analyzed for RF exposure and temperature increase in 3TRF shimmed birdcages
Authors: Murbach Manuel , Neufeld Esra , Samaras Theodoros , Córcoles Juan , Robb Fraser J. , Kainz Wolfgang , Kuster Niels
Published: April 2017

Purpose

MRI is increasingly used to scan pregnant patients. We investigated the effect of 3 Tesla (T) two‐port radiofrequency (RF) shimming in anatomical pregnant women models.

Theory and Methods

RF shimming improves B1+ uniformity, but may at the same time significantly alter the induced current distribution and result in large changes in both the level and location of the absorbed RF energy. In this study, we evaluated the electrothermal exposure of pregnant women in the third, seventh, and ninth month of gestation at various imaging landmarks in RF body coils, including modes with RF shimming.

Results

Although RF shimmed configurations may lower the local RF exposure for the mother, they can increase the thermal load on the fetus. In worst‐case configurations, whole‐body exposure and local peak temperatures—up to 40.8°C—are equal in fetus and mother.

Conclusions

Two‐port RF shimming can significantly increase the fetal exposure in pregnant women, requiring further research to derive a very robust safety management. For the time being, restriction to the CP mode, which reduces fetal SAR exposure compared with linear‐horizontal polarization modes, may be advisable. Results from this study do not support scanning pregnant patients above the normal operating mode. Magn Reson Med 77:1–1, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
ICS Educational Module: Electromyography in the assessment and therapy of lower urinary tract dysfunction in adults
Authors: Krhut Jan , Zachoval Roman , Rosier Peter F. W. M. , Shelly Beth , Zvara Peter
Published: April 2017

Aim

To present the teaching module “Electromyography in the assessment and therapy of lower urinary tract dysfunction in adults.” This teaching module embodies a presentation, in combination with this manuscript. This manuscript serves as a scientific background review; the evidence base made available on ICS website to summarize current knowledge and recommendations.

Methods

This review has been prepared by a Working Group of The ICS Urodynamics Committee. The methodology used included comprehensive literature review, consensus formation by the members of the Working Group, and review by members of the ICS Urodynamics Committee core panel.

Results

Electromyography (EMG) is a method to record spontaneous or artificially induced electrical activity of the nerve‐muscle unit or to test nerve conductivity. EMG of the anal sphincter using surface electrode is most widely used screening technique to detect detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia in urology. It is non‐invasive and easy to perform. EMG methods using needle electrodes are reserved for diagnostics in well selected group of mainly neurogenic patients. These methods require expertise in the field of general EMG and are usually performed by neurologist and neuro‐physiologist. The evidence in many aspects of use of EMG in urology remains sparse.

Conclusions

Currently EMG methods rarely play a decision making role in selecting proper treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction. With the current efforts to improve phenotyping of these patients in order to provide individualized treatment, the role of EMG could increase.
The effect of single oral doses of duloxetine, reboxetine, and midodrine on the urethral pressure in healthy female subjects, using urethral pressure reflectometry
Authors: Klarskov Niels , Cerneus Dirk , Sawyer William , Newgreen Donald , van Till Olivier , Lose Gunnar
Published: April 2017

Aims

To evaluate the effect on urethral pressure of reference drugs known to reduce stress urinary incontinence symptoms by different effect size and mechanisms of action on urethral musculature under four test conditions in healthy female subjects using urethral pressure reflectometry.

Methods

Healthy females aged 18‐55 years were recruited by advertising for this phase 1, single site, placebo‐controlled, randomized, four‐period, crossover study. The interventions were single oral doses of 10 mg Midodrine, 80 mg Duloxetine, 12 mg Reboxetine, and placebo. The endpoints were the opening urethral pressure measured in each period at four time points (predose and 2, 5.5, and 9 h after dosing).

Results

Twenty‐nine females were enrolled; 25 randomized and 24 completed the study. The opening urethral pressure was higher in all measurements with filled bladder compared with empty bladder, and during squeezing compared to the resting condition. All three drugs increased the opening urethral pressure during all four conditions with a ranking of their effect on urethral pressure matching their reported clinical effect (difference vs. placebo at their reported time of peak plasma concentrations [Tmax] during resting with filled bladder: Midodrine 9.3 cmH2O [95%CI 3.0, 15.5], Duloxetine 24.2 cmH2O [95%CI 17.9, 30.5], and Reboxetine 44.9 cmH2O [95% CI 40.2, 52.8] cmH2O).

Conclusions

Urethral pressure reflectometry is capable of detecting drug‐induced changes in urethral tone in various conditions. The magnitude of drug‐induced changes by the test drugs seems to match their clinical profile and differences in mode of action.
On the inertia of the block H‐matrices
Authors: Kostić V. R. , Cvetković Lj.
Published: April 2017

The problem of determining matrix inertia is very important in many applications, for example, in stability analysis of dynamical systems. In the (point‐wise) H‐matrix case, it was proven that the diagonal entries solely reveal this information. This paper generalises these results to the block H‐matrix cases for 1, 2, and
matrix norms. The usefulness of the block approach is illustrated on 3 relevant numerical examples, arising in engineering.
Maternal and Child Characteristics Associated With Mother–Child Interaction in One‐Year‐Olds
Authors: Graff J. Carolyn , Bush Andrew J. , Palmer Frederick B. , Murphy Laura E. , Whitaker Toni M. , Tylavsky Frances A.
Published: April 2017

Mothers’ interactions with their young children have predicted later child development, behavior, and health, but evidence has been developed mainly in at‐risk clinical samples. An economically and racially diverse sample of pregnant women who were not experiencing a high‐risk pregnancy were recruited to participate in a community‐based, longitudinal study of factors associated with child cognitive and social‐emotional development during the first 3 years. The purpose of the present analysis was to identify associations between the characteristics of 1125 mothers and their 1‐year‐olds and the mothers’ and children's scores on the Nursing Child Assessment Teaching Scale (NCATS). A multivariable approach was used to identify maternal and child characteristics associated with NCATS scores and to develop prediction models for NCATS total and subscale scores of mothers and children. Child expressive and receptive communication and maternal IQ, marital status, age, and insurance predicted NCATS Mother total score, accounting for 28% of the score variance. Child expressive communication and birth weight predicted the NCATS Child total score, accounting for 4% of variance. Child's expressive communication and mother's IQ and marital status predicted NCATS mother‐child total scores. While these findings were similar to reports of NCATS scores in at‐risk populations, no previous teams examined all of the mother and child characteristics included in this analysis. These findings support the utility of the NCATS for assessing mother‐child interaction and predicting child outcomes in community‐based, non‐clinical populations. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The TCN2 variant of rs9606756 [Ile23Val] acts as risk loci for obesity‐related traits and mediates by interacting with Apo‐A1
Authors: Hebbar Prashantha , Alkayal Fadi , Nizam Rasheeba , Melhem Motasem , Elkum Naser , John Sumi Elsa , Abufarha Mohamed , Alsmadi Osama , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse
Published: April 2017

Objective

Despite alarming obesity levels in the Arabian Peninsula, its population lacks convincingly identified genetic determinants of obesity. A genome‐wide association study was performed for obesity‐related anthropometric traits in Arabs and to decipher mechanisms by which the variants mediate traits.

Methods

The Illumina HumanOmniExpress BeadChip was used to genotype 1,353 Arab individuals (largely with Class I obesity) from Kuwait. Genome‐wide association tests for obesity‐related anthropometric traits were performed. Top associations were tested for replication in an independent cohort (1,176 unrelated Arabs). Resultant variants were investigated for interactions with obesity‐related plasma biomarkers. Pathway analysis was performed on genes harboring markers in linkage disequilibrium (LD) with identified variants.

Results

The rs9606756[c.67A>G,p.Ile23Val] variant from TCN2 was associated with waist circumference (WC) at nearly genome‐wide significance (P = 8.92E−08). WC was inversely related with Apo‐A1 or high‐density lipoprotein levels; individuals with the AG genotype exhibited stronger relationship than those with the reference AA genotype. Interaction involving the AG genotype (effect allele = G) significantly contributed to an increase in anthropometric traits (particularly WC). Genes harboring single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in LD with rs9606756 mapped onto an interaction network (with TP53 as central element) of established obesity/diabetes‐related protein components.

Conclusions

The TCN2 variant acts as a risk factor for WC in the Arab population. The variant mediates obesity‐related anthropometric traits via interactions with Apo‐A1/high‐density lipoprotein or TP53.
Accelerated tumour metastasis due to interferon‐γ receptor‐mediated dissociation of perivascular cells from blood vessels
Authors: Ni Chen , Ma Pan , Qu Liwei , Wu Fan , Hao Junfeng , Wang Ruirui , Lu Yu , Yang Wei , Erben Ulrike , Qin Zhihai
Published: April 2017

Angiostasis mediated by interferon (IFN)‐γ is a key mechanism of anti‐tumour immunity; however, the effect of IFN‐γ on host vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA)‐expressing cells during tumour progression is still elusive. Here, we developed transgenic mice with IFN‐γ receptor (IFNγR) expression under control of the Vegfa promoter (V‐γR). In these mice, the IFN‐γ responsiveness of VEGFA‐expressing cells led to dramatic growth suppression of transplanted lung carcinoma cells. Surprisingly, increased mortality and tumour metastasis were observed in the tumour‐bearing V‐γR mice, in comparison with the control wild‐type and IFNγR‐deficient mice. Further study showed that perivascular cells were VEGFA‐expressing cells and potential IFN‐γ targets. In vivo, tumour vascular perfusion and pericyte association with blood vessels were massively disrupted in V‐γR mice. In vitro, IFN‐γ inhibited transforming growth factor‐β signalling by upregulating SMAD7, and therefore downregulated N‐cadherin expression in pericytes. Importantly, IFN‐γ neutralization in vivo with a monoclonal antibody reduced tumour metastasis. Together, the results suggest that IFNγR‐mediated dissociation of perivascular cells from blood vessels contributes to the acceleration of tumour metastasis. Thus, the inhibition of tumour growth via IFN‐γ‐induced angiostasis might also accelerate tumour metastasis. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MYB–GATA1 fusion promotes basophilic leukaemia: involvement of interleukin‐33 and nerve growth factor receptors
Authors: Ducassou Stéphane , Prouzet‐Mauléon Valérie , Deau Marie‐Céline , Brunet de la Grange Philippe , Cardinaud Bruno , Soueidan Hayssam , Quelen Cathy , Brousset Pierre , Pasquet Jean‐Max , Moreau‐Gaudry François , Arock Michel , Mahon François‐Xavier , Lippert Eric
Published: April 2017

Acute basophilic leukaemia (ABL) is a rare subtype of acute myeloblastic leukaemia. We previously described a recurrent t(X;6)(p11;q23) translocation generating an MYB–GATA1 fusion gene in male infants with ABL. To better understand its role, the chimeric MYB–GATA1 transcription factor was expressed in CD34‐positive haematopoietic progenitors, which were transplanted into immunodeficient mice. Cells expressing MYB–GATA1 showed increased expression of markers of immaturity (CD34), of granulocytic lineage (CD33 and CD117), and of basophilic differentiation (CD203c and FcϵRI). UT‐7 cells also showed basophilic differentiation after MYB–GATA1 transfection. A transcriptomic study identified nine genes deregulated by both MYB–GATA1 and basophilic differentiation. Induction of three of these genes (CCL23, IL1RL1, and NTRK1) was confirmed in MYB–GATA1‐expressing CD34‐positive cells by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Interleukin (IL)‐33 and nerve growth factor (NGF), the ligands of IL‐1 receptor‐like 1 (IL1RL1) and neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase 1 (NTRK1), respectively, enhanced the basophilic differentiation of MYB–GATA1‐expressing UT‐7 cells, thus demonstrating the importance of this pathway in the basophilic differentiation of leukaemic cells and CD34‐positive primary cells. Finally, gene reporter assays confirmed that MYB and MYB–GATA1 directly activated NTRK1 and IL1RL1 transcription, leading to basophilic skewing of the blasts. MYB–GATA1 is more efficient than MYB, because of better stability. Our results highlight the role of IL‐33 and NGF receptors in the basophilic differentiation of normal and leukaemic cells. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Calcineurin inhibitor‐free strategies for prophylaxis and treatment of GVHD in children with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome after stem cell transplantation
Authors: Shkalim‐Zemer Vered , Konen Osnat , Levinsky Yoel , Michaeli Orli , Yahel Anat , Krauss Aviva , Yaniv Isaac , Stein Jerry
Published: April 2017

Background

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a distinct clinico‐radiologic entity that can occur following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, often in the context of treatment with calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs).

Procedure

We describe the results of CNI‐free management of 14 children with PRES and review the clinical and radiologic manifestations of their presentation.

Results

Discontinuation of CNIs usually resulted in remission of PRES, but patients with established graft versus host disease (GVHD) at the time when treatment was changed often experienced progressive GVHD despite administration of immune suppressive and modulating treatments. All but three patients experienced full neurologic recovery. Nine children died as a result of either GVHD, disease relapse, or severe infection.

Conclusions

Discontinuation of CNIs results in neurologic improvement in most cases, but superior alternative immune modulatory treatment is needed to prevent progression of established GVHD.
A long‐term follow‐up study of subtotal splenectomy in children with hereditary spherocytosis
Authors: Rosman C. W. K. , Broens P. M. A. , Trzpis M. , Tamminga R. Y. J.
Published: April 2017

Background

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is a heterogeneous hemolytic anemia treated with splenectomy in patients suffering from severe or moderate disease. Total splenectomy, however, renders patients vulnerable to overwhelming postsplenectomy infection despite preventive measures. Although subtotal splenectomy has been advocated as an alternative to total splenectomy, long‐term follow‐up data are scarce. We investigated how often hematologic recurrences requiring secondary total splenectomy occurred.

Procedure

With a follow‐up of at least 5 years, we analyzed the data of 12 patients, aged 11 years maximum (median 6.5 years), who had undergone intended subtotal splenectomy, and 9 patients (median age 11.9 years), who had undergone total splenectomy. We compared their hematologic results and searched for factors associated with secondary spleen surgery.

Results

Hemolysis was reduced after subtotal splenectomy and absent after total splenectomy. Subtotal splenectomy was not successful in three children because no functional splenic remnant remained after 6 months (one conversion at surgery; one necrosis of splenic remnant; one early secondary splenectomy). Four children required secondary splenectomy after a median of 5 years for hematologic recurrence. In the remaining five patients, a functional splenic remnant was present for at least 5.5 years. The median time to secondary total splenectomy after intended subtotal splenectomy was 5.2 years. In all patients requiring secondary total splenectomy, increased reticulocyte levels within 2 years indicated hematologic recurrence.

Conclusions

Subtotal splenectomy can be an alternative for total splenectomy in young patients with HS. It allows for hematologic improvement and may preserve splenic immune function for as many as 5 years.
Experience of carrier couples identified through a population‐based carrier screening pilot program for four founder autosomal recessive diseases in Saguenay–Lac‐Saint‐Jean
Authors: Tardif Jessica , Pratte Annabelle , Laberge Anne‐Marie
Published: April 2017

A pilot population‐based carrier screening program started in 2010 in the Saguenay–Lac‐Saint‐Jean region of Quebec, Canada, for four recessive diseases with local founder effects (tyrosinemia type I, autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix‐Saguenay, congenital lactic acidosis, and Andermann syndrome).

Objectives

The objective of this study was to describe the experience of carrier couples identified through this program.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were performed with carrier couples. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts was performed to identify emerging themes.

Results

Interviews were performed with 15 carrier couples (56% response rate). Carrier couples had little knowledge about the target diseases before being identified as carriers, despite pre‐test education sessions. The main motivation for screening was a recommendation by a peer who had been screened, even for those with a positive family history of one of the target conditions. Couples perceived themselves at low risk of being a carrier couple, whatever their family history. Being found to be a carrier couple was initially a shock, illustrating how ill prepared they were for such a result, but carrier couples appreciated knowing their status.

Conclusion

Our results emphasize the informational needs of couples to make informed decisions and the importance of post‐test counseling for those with positive results. Our findings can inform counseling procedures in expanded carrier screening. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Why Are Extraverts More Satisfied? Personality, Social Experiences, and Subjective Well–Being in College
Authors: Harris Kelci , English Tammy , Harms Peter D. , Gross James J. , Jackson Joshua J.
Published: April 2017

It is widely appreciated that extraversion is associated with greater subjective well–being. What is not yet clear is what mechanisms relate the two. In two longitudinal studies, we explored whether extraversion is prospectively associated with higher levels of satisfaction during college through influencing college social experiences using longitudinal cross–lagged mediation models. In both studies, students’ extraversion at the beginning of college predicted their subjective well–being 4 years later. In both studies, extraversion at the beginning of college predicted a variety of self–reported and peer–reported social experiences (e.g. feelings of belonging and size of social network). We tested whether qualitative or quantitative aspects of social experiences explained the association between extraversion and subjective well–being. In the first study, neither type of social experience explained the effect of extraversion on satisfaction. Only qualitative social experiences in the second study were instrumental in explaining this effect. The results suggest that extraversion's ability to create better social experiences can play a role in extraverts’ greater subjective well–being, but these experiences are not the only reason extraverts are happier and more satisfied. Copyright © 2017 European Association of Personality Psychology
The role of body image dissatisfaction in the association between treatment‐related scarring or disfigurement and psychological distress in adult survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Vuotto Stefanie C. , Ojha Rohit P. , Li Chenghong , Kimberg Cara , Klosky James L. , Krull Kevin R. , Srivastava Deo Kumar , Robison Leslie L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Brinkman Tara M.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To examine the potential mediating role of body image dissatisfaction on the association between treatment‐related scarring/disfigurement and psychological distress in adult survivors of childhood cancer.

Methods

Participants included 1714 adult survivors of childhood cancer (mean [SD] age at evaluation = 32.4 [8.0] years, time since diagnosis = 24.1 [8.1] years) enrolled in the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study. Survivors completed measures of body image, emotional distress, and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Body image dissatisfaction (BID) was categorized into 2 groups (cancer‐related and general) based on factor analysis. Using causal mediation analysis, we estimated the proportion of psychological distress associated with treatment‐related scarring/disfigurement that could be eliminated by resolving BID through a hypothetical intervention.

Results

Among survivors with scarring/disfigurement of the head, a sizable proportion of the relative excess of psychological distress could be eliminated if BID was successfully treated (males: [cancer‐related BID: depression: 63%; anxiety: 100%; PTSS: 52%]; [general BID: depression: 70%; anxiety: 100%; PTSS: 42%]; females: [cancer‐related BID: depression: 20%; anxiety; 36%; PTSS: 23%]; [general BID: depression: 32%; anxiety: 87%; PTSS: 38%]). The mediating effect of BID was less pronounced for the association between scarring/disfigurement of the body and psychological distress for both males and females.

Conclusions

Body image dissatisfaction mediates the association treatment‐related scarring/disfigurement and psychological distress among adult survivors of childhood cancer, particularly among survivors with scarring/disfigurement of the head and male survivors. Successful treatment of body image dissatisfaction has the potential to eliminate a substantial proportion of psychological distress related to scarring/disfigurement among adult survivors of childhood cancer.
A qualitative study of doctors' and nurses' barriers to communicating with seriously ill patients about their dependent children
Authors: Dencker Annemarie , Rix Bo Andreassen , Bøge Per , Tjørnhøj‐Thomsen Tine
Published: April 2017

Objective

Research indicates that health personnel caring for seriously ill patients with dependent children aged 0 to 18 years often avoid discussing with them the challenges of being a family with a parent in treatment. Children of seriously ill patients risk serious trauma and emotional difficulty later in life and depend on adult support to minimize these consequences. Patients suffer anxiety about supporting their children during their illness. Because of their potentially pivotal role in supporting patients in enabling parent‐child communication, we examined HP's structural and emotional barriers to communicating with patients about their children.

Methods

The study was based on 49 semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews with doctors and nurses working with haematology, gynaecological cancer, and neurointensive care. Both interviews and analysis addressed emotional and structural barriers, drawing on the theoretical framework of Maturana's domains.

Results

The study found structural barriers (eg, lack of space in the medical recording system, professional code, time pressure, and lack of training) and emotional barriers (eg, the painful nature of the situation and the perceived need of keeping professional distance). We found that emotional barriers tended to grow when structural barriers were not addressed.

Conclusions

Our study indicates (1) the need to use templates and manual procedures to gather and process information about children in medical records; (2) the need for managerial backing for addressing children of seriously ill patients and time spent on it; and (3) the need for future HP training programmes to include how to implement procedures and how to address all barriers.
Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling of tea catechin mixture in rats and humans
Authors: Law Francis C. P. , Yao Meicun , Bi Hui‐Chang , Lam Stephen
Published: April 2017

Although green tea (Camellia sinensis) (GT) contains a large number of polyphenolic compounds with anti‐oxidative and anti‐proliferative activities, little is known of the pharmacokinetics and tissue dose of tea catechins (TCs) as a chemical mixture in humans. The objectives of this study were to develop and validate a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of tea catechin mixture (TCM) in rats and humans, and to predict an integrated or total concentration of TCM in the plasma of humans after consuming GT or Polyphenon E (PE). To this end, a PBPK model of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg) consisting of 13 first‐order, blood flow‐limited tissue compartments was first developed in rats. The rat model was scaled up to humans by replacing its physiological parameters, pharmacokinetic parameters and tissue/blood partition coefficients (PCs) with human‐specific values. Both rat and human EGCg models were then extrapolated to other TCs by substituting its physicochemical parameters, pharmacokinetic parameters, and PCs with catechin‐specific values. Finally, a PBPK model of TCM was constructed by linking three rat (or human) tea catechin models together without including a description for pharmacokinetic interaction between the TCs. The mixture PBPK model accurately predicted the pharmacokinetic behaviors of three individual TCs in the plasma of rats and humans after GT or PE consumption. Model‐predicted total TCM concentration in the plasma was linearly related to the dose consumed by humans. The mixture PBPK model is able to translate an external dose of TCM into internal target tissue doses for future safety assessment and dose‐response analysis studies in humans. The modeling framework as described in this paper is also applicable to the bioactive chemical in other plant‐based health products.
Towards Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Models of Chemotherapy‐Induced Neutropenia
Authors: Craig M
Published: April 2017

Neutropenia is a serious toxic complication of chemotherapeutic treatment. For years, mathematical models have been developed to better predict hematological outcomes during chemotherapy in both the traditional pharmaceutical sciences and mathematical biology disciplines. An increasing number of quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) models that combine systems approaches, physiology, and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics have been successfully developed. Here, I detail the shift towards QSP efforts, emphasizing the importance of incorporating systems‐level physiological considerations in pharmacometrics.
Bayesian monitoring of linear profile monitoring using DEWMA charts
Authors: Abbas Tahir , Qian Zhengming , Ahmad Shabbir , Riaz Muhammad
Published: April 2017

Process monitoring is an essential element for an improved quality of final products. A variety of tools are used for it; control charts are one of these choices. Classical and Bayesian thoughts are 2 main aspects of statistics used in different areas of application. This study introduces an approach to existing theories in applied quality control: Bayesian double exponentially weighted moving average (DEWMA) control charts for monitoring the profiles of products and processes. Three novel univariate Bayesian DEWMA charting structures for the Y intercepts, slopes, and error variances are designed under phase 2 procedures. The performance of the designed structures of control charts is evaluated based on different run length measures. The comparative analysis revealed that Bayesian DEWMA control charts are efficient at identifying the sustainable shifts in the process parameters. Moreover, DEWMA control charts are more effective under classical and Bayesian methodologies for detecting smaller value shifts compared with exponentially weighted moving average charts. We have examined that acquiring extra information in the form of prior's about process parameters comes up with tangible benefits and enhances the detection potential of DEWMA charts for profiles monitoring. An example and case studies are provided to justify the above findings.
Second‐order sliding mode controller design subject to mismatched unbounded perturbations
Authors: Liu Lu , Ding Shihong
Published: April 2017

The dynamics of the second‐order sliding mode (SOSM) can be obtained by directly taking the second derivative on the sliding variable when it has a relative degree of 2 with respect to the control input. However, there will always appear some state‐dependent certain or uncertain terms in the first derivative of the sliding variable, and the derivative directly imposed on these terms could enlarge the uncertainties in the control channel. One method to reduce the uncertainties in the control channel is to hold this information in the dynamics of the first derivative of the sliding variable, while the original SOSM dynamics could be transformed to be a SOSM system with a mismatched unbounded perturbation. This paper focuses on the controller design problem for SOSM dynamics subject to mismatched unbounded perturbation. By using Lyapunov analysis, a novel backstepping‐like design methodology will be proposed. The rigorous mathematical proof will show that under the derived SOSM controller, the closed‐loop sliding mode dynamics is globally finite‐time stable. Meanwhile, the frequently used constant upper bound assumptions for the standard SOSM system can also be extended to the state‐dependent hypotheses in this paper. An academic example is illustrated to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐Dimensional Carbon@Fe2O3@SnO2 Hierarchical Inverse Opals Arrays as Li–ion Battery Anode with Improved Cycling Life and Rate Capability
Authors: Zhu Xiuting , Ren Weina , Cheng Chuanwei , Yang Yaping
Published: April 2017

We report a novel three‐dimensional (3D) cabon@Fe2O3@SnO2 hierarchical composite inverse opals arrays electrode for binder‐free Li‐ion battery anode. In this electrode design, the ordered macroporous SnO2 acts as conductive skeletons for supporting the 1D Fe2O3 nanorods, offering a high specific surface area and fast pathways for both electron and ion transport, while the carbon coated on the Fe2O3 surfaces works as a buffer layer to improve the conductivity and structural stability. Benefiting from this smart design, the hierarchical carbon@Fe2O3@SnO2 composite inverse opals electrode as a Li ion battery anode exhibits a high discharge capacity of 1021 mAh/g at a current density of 100 mA/g, better cycling life (capacity retaining at 388 mAh/g after 200 cycles) and excellent rate capability, which is superior to those of individual SnO2 inverse opals and SnO2@Fe2O3 inverse opals electrodes.
Reverse Intramolecular Stacking in o‐Xylene Bridge Symmetrical Dimers of 2‐Thiopyridine Derivative: Assessment of the Conformational Stability
Authors: Kumar Ranjeet , Gaurav Archana , Pal Shiv , Kumar Krishnan R. , Sridhar Balasubramanian , Tewari Ashish K.
Published: April 2017

Herein, we report o‐xylene based symmetrical dimers of 2‐thiopyridine derivative for studies of intramolecular stacking and conformational analysis 1‐3. The conformational analyses of all compounds have been carried out in solid, solution and gaseous states. Interestingly, all compounds showed reverse intramolecular stacked conformation between contiguous rings. Among all, compound 3 has shown polymorphism properties that also shown reverse intramolecular stacked conformation. The polymorphic studies have been achieved through single crystal X‐ray diffraction, intermolecular interactions in their crystal packing, overlay diagram, DSC analysis and Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Distinguishing Liquid from Solid by Atom Transport Coefficient Distribution: Predicting Melting Point of Ionic Liquids as an Example
Authors: Xu Liancai , Wang Guoqing , Jiang Ling , Chen Junli , Huang Gailing , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: April 2017

We define a dynamics parameter, the atom transport coefficient Datom, which is extracted from molecular trajectory using the simple mean square displacement analysis. The Datom of a molecular system has a log‐normal distribution in a homogeneous phase, and the Mode of the log‐normal distribution presents an abrupt change between solid and liquid phase. The Datom can therefore serve as a practical probe for detecting phase transition, which has been validated by simulating melting points for a Lennard‐Jones model and three imidazolium‐based room temperature ionic liquids. Additionally, the molecular dynamics simulations for the melting points are crystal independent and force field non‐restricted. Thus, the presented use of Datom distribution is a new technique for phase transition studies.
Rationalizing the Low‐Spin Products Observed for the Reactions M+CH3CN (M=V, Nb,Ta) Through a Non‐Spin Flip Scheme.
Authors: Flores Iván , Torres Ana E. , Colmenares Fernando
Published: April 2017

Results emerging from a CASSCF‐MRMP2 study are used to explain the products observed under matrix isolation conditions for the interactions M + CH3CN (M=V(4F), Nb(6D), Ta(4F)). A two‐reaction scheme is proposed to rationalize the low‐spin inserted species detected for the niobium and tantalum interactions, mainly the quadruplet CH3‐Nb‐NC and the doublet CH2=Ta‐(H)NC compounds, respectively. According to this scheme, the radicals CH3 + M‐NC are formed in each case from the ground state of the reactants. As these radical fragments remain trapped in the matrix they can recombine themselves in a second reaction, which evolves to the low‐spin observed products. The absence of inserted products for the vanadium reaction is also explained in terms of this scheme. The picture attained for the investigated reactions fits better with the available experimental data than previous descriptions based on spin‐flip models.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Chiral Isatin Containing Bisphosphonates as Potential Anti‐Resorption Bone Drugs
Authors: De Luca Lorena , Chiminazzo Andrea , Sperni Laura , Strukul Giorgio , Scarso Alessandro
Published: April 2017

Bisphosphonates are currently the major class of drugs used for the treatment of osteoporosis, a disease that leads to bone fragility and increase in fracture risk that affects hundreds of million elderly individual worldwide. All commercially available bisphosphonates are achiral albeit their activity is demonstrated to be related to inactivation of specific enzymes. Cinchona alkaloid urea derivatives are efficient organocatalysts for the asymmetric aldol reaction of ketones to an isatin containing bisphosphonate precursor to provide a class of new chiral enantioenriched potentially anti‐resorption bone drugs. High chemical yields were generally achieved in a wide array of substrates tested and in several cases ee′s in the 60–96 % range could be observed.
Synthesis of Various N‐Substituted 4‐Aryloxy/Thiophenoxy/Thioisopropyloxy‐Phthalimides
Authors: Kumar Vipan , Chand Karam , Chorell Erik
Published: April 2017

N‐substituted phthalimides have been used to target many biological systems with examples that are clinically used as drugs. Furthermore, N‐substituted phthalimides can also be used in other settings such as in the preparation of polymers, as catalysts, and as protective groups. Because of all these important fields of application, the synthesis of phthalimides is well reported. However, synthetic methods to phthalimides with different heteroatom substituents in position 4 are lacking. The present work describes the development of robust synthetic methods to N‐substituted 4‐aryloxy/thiophenoxy/thioisopropyloxy‐phthalimides. The developed methods allow for the introduction of these substituents through an atom efficient one‐step synthesis, which gives good to excellent yields and tolerate a wide range of substituents.
Resistive Switching Performance Improvement via Modulating Nanoscale Conductive Filament, Involving the Application of Two‐Dimensional Layered Materials
Authors: Li Yu , Long Shibing , Liu Qi , Lv Hangbing , Liu Ming
Published: April 2017

Reversible chemical and structural changes induced by ionic motion and reaction in response to electrical stimuli leads to resistive switching effects in metal‐insulator‐metal structures. Filamentary switching based on the formation and rupture of nanoscale conductive filament has been applied in non‐volatile memory and volatile selector devices with low power consumption and fast switching speeds. Before the mass production of resistive switching devices, great efforts are still required to enable stable and reliable switching performances. The conductive filament, a bridge of microscopic metal‐insulator‐metal structure and macroscopic resistance states, plays an irreplaceable part in resistive switching behavior, as unreliable performance often originates from unstable filament behavior. In this Review, departing from the filamentary switching mechanism and the existing issues, recent advances of the switching performance improvement through the conductive filament modulation are discussed, in the sequence of material modulation, device structure design and switching operation scheme optimization. In particular, two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterials with excellent properties including and beyond graphene, are discussed with emphasis on performance improvement by their active roles as the switching layer, insertion layer, thin electrode, patterned electrode, and edge electrode, etc.
Analysis of the Thermal Contraction of Wide‐Thick Continuously Cast Slab and the Weighted Average Method to Design a Roll Gap
Authors: Wu Chenhui , Ji Cheng , Zhu Miaoyong
Published: April 2017

A three‐dimensional (3D) thermo‐mechanical coupling model is established to describe the uneven solidification and thermal contraction behavior during the process of continuous casting of wide‐thick slabs. To improve the accuracy of the simulated results, the thermal and mechanical material properties are calculated with the weighted average phase fraction method, and the boundary conditions is derived from the actual measured water flux distribution. The predicted heat transfer results are verified with the measured shell thickness and surface temperature. With this model, the non‐uniform heat transfer and thermal contraction behavior under different casting conditions are investigated. Finally, a weighted average method to design the roll gap is proposed and implemented into practical production. The results from the plant after the roll gap optimization indicate that the internal quality of the wide‐thick slab is dramatically improved and that the casting operation is more stable.
Analysis of a tip correction factor for horizontal axis turbines
Authors: Wimshurst A. , Willden R. H. J.
Published: April 2017

It is imperative to include three‐dimensional tip flow corrections when using low‐order rotor models that rely on the flow independence principle to compute the blade forces. These corrections aim to account for the effect of pressure equalization at the tips and the accompanying spanwise pressure gradients on the outboard sections, by reducing the computed axial and tangential forces as the blade tips are approached. While Glauert‐type corrections are conventionally employed for actuator disc‐type computations, alternative corrections are required for actuator line computations as they use a finite blade representation. We present actuator line computations of the Model Rotor Experiments in Controlled Conditions (MEXICO) rotor to investigate tip corrections. Using the tip correction factor proposed by Shen et al. (Wind Energy 2005; 8:457–475), the actuator line computations show an improvement in accuracy over similar computations undertaken without a tip correction factor included. Further improvement to the blade loading is achieved by recalibrating the tip correction factor using data extracted from blade resolved computations of the model rotor experiments in controlled conditions rotor. From the rotor resolved computations, the tip loss (reduction in the blade loading on the outboard sections) is found to be more aggressive in the tangential direction than the axial direction. To account for this, we recalibrate the tip correction factor separately in the axial and tangential directions to develop new directionally dependent tip corrections. The resulting actuator line computations show a further improvement in accuracy of the tangential blade loading, resulting in better prediction of the rotor power. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Demographic consequences of translocation of overabundant Canada geese breeding in urban areas
Authors: Flockhart D. T. Tyler , Clarke Jared B.
Published: April 2017

Translocation is a common tool for managing nuisance Canada geese (Branta canadensis) in urban areas across North America. However, no previous research has assessed how translocation affects survival and philopatry at donor and release sites. Such information is required for managers to decide if translocation is a suitable intervention to reach their management objectives. We used a joint multistate‐dead recovery mark‐recapture analysis to retrospectively measure the effects of translocation on survival and fidelity of immature and adult Canada geese (n = 2,946 marked individuals). Between 2009 and 2013, geese from Wascana Centre, an urban park in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, were subject to translocation to Cumberland Lake, a remote lake more than 400 km away. Survival varied between immature (mean annual survival = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.24–0.40) and adult (mean annual survival = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.69–0.75) geese, but translocation had no effect on survival probability. However, translocated immature geese had a lower mean probability of returning to Wascana (0.11, 95% CI = 0.07–0.18) compared to adult geese (0.83, 95% CI = 0.77–0.88). Translocation is unlikely to lead to a reduction in population density in our system given that translocation does not influence survival and adults return at high rates after being moved. If translocation is the only management option available, then the focus should be on immature geese. If translocation is used as a management option to minimize the number of geese that would need to be lethally removed, then managers should translocate immature geese and cull adult geese to reach management objectives. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
In Search of Civil Society
Authors: Deakin Nicholas
Published: April 2017

Civil society as a concept is currently much discussed in the political arena and now frequently referred to in academic texts. But what does it mean in practice and how does it relate to more familiar ideas like voluntary action? This new book by a leading commentator explores the connections between the two and provides a wide range of examples of situations in which civil society has provided an arena for voluntary association and action which has had a real impact on events at local, national and, latterly, the global level.
Genetic analysis of α‐synuclein 3′ untranslated region and its corresponding microRNAs in relation to Parkinson's disease compared to dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Tagliafierro Lidia , Glenn Omolara‐Chinue , Zamora Madison E. , Beach Thomas G. , Woltjer Randy L. , Lutz Michael W. , Chiba‐Falek Ornit
Published: April 2017

Introduction

The α‐synuclein (SNCA) gene has been implicated in the etiology of Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).

Methods

A computational analysis of SNCA 3′ untranslated region to identify potential microRNA (miRNA) binding sites and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine their expression in isogenic induced pluripotent stem cell–derived dopaminergic and cholinergic neurons as a model of PD and DLB, respectively, were performed. In addition, we performed a deep sequencing analysis of the SNCA 3′ untranslated region of autopsy‐confirmed cases of PD, DLB, and normal controls, followed by genetic association analysis of the identified variants.

Results

We identified four miRNA binding sites and observed a neuronal‐type–specific expression profile for each miRNA in the different isogenic induced pluripotent stem cell–derived dopaminergic and cholinergic neurons. Furthermore, we found that the short structural variant rs777296100‐polyT was moderately associated with DLB but not with PD.

Discussion

We suggest that the regulation of SNCA expression through miRNAs is neuronal‐type–specific and possibly plays a part in the phenotypic heterogeneity of synucleinopathies. Furthermore, genetic variability in the SNCA gene may contribute to synucleinopathies in a pathology‐specific manner.
The Architecture of International Migration Law: A Deconstructivist
Design of Complexity and Contradiction
Authors: Chetail Vincent
Published: April 2017

International
migration law (hereinafter IML) can be described and conceptualized as
a
deconstructivist architecture both literally and metaphorically. It
is an architecture of fragmentation based on dissonance and asymmetry that
questions the traditions of harmony, unity, and stability. Initiated by the
French philosopher Jacques Derrida, the deconstructivist architectural movement
distorts the conventional oppositions between form and function, center and
margin, outside and inside.