bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Sibling Designs to Understand Neurodevelopmental Disorders: From Genes and Environments to Prevention Programming
Authors: Wade Mark , Prime Heather , Madigan Sheri
Published: July 2015

Neurodevelopmental disorders represent a broad class of childhood neurological conditions that have a significant bearing on the wellbeing of children, families, and communities. In this review, we draw on evidence from two common and widely studied neurodevelopmental disorders—autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)—to demonstrate the utility of genetically informed sibling designs in uncovering the nature and pathogenesis of these conditions. Specifically, we examine how twin, recurrence risk, and infant prospective tracking studies have contributed to our understanding of genetic and environmental liabilities towards neurodevelopmental morbidity through their impact on neurocognitive processes and structural/functional neuroanatomy. It is suggested that the siblings of children with ASD and ADHD are at risk not only of clinically elevated problems in these areas, but also of subthreshold symptoms and/or subtle impairments in various neurocognitive skills and other domains of psychosocial health. Finally, we close with a discussion on the practical relevance of sibling designs and how these might be used in the service of early screening, prevention, and intervention efforts that aim to alleviate the negative downstream consequences associated with disorders of neurodevelopment.
Alternative, Complementary, and Forgotten Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Goddard Allison L. , Lio Peter A.
Published: July 2015

Atopic dermatitis, perhaps more than other dermatologic diseases, has garnered much attention in the realm of alternative medicine. This may be because its etiopathogenesis is incompletely understood, it is increasingly common, and it waxes and wanes often without clear precipitants, opening up many opportunities for misinterpretation. Herein we explore the evidence for a number of different alternative and complementary therapies, from textiles to vitamin supplements. By definition, none have enough data to be deemed “effective” in a conventional sense, but it is hopeful that some show promising evidence that may one day lead to mainstream acceptance with further research.
Study and Application of State Estimator for Time-Delay Systems with State Saturation Nonlinearities
Authors: Sun Yeong-Jeu
Published: July 2015

The design and application of state estimator for a class of time-delay systems with state saturation nonlinearities are firstly explored. Based on the Lyapunov-Razumikhin functions, delay-dependent sufficient conditions are established to guarantee the asymptotic stability of the error between the state estimate and the true state. Besides, an upper bound of arbitrary time-varying delays is derived to assure that the resulting error can converge asymptotically to zero. Finally, applications to the secure communication and simulation results are given to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the main results.
Engineering Micromechanical Systems for the Next Generation Wireless Capsule Endoscopy
Authors: Woods Stephen , Constandinou Timothy
Published: July 2015

Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) enables the detection and diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. However treatment of these pathologies can only be achieved through conventional means. This paper describes the next generation WCE with increased functionality to enable targeted drug delivery in the small intestinal tract. A prototype microrobot fabricated in Nylon 6 is presented which is capable of resisting peristaltic pressure through the deployment of an integrated holding mechanism and delivering targeted therapy. The holding action is achieved by extending an “anchor” spanning a 60.4 mm circumference, for an 11.0 mm diameter WCE. This function is achieved by a mechanism that occupies only 347.0 mm3volume, including mechanics and actuator. A micropositioning mechanism is described which utilises a single micromotor to radially position and then deploy a needle 1.5 mm outside the microrobot’s body to deliver a 1 mL dose of medication to a targeted site. An analysis of the mechanics required to drive the holding mechanism is presented and an overview of microactuators and the state of the art in WCE is discussed. It is envisaged that this novel functionality will empower the next generation of WCE to help diagnose and treat pathologies of the GI tract.
Malignant Course of Anomalous Left Coronary Artery Causing Sudden Cardiac Arrest: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Anantha Narayanan Mahesh , DeZorzi Christopher , Akinapelli Abhilash , Mahfood Haddad Toufik , Smer Aiman , Baskaran Janani , Biddle William P.
Published: July 2015

Sudden cardiac arrest has been reported to occur in patients with congenital anomalous coronary artery disease. About 80% of the anomalies are benign and incidental findings at the time of catheterization. We present a case of sudden cardiac arrest caused by anomalous left anterior descending artery. 61-year-old African American female was brought to the emergency department after sudden cardiac arrest. Initial EKG showed sinus rhythm with RBBB and LAFB with nonspecific ST-T wave changes. Coronary angiogram revealed no atherosclerotic disease. The left coronary artery was found to originate from the right coronary cusp. Cardiac CAT scan revealed similar findings with interarterial and intramural course. Patient received one-vessel arterial bypass graft to her anomalous coronary vessel along with a defibrillator for secondary prevention. Sudden cardiac arrest secondary to congenital anomalous coronary artery disease is characterized by insufficient coronary flow by the anomalous left coronary artery to meet elevated left ventricular (LV) myocardial demand. High risk defects include those involved with the proximal coronary artery or coursing of the anomalous artery between the aorta and pulmonary trunk. Per guidelines, our patient received one vessel bypass graft to her anomalous vessel. It is important for clinicians to recognize such presentations of anomalous coronary artery.
Lemierre’s Syndrome: A Neglected Disease with Classical Features
Authors: Hadjinicolaou Andreas V. , Philippou Yiannis
Published: July 2015

We report the case of a previously healthy, immunocompetent 23-year-old male who presented to the Emergency Department with general malaise, difficulty in breathing, fever, and chest pain. He reported a two-week history of progressively worsening sore throat that he presumed to be a viral infection and thus initially neglected. However, when his condition deteriorated, he was admitted to hospital acutely unwell and in respiratory distress. He quickly developed septic shock requiring intensive care admission for inotropic support. Ultrasound and CT imaging revealed internal jugular vein thrombosis with associated septic emboli reaching the lungs to form bilateral cavitations and consequently pleural effusions. Blood cultures were positive forFusobacterium necrophorum. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of Lemierre’s syndrome was made. The patient was treated with appropriate antibiotics and anticoagulation and gradually recovered. He was discharged 20 days after admission with advice to complete a six-week course of antibiotics.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor and Epidermal Growth Factor Signaling in Breast Cancer Cell Growth: Focus on Endocrine Resistant Disease
Authors: Voudouri Kallirroi , Berdiaki Aikaterini , Tzardi Maria , Tzanakakis George N. , Nikitovic Dragana
Published: July 2015

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer for women worldwide with a lifetime risk amounting to a staggering total of 10%. It is well established that the endogenous synthesis of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) polypeptide growth factors are closely correlated to malignant transformation and all the steps of the breast cancer metastatic cascade. Numerous studies have demonstrated that both estrogens and growth factors stimulate the proliferation of steroid-dependent tumor cells, and that the interaction between these signaling pathways occurs at several levels. Importantly, the majority of breast cancer cases are estrogen receptor- (ER-) positive which have a more favorable prognosis and pattern of recurrence with endocrine therapy being the backbone of treatment. Unfortunately, the majority of patients progress to endocrine therapy resistant disease (acquired resistance) whereas a proportion of patients may fail to respond to initial therapy (de novo resistance). The IGF-I and EGF downstream signaling pathways are closely involved in the process of progression to therapy resistant disease. Modifications in the bioavailability of these growth factors contribute critically to disease progression. In the present review therefore, we will discuss in depth how IGF and EGF signaling participate in breast cancer pathogenesis and progression to endocrine resistant disease.
Association between Diverticular Disease and Pre-Neoplastic Colorectal Lesions in an Urban African-American Population
Authors: Ashktorab Hassan , Panchal Heena , Shokrani Babak , Paydar Mansour , Sanderson Andrew , Lee Edward L. , Begum Rehana , Haidary Tahmineh , Laiyemo Adeyinka O. , McDonald-Pinkett Shelly , Brim Hassan , Nouraie Mehdi
Published: July 2015

Background: It is unclear whether there is a shared pathway in the development of diverticular disease (DD) and potentially neoplastic colorectal lesions since both diseases are found in similar age groups and populations. Aim: To determine the association between DD and colorectal pre-neoplastic lesions in an African-American urban population. Methods: Data from 1986 patients who underwent colonoscopy at the Howard University Hospital from January 2012 through December 2012 were analyzed for this study. The presence of diverticula and polyps was recorded using colonoscopy reports. Polyps were further classified into adenoma or hyperplastic polyp based on histopathology reports. Multiple logistic regression was done to analyze the association between DD and colonic lesions. Results: Of the 1986 study subjects, 1,119 (56%) were females, 35% had DD and 56% had at least one polyp. There was a higher prevalence of polyps (70 vs. 49%; OR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.9-2.8) and adenoma (43 vs. 25%; OR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.7-2.5) in the diverticular vs. non-diverticula patients. Among patients who underwent screening colonoscopy, the presence of diverticulosis was associated with increased odds of associated polyps (OR = 9.9; 95% CI: 5.4-16.8) and adenoma (OR = 5.1; 95% CI: 3.4-7.8). Conclusion: Patients with DD are more likely to harbor colorectal lesions. These findings call for more vigilance on the part of endoscopists during colonoscopy in patients known to harbor colonic diverticula.
Roles of Antiphospholipid Antibodies, Antithyroid Antibodies and Antisperm Antibodies in Female Reproductive Health
Authors: Heng Boon Chin , Huang Wenjin , Zhong Xiufang , Yin Ping , Tong Guo Qing
Published: July 2015

Autoantibodies are implicated in various human diseases. In this review, the effects of three different types of autoantibodies (antiphospholipid antibody, antithyroid antibody, and antisperm antibody) on female reproductive health are critically examined. Antiphospholipid antibodies are being detected more frequently in women undergoing in vitro fertilization, but their presence does not appear to influence the outcome of pregnancy, miscarriage, or live birth rates. Available evidence makes it conclusive that antiphospholipid antibodies play negligible roles in recurrent miscarriage. Treatment with aspirin together with low-molecular-weight heparin appears to be effective for recurrent miscarriage. Although antithyroid antibodies are commonly found in women of reproductive age, implantation rates and miscarriage rates are unaffected when women have normal thyroid function. Women with thyroid dysfunction should be treated with L-thyroxine before conception or at early gestational stages to avoid pregnancy complications. Antisperm antibodies are uncommon but are most often associated with ovarian hypofunction. They are believed to cause fertilization failure when found at high titers in seminal plasma, or in the mucosal immune system of women. Intrauterine artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer are effective treatment modalities for antisperm antibody-related infertility, although this remains a controversial topic in the field of female infertility.
Application of the Bead-Based Technique in Neurodegeneration: A Literature Review
Authors: Koper Olga M. , Kamińska Joanna , Kemona Halina , Dymicka-Piekarska Violetta
Published: July 2015

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common disease causing neurodegeneration. The lower concentration of β-amyloid 1-42 (Aβ1-42) together with increased levels of total tau protein (T-tau) and phosphorylated tau protein (P-tau) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) make a panel of well-established biomarkers in AD diagnosis. Addition of novel biomarkers to the gold standard biomarker panel might improve the diagnostic accuracy of neurodegeneration. This goal might be reached by the use of multiplexing, which is a simultaneous measurement of multiple analytes in a single sample volume and within a single cycle or run. Objective/Methods: Therefore the aim of the current review was to present, according to our best knowledge, available data concerning the evaluation of concentrations and diagnostic accuracy of well-established biomarkers in AD as well as novel biomarkers analyzed with the use of the bead-based technique. Additionally we discuss the utilization of the bead-based technique as compared to the conventional ELISA method. Results: Literature data indicate that the bead-based technique revealed diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and coefficients of variation at the levels similar to ELISA. Moreover, an addition of novel biomarkers (tested by means of the bead-based technique) to the gold standard biomarker panel improved the diagnostic accuracy of neurodegeneration. Conclusion: Review of literature data shows that the combined analysis of classical CSF biomarkers with novel biomarkers might increase the specificity and sensitivity of performed tests. However, we concluded that the replacement of conventional ELISA with the bead-based technique requires new reference intervals for Aβ1-42, T-tau and P-tau concentrations.
Meraque or Triple Energizer (San Jiao): Actual or Virtual Organ in Traditional Medicine - A Hypothetical Viewpoint
Authors: Avijgan Majid , Avijgan Mahtab
Published: July 2015

Background/Objective: In traditional medicine, there are a number of terms and organs that have not yet been reported in Western medicine. For example, ‘Meraque' in Iranian traditional medicine and ‘Triple Energizer' or ‘San Jiao' in traditional Chinese medicine (as one of the Fu organs) are examples of such terms. The organs they refer to can explain many of the clinical signs and symptoms which have been noted as psychosomatic disorders in Western medicine. One hypothesis is that this organ might be a real space. From the viewpoint of embryology and anatomy, this report will try to create a new perception in the reader's mind of the Meraque/Triple Energizer/San Jiao of the human body. Methods: We searched through the major databases for the key words ‘traditional medicine', ‘Meraque', ‘meridians', ‘acupuncture points', ‘San Jiao' and ‘Triple Energizer'. Results: There were no reports on the relevant concepts of San Jiao/Triple Energizer and Meraque. Discussion: During embryonic development and after gastrulation, three layers called the ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm are formed. The mesoderm is the source of most of the internal organs, dividing into two layers, the somatic and the visceral, with an invisible space in between that is called the coelom. This space could possibly be the same as the Meraque/Triple Energizer/San Jiao (as a hollow organ) and, furthermore, the same as a cavitary tissue forming a pathway to connect the internal organs of the body with the surface of the body. In this case, many of the mechanisms of traditional medicine and acupuncture can be explained. In other words, for the first time the coelom is proposed as the Meraque and the Triple Energizer/San Jiao in Iranian and Chinese traditional medicine, respectively.
An Assessment of Possible Neuropathology and Clinical Relationships in 46 Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patient Autopsies
Authors: Coan Grant , Mitchell Cassie S.
Published: July 2015

Background: Recent studies have suggested overlapping pathological features among motor neuron, cognitive and neurodegenerative diseases. Aims/Methods: Secondary analysis of 46 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patient autopsies was performed to independently assess pathological feature prevalence (e.g. percent of patients with any positive finding), degree of severity (e.g. mild, moderate, severe), and 2,200+ potential clinical/neuropathological correlations. The possible impact of gender, onset age, onset type (limb vs. bulbar), riluzole treatment, and severe TDP-43 pathology was assessed within patient subgroups. Results: Assessed features (prevalence, severity) include: lateral corticospinal tract degeneration (89%, moderate); Purkinje cell loss (85%, mild); localized neuronal loss (83%, mild to moderate); TDP-43 inclusions (80%, moderate); Betz cell loss (76%, mild); neurofibrillary tangles (78%, severe); anterior corticospinal tract degeneration (72%, moderate); spinal ventral root atrophy (65%, moderate); atherosclerosis (35%, mild); β-amyloid (35%, mild); tauopathy/tau inclusions (17%, mild); ventricular dilation (13%, mild); Lewy body formation (11%, mild); microinfarcts (7%, mild); and α-synuclein (4%, mild). Twenty-two percent of patients met criteria for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 26% for frontotemporal lobar degeneration. Substantial differences were identified in the AD group and in the different onset age groups. Conclusion: Our findings support the hypothesis that ALS and its variants could comprise a larger neuropathological continuum.
Macronutrient Intake and Inadequacies of Community-Dwelling Older Adults, a Systematic Review
Authors: ter Borg Sovianne , Verlaan Sjors , Mijnarends Donja M. , Schols Jos M.G.A. , de Groot Lisette C.P.G.M. , Luiking Yvette C.
Published: July 2015

Background: Anorexia of ageing may predispose older adults to under-nutrition and protein energy malnutrition. Studies, however, report a large variation in nutrient inadequacies among community-dwelling older adults. Summary: This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the energy and macronutrient intakes and possible inadequacies in community-dwelling older adults. PubMed and EMBASE were screened up to December 2013; data from national nutrition surveys were added. Forty-six studies were included, following the PRISMA guideline. Key Messages: Mean daily energy intake was 8.9 MJ in men and 7.3 MJ in women. Mean daily carbohydrate and protein intakes were 46 and 15 En% in men and 47 and 16 En% in women, respectively. Mean daily total fat, saturated fatty acid (SFA), mono-unsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and poly-unsaturated fatty acid intakes were respectively 34, 13, 13 and 5-6 En%. The carbohydrates and MUFA intakes are below the acceptable macronutrient distribution ranges (AMDR). Fat intake is relatively high, and SFA intake exceeds the upper-AMDR. Based on the estimated average requirement (EAR) cut-point method, 10-12% of older adults do not meet the EAR for protein. To interpret a possible energy imbalance additional information is needed on physical activity, energy expenditure and body weight changes. This systematic review indicates a suboptimal dietary macronutrient distribution and a large variation in nutrient intakes among community-dwelling older adults.
Ureteroscopy-Assisted Biopsy for a Retroperitoneal Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: Maeda Yoko , Kawahara Takashi , Tanabe Mikiko , Kumano Yohei , Ohtaka Mari , Kondo Takuya , Mochizuki Taku , Hattori Yusuke , Teranishi Jun-ichi , Miyoshi Yasuhide , Yumura Yasushi , Inayama Yoshiaki , Yao Masahiro , Uemura Hiroji
Published: July 2015

Introduction: Retroperitoneal tumor is often seen in urology clinical practice. To diagnose the tumor, tumor specimens must be obtained. However, in some cases, the tumor is penetrated by vessels around the ureter, and it may be difficult to detect the optimal spot for obtaining a specimen, even when performing open surgery. Case Presentation: A 53-year-old male patient was referred to our hospital for further examination of left back pain due to hydronephrosis. Enhanced computed tomography demonstrated ureter stenosis in front of the ilium, which was surrounded by a retroperitoneal tumor. The tumor was penetrated by blood vessels; therefore, we performed an open surgical biopsy on the suspicion of a retroperitoneal tumor using ureteroscopic assistance. The diagnosis of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis was made according to the biopsy. Conclusion: We herein report the first case of a ureteroscopy-assisted biopsy for the pathological diagnosis of a retroperitoneal tumor.
Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Positive Duodenal Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Moreira Braga Virginia , Belotto de Oliveira Marcos , Coelho Netto Caio , El Ibrahim Roberto , D'Alpino Peixoto Renata
Published: July 2015

Duodenal adenocarcinoma is a rare malignancy and carries a poor prognosis. The role of adjuvant therapy and the optimal chemotherapy regimen remain largely unclear. Treatment with trastuzumab results in prolonged survival in gastroesophageal cancer if human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is overexpressed or amplified in tumor cells. However, unlike gastric adenocarcinomas, duodenal cancers seem to rarely harbor HER2 amplification or overexpression. We report the case of a patient with HER2-positive stage III duodenal adenocarcinoma who has received adjuvant chemotherapy including trastuzumab.
Bench Test for the Detection of Bacterial Contamination in Platelet Concentrates Using Rapid and Cultural Detection Methods with a Standardized Proficiency Panel
Authors: Vollmer Tanja , Knabbe Cornelius , Geilenkeuser Wolf-Jochen , Schmidt Michael , Dreier Jens
Published: July 2015

Background: The most frequent infectious complication in transfusion therapy in developed countries is related to the bacterial contamination of platelet concentrates (PCs). Rapid and cultural screening methods for bacterial detection in platelets are available, but external performance evaluation, especially of rapid methods, has been difficult to realize so far. Here we summarize the results of three individual collaborative trials using an external quality assessment program (EQAP) for the application of current rapid and cultural screening methods. Methods: Three different modules were available for the detection of bacterial contamination: module 1: rapid methods, module 2: culture methods, module 3: bacterial identification methods. The sample set-up included up to six different bacterial strains, 1-2 negative samples and 4-6 positive samples with stabilized bacterial cell counts (approximately 103/104/105 CFU/ml). Time schedule for testing was limited (module 1: 6 h, module 2 and 3: 7 days). Results: Samples of module 1 were analyzed with two different rapid methods (BactiFlow, NAT). The results of the three individual collaborative trials showed that all participants detected the negative samples with both assays correctly. Samples spiked with 104 to 105 CFU/ml of bacteria obtained positive results with both rapid screening methods, whereas samples spiked with only 103 CFU/ml disclosed a lower number of correctly identified positive results by NAT (86.6-93.8% sensitivity) compared to BactiFlow (100% sensitivity). The results for modules 2 and 3 revealed a 100% diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in all three collaborative trials. Conclusion: This proficiency panel facilitates the verification of the analytical sensitivity of rapid and cultural bacterial detection systems under controlled routine conditions. The concept of samples provided in this EQAP has three main advantages: i) samples can be examined by both rapid and culture methods, ii) the provided material is matrix-equivalent, and iii) the sample material is ready-to-use.
ZBTB17
(
MIZ1
) Is Important for the Cardiac Stress Response and a Novel Candidate Gene for Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure
Authors: Buyandelger Byambajav , Mansfield Catherine , Kostin Sawa , Choi Onjee , Roberts Angharad M. , Ware James S. , Mazzarotto Francesco , Pesce Francesco , Buchan Rachel , Isaacson Rivka L. , Vouffo Josée , Gunkel Sylvia , Knöll Gudrun , McSweeney Sara J. , Wei Heming , Perrot Andreas , Pfeiffer Conny , Toliat Mohammad Reza , Ilieva Kristina , Krysztofinska Ewelina , López-Olañeta Marina M. , Gómez-Salinero Jesús M. , Schmidt Albrecht , Ng Keat-Eng , Teucher Niels , Chen Ju , Teichmann Martin , Eilers Martin , Haverkamp Wilhelm , Regitz-Zagrosek Vera , Hasenfuss Gerd , Braun Thomas , Pennell Dudley J. , Gould Ian , Barton Paul J.R. , Lara-Pezzi Enrique , Schäfer Sebastian , Hübner Norbert , Felkin Leanne E. , O’Regan Declan P. , Brand Thomas , Milting Hendrik , Nürnberg Peter , Schneider Michael D. , Prasad Sanjay , Petretto Enrico , Knöll Ralph
Published: July 2015

Background—

Mutations in sarcomeric and cytoskeletal proteins are a major cause of hereditary cardiomyopathies, but our knowledge remains incomplete as to how the genetic defects execute their effects.

Methods and Results—

We used cysteine and glycine-rich protein 3, a known cardiomyopathy gene, in a yeast 2-hybrid screen and identified zinc-finger and BTB domain-containing protein 17 (
ZBTB17
) as a novel interacting partner.
ZBTB17
is a transcription factor that contains the peak association signal (rs10927875) at the replicated 1p36 cardiomyopathy locus.
ZBTB17
expression protected cardiac myocytes from apoptosis in vitro and in a mouse model with cardiac myocyte–specific deletion of
Zbtb17
, which develops cardiomyopathy and fibrosis after biomechanical stress.
ZBTB17
also regulated cardiac myocyte hypertrophy in vitro and in vivo in a calcineurin-dependent manner.

Conclusions—

We revealed new functions for
ZBTB17
in the heart, a transcription factor that may play a role as a novel cardiomyopathy gene.
Carvedilol Compared With Metoprolol Succinate in the Treatment and Prognosis of Patients With Stable Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Fröhlich Hanna , Zhao Jingting , Täger Tobias , Cebola Rita , Schellberg Dieter , Katus Hugo A. , Grundtvig Morten , Hole Torstein , Atar Dan , Agewall Stefan , Frankenstein Lutz
Published: July 2015

Background—

β-Blockers exert a prognostic benefit in the treatment of chronic heart failure. Their pharmacological properties vary. The only substantial comparative trial to date—the Carvedilol or Metoprolol European Trial—has compared carvedilol with short-acting metoprolol tartrate at different dose equivalents. We therefore addressed the relative efficacy of equal doses of carvedilol and metoprolol succinate on survival in multicenter hospital outpatients with chronic heart failure.

Methods and Results—

Four thousand sixteen patients with stable systolic chronic heart failure who were using either carvedilol or metoprolol succinate were identified in the Norwegian Heart Failure Registry and The Heart Failure Registry of the University of Heidelberg, Germany. Patients were individually matched on both the dose equivalents and the respective propensity scores for β-blocker treatment. During a follow-up for 17 672 patient-years, it was found that 304 (27.2%) patients died in the carvedilol group and 1066 (36.8%) in the metoprolol group. In a univariable analysis of the general sample, metoprolol therapy was associated with higher mortality compared with carvedilol therapy (hazard ratio, 1.49; 95% confidence interval, 1.31–1.69;
P
<0.001). This difference was not seen after multivariable adjustment (hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.57–1.50;
P
=0.75) and adjustment for propensity score and dose equivalents (hazard ratio, 1.06; 95% confidence interval, 0.94–1.20;
P
=0.36) or in the propensity and dose equivalent–matched sample (hazard ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.82–1.23;
P
=0.99). These results were essentially unchanged for all prespecified subgroups.

Conclusions—

In outpatients with chronic heart failure, no conclusive association between all-cause mortality and treatment with carvedilol or metoprolol succinate was observed after either multivariable adjustment or multilevel propensity score matching.
Association of Physical Activity or Fitness With Incident Heart Failure
Authors: Echouffo-Tcheugui Justin B. , Butler Javed , Yancy Clyde W. , Fonarow Gregg C.
Published: July 2015

Background—

Previous studies have shown that high levels of physical activity are associated with lower risk of risk factors for heart failure (HF), such as coronary heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. However, the effects of physical activity or fitness on the incidence of HF remain unclear.

Methods and Results—

MEDLINE and EMBASE were systematically searched until November 30, 2014. Prospective cohort studies reporting measures of the association of physical activity (n=10) or fitness (n=2) with incident HF were included. Extracted effect estimates from the eligible studies were pooled using a random-effects model meta-analysis, with heterogeneity assessed with the
I
2
statistic. Ten cohort studies on physical activity eligible for meta-analysis included a total of 282 889 participants followed for 7 to 30 years. For the physical activity studies, maximum versus minimal amount of physical activity groups were used for analyses; with a total number of participants (n=165 695). The pooled relative risk (95% confidence interval [CI]) for HF among those with a regular exercise pattern was 0.72 (95% CI, 0.67–0.79). Findings were similar for men (0.71 [95% CI, 0.61–0.83]) and women (0.72 [95% CI, 0.67–0.77]) and by type of exercise. There was no evidence of publication bias (
P
value for Egger test=0.34). The pooled associated effect of physical fitness on incident HF was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.75–0.83) for each unit increase in metabolic equivalent of oxygen consumption.

Conclusions—

Published literature support a significant association between increased physical activity or fitness and decreased incidence of HF.
First Ischemic Stroke in Sickle-Cell Disease
Authors: Calvet David , Bernaudin Françoise , Gueguen Antoine , Hosseini Hassan , Habibi Anoosha , Galactéros Frédéric , Bartolucci Pablo
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose—

There is little evidence about characteristics of ischemic stroke (IS) occurring in adults with sickle-cell disease (SCD). The objective of this study was to assess characteristics of first-ever IS in adults with SCD and to assess whether they differ from those occurring in child patients with SCD.

Methods—

Adult and child individuals with SCD who had a first-ever IS were identified from cohorts of patients followed up in an adult and a child sickle cell referral center. Mechanisms of IS were determined by consensus meeting from all available explorations using the following predefined classification: Vasculopathy, cardioembolism, other defined cause, and undetermined. Treatment and stroke recurrences were recorded from prospective follow-up performed in the referral centers.

Results—

Twenty-nine adults and 26 children had a first-ever IS; mean age (SD) was 7.1 (4.3) and 32.3 (11.6), respectively. With regard to IS mechanism, vasculopathy was less often the cause of IS in adults (12/29, 41%) than in children (24/26, 92%;
P
<0.001). Other causes of IS in adults were cardioembolism in 7, antiphospholipid syndrome in 1, toxic (cocaine) in 1, and undetermined in 8. Adults with SCD had a higher risk of recurrent stroke (23.1% [7.0–39.2] at 5 years) compared with children (1 recurrence only;
P
log rank=0.046) despite exchange-blood transfusion in patients with vasculopathy.

Conclusions—

First-ever IS occurring in adults with SCD has specificities that justify further studies conducted in adults with SCD to improve understanding and management.
Jus Post Bellum and Foreign Direct Investment: Mapping the Debate
Authors: De Brabandere Eric
Published: July 2015

Recent situations of States recovering from conflict show that foreign direct investment (FDI) act as a double-edged sword and are characterized by an inherent paradox. Indeed, on the one hand, post-conflict economic reconstruction and development requires and relies on FDI. On the other, rights granted to foreign investors before and during the post-conflict phase may result in a backlash for States recovering from conflict because rights granted to foreign investors have – besides the general tensions caused by such instruments – specific consequences in post-conflict situations due to the economic, security-related, social and demographic specificities of those situations. This article maps and charts the issues raised by FDI protection in post-conflict situations, and thus provides the context for the debate of the interaction between FDI regulation and post-conflict situation.
Epipsylla millettiae sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Psylloidea), a new psyllid from China associated with Millettia pachyloba (Fabaceae) with comments on Epipsylla including the redescription of E. hainanana
Authors: LI BIN , YANG MAO-FA , Burckhardt DANIEL
Published: July 2015

The small genus Epipsylla is diagnosed (adults and immatures), a checklist is given for its constituent species and the phylogenetic relationships of the genus are briefly discussed. E. millettiae sp. nov., associated with Millettia pachyloba from South China is described, diagnosed and illustrated. It differs from other described Epipsylla species in the very narrow paramere. E. hainanana Yang & Li is redescribed, and additional details are provided of the male and female terminalia. Following new synonymies are proposed: Epipsylla guangxiana Yang & Li, 1983, = E. whitfordiodendritis Yang & Li, 1983, syn. nov. and Epipsylla mucunae Yang & Li, 1984, = E. ruiliana Yang & Li, 1984, syn. nov., E. yunnanica Yang & Li, 1984, syn. nov.
Patterns of Asian Winter Climate Variability and Links to Arctic Sea Ice
Authors: Wu Bingyi , Su Jingzhi , D’Arrigo Rosanne
Published: July 2015

This paper describes two dominant patterns of Asian winter climate variability: the Siberian high (SH) pattern and the Asia–Arctic (AA) pattern. The former depicts atmospheric variability closely associated with the intensity of the Siberian high, and the latter characterizes the teleconnection pattern of atmospheric variability between Asia and the Arctic, which is distinct from the Arctic Oscillation (AO). The AA pattern plays more important roles in regulating winter precipitation and the 850-hPa meridional wind component over East Asia than the SH pattern, which controls surface air temperature variability over East Asia.

In the Arctic Ocean and its marginal seas, sea ice loss in both autumn and winter could bring the positive phase of the SH pattern or cause the negative phase of the AA pattern. The latter corresponds to a weakened East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) and enhanced winter precipitation in the midlatitudes of the Asian continent and East Asia. For the SH pattern, sea ice loss in the prior autumn emerges in the Siberian marginal seas, and winter loss mainly occurs in the Barents Sea, Labrador Sea, and Davis Strait. For the AA pattern, sea ice loss in the prior autumn is observed in the Barents–Kara Seas, the western Laptev Sea, and the Beaufort Sea, and winter loss only occurs in some areas of the Barents Sea, the Labrador Sea, and Davis Strait. Simulation experiments with observed sea ice forcing also support that Arctic sea ice loss may favor frequent occurrence of the negative phase of the AA pattern. The results also imply that the relationship between Arctic sea ice loss and winter atmospheric variability over East Asia is unstable, which is a challenge for predicting the EAWM based on Arctic sea ice loss.
Assessment of Regional Drought Trend and Risk over China: A Drought Climate Division Perspective
Authors: Li Xiuzhen , Zhou Wen , Chen Yongqin David
Published: July 2015

A combination of Ward’s and k-means clustering was applied to a 3-month standardized precipitation index (SPI-03), and eight divisions of homogeneous drought variation throughout China were identified from the perspective of meteorological and agricultural droughts. A greater meridional gradient appeared over eastern China (six divisions) than over western China (two divisions).

The climate division facilitated the evaluating of not only regional but also widespread droughts. Trend evaluation showed that western north China (WNC) has become increasingly wet in recent decades, while northern northeast China (NNE) has become increasingly dry. The Yangtze River valley (YZ) tended to experience less and weaker drought after the late 1970s. Southern northeast China (SNE) and the southwestern China–Tibetan Plateau (SW-TP) showed a decreasing trend in long-term but not short-term SPIs, implying that long-term drought conditions might develop continuously, thus allowing the following droughts to develop more rapidly and with a stronger intensity. Examination of the drought risk under El Niño revealed that northern regions were likely to suffer from drought rather than flood in the developing phase and the reverse in the decaying phase. Southeastern China (SE) and the YZ were vulnerable to flood rather than drought in the mature and decaying spring, with SE subjected to drought in the decaying summer. Such a distinctive regional pattern of drought risks was closely connected with the abnormal moisture supply patterns modulated by ENSO in different phases.
A Hybrid Global Ocean Data Assimilation System at NCEP
Authors: Penny Stephen G. , Behringer David W. , Carton James A. , Kalnay Eugenia
Published: July 2015

Seasonal forecasting with a coupled model requires accurate initial conditions for the ocean. A hybrid data assimilation has been implemented within the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Global Ocean Data Assimilation System (GODAS) as a future replacement of the operational three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVar) method. This Hybrid-GODAS provides improved representation of model uncertainties by using a combination of dynamic and static background error covariances, and by using an ensemble forced by different realizations of atmospheric surface conditions. An observing system simulation experiment (OSSE) is presented spanning January 1991 to January 1999, with a bias imposed on the surface forcing conditions to emulate an imperfect model. The OSSE compares the 3DVar used by the NCEP Climate Forecast System (CFSv2) with the new hybrid, using simulated in situ ocean observations corresponding to those used for the NCEP Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR).

The Hybrid-GODAS reduces errors for all prognostic model variables over the majority of the experiment duration, both globally and regionally. Compared to an ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) used alone, the hybrid further reduces errors in the tropical Pacific. The hybrid eliminates growth in biases of temperature and salinity present in the EnKF and 3DVar, respectively. A preliminary reanalysis using real data shows that reductions in errors and biases are qualitatively similar to the results from the OSSE. The Hybrid-GODAS is currently being implemented as the ocean component in a prototype next-generation CFSv3, and will be used in studies by the Climate Prediction Center to evaluate impacts on ENSO prediction.
Ensemble Filtering and Low-Resolution Model Error: Covariance Inflation, Stochastic Parameterization, and Model Numerics
Authors: Grooms I. , Lee Y. , Majda A. J.
Published: July 2015

The use of under-resolved models in ensemble data assimilation schemes leads to two kinds of model errors: truncation errors associated with discretization of the large-scale dynamics and errors associated with interactions with subgrid scales. Multiplicative and additive covariance inflation can be used to account for model errors in ensemble Kalman filters, but they do not reduce the model error. Truncation errors can be reduced by increasing the accuracy of the numerical discretization of the large-scale dynamics, and subgrid-scale parameterizations can reduce errors associated with subgrid-scale interactions. Stochastic subgrid-scale parameterizations both reduce the model error and inflate the ensemble spread, so their effectiveness in ensemble assimilation schemes can be gauged by comparing with covariance inflation techniques. The effects of covariance inflation, stochastic parameterizations, and model numerics in two-layer periodic quasigeostrophic turbulence are compared on an f plane and on a β plane. The stochastic backscatter schemes used here model backscatter in the inverse cascade regime of quasigeostrophic turbulence, as appropriate to eddy-permitting ocean models. Covariance inflation improves the performance of a benchmark model with no parameterizations and second-order numerics. Fourth-order spatial discretization and the stochastic parameterizations, alone and in combination, are superior to covariance inflation. In these experiments fourth-order numerics and stochastic parameterizations lead to similar levels of improvement in filter performance even though the climatology of models without stochastic parameterizations is poor.
Particle size effect in metal matrix composites: A study by the continuum theory of stress gradient plasticity
Authors: Soleymani Shishvan Siamak , Asghari Amir-Hossein
Published: July 2015

The plastic behavior of particle-reinforced composites is studied by the continuum theory of stress gradient plasticity. This theory has been quite successful in predicting the size-dependent behavior in micro-torsion and -bending. Analyses are carried out on the axisymmetric unit cell finite element models for two sets of SiC/Al composites. Subsequent stress gradient plasticity predictions of the stress–strain curves in comparison with the corresponding experimental data show excellent agreement of flow strength for composites of varying particle size. Our results reveal that the experimental observations of particle size effect can be explained in terms of a stress gradient plasticity theory with one material length variable, which depends on the matrix microstructure. Therefore, stress gradients in the matrix—originated from the mismatch of elastic moduli between the particles and matrix—together with the matrix microstructure can control the size-dependent behavior in composites. However, the impact of this novel mechanism in competition with other well-known mechanisms can only be revealed by experimental investigations with careful attention on the matrix microstructure of composites.
Community College Students’ Assessments of the Costs and Benefits of Borrowing to Finance Higher Education
Authors: McKinney Lyle , Mukherjee Moumita , Wade Jerrel , Shefman Pamelyn , Breed Rachel
Published: July 2015

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to understand how community college students assess the risks and rewards of using personal loans to achieve their higher education goals.

Method:

Interviews were conducted with 12 federal loan borrowers attending a large, urban community college in Texas during the Spring 2013 semester.

Results:

Findings from thematic analysis of the data revealed that although these students typically viewed borrowing as a last resort, they believed that loans had contributed to their academic momentum and success. However, these borrowers had many misconceptions about debt management and loan repayment. Many of the students expressed a willingness to borrow US$100,000 or more to achieve their educational goals. Collectively, our results suggest that community college students often borrow out of necessity to address immediate liquidity constraints without the requisite information needed to adequately assess the long-term implications of this financial decision.

Contributions:

Our findings serve as the basis for recommended changes to federal loan policies and financial aid counseling practices that could better protect community college borrowers, and help these students more accurately assess the costs and benefits of using loans.
Fuel exploitation as a factor in Shoshone winter mobility
Authors: Bishop Michael , Plew Mark G
Published: July 2015

This paper estimates fuel exploitation as a way of assessing the extent to which use of firewood in the Desert West should be considered an important factor in determining on the basis of seasonal use, how quickly available wood stores would be exploited. Recognizing that more mobile foragers during spring-fall may not be seriously impacted by fuel availability, we focus our discussion on the potential impact of fuel depletion during the winter period. We use Julian Steward and Murphy and Murphy’s locational descriptions of winter villages on the Snake River Plain to calculate fuel return rates of driftwood/deadfall and sagebrush by foraging radii. We argue that fuel depletion is a primary cause of re-location of encampments during the winter period.
CD44+/CD24– Cancer Stem Cells Are Associated With Higher Grade of Canine Mammary Carcinomas
Authors: Im K. S. , Jang Y. G. , Shin J. I. , Kim N. H. , Lim H. Y. , Lee S. M. , Kim J. H. , Sur J. H.
Published: July 2015

The CD44+/CD24– phenotype identifies cancer stem cell (CSC) properties in canine mammary carcinoma (MC); however, the histopathological features associated with this phenotype remain to be elucidated. Here, we determined whether the CD44+/CD24– phenotype was associated with hormonal receptor (HR; estrogen receptor [ER] and/or progesterone receptor [PR]) status and/or triple (ER, PR, and human epithelial growth factor receptor 2)–negative (TN) subtype; conventional histological evaluation was also performed. We found that, as single markers, both CD44+ and CD24+ were associated with less aggressive histological types, low grade, and a non-TN subtype; both markers were associated with HR positivity. On the other hand, a CD44+/CD24– phenotype was associated with higher grade of carcinoma. Therefore, our results suggest that immunohistochemical phenotyping for CD44/CD24 is useful for the evaluation of tumor behavior as well as CSC-like properties in canine MCs.
An occupational therapy intervention for residents with stroke living in care homes in the United Kingdom: A content analysis of occupational therapy records from the OTCH trial
Authors: Sands Gina , Kelly Debbie , Fletcher-Smith Joanna , Birt Linda , Sackley Catherine
Published: July 2015

Introduction

This study aimed to describe the content of occupational therapy delivered in a randomized controlled trial of United Kingdom care home residents with stroke (The Occupational Therapy in Care Homes (OTCH) trial). The trial intervention aimed to maintain or improve residents’ activity levels in relation to personal activities of daily living and mobility.

Method

A qualitative design was adopted using content analysis to thematically code and analyse the occupational therapy notes of residents in the intervention arm of the trial. Treatment notes comprised of an initial assessment, a goal and treatment plan and a description of activities at each visit. A purposive sample of 50 sets of therapy notes was selected reflecting the geographical locations, care home types and resident characteristics observed in the OTCH trial intervention group.

Findings

Occupational therapists individually assessed residents’ function and goals. Planning was sometimes client-centred, but not all residents were able to share personal goals. Carers impacted on the success of the intervention. Treatment outcomes in relation to increasing functional activity were noted in some cases, but not always fully realized in this frail population.

Conclusion

Increasing functional activity is challenging in care home populations; future studies should assess occupational therapy for residents in relation to leisure or social activities.