bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tracking Architecture Based on Dual-Filter with State Feedback and Its Application in Ultra-Tight GPS/INS Integration
Authors: Zhang Xi , Miao Lingjuan , Shao Haijun
Published: May 2016

If a Kalman Filter (KF) is applied to Global Positioning System (GPS) baseband signal preprocessing, the estimates of signal phase and frequency can have low variance, even in highly dynamic situations. This paper presents a novel preprocessing scheme based on a dual-filter structure. Compared with the traditional model utilizing a single KF, this structure avoids carrier tracking being subjected to code tracking errors. Meanwhile, as the loop filters are completely removed, state feedback values are adopted to generate local carrier and code. Although local carrier frequency has a wide fluctuation, the accuracy of Doppler shift estimation is improved. In the ultra-tight GPS/Inertial Navigation System (INS) integration, the carrier frequency derived from the external navigation information is not viewed as the local carrier frequency directly. That facilitates retaining the design principle of state feedback. However, under harsh conditions, the GPS outputs may still bear large errors which can destroy the estimation of INS errors. Thus, an innovative integrated navigation filter is constructed by modeling the non-negligible errors in the estimated Doppler shifts, to ensure INS is properly calibrated. Finally, field test and semi-physical simulation based on telemetered missile trajectory validate the effectiveness of methods proposed in this paper.
Autonomy Mediates the Relationship between Personality and Physical Activity: An Application of Self-Determination Theory
Authors: Ramsey Meredith , Hall Eric
Published: May 2016

This study sought to examine tenets of Self-Determination Theory by testing a mediation model of physical activity and personality via autonomy. A total of 290 adults were recruited to complete a one-time online survey of exercise habits and individual characteristics. Surveys assessed personality, autonomy, and physical activity. A measurement model specifying direct effects between personality dimensions and physical activity and indirect effects operating through autonomy provided an excellent fit to the data (Χ2 = 0.66, df = 3, p = 0.88, RMSEA(90% CI) = 0.00 (0.00–0.05), CFI = 0.99, SRMR = 0.01). Results indicated significant (p < 0.05) effects of Extroversion (β = 0.42), Conscientiousness (β = 0.96), and Emotional Stability (β = 0.60) on autonomy, which in turn, was significantly associated with physical activity (β = 0.55). No significant effects were observed for Agreeableness or Intellect. None of the personality constructs were found to be directly associated with physical activity. This model accounted for 27% of the variance in physical activity. The results of this study suggest that autonomy is significantly associated with physical activity. Therefore, attempts to improve autonomy in individuals may be a useful intervention strategy in improving physical activity levels.
Spatio-Temporal Differentiation of Urban-Rural Equalized Development at the County Level in Chengdu
Authors: Chen Deng , Wang Yanxia , Ren Fu , Du Qingyun
Published: May 2016

Urban-rural equalized development (URED) is recognized as strongly contributing to the narrowing of societal, economic, life, and environmental gaps between urban and rural areas and is also an effective way to solve the “three rural issues” of rapid industrialization and urbanization in China. This paper explores the spatio-temporal patterns of URED in the state-designated experimental zone of Chengdu at a county level by using quantitative survey data from 2004 to 2013. The major findings are as follows: (1) the regions that are closer to the central city of Chengdu had a more optimistic urban-rural equalized development outlook (i.e., the three-tier geographical distribution phenomenon); (2) this distribution characteristic was gradually broken up in the process of urban and rural integration, and the differences between the three tiers has been narrowing; and (3) the gap between urban and rural areas has been significantly improved and exhibited a higher dynamic degree in the second and third tiers than in the first tier, which suggests a new development mode that exhibits better quality and higher sustainability. Given these results, the development orientation and strategy of each tier are discussed according to the characteristics of urban and rural equalized development.
The Influencing Factors of Enterprise Sustainable Innovation: An Empirical Study
Authors: Chen Si-Hua
Published: May 2016

Sustainable innovation is the inexhaustible source of development of enterprises. Within fierce market competition, only by depending on continuous innovation can an enterprise exist and develop. By conducting an exploratory factor analysis and a confirmatory factor analysis, this paper proposes a theoretical model, dividing enterprise sustainable innovation ability into three aspects: knowledge innovation capability, production innovation capability, and market innovation capability, and analyzes the influencing factors respectively. Finally, applying this theoretical model to a practical case, with system dynamics method, the simulation results show that they are consistent with real enterprise facts. Therefore, the framework of determinants of sustainable innovation built in this paper has already been verified theoretically and practically. It not only lays a theoretical foundation for further research, but also provides a clear ground for firms to improve their sustainable innovation.
Analysis of the Relationship between China’s IPPU CO2 Emissions and the Industrial Economic Growth
Authors: Duan Ye , Mu Hailin , Li Nan
Published: May 2016

According to the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (IPCC 2006) and based on the production technology and products, this paper has calculated CO2 emissions from industrial processes and product use (IPPU), which involves the individual and the summation of five major IPUU CO2 emissions industrial departments. As there is a classic environmental Kuznets curve between IPPU CO2 emissions and the economy, this paper discusses the relationship based on the calculation results and the actual situation. The results show that the overall emission level is indeed rising yearly, and that steel and iron alloy manufacturing and nonmetal manufacturing occupy about 80% of the total emissions. The IPPU CO2 emissions and the corresponding gross industrial output value do not present a classic Kuznets curve in most industrial sectors due to the increasing industrial employed population. The year 2002 appears to be the boundary instead, where prior to 2002, there is a relatively stable function-type growth curve and after 2002, gross industrial output value (GIOV) per employed person remained within a certain interval while IPPU CO2 emissions per employed dipped slightly then increased again. Some, but not all, industrial departments and the combined emissions of per employed person reached maximum values in 2012.
From Life Cycle Costing to Economic Life Cycle Assessment—Introducing an Economic Impact Pathway
Authors: Neugebauer Sabrina , Forin Silvia , Finkbeiner Matthias
Published: May 2016

Economic activities play a key role in human societies by providing goods and services through production, distribution, and exchange. At the same time, economic activities through common focus on short-term profitability may cause global crisis at all levels. The inclusion of three dimensions—environment, economy, and society—when measuring progress towards sustainable development has accordingly reached consensus. In this context, the Life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) framework has been developed for assessing the sustainability performance of products through Life cycle assessment (LCA), Life cycle costing (LCC), and Social life cycle assessment (SLCA). Yet, the focus of common economic assessments, by means of LCC, is still on financial costs. However, as economic activities may have a wide range of positive and negative consequences, it seems particularly important to extend the scope of economic assessments. Foremost, as the limitation to monetary values triggers inconsistent implementation practice. Further aspects like missing assessment targets, uncertainty, common goods, or even missing ownership remain unconsidered. Therefore, we propose economic life cycle assessment (EcLCA) for representing the economic pillar within the LCSA framework, following the requirements of ISO 14044, and introducing an economic impact pathway including midpoint and endpoint categories towards defined areas of protection (AoPs). We identify important target ratios by means of economic AoPs, which drive economic activities on the macro- and microeconomic level. Furthermore, we provide suggestions for midpoint and endpoint indicators representing the defined categories. With the presented EcLCA framework, a first step towards the inclusion of economic impacts within LCSA has been made. Relations between economic activities and resulting consequences are displayed, going beyond the cost-driven view of classical LCC. Further research and fine-tuning of the identified midpoint and endpoint categories and related indicators is, however, needed to enable a valid and consistent assessment basis for fostering the practical implementation of EcLCA and LCSA.
Regulatory T Cells Contribute to the Inhibition of Radiation-Induced Acute Lung Inflammation via Bee Venom Phospholipase A2 in Mice
Authors: Shin Dasom , Lee Gihyun , Sohn Sung-Hwa , Park Soojin , Jung Kyung-Hwa , Lee Ji , Yang Jieun , Cho Jaeho , Bae Hyunsu
Published: May 2016

Bee venom has long been used to treat various inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Previously, we reported that bee venom phospholipase A2 (bvPLA2) has an anti-inflammatory effect through the induction of regulatory T cells. Radiotherapy is a common anti-cancer method, but often causes adverse effects, such as inflammation. This study was conducted to evaluate the protective effects of bvPLA2 in radiation-induced acute lung inflammation. Mice were focally irradiated with 75 Gy of X-rays in the lung and administered bvPLA2 six times after radiation. To evaluate the level of inflammation, the number of immune cells, mRNA level of inflammatory cytokine, and histological changes in the lung were measured. BvPLA2 treatment reduced the accumulation of immune cells, such as macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils. In addition, bvPLA2 treatment decreased inflammasome-, chemokine-, cytokine- and fibrosis-related genes’ mRNA expression. The histological results also demonstrated the attenuating effect of bvPLA2 on radiation-induced lung inflammation. Furthermore, regulatory T cell depletion abolished the therapeutic effects of bvPLA2 in radiation-induced pneumonitis, implicating the anti-inflammatory effects of bvPLA2 are dependent upon regulatory T cells. These results support the therapeutic potential of bvPLA2 in radiation pneumonitis and fibrosis treatments.
Identification of Host Micro RNAs That Differentiate HIV-1 and HIV-2 Infection Using Genome Expression Profiling Techniques
Authors: Devadas Krishnakumar , Biswas Santanu , Haleyurgirisetty Mohan , Ragupathy Viswanath , Wang Xue , Lee Sherwin , Hewlett Indira
Published: May 2016

While human immunodeficiency virus type 1 and 2 (HIV-1 and HIV-2) share many similar traits, major differences in pathogenesis and clinical outcomes exist between the two viruses. The differential expression of host factors like microRNAs (miRNAs) in response to HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections are thought to influence the clinical outcomes presented by the two viruses. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules which function in transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. MiRNAs play a critical role in many key biological processes and could serve as putative biomarker(s) for infection. Identification of miRNAs that modulate viral life cycle, disease progression, and cellular responses to infection with HIV-1 and HIV-2 could reveal important insights into viral pathogenesis and provide new tools that could serve as prognostic markers and targets for therapeutic intervention. The aim of this study was to elucidate the differential expression profiles of host miRNAs in cells infected with HIV-1 and HIV-2 in order to identify potential differences in virus-host interactions between HIV-1 and HIV-2. Differential expression of host miRNA expression profiles was analyzed using the miRNA profiling polymerase chain reaction (PCR) arrays. Differentially expressed miRNAs were identified and their putative functional targets identified. The results indicate that hsa-miR 541-3p, hsa-miR 518f-3p, and hsa-miR 195-3p were consistently up-regulated only in HIV-1 infected cells. The expression of hsa-miR 1225-5p, hsa-miR 18a* and hsa-miR 335 were down modulated in HIV-1 and HIV-2 infected cells. Putative functional targets of these miRNAs include genes involved in signal transduction, metabolism, development and cell death.
Suitability Evaluation of River Bank Filtration along the Second Songhua River, China
Authors: Wang Lixue , Ye Xueyan , Du Xinqiang
Published: May 2016

The Second Songhua River is the biggest river system in Jilin Province, China. In recent years, the rapid economic development in this area has increased the prominence of water resources and water-related environmental problems; these include surface water pollution and the overexploitation of groundwater resources. Bank infiltration on the floodplains of the Second Songhua River is an important process of groundwater-surface water exchange under exploitation conditions. Understanding this process can help in the development of water resource management plans and strategies for the region. In this research, a multi-criteria evaluation index system was developed with which to evaluate the suitability of bank filtration along the Second Songhua River. The system was comprised of main suitability indexes for water quantity, water quality, the interaction intensity between surface water and groundwater, and the exploitation condition of groundwater resources. The index system was integrated into GIS (Geographic Information System) to complete the evaluation of the various indicators. According to the weighted sum of each index, the suitability of river bank filtration (RBF) in the study area was divided into five grades. Although the evaluation index system and evaluation method are applicable only to the Second Songhua River basin, the underlying principle and techniques it embodies can be applied elsewhere. For future generalization of the evaluation index system, the specific evaluation index and its scoring criteria should be modified appropriately based on local conditions.
Use of Hydrochemistry, Stable Isotope, Radiocarbon, 222Rn and Terrigenic 4He to Study the Geochemical Processes and the Mode of Vertical Leakage to the Gambier Basin Tertiary Confined Sand Aquifer, South Australia
Authors: Somaratne Nara , Mustafa Saad , Lawson Jeff
Published: May 2016

The mode of vertical recharge to aquifers is important to the application of appropriate recharge estimation methods. This study identifies the origin, geochemical evolution and mode of vertical leakage to the Gambier Basin confined aquifer, south east of South Australia. The recharge zone spans areas of the Glencoe-Nangwarry-Nagwarry (GNN). The Hundreds of Glencoe and Nangwarry are in South Australia, and the Parish of Nagwarry adjoins Nangwarry in western Victoria. The plot of stable isotopes of water molecules, δ2H versus δ18O, indicates that local rainfall with minor surface evaporation is the source of recharge. The results of hydrochemical analysis indicate that the sources of ions in the recharge zone groundwater are derived from carbonate and silicate weathering with cation exchange. The majority of water types (66% of samples) within the South Australian part of the recharge zone show Ca-Na-HCO3-Cl due to carbonate dissolution processes, and about 83% of samples within the Victorian part of the recharge zone show Na-Ca-HCO3-Cl water types, indicating cation exchange or mixing with other waters. The influence of faults on vertical leakage was studied at eight sites located in the Nangwarry and Nagwarry area using electrical conductivity logging, measuring the concentration of radiocarbon activity, δ18O, 222Rn and terrigenic 4He in the vertical profiles. Results show that regardless of land use in the study area, the interconnection of the unconfined Tertiary limestone aquifer with the Tertiary confined sand aquifer occurs, via both diffuse and preferential flows. Thus, the application of conventional vertical leakage estimation methods using Darcy’s equation or the application of tracer techniques may be inappropriate unless the duality of the flow system is considered.
Daily Precipitation Changes over Large River Basins in China, 1960–2013
Authors: Qu Bo , Lv Aifeng , Jia Shaofeng , Zhu Wenbin
Published: May 2016

Based on a high-quality dataset of 713 daily precipitation series, changes in daily precipitation events during 1960–2013 were observed in China’s ten largest river basins. Specifically, the amount of precipitation in four categories defined by fixed thresholds and their proportion on total precipitation were analyzed on annual and seasonal time scales. Results showed annual precipitation increased by 1.10 mm/10yr in China, but with obvious spatial differences. Regionally, annual precipitation increased significantly in northwestern rivers, upstream areas of the Yangtze River, the Yellow River, southwestern rivers (due to increase in light and moderate precipitation); and in southeastern rivers, downstream areas of the Yangtze River, and the Pearl River (due to increase in heavy and extreme precipitation). Annual precipitation decreased significantly in the mid-Yangtze River and upstream Pearl River (due to decrease in light, moderate, and heavy precipitation). Seasonally, precipitation decreased only in autumn; this was attributable to a decrease in light and moderate precipitation. Results show that the distribution of precipitation intensity over China has shifted to intense categories since the 1960s, there has been an increase in moderate precipitation in Northwestern and Northern China, and an increase in extreme precipitation in Southeastern China. This shift was detected in all seasons, especially in summer. Precipitation extremes were investigated in the categories of extreme precipitation and results show that the risk of flood has been exacerbated over the past half-century in the Huaihe River, the mid- and lower Yangtze River, the Pearl River, and southeastern rivers.
X-RAY OBSERVATIONS OF BOW SHOCKS AROUND RUNAWAY O STARS. THE CASE OF ζ OPH AND BD+43°3654
Authors: Toalá J. A. , Oskinova L. M. , González-Galán A. , Guerrero M. A. , Ignace R. , Pohl M.
Published: May 2016

Non-thermal radiation has been predicted within bow shocks around runaway stars by recent theoretical works. We present X-ray observations toward the runaway stars ζ Oph by Chandra and Suzaku and of BD+43°3654 by XMM-Newton to search for the presence of non-thermal X-ray emission. We found no evidence of non-thermal emission spatially coincident with the bow shocks; nonetheless, diffuse emission was detected in the vicinity of ζ Oph. After a careful analysis of its spectral characteristics, we conclude that this emission has a thermal nature with a plasma temperature of T ≈ 2 × 106 K. The cometary shape of this emission seems to be in line with recent predictions of radiation-hydrodynamic models of runaway stars. The case of BD+43°3654 is puzzling, as non-thermal emission has been reported in a previous work for this source.
REST-UV ABSORPTION LINES AS METALLICITY ESTIMATOR: THE METAL CONTENT OF STAR-FORMING GALAXIES AT z ∼ 5
Authors: Faisst A. L. , Capak P. L. , Davidzon I. , Salvato M. , Laigle C. , Ilbert O. , Onodera M. , Hasinger G. , Kakazu Y. , Masters D. , McCracken H. J. , Mobasher B. , Sanders D. , Silverman J. D. , Yan L. , Scoville N. Z.
Published: May 2016

We measure a relation between the depth of four prominent rest-UV absorption complexes and metallicity for local galaxies and verify it up to

. We then apply this relation to a sample of 224 galaxies at

(

) in the Cosmic Evolution Survey (COSMOS), for which unique UV spectra from the Deep Imaging Multi-object Spectrograph (DEIMOS) and accurate stellar masses from the Spitzer Large Area Survey with Hyper-Suprime-Cam (SPLASH) are available. The average galaxy population at

and

is characterized by 0.3–0.4 dex (in units of

) lower metallicities than at z ∼ 2, but comparable to

. We find galaxies with weak or no Lyα emission to have metallicities comparable to z ∼ 2 galaxies and therefore may represent an evolved subpopulation of

galaxies. We find a correlation between metallicity and dust in good agreement with local galaxies and an inverse trend between metallicity and star-formation rate consistent with observations at z ∼ 2. The relation between stellar mass and metallicity (MZ relation) is similar to

, but there are indications of it being slightly shallower, in particular for the young, Lyα-emitting galaxies. We show that, within a “bathtub” approach, a shallower MZ relation is expected in the case of a fast (exponential) build-up of stellar mass with an e-folding time of 100–200 Myr. Because of this fast evolution, the process of dust production and metal enrichment as a function of mass could be more stochastic in the first billion years of galaxy formation compared to later times.
MULTIPLE CURRENT SHEET SYSTEMS IN THE OUTER HELIOSPHERE: ENERGY RELEASE AND TURBULENCE
Authors: Burgess D. , Gingell P. W. , Matteini L.
Published: May 2016

In the outer heliosphere, beyond the solar wind termination shock, it is expected that the warped heliospheric current sheet forms a region of closely packed, multiple, thin current sheets. Such a system may be subject to the ion-kinetic tearing instability, and hence may generate magnetic islands and hot populations of ions associated with magnetic reconnection. Reconnection processes in this environment have important implications for local particle transport, and for particle acceleration at reconnection sites and in turbulence. We study this complex environment by means of three-dimensional hybrid simulations over long timescales, in order to capture the evolution from linear growth of the tearing instability to a fully developed turbulent state at late times. The final state develops from the highly ordered initial state via both forward and inverse cascades. Component and spectral anisotropy in the magnetic fluctuations is present when a guide field is included. The inclusion of a population of newborn interstellar pickup protons does not strongly affect these results. Finally, we conclude that reconnection between multiple current sheets can act as an important source of turbulence in the outer heliosphere, with implications for energetic particle acceleration and propagation.
ASTEROID SIZING BY RADIOGALAXY OCCULTATION AT 5 GHZ
Authors: Lehtinen K. , Bach U. , Muinonen K. , Poutanen M. , Petrov L.
Published: May 2016

Stellar occultations by asteroids observed at visual wavelengths have been an important tool for studying the size and shape of asteroids and for revising the orbital parameters of asteroids. At radio frequencies, a shadow of an asteroid on the Earth is dominated by diffraction effects. Here, we show, for the first time, that a single observation of an occultation of a compact radio source at a frequency of 5 GHz can be used to derive the effective size of the occulting object and to derive the distance between the observer and the center of the occultation path on the Earth. The derived diameter of the occulting object, asteroid (115) Thyra, is 75 ± 6 km. The observed occultation profile shows features that cannot be explained by diffraction of a single asteroid.
SPONTANEOUS FORMATION OF SURFACE MAGNETIC STRUCTURE FROM LARGE-SCALE DYNAMO IN STRONGLY STRATIFIED CONVECTION
Authors: Masada Youhei , Sano Takayoshi
Published: May 2016

We report the first successful simulation of spontaneous formation of surface magnetic structures from a large-scale dynamo by strongly stratified thermal convection in Cartesian geometry. The large-scale dynamo observed in our strongly stratified model has physical properties similar to those in earlier weakly stratified convective dynamo simulations, indicating that the α
2-type mechanism is responsible for the dynamo. In addition to the large-scale dynamo, we find that large-scale structures of the vertical magnetic field are spontaneously formed in the convection zone (CZ) surface only in cases with a strongly stratified atmosphere. The organization of the vertical magnetic field proceeds in the upper CZ within tens of convective turnover time and band-like bipolar structures recurrently appear in the dynamo-saturated stage. We consider several candidates to be possibly be the origin of the surface magnetic structure formation, and then suggest the existence of an as-yet-unknown mechanism for the self-organization of the large-scale magnetic structure, which should be inherent in the strongly stratified convective atmosphere.
NLRP3A439V Mutation in a Large Family with Cryopyrin-associated Periodic Syndrome: Description of Ophthalmologic Symptoms in Correlation with Other Organ Symptoms
Authors: Sobolewska Bianka , Angermair Eva , Deuter Christoph , Doycheva Deshka , Kuemmerle-Deschner Jasmin , Zierhut Manfred
Published: May 2016

Objective.

Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome (CAPS) is a group of inherited autoinflammatory disorders caused by mutations in theNLRP3gene resulting in the overproduction of interleukin 1β. NLRP3 mutations cause a broad clinical phenotype of CAPS. The aims of the study were to evaluate clinical, laboratory, and genetic features of a 5-generation family with CAPS focusing in detail on ocular symptoms.

Methods.

In a retrospective observational cohort study, consecutive family members were screened for the presence of theNLRP3mutation. Patients underwent standardized clinical, laboratory, and ophthalmological assessments. The genotype-specific risk of ophthalmological findings and other organ symptoms was determined.

Results.

Twenty-nine patients were clinically affected. The A439V mutation encoded by exon 3 of theNLRP3gene was found in 15 of 37 family members (41%). The most common clinical features were musculoskeletal symptoms, headaches, and ophthalmological symptoms. The mutation-positive patients were characterized by more frequent skin rashes, ocular symptoms, arthralgia, arthritis, and severe Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS) Disease Activity Score. Rosacea was diagnosed in 8 patients.

Conclusion.

TheNLRP3mutation A439V is associated with a heterogeneous clinical spectrum of familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome/MWS-overlap syndrome. Skin rash and eye diseases, such as conjunctivitis and uveitis, were positively correlated with this mutation.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Bone Edema at Enrollment Predicts Rapid Radiographic Progression in Patients with Early RA: Results from the Nagasaki University Early Arthritis Cohort
Authors: Nakashima Yoshikazu , Tamai Mami , Kita Junko , Michitsuji Toru , Shimizu Toshimasa , Fukui Shoichi , Umeda Masataka , Nishino Ayako , Suzuki Takahisa , Horai Yoshiro , Okada Akitomo , Nishimura Takayuki , Koga Tomohiro , Kawashiri Shin-ya , Iwamoto Naoki , Ichinose Kunihiro , Hirai Yasuko , Arima Kazuhiko , Yamasaki Satoshi , Nakamura Hideki , Origuchi Tomoki , Takao Shoichiro , Uetani Masataka , Aoyagi Kiyoshi , Eguchi Katsumi , Kawakami Atsushi
Published: May 2016

Objective.

To clarify whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) bone edema predicts the development of rapid radiographic progression (RRP) in the Nagasaki University Early Arthritis Cohort of patients with early-stage rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods.

Patients with early-stage RA (n = 76) were enrolled and underwent 1.5-T MRI of both wrists and finger joints. Synovitis, bone edema, and bone erosion were evaluated using the Rheumatoid Arthritis Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scoring (RAMRIS). RRP was defined as an annual increment > 3 at 1 year by the Genant-modified Sharp score of plain radiographs. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to establish the risk factors for RRP.

Results.

Median disease duration at enrollment was 3 months. RRP was found in 12 of the 76 patients at 1 year. A univariate analysis revealed that matrix metalloprotease-3, RAMRIS bone edema score, and RAMRIS bone erosion score were associated with RRP. Multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated that the RAMRIS bone edema score at enrollment (5-point increase, OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.32–3.59, p = 0.002) was the only independent predictor of the development of RRP at 1 year. A receiver-operating characteristic analysis identified the best cutoff value for RAMRIS bone edema score as 5. RRP was significantly rare among the patients with a RAMRIS bone edema score < 5 at enrollment (2 from 50 patients).

Conclusion.

Our findings suggest that MRI bone edema is closely associated with the development of RRP in patients with early-stage RA. Physicians should carefully control the disease activity when MRI bone edema is observed in patients with early RA.
Effect of probiotic yoghurt on animal-based diet-induced change in gut microbiota: an open, randomised, parallel-group study
Authors: Odamaki T. , Kato K. , Sugahara H. , Xiao J.Z. , Abe F. , Benno Y.
Published: May 2016

Diet has a significant influence on the intestinal environment. In this study, we assessed changes in the faecal microbiota induced by an animal-based diet and the effect of the ingestion of yoghurt supplemented with a probiotic strain on these changes. In total, 33 subjects were enrolled in an open, randomised, parallel-group study. After a seven-day pre-observation period, the subjects were allocated into three groups (11 subjects in each group). All of the subjects were provided with an animal-based diet for five days, followed by a balanced diet for 14 days. Subjects in the first group ingested dairy in the form of 200 g of yoghurt supplemented with Bifidobacterium longum during both the animal-based and balanced diet periods (YAB group). Subjects in the second group ingested yoghurt only during the balanced diet period (YB group). Subjects who did not ingest yoghurt throughout the intervention were used as the control (CTR) group. Faecal samples were collected before and after the animal-based diet was provided and after the balanced diet was provided, followed by analysis by high-throughput sequencing of amplicons derived from the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. In the YB and CTR groups, the animal-based diet caused a significant increase in the relative abundance of Bilophila, Odoribacter, Dorea and Ruminococcus (belonging to Lachnospiraceae) and a significant decrease in the level of Bifidobacterium after five days of intake. With the exception of Ruminococcus, these changes were not observed in the YAB group. No significant effect was induced by yoghurt supplementation following an animal-based diet (YB group vs CTR group). These results suggest that the intake of yoghurt supplemented with bifidobacteria played a role in maintaining a normal microbiota composition during the ingestion of a meat-based diet. This study protocol was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network: UMIN000014164.
The metabolic responses of HepG2 cells to the exposure of mycotoxin deoxynivalenol
Authors: Liu Y. , Ran R. , Hu C. , Cui B. , Xu Y. , Liu H. , Quan S. , Li D. , Li X. , Wu Y. , Zhang D. , Shi J.
Published: May 2016

As the number of reported deoxynivalenol (DON) contamination incidents increased steadily over the past decades, there has been a widespread interest in understanding the cellular mechanisms of the toxicological effects of DON usingin vitro systems and omics technologies. The present investigation was conducted to understand the metabolomic changes in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) exposed to 10 μM DON for short term (4 h) and long term (12 h) periods, using a non-targeted metabolomics approach. Our results revealed a remarkable metabolic shift from short term to long term exposure to DON in HepG2 cells. Our metabolomics data also confirmed the role of DON induced oxidative stress in DON toxicity. Coupled with pattern recognition and pathway analysis, effects of DON on redox homeostasis, energy balance, lipid metabolism, and potential toxicological mechanisms were discussed, which would facilitate further studies on the risk assessment of the dietary mycotoxin DON.
Displaced Proximal Humerus Fractures in Older Patients: Shoulder Surgeons Versus Traumatologists
Authors: Bhat Suneel B. , Secrist Eric S. , Austin Luke S. , Getz Charles L. , Krieg James C. , Mehta Samir , Namdari Surena
Published: May 2016

Proximal humerus fractures are relatively common, with treatment dependent on fracture-specific, patient-specific, and surgeon-specific factors. This study sought to identify preferences among shoulder specialists and orthopedic traumatologists in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures. An anonymous Internet survey of fellowship-trained shoulder surgeons and traumatologists was conducted with radiographs and select computed tomography images of 15 unique displaced proximal humerus fractures. Participants were asked to classify each case according to Neer criteria and choose management from a list of options. Groups were analyzed using chi-square test for independence, paired
t
test, and Fleiss' kappa within and between each group. Among shoulder surgeons, there were a total of 19 cases selected for nonoperative management, 204 cases selected for open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), and 122 cases selected for arthroplasty. Among traumatologists, there were 44 cases selected for nonoperative management, 234 for ORIF, and 67 for arthroplasty. Fleiss' kappa for intraobserver agreement on treatment choice was 0.26 for shoulder surgeons and 0.18 for traumatologists, and chi-square test for independence was significant between the 2 groups (
P
<.001). Paired
t
test of the average treatment proportions was significant for nonoperative management and arthroplasty (
P
=.003) but not significant for differences in rates of ORIF. These results confirm poor consistency in Neer classification among surgeons and suggest that shoulder surgeons were more likely to consider arthroplasty for treatment and that traumatologists were more likely to use ORIF or to manage patients nonoperatively. These variations in care may translate to differences in outcome and cost. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(3):e509–e513.]
Fibular Allograft and Demineralized Bone Matrix for the Treatment of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis
Authors: Murray Travis , Morscher Melanie A. , Krahe Amy M. , Adamczyk Mark J. , Weiner Dennis S.
Published: May 2016

Previous studies documented the use of fibular allograft in the treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) with bone graft epiphysiodesis (BGE). This study describes the results of using a 10-mm diameter premilled fibular allograft packed with demineralized bone matrix placed across the physis in an open surgical approach under image intensification. A review identified 45 cases of BGE using fibular allograft and demineralized bone matrix in 34 patients with a diagnosis of SCFE performed by a single surgeon during an 8-year period. Thirty-four cases (25 patients) had at least 1 year of follow-up and were included in the study. Medical records were reviewed for complications, subsequent surgeries, and time to physeal closure. Of the 34 cases included, there were no cases of acute chondrolysis. Complications included 1 case of bone graft extrusion that required surgical replacement and 1 re-slip requiring surgical stabilization. Five cases of avascular necrosis (AVN) were encountered (1 unstable slip with total head AVN, and 4 stable slips with 3 total head and 1 partial head AVN). In 1 patient, small loose bony fragments were noted on postoperative radiographs that appeared outside of the articular surface of the hip and were asymptomatic. Two patients encountered wound healing issues that resolved with appropriate wound care. In light of the occurrence of AVN in stable cases, BGE with autogenous corticocancellous graft is preferable to BGE with autologous fibular graft for the treatment of SCFE. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(3):e519–e525.]
Impact of Race and Gender on Utilization Rate of Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Yu Stephen , Mahure Siddharth A. , Branch Nisha , Mollon Brent , Zuckerman Joseph D.
Published: May 2016

Marked underutilization rates of total joint arthroplasty in minorities compared with nonminorities exist, with a paucity of literature surrounding inequities related to total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Using the Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database, patients who underwent elective TSA in New York State (NYS) were identified and characterized by age, race, gender, medical comorbidities, and payor status. Patients were stratified into 4 separate 5-year periods from 1990 to 2009. Comorbidity severity was defined using the Elixhauser criteria. A total of 10,538 elective TSAs were identified, with half of the procedures occurring in the most recent time quartile. Whites accounted for 70% of the procedures, whereas blacks accounted for 5%. During the 20-year period, the age-adjusted incidence of TSA in white men and women increased by 417% and 421%, respectively, whereas the incidence for black men and women increased by 378% and 329%, respectively. Black men had the lowest utilization rate among all subgroups, and overall disparity between races continued to widen over time. Blacks had significantly more comorbid conditions (
P
<.001) than whites when undergoing TSA. Blacks were more likely to have Medicaid insurance and less participation in Medicare (
P
<.001). Racial and gender disparities clearly exist in TSA utilization rates in NYS and may be worsening. Although reasons for these disparities are likely multifactorial, a deeper understanding of the factors involved in patient selection and access to care is necessary to appropriately address these disparities and effect change at a system-wide patient and provider level. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(3):e538–e544.]
Creative Strategies to Enhance Students' Classroom Learning in Mental Health
Authors: Lehr Sally , Schlenger Alison
Published: May 2016

Creative strategies to enhance students' classroom learning are important in today's nursing education environment. In an attempt to provide students with meaningful learning experiences in mental health, faculty initiated three innovative classroom activities. Following each activity, students completed an anonymous survey evaluating their experience. Findings indicated students valued these learning strategies personally and professionally. In addition, students believed their nursing practice would be enhanced as a result of the classes. Some students expressed a possible interest in psychiatric/mental health nursing as a future career. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
,
54
(5), 41–48.]
Developing a Diary Program to Minimize Patient and Family Post–Intensive Care Syndrome
Authors: Locke Meaghan , Eccleston Sarah , Ryan Claire N. , Byrnes Tiffany J. , Mount Cristin , McCarthy Mary S.
Published: May 2016

A series of evidence-based interventions beginning with an intensive care unit diary and a patient/family educational pamphlet were implemented to address the long-term consequences of critical illness after discharge from the intensive care unit, bundled as post–intensive care syndrome and post–intensive care syndrome–family. An extensive literature review and nursing observations of the phenomenon highlighted the potential for this project to have a favorable impact on patients, their families, and the health care team. The goal of this article is to explain the education of all stakeholders; the introduction of the diary, video, and educational pamphlet; and the evaluation of the acceptance of these interventions. This process began with an informal evaluation of the educational products and overall perception of the usefulness of the diary by patients, family members, and staff. The efforts described contribute to the evidence base supporting diaries as an adjunct to intensive care.
A Clinic Model: Post–Intensive Care Syndrome and Post–Intensive Care Syndrome-Family
Authors: Huggins Elizabeth L. , Bloom Sarah L. , Stollings Joanna L. , Camp Mildred , Sevin Carla M. , Jackson James C.
Published: May 2016

The number of patients surviving critical illness in the United States has increased with advancements in medicine. Post–intensive care syndrome and post–intensive care syndrome–family are terms developed by the Society of Critical Care Medicine in order to address the cognitive, psychological, and physical sequelae emerging in patients and their families after discharge from the intensive care unit. In the United Kingdom and Europe, intensive care unit follow-up clinics have been used to address the complications of post–intensive care syndrome for some time. However, the interprofessional clinic at Vanderbilt University Medical Center is among the first in the United States to address the wide variety of problems experienced by intensive care survivors and to provide patients and their families with care after discharge from the intensive care unit.
Evaluation of Ischemia-Modified Albumin, Malondialdehyde, and Advanced Oxidative Protein Products as Markers of Vascular Injury in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Ahmad Afzal , Manjrekar Poornima , Yadav Charu , Agarwal Ashish , Srikantiah Rukmini Mysore , Hegde Anupama
Published: May 2016

AIM

This study aimed at evaluation of ischemia-modified albumin (IMA), malondialdehyde (MDA), and advanced oxidative protein products (AOPP) as markers of vascular injury in diabetic nephropathy (DN) with derivation of cutoff values for the same.

Materials and Methods

Study population comprised 60 diabetes patients and 30 controls, with diabetes patients further categorized into three groups based on urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) of <30 mg/g (diabetes without microalbuminuria), 30–300 mg/g (early DN), and >300 mg/g of creatinine (overt DN). Serum IMA, MDA, and AOPP were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; HbA1c, serum creatinine, urine albumin, and urine creatinine were estimated using automated analyzers. Statistical analysis was done using analysis of variance, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and receiver-operating characteristic curve.

Results

A statistically significant difference was found in the levels of IMA among patients with early DN (154 ng/mL), diabetes without nephropathy (109.4 ng/mL), and healthy controls (45.7 ng/mL), with highest levels in early DN cases. Similar increase was seen in AOPP as well. A significant correlation was observed between IMA and UACR in diabetes without nephropathy ( r = 0.448).

Conclusion

The present study postulates serum IMA as a novel biomarker for the assessment of disease progression in diabetes even before microalbuminuria, and a cutoff point ≥99 ng/mL can be used for detection of early DN.
Intra-Abdominal Hematoma following Enoxaparin Injection
Authors: Chung Kin Tong
Published: May 2016

An elderly patient, who was being treated for therapeutic enoxaparin for a couple of days due to suspected deep vein thrombosis, was admitted to hospital following a collapse and severe abdominal pain. She was in hypovolemic shock and was fluid resuscitated. Ultrasound scan and computed tomography (CT) scan showed a large pelvic hematoma. Radiologists also suspected a possibility of bleeding from inferior epigastric artery following a CT angiogram. The patient was stabilized and transferred to intensive care unit (ICU) for further hemodynamic supports and close monitoring. The patient was then transferred back to the general ward when she was stable. She was managed conservatively as there were no more signs of active bleeding. Unfortunately, she died of recurrent bleeding three days after ICU discharge.
A New Approach for Identification of Cancer-related Pathways using Protein Networks and Genomic Data
Authors: Fonseca André , Gubitoso Marco D. , Reis Marcelo S. , De Souza Sandro J. , Barrera Junior
Published: May 2016

Cancer cells have anomalous development and proliferation due to disturbances in their control systems. The study of the behavior of cellular control system requires high-throughput dynamical data. Unfortunately, this type of data is not largely available. This fact motivates the main issue of this article: how to use static omics data and available biological knowledge to get new information about the elements of the control system in cancer cells. Two important measures to access the state of the cellular control system are the gene expression profile and the signaling pathways. This article uses a combination of these two static omics data to gain insights on the states of a cancer cell. To extract information from this kind of data, a statistical computational model was formalized and implemented. In order to exemplify the application of some aspects of the developed conceptual framework, we verified the hypothesis that different types of cancer cells have different disturbed signaling pathways. To this end, we developed a method that recovers small protein networks, called motifs, which are differentially represented in some subtypes of breast cancer. These differentially represented motifs are enriched with specific gene ontologies as well as with new putative cancer genes.
Estimación de algunas propiedades geohidrológicas en un conjunto de pozos de monitoreo en el Valle de Mexicali, B.C., México.
Authors: Fuentes-Arreazola M. A. , Vázquez-González R.
Published: May 2016

Con el objetivo de estudiar la respuesta del nivel del agua relacionada a las variaciones de la presión barométrica y a la acción de la marea terrestre teórica, en pozos de monitoreo en el Valle de Mexicali. Técnicas de análisis en los dominios del tiempo y la frecuencia son planteadas e implementadas, para obtener como resultado del cálculo de funciones de transferencia y análisis de armónicos, valores de eficiencias barométrica y de sensibilidad a la marea terrestre, con los cuales bajo condiciones de respuesta confinada–estática teórica, fue posible obtener estimaciones de algunas propiedades geohidrológicas y geofísicas como: porosidad, almacenamiento específico, y compresibilidad. En cinco pozos considerados en este trabajo se obtuvieron estimaciones de las propiedades del acuífero en un estado previo y posterior a un sismo. Este trabajo ha permitido un mejor conocimiento de los parámetros que controlan los procesos que suceden en la zona de estudio.