bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finite-time guidance laws for three-dimensional missile-target interception
Authors: Zhang Zhenxing , Man Chaoyuan , Li Shihua , Jin Shi
Published: July 2015

In this paper, three-dimensional terminal guidance problem of a missile intercepting a maneuvering target is studied by using a composite control scheme based on finite-time control and nonlinear disturbance observer technique. The three-dimensional model is characterized by nonlinear interception geometry, which the azimuth angle and elevation angle are coupled with each other. Many existing results are studied for planar model which ignores the coupled terms of three-dimensional model. In this paper, the coupled terms of guidance system can well be solved by selecting a special Lyapunov function, and guidance laws with finite-time convergence characteristic are derived, which have the ability to track target maneuver. Based on sliding mode control method, discontinuous switching functions are involved as augmented terms to suppress the target accelerations which are regarded as unknown bounded external disturbance of guidance systems. To improve the disturbance rejection performance of guidance system, the gains of switching functions are selected to be larger than the bounds of accelerations. However, the guidance system could generate the chattering phenomenon caused by discontinuous switching functions. To handle the chattering problem, nonlinear disturbance observers are constructed to estimate the target accelerations. The estimated target accelerations are introduced into the finite-time guidance laws and used as the feedforward compensation terms to reject the actual target accelerations. This is an efficient approach to suppress the chattering phenomenon. Then, novel composite guidance laws are presented based on finite-time feedback control and disturbance feedforward compensation. Finally, simulation results on three-dimensional missile-target interception examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approaches.
The generational effect on age disparate partnerships and the risk for human immunodeficiency virus and sexually transmitted infections acquisition
Authors: Street Renée A , Reddy Tarylee , Ramjee Gita
Published: July 2015

In South Africa, a large proportion of young women are in age disparate relationships, which is believed to be a risk factor for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The aim of this study was to determine the generational effect of age disparity on HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) incidence. Socio-demographic and behavioural data were collected from women, aged 16 and older, who were followed for up to 24 months. Women who reported having a steady sexual partner older than themselves were categorised into: (1) non-age disparate partnerships (age difference between partners was 0–4 years); (2) intra-generational age disparate partnerships (5–9 year age gap between sexual partners); and (3) inter-generational age disparate partnerships (age gap of 10 years or more between sexual partners). Of the 1355 women included in the analysis, 759, 429 and 167 were in non-age disparate, intra-generational age disparate and inter-generational age disparate partnerships, respectively. Strong predictors of inter-generational age disparate partnerships include age, marital status and concurrency of sexual partners. No significant relationship between age disparity and risk of HIV acquisition was found. The highest crude STI incidence was observed among those in intra-generational age disparate relationships followed by those in non-age disparate relationships (31.86 [26.41–38.44] and 25.60 [21.92–29.91] per 100 person-years, respectively). Reduction of multiple partnerships remains key to HIV prevention; however, in light of partner concurrency being more prevalent than individual concurrency partnerships, female-initiated HIV prevention options remain critical.
Long-term seroprotective response of trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine in HIV-infected children, regardless of immunogenicity before immunisation
Authors: Moolasart Visal , Manosuthi Weerawat , Ausavapipit Jarurnsook , Chottanapund Suthat , Likanonsakul Sirirat , Uttayamakul Sumonmal , Srisopha Somkid , Lerdsamran Hatairat , Puthavathana Pilaipan
Published: July 2015

Influenza vaccination can reduce disease in HIV-infected children. The durability of the antibody response after trivalent influenza vaccine is important for management. The aim of this prospective study was to assess the durability of seroprotection for trivalent influenza vaccine strains and the factors effecting seroprotective response regardless of immunogenicity before trivalent influenza vaccine at one and six months after immunisation. Hemagglutination inhibition assay was done at one and six months. Seventy-five HIV-infected children were enrolled after vaccination. Four children were lost to follow-up. None of the children had confirmed influenza infection between immunisation and hemagglutination inhibition at six months after influenza vaccination. Seventy-one children were included in the final analysis and immunogenicity of trivalent influenza vaccine strains at one and six months. Of these, 27 (38%) had complete seroprotection (Group A) and 44 (62%) had non-complete seroprotection (Group B). Sex, age and the body mass index of both groups were not different from each other ( p > 0.05). There was a higher mean CD4 level and more children with RNA ≤40 copies/mL among Group A compared with Group B ( p < 0.05). Other factors did not differ significantly. The durability of the seroprotective response after trivalent influenza vaccine was associated with a high CD4 level and virological suppression before vaccination.
Anxiety and substance use disorders: A worrying combination
Authors: Arunogiri Shalini , Lubman Dan I
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

Individuals with co-occurring substance use and anxiety disorders can present as a diagnostic challenge. This article aims to provide clinicians with an overview of practical approaches to assessment and treatment of this common co-morbidity.

Conclusions:

A comprehensive assessment can assist in formulating a holistic management plan that incorporates adapted psychological and pharmacological therapies to address both substance use and anxiety disorders in an integrated manner.
Implementing evidence-based physical activity interventions for people with mental illness: an Australian perspective
Authors: Rosenbaum Simon , Tiedemann Anne , Stanton Robert , Parker Alexandra , Waterreus Anna , Curtis Jackie , Ward Philip B
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

Physical activity (PA) and exercise is increasingly being recognised as an efficacious component of treatment for various mental disorders. The association between PA and cardiometabolic disease is well established, as is the strong link between mental illness, sedentary behaviour and poor cardiometabolic health. Examples of successful integration of clinical PA programs within mental health treatment facilities are increasing. The aim of this review was to summarise the evidence regarding PA and mental illness, and to present examples of clinical exercise programs within Australian mental health facilities.

Methods:

A narrative synthesis of systematic reviews and clinical trials was conducted.

Results:

Evidence supporting the inclusion of PA programs as an adjunct to treatment for various conditions was presented; including depression, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance abuse. In light of the available evidence, the inclusion of clinical PA programs within mental health treatment, facilitated by dedicated clinicians (exercise physiologists / physiotherapists) was justified.

Conclusions:

PA is a feasible, effective and acceptable adjunct to usual care for a variety of mental disorders. There is a clear need for greater investment in initiatives aiming to increase PA among people experiencing mental illness, given the benefits to both mental and physical health outcomes.
A decade of peace: Mental health issues and service developments in the Solomon Islands since 2003
Authors: Maukera Rex , Blignault Ilse
Published: July 2015

Objective:

To describe the impact on mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of the armed conflict that occurred in the Solomon Islands from 1998–2003 and the subsequent political unrest and natural disasters, and the developments in mental health services since 2003.

Method:

A literature and document review was conducted, supplemented by the written reflections of senior staff in the Solomon Islands Mental Health Service.

Results:

Conflict and natural disaster have had a significant impact on the mental health and functioning of individuals, families and communities. National health system reform has been accompanied by the reorientation of the mental health services from custodial care to care in the community and greater emphasis on mental health promotion and prevention. The dedication of the small group of Solomon Islands mental health professionals, supported by local health service managers and external donors, has been a major strength. However, they face significant challenges.

Conclusions:

Continued investment in mental health, including the treatment and prevention of mental and substance use disorders, is essential for mental health and development outcomes. All development stakeholders, including civil society, government, academic and research institutions, and development partners, have a role to play.
Experience from mental health clinics held during medical service camps in Fiji
Authors: Sivakumaran Hemalatha , George Kuruvilla , Naker Gunu , Nadanachandran Kathir
Published: July 2015

Objective:

We aim to describe the experience and findings of mental health clinics held during medical service camps in the rural settings of Fiji.

Method:

Descriptive data collated at the end of the medical camps across 2011–2014 are used to highlight the main findings.

Results:

The exposure to mental health assessments and brief interventions at these camps was a validating experience for both individuals and medical students attending the clinics. The most common presentations can be categorised under symptoms of depression, anxiety and relationship problems.

Conclusions:

The accessibility of mental health support services is a challenge in Fiji. Medical service camps can form an important pathway in promoting mental health awareness, especially amongst the rural communities of Fiji, and a useful platform for medical students to acquire some clinical exposure.
An audit of assessment and outcome of intervention at a quit smoking clinic in a homeless hostel
Authors: Power Joseph , Mallat Claire , Bonevski Billie , Nielssen Olav
Published: July 2015

Objective:

We aim to report on smoking history, mental and physical health, and the results of interventions provided by a Quit Smoking Clinic (QSC) at a Sydney homeless men’s shelter.

Methods:

We undertook an audit of questionnaires administered during the first QSC visit and a review of outcomes of QSC clients who attended the clinic more than once.

Results:

A total of 144 men were assessed at the QSC, with mean age 45.2 years (22–71) and mean smoking duration of 29 years. About half were receiving treatment for psychotic illness, and there were high rates of other psychiatric disorders, physical illness and substance use disorder. Carbon monoxide (CO) readings were significantly higher for those smoking discarded cigarette butts. Among the subset of clients who attended the clinic more than once ( n=56), only four quit for more than a month and one for a year. However, the reported number of cigarettes smoked per day was significantly lower ( p=0.001), with a significant reduction in CO ( p<0.008).

Conclusions:

This study confirms the difficulty that homeless men experience in quitting smoking, but demonstrates the potential to reduce the physical and financial harm of smoking through cessation support interventions in this setting.
Acid Suppressive Therapy for Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis in Noncritically Ill Patients
Authors: Hong Minh T. , Monye Leslie C. , Seifert Charles F.
Published: July 2015

Background: The current literature discourages the use of acid suppressive therapy (AST) for stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) in noncritically ill patients. However, several sources indicate that the majority of noncritically ill patients are given AST for SUP while there may only be a small proportion of high-risk patients who need SUP therapy. There is a new scoring system to aid practitioners in stratifying the risk of stress ulcer–related gastrointestinal bleeding in noncritically ill patients developed by Herzig et al and appropriately prescribe AST for SUP in this population. Objective: Our primary objective was to determine the current usage of AST in noncritically ill patients at a tertiary teaching hospital and use the new scoring system to identify non–intensive care unit patients who were inappropriately given AST. Methods: We retrospectively determined the percentage of noncritically ill patients who were given AST on medical floors between January 2010 and December 2012. After identifying these patients, we randomly selected a sample and retrospectively collected data from their medical record to determine the gastrointestinal bleeding risk score to determine if the patient was appropriately given AST. Results: Of the 42 600 admissions, 22 949 (53.7%) noncritically ill patients were given AST. A total of 442 patients were randomly selected for data collection and 156 patients were excluded. Gastrointestinal bleeding risk score was calculated in 286 patients. This new risk stratification tool identified 253 (88.5%) patients to have a low (≤7) and low-medium risk score (8-9). Conclusions: A large percentage of noncritically ill patients were given AST during their hospital stay; 88.5% of these medications were given inappropriately to patients who were at extremely low risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Using the above information and the AST prescribing patterns at our institution, we estimate a potential inpatient medication cost savings of $114 622 for the study period.
Treatment Considerations for Unique Patient Populations With HCV Genotype 1 Infection
Authors: Toussaint-Miller Kimberly A. , Andres Jennifer
Published: July 2015

Objective: To review the literature for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 in certain populations of patients that require further considerations before therapy initiation. Data Sources: A systematic electronic literature search using the MEDLINE database was performed using the search terms hepatitis C, chronic hepatitis C, drug therapy, end stage liver disease, liver transplantation, HIV, hepatitis B, African Americans, renal insufficiency, obesity, pregnancy, and pediatrics. Study Selection and Data Extraction: English language studies from January 1985 to March 2015 were considered. Additional references were identified from ongoing trials obtained from clinicaltrials.gov, conference proceedings, online databases, and citations in relevant review articles. Data Selection: Direct-acting antivirals are first-line recommendations for the treatment of HCV genotype 1 infection, and these include combinations of sofosbuvir, simeprevir, ledipasvir/sofosbuvir, ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir plus dasabuvir, and ribarvirin. Historical and clinical data focusing on the treatment of HCV with these agents in the following populations were selected: decompensated cirrhosis, post-liver transplant, HIV, African Americans, obesity, hepatitis B coinfection, renal impairment, pregnancy, and pediatrics. Conclusion: Depending on the population studied, clinicians must consider differences in efficacy outcomes, potential drug interactions, and adverse effects that patients may experience.
Celecoxib Versus Diclofenac in Mild to Moderate Depression Management Among Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Mohammadinejad Payam , Arya Pantea , Esfandbod Mohsen , Kaviani Ahmad , Najafi Masoome , Kashani Ladan , Zeinoddini Atefeh , Emami Seyed Amirhossein , Akhondzadeh Shahin
Published: July 2015

Background: Depression is a well-known complication of breast cancer, which is known to adversely affect quality of life, prognosis, and survival in breast cancer patients. Celecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which acts via the selective inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2, has been shown to have antidepressive effects. Objectives: Here, we aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of celecoxib, a selective inhibitor of COX-2, with diclofenac, a nonselective inhibitor of both COX-1 and COX-2 in reducing depressive symptoms and pain in breast cancer patients. Methods: A total of 52 outpatients with breast cancer with mild to moderate depression, who suffered from pain and needed analgesics, participated in the trial and underwent 6 weeks of treatment with either celecoxib (200 mg twice daily) or diclofenac (50 mg twice daily). Participants were investigated using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). The primary outcome measure was to compare the antidepressant effects of celecoxib and diclofenac. Results: Repeated-measures analysis demonstrated significant effect for Time × Treatment interaction on the HDRS scores: F(1.76, 87.85) = 9.66; P < 0.001. By study conclusion, greater improvement was observed in the HDRS score of the celecoxib group compared with the diclofenac group ( P = 0.002). No one experienced remission (HDRS ≤ 7) in either group. Frequencies of adverse events were not significantly different between groups. Conclusion: Celecoxib seems to possess superior antidepressive effects compared with diclofenac in breast cancer patients with mild to moderate depression.
A multi-layered approach to product architecture modeling: Applied to technology prototypes
Authors: Ravn Poul Martin , Gudlaugsson Tómas Vignir , Mortensen Niels Henrik
Published: July 2015

Companies that wish to include novel technology in the product portfolio may need to test and evaluate the technology with the use of prototypes to learn its benefits. Without clear knowledge of the benefits of the technology to the products in the portfolio, in the form of increased performance, added functions, or material savings, the prototype development can be hard to manage. In this article, two contributions are made. The first adds to the vocabulary of prototyping, defining technology prototype, a prototype used for testing a novel technology in the context of an existing product. The second is a tool to model and manage technology prototypes: the Technology Prototype Product Architecture Tool (TePPAT). The TePPAT is a product architecture tool with three main sections: Purpose, Concept, and Architecture. The TePPAT was tested in four industry cases, all part of a public–private partnership project to support the development of technology prototypes using electro-active polymer transducer technology. The findings showed that the TePPAT supported the development teams in the four cases. It is concluded that the TePPAT can support multidisciplinary development teams in modeling and managing technology prototypes and can be correlated with improvements in the team collaboration, communication, and development performance.
Association of Monocyte-to-HDL Cholesterol Ratio with Slow Coronary Flow is Linked to Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Canpolat Ugur , Çetin Elif Hande , Cetin Serkan , Aydin Selahattin , Akboga Mehmet Kadri , Yayla Cagri , Turak Osman , Aras Dursun , Aydogdu Sinan
Published: July 2015

Background:

Previous studies proposed that both inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired endothelial dysfunction have a significant role in occurrence of slow coronary flow (SCF). monocyte-to-high density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR) is a recently emerged indicator of inflammation and oxidative stress, which have been studied only in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Hypothesis:

We aimed to assess the relationship between MHR and SCF.

Methods:

Patients who had angiographically normal coronary arteries were enrolled in this retrospective study (n = 253 as SCF group and n = 176 as control group). Patients who had corrected thrombolysis in myocardial infarction frame counts (cTFCs) above the normal cutoffs were defined as with SCF.

Results:

The MHR and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were significantly higher in the SCF group. In correlation analysis, MHR has a significantly positive correlation with cTFC and serum hsCRP levels ( P < .001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, MHR was found as independently associated with the presence of SCF (odds ratio: 1.24, P < .001).

Conclusion:

Higher MHR which indicates an enhanced inflammation and oxidative stress was significantly and independently associated with the presence of SCF. Besides, MHR was positively correlated with serum hsCRP level as a conventional marker for systemic inflammation.
Social Skills Deficits in a Virtual Environment Among Spanish Children With ADHD
Authors: García-Castellar Rosa , Jara-Jiménez Pilar , Sánchez-Chiva Desirée , Mikami Amori Y.
Published: July 2015

Objective: Research assessing the social skills of children with ADHD has predominantly relied upon North American samples. In addition, most existing work has been conducted using methodology that fails to use a controlled peer stimulus; such methods may be more vulnerable to cultural influence. Method: We examined the social skills of 52 Spanish children (ages 8-12) with and without ADHD using a controlled Chat Room Task, which simulates a virtual social environment where peers’ responses are held constant, so that participants’ social skills may be assessed. Results: After statistical control of typing and reading comprehension skills, Spanish children with ADHD gave fewer prosocial comments and had greater difficulty remembering central details from the conversation between the peers, relative to comparison children. Conclusion: The virtual Chat Room Task may be useful to assess social skills deficits using a controlled paradigm, resulting in the identification of common social deficiencies cross-culturally.
Being the King Kong of algorithmic culture is a tough job after all
Authors: Roberge Jonathan , Melançon Louis
Published: July 2015

This article explores the growing importance of algorithms in digital culture and what they could mean for the visibility and interpretation of culture as a whole. Taking Google as a prime example of a company that participates in widespread information overload whilst simultaneously providing some algorithmic answers to it, we show how it exhibits four different regimes of justification: the techno-scientific, economic, political and moral–aesthetic. These efforts to gain legitimacy operate as a network that is both highly performative and adaptive. For instance, Google builds on and translates such justifications in order for its Project Glass to be widely, if not universally, accepted. But there is another influential mode of performativity at work: the mounting criticism of the device. In the 18 months following the public announcement of Glass, we have observed the media phenomenon and passionate debate it has sparked. What Glass represents is being contested on multiple grounds, and this, in turn, indicates that its meanings will likely remain profoundly ambiguous for some time to come.
Failures: Diffusion, Learning, and Policy Abandonment
Authors: Volden Craig
Published: July 2015

Studies of the diffusion of policies tend to focus on innovations that successfully spread across governments. Implicit in such diffusion is the abandonment of the previous policy. Yet little is known about whether governments abandon policies that have failed elsewhere, as would be consistent with states acting as policy laboratories not only for policy successes but also for failures. This article focuses on the possible abandonment of failing welfare-to-work policies in the formative years (1997–2002) of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program across the 50 U.S. states. Using a dyad-based event history analysis, I find that, if both states in a pairing have a policy and one state's policy fails (in employing welfare recipients, reducing welfare rolls, or reducing overall poverty rates), then the other state is much more likely to abandon that failing policy. Moreover, such learning from the other state's experience is more common when the states are ideologically similar to one another and when the legislature in the potentially learning state is more professional.
An Application of Behavioral Activation Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder in the Context of Complicated Grief, Low Social-Economic Status, and Ethnic Minority Status
Authors: Vergara-Lopez Chrystal , Roberts John E.
Published: July 2015

Behavioral activation (BA) has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression, especially for severe and/or chronic depression; however, there is little empirical guidance on how BA can be effectively utilized to treat chronic Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in the context of complicated grief, low socioeconomic status, and ethnic minority status. This case study focuses on the treatment of Ms. X, a 51-year-old African American woman with chronic depression that was exacerbated by complicated grief. This case describes an effective course of a standard BA protocol for MDD in the context of complicated grief, low socioeconomic status, and ethnic minority status and illustrates how a BA protocol can be applied while incorporating important cultural considerations.
Choice of Human–Computer Interaction Mode in Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Mousavi Hondori Hossein , Khademi Maryam , Dodakian Lucy , McKenzie Alison , Lopes Cristina V. , Cramer Steven C.
Published: July 2015

Background and Objective. Advances in technology are providing new forms of human–computer interaction. The current study examined one form of human–computer interaction, augmented reality (AR), whereby subjects train in the real-world workspace with virtual objects projected by the computer. Motor performances were compared with those obtained while subjects used a traditional human–computer interaction, that is, a personal computer (PC) with a mouse. Methods. Patients used goal-directed arm movements to play AR and PC versions of the Fruit Ninja video game. The 2 versions required the same arm movements to control the game but had different cognitive demands. With AR, the game was projected onto the desktop, where subjects viewed the game plus their arm movements simultaneously, in the same visual coordinate space. In the PC version, subjects used the same arm movements but viewed the game by looking up at a computer monitor. Results. Among 18 patients with chronic hemiparesis after stroke, the AR game was associated with 21% higher game scores ( P = .0001), 19% faster reaching times ( P = .0001), and 15% less movement variability ( P = .0068), as compared to the PC game. Correlations between game score and arm motor status were stronger with the AR version. Conclusions. Motor performances during the AR game were superior to those during the PC game. This result is due in part to the greater cognitive demands imposed by the PC game, a feature problematic for some patients but clinically useful for others. Mode of human–computer interface influences rehabilitation therapy demands and can be individualized for patients.
Model tracking controller design of robot manipulator system with disturbances
Authors: Wang Dazhong , Wu Shujing , Wang Guoqiang , Okubo Shigenori
Published: July 2015

In the model tracking control of robot manipulator system, the treatment of nonlinear uncertainty in the system has always been an active research field. This article establishes a kinetic equation for robot manipulator system based on Lagrange equation and proposes a model tracking control system based on differential divisor. On this basis, this article proposes a model tracking control scheme for robot manipulator systems with disturbances. The proposed scheme is robust stable under the external disturbances. At last, the system simulation approach is employed to verify the effectiveness of this scheme on robot manipulator control.
Computational fluid dynamics and particle image velocimetry assisted design tools for a new generation of trochoidal gear pumps
Authors: Garcia-Vilchez M , Gamez-Montero PJ , Codina E , Castilla R , Raush G , Freire J , Río C
Published: July 2015

Trochoidal gear pumps produce significant flow pulsations that result in pressure pulsations, which interact with the system where they are connected, shortening the life of both the pump and circuit components. The complicated aspects of the operation of a gerotor pump make computational fluid dynamics the proper tool for modelling and simulating its flow characteristics. A three-dimensional model with deforming mesh computational fluid dynamics is presented, including the effects of the manufacturing tolerance and the leakage inside the pump. A new boundary condition is created for the simulation of the solid contact in the interteeth radial clearance. The experimental study of the pump is carried out by means of time-resolved particle image velocimetry, and results are qualitatively evaluated, thanks to the numerical simulation results. Time-resolved particle image velocimetry is developed in order to adapt it to the gerotor pump, and it is proved to be a feasible alternative to obtain the instantaneous flow of the pump in a direct mode, which would allow the determination of geometries that minimize the non-desired flow pulsations. Thus, a new methodology involving computational fluid dynamics and time-resolved particle image velocimetry is presented, which allows the obtaining of the instantaneous flow of the pump in a direct mode without altering its behaviour significantly.
Enterococcus faecalis promotes osteoclastogenesis and semaphorin 4D expression
Authors: Wang Shuai , Deng Zuhui , Seneviratne Chaminda J , Cheung Gary SP , Jin Lijian , Zhao Baohong , Zhang Chengfei
Published: July 2015

Enterococcus faecalis is considered a major bacterial pathogen implicated in endodontic infections and contributes considerably to periapical periodontitis. This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms by which E. faecalis accounts for the bone destruction in periapical periodontitis in vitro. Osteoclast precursor RAW264.7 cells were treated with E. faecalis ATCC 29212 and a wild strain of E. faecalis derived clinically from an infected root canal. The results showed that, to some extent, E. faecalis induced the RAW264.7 cells to form tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive multinucleated osteoclast-like cells. This pathogen markedly stimulated RAW264.7 cells to express semaphorin 4D (Sema4D), which inhibits bone formation. Once RAW264.7 cells were primed by low-dose receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL), E. faecalis could significantly increase the production of TRAP-positive multinucleated cells and up-regulate the expression of osteoclast-specific markers, including NFATc1, TRAP and cathepsin K. Both p38 and ERK1/2 MAPK signaling pathways were activated by E. faecalis in RANKL-primed RAW264.7 cells, and meanwhile the expression of Sema4D was highly increased. In conclusion, E. faecalis may greatly contribute to the bone resorption in periapical periodontitis by promoting RANKL-dependent osteoclastogenesis and expression of Sema4D through activation of p38 and ERK1/2 MAPK signaling pathways.
Asthma, COPD and overlap syndrome: a longitudinal study in young European adults
Authors: de Marco Roberto , Marcon Alessandro , Rossi Andrea , Antó Josep M. , Cerveri Isa , Gislason Thorarinn , Heinrich Joachim , Janson Christer , Jarvis Deborah , Kuenzli Nino , Leynaert Bénédicte , Probst-Hensch Nicole , Svanes Cecilie , Wjst Matthias , Burney Peter
Published: July 2015

We compared risk factors and clinical characteristics, 9-year lung function change and hospitalisation risk across subjects with the asthma–chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) overlap syndrome (ACOS), asthma or COPD alone, or none of these diseases.

Participants in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey in 1991–1993 (aged 20–44 years) and 1999–2001 were included. Chronic airflow obstruction was defined as pre-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity<lower limit of normal on both occasions. Based on their history of respiratory symptoms, spirometry and risk factors, subjects were classified as having asthma alone (n=941), COPD alone (n=166), ACOS (n=218) and none of these (n=5659).

Subjects with ACOS shared risk factors and clinical characteristics with subjects with asthma alone, but they had an earlier age of asthma onset. FEV1change in the ACOS group (−25.9 mL·year−1) was similar to that in the asthma group (−25.3 mL·year−1), and lower (p<0.001) than in the COPD group (−37.3 mL·year−1). ACOS was associated with the highest hospitalisation rate.

Among young adults aged 20–44 years, ACOS seems to represent a form of severe asthma, characterised by more frequent hospitalisations, and to be the result of early-onset asthma that has progressed to fixed airflow obstruction.
Everolimus for the treatment of lymphangioleiomyomatosis: a phase II study
Authors: Goldberg Hilary J. , Harari Sergio , Cottin Vincent , Rosas Ivan O. , Peters Elizabeth , Biswal Shibadas , Cheng Yi , Khindri Sanjeev , Kovarik John M. , Ma Shenglin , McCormack Francis X. , Henske Elizabeth Petri
Published: July 2015

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis is a rare, progressive cystic lung disorder characterised by dysregulated activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling.

This was a phase IIa, multicentre, open-label study of the mTOR inhibitor everolimus (2.5 mg·day−1escalated to 10 mg·day−1) in 24 women with lymphangioleiomyomatosis. Primary endpoints were safety, pharmacokinetics and serum vascular endothelial growth factor-D (VEGF-D) levels; secondary endpoints were measures of lung function.

Following 26 weeks of everolimus treatment, forced vital capacity exhibited stability, while forced expiration volume in 1 s improved from baseline, with mean changes (95% confidence interval) of 10 mL (−111–132) and 114 mL (11–217), respectively; 6-min walk distance improved by 47 m. Median VEGF-D and collagen IV levels decreased from baseline, from 1730 pg·mL−1to 934.5 pg·mL−1, and 103 ng·mL−1to 80.5 ng·mL−1, respectively. Adverse events were mostly grade 1−2; mouth ulceration, headache, nausea, stomatitis and fatigue were common. Serious adverse events suspected to be treatment related included peripheral oedema, pneumonia, cardiac failure andPneumocystis jiroveciiinfection. Everolimus blood levels increased dose proportionally.

In this study, everolimus improved some measures of lung function and exercise capacity and reduced serum VEGF-D and collagen IV. Side effects were generally consistent with known toxicities of mTOR inhibitors, although some were severe.
Migraine is associated with an increased risk for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Chu Chia-Huei , Liu Chia-Jen , Lin Liang-Yu , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Wang Shuu-Jiun
Published: July 2015

Background

There is evidence suggesting that migraine may be associated with vertigo. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the most common form of vertigo, in patients with migraine using a population-based dataset.

Methods

The National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan was searched for migraine patients and was also used to select an age- and sex-matched cohort of subjects without migraine. The analyses included 8266 migraine patients and 8266 controls. The incidence rates of BPPV in the two cohorts were compared. Cox proportional hazard models were used to identify risk factors for BPPV in migraine patients.

Results

In the migraine cohort, 1.11 % of the patients developed BPPV compared to 0.5 % of the controls. The incidence rate ratio was 2.03 (95 % CI 1.41–2.97; p <0.001). Cox proportional hazards analysis showed that age ≥40 years (HR 2.20; 95 % CI 1.40–3.45; p = 0.001), coronary artery disease (HR 4.62; 95 % CI 1.12–19.01; p = 0.034), and the number of outpatient department visits to neurologists because of migraine (HR 2.93; 95 % CI 2.50–3.44; p >0.001) were associated with an increased risk for BPPV.

Conclusion

The results showed that patients with migraine had a 2.03-fold increased risk of developing BPPV compared with age- and sex-matched controls. Although BPPV may not be a common condition in migraine patients, migraine sufferers with vestibular symptoms should alert physicians to the possibility of BPPV, particularly if patients are aged ≥40 years, have a history of coronary artery disease, or have frequent visits to neurologists clinics because of migraine.
Age dependent normal horizontal VOR gain of head impulse test as measured with video-oculography
Authors: Mossman Benjamin , Mossman Stuart , Purdie Gordon , Schneider Erich
Published: July 2015

Background

The head impulse test (HIT) is a recognised clinical sign of the high frequency vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR), which can be quantified with video-oculography. This measures the VOR gain as the ratio of angular eye velocity to angular head velocity. Although normative data is available for VOR gain with video-oculography, most normal studies in general include small numbers of subjects and do not include analysis of variation of VOR gain with age. The purpose of our study was to establish normative data across 60 control subjects aged 20 to 80 years to represent a population distribution.

Methods

Sixty control subjects without any current or previous form of brain disorder or vertigo participated in this study and form the basis for future comparison to patients with vestibular lesions. The relationship between the horizontal vestibulo-ocular reflex (HVOR) velocity gain and age was analysed using a mixed regression model with a random effect for subjects. Differences in testing technique were assessed to ensure reliability in results.

Results

The mean HVOR velocity gain of 60 normal subjects was 0.97 (SD = 0.09) at 80 ms and 0.94 (SD = 0.10) at 60 ms. The 2 SD lower limit of normal HVOR velocity gain was 0.79 at 80 ms and 0.75 at 60 ms. No HVOR velocity gain fell below 0.76 and 0.65 at 80 ms and 60 ms respectively. The HVOR velocity gain declined by 0.012 and 0.017 per decade as age increased at 80 ms and 60 ms respectively. A non-physiologically high horizontal HVOR velocity gain was found to occur in tests where passive HITs were predictable in direction and time and where target distance was below 0.70 m.

Conclusions

Normative data with respect to HVOR velocity gain decreases slightly with age, but with careful attention to methodology the 2 SD lower limit of normal is relatively robust across a wide age range and into the eighth decade, without requirement for adjustment with age.
Effects of hot-water extracts from Ganoderma lucidum residues and solid-state fermentation residues on prebiotic and immune-stimulatory activities in vitro and the powdered residues used as broiler feed additives in vivo
Authors: Liu Yuh-Hwa , Lin Yin-Shiou , Lin Kuan-Ling , Lu Yeh-Lin , Chen Chao-Hsiang , Chien Mei-Yin , Shang Huey-Fang , Lin Shyr-Yi , Hou Wen-Chi
Published: July 2015

Background

Large amounts of Ganoderma lucidum (GL) commercial products are provided in the worldwide market such as powders, tea bags, or capsules as dietary supplements which contained triterpenoids and/or polysaccharides. Therefore, it was estimated that several thousand tons of GL residues (GLR) are produced and discarded. For recycling uses, the aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits of two hot-water extracts from GLR (HWP_GLR) and solid-state fermentation GLR inoculated with GL mycelia (HWP_GLRF) on the growths of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum. The RAW264.7 cells were used to investigate the effects of HWP_GLR and HWP_GLRF on nitric oxide productions, phagocytic activities against FITC-labeled E. coli, and to lower lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-binding capacities. The powders of GLR and GLRF were used as additives in the commercial feeds for feeding broiler chicks in vivo to evaluate the immune-stimulatory and prebiotic activities.

Results

HWP_GLR and HWP_GLRF with molecular size 5 to 8 kDa were showed to stimulate growths of L. rhamnosus and B. longum. It was found that in the presence of polymyxin B HWP_GLR and HWP_GLRF could stimulate nitric oxide productions, elevate phagocytic activities against FITC-labeled E. coli, and to lower lipopolysaccharide-binding capacities in RAW264.7 cells. The broiler chicks were selected for feedings in vivo. The 1-day-old chicks were fed commercial feeds for 1 week, and then were fed without or with 4 or 8 % of GLR and GLRF additives for 3 weeks. There was no significant weight difference among feeding groups. However, the phagocytosis and natural killer cytotoxicity in the peripheral bloods, and prebiotic activities of bifidobacteria in feces of GLR and/or GLRF groups were significantly different compared to the control (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The GLR, GLRF, and their hot-water extracts with beneficial activities could be processed as feed additives which could increase the waste-recycling.
College Students’ Views of Work–Life Balance in STEM Research Careers: Addressing Negative Preconceptions
Authors: Tan-Wilson Anna , Stamp Nancy
Published: July 2015

In career discussions, female undergraduates said that if they were to attend graduate school in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and were to follow a career based on their research training, they would have to give up having a family. A subsequent survey showed that many students, both men and women, thought work–life balance would be more difficult to achieve in a STEM research path than in other professions they were considering. Their views of STEM research being less family-friendly were more pronounced on issues of parental leaves and caring for children than finding a spouse/partner and landing two jobs in the same locality. To provide role models of work–life balance in STEM professions, we convened panels of dual-career couples who described how they worked together to raise their children while advancing their scientific careers. Our selection of panelists and topics of discussion were based on findings of social science research on work–life balance. On a survey with the same questions administered afterward, the changes in paired responses of male and female students with respect to all four issues showed a significant shift toward thinking that a research-based STEM career would be no more difficult than other careers they were considering.
Pbx1 dependent control of VMC differentiation kinetics underlies gross renal vascular patterning
Authors: Hurtado Romulo , Zewdu Rediet , Mtui James , Liang Cindy , Aho Robert , Kurylo Chad , Selleri Licia , Herzlinger Doris
Published: July 2015

The architecture of an organ's vascular bed subserves its physiological function and metabolic demands. However, the mechanisms underlying gross vascular patterning remain elusive. Using intravital dye labeling and 3D imaging, we discovered that systems level vascular patterning in the kidney is dependent on the kinetics of vascular mural cell (VMC) differentiation. Conditional ablation of the TALE transcription factor Pbx1 in VMC progenitors led to their premature up-regulation of PDGFRβ, a master initiator of VMC-blood vessel association. This precocious VMC differentiation resulted in nonproductive angiogenesis, abnormal renal arterial tree patterning, and neonatal death consistent with kidney dysfunction. Notably, we establish that Pbx1 directly represses PDGFRβ, and demonstrate that decreased PDGFRβ dosage in conditional Pbx1 mutants substantially rescues vascular patterning defects and neonatal survival. These findings identify, for the first time, an in vivo transcriptional regulator of PDGFRβ, and reveal a previously unappreciated role for VMCs in systems level vascular patterning.​
Evf2 lncRNA/BRG1/DLX1 interactions reveal RNA-dependent chromatin remodeling inhibition
Authors: Cajigas Ivelisse , Leib David E. , Cochrane Jesse , Luo Hao , Swyter Kelsey , Chen Sean , Clark Brian S. , Thompson James , Yates John R. , Kingston Robert E. , Kohtz Jhumku D.
Published: July 2015

Transcription-regulating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have the potential to control site-specific gene expression of thousands of targets. Previously, we showed that Evf2, the first described ultraconserved lncRNA, increases association of transcriptional activators (DLX homeodomain proteins) to key DNA enhancers, but represses gene expression. In this report, mass spectrometry shows that the Evf2/DLX1 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) contains SWI/SNF related chromatin-remodelers, Brahma related gene 1 (BRG1, SMARCA4) and Brahma-associated factor (BAF170, SMARCC2) in developing forebrain. Evf2 RNA co-localizes with BRG1 in nuclear clouds and increases BRG1 association with key DNA regulatory enhancers in developing forebrain. While BRG1 directly interacts with DLX1 and Evf2 through distinct binding sites, Evf2 directly inhibits BRG1 ATPase and chromatin remodeling activities. In vitro studies show that both RNA/BRG1 binding and RNA inhibition of BRG1 ATPase/remodeling activity is promiscuous, suggesting that context is a critical factor in RNA-dependent chromatin remodeling inhibition. Together, these experiments support a model where RNAs convert an active enhancer to a repressed enhancer by directly inhibiting chromatin-remodeling activity, and address the apparent paradox of RNA-mediated stabilization of transcriptional activators at enhancers, with a repressive outcome. The importance of BRG1/RNA and BRG1/homeodomain interactions in neurodevelopmental disorders is underscored by the finding that mutations in Coffin Siris Syndrome, a human intellectual disability disorder, localize to the BRG1 RNA binding and DLX1 binding domains.
Finite element modeling of occlusal variation in durophagous tooth systems
Authors: Crofts Stephanie
Published: July 2015

In addition to breaking hard prey items, the teeth of durophagous predators must also resist failure under high loads. To understand the effects of morphology on tooth resistance to failure, finite element models were used to examine differences in total strain energy (J), first principal strain, and the distribution of strains in a diversity of canonical durophagous tooth morphologies. By changing the way loads were applied to the models, I was also able to model the effects of large and small prey items. Tooth models with overall convex morphologies have higher in-model strains than those with flat or concave occlusal surface. When a cusp is added to the tooth model, taller or thinner cusps increase in-model strain. While there is little difference in the relationships between tooth morphology and strain measurements for most models, there is a marked difference between effects of the large and small prey loads on the concave and flat tooth morphologies. Comparing these data with measurements of force required by these same morphologies to break prey items illustrates functional tradeoffs between the need to prevent tooth failure under high loads by minimizing in-tooth strain versus the drive to reduce the total applied force.