bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An exploratory pilot study with copeptin as a biomarker for individualizing treatment for nocturnal polyuria
Authors: Bruneel Elke , Goessaert An‐Sofie , Denys Marie‐Astrid , Juul Kristian V. , Nørgaard Jens P. , Everaert Karel
Published: October 2017

Objective

The aim of the present study was to investigate the use of random copeptin concentrations as possible biomarkers for the differential diagnosis of nocturnal polyuria (NP).

Methods

In all, 111 patients with and without nocturia were enrolled in the study. Patients with a neurogenic bladder and/or those who had undergone bladder or urethral surgery were excluded from the study. All patients completed a 72‐hour frequency–volume chart and a renal function profile. A random blood sample was obtained during the day for measurement of plasma copeptin concentrations, osmolality, and serum sodium and creatinine concentrations. The effect of the use of different definitions for NP was evaluated.

Results

The median age of the study participants was 61 years, and 48% were female. Copeptin was significantly correlated with urinary and plasma osmolality, as well as free water clearance (r=0.43, 0.56 and ‐0.38 respectively; P < .001 for all). Study participants were divided into 3 groups: controls (n = 51), those with NP (n = 41), and those with global polyuria (n = 19). Copeptin concentrations were significantly lower in subjects with global polyuria than in those with NP and the control group (2.96 vs 3.97 and 3.94 pM, respectively; P = .008 and .005). There was no significant difference in random daytime copeptin concentrations between the NP and control groups (P = .972). The results differed when other definitions for NP were used (e.g. NPi33 or NUP10).

Conclusions

We could not confirm our hypothesis that patients with NP have lower copeptin concentrations, although random blood sampling is not ideal. Further research is required to determine the use of copeptin in NP, perhaps in the identification of the desmopressin response.
A Bayesian Probabilistic Approach for Acoustic Emission‐Based Rail Condition Assessment
Authors: Wang Junfang , Liu Xiao‐Zhou , Ni Yi‐Qing
Published: October 2017

The investigation described in this article aims at developing a Bayesian‐based approach for probabilistic assessment of rail health condition using acoustic emission monitoring data. It comprises the following three phases: (i) formulation of a frequency‐domain structural health index (SHI), via a linear transformation method, tailored to damage‐sensitive frequency bandwidth; (ii) establishment of data‐driven reference models, using Bayesian regression about the real and imaginary parts of the SHI derived with monitoring data from the intact rail; and (iii) quantitative evaluation of discrimination between the new observations representative of current rail health condition and the baseline model predictions in terms of Bayes factor. If the deviation of the new observations from the predictions is within an acceptable tolerance, no damage is flagged, and the new data are further used to update and refine the reference models. If the observations deviate substantially from the model predictions in a probabilistic sense, damage is signaled, damage severity is quantified, and damage location determined. The proposed approach is examined by using field monitoring data acquired from an instrumented railway turnout, and the coincidence between the assessment results and the actual health conditions demonstrates its effectiveness in damage detection, localization, and quantification.
Evidence of anthropogenic trauma in marine mammals stranded along the central California coast, 2003–2015
Authors: Barcenas‐De la Cruz Daniela , DeRango Eugene , Johnson Shawn P. , Simeone Claire A.
Published: October 2017

A total of 11,162 stranded marine mammals was admitted to a rehabilitation center on the central California coast between January 2003 and September 2015. Six hundred seventeen animals (6%) had evidence of anthropogenic trauma (AT). California sea lions comprised the majority (83%) of AT cases, particularly by entanglement in marine debris (n = 277) and gunshot injuries (n = 165). Guadalupe fur seals had the highest prevalence of entanglement in marine debris. Cetaceans were primarily affected by boat collisions (n = 19). The highest numbers of overall strandings were recorded in 2009 (n = 1,690) and 2015 (n = 1,666); 2009 also had the highest total number (n = 137) and prevalence (8%) of AT cases. Prevalence of fishing tackle cases increased compared to similar data from 1986 to 1998 while prevalence of gunshot cases decreased, and other causes remained static. Cases of fisheries interactions were further examined and characterized, and when direct fisheries interactions were separated from other causes of AT, fisheries interactions accounted for 50% (n = 310) of all AT cases during the study period. Direct fisheries interactions were the most common type of AT observed among stranded marine mammals in central California. Tracking AT trends is important to further understand possible causes and inform mitigation efforts.
Variability in blue whale acoustic behavior off southern California
Authors: Lewis Leah A. , Širović Ana
Published: October 2017

To evaluate the acoustic behavior of blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) located inshore and offshore of southern California, singular A and B calls, D calls, and AB phrases were analyzed from 12 mo of passive acoustic data collected at four locations within the Southern California Bight. The relative proportions of singular calls and phrases were used to evaluate spatial and temporal patterns in sound and song type usage, and singular call and phrase production rates were calculated to investigate spatial and temporal variability in call abundance. Blue whale sounds were recorded from spring through early winter, with the majority of all detections occurring between September and December. The proportions and production rates of singular calls and phrases varied between the inshore and offshore sites. In addition, the percentage of A units within repetitive song phrases was greater inshore than offshore, resulting from a higher proportion of AB song type inshore, in which A and B phrase units were alternating. The ABB song type, in which a single A unit was followed by multiple B units, was more common offshore. The observed differences in calling and singing behaviors may identify distinct and variable acoustic behavioral settings for blue whales off southern California.
Integrative review of cervical cancer screening in Western Asian and Middle Eastern Arab countries
Authors: Ali Suhailah , Skirton Heather , Clark Maria T. , Donaldson Craig
Published: October 2017

Population‐based screening programs have resulted in minimizing mortality and morbidity from cervical cancer. The aim of this integrative review was to explore the factors influencing access of women from Western Asian and Middle Eastern Arab countries to cervical cancer screening. A systematic search for studies conducted in Arab countries in those regions, and published in English between January 2002 and January 2017, was undertaken. Thirteen papers were selected and subjected to quality appraisal. A three step analysis was used, which involved a summary of the evidence, analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data, and integration of the results in narrative form. Few population‐based cervical cancer screening programs had been implemented in the relevant countries, with low knowledge of, and perceptions about, cervical screening among Arab women, the majority of whom are Muslim. Factors affecting the uptake of cervical cancer screening practices were the absence of organized, systematic programs, low screening knowledge among women, healthcare professionals’ attitudes toward screening, pain and embarrassment, stigma, and sociocultural beliefs. Policy changes are urgently needed to promote population‐based screening programs. Future research should address the promotion of culturally‐sensitive strategies to enable better access of Arab Muslim women to cervical cancer screening.
Comparative anther and pistil anatomy of three flowering morphs of andromonoecious Acer oblongum (Sapindaceae s.l.) and its adaptive significance
Authors: Yadav Neha , Pandey Arun K. , Bhatnagar Ashok K.
Published: October 2017

A comparative anatomical study of the reproductive parts of the three floral morphs of Acer oblongum (Sapindaceae) was undertaken to ascertain the functionality of the parts present and their adaptive significance. Individual trees of A. oblongum possess three types of flower morphs. Though morphologically all flowering morphs appear to be bisexual, the male or female function is temporally suppressed to achieve successful cross‐pollination. We studied the role of endothecial thickenings in the selective dehiscence of anthers. Anatomical analysis showed the presence of fibrous thickenings in the endothecium cells of staminate type I flowers. However, minimal opening of anther along the line of dehiscence was observed in hermaphrodite flowers that showed poor differentiation of endothecium. Although an endothecium is formed also in anthers of hermaphrodite flowers, the anthers fail to dehisce because not all endothecial cells have fibrous thickenings, especially towards the stomium. In hermaphrodite flowers, mature pollen grains were formed only after stigma divergence when the receptivity was already lost (after stage 3). Furthermore, pistil anatomy revealed a functional embryo sac only in hermaphrodite flowers. Functionally male flowers, with an undeveloped pistil, serve as the only source of pollen for fertilization.
Genome‐wide analysis and endo‐β‐mannanase gene family expression profiling of tomato and soybean
Authors: Chen Xiuling , Jin Changjiang , Wang Peiwen , Chen Kai , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Li Jingfu , Gong Chao , Wang Aoxue
Published: October 2017

Endo‐β‐mannanase is a type of cell wall degrading enzyme that plays various roles in different developmental events and in different plants. Evolutionary analysis of the gene family may provide insight into gene function and speciation. In this study, genome‐wide analysis and expression profiling of the tomato Solanum lycopersicum and soybean Glycine max endo‐β‐mannanase gene families were performed. We identified 11 and 20 endo‐β‐mannanase genes in the tomato and soybean genomes, respectively. Sequence alignment revealed three α‐helices (αA, αB and αC) of plant endo‐β‐mannanases that were conserved in tomato, soybean and Arabidopsis. Analyses of gene structure and phylogenetic analysis suggested that loss of introns has played an important role in the evolution of endo‐β‐mannanases. Evolutionary analysis of endo‐β‐mannanases from various plant species showed that they diversified before the divergence of lower (algae and bryophytes) and higher plants. Promoter sequence analysis and expression pattern analysis revealed that endo‐β‐mannanases are not only involved in growth and developmental processes of tomato, but also associated with the stress response in plants.

Abbreviations – GH, glycoside hydrolase families; CBM, carbohydrate‐binding module; ABRE, ABA responsive elements; ARFAT, auxin responsive factor; ARR1AT, cytokinin responsive element; CPBCSPOR, cytokinin enhanced element; ERE, ethylene responsive element; GARE, GA responsive element; DRE, dehydration‐responsive element; LTRE, low‐temperature responsive element; MYB/MYC, transcription factor elements under stress conditions; W‐BOX, stress responsive element.
Role of extracytoplasmic function sigma factor PG1660 (RpoE) in the oxidative stress resistance regulatory network of Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Dou Y. , Rutanhira H. , Chen X. , Mishra A. , Wang C. , Fletcher H.M.
Published: October 2017

In Porphyromonas gingivalis, the protein PG1660, composed of 174 amino acids, is annotated as an extracytoplasmic function (ECF) sigma factor (RpoE homologue‐σ24). Because PG1660 can modulate several virulence factors and responds to environmental signals in P. gingivalis, its genetic properties were evaluated. PG1660 is co‐transcribed with its downstream gene PG1659, and the transcription start site was identified as adenine residue 54‐nucleotides upstream of the ATG translation start codon. In addition to binding its own promoter, using the purified rPG1660 and RNAP core enzyme from Escherichia coli with the PG1660 promoter DNA as template, the function of PG1660 as a sigma factor was demonstrated in an in vitro transcription assay. Transcriptome analyses of a P. gingivalis PG1660‐defective isogenic mutant revealed that under oxidative stress conditions 176 genes including genes involved in secondary metabolism were downregulated more than two‐fold compared with the parental strain. The rPG1660 protein also showed the ability to bind to the promoters of the highly downregulated genes in the PG1660‐deficient mutant. As the ECF sigma factor PG0162 has a 29% identity with PG1660 and can modulate its expression, the cross‐talk between their regulatory networks was explored. The expression profile of the PG0162PG1660‐deficient mutant (P. gingivalis FLL356) revealed that the type IX secretion system genes and several virulence genes were downregulated under hydrogen peroxide stress conditions. Taken together, we have confirmed that PG1660 can function as a sigma factor, and plays an important regulatory role in the oxidative stress and virulence regulatory network of P. gingivalis.
Phenomics allows identification of genomic regions affecting maize stomatal conductance with conditional effects of water deficit and evaporative demand
Authors: Prado Santiago Alvarez , Cabrera‐Bosquet Llorenç , Grau Antonin , Coupel‐Ledru Aude , Millet Emilie J. , Welcker Claude , Tardieu François
Published: October 2017

Stomatal conductance is central for the trades‐off between hydraulics and photosynthesis. We aimed at deciphering its genetic control and that of its responses to evaporative demand and water deficit, a nearly impossible task with gas exchanges measurements. Whole‐plant stomatal conductance was estimated via inversion of the Penman–Monteith equation from data of transpiration and plant architecture collected in a phenotyping platform. We have analysed jointly 4 experiments with contrasting environmental conditions imposed to a panel of 254 maize hybrids. Estimated whole‐plant stomatal conductance closely correlated with gas‐exchange measurements and biomass accumulation rate. Sixteen robust quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were identified by genome wide association studies and co‐located with QTLs of transpiration and biomass. Light, vapour pressure deficit, or soil water potential largely accounted for the differences in allelic effects between experiments, thereby providing strong hypotheses for mechanisms of stomatal control and a way to select relevant candidate genes among the 1–19 genes harboured by QTLs. The combination of allelic effects, as affected by environmental conditions, accounted for the variability of stomatal conductance across a range of hybrids and environmental conditions. This approach may therefore contribute to genetic analysis and prediction of stomatal control in diverse environments.
The genetic architecture of photosynthesis and plant growth‐related traits in tomato
Authors: de Oliveira Silva Franklin Magnum , Lichtenstein Gabriel , Alseekh Saleh , Rosado‐Souza Laise , Conte Mariana , Suguiyama Vanessa Fuentes , Lira Bruno Silvestre , Fanourakis Dimitrios , Usadel Björn , Bhering Leonardo Lopes , DaMatta Fábio M. , Sulpice Ronan , Araújo Wagner L. , Rossi Magdalena , de Setta Nathalia , Fernie Alisdair R. , Carrari Fernando , Nunes‐Nesi Adriano
Published: October 2017

To identify genomic regions involved in the regulation of fundamental physiological processes such as photosynthesis and respiration, a population of Solanum pennellii introgression lines was analyzed. We determined phenotypes for physiological, metabolic, and growth related traits, including gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. Data analysis allowed the identification of 208 physiological and metabolic quantitative trait loci with 33 of these being associated to smaller intervals of the genomic regions, termed BINs. Eight BINs were identified that were associated with higher assimilation rates than the recurrent parent M82. Two and 10 genomic regions were related to shoot and root dry matter accumulation, respectively. Nine genomic regions were associated with starch levels, whereas 12 BINs were associated with the levels of other metabolites. Additionally, a comprehensive and detailed annotation of the genomic regions spanning these quantitative trait loci allowed us to identify 87 candidate genes that putatively control the investigated traits. We confirmed 8 of these at the level of variance in gene expression. Taken together, our results allowed the identification of candidate genes that most likely regulate photosynthesis, primary metabolism, and plant growth and as such provide new avenues for crop improvement.
The terpene synthase gene family in Gossypium hirsutum harbors a linalool synthase GhTPS12 implicated in direct defence responses against herbivores
Authors: Huang Xin‐Zheng , Xiao Yu‐Tao , Köllner Tobias G. , Jing Wei‐Xia , Kou Jun‐Feng , Chen Jie‐Yin , Liu Dan‐Feng , Gu Shao‐Hua , Wu Jun‐Xiang , Zhang Yong‐Jun , Guo Yu‐Yuan
Published: October 2017

Herbivore‐induced terpenes have been reported to function as ecological signals in plant–insect interactions. Here, we showed that insect‐induced cotton volatile blends contained 16 terpenoid compounds with a relatively high level of linalool. The high diversity of terpene production is derived from a large terpene synthase (TPS) gene family. The TPS gene family of Gossypium hirsutum and Gossypium raimondii consist of 46 and 41 members, respectively. Twelve TPS genes (GhTPS4–15) could be isolated, and protein expression in Escherichia coli revealed catalytic activity for eight GhTPS. The upregulation of the majority of these eight genes additionally supports the function of these genes in herbivore‐induced volatile biosynthesis. Furthermore, transgenic Nicotiana tabacum plants overexpressing GhTPS12 were generated, which produced relatively large amounts of (3S)‐linalool. In choice tests, female adults of Helicoverpa armigera laid fewer eggs on transgenic plants compared with non‐transformed controls. Meanwhile, Myzus persicae preferred feeding on wild‐type leaves over leaves of transgenic plants. Our findings demonstrate that transcript accumulation of multiple TPS genes is mainly responsible for the production and diversity of herbivore‐induced volatile terpenes in cotton. Also, these genes might play roles in plant defence, in particular, direct defence responses against herbivores.
Extensive nail changes in a toddler with multisystemic Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Kumar Vimal , Angappan Dhanalakshmi , Scott Julius , Munirathnam Deenadayalan , Vij Mukul , Shanmugam Naresh
Published: October 2017

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a multisystem disorder involving various organs. Nail changes in LCH are extremely rare. We present this case report of extensive nail changes in an 18‐month‐old child with multisystem LCH.
Methotrexate treatment in a case of juvenile pityriasis rubra pilaris
Authors: Boyd Anne H. , Polcari Ingrid C.
Published: October 2017

An 8‐year‐old boy who was initially diagnosed with plaque psoriasis failed management with topical therapies and skin biopsy confirmed the suspected diagnosis of juvenile pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP). Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a rare inflammatory disorder of the skin characterized by follicular keratotic papules coalescing into plaques, along with palmoplantar keratoderma. Treatment modalities include topical and systemic therapies, although previous studies have not shown much benefit with methotrexate in children. We present a case in which methotrexate led to significant improvement of the skin findings in a child with type IV juvenile pityriasis rubra pilaris.
From childhood adversity to problem behaviors: Role of psychological and structural social integration
Authors: Chao Lo‐Hsin , Tsai Meng‐Che , Liang Ya‐Lun , Strong Carol , Lin Chung‐Ying
Published: October 2017

Background

Childhood adversity (CA) is associated with problem behaviors in adolescence, but the mediators, that is, those factors that help build resilience and prevent some children who experience CA from engaging in problem behaviors, await more exploration, including social integration. The aim of this study was to identify the association between CA and adolescent problem behaviors, and to further examine the mediating role of social integration distinctly as psychological and structural integration.

Methods

Data used were from the Taiwan Education Panel Survey, a core panel of 4,261 students (age 13) surveyed in 2001 and followed for three more waves until age 18. For psychological integration, an average score was calculated to represent adolescents’ feelings about their school. Structural integration was constructed using several items about adolescents’ school and extracurricular activities. We used structural equation modeling with the diagonally weighted least squares method to examine the effect of CA on the primary outcome: adolescent problem behaviors via social integration.

Results

The hypothesized structural equation model specifying the path from CA to adolescent problem behavior had good fit. Respondents with one CA were indirectly linked to problem behaviors via psychological but not structural integration (e.g. the level of participation in school and non‐school activities). On mediation analysis, psychological integration significantly mediated the paths from one CA to all six problem behaviors (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The presence of only one CA was indirectly associated with problem behavior via psychological integration; two or more CA were not associated with significant paths to problem behaviors. The contribution of social integration is crucial to an adolescent's development from CA to problem behaviors. To form supportive social relationships to achieve better health, we suggest that those adolescents who have been exposed to CA should be helped to join more teams and take part in more activities, thereby increasing their opportunities for social interaction, and improving their communication skills.
Social Context, Institutional Capacity, and Police Services: A Local Public Economies Perspective
Authors: Leon‐Moreta Agustin
Published: October 2017

This article examines levels of policing services, focusing on an assessment of resources and their measurement for municipalities. Two measures of policing levels assess the reliability of the findings across alternative measurements. Social and institutional characteristics are explored to evaluate alternative explanations in policing efforts. The article presents four decades of census data for municipalities in metropolitan areas. The central finding is that unequal levels of policing are prevalent across American municipalities. An additional finding is that social and institutional contexts affect policing, based on a pooled time‐series analysis of municipal governments. Although its main contribution is to local public economies research, the research also integrates the social and institutional literatures to identify factors in the allocation of resources to policing.
Toward Probabilistic Prediction of Flash Flood Human Impacts
Authors: Terti Galateia , Ruin Isabelle , Gourley Jonathan J. , Kirstetter Pierre , Flamig Zachary , Blanchet Juliette , Arthur Ami , Anquetin Sandrine
Published: October 2017

This article focuses on conceptual and methodological developments allowing the integration of physical and social dynamics leading to model forecasts of circumstance‐specific human losses during a flash flood. To reach this objective, a random forest classifier is applied to assess the likelihood of fatality occurrence for a given circumstance as a function of representative indicators. Here, vehicle‐related circumstance is chosen as the literature indicates that most fatalities from flash flooding fall in this category. A database of flash flood events, with and without human losses from 2001 to 2011 in the United States, is supplemented with other variables describing the storm event, the spatial distribution of the sensitive characteristics of the exposed population, and built environment at the county level. The catastrophic flash floods of May 2015 in the states of Texas and Oklahoma are used as a case study to map the dynamics of the estimated probabilistic human risk on a daily scale. The results indicate the importance of time‐ and space‐dependent human vulnerability and risk assessment for short‐fuse flood events. The need for more systematic human impact data collection is also highlighted to advance impact‐based predictive models for flash flood casualties using machine‐learning approaches in the future.
Does water temperature influence the performance of key survival skills?
Authors: Schnitzler C. , Button C. , Seifert L. , Armbrust G. , Croft J. L.
Published: October 2017

Aquatic survival skills may be compromised in cold water thereby increasing the likelihood of drowning. This study compared physiological, psychological, and behavioral responses of humans treading water and swimming in cold and temperate water. Thirty‐eight participants were classified as inexperienced (n = 9), recreational (n = 15), or skilled (n = 10) swimmers. They performed 3 tasks: treading water (120 seconds), swim at “comfortable” pace, and swim at “fast” pace in 2 water conditions (28°C vs 10°C). Heart rate, oxygen uptake, psychometric variables, spatio‐temporal (swim speed, stroke rate, and stroke length), and coordination type were examined as a function of expertise. Tasks performed in cold water‐generated higher cardiorespiratory responses (HR = 145 ± 16 vs 127 ± 21 bpm) and were perceived about 2 points more strenuous on the Borg scale on average (RPE = 14.9 ± 2.8 vs 13.0 ± 2.0). The voluntary durations of both treading water (60 ± 32 vs 91 ± 33 seconds) and swimming at a comfortable pace (66 ± 22 vs 103 ± 34 seconds) were significantly reduced in cold water. However, no systematic changes in movement pattern type could be determined in either the treading water task or the swimming tasks. Water temperature influences the physical demands of these aquatic skills but not necessarily the behavior. Training treading water and swimming skills in temperate water seems to transfer to cold water, but we recommend training these skills in a range of water conditions to help adapt to the initial “cold‐shock” response.
Glucose response to exercise in the post‐prandial period is independent of exercise intensity
Authors: Shambrook P. , Kingsley M. I. , Wundersitz D. W. , Xanthos P. D. , Wyckelsma V. L. , Gordon B. A.
Published: October 2017

This study investigated the acute glucose response to low‐intensity, moderate‐intensity, and high‐intensity interval exercise compared to no‐exercise in healthy insufficiently active males using a four‐arm, randomized, crossover design. Ten males (age: 37.3 ± 7.3 years, BMI: 29.3 ± 6.5 kg·m−2) completed four 30‐minute interventions at weekly intervals comprising low‐intensity exercise (LIE) at ~35% O2R, moderate‐intensity exercise (MIE) at ~50% O2R, high‐intensity interval exercise (HIIE) at ~80% O2R, and a no‐exercise control. Participants performed cycle ergometer exercise 30 minutes after finishing breakfast. Glucose response was assessed using a continuous glucose monitor under free‐living conditions with dietary intake replicated. A significant effect for intensity on energy expenditure was identified (P < .001) with similar energy cost in MIE (mean ± SD: 869 ± 148 kJ) and HIIE (806 ± 145 kJ), which were both greater than LIE (633 ± 129 kJ). The pattern of glucose response between the interventions over time was different (P = .02). Glucose was lower 25 minutes into each of the HIIE, MIE and LIE trials respectively (mean difference ± SD: −0.7 ± 1.1; −0.9 ± 1.1; −0.6 ± 0.9 mmol·L−1; P < .05) than in the no‐exercise trial. Glucose response was not different between exercise intensities (P > .05). Twenty‐four‐hour AUC was not affected by exercise intensity (P = .75). There was a significant effect for exercise enjoyment (P = .02), with LIE (69 ± 4) preferred less than HIIE (mean ± SD: 84 ± 14; P = .02), MIE (73 ± 5; P = .03), and no‐exercise (75 ± 4; P = .03). Exercise at any intensity 30 minutes after a meal affects glycemic regulation equally in insufficiently active males. Moderate to vigorous exercise intensities were preferred, and therefore, the exercise guidelines appear appropriate for the prevention of cardiometabolic disease.
Validation of digital photographic reference scales for evaluating facial aging signs
Authors: Jdid Randa , Latreille Julie , Soppelsa Frédérique , Tschachler Erwin , Morizot Frédérique
Published: October 2017

Background

Validated tools are essential to evaluate facial skin aging for both dermatological and cosmetic investigations. While many visual aging scales have been developed, few have been validated and none in terms of degree of distinguishability (DD). We developed and validated a series of visual scales using a novel digital interface for scoring facial skin aging in Caucasian women.

Materials and methods

Three dermatologists independently established scales for 12 distinct aging signs from high‐definition facial photographs of 400 adult women (Fitzpatrick phototypes I‐IV) taken under standardized conditions. They then selected a consensus scale for each individual sign with a representative photo per grade. Scales were integrated into a digital interface allowing simultaneous viewing of all grades of each scale alongside the photograph of a test subject. Next, scales were validated by a different dermatologist, a general practitioner and a non‐medical expert skin evaluator using photos of 350 women which had not been used for establishing the scales.

Results

Kappa estimates showed almost perfect agreement for wrinkle and skin aging scales (≥0.85) and moderate to substantial agreement for scales relating to color irregularities (telangiectasia, solar lentigines, freckles) for both inter‐ and intra‐observer reproducibility. Intra‐observer DD estimates were mostly high. Non‐dermatologists performed well on reproducibility for both Kappa (from 0.6 to 0.9) and DD estimates.

Conclusion

Our work demonstrates that the digital interface scales for 12 distinct aging features are highly suitable for use in clinical and epidemiological studies on skin aging by both dermatologists and non‐dermatologists.
The Danube River inception: Evidence for a 4 Ma continental‐scale river born from segmented ParaTethys basins
Authors: Olariu Cornel , Krezsek Csaba , Jipa Dan C.
Published: October 2017

Before reaching the Black Sea, the Danube River passes through a string of Para‐Tethyan (Vienna, Pannonian and western and eastern Dacian) basins. The key question is, when and how did the Danube River become a continental‐scale river with a drainage similar to present? New data presented here show that the Late Miocene deepwater strata in the Black Sea have a significant sediment source and depositional style change at about 4 Ma. However, the presence of active Miocene basins within the Danube catchment raises questions about the timing of Danube River inception and whether the upstream palaeogeography would have allowed or disallowed delivery of large sediment volumes to the deepwater Black Sea. Stratigraphic analyses in the Pannonian and Dacian basins reveal a phase of coeval sedimentary fill of the basins along the Danube at about 4 Ma. This multi‐basin observation points to a concurrent basin‐fill model rather than the basin fill‐and‐spill or Messinian‐type lowstand models previously proposed for Danube inception.
The practice of diagnosing and reporting transfusion‐associated circulatory overload: a national survey among physicians and haemovigilance officers
Authors: Bosboom J. J. , Klanderman R. B. , Peters A. L. , van de Weerdt E. K. , Goudswaard E. J. , Binnekade J. M. , Zwaginga J. J. , Beckers E. A. M. , Geerts B. F. , Hollmann M. W. , Zeerleder S. S. , van Kraaij M. , Vlaar A. P.
Published: October 2017

Objectives

This study aims at identifying factors that disciplines consider when diagnosing and reporting transfusion‐associated circulatory overload (‘TACO’).

Background

TACO is a clinical diagnosis based mainly on subjective factors. Therefore, TACO could be an underreported complication of blood transfusion.

Methods

A survey was conducted among critical care physicians, anaesthesiologists, haematologists, transfusion medicine physicians and haemovigilance officers using case vignettes and a questionnaire. Factors that may affect diagnosing TACO were investigated using conjoint analysis. A positive B‐coefficient indicates a positive preference for diagnosing TACO. Participants rated factors influencing reporting TACO on a 0‐ to 100‐point scale.

Results

One hundred and seven surveys were returned (62%). Vignettes showed preferences in favour of diagnosing TACO with the onset of symptoms within 2 h [β 0·4(−0·1–1·0)], positive fluid balance [β 0·9(0·4–1·5)] and history of renal failure [β 0·6(0·1–1·2)]. Compared with transfusion of a single unit of red blood cells (RBC), respondents showed a preference for diagnosing TACO following a single unit of solvent/detergent (S/D) plasma or pooled platelet concentrate (PPC) [β 0·3(−0·2–0·7) resp. 0·5(−0·1–1·2)]. Multiple transfusion (6 RBC + 4 S/D plasma) was a strong preference for diagnosing TACO compared to 1 RBC and 1 S/D plasma [β 0·3(−0·8–1·3)]. Respondents did not fully take into account new hypertension and tachycardia when reporting TACO [median 70 (IQR 50–80) resp. 60 (IQR 50–80)]. No differences were observed between disciplines involved.

Conclusion

When diagnosing and reporting TACO, physicians and haemovigilance officers do consider known risk factors for TACO. Reporting could be improved by increasing the awareness of haemodynamic variables in future education programmes.
Red cell apheresis: pros and cons
Authors: Infanti L.
Published: October 2017

The collection of red blood cells (RBC) by apheresis, first developed in the 1970's for therapeutic use, for many years was not considered suitable for obtaining blood components for transfusion because of concerns on donor safety and elevated costs compared to whole blood (WB) donation. Single‐dose RBC apheresis as a part of multicomponent collections and double‐dose RBC (2RBC) apheresis for autologous and allogeneic transfusions were approved by the FDA between 1995 and 1997, and in Europe starting from 2000. The widespread implementation of these procedures followed mainly to address blood supply issues, as large numbers of blood components can be rapidly obtained. However, this potential advantage has been only partially confirmed in real practice, with striking regional differences. Limitations of 2RBC collections regarding both blood supply and donor safety have emerged. In particular, donor motivation, iron deficiency and risk of anaemia are issues that need to be addressed. On the other side, 2RBC apheresis represents a valuable alternative to WB collection for autologous or dedicated donations, can reduce the risk of alloimmunization in chronically transfused patients and can facilitate transfusion support in specific cases (i.e. patients with multiple alloantibodies or rare blood groups). Reducing patient exposure to different donors can also be relevant for preventing the transmission of blood‐borne infections.
Major emerging alien plants in Austrian crop fields
Authors: Follak S , Schleicher C , Schwarz M , Essl F
Published: October 2017

Globalisation and increasing trade have led to the introduction of alien plants that are highly competitive and difficult to control in agriculture in central Europe. Our study set out to analyse the invasion process and agricultural impact of the six emerging alien plants Abutilon theophrasti, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Cyperus esculentus, Datura stramonium, Panicum schinzii and Sorghum halepense in Austria, based on a large distribution data set (694 occurrence records in crop fields). We found that all study species have increased in abundance and range, especially after the year 2000. The rate of spread was highest for A. artemisiifolia and lowest for C. esculentus. At present, records of the study species were largely associated with areas of high summer crop concentration in eastern, southern and north‐western Austria. Based on the CORINE land‐cover data set, we found that the agricultural area at risk of being invaded increased over time. At present, it ranges between 45 500 and 168 000 ha (approximately 2.4% and 8.7% of the total agricultural area) depending on the species. The invasion success of the study species is probably associated with frequent human‐mediated dispersal, specific crop‐dominated rotations and herbicide use. Our results suggest that the study species will successfully spread further. We conclude that these emerging alien species will cause substantial impacts on crops in Austria and probably in other countries of central Europe.
LIPOSOME AS TRANSDERMAL CARRIER FOR LABISIA PUMILA AND FICUS DELTOIDEA WATER EXTRACTS
Authors: Roslan Nur Zatul Iradah , Abdul Ghani Siti Maria , Yusof Nurul Bashirah , Abd. Aziz Azila
Published: October 2017

In this study, liposome has been investigated as the potential transdermal carrier for Labisia pumila (Lp) and Ficus deltoidea (Fd). The encapsulation efficiency, zeta potential, particle size and transdermal transport properties of the herbal extracts loaded liposomes were determined to characterize the delivery system. The entrapment efficiency for Lipo-Lp and Lipo-Fd were 35.47 ± 2.71% and 31.23 ± 7.65%, respectively. The average diameter were153.35nm and 131.9nm, respectively and the zeta potential were -47.2 and -46.8, respectively. The permeability and partition coefficient (K) of Lipo-Lp were 1.31cm h-1 and 10.05, respectively and the permeability and partition coefficient (K) of Lipo-Fd were 1.28cm h-1 and 7.62, respectively. Labisia pumila and Ficus deltoidea loaded liposomes showed better transdermal permeation compared to un-encapsulated Labisia pumila and Ficus deltoidea indicative of potential actives herbal cosmetic formulations.
SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS OF A FAO PENMAN MONTEITH FOR POTENTIAL EVAPOTRANSPIRATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
Authors: Ahmad Nor Farah Atiqah , Askari Muhamad , Harun Sobri , Fadhil Abu Bakar , Demun Amat Sairin
Published: October 2017

Sensitivity of the FAO Penman-Monteith (FPM) potential evapotranspiration (PET) model under tropical climates has been studied in the present study. A total of 17 meteorological stations covering Peninsular Malaysia starting from 1987-2003 were used as model inputs. A sensitivity analysis (SA) was carried out using the graphical method for temperature, wind speed and solar radiation within the possible range of ±20% with increments of 5%. From the comparison done on the sensitivity of PET to climatic change, the Kuala Krai station gave the highest percentage change in terms of temperature (±6%). The highest percentage change for wind speed (±2%) and solar radiation (±17%) were shown at the Alor Setar and Kuala Krai stations, respectively. The Alor Setar station had the lowest percentage change for temperature (±0.3%) and solar radiation (±9.9). The lowest percentage change of wind speed (± 0.2%) was observed at the Kuala Krai station. PET percentage changes have a positive correlation to the percentage change of all climatic variables except for the Cameron Highlands station. Results revealed that solar radiation has the most significant effect on PET (±14%), followed by temperature (±4%) and wind speed (±1%). Taken together, these results suggest that solar radiation plays an important role in estimating PET in Peninsular Malaysia.
LOCALIZATION AND MOTION CONTROL IMPLEMENTATION FOR AN AGRICULTURAL MOBILE ROBOT
Authors: Mahmud Mohd Saiful Azimi , Zainal Abidin Mohamad Shukri , Mohamed Zaharuddin
Published: October 2017

In robot navigation experiment, a localization and motion control system is required to secure the agricultural robot motion in the environment. However, the high cost of localization system and complex structure of motion controller has limited the low cost agricultural mobile robot development. In this paper, a low-cost localization system and simple motion control system is presented. The localization system has been implemented using a dead reckoning method by accessing an incremental encoder’s reading. A simple cascaded motion control system based on proportional feedback kinematics controller and PI based controller was used to control the mobile robot motion. The performances of different turning methods: U turn and a π turn, were compared for lane changing, based on completion time, controller’s error and distance travelled. Simulation test of robot motion was conducted using a Simulink3d animation in MATLAB software. An experimental test in a real greenhouse environment was conducted to verify the simulation performance in motion control and localization system. The experimental and simulation results have shown that a U turn has the best turning performance with 69.1 % better efficiency in experimental mode and it is recommended to be applied in agricultural field.
Performance of the Microfinance Investment Vehicles
Authors: Le Saout Erwan
Published: October 2017

Over the last few years, the microfinance sector has seen its transformation. Microfinance institutions seek a wide range of sources of funding, while private investors seek not only social returns but also financial returns. This new approach has led to the emergence of microfinance investment funds and initial public offerings of certain Microfinance institutions. Microfinance now seems to be seen as a new investment opportunity by global investors.Aim of this paper is to study the performance of public Microfinance Investment Vehicles. Despite a significant currency risk, we find that the integration of microfinance assets diversifies the investor’s risks and improves the efficient frontier. We conclude that microfinance institutions, via investment vehicles, are likely to attract capital from socially responsible investors seeking new investment opportunities despite a sharp decline in the Sharpe ratio over the past few months.
Arab Americans and the Obama’s Legacy: Between Rhetoric and Reality
Authors: Hafsa Lanouar Ben
Published: October 2017

Although they constitute a tiny minority of the overall American makeup (less than 0.5 percent), Arab Americans have become an increasingly visible community over the last few decades. Their emergence as one of the most successful minorities in the United States could be explained by a bunch of achievements they have made in different domains: education, jobs, and politics. But, many would equally attribute their success to a strong belief in the American dream and a manifested will to assimilate.The paper aims to assess Arab Americans’ support for Obama in the 2008 and 2012 presidential face-offs. It is especially an attempt to fathom the degree of political engagement and collaboration between the community’s component groups, namely Christians, Muslims, native-born and immigrants. It analyzes their voting patterns, examines issues of concern that mobilize their vote, and scales the extent they are likely to reach in galvanizing support around a common Arab agenda.Another important goal of this study is to investigate the gap between Obama’s rhetoric and action regarding issues that mobilize the Arab constituency. It tempts to demonstrate how the massive Arab rally behind the Democratic candidate, in both contests, was more than a question of faith placed in what many referred to as the “black Kennedy.” It was rather the corroboration of a process that began in 2002, and that drifted away form the Republican Party sizable numbers of Arab constituents who felt exceptionally targeted by George W. Bush’s security measures, in the aftermath of 9/11, and repulsed by a hard line anti-Arab and anti-Muslim rhetoric that started to dominate the GOP.
Extraction of Linear Growth and Damping Rates of High-Frequency Thermoacoustic Oscillations From Time Domain Data
Authors: Hummel Tobias , Berger Frederik , Stadlmair Nicolai , Schuermans Bruno , Sattelmayer Thomas
Published: October 2017

This paper presents a set of methodologies for the extraction of linear growth and damping rates associated with transversal eigenmodes at screech level frequencies in thermoacoustically noncompact gas turbine combustion systems from time domain data. Knowledge of these quantities is of high technical relevance as a required input for the design of damping devices for high frequency (HF) oscillations. In addition, validation of prediction tools and flame models as well as the thermoacoustic characterization of a given unstable/stable operation point in terms of their distance from the Hopf bifurcation point occurs via the system growth/damping rates. The methodologies solely rely on dynamic measurement data (i.e., unsteady heat release and/or pressure recordings) while avoiding the need of any external excitation (e.g., via sirens), and are thus in principle suitable for the employment on operational engine data. Specifically, the following methodologies are presented: (1) The extraction of pure acoustic damping rates (i.e., without any flame contribution) from oscillatory chemiluminescence and pressure recordings; (2) The obtainment of net growth rates of linearly stable operation points from oscillatory pressure signals; and (3) The identification of net growth rates of linearly unstable operation points from noisy pressure envelope data. The fundamental basis of these procedures is the derivation of appropriate stochastic differential equations (SDE), which admit analytical solutions that depend on the global system parameters. These analytical expressions serve as objective functions against which measured data are fitted to yield the desired growth or damping rates. Bayesian methods are employed to optimize precision and confidence of the fitting results. Numerical test cases given by time domain formulations of the acoustic conservation equations including HF flame models as well as acoustic damping terms are set up and solved. The resulting unsteady pressure and heat release data are then subjected to the proposed identification methodologies to present corresponding proof of principles and grant suitability for employment on real systems.
A Review of In Situ Mechanical Characterization of Polymer Nanocomposites: Prospect and Challenges
Authors: Roy Samit , Ryan John , Webster Samantha , Nepal Dhriti
Published: October 2017

Mechanics at the nanoscale is radically different from mechanics at the macroscale. Atomistic simulations have revealed this important fact, and experiments are being performed to support it. Specifically, in situ testing is being performed by researchers using different approaches with different material systems to interrogate the material at the nanoscale and prove or disprove many of the proposed models. This paper attempts to provide a fairly comprehensive review of the in situ testing that is being performed at the nanoscale, together with a brief description of the models that in situ testing are being used to verify. This review paper intends to primarily provide a broad snapshot of in situ testing of different nanocarbon-based polymeric nanocomposite materials.
Nuclear jailbreak: DNA escapes and inflames
Authors: King Kevin R.
Published: October 2017

Cytosolic DNA sensors detect fragmented or damaged DNA that escapes the nucleus during cellular senescence or cancer and induces inflammation.