bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of multiple Felis catus papillomavirus types (1, 2, 3, 4) in cat skin lesions in Italy by quantitative PCR
Authors: Mazzei Maurizio , Forzan Mario , Carlucci Vito , Anfossi Antonio G , Alberti Alberto , Albanese Francesco , Binanti Diana , Millanta Francesca , Baroncini Lisa , Pirone Andrea , Abramo Francesca
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate, by quantitative PCR (qPCR), the presence of papillomavirus in feline viral plaques (VPs), Bowenoid in situ carcinoma (BISC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and actinic keratosis (AK).

Methods

Twenty-nine cases with previously established diagnoses of feline VPs, BISC, invasive SCC and AK were selected from a dermatopathological database. A critical re-evaluation of diagnosis was performed by defining clear criteria toward carcinomatous vs non-carcinomatous, in situ vs invasive (if carcinomatous) and viral vs actinic. Cases were evaluated for p16 immunolocalisation. The presence of the target viral genes for Felis catus papillomavirus (FcaPV)-1, FcaPV-2, FcaPV-3 and FcaPV-4 was determined by qPCR. The data generated ΔΔCq values, which represent a normalised measure of DNA viral quantity. Samples with a positive ΔΔCq value were submitted to sequence analysis.

Results

Four VPs, 19 BISCs, four SCCs and one case of AK were included. By ΔΔCq analysis we found that all VPs were positive for FcaPV-1 or FcaPV-2; eight BISCs were positive for FcaPV-1, FcaPV-2 and FcaPV-4. FcaPV-2 was the most prevalent among the group of VPs and BISCs.

Conclusions and relevance

Using the ΔΔCq method we report the first evidence of FcaPV-1, FcaPV-2 and FcaPV-4 in Italy. FcaPV-2 was the most frequently detected; to a lesser extent, FcaPV-1 and FcaPV-4 were detected in the examined samples. FcaPV-3 was never associated with viral-induced lesions by ΔΔCq investigation. Compared with conventional PCR the ΔΔCq method has the advantage of establishing a possible role of the virus in the outcome of infection.
Evaluation of an intramuscular butorphanol and alfaxalone protocol for feline blood donation: a pilot study
Authors: Granfone Marcella C , Walker Julie M , Smith Lesley J
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the use of an intramuscular (IM) sedation protocol with butorphanol and alfaxalone in cats undergoing blood donation. We hypothesized that this drug combination would provide sufficient sedation to perform phlebotomy without causing hypotension or significant changes in heart rate.

Methods

Six purpose-bred, healthy adult cats were sedated using IM butorphanol (0.4 mg/kg) and alfaxalone (2–3 mg/kg). Pulse and Doppler blood pressure (BP) were recorded at baseline, after sedation and immediately following phlebotomy. Once laterally recumbent, 12 ml/kg blood was collected from the jugular vein. Sedation scores, duration of lateral recumbency and the ability to successfully perform phlebotomy were recorded.

Results

There was no significant change in heart rate post-sedation (median 190 beats per min [bpm], range 160–224 bpm) or post-phlebotomy (median 200 bpm, range 180–220 bpm) compared with baseline values (median 200 bpm, range 180–220 bpm) ( P = 0.395). A statistically significant change in BP was detected ( P = 0.029), attributed to a difference between post-sedation (median 113.3 mmHg, range 110.7–130.0) and baseline (median 133.3 mmHg, range 130.0–183.3) measurements. Hypotension was not observed in any cat. Collection of at least 80% of the target volume was achieved in 5/6 cats, although all were adequately sedated to allow jugular venous phlebotomy. Median recumbency time was 53 mins (range 43–83 mins). Phlebotomy duration lasted a median of 13 mins (range 5–21 mins).

Conclusions and relevance

The administration of IM alfaxalone and butorphanol provided sufficient restraint for blood donation without causing hypotension or significant changes in heart rate before or after phlebotomy.
Survey of owner subcutaneous fluid practices in cats with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Cooley Crystal M , Quimby Jessica M , Caney Sarah MA , Sieberg Liberty G
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to survey owners regarding their practices and experiences with the administration of subcutaneous (SC) fluids at home to cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) to gain insight that might help more owners be successful with the procedure.

Methods

A web-based survey was advertised online. Owners of 468 cats with CKD participated, 399 of whom administered SC fluids.

Results

Fifty-nine percent of the cats were domestic shorthairs, with >85% of the cats being 10 years of age or older. IRIS stage 3 was most commonly represented (37%). Ninety-five percent of owners said they discussed giving fluids with their veterinarian, with only 42% of those discussions involving additional educational resources. A large majority of owners (85%) said it was either an easy, somewhat easy/no stress or okay experience for them, and a large majority (89%) reported that the experience was easy/no stress, somewhat easy or okay experience for their cats. To increase tolerance, 57% said they gave a treat to their cat afterwards, and 60% said they warmed the fluids. Sixty-one percent reported using a 20 G or larger needle, with 49% saying size of needle affected tolerance. Seventy-four percent also felt that the length of time it took to administer fluids affected tolerance. One-hundred milliliters was the most commonly given fluid amount. Hydration status was monitored by 40% of owners by various methods, with 40% of those saying they skipped or added fluids based on hydration assessment.

Conclusions and relevance

A majority of owners gave positive feedback about their ability to learn and administer SC fluids to their cat wth CKD. Owners reported several strategies that they felt improved tolerance of fluid administration. Overall, the protocol should be tailored to the preference of the cat for best possible long-term success.
Climate Change Contribution to the Emergence or Re-Emergence of Parasitic Diseases
Authors: Short Erica E , Caminade Cyril , Thomas Bolaji N
Published: September 2017

The connection between our environment and parasitic diseases may not always be straightforward, but it exists nonetheless. This article highlights how climate as a component of our environment, or more specifically climate change, has the capability to drive parasitic disease incidence and prevalence worldwide. There are both direct and indirect implications of climate change on the scope and distribution of parasitic organisms and their associated vectors and host species. We aim to encompass a large body of literature to demonstrate how a changing climate will perpetuate, or perhaps exacerbate, public health issues and economic stagnation due to parasitic diseases. The diseases examined include those caused by ingested protozoa and soil helminths, malaria, lymphatic filariasis, Chagas disease, human African trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, babesiosis, schistosomiasis, and echinococcus, as well as parasites affecting livestock. It is our goal to impress on the scientific community the magnitude a changing climate can have on public health in relation to parasitic disease burden. Once impending climate changes are now upon us, and as we see these events unfold, it is critical to create management plans that will protect the health and quality of life of the people living in the communities that will be significantly affected.
Mango Supplementation Has No Effects on Inflammatory Mediators in Obese Adults
Authors: Evans Shirley F , Beebe Maureen , Mahmood Maryam , Janthachotikun Sawanya , Eldoumi Heba , Peterson Sandra , Payton Mark , Perkins-Veazie Penelope , Smith Brenda J , Lucas Edralin A
Published: September 2017

This pilot study examined the effects of freeze-dried mango ( Mangifera indica L.) supplementation on anthropometric measurements, lipid parameters, and inflammatory mediators in obese individuals. A total of 20 obese (body mass index [BMI]: 30-35 kg/m2) adults (11 men and 9 women), aged 20 to 50 years, received 10 g/d of ground freeze-dried mango pulp for 12 weeks. Anthropometrics, lipids, and inflammatory mediators were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks of mango supplementation. There were no differences between baseline and final visits in inflammatory mediators, lipids, diet, physical activity, and anthropometrics. Relationships were present at baseline and final visits between adiponectin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and between leptin and fat mass. Correlations were found after 12 weeks of mango supplementation between leptin and the following variables: waist-to-height ratio, BMI, percent fat, and fat mass. Our findings demonstrate that 12-week consumption of freeze-dried mango by obese individuals has no impact on obesity-related inflammation.
Me, My Stuttering, and Them! Effect of Self-Disclosure of Stuttering on Listener Perception
Authors: Bajaj Gagan , Anil Malavika Anakkathil , Varghese Aiswarya , Bhat Jayashree S , Sheth Pooja , Hoode Anjana
Published: September 2017

Purpose:

A common question encountered by speech-language pathologists while dealing with adults who stutter (AWS) is whether their disclosure of stuttering to listeners would change their perception. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of self-disclosure and speaker sex on adult listeners’ perceptions of simulated stuttering.

Method:

The study involved a group of 100 college students between the age range of 18 and 25 years, who judged the videotaped speech samples of 1 male and 1 female person, who simulated stuttering in disclosed and undisclosed state. The listener perception was evaluated through a questionnaire developed for the purpose.

Results:

The trends suggested that a female AWS possessed overall better listener perception as compared with male AWS in undisclosed condition and received better perception by listeners in more domains than male AWS in disclosed state.

Conclusions:

Listener perception seems to be a sex-specific phenomenon which gets affected by one’s disclosure about stuttering and the culture of the listeners.
Palliation of Malignant Biliary Obstruction: Adverse Events are Common after Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage
Authors: Heedman P. A. , Åstradsson E. , Blomquist K. , Sjödahl R.
Published: September 2017

Background and Aim:

Endoscopic stents in the common bile duct is the first treatment choice to alleviate symptoms of biliary obstruction due to malignant disease. When endoscopic stenting fails in palliative patients, one option is to use a percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage, but it is not clear whether and how it can reduce the symptom load. The aim of this study was to evaluate benefits and disadvantages of percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage in palliative care.

Material and Methods:

Inclusion criteria were malignant disease and bilirubin ≥26 µmol/L in plasma. A structured protocol for obtaining data from the medical records was used. Data were collected from the time of last computed tomography scan before the percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage was placed and during 14 days afterward.

Results and Conclusion:

Inclusion criteria were fulfilled in 140 patients. Median age was 70 years (33–91 years). Some 126 patients had a remaining external percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage. Jaundice was the initial symptom in 62 patients (44%). Within the first week after percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage, the bilirubin decreased from 237 µmol/L (31–634) to 180 µmol/L (17–545). Only 25% reached a level below the double upper reference value. Pruritus occurred in 27% before the percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage, but the bilirubin value did not differ from patients without pruritus. However, the pruritus was relieved in 56% with percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage. Antibiotic prophylaxis protected to some extent from infectious complications. Adverse events were common and early mortality was high (16% within 14 days). Jaundice should not by itself be an indication for percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage for palliation except when the aim is to prepare the patient for chemotherapy. It is mandatory that the patients are informed carefully about what can be expected regarding the positive effects and the risks of adverse events.
The influence of time on the decisions that students make about their academic reading
Authors: Sharma Amit , Van Hoof Hubert B , Ramsay Crystal
Published: September 2017

The study reported here investigated reading among students from the perspective of how students choose to use their time and whether they self-ration it. A survey of undergraduate students found that their self-reported allocation of time to academic activities other than reading was positively correlated to the reading that they did and that students’ reading was significantly correlated to their belief of being time constrained. Furthermore, the study found that students’ participation in nonacademic activities had a negative correlation to the reading they did for their courses. Finally, the study also found that students who allocated time for reading earlier than the day of class/lecture were more likely to complete these readings than those who allocated time closer to the day of class/lecture. This article argues that both students and faculty should have greater awareness of the choices students make in how they allocate their time and toward reading and other related activities.
Mental Training Enhances Cognitive Function and BDNF More Than Either Physical or Combined Training in Elderly Women With MCI: A Small-Scale Study
Authors: Damirchi Arsalan , Hosseini Fatemeh , Babaei Parvin
Published: September 2017

Introduction:

The effects of mental, physical, and combination of these two trainings were investigated on cognitive performance, serum level of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and irisin in women diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Material and Methods:

Forty-four participants were randomized into 4 groups: physical training (PH; 8 weeks’ aerobic training, n = 11), mental training (ME; special computer gaming, n = 11), combined (PH + ME; n = 13), and control group (CO; n = 9).

Results:

Analysis of variance with Tukey post hoc test revealed a significant increase in working memory ( P = .012) and BDNF ( P = 0.024) in the ME compared with the CO group. Also the ME group in comparison with the PH group demonstrated better working memory ( P = .014) and processing speed ( P = .024).

Conclusion:

Positive effect of mental training on the cognitive parameters, parallel with BDNF elevation, suggests that mental training is a more useful, safe, and persistent strategy to attenuate the progression of MCI probably via BDNF elevation, but the effect size is relatively small elevation.
The Filipinization of the American City Beautiful, 1916–1935
Authors: Morley Ian
Published: September 2017

The historiography of the Philippine City Beautiful recurrently centers on one date, 1905; two cities, Manila and Baguio; and one urban planner, Daniel Burnham. The colonial civil service's Filipinization of city planning after 1916 remains an unexplored facet of planning history. This article explores the planning practices of the Bureau of Public Works' Division of Architecture, which from 1919 was headed by Filipinos, and the relationship of these efforts to the City Beautiful, given the power mediation between the Americans and Filipinos in the run-up to the creation of the Philippine Commonwealth in 1935.
Preliminary Dual-Center Experience with the Bolton Treovance Endograft
Authors: Thind Arron , Sarma Dhruv , Allouni Abdel Kader , Abdallah Feras , Murray David , Thind Kiran , Darby Chris , Handa Ashok , Sideso Ed , Patel Rafiuddin , Bratby Mark , Uberoi Raman
Published: September 2017

Purpose:

To present the performance and safety of the Treovance stent graft for endovascular aortic aneurysm repair in a “real-world” patient cohort.

Methods:

Patients from 2 centers, deemed unfit for open repair, were electively treated with the Treovance endograft. Clinical preoperative, operative, and up to 1-year postoperative follow-up data of patients were retrospectively analyzed.

Results:

This study included 46 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (44 male), mean age of 78 years ± 8 standard deviation (SD; range: 58-93 years). All met the manufacturer’s recommended anatomical requirements: average maximum sac diameter 63 mm ± 10 SD (range: 52-86 mm), proximal neck length 29 mm ± 12 SD (range: 11-60 mm), and neck angulation 30° ± 21 SD (range: 0°-70°). Fourteen had moderate to severe iliac tortuosity. A primary technical success rate of 80% was achieved (100% assisted primary technical success rate): 7 patients required adjunctive procedures intraoperatively and 2 successful treatments for type I endoleaks, which occurred within 24 hours postoperatively. There was 100% survival at 1-year follow-up; however, 4 (8.7%) patients required reintervention: 1 for a type I endoleak, 2 for limb stenosis, and 1 for a type II endoleak with an enlarging sac. No other device-related complications were identified. Reintervention and complication rates in hostile versus nonhostile anatomies were not statistically significant ( P = .28 and P = .42, respectively).

Conclusion:

The Treovance stent graft has a comparable safety profile to other next-generation stent grafts during the first year after endovascular aneurysm repair, which provides a rationale for further interrogation of its outcomes through clinical trials.
Reducing hops without extra power: Impact of deployment height on low-power multihop wireless network
Authors: Jeong Hoon , Lee Changwon , Ryu Jaehong , Choi Byung-Chul , Ko JeongGil , Paek Jeongyeup
Published: September 2017

Many low-power wireless network system deployments are planned on a two-dimensional plane, while in reality, we live in a three-dimensional space. Therefore, although it is essential to well consider the impact of height on the overall wireless system performance, this aspect has often been overlooked if not neglected with simplifying assumptions. Our work takes an empirical effort in quantifying the impact of height on a low-power wireless system’s performance. Specifically, we use CC2420 radio–based wireless sensor network motes to quantify the impact of device deployment height on the connectivity and energy efficiency of low-power wireless networks. In addition, to validate the newly proposed sub-GHz low-power radios, we also experiment on the performance of CC1200 narrowband low-power radios to show that increasing a small amount of height in the node deployment phase can lead to drastic improvements in radio coverage and packet delivery performance. Such an observation can naturally lead to the reduction of network depth in a multihop wireless network for a given target deployment field; thus, it can potentially improve the energy efficiency of the overall system by suppressing the number of packet relay transmissions. We support our findings and observations through experiments on real embedded devices.
Is London open? Mediating and ordering cosmopolitanism in crisis
Authors: Georgiou Myria
Published: September 2017

This article analyses cosmopolitan imagination and ambivalent morality at times of urban crisis. It focuses on #LondonIsOpen – the city’s media campaign in response to the nation’s Brexit vote. In this case, cosmopolitanism’s discursive tools – especially the ideals of the Open city and hospitality – are mobilised to summon a range of actors in defence of the city. The article analyses the mediation of cosmopolitanism in a campaign film and in Londoners’ online and offline responses to it. These responses reveal #LondonIsOpen as a compelling example of cosmopolitan imagination, but also of cosmopolitanism’s moral fragility in the neoliberal city. As shown, urban dwellers overwhelmingly embrace the cosmopolitan value of openness. Yet, their visions are divided between neoliberal cosmopolitanism and vernacular cosmopolitanism. By analysing the moral space of mediated cosmopolitanism, I argue that, unlike the nation, representational struggles in the city increasingly take place within, rather than against, cosmopolitanism.
Communication rights from the margins: politicising young refugees’ smartphone pocket archives
Authors: Leurs Koen
Published: September 2017

Politicising the smartphone pocket archives and experiences of 16 young refugees living in the Netherlands, this explorative study re-conceptualises and empirically grounds communication rights. The focus is on the usage of social media among young refugees, who operate from the margins of society, human rights discourse and technology. I focus on digital performativity as a means to address unjust communicative power relations and human right violations. Methodologically, I draw on empirical data gathered through a mixed-methods, participatory action fieldwork research approach. The empirical section details how digital practices may invoke human right ideals including the human right to self-determination, the right to self-expression, the right to information, the right to family life and the right to cultural identity. The digital performativity of communication rights becomes meaningful when fundamentally situated within hierarchical and intersectional power relations of gender, race, nationality among others, and as inherently related to material conditions and other basic human rights including access to shelter, food, well-being and education.
‘Live’ anniversary event TV as public service ephemera
Authors: Hills Matt
Published: September 2017

Considering a range of recent BBC TV programme anniversaries, this article analyses how the BBC has utilised different modes or zones of ‘liveness’ to promote the value of public service television via ‘event’ TV. Such anniversary events strategically collapse together the ‘hyper-ephemeral’ (having to be there) with the ‘anti-ephemeral’ (commemorating TV history), as longer term audience memories of public service television’s trustworthiness and durability are evoked. Contra scholarly debates which have positioned media anniversaries simply as a matter of (hyper-)commodification, I address Doctor Who’s 50th, Casualty’s 30th, Match of the Day’s 50th and EastEnders’ 30th anniversary as each shaping a sense of remembered ‘public service ephemera’. Through this process, audiences’ recollections of past programmes, and their integration with memories of everyday life, are articulated with emotional attachments to the BBC, thus making an affective case for the British Broadcasting Corporation’s cultural legitimation. Very different types of TV that we might not usually think to analyse side-by-side – flagship, returning, and soap dramas, along with sports coverage – can all work coherently as programme brands to defend the BBC’s cultural standing, without surrendering to what’s been termed ‘BBC nostalgia’, and while simultaneously bidding to colonise second-screen ‘digital flows’ circulating around TV premieres.
Peter Gunnand social fissure on US network television
Authors: Young Andrew Phillip
Published: September 2017

Producer Blake Edwards’ Peter Gunn (1958–1961) appeared on US network television at a time when Beat poetry and bebop jazz were just making their mark on American culture. While Peter Gunn didn’t represent a drastic shift in the reactionary values of US television, the series reconfigured radicalism and counterculture in ways that are reflective of deeper cultural contradictions. In order to explore these issues, this article seeks to explore the industrial and production history of Peter Gunn in relation to its use of bebop jazz, Beat poetry and its representation of law and order.
Cross-National Differences in the Consumption of Non-National Culture in Europe
Authors: Katz-Gerro Tally
Published: September 2017

This article analyses Europeans’ consumption of and participation in non-national cultural activities. These patterns serve as a measure of Europeans’ affinity with cosmopolitan culture and aesthetic tastes that are associated with other countries. I use survey data recently collected by the Eurobarometer (2013) to analyse the profile of individuals in European countries who engage with another country’s culture and to compare distributions between countries. Examples of indicators include reading books by an author from another country, going to a musical performance from another country, and attending a festival or exhibition from another country. I find low levels of cosmopolitan cultural consumption in the sample as a whole. There are significant differences between countries and among individuals in a specific country in the degree of engagement with another country’s culture. I discuss the implications of the finding that cosmopolitan cultural consumption is not necessarily a very significant phenomenon for different social groups and what this means for the analysis of the link between cultural consumption and social inequality.
Day-to-Day and Within-Day Variability in Glucose-Lowering Effect Between Insulin Degludec and Insulin Glargine (100 U/mL and 300 U/mL): A Comparison Across Studies
Authors: Heise Tim , Kaplan Kadriye , Haahr Hanne L.
Published: September 2017

Background:

Insulin degludec (IDeg) has significantly lower day-to-day and within-day variability compared to insulin glargine (IGlar) 100U/mL (U100) and 300U/mL (U300). Here, we report post hoc assessments to confirm the robustness of these observations while accounting for potential experimental confounders.

Methods:

Two euglycemic clamp studies in type 1 diabetes patients, comparing IDeg to IGlar-U100 (Study A, parallel design, 54 patients; Study B, crossover, 22 patients) and one study comparing IDeg to IGlar-U300 (Study C, crossover, 57 patients), all dosed at 0.4U/kg, were evaluated. Pharmacodynamic parameters were assessed at steady state from glucose infusion rate (GIR) profiles following three 24-hour euglycemic clamps in Studies A (162 clamps) and C (342 clamps), and one 42-hour clamp in Study B (44 clamps).

Results:

Pooled data (Studies A and B) showed that IDeg had an even distribution of glucose-lowering effect over the 24-hour dosing interval that was consistent with Study C. IGlar-U100 showed a constant decrease in glucose-lowering effect over 24 hours while IGlar-U300 had a lower effect in the middle of the dosing interval (6-18 hours). Relative within-day variability of IDeg was 40% and 37% lower than IGlar-U100 and -U300, respectively. Exclusion of profiles with low response in Study C (19/342 clamps) did not impact the difference in the distribution of glucose-lowering effect or within-day variability. Day-to-day variability was significantly lower with IDeg compared to IGlar-U100 and -U300 based on smoothed and unsmoothed GIR data.

Conclusions:

Significantly lower relative within-day and day-to-day variability was confirmed irrespective of experimental considerations for IDeg compared to IGlar-U100 and IGlar-U300.
Change in Soil Microbial Community Compositions and Diversity Following the Conversion of Tropical Forest to Rubber Plantations in Xishuangbanan, Southwest China
Authors: Lan Guoyu , Li Yuwu , Jatoi Muhammad Tahir , Tan Zhenghong , Wu Zhixiang , Xie Guishui
Published: September 2017

The ecological consequences of converting tropical forests to rubber plantations on the soil microbial compositions and diversity remain unknown. By using an Illumina MiSeq sequencing analysis, we assessed the compositions and diversity of bacterial and fungal community in soils of rubber plantation (or rubber forest, RF), secondary tropical forest (STF), and tropical seasonal rainforest (TSR) in Xishuangbanna, southwest China. Our findings revealed that (a) for bacterial composition, Bacillaceae was the most dominant family (13.60%) in RF soil, while it only accounted for 4.13% in STF and 6.92% in TSR. For fungal composition, the largest family in soils of RF was Basidiomycota_unclassified. However, the largest family in STF and TSR was Russulaceae. (b) Number of operational taxonomic units, Chao index, and Shannon index of bacterial community in soil of RF were significantly higher than those of TSR and STF. However, these diversity indices of fungal community in RF were significantly lower than those of TSR and STF. (c) Soil pH and total phosphorus were very important drivers for bacterial community, whereas soil organic matter and total nitrogen were the most important factors for fungal community. (d) The microbial biomass carbon in RF was relative lower than those in STF and TSR, which suggested that the total microbial biomass decreased after forest conversion. To protect the total diversity of this region, the individual farmers should use herbicides as little as possible to reserve ground vegetation. And the government could outline a land-use policy that prohibits the cultivation in areas of natural vegetation.
A fundamental investigation of reinforced concrete beams subjected to close-in explosion
Authors: Nagata Makoto , Beppu Masuhiro , Ichino Hiroyoshi , Matsuzawa Ryo
Published: September 2017

This study investigates a reinforced concrete beam subjected to a close-in explosion. In a series of tests, the scaled distance was varied from 0.045 m/kg1/3 (contact) to 0.30 m/kg1/3. The measurement parameters were failure state, pressure distribution, residual displacement at the center of the beam, and reaction force. The experimental results showed that the pressure waveform closer to the center of the reinforced concrete beam had considerable peak pressure and a sharp rise-time. Moreover, the loading duration at the ends of the beam was increased as compared to that at the center. The intensity of the local failure region and the residual displacement at the center of the beam increased with decrease in the scaled distance. Referring to previous studies on failure prediction of a reinforced concrete slab and beams subjected to close-in explosion, their prediction methods for local failure were compared to test results. Numerical simulations were performed to investigate failure characteristics of the reinforced concrete beam. The numerical results demonstrated that the peak pressure and impulse in the central part were considerably high as the scaled distance decreased. The numerical simulations effectively reproduced failure characteristics of the reinforced concrete beam.
“Back to Square One”: The Experience of Straddling Adolescence and Early Adulthood in Unemployed UK University Graduates With Common Mental Health Issues
Authors: Cockshott Christopher J. , Kiemle Gundi , Byrne Paula , Gabbay Mark B.
Published: September 2017

We investigated the experiences of unemployed university graduates with common mental health issues. After conducting semistructured interviews with 12 unemployed bachelor’s degree graduates with common mental health issues, we used interpretative phenomenological analysis to generate three superordinate themes: “fall from grace,” “vulnerability,” and “life on hold.” Our focus in this article is life on hold and its constituent themes: “stagnation,” “moving backward,” and “feeling left behind.” Graduates struggled to complete the broader structural life transition from university student to the adult world of work, experiencing a nebulous state of straddling adolescence and early adulthood. This undermined their sense of adult maturity, leaving them vulnerable to becoming entrenched in their mental health-related difficulties. We discuss these findings in relation to the developmental perspectives of life-course theory, status passages, and separation–individuation in early adulthood, which raise important issues for the applicability of life-course frameworks for these graduates, who are a disadvantaged minority group.
Negative Event Recall as a Vulnerability for Depression: Relationship Between Momentary Stress-Reactive Rumination and Memory for Daily Life Stress
Authors: Connolly Samantha L. , Alloy Lauren B.
Published: September 2017

The current research utilized ecological momentary assessment (EMA) methodology to test the hypotheses that (a) engaging in greater rumination following stress (stress-reactive rumination, SRR) would lead to improved stressor recall and (b) this improved memory for stress would predict increases in depressive symptoms. One hundred and twenty-one participants received smartphone alerts in which they reported on their experience of negative life events (NLEs) as well as SRR and depressed mood after event occurrence. NLEs followed by increased SRR were more likely to be recalled 2 weeks later. Furthermore, individuals who endorsed and recalled more stressors displayed increased depressive symptoms. Contrary to hypotheses, no evidence was found for a mediational effect in which SRR predicted depressive symptoms and was mediated by memory for NLEs. Current findings demonstrate a relationship between rumination following stress and the subsequent recall of those stressors and support the role of negative event recall as a vulnerability factor for depression.
Chronic musculoskeletal pain in Japan (the final report of the 3-year longitudinal study): Association with a future decline in activities of daily living
Authors: Sugai Keiko , Tsuji Osahiko , Matsumoto Morio , Nishiwaki Yuji , Nakamura Masaya
Published: September 2017

Background:

Previous epidemiological surveys conducted in Japan highlighted problems with conventional approaches to treating chronic musculoskeletal pain. On the basis of prior studies, we initiated the “longitudinal investigation of chronic musculoskeletal pain” in 2010. In our first two reports, we revealed a high prevalence of chronic musculoskeletal pain, low satisfaction with treatment, and reduced quality of life. Those with severe and consistent low back pain had the highest risk of the persisting pain. The risk factors for developing chronic pain also included working in a professional, managerial, or clerical/specialist occupation, being female, having a body mass index ≥25, currently using alcohol or cigarettes, and having completed an educational level of vocational school or higher. As the final step of the epidemiological survey, the present study examined the effect of chronic musculoskeletal pain on a future decline in activities of daily living (ADL).

Methods:

A questionnaire was sent to individuals who participated in the research project in 2010. Follow-up research examining loss of basic or instrumental ADL, or certification of long-term care requirements, was conducted in 2013 ( n = 4989 subjects).

Results:

The 3-year follow-up data revealed that chronic musculoskeletal pain was associated with a decline in ADL, even after adjusting for covariables such as age, sex, and smoking (adjusted odds ratio, 1.56; 95% confidential interval, 1.16–2.10).

Conclusions:

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is associated with future declines in ADL; therefore, relief of the chronic musculoskeletal pain may be important to maintain an active elderly population.
Randomized controlled trial comparing efficacy of conventional and new single larger dose of intra-articular viscosupplementation in management of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Suppan Vijaya Kumar L , Wei Chew Yu , Siong Tan Chin , Mei Tew Mei , Chern Wong Bor , Nanta Kumar Vijay Kumar , Sheng Kee Rong , Sadashiva Rao Ashutosh
Published: September 2017

Background:

Intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) injection is used in management of knee, hand and hip osteoarthritis. While HA injection is included in the list of evaluated therapies, its efficacy and optimum dosing still have no consensus. This study was conducted to explore the possibility of using single injection HA to increase patient convenience while maintaining the therapeutic efficacy.

Methods:

We present a prospective, open label, non-blinded, randomized controlled trial performed in accordance with guidelines in principles of good clinical practice. Block randomization was done for patients to receive either single 5 ml GO-ON injection or the conventional three injections of 2.5 ml GO-ON at weekly interval. Baseline Western Ontario McMaster University Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) scores were evaluated and recorded. All subjects were re-evaluated at 3 months and the WOMAC score recorded again as primary end points. Data analyses were performed with IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows software (version 21.0, IBM Corp, Armonk, New York, USA).

Results:

In the cohort of 127 patients, 33 were males and 94 females. The mean age was 59.1 years (standard deviation (SD) = 7.25) in single injection arm and 60.1 years (SD = 7.72) in triple injection arm. The two groups were recorded to have no significant difference in age ( p = 0.46) and Kellgren–Lawrence radiological grade ( p = 0.694). There was significant increase in the WOMAC scores from the baseline (pre-injection) to that recorded 3 months after injection ( p < 0.001) in patients of both groups. However, there was no statistically significant difference noticed in this clinical improvement between the two arms ( p = 0.889).

Conclusion:

The study shows single 5 ml dose regime comparing well with conventional three doses of 2.5 ml of intra-articular GO-ON HA injected at weekly intervals and confirms good efficacy, tolerability and safety of single larger dose of GO-ON knee intra-articular injection.
Molecular Ultrasound Imaging of the Spinal Cord for the Detection of Acute Inflammation
Authors: Volz Kevin R. , Evans Kevin D. , Kanner Christopher D. , Buford John A. , Freimer Miriam , Sommerich Carolyn M.
Published: September 2017

Molecular ultrasound imaging provides the ability to detect physiologic processes non-invasively by targeting a wide variety of biological markers in vivo. The current study investigates the novel application of molecular ultrasound imaging for the detection of neural inflammation. Using a murine model with acutely injured spinal cords (n=31), subjects were divided into four groups, each being administered ultrasound contrast microbubbles bearing antibodies against various known inflammatory molecules (P-selectin, vascular cell adhesion protein 1 [VCAM-1], intercellular adhesion molecule 1 [ICAM-1], and isotype control) during molecular ultrasound imaging. Upon administration of the targeted contrast agent, ultrasound imaging of the injured spinal cord was performed at 40MHz for seven minutes, followed by a bursting pulse. We observed significantly enhanced signals from contrast targeted to P-selectin and VCAM-1, using a variety of outcome measures. These findings provide preclinical evidence that molecular ultrasound imaging could be a useful tool in the detection of neural inflammation.
Emerging role of BCR signaling inhibitors in immunomodulation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Maharaj Kamira , Sahakian Eva , Pinilla-Ibarz Javier
Published: September 2017

Approved therapies that target the B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling pathway, such as ibrutinib and idelalisib, are known to show activity in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) via their direct effects on crucial survival pathways in malignant B cells. However, these therapies also have effects on T cells in CLL by mediating toxicity and possibly controlling disease. By focusing on the effects of BCR signaling inhibitors on the T-cell compartment, we may gain new insights into the comprehensive biological outcomes of systemic treatment to further understand mechanisms of drug efficacy, predict the toxicity or adverse events, and identify novel combinatorial therapies. Here, we review T-cell abnormalities in preclinical models and patient samples, finding that CLL T cells orchestrate immune dysfunction and immune-related complications. We then continue to address the effects of clinically available small molecule BCR signaling inhibitors on the immune cells, especially T cells, in the context of concomitant immune-mediated adverse events and implications for future treatment strategies. Our review suggests potentially novel mechanisms of action related to BCR inhibitors, providing a rationale to extend their use to other cancers and autoimmune disorders.
Deregulated PDGFRα signaling alters coronal suture morphogenesis and leads to craniosynostosis through endochondral ossification
Authors: He Fenglei , Soriano Philippe
Published: September 2017

Craniosynostosis is a prevalent human birth defect characterized by premature fusion of calvarial bones. In this study, we show that tight regulation of endogenous PDGFRα activity is required for normal calvarium development in the mouse and that deregulated PDGFRα activity causes craniosynostosis. Constitutive activation of PDGFRα leads to expansion of cartilage underlying the coronal sutures, which contribute to suture closure through endochondral ossification, in a process regulated in part by PI3K/Akt signaling. Our results thus identify a novel mechanism underlying calvarial development in craniosynostosis.
Nuclear movement regulated by non-Smad Nodal signaling via JNK is associated with Smad signaling during zebrafish endoderm specification
Authors: Hozumi Shunya , Aoki Shun , Kikuchi Yutaka
Published: September 2017

Although asymmetric nuclear positioning is observed during animal development, the regulation and significance of this nuclear positioning in cell differentiation remains poorly understood. Using zebrafish blastulae, we provide evidence that nuclear movement toward the yolk syncytial layer, which comprises extraembryonic tissue, occurs in the first endoderm specified cells during endoderm specification. Nodal signaling is essential for nuclear movement, whereas nuclear envelope proteins are involved in the movement through the microtubule formation. The positioning of the microtubule organizing center, which is proposed to be critical for nuclear movement, is regulated by Nodal signaling and nuclear envelope proteins. The non-Smad JNK signaling pathway, which is downstream of Nodal signaling, regulates nuclear movement independent of the Smad pathway, and this nuclear movement is associated with Smad signal transduction toward the nucleus. Our study provides insights into the function of nuclear movement in Smad signaling toward the nucleus, and could be applied to the control of Transforming Growth Factor-β signaling.
Rho differentially regulates the Hippo pathway by modulating the interaction between Amot and Nf2 in the blastocyst
Authors: Shi Xianle , Yin Zixi , Ling Bin , Wang Lingling , Liu Chang , Ruan Xianhui , Zhang Weiyu , Chen Lingyi
Published: September 2017

The Hippo pathway modulates the transcriptional activity of Yap to regulate the differentiation of the inner cell mass (ICM) and the trophectoderm (TE) in blastocysts. Yet, how Hippo signaling is differentially regulated in ICM and TE cells is poorly understood. Through an inhibitor/activator screen, we identified Rho as a negative regulator of Hippo in TE cells, and PKA as a positive regulator of Hippo in ICM cells. We further elucidated a novel mechanism for Rho to suppress Hippo, distinct to the prevailing view that Rho inhibits Hippo signaling through modulating cytoskeleton remodeling and/or cell polarity. Active Rho prevents the phosphorylation of Amot Ser176, thus stabilizing the interaction between Amot and F-actin, and restricting the binding between Amot and Nf2. Moreover, Rho attenuates the interaction between Amot and Nf2 by binding to the coiled-coil domain of Amot. Through blocking the association of Nf2 and Amot, Rho suppresses Hippo in TE cells.
A circuit for detection of interaural time differences in the nucleus laminaris of turtles
Authors: Willis Katie L. , Carr Catherine E.
Published: September 2017

The physiological hearing range of turtles is about 50-1,000 Hz, as determined by cochlear microphonics (Wever and Vernon, 1956a). These low frequencies can constrain sound localization, particularly in Red-eared Slider Turtles, which are freshwater turtles with small heads and isolated middle ears. To determine if these turtles were sensitive to interaural time differences (ITDs), we investigated the connections and physiology of their auditory brainstem nuclei. Tract tracing experiments showed that the VIII nerve bifurcated to terminate in the first order nucleus magnocellularis and nucleus angularis, and the nucleus magnocellularis projected bilaterally to nucleus laminaris. Since the nucleus laminaris received inputs from each side, we developed an isolated head preparation to examine responses to binaural auditory stimulation. Magnocellularis and laminaris units responded to frequencies from 100-600 Hz, and phase locked reliably to the auditory stimulus. Responses from the nucleus laminaris were binaural, and sensitive to ITD. Measures of characteristic delay revealed best ITDs around ± 200µs, and nucleus laminaris neurons typically had characteristic phases close to 0, consistent with binaural excitation. Thus, turtles encode ITDs within their physiological range, and their auditory brainstem nuclei have similar connections and cell types to other reptiles.
A Novel Strategy to Functionalize Covalent Organic Frameworks for High-Energy Rechargeable Lithium Organic Batteries via Graft Polymerization in Nano-Channels
Authors: Wu Yang , Zhang Zhongyue , Bandow Shunji , Awaga Kunio
Published: September 2017

By introducing catalyst- and solvent-free graft polymerization of low cost and environmentally benign sulfur to the nano-channels of an imine-linked covalent organic framework (COF), we demonstrated our strategy for functionalization of a conventional COF to yield a redox-active covalent organic framework-graft-polysulfide (COF-graft-PS), which can be utilized as a cathode active material in rechargeable lithium organic batteries. The COF-graft-PS-based batteries showed high capacity (425 mA h g−1 at a rate of 250 mA g−1), excellent rate capability, and good cycling performance over 500 cycles. The design characteristics and synthetic strategy open new possibilities for the preparation of alternative, sustainable, high-performance rechargeable lithium batteries by using abundant and cost-effective materials.
Universal Investment in Infants and Long-Run Health: Evidence from Denmark’s 1937 Home Visiting Program
Authors: Hjort Jonas , Sølvsten Mikkel , Wüst Miriam
Published: September 2017

This paper examines the long-run health effects of a universal infant health intervention, the 1937 Danish home visiting program, which targeted all infants. Using administrative population data and exploiting variation in the timing of implementation across municipalities, we find that treated individuals enjoy higher age-specific survival rates during middle age (45–64), experience fewer hospital nights, and are less likely to be diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. These results suggest that an improved nutrition and disease environment in infancy “programmed” individuals for lower predisposition to serious adult diseases. (JEL H51, I12, I18, J13, N34)
In a Small Moment: Class Size and Moral Hazard in the Italian Mezzogiorno
Authors: Angrist Joshua D. , Battistin Erich , Vuri Daniela
Published: September 2017

Instrumental variables (IV ) estimates show strong class-size effects in Southern Italy. But Italy's Mezzogiorno is distinguished by manipulation of standardized test scores as well as by economic disadvantage. IV estimates suggest small classes increase manipulation. We argue that score manipulation is a consequence of teacher shirking. IV estimates of a causal model for achievement as a function of class size and score manipulation show that class-size effects on measured achievement are driven entirely by the relationship between class size and manipulation. These results illustrate how consequential score manipulation can arise even in assessment systems with few accountability concerns. (JEL D82, H75, I21, I26, I28, J24, R23)