bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser‐assisted fixation of a nitinol stapes prosthesis
Authors: Schrötzlmair Florian , Suchan Fabian , Pongratz Thomas , Krause Eike , Müller Joachim , Sroka Ronald
Published: November 2017

Background and Objective

Otosclerosis is an inner ear bone disease characterized by fixation of the stapes and consequently progressive hearing loss. One treatment option is the surgical replacement of the stapes by a prosthesis. When so called “smart materials” like nitinol are used, prosthesis fixation can be performed using a laser without manual crimping on the incus. However, specific laser‐prosthesis interactions have not been described yet. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the thermo‐mechanical properties of the NiTiBOND® prosthesis as a basis for handling instructions for laser‐assisted prosthesis fixation.

Study Design and Materials and Methods

Closure of the NiTiBOND® prosthesis was induced ex vivo by either a diode laser emitting at λ = 940 nm or a CO2 laser (λ = 10,600 nm). Total energy for closure was determined. Suitable laser parameters (pulse duration, power per pulse, distance between tip of the laser fiber and prosthesis) were assessed. Specific laser‐prosthesis interactions were recorded.

Results

Especially the diode laser was found to be an appropriate energy source. A total energy deposit of 60 mJ by pulses in near contact application was found to be sufficient for prosthesis closure ex vivo. Energy should be transmitted through a laser fiber equipollent to the prosthesis band diameter. Specific deformation characteristics due to the zonal prosthesis composition have to be taken into account.

Conclusion

NiTiBOND® stapes prosthesis can be closed by very little energy when appropriate energy sources like diode lasers are used, suggesting a relatively safe application in vivo. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:153–157, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Low‐level red LED light inhibits hyperkeratinization and inflammation induced by unsaturated fatty acid in an in vitro model mimicking acne
Authors: Li Wen‐Hwa , Fassih Ali , Binner Curt , Parsa Ramine , Southall Michael D.
Published: November 2017

Background and Objective

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous units (PSU), associated with increased sebum production, abnormal follicular keratinization (hyperkeratinization), follicular overgrowth of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), and increased inflammatory mediator release. Light therapy has attracted medical interests as a safe alternative treatment for acne. Both blue and red light therapies at high doses >10 J/cm2 have demonstrated marked effects on inflammatory acne lesions. However, few studies have investigated the effects of lower doses of light. The aim of this study is to investigate the biological effects of lower doses of red light at 0.2–1.2 J/cm2 for acne using an in vitro model previously developed to mimic the inflammation and hyperkeratinization observed clinically in acne.

Materials and Methods

Human epidermal equivalents were topically exposed to an unsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid (OA), followed by red light‐emitting diode (LED) light treatments (light‐plus‐OA treatments). Endpoints evaluated included the proinflammatory cytokine IL‐1α, epidermal barrier integrity, as measured by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and stratum corneum (SC) thickness to monitor hyperkeratinization.

Results

OA‐induced IL‐1α release was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced following red LED light at 0.2, 0.5, and 1.2 J/cm2, from 266 ± 11 pg/ml of no‐light‐plus‐OA‐treated (OA treatment without light) controls to 216 ± 9, 231 ± 8, and 212 ± 7 pg/ml, respectively. Histological examination showed that SC thickening following OA treatment was reduced from 43% of total epidermis for no‐light‐plus‐OA treatment to 37% and 38% of total epidermis following 0.5 and 1.1 J/cm2 red light plus OA treatment, respectively (P < 0.05). Moreover, 1.1 J/cm2 red‐light‐plus‐OA treatment improved OA‐induced TEER changes from 29% of baseline for no‐light‐plus‐OA treatment, to 36% of baseline.

Conclusion

Low level red LED light therapy could provide beneficial effects of anti‐inflammation, normalizing pilosebaceous hyperkeratinization, and improving barrier impairment in Acne vulgaris. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:158–165, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Coating Material with Self‐Healing Properties
Authors: Wang Ya‐Min , Pan Min , Liang Xiang‐Yong , Li Bang‐Jing , Zhang Sheng
Published: November 2017

Electromagnetic wave absorption coatings can effectively minimize electromagnetic radiation and are widely used in the military and civil field. However, even small scratches on the coating can lead to a large decline of absorption ability and bring serious consequences. To enhance the lifetime of electromagnetic wave absorbing coating, a kind of self‐healing electromagnetic wave absorbing coating is developed by introducing host–guest interactions between the absorbing fillers and polymer matrix. After being damaged, the cracks on this coating can be healed completely with the aid of small amounts of water. Simultaneously, the electromagnetic absorbing ability of the coating is restored along with the self‐healing process.
Quantitative evaluation of contrast agent uptake in standard fat‐suppressed dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI examinations of the breast
Authors: Kousi Evanthia , Smith Joely , Ledger Araminta E. , Scurr Erica , Allen Steven , Wilson Robin M. , O'Flynn Elizabeth , Pope Romney J.E. , Leach Martin O. , Schmidt Maria A.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

To propose a method to quantify T1 and contrast agent uptake in breast dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) examinations undertaken with standard clinical fat‐suppressed MRI sequences and to demonstrate the proposed approach by comparing the enhancement characteristics of lobular and ductal carcinomas.

Methods

A standard fat‐suppressed DCE of the breast was performed at 1.5 T (Siemens Aera), followed by the acquisition of a proton density (PD)‐weighted sequence, also fat suppressed. Both sequences were characterized with test objects (T1 ranging from 30 ms to 2,400 ms) and calibration curves were obtained to enable T1 calculation. The reproducibility and accuracy of the calibration curves were also investigated. Healthy volunteers and patients were scanned with Ethics Committee approval. The effect of B0 field inhomogeneity was assessed in test objects and healthy volunteers. The T1 of breast tumors was calculated at different time points (pre‐, peak‐, and post‐contrast agent administration) for 20 patients, pre‐treatment (10 lobular and 10 ductal carcinomas) and the two cancer types were compared (Wilcoxon rank‐sum test).

Results

The calibration curves proved to be highly reproducible (coefficient of variation under 10%). T1 measurements were affected by B0 field inhomogeneity, but frequency shifts below 50 Hz introduced only 3% change to fat‐suppressed T1 measurements of breast parenchyma in volunteers. The values of T1 measured pre‐, peak‐, and post‐contrast agent administration demonstrated that the dynamic range of the DCE sequence was correct, that is, image intensity is approximately directly proportional to 1/T1 for that range. Significant differences were identified in the width of the distributions of the post‐contrast T1 values between lobular and ductal carcinomas (P < 0.05); lobular carcinomas demonstrated a wider range of post‐contrast T1 values, potentially related to their infiltrative growth pattern.

Conclusions

This work has demonstrated the feasibility of fat‐suppressed T1 measurements as a tool for clinical studies. The proposed quantitative approach is practical, enabled the detection of differences between lobular and invasive ductal carcinomas, and further enables the optimization of DCE protocols by tailoring the dynamic range of the sequence to the values of T1 measured.
Evaluation of pharmacokinetic models for perfusion imaging with dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in porcine skeletal muscle using low‐molecular‐weight contrast agents
Authors: Hindel Stefan , Papanastasiou Giorgos , Wust Peter , Maaß Marc , Söhner Anika , Lüdemann Lutz
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Pharmacokinetic models for perfusion quantification with a low‐molecular‐weight contrast agent (LMCA) in skeletal muscle using dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) were evaluated.

Methods

Tissue perfusion was measured in seven regions of interest (ROIs) placed in the total hind leg supplied by the femoral artery in seven female pigs. DCE‐MRI was performed using a 3D gradient echo sequence with k‐space sharing. The sequence was acquired twice, first after LMCA and then after blood pool contrast agent injection. Blood flow was augmented by continuous infusion of the vasodilator adenosine into the femoral artery, resulting in up to four times increased blood flow. The results obtained with several LMCA models were compared with those of a two‐compartment blood pool model (2CBPM) consisting of a capillary and an arteriolar compartment. Measurements performed with a Doppler flow probe placed at the femoral artery served as ground truth.

Results

The two‐compartment exchange model extended by an arteriolar compartment (E2CXM) showed the highest fit quality of all LMCA models and the most significant correlation with the Doppler measurements, r = 0.78 (P < 0.001). The best correspondence between the capillary perfusion measurements of the LMCA models and those of the 2CBPM was found with the E2CXM (slope of the regression line equal to 1, r = 0.85, P < 0.001). The results for the clinical patient data corresponded very well with the results obtained in the animal experiments.

Conclusions

Double‐contrast agent DCE‐MRI in combination with the E2CXM yields the most reliable results and can be used in clinical routine. Magn Reson Med 79:3154–3162, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Factors influencing long‐term adherence to pelvic floor exercises in women with urinary incontinence
Authors: Venegas Mónica , Carrasco Bernardita , Casas‐Cordero Romina
Published: November 2017

Background and Objectives

To ensure the effectiveness of Physical Therapy for urinary incontinence (UI), it is crucial that patients adhere to treatment in both the long and the short term. Treatment adherence may prevent symptom progression and the need for surgery, which is associated with higher costs and potential complications. Adherence is defined as carrying out a recommended behavioral modification or change. The World Health Organization (WHO) has established that adherence is a multifactorial phenomenon determined by the interaction of five dimensions, which include diverse factors that affect long‐term adherence on many levels.

Aim

To identify the factors that influence long‐term adherence to pelvic floor exercises in women with UI.

Methods

Observational, descriptive, cross‐sectional study. The sample was recruited from the “Centro Integral de Reeducación de Piso Pélvico” (CIREP), and included 61 women treated for UI at the center in 2014 and 2015. Participants completed a self‐administered, 28‐item questionnaire developed for this study based on the WHO five dimensions. Data analysis was performed using STATA 13.0 software.

Results

Having performed pelvic floor home exercises after discharge from Physical Therapy was significantly associated with self‐rated treatment adherence (P < 0.001). Patient‐related factors were significantly associated with long‐term adherence to the pelvic floor exercise program (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patient‐related factors, exerted the strongest influence on long‐term adherence to pelvic floor exercises in women with UI; forgetting to do the exercises and boredom with the exercises were the factors most strongly related to low treatment adherence, while motivation and commitment were associated with high adherence in this population.
Increased odds of bladder and bowel symptoms in early Parkinson's disease
Authors: Serra Monica C. , Landry Alexus , Juncos Jorge L. , Markland Alayne D. , Burgio Kathryn L. , Goode Patricia S. , Johnson Theodore M. , Vaughan Camille P.
Published: November 2017

Aims

To compare the prevalence of urinary and bowel symptoms in a sample of adults with early Parkinson's disease (PD) and healthy controls (HC).

Methods

Data were obtained from the Michael J. Fox Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI). Prevalent bladder (urinary incontinence (UI) and nighttime voiding) and bowel (constipation and fecal incontinence (FI)) symptoms were defined as occurring at least sometimes when queried using the Scale for Outcomes in PD for Autonomic Symptoms.

Results

The proportion of men (65% vs 64%) and the mean age (61.0 ± 9.7 vs 60.2 ± 11.2 years) was similar between early PD (n = 423) and HC (n = 195). UI and constipation were more prevalent among early PD versus HC (UI: 26.7% vs 8.2%, constipation: 32.4% vs 11.8%; P's < 0.0001). Prevalent nighttime voiding was high among both groups, but not significantly different (82.5% vs 84.1%, P = 0.62). FI was infrequent in both. The odds of UI and constipation were significantly higher in early PD even after adjustment for age, sex, cognition, and overactive bladder (UI model only), constipation (UI and constipation models only), depression, and anxiety medication usage (UI: OR: 4.39 [95% CI: 2.92, 5.87]; constipation: 3.34 [2.20, 4.42]; P's < 0.0001).

Conclusions

While constipation is known to precede PD diagnosis, these data suggest that the occurrence of UI is elevated in early PD compared to a well‐matched HC population.
Is your church “liked” on Facebook? Social media use of Christian congregations in the United States
Authors: Lee Young‐Joo
Published: November 2017

Despite the increasing interests in social media platforms among religious congregations, little is known about the patterns of these organizations' social media use. This study examines religious congregations' adoption of Facebook, using the data from the 2012 National Congregations Study. The results show that Christian congregations' involvement in nonreligious activities, both social service and political activities, predicts their Facebook adoption. Congregations' membership size and staff resources are also positively associated with their Facebook use. Other organizational characteristics, including religious tradition, clergyperson's age, and urban location, also explain congregations' Facebook use. Overall, the findings suggest that Christian congregations' adoption of social media platforms is closely related with their community outreach and social marketing activities as well as their resources. This study concludes with suggestions for narrowing the gap in social media use between resource‐rich and resource‐restricted congregations, as well as between urban and rural congregations.
Noninvasive fetal RHD genotyping of RhD negative pregnant women for targeted anti‐D therapy in Australia: A cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Gordon Louisa G. , Hyland Catherine A. , Hyett Jonathan A. , O'Brien Helen , Millard Glenda , Flower Robert L. , Gardener Glenn J.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To undertake a cost‐effectiveness analysis of noninvasive fetal RHD genotyping to target pregnant women for antenatal anti‐D prophylaxis therapy.

Method

A decision‐analytic model was constructed to compare RHD testing and targeted anti‐D prophylaxis, with current universal anti‐D prophylaxis among pregnant women with RhD negative blood type. Model estimates were derived from national perinatal statistics, published literature, donor program records, and national cost sources. One‐way sensitivity analyses addressed the uncertainty of variables on the main findings.

Results

The unit cost for RHD genotyping was estimated at AU$45.48 (US$31.84). The “mean cost per healthy baby” was AU$7495 (US$5247) for universal prophylaxis and AU$7471 (US$5230) for targeted prophylaxis. The findings were sensitive to the unit costs of anti‐D 625 IU (AU$59‐AU$88) (US$41‐US$62), the genetic test (AU$36‐AU$55) (US$25‐US$39), and packaging/transport costs of the samples for testing (AU$15‐AU$40, US$11‐US$28 per sample). With RHD genotyping, 13 938 women would avoid antenatal anti‐D prophylaxis at a total cost savings to the National Blood Authority of AU$2.1 million (US$1.5 million) per year. To the health system, net cost savings of AU$159 701 (US$111 791) per year (0.05%) were predicted for total health care costs.

Conclusions

Given the vulnerable supply of donor plasma and other health concerns, RHD genotyping is an economically sound option for Australia.
Social support following diagnosis and treatment for colorectal cancer and associations with health‐related quality of life: Results from the UK ColoREctal Wellbeing (CREW) cohort study
Authors: Haviland Joanne , Sodergren Samantha , Calman Lynn , Corner Jessica , Din Amy , Fenlon Deborah , Grimmett Chloe , Richardson Alison , Smith Peter W. , Winter Jane ,   members of Study Advisory Committee, Foster Claire
Published: November 2017

Objective

Social support is acknowledged as important in cancer survivorship, but little is known about change in support after cancer diagnosis and factors associated with this, particularly in colorectal cancer. The CREW cohort study investigated social support up to 2 years following curative intent surgery for colorectal cancer.

Methods

A total of 871 adults recruited pre‐treatment from 29 UK centres 2010 to 2012 consented to follow‐up. Questionnaires at baseline, 3, 9, 15, and 24 months post‐surgery included assessments of social support (Medical Outcomes Study‐Social Support Survey, MOS‐SSS) and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). Socio‐demographic, clinical and treatment details were collected. Longitudinal analyses assessed social support over follow‐up, associations with participant characteristics, and HRQoL.

Results

Around 20% were living alone and 30% without a partner. Perceived social support declined in around 29% of participants, with 8% of these reporting very low levels overall from baseline to 2 years (mean MOS‐SSS overall score < 40 on a scale from 0 to 100). Older age, female gender, greater neighbourhood deprivation, presence of co‐morbidities, and rectal cancer site were significantly associated with reductions in perceived support. Poorer HRQoL outcomes (generic health/QoL, reduced wellbeing, anxiety, and depression) were significantly associated with lower levels of social support.

Conclusions

Levels of social support decline following colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment in nearly a third of patients and are an important risk factor for recovery of HRQoL. Assessment of support early on and throughout follow‐up would enable targeted interventions to improve recovery, particularly in the more vulnerable patient groups at risk of poorer social support.
Correlates of post‐traumatic growth following childhood and adolescent cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Turner Jasmin K. , Hutchinson Amanda , Wilson Carlene
Published: November 2017

Objective

A growing number of children and adolescents are experiencing and surviving cancer. This review aims to identify the demographic, medical, and psychosocial correlates of perceived post‐traumatic growth in individuals of any age who were affected by paediatric cancer. Findings will highlight protective factors that may facilitate post‐traumatic growth, allowing for directed social support, intervention, and follow‐up care.

Methods

A systematic search based on the key concepts “post‐traumatic growth,” “neoplasms,” and “paediatric” retrieved 905 records from online databases: Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, PILOTS: Published International Literature on Traumatic Stress, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Eligible studies were appraised as excellent quality with a high level of interrater reliability. The results of 18 studies were synthesised.

Results

After the removal of outliers, post‐traumatic growth shared small, negative associations with time since diagnosis (r = −0.14) and time since treatment completion (r = −0.19), and small, positive associations with age at diagnosis (r = 0.20), age at survey (r = 0.17), post‐traumatic stress symptoms (r = 0.11), and social support (r = 0.25). Post‐traumatic growth was positively and moderately associated with optimism (r = 0.31).

Conclusions

Several findings were consistent with a comparable meta‐analysis in adult oncology populations. Targeted social support, clinical intervention, and education may facilitate post‐traumatic growth. Longitudinal research in individuals affected by childhood and adolescent cancer would allow an examination of the effects of predictive variables on post‐traumatic growth over time.
Prognostic parameter for high risk prostate cancer patients at initial presentation
Authors: Kato Masashi , Kimura Kyosuke , Hirakawa Akihiro , Kobayashi Yumiko , Ishida Ryo , Kamihira Osamu , Majima Tsuyoshi , Funahashi Yasuhito , Sassa Naoto , Matsukawa Yoshihisa , Hattori Ryohei , Gotoh Momokazu , Tsuzuki Toyonori
Published: November 2017

Background

High‐risk prostate cancer can be defined by a patient's Gleason score (GS), prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level, and clinical T (cT) stage, but a novel marker is needed due to heterogeneity of the disease. In this study, we evaluated whether intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDC‐P) confirmed by needle biopsy is an adverse prognostic parameter for progression‐free survival (PFS) and cancer‐specific survival (CSS) in patients with high‐risk prostate cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 204 patients with high‐risk prostate cancer treated by radical prostatectomy from 1991 to 2005 at Nagoya University and its affiliated hospitals. Data on each patient's PSA level, biopsy GS, cT stage, presence of Gleason pattern 5, presence of IDC‐P, percentage of the core involved with cancer, and maximum percentage of the core involved with cancer were analyzed.

Results

The median follow‐up period was 108 months (range, 11‐257 months). Forty‐eight patients (24%) showed disease progression. Thirty‐four patients (17%) died of the disease during follow‐up. The IDC‐P component was detected in 74 (36%) needle biopsy samples. The 5‐, 10‐, and 15‐year CSS rates of the IDC‐P‐negative cases were 3.2%, 9.0%, and 23.7%; the corresponding rates of the IDC‐P‐positive cases were 23.9%, 33.7%, and 52.7%, respectively (P = 0.0001). In the Fine and Gray's model for PFS, IDC‐P, maximum percentage of the core involved with cancer, and cT stage were significantly associated (P = 0.013, P = 0.003, P = 0.007). In the Fine and Gray's model for CSS, only IDC‐P was significant (P = 0.027). In a multivariate Cox regression analysis, IDC‐P (P = 0.04; hazard ratio [HR], 1.95) and maximum percentage of the core involved with cancer (P = 0.021; HR, 0.43) were significant factors in predicting overall survival (OS).

Conclusions

The presence of IDC‐P in a needle biopsy was a prognostic factor for PFS, CSS, and OS in patients with high‐risk prostate cancer who underwent radical prostatectomy. Multimodal pre‐and/or post‐ surgical therapy may be needed when IDC‐P is found in a needle biopsy specimen.
Estrogen receptor signaling in prostate cancer: Implications for carcinogenesis and tumor progression
Authors: Bonkhoff Helmut
Published: November 2017

Background

The androgen receptor (AR) is the classical target for prostate cancer prevention and treatment, but more recently estrogens and their receptors have also been implicated in prostate cancer development and tumor progression.

Methods

Recent experimental and clinical data were reviewed to elucidate pathogenetic mechanisms how estrogens and their receptors may affect prostate carcinogenesis and tumor progression.

Results

The estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) is the most prevalent ER in the human prostate, while the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) is restricted to basal cells of the prostatic epithelium and stromal cells. In high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN), the ERα is up‐regulated and most likely mediates carcinogenic effects of estradiol as demonstrated in animal models. The partial loss of the ERβ in HGPIN indicates that the ERβ acts as a tumor suppressor. The tumor promoting function of the TMPRSS2‐ERG fusion, a major driver of prostate carcinogenesis, is triggered by the ERα and repressed by the ERβ. The ERβ is generally retained in hormone naïve and metastatic prostate cancer, but is partially lost in castration resistant disease. The progressive emergence of the ERα and ERα‐regulated genes (eg, progesterone receptor (PR), PS2, TMPRSS2‐ERG fusion, and NEAT1) during prostate cancer progression and hormone refractory disease suggests that these tumors can bypass the AR by using estrogens and progestins for their growth. In addition, nongenomic estrogen signaling pathways mediated by orphan receptors (eg, GPR30 and ERRα) has also been implicated in prostate cancer progression.

Conclusions

Increasing evidences demonstrate that local estrogen signaling mechanisms are required for prostate carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Despite the recent progress in this research topic, the translation of the current information into potential therapeutic applications remains highly challenging and clearly warrants further investigation.
High throughput measurement of metabolism in planarians reveals activation of glycolysis during regeneration
Authors: Osuma Edie A. , Riggs Daniel W. , Gibb Andrew A. , Hill Bradford G.
Published: November 2017

Planarians are outstanding models for studying mechanisms of regeneration; however, there are few methods to measure changes in their metabolism. Examining metabolism in planarians is important because the regenerative process is dependent on numerous integrated metabolic pathways, which provide the energy required for tissue repair as well as the ability to synthesize the cellular building blocks needed to form new tissue. Therefore, we standardized an extracellular flux analysis method to measure mitochondrial and glycolytic activity in live planarians during normal growth as well as during regeneration. Small, uninjured planarians showed higher rates of oxygen consumption compared with large planarians, with no difference in glycolytic activity; however, glycolysis increased during planarian regeneration. Exposure of planarians to koningic acid, a specific inhibitor of glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, completely abolished extracellular acidification with little effect on oxygen consumption, which suggests that the majority of glucose catabolized in planarians is fated for aerobic glycolysis. These studies describe a useful method for measuring respiration and glycolysis in planarians and provide data implicating changes in glucose metabolism in the regenerative response.
Investigating the assumptions of the self‐controlled case series method
Authors: Whitaker Heather J. , Ghebremichael‐Weldeselassie Yonas , Douglas Ian J. , Smeeth Liam , Farrington C. Paddy
Published: November 2017

We describe some simple techniques for investigating 2 key assumptions of the self‐controlled case series (SCCS) method, namely, that events do not influence subsequent exposures and that events do not influence the length of observation periods. For each assumption, we propose some simple tests based on the standard SCCS model, along with associated graphical displays. The methods also enable the user to investigate the robustness of the results obtained using the standard SCCS model to failure of assumptions. The proposed methods are investigated by simulations and applied to data on measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, and antipsychotics.
Job Market Signaling and Returns to Education
Authors: Ge Suqin , Haller Hans
Published: November 2017

We compare two partially separating equilibria in a job market signaling model with unproductive education. We find that in one of the two equilibria, the fraction of the population with a threshold education level is higher even though the cost of education is higher. Moreover, compared to the other equilibrium, the population faces a higher threshold education level, yet the educated attain lower wages. The reason for this result is that the gross return to education can be higher despite the higher cost of education and a higher threshold.
Doping Strategies in Inorganic and Organic Materials
Authors: Maier Joachim
Published: November 2017

Doping is the most versatile tool to influence transport properties of a given solid. Simple rules for its application in ionic and covalent materials are formulated. The usual doping concept that relies on hetero‐valence effects is extended to homo‐valent situations, which exhibit elastic interactions. Another extension refers to incorporation of higher‐dimensional dopants such as interfaces or dislocations. The description is kept on a qualitative level for the reader who is mostly interested in materials synthesis and design.
Key‐factors and key‐stages that determine the leaf longevity of an evergreen broad‐leaved tree, Neolitsea sericea (Lauraceae) at different growing sites in southern Japan
Authors: Yukawa Junichi , Yamamura Kohji , Fujimoto Kenji , Tokuda Makoto , Muroya Shunichiro , Maki Tsukasa , Sadoshima Toshiaki , Fukuda Takeshi
Published: November 2017

Chronological distribution pattern of leaves is an important factor to determine plant productivity in relation to photosynthesis. Therefore, intensive studies of leaf longevity are essential in plant ecology. Leaf longevity of Neolitsea sericea (Lauraceae) was surveyed from 1972 to 1995. Mean leaf longevity varied from 5.6 to 53.8 months among different year classes of leaf emergence. To detect factors and stages determining the leaf longevity, we adopted the method of key‐factor/key‐stage analysis. We categorized N. sericea trees into four groups; short and tall trees in an evergreen broad‐leaved forest, short trees along the forest edge, and short trees in a Moso bamboo forest, where N. sericea grows as an understory plant. This categorization enabled us to realize how the factors and stages differently influenced leaf longevity at different sites. Four groups of factors (growing site, cecidomyiid gall induction, stem boring by a cerambycid, typhoon) and eight stages (every 6 month after leaf emergence until a leaf age of 48 months) were distinguished in the analysis. Effects of annual precipitation and annual mean temperature were evaluated separately. In a bamboo forest, cerambycid negatively affected leaf survival in the first year. In an evergreen broad‐leaved forest, cerambycid and typhoon affected leaf survival of short and tall trees but cerambycid damage was compensated in later stages. Short trees along the forest edge suffered severe leaf fall from typhoon but were positively affected by annual precipitation. This study gives suggestions for better understanding of chronological distribution patterns of leaves.
Seltene Tumordispositionssyndrome mit Manifestation im Kindesalter
Authors: Ripperger Tim , Wimmer Katharina , Kratz Christian
Published: November 2017

Bei etwa 7–10 % der pädiatrischen Krebspatienten werden zugrunde liegende Tumordispositionssyndrome (TDS) vermutet. Das Erkennen von TDS hat klinische Implikationen für die Krebsprävention und -früherkennung, die Krebstherapie und -nachsorge, die psychosoziale Unterstützung sowie die Beratung von Angehörigen und Identifizierung weiterer Anlageträger in den betroffenen Familien. Hinweise auf das Vorliegen eines TDS anhand von Eigen- und Familienanamnese, Untersuchungsbefund sowie gegebenenfalls Tumorhistologie und -genetik müssen daher möglichst früh erkannt werden, um bei Verdacht auf Vorliegen eines TDS eine humangenetische Beratung und gegebenenfalls genetische Diagnostik zu veranlassen. Wissenschaftliche Untersuchungen zu TDS liefern Einblicke in die Biologie der Gewebe- und Tumorentwicklung und weisen auf mögliche Ansatzpunkte zielgerichteter Therapien hin. Die vorliegende Arbeit gibt eine Übersicht über TDS mit erhöhtem Risiko für Wilms-Tumoren (Nephroblastome), Neuroblastome oder Medulloblastome. Zusätzlich werden zwei vergleichsweise neu beschriebene Syndrome mit breitem Neoplasiespektrum erläutert: die konstitutionelle Mismatch-Reparatur-Defizienz (CMMRD) und das DICER1-Syndrom. Neben der Erläuterung der klinischen Charakteristika und der genetischen Grundlagen werden für die tägliche Praxis Hinweise zur Indikation von genetischen Untersuchungen und Früherkennung bei TDS aufgeführt. Die Betreuung der Betroffenen und ihrer Angehörigen sollte möglichst interdisziplinär erfolgen. Forschung zu TDS, zum Beispiel im Rahmen von Registern für TDS, ist essenziell, um langfristig die medizinische Versorgung von Menschen zu verbessern, die bedingt durch konstitutionelle genetische Veränderungen ein erhöhtes Krebsrisiko haben.
Systems and synthetic biology approaches in understanding biological oscillators
Authors: Li Zhengda , Yang Qiong
Published: November 2017

Background

Self‐sustained oscillations are a ubiquitous and vital phenomenon in living systems. From primitive single‐cellular bacteria to the most sophisticated organisms, periodicities have been observed in a broad spectrum of biological processes such as neuron firing, heart beats, cell cycles, circadian rhythms, etc. Defects in these oscillators can cause diseases from insomnia to cancer. Elucidating their fundamental mechanisms is of great significance to diseases, and yet challenging, due to the complexity and diversity of these oscillators.

Results

Approaches in quantitative systems biology and synthetic biology have been most effective by simplifying the systems to contain only the most essential regulators. Here, we will review major progress that has been made in understanding biological oscillators using these approaches. The quantitative systems biology approach allows for identification of the essential components of an oscillator in an endogenous system. The synthetic biology approach makes use of the knowledge to design the simplest, de novo oscillators in both live cells and cell‐free systems. These synthetic oscillators are tractable to further detailed analysis and manipulations.

Conclusion

With the recent development of biological and computational tools, both approaches have made significant achievements.
Lower cerebral blood flow in subjects with Alzheimer's dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and subjective cognitive decline using two‐dimensional phase‐contrast magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Leijenaar Jolien F. , van Maurik Ingrid S. , Kuijer Joost P.A. , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Scheltens Philip , Barkhof Frederik , Prins Niels D.
Published: November 2017

Introduction

In this cross‐sectional study, we aimed to detect differences in cerebral blood flow (CBF) between subjects with Alzheimer's disease (AD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and subjective cognitive decline (SCD), using two‐dimensional phase‐contrast magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods

We included 74 AD patients (67 years, 51% female), 36 MCI patients (66 years, 33% female), and 62 patients with SCD (60 years, 32% female) from the Amsterdam Dementia Cohort. Patients with SCD are those who visited the memory clinic with subjective cognitive complaints without objective cognitive impairment. Whole‐brain CBF (mL/100 g/min) was calculated using total volume flow measured with two‐dimensional phase‐contrast magnetic resonance imaging and normalized for brain volume.

Results

Mean CBF values (SD) were lower in AD compared to SCD (age and sex adjusted 70 ± 26 vs. 82 ± 24 mL/100 g/min, P < .05). Mean CBF values of MCI were comparable to AD. Across clinical groups, lower CBF was associated with lower scores on the Mini–Mental State Examination (age and sex adjusted stβ = 0.19 per mL/100 g/min; P = .02).

Discussion

Lower whole‐brain CBF is seen in AD patients compared to SCD patients and is associated with worse cognitive function.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a clinical review of the concept, diagnosis and management
Authors: Kelly B. D.
Published: November 2017

The history of psychiatry is the history of therapeutic enthusiasm with all of the triumph and tragedy, hubris and humility that this brings. As a result, the emergence of any new diagnosis, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), needs to be greeted with caution, rigour and scientific objectivity, as well as compassion, therapeutic engagement and optimism. Although there is now little doubt that ADHD is a valid, useful diagnostic concept, and progress has been made, there is still considerable work to be done to establish its incidence, prevalence and biological underpinnings, as well as optimal therapeutic strategies. As with all mental illnesses, it is likely that knowledge will develop over many decades and diagnostic criteria will be refined in parallel. In the absence of definitive biological understanding, there should be particular caution about over-exuberant diagnostic expansionism unless it is accompanied by compelling evidence of therapeutic benefit for those diagnosed.
Thickness estimation of supraglacial debris above ice cliff exposures using a high-resolution digital surface model derived from terrestrial photography
Authors: NICHOLSON L. , MERTES J.
Published: November 2017

The thickness of supraglacial debris cover controls how it impacts the ablation rate of underlying glacier ice, yet this quantity remains challenging to measure, particularly at glacier scales. We present a relatively straightforward, and cost-effective method to estimate debris thickness exposed above ice cliffs using simplified geometrical measurements from a high-resolution digital surface model (DSM), derived from a terrestrial photographic survey and a Structure from Motion with Multi-View Stereo workflow (SfM-MVS). As the ice surface relief beneath the debris cover is unknown, we assume it to be horizontal and provide error bounds based on characteristic ice-surface slope at the visible debris/ice interface. Debris thickness around the three sampled ice cliffs was highly variable (interquartile range of 0.80–2.85 m) and negatively skewed with a mean thickness of 2.08 ± 0.68 m. Manual, and high-frequency radar, determinations of debris thickness in the same area show similar thickness distributions, but statistically different mean debris thickness, due to local heterogeneity. Debris thickness values derived in this study all exceed estimates from satellite surface temperature inversions. Wider application of the method presented here would provide useful data for improving debris thickness approximations from satellite imagery.
Forest history, peatland development and mid- to late Holocene environmental change in the southern taiga forest of central European Russia
Authors: Novenko Elena Yu. , Tsyganov Andrey N. , Pisarchuk Natalia M. , Volkova Elena M. , Babeshko Kirill V. , Kozlov Daniil N. , Shilov Pavel M. , Payne Richard J. , Mazei Yuri A. , Olchev Alexander V.
Published: November 2017

Understanding the long-term ecological dynamics of boreal forests is essential for assessment of the possible responses and feedbacks of forest ecosystems to climate change. New data on past forest dynamics and peatland development were obtained from a peat sequence in the southern Valdai Hills (European Russia) based on pollen, plant macrofossil, micro-charcoal, peat humification, and testate amoeba analyses. The results demonstrate a dominance of broadleaved forests in the study area from 7000–4000 cal yr BP. Picea was initially a minor component of this forest but increased in cover rapidly with climatic cooling beginning at 4000 cal yr BP, becoming the dominant species. Broadleaved species persisted until 900 cal yr BP, with evidence for intensified felling and forest management over recent centuries. Over the last four hundred years there is evidence for widespread paludification and the establishment of Picea-Sphagnum forests. These data demonstrate how modern wet woodlands have been shaped by a combination of climatic and anthropogenic factors over several millennia. The results also demonstrate the value of a multiproxy approach in understanding long-term forest ecology.
Changes in CO2 Emission Sources in Mexico City Metropolitan Area Deduced from Radiocarbon Concentrations in Tree Rings
Authors: Beramendi-Orosco Laura E , González-Hernández Galia , Martínez-Reyes Angeles , Morton-Bermea Ofelia , Santos-Arévalo Francisco J , Gómez-Martínez Isabel , Villanueva-Díaz José
Published: November 2017

We present radiocarbon (14C) in tree rings from Mexico City and a reconstruction of fossil CO2 concentrations for the last five decades, as part of a research program to understand the 14C dynamics in this complex urban area. Background values were established by 14C concentrations in tree rings from a nearby clean area. Agreement between background and NH-zone 2 values indicate Taxodium mucronatum is a good biomonitor for annual atmospheric 14C variations. Values for the urban tree rings were significantly lower than background values, indicating a 14C depletion from fossil CO2 emissions. There is an increasing trend of fossil CO2 between 1960 and 1990, in agreement with the population growth and the increasing demand for fossil fuels in Mexico City. Between 1990 and 2000, there is an apparent decrease in fossil CO2 concentration, increasing again after 2000. The decrease in 2000, despite being of the same magnitude as the overall uncertainty, may reflect environmental policies that improved the energy efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions in the area. The increase in fossil CO2 concentration between 2000 and 2010 may be attributable to the significant growth of motor vehicle usage in Mexico City, which made transportation the main energy-demanding and -emitting sector.
Ballot Order in Cueless Elections: A Comparison of Municipal and Provincial Elections in Québec
Authors: Tessier Charles , Blanchet Alexandre
Published: November 2017

This paper studies the prevalence of ballot order effects in two different types of Canadian elections which differ greatly by the strength of party cues they provide to voters. Provincial elections are best described as a typical competition between well established and institutionalized parties, hence providing voters with strong party cues. Alternatively, municipal politics provide voters with much weaker party cues. We use electoral results from recent provincial and municipal elections in Québec and find ballot order effects in municipal elections but not in provincial ones. Although ballot order effects may also be the product of alphabetic preference bias, we argue that in any case these are cognitive biases that are ultimately the product of insufficient cues that voters need in order to cast well-informed votes. The paper, therefore, sheds some light on an understudied type of election in political science.
DING-GRADED MODULES AND GORENSTEIN GR-FLAT MODULES
Authors: MAO LIXIN
Published: November 2017

Let R be a graded ring. We introduce the concepts of Ding gr-injective and Ding gr-projective R-modules, which are the graded analogues of Ding injective and Ding projective modules. Several characterizations and properties of Ding gr-injective and Ding gr-projective modules are obtained. In addition, we investigate the relationships among Gorenstein gr-flat, Ding gr-injective and Ding gr-projective modules.
Chronic heat stress and feed restriction affects carcass composition and the expression of genes involved in the control of fat deposition in broilers
Authors: DE ANTONIO J. , FERNANDEZ-ALARCON M. F. , LUNEDO R. , SQUASSONI G. H. , FERRAZ A. L. J. , MACARI M. , FURLAN R. L. , FURLAN L. R.
Published: November 2017

Heat stress (HS) is among the major limiting factors to growth of broilers. Heat stress also results in changes in the characteristics of the carcass, such as an increase in fat deposition. The molecular mechanisms responsible for fat deposition in broilers as a response to HS remain unknown. The current study aimed to describe the molecular mechanisms associated with the effects of high temperature and feed restriction due to chronic heat exposure at 32 °C, and to describe the resulting changes in the growth performance and carcass characteristics of the broilers at 21 and 42 days of age. In the current study, 441 male Cobb-500®broilers were subjected to three treatments that differed in rearing temperature and feeding regime: chronic HS fedad libitum(HS/AL), thermoneutral environment fedad libitum(TN/AL) and TN and pair-feeding on the feed intake (FI) of the heat-exposed group (TN/PF). HS increased fat content in the breast and wings and decreased fat content in the legs, but did not influence abdominal fat. These effects occurred regardless of reducing consumption induced by HS. Furthermore, HS, independently of reduced FI, increased liver sterol-regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) mRNA in both ages and growth hormone receptor (GHR) mRNA at 42days, whereas feed restriction reducedGHRmRNA only at 21days. In conclusion, increased fat content in the breast and wings was accompanied by a higher gene expression ofGHRandSREBP-1, suggesting the involvement of both genes in the control of fat deposition in broilers exposed to HS.
Bartleby's Closed Desk: Reading Melville against Affect
Authors: FURUI YOSHIAKI
Published: November 2017

To reconsider the affective turn in American literary studies, this essay reads Herman Melville's “Bartleby, the Scrivener” (1853), with reference to “Benito Cereno” (1855) andThe Confidence-Man(1857), as an anti-affect story. By shedding light on silent characters in these works – Bartleby, Babo, and Black Guinea – it argues that Melville endeavors to adumbrate, not articulate, their private interiorities through language. Calling the inner recesses of his silent characters “secret emotions,” Melville probes into the boundaries between the effable and the ineffable by testing the limits of literary language. If “affect” refers to the kind of emotion that eludes signification through language, reading Melville in this manner encourages a reappraisal of the relationship between affect as a non-linguistic emotion and literature as a linguistic construct.
Association of preterm birth with ADHD-like cognitive impairments and additional subtle impairments in attention and arousal malleability
Authors: James S.-N. , Rommel A.-S. , Cheung C. , McLoughlin G. , Brandeis D. , Banaschewski T. , Asherson P. , Kuntsi J.
Published: November 2017

Background

Whilst preterm-born individuals have an increased risk of developing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and are reported to have ADHD-like attention and arousal impairments, direct group comparisons are scarce.

Methods

We directly compared preterm-born adolescents (n = 186) to term-born adolescents with ADHD (n = 69), and term-born controls (n = 135), aged 11–23, on cognitive-performance, event-related potential and skin conductance level (SCL) measures associated with attention and arousal. The measures are from baseline and fast-incentive conditions of a four-choice reaction time task, previously shown to discriminate between the individuals with ADHD and controls. We aimed to establish whether preterm-born adolescents show: (a) identical cognitive-neurophysiological impairments to term-born adolescents with ADHD (b) possible additional impairments, and whether (c) the observed impairments correlate with ADHD symptom scores.

Results

The preterm group, like the term-born ADHD group, showed increased mean reaction time (MRT) and reaction time variability (RTV) in the baseline condition, and attenuated contingent negative variation (CNV) amplitude (response preparation) in the fast-incentive condition. The preterm group, only, did not show significant within-group adjustments in P3 amplitude (attention allocation) and SCL (peripheral arousal). Dimensional analyses showed that ADHD symptoms scores correlated significantly with MRT, RTV and CNV amplitude only.

Conclusions

We find impairments in cognition and brain function in preterm-born adolescents that are linked to increased ADHD symptoms, as well as further impairments, in lack of malleability in neurophysiological processes. Our findings indicate that such impairments extend at least to adolescence. Future studies should extend these investigations into adulthood.