bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association of fever with transfusion‐associated circulatory overload
Authors: Parmar N. , Pendergrast J. , Lieberman L. , Lin Y. , Callum J. , Cserti‐Gazdewich C.
Published: December 2016

Background

Fever is described in transfusion‐associated circulatory overload (TACO), reflecting either comprehensive haemovigilance or an inflammatory pathobiology (such as congestion‐associated atheroma disruptions).

Methods

Hospital haemovigilance data (1/1/2010–31/12/2012) were reviewed for TACO cases (frequency and mode of referral). TACO with or without fever (TACO+F/−F) was examined for its association with patient age (as a surrogate for atheroma burden) and product age (as a surrogate for storage‐related pyrogens). Fever in allergic transfusion reactions was also compared.

Results

Of 972 reactions, 107 suspected cases of TACO (11%) were seen. TACO+F vs. TACO−F occurred in 42·1 vs. 57·9%, respectively. TACO+F cases were discovered in referrals to investigate either a fever (in 47·1%) or dyspnoea (in 52·9%). Among TACO+F cases, 24·4% had already been febrile, whereas 75·6% exhibited a new reaction‐associated fever. After excluding preexisting fevers, TACO+F occurred in 31·8% of TACO, compared with 8·2% of allergic reactions with fever, for an odds ratio of 5·2 (2·9–9·4 [95% CI]), P < 0·001. TACO+F/TACO−F showed no difference in median host age (69 vs. 64 years, P = 0·3), RBC age (22 days +F/−F, P = 0·9) or severity.

Conclusion

Transfusion‐associated circulatory overload disproportionately exhibits fever compared with allergic reactions. However, TACO+F did not associate with patient or product age, nor reflect severity. To better understand TACO+F, the fever‐congestion sequence merits attention. Further study is needed to see whether TACO+F occurs as reproducibly elsewhere, and in association with atherosclerosis in a better characterized cohort.
Phylogeny and biogeography of the genus Cephalenchus (Tylenchomorpha, Nematoda)
Authors: Pereira Tiago J. , Qing Xue , Chang Kuei‐Fu , Mundo‐Ocampo Manuel , Cares Juvenil E. , Ragsdale Erik J. , Nguyen Chau N. , Baldwin James G.
Published: December 2016

The phylogenetic position of Cephalenchus is enigmatic with respect to other tylench nematodes. In this study, Cephalenchus populations representing 11 nominal species were sampled worldwide for molecular and morphological characterization. Species identification was based on light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Molecular analyses were based on the genes (i.e. 18S, 28S, 5.8S) and internal transcribed spacers (ITS‐1 and ITS‐2) of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Phylogenetic analyses (i.e. full and reduced alignments) of either concatenated or single genes always supported the monophyly of Cephalenchus. A sister relationship between Cephalenchus and Eutylenchus excretorius was recovered by most analyses, although branch support varies depending on the dataset used. The position of Cephalenchus + E. excretorius within Tylenchomorpha nevertheless remains ambiguous, thus highlighting the importance of sampling additional genes as well as taxa. Placement of Cephalenchus + E. excretorius as sister of Tylenchinae or Boleodorinae could not be rejected on the basis of 18S and 28S rRNA genes. Within Cephalenchus, amphidial opening morphology shows congruence with molecular‐based phylogenetic relationships, whereas the number of lines in the lateral field is likely to be a convergent trait. Morphometric analyses clearly distinguished short tail from medium–long tail species, and SEM observations seem to suggest a relation between tail length and amphidial opening. In addition, molecular phylogenies support the non‐monophyly of Cephalenchus cephalodiscus, Cephalenchus cylindricus, Cephalenchus daisuce and Cephalenchus leptus. The known extent of Cephalenchus diversity is increased with the inclusion of two new species, and the biogeography of the genus is discussed.
The Impact of Using Representation Modes within Writing to Learn Activities on the Scientific Process Skills of the Fifth Grade Students
Authors: Memiş Esra Kabataş , Öz Muhittin
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this research is to determine the impact of using multimodal representation modes in the writing practices done by the fifth grade students on their scientific process skills. A combined research method which had both quantitative and qualitative characteristics was used in the research and the groups were chosen as control and experimental groups. 32 5th grade students at an elementary school in the North of Turkey formed the study group. Scientific Process Skills Test and writing activities for learning were used as data collection tools in the study. When the unit was completed, the students were asked to tell their peers about the subjects in the unit with a writing activity in the summary writing type. While the students in the experimental group were obliged to use the representation modes in these writing to learn activities, the students in the control group were asked only to complete the writing activity. In this process, the students performed three writing activities, one preparation and two real practice activities. The criteria determining the content and the features of these writing activities (purpose, subject, interlocutor, writing type and page limit) were standards explained in the instructions distributed to the students. The most basic discrepancy between the groups was the request of using of multimodal representations for the students in the experimental group. The writing activities performed within the scope of the study were scored after they were evaluated in consideration of the criteria determined by the researchers. The Cronbach’s alpha credibility coefficent of the scientific process skill test applied as the preliminary test in the beginning of the practice and the post-test at the end of it was determined as 72. The results of the research indicate that using multimodal representations make statistically significant differences on behalf of the experimental group in the scientific process skills of the students.
A Fast, Memory-Efficient Discrete-Time Realization Algorithm for Reduced-Order Li-Ion Battery Models
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Krishnakumar , Zhang Teng , Offer Gregory J.
Published: December 2016

Research into reduced-order models (ROM) for Lithium-ion batteries is motivated by the need for a real-time embedded model possessing the accuracy of physics-based models, while retaining computational simplicity comparable to equivalent-circuit models. The discrete-time realization algorithm (DRA) proposed by Lee et al. (2012, “One-Dimensional Physics-Based Reduced-Order Model of Lithium-Ion Dynamics,” J. Power Sources, 220, pp. 430–448) can be used to obtain a physics-based ROM in standard state-space form, the time-domain simulation of which yields the evolution of all the electrochemical variables of the standard pseudo-2D porous-electrode battery model. An unresolved issue with this approach is the high computation requirement associated with the DRA, which needs to be repeated across multiple SoC and temperatures. In this paper, we analyze the computational bottleneck in the existing DRA and propose an improved scheme. Our analysis of the existing DRA reveals that singular value decomposition (SVD) of the large Block–Hankel matrix formed by the system's Markov parameters is a key inefficient step. A streamlined DRA approach that bypasses the redundant Block–Hankel matrix formation is presented as a drop-in replacement. Comparisons with existing DRA scheme highlight the significant reduction in computation time and memory usage brought about by the new method. Improved modeling accuracy afforded by our proposed scheme when deployed in a resource-constrained computing environment is also demonstrated.
Vertical Finger Displacement Is Reduced in Index Finger Tapping During Repeated Bout Rate Enhancement
Authors: Mora-Jensen Mark Holten , Madeleine Pascal , Hansen Ernst Albin
Published: December 2016

The present study analyzed (a) whether a recently reported phenomenon of repeated bout rate enhancement in finger tapping (i.e., a cumulating increase in freely chosen finger tapping frequency following submaximal muscle activation in the form of externally unloaded voluntary tapping) could be replicated and (b) the hypotheses that the faster tapping was accompanied by changed vertical displacement of the fingertip and changed peak force during tapping. Right-handed, healthy, and recreationally active individuals (n = 24) performed two 3-min index finger tapping bouts at freely chosen tapping frequency, separated by 10-min rest. The recently reported phenomenon of repeated bout rate enhancement was replicated. The faster tapping (8.8 ± 18.7 taps/min, corresponding to 6.0 ± 11.0%, p = .033) was accompanied by reduced vertical displacement (1.6 ± 2.9 mm, corresponding to 6.3 ± 14.9%, p = .012) of the fingertip. Concurrently, peak force was unchanged. The present study points at separate control mechanisms governing kinematics and kinetics during finger tapping.
Perspectives of Female Collegiate Cross Country Runners on Eating Behaviors and Attitudes Toward Health: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Stickler Laurie , Armstrong Trisha , Polso Alyssa , Smith Melissa
Published: December 2016

Context:

Low energy availability has been identified through research as the cornerstone of the female athlete triad, yet reasons for nutritional choices among female collegiate athletes are poorly understood.

Objective:

To explore the perspectives of female collegiate cross country runners on eating behaviors and attitudes toward health.

Design:

Phenomenologic qualitative study with individual, semistructured interviews.

Methods:

Ten collegiate female cross country runners, ages 18–22, participated in the study. All interviews were audiotaped then transcribed. Three researchers independently coded data and developed themes and subthemes before meeting and negotiating findings.

Results:

The following four themes were identified: health behaviors, nutritional knowledge, internal and external factors, and health attitudes.

Conclusions:

This study contributes to understanding “the why” behind health behaviors of female collegiate cross country runners. This developmental understanding may assist in interpreting the behavioral causes of low energy availability; thus, both management and prevention of the triad may be aided by this information.
Dress to Impress or Dress to Sweat? Examining the Perceptions of Exercise Apparel Through the Eyes of Active Women
Authors: Hauff Caitlyn R.
Published: December 2016

Objectification theory postulates that societal norms influence women to internalize cultural standards of beauty and thinness as their own. The consequences of objectification experiences include body shame, anxiety, body surveillance, and internalization of the thin ideal. Self-presentation theory suggests that individuals attempt to control and manage impressions when they perceive they are being evaluated by others. Previous research has documented the role of apparel in objectification of women and how women use apparel to create particular impressions. Research has also documented how objectification and self-presentation mediates reasons and motivations for exercise. However, qualitative explorations of women’s thoughts and feelings regarding exercise apparel as a motivator or deterrent for physical activity within these frameworks are lacking. In the current study, twelve recreationally active women were interviewed to understand their perceptions of exercise apparel in relation to their exercise environment and motivation to exercise. Two higher order themes emerged: exercise apparel as a tool for the optimal exercise experience (lower order themes: comfort, functionality of clothing, and reciprocal relationship between motivation and affect) and societal influences shaping exercise apparel choices (lower order themes: social influence and social comparison within the exercise setting, the cultural standard, and past experiences of evaluation). For the women in our study, exercise apparel serves as both a motivator and deterrent for exercise and certain exercise apparel contributes to self-presentation concerns within the exercise setting.
Roller Derby as a Site of Resistance: Strategies for Countering Sexist and Homophobic Assumptions in Women’s Sports
Authors: Streeter Rayanne
Published: December 2016

Previous research has demonstrated that female athletes draw sexist and homophobic remarks, especially in contact sports, which are more highly valued and dominated by men. As such, female athletes have used a variety of responses to combat stigma they face; however, these responses have reaffirmed sexist and homophobic assumptions rather than contest them. In the last decade roller derby has emerged as a contact sport which is female-dominated and whose members seek to complicate gendered assumptions about sport. Analysis of semistructured, in-depth interviews with 17 female flat-track roller derby players shows that although skaters face similar challenges of sexism and homophobia skaters resist these challenges in innovative ways including demonstrating the legitimacy of the sport, educating outsiders on the diversity of players, shrugging off or defending themselves, and adopting new uniforms. This study concludes by arguing that roller derby, as a unique sport within the particular historical moment of increased LGTBQ acceptance, has implications for altering women’s relationship to sport by resisting homophobic and sexist assumptions. The altered relationship includes skaters being more open to different expressions of sexuality and gender in sport, taking control over their athletic status, and fostering a more accepting place for female athletes. In addition, this resistance has the potential to impact female athletes in contact sports other than roller derby by identifying and adopting these resistive strategies creating larger change.
Elite Female Distance Runners and Advice During Pregnancy: Sources, Content, and Trust
Authors: Darroch Francine , Giles Audrey R. , McGettigan-Dumas Roisin
Published: December 2016

More elite female distance runners are opting to have children during their athletic careers. Despite this, there is a dearth of information regarding pregnancy and physical activity for elite level athletes. Further, current pregnancy physical activity guidelines are not relevant for this population`s needs. Two research questions frame this study: are elite female distance runners’ pregnancy informational needs being met?; where do they seek and find trustworthy advice on physical activity during pregnancy? Open-ended, semistructured interviews were conducted with 14 women who experienced at least one pregnancy within the past five years, had achieved a minimum of the USA Track and Field 2012 Olympic Team marathon trials ‘B’ entry standard or equivalent performances for distance running events 1,500m or longer. The participants had between one—three children, hail from five countries and participated in 14 Olympic Games and 72 World Championships. Utilizing poststructuralist feminist theory and thematic analysis, our findings revealed that the participants received advice from three main sources, both in person and online: medical professionals, coaches, and other elite female distance runners. However, we found that they also received unsolicited advice and comments from community members where they lived. The participants identified fellow elite female distance runners as the most reliable and trustworthy sources of information, followed by medical professionals, then coaches. Ultimately, the women revealed a lack of formal sources they could turn to for trustworthy advice about how to have a safe and healthy pregnancy while continuing to train at a high intensity. These results illuminate the need to meet female elite athletes’ informational needs in terms of well-being during pregnancy.
First-in-class inhibitor of the T cell receptor for the treatment of autoimmune diseases
Authors: Borroto Aldo , Reyes-Garau Diana , Jiménez M. Angeles , Carrasco Esther , Moreno Beatriz , Martínez-Pasamar Sara , Cortés José R. , Perona Almudena , Abia David , Blanco Soledad , Fuentes Manuel , Arellano Irene , Lobo Juan , Heidarieh Haleh , Rueda Javier , Esteve Pilar , Cibrián Danay , Martinez-Riaño Ana , Mendoza Pilar , Prieto Cristina , Calleja Enrique , Oeste Clara L. , Orfao Alberto , Fresno Manuel , Sánchez-Madrid Francisco , Alcamí Antonio , Bovolenta Paola , Martín Pilar , Villoslada Pablo , Morreale Antonio , Messeguer Angel , Alarcon Balbino
Published: December 2016

A novel inhibitor of interactions between signaling proteins in T cells demonstrates promising preventive and therapeutic effects in several models of autoimmune disease.
Detection of prions in blood from patients with variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
Authors: Concha-Marambio Luis , Pritzkow Sandra , Moda Fabio , Tagliavini Fabrizio , Ironside James W. , Schulz Paul E. , Soto Claudio
Published: December 2016

Prions can be detected in blood from patients with variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease with high sensitivity and specificity.
Anti–PD-1 antitumor immunity is enhanced by local and abrogated by systemic chemotherapy in GBM
Authors: Mathios Dimitrios , Kim Jennifer E. , Mangraviti Antonella , Phallen Jillian , Park Chul-Kee , Jackson Christopher M. , Garzon-Muvdi Tomas , Kim Eileen , Theodros Debebe , Polanczyk Magdalena , Martin Allison M. , Suk Ian , Ye Xiaobu , Tyler Betty , Bettegowda Chetan , Brem Henry , Pardoll Drew M. , Lim Michael
Published: December 2016

Local chemotherapy synergizes with immunotherapy against glioblastoma, whereas systemic chemotherapy abrogates its antitumor effect.
Mesenchymal metamorphosis
Authors: Bhattacharya Mallar
Published: December 2016

Lung lipofibroblasts give rise to myofibroblasts in pulmonary fibrosis.
Cheap-seq
Authors: Greene Casey S.
Published: December 2016

Optimized workflows analyze RNA-seq samples for less than a dime each.
Stress: A deadly weapon
Authors: Peñagarikano Olga
Published: December 2016

A biomarker is enriched in suicidal subjects and correlates with hyperactivity of the stress response system.
Fingolimod (Gilenya) and melanoma
Authors: Robinson Christopher Lee , Guo Mary
Published: December 2016

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had approved fingolimod usage for multiple sclerosis in 2010. Melanoma after the usage of fingolimod immunomodulation was reported rarely in clinical trials, and only two case reports exist in the published literature, both occurring in Europe. Most of the incidences reported in clinical trials were in-situ, whereas both case reports were of malignant melanoma. Fingolimod has been found to inhibit metastatic melanoma growth in a mouse model that depends on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced angiogenesis for metastasis. However, there are numerous pathways of angiogenesis and tumour growth found in vivo by which melanoma can expand that do not mandate VEGF. We report a case of superficial spreading malignant melanoma occurring after fingolimod therapy in the USA.
Regional conference on women in physics
Authors: Hasnain Aziz Fatima
Published: December 2016

The first Regional Conference on Women In Physics (RCWIP 2016) was organized on 25–27 April, 2016 by the working group on women in physics at the National Centre for Physics, Islamabad. We present a report of that conference along with strategies planned and recommendations passed by the participants. Starting from the motive of the working group to organizing the regional conference, we briefly discuss the status of higher education in Pakistan and problems with its accessibility to women because of gender inequality in our society. We will also discuss the social structure of Pakistan and social constraints that are deeply rooted in the cultural orientation of the people of this country.
On some properties of single power cyclic hypergroups and regular relations
Authors: Al Tahan M. , Davvaz B.
Published: December 2016

After introducing the notion of hypergroups by Marty, a number of generalizations of this fundamental concept has been studied. In this paper, we study a special type of hypergroups; single power cyclic hypergroups and present some of their properties. First, we determine the fundamental group of single power cyclic hypergroups. Next, we construct onto homomorphisms from any single power cyclic hypergroup to another defined hypergroups. Finally, we characterize all commutative single power cyclic hypergroups of order two.
A NOTE ON FERGUSSON AND PLATEN: “APPLICATION OF MAXIMUM LIKELIHOOD ESTIMATION TO STOCHASTIC SHORT RATE MODELS”
Authors: BALLESTRA LUCA VINCENZO , PACELLI GRAZIELLA , RADI DAVIDE
Published: December 2016

In a very recent and interesting paper, Fergusson and Platen (2015) investigate the applicability of the maximum likelihood (ML) method for estimating the parameters of some of the most popular stochastic models for the short interest rate. One of the main results of this paper is the analytical expression of the so-called observed Fisher information matrix for the Vasicek model at the ML point. However, in such a matrix some entries are not derived correctly and one entry is left unspecified. In the following, we provide the correct analytical expression of that matrix.
Convergence analysis of an unsupported micro-tunnel at the Meuse/Haute-Marne Underground Research Laboratory
Authors: Guayacán-Carrillo L.-M. , Sulem J. , Seyedi D. M. , Ghabezloo S. , Noiret A. , Armand G.
Published: December 2016

Convergence measurements recorded for one representative micro-tunnel (diameter
c.
0.7 m) in Callovo-Oxfordian claystone were analysed. The micro-tunnel was excavated in the direction of the horizontal principal major stress.
In situ
observations showed anisotropic convergence with the maximum and minimum values in the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. The horizontal closure of walls was fitted on the basis of a semi-empirical convergence law. This law is a predictive model reflecting the global response of the ground to excavation works. As the convergence measurements were performed after the end of excavation, their evolution in time can only be related to the time-dependent behaviour of the ground and the effect of the face advance cannot be captured. It is shown that some parameters of the semi-empirical law did not change along the micro-tunnel. An easy and efficient method is thus proposed for the long-term prediction of wall closure by the fitting of a single parameter on recorded data. Comparison with a drift (diameter
c.
5 m) highlighted the influence of the support installation and the rate of excavation on the variation in the parameter values of the semi-empirical law. The vertical closure of the micro-tunnel walls, which showed a very weak evolution over time, was analysed based on the rate of convergence.
Geotherapeutics: the medicinal use of earths, minerals and metals from antiquity to the twenty-first century
Authors: Retsas Spyros
Published: December 2016

In antiquity, therapeutic empiricism attributed medicinal properties to animal products, plants, minerals and metals, including the soil of specific geographical locations.

The therapeutic use of certain earths and metals is thoroughly documented in the works of Hippocrates, Dioscorides and Galen and was still practised in the eighteenth century by eminent physicians such as Sir Hans Sloane. Mercury and arsenical compounds have also been widely used since antiquity, the latter finding application in our times in the successful treatment of acute promyelocytic leukaemia.
HACC
Authors: Habib Salman , Morozov Vitali , Frontiere Nicholas , Finkel Hal , Pope Adrian , Heitmann Katrin , Kumaran Kalyan , Vishwanath Venkatram , Peterka Tom , Insley Joe , Daniel David , Fasel Patricia , Lukić Zarija
Published: December 2016

Supercomputing is evolving toward hybrid and accelerator-based architectures with millions of cores. The Hardware/Hybrid Accelerated Cosmology Code (HACC) framework exploits this diverse landscape at the largest scales of problem size, obtaining high scalability and sustained performance. Developed to satisfy the science requirements of cosmological surveys, HACC melds particle and grid methods using a novel algorithmic structure that flexibly maps across architectures, including CPU/GPU, multi/many-core, and Blue Gene systems. In this Research Highlight, we demonstrate the success of HACC on two very different machines, the CPU/GPU system Titan and the BG/Q systems Sequoia and Mira, attaining very high levels of scalable performance. We demonstrate strong and weak scaling on Titan, obtaining up to 99.2% parallel efficiency, evolving 1.1 trillion particles. On Sequoia, we reach 13.94 PFlops (69.2% of peak) and 90% parallel efficiency on 1,572,864 cores, with 3.6 trillion particles, the largest cosmological benchmark yet performed. HACC design concepts are applicable to several other supercomputer applications.
Why less is more when it comes to internet jurisdiction
Authors: Geist Michael
Published: December 2016

Considering legal uncertainty in the online environment.
Plasma hyperosmolality improves tolerance to combined heat stress and central hypovolemia in humans
Authors: Gagnon Daniel , Romero Steven A. , Ngo Hai , Poh Paula Y. S. , Crandall Craig G.
Published: December 2016

Heat stress profoundly impairs tolerance to central hypovolemia in humans via a number of mechanisms including heat-induced hypovolemia. However, heat stress also elevates plasma osmolality; the effects of which on tolerance to central hypovolemia remain unknown. This study examined the effect of plasma hyperosmolality on tolerance to central hypovolemia in heat-stressed humans. With the use of a counterbalanced and crossover design, 12 subjects (1 female) received intravenous infusion of either 0.9% iso-osmotic (ISO) or 3.0% hyperosmotic (HYPER) saline. Subjects were subsequently heated until core temperature increased ~1.4°C, after which all subjects underwent progressive lower-body negative pressure (LBNP) to presyncope. Plasma hyperosmolality improved LBNP tolerance (ISO: 288 ± 193 vs. HYPER: 382 ± 145 mmHg × min, P = 0.04). However, no differences in mean arterial pressure ( P = 0.10), heart rate ( P = 0.09), or muscle sympathetic nerve activity ( P = 0.60, n = 6) were observed between conditions. When individual data were assessed, LBNP tolerance improved ≥25% in eight subjects but remained unchanged in the remaining four subjects. In subjects who exhibited improved LBNP tolerance, plasma hyperosmolality resulted in elevated mean arterial pressure (ISO: 62 ± 10 vs. HYPER: 72 ± 9 mmHg, P < 0.01) and a greater increase in heart rate (ISO: +12 ± 24 vs. HYPER: +23 ± 17 beats/min, P = 0.05) before presyncope. No differences in these variables were observed between conditions in subjects that did not improve LBNP tolerance (all P ≥ 0.55). These results suggest that plasma hyperosmolality improves tolerance to central hypovolemia during heat stress in most, but not all, individuals.
Dicer maintains the identity and function of proprioceptive sensory neurons
Authors: O’Toole Sean M. , Ferrer Monica M. , Mekonnen Jennifer , Zhang Haihan , Shima Yasuyuki , Ladle David R. , Nelson Sacha B.
Published: December 2016

Neuronal cell identity is established during development and must be maintained throughout an animal’s life (Fishell G, Heintz N. Neuron 80: 602–612, 2013). Transcription factors critical for establishing neuronal identity can be required for maintaining it (Deneris ES, Hobert O. Nat Neurosci 17: 899–907, 2014). Posttranscriptional regulation also plays an important role in neuronal differentiation (Bian S, Sun T. Mol Neurobiol 44: 359–373, 2011), but its role in maintaining cell identity is less established. To better understand how posttranscriptional regulation might contribute to cell identity, we examined the proprioceptive neurons in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), a highly specialized sensory neuron class, with well-established properties that distinguish them from other neurons in the ganglion. By conditionally ablating Dicer in mice, using parvalbumin (Pvalb)-driven Cre recombinase, we impaired posttranscriptional regulation in the proprioceptive sensory neuron population. Knockout (KO) animals display a progressive form of ataxia at the beginning of the fourth postnatal week that is accompanied by a cell death within the DRG. Before cell loss, expression profiling shows a reduction of proprioceptor specific genes and an increased expression of nonproprioceptive genes normally enriched in other ganglion neurons. Furthermore, although central connections of these neurons are intact, the peripheral connections to the muscle are functionally impaired. Posttranscriptional regulation is therefore necessary to retain the transcriptional identity and support functional specialization of the proprioceptive sensory neurons.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We have demonstrated that selectively impairing Dicer in parvalbumin-positive neurons, which include the proprioceptors, triggers behavioral changes, a lack of muscle connectivity, and a loss of transcriptional identity as observed through RNA sequencing. These results suggest that Dicer and, most likely by extension, microRNAs are crucially important for maintaining proprioception. Additionally, this study hints at the larger question of how neurons maintain their functional and molecular specificity.
Effect of Vision Therapy on Accommodation in Myopic Chinese Children
Authors: Ma Martin Ming-Leung , Scheiman Mitchell , Su Cuiyun , Chen Xiang
Published: December 2016

Introduction. We evaluated the effectiveness of office-based accommodative/vergence therapy (OBAVT) with home reinforcement to improve accommodative function in myopic children with poor accommodative response.Methods. This was a prospective unmasked pilot study. 14 Chinese myopic children aged 8 to 12 years with at least 1 D of lag of accommodation were enrolled. All subjects received 12 weeks of 60-minute office-based accommodative/vergence therapy (OBAVT) with home reinforcement. Primary outcome measure was the change in monocular lag of accommodation from baseline visit to 12-week visit measured by Shinnipon open-field autorefractor. Secondary outcome measures were the changes in accommodative amplitude and monocular accommodative facility.Results. All participants completed the study. The lag of accommodation at baseline visit was 1.29 ± 0.21 D and it was reduced to 0.84 ± 0.19 D at 12-week visit. This difference (−0.46 ± 0.22 D; 95% confidence interval: −0.33 to −0.58 D) is statistically significant (p<0.0001). OBAVT also increased the amplitude and facility by 3.66 ± 3.36 D (p=0.0013; 95% confidence interval: 1.72 to 5.60 D) and 10.9 ± 4.8 cpm (p<0.0001; 95% confidence interval: 8.1 to 13.6 cpm), respectively.Conclusion. Standardized 12 weeks of OBAVT with home reinforcement is able to significantly reduce monocular lag of accommodation and increase monocular accommodative amplitude and facility. A randomized clinical trial designed to investigate the effect of vision therapy on myopia progression is warranted.
Propagating Degrees of Freedom in f(R) Gravity
Authors: Myung Yun Soo
Published: December 2016

We have computed the number of polarization modes of gravitational waves propagating in the Minkowski background in f(R) gravity. These are three of two from transverse-traceless tensor modes and one from a massive trace mode, which confirms the results found in the literature. There is no massless breathing mode and the massive trace mode corresponds to the Ricci scalar. A newly defined metric tensor in f(R) gravity satisfies the transverse-traceless (TT) condition as well as the TT wave equation.
Associated Factors to Seroprevalence ofEhrlichiaspp. in Dogs of Quintana Roo, Mexico
Authors: Martínez-Vega Pedro Pablo , Bolio-Gonzalez Manuel Emilio , Rodríguez-Vivas Roger Iván , Gutierrez-Blanco Eduardo , Pérez-Osorio Carlos , Villegas-Perez Sandra Luz , Sauri-Arceo Carlos Humberto
Published: December 2016

The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence toEhrlichiaspp. in dogs from Xcalak, Quintana Roo, Mexico, and the associated factors. Serum samples were obtained from 118 dogs and used in an indirect immunofluorescent assay test for the detection of antibodies againstEhrlichiaspp. A questionnaire was used to obtain information about possible variables associated with seroprevalence. These variables were analyzed through Chi2test and logistic regression. Dog seroprevalence of antibodies againstEhrlichiaspp. was 64% (75/118). Fifty-two percent (61/118) of dogs had tick infestation which was identified asRhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato. Anemia was observed in 36% of dogs. Leucopenia (2.5%), thrombocytopenia (70%), and hemorrhage (14%) were also observed. Thirty-one percent (23/75) of dogs with anemia, 4% (3/75) of dogs with leucopenia, 80% (60/75) of dogs with thrombocytopenia, 17% (13/75) of dogs with hemorrhages, and 59% (44/75) of dogs with ticks were positive forEhrlichiaspp. antibodies. The factors associated with seroprevalence were age (1–3 and >3 years old, OR = 7.77 and OR = 15.39, resp.), tick infestation (OR = 3.13), and thrombocytopenia (OR = 3.36). In conclusion, seroprevalence ofEhrlichiaspp. was high in the community of Xcalak and its associated factors were age, tick infestation, and thrombocytopenia.
The Role of Metals in the Reaction Catalyzed by Metal-Ion-Independent Bacillary RNase
Authors: Sokurenko Yulia , Ulyanova Vera , Zelenikhin Pavel , Kolpakov Alexey , Blokhin Dmitriy , Müller Dieter , Klochkov Vladimir , Ilinskaya Olga
Published: December 2016

Extracellular enzymes of intestinal microbiota are the key agents that affect functional activity of the body as they directly interact with epithelial and immune cells. Several species of theBacillusgenus, likeBacillus pumilus, a common producer of extracellular RNase binase, can populate the intestinal microbiome as a colonizing organism. Without involving metal ions as cofactors, binase depolymerizes RNA by cleaving the 3′,5′-phosphodiester bond and generates 2′,3′-cyclic guanosine phosphates in the first stage of a catalytic reaction. Maintained in the reaction mixture for more than one hour, such messengers can affect the human intestinal microflora and the human body. In the present study, we found that the rate of 2′,3′-cGMP was growing in the presence of transition metals that stabilized the RNA structure. At the same time, transition metal ions only marginally reduced the amount of 2′,3′-cGMP, blocking binase recognition sites of guanine at N7 of nucleophilic purine bases.
Chitosan as an Immunomodulating Adjuvant on T-Cells and Antigen-Presenting Cells in Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Infection
Authors: Choi Bunsoon , Jo Do-Hyun , Anower A. K. M. Mostafa , Islam S. M. Shamsul , Sohn Seonghyang
Published: December 2016

Herpes disease caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is an intractable condition. It is a major concern in public health. Our purpose of this study was to verify the function of chitosan as an adjuvant for immune regulation specifically under herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection. Ahead of HSV infection, chitosan, heat inactivated green fluorescent protein expressing HSV (G-HSV), and a combination of chitosan and G-HSV were used to pretreat ICR mice followed by HSV-1 infection. Using flow cytometric analysis, the frequencies of T-cells, monocytes, dendritic cells (DCs), and natural killer (NK) cells were analyzed by surface expression ofCD4+,CD8+,CD14+,CD11c+,NK1.1+, andDX5+cells. In HSV infected mice, chitosan treatment significantly increased the frequencies ofCD4+T-cells (33.6±5.78%) compared to those in the control group (24.02±12.47%,p=0.05). The frequencies of DC and NK cells were also significantly different between chitosan treated mice and control mice. In addition, anti-HSV IgG antibody was downregulated in chitosan treated mice. These results suggest that chitosan is a potential modulator or immune stimulator as an adjuvant in HSV-1 infected mice.
Recent Advances in Microwave Imaging for Breast Cancer Detection
Authors: Kwon Sollip , Lee Seungjun
Published: December 2016

Breast cancer is a disease that occurs most often in female cancer patients. Early detection can significantly reduce the mortality rate. Microwave breast imaging, which is noninvasive and harmless to human, offers a promising alternative method to mammography. This paper presents a review of recent advances in microwave imaging for breast cancer detection. We conclude by introducing new research on a microwave imaging system with time-domain measurement that achieves short measurement time and low system cost. In the time-domain measurement system, scan time would take less than 1 sec, and it does not require very expensive equipment such as VNA.
Development of a Master Sintering Curve for Al-Mg Alloy
Authors: Lee Yong-Shin , Lee Sang-Jun , Lee Sangmok , Kim Eung-Zu , Yoon Duck Jae
Published: December 2016

A new master sintering curve (MSC) is proposed for Al-Mg alloy in order to effectively design the pressure-assisted sintering process. In this work, hot pressing experiments of Al-Mg alloy powders are performed. The changes of relative density during hot pressing are measured for the various heating rates of 5°C/min, 10°C/min, and 20°C/min at the fixed pressure of 50 MPa. A work of sintering, designated as Θ, is introduced and defined as Θ(t,T)=∫0t1/Texp-Q/RTdt. A work of sintering, Θ, could be interpreted as a measure for the amount of sintering work. The MSC in this work defines the relation between the apparent density and a work of sintering, Θ. Since the measurement of an apparent activation energy, Q, is very difficult, the correct value of Q is obtained numerically using a mean residual square method. Then, the master sintering curves for sintering of Al-Mg alloy powders are proposed for the sintering temperatures of 400°C and 500°C through scaling procedures. It is expected that the master sintering curves proposed in this work could help an engineer to design pressure-assisted sintering process for Al-Mg alloy.
Successful Closed Reduction of a Lateral Elbow Dislocation
Authors: Watanabe Kenya , Fukuzawa Takuma , Mitsui Katsuhiro
Published: December 2016

In this report, we present a case of lateral elbow dislocation treated with closed reduction. Lateral elbow dislocation is rare, and a closed reduction is reported with even less frequency. The reduction can be hindered by swelling and soft tissue interposition, and we describe the use of a nonoperative reduction technique performed under mild sedation with early physiotherapy to avoid joint stiffness. No additional complication was observed, and the normal range of elbow movement and function was obtained by early physiotherapy.
Exploring New Inflammatory Biomarkers and Pathways during LPS-Induced M1 Polarization
Authors: Cunha Carolina , Gomes Cátia , Vaz Ana Rita , Brites Dora
Published: December 2016

Identification of mediators triggering microglia activation and transference of noncoding microRNA (miRNA) into exosomes are critical to dissect the mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration. We used lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced N9 microglia activation to explore new biomarkers/signaling pathways and to identify inflammatory miRNA (inflamma-miR) in cells and their derived exosomes. Upregulation of iNOS and MHC-II (M1-markers) and downregulation of arginase 1, FIZZ1 (M2-markers), and CX3CR1 (M0/M2 polarization) confirmed the switch of N9 LPS-treated cells into the M1 phenotype, as described for macrophages/microglia. Cells showed increased proliferation, activated TLR4/TLR2/NF-κB pathway, and enhanced phagocytosis, further corroborated by upregulated MFG-E8. We found NLRP3-inflammasome activation in these cells, probably accounting for the increased extracellular content of the cytokine HMGB1 and of the MMP-9 we have observed. We demonstrate for the first time that the inflamma-miR profiling (upregulated miR-155 and miR-146a plus downregulated miR-124) in M1 polarized N9 cells, noticed by others in activated macrophages/microglia, was replicated in their derived exosomes, likely regulating the inflammatory response of recipient cells and dissemination processes. Data show that LPS-treated N9 cells behave like M1 polarized microglia/macrophages, while providing new targets for drug discovery. In particular, the study yields novel insights into the exosomal circulating miRNA during neuroinflammation important for emerging therapeutic approaches targeting microglia activation.
IgE-Related Chronic Diseases and Anti-IgE-Based Treatments
Authors: Navinés-Ferrer Arnau , Serrano-Candelas Eva , Molina-Molina Gustavo-J , Martín Margarita
Published: December 2016

IgE is an immunoglobulin that plays a central role in acute allergic reactions and chronic inflammatory allergic diseases. The development of a drug able to neutralize this antibody represents a breakthrough in the treatment of inflammatory pathologies with a probable allergic basis. This review focuses on IgE-related chronic diseases, such as allergic asthma and chronic urticaria (CU), and on the role of the anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, omalizumab, in their treatment. We also assess the off-label use of omalizumab for other pathologies associated with IgE and report the latest findings concerning this drug and other new related drugs. To date, omalizumab has only been approved for severe allergic asthma and unresponsive chronic urticaria treatments. In allergic asthma, omalizumab has demonstrated its efficacy in reducing the dose of inhaled corticosteroids required by patients, decreasing the number of asthma exacerbations, and limiting the effect on airway remodeling. In CU, omalizumab treatment rapidly improves symptoms and in some cases achieves complete disease remission. In systemic mastocytosis, omalizumab also improves symptoms and its prophylactic use to prevent anaphylactic reactions has also been discussed. In other pathologies such as atopic dermatitis, food allergy, allergic rhinitis, nasal polyposis, and keratoconjunctivitis, omalizumab significantly improves clinical manifestations. Omalizumab acts in two ways: by sequestering free IgE and by accelerating the dissociation of the IgE-Fcεreceptor I complex.
Comparison of Model Systems (M+)n·[CrX63−] and M3CrX6+ 18MX Based on Quantum-Chemical Calculations (X: F, Cl)
Authors: Kremenetsky Vyacheslav , Kuznetsov Sergey
Published: December 2016

On the basis of quantum-chemical calculations the most stable particle compositions are estimated in such model systems as (M+)n·[CrCl6] and M3CrCl6+ 18MCl (M = Na, K, and Cs). In all systems these particles are positively charged. For systems (M+)n·[CrCl6], (M+)n·[CrF6], M3CrF6+ 18MCl, M3CrF6+ 18MF, and M3CrCl6+ 18MCl (M = Na, K, and Cs) a number of energy parameters characterizing the state of the system before and after electron transfer are calculated. The results indicate the possibility of electron transfer from the cathode to the melt system, which is in the initial state. However, this possibility cannot be realized in systems where LUMOs (lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals) have purely ligand character. In this case, the preliminary deformation of a cationic shell of electroactive species is required; it transforms the initial system to the transition state. However, in all considered systems the search of the transition state should be carried close to the initial statePi. This greatly simplifies a problem and transforms it from a purely theoretical sphere to the field of practical tasks that do not require exceptional cost of computer time.
Cerebral Hemodynamics and Cognitive Function in Cirrhotic Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Zhou Yuqing , Dong Qian , Zhang Rong , Zhou Shunfeng , Li Linqiang , Cheng Keran , Kong Rui , Yu Qiang , Xu Shizan , Li Jingjing , Li Sainan , Feng Jiao , Wu Liwei , Liu Tong , Lu Xiya , Chen Kan , Xia Yujing , Lu Jie , Zhou Yingqun , Guo Chuanyong
Published: December 2016

Aims.To investigate cerebral hemodynamics in cirrhotic patients with HE and to observe effects of treatment in cerebral hemodynamics and correlations among ammonia, cerebral hemodynamics, and cognitive function.Methods. There were four groups: healthy controls (group 1), cirrhosis without HE (group 2), cirrhosis with MHE (group 3), and cirrhosis with OHE (group 4). Ammonia and cerebral hemodynamics (by TCD) were assessed. Patients in group 3 were subsequently randomized to two subgroups: the control (group A) and the treated (group B, treated with lactulose for two months), and they were retested for ammonia and TCD after treatment. Results. Ammonia,Vm,Vd, PI, and RI were statistically different before treatment, and ammonia, PI, and RI levels paralleled the severity of HE (P<0.05). In group B,Vdincreased and ammonia, PI, and RI declined following treatment (P<0.05), while there were no differences in group A (P>0.05). Correlations were found between ammonia andVd, PI, RI, NCT-A, and DST and also found betweenVd, PI, RI, and NCT-A and DST (P<0.05).Conclusions. This study revealed that cerebral hemodynamics were related to the severity of HE and cerebral autoregulation was impaired. There were tight correlations among ammonia, cerebral hemodynamics, and cognitive function, and, following treatment, cerebral hemodynamics improved.
Increase in the Risk of Respiratory Disorders in Adults and Children Related to Crop-Growing in Niger
Authors: Mamane Ali , Tessier Jean-François , Bouvier Ghislaine , Salamon Roger , Lebailly Pierre , Raherison Chantal , Baldi Isabelle
Published: December 2016

Background and Objective. Environmental factors are an increasing concern for respiratory health in developing countries. The objective of this study was to investigate whether Nigerien people living in cultivated areas have more respiratory symptoms than those living in pastoral areas. Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2013 in two populations during the rainy season when land is cultivated. Environmental factors including pesticide use and respiratory symptoms were collected in adults and children during face-to-face interviews. Multivariate analysis between exposures and symptoms was performed in children and in adults separately. Results. The study included 471 adults and 229 children. Overall, none of the households reported the use of pesticides for agricultural purposes. However, 87.2% reported the use of insecticides at home. Multivariate analysis showed that people living in agricultural areas compared to those in pastoral areas had an increased risk of respiratory symptoms in adults (wheezing, dyspnea, sudden shortness of breath, and cough without fever) and in children (cough without fever). The use of insecticides showed no effect on respiratory symptoms after adjustment. Conclusion. This first epidemiological study on the environment and respiratory health conducted in Niger demonstrates a significant relationship between respiratory manifestations and the agricultural characteristics of the living area. However only the effect of insecticides in the home on respiratory health was observed.