bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early real-world evidence of persistence on oral anticoagulants for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation: a cohort study in UK primary care
Authors: Johnson Michelle E , Lefèvre Cinira , Collings Shuk-Li , Evans David , Kloss Sebastian , Ridha Essra , Maguire Andrew
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To examine the characteristics and persistence in patients newly initiated with oral anticoagulants (OACs) for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF).

Design

Cohort study in Clinical Practice Research Datalink.

Setting

UK primary care.

Participants

15 242 patients with NVAF newly prescribed apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran or vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) between 1 December 2012 and 31 October 2014. 13 089 patients were OAC naïve.

Outcome measures

Patient characteristics and risk of non-persistence compared to apixaban using Cox regression models over the entire follow-up and using a time-partitioned approach to handle non-proportional hazards.

Results

Among the OAC naïve patients, VKAs were most common (78.1%, n=10 218), followed by rivaroxaban (12.1%, n=1589), dabigatran (5.7%, n=741) and apixaban (4.1%, n=541). High baseline stroke risk (CHA2DS2VASc ≥2) ranged from 80.2% (dabigatran) to 88.4% (apixaban and rivaroxaban). History of stroke and bleeding was the highest among apixaban (23.7% and 31.6%) and lowest among VKA patients (15.9% and 27.5%). Across the entire follow-up period, adjusting for differences in characteristics, there was no evidence of a difference in non-persistence between VKA and apixaban (HR 0.92 (95% CI 0.68 to 1.23)). Non-persistence was higher with dabigatran (HR 1.67 (1.20 to 2.32)) and rivaroxaban (HR 1.41 (1.02 to 1.93)) than apixaban. Using the partitioned approach, non-persistence was lower with VKA (HR 0.33 (0.22 to 0.48)), and higher with dabigatran (HR 1.65 (1.08 to 2.52)) compared to apixaban in the first 2 months of follow-up. After 2 months, non-persistence was higher with VKA (HR 1.70 (1.08 to 2.66)) and dabigatran (HR 2.10 (1.30 to 3.41)). Pooling OAC naïve and experienced patients, non-persistence was also higher with rivaroxaban compared to apixaban after 2 months of follow-up (HR 1.69 (1.19 to 2.39)).

Conclusions

Observed differential prescribing of OACs can result in channelling bias in comparative effectiveness research. Persistence patterns changed over follow-up time, but there are indications of improved persistence rates with apixaban over other OACs in the UK. A larger study with longer follow-up is needed to corroborate findings. This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02488421).
Qualitative study of the clinician–parent interface in discussing prognosis following MRI and US imaging of preterm infants in the UK
Authors: Harvey M E , Redshaw M E
Published: September 2016

Objective

To explore communication and interaction between parents and clinicians following neonatal ultrasound (US) and MRI of the brain of babies born preterm.

Setting

This qualitative study was undertaken as part of a larger UK study of neonatal brain imaging. 511 infants were cared for in 14 London neonatal units with MR and cerebral US imaging in a specialist centre.

Participants

Parents with infants born at <33 weeks gestation were randomised to receive prognostic information based on either MRI or US findings on their infants at term-corrected age.

Methods

Discussions between parents and clinicians about the MRI or US result were audio recorded. Parents were told about the findings and their baby's predicted outcome. A topic guide ensured essential aspects were covered. Recordings were fully transcribed. Discussion of the scan results, the content and style of the interaction and parental response were analysed qualitatively in 36 recordings using NVivo V.10.

Outcomes

Key themes and subthemes were identified in the clinician–parent discussions.

Results

The overarching theme of ‘the communication interface’ was identified with three key themes: ‘giving information’, ‘managing the conversation’ and ‘getting it right’ and further subthemes. A range of approaches were used to facilitate parental understanding and engagement. There were differences in the exchanges when information about an abnormal scan was given. The overall structure of the discussions was largely similar, though the language used varied. In all of the discussions, the clinicians talked more than the parents.

Conclusions

The discussions represent a difficult situation in which the challenge is to give and receive complex prognostic information in the context of considerable uncertainty. The study highlights the importance of being able to re-visit specific issues and any potential areas of misunderstanding, of making time to talk to parents appreciating their perspective and level of knowledge.

Trial registration number

EudraCT 2009-013888-19; Pre-results.
Educational inequalities in premature mortality in Poland, 2002–2011: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Pikala Małgorzata , Burzyn´ska Monika , Pikala Robert , Bryła Marek , Maniecka-Bryła Irena
Published: September 2016

Background

The aim of the study is to evaluate the differences in premature mortality between educational groups of Polish inhabitants in 2002 and 2011.

Methods

The analysis included all deaths among inhabitants of Poland, aged 25–64 years, which occurred in 2002 (N=97 004) and 2011 (N=104 598). We calculated age-standardised death rates (SDRs) and summary measures on inequalities. The relative index of inequality (RII) was calculated with Poisson regression.

Results

The SDR for Poland decreased from 285.7 per 100 000 in 2002 to 246.0 in 2011 among males with higher education and increased from 1141.0 in 2002 to 1183.0 in 2011 among males with lower secondary or less education (the rate ratio increased from 4.0 to 4.8). With regard to females with higher education, the SDR decreased from 127.2 per 100 000 in 2002 to 115.6 in 2011. Among females with lower secondary or less education, the SDR increased from 375.8 per 100 000 in 2002 to 423.1 in 2011 (the rate ratio increased from 3.0 to 3.7). The RII increased from 5.8 to 9.7 in the male group and from 4.4 to 8.3 in the female group. The greatest educational inequalities in 2011 were observed in females who died of cardiovascular diseases (RII=14.9) and lung cancer (RII=6.6) and in males who died of suicides (RII=19.3) and lung cancer (RII=11.9).

Conclusions

Educational inequalities in premature mortality in Poland are growing. There is a need to implement health education programmes targeted at groups of the most poorly educated Polish inhabitants, especially for diseases resulting from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Female genital cosmetic surgery: a cross-sectional survey exploring knowledge, attitude and practice of general practitioners
Authors: Simonis M , Manocha R , Ong J J
Published: September 2016

Objective

To explore general practitioner's (GP) knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding female genital cosmetic surgery (FGCS) in Australia.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Australia.

Sample

GPs who attended a women's health seminar and GPs who subscribed to a non-governmental, national health professional organisation database that provides education to primary care professionals.

Method

A national online survey of GPs was conducted for the 10-week period, starting 1 week prior and 2 months after a Women's Health seminar was held in Perth on 8 August 2015. 31 questions prompted GPs' knowledge, attitudes and practice in managing patients asking about FGCS.

Results

The survey was fully completed by 443 GPs; 54% had seen patients requesting FGCS. Overall, 75% (95% CI 71% to 79%) of GPs rated their knowledge of FGCS as inadequate and 97% (95% CI 94% to 99%) had been asked by women of all ages about genital normality. Of those who had seen patients requesting FGCS, nearly half (44%, 95% CI 38% to 51%) reported they had insufficient knowledge of risks of FGCS procedures and 35% (95% CI 29% to 41%) reported seeing females younger than 18 years of age requesting FGCS. Just over half (56%, 95% CI 51% to 60%) of the GPs felt that women should be counselled before making a referral for FGCS. More than half the GPs suspected psychological disturbances in their patients requesting FGCS such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and body dysmorphic disorder.

Conclusions

GPs see women of all ages presenting with genital anatomy concerns and in those who request FGCS, GPs often suspected a range of mental health difficulties. GPs require greater education to support their patients who request FGCS.
Physical activity among medical students in Southern Thailand: a mixed methods study
Authors: Wattanapisit Apichai , Fungthongcharoen Krittanu , Saengow Udomsak , Vijitpongjinda Surasak
Published: September 2016

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of physical activity (PA) and factors influencing PA behaviours among medical students in Southern Thailand.

Design

The study implemented a mixed methods approach. The sequential design consisted of 2 phases: a survey followed by in-depth interviews.

Setting

The study was conducted in the 3 campuses of a medical school in Southern Thailand. The preclinical students (years 1–3) studied general and basic science subjects at Nakhon Si Thammarat campus. The clinical students (years 4–6) received clinical training and hospital attachments at Trang or Phuket campuses. Total number of students was 285, with 46–48 students in each class. The study was conducted from September 2015 to February 2016.

Participants

Participants were medical students, 18 years old and above, from 3 campuses without disabilities or medical conditions which limited their ability to perform PA.

Outcome measures

The prevalence of the recommended levels of PA was measured using Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). The association between the demographic data and the recommended PA levels were analysed by univariate and multivariate analysis. In-depth interviews and thematic analysis were completed to explore PA behaviours.

Results

A total of 279 (response rate 97.9%) medical students participated in the study. Approximately half (49.5%) of the participants were physically active. The median total energy use was 540 metabolic equivalent-min/week (range 0–5640). Male and preclinical students were more likely to be physically active (p<0.05). Twenty-four in-depth interviews were conducted. Supportive factors included social support from friends and families. Study-related activities and overtime shift work were barriers.

Conclusions

More than half of the medical students have insufficient PA because of study-related activities and overtime shift work. Future studies should focus on finding ways to improve PA in clinical and female students in Thailand.
How stressful is the Newborn Life Support airway test? An observational study
Authors: Holme Nicola , Harrison Catherine , Newland Paul , Shaw Ben N J
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To determine whether there is a significant stress response to the Newborn Life Support airway test (NLSAT) among healthcare professionals in the UK.

Design

Quantitative study measuring both stress and anxiety of candidates on Newborn Life Support (NLS) courses measuring salivary cortisol levels along with validated anxiety questionnaires (State Trait Anxiety Inventory).

Setting

UK NLS course centres.

Participants

80 healthcare professionals (nurses, doctors and midwives) on NLS courses.

Interventions

Stress levels measured (cortisol swabs and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)) at baseline, immediately before and 20 min after starting the NLSAT.

Results

Cortisol measurements failed to detect any significant rise in stress levels as a result of the NLSAT. Significant anxiety was induced by the NLSAT based on STAI scores. STAI scores rose significantly in all professionals from baseline to post-NLSAT, with the greatest change detected for midwives (+11.82 (SD 7.64, p<0.001)) compared with nurses (+8.86 (SD 12.1, p<0.001)) and doctors (+7.96 (SD 2.9.69, p<0.001)). Experience had no impact on stress levels.

Conclusions

Anxiety levels induced by the NLSAT are significant and should be considered when instructing and developing the NLS course.
Off-label use of the Angioseal vascular closure device for femoral arteriotomy: retrospective analysis of safety and efficacy
Authors: Shah Sumedh S , Perez Giancarlo , Snelling Brian M , Haussen Diogo C , Sur Samir , Sharma Ishna , Yavagal Dileep R , Elhammady Mohamed Samy , Peterson Eric C
Published: September 2016

Background

Angioseal, an arteriotomy closure device (ACD), functions as a collagen plug that physically closes arteriotomy sites and can simultaneously induce platelet activation and aggregation. When used ‘on-label’, the safety and efficacy profile of Angioseal is superior compared with those of other ACDs. However, Angioseal is sometimes deployed in less than ideal situations. Therefore, we sought to assess the safety and efficacy of ‘off-label’ Angioseal use in patients undergoing femoral arteriotomies.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of all femoral arterial angiograms executed at our institution between 2008 and 2014. Patients whose femoral punctures did not fit the criteria for on-label Angioseal use were included, and were dichotomized based on vascular closure (off-label Angioseal vs manual compression).

Results

Of the 521 patients (1023 angiograms) reviewed, 303 (58.2%) patients had off-label Angioseal groin punctures. Mean patient age was 46.2±14.0 years, and 113 were men. 234 patients (77%) had off-label Angioseal deployment while 69 (22%) individuals received manual pressure, serving as controls. Demographic and procedural variables were nearly identical between the two groups but the Angioseal group comprised mostly patients that underwent neurointerventional procedures and thus received intraprocedural heparinization (41%) more often than the manual compression group (19%). The overall rate of major complications associated with off-label Angioseal deployment was low (<0.85%), and clinical complications were not independently associated with Angioseal use (OR 0.76 (95% CI 0.06 to 8.86); p=0.69).

Conclusions

Off-label use of Angioseal was found to be safe and was not associated with an increased complication rate in our cohort.
Mast cells and acute coronary syndromes: relationship between serum tryptase, clinical outcome and severity of coronary artery disease
Authors: Morici Nuccia , Farioli Laura , Losappio Laura Michelina , Colombo Giulia , Nichelatti Michele , Preziosi Donatella , Micarelli Gianluigi , Oliva Fabrizio , Giannattasio Cristina , Klugmann Silvio , Pastorello Elide Anna
Published: September 2016

Objective

To assess the relationship between serum tryptase and the occurrence of major cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) at 2-year follow-up in patients admitted with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). To compare serum tryptase to other validated prognostic markers (maximum high-sensitivity troponin (hs-Tn), C reactive protein (CRP) levels at admission, Synergy between percutaneous coronary intervention with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) score).

Methods

We measured serum tryptase at admission in 140 consecutive patients with ACS and in 50 healthy controls. The patients’ follow-up was maintained for 2 years after discharge. The predictive accuracy of serum tryptase for 2-year MACCE was assessed and compared with hs-Tn, CRP and SYNTAX score.

Results

Serum tryptase levels at admission were significantly higher in patients with ACS compared with the control group (p=0.0351). 2 years after discharge, 28/140 patients (20%) experienced MACCE. Serum tryptase levels, maximum hs-Tn measurements and SYNTAX score were higher in patients who experienced MACCE compared with those without (p<0.0001). Conversely, we found no significant association between MACCE and CRP. The predictive accuracy of serum tryptase for MACCE was set at the cut-off point of 6.7 ng/mL (sensitivity 46%, specificity 84%).

Conclusions

In patients with ACS, serum tryptase measured during index admission is significantly correlated to the development of MACCE up to 2 years, demonstrating a possible long-term prognostic role of this biomarker.
Accelerometer thresholds: Accounting for body mass reduces discrepancies between measures of physical activity for individuals with overweight and obesity
Authors: Raiber Lilian , Christensen Rebecca A.G. , Jamnik Veronica K. , Kuk Jennifer L.
Published: September 2016

The objective of this study was to explore whether accelerometer thresholds that are adjusted to account for differences in body mass influence discrepancies between self-report and accelerometer-measured physical activity (PA) volume for individuals with overweight and obesity. We analyzed 6164 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2003–2006. Established accelerometer thresholds were adjusted to account for differences in body mass to produce a similar energy expenditure (EE) rate as individuals with normal weight. Moderate-, vigorous-, and moderate- to vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA) durations were measured using established and adjusted accelerometer thresholds and compared with self-report. Durations of self-report were longer than accelerometer-measured MVPA using established thresholds (normal weight: 57.8 ± 2.4 vs 9.0 ± 0.5 min/day, overweight: 56.1 ± 2.7 vs 7.4 ± 0.5 min/day, and obesity: 46.5 ± 2.2 vs 3.7 ± 0.3 min/day). Durations of subjective and objective PA were negatively associated with body mass index (BMI) (P < 0.05). Using adjusted thresholds increased MVPA durations, and reduced discrepancies between accelerometer and self-report measures for overweight and obese groups by 6.0 ± 0.3 min/day and 17.7 ± 0.8 min/day, respectively (P < 0.05). Using accelerometer thresholds that represent equal EE rates across BMI categories reduced the discrepancies between durations of subjective and objective PA for overweight and obese groups. However, accelerometer-measured PA generally remained shorter than durations of self-report within all BMI categories. Further research may be necessary to improve analytical approaches when using objective measures of PA for individuals with overweight or obesity.
A nutritional evaluation of common barley varieties grown for silage by beef and dairy producers in western Canada
Authors: Nair Jayakrishnan , Christensen David , Yu Peiqiang , Beattie Aaron D. , McAllister Tim , Damiran Daalkhaijav , Preston Natalie , Fuhr Leland , McKinnon John J.
Published: September 2016

This study evaluated the nutritional and neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) characteristics of seven barley varieties (‘Conlon’, ‘CDC Copeland’, ‘CDC Cowboy’, ‘Falcon’, ‘Legacy’, ‘AC Metcalfe’, and ‘Xena’) grown for silage. Commercial samples (n = 80) harvested at the mid-dough stage were collected over 2 years (2012 and 2013). Average pH and dry matter (DM) content were 4.05% ± 0.17% and 36.8% ± 4.1%, respectively. ‘Falcon’ and ‘AC Metcalfe’ had higher (P < 0.05) CP relative to ‘CDC Copeland’ and ‘Xena’, with intermediate values for the other varieties. Acid (ADF) and neutral (NDF) detergent fiber contents were higher (P < 0.05) for ‘CDC Cowboy’ relative to ‘Conlon’. Starch was higher (P < 0.05) for ‘Legacy’ and ‘Conlon’ than ‘CDC Cowboy’, with intermediate values for other varieties. Legacy had a greater (P < 0.05) 6-h NDFD while ‘CDC Cowboy’ had a greater (P < 0.05) 30-h NDFD. Indigestible NDF (INDF; % NDF) was greater (P < 0.05) for ‘AC Metcalfe’ relative to ‘CDC Cowboy’ and ‘Falcon’. These results indicate that barley varieties vary with respect to chemical composition and NDFD and INDF contents. Selection for higher 30-h NDFD could result in improvements in DM and DE intake and performance of growing beef cattle.
Binding interaction between 2-methoxy-5-fluoro phenyl boronic acid and sugars: Effect of structural change of sugars on binding affinity
Authors: Bhavya P. , Melavanki R.M. , Nagaraja D. , Geethanjali H.S. , Kusanur R.A. , Manjunatha M.N.
Published: September 2016

The binding interaction of 2-methoxy-5-fluoro phenyl boronic acid with various sugars like dextrose, arabinose, xylose, sucrose, and lactose is investigated in aqueous medium at pH 7.4 using the fluorescence spectroscopic method. Fluorescence intensity is reduced upon addition of sugars. The change in the intensity is attributed to breaking of intramolecular hydrogen bonding and to the lesser stability of boronic ester. Data are analyzed using the Benesi–Hildebrand equation and Lineweaver–Burk equation. The estimated binding constants are greater in mono sugars arabinose and xylose. The fact that a structural change in sugar arises due to mutarotation plays a major role in binding interactions. The furanose form of the sugar is found to be more favoured for binding.
Strong coupling constant from Adler function in lattice QCD
Authors: Hudspith Renwick J. , Lewis Randy , Maltman Kim , Shintani Eigo
Published: September 2016

We compute the QCD coupling constant, [Formula: see text], from the Adler function with vector hadronic vacuum polarization (HVP) function. On the lattice, Adler function can be measured by the differential of HVP at two different momentum scales. HVP is measured from the conserved-local vector current correlator using nf = 2 + 1 flavor Domain Wall lattice data with three different lattice cutoffs, up to a[Formula: see text] 3.14 GeV. To avoid the lattice artifact due to O(4) symmetry breaking, we set the cylinder cut on the lattice momentum with reflection projection onto vector current correlator, and it then provides smooth function of momentum scale for extracted HVP. We present a global fit of the lattice data at a justified momentum scale with three lattice cutoffs using continuum perturbation theory at [Formula: see text] to obtain the coupling in the continuum limit at arbitrary scale. We take the running to Z boson mass through the appropriate thresholds, and obtain [Formula: see text](MZ) = 0.1191(24)(37) where the first is statistical error and the second is systematic one.
Extended scalar–tensor theory and thermodynamics in teleparallel framework
Authors: Salti Mustafa , Aydogdu Oktay , Acikgoz Irfan
Published: September 2016

We present here a new modified gravitation theory for the galactic dark energy effect by using a general Lagrangian density which is represented by an arbitrary function f(T, [Formula: see text], X) where T describes the torsion scalar in teleparallel gravity while X shows the kinetic scalar field energy. While the function is in general form, once reduced, the model can be transformed into some of the other well-known gravitation theories. After deriving the corresponding field equations and considering the flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker type universe which is filled with ordinary cosmic matter, we discuss both the non-equilibrium and equilibrium profiles of galactic thermodynamics. We find that there exists an equilibrium picture of thermodynamics. Additionally, we also generalize ordinary f(T, [Formula: see text], X) model’s action to the case in which there exists an interaction between the chameleon and scalar fields.
The Hartman effect in graphene systems
Authors: Esmailpour Mohammad , Mohammadpour Hakimeh , Hadavifar Hamideh
Published: September 2016

The present paper investigates that the tunneling time for bilayer graphene potential barrier with monolayer graphene leads to all range of energy. Numerical results reveal that parameters such as the incident energy and angle plays a significant role in inducing of the Hartman effect. In contrast to single-layer graphene, in the bilayer graphene, due to the chirality of quasi-particles induction of Klein and Hartman effects occur in the normal incidence case. Moreover, it is demonstrated that even for energy levels above barrier, the Hartman effect is present.
The global non-blow-up of the Yang–Mills curvature on curved space-times
Authors: Ghanem Sari
Published: September 2016

We give a proof of the non-blow-up of the Yang–Mills curvature on arbitrary curved space-times using the Klainerman–Rodnianski parametrix combined with suitable Grönwall type inequalities. While the Chruściel–Shatah argument requires a control on two derivatives of the Yang–Mills curvature, we can get away by controlling only one derivative instead, and we propose a new gauge-independent proof on sufficiently smooth, globally hyperbolic, curved 4-dimensional Lorentzian manifolds.
On the Cauchy problem for scalar conservation laws in the class of Besicovitch almost periodic functions: Global well-posedness and decay property
Authors: Panov Evgeny Yu.
Published: September 2016

We study the Cauchy problem for a multidimensional scalar conservation law with merely continuous flux vector in the class of Besicovitch almost periodic functions. The existence and uniqueness of entropy solutions are established. We also uncover the necessary and sufficient condition for the decay of almost periodic entropy solutions as the time variable [Formula: see text]. Our results are then interpreted in the framework of conservation laws on the Bohr compact.
The nephron (pro)renin receptor: function and significance
Authors: Ramkumar Nirupama , Kohan Donald E.
Published: September 2016

The (pro)renin receptor (PRR) is a multifunctional protein that is part of the renin-angiotensin system and is an important accessory molecule for the vacuolar H+-ATPase. The PRR is widely expressed in the kidney with relatively high abundance in the distal nephron. Determining the physiological relevance of the PRR has been challenging due to early lethality in whole animal and cell-specific PRR knockout models. Recently, viable renal cell-specific PRR knockout mice have been developed; these studies suggest that PRR in the nephron can modulate renal function via angiotensin II (ANG II)-dependent and -independent cell signaling pathways. In this mini-review, we highlight new developments in nephron PRR function in health and in pathophysiological conditions.
Structural determinants of NH3 and NH4+ transport by mouse Rhbg, a renal Rh glycoprotein
Authors: Abdulnour-Nakhoul Solange , Le Trang , Rabon Edd , Hamm L. Lee , Nakhoul Nazih L.
Published: September 2016

Renal Rhbg is localized to the basolateral membrane of intercalated cells and is involved in NH3/NH4+ transport. The structure of Rhbg is not yet resolved; however, a high-resolution crystal structure of AmtB, a bacterial homolog of Rh, has been determined. We aligned the sequence of Rhbg to that of AmtB and identified important sites of Rhbg that may affect transport. Our analysis positioned three conserved amino acids, histidine 183 (H183), histidine 342 (H342), and tryptophan 230 (W230), within the hydrophobic pore where they presumably serve to control NH3 transport. A fourth residue, phenylalanine 128 (F128) was positioned at the upper vestibule, presumably contributing to recruitment of NH4+. We generated three mutations each of H183, H342, W230, and F128 and expressed them in frog oocytes. Immunolabeling showed that W230 and F128 mutants were localized to the cell membrane, whereas H183 and H342 staining was diffuse and mostly intracellular. To determine function, we compared measurements of NH3/NH4+ and methyl amine (MA)/methyl ammonium (MA+)-induced currents, intracellular pH, and surface pH (pHs) among oocytes expressing the mutants, Rhbg, or injected with H2O. In H183 and W230 mutants, NH4+-induced current and intracellular acidification were inhibited compared with that of Rhbg, and MA-induced intracellular alkalinization was completely absent. Expression of H183A or W230A mutants inhibited NH3/NH4+- and MA/MA+-induced decrease in pHs to the level observed in H2O-injected oocytes. Mutations of F128 did not significantly affect transport of NH3 or NH4+. These data demonstrated that mutating H183 or W230 caused loss of function but not F128. H183 and H342 may affect membrane expression of the transporter.
Transmission of auditory sensory information decreases in rate and temporal precision at the endbulb of Held synapse during age-related hearing loss
Authors: Xie Ruili
Published: September 2016

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is largely attributed to structural changes and functional declines in the peripheral auditory system, which include synaptopathy at the inner hair cell/spiral ganglion cell (SGC) connection and the loss of SGCs. However, functional changes at the central terminals of SGCs, namely the auditory nerve synapses in the cochlear nucleus, are not yet fully understood during ARHL. With the use of young (1–3 mo) and old (25–30 mo) CBA/CaJ mice, this study evaluated the intrinsic properties of the bushy neurons postsynaptic to the endbulb of Held synapses, and the firing properties of these neurons to direct current injections as well as to synaptic inputs from the auditory nerve. Results showed that bushy neurons in old mice are more excitable and are able to fire spikes at similar rate and timing to direct current injections as those in young mice. In response to synaptic inputs, however, bushy neurons from old mice fired spikes with significantly decreased rate and reduced temporal precision to stimulus trains at 100 and 400 Hz, with the drop in firing probability more profound at 400 Hz. It suggests that transmission of auditory information at the endbulb is declined in both rate and timing during aging, which signifies the loss of sensory inputs to the central auditory system under ARHL. The study proposes that, in addition to damages at the peripheral terminals of SGCs as well as the loss of SGCs, functional decline at the central terminals of surviving SGCs is also an essential component of ARHL.
Integration of motion energy from overlapping random background noise increases perceived speed of coherently moving stimuli
Authors: Chuang Jason , Ausloos Emily C. , Schwebach Courtney A. , Huang Xin
Published: September 2016

The perception of visual motion can be profoundly influenced by visual context. To gain insight into how the visual system represents motion speed, we investigated how a background stimulus that did not move in a net direction influenced the perceived speed of a center stimulus. Visual stimuli were two overlapping random-dot patterns. The center stimulus moved coherently in a fixed direction, whereas the background stimulus moved randomly. We found that human subjects perceived the speed of the center stimulus to be significantly faster than its veridical speed when the background contained motion noise. Interestingly, the perceived speed was tuned to the noise level of the background. When the speed of the center stimulus was low, the highest perceived speed was reached when the background had a low level of motion noise. As the center speed increased, the peak perceived speed was reached at a progressively higher background noise level. The effect of speed overestimation required the center stimulus to overlap with the background. Increasing the background size within a certain range enhanced the effect, suggesting spatial integration. The speed overestimation was significantly reduced or abolished when the center stimulus and the background stimulus had different colors, or when they were placed at different depths. When the center- and background-stimuli were perceptually separable, speed overestimation was correlated with perceptual similarity between the center- and background-stimuli. These results suggest that integration of motion energy from random motion noise has a significant impact on speed perception. Our findings put new constraints on models regarding the neural basis of speed perception.
Visual sensitivity of frontal eye field neurons during the preparation of saccadic eye movements
Authors: Krock Rebecca M. , Moore Tirin
Published: September 2016

Primate vision is continuously disrupted by saccadic eye movements, and yet this disruption goes unperceived. One mechanism thought to reduce perception of this self-generated movement is saccadic suppression, a global loss of visual sensitivity just before, during, and after saccadic eye movements. The frontal eye field (FEF) is a candidate source of neural correlates of saccadic suppression previously observed in visual cortex, because it contributes to the generation of visually guided saccades and modulates visual cortical responses. However, whether the FEF exhibits a perisaccadic reduction in visual sensitivity that could be transmitted to visual cortex is unknown. To determine whether the FEF exhibits a signature of saccadic suppression, we recorded the visual responses of FEF neurons to brief, full-field visual probe stimuli presented during fixation and before onset of saccades directed away from the receptive field in rhesus macaques ( Macaca mulatta). We measured visual sensitivity during both epochs and found that it declines before saccade onset. Visual sensitivity was significantly reduced in visual but not visuomotor neurons. This reduced sensitivity was also present in visual neurons with no movement-related modulation during visually guided saccades and thus occurred independently from movement-related activity. Across the population of visual neurons, sensitivity began declining ∼80 ms before saccade onset. We also observed a similar presaccadic reduction in sensitivity to isoluminant, chromatic stimuli. Our results demonstrate that the signaling of visual information by FEF neurons is reduced during saccade preparation, and thus these neurons exhibit a signature of saccadic suppression.
Model Building and Optimization Analysis of MDF Continuous Hot-Pressing Process by Neural Network
Authors: Li Qingfa , Liu Yaqiu , Zhu Liangkuan
Published: September 2016

We propose a one-layer neural network for solving a class of constrained optimization problems, which is brought forward from the MDF continuous hot-pressing process. The objective function of the optimization problem is the sum of a nonsmooth convex function and a smooth nonconvex pseudoconvex function, and the feasible set consists of two parts, one is a closed convex subset ofRn, and the other is defined by a class of smooth convex functions. By the theories of smoothing techniques, projection, penalty function, and regularization term, the proposed network is modeled by a differential equation, which can be implemented easily. Without any other condition, we prove the global existence of the solutions of the proposed neural network with any initial point in the closed convex subset. We show that any accumulation point of the solutions of the proposed neural network is not only a feasible point, but also an optimal solution of the considered optimization problem though the objective function is not convex. Numerical experiments on the MDF hot-pressing process including the model building and parameter optimization are tested based on the real data set, which indicate the good performance of the proposed neural network in applications.
Late-Developing Supernumerary Premolars: Analysis of Different Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Paduano Sergio , Rongo Roberto , Lucchese Alessandra , Aiello Domenico , Michelotti Ambrosina , Grippaudo Cristina
Published: September 2016

This case series describes the different potential approaches to late-developing supernumerary premolars (LDSP). LDSP are supernumerary teeth (ST) formed after the eruption of the permanent dentition; usually they develop in the premolar region of the upper and lower jaw. The choice to extract or to monitor the LDSP depends on many factors and has to be carefully planned due to the several risks that either the monitoring or the extraction could provoke. These four cases of LDSP showed different treatment plan alternatives derived from a scrupulous assessment of the clinical and radiographic information.
The Utility of Fecal Calprotectin in the Real-World Clinical Care of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Abej Esmail , El-Matary Wael , Singh Harminder , Bernstein Charles N.
Published: September 2016

Objectives.To determine the relationship between fecal calprotectin (FCAL) and imaging studies and other biochemical inflammatory markers and the impact of FCAL measurements on decision-making in IBD patient management in usual clinical practice.Methods.240 persons with IBD were enrolled. The correlation between FCAL values and other markers for disease activity such as serum albumin (alb), hemoglobin (Hg), and C-reactive protein (CRP) and diagnostic imaging or colonoscopy was examined. FCAL ≥ 250 mcg/g of stool was considered a positive result indicating active IBD.Results.183 stool samples (76.3%) were returned. The return rate in the pediatric and adult cohorts was 91% (n=82) and 67.3% (n=101), respectively (P<0.0001). Positive FCAL was associated with colonoscopy findings of active IBD (P<0.05), low albumin (P<0.05), anemia (P<0.01), and elevated CRP (P<0.01). There was no significant difference for FCAL results by outcomes on small bowel evaluation among the 21 persons with small bowel CD. Most persons (87.5%) with normal FCAL and no change in therapy remained in remission during subsequent 3 months.Conclusions.FCAL is a useful marker of disease activity and a valuable tool in managing persons with IBD in clinical practice. Clinicians have to be cautious in interpreting FCAL results in small bowel CD.
Modeling the Frequency of Cyclists’ Red-Light Running Behavior Using Bayesian PG Model and PLN Model
Authors: Wu Yao , Lu Jian , Chen Hong , Wan Qian
Published: September 2016

Red-light running behaviors of bicycles at signalized intersection lead to a large number of traffic conflicts and high collision potentials. The primary objective of this study is to model the cyclists’ red-light running frequency within the framework of Bayesian statistics. Data was collected at twenty-five approaches at seventeen signalized intersections. The Poisson-gamma (PG) and Poisson-lognormal (PLN) model were developed and compared. The models were validated using Bayesianpvalues based on posterior predictive checking indicators. It was found that the two models have a good fit of the observed cyclists’ red-light running frequency. Furthermore, the PLN model outperformed the PG model. The model estimated results showed that the amount of cyclists’ red-light running is significantly influenced by bicycle flow, conflict traffic flow, pedestrian signal type, vehicle speed, and e-bike rate. The validation result demonstrated the reliability of the PLN model. The research results can help transportation professionals to predict the expected amount of the cyclists’ red-light running and develop effective guidelines or policies to reduce red-light running frequency of bicycles at signalized intersections.
The Comparison and Modeling of the Driving Factors of Urban Expansion for Thirty-Five Big Cities in the Three Regions in China
Authors: Guangjin Tian , Xinliang Xu , Xiaojuan Liu , Lingqiang Kong
Published: September 2016

This paper presents a national- and regional-scale urban growth model (NRUGM) of China based on panel data analysis. Through the panel analysis, population growth, road construction, salary increment per capita, and secondary industry product increment were proven to be the major driving factors for national-scale urban expansion. According to Seventh Five-Year Plan, China had been divided into three regions, Eastern China, Middle China, and Western China, by their geographic position and economic development. We studied the relationship between urban expansion and the driving factors for the three regions between 1990 and 2010 in China. The driving factors of urban expansion were different for the different regions and periods. Population growth and road construction were identified as the two major factors driving urban expansion for Eastern China. Secondary industry and economic development had become the major driving factors for urban expansion over the last twenty years in Middle China. Over the same period, for Western China, economic growth had become the major driving factor for urban expansion. Our results have significant policy implications for China. The macrocontrol of the central government should utilize different policies to adjust urban expansion in the different regions.
High Efficient Expression, Purification, and Functional Characterization of Native Human Epidermal Growth Factor inEscherichia coli
Authors: Ma Yi , Yu Jieying , Lin Jinglian , Wu Shaomin , Li Shan , Wang Jufang
Published: September 2016

Human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) is a small, mitotic growth polypeptide that promotes the proliferation of various cells and is widely applied in clinical practices. However, high efficient expression of native hEGF inEscherichia colihas not been successful, since three disulfide bonds in monomer hEGF made it unable to fold into correct 3D structure usingin vivosystem. To tackle this problem, we fusedMxeGyrA intein (Mxe) at the C-terminal of hEGF followed by small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) and 10x His-tag to construct a chimeric protein hEGF-Mxe-SUMO-H10. The fusion protein was highly expressed at the concentration of 281 mg/L and up to 59.5% of the total cellular soluble proteins. The fusion protein was purified by affinity chromatography and 29.4 mg/L of native hEGF can be released by thiol induced N-terminal cleavage without any proteases. The mitotic activity in Balb/c 3T3 cells is proliferated by commercial and recombinant hEGF measured with methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay which indicated that recombinant hEGF protein stimulates the cell proliferation similar to commercial protein. This study significantly improved the yield and reduced the cost of hEGF in the recombinantE. colisystem and could be a better strategy to produce native hEGF for pharmaceutical development.
Model and Frequency Control for Three-Phase Wireless Power Transfer System
Authors: Xia Chenyang , Liu Yuling , Lin Kezhang , Xie Guangqing
Published: September 2016

In order to the eliminate the “dead spot” in the traditional three-phase wireless power transfer (WPT) system, a three-phase WPT system with an asymmetric magnetic circuit is presented in this paper. Additionally, mathematical model of the system is established and the system parameters are optimized. Based on the fact that the resonant frequency and efficiency are greatly varied with the load, a method based on impedance conversion is further proposed to improve the frequency stability and system efficiency. Finally, simulation and experimental results show that the proposed method is reliable and feasible to eliminate the “dead spot.”
Metformin Inhibits Advanced Glycation End Products-Induced Inflammatory Response in Murine Macrophages Partly through AMPK Activation and RAGE/NFκB Pathway Suppression
Authors: Zhou Zhong’e , Tang Yong , Jin Xian , Chen Chengjun , Lu Yi , Liu Liang , Shen Chengxing
Published: September 2016

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are major inflammatory mediators in diabetes, affecting atherosclerosis progression via macrophages. Metformin slows diabetic atherosclerosis progression through mechanisms that remain to be fully elucidated. The present study of murine bone marrow derived macrophages showed that (1) AGEs enhanced proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β(IL-1β), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)) mRNA expression, RAGE expression, and NFκB activation; (2) metformin pretreatment inhibited AGEs effects and AGEs-induced cluster designation 86 (CD86) (M1 marker) expression, while promoting CD206 (M2 marker) surface expression and anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) mRNA expression; and (3) the AMPK inhibitor, Compound C, attenuated metformin effects. In conclusion, metformin inhibits AGEs-induced inflammatory response in murine macrophages partly through AMPK activation and RAGE/NFκB pathway suppression.
Bio-Based Polyols from Seed Oils for Water-Blown Rigid Polyurethane Foam Preparation
Authors: Ekkaphan Paweena , Sooksai Sarintip , Chantarasiri Nuanphun , Petsom Amorn
Published: September 2016

The preparation of water-blown rigid polyurethane (RPUR) foams using bio-based polyols from sesame seed oil and pumpkin seed oil has been reported. Polyols synthesis involved two steps, namely, hydroxylation and alcoholysis reaction. FTIR, NMR, and ESI-MS were used to monitor the process of the synthesized polyols and their physicochemical properties were determined. The resulting polyols have OH number in the range of 340–351 mg KOH/g. RPUR foams blown with water were produced from the reaction of biopolyols with commercial polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (PMDI). The proper PUR formulations can be manipulated to produce the desired material applications. These seed oil-based RPUR foams exhibited relatively high compressive strength (237.7–240.2 kPa) with the density in the range of 40–45 kg/m3. Additionally, the cell foam morphology investigated by scanning electron microscope indicated that their cellular structure presented mostly polygonal closed cells. The experimental results demonstrate that these bio-based polyols can be used as an alternative starting material for RPUR production.
Extrapedicular Infiltration Anesthesia as an Improved Method of Local Anesthesia for Unipedicular Percutaneous Vertebroplasty or Percutaneous Kyphoplasty
Authors: Liu Liehua , Cheng Shiming , Lu Rui , Zhou Qiang
Published: September 2016

Aim.This report introduces extrapedicular infiltration anesthesia as an improved method of local anesthesia for unipedicular percutaneous vertebroplasty or percutaneous kyphoplasty.Method.From March 2015 to March 2016, 44 patients (11 males and 33 females) with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with a mean age of71.4±8.8years (range: 60 to 89) received percutaneous vertebroplasty or percutaneous kyphoplasty. 24 patients were managed with conventional local infiltration anesthesia (CLIA) and 20 patients with both CLIA and extrapedicular infiltration anesthesia (EPIA). Patients evaluated intraoperative pain by means of the visual analogue score and were monitored during the procedure for additional sedative analgesia needs and for adverse nerve root effects.Results.VAS of CLIA + EPIA and CLIA group was2.5±0.7and4.3±1.0,respectively, and there was significant difference (P=0.001). In CLIA group, 1 patient required additional sedative analgesia, but in CLIA + EPIA group, no patients required that. In the two groups, no adverse nerve root effects were noted.Summary.Extrapedicular infiltration anesthesia provided good local anesthetic effects without significant complications. This method deserves further consideration for use in unipedicular percutaneous vertebroplasty and percutaneous kyphoplasty.
A Modified Adaboost Algorithm to Reduce False Positives in Face Detection
Authors: Niyomugabo Cesar , Choi Hyo-rim , Kim Tae Yong
Published: September 2016

We present a modified Adaboost algorithm in face detection, which aims at an accurate algorithm to reduce false-positive detection rates. We built a new Adaboost weighting system that considers the total error of weak classifiers and classification probability. The probability was determined by computing both positive and negative classification errors for each weak classifier. The new weighting system gives higher weights to weak classifiers with the best positive classifications, which reduces false positives during detection. Experimental results reveal that the original Adaboost and the proposed method have comparable face detection rate performances, and the false-positive results were reduced almost four times using the proposed method.