bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study of ZSM‐5 supported transition metal (Cu, Mn, Co, and Fe) nanocatalysts in the selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3
Authors: Nakhostin Panahi Parvaneh
Published: February 2017

H‐ZSM‐5 was modified with transition metals (including Fe, Cu, Mn, and Co) by homogeneous deposition precipitation (HDP) method and tested as catalyst for the selective reduction of NO with ammonia (NH3‐SCR). The selectivity to N2 was higher than 95% in all the nanocatalysts and the NO conversion over nanocatalysts decreased in the following sequence Cu‐ZSM‐5 > Mn‐ZSM‐5 > Co‐ZSM‐5 > Fe‐ZSM‐5 at 200‐300°C. The Cu‐ZSM‐5 catalyst showed the highest catalytic activity, 95% of NO conversion at 300°C, among the catalysts investigated. The nature of the active sites was characterized by BET, TEM, H2‐TPR, and NH3‐TPD. Characterization results revealed that acidity and the redox properties of the catalysts play an important role in achieving high activity for NH3‐SCR reaction. The highest catalytic activity of Cu/ZSM‐5 can be correlated to easy reducibility of Cu species and strong acidic sites created by the Cu species. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1049–1055, 2017
Optionable Stocks and Mutual Fund Performance
Authors: Chung Chune Young , Ryu Doojin , Wang Kainan , Zykaj Blerina Bela
Published: February 2017

We examine whether stock‐level options information drives mutual fund performance. Our paper is motivated by existing studies indicating that options prices or implied volatilities predict stock returns. We find that stock‐implied volatility innovations forecast mutual fund performance. Specifically, mutual funds investing in fewer optionable stocks or optionable stocks with favorable information outperform other funds. In addition, mutual fund managers overall do not trade on past options information. However, well‐performing fund managers use that information to decrease their holdings in poorly performing stocks. Moreover, well‐performing mutual funds containing strong options information tend to increase their holdings in optionable stocks in subsequent periods. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 38:390–412, 2018
Deletion of psychiatric risk gene Cacna1c impairs hippocampal neurogenesis in cell‐autonomous fashion
Authors: Völkening Bianca , Schönig Kai , Kronenberg Golo , Bartsch Dusan , Weber Tillmann
Published: February 2017

Ca2+ is a universal signal transducer which fulfills essential functions in cell development and differentiation. CACNA1C, the gene encoding the alpha‐1C subunit (i.e., Cav1.2) of the voltage‐dependent l‐type calcium channel (LTCC), has been implicated as a risk gene in a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders. To parse the role of Cav1.2 channels located on astrocyte‐like stem cells and their descendants in the development of new granule neurons, we created TgGLAST‐CreERT2/Cacna1cfl/fl/RCE:loxP mice, a transgenic tool that allows cell‐type‐specific inducible deletion of Cacna1c. The EGFP reporter was used to trace the progeny of recombined type‐1 cells. FACS‐sorted Cacna1c‐deficient neural precursor cells from the dentate gyrus showed reduced proliferative activity in neurosphere cultures. Moreover, under differentiation conditions, Cacna1c‐deficient NPCs gave rise to fewer neurons and more astroglia. Similarly, under basal conditions in vivo, Cacna1c gene deletion in type‐1 cells decreased type‐1 cell proliferation and reduced the neuronal fate‐choice decision of newly born cells, resulting in reduced net hippocampal neurogenesis. Unexpectedly, electroconvulsive seizures completely compensated for the proliferation deficit of Cacna1c deficient type‐1 cells, indicating that there must be Cav1.2‐independent mechanisms of controlling proliferation related to excitation. In the aggregate, this is the first report demonstrating the presence of functional L‐type 1.2 channels on type‐1 cells. Cav1.2 channels promote type‐1 cell proliferation and push the glia‐to‐neuron ratio in the direction of a neuronal fate choice and subsequent neuronal differentiation. Cav1.2 channels expressed on NPCs and their progeny possess the ability to shape neurogenesis in a cell‐autonomous fashion.
Unobserved selection heterogeneity and the gender wage gap
Authors: Machado Cecilia
Published: February 2017

Selection correction methods usually make assumptions about selection itself. In the case of gender wage gap estimation, those assumptions are especially tenuous because of high female nonparticipation and because selection could be different in different parts of the labor market. This paper proposes an estimator for the wage gap that allows for arbitrary and unobserved heterogeneity in selection. It applies to the subpopulation of “always employed” women, which is similar to men in labor force characteristics. Using CPS data from 1976 to 2005, I show that the gap has narrowed substantially from a −0.521 to a −0.263 log wage point differential for this population.
Dynamic spatial autoregressive models with autoregressive and heteroskedastic disturbances
Authors: Catania Leopoldo , Billé Anna Gloria
Published: February 2017

We propose a new class of models specifically tailored for spatiotemporal data analysis. To this end, we generalize the spatial autoregressive model with autoregressive and heteroskedastic disturbances, that is, SARAR(1, 1), by exploiting the recent advancements in score‐driven (SD) models typically used in time series econometrics. In particular, we allow for time‐varying spatial autoregressive coefficients as well as time‐varying regressor coefficients and cross‐sectional standard deviations. We report an extensive Monte Carlo simulation study in order to investigate the finite‐sample properties of the maximum likelihood estimator for the new class of models as well as its flexibility in explaining a misspecified dynamic spatial dependence process. The new proposed class of models is found to be economically preferred by rational investors through an application to portfolio optimization.
A dual‐label time‐resolved fluorescence immunoassay for the simultaneous determination of ferritin and β2‐microglobulin
Authors: Liu Zhi , Huang Jing , Ou Rui‐ming , Yao Meng‐dong , She Yan‐lin , Chen Rui , Li Cheng , Xu Li , Abudureyimu Aikebaier , Zhang Qing , Liu Shuang
Published: February 2017

Background

Lymphocytic leukemia is a kind of primary malignant tumor of hematopoietic tissue. The aim was to establish a dual‐label time‐resolved fluorescence immunoassay (TRFIA) for the simultaneous determination of ferritin (FER) and β2‐microglobulin (β2‐MG) for the early screening and follow‐up surveillance of lymphocytic leukemia.

Methods

The sandwich immunoassay was used to detect the concentration of FER, and the competitive immunoassay was used to detect the concentration of β2‐MG in serum. FER in serum was captured by anti‐ FER antibody immobilized on microtiter wells, and then banded together with another anti‐ FER labeled with europium(III) Eu3+ chelate, followed by fluorescence measurement using time‐resolved fluorometry (TRF). Sm3+ labeled β2‐MG and β2‐MG samples were added to compete with a certain amount of anti‐β2‐MG antibody, followed by fluorescence measurement using TRF. The performance of this dual‐label TRFIA was evaluated using the clinical blood and compared with the commercial assays.

Results

The linear correlation coefficient (R2) of the FER and β2‐MG standard curves were 0.9914 and 0.9927, respectively. The sensitivity for FER detection was 8 ng/mL (dynamic range 0‐1000 ng/mL), the average recovery was 100.51%; The sensitivity for β2‐MG detection was 1 ng/mL (dynamic range 0‐1000 ng/mL), the average recovery was 101.02%. High correlation coefficients (R2) were obtained between the commercial assays (R2=.9966 for FER, and R2=.9897 for β2‐MG).

Conclusion

The present dual‐label TRFIA has high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in clinical sample analysis. It is an effective detection method for the early screening and follow‐up surveillance of the acute and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Absolute photoionization cross sections of two cyclic ketones: cyclopentanone and cyclohexanone
Authors: Price Chelsea , Fathi Yasmin , Meloni Giovanni
Published: February 2017

Absolute photoionization cross sections for cyclopentanone and cyclohexanone, as well as partial ionization cross sections for the dissociative ionized fragments, are presented in this investigation. Experiments are performed via a multiplexed photoionization mass spectrometer utilizing vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) synchrotron radiation supplied by the Advanced Light Source of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. These results allow the quantification of these species that is relevant to investigate the kinetics and combustion reactions of potential biofuels. The CBS‐QB3 calculated values for the adiabatic ionization energies agree well with the experimental values, and the identification of possible dissociative fragments is discussed for both systems. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Results of a phase II, open‐label, non‐comparative study of intralesional PV‐10 followed by radiotherapy for the treatment of in‐transit or metastatic melanoma
Authors: Foote Matthew , Read Tavis , Thomas Janine , Wagels Michael , Burmeister Bryan , Smithers B. Mark
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

In‐transit and recurrent dermal or subcutaneous melanoma metastases represent a significant burden of advanced disease. Intralesional Rose Bengal can elicit tumor selective ablation and a T‐cell mediated abscopal effect in untreated lesions. A subset of patients in a phase II trial setting received external beam radiotherapy to their recurrent lesions with complete or partial response and no significant acute radiation reaction.

METHODS

An open‐label, single‐arm phase II study was performed to assess the efficacy and safety of PV‐10 followed by hypofractionated radiotherapy. Patients had in‐transit melanoma metastases suitable for IL therapy and radiotherapy.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were enrolled and thirteen completed both treatment components. The overall response rate was 86.6% and the clinical benefit was 93.3% on an intention to treat analysis (CR 33.3%, PR 53.3%, SD 6.7%). The median follow up duration was 19.25 months. Size of metastases (<10 mm) predicted lesion complete response (74.6%). Treatment was well tolerated with no associated grade 4 or 5 adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of PV‐10 and radiotherapy resulted in lesion‐specific, normal tissue‐sparing, ablation of disease with minimal local or systemic adverse effects.
Global disparities in cancer pain management and palliative care
Authors: Are Madhuri , McIntyre Amanda , Reddy Suresh
Published: February 2017

Palliative care and pain management constitute an integral part of the multi‐disciplinary approach to treating patients with cancer. There are major disparities in the global presence of sustainable palliative care models and universal availability of effective pain medications, especially in low and middle income countries with the highest predicted future burden of cancer. Active intervention is needed to improve the availability of palliative care and effective pain control worldwide.
Conservation Agriculture Had a Poor Impact on the Soil Porosity of Veneto Low‐lying Plain Silty Soils after a 5‐year Transition Period
Authors: Piccoli I. , Camarotto C. , Lazzaro B. , Furlan L. , Morari F.
Published: February 2017

Conservation agriculture practices have been proposed as a set of techniques for improving soil structure properties and related ecosystem services. This study compared conservation agriculture (CA) practices (no‐tillage, cover crop and residue retention) and conventional intensive tillage system in order to evaluate their effects on total porosity, pore size distribution, pore architecture and morphology. The experiment was set up in 2010 on four farms of the low‐lying Veneto Region plain characterized by silty soils. Almost hundred soil samples were collected in 2015 at four depths down to 50‐cm layer and investigated for porosity from micrometre (0·0074 μm) to macrometre (2·5 mm) by coupling mercury intrusion porosimetry and X‐ray computed microtomography (μCT). Indices of soil morphology and architecture were derived by analysing 3D images and mercury intrusion porosimetry pore size curves. Results suggested that silty soils of Veneto plain are microstructured because much (82%) of the porosity ranged between 0·0074 and 30 μm. CA practices positively influenced the ultramicroporosity class (0·1–5 μm) (1·86E‐01 vs 1·67E‐01 μm3 μm−3) that is strictly linked to soil organic carbon stabilization while no effects were observed in X‐ray μCT porosity domain (> 26 μm). Silty soils of Veneto plain showed a slow reaction to CA because of the poor aggregate stability and low soil organic carbon. However, the positive response of the ultramicropore fraction indicates that a virtuous cycle was initiated between soil organic carbon and porosity, hopefully leading to well‐developed macropore systems and, in turn, enhanced soil functions and ecosystem services. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functional Enhancement by Forest Restoration: A Meta‐analysis in China
Authors: Ren Yanjiao , Lü Yihe , Fu Bojie , Zhang Kun
Published: February 2017

Large‐scale forest loss and degradation have dire consequences for biodiversity maintenance and provision of vital ecosystem services. Despite recent increasing efforts for forest restoration and sustainable management, there have been no comparative studies of biological taxonomy and multiple ecosystem functions to assess the effectiveness of forest restoration programmes, and how they vary through space and time. Here, we provided a quantitative assessment of the recovery of biodiversity and ecosystem functions by forest restoration in China using a meta‐analysis of 172 studies. We found that biodiversity and ecosystem functions were substantially increased in restored forests comparing with the degraded states. However, these restoration effects varied considerably by degradation origin, restoration approach, restoration age, ecological domains, taxonomic group and ecosystem function that is measured. Results also revealed that forest restoration from degraded states could not lead to full recovery of biodiversity and ecosystem functions, highlighting the irreplaceability of primary forests. We advocate allowing for natural or passive recovery, especially where biophysical conditions are favourable for spontaneous succession, or too harsh for human‐aided restoration, and choosing a combination of passive and active restoration measures based on adaptive management strategies. Our meta‐analysis provided fundamental insights into bridging the gap between small‐scale experiments and broad‐scale management needs towards highly effective and sustainable forest ecosystem restoration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
H. Pylori as a predictor of marginal ulceration: A nationwide analysis
Authors: Schulman Allison R. , Abougergi Marwan S. , Thompson Christopher C.
Published: February 2017

Objective

Helicobacter pylori has been implicated as a risk factor for development of marginal ulceration following gastric bypass, although studies have been small and yielded conflicting results. This study sought to determine the relationship between H. pylori infection and development of marginal ulceration following bariatric surgery in a nationwide analysis.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study using the 2012 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. Discharges with ICD‐9‐CM code indicating marginal ulceration and a secondary ICD‐9‐CM code for bariatric surgery were included. Primary outcome was incidence of marginal ulceration. A stepwise forward selection model was used to build the multivariate logistic regression model based on known risk factors. A P value of 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

There were 253,765 patients who met inclusion criteria. Prevalence of marginal ulceration was 3.90%. Of those patients found to have marginal ulceration, 31.20% of patients were H. pylori‐positive. Final multivariate regression analysis revealed that H. pylori was the strongest independent predictor of marginal ulceration.

Conclusions

H. pylori is an independent predictor of marginal ulceration using a large national database. Preoperative testing for and eradication of H. pylori prior to bariatric surgery may be an important preventive measure to reduce the incidence of ulcer development.
Oligofructose decreases serum lipopolysaccharide and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 in adults with overweight/obesity
Authors: Parnell Jill A. , Klancic Teja , Reimer Raylene A.
Published: February 2017

Objective

To determine the effect of prebiotic supplementation on metabolic endotoxemia and systemic inflammation in adults with overweight and obesity.

Methods

Samples from a previously conducted randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial were used for analysis. Participants were randomized to 21 g of oligofructose (n = 20; BMI 30.4 kg/m2) or a maltodextrin placebo (n = 17; BMI 29.5 kg/m2) for 12 weeks. A total of 37 participants had samples available for the current analysis. Resistin, adiponectin, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and macrophage chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) were quantified using MILLIPLEX® assays. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was measured using PyroGene™ Recombinant Factor C Assay.

Results

Plasma LPS concentrations were reduced by 40% in the oligofructose group over 12 weeks compared to a 48% increase in the placebo group (P = 0.04). PAI‐1, a risk factor for thrombosis, was reduced to a greater extent in the oligofructose group (−17.3 ± 2.6 ng/ml) compared to the placebo group (−9.7 ± 1.8 ng/ml; P = 0.03). Oligofructose did not affect IL‐6, TNF‐α, MCP‐1, adiponectin, or resistin.

Conclusions

Oligofructose reduces metabolic endotoxemia and PAI‐1. Incorporating prebiotics into the diet through supplements or functional foods may help mitigate some markers of obesity‐associated inflammation.
Biological control of appetite: A daunting complexity
Authors: MacLean Paul S. , Blundell John E. , Mennella Julie A. , Batterham Rachel L.
Published: February 2017

Objective

This review summarizes a portion of the discussions of an NIH Workshop (Bethesda, MD, 2015) titled “Self‐Regulation of Appetite—It's Complicated,” which focused on the biological aspects of appetite regulation.

Methods

This review summarizes the key biological inputs of appetite regulation and their implications for body weight regulation.

Results

These discussions offer an update of the long‐held, rigid perspective of an “adipocentric” biological control, taking a broader view that also includes important inputs from the digestive tract, from lean mass, and from the chemical sensory systems underlying taste and smell. It is only beginning to be understood how these biological systems are integrated and how this integrated input influences appetite and food eating behaviors. The relevance of these biological inputs was discussed primarily in the context of obesity and the problem of weight regain, touching on topics related to the biological predisposition for obesity and the impact that obesity treatments (dieting, exercise, bariatric surgery, etc.) might have on appetite and weight loss maintenance. Finally considered is a common theme that pervaded the workshop discussions, which was individual variability.

Conclusions

It is this individual variability in the predisposition for obesity and in the biological response to weight loss that makes the biological component of appetite regulation so complicated. When this individual biological variability is placed in the context of the diverse environmental and behavioral pressures that also influence food eating behaviors, it is easy to appreciate the daunting complexities that arise with the self‐regulation of appetite.
Study on the reuse of marble and andesite wastes in epoxy‐based composites
Authors: Soydal Ulku , Kocaman Suheyla , Esen Marti Mustafa , Ahmetli Gulnare
Published: February 2017

Andesite‐ (AW) and marble‐dust wastes (MW) were recycled to be used in composite preparation. Both were obtained from local industrial sources. Commercially available epoxy resin (ER) and its modified version with polyaniline (PANI) were used as the neat polymer matrix. The dispersion of the fillers was investigated by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The effects of PANI and waste loading on the mechanical, thermal, electrical, water sorption, and corrosion properties were investigated. The optimum loading levels for MW or AW in the composites were found to be 20 wt%. Using thermogravimetric analyses, thermal behavior and stability of the composites prepared were probed. The incorporation of PANI and waste fillers increased the T10 temperature by 10–33°C and the tensile strength by 4–51 MPa of neat ER. The composites containing 10–30 wt% AW filler were found to be semiconductive and electrical conductivity decreased with the increase in AW content. The PANI‐ER/AW composite showed perfect resistance to corrosion and also exhibited the best adhesion. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3081–3091, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation of toughened polypropylene‐g‐poly(butyl acrylate‐co‐acrylated castor oil) by suspension grafting polymerization
Authors: Zhao Dan , Wang Li , Zhang Rong , Ma Yuhong , Chen Dong , Zhao Changwen , Yang Wantai
Published: February 2017

Butyl acrylate (BA) with acrylated castor oil (ACO) was grafted onto porous polypropylene (PP) granules by grafting polymerization. Crosslinked copolymer microdomains which functioned as rubber phase to improve the toughness of PP were filled into the pores of PP granules. The sizes of crosslinked copolymer microdomains were controlled in the range of 0.1–1 μm in PP matrix. The results of fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope of PP‐g‐(BA‐co‐ACO) after extracted by acetone confirmed that BA and ACO were grafted onto PP successfully. The effects of comonomer ratio, initiator content and comonomer content on grafting percentage (GP) and grafting efficiency (GE) were investigated. The GP of PP‐g‐(BA‐co‐ACO) could be up to 21.3% with the comonomer content increasing to 25%. The crosslinked copolymer decreased the melting flow index and the relative crystallinity of PP. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis showed that the glass transition temperature of PP decreased slightly from 22°C to 15°C. The addition of 5% comonomer content led to an increase of notched impact strength from 1.96 to 3.81 kJ/m2(nearly doubled) and a marginal decrease in the tensile strength of PP. Then with further addition of comonomer, the notched impact strength increased to 8.98 kJ/m2while the tensile strength was 29.37 MPa. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:86–93, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Depletion of abundant human serum proteins by per se imprinted cryogels based on sample heterogeneity
Authors: Yang Chun , Liu Ya‐Ru , Zhang Yan , Wang Jian , Tian Li‐Li , Yan Ya‐Nan , Cao Wei‐Qin , Wang Yu‐Yang
Published: February 2017

Macroporous cryogels were prepared and used to deplete abundant proteins. It was accomplished based on the sample heterogeneity rather than any exogenous assistance. Human serum was added in monomer solutions to synthesize molecularly imprinted polymers; therein some abundant proteins were imprinted in the polyacrylamide cryogels. Meanwhile the rare components remained aqueous. Chromatography and electrophoresis showed that albumin, serotransferrin, and most globulins were depleted by columns packed with the molecularly imprinted polymers. After the depletion, lower abundance proteins were revealed by SDS‐PAGE, peptide fingerprint analysis, and identified by MALDI‐TOF‐MS. This is an example that a “per se imprint” protocol enables to gradually dimidiate proteomes, simplify sample complexities, and facilitate further proteome profiling or biomarker discovery.
Effect of Stimulants on Growth of ADHD Children: A Critical Review
Authors: Ptacek Radek , Kuzelova Hana , Paclt Ivo
Published: February 2017

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed childhood psychiatric disorders manifested in almost every part of children’s behavior. The most common treatment of ADHD is medication with stimulants, by specific amphetamine and methylphenidate. It is known that the treatment by stimulants may be accompanied by side effects from among decrease of appetite or changes in development as growth suppression and loss of weight which may present very serious phenomenon. Although many studies have monitored changes in growth and weight during medication, they did not provide definite results that the growth and weight suppression are caused by medication or not. According to many studies the height deficit is approximately amounted to 1 cm/year during the first 3 years of the treatment and can be clinically serious. Contrary to these findings some authors reported that the growth or weight changes can be a natural symptom of ADHD and not just a consequence of medication. The present article reviews key studies monitoring changes in parameters of growth in medicated children with ADHD, compares their results and suggest methodology improvements for further studies.
The Scoring and Interpretation of the SDQ-20 and SDQ-5
Authors: Nijenhuis Ellert R. S.
Published: February 2017

The 20-item Somatoform Dissociation Questionnaire (SDQ-20; Nijenhuis, Spinhoven, Van Dyck, Van der Hart, & Van-derlinden, 1996) evaluates the severity of somatoform dissociation. The SDQ-20 items were derived from a pool of 75 items describing clinically observed somatoform dissociative symptoms that in clinical settings had appeared upon reactivation of particular dissociative parts of the personality and that could not be medically explained. The SDQ-20 scores were best predicted by self-reported physical and sexual traumatization in patients with dissociative disorders and psychiatric controls (Nijenhuis et al., 1998c), even after statistically controlling for self-reported emotional traumatization (emotional neglect and emotional abuse). These traumatization scores were composed of four factors, i.e. presence of trauma, duration of trauma, relationship to perpetrator, and subjectively rated impact of trauma.
Implications of a Fundamental Consciousness
Authors: Macdonald Copthorne
Published: February 2017

The author postulates a universe in which mentality is as fundamental as physicality, explores the implications of that, and presents hypotheses concerning the evolution and functioning of human cognitive systems in such an environment. Of the several interpretations of reality which consider the physical and the mental to be equally real and equally fundamental, two compatible interpretations are discussed in detail. These are Ervin Laszlo’s biperspectival system theory, and an elaboration of the perennial philosophy view which incorporates the concepts of algorithm, information, informational modulation, and evolution. In this latter view, reality comprises an enduring protophysical, protomental medium modulated by transient informational patterns. Chance-and-necessity evolution, guided by intrinsic “laws-of-nature” algorithms, produces systems that may be non-functional, physically functional, or physically and mentally functional. Given such a reality, the author concludes that human mentality evolved in bottom-up fashion, with mind-associated neuronal systems not so much creating mind as organizing a pre-existing propensity for awareness into useful, functional awareness, and providing for its modulation by useful information.

The author hypothesizes that discrete, localized occurrences of awareness accompany the functioning of relatively simple neuronal systems within the columnar structure of the brain’s sensory cortex, and that each of these systems informationally modulates its associated awareness to create an elemental quale. Together, the awareness elements of a given sensory modality constitute a subjective field which, through brain activity not yet fully understood, becomes topologically related to the body image. The several superposed fields simulate a unified, multi-modal consciousness and constitute a global workspace. Selective attention to the qualia in these superposed fields activates neural correlates which facilitate situation evaluation and decision making.
Objective Signs of Consciousness
Authors: Reinis Stanislav
Published: February 2017

The human mind and consciousness under normal circumstances likely can be considered, as a unified phenomenon involving the whole brain or at least a major part of it. As suggested by some authors, the problem of consciousness cannot be solved without considering quantum mechanics. For this reason, I would like to draw on a general knowledge on quantum fields, if and how they function in the brain. What I would like to emphasize is proposal based on free electrons released during the electrophysiological events such as postsynaptic potentials, depolarization and hyperpolarization of the neuronal membrane and action potentials moving along the axons. The quantum systems form a quantum electron field in which the electrons are able to communicate one with another by means of the Pauli principle. This communication may be a carrier of the subjective consciousness which integrates and unifies functions of various parts of the brain. The output of these processes arising from the neuronal activities in various parts of the cerebral cortex and other brain areas likely may produce the content of consciousness.
Neuroscience Implications of Using Hypnoanalysis: Two Case Studies
Authors: Clark Jeanne
Published: February 2017

Neuroscience is providing growing evidence that psychopathology is related to neural integration and amygdala-based implicit memories. Understanding the brain provides psychotherapists a guide for treatment, and neuroscience points to hypnosis as a potent treatment tool. Hypnosis affects functional areas of the brain, including the amygdaloid memory system and neural integration. Hypnosis in itself is not curative. Neuroscience, more recent psychotherapy models, and modern understandings of hypnoanalysis appear to confirm Freud’s early observations of hypnosis effectiveness and, for his objection that hypnosis works well for some clients but not for others, explain why. Neuroscience’s understanding of the development of psychopathology and psychotherapy models give us tools and models Freud did not have. Using age regression (abreaction) in hypnosis in the context of psychotherapy appear to provide direct access to amygdala-based implicit memories during which the content of implicit memories can be explored for the unconscious meaning and for the responses conditioned during traumatic events. With the skilled use of psychotherapy treatment models while a client is in hypnosis, new patterns can be created through neurologically vividly experiences. These vivid experiences create new, reconditioned patterns that appear to reflect direct changes in the amygdala-based implicit memories and neural integration, evidenced by clients’new, automatic responses in previously difficult circumstances. Two case studies illustrate the use of Ego Psychology, Self Psychology, Attachment and Narrative psychotherapy models during hypnotic age regressions to disconnect stimulus-response patterns in a phobia client and provide vivid experiences of attachment and guidance for a borderline client.
Cross Section Case Control Study for Clinical Correlates of Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Midlife Early Hypertension: Differential Effect of Antihypertensives
Authors: Elmassry Hatem , Nagy Nahla , Shorab Iman , Eid Maissa
Published: February 2017

High blood pressure (BP) is considered a risk factor for cerebrovascular disease, including stroke. Little is known about the importance of BP on the progression of microvascular disease of the brain, and cognitive impairment. In this study 85 patients (45 women and 40 men; age range 40–55) were assessed for blood pressure with the mean value of the 2 measurements of 2 visits that were calculated and analysed. Cognitive testing was performed using a combination of 4 well-validated standardized tests: the Mini Mental State Examination, Trail Making Test (TMT) A, (TMT) B, and a verbal fluency test. The control group of 60 normal volunteers matched for age, sex and education without changes in blood pressure were compared for cognitive changes. Result show significant difference between patients and controls in cognitive tests (p=0.000) and positive correlation between hypertension and cognitive impairment, that was more associated with elevated systolic blood pressure, older age, male sex and early onset hypertension. Positive correlation was also found with improved cognitive functions in hypertensive patients using diuretics, angiotensin II inhibitors and antihypertensive combination. The results indicate that midlife early high BP levels increase the risk for cognitive impairment and dementia. This association may be modified by antihypertensive medication.
Infant Mortality Rate as a Measure of a Country’s Health: A Robust Method to Improve Reliability and Comparability
Authors: Gonzalez Robert M. , Gilleskie Donna
Published: February 2017

Researchers and policymakers often rely on the infant mortality rate as an indicator of a country’s health. Despite arguments about its relevance, uniform measurement of infant mortality is necessary to guarantee its use as a valid measure of population health. Using important socioeconomic indicators, we develop a novel method to adjust country-specific reported infant mortality figures. We conclude that an augmented measure of mortality that includes both infant and late fetal deaths should be considered when assessing levels of social welfare in a country. In addition, mortality statistics that exhibit a substantially high ratio of late fetal to early neonatal deaths should be more closely scrutinized.
The Stefan problem in heterogeneous media
Authors: Roubíček Tomáš
Published: February 2017

The nonlinear heat-transfer equation with a nonlinear boundary flux condition is investigated. The medium is assumed heterogeneous (
i.e.
the coefficients may depend on space variables) but piecewise homogeneous. The enthalpy formulation is employed. Existence of a weak solution is demonstrated, using an approximation by the Rothe method and a certain regularization of the contact conditions between the homogeneous subdomains. Phase transitions described as multiphase Stefan problems in some subdomains are also admitted, and a degeneration of the parabolic type of the equation is covered, too.

Dans cet article le problème de la conduction de chaleur dans un milieu hétérogène (avec des parts homogènes) est étudié. L’équation parabolique, formulée en version enthalpique, et la condition aux limites sont non linéaires. On prouve l’existence de la solution faible en utilisant la méthode de Rothe et une certaine régularisation de la condition du contact entre des subdomaines homogènes. Un problème multiphase de Stefan et une dégénération de la parabolicité sont aussi considérés.
Area-minimizing integral currents with movable boundary parts of prescribed mass
Authors: Ecker Klaus
Published: February 2017

We generalize the thread problem for minimal surfaces to higher dimensions using the framework of integral currents.

On généralise le « problème fil » pour surfaces minimales aux dimensions plus hautes en utilisant le cadre de courants intégrais.
Mitigating the negative effect of perceived organizational politics on organizational citizenship behavior: Moderating roles of contextual and personal resources
Authors: De Clercq Dirk , Belausteguigoitia Imanol
Published: February 2017

Based on the job demands–resources model, this study considers how employees’ perceptions of organizational politics might reduce their engagement in organizational citizenship behavior. It also considers the moderating role of two contextual resources and one personal resource (i.e., supervisor transformational leadership, knowledge sharing with peers, and resilience) and argues that they buffer the negative relationship between perceptions of organizational politics and organizational citizenship behavior. Data from a Mexican-based manufacturing organization reveal that perceptions of organizational politics reduce organizational citizenship behavior, but the effect is weaker with higher levels of transformational leadership, knowledge sharing, and resilience. The buffering role of resilience is particularly strong when transformational leadership is low, thus suggesting a three-way interaction among perceptions of organizational politics, resilience, and transformational leadership. These findings indicate that organizations marked by strongly politicized internal environments can counter the resulting stress by developing adequate contextual and personal resources within their ranks.
UNIT-REGULAR MODULES
Authors: CHEN H. , NICHOLSON W. K. , ZHOU Y.
Published: February 2017

In 2014, the first two authors proved an extension to modules of a theorem of Camillo and Yu that an exchange ring has stable range 1 if and only if every regular element is unit-regular. Here, we give a Morita context version of a stronger theorem. The definition of regular elements in a module goes back to Zelmanowitz in 1972, but the notion of a unit-regular element in a module is new. In this paper, we study unit-regular elements and give several characterizations of them in terms of “stable” elements and “lifting” elements. Along the way, we give natural extensions to the module case of many results about unit-regular rings. The paper concludes with a discussion of when the endomorphism ring of a unit-regular module is a unit-regular ring.
MISSION IMPOSSIBLE? ADDRESSING NON-EXECUTION THROUGH INFRINGEMENT PROCEEDINGS IN THE EUROPEAN COURT OF HUMAN RIGHTS
Authors: de Londras Fiona , Dzehtsiarou Kanstantsin
Published: February 2017

Non-execution of the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights is a matter of serious concern. In order to address it, the reasons for and dynamics of non-execution need to be fully considered. This paper engages with non-execution by sketching the underpinning issues that help to explain it and, we argue, must shape our responses to it. Through this engagement, we conclude that non-execution is properly understood as a phenomenon that requires political rather than legal responses. This calls into question the usefulness of the infringement proceedings contained in Article 46(4) of the Convention and which it has recently been suggested ought to be embraced in attempts to address non-execution. We argue that, even if the practical difficulties of triggering Article 46(4) proceedings could somehow be overcome, the dynamics of non-execution suggest that such proceedings would be both futile and counterproductive, likely to lead to backlash against the Court and unlikely to improve States’ execution of its judgments.
Using Psychoeducation and Role Induction to Improve Completion Rates in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Authors: Delgadillo Jaime , Groom Martin
Published: February 2017

Background: Pre-treatment role induction interventions have been suggested to potentially enhance attendance and clinical outcomes in psychotherapy. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a programme of three transdiagnostic seminars (TDS) for patients with common mental disorders accessing cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in primary care. TDS included CBT psychoeducation and role induction. Method: A random sample of patients (n = 49) participated in TDS followed by CBT (TDS+CBT) and they were compared with matched controls (n = 49) accessing usual CBT. TDS participants rated the relevance and quality of this intervention using an acceptability questionnaire (AQ). Treatment completion (vs dropout) rates were compared across groups using chi-square tests. Post-treatment changes in depression (PHQ-9) and anxiety (GAD-7) symptoms were compared between groups using analysis of covariance controlling for potential confounders. Analyses were based on intention-to-treat principles. Results: Mean AQ ratings of the TDS intervention were comparable across diagnostic groups (p = .05). Treatment completion rates were significantly higher (p = .02) in the TDS+CBT group (87.8%) by comparison with usual CBT (68.8%). However, no significant differences in post-treatment symptom changes were found for depression (p = .34) or anxiety measures (p = .71). Conclusions: Incorporating a psychoeducational role induction prior to CBT significantly improved treatment retention, but not overall symptom reductions.
The development of rhotics: a comparison of monolingual and bilingual children
Authors: KEHOE MARGARET
Published: February 2017

This study examines the acquisition of /r/ in German and Spanish monolingual and bilingual children. German and Spanish are characterized by different /r/s. German has a uvular approximant whereas Spanish has an alveolar tap and trill. Words containing /r/ were extracted from longitudinal recordings of the children, aged 1;9 to 3;6. Results indicate that monolingual German children acquired uvular /r/ earlier than monolingual Spanish children acquired the tap and trill. The bilingual children acquired uvular /r/ similarly to the monolingual children or, in the case of /r/ clusters, they were mildly delayed. They were advanced in the acquisition of alveolar tap and they produced more /r/-like errors for the trill. Transfer patterns were observed in one child but they could not be explained by markedness or language dominance. Findings are consistent with cross-linguistic interaction in the acquisition of /r/, in which the phonological systems of the bilinguals approximate each other.
Methylene Blue Assay for Estimation of Regenerative Re-EpithelializationIn Vivo
Authors: Milyavsky Maresha , Dickie Renee
Published: February 2017

The rapidity with which epithelial cells cover a wound surface helps determine whether scarring or scar-less healing results. As methylene blue is a vital dye that is absorbed by damaged tissue but not undamaged epidermis, it can be used to assess wound closure. We sought to develop a quantitative methylene blue exclusion assay to estimate the timeframe for re-epithelialization in regenerating appendages in zebrafish and axolotls, two classic model systems of regeneration. Following application of methylene blue to the amputation plane and extensive washing, the regenerating tail was imagedin vivountil staining was no longer visible. The percent area of the amputation plane positive for methylene blue, representing the area of the amputation plane not yet re-epithelialized, was measured for each time point. The loss of methylene blue occurred rapidly, within ~2.5 h in larval and juvenile axolotls and <1 h in adult zebrafish, consistent with high rates of re-epithelialization in these models of regeneration. The assay allows simple, rapid estimation of the time course for regenerative re-epithelialization without affecting subsequent regenerative ability. This technique will permit comparison of re-epithelialization across different strains and stages, as well as under the influence of various pharmacological inhibitors that affect regeneration.
Political awareness and support for redistribution
Authors: Jordan Jason
Published: February 2017

Traditional research on preferences for redistributive social policy suggest increasingly complex models of public opinion formation that envision individuals balancing normative concerns against sophisticated calculations of economic self-interest. This research largely ignores the large body of evidence demonstrating significant differences in levels of political awareness across the population that strongly influence the quality, structure, and determinants of political preferences. Analyzing public opinion data for 14 European countries reveals that large sections of the population do not appear to hold or express social policy preferences that are internally consistent or well-grounded in either their self-interests or ideological predispositions. At low levels of political awareness, little discernible connection exists between seemingly related preferences for redistribution, levels of social spending, left–right positioning, tolerance for inequality, or overall support for the welfare state. Moreover, income, a theoretically central causal variable, has no effect on attitudes toward redistribution when political awareness is low. These results pose a significant challenge to existing models of social policy preferences.
Suicidal Plans and Attempts Among Adolescents in Mongolia
Authors: Davaasambuu Sarantsetseg , Batbaatar Suvd , Witte Susan , Hamid Phillip , Oquendo Maria A. , Kleinman Marjorie , Olivares Michael , Gould Madelyn
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Background: Although 75% of suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries, few studies have examined suicidal behaviors among young people in these countries. Aims: This study aimed to examine what individual characteristics were associated with suicidal plans and attempts among Mongolian youth and whether suicidal risks and behaviors varied by urban and rural locations. Method: Logistic regression analyses were utilized to investigate suicidal plans and attempts among 5,393 adolescents using the Global Student Health Survey – 2013. Results: Adolescents who lived in urban areas were at higher risk for suicidal plans and behaviors than those who lived in rural areas; however, the patterns of suicidal risks were similar. Specifically, individual characteristics, such as being female, feeling lonely and worried, smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, and having fights at school, were associated with suicidal plans and behaviors regardless of the residential places. Limitations: A number of important variables have not been included in the questionnaire such as depression, family and parental support, household income, family constructs etc. Conclusion: Given the comparable patterns of risk between urban and rural adolescents and the relatively high rates of suicidal plans and attempts, similar mental health services and interventions are necessitated for both urban and rural areas.