bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differentiation of Cerebellar Hemisphere Tumors: Combining Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Histogram Analysis and Structural MRI Features
Authors: Payabvash Seyedmehdi , Tihan Tarik , Cha Soonmee
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

We aimed to develop a diagnostic algorithm for differentiation of cerebellar hemisphere tumors, combining Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) histogram analysis and structural imaging features.

METHODS

Pretreatment MRI of patients with pathologically proven cerebellar hemisphere neoplasms were reviewed. Voxel‐wise volumetric ADC histograms of tumor solid components were determined. Histogram variables, patients’ age, and structural imaging features were applied to develop a differential diagnosis algorithm.

RESULTS

Among 142 patients, the most common tumors were metastasis (n = 54), hemangioblastoma (n = 39), pilocytic astrocytoma (n = 18), and medulloblastoma (n = 9). On ADC histogram analysis, medulloblastomas had the lowest, and pilocytic astrocytomas had the highest ADC values. An ADC 15th percentile value < 580 × 10−6 mm2/s could differentiate medulloblastomas from other cerebellar hemisphere tumors with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) of .98 (P < .001). Comparing the two most common adult cerebellar hemisphere tumors (metastases and hemangioblastomas), hemangioblastomas had higher ADC values; and an ADC 90th percentile value > 2000 × 10−6 mm2/s could identify hemangioblastomas with ROC AUC of .82 (P < .001). Along with ADC histogram and patients’ age, structural imaging features including enhancement pattern, prominent vascular flow voids, surrounding FLAIR hyperintensity, and solid component T2 signal hyperintensity were independent differentiation variables in the diagnostic algorithm.

CONCLUSION

In pretreatment differentiation of cerebellar tumors, the ADC histogram analysis is particularly helpful for distinction of medulloblastomas from other subtypes, and differentiation of the two most common adult tumors (ie, metastases and hemangioblastomas) from each other. Combination of structural imaging features and ADC histogram analysis can help with pretreatment differentiation of cerebellar tumors.
Profiles and profile comparisons between Dark Triad constructs on self‐presentation tactic usage and tactic beliefs
Authors: Hart William , Tortoriello Gregory K. , Richardson Kyle , Breeden Christopher J.
Published: August 2018

Objective

The present research profiled antisocial personality constructs in relation to tactical self‐presentation behaviors and various beliefs associated with such tactical behavior.

Method

An MTurk sample (N = 524; Mage = 37.89; 61% female) completed indices of the Dark Triad (DT; narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy) and self‐reported their use of various self‐presentation tactics, their beliefs about the subjective logic for executing the tactics (which encompassed ratings of the tactics’ utility, ease of execution, and normativity), and the potential for each tactic to arouse self‐recrimination.

Results

Results revealed high convergence between the DT constructs on a relatively malignant approach to self‐presentation. DT constructs related to enhanced usage, enhanced subjective logic, and reduced self‐recrimination ratings for all the tactics, except pro‐social ones (exemplification and apologizing). Nonetheless, results also revealed some notable anticipated instances of nonconvergences between the DT constructs and tactic usage.

Conclusions

The findings highlight that DT constructs function rather similarly at the level of self‐presentation and suggest value in considering the DT constructs as indicative of strategic, subjectively logical image cultivation and defense behavior.
A prospective study about physical growth of children from birth to 2 years old born full‐term small‐for‐gestational‐age
Authors: Huang Lili , Yang Sufei , Yang Fan , Xiong Fei
Published: August 2018

Aim

To evaluate the growth trend of children from birth to 2 years old born full‐term small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) in Chengdu, China.

Methods

Full‐term SGA infants were prospectively followed from birth to 2 years of age. The weight, length and head circumference were monitored at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Catch‐up growth and growth velocity were measured by using standardised z‐score and Δz‐score. Growth deviation was analysed.

Results

A total of 850 full‐term SGA infants were involved in our study. There were no significant differences in weight or length at birth between male and female infants. Full catch‐up growth was seen in 95.85% of SGA infants within 2 years of life, with no gender differences. The z‐score and Δz‐score for weight at 3 months were less than those at other ages (P < 0.05). The z‐score and Δz‐score for length at 3 and 6 months were less than those at other ages (P < 0.05). Smaller z‐score for head circumference was seen at 3 and 6 months (P < 0.05). The z‐score for body mass index at 6 months was the largest over the period of follow‐up. The total prevalence of being overweight or obese fluctuated around 10% at different follow‐up stages. Males had a faster growth velocity for length at 12 months compared to females (P < 0.05). The proportion of those who were underweight, of short stature or had a head circumference z‐score < −2 significantly decreased between 3 and 6 months. At 24 months, there was an increase in z‐score of 0.67 standard deviation for both weight and length in most full‐term SGA infants, and the proportion of underweight and short stature was 2.97 and 2.67%, respectively.

Conclusions

Most full‐term SGA infants undergo catch‐up growth during the first year of life. Regardless of gender, the catch‐up velocity for weight exceeded that for length at each visit. Additional follow‐up studies are needed to determine long‐term growth outcomes for full‐term SGAs.
Improving Efficiency for Making Screening Decisions: A Statewide Comparison of Early Literacy Curriculum‐Based Measurement Tools
Authors: Ford Jeremy W. , Kern Amanda M. , Hosp Michelle K. , Missall Kristen N. , Hosp John L.
Published: August 2018

Universal screening practices play a critical role in preventing reading difficulties. Screening decisions typically rely on results from several curriculum‐based measurement (CBM) tools. In this study, data from 236 first graders were pulled as a subsample from a statewide study. Participants completed multiple early literacy CBM tools and an outcome measure. Performance differences were compared across tools and publishers to examine classification accuracy. Results show no differences in performance between nonsense word fluency tools across publishers, yet differences were found examining classification accuracy. We also report results of an exploratory analysis examining whether improvements in testing efficiency in early literacy screening are possible via multiple‐gating procedures. Improving the accuracy and efficiency of screening procedures are discussed as implications for practice.
A kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) R2R3‐MYB transcription factor modulates chlorophyll and carotenoid accumulation
Authors: Ampomah‐Dwamena Charles , Thrimawithana Amali H. , Dejnoprat Supinya , Lewis David , Espley Richard V. , Allan Andrew C.
Published: August 2018

MYB transcription factors (TFs) regulate diverse plant developmental processes and understanding their roles in controlling pigment accumulation in fruit is important for developing new cultivars. In this study, we characterised kiwifruit TFMYB7, which was found to activate the promoter of the kiwifruit lycopene beta‐cyclase (AdLCY‐β) gene that plays a key role in the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway.

To determine the role of MYB7, we analysed gene expression and metabolite profiles in Actinidia fruit which show different pigment profiles. The impact of MYB7 on metabolic biosynthetic pathways was then evaluated by overexpression in Nicotiana benthamiana followed by metabolite and gene expression analysis of the transformants.

MYB7 was expressed in fruit that accumulated carotenoid and Chl pigments with high transcript levels associated with both pigments. Constitutive over‐expression of MYB7, through transient or stable transformation of N. benthamiana, altered Chl and carotenoid pigment levels. MYB7 overexpression was associated with transcriptional activation of certain key genes involved in carotenoid biosynthesis, Chl biosynthesis, and other processes such as chloroplast and thylakoid membrane organization.

Our results suggest that MYB7 plays a role in modulating carotenoid and Chl pigment accumulation in tissues through transcriptional activation of metabolic pathway genes.
NUMBER OF COMPATIBLE PAIR OF ACTIONS FOR FINITE CYCLIC GROUPS OF P-POWER ORDER
Authors: Shahoodh Mohammed Khalid , Mohamad Mohd Sham , Yusof Yuhani , Sulaiman Sahimel Azwal
Published: August 2018

The compatible actions played an important role before determining the nonabelian tensor product of groups. Different compatible pair of actions gives a different nonabelian tensor product even for the same group. The aim of this paper is to determine the exact number of the compatible pair of actions for the finite cyclic groups of p-power order where p is an odd prime. By using the necessary and sufficient number theoretical conditions for a pair of the actions to be compatible with the actions that have p-power order, the exact number of the compatible pair of actions for the finite cyclic groups of p-power order has been determined and given as a main result in this paper.
DRYING OF ASAM GELUGUR (GARCINIA ATROVIRIDIS) USING SOLAR DRYING SYSTEM/PENGERINGAN ASAM GELUGUR (GARCINIA ATROVIRIDIS) MENGGUNAKAN SISTEM PENGERING SURIA
Authors: Zulkifle Idris , Hj Ruslan Mohd Hafidz , Hj Othman Mohd Yusof , Ibarahim Zahari , Sopian Kamaruzzaman
Published: August 2018

Asam keping in the market are usually dried using conventional methods. A Portable solar drying system for rural community has been designed and tested for drying of garcinia atroviridis under Malaysia climate condition. The initial moisture content of garcinia atroviridis was 90% in wet basis. After drying, these products were used for seasoning in cooking. The final content moisture after using this solar drying system was 4.4%. The pore size for both samples was seen using an electron microscope with 500 times magnification. The biggest pore size for drying using the solar drying system is 28.4μm which is larger and more than conventional drying that around 13 µm. The pore size is an indicator of the dehydrated material and the heat supplied deeper.
EFFECT OF HIGH-DOSE MORINDA CITRIFOLIA (MC) LEAF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT ON SWIMMING ENDURANCE IN FEMALE SPRAGUE DAWLEY RATS
Authors: Zainuddin M. Z. , Y. Kamisah , H. Farida , O. Faizah
Published: August 2018

Morinda citrifolia (MC) is a herb that is famous for its various medicinal properties. However, there has been little research on its effect on increased stamina and physical fatigue reduction. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of high-dose oral intake of 50% ethanol MC leaf extract on exercise performance and physical fatigue in an animal model. Thirty female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups; Control (C); Sedentary (S); Exercise (EX); MC leaf extract 1000 mg/kg/day (MC); MC leaf extract 1000 mg/kg/day with Exercise (MC+EX). The endurance test showed a significant difference in endurance time between EX and MC groups, whereby intake of MC leaf extract without daily exercise lowered endurance level by 68.75%. These findings correlated with serum fatigue indicator analysis whereby significant increases in CK levels of MC group, and LDH levels in MC and MC+EX groups were noted when compared to other groups. Electron microscopy analysis on cardiac muscle tissue showed ultrastructural injuries in muscle fibers of the EX, MC and MC+EX groups whereas injuries to the gastrocnemius myofibres were not so prominent. Based on the study findings, it can be concluded that the consumption of 1000 mg/kg/day 50% ethanol MC extract disturbed internal physiology and resulted in injury to the muscle tissues thus lowering rats endurance capability. This shows that a high dose has unfavourable effects on an animal model while a lower dose may be more appropriate.
Ferrocarril de La Dorada: configuración, desarticulación y rupturas
Authors: Nieto Carlos Eduardo Nieto , Real Yenny Andrea
Published: August 2018

El presente artículo aborda la dimensión patrimonial de la línea férrea conocida como el Ferrocarril de La Dorada (Colombia, departamentos de Caldas y Tolima) a partir de dos aspectos básicos: el primero tiene que ver con el reconocimiento de la construcción de este ferrocarril como un sistema territorial complejo; y el segundo, el contraste con el estado actual de los elementos de función especializada dentro de la línea de 111 km de longitud, principalmente de arquitectura y de ingeniería. Para esto, el análisis del Ferrocarril de La Dorada como una unidad patrimonial parte en un primer momento de la recopilación y análisis del proceso histórico de conformación de esta línea, para luego definir los elementos constitutivos del sistema. En un tercer momento, se hace un recorrido y registro del estado actual de los elementos más importantes definidos, y se culmina con unas notas sobre las necesidades de articulación para su conservación.
Capital y desarrollo territorial. Diseños institucionales y gentrificación en el caso de la ciudad de Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Molina-Saldarriaga Cesar Augusto , Salinas-Arreortua Luis Alberto
Published: August 2018

El proceso de globalización ha fracturado los límites impuestos a la circulación de capitales. La planeación y gestión del suelo han sido impactados por este proceso y grandes ciudades han venido adoptando estrategias para capturar capital privado en procesos de desarrollo urbano y prevenir o mitigar los impactos gentrificadores que ello supone. A pesar de la importancia del tema, en Colombia no hay producción académica que permita definir elementos y criterios de atención del fenómeno, ya que esta es una necesidad sentida en la que el derecho juega un papel fundamental. A partir de un rastreo documental se reconstruye un marco teórico sobre la gentrificación, se describen los diseños institucionales para motivar la inversión de capital privado en la gestión del suelo y se analiza la política de protección a moradores en Medellín, Colombia. Finalmente, se identifican los retos que debe asumir el derecho con respecto a la relación entre estos tres aspectos. Se concluye que es necesario desarrollar procesos de investigación interdisciplinaria para identificar la tensión entre el proceso de intervención territorial urbana, la inversión de capitales y el régimen de derechos constitucionales.
A Q Fever Outbreak with a High Rate of Abortions at a Dairy Goat Farm: Coxiella burnetii Shedding, Environmental Contamination, and Viability
Authors: Álvarez-Alonso Raquel , Basterretxea Mikel , Barandika Jesús F. , Hurtado Ana , Idiazabal Jasone , Jado Isabel , Beraza Xabier , Montes Milagros , Liendo Paloma , García-Pérez Ana L.
Published: August 2018

This work describes a 7-month follow-up of the excretion by different routes of
Coxiella burnetii
genotype SNP1/MST13 in a herd of goats that suffered high rate of abortions (81%), generating high environmental contamination. Some of the workers and visitors who accessed the farm were infected, with fever as the main symptom but a low incidence of pneumonia. The detected strain (SNP1/MST13 genotype) turned out to be very aggressive in goats. The viability of
C. burnetii
was demonstrated in the environment of the farm at the time of abortions, but 2 months after the last parturition, no viable bacteria were detected. These results highlighted the importance of implementing good biosafety measures at farms and avoiding the entrance of visitors to farms several months after the end of the kidding period.
MrpJ Directly Regulates Proteus mirabilis Virulence Factors, Including Fimbriae and Type VI Secretion, during Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Debnath Irina , Stringer Anne M. , Smith Sara N. , Bae Emily , Mobley Harry L. T. , Wade Joseph T. , Pearson Melanie M.
Published: August 2018

Proteus mirabilis
is a leading cause of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) and urolithiasis. The transcriptional regulator MrpJ inversely modulates two critical aspects of
P. mirabilis
UTI progression: fimbria-mediated attachment and flagellum-mediated motility.
Effect of Hypoxia on the Pathogenesis of Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa In Vitro and in Murine Experimental Models of Infection
Authors: Gil-Marqués María Luisa , Pachón-Ibáñez María Eugenía , Pachón Jerónimo , Smani Younes
Published: August 2018

Hypoxia modulates bacterial virulence and the inflammation response through hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). Here we study the influence of hypoxia on
Acinetobacter baumannii
and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
infections.
FISHing Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex by Use of a
rpoB
DNA Probe Bait
Authors: Loukil Ahmed , Kirtania Prithwiraj , Bedotto Marielle , Drancourt Michel
Published: August 2018

Routine staining of sputum specimens does not identify acid-fast bacilli as
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
with utmost precision, limiting its usability as a confirmatory test for pulmonary tuberculosis. We have combined Ziehl-Neelsen staining and fluorescence
in situ
hybridization (FISH) to detect
M. tuberculosis
in sputum specimens.
HIV-1 Engages a Dynein-Dynactin-BICD2 Complex for Infection and Transport to the Nucleus
Authors: Carnes Stephanie K. , Zhou Jing , Aiken Christopher
Published: August 2018

During HIV-1 infection, the virus must travel across the cytoplasm to enter the nucleus. The host cell motor protein complex dynein has been implicated in HIV-1 intracellular transport. We show that expression of the dynein heavy chain, components of the dynein-associated dynactin complex, and the dynein adaptor BICD2 in target cells are important for HIV-1 infection and nuclear entry. BICD2 interacts with the HIV-1 capsidin vitro, suggesting that it functions as a capsid-specific adaptor for HIV-1 intracellular transport. Our work identifies specific host proteins involved in microtubule-dependent HIV-1 intracellular transport and highlights the BICD2-capsid interaction as a potential target for antiviral therapy.
Potato Spindle Tuber Viroid Modulates Its Replication through a Direct Interaction with a Splicing Regulator
Authors: Jiang Jian , Smith Heather N. , Ren Di , Dissanayaka Mudiyanselage Shachinthaka D. , Dawe Angus L. , Wang Lei , Wang Ying
Published: August 2018

Viroids are the smallest replicons among all living entities. As circular noncoding RNAs, viroids can replicate and spread in plants, often resulting in disease symptoms. Potato spindle tuber viroid (PSTVd), the type species of nuclear-replicating viroids, requires a unique splicing form of transcription factor IIIA (TFIIIA-7ZF) for its propagation. Here, we provide evidence showing that PSTVd directly interacts with a splicing regulator, RPL5, to favor the expression of TFIIIA-7ZF, thereby promoting viroid replication. This finding provides new insights to better understand viroid biology and sheds light on the noncoding RNA-based regulation of splicing. Our discovery also establishes RPL5 as a novel negative factor regulating viroid replication in the nucleus and highlights a potential means for viroid control.
Complete Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa K34-7, a Carbapenem-Resistant Isolate of the High-Risk Sequence Type 233
Authors: Taiaroa George , Samuelsen Ørjan , Kristensen Tom , Økstad Ole Andreas Løchen , Heikal Adam
Published: August 2018

Carbapenem-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is defined as a “critical” priority pathogen for the development of new antibiotics. Here we report the complete genome sequence of an extensively drug-resistant, Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase-expressing isolate belonging to the high-risk sequence type 233.
What are the risk factors for injuries and injury prevention strategies for skiers and snowboarders in terrain parks and half-pipes? A systematic review
Authors: Audet Olivier , Hagel Brent E , Nettel-Aguirre Albertro , Mitra Tatum , Emery Carolyn A , Macpherson Alison , Lavoie Marie Denise , Goulet Claude
Published: August 2018

Objective

To synthesise the current evidence regarding the risk factors, the injury prevention strategies and the profile of injured skiers and snowboarders in terrain parks (TPs) and half-pipes (HPs).

Design

Systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines.

Data sources

Literature searches from six electronic databases and manual searches were performed.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Inclusion criteria were: (1) publication based on original data; (2) injuries sustained in TPs or HPs; (3) recreational skiing or snowboarding injuries; (4) observational or experimental study design with a comparison group.

Results

No study explored the risk factors in HPs or the prevention strategies in TPs or HPs. From the literature retrieved, there is strong evidence that skiing or snowboarding in a TP is a risk factor for head, neck, back and severe injuries. Two papers assessed the risk factors for injuries in TPs, mainly demonstrating that features promoting aerial manoeuvres or a large drop to the ground were associated with higher feature-specific injury rates. The profile of injured skiers and snowboarders in TPs described in the literature suggested some evidence of associations between factors including activity, sex, skill level, helmet use, age and TP injuries.

Summary/conclusions

This systematic review demonstrates the need for studies identifying the risk factors for injuries to skiers and snowboarders and on interventions to reduce the risk of injury in TPs and HPs. Studies addressing the issue of TP design should be considered.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42016045206.
Reducing hospital admissions for COPD: perspectives following the Christchurch Earthquake
Authors: Epton Michael , Limber Carol , Gullery Carolyn , McGeoch Graham , Shand Brett , Laing Rose , Brokenshire Simon , Meads Andrew , Nicholson-Hitt Rachel
Published: August 2018

The devastating 2011 earthquake in Christchurch destroyed or badly damaged healthcare infrastructure, including Christchurch Hospital. This forced change in management of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which until that point had frequently led to admission to hospital and focused attention on providing safe community options for care. This paper describes the process of understanding factors contributing to high admission frequency with exacerbations of COPD and also describes a process of change, predominantly to healthcare delivery systems and philosophies, and the subsequent outcomes. What became clear in understanding admissions with COPD to Christchurch Hospital was that the behaviour of the patient, in the context of exacerbations, and the subsequent response of the system to the patient, led to admission being the default option, in spite of low severity of the exacerbation itself. By altering systems’ responses to exacerbations, with a linked care process between ambulances, community care and hospitals, we were able to safely reduce admissions for COPD, with a sustained overall reduction in bed-day occupancy for COPD of ~48%. We would encourage these discussions and changes to occur without the stimulus of an earthquake in your healthcare environment!
Dose modification and dose intensity during treatment with pirfenidone: analysis of pooled data from three multinational phase III trials
Authors: Nathan Steven D , Lancaster Lisa H , Albera Carlo , Glassberg Marilyn K , Swigris Jeffrey J , Gilberg Frank , Kirchgaessler Klaus-Uwe , Limb Susan L , Petzinger Ute , Noble Paul W
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Temporary dose modifications, such as reductions or interruptions, may allow patients to better manage adverse events (AEs) associated with pirfenidone use and continue treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, the impact of such dosing adjustments on efficacy and safety is uncertain.

Methods

Patients randomised to receive treatment with pirfenidone 2403 mg/day or placebo in the Clinical Studies Assessing Pirfenidone in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Research of Efficacy and Safety Outcomes (CAPACITY (Study 004 (NCT00287716)) and Study 006 (NCT00287729))) and Assessment of Pirfenidone to Confirm Efficacy and Safety in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (ASCEND (Study 016 (NCT01366209)) trials were included in the analysis (n=1247). Descriptive statistics and a linear mixed-effects model (slope analysis) for annual rate of decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) by dose intensity were performed. Treatment-emergent AEs (TEAEs) were summarised and grouped by dose intensity or body size.

Results

Dose reductions and interruptions occurred in 76.9% (95% CI 73.4% to 80.1%) and 46.5% (95% CI 42.6% to 50.6%) of patients receiving pirfenidone vs 72.0% (95% CI 68.3% to 75.4%) and 31.1% (95% CI 27.5% to 34.9%) of patients receiving placebo, respectively. Dose interruptions tended to occur during the first 6 months of treatment, whereas dose reductions exhibited more variability. Less FVC decline from baseline was observed in patients receiving pirfenidone versus placebo at >90% dose intensity (p<0.001) or ≤90% dose intensity (p=0.0191), showing treatment benefit in both subgroups of dose intensity. No meaningful relationship between weight and TEAEs was observed.

Conclusion

Dose interruptions, which may be required to manage TEAEs, mostly occurred during the first 6 months of treatment. Despite dose reductions and interruptions, most patients with IPF maintained relatively high dose intensity on pirfenidone, without compromising its treatment effect compared with placebo.

Trial registration numbers

NCT00287729,NCT00287716,NCT01366209.
Relationship between white matter integrity and post-traumatic cognitive deficits: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Jie , Tian Liang , Zhang Li , Cheng Ruidong , Wei Ruili , He Fangping , Li Juebao , Luo Benyan , Ye Xiangming
Published: August 2018

Objective

To investigate relationships between cognitive domains and white matter changes in different regions in patients with cognitive deficits after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

Databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and CENTRAL were searched for studies published before 5 August 2017. Correlation coefficients between cognition and white matter integrity, measured by diffusion metrics, including fractional anisotropy (FA), were pooled from 49 studies including 1405 patients. The influence of demographic factors was assessed by meta-regression analysis.

Results

Significant pooled FA–executive correlations (p<0.001) were found across various regions, including the corpus callosum (CC) (r=0.42, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.54), superior longitudinal fasciculus (r=0.50, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.59) and internal capsule (IC) (r=0.49, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.61). The fornix (r=0.62, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.78) and cingulum (r=0.57, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.81) particularly correlated with memory (p<0.001). The CC and IC also showed significant relationships with attention and processing speed (p<0.001). Demographic factors had no influence overall, except that studies with a greater proportion of males had stronger correlations between memory and white matter (p<0.05).

Conclusions

FA is the most sensitive metric for detecting post-TBI cognitive decline across various domains. Representative white matter regions, such as the CC and IC, perform better than whole-brain white matter for reflecting a wide range of cognitive domains, including memory, attention and executive functions. Moreover, the fornix and cingulum particularly reflect memory function. They yield insights into particular imaging indicators that have neuropsychological value.
A new conceptual framework for the integrated neural control of locomotor and sympathetic function: implications for exercise after spinal cord injury
Authors: Cowley Kristine C.
Published: August 2018

All mammals, including humans, are designed to produce sustained locomotor movements. Many higher centres are involved in movement, but ultimately these centres act upon a core “rhythm-generating” network within the brainstem-spinal cord. In addition, endurance-based locomotor exercise requires sympathetic neural support to maintain homeostasis and to provide needed metabolic resources. This review focuses on the roles and integration of these 2 neural systems. Part I reviews the cardiovascular, thermoregulatory, and metabolic functions under spinal sympathetic control as revealed by spinal cord injury at different levels. Part II examines the integration between brainstem-spinal sympathetic pathways and the neural circuitry producing motor rhythms. In particular, the rostroventral medulla (RVM) contains the neural circuitry that (i) integrates heart rate, contractility, and blood flow in response to postural changes; (ii) initiates and maintains cardiovascular adaptations for exercise; (iii) provides direct descending innervation to preganglionic neurons innervating the adrenal glands, white adipose tissue, and tissues responsible for cooling the body; (iv) integrates descending sympathetic drive for energy substrate mobilization (lipolysis); and (v) is the relay for descending locomotor commands arising from higher brain centres. A unifying conceptual framework is presented, in which the RVM serves as the final descending supraspinal “exercise integration centre” linking the descending locomotor command signal with the metabolic and homeostatic support needed to produce prolonged rhythmic activities. The role and rationale for an ascending sympathetic and locomotor drive from the lower to upper limbs within this framework is presented. Examples of new research directions based on this unifying framework are discussed.
Efficiency of atorvastatin and simvastatin in improving cardiac function during the different degrees of hyperhomocysteinemia
Authors: Nikolic Turnic Tamara R. , Jakovljevic Vladimir Lj. , Djuric Dragan M. , Jeremic Nevena S. , Jeremic Jovana N. , Milosavljevic Isidora M. , Srejovic Ivan M. , Selakovic Dragica V. , Zivkovic Vladimir I.
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of atorvastatin and simvastatin on myocardial contractility during the different degrees of hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) in rats. Study was conducted on adult male Wistar albino rats (n = 90; 4 weeks old; 100 ± 15 g body mass) in which HHcy was achieved by dietary manipulation. Animals were exposed to pharmacology treatment with atorvastatin in dose of 3 mg/kg per day i.p. or simvastatin in dose of 5 mg/kg per day i.p. at the same time every day, according to equivalent therapeutic doses of these statins (10 mg atorvastatin = 20 mg simvastatin). After the dietary manipulation and pharmacological treatment and confirmation of HHcy, all animals were sacrificed, hearts were isolated, and cardiac function was tested according to the Langendorff technique. Size of recovery of maximum rate of left ventricular development (dp/dtmax), minimum rate of left ventricular development (dp/dtmin), systolic left ventricular development, diastolic left ventricular development, heart rate, and coronary flow at the 40, 60, 80, 100, and 120 cmH2O coronary perfusion pressure were measured in state of physiological condition (homocysteine less than 15 μmol/L), mild HHcy, and moderate HHcy. Atorvastatin treatment significantly attenuated homocysteine-induced impairment of myocyte contractility and dominantly decreased dp/dtmax, dp/dtmin, and heart rate and induced greater changes in systolic left ventricular development compared with simvastatin. Treatment with atorvastatin seems able to revert systolic abnormalities and improve contractility during the different degrees of HHcy.
Organization and evolution of two repetitive sequences, 18-24J and 12-13P, in the genome ofChenopodium(Amaranthaceae)
Authors: Orzechowska Maja , Majka Maciej , Weiss-Schneeweiss Hanna , Kovařík Ales , Borowska-Zuchowska Natalia , Kolano Bozena
Published: August 2018

The abundance and chromosomal organization of two repetitive sequences named 12-13P and 18-24J were analyzed in 24 diploid and nine polyploid species of Chenopodium s.l., with special attention to Chenopodium s.s. Both sequences were predominantly present in species of Chenopodium s.s.; however, differences in the amplification levels were observed among the species. The 12-13P repeat was highly amplified in all of the analyzed Eurasian species, whereas the American diploids showed a marked variation in the amplification levels. The 12-13P repeat contains a tandemly arranged 40 bp minisatellite element forming a large proportion of the genome of Chenopodium (up to 3.5%). FISH revealed its localization to the pericentromeric regions of the chromosomes. The chromosomal distribution of 12-13P delivered additional chromosomal marker for B-genome diploids. The 18-24J repeat showed a dispersed organization in all of the chromosomes of the analyzed diploid species and the Eurasian tetraploids. In the American allotetraploids (C. quinoa, C. berlandieri) and Eurasian allohexaploids (e.g., C. album) very intense hybridization signals of 18-24J were observed only on 18 chromosomes that belong to the B subgenome of these polyploids. Combined cytogenetic and molecular analyses suggests that reorganization of these two repeats accompanied the diversification and speciation of diploid (especially A genome) and polyploid species of Chenopodium s.s.
Simulation and experimental study of binder droplet infiltration in 3DP technology
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Jia Pengfei , Yang Weidong , Peng Kai , Zhang Sixiang
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this paper is to lessen the deviation of printing and to predict the nucleus size of binder droplet infiltration in three-dimensional printing (3DP) technology. The industrial CT is used to scan powders and the parameters of materials are calculated. A spherical model, which is based on the data from industrial CT scanning, predicts the nucleus size. The radius of the sphere is equal to the average radius of the sand particles. The spreading radius of binder droplet on the material is obtained by using the experimental method, and then the nucleus size is calculated by the equations. In order to do research on the process of droplet infiltration more intuitively, we analyze the effects of contact angle, porosity and drop height on the infiltration by using the software Comsol in the simulation. To verify the results of the simulation, the processes of infiltration are recorded by the high-speed digital video camera, and the nucleus size is observed by electron microscope. The study is important to conduct the infiltration experiments and provides a theoretical basis for optimization of process parameters in practical application.
An integrated framework for anomaly detection in big data of medical wireless sensors
Authors: Saneja Bharti , Rani Rinkle
Published: August 2018

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are ubiquitous nowadays and have applications in variety of domains such as machine surveillance, precision agriculture, intelligent buildings, healthcare etc. Detection of anomalous activities in such domains has always been a subject undergoing intense study. As the sensor networks are generating tons of data every second, it becomes a challenging task to detect anomalous events accurately from this large amount of data. Most of the existing techniques for anomaly detection are not scalable to big data. Also, sometimes accuracy might get compromised while dealing with such a large amount of data. To address these issues in this paper, a unified framework for anomaly detection in big sensor data has been proposed. The proposed framework is based on data compression and Hadoop MapReduce-based parallel fuzzy clustering. The clusters are further refined for better classification accuracy. The modules of the proposed framework are compared with various existing state-of-art algorithms. For experimental analysis, real sensor data of ICU patients has been taken from the physionet library. It is revealed from the comparative analysis that the proposed framework is more time efficient and shows better classification accuracy.
Economics of Child Protection: Maltreatment, Foster Care, and Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Doyle Joseph J. , Aizer Anna
Published: August 2018

Violence within families and child neglect are strikingly common: 700,000 children are found to be victims of abuse or neglect in the United States each year; over the course of childhood, 6% of children are placed in foster care, and 18% witness intimate partner violence. These children are at much higher risks of homelessness, criminal justice involvement, unemployment, and chronic health conditions compared to their neighbors. This article reviews the state of the economics literature on the causes and consequences of child maltreatment and intimate partner violence and calls for greater research into interventions aimed at improving child well-being.
Cross-Modal Effects in Speech Perception
Authors: Keough Megan , Derrick Donald , Gick Bryan
Published: August 2018

Speech research during recent years has moved progressively away from its traditional focus on audition toward a more multisensory approach. In addition to audition and vision, many somatosenses including proprioception, pressure, vibration, and aerotactile sensation are all highly relevant modalities for experiencing and/or conveying speech. In this article, we review both long-standing cross-modal effects stemming from decades of audiovisual speech research and new findings related to somatosensory effects. Cross-modal effects in speech perception to date have been found to be constrained by temporal congruence and signal relevance, but appear to be unconstrained by spatial congruence. The literature reveals that, far from taking place in a one-, two-, or even three-dimensional space, speech occupies a highly multidimensional sensory space. We argue that future research in cross-modal effects should expand to consider each of these modalities both separately and in combination with other modalities in speech.
Lixisenatide requires a functional gut-vagus nerve-brain axis to trigger insulin secretion in controls and type 2 diabetic mice
Authors: Charpentier Julie , Waget Aurélie , Klopp Pascale , Magnan Christophe , Cruciani-Guglielmacci Céline , Lee Shin Jae , Burcelin Rémy , Grasset Estelle
Published: August 2018

Endogenous glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) regulates glucose-induced insulin secretion through both direct β-cell-dependent and indirect gut-brain axis-dependent pathways. However, little is known about the mode of action of the GLP-1 receptor agonist lixisenatide. We studied the effects of lixisenatide (intraperitoneal injection) on insulin secretion, gastric emptying, vagus nerve activity, and brain c-Fos activation in naive, chronically vagotomized, GLP-1 receptor knockout (KO), high-fat diet-fed diabetic mice, or db/db mice. Lixisenatide dose-dependently increased oral glucose-induced insulin secretion that is correlated with a decrease of glycemia. In addition, lixisenatide inhibited gastric emptying. These effects of lixisenatide were abolished in vagotomized mice, characterized by a delay of gastric emptying and in GLP-1 receptor KO mice. Intraperitoneal administration of lixisenatide also increased the vagus nerve firing rate and the number of c-Fos-labeled neurons in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) of the brainstem. In diabetic mouse models, lixisenatide increased the firing rate of the vagus nerve when administrated simultaneously to an intraduodenal glucose. It increased also insulin secretion and c-Fos activation in the NTS. Altogether, our findings show that lixisenatide requires a functional vagus nerve and neuronal gut-brain-islets axis as well as the GLP-1 receptor to regulate glucose-induced insulin secretion in healthy and diabetic mice.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Lixisenatide is an agonist of the glucagon-like protein (GLP)-1 receptor, modified from exendin 4, used to treat type 2 diabetic patients. However, whereas the mode of action of endogenous GLP-1 is extensively studied, the mode of action of the GLP-1 analog lixisenatide is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that lixisenatide activates the vagus nerve and recruits the gut-brain axis through the GLP-1 receptor to decrease gastric emptying and stimulate insulin secretion to improve glycemia.
Amount of daily exercise is an essential stimulation to alter the epigenome of skeletal muscle in rats
Authors: Ohsawa Ikumi , Konno Ryotaro , Masuzawa Ryo , Kawano Fuminori
Published: August 2018

Long-term running training causes epigenetic changes in the skeletal muscles. Here we tested the effects of the total amount or duration of running training on the distribution of histones in the rat plantaris muscle. Post-weaned young rats were assigned to 3 different training groups: Run-1, 30 min/day running exercise for 8 wk using an animal treadmill at 24 m/min; Run-2, 15 min/day for 8 wk; and Run-3, 60 min/day for 4 wk. Citrate synthase activity was not significantly changed by running training, although the slight increase was observed in Run-3. Genes that were previously defined as showing the typical responses to running training were targeted to measure the distribution of histones using chromatin immunoprecipitation. The distribution of acetylated histone 3 was elevated in Run-2 and Run-3, but not in Run-1. Incorporation of H3.3 into the nucleosome was stimulated in Run-1, whereas H3.3 distribution was unchanged in Run-2 or downregulated in Run-3. Significant downregulation of H3.3 expression was also detected in Run-3. We further checked the responses of the target genes during acute running. Target genes were transcriptionally activated and histone acetylation was stimulated at the loci in response to acute running. These results suggested that the exchange of the histone component to H3.3 was stimulated by running training, inhibiting the accumulation of acetylated histones in Run-1. Additionally, it was further suggested that the enhanced daily amount of running caused changes in the H3.3 expression, affecting the rate of the histone exchange in Run-3.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Chromatin remodeling in the skeletal muscle is a potent mechanism preventing disuse atrophy in later life that can be acquired via long-term exercise training. Here we demonstrated in rats that daily exercise amount is a key factor in the development of epigenetic changes in the skeletal muscle. To acquire a health benefit, our research suggests the importance of considering the time endurance for daily exercise bouts.
Characterization and pharmacological modulation of noci-responsive deep dorsal horn neurons across diverse rat models of pathological pain
Authors: McGaraughty Steve , Chu Katharine L. , Xu Jun
Published: August 2018

This overview compares the activity of wide dynamic range (WDR) and nociceptive specific (NS) neurons located in the deep dorsal horn across different rat models of pathological pain and following modulation by diverse pharmacology. The data were collected by our group under the same experimental conditions over numerous studies to facilitate comparison. Spontaneous firing of WDR neurons was significantly elevated (>3.7 Hz) in models of neuropathic, inflammation, and osteoarthritic pain compared with naive animals (1.9 Hz) but was very low (<0.5 Hz) and remained unchanged in NS neurons. WDR responses to low-intensity mechanical stimulation were elevated in neuropathic and inflammation models. WDR responses to high-intensity stimuli were enhanced in inflammatory (heat) and osteoarthritis (mechanical) models. NS responses to high-intensity stimulation did not change relative to control in any model examined. Several therapeutic agents reduced both evoked and spontaneous firing of WDR neurons (e.g., TRPV1, TRPV3, Nav1.7, Nav1.8, P2X7, P2X3, H3), other targets affected neither evoked nor spontaneous firing of WDR neurons (e.g., H4, TRPM8, KCNQ2/3), and some only modulated evoked (e.g, ASIC1a, Cav3.2) whereas others decreased evoked but affected spontaneous activity only in specific models (e.g., TRPA1, CB2). Spontaneous firing of WDR neurons was not altered by any peripherally restricted compound or by direct administration of compounds to peripheral sites, although the same compounds decreased evoked activity. Compounds acting centrally were effective against this endpoint. The diversity of incoming/modulating inputs to the deep dorsal horn positions this group of neurons as an important intersection within the pain system to validate novel therapeutics.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Data from multiple individual experiments were combined to show firing properties of wide dynamic range and nociceptive specific spinal dorsal horn neurons across varied pathological pain models. This high-powered analysis describes the sensitization following different forms of injury. Effects of diverse pharmacology on these neurons is also summarized from published and unpublished data all recorded under the same conditions to facilitate comparison. This comprehensive overview describes the function and utility of these neurons.
Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels: Key Players in Sensory Coding in the Retina and the Inner Ear
Authors: Pangrsic Tina , Singer Joshua H. , Koschak Alexandra
Published: August 2018

Calcium influx through voltage-gated Ca (CaV) channels is the first step in synaptic transmission. This review concerns CaV channels at ribbon synapses in primary sense organs and their specialization for efficient coding of stimuli in the physical environment. Specifically, we describe molecular, biochemical, and biophysical properties of the CaV channels in sensory receptor cells of the retina, cochlea, and vestibular apparatus, and we consider how such properties might change over the course of development and contribute to synaptic plasticity. We pay particular attention to factors affecting the spatial arrangement of CaV channels at presynaptic, ribbon-type active zones, because the spatial relationship between CaV channels and release sites has been shown to affect synapse function critically in a number of systems. Finally, we review identified synaptopathies affecting sensory systems and arising from dysfunction of L-type, CaV1.3, and CaV1.4 channels or their protein modulatory elements.
Dopant Introduced Valley Polarization, Spin, and Valley Hall Conductivity in Doped Monolayer MoS2
Authors: Mekonnen Sintayehu , Singh Pooran
Published: August 2018

We study valley polarization, spin, and valley Hall conductivity in doped monolayer MoS2 considering dopant introduced magnetic exchange field using low energy effective Hamiltonian. We found that dopant introduced magnetic exchange field breaks the time inversion symmetry and decouples the energetically degenerated valleys into nondegenerate. Moreover, the calculated result reveals that, at low temperature, in insulating regime, anomalous Hall conductivity in a single valley and the total valley Hall conductivity are quantized, whereas the total spin Hall conductivity vanishes identically. We also found that the strength of the spin-orbit coupling together with the exchange field determines the valley polarization, which in turn controls valley and spin Hall conductivity in doped monolayer MoS2 system. The spin Hall and valley Hall conductivity is dissipationless in the absence of any external magnetic field. Therefore, our results are crucial to generate low power electronics devices.