bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
UAV‐derived habitat predictors contribute strongly to understanding avian species–habitat relationships on the Eastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Fritz Andreas , Li Li , Storch Ilse , Koch Barbara 
Published: February 2018

AbstractSpecies–habitat relationships are of core interest in ecological studies. In this research, we explored the potential of small, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to derive a comprehensive set of habitat predictors to explain distribution variance of an alpine bird community in Jikdril county, on the eastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau (QTP). In 2014 and 2015, we carried out two breeding season bird surveys on 140 plots, from eight sample blocks in the Nyanpo Yutse region. In summer 2014, we conducted 39 flights over the eight sample blocks, and obtained 5500 images which covered 45 km2 of alpine grassland habitat. We used photogrammetry software to generate high‐resolution orthophotos and digital surface models with an average pixel size of 13 cm. We derived both 3D‐ and 2D‐UAV‐based models as habitat predictors used to analyze explained variance in the local bird community at four different sample scales (plot radii of 50 m, 100 m, 150 m and 200 m). We performed canonical correspondence analyses (CCA), with a model‐building approach based on permutation. Furthermore, the proportion of total variance explained by each predictor group was calculated, and analysis of results showed that UAV data derived predictors played a significant role in explaining the variance of the sampled bird community on the QTP. In particular, 3D‐based predictors contributed strongly to the explanation of variance (50 m: 45.44%, 100 m: 44.60%, 150 m: 49.21%, 200 m: 36.22% of the total explained variance per sample size), followed by 2D‐based predictors over the same four sample scales (50 m: 35.45%, 100 m: 34.57%, 150 m: 31.19%, 200 m: 39.48%). Our results indicate that a sample plot scale of 150–200 m radius leads to the most comprehensive explanation of variance (all predictors: 39.59%, P < 0.0001 and 39.13% P < 0.0001). UAV data provide us with fine‐scale (10 cm resolution) continuous raster data on land cover, topographic and landscape features, which are hard to acquire with conventional habitat measurements. We therefore successfully demonstrate the performance of UAV‐derived data in facilitating ecological research at different spatial scales.
Multicellular Tumor Spheroids (MCTS) as a 3D In Vitro Evaluation Tool of Nanoparticles
Authors: Lu Hongxu , Stenzel Martina H. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractMulticellular tumor spheroid models (MCTS) are often coined as 3D in vitro models that can mimic the microenvironment of tissues. MCTS have gained increasing interest in the nano‐biotechnology field as they can provide easily accessible information on the performance of nanoparticles without using animal models. Considering that many countries have put restrictions on animals testing, which will only tighten in the future as seen by the recent developments in the Netherlands, 3D models will become an even more valuable tool. Here, an overview on MCTS is provided, focusing on their use in cancer research as most nanoparticles are tested in MCTS for treatment of primary tumors. Thereafter, various types of nanoparticles—from self‐assembled block copolymers to inorganic nanoparticles, are discussed. A range of physicochemical parameters including the size, shape, surface chemistry, ligands attachment, stability, and stiffness are found to influence nanoparticles in MCTS. Some of these studies are complemented by animal studies confirming that lessons from MCTS can in part predict the behaviour in vivo. In summary, MCTS are suitable models to gain additional information on nanoparticles. While not being able to replace in vivo studies, they can bridge the gap between traditional 2D in vitro studies and in vivo models.
Highly Uniform Resistive Switching Properties of Solution‐Processed Silver‐Embedded Gelatin Thin Film
Authors: Chang Yu‐Chi , Lee Cheng‐Jung , Wang Li‐Wen , Wang Yeong‐Her 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThe silver‐embedded gelatin (AgG) thin film produced by the solution method of metal salts dissolved in gelatin is presented. Its simple fabrication method ensures the uniform distribution of Ag dots. Memory devices based on AgG exhibit good device performance, such as the ON/OFF ratio in excess of 105 and the coefficient of variation in less of 50%. To further investigate the position of filament formation and the role of each element, current sensing atomic force microscopy (CSAFM) analysis as well as elemental line profiles across the two different conditions in the LRS and HRS are analyzed. The conductive and nonconductive regions in the current map of the CSAFM image show that the conductive filaments occur in the AgG layer around Ag dots. The migration of oxygen ions and the redox reaction of carbon are demonstrated to be the driving mechanism for the resistive switching of AgG memory devices. The results show that dissolving metal salts in gelatin is an effective way to achieve high‐performance organic–electronic applications.
Hematogenous Dissemination of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Endometriosis
Authors: Li Fei , Alderman Myles H. , Tal Aya , Mamillapalli Ramanaiah , Coolidge Alexis , Hufnagel Demetra , Wang Zhihao , Neisani Elham , Gidicsin Stephanie , Krikun Graciela , Taylor Hugh S. 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Endometriosis is ectopic growth of endometrial tissue traditionally thought to arise through retrograde menstruation. We aimed to determine if cells derived from endometriosis could enter vascular circulation and lead to hematogenous dissemination. Experimental endometriosis was established by transplanting endometrial tissue from DsRed+ mice into the peritoneal cavity of DsRed- mice. Using flow cytometry, we identified DsRed+ cells in blood of animals with endometriosis. The circulating donor cells expressed CXCR4 and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) biomarkers, but not hematopoietic stem cell markers. Nearly all the circulating endometrial stem cells originated from endometriosis rather than from the uterus. Cells expressing DsRed, CXCR4, and MSCs markers were identified in the peritoneal wall and surrounding vessels of recipient mice, contributing to both endometriosis and angiogenesis. Cells originating in endometriosis lesions migrated and implanted in lung tissue and displayed makers of differentiation, indicating retained multipotency. In vitro these cells demonstrated multipotency and were able to differentiate into adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic lineages. Endometriosis lesions also expressed high levels of CXCL12, the CXCR4 receptor ligand. Serum CXCL12 levels were greater than in sham control mice. In humans with endometriosis, serum CXCL12 levels were significantly higher than controls, suggesting that the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis is operational in women with spontaneous endometriosis as well. Stem cells, rather than differentiated cells from endometriosis, enter the circulation in response to CXCL12. We identify an endometriosis-derived stem cell population, a potential mechanism of dissemination of this disease and a potential target for treatment of endometriosis.
Stem Cells Engineered During Different Stages of Reprogramming Reveal Varying Therapeutic Efficacies
Authors: Bhere Deepak , Khajuria Rajiv Kumar , Hendriks William T. , Bandyopadhyay Antara , Bagci-Onder Tugba , Shah Khalid 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Stem cells are emerging as promising treatment strategies for several brain disorders and pathologies. In this study, we explored the potential of creating induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem cells (ipNSC) by using either unmodified or gene-modified somatic cells and tested their fate and therapeutic efficacies in vitro and in vivo. We show that cells engineered in somatic state lose transgene-expression during the neural induction process, which is partially restored by histone deacetylase inhibitor treatment whereas cells engineered at the ipNSC state have sustained expression of transgenes. In vivo, bimodal mouse and human ipNSCs engineered to express tumor specific death-receptor ligand and suicide-inducing therapeutic proteins have profound anti-tumor efficacy when encapsulated in synthetic extracellular matrix and transplanted in mouse models of resected-glioblastoma. This study provides insights into using somatic cells for treating CNS disorders and presents a receptor-targeted cancer therapeutic approach for brain tumors.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Protect Against Hypoxia-Ischemia Brain Damage by Enhancing Autophagy Through Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor/Mammalin Target of Rapamycin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zheng Zhen , Zhang Li , Qu Yi , Xiao Guoguang , Li Shiping , Bao Shan , Lu Q. Richard , Mu Dezhi 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a serious disease for neonates. However, present therapeutic strategies are not effective enough for treating HIE. Previous study showed that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can exert neuroprotective effects for brain damage, but its mechanism remains elusive. Using in vitro coculture of rat cortical primary neurons and MSCs in HI conditions, we demonstrated that MSCs help increase brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and autophagy markers (LC3II and Beclin1) in the cultures and decrease cells death (lactate dehydrogenase levels). We demonstrated a similar mechanism using an in vivo rat model of HI in combination with MSCs transplantation. Using a behavioral study, we further showed that MSCs transplantation into the rat brain after HI injury can attenuate behavioral deficits. Finally, we found that the increase in BDNF and autophagy related factors after HI injury combined with MSCs transplantation can be reversed by anti-BDNF treatment and strengthen the point that the protective effects of BDNF work through inhibition of the mammalin target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Collectively, we proposed that coculture/transplantation of MSCs after HI injury leads to increased BDNF expression and a subsequent reduction in mTOR pathway activation that results in increased autophagy and neuroprotection. This finding gives a hint to explore new strategies for treating neonates with HIE.
Leadership Competency Expectations of Employers and the Expanding Mission of Career Centers
Authors: Cruzvergara Christine Y. , Testani Joseph A. , Smith Kelli K. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThis chapter describes the expectations of employers for recent college graduates within the current state of higher education, the resulting career readiness competencies developed by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, and the increasing shift for colleges and universities to recognize career readiness as an institutional priority.
Computation of Fisher–Gale Equilibrium by Auction
Authors: Nesterov Yurii , Shikhman Vladimir 
Published: February 2018

AbstractWe study the Fisher model of a competitive market from the algorithmic perspective. For that, the related convex optimization problem due to Gale and Eisenberg (Ann Math Stat 30(1):165–168, 1959) is used. The latter problem is known to yield a Fisher equilibrium under some structural assumptions on consumers’ utilities, e.g., homogeneity of degree 1, homotheticity. Our goal is to examine applicability of the convex optimization framework by departing from these traditional assumptions. We just assume the concavity of consumers’ utility functions. For this case, we suggest a novel concept of Fisher–Gale equilibrium by using consumers’ utility prices. The prices of utility transfer the utility of consumption bundle to a common numéraire. We develop a subgradient-type algorithm from Convex Analysis to compute a Fisher–Gale equilibrium via Gale’s approach. In order to decentralize prices, we additionally implement the auction design, i.e., consumers settle and update their individual prices and producers sell at the highest offer price. Our price adjustment is based on a tatonnement procedure, i.e., the prices change proportionally to consumers’ individual excess supplies. Historical averages of consumption are shown to clear the market of goods. Our algorithm is justified by a global rate of convergence. In the worst case, the number of price updates needed to achieve an $$\varepsilon $$
ε
-tolerance is proportional to $$\frac{1}{\varepsilon ^2}$$

1

ε
2

.
Post–Vacuum-Assisted Stereotactic Core Biopsy Clip Displacement: A Comparison between Commercially Available Clips and Surgical Clip
Authors: Yen Peggy , Dumas Sandra , Albert Arianne , Gordon Paula 
Published: February 2018

Purpose The placement of localization clips following percutaneous biopsy is a standard practice for a variety of situations. Subsequent clip displacement creates challenges for imaging surveillance and surgical planning, and may cause confusion amongst radiologists and between surgeons and radiologists. Many causes have been attributed for this phenomenon including the commonly accepted “accordion effect.” Herein, we investigate the performance of a low cost surgical clip system against 4 commercially available clips. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 2112 patients who underwent stereotactic vacuum-assisted core biopsy followed by clip placement between January 2013 and June 2016. The primary performance parameter compared was displacement >10 mm following vacuum-assisted stereotactic core biopsy. Within the group of clips that had displaced, the magnitude of displacement was compared. Results There was a significant difference in displacement among the clip types ( P < .0001) with significant pairwise comparisons between pediatric surgical clips and SecureMark (38% vs 28%; P = .001) and SenoMark (38% vs 27%; P = .0001) in the proportion displaced. The surgical clips showed a significant magnitude of displacement of approximately 25% greater average distance displaced. Conclusions As a whole, the commercial clips performed better than the surgical clip after stereotactic vacuum-assisted core biopsy suggesting the surrounding outer component acts to anchor the central clip and minimizes clip displacement. The same should apply to tomosynthesis-guided biopsy.
The Accuracy of Colorectal Cancer Detection by Computed Tomography in the Unprepared Large Bowel in a Community-Based Hospital
Authors: Mangat Suneet , Kozoriz Michael G. , Bicknell Simon , Spielmann Audrey 
Published: February 2018

Purpose This retrospective study examined the performance of general radiologists in a community-based hospital in detecting colorectal cancer (CRC) with computed tomography (CT) in the unprepared large bowel. Methods The pathology database at a community hospital over the past 7 years (2009–2015) was retrospectively analysed for pathologically proven CRC (924 cases). The provincial hospital information profile for these patients was reviewed to determine if they had an abdominal CT for any reason in the year prior to biopsy. Metrics such as age, sex, time between the CT and biopsy or surgery, whether CRC was initially detected by the radiologist, and if this was an emergency presentation was evaluated. In the cases where CRC was not identified, the CT scans were reanalysed to determine if the CRC was identifiable in retrospect. The sensitivity of detecting CRC by CT scan in the unprepared large bowel was calculated. Results Of the 924 biopsy proven CRC cases, 22% (207 of 924) of the patients had a CT prior to biopsy. Of these cases, 47% (97 of 207) presented on an emergency basis. Of the cases with imaging in the year prior, about 60% (125 of 207) had cancer prospectively detected by the radiologist. Upon re-examination of the cases in which CRC was not initially detected, 59% were visualized in retrospect. Conclusions Community general radiologists can successfully detect CRC with a high degree of accuracy. Reformatted images, bowel wall thickening when regional nodes are prominent, and minimizing oral contrast were helpful in improving detection.
Free water determines diffusion alterations and clinical status in cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Duering Marco , Finsterwalder Sofia , Baykara Ebru , Tuladhar Anil Man , Gesierich Benno , Konieczny Marek J. , Malik Rainer , Franzmeier Nicolai , Ewers Michael , Jouvent Eric , Biessels Geert Jan , Schmidt Reinhold , de Leeuw Frank‐Erik , Pasternak Ofer , Dichgans Martin 
Published: February 2018

AbstractIntroductionDiffusion tensor imaging detects early tissue alterations in Alzheimer's disease and cerebral small vessel disease (SVD). However, the origin of diffusion alterations in SVD is largely unknown.MethodsTo gain further insight, we applied free water (FW) imaging to patients with genetically defined SVD (Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy [CADASIL], n = 57), sporadic SVD (n = 444), and healthy controls (n = 28). We modeled freely diffusing water in the extracellular space (FW) and measures reflecting fiber structure (tissue compartment). We tested associations between these measures and clinical status (processing speed and disability).ResultsDiffusion alterations in SVD were mostly driven by increased FW and less by tissue compartment alterations. Among imaging markers, FW showed the strongest association with clinical status (R2 up to 34%, P < .0001). Findings were consistent across patients with CADASIL and sporadic SVD.DiscussionDiffusion alterations and clinical status in SVD are largely determined by extracellular fluid increase rather than alterations of white matter fiber organization.
Incentivizing supplier participation in buyer innovation: Experimental evidence of non‐optimal contractual behaviors
Authors: Yan Tingting , Ribbink Dina , Pun Hubert 
Published: February 2018

AbstractOriginal equipment manufacturers increasingly involve suppliers in new product development (NPD) projects. How companies design a contract to motivate supplier participation is an important but under‐examined empirical question. Analytical studies have started to examine the optimal contract that aligns buyer‐supplier incentives in joint NPD projects, but empirical evidence is scarce about the actual contracts offered by buying companies. Bridging the analytical and empirical literature, this paper compares optimal contracting derived from a parsimonious analytical model with actual behaviors observed in an experiment. In particular, we focus on how project uncertainty, buying company effort share, and buyer risk aversion influence three contractual decisions: total investment level, revenue share and fixed fee. Our results indicate significant differences between the optimal and actual behaviors. We identify various types of non‐optimal contractual behaviors, which we explain from a risk aversion as well as a bounded rationality perspective. Overall, our findings contribute to the literature by showing that (1) the actual contractual behaviors could differ significantly from the optimal ones, (2) the actual contract design is sensitive to changes in project uncertainty and buying company effort share, and (3) the significant roles of risk aversion and bounded rationality in explaining the non‐optimal contractual behaviors.
Alzheimer's disease Archimedes condition‐event simulator: Development and validation
Authors: Kansal Anuraag R. , Tafazzoli Ali , Ishak K. Jack , Krotneva Stanmira ,   ADNI Collaboration
Published: February 2018

AbstractIntroductionSeveral advances have been made in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) modeling, however, there remains a need for a simulator that represents the full scope of disease progression and can be used to study new disease‐modifying treatments for early‐stage and even prodromal AD.MethodsWe developed AD Archimedes condition‐event simulator, a patient‐level simulator with a focus on simulating the effects of early interventions through changes in biomarkers of AD. The simulator incorporates interconnected predictive equations derived from longitudinal data sets.ResultsThe results of external validations on AD Archimedes condition‐event simulator showed that it provides reasonable estimates once compared to literature results on transition to dementia AD, institutionalization, and mortality. A case study comparing a disease‐modifying treatment and a symptomatic treatment also showcases the benefits of early treatment.DiscussionThe AD Archimedes condition‐event simulator is designed to perform economic evaluation on various interventions through close tracking of disease progression and the related clinical outcomes.
Effects of Disaster Damage and Working Conditions on Mental Health Among Public Servants 16 Months After the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Fukasawa Maiko , Suzuki Yuriko , Obara Akiko , Kim Yoshiharu 
Published: February 2018

AbstractObjectiveTo explore whether stressors after a disaster have later effects on the mental health of public servants who engage in disaster response and to estimate the proportion of those experiencing persistent mental distress.MethodsWe analyzed the data of health surveys conducted in Miyagi Prefecture for all prefectural public servants at 2, 7, and 16 months after the Great East Japan Earthquake (n=3174). We investigated relationships between mental distress (defined as K6≥10) at 16 months after the earthquake and earthquake damage and working conditions at 2 months. We also calculated the proportion of participants who scored K6≥10 on all 3 surveys.ResultsThe experience of living someplace other than one’s own home was significantly related with mental distress at 16 months after the earthquake. Few participants consistently scored K6≥10 throughout all 3 surveys.ConclusionsThe effects of stressors in the aftermath of a disaster could remain for a long time. Few public servants experienced persistent mental distress.Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018;12:622–630
TheSouth China Sea Award: How Should We Read the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea?
Authors: GUILFOYLE Douglas 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThe conventional wisdom has been that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea [UNCLOS] Part XV dispute settlement system is narrowly restricted and this reflects the drafters’ intent. Thus, tribunals should cautiously interpret Part XV, giving broad effect to its jurisdictional limitations. The unanimous award inSouth China Seadeals this approach a blow. Indeed, it assumes a fundamentally different orientation to interpreting UNCLOS: one which implicitly takes the foremost principle of Part XV as being its compulsory and comprehensive character. This approach is rooted in a very different understanding of UNCLOS as a “package deal” and the consensus it reflects. Indeed, I argue that any interpretation of ambiguous provisions of UNLCOS is necessarily coloured by one’s view of the struggles involved in its negotiation. Further evidence of this difference of approach inSouth China Seais found, in particular, in its treatment of the regime of islands.
Merits Award Relating to Historic Rights in the South China Sea Arbitration: An Appraisal
Authors: MA Xinmin 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThis paper provides an assessment of the Tribunal’s Award on the merits relating to the Philippines’ Submissions No. 1 and 2. First, it argues that the Convention is not the sole legal source of maritime rights. Second, the Tribunal erroneously infers from Article 311 that the Convention prevails over customary international law. Meanwhile, Article 293 does not terminate rules of general international law that are incompatible with the Convention. Third, the Tribunal, by deciding that historic rights under general international law have been superseded by the regimes of exclusive economic zone and continental shelf established under the Convention, fails to draw a distinction between the two separate legal regimes, namely the Convention and general international law. Fourth, as one of the “matters not regulated by the Convention”, historic rights should be governed by, and have been well established in, general international law.