bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hanging drop culture enhances differentiation of human adipose‐derived stem cells into anterior neuroectodermal cells using small molecules
Authors: Amirpour Noushin , Razavi Shahnaz , Esfandiari Ebrahim , Hashemibeni Batoul , Kazemi Mohammad , Salehi Hossein 
Published: March 2017

AbstractInspired by in vivo developmental process, several studies were conducted to design a protocol for differentiating of mesenchymal stem cells into neural cells in vitro. Human adipose‐derived stem cells (hADSCs) as mesenchymal stem cells are a promising source for this purpose. At current study, we applied a defined neural induction medium by using small molecules for direct differentiation of hADSCs into anterior neuroectodermal cells. Anterior neuroectodermal differentiation of hADSCs was performed by hanging drop and monolayer protocols. At these methods, three small molecules were used to suppress the BMP, Nodal, and Wnt signaling pathways in order to obtain anterior neuroectodermal (eye field) cells from hADSCs. After two and three weeks of induction, the differentiated cells with neural morphology expressed anterior neuroectodermal markers such as OTX2, SIX3, β‐TUB III and PAX6. The protein expression of such markers was confirmed by real time, RT‐PCR and immunocytochemistry methods According to our data, it seems that the hanging drop method is a proper approach for neuroectodermal induction of hADSCs. Considering wide availability and immunosuppressive properties of hADSCs, these cells may open a way for autologous cell therapy of neurodegenerative disorders.
Chaotic grey wolf optimization algorithm for constrained optimization problems
Authors: Kohli Mehak , Arora Sankalap 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThe Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) algorithm is a novel meta-heuristic, inspired from the social hunting behavior of grey wolves. This paper introduces the chaos theory into the GWO algorithm with the aim of accelerating its global convergence speed. Firstly, detailed studies are carried out on thirteen standard constrained benchmark problems with ten different chaotic maps to find out the most efficient one. Then, the chaotic GWO is compared with the traditional GWO and some other popular meta-heuristics viz. Firefly Algorithm, Flower Pollination Algorithm and Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm. The performance of the CGWO algorithm is also validated using five constrained engineering design problems. The results showed that with an appropriate chaotic map, CGWO can clearly outperform standard GWO, with very good performance in comparison with other algorithms and in application to constrained optimization problems.Highlights Chaos has been introduced to the GWO to develop Chaotic GWO for global optimization. Ten chaotic maps have been investigated to tune the key parameter ‘a’, of GWO. Effectiveness of the algorithm is tested on many constrained benchmark functions. Results show CGWO's better performance over other nature-inspired optimization methods. The proposed CGWO is also used for some engineering design applications.
Effects of Lumbar Core Stability Exercise Programme on Knee Pain, Range of Motion, and Function Post Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Priyanka Panchal , Nilima Bedekar , Parag Sancheti , Ashok Shyam 
Published: March 2017

Purpose To study the additional effects of lumbar core stability on knee pain, range of motion and function post ACL reconstruction. Methods An experimental comparative study was undertaken at a tertiary orthopaedic and rehabilitation centre with a total of 60 patients with ACL reconstruction, randomly allotted into two groups. Both groups were given institutional rehabilitation protocol; and additional lumbar core stability exercise programme was given to experimental group. Intervention period was 4 weeks. Pain on VAS, range of motion (ROM) and function using Modified Lysholm Scoring Scale (MLSS) and Tegner Activity Level (TAL) were the outcome measures. Results Between group analyses of MLSS and TAL by Mann Whitney U test showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.038) and statistically non-significant difference (p = 1.00), respectively. Conclusion Institutional conventional exercise protocol is effective in reducing pain and improving the ROM post and lumbar core stability exercise programme is effective in improving function, post ACL reconstruction.
Zfra restores memory deficits in Alzheimer's disease triple‐transgenic mice by blocking aggregation of TRAPPC6AΔ, SH3GLB2, tau, and amyloid β, and inflammatory NF‐κB activation
Authors: Lee Ming‐Hui , Shih Yao‐Hsiang , Lin Sing‐Ru , Chang Jean‐Yun , Lin Yu‐Hao , Sze Chun‐I , Kuo Yu‐Min , Chang Nan‐Shan 
Published: March 2017

IntroductionZinc finger‐like protein that regulates apoptosis (Zfra) is a naturally occurring 31‐amino‐acid protein. Synthetic peptides Zfra1–31 and Zfra4–10 are known to effectively block the growth of many types of cancer cells.MethodsTen‐month‐old triple‐transgenic (3×Tg) mice for Alzheimer's disease (AD) received synthetic Zfra peptides via tail vein injections, followed by examining restoration of memory deficits.ResultsZfra significantly downregulated TRAPPC6AΔ, SH3GLB2, tau, and amyloid β (Αβ) aggregates in the brains of 3×Tg mice and effectively restored their memory capabilities. Zfra inhibited melanoma‐induced neuronal death in the hippocampus and plaque formation in the cortex. Mechanistically, Zfra blocked the aggregation of amyloid β 42 and many serine‐containing peptides in vitro, suppressed tumor necrosis factor–mediated NF‐κB activation, and bound cytosolic proteins for accelerating their degradation in ubiquitin/proteasome‐independent manner.DiscussionZfra peptides exhibit a strong efficacy in blocking tau aggregation and amyloid Αβ formation and restore memory deficits in 3×Tg mice, suggesting its potential for treatment of AD.
Ocular cranial nerve palsies secondary to sphenoid sinusitis
Authors: El Mograbi Aiman , Soudry Ethan 
Published: March 2017

ObjectiveThe clinical presentation of sphenoid sinusitis can be highly variable. Rarely, sphenoid sinusitis may present with cranial nerve complications due to the proximity of these structures to the sphenoid sinus.MethodA case series from Rabin Medical Center and all cases of cranial nerves palsies secondary to sphenoid sinusitis that have been reported in the literature were reviewed.ResultsSeventeen patients were identified. The abducent nerve was the most common cranial nerve affected (76%), followed by the oculomotor nerve (18%). One patient had combined oculomotor, trochlear and abducent palsies. The most common pathology was isolated purulent sphenoid sinusitis in 64% followed by allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) in 18%, and fungal infection in 18%. 94% had an acute presentation. The majority (85%) received a combined intravenous antibiotics and surgical treatment. The remainder received conservative treatment alone. Complete recovery of cranial nerve palsy was noted in 82% during follow up.ConclusionSphenoid sinusitis presenting as diplopia and headaches is rare. A neoplastic process must be ruled out and early surgical intervention with intravenous antimicrobial therapy carry an excellent outcome with complete resolution of symptoms.
Fragments of the Past
Authors: Parker Bradley J. , Sharratt Nicola 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTMicroartifact analysis, the study of the density and distribution of tiny (yet visible) fragments of ceramics, bone, worked stone, and other microartifacts, offers a promising solution to the challenges of determining the location and nature of activity areas at archaeological sites. In spite of the fact that microartifact analysis has been successfully applied at sites in North America and the Middle East, archaeologists have yet to recognize the utility of this methodology in most of the rest of the world. The purpose of this article is, therefore, to test whether this methodology can be profitably applied in the southern Andes. To do so, we describe the results of microartifact sampling, processing, and analytical techniques that we applied to two phases of occupation at the site of Tumilaca la Chimba in southern Peru. The results of the research outlined in this article suggest that microartifact analysis is an effective analytical technique that can contribute greatly to archaeological praxis.
Comparative Clay Analysis and Curation for Archaeological Pottery Studies
Authors: Cordell Ann S. , Wallis Neill J. , Kidder Gerald 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTWe describe the curation and use of clay samples as part of the ceramic ecology program at the Florida Museum of Natural History's Ceramic Technology Laboratory (FLMNH-CTL). We outline the history of the comparative clay sample collection at the FLMNH-CTL and detail the standard operating procedure by which samples are processed, analyzed, and curated. We also provide examples of how the clay samples have been used in research projects as well as some of the challenges inherent to studies using such samples. Our collection of processed clays and associated thin sections, which is curated in perpetuity, represents a valuable resource for ongoing and future lab endeavors and is available to other researchers focusing on Florida and adjacent regions.
Ifugao Archaeology
Authors: Acabado Stephen , Martin Marlon , Datar Francisco 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTRecent trends in the practice of archaeology have seen the emergence of the active involvement of stakeholders in the research process. This is an important development, given that the relationship between archaeologists and the communities that they work with has been tenuous, particularly when archaeological findings contest ethnic identities. As a case in point, the findings of the Ifugao Archaeological Project (Philippines) question the bases of Ifugao identity. Ifugao identity is centered on wet-rice production and resistance to colonialism. Previously, the dating of the inception of the Ifugao rice terraces was placed at 2,000 years ago. The findings of the Ifugao Archaeological Project (IAP), however, suggest that the construction of the terraces coincided with the arrival of the Spanish in the northern Philippines. Initially, this finding did not sit well the larger Ifugao descendant communities, but, as our article narrates, the pursuit to actively involve stakeholders in the research process resolved this issue. Our experience in Ifugao has shown that the inclusion of the voices of stakeholders in the interpretation of the past is inadequate because it suggests that indigenous stakeholders are simply contributors to, and not co-investigators of, research projects. As our work in Ifugao demonstrates, primary stakeholders are now co-investigators (exemplified by this coauthored article).
Beyond the Square Hole
Authors: Koenig Charles W. , Willis Mark D. , Black Stephen L. 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTThe accurate and precise collection of three-dimensional (3D) context and provenience data is of critical importance for archaeologists. Traditional square-hole methods are being augmented by new digital techniques to increase the accuracy and precision with which 3D data are collected. Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry is an emerging digital technique that is becoming more widespread for collecting 3D data of archaeological sites and features. We are using handheld digital cameras and ground-based SfM to record accurate and precise 3D context and provenience data at the scale of the excavation unit and profile during rockshelter excavations in the Lower Pecos Canyonlands of Texas. By combining SfM with traditional excavation methods, we collect 3D data on excavation units, layers, features, and profiles without excavating in grid-bound square units. SfM provides a straightforward and flexible method to excavate based on the stratigraphy and logistical pragmatics, which further aids in assigning precise context and provenience to recovered artifacts and samples. This article describes how ground-based SfM serves as a basic recording tool during excavation and shows that, by applying ground-based SfM methods to excavation, archaeologists can collect more, and more accurate, data than with traditional square-hole methods.
Surge Capacity of Hospitals in Emergencies and Disasters With a Preparedness Approach: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sheikhbardsiri Hojjat , Raeisi Ahmad Reza , Nekoei-moghadam Mahmood , Rezaei Fatemeh 
Published: March 2017

AbstractObjectiveSurge capacity is one of the most important components of hospital preparedness for responding to emergencies and disasters. The ability to provide health and medical care during a sudden increase in the number of patients or victims of disasters is a main concern of hospitals. We aimed to perform a systematic review of hospital surge capacity in emergencies and disasters with a preparedness approach.MethodsA systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The key words “surge,” “surge capacity,” “preparedness,” “hospital emergency department,” “hospital,” “surge capability,” “emergency,” “hazard,” “disaster,” “catastrophe,” “crisis,” and “tragedy” were used in combination with the Boolean operators OR and AND. The Google Scholar, ISI Web of Science, Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, Pro Quest, and Wiley databases were searched.ResultsA total of 1008 articles were extracted and 17 articles were selected for final review of surge capacity based on the objective of the study. Seventeen studies (1 randomized controlled trial, 2 qualitative studies, and 14 cross-sectional studies) investigated the surge capacity of hospitals in emergencies and disasters to evaluate the best evidence to date. The results of selected articles indicated that there are various ways to increase the capacity of hospitals in 4 domains: staff, stuff, structure, and system.ConclusionSurge capacity is a basic element of disaster preparedness programs. Results of the current study could help health field managers in hospitals to prepare for capacity-building based on surge capacity components to improve and promote hospital preparedness programs. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:612–620)
Pseudo-outbreak ofBrevundimonas diminutaAttributed to Contamination of Culture Medium Supplement
Authors: Lee Rachael A. , Moser Stephen A. , Long Martha , Butler Susan L. , Whiddon Jennifer F. , Camins Bernard C. 
Published: March 2017

We report an epidemiological investigation of a cluster ofBrevundimonas diminutaisolates cultured from sterile sites. Inoculation of supplement medium yielded growth ofB. diminuta. Molecular typing indicated likely contamination of the lot. NoB. diminutawas further isolated after replacement of the supplement with a new lot number.Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2017;38:598–601
Effect of a Buttiauxella phytase on production performance in
growing/finishing pigs fed a European-type diet without inclusion of inorganic
phosphorus
Authors: Dersjant-Li Yueming , Schuh Katharina , Wealleans Alexandra L. , Awati Ajay , Dusel Georg 
Published: March 2017

SummaryThe effect of a Buttiauxella phytase, in a dose range of 0-1000
FTU/kg in feed, on production performance in growing/finishing pigs fed European type
wheat, corn, barley and SBM based diet was determined. Five dietary treatments were
tested including a positive control (PC), a negative control (NC) without inorganic P
and with reduced Ca (–0.12%) and metabolisable energy content (–0.14 MJ ME/kg) or NC
supplemented with Buttiauxella phytase (Axtra® PHY,
Danisco Animal Nutrition, DuPont Industrial Biosciences, Marlborough, UK) at 250, 500
or 1000 FTU/kg respectively. A total of 100 pigs (mean initial BW of 30 kg, Topig x
Pi, 10 weeks of age) were used, with 20 replicates per treatment (50% gilts and 50%
barrows). Pigs were individually housed in pens and randomly allocated on the basis
of body weight (BW) and gender to the five treatments. Feed, in mash form, and water
were offered ad libitum. Basal diets had an intrinsic phytase level
of approximately 300 and 440 FTU/kg in NC grower and NC finisher diets respectively.
Mean average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion
ratio (FCR) were calculated for the feeding phases of 30–85 kg (grower), 85–125 kg
(finisher) on trial and for overall period. During the grower phase, increasing
phytase dose resulted in a linear increase in ADG. Phytase inclusion at 250, 500 and
1000 FTU/kg improved ADG by 3.5, 7.2 and 8.1% respectively compared to NC and by 0.8,
4.5 and 5.3% respectively compared to those fed the PC. Performance in the finisher
phase, overall period and slaughter parameters were not different between dietary
treatments. The data showed that it was beneficial to increase phytase dose up to
1000 FTU/kg in grower pigs up to 85 kg BW. In the finisher phase, in pigs with BW
above 85 kg, 500 FTU/kg was sufficient to replace inorganic P and maintain
performance and carcass characteristics comparable to pigs fed the PC.
Mean and turbulence dynamics in unsteady Ekman boundary layers
Authors: Momen Mostafa , Bou-Zeid Elie 
Published: March 2017

Unsteady pressure gradients in turbulent flows not only influence the mean, but also affect the higher statistical moments of turbulence. In these flows, it is important to understand if and when turbulence is in quasi-equilibrium with the mean in order to better capture the dynamics and develop effective closure models. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate how turbulence decays or develops relative to a time-varying mean flow, and how the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) production, transport and dissipation respond to changes in the imposed pressure forcing. The focus is on the neutral unsteady Ekman boundary layer, where pressure-gradient, Coriolis and turbulent friction forces interact, and the analyses are based on a suite of large-eddy simulations with unsteady pressure forcing. The results indicate that the dynamics is primarily controlled by the relative magnitudes of three time scales: the inertial time scale (characterized by Coriolis frequency${\sim}12$ hours at mid-latitudes), the turbulent time scale (${\sim}2$ hours for the largest eddies in the present simulations) and the forcing variability time scale (which is varied to reflect different (sub)meso to synoptic scale dynamics). When the forcing time scale is comparable to the turbulence time scale, the quasi-equilibrium condition becomes invalid due to highly complex interactions between the mean and turbulence, the velocity profiles manifestly depart from the log-law and the normalized TKE budget terms vary strongly in time. However, for longer, and surprisingly for shorter, forcing times, quasi-equilibrium is reasonably maintained. The analyses elucidate the physical mechanisms that trigger these dynamics, and investigate the implications on turbulence closure models.
Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) for the detection and quantification of dactylogyrid parasites infectingLutjanus guttatus
Authors: Soler-Jiménez L.C. , García-Gasca A. , Fajer-Ávila E.J. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractSevere infections of the spotted rose snapperLutjanus guttatusresulting from dactylogyrid monogeneans present a risk to aquaculture. Currently, the diagnosis of this infection requires the morphological identification and manual quantification of parasites. Based on the characterization of the 28S rRNA gene of dactylogyrid species present inL. guttatus, specific primers were designed for real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) using EvaGreen® chemistry. The standard curve method estimated the number of dactylogyrids accurately. A total of 85 gill samples from cage-cultured fish infected with dactylogyrids were analysed. The estimated number of dactylogyrids using this molecular method was very similar to the manual count that was performed initially. The standardized qPCR approach will be helpful as a complementary method for the early routine monitoring of dactylogyrid infections and for epidemiological studies in which a high number of fish must be studied.
Non-State Armed Groups, Detention Authority in Non-International Armed Conflict, and the Coherence of International Law: Searching for a Way Forward
Authors: MURRAY DARAGH 
Published: March 2017

AbstractInternational humanitarian law establishes explicit safeguards applicable to detention occurring in non-international armed conflict. However, debate exists as to whether these treaty provisions establish an implicit legal basis for detention. This article approaches this debate in light of the application of international humanitarian law to non-state armed groups. It examines the principal arguments against implicit detention authority and then applies the law of treaty interpretation to international humanitarian law's detention-related provisions. On the basis of current understandings of international law – and the prohibition of arbitrary detention in particular – it is concluded that international humanitarian law must be interpreted as establishing implicit detention authority, in order to ensure the continued regulation of armed groups. Although, perhaps, problematic from certain states’ perspective, this conclusion is reflective of the current state of international law. However, this is not necessarily the end of the story. A number of potential ‘ways forward’ are identified: implicit detention authority may be (i) rejected; (ii) accepted; or (iii) re-examined in light of the non-state status of armed groups, and what this means for the content of the prohibition of arbitrary detention. These scenarios are examined in light of the desire to ensure: the coherency of international law including recognition of the role of armed groups, the continued effectiveness of international humanitarian law, and state sovereignty. An emphasis is placed on understanding the non-state status of armed groups and what this means for international regulation and the content of imposed obligations.
Formulating a list of sites of waterbird conservation significance to contribute to China’s Ecological Protection Red Line
Authors: ZHANG LU , WANG XIN , ZHANG JUNJIAN , OUYANG ZHIYUN , CHAN SIMBA , CROSBY MIKE , WATKINS DOUG , MARTINEZ JONATHAN , SU LIYING , YU YAT-TUNG , SZABO JUDIT , CAO LEI , FOX ANTHONY D. 
Published: March 2017

SummaryChina makes a unique and vital contribution to maintaining global and regional waterbird diversity and conservation. Despite considerable historical conservation efforts, the continued loss of waterbird diversity and abundance necessitates a contemporary review of Chinese sites of conservation significance. The Ecological Protection Red Line (EPRL) was proposed by China’s Central Government in 2013 to protect areas providing crucial ecosystem services and provides the opportunity for such a review to enhance waterbird conservation in China. By incorporating various sources of data, surveys and information, we identified a suite of sites of waterbird conservation significance in China, following the Ramsar Site Criteria/Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) Criteria. In total, we identified 422 sites, of which the existing 286 IBA sites formed the basis of the site safeguard network. Altogether, these sites of waterbird conservation significance constitute over 727,000 km2(7.6% of China’s land surface). Over half of the area of these sites is outside China’s national nature reserves, thus confirming the importance and urgency of including them in the EPRL for the effective conservation of waterbird sites. We suggest that this assessment of sites of waterbird importance offers a useful model to apply to other taxa, such as terrestrial birds and mammals.