bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Critical points of convex perturbations of some indefinite quadratic forms and semi-linear boundary value problems at resonance
Authors: Mawhin J. , Willem M. 
Published: March 2017

Critical points of convex perturbations of indefinite quadratic forms are obtained from the dual least action principle. The main result leads to necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a critical point when the corresponding Euler equation is scalar or when the perturbation is strictly convex. Applications are given to periodic solution of hamiltonian systems and to systems of semi-linear beam equations. A global version of the averaging method is given.

Résumé
On prouve l’existence de points critiques de perturbations convexes de formes quadratiques indéfinies par le principe de moindre action duale. Si l’équation d’Euler est scalaire ou si la perturbation est strictement convexe, on obtient des conditions nécessaires et suffisantes pour l’existence d’un point critique. Des applications sont données aux solutions périodiques de systèmes hamiltoniens et à des systèmes d’équations de poutre semi-linéaires. On obtient une version globale de la méthode de la moyenne.
Lessons Learned From an Active Shooter Full-Scale Functional Exercise In a Newly Constructed Emergency Department
Authors: Wexler Bryan , Flamm Avram 
Published: March 2017

AbstractObjectiveThe primary objective of this exercise was to conduct a full-scale functional exercise utilizing an active-shooter-based scenario to test and evaluate hospital response and coordination with local law enforcement.MethodsA multidisciplinary group, including community partners, formulated objectives in accordance with the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program and defined a scenario. A date to conduct the exercise was chosen on the basis of the expected completion of a large section of the new emergency department but prior to its opening for patient care.ResultsThe exercise highlighted several strengths, but more importantly, illuminated areas for improvement that might otherwise have been missed in tabletop exercises and smaller-scale drills. Educational opportunities to improve functional skills and protocol were recognized.ConclusionConducting a full-scale functional exercise of an active shooter in a newly constructed emergency department prior to opening for patient care provided valuable insight into areas for improvement while minimizing the impact such an exercise can have on daily operations. Should a similar opportunity arise as a result of new facilities being developed or renovations and maintenance requiring temporary closure, we advise hospitals to consider planning an exercise in the area prior to reopening for patient care. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:522–525)
Popular Participation and Governance in the Kirchners' Argentina and Chávez's Venezuela: Recognition, Incorporation and Supportive Mobilisation
Authors: HANSON REBECCA , LAPEGNA PABLO 
Published: March 2017

AbstractHow did governance in Kirchner's Argentina and Chávez's Venezuela interact with popular mobilisation? How have popular sectors engaged with and participated in Left-of-centre governance? Using ethnographic data, we argue that the answers to these questions lie in three social mechanisms that we call recognition, incorporation and selective mobilisation. We analyse how activists and participants interpreted and contested these mechanisms, paying attention to how they informed the everyday life of activism and the situated actions of participants. Underscoring their socially embedded and path-dependent nature, we argue that these mechanisms shaped mobilisation differently in each country.
Nationwide investigation of Shiga toxin-producingEscherichia coliamong cattle in Japan revealed the risk factors and potentially virulent subgroups
Authors: LEE K. , KUSUMOTO M. , IWATA T. , IYODA S. , AKIBA M. 
Published: March 2017

SUMMARYA nationwide study of Shiga toxin-producingEscherichia coli(STEC) was performed to determine the prevalence, characteristics and risk factors for fecal shedding of STEC among cattle in Japan. Information on rearing practices was also collected to identify risk factors for fecal shedding of STEC. STEC was isolated from 24·1% of samples (133/551) collected from 59·1% of farms (65/110). Bayesian clustering using the virulence marker profiles of the isolates subdivided the isolates into four genetically distinct groups, two of which corresponded toeae- orsaa-positive STEC, which can cause severe disease in human. Both STEC groups exhibited characteristic phylogeny and virulence marker profiles. It is noteworthy that the tellurite resistance gene was not detected in allsaa-positive STEC isolates, suggesting that the standard isolation method using tellurite might lead to an underestimation of the prevalence ofsaa-positive STEC. A multivariate logistic regression model using epidemiological information revealed a significantly (P< 0·01) high odds ratio on STEC fecal shedding in tie-stall housing and a low odds ratio in flat feed box and mechanical ventilation. Information on isolate characteristics of the two major pathotypes and risk factors in rearing practices will facilitate the development of preventative measures for STEC fecal shedding from cattle.
The Jordanian primary healthcare practitioner in cancer control
Authors: Obeidat Nour A. , Hawari Feras I. , Habashneh Malek A. , Shihab Rawan A. 
Published: March 2017

AimTo measure the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of Jordanian primary healthcare practitioners (PHCPs) (physicians, nurses, midwives, and nurse aids) employed in Jordanian Ministry of Health (MoH) primary health clinics with respect to counseling on cancer (cancer screening, the signs and symptoms of cancer, and referral for specialized care).BackgroundIntegration of oncology services within primary care is a means of enhancing cancer early detection, and requires involvement of skilled. In the Middle East, little is known about PHCPs’ potential to be providers of such services.MethodsA questionnaire measuring PHCP perceptions and practices related to counseling on cancer screening and diagnosis was distributed to PHCPs across MoH clinics covering the main regions of Jordan.FindingsA total of 322 practitioners responded (75.1% response). Across most activities involving cancer detection, no more than 30% reported performing activities. Roughly half of PHCPs expressed discomfort at providing cancer-related counseling and at least 43% of non-physicians expressed limited confidence in cancer-related counseling. Confidence was a consistent predictor of provision of counseling and confidence in turn was associated with having greater knowledge, having positive a valuation of counseling, and being a physician. Results reveal points where educational efforts can strengthen PHCPs’ provision of cancer control-related services.
Necklace-like NiO-CuO Heterogeneous Composite Hollow Nanostructure: Preparation, Formation Mechanism and Structure Control
Authors: Xu Shao Hui , Fei Guang Tao , Ouyang Hao Miao , Shang Guo Liang , Gao Xu Dong , Zhang Li De 
Published: March 2017

AbstractComposite hollow nanostructure composed by transition metal oxides are promising materials in electrochemistry, catalyst chemistry and material science. In this contribution, necklace-like NiO-CuO heterogeneous composite hollow nanostructures were synthesized by annealing Ni/Cu superlattice nanowires in air. Two kinds of morphologies including CuO nanotube linked core-shell structures and CuO nanotube linked hollow structures were obtained. The structure can be tuned easily by adjusting the relative length of Cu segments in Ni/Cu superlattice nanowires and the annealing temperature. The relative diffusion amount of Cu to Ni segments was proved to be the key factor to influence the annealed sample morphology. The formation mechanism was discussed in detail based on Kirkendal effect and high temperature oxidation of alloy. We demonstrated that hollow structure or core-shell structure is related to whether the oxidation exists only in external sites or co-exists in external and internal sites during annealing.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG supernatant enhance neonatal resistance to systemic Escherichia coli K1 infection by accelerating development of intestinal defense
Authors: He Xiaolong , Zeng Qing , Puthiyakunnon Santhosh , Zeng Zhijie , Yang Weijun , Qiu Jiawen , Du Lei , Boddu Swapna , Wu Tongwei , Cai Danxian , Huang Sheng-He , Cao Hong 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThe objective of this study was to determine whether Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG culture supernatant (LCS) has a preventive effect against gut-derived systemic neonatal Escherichia coli (E. coli) K1 infection. The preventive effects were evaluated in human colonic carcinoma cell line Caco-2 and neonatal rat models. Our in vitro results showed that LCS could block adhesion, invasion and translocation of E. coli K1 to Caco-2 monolayer via up-regulating mucin production and maintaining intestinal integrity. In vivo experiments revealed that pre-treatment with LCS significantly decrease susceptibility of neonatal rats to oral E. coli K1 infection as reflected by reduced bacterial intestinal colonization, translocation, dissemination and systemic infections. Further, we found that LCS treated neonatal rats have higher intestinal expressions of Ki67, MUC2, ZO-1, IgA, mucin and lower barrier permeability than those in untreated rats. These results indicated that LCS could enhance neonatal resistance to systemic E. coli K1 infection via promoting maturation of neonatal intestinal defense. In conclusions, our findings suggested that LCS has a prophylactic effect against systemic E. coli K1 infection in neonates. Future studies aimed at identifying the specific active ingredients in LCS will be helpful in developing effective pharmacological strategies for preventing neonatal E. coli K1 infection.
Laser irradiated fluorescent perfluorocarbon microparticles in 2-D and 3-D breast cancer cell models
Authors: Niu Chengcheng , Wang Long , Wang Zhigang , Xu Yan , Hu Yihe , Peng Qinghai 
Published: March 2017

AbstractPerfluorocarbon (PFC) droplets were studied as new generation ultrasound contrast agents via acoustic or optical droplet vaporization (ADV or ODV). Little is known about the ODV irradiated vaporization mechanisms of PFC-microparticle complexs and the stability of the new bubbles produced. In this study, fluorescent perfluorohexane (PFH) poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) particles were used as a model to study the process of particle vaporization and bubble stability following excitation in two-dimensional (2-D) and three-dimensional (3-D) cell models. We observed localization of the fluorescent agent on the microparticle coating material initially and after vaporization under fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, the stability and growth dynamics of the newly created bubbles were observed for 11 min following vaporization. The particles were co-cultured with 2-D cells to form 3-D spheroids and could be vaporized even when encapsulated within the spheroids via laser irradiation, which provides an effective basis for further work.
Identification of candidate diagnostic serum biomarkers for Kawasaki disease using proteomic analysis
Authors: Kimura Yayoi , Yanagimachi Masakatsu , Ino Yoko , Aketagawa Mao , Matsuo Michie , Okayama Akiko , Shimizu Hiroyuki , Oba Kunihiro , Morioka Ichiro , Imagawa Tomoyuki , Kaneko Tetsuji , Yokota Shumpei , Hirano Hisashi , Mori Masaaki 
Published: March 2017

AbstractKawasaki disease (KD) is a systemic vasculitis and childhood febrile disease that can lead to cardiovascular complications. The diagnosis of KD depends on its clinical features, and thus it is sometimes difficult to make a definitive diagnosis. In order to identify diagnostic serum biomarkers for KD, we explored serum KD-related proteins, which differentially expressed during the acute and recovery phases of two patients by mass spectrometry (MS). We identified a total of 1,879 proteins by MS-based proteomic analysis. The levels of three of these proteins, namely lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein (LRG1), and angiotensinogen (AGT), were higher in acute phase patients. In contrast, the level of retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) was decreased. To confirm the usefulness of these proteins as biomarkers, we analyzed a total of 270 samples, including those collected from 55 patients with acute phase KD, by using western blot analysis and microarray enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Over the course of this experiment, we determined that the expression level of these proteins changes specifically in the acute phase of KD, rather than the recovery phase of KD or other febrile illness. Thus, LRG1 could be used as biomarkers to facilitate KD diagnosis based on clinical features.
A Bayesian Target Predictor Method based on Molecular Pairing Energies estimation
Authors: Oliver Antoni , Canals Vincent , Rosselló Josep L. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractVirtual screening (VS) is applied in the early drug discovery phases for the quick inspection of huge molecular databases to identify those compounds that most likely bind to a given drug target. In this context, there is the necessity of the use of compact molecular models for database screening and precise target prediction in reasonable times. In this work we present a new compact energy-based model that is tested for its application to Virtual Screening and target prediction. The model can be used to quickly identify active compounds in huge databases based on the estimation of the molecule’s pairing energies. The greatest molecular polar regions along with its geometrical distribution are considered by using a short set of smart energy vectors. The model is tested using similarity searches within the Directory of Useful Decoys (DUD) database. The results obtained are considerably better than previously published models. As a Target prediction methodology we propose the use of a Bayesian Classifier that uses a combination of different active compounds to build an energy-dependent probability distribution function for each target.
Single-Molecule Counting of Point Mutations by Transient DNA Binding
Authors: Su Xin , Li Lidan , Wang Shanshan , Hao Dandan , Wang Lei , Yu Changyuan 
Published: March 2017

AbstractHigh-confidence detection of point mutations is important for disease diagnosis and clinical practice. Hybridization probes are extensively used, but are hindered by their poor single-nucleotide selectivity. Shortening the length of DNA hybridization probes weakens the stability of the probe-target duplex, leading to transient binding between complementary sequences. The kinetics of probe-target binding events are highly dependent on the number of complementary base pairs. Here, we present a single-molecule assay for point mutation detection based on transient DNA binding and use of total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy. Statistical analysis of single-molecule kinetics enabled us to effectively discriminate between wild type DNA sequences and single-nucleotide variants at the single-molecule level. A higher single-nucleotide discrimination is achieved than in our previous work by optimizing the assay conditions, which is guided by statistical modeling of kinetics with a gamma distribution. The KRAS c.34 A mutation can be clearly differentiated from the wild type sequence (KRAS c.34 G) at a relative abundance as low as 0.01% mutant to WT. To demonstrate the feasibility of this method for analysis of clinically relevant biological samples, we used this technology to detect mutations in single-stranded DNA generated from asymmetric RT-PCR of mRNA from two cancer cell lines.
Highly-Exposed HIV-1 seronegative Female Commercial Sex Workers sustain in their genital mucosa increased frequencies of tolerogenic myeloid and regulatory T-cells
Authors: Thibodeau V. , Fourcade L. , Labbé A.-C. , Alary M. , Guédou F. , Poudrier J. , Roger M. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractWe and others have shown that HIV-1 highly-exposed seronegative (HESN) female commercial sex workers (CSWs) maintain low genital inflammatory conditions to prevent HIV infection. HIV-1 interacts with toll-like receptors (TLR)-7/8 to induce interferon (IFN)-α, an important antiviral and immunomodulatory cytokine, which act together with interleukin (IL)-10, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G and immunoglobulin-like transcript (ILT)-4 to initiate a “tolerogenic/regulatory” anti-inflammatory loop. In view of further unravelling elements associated with natural immunity to HIV-1, we have characterised TLR-7, IFN-α, IL-10, HLA-G and ILT-4 expression profiles in the genital tract of female CSWs and HIV-1-uninfected non-CSWs from Benin. Endocervical myeloid HLA-DR+ cells from HESN CSWs expressed higher levels of IFN-α, TLR-7, IL-10 and HLA-G than those from both HIV-1-infected CSWs and HIV-1-uninfected non-CSWs. Further characterization of the endocervical myeloid HLA-DR+ cells in HESN CSWs revealed a population of “tolerogenic” CD103+ CD14+ CD11c+ myeloid cells expressing high levels of IFN-α and IL-10. Concomitantly, HESN CSWs had higher frequencies of endocervical regulatory CD4+ T-cells when compared to those from the two other groups of women. These novel findings provide strong evidence to support the implication of tolerogenic myeloid cells expressing high levels of antiviral molecules in shaping the genital mucosal immune response to prevent HIV infection.
Gilbert damping in CoFeB/GaAs(001) film with enhanced in-plane uniaxial magnetic anisotropy
Authors: Tu H. Q. , Liu B. , Huang D. W. , Ruan X. Z. , You B. , Huang Z. C. , Zhai Y. , Gao Y. , Wang J. , Wei L. J. , Yuan Y. , Xu Y. B. , Du J. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractA 3.5 nm amorphous CoFeB film was sputtered on GaAs (001) wafer substrate without applying magnetic field during deposition, and a significant in-plane uniaxial magnetic anisotropy (UMA) field (Hu) of about 300 Oe could be achieved. To precisely determine the intrinsic Gilbert damping constant (α) of this film, both ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) and time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect (TRMOKE) techniques were utilized. With good fitting of the dynamic spectra of FMR and TRMOKE, α is calculated to be 0.010 and 0.013, respectively. Obviously, the latter is 30% larger than the former, which is due to the transient heating effect during the TRMOKE measurement. In comparison with ordinary amorphous CoFeB films with negligible magnetic anisotropies, α is enhanced significantly in the CoFeB/GaAs(001) film, which may be mainly resulted from the enhanced spin-orbit coupling induced by the CoFeB/GaAs interface. However, the significant in-plane UMA plays minor role in the enhancement of α.
Bitemporal Postoperative Hemorrhage Following Pterional Craniotomy for the Treatment of an Internal Carotid Aneurysm
Authors: Welling Leonardo , Welling Mariana , Figueiredo Eberval 
Published: March 2017

Introduction Postoperative hemorrhage is a well-known complication after intracranial surgeries. It usually occurs at the site of the operation; however, there are many reports of cerebellar hemorrhage following supratentorial craniotomies. Despite that, there are only three cases of multiple postoperative supratentorial hemorrhages (distant from the site of the operation) following aneurysm clipping in the current literature.
Case Report A 52-year-old previously healthy woman underwent a left pterional craniotomy for the clipping of an unruptured aneurysm. The surgery was performed without any intraoperative rupture or other occurrences. On the follow-up computed tomography (CT) scan performed 24h after surgery, bilateral posterior temporal lobe hematomas were identified, and they had no relation to the surgical site. The patient developed symptomatic vasospasm, with right-sided hemiparesis. This complication was treated conservatively, and the outcome was good.
Conclusions Intracerebral hemorrhage far from the site of the craniotomy is an infrequent complication after neurosurgical procedures, especially in vascular neurosurgery. The present report warns of the occurrence of this entity even in asymptomatic patients.
Operating Room Fires in Oculoplastic Surgery
Authors: Maamari Robi N. , Custer Philip L. 
Published: March 2017

Purpose:
This study was performed to characterize the frequency, causes, and possible risk factors of operating room (OR) fires experienced by members of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Methods:
An online questionnaire was distributed to American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery members, collecting data on surgical fires experienced by respondents throughout their careers. In addition, the questionnaire investigated viewpoints on OR fire safety, current practice patterns with oxygen delivery and surgical device usage, and management of patients referred after previous surgical fire exposure.

Results:
There were 258 participants in the survey. Eighty-three surgeons (32.2%) experienced at least 1 surgical fire in their careers. Most OR fires occurred during monitored sedation cases with oxygen delivered by nasal cannula underneath drapes completely covering the head and use of a monopolar or battery-operated device. Patient hair and skin were the most common fuel sources, and most of the injuries were limited to singing of facial hair. Regarding current practice patterns, monopolar, bipolar, and battery-powered disposable devices were the most frequently used electrosurgery and electrocautery tools. Patients seen after an OR fire with another surgeon generally experienced more severe burns requiring hospitalization and subsequent procedures.

Conclusions:
Many oculoplastic surgeons have experienced OR fires during their careers. Certain surgical and anesthetic techniques, particularly the delivery of supplemental oxygen underneath surgical drapes and the use of monopolar electrosurgery and battery-powered electrocautery, may be associated with increased fire risk. While most of the reported OR fires did not result in significant patient injury, caution must be taken to prevent these potentially devastating events.
The Use of Mathematical Models of Chlamydia Transmission to Address Public Health Policy Questions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rönn Minttu M. , Wolf Emory E. , Chesson Harrell , Menzies Nicolas A. , Galer Kara , Gorwitz Rachel , Gift Thomas , Hsu Katherine , Salomon Joshua A. 
Published: March 2017

Background
Mathematical models of chlamydia transmission can help inform disease control policy decisions when direct empirical evaluation of alternatives is impractical. We reviewed published chlamydia models to understand the range of approaches used for policy analyses and how the studies have responded to developments in the field.

Methods
We performed a literature review by searching Medline and Google Scholar (up to October 2015) to identify publications describing dynamic chlamydia transmission models used to address public health policy questions. We extracted information on modeling methodology, interventions, and key findings.

Results
We identified 47 publications (including two model comparison studies), which reported collectively on 29 distinct mathematical models. Nine models were individual-based, and 20 were deterministic compartmental models. The earliest studies evaluated the benefits of national-level screening programs and predicted potentially large benefits from increased screening. Subsequent trials and further modeling analyses suggested the impact might have been overestimated. Partner notification has been increasingly evaluated in mathematical modeling, whereas behavioral interventions have received relatively limited attention.

Conclusions
Our review provides an overview of chlamydia transmission models and gives a perspective on how mathematical modeling has responded to increasing empirical evidence and addressed policy questions related to prevention of chlamydia infection and sequelae.