bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Circular coloring of signed graphs
Authors: Kang Yingli , Steffen Eckhard 
Published: March 2017

AbstractLet ( be two positive integers. We generalize the well‐studied notions of ‐colorings and of the circular chromatic number to signed graphs. This implies a new notion of colorings of signed graphs, and the corresponding chromatic number χ. Some basic facts on circular colorings of signed graphs and on the circular chromatic number are proved, and differences to the results on unsigned graphs are analyzed. In particular, we show that the difference between the circular chromatic number and the chromatic number of a signed graph is at most 1. Indeed, there are signed graphs where the difference is 1. On the other hand, for a signed graph on n vertices, if the difference is smaller than 1, then there exists , such that the difference is at most .We also show that the notion of ‐colorings is equivalent to r‐colorings (see [12] (X. Zhu, Recent developments in circular coloring of graphs, in Topics in Discrete Mathematics Algorithms and Combinatorics Volume 26, Springer Berlin Heidelberg, 2006, pp. 497–550)).
Lessons from the first dorsal fin in atheriniforms—A new mode of dorsal fin development and its phylogenetic implications
Authors: Richter Philipp , Moritz Timo 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThe median fins in extant actinopterygians are the product of millions of years of evolution. During this time, different developmental patterns for the dorsal and anal fins emerged leading to a high variation in median fin morphology and ontogeny. In this study, the development of anal and dorsal fins in atheriniforms is described and its consequences for the current phylogenetic hypothesis are discussed. Developmental series of five atheriniform species were investigated using clearing and staining as well as antibody staining. The skeletal elements of the second dorsal fin and the anal fin emerge in a bidirectional pattern. The first dorsal fin, however, arises separately in front of the second dorsal fin after this one is almost completely formed. The pterygiophores of the first dorsal fin, including the interdorsal pterygiophores, develop from caudal to rostral, but the fin‐spines of the first dorsal fin form in the opposite direction. This new mode of fin development has been found in all examined atheriniform species with two dorsal fins. Several morphological characters of atheriniforms, including interdorsal pterygiophores, are also found in one other taxon: the Mugiliformes. Thus, several dorsal fin characteristics may provide evidence for a closer relationship of these two taxa.
The impact of an integrated electronic medication prescribing and dispensing system on prescribing and dispensing errors: a before and after study
Authors: Hodgkinson Marisa R. , Larmour Ian , Lin Susan , Stormont Adam J. , Paul Eldho 
Published: March 2017

AbstractBackgroundMedication errors are a significant problem in Australian hospitals. This is the first study of the impact of an integrated electronic medication prescribing (e‐prescribing) and dispensing system on medication errors.AimTo evaluate the impact of an integrated e‐prescribing and dispensing system implemented in outpatient clinics and the emergency department on prescribing and dispensing errors.MethodPrescribing and dispensing errors were identified over 2 weeks before and after implementation of the integrated system. Errors were identified through original prescription, e‐prescribing and dispensing systems review. Error rates, types, severity and patient waiting times for prescription dispensing were compared.ResultsThe study included 379 patients prescribed 654 medicines in the before group and 375 patients prescribed 635 medicines in the after group. Prescribing and dispensing error rates per patient were reduced by 93% (from 2.98 to 0.2; p < 0.0001) and 98% (from 1.27 to 0.03; p < 0.0001), respectively. The proportions of patients with at least one procedural or clinical prescribing error showed significant reductions of 81% (95% CI 77–85%) and 3.4% (95% CI 0.1–6.7%). The proportions of patients with at least one procedural or clinical dispensing error showed signicant reductions of 61% (94% CI 56–66%) and 2% (95% CI 0.7–3.6%). Fifty system‐related prescribing errors were identified. Mean error severity score was minor in both groups. Median patient waiting time for prescription dispensing was reduced by 52% (from 27 to 13 min; p < 0.0001).ConclusionImplementation of the integrated system significantly reduced prescribing and dispensing errors and patient waiting times for prescription dispensing. Clinicians need to manage new system‐related errors to reduce associated risks.
Bladder Transplantation of Amniotic Fluid Stem Cell may Ameliorate Bladder Dysfunction After Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Rat
Authors: Liang Ching-Chung , Shaw S.W. Steven , Huang Yung-Hsin , Lin Yi-Hao , Lee Tsong-Hai 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThe objective is to investigate whether human amniotic fluid stem cells (hAFSCs) grafting into the bladder may influence bladder functional and molecular changes in an animal stroke model. Female rats were divided into three groups: sham, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) alone, and MCAO plus 1 × 106 hAFSCs transplanting into bladder wall. Bladder function was analyzed by cystometry at days 3 and 10 after MCAO. The expressions of bladder nerve growth factor (NGF), M2-muscarinic, M3-muscarinic, and P2X1 receptors were measured by immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction. When compared with sham-operated group, MCAO alone rats had significant increase in residual volume and decrease in voided volume and intercontraction interval; however, these bladder dysfunctions were improved following hAFSCs transplantation. The immunoreactivities of NGF, M3, and P2X1 significantly decreased at days 3 and 10, but M2 increased at day 3 after MCAO. Following hAFSCs transplantation, the immunoreactivities of NGF and P2X1 significantly increased at day 3, and M2 increased at day 10 after MCAO. The mRNAs of NGF, M2, and M3 significantly increased at day 3, but NGF and M2 decreased at day 10 after MCAO. Following hAFSCs transplantation, there was significant decrease in M2 mRNA at day 3 and increase in P2X1 mRNA at days 3 and 10 after MCAO. Bladder dysfunction caused by MCAO can be improved by hAFSCs transplanting into bladder which may be related to the expressions of bladder NGF, and muscarinic and P2X1 receptors.
Tau and amyloid β proteins distinctively associate to functional network changes in the aging brain
Authors: Sepulcre Jorge , Sabuncu Mert R. , Li Quanzheng , El Fakhri Georges , Sperling Reisa , Johnson Keith A. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractIntroductionMisfolded tau and amyloid β (Aβ) proteins progressively accumulate in the human brain, causing altered neuronal function and neurodegeneration. This study sought to investigate whether the wide spectrum of functional reorganization in aging brains of cognitively normal individuals relates to specific pathological patterns of tau and Aβ deposits.MethodsWe used functional connectivity neuroimaging and in vivo tau and Aβ positron emission tomography scans to study cortical spatial relationships between imaging modalities.ResultsWe found that a negative association between tau and functional connectivity combined with a positive association between Aβ and functional connectivity is the most frequent cortical pattern among elderly subjects. Moreover, we found specific brain areas that interrelate hypoconnectivity and hyperconnectivity regions.DiscussionOur findings have critical implications to understanding how the two main elements of Alzheimer's disease–related pathology affect the aging brain and how they cause alterations in large‐scale neuronal circuits.
Numerical analysis of heat-curved I-girders
Authors: Gergess Antoine , Sen Rajan 
Published: March 2017

AbstractHeat curving is a practical and economical process used by steel fabricators for curving structural steel. In this method, the flange edges of a fabricated straight girder are asymmetrically heated to induce residual curvature on cooling. Available analytical methods for predicting the resulting residual stress, strain and curvature are complex and iterative because of the need to account for material and geometric non-linearity. This paper presents a single-step, non-iterative, numerical procedure for determining the effects of heat-curving on residual stress and strain based on a previously developed simplified analysis. Thermal equilibrium equations for idealized heating profiles are first recast in a general parametric form and then solved numerically for standard heating width and temperature using modern technical computing. The resulting solutions are expressed as polynomial functions to allow the solution space for the residual curvature to be graphically represented. Curvature predictions using this simplified approach are shown to be within 11% of measured values and within 5% of values obtained using more rigorous numerical methods.Highlights The paper presents a simplified computational method for heat curving steel. Equations for non-linear stress distribution are cast in a parametric form and solved numerically using Wolfram Mathematica V.9.0 computer algebra package. Solutions are presented as polynomials and graphical plots to directly calculate the curvature. Legitimacy is confirmed based on comparisons with available experimental and theoretical values.
Associations of VEGF Gene Polymorphisms with Erectile Dysfunction and Related Risk Factors
Authors: Lee Yung-Chin , Huang Shu-Pin , Tsai Chia-Chun , Cheng Kai-Hung , Juan Yung-Shun , Wu Wen-Jeng , Bao Bo-Ying , Huang Chun-Nung , Wang Chii-Jye , Liu Chia-Chu 
Published: March 2017

Abstract

Background
Repeated evidence from animal models suggests a strong link between vascular endothelial growth factor (VGEF) and penile vasculature and erectile function because VEGF can alter the physiologic pathways involved in the regulation of penile vasomotor tone.

Aim
To investigate three VEGF polymorphisms and their link to erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods
We enrolled 688 Taiwanese men with a mean age of 55.6 years (SD = 4.5) during a free health screening. All participants provided complete medical histories and underwent physical examinations. Fasting blood samples were obtained for biochemical analysis and hormone profiling. The allelic discrimination of three VEGF gene polymorphisms (460T/C [rs833061], 1154G/A [rs1570360], and 2578A/C [rs699947]) was performed using validated TaqMan single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping assays.

Outcomes
Subjects underwent assessment using the simplified five-item International Index of Erectile Function to diagnose and assess ED severity.

Results
The results showed that diabetes mellitus (odds ratio [OR] = 3.27, P &lt; .01), hypertension (OR = 3.47, P &lt; .01), and having the VEGF 2578A allele (OR = 1.54, P = .01) were the three most independent risk factors for ED. In univariate analysis, all three VEGF polymorphisms (460C, 1154A, and 2578A) were significantly associated with a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease (P &lt; .01) and greater frequencies of hypertension were found in carriers of the 1154A allele and the 2578A allele (P = .01). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between VEGF 2578A allele carrier status and ED (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.10∼2.15, P = .01). Furthermore, the prevalence and severity of ED were significantly increased with an increment of the 2578A allele number (P &lt; .05).

Clinical Implications
VEGF 2578C/A gene polymorphisms could be a genetic susceptibility factor for the development of ED.

Strength and Limitation
This is the first study to investigate the genetic susceptibility of VEGF polymorphisms to ED. This study was cross-sectional with a lack of functional and molecular production investigations. Data on the association among conditions might not allow definitive conclusions about causal links.

Conclusion
This study showed that VEGF 2578A allele carriers in a Taiwanese population are at greater risk for ED.
Sexual Quality of Life and Needs for Sexology Care of Cancer Patients Admitted for Radiotherapy: A 3-Month Cross-Sectional Study in a Regional Comprehensive Reference Cancer Center
Authors: Almont Thierry , Delannes Martine , Ducassou Anne , Corman André , Bondil Pierre , Moyal Elizabeth , Schover Leslie , Huyghe Eric 
Published: March 2017

Abstract

Background
Providing early and better care in onco-sexuality and a better understanding of the sexual health care needs of patients before they start treatment is required.

Objective
To assess sexual quality of life and need for sexology care of patients when they are starting radiotherapy.

Design
We performed a cross-sectional study of adult patients with cancer admitted for radiotherapy treatment in a regional comprehensive cancer center.

Methods
We selected all consecutive adult patients scheduled to start radiotherapy within a 3-month period and excluded patients who could not complete the questionnaires. Patients were asked to complete the Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire (SQoL) and a needs-assessment questionnaire.

Outcomes
Total score on the SQoL and willingness (yes or no) to get help for a sexual problem.

Results
The study sample was composed of 77 men and 123 women. The average SQoL scores were 68.4 ± 20.9 and 47.1 ± 13.0 for men and women, respectively (P &lt; .001). Of sexually active patients, 58% had decreased frequency of intercourse or had completely stopped sexual activity after their cancer diagnosis. Half the participants wanted care for their sexual concerns. The proportion desiring specific types of care varied from 28.5% (couple counseling) to 54.5% (sexual physician) with variation by sex or type of cancer. Furthermore, 11.5% of participants declared their willingness to join support groups.

Clinical Implications
Early interventions before radiotherapy could improve sexual quality of life, particularly in women.

Strengths and Limitations
Strengths are the SQoL validated in men and women, the original window for assessment, and the study location. Limitations are the monocentric design, the potential recall bias for data before cancer diagnosis, and the fact that some patients had treatments before radiotherapy.

Conclusion
Our data suggest the need to examine the sexual health trajectory in a prospective fashion from diagnosis to survivorship.
Does the source of debt financing affect default risk?
Authors: Chiu Wan‐Chien , Wang Chih‐Wei , Peña Juan Ignacio 
Published: March 2017

AbstractWe examine whether the source of debt financing is important for assessments of firms’ default risk. This study reveals that during the 2007–2010 financial crisis, firms that depend mainly on financing from banks suffer higher increases in default risk than do firms with no such dependence. Conversely, firms that rely solely on financing from public debt markets do not experience significant increases in default risk. These findings suggest that the bank supply shock theory explains the transmission of financial shocks to the real economy. Finally, firms that depend on bank financing cannot offset the adverse impacts of bank lending shocks by substituting bank loans with publicly traded debt.
A randomised controlled study of mindfulness meditation versus relaxation therapy in the management of tinnitus
Authors: Arif M , Sadlier M , Rajenderkumar D , James J , Tahir T 
Published: March 2017

AbstractObjective:Psychotherapeutic interventions have been adopted effectively in the management of tinnitus for a long time. This study compared mindfulness meditation and relaxation therapy for management of tinnitus.Methods:In this randomised controlled trial, patients were recruited for five sessions of mindfulness meditation or five sessions of relaxation therapy. Patients’ responses were evaluated using the Tinnitus Reaction Questionnaire as a primary outcome measure, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, visual analogue scale and a health status indicator as secondary outcome measures.Results:A total of 86 patients were recruited. Thirty-four patients completed mindfulness meditation and 27 patients completed relaxation therapy. Statistically significant improvement was seen in all outcome measures except the health status indicator in both treatment groups. The change in treatment scores was greater in the mindfulness meditation group than in the relaxation therapy group.Conclusion:This study suggests that although both mindfulness meditation and relaxation therapy are effective in the management of tinnitus, mindfulness meditation is superior to relaxation therapy.
International law and its discontents: Exploring the dark sides of international law in International Relations
Authors: McKeown Ryder 
Published: March 2017

AbstractInternational law is generally considered to be a good thing. With important exceptions, such as Critical Legal Studies, scholarship in both International Relations (IR) and International Law (IL) reinforces this ‘nice law’ assumption and therefore overlooks or underestimates the law’s negative aspects. In contrast, this article assumes the power of international law to examine how international law can have effects that are unintended, unhelpful, or even perverse. In particular, I argue that international law distorts policy- and decision-making processes in liberal democracies by eroding personal responsibility and decreasing accountability; legal expertise and legal virtues crowd out important virtues of statecraft and prudence while shrinking our capacity for sophisticated moral and political thought; and an excessive focus on law can lead to suboptimal foreign policy outcomes. Rather than law being a bad thing per se, I examine the significant strategic and moral limits of international law. This raises the need to lower our expectations of international law, carefully examine the relationship between power and international law, and political responsibility and legal ethics, and more fully embrace our own personal responsibility. The article closes by suggesting a research programme on the dark sides of international law from various theoretical perspectives.
Bat species vulnerability in Cerrado: integrating climatic suitability with sensitivity to land-use changes
Authors: MENDES POLIANA , DE MARCO PAULO 
Published: March 2017

SUMMARYClimate variables are commonly used to predict suitability for species occurrence, but local processes, such as landscape changes, may affect habitat suitability. We identified levels of exposure to deforestation of suitable climatic areas for eight bat species in the Brazilian Cerrado and explored how sensitivity to land-use changes could reduce their persistence. We created scenarios of sensitivity to land-use changes using theoretical species persistence thresholds to natural vegetation loss in landscapes (70%, 50% and 30% of loss). We also assessed sensitivity to land-use changes using empirical data. Species are under higher exposure to land-use changes in the southern Cerrado, a region more affected by humans due to its proximity to major urban areas. Changes in land use in the Cerrado mostly affect Myotis nigricans, Artibeus cinereus and Platyrrhinus lineatus. Empirically derived scenarios encountered significant thresholds at 50% of natural vegetation loss in landscapes for Artibeus lituratus and P. lineatus. Deforestation has already affected a half of the Cerrado area, but in terms of possibly vulnerable suitable areas, a larger proportion has been lost, amounting to up to 80% of the suitable area. We propose that information on species-specific sensitivity thresholds to habitat loss and on the exposure of suitable landscapes to land-use changes can be useful to assessing species vulnerability.
Feasibility and Efficacy of Brief Computerized Training to Improve Emotion Recognition in Premanifest and Early-Symptomatic Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Kempnich Clare L. , Wong Dana , Georgiou-Karistianis Nellie , Stout Julie C. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractObjectives: Deficits in the recognition of negative emotions emerge before clinical diagnosis in Huntington’s disease (HD). To address emotion recognition deficits, which have been shown in schizophrenia to be improved by computerized training, we conducted a study of the feasibility and efficacy of computerized training of emotion recognition in HD. Methods: We randomly assigned 22 individuals with premanifest or early symptomatic HD to the training or control group. The training group used a self-guided online training program, MicroExpression Training Tool (METT), twice weekly for 4 weeks. All participants completed measures of emotion recognition at baseline and post-training time-points. Participants in the training group also completed training adherence measures. Results: Participants in the training group completed seven of the eight sessions on average. Results showed a significant group by time interaction, indicating that METT training was associated with improved accuracy in emotion recognition. Conclusions: Although sample size was small, our study demonstrates that emotion recognition remediation using the METT is feasible in terms of training adherence. The evidence also suggests METT may be effective in premanifest or early-symptomatic HD, opening up a potential new avenue for intervention. Further study with a larger sample size is needed to replicate these findings, and to characterize the durability and generalizability of these improvements, and their impact on functional outcomes in HD. (JINS, 2017, 23, 314–321)
Implementing a Collaborative Working Environment Using Agile: the LexisNexis Experience
Authors: Waldron Karen 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThis article by Karen Waldron describes the experiences of LexisNexis in implementing Agile as a framework in product development and across the organisation. It discusses the principles of Agile, the aims of LexisNexis of greater collaboration, quicker delivery of value to customers and continuous improvement, the main activities introduced, and the benefits experienced at LexisNexis as a result. It also discusses the applicability of Agile as a framework outside of software development, as the goals are common to most organisations, and sets out the view that incorporating simple agile activities into current working practices can have incremental and short term benefit for most teams.