bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The oxidative stress theory of disease: levels of evidence and epistemological aspects
Authors: Ghezzi Pietro , Jaquet Vincent , Marcucci Fabrizio , Schmidt Harald H H W 
Published: July 2016

AbstractThe theory that oxidative stress (OS) is at the root of several diseases is extremely popular. However, so far, no antioxidant has been recommended or offered by healthcare systems neither has any been approved as therapy by regulatory agencies that base their decisions on evidence‐based medicine. This is simply because, so far, despite many preclinical and clinical studies indicating a beneficial effect of antioxidants in many disease conditions, randomised clinical trials have failed to provide the evidence of efficacy required for drug approval.In this review, we discuss the levels of evidence required to claim causality in preclinical research on OS, the weakness of the oversimplification associated with OS theory of disease and the importance of the narrative in its popularity. Finally, from a more translational perspective, we discuss the reasons why antioxidants acting by scavenging ROS might not only prevent their detrimental effects but also interfere with essential signalling roles. We propose that ROS have a complex metabolism and are generated by different enzymes at diverse sites and at different times. Aggregating this plurality of systems into a single theory of disease may not be the best way to develop new drugs, and future research may need to focus on specific oxygen‐toxifying pathways rather than on non‐specific ROS scavengers. Finally, similarly to what is nowadays required for clinical trials, we recommend making unpublished data available in repositories (open data), as this will allow big data approaches or meta‐analyses, without the drawbacks of publication bias.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Redox Biology and Oxidative Stress in Health and Disease. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.12/issuetoc
The 5A apolipoprotein A‐I (apoA‐I) mimetic peptide ameliorates experimental colitis by regulating monocyte infiltration
Authors: Nowacki Tobias M , Remaley Alan T , Bettenworth Dominik , Eisenblätter Michel , Vowinkel Thorsten , Becker Felix , Vogl Thomas , Roth Johannes , Tietge Uwe J , Lügering Andreas , Heidemann Jan , Nofer Jerzy‐Roch 
Published: July 2016

Background and PurposeNew therapies for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are highly desirable. As apolipoprotein (apo)A‐I mimetic peptides are beneficial in several animal models of inflammation, we hypothesized that they might be effective at inhibiting murine colitis.Experimental ApproachDaily injections of 5A peptide, a synthetic bihelical apoA‐I mimetic dissolved in PBS, or PBS alone were administered to C57BL/6 mice fed 3% (w v‐1) dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in drinking water or healthy controls.Key ResultsDaily treatment with 5A peptide potently restricted DSS‐induced inflammation, as indicated by improved disease activity indices and colon histology, as well as decreased intestinal tissue myeloperoxidase levels and plasma TNFα and IL‐6 concentrations. Additionally, plasma levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 and the monocyte expression of adhesion‐mediating molecule CD11b were down‐regulated, pro‐inflammatory CD11b+/Ly6chigh monocytes were decreased, and the number of intestinal monocytes was reduced in 5A peptide‐treated animals as determined by intravital macrophage‐related peptide‐8/14‐directed fluorescence‐mediated tomography and post‐mortem immunhistochemical F4/80 staining. Intravital fluorescence microscopy of colonic microvasculature demonstrated inhibitory effects of 5A peptide on leukocyte adhesion accompanied by reduced plasma levels of the soluble adhesion molecule sICAM‐1. In vitro 5A peptide reduced monocyte adhesion and transmigration in TNFα‐stimulated monolayers of human intestinal microvascular endothelial cells. Increased susceptibility to DSS‐induced inflammation was noted in apoA‐I−/− mice.Conclusions and ImplicationsThe 5A peptide is effective at ameliorating murine colitis by preventing intestinal monocyte infiltration and activation. These findings point to apoA‐I mimetics as a potential treatment approach for IBD.
The sphingosine‐1‐phosphate analogue, FTY‐720, promotes the proliferation of embryonic neural stem cells, enhances hippocampal neurogenesis and learning and memory abilities in adult mice
Authors: Sun Yili , Hong Feng , Zhang Lei , Feng Linyin 
Published: July 2016

Background and purposeFingolimod (FTY‐720) is the first oral therapeutic drug approved for the relapsing–remitting forms of multiple sclerosis. Neural stem cells (NSCs) are capable of continuous self‐renewal and differentiation. The dentate gyrus of the hippocampus in the adult mammalian brain contains a population of NSCs and is one of the regions where neurogenesis takes place. FTY‐720 has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in several model systems, so we investigated the direct effects of FTY‐720 on NSCs and adult neurogenesis.Experimental approachesWe assessed the effects of FTY‐720 on the proliferation and differentiation of cultured embryonic hippocampal NSCs using the 5‐bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine incorporation assay, the neurosphere formation assay and western blot analysis. Receptor selective agonists and antagonists were used to identify the mechanisms involved. Neurogenesis in the hippocampus of C57BL/6 mice was also assessed by immunohistochemistry. The Morris water maze and fear conditioning tests were used to detect the learning and memory abilities of mice.Key resultsFTY‐720 promoted the proliferation of embryonic hippocampal NSCs probably via the activation of ERK signalling, Gi/o proteins and S1P1 receptors. However, FTY‐720 did not affect the differentiation of cultured hippocampal NSCs. In vivo, chronic treatment with FTY‐720 promoted hippocampal neurogenesis in adult C57BL/6 mice and enhanced their learning and memory abilities.Conclusions and ImplicationsOur results suggest a new target for the activation of NSCs and provide an insight into the therapeutic effects of FTY‐720 in neuropsychiatric disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and age‐related cognitive decline where hippocampal neurogenesis is compromised.
Dynamically Enriched MPM for Invertible Elasticity
Authors: Zhu Fei , Zhao Jing , Li Sheng , Tang Yong , Wang Guoping 
Published: July 2016

AbstractWe extend the material point method (MPM) for robust simulation of extremely large elastic deformation. This facilitates the application of MPM towards a unified solver since its versatility has been demonstrated lately with simulation of varied materials. Extending MPM for invertible elasticity requires accounting for several of its inherent limitations. MPM as a meshless method exhibits numerical fracture in large tensile deformations. We eliminate it by augmenting particles with connected material domains. Besides, constant redefinition of the interpolating functions between particles and grid introduces accumulated error which behaves like artificial plasticity. We address this problem by utilizing the Lagrangian particle domains as enriched degrees of freedom for simulation. The enrichment is applied dynamically during simulation via an error metric based on local deformation of particles. Lastly, we novelly reformulate the computation in reference configuration and investigate inversion handling techniques to ensure the robustness of our method in regime of degenerated configurations. The power and robustness of our method are demonstrated with various simulations that involve extreme deformations.
The BRICS and the G20
Authors: Tian Huifang 
Published: July 2016

AbstractBrazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) have come together economically as a group since 2009. Their cooperation has been driven not only by economic and political factors, but also the failure of the existing global economic governance framework to satisfy the real needs of these countries. In this paper, we analyze how the BRICS moved from a financial category into a political group, and are progressively developing from a dialogue‐based platform into a full‐fledged mechanism of long‐term coordination on a wide range of key issues relating to the world economy and politics. We also analyze how the BRICS have coordinated their positions in the G20, pushing for deep reform in global governance. Then, given the major hindrances to cooperation among the BRICS, including the challenge of economic transition, weak geopolitical links, complicated internal and external relations and inadequate governance capabilities, the present paper speculates on how the BRICS can use the opportunity arising from China taking the G20 presidency in 2016 to improve the cohesiveness and influence of the BRICS in terms of their agenda, organization and deliverables.
For some mothers more than others
Authors: Karbownik Krzysztof , Myck Michał 
Published: July 2016

AbstractWe estimate the effect of family size on female labour supply using data from Poland and instrumenting for family size with twinning at first and second birth. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to causally address this relationship in a post‐communist country. We identify the average causal effect of an additional child on mother's employment to be −7.0 pp, but we do not find significant effects of additional children on female employment among families with two or more children. Furthermore, we identify a positive bias of OLS in the estimates among highly educated mothers and those from younger cohorts.
Advanced phase chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) in the tyrosine kinase inhibitor era – a report from the Swedish CML register
Authors: Söderlund Stina , Dahlén Torsten , Sandin Fredrik , Olsson‐Strömberg Ulla , Creignou Maria , Dreimane Arta , Lübking Anna , Markevärn Berit , Själander Anders , Wadenvik Hans , Stenke Leif , Richter Johan , Höglund Martin 
Published: July 2016

AbstractObjectivesThe primary goal in management of chronic phase (CP) chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is to prevent disease progression to accelerated phase (AP) or blast crisis (BC). We have evaluated progression rates in a decentralised healthcare setting and characterised patients progressing to AP/BC on TKI treatment.MethodsUsing data from the Swedish CML register, we identified CP‐CML patients diagnosed 2007–2011 who progressed to AP/BC within 2 yrs from diagnosis (n = 18) as well as patients diagnosed in advanced phase during 2007–2012 (n = 36) from a total of 544 newly diagnosed CML cases. We evaluated baseline characteristics, progression rates, outcome and adherence to guidelines for monitoring and treatment.ResultsThe cumulative progression rate at 2 yrs was 4.3%. All 18 progression cases had been treated with imatinib, and six progressed within 6 months. High‐risk EUTOS score was associated to a higher risk of progression. Insufficient cytogenetic and/or molecular monitoring was found in 33%. Median survival after transformation during TKI treatment was 1.4 yrs. In those presenting with BC and AP, median survival was 1.6 yrs and not reached, respectively.ConclusionIn this population‐based setting, progression rates appear comparable to that reported from clinical trials, with similar dismal patient outcome. Improved adherence to CML guidelines may minimise the risk of disease progression.
Interobserver variability in the radiological assessment of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) including perfusion MRI in glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Kerkhof M. , Hagenbeek R. E. , van der Kallen B. F. W. , Lycklama à Nijeholt G. J. , Dirven L. , Taphoorn M. J. B. , Vos M. J. 
Published: July 2016

Background and purposeConventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has limited value for differentiation of true tumor progression and pseudoprogression in treated glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Perfusion weighted imaging (PWI) may be helpful in the differentiation of these two phenomena. Here interobserver variability in routine radiological evaluation of GBM patients is assessed using MRI, including PWI.MethodsThree experienced neuroradiologists evaluated MR scans of 28 GBM patients during temozolomide chemoradiotherapy at three time points: preoperative (MR1) and postoperative (MR2) MR scan and the follow‐up MR scan after three cycles of adjuvant temozolomide (MR3). Tumor size was measured both on T1 post‐contrast and T2 weighted images according to the Response Assessment in Neuro‐Oncology criteria. PW images of MR3 were evaluated by visual inspection of relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) color maps and by quantitative rCBV measurements of enhancing areas with highest rCBV. Image interpretability of PW images was also scored. Finally, the neuroradiologists gave a conclusion on tumor status, based on the interpretation of both T1 and T2 weighted images (MR1, MR2 and MR3) in combination with PWI (MR3).ResultsInterobserver agreement on visual interpretation of rCBV maps was good (κ = 0.63) but poor on quantitative rCBV measurements and on interpretability of perfusion images (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.37 and κ = 0.23, respectively). Interobserver agreement on the overall conclusion of tumor status was moderate (κ = 0.48).ConclusionsInterobserver agreement on the visual interpretation of PWI color maps was good. However, overall interpretation of MR scans (using both conventional and PW images) showed considerable interobserver variability. Therefore, caution should be applied when interpreting MRI results during chemoradiation therapy.
Changes in albacore tuna habitat in the northeast Pacific Ocean under anthropogenic warming
Authors: Christian James R. , Holmes John 
Published: July 2016

AbstractAlbacore tuna are widespread in the North Pacific Ocean and the basis of an important commercial fishery. These fish live mainly within a fairly narrow thermal niche range defined by sea surface temperature (SST) isotherms between 14 and 19°C. Because the fish's thermal range coincides with strong latitudinal temperature gradients off the northwest coast of North America, there is a great deal of seasonal and interannual variability in the distribution of these fish, and a significant potential for a new habitat in this region with anthropogenic climate change. We use historical catch and effort data from the Canadian troll fleet to define the fish's thermal niche, and document observed shifts in distribution associated with interannual climate variability. We then use an ensemble of climate model simulations from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project to estimate northward extension of the potential habitat under anthropogenic warming scenarios. A potential new habitat is about half a million square kilometres even under a moderate mitigation scenario. Estimates are smaller for some months of the year in which the fishery is conducted, but as well as opening up new regions, the length of season in which the fishery is active may be extended in the northern part of the range. However, much of the potential new habitat will be in oceanic waters with relatively low productivity. Our estimated area of potential habitat is based on the fish's thermal niche and assumes that other biologically important factors such as food will not be limiting.
Contrasting effects of summer and winter warming on body mass explain population dynamics in a food‐limited Arctic herbivore
Authors: Albon Steve D. , Irvine R. Justin. , Halvorsen Odd , Langvatn Rolf , Loe Leif E. , Ropstad Erik , Veiberg Vebjørn , van der Wal René , Bjørkvoll Eirin M. , Duff Elizabeth I. , Hansen Brage B. , Lee Aline M. , Tveraa Torkild , Stien Audun 
Published: July 2016

AbstractThe cumulative effects of climate warming on herbivore vital rates and population dynamics are hard to predict, given that the expected effects differ between seasons. In the Arctic, warmer summers enhance plant growth which should lead to heavier and more fertile individuals in the autumn. Conversely, warm spells in winter with rainfall (rain‐on‐snow) can cause ‘icing’, restricting access to forage, resulting in starvation, lower survival and fecundity. As body condition is a ‘barometer’ of energy demands relative to energy intake, we explored the causes and consequences of variation in body mass of wild female Svalbard reindeer (Rangifer tarandus platyrhynchus) from 1994 to 2015, a period of marked climate warming. Late winter (April) body mass explained 88% of the between‐year variation in population growth rate, because it strongly influenced reproductive loss, and hence subsequent fecundity (92%), as well as survival (94%) and recruitment (93%). Autumn (October) body mass affected ovulation rates but did not affect fecundity. April body mass showed no long‐term trend (coefficient of variation, CV = 8.8%) and was higher following warm autumn (October) weather, reflecting delays in winter onset, but most strongly, and negatively, related to ‘rain‐on‐snow’ events. October body mass (CV = 2.5%) increased over the study due to higher plant productivity in the increasingly warm summers. Density‐dependent mass change suggested competition for resources in both winter and summer but was less pronounced in recent years, despite an increasing population size. While continued climate warming is expected to increase the carrying capacity of the high Arctic tundra, it is also likely to cause more frequent icing events. Our analyses suggest that these contrasting effects may cause larger seasonal fluctuations in body mass and vital rates. Overall our findings provide an important ‘missing’ mechanistic link in the current understanding of the population biology of a keystone species in a rapidly warming Arctic.
Evaluating Chinese Economic Engagement in Africa versus Latin America
Authors: Narins Thomas P. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractSince the early 2000s, when China joined the World Trade Organization and the Chinese government announced an official ‘going out policy’ to encourage economic engagement beyond China's territorial borders, growth of Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade with both Africa and Latin America has risen exponentially. Reasons for this rise include (1) Chinese economic actors' view that expansion within these former European colonial regions is critical for accessing primary resources and new markets and (2) leadership in Beijing's view that its legitimacy continues to be based on economic growth. Given China's recent bleak economic forecast and plunging stock market, an increase in Chinese overseas economic engagement in Africa and Latin America warrants a closer examination of the ‘Chinese model’ of economic expansion in the developing world and implies that the Chinese economy may be more dependent on connections with these regions than has been previously suggested. By distinguishing the political economic forces at play, on the ground, in Africa from those in Latin America, Chinese economic engagement tactics in these regions can be more accurately understood as a set of dependent and negotiated processes that are location specific.
Effect of a dual task on quantitative Timed Up and Go performance in community‐dwelling older adults: A preliminary study
Authors: Smith Erin , Walsh Lorcan , Doyle Julie , Greene Barry , Blake Catherine 
Published: July 2016

AimThe Timed Up and Go test (TUG) is used as a measure of functional ability in older adults; however, the method of measurement does not allow us to determine which aspects of the test deficits occur in. The aim of the present study was to examine the ability of the quantitative TUG (QTUG) to measure performance during the TUG test under three different conditions – single task, motor task and cognitive dual task – and to compare performance between fallers and non‐fallers in high‐functioning community‐dwelling older adults.MethodsA total of 37 community‐dwelling older adults, 16 with a self‐reported falls history in the previous year, were recruited. Participants underwent a falls risk assessment with a physiotherapist including the QTUG under three conditions (single task, motor task, cognitive dual‐task). A total of 10 clinical parameters were chosen for analysis using mancova and a series of ancova, with age, sex and body mass index included as covariates.ResultsThe mancova analysis showed a significant difference across the three task conditions (Wilk's Lambda F20,186 = 3.37, P < 0.001. No overall significant difference between faller and non‐faller groups (Wilk's Lambda F10,96 = 1.469, P = 0.163) or significant interaction between task and faller status (Wilk's Lambda F20,192 = 1.131, P = 0.321) was found. ancova results for each of the parameters showed overall differences between single, motor and cognitive tasks for all of the variables, except time in double support. When faller and non‐faller differences were explored, cadence and stride velocity was greater, and stride time longer in those with a prior history of falls.ConclusionsIn community‐dwelling older adults, these preliminary results show that a cognitive dual‐task significantly (P < 0.025) affects QTUG performance in almost all parameters, with a significant (P < 0.025) reduction in time‐to‐stand observed with a motor task. Although no statistical difference was found between fallers and non‐fallers for many of the parameters, cadence, stride time and stride velocity were statistically different (P < 0.05). A larger sample size and more assessment points might lead to more definitive findings. These results highlight the need for further research to examine QTUG performance under dual‐task conditions between fallers and non‐fallers in this population, and to look at the ability of dual‐task QTUG assessment to measure change longitudinally and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 1176–1182.
Standardization of haematology critical results management in adults: an International Council for Standardization in Haematology, ICSH, survey and recommendations
Authors: Keng T. B. , De La Salle B. , Bourner G. , Merino A. , Han J‐Y. , Kawai Y. , Peng M. T. , McCafferty R. ,   the International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH)
Published: July 2016

SummaryIntroductionThese recommendations are intended to develop a consensus in the previously published papers as to which parameters and what values should be considered critical. A practical guide on the standardization of critical results management in haematology laboratories would be beneficial as part of good laboratory and clinical practice and for use by laboratory‐accrediting agencies.MethodsA working group with members from Europe, America, Australasia and Asia was formed by International Council for Standardization in Haematology. A pattern of practice survey of 21 questions was distributed in 2014, and the data were collected electronically by Survey Monkey. The mode, or most commonly occurring value, was selected as the threshold for the upper and lower alert limits for critical results reporting.ResultsA total of 666 laboratories submitted data to this study and, of these, 499 submitted complete responses. Full blood count critical results alert thresholds, morphology findings that trigger critical result notification, critical results alert list, notification process and maintenance of critical results management protocol are described.This international survey provided a snapshot of the current practice worldwide and has identified the existence of considerable heterogeneity of critical results management.ConclusionThe recommendations in this study represent a consensus of good laboratory practice. They are intended to encourage the implementation of a standardized critical results management protocol in the laboratory.