bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Irisin Inhibits Atherosclerosis by Promoting Endothelial Proliferation Through microRNA126‐5p
Authors: Zhang Yuzhu , Song Haibo , Zhang Yuan , Wu Fei , Mu Qian , Jiang Miao , Wang Fang , Zhang Wen , Li Liang , Shao Lei , Li Shiwu , Yang Lijun , Zhang Mingxiang , Wu Qi , Tang Dongqi 
Published: September 2016

Background
Irisin is a newly discovered myokine that has been considered a promising candidate for the treatment of cardiovascular disease through improving endothelial function. However, little is known about the role of irisin in the progression of atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results
We used a carotid partial ligation model of apolipoprotein E–deficient mice fed on a high‐cholesterol diet to test the anti‐atherosclerosis effect of irisin. Irisin treatment significantly suppressed carotid neointima formation. It was associated with increased endothelial cell proliferation. In addition, irisin promoted human umbilical vein endothelial cell survival via upregulating microRNA126‐5p expression through the ERK signaling pathway. Inhibition of microRNA126‐5p using the microRNA126‐5p inhibitor abolished the prosurvival effect. The same results were demonstrated in vivo as the expression of microRNA126‐5p noticeably increased in ligated carotid artery after irisin treatment. Furthermore, in vivo blockade of microRNA126‐5p expression using the antagomir abolished the inhibitory effects of irisin on neointima formation, lesional lipid deposition, macrophage area, and the pro‐proliferation effects on endothelial cells.

Conclusions
Taken together, our study demonstrates that irisin significantly reduces atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E–deficient mice via promoting endothelial cell proliferation through microRNA126‐5p, which may have a direct therapeutic effect on atherosclerotic diseases.
The Contribution of Object Shape and Surface Properties to Object Ensemble Representation in Anterior-medial Ventral Visual Cortex
Authors: Cant Jonathan S. , Xu Yaoda 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
Our visual system can extract summary statistics from large collections of objects without forming detailed representations of the individual objects in the ensemble. In a region in ventral visual cortex encompassing the collateral sulcus and the parahippocampal gyrus and overlapping extensively with the scene-selective parahippocampal place area (PPA), we have previously reported fMRI adaptation to object ensembles when ensemble statistics repeated, even when local image features differed across images (e.g., two different images of the same strawberry pile). We additionally showed that this ensemble representation is similar to (but still distinct from) how visual texture patterns are processed in this region and is not explained by appealing to differences in the color of the elements that make up the ensemble. To further explore the nature of ensemble representation in this brain region, here we used PPA as our ROI and investigated in detail how the shape and surface properties (i.e., both texture and color) of the individual objects constituting an ensemble affect the ensemble representation in anterior-medial ventral visual cortex. We photographed object ensembles of stone beads that varied in shape and surface properties. A given ensemble always contained beads of the same shape and surface properties (e.g., an ensemble of star-shaped rose quartz beads). A change to the shape and/or surface properties of all the beads in an ensemble resulted in a significant release from adaptation in PPA compared with conditions in which no ensemble feature changed. In contrast, in the object-sensitive lateral occipital area (LO), we only observed a significant release from adaptation when the shape of the ensemble elements varied, and found no significant results in additional scene-sensitive regions, namely, the retrosplenial complex and occipital place area. Together, these results demonstrate that the shape and surface properties of the individual objects comprising an ensemble both contribute significantly to object ensemble representation in anterior-medial ventral visual cortex and further demonstrate a functional dissociation between object- (LO) and scene-selective (PPA) visual cortical regions and within the broader scene-processing network itself.
WHATCH’EM: A Weather-Driven Energy Balance Model for Determining Water Height and Temperature in Container Habitats for Aedes aegypti
Authors: Steinhoff Daniel F. , Monaghan Andrew J. , Eisen Lars , Barlage Michael J. , Hopson Thomas M. , Tarakidzwa Isaac , Ortiz-Rosario Karielys , Lozano-Fuentes Saul , Hayden Mary H. , Bieringer Paul E. , Welsh Rodríguez Carlos M. 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
The mosquito virus vector Aedes (Ae.) aegypti exploits a wide range of containers as sites for egg laying and development of the immature life stages, yet the approaches for modeling meteorologically sensitive container water dynamics have been limited. This study introduces the Water Height and Temperature in Container Habitats Energy Model (WHATCH’EM), a state-of-the-science, physically based energy balance model of water height and temperature in containers that may serve as development sites for mosquitoes. The authors employ WHATCH’EM to model container water dynamics in three cities along a climatic gradient in México ranging from sea level, where Ae. aegypti is highly abundant, to ~2100 m, where Ae. aegypti is rarely found. When compared with measurements from a 1-month field experiment in two of these cities during summer 2013, WHATCH’EM realistically simulates the daily mean and range of water temperature for a variety of containers. To examine container dynamics for an entire season, WHATCH’EM is also driven with field-derived meteorological data from May to September 2011 and evaluated for three commonly encountered container types. WHATCH’EM simulates the highly nonlinear manner in which air temperature, humidity, rainfall, clouds, and container characteristics (shape, size, and color) determine water temperature and height. Sunlight exposure, modulated by clouds and shading from nearby objects, plays a first-order role. In general, simulated water temperatures are higher for containers that are larger, darker, and receive more sunlight. WHATCH’EM simulations will be helpful in understanding the limiting meteorological and container-related factors for proliferation of Ae. aegypti and may be useful for informing weather-driven early warning systems for viruses transmitted by Ae. aegypti.
An Extension of the Ensemble Kalman Filter for Estimating the Observation Error Covariance Matrix Based on the Variational Bayes’s Method
Authors: Nakabayashi Akio , Ueno Genta 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
This paper presents an extension of the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) that can simultaneously estimate the state vector and the observation error covariance matrix by using the variational Bayes’s (VB) method. In numerical experiments, this capability is examined for a time-variant observation error covariance matrix, and it is noteworthy that this method works well even when the true observation error covariance matrix is nondiagonal. In addition, two complementary studies are presented. First, the stability of a long-run assimilation is demonstrated when there are unmodeled disturbances. Second, a maximum-likelihood (ML) method is derived and demonstrated for optimizing the hyperparameters used in this method.
Interactive iPhone/iPad App for Increased Tympanic Membrane Familiarity
Authors: Samra Sheena , Wu Andrew , Redleaf Miriam 
Published: September 2016

Introduction: Otology relies on clinical examination to teach anatomy of the ear. The purpose of this report is to introduce the Buckingham Virtual Tympanum iPhone app as an adjuvant educational tool to teach the anatomical details of the tympanic membrane (TM). Materials and Methods: This app, available free at the Apple Store, was constructed using archival photographs of normal and abnormal TMs, stratified by difficulty. Each image has 4 labeled structures, linked to questions to encourage active learning. Third-year medical students then used the app to familiarize themselves with the TM. Results: The free app was readily accessible and functioned without technical issues. By being interactive, it forced the user into the role of active learner. This pilot study found that students who used the app understood images of the TM better than those who did not use it. Discussion: We introduce an interactive, iPhone-based smartphone application that we found to be a useful adjunct for teaching TM anatomy.
Telecare, obtrusiveness, acceptance and use: An empirical exploration
Authors: Hamblin Kate 
Published: September 2016

Introduction Telecare is increasingly part of the United Kingdom (UK)’s health and social care arrangements, and therefore occupational therapists’ practice. Understanding factors which influence telecare’s acceptance and usage is important to ensure optimal outcomes, both for service users and health and social care systems. Method This paper uses data collected by a qualitative, multi-method, longitudinal research study ( n = 60) to explore whether an American model of ‘obtrusiveness’ is applicable to the UK context by examining what factors influence older adults’ acceptance and use of telecare. Findings The obtrusiveness model is broadly applicable to the UK context, but there are also two further issues which affected the acceptance and use of telecare: the degree of control a service user feels they have and the information and support they receive in using their devices. Conclusion The obtrusiveness model, plus the two additions (control and information), highlight important issues which could assist professionals working with telecare, including occupational therapists, in ensuring telecare is both accepted and well used.
Development and Preliminary Psychometric Evaluation of Decisional Balance and Self-Efficacy Measures for Managing Anxiety in a National Sample of Clinically Anxious Adults
Authors: Lipschitz Jessica M. , Paiva Andrea L. , Redding Colleen A. , Levesque Deborah , Rossi Joseph S. , Weisberg Risa B. , Prochaska James O. 
Published: September 2016

Purpose: Anxiety is the most common and costly mental illness in the United States. Reducing avoidance is a core element of evidence-based treatments. Past research shows readiness to address avoidance affects outcomes. Investigating avoidance from a transtheoretical model (TTM) perspective could facilitate tailored approaches for individuals with low readiness. This study developed and examined psychometric properties of TTM measures for addressing anxiety-based avoidance. Design: Cross-sectional survey. Setting: Community centers, online survey. Participants: Five hundred ninety-four individuals aged 18 to 70 with clinically significant anxiety. Measures: Overall Anxiety Severity Questionnaire, stages of change, decisional balance, and self-efficacy. Analysis: The sample was randomly split into halves for principal component analyses (PCAs) and confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) to test measurement models. Further analyses examined relationships between constructs. Results: For decisional balance, PCA indicated two 5-item factors (pros and cons). Confirmatory factor analysis supported a 2-factor correlated model, Satorra-Bentler scaled chi-square [Formula: see text], comparative fit index (CFI = 0.94), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA = 0.07), pros: α = 0.87, ρ = 0.87, cons: α = 0.75, and ρ = 0.75. For self-efficacy, PCA indicated one 6-item factor supported by CFA, [Formula: see text], P < .01, CFI = 0.98, RMSEA = 0.09, α = 0.90, ρ = 0.87. As hypothesized, significant cross-stage differences were observed for pros and self-efficacy, and significant relationships between anxiety severity and pros, cons, and self-efficacy were found. Conclusion: Findings show strong psychometric properties and support the application of a readiness-based model to anxiety. In contrast to findings of other behaviors, cons remain high in action and maintenance. These measures provide a solid empirical foundation to develop TTM-tailored interventions to enhance engagement in treatment.
Biomechanical Analysis of Stability of Posterior Antiglide Plating in Osteoporotic Pronation Abduction Ankle Fracture Model With Posterior Tibial Fragment
Authors: Hartwich Kathleen , Lorente Gomez Alejandro , Pyrc Jaroslaw , Gut Radosław , Rammelt Stefan , Grass René 
Published: September 2016

Background: We performed a biomechanical comparison of 2 methods for operative stabilization of pronation-abduction stage III ankle fractures; group 1: Anterior-posterior lag screws fixing the posterior tibial fragment and lateral fibula plating (LSLFP) versus group 2: locked plate fixation of the posterior tibial fragment and posterior antiglide plate fixation of the fibula (LPFP). Methods: Seven pairs of fresh-frozen osteoligamentous lower leg specimens (2 male, and 5 female donors) were used for the biomechanical testing. Bone mineral density (BMD) of each specimen was assessed by means of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. After open transection of the deltoid ligament, an osteotomy model of pronation abduction stage III ankle fracture was created. Specimens were systematically assigned to LSLFP (group 1, left ankles) or LPPFP (group 2, right ankles). After surgery, all specimens were evaluated via CT to verify reduction and fixation. Axial load was then applied onto each specimen using a servohydraulic testing machine starting from 0 N (Zwick/Roell, Ulm, Germany) at a speed of 10 N/s with the foot fixed in a 10 degrees pronation and 15 degrees dorsiflexion position. Construct stiffness, yield, and ultimate strength were measured and dislocation patterns were documented with a high-speed camera. The normal distribution of all data was analyzed using Shapiro-Wilk test. The group comparison was performed using paired Student t test. Statistical significance was assumed at a P value of .05. Results: All specimens had BMD values consistent with osteoporosis. BMD values did not differ between the left and right ankles of the same pair ( P = .762). The mean BMD values between feet of men (0.603 g/cm2) and women (0.329 g/cm2) were statistically different ( P = .005). The ultimate strength for LSLFP (group 1) with 1139 ± 669 N and LPPFP (group 2) with 2008 ± 943 N was statistically different ( P = .036) as well as the yield in LSLFP (group 1) 812 ± 452 N and LPPFD (group 2) 1292 ± 625 N ( P = .016). Construct stiffness trended to be higher in group 2 (179 ± 100 kNn) compared to group 1 (127 ± 73 kN/m) but this difference was not statistically significant ( P = .120). BMD correlated with bone-construct failure. Conclusion: Fixation of the posterior tibial edge with a posterolateral locking plate resulted in higher biomechanical stability than anterior-posterior lag screw fixation in an osteoporotic pronation-abduction fracture model. Clinical Relevance: The clinical implication of this biomechanical study is that the posterior antiglide plating might be advantageous in patients with osteoporotic pronation abduction stage III ankle fracture.
Risk of venous thromboembolism in neuromyelitis optica patients hospitalized for acute relapse
Authors: Farber Rebecca Straus , Gross Robert , Zakin Elina , Fabian Michelle 
Published: September 2016

Background: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) patients may be at increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) not only due to ambulatory disability but also due to systemic autoimmune and inflammatory mechanisms altering the hemostatic balance. Objective: To compare the risk of VTE in NMOSD versus multiple sclerosis (MS) patients hospitalized for acute relapses. Methods: Hospital admissions for MS or NMOSD exacerbations were retrospectively identified. Demographics and medical history were recorded. The relationship between visit diagnosis and presence of VTE within 6 weeks of relapse onset was assessed by univariate logistic regression. A multivariate model evaluated the relationship between diagnosis, age, race, gender, body mass index (BMI), disease modifying therapy use, oral corticosteroid use, oral contraceptive use, smoking, length of stay (LOS), and ambulatory status on VTE risk. Results: A total of 30 NMOSD patients had 55 hospitalizations; 179 MS patients had 264 hospitalizations. Six NMOSD patients and one MS patient had VTE. NMOSD visits compared to MS visits had an odds ratio (OR) of VTE of 32.2 ( p = 0.002). NMOSD was more likely to be associated with VTE (OR = 17.4; p = 0.01) controlling for age, LOS, and ambulatory disability. Conclusion: NMOSD may be a risk factor for VTE. Larger prospective studies are required to confirm this risk and determine implications for prophylaxis.
Treatment satisfaction of home-based telehealth versus in-person delivery of prolonged exposure for combat-related PTSD in veterans
Authors: Gros Daniel F , Lancaster Cynthia Luethcke , López Cristina M , Acierno Ron 
Published: September 2016

Introduction Although there is growing support that evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs) delivered in-person and through telehealth are equivalent in terms of symptom reduction for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), there has been far less investigation comparing these treatment modalities in terms of patient satisfaction. The present study investigated participant satisfaction and perception of the quality of service delivery within a clinical trial comparing the delivery of an EBP, Prolonged Exposure (PE) for PTSD, through home-based telehealth and in-person services. Methods Veterans ( N = 67) with PTSD were randomized to receive PE via video telehealth technology ( n = 27) or via in-person delivery ( n = 40). Participants completed service demographic questions, PTSD symptom assessments, and satisfaction and service delivery perception questionnaires. Results Analyses of covariance were used to investigate the influence of treatment modality on patient satisfaction and perceived quality of service delivery, while controlling for demographics and PTSD symptoms. No differences were observed on the majority of measures, with the exception of participants in the telehealth condition endorsing willingness to drive further for telehealth services as compared with participants in the in-person condition. Discussion Findings illustrate participant satisfaction and acceptance of EBPs delivered via telehealth at a level consistent with that of in-person services. Preliminary findings suggest that the experience of receiving telehealth services may be associated with increased willingness to participate in telehealth services again. Together, these findings of patient satisfaction and acceptance of telehealth services support the ongoing delivery of EBPs via telehealth as well as their future expansion.
Regulation of the IL-10-driven macrophage phenotype under incoherent stimuli
Authors: Chuang Yishan , Hung Michelle E , Cangelose Brianne K , Leonard Joshua N 
Published: September 2016

Macrophages are ubiquitous innate immune cells that play a central role in health and disease by adopting distinct phenotypes, which are broadly divided into classical inflammatory responses and alternative responses that promote immune suppression and wound healing. Although macrophages are attractive therapeutic targets, incomplete understanding of this functional choice limits clinical manipulation. While individual stimuli, pathways, and genes involved in macrophage functional responses have been identified, how macrophages evaluate complex in vivo milieus comprising multiple divergent stimuli remains poorly understood. Here, we used combinations of “incoherent” stimuli—those that individually promote distinct macrophage phenotypes—to elucidate how the immunosuppressive, IL-10-driven macrophage phenotype is induced, maintained, and modulated under such combinatorial stimuli. The IL-10-induced immunosuppressive phenotype was largely insensitive to co-administered IL-12, which has been reported to modulate macrophage phenotype, but maintaining the immunosuppressive phenotype required sustained exposure to IL-10. Our data implicate the intracellular protein, BCL3, as a key mediator of the IL-10-driven phenotype. Notably, co-administration of IFN-γ disrupted an IL-10-mediated positive feedback loop that may reinforce the immunosuppressive phenotype. This novel combinatorial perturbation approach thus generated new insights into macrophage decision making and local immune network function.
Usefulness of spectral computed tomography for evaluation of intestinal activity and severity in ileocolonic Crohn’s disease
Authors: Peng Jiang Chen , Feng Qi , Zhu Jiong , Shen Jun , Qiao Yu Qi , Xu Jian Rong , Ran Zhi Hua 
Published: September 2016

Background: Assessment of intestinal activity and severity of Crohn’s disease (CD) is crucial to guide treatment. In this study, we aimed to investigate the accuracy of spectral computed tomography (CT) in this assessment and make a comparison with conventional CT. Methods: A total of 50 patients with ileocolonic CD underwent spectral CT scanning. Conventional CT and spectral CT images were reconstructed. Endoscopic lesions were classified as absent, mild lesions and severe lesions. Qualitative and quantitative findings in CT images were compared in these segments. Logistic regressions were established, based on conventional and spectral CT parameters, to predict intestinal activity and severity. Comparisons were made by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: The results showed that bowel wall hyperenhancement, ulcers on CT images, comb sign, bowel wall thickness, normalized iodine concentration (NIC) and slope of HU curve (λHU) increased significantly ( p < 0.01) with endoscopic severity. In predicting intestinal activity, spectral CT demonstrated higher accuracy (99.6% versus 94.7%), sensitivity (99.1% versus 93.4%) and specificity (99.9% versus 94.4%) than conventional CT. In predicting intestinal severity, spectral CT also had higher accuracy (96.5% versus 91.9%), sensitivity (96.5% versus 92.1%) and specificity (95.8% versus 89.8%) than conventional CT. Besides, both NIC and λHU correlated significantly with Simple Endoscopic Score for CD ( r = 0.833 and r = 0.771; both p < 0.001), but their correlations with C-reactive protein ( r = 0.578 and r = 0.513; both p < 0.01) and Harvey–Bradshaw Index ( r = 0.545 and r = 0.522; both p < 0.01) were moderate. Conclusions: Compared with conventional CT, spectral CT had higher accuracy in detecting intestinal activity and severity of CD, which could be an alternative choice in evaluation of CD.