bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Age-related deficit accumulation and the risk of late-life dementia
Authors: Song Xiaowei , Mitnitski Arnold , Rockwood Kenneth 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Introduction
Many age-related health problems have been associated with dementia, leading to the hypothesis that late-life dementia may be determined less by specific risk factors, and more by the operation of multiple health deficits in the aggregate. Our study addressed (a) how the predictive value of dementia risk varies by the number of deficits considered and (b) how traditional (for example. vascular risks) and nontraditional risk factors (for example, foot problems, nasal congestion) compare in their predictive effects.

Methods
Older adults in the Canadian Study of Health and Aging who were cognitively healthy at baseline were analyzed (men, 2,902; women, 4,337). Over a 10-year period, 44.8% of men and 33.4% of women died; 7.4% of men and 9.1% of women without baseline cognitive impairment developed dementia. Self-rated health problems, including, but not restricted to, dementia risk factors, were coded as deficit present/absent. Different numbers of randomly selected variables were used to calculate various iterations of the index (that is, the proportion of deficits present in an individual. Risks for 10-year mortality and dementia outcomes were evaluated separately for men and women by using logistic regression, adjusted for age. The prediction accuracy was evaluated by using C-statistics.

Results
Age-adjusted odds ratios per additional deficit were 1.22 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.18 to 1.26) in men and 1.14 (1.11 to 1.16) in women in relation to death, and 1.18 (1.12 to 1.25) in men and 1.08 (1.04 to 1.11) in women in relation to dementia. The predictive value increased with the number (n) of deficits considered, regardless of whether they were known dementia risks, and stabilized at n > 25. The all-factor index best predicted dementia (C-statistics, 0.67 ± 0.03).

Conclusions
The variety of items associated with dementias suggests that some part of the risk might relate more to aberrant repair processes, than to specifically toxic results. The epidemiology of late-life illness might best consider overall health status.
Association between cell-bound blood amyloid-β(1 - 40) levels and hippocampus volume
Authors: Sotolongo-Grau Oscar , Pesini Pedro , Valero Sergi , Lafuente Asunción , Buendía Mar , Pérez-Grijalba Virginia , Josè Itziar San , Ibarria Marta , Tejero Miguel A , Giménez Joan , Hernández Isabel , Tárraga Lluís , Ruiz Agustín , Boada Mercè , Sarasa Manuel 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Introduction
The identification of early, preferably presymptomatic, biomarkers and true etiologic factors for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the first step toward establishing effective primary and secondary prevention programs. Consequently, the search for a relatively inexpensive and harmless biomarker for AD continues. Despite intensive research worldwide, to date there is no definitive plasma or blood biomarker indicating high or low risk of conversion to AD.

Methods
Magnetic resonance imaging and β -amyloid (Aβ) levels in three blood compartments (diluted in plasma, undiluted in plasma and cell-bound) were measured in 96 subjects (33 with mild cognitive impairment, 14 with AD and 49 healthy controls). Pearson correlations were completed between 113 regions of interest (ROIs) (45 subcortical and 68 cortical) and Aβ levels. Pearson correlation analyses adjusted for the covariates age, sex, apolipoprotein E (ApoE), education and creatinine levels showed neuroimaging ROIs were associated with Aβ levels. Two statistical methods were applied to study the major relationships identified: (1) Pearson correlation with phenotype added as a covariate and (2) a meta-analysis stratified by phenotype. Neuroimaging data and plasma Aβ measurements were taken from 630 Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) subjects to be compared with our results.

Results
The left hippocampus was the brain region most correlated with Aβ(1 - 40) bound to blood cell pellets (partial correlation (pcor) = − 0.37, P = 0.0007) after adjustment for the covariates age, gender and education, ApoE and creatinine levels. The correlation remained almost the same (pcor = − 0.35, P = 0.002) if phenotype is also added as a covariate. The association between both measurements was independent of cognitive status. The left hemisphere entorhinal cortex also correlated with Aβ(1 - 40) cell-bound fraction. AB128 and ADNI plasma Aβ measurements were not related to any brain morphometric measurement.

Conclusions
Association of cell-bound A β(1 - 40) in blood with left hippocampal volume was much stronger than previously observed in A β plasma fractions. If confirmed, this observation will require careful interpretation and must be taken into account for blood amyloid-based biomarker development.
The hippo signaling pathway: implications for heart regeneration and disease
Authors: Del Re Dominic P 
Published: September 2014

AbstractControl of cell number and organ size is critical for appropriate development and tissue homeostasis. Studies in both Drosophila and mammals have established the Hippo signaling pathway as an important modulator of organ size and tumorigenesis. Upon activation, this kinase cascade modulates gene expression through the phosphorylation and inhibition of transcription co‐activators that are involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, growth and apoptosis. Hippo signaling serves to limit organ size and suppress malignancies, and has been implicated in tissue regeneration following injury. These outcomes highlight the important role that Hippo signaling plays in regulating both physiologic and pathologic processes. In this review, an overview of the signaling pathway will be discussed as well as recent work that has investigated its role in cardiac development, regeneration and disease.
Workflow for integrating mesoscale heterogeneities in materials structure with process simulation of titanium alloys
Authors: Salem Ayman A , Shaffer Joshua B , Satko Daniel P , Semiatin S Lee , Kalidindi Surya R 
Published: September 2014

AbstractIn this paper, a generalized workflow is outlined for the necessary integration of multimodal measurements and multiphysics models at multiple hierarchical length scales demanded by an Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) approach to accelerated materials development. Recognizing that multiple choices or techniques are typically available in each of the main steps, several exemplary analyses are detailed utilizing mainly the alpha/beta titanium alloys as an illustrative case. It is anticipated that the use and further refinement of these workflows will promote transparency and engender intimate collaborations between materials experts and manufacturing/design specialists by providing an understanding of the various mesoscale heterogeneities that develop naturally in the workpiece as a direct consequence of the inherent heterogeneity imposed by the manufacturing history (i.e., different thermomechanical histories at different locations in the sample). More specifically, this article focuses on three main areas: (i) data science protocols for efficient analysis of large microstructure datasets (e.g., cluster analysis), (ii) protocols for extracting reduced descriptions of salient microstructure features for insertion into simulations (e.g., regions of homogeneity), and (iii) protocols for direct and efficient linking of materials models/databases into process/performance simulation codes (e.g., crystal plasticity finite element method).
Enhanced performance of non-thermal plasma coupled with TiO2/GAC for decomposition of chlorinated organic compounds: influence of a hydrogen-rich substance
Authors: Abedi Kamaleddin , Ghorbani-Shahna Farshid , Jaleh Babak , Bahrami Abdolrahman , Yarahmadi Rasoul 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundNo study was found in the literature on the combination of TiO2/GAC catalyst and non-thermal plasma for chlorinated volatile organic compounds abatement in air. This paper presents this hybrid process for the decomposition of chloroform (as a target compound) using a multi-pin to plate discharge reactor. The experiments were performed using a high frequency pulsed transformer as the power supply system to examine the effect of SIE, frequency, as well as initial concentration on the chloroform removal efficiency (RE). Toluene was added as a hydrogen-rich source to shift the reactions into the formation of environmentally desirable products.ResultsRE of around 60% was observed with the NTP-alone process at the highest possible SIE (3000 J L-1), while it rocketed up to 100% (total oxidation) in the presence of TiO2/GAC at SIE of 1000 J L-1. About 100% O3destruction over TiO2/GAC and both adsorption and catalytic activities of GAC may be considered as the reasons for better performance of the hybrid process. Toluene feeding diminished the chlorinated by-products such as Cl2and TCE significantly. The selectivity towards CO2was noticed to enhance noticeably, when both catalyst and toluene were introduced, regardless of the input concentration.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that the hybrid of NTP with TiO2/GAC will highly be effective in the abatement of chloroform, and the addition of toluene will successfully decline harmful chlorinated by-products.
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgeon unemployment in Canada: A cross-sectional survey of graduating Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery residents
Authors: Brandt Michael G , Scott Grace M , Doyle Philip C , Ballagh Robert H 
Published: September 2014

Objective Recently graduated Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgeons (OTO-HNS) are facing an employment crisis. To date, there has been no systematic evaluation of the factors contributing to this situation, graduating OTO-HNS trainee employment rates, nor the employment concerns of these graduating residents. This investigation sought to empirically evaluate prospective OTO-HNS graduate employment, identify factors contributing to this situation, and provide suggestions going forward. Methods A cross-sectional survey of the 2014 graduating cohort of OTO-HNS residents was conducted 6-months prior to graduation, and immediately following residency graduation. Surveyed items focused on the demographics of the graduating cohort, their future training and employment plans, and their concerns relative to the OTO-HNS employment situation. Results All twenty-nine Canadian medical school graduated OTO-HNS residents completed the initial survey, with 93% responding at the completion of residency. Only 6 (22%) indicated confirmed employment following residency training. 78% indicated that they were pursuing fellowship training. 90% identified the pursuit of fellowship training as a moderately influenced by limited job opportunities. The ability to find and secure full-time employment, losing technical skills if underemployed/unemployed, and being required to consider working in a less-desired city/province were most concerning. 34% of the residents felt that they were appropriately counseled during their residency training about employment. 90% felt that greater efforts should be made to proactively match residency-training positions to forecasted job opportunities. Conclusions Canadian OTO-HN Surgeons lack confirmed employment, are choosing to pursue fellowship training to defer employment, and are facing startling levels of under- and unemployment. A multitude of factors have contributed to this situation and immediate action is required to rectify this slowly evolving catastrophe.
The Relationships Between Serum Sclerostin, Bone Mineral Density, and Vascular Calcification in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Paccou J. , Mentaverri R. , Renard C. , Liabeuf S. , Fardellone P. , Massy Z. A. , Brazier M. , Kamel S. 
Published: September 2014

Context:
Recent data indicate that the secreted glycoprotein sclerostin may be involved in vascular calcification (VC).

Objective:
The objective of the study was to establish whether serum sclerostin levels are associated with VC in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Design:
This was a cross-sectional study.

Setting:
The study was conducted with ambulatory care.

Patients:
We compared 75 RA patients with 75 age- and gender-matched control participants.

Intervention:
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) and abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) scores were evaluated by computed tomography.

Main Outcome Measure:
Serum sclerostin levels (determined with an ELISA) were assessed. A statistical analysis was performed to identify the determinants of serum sclerostin and VC.

Results:
AAC and CAC were more prevalent and more severe in patients with RA than in controls. Higher levels of AAC (P = .02) and a higher lumbar bone mineral density (BMD; P = .03) were identified as independent determinants of higher serum sclerostin levels in RA patients, whereas male gender (P = .03), higher lumbar BMD (P &lt; .0001), and low estimated glomerular rate (P &lt; .001) were identified as determinants in controls. In RA patients, a multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that older age [P &lt; .01, with an odds ratio (OR) per year 1.10] and male gender (P = .02, OR 6.79) were independent determinants of CAC and that older age (P &lt; .001, OR 1.16) were independent determinants of AAC. In controls, the independent determinants were older age (P &lt; .01, OR 1.19), hypertension (P &lt; .01, OR 7.31), and lumbar BMD (P = .03, OR per 30 mg/cm2 increment of 1.14) for CAC and older age (P = .01, OR 1.11) for AAC.

Conclusions:
Serum sclerostin levels were significantly and independently associated with AAC in RA patients.
Application of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy to Determine the Juvenile–Mature Wood Transition in Black Spruce
Authors: Giroud Guillaume , Defo Maurice , Bégin Jean , Ung Chhun-Huor 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
The potential of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to determine the transition from juvenile to mature wood in black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.) was assessed. In total, 127 wood samples were harvested from 50 sites located across the black spruce–moss domain in the province of Québec, Canada. Mechanical wood properties were determined by SilviScan. NIR spectra were collected on the transverse face of the samples. Good to excellent calibration statistics (R2, ratio of performance to deviation) were obtained for basic density (0.85, 1.8), microfibril angle (0.79, 2.2), and modulus of elasticity (0.88, 2.9). Two-segment linear regressions were applied to microfibril angle profiles to determine the transition age and then calculate the juvenile and mature wood properties. The values obtained using SilviScan data were compared with those obtained using NIRS predicted data. Using SilviScan data, the average transition age was 23 years, with a standard deviation of 7 years. The correlation was moderate for the transition age (r = 0.592, P < 0.0001), which was slightly underestimated by NIRS with a mean prediction error (and 95% limits of agreement) of −2.2 ± 6.3 years (−14.6/10.1). These results suggest that the transition age from juvenile to mature wood could be predicted by NIRS. This article makes some recommendations to improve method accuracy for operational use.
Strafzwecke und Strafrecht
Authors: Calliess Rolf-Peter 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
The development of criminal law in the ))Society of risks« proves a transition from liberal and constitutional to social and authoritarian criminallaw as criminal matters are integrated into positive law and gain priority over it. The constitution-oriented model of criminallaw as a complex interrelationship between citizens (protection laws for citizens) and the state (defensive law, power monopoly) is re-interpreted to a one-dimensionallegal relationship characterized by punishment being carried out by the state.
On the other hand it must be stressed that in the scientific and technological society democracy can no Ionger retain its validity as a form of rule, only as a way of life. Given this precondition criminallaw is aiming at protecting the rights to communication and participation in the society which is based on a basic law.
Das Risiko der Verantwortung in der Gentechnologie bei Pflanzen und Tieren
Authors: Koch Traugott 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Because genetic engineering greatly accelerates the cultivation of new breeds of plants and animals and because in nature all life is part of an integrated whole, great responsibility rests upon those pursuing genetic research. No one can know with certainty what might develop as the result of genetic manipulation. One therefore cannot merely assume that only negative or catastrophic developments are to be expected. Rather, uncertainty remains, and it is necessary to learn to work with this uncertainty, that is, to work carefully, one step at a time, open to correction and trusting that God is able to bring about good even from efforts that have gone away. Then nature remains a living whole and retains its own dynamic despite human intervention.
Haben Senioren politischen Einfluß?
Authors: Schneider Hans-Dieter 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
In the present society those groups have the highest probability to realize their goals which execise the greatest influence. The older politicians have a bad image. The presence of elderly persons in influential positions is beneficial to the development of their intelligence. According to the model of >>actional space« satisfaction and motivation are linked with an adequate position on the dimensions of activities, · decisions, interactions, and esteem. Political influence has favorable effects on all four dimensions. Some examples of political influence of the elderly are discussed: representation in parliaments, political parties of the elderly, consulting committees of political organizations, voting, economy, organizations for older persons' self-help, and consulting groups in homes for the elderly. An enlargement of the elderlies' political influence is supported especially for those in the lower social classes.
Der abhängige alte Mensch: Eine Belastung für unsere Gesellschaft?
Authors: Zimmermann Robert 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
We are witnessing a dramatic increase of the percentage of old people in our population- this is what we call the aging of society. The basic question involved in this matter concerns the relationship of the different age groups to each other. What kind of solidarity is demanded from the younger generation and to what extent are they willing to provide it? Many old people, especially the very old ones, have to rely upon help from others for Ionger periods of time. To give them support may be a tough job with only little reward. The people involved are often unable to cope with the situation and it is not uncommon that mutual violence occurs. A prerequisite for real help and support is human attention and a conscious affirmation of life even if it is a dependent one in its last phase. In Switzerland -like in other countries- we only have homes and therapeutical institutions for long-term patients, but not enough people who are really willing to provide true care and counsel. It is necessary to accept that others are individuals and to be aware of alle the facets of life.
Notwendige Sicherung menschlicher Würde im Alter- Sozialethische Überlegungen zur Rentenreform
Authors: Keil Siegtried 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
In view of the failures made in the past, the necessity of a reform of the old-age pension scheme is pointed out and biblically proved. The new positions of women and men demand ·the organization of an independent social protection of the housewife and mother, the decrease in births the further development of the two-generations-contract to a three-generations-contract. The commonly agreed old-age pension ·reform of 1992 is measured against these elaborated exigencies and criticized in crucial points at issue.
Ethik und Risiko
Authors: Ruh Hans 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Calling the risks of advanced technologies into question will inevitably result in an evaluation of the inherent hazardous potential. The consideration of maintaining the bases of living for human and non-human beeings as a commonly accepted pritnary ethic value leads to the conclusion that only the criterion of forecast maximum damages can be utilized for said evaluation but not the criterion of probality. Furthermore such an evaluation will have to take into account the hazardous potential affecting mainly those who do not posess any right of decision in these matters but will have to bear severe pain in case control of the hazardous potential gets lost.
Die Zweite Soziale Dimension- Chancen und Verpflichtungen der Diakonie im europäischen Einigungsprozeß
Authors: Stein Jürgen 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
In spite of accelerated economical growth disadvantaged groups (p. e. handicapped or unemployed people, refugees) might be »non-winners« of a European Single Market now determinating the structures of any future »European House«. The responsibility of diaconia is to prevent a split between those citizens who are able to of T er mobility and flexibility and rely on effective multinational pressure-groups and those who do not. With help from concerned organs of the E. C. diaconia might benefit from an enhanced exchange of experiences, define the social responsibility of the churches in Europe and participate in the shaping of a common future.
»Den Wohlstand aller zu fördern ... «
Authors: Segbers Franz 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
The economic political concept of the domestic common market is orientated at neo-liberal supply-dominated principles, which expect the social organization from the forces of the market. The economic control is to take place in the market. As a consequence of this central question of social ethics is the question of the relationship between economy and politics. From a socialethic point of view the concept of market economy however is only bearable by an historical compromise or the so-called »irenische Formel« (Brakelmann) which admits the political desire for order a primary versus economy.
With regard to the concept of the common market which enables the economic interests a leading position before political concepts the historical compromise of social ethics and market economy is again put up for discussion.
»Arbeit, Leben und Gesundheit«
Authors: Strohm Theodor 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
The debate about the so-called humanization of the matters of labour is presently concentrated on the safety of health during the working process, upon the preventive industrial safety. The social department (Sozialkammer) of the Protestant Church in Germany (EKD) has published a memorandum about this, in which the situation of industrial safety is analyzed against the background of the European development; this memorandum also contains ethical principles for an all-embracing understanding and method, concrete suggestions for a further organization are given. Challenges for example result from the effect of uncountable chemical substances, in the application of new and complex technical methods, in bio-technologics an genetic analysis. The church tries to overcome the predokeinant mono-causal method of analysis and it considers carefully the dimensions of a far-reaching responsibility for health.
Der Pfarrer- elementarer Repräsentant von Subjektivität?
Authors: Lämmermann Godwin 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
At the same rate the importance of the church has been decreasing among the majority of the German population, the profession of the pastor has subsequently gained acceptance: the previous expectations towards the institution have been relegated onto the pastor, whose profession is now socially defined. He is expected to keep the central contents of christianity alive within the society. Among these contents there is the exemplary realization of succsesful subjectivity - in spite of the decreasing possibilities for the fulfillment of individual freedom.