bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Comment on Background Independence in Quantum Theory
Authors: Brändas Erkki J. 
Published: July 2015

AbstractIn this communication we take up the significance and purpose of selecting the proper coordinate system from the flat space‐time of non‐relativistic theories to the quantum theoretic formulation of general relativity. The universal background problem is straight forwardly framed as a momentum‐energy portrait in nexus with its space‐time conjugates. The description is based on operator matrix algebra, where the related analogue of the secular equation yields a Klein‐Gordon type equation and the associated Minkowski eigentime element. The energy‐momentum and their conjugate partners are represented by spaces that have (+,−) signatures. The general theory implicates both non‐zero‐ and zero rest‐mass entities, and it is proved that the conjugate relationship between energy and time provide a simple derivation of the Schwarzschild line element for the case of a gravitational field outside a spherical non‐rotational uncharged mass. This result, indicating the appearance of a black hole as a true singularity in the energy‐time formulation, and obtained as a direct consequence of their conjugate relationship, manifests background independence in concert with Einstein’s equivalence principle. Inducing a reformulation of the Lorentz Transformation respecting the indefinite Minkowski metric, displays an interesting relation between complex dilations and indefinite metric spaces, validating the complex symmetric ansatz.
Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurement in ovarian tumor: Effect of region‐of‐interest methods on ADC values and diagnostic ability
Authors: Mukuda Naoko , Fujii Shinya , Inoue Chie , Fukunaga Takeru , Tanabe Yoshio , Itamochi Hiroaki , Ogawa Toshihide 
Published: July 2015

PurposeTo investigate the difference in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements of differently shaped regions of interest (ROIs) in ovarian tumors, and to investigate the diagnostic ability of differently shaped ROIs in differentiating benign from malignant ovarian tumors.Materials and MethodsFifty‐four patients with ovarian tumors with a solid component were evaluated. The patients underwent magnetic resonance (MR) examinations including diffusion‐weighted imaging using a 3.0T MR system. Two readers measured ADCs using four ROI methods: freehand, square, round, and five small round ROIs. The interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and repeated‐measures analysis of variance were used to assess their measurement reliability and to compare ADCs for each ROI method. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and unpaired t‐test on each ROI were used to differentiate benign and malignant ovarian tumors and assess the diagnostic ability.ResultsAll ROI methods except the square ROI (0.56) showed good or excellent correlations (0.70–0.91). Minimum and mean ADC values differed significantly between the ROIs (P < 0.05). When using the freehand ROI, the minimum and mean ADC values were the lowest and highest, respectively. The optimal cutoff minimum and mean ADC values of each ROI for differentiating benign and malignant tumors were 0.81–1.06 × 10‐3 mm2/s and 1.15–1.52 × 10‐3 mm2/s, respectively. The areas under the curve showed no significant differences among the ADCs in the different ROI methods (P > 0.05). Minimum and mean ADCs from all ROIs showed significant differences between benign and malignant tumors (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe ROI shape influences ADC values and the optimal cutoff ADC values for differentiating benign from malignant ovarian tumors. J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2016;43:720–725.
Findings in pancreatic MRI associated with pancreatic fibrosis and HbA1c values
Authors: Noda Yoshifumi , Goshima Satoshi , Tanaka Kaori , Osada Shinji , Tomita Hiroyuki , Hara Akira , Horikawa Yukio , Takeda Jun , Kajita Kimihiro , Watanabe Haruo , Kawada Hiroshi , Kawai Nobuyuki , Kanematsu Masayuki , Bae Kyongtae T. 
Published: July 2015

PurposeTo evaluate the diagnostic performance of noncontrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to grade pancreatic fibrosis and to assess hemoglobin (Hb) A1c values.Materials and MethodsTwenty‐nine consecutive patients with pancreatic or biliary malignancy who underwent pancreatectomy were evaluated. Patients were classified into three groups: HbA1c < 5.7 (group 1), 5.7 ≤ HbA1c < 6.5 (group 2), and HbA1c ≥ 6.5 (group 3). MRI of the pancreas was performed using a 1.5T MR system. The pancreas‐to‐muscle signal intensity ratio (SIR) on in‐ and opposed‐phase T1‐, T2‐, and diffusion‐weighted images, as well as the apparent diffusion coefficient were calculated. MRI measurements, degrees of pancreatic fibrosis, and HbA1c values were compared using multiple regression analysis and Kruskal–Wallis test.ResultsThe pancreatic fibrosis grade was negatively correlated with the SIR on in‐phase T1‐weighted images (r = –0.67, P = 0.0002). The pancreatic fibrosis grade and HbA1c value were negatively correlated with the SIR on opposed‐phase T1‐weighted images (r = –0.47, P = 0.019 and r = –0.51, P = 0.0089, respectively). SIRs on in‐ and opposed‐phase T1‐weighted images were significantly lower in group 3 than in groups 1 and 2 (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe pancreas‐to‐muscle SIRs on in‐ and opposed‐phase T1‐weighted images could be a potential biomarker for pancreatic fibrosis and elevated HbA1c values. J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2016;43:680–687.
Azuki bean (Vigna angularis) extract stimulates the phosphorylation of AMP‐activated protein kinase in HepG2 cells and diabetic rat liver
Authors: Sato Shin , Mukai Yuuka , Kataoka Saori , Kurasaki Masaaki 
Published: July 2015

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) has a beneficial effect on hyperglycaemia. The aim of this study was to examine whether an azuki bean (Vigna angularis) extract (ABE) stimulates the AMPK or insulin signalling pathways in a liver cell line in response to hyperglycaemia, as well as in a diabetic rat liver.RESULTSHepG2 cells were incubated with 5 or 20 mmol L−1 glucose and then treated with ABE. Streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats received 0, 10, or 40 mg kg−1 ABE orally. Blood chemistry and phosphorylation of AMPK and Akt (a serine/threonine kinase) in the livers were examined. There was a significant increase in the levels of AMPK and Akt phosphorylation in ABE‐treated HepG2 cells. AMPK phosphorylation increased significantly in glucose‐stimulated HepG2 cells that were treated with ABE. In the 40 mg kg−1 ABE‐treated diabetic rats, the glucose levels were lower than in the control. Phosphorylation of AMPK in ABE‐untreated diabetic rat livers decreased significantly. Conversely, ABE treatment increased the phosphorylation of AMPK and Akt in the diabetic rat liver.CONCLUSIONABE treatment upregulated AMPK phosphorylation in HepG2 cells, and upregulated AMPK and Akt phosphorylation in the diabetic rat liver. These data suggest that ABE can potentially improve glucose intolerance. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Recent Sexual Trauma and Adverse Health and Occupational Outcomes Among U.S. Service Women
Authors: Millegan Jeffrey , Milburn Emma K. , LeardMann Cynthia A. , Street Amy E. , Williams Diane , Trone Daniel W. , Crum‐Cianflone Nancy F. 
Published: July 2015

AbstractSexual trauma is prevalent among military women, but data on potential effects are needed. The association of sexual trauma with health and occupational outcomes was investigated using longitudinal data from the Millennium Cohort Study. Of 13,001 U.S. service women, 1,364 (10.5%) reported recent sexual harassment and 374 (2.9%) recent sexual assault. Women reporting recent sexual harassment or assault were more likely to report poorer mental health: OR = 1.96, 95% CI [1.71, 2.25], and OR = 3.45, 95% CI [2.67, 4.44], respectively. They reported poorer physical health: OR = 1.39, 95% CI [1.20, 1.62], and OR = 1.39, 95% CI [1.04, 1.85], respectively. They reported difficulties in work/activities due to emotional health: OR = 1.80, 95% CI [1.59, 2.04], and OR = 2.70, 95% CI [2.12, 3.44], respectively. They also reported difficulties with physical health: OR = 1.55, 95% CI [1.37, 1.75], and OR = 1.52 95% CI [1.20, 1.91], respectively, after adjustment for demographic, military, health, and prior sexual trauma characteristics. Recent sexual harassment was associated with demotion, OR = 1.47, 95% CI [1.12, 1.93]. Findings demonstrated that sexual trauma represents a potential threat to military operational readiness and draws attention to the importance of prevention strategies and services to reduce the burden of sexual trauma on military victims.
Pectin supplementation in rats mitigates age‐related impairment in insulin and leptin sensitivity independently of reducing food intake
Authors: Palou Mariona , Sánchez Juana , García‐Carrizo Francisco , Palou Andreu , Picó Catalina 
Published: July 2015

ScopeThis study investigates whether pectin supplementation in adult rats can ameliorate age‐associated disturbances in peripheral insulin and leptin actions.Methods and resultsSeven‐month‐old male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (rats fed ad libitum a standard‐diet), pectin (rats fed ad libitum a standard‐diet supplemented with 10% pectin), and pair‐fed (rats pair‐fed to the pectin group). They were sacrificed after 1 month. Pectin and pair‐fed rats showed lower body weight gain and food intake than controls and underwent a decrease in leptin levels and an increase in adiponectin levels. Pectin‐treated animals, but not pair‐fed ones, showed lower body‐fat content and HOMA‐IR index after dietary intervention. Compared to controls, pectin‐treated rats showed a decline in the expression of genes related to energy uptake (WAT) and lipogenesis (WAT and liver), and increased expression levels of lipolysis‐ and fatty‐acid oxidation‐related genes (liver). Some of the changes were not evidenced in the pair‐fed group. These effects appear to be associated with improved leptin signaling.ConclusionTen percent pectin supplementation for 1 month in adult rats decreases body‐fat content and ameliorates age‐related insulin and leptin resistance more intensely than what could be attributed to the decrease in energy intake, overall contributing to better metabolic health.
Differential proteomics of monosodium urate crystals‐induced inflammatory response in dissected murine air pouch membranes by iTRAQ technology
Authors: Chiu Chih‐Wei , Chen Han‐Min , Wu Tzong‐Ta , Shih Ying‐Chu , Huang Kuo‐Kuei , Tsai Ying‐Fei , Hsu Yi‐Ling , Chen Sung‐Fang 
Published: July 2015

The precipitation of monosodium urate crystals within joints triggers an acute inflammatory reaction that is the root cause of gout. The inflammation induced by the injection of MSU crystals into the murine air pouch for 1, 3, and 5 h was examined by iTRAQ‐based proteomic profiling. The iTRAQ‐labeled peptides were fractionated by SCX, basic‐RP or solution‐IEF, followed by LC‐MS/MS analysis. A total of 951 proteins were quantified from the total combined fractions. Among them, 317 proteins exhibited a differential expression, compared to that of the controls at one time point or more. The majority of the differentially expressed proteins were found in the sample after a 5‐h MSU treatment. Western blot revealed that the expression levels of cathelin‐related antimicrobial peptide and S100A9 were positively correlated with the time‐course treated with MSU. Further analysis of GeneGO pathway demonstrated that these differentially expressed proteins are primarily related to the immune‐related complement system and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Moreover, seven genes from the TCA cycle were found to be significantly downregulated at the transcriptional level and its correlation with gout and possible therapeutic applications are worth further investigation. Last, we found that pyruvate carboxylation could be potential targets for antigout treatment.
DVB‐S2X physical layer performance results over realistic channel models
Authors: Cioni Stefano , Ginesi Alberto 
Published: July 2015

SummaryThe second‐generation satellite digital video broadcasting (DVB‐S2) standard has been recently reviewed with the aim of improving its spectral efficiency over a wide range of signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs). In this paper, three typical satellite channel configurations have been presented, which are associated with the three main DVB‐S2 core markets: direct‐to‐home (DTH) broadcasting, broadband services, and distribution/contribution/high‐speed IP links. This work is focused on the physical layer performance analysis of the new DVB‐S2 extensions (DVB‐S2X) waveform under realistic satellite channel models. Particular emphasis has been devoted to the maximization of the spectral efficiency as a function of the transmission symbol rate and in combination with the roll‐off factor of the pulse‐shaping filter, in the presence of state‐of‐the‐art modulation and demodulation techniques. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An optimization‐based tool to support the cost‐effective production of software architecture documentation
Authors: Nicoletti Matias , Schiaffino Silvia , Diaz‐Pace J. Andres 
Published: July 2015

AbstractSome of the challenges faced by most software projects are tight budget constraints and schedules, which often make managers and developers prioritize the delivery of a functional product over other engineering activities, such as software documentation. In particular, having little or low‐quality documentation of the software architecture of a system can have negative consequences for the project, as the architecture is the main container of the key design decisions to fulfill the stakeholders' goals. To further complicate this situation, generating and maintaining architectural documentation is a non‐trivial and time‐consuming activity. In this context, we present a tool approach that aims at (i) assisting the documentation writer in their tasks and (ii) ensuring a cost‐effective documentation process by means of optimization techniques. Our tool, called SADHelper, follows the principle of producing reader‐oriented documentation, in order to focus the available, and often limited, resources on generating just enough documentation that satisfies the stakeholders' concerns. The approach was evaluated in two experiments with users of software architecture documents, with encouraging results. These results show evidence that our tool can be useful to reduce the documentation costs and even improve the documentation quality, as perceived by their stakeholders. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modulate Experimental Autoimmune Arthritis by Modifying Early Adaptive T Cell Responses
Authors: Lopez-Santalla Mercedes , Mancheño-Corvo Pablo , Menta Ramon , Lopez-Belmonte Juan , DelaRosa Olga , Bueren Juan A. , Dalemans Wilfried , Lombardo Eleuterio , Garin Marina I. 
Published: July 2015

AbstractMesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stromal cells with immunosuppressive properties. They have emerged as a very promising treatment for autoimmunity and inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Recent data have identified that GM-CSF-expressing CD4 T cells and Th17 cells have critical roles in the pathogenesis of arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. Although many studies have demonstrated that MSCs can either prevent or suppress inflammation, no studies have addressed their modulation on GM-CSF-expressing CD4 T cells and on the plasticity of Th17 cells. To address this, a single dose of human expanded adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (eASCs) was administered to mice with established collagen-induced arthritis. A beneficial effect was observed soon after the infusion of the eASCs as shown by a significant decrease in the severity of arthritis. This was accompanied by reduced number of pathogenic GM-CSF+CD4+ T cells in the spleen and peripheral blood and by an increase in the number of different subsets of regulatory T cells like FOXP3+CD4+ T cells and IL10+IL17−CD4+ T cells in the draining lymph nodes (LNs). Interestingly, increased numbers of Th17 cells coexpressing IL10 were also found in draining LNs. These results demonstrate that eASCs ameliorated arthritis after the onset of the disease by reducing the total number of pathogenic GM-CSF+CD4+ T and by increasing the number of different subsets of regulatory T cells in draining LNs, including Th17 cells expressing IL10. All these cellular responses, ultimately, lead to the reestablishment of the regulatory/inflammatory balance in the draining LNs. Stem Cells 2015;33:3493–3503
Growth hormone replacement therapy regulates microRNA-29a and targets involved in insulin resistance
Authors: Galimov Artur , Hartung Angelika , Trepp Roman , Mader Alexander , Flück Martin , Linke Axel , Blüher Matthias , Christ Emanuel , Krützfeldt Jan 
Published: July 2015

Abstract
Replacement of growth hormone (GH) in patients suffering from GH deficiency (GHD) offers clinical benefits on body composition, exercise capacity, and skeletal integrity. However, GH replacement therapy (GHRT) is also associated with insulin resistance, but the mechanisms are incompletely understood. We demonstrate that in GH-deficient mice (growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (Ghrhr)lit/lit), insulin resistance after GHRT involves the upregulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the downregulation of microRNA miR-29a in skeletal muscle. Based on RNA deep sequencing of skeletal muscle from GH-treated Ghrhrlit/lit mice, we identified several upregulated genes as predicted miR-29a targets that are negative regulators of insulin signaling or profibrotic/proinflammatory components of the ECM. Using gain- and loss-of-function studies, five of these genes were confirmed as endogenous targets of miR-29a in human myotubes (PTEN, COL3A1, FSTL1, SERPINH1, SPARC). In addition, in human myotubes, IGF1, but not GH, downregulated miR-29a expression and upregulated COL3A1. These results were confirmed in a group of GH-deficient patients after 4 months of GHRT. Serum IGF1 increased, skeletal muscle miR-29a decreased, and miR-29a targets were upregulated in patients with a reduced insulin response (homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)) after GHRT. We conclude that miR-29a could contribute to the metabolic response of muscle tissue to GHRT by regulating ECM components and PTEN. miR-29a and its targets might be valuable biomarkers for muscle metabolism following GH replacement.

Key messages

GHRT most significantly affects the ECM cluster in skeletal muscle from mice.

GHRT downregulates miR-29a and upregulates miR-29a targets in skeletal muscle from mice.

PTEN, COL3A1, FSTL1, SERPINH1, and SPARC are endogenous miR-29a targets in human myotubes.

IGF1 decreases miR-29a levels in human myotubes.

miR-29a and its targets are regulated during GHRT in skeletal muscle from humans.
Fine‐root production and litterfall: main contributions to net primary production in an old‐growth evergreen broad‐leaved forest in southwestern Japan
Authors: Van Do Tran , Sato Tamotsu , Saito Satoshi , Kozan Osamu 
Published: July 2015

AbstractNet primary production (NPP) is an important index for evaluating the patterns, processes, and dynamics of carbon cycling in forest ecosystems. In this study, we estimated the NPP in a warm‐temperate old‐growth evergreen broad‐leaved forest in southwestern Japan. The estimation was based on four compartments: aboveground stand increment (ΔM), aboveground litterfall (Lf), fine‐root production (Fr), and coarse root increment (ΔCr). The data for ΔM and ΔCr were collected from a permanent 200 × 200 m2 plot over a 4‐year interval, while Lf and Fr were collected over a 1‐year interval. The NPP was 4.65 g m−2 day−1, of which ΔM accounted for 25.2 %, Lf accounted for 38.7 %, Fr accounted for 33.4 %, and the remaining 2.7 % was attributed to ΔCr. There was a significant regression between aboveground litterfall and fine‐root production (R2 = 0.65, P < 0.05). Fine‐root decomposition (0.66 g m−2 day−1) accounted for 14.2 % of the NPP, leading to a higher belowground NPP in the present study compared with that in other forests. We conclude that an estimation of the decomposition of dead fine‐roots by the continuous inflow method must be included to improve the accuracy of NPP estimations for forest ecosystems.
Environmental product declarations entering the building sector: critical reflections based on 5 to 10 years experience in different European countries
Authors: Passer Alexander , Lasvaux Sébastien , Allacker Karen , De Lathauwer Dieter , Spirinckx Carolin , Wittstock Bastian , Kellenberger Daniel , Gschösser Florian , Wall Johannes , Wallbaum Holger 
Published: July 2015

Abstract

Purpose
Growing awareness of the environmental performance of construction products and buildings brings about the need for a suitable method to assess their environmental performance. Life cycle assessment (LCA) has become a widely recognised and accepted method to assess the burdens and impacts throughout the life cycle. This LCA-based information may be in the form of environmental product declarations (EPD) or product environmental footprints (PEF), based on reliable and verifiable information. All of these use LCA to quantify and report several environmental impact categories and may also provide additional information. To better understand on the one hand existing EPD programmes (EN 15804) for each country and on the other the recent developments in terms of EU reference document (e.g. PEF), the authors decided to write this review paper based on the outcomes of the EPD workshop that was held prior to SB13 Graz conference.

Methods
This paper presents the state of the art in LCA and an overview of the EPD programmes in five European countries (Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland) based on the workshop in the first part and a comprehensive description and comparison of the PEF method and EN 15804 in the second part. In the last part, a general conclusion will wrap up the findings and results will provide a further outlook on future activities.

Results and discussion
The high number of EPD programmes underlines the fact that there is obviously a demand for assessments of the environmental performance of construction materials. In the comparison between and experiences of the different countries, it can be seen that more similarities than differences exist. A comparison between PEF and EPD shows differences, e.g. LCIA impact categories and recycling methodology.

Conclusions
Independent of raising awareness of the construction material environmental performance, the existence of so many environmental claims calls for clarification and harmonisation. Additionally, construction materials being assessed in the voluntary approaches have to follow the harmonised approach following the principles of the European Construction Products Regulation (regulated) not to foster barriers of trade. The authors therefore highly appreciate the most recent activities of the sustainability of construction works (CEN/TC 350 committee http://portailgroupe.afnor.fr/public_espacenormalisation/CENTC350/index.html) currently working on these issues at the EU level. Finally, the LCA community is further encouraged to increase the background life cycle inventory data and life cycle inventory modelling as well as the meaningfulness of certain environmental impact categories, such as toxicity, land use, biodiversity and resource usage.