bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A New Asymmetric Directional Microphone Algorithm With Automatic Mode‐Switching Ability for Binaural Hearing Support Devices
Authors: Kim Jinryoul , Nam Kyoung Won , Yook Sunhyun , Jang Dong Pyo , Kim In Young , Hong Sung Hwa 
Published: January 2015

AbstractFor hearing support devices, it is important to minimize the negative effect of ambient noises for speech recognition but also, at the same time, supply natural ambient sounds to the hearing‐impaired person. However, conventional fixed bilateral asymmetric directional microphone (DM) algorithms cannot perform in such a way when the DM‐mode device and a dominant noise (DN) source are placed on the same lateral hemisphere. In this study, a new binaural asymmetric DM algorithm that can overcome the defects of conventional algorithms is proposed. The proposed algorithm can estimate the position of a specific DN in the 90°–270° range and switch directional‐ and omnidirectional‐mode devices automatically if the DM‐mode device and the DN are placed in opposite lateral hemispheres. Computer simulation and KEMAR mannequin recording tests demonstrated that the performance of the conventional algorithm deteriorated when the DM‐mode device and the DN were placed in the opposite hemisphere; in contrast, the performance of the proposed algorithm was consistently maintained regardless of directional variations in the DN. Based on these experimental results, the proposed algorithm may be able to improve speech quality and intelligibility for hearing‐impaired persons who have similar degrees of hearing impairment in both ears.
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP‐1, MMP‐2, MMP‐3 and MMP‐9, and TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2 and TIMP‐3) and markers for vascularization in functioning and non‐functioning bleb capsules of glaucoma drainage implants
Authors: Välimäki Juha , Uusitalo Hannu 
Published: January 2015

AbstractPurposeTo investigate and compare functioning versus non‐functioning glaucoma drainage implant (GDI) capsules for selective markers of extracellular matrix degradation and vascularity.MethodsIn three samples of both functioning and non‐functioning blebs, immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of MMP‐1, MMP‐2, MMP‐3, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, TIMP‐3 and CD31. A non‐functioning bleb was defined as IOP >21 mmHg or <20% reduction in IOP from baseline with maximal tolerated medication. The samples were classified into five grades based on immunostaining: no staining, no significant staining, mild, moderate or marked staining.ResultsExpression of MMP‐1, MMP‐2 and MMP‐3 was mostly low in both functioning and non‐functioning blebs. However, immunostaining of MMP‐9 was marked in samples taken from functioning GDIs and correlated with the presence of vascular profiles in the luminal bleb. CD31 immunoreactivity was more intense in the outer layers of the bleb than in the inner layers. In non‐functioning blebs, immunoreactivity for TIMP‐3 was significant through the whole bleb wall, but only mild in the inner zone of functioning blebs. TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 were barely detectable.ConclusionStaining of TIMP‐3 was seen to be lower in the vicinity of the small blood vessels. In avascular bleb wall, increased expression of TIMP‐3 suggests its potential role in the inhibition of angiogenesis as reported previously in vivo. The abundance of MMP‐9 in bleb capsule wall of relatively old patients might lead to weakened bleb capsule wall architecture and increasing filtration of aqueous humour through the capsule, which are reflected in a lower IOP.
Implementing Kangaroo mother care in a resource‐limited setting in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Pervin Jesmin , Gustafsson Frida E , Moran Allisyn C , Roy Suchismita , Persson Lars Åke , Rahman Anisur 
Published: January 2015

AbstractAimThis study evaluated stable and unstable low birthweight infants admitted to a Kangaroo mother care (KMC) unit at a resource‐limited rural hospital in Bangladesh.MethodsThis was a descriptive consecutive patient series study of 423 low birthweight neonates <2500 g enrolled from July 2007 to December 2010. KMC was initiated as soon as possible after birth, regardless of health, and we monitored skin‐to‐skin contact, weight gain, exclusive breastfeeding, length of hospital stay and death rates.ResultsMean birthweight was 1796 g, and mean gestational age was 34.9 weeks. Mean (median, 90th percentile) time of skin‐to‐skin initiation for stable and unstable neonates was 1.1 h (0.3–2.5) and 1.7 h (0.3–3.0), respectively. Adjusted mean daily skin‐to‐skin contact duration was significantly higher for unstable infants. About 99% of neonates were exclusively breastfed. The death rate was 8.3% (stable 1.9%, unstable 19%) at discharge. Neonatal mortality rate was 90 per 1000 live births (stable: 23 per 1000; unstable: 203 per 1000).ConclusionSkin‐to‐skin duration was higher for unstable than stable low birthweight infants, and exclusive breastfeeding was almost universal at discharge. KMC was suitable for unstable infants and may be successfully implemented in resource‐limited hospitals.
Noradrenaline enhances angiotensin II responses via p38 MAPK activation after hypoxia/re‐oxygenation in renal interlobar arteries
Authors: Kaufmann J. , Martinka P. , Moede O. , Sendeski M. , Steege A. , Fähling M. , Hultström M. , Gaestel M. , Moraes‐Silva I. C. , Nikitina T. , Liu Z. Z. , Zavaritskaya O. , Patzak A. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractAimHypoxia and sympathetic activation are main factors in the pathogenesis of acute kidney injury (AKI). We tested the hypothesis that noradrenaline (NE) in combination with hypoxia aggravates the vasoreactivity of renal arteries after hypoxia/re‐oxygenation (H/R). We tested the role of adrenergic receptors and p38 MAPK using an in vitro H/R protocol.MethodsMouse interlobar arteries (ILA) and afferent arterioles (AA) were investigated under isometric and isotonic conditions respectively. The in vitro protocol consisted of 60‐min hypoxia and control condition, respectively, 10‐min re‐oxygenation followed by concentration–response curves for Ang II or endothelin.ResultsHypoxia reduced the response to Ang II. Hypoxia and NE (10−9 mol L‐1) together increased it in ILA and AA. In ILA, NE alone influenced neither Ang II responses under control conditions nor endothelin responses after hypoxia. Prazosin or yohimbine treatment did not significantly influence the NE+hypoxia effect. The combination of prazosin and yohimbine or propranolol alone inhibited the effect of NE+hypoxia. BRL37344 (β3 receptor agonist) mimicked the NE effect. In contrast, the incubation with β3 receptor blocker did not influence the mentioned effect. Phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and MLC(20) was increased after H/R with NE and Ang II treatment. The selective p38 MAPK inhibitor SB202190 blocked the NE+hypoxia effect on the Ang II response.ConclusionThe results suggest an interaction of NE and hypoxia in enhancing vasoreactivity, which may be important for the pathogenesis of AKI. The effect of NE+hypoxia in ILA is mediated by several adrenergic receptors and requires the p38 MAPK activation.
Psychoeducation for relapse prevention in bipolar disorder: a systematic review of efficacy in randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bond Kirsten , Anderson Ian M 
Published: January 2015

ObjectivesPrevious reviews have concluded that interventions including psychoeducation are effective in preventing relapse in bipolar disorder, but the efficacy of psychoeducation itself has not been systematically reviewed. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of psychoeducation for bipolar disorder in preventing relapse and other outcomes, and to identify factors that relate to clinical outcomes.MethodsWe employed the systematic review of randomized controlled trials of psychoeducation in participants with bipolar disorder not in an acute illness episode, compared with treatment‐as‐usual, and placebo or active interventions. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) for non‐relapse into any episode, mania/hypomania, and depression were calculated using an intent‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis, assigning dropouts to relapse, with a sensitivity analysis in which dropouts were assigned to non‐relapse (optimistic ITT).ResultsSixteen studies were included, eight of which provided data on relapse. Although heterogeneity in the data warrants caution, psychoeducation appeared to be effective in preventing any relapse [n = 7; OR: 1.98–2.75; number needed to treat (NNT): 5–7, depending on the method of analysis] and manic/hypomanic relapse (n = 8; OR: 1.68–2.52; NNT: 6–8), but not depressive relapse. Group, but not individually, delivered interventions were effective against both poles of relapse; the duration of follow‐up and hours of therapy explained some of the heterogeneity. Psychoeducation improved medication adherence and short‐term knowledge about medication. No consistent effects on mood symptoms, quality of life, or functioning were found.ConclusionsGroup psychoeducation appears to be effective in preventing relapse in bipolar disorder, with less evidence for individually delivered interventions. Better understanding of mediating mechanisms is needed to optimize efficacy and personalize treatment.
Treatment of myasthenia gravis patients with calcineurin inhibitors in Japan: A retrospective analysis of outcomes
Authors: Utsugisawa Kimiaki , Nagane Yuriko , Imai Tomihiro , Motomura Masakatsu , Masuda Masayuki , Konno Shingo , Suzuki Shigeaki 
Published: January 2015

AbstractObjectivesCalcineurin inhibitors (CNI) are approved for the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) in Japan. However, the extent to which CNI have been effective remains unclear. Here we report data regarding CNI use and outcomes of MG.MethodsWe evaluated 640 consecutive MG patients by a multicenter survey. Patients not receiving any immune treatment were excluded, and cross‐sectional and retrospective data of 515 patients receiving immune treatment with (n = 312) or without (n = 203) CNI were analyzed.ResultsCompared with patients treated without CNI, those treated with CNI had a higher frequency of MG Foundation of America Class III–V and higher severity disease at the worst clinical condition, and also had current higher severity, worse quality of life and higher daily doses of prednisolone, despite taking equivalent prednisolone dosages during the course of treatment. Achieving a treatment target was less frequent in the group treated with CNI. Onset age was not different between the two groups. Duration before CNI use after starting corticosteroids was 4.4 ± 6.3 years. Among those treated with CNI, late‐onset MG patients achieved a more favorable current condition than did those with early‐onset and thymoma‐associated MG, whereas there was no such difference without CNI treatment.ConclusionsCNI were given to severely ill MG patients with no attempt to select those more likely to respond, and failed to exert a strong impact on MG therapy. CNI should be given aggressively to patients with factors known to enhance susceptibility to these drugs, such as higher age at onset and early‐stage disease.
Contact allergy to acrylates and methacrylates in consumers and nail artists – data of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology, 2004–2013
Authors: Uter Wolfgang , Geier Johannes 
Published: January 2015

SummaryBackgroundAllergic contact dermatitis caused by (meth)acrylates used in artificial nails is a relevant problem in both nail artists and consumers.ObjectiveTo analyse the frequency of this problem in the contact allergy surveillance network Information Network of Departments of Dermatology in 2004–2013, and address possible time trends and patterns of co‐sensitization.MethodsA retrospective analysis of patch test results with (meth)acrylates, along with clinical and demographic data, was performed. These were used to subdivide patients according to (i) a potentially exposed occupation and (ii) nail cosmetics as the suspected cause of contact dermatitis.ResultsAmong the 114 440 patients patch tested, 72 244 were female and were considered further. Eighty‐seven patients both worked as nail artists/cosmetologists and suspected nail cosmetics as the cause of dermatitis. Among these, 47.1% reacted to at least one (meth)acrylate, most often to 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (n = 27), 2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylate, and hydroxyethyl acrylate (n = 26 each), with marked coupled reactivity. In other subgroups of interest, frequencies of sensitization to (meth)acrylates were less elevated but higher than in all remaining female patients (n = 69 419).ConclusionsThe results indicate a not entirely common, but potentially serious, problem, especially concerning occupationally exposed, and sensitized, nail artists. Adequate protective measures should be taught as part of the vocational training.
Engaging Stakeholders: Assessing Accuracy of Participatory Mapping of Land Cover in Panama
Authors: Vergara‐Asenjo Gerardo , Sharma Divya , Potvin Catherine 
Published: January 2015

AbstractFull and effective participation of indigenous peoples and local communities, and high accuracy estimates are two current requirements for the purposes of monitoring forests at international level. We produced two land cover maps, both of which were based on digital image processing (decision trees) using Rapideye imagery, and a land cover participatory map, for indigenous territories of eastern Panama. Accuracy of the three maps was evaluated using field data. Classification that was based on participatory mapping gave best overall accuracy of 83.7% (κ = 0.783), followed by the decision tree that included textural variables (DT2: overall accuracy of 79.9%, κ = 0.757). We have demonstrated for the first time that local knowledge can improve land cover classification and facilitate the identification of forest degradation. The plea of the UNFCC for the full and effective participation of local and indigenous people could, therefore, improve the accuracy of monitoring.
Impaired proliferation of pancreatic beta cells, by reduced placental growth factor in pre‐eclampsia, as a cause for gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Li Jun , Ying Huanchun , Cai Guiyang , Guo Quan , Chen Lizhu 
Published: January 2015

AbstractObjectivesReduced increase in serum placental growth factor (PLGF) levels frequently occurs in patients with pre‐eclampsia (PE) and thus has been used as a predictive factor for developing PE. However, it has remained elusive how shortage of PLGF could affect pancreatic endocrine homoeostasis and function in pregnancy to lead to development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).Materials and methodsWe used l‐NAME injection in mice, as a model of human PE, in which PLGF levels were significantly reduced.ResultsWe not only confirmed reduced serum PLGF levels in patients with PE but also detected strong correlation of serum PLGF levels and presence of GDM. We found that growth of beta cell mass during pregnancy was significantly impaired by l‐NAME injection, as a result of reduced beta cell proliferation. This may explain the higher risk of developing GDM in patients with PE. Moreover, provision of exogenous PLGF in l‐NAME‐treated pregnant mice significantly rescued beta cell proliferation, with subsequent increase in beta cell mass, suggesting that shortage in PLGF may be responsible for impaired beta cell growth and higher occurrence of GDM in patients with PE.ConclusionsOur study highlighted a pivotal role for PLGF in prevention and treatment of GDM in patients with PE.
The foot–surface interaction and its impact on musculoskeletal adaptation and injury risk in the horse
Authors: Parkes R. S. V. , Witte T. H. 
Published: January 2015

SummaryThe equine limb has evolved for efficient locomotion and high‐speed performance, with adaptations of bone, tendon and muscle. However, the system lacks the ability seen in some species to dynamically adapt to different circumstances. The mechanical interaction of the limb and the ground is influenced by internal and external factors including fore–hind mass distribution, lead limb, moving on a curve, shoeing and surface properties. It is unclear which of the components of limb loading have the largest effect on injury and performance but peak load, impact and vibration all play a role. Factors related to the foot–ground interface that limit performance are poorly understood. Peak performance varies vastly between disciplines but at high speeds such as racing and polo, force and grip are key limits to performance.
Parenting Plans for Special Needs Children: Applying a Risk‐Assessment Model
Authors: Pickar Daniel B. , Kaufman Robert L. 
Published: January 2015

Family courts are seeing an increasing number of separating or divorced families who have a special needs child. These cases present complex challenges for family law professionals charged with crafting parenting plans based on best interests standards. For many of these children, the typical developmentally based custodial arrangements may not be suitable, given the child's specific symptoms and treatment needs. We present a model for understanding how the general and specific needs of these children, as well as the demands on parents, can be assessed and understood in the context of divorce. This includes an analysis of risk and protective factors that inform timeshare and custodial recommendations and determinations. The risk assessment model is then applied to three of the most commonly occurring childhood neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders likely to be encountered in family court, namely, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depressive disorders, and autistic spectrum disorders.
Key Points for the Family Court Community
There has been a dramatic rise in the population of children with neurodevelopmental, psychiatric, and medical syndromes whose parents are disputing custody in the family courts.
Family law professionals of all disciplines should develop a fundamental knowledge base about the most commonly seen special needs children in family court, such as those with neurodevelopmental conditions like autistic spectrum disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and severe depressive disorders (especially with teenagers), which may involve suicidal or self‐harming behaviors.
Commonly recommended parenting plans may be inappropriate for many special needs children, as some function significantly below their chronological age and pose extreme behavioral challenges.
A systematic analysis of risk and protective factors should inform timeshare arrangements and determinations with this varied population, including the safety of the child and severity of the disorder, parental commitment and availability to pursue medical, educational, and therapeutic services, the parental attunement and insightful about the problem, and the differential parenting skills of each parent.
The Chat Room Moderator: Creating a Duty for Parents to Control Their Cyberbully
Authors: Heller Jonathan 
Published: January 2015

The advent of new technologies allowing people to communicate via the Internet has opened many windows to social interaction. At the same time, it has shifted the focus of child harassment from the playground to the computer. Instead of face‐to‐face bullying, children are now being bullied on the Internet, in a phenomenon known as “cyberbullying.” Cyberbullying is widespread, affecting generally twenty‐five percent of the child population in the United States. It is also more dangerous, as a child can be bullied at any time in the supposed comfort of his/her own home. To combat this behavior, many states have passed measures to ban or criminalize cyberbullying in school‐related settings. Nevertheless, children and adolescents continue to cyberbully their peers. Furthermore, most of these statutes do not address cyberbullying that occurs outside school or from a child's own home. Thus, this Note proposes that cyberbullying can be better combated by placing responsibility on parents to reasonably control their children in cases of cyberbullying. Based on the recently enacted ‘Cyber‐safety Act” from the Canadian Province of Nova Scotia and Restatement of Torts § 316, this Note proposes (1) placing tort responsibility on parents who know that their child is a cyberbully and do nothing about it and (2) allowing parents to avoid liability when their child truly cannot be controlled.
Key Points for the Family Court Community
Cyberbullying is a major problem that must be addressed beyond the schoolyard.
The law may provide recourse for the parents of a cyberbullying victim and can hold the parents of a cyberbully responsible.
The Nova Scotia Cyber‐safety Act is a good model for holding parents liable for their child's acts because it balances the desire to end cyberbullying and the understanding that some minors are uncontrollable.
Dodging the Donor Daddy Drama: Creating a Model Statute for Determining Parental Status of Known Sperm Donors
Authors: Nadraus Jennifer 
Published: January 2015

Despite recent innovations in alternative reproduction technology and the increased use of artificial insemination procedures, courts and legislatures have been unable to develop a clear and consistent test to establish the parental rights and obligations of sperm donors. As a result, there are mixed outcomes in cases where intended parents seek child support from an unsuspecting donor or when donors petition the court for visitation with their biological children. This Note seeks to resolve the ambiguity in determining sperm donors’ parental status by proposing a model state statute that makes nonpaternity the default rule. Under the statute, sperm donors would not be subject to any of the parental rights or obligations of a traditional biological father. However, the presumption of nonpaternity could be overcome if the parties agree, in writing, prior to the insemination. Further, the model statute provides an exception to the default rule if the donor has played an active role in the child's life. Adopting this model statute will not only facilitate a market for sperm donation but also make donor rights and obligations clear from the onset.
Key Points for the Family Court Community
Today, infants born using artificial reproduction technology (ART) represent more than one percent of children born in the United States annually.
When a donor is anonymous, the law is clear: the donor is not a legal parent. However, the law regarding known donors is less straightforward. Depending on the state and the particular circumstances, the parental status of a known donor is questionable.
The ambiguity in the law creates confusion and disagreement among the parties in a donor agreement. By comparing factually similar cases, in which courts interpreted donor statutes with identical language, in completely opposite ways, it is easy to see the unpredictability in ART cases.
The proposed model statute provides unambiguous legislation that sets out a clear standard to be used in determining the parental status of known donors. If adopted by state legislatures, courts across the country would finally have a consistent rule to apply, leading to less confusion and contradictory rulings.
The key issue is honoring intentional parentage and the proactive choice to use ART to have a child on one's own terms.