bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of addition of Aspergillus oryzae culture and 2‐hydroxyl‐4‐(methylthio) butanoic acid on milk performance and rumen fermentation of dairy cows
Authors: Sun Hua , Wu Yueming , Wang Yanming , Wang Chong , Liu Jianxin
Published: August 2016

To investigate effects of Aspergillus oryzae culture (AOC) and 2‐hydroxy‐4‐(methylthio) butanoic acid (HMB) on milk performance and rumen fermentation of dairy cows. Sixty‐four multiparous Chinese Holstein cows were randomly allocated into four experimental diets: (i) Control diet; (ii) AOC diet: 5 g AOC/day per head; (iii) HMB diet: 25 g HMB/day; and (iv) AH diet: 5 g AOC plus 25 g HMB/day. Added HMB tended to increase the yield of milk protein (P = 0.06) and 3.5% fat‐corrected milk (P = 0.08) and milk fat content (P = 0.09). Milk fat yield (P = 0.03) and the contents of milk protein (P = 0.05) were increased by adding HMB. The cows fed on AOC diet had a tendency for higher body weight (BW) gain (P = 0.08). Addition of AOC, HMB and AH increased content of microbial protein (MCP) and total volatile fatty acids (VFA) (P < 0.01) in rumen fluid. Populations of rumen fungi, Fibrobacter succinogenes and Ruminococcus flavefaciens relative to total bacterial 16S rDNA (P ≤ 0.03) and activity of carboxymethylcellulase (CMCase) (P < 0.01) were increased with added AOC or HMB. It is inferred that added AOC or HMB can increase the contents of MCP and total VFA potentially by stimulating rumen microbe populations and CMCase activity.
Sufficient Dimension Reduction for Censored Predictors
Authors: Tomassi Diego , Forzani Liliana , Bura Efstathia , Pfeiffer Ruth
Published: August 2016

Motivated by a study conducted to evaluate the associations of 51 inflammatory markers and lung cancer risk, we propose several approaches of varying computational complexity for analyzing multiple correlated markers that are also censored due to lower and/or upper limits of detection, using likelihood-based sufficient dimension reduction (SDR) methods. We extend the theory and the likelihood-based SDR framework in two ways: (i) we accommodate censored predictors directly in the likelihood, and (ii) we incorporate variable selection. We find linear combinations that contain all the information that the correlated markers have on an outcome variable (i.e., are sufficient for modeling and prediction of the outcome) while accounting for censoring of the markers. These methods yield efficient estimators and can be applied to any type of outcome, including continuous and categorical. We illustrate and compare all methods using data from the motivating study and in simulations. We find that explicitly accounting for the censoring in the likelihood of the SDR methods can lead to appreciable gains in efficiency and prediction accuracy, and also outperformed multiple imputations combined with standard SDR.
FORECASTING GLOBAL EQUITY INDICES USING LARGE BAYESIAN VARS
Authors: Huber Florian , Krisztin Tamás , Piribauer Philipp
Published: August 2016

This paper proposes a large Bayesian Vector Autoregressive (BVAR) model with common stochastic volatility to forecast global equity indices. Using a monthly dataset on global stock indices, the BVAR model controls for co‐movement commonly observed in global stock markets. Moreover, the time‐varying specification of the covariance structure accounts for sudden shifts in the level of volatility. In an out‐of‐sample forecasting application we show that the BVAR model with stochastic volatility significantly outperforms the random walk both in terms of point as well as density predictions. The BVAR model without stochastic volatility, on the other hand, shows some merits relative to the random walk for forecast horizons greater than six months ahead. In a portfolio allocation exercise we moreover provide evidence that it is possible to use the forecasts obtained from our model with common stochastic volatility to set up simple investment strategies. Our results indicate that these simple investment schemes outperform a naive buy‐and‐hold strategy.
Alignment between values of dryland pastoralists and conservation needs for small mammals
Authors: Addison Jane , Pavey Chris R.
Published: August 2016

Policies for conservation outside protected areas, such as those designed to address the decline in Australian mammals, will not result in net improvements unless they address barriers to proenvironmental behavior. We used a mixed‐methods approach to explore potential value‐action gaps (disconnects between values and subsequent action) for small mammal conservation behaviors among pastoralists in dryland Australia. Using semistructured surveys and open‐ended interviews (n = 43), we explored values toward small mammals; uptake of a range of current and intended actions that may provide benefit to small mammals; and potential perceived barriers to their uptake. Pastoralists assigned great conservation value to small mammals; over 80% (n = 36) agreed to strongly agreed that small mammals on their property were important. These values did not translate into stated willingness to engage in voluntary cessation of wild‐dog control (r2 = 0.187, p = 0.142, n = 43). However, assigning great conservation value to small mammals was strongly related to stated voluntary willingness to engage in the proenvironmental behavior most likely to result in benefits to small mammals: cat and fox control (r2 = 0.558, p = 0.000, n = 43). There was no significant difference between stated voluntarily and incentivized willingness to engage in cat and fox control (p = 0.862, n = 43). The high levels of willingness to engage in voluntary cat and fox control highlight a potential entry point for addressing Australia's mammal declines because the engagement of pastoralists in conservation programs targeting cat and fox control is unlikely to be prevented by attitudinal constraints. Qualitative data suggest there is likely a subpopulation of pastoralists who value small mammals but do not wish to engage in formal conservation programs due to relational barriers with potential implementers. A long‐term commitment to engagement with pastoralists by implementers will thus be necessary for conservation success. On‐property cat and fox control programs that build and leverage trust, shared goals, collaboration, and shared learning experiences between stakeholders and that explicitly recognize the complexity of small mammal dynamics and the property‐level ecological knowledge of pastoralists are more likely to gain traction.
Prevalence of autism and attention‐deficit–hyperactivity disorder in Down syndrome: a population‐based study
Authors: Oxelgren Ulrika Wester , Myrelid Åsa , Annerén Göran , Ekstam Bodil , Göransson Cathrine , Holmbom Agneta , Isaksson Anne , Åberg Marie , Gustafsson Jan , Fernell Elisabeth
Published: August 2016

Aim

To investigate the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention‐deficit–hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in a population‐based group of children and adolescents with Down syndrome, and to relate the findings to level of intellectual disability and to medical conditions.

Method

From a population‐based cohort of 60 children and adolescents with Down syndrome, 41 individuals (29 males, 12 females; mean age 11y, age range 5–17y) for whom parents gave consent for participation were clinically assessed with regard to ASD and ADHD. The main instruments used were the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham–IV Rating Scale, and the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System–II.

Results

High rates of ASD and ADHD were found: 17 (42%) and 14 (34%) of the 41 children met DSM criteria for ASD and ADHD respectively.

Interpretation

Children with Down syndrome and coexisting neurodevelopmental/neuropsychiatric disorders in addition to intellectual disability and medical disorders constitute a severely disabled group. Based on the results, we suggest that screening is implemented for both ASD and ADHD, at the age of 3 to 5 years and early school years respectively, to make adequate interventions possible.
The Dynamics of Organizational Routines in a Startup: The Ereda Model
Authors: Mariano Stefania , Casey Andrea
Published: August 2016

We propose a model of the dynamics of organizational routines developed from a three‐year qualitative grounded theory study in a startup web‐based open source technology organization. At the micro level, the model describes five primary responses to newly formed routines: extension, replacement, elucidation, distortion, and avoidance (EREDA). Each mode is determined by both the degree of comprehension and the perceived value, and we propose that interrelated cycles of learning and forgetting processes – what we label as knowledge shaping – may help explain the variation of routines over time. We draw implications from these findings for theory and practice and offer suggestions for future research on the dynamics of organizational routines.
Adequacy of initial evaluation of fever in long‐term care facilities
Authors: Yamada Kosuke , Nakagawa Takafumi , Hatto Hidenori , Miyachi Junichiro , Narushima Masato , Sakushima Ken , Fukuma Shingo , Yamada Yukari , Fukuhara Shunichi
Published: August 2016

Aim

Febrile residents in long‐term care facilities (LTCF) might be inadequately evaluated by caregivers. The present study aimed to examine the factors associated with inadequacy of initial fever evaluations by caregivers at night in LTCF.

Methods

We carried out a cross‐sectional study among a convenience sample of caregivers employed at 11 LTCF in Japan using a vignette‐based questionnaire. The respondents were randomly assigned to one of two scenarios describing a mild or severe febrile episode in an LTCF resident at night. The respondents’ thinking patterns were classified based on influential factors in their fever evaluation. Associations between adequacy of evaluation and respondents’ characteristics were evaluated using generalized linear mixed models.

Results

A total of 34% of fever evaluations among caregivers were considered to be inadequate regarding the necessity for examination by a physician, due in most cases to underestimating the severity of the fever. Respondents’ thinking patterns in fever evaluation were significantly associated with the adequacy of the evaluation. Caregivers who placed particular importance on the preferences of residents and families versus other factors including the resident's febrile condition, were more likely to make an inadequate evaluation than those who did not.

Conclusions

Our findings here suggest that eagerness to comply with residents’ preference in fever evaluation could prompt caregivers not to call for an appropriate diagnostic procedure. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 1294–1299.
Custom Map Projections for Regional Groundwater Models
Authors: Kuniansky Eve L.
Published: August 2016

For regional groundwater flow models (areas greater than 100,000 km2), improper choice of map projection parameters can result in model error for boundary conditions dependent on area (recharge or evapotranspiration simulated by application of a rate using cell area from model discretization) and length (rivers simulated with head‐dependent flux boundary). Smaller model areas can use local map coordinates, such as State Plane (United States) or Universal Transverse Mercator (correct zone) without introducing large errors. Map projections vary in order to preserve one or more of the following properties: area, shape, distance (length), or direction. Numerous map projections are developed for different purposes as all four properties cannot be preserved simultaneously. Preservation of area and length are most critical for groundwater models. The Albers equal‐area conic projection with custom standard parallels, selected by dividing the length north to south by 6 and selecting standard parallels 1/6th above or below the southern and northern extent, preserves both area and length for continental areas in mid latitudes oriented east‐west. Custom map projection parameters can also minimize area and length error in non‐ideal projections. Additionally, one must also use consistent vertical and horizontal datums for all geographic data. The generalized polygon for the Floridan aquifer system study area (306,247.59 km2) is used to provide quantitative examples of the effect of map projections on length and area with different projections and parameter choices. Use of improper map projection is one model construction problem easily avoided.
Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Nanocrystalline Surface of Samaria‐Doped Ceria via Randomly Distributed Dopants
Authors: Bae Jiwoong , Yang Hwichul , Son Jonghyun , Koo Bongjun , Kim Young‐Beom
Published: August 2016

The randomly distributed dopant effects in nanocrystalline samaria‐doped ceria (SDC) interlayers were investigated by systematically varying the dopant distributions and grain‐boundary densities via post‐annealing process. Electrochemical analysis demonstrates that films having lower annealing or fabrication temperatures exhibit superior surface oxygen kinetics, particularly in the case of oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs). Further investigation through TEM‐EELS shows that the typical segregation of dopants is not significantly present in SDC film deposited via the RF sputtering method, while post‐annealed SDC film shows strong dopant accumulation near the grain boundary. The results indicate that the randomly distributed dopants, in addition to the nano grains, may further enhance surface reactions by providing more preferential reaction sites due to a higher content of defects at the interface.
A systematic review of the psychometric properties of bronchiolitis assessment tools
Authors: Davies Clare J. , Waters Donna , Marshall Andrea
Published: August 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of tools developed for the purpose of assessing infants with bronchiolitis.

Background

Bronchiolitis is the leading cause of hospitalization in infants under the age of 1 year. Several bronchiolitis assessment tools have been developed primarily for use in randomized control trials of medical treatments for infants with bronchiolitis, however, the reliability and validity of many of these tools is not well reported.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed electronic databases were searched between January 1960–December 2015 using the key words ‘bronchiolitis’ and ‘assessment’ or ‘screen’ or ‘tool’ or ‘scale’ or ‘score’.

Review methods

A systematic review of the psychometric properties of bronchiolitis assessment tools was undertaken using the COSMIN checklist.

Results

Fourteen studies meeting the inclusion criteria were reviewed and the methodological quality of the studies and reported psychometric properties of 11 instruments were assessed. Overall, the reliability and validity of bronchiolitis assessment tools was poorly established. Although several studies reported that their tools had good inter‐rater reliability, the methodological quality of these studies was generally poor. Only one study underwent psychometric testing that was assessed as being of excellent quality. The Respiratory Distress Assessment Index was deemed to have undergone the most rigorous psychometric testing but had poor to moderate construct validity and considerable test–retest error.

Conclusion

Current bronchiolitis assessment tools lack clearly established reliability and validity and may not be sensitive to clinically meaningful outcomes for patients.
Is Facebook still a suitable technology‐enhanced learning environment? An updated critical review of the literature from 2012 to 2015
Authors: Manca S. , Ranieri M.
Published: August 2016

This study provides an updated critical review of the literature on Facebook as a technology‐enhanced learning environment based on papers published between 2012 and 2015. It adopts a revised classification of the categories identified in a previous study, which emphasized three main Facebook affordances – mixing information and learning resources, hybridization of expertise and widening context of learning. The aim is to investigate to what extent studies using Facebook as a learning environment exploited these affordances. Literature has been also analysed according to three types of educational use of Facebook – formal use in formal learning settings (FUF), informal use in formal learning settings (IUF) and use in informal learning settings (UI) – to highlight if and how Facebook affordances have been exploited in these learning settings. Literature search identified 147 articles published in peer‐reviewed journals. The results show that most of the articles can be classified as dealing with FUF (N = 69; 46.9%) or as IUF (N = 68; 46.3%); only a minority concerns the UI (N = 10; 6.8%). Overall, the study found that Facebook pedagogical affordances are still partially implemented, although different types of educational use of Facebook exploit these affordances to different degrees. It also provides indications for future research.

Lay description

What is currently known about the subject matter:

Facebook still stands as the most popular social network site

There is an abundant research literature on Facebook

Studies on the educational value of Facebook have grown exponentially in the last years

A review on Facebook as a technology‐enhanced learning environment was published in 2013

What this paper adds:

This study is an update of the critical review published in 2013

It takes into account studies published between 2012 and 2015

It refines the methodology adopted in the 2013 review

It introduces a classification of educational uses of Facebook according to the formal/informal continuum

Implications of study findings for practitioners:

Facebook is still mostly considered as an open alternative to traditional learning management systems

Facebook pedagogical affordances are still partially implemented

Teacher guidance and forms of assessment are claimed according to degrees of formality and informality

Cultural issues in the use of Facebook in education should be further investigated
A Novel Annotation Technique During Mapping to Facilitate the Termination of Atrial Tachycardia Following Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: RAV‐ACHA MOSHE , NG CHEE YUAN , HEIST E. KEVIN , ROZEN GUY , CHALHOUB FADI , KOSTIS WILLIAM J. , RUSKIN JEREMY , MANSOUR MOUSSA
Published: August 2016

A Novel Annotation Technique During Mapping to Facilitate the Termination of AT

Introduction

The treatment of atrial tachycardia (AT) occurring after ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) is challenging. The most common ablation strategy relies on entrainment, and electroanatomic activation mapping (EAM) using a conventional window of interest (WOI), centered on the easily detectable atrial signal on the coronary sinus catheter. We describe a novel EAM annotation technique that uses a WOI starting 40 milliseconds prior to the P wave in order to detect the reentrant AT exit site. This WOI timing is based on the similarity between scar‐related reentrant AT and scar‐related ventricular tachycardia.

Methods

Patients with AT after prior ablation for AF were included. The EAM of the AT was performed using the novel mapping annotation technique. The ablation was considered successful if the AT terminated during ablation at the site identified by this strategy.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients with 36 ATs were included. The ATs were classified as follows: mitral annulus (13/36), roof (11/36), anterior/posterior/lateral left atrial wall (10/36), and RA (2/36). A complete EAM using the novel annotation technique was achieved in 34 of 36 AT's, encompassing 94 ± 6.5% of the cycle length. Low amplitude pre‐P fractionated electrograms were found in 34 of 36 (94%) ATs and these occurred at a mean distance of 1.8 ± 1.2 mm from the “early‐meets‐late” line. Ablation at these areas resulted in termination of 34 of 36 ATs (94%).

Conclusion

The novel EAM annotation allows the accurate detection of the critical isthmus of post‐AF ablation AT. Ablation of these isthmuses results in termination of the AT in the vast majority of patients.
The effect on clinical parameters of periodontal inflammation following non‐surgical periodontal therapy with ultrasonics and chemotherapeutic cooling solutions: a systematic review
Authors: Van der Sluijs Marjolein , Van der Sluijs Eveline , Van der Weijden Fridus , Slot Dagmar Else
Published: August 2016

Aim

To establish the added effect of a chemotherapeutic cooling solution in an ultrasonic device on clinical parameters of periodontal inflammation following non‐surgical periodontal therapy.

Methods

The MEDLINE‐PubMed, Cochrane‐CENTRAL, and the EMBASE databases were searched. Probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) and their changes were selected as outcome variables. Subgroup analyses were performed according to the following active ingredients: essential oils (EO), povidone–iodine (PVP), and chlorhexidine (CHX).

Results

Screening of 100 unique papers resulted in 14 eligible publications, including 16 comparisons. The meta‐analysis (MA) showed that when the ultrasonic cooling solution had adjuvant chemotherapeutic properties, the difference of means (DiffM) for end value PPD‐0.12 (95% CI: −0.42; 0.18) and for CAL the DiffM+‐0.13 (95% CI: −0.39; 0.14). None of these were statistically significant, and the findings were supported by the overall descriptive analysis. Subgroup analysis only revealed a small effect for PVP on the difference (DiffM = −0.23, 95% CI: −0.43; −0.02) with respect to CAL (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

The collective evidence indicates that overall, no additional effects were observed. There is a “very weak” recommendation based on the sub‐analysis showing that in conjunction with PVP, a very small gain in CAL may be expected. For the use of CHX or EO, the added effect can be considered to be “zero.” Therefore, the strength and direction of the recommendation emerging from this review is against their use.
Interaction between migration behaviour and estuarine mortality in cultivated Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts
Authors: Vollset K. W. , Mahlum S. , Davidsen J. G. , Skoglund H. , Barlaup B. T.
Published: August 2016

Migration behaviour and estuarine mortality of cultivated Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts in a 16 km long estuary were studied using two methods: (1) acoustic telemetry and (2) group tagging in combination with trap nets. Progression rates of surviving individuals through the estuary were relatively slow using both methods [0·38 LT (total length) s−1 v. 0·25 LT s−1]. In 2012, the progression rate was slow from the river to the estuary (0·55 LT s−1) and the first part of the estuary (0·31 LT s−1), but increased thereafter (1·45–2·21 LT s−1). In 2013, the progression rate was fast from the river to the estuary (4·31 LT s−1) but was slower thereafter (0·18–0·91 LT s−1). Survival to the fjord was higher in 2012 (47%) compared to 2013 (6%). Fast moving individuals were more likely to migrate successfully through the estuary compared to slower moving individuals. Adult recapture of coded‐wire‐tagged S. salar was generally low (0·00–0·04%). Mortality hot spots were related to topographically distinct areas such as the river outlet (in 2012) or the sill separating the estuary and the fjord (in 2013). At the sill, an aggregation of cod Gadus morhua predating on cultivated smolts was identified. The results indicate that slow progression rates through the estuary decreases the likelihood of smolts being detected outside the estuary. The highly stochastic and site‐specific mortality patterns observed in this study highlight the complexity in extrapolating mortality patterns of single release groups to the entire smolt run of wild S. salar.
Reference intervals for biochemical and haematological analytes of juvenile captive‐bred long‐tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) from Mauritius with examination of the effects of individual characteristics using principal component analysis
Authors: Naiken Sandiren , Griffiths Mary‐Ann , Hurdial Jaymahalaxmi R. , Narainapoulle Sam , Honess Paul
Published: August 2016

Background

The Mauritian cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis) is widely used in biomedical research. Determining reference intervals for biochemical and haematological analytes provides an important tool for clinical diagnosis and pre‐clinical research.

Methods

Blood samples from 736 Mauritian long‐tailed macaques were analysed to determine reference intervals of 13 biochemical and 10 haematological analytes. The need for partitioning the reference interval between males and females was determined. To examine the variation associated with age, body weight and sex on the analytes, our correlating, multivariate data set was first reduced using principal component analysis, and then the effect of these characteristics on factor scores was examined using GLM analysis.

Results

Partitioning of reference intervals, based on sex, was recommended for albumin, alkaline phosphatase and mean corpuscular haemoglobin. Sex significantly influenced the concentration of lymphocytes, granulocytes and white blood cells.

Conclusion

These findings provide useful reference data for research involving Mauritian long‐tailed macaques.
Advances in neuroimaging in frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Gordon Elizabeth , Rohrer Jonathan D. , Fox Nick C.
Published: August 2016

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a clinically and neuroanatomically heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder with multiple underlying genetic and pathological causes. Whilst initial neuroimaging studies highlighted the presence of frontal and temporal lobe atrophy or hypometabolism as the unifying feature in patients with FTD, more detailed studies have revealed diverse patterns across individuals, with variable frontal or temporal predominance, differing degrees of asymmetry, and the involvement of other cortical areas including the insula and cingulate, as well as subcortical structures such as the basal ganglia and thalamus. Recent advances in novel imaging modalities including diffusion tensor imaging, resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging and molecular positron emission tomography imaging allow the possibility of investigating alterations in structural and functional connectivity and the visualisation of pathological protein deposition. This review will cover the major imaging modalities currently used in research and clinical practice, focusing on the key insights they have provided into FTD, including the onset and evolution of pathological changes and also importantly their utility as biomarkers for disease detection and staging, differential diagnosis and measurement of disease progression. Validating neuroimaging biomarkers that are able to accomplish these tasks will be crucial for the ultimate goal of powering upcoming clinical trials by correctly stratifying patient enrolment and providing sensitive markers for evaluating the effects and efficacy of disease‐modifying therapies.

image

This review describes the key insights provided by research into the major neuroimaging modalities currently used in research and clinical practice, including what they tell us about the onset and evolution of FTD and how they may be used as biomarkers for disease detection and staging, differential diagnosis and measurement of disease progression.

This article is part of the Frontotemporal Dementia special issue.
Mechanistic characterization of nitrite‐mediated neuroprotection after experimental cardiac arrest
Authors: Dezfulian Cameron , Kenny Elizabeth , Lamade Andrew , Misse Amalea , Krehel Nicholas , St. Croix Claudette , Kelley Eric E. , Jackson Travis C. , Uray Thomas , Rackley Justin , Kochanek Patrick M. , Clark Robert S. B. , Bayir Hulya
Published: August 2016

Nitrite acts as an ischemic reservoir of nitric oxide (NO) and a potent S‐nitrosating agent which reduced histologic brain injury after rat asphyxial cardiac arrest (ACA). The mechanism(s) of nitrite‐mediated neuroprotection remain to be defined. We hypothesized that nitrite‐mediated brain mitochondrial S‐nitrosation accounts for neuroprotection by reducing reperfusion reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Nitrite (4 μmol) or placebo was infused IV after normothermic (37°C) ACA in randomized, blinded fashion with evaluation of neurologic function, survival, brain mitochondrial function, and ROS. Blood and CSF nitrite were quantified using reductive chemiluminescence and S‐nitrosation by biotin switch. Direct neuroprotection was verified in vitro after 1 and 4 h neuronal oxygen glucose deprivation measuring neuronal death with inhibition studies to examine mechanism. Mitochondrial ROS generation was quantified by live neuronal imaging using mitoSOX. Nitrite significantly reduced neurologic disability after ACA. ROS generation was reduced in brain mitochondria from nitrite‐ versus placebo‐treated rats after ACA with congruent preservation of brain ascorbate and reduction of ROS in brain sections using immuno‐spin trapping. ATP generation was maintained with nitrite up to 24 h after ACA. Nitrite rapidly entered CSF and increased brain mitochondrial S‐nitrosation. Nitrite reduced in vitro mitochondrial superoxide generation and improved survival of neurons after oxygen glucose deprivation. Protection was maintained with inhibition of soluble guanylate cyclase but lost with NO scavenging and ultraviolet irradiation. Nitrite therapy results in direct neuroprotection from ACA mediated by reductions in brain mitochondrial ROS in association with protein S‐nitrosation. Neuroprotection is dependent on NO and S‐nitrosothiol generation, not soluble guanylate cyclase.

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Studies on effect of temperature and time on textural and rheological properties of starch isolated from traditional rice cultivars of Kashmir (India)
Authors: Bhat Farhan M. , Riar Charanjit S.
Published: August 2016

In the present study, the effect of storage temperature and time on the textural and rheological properties of starch gels from seven different rice cultivars having higher amylose content than the hybrid rice varieties were evaluated. Water solubility and swelling power increased with every 10C increase in temperature due to granule swelling and solubilization of starch wherein the maximum solubility was found in starch of Koshkari rice cultivar (0.721 to 13.50) and swelling power in starch of Zag rice cultivar (3.688 to 10.806). However, syneresis in the analyzed rice starch gels had shown a fluctuating trend for each individual cultivar at different storage periods in which the cultivars Zag had shown the highest values of syneresis during storage (4.123 to 4.957%). In the texture profile analysis of starch gel of these cultivars, Mushki Budgi had the highest value of hardness (0.723N), gumminess (36.262) and chewiness (31.056). The turbidity values of gelatinized starch suspensions from different rice cultivars increased progressively during the first 4 days of storage followed by a decrease in the 5th day coupled with slight increase in the 6th day. The highest turbidity was found in Zag ranging from 1.47 to 1.67 during refrigerated storage after 6 days. The rheological analysis revealed that Zag indicated the highest value of TG′ (76.96C) whereas cultivars Koshkari and Mushki Kandi had shown the lowest value of TG′ (74.34C) upon heating cycle.

Practical applications

Rheological properties of starch are affected by amylose contents, lipid contents, branch chain length distribution of amylopectin. The starch from different varieties depicted variable textural and rheological properties at various time: temperature combinations. No research has been reported to explore the effect of time and temperature on the textural and rheological properties of starch isolated from these traditional rice cultivars. The starches from traditional rice cultivars (native or indigenous rice cultivars of a region) indicated novel characteristic as compared to other cultivars in terms of their higher amylose content, starch yield, purity, clarity, solubility, syneresis, turbidity, and rheology. The novelty of this research was to exploit the desirable properties of starch obtained from traditional rice cultivars that had better characteristics than the hybrid varieties. This in turn led the various agencies to motivate the farmers to encourage their cultivation, provide an essential platform to scientists to inherit their valuable characteristics.
Preoperative urinary tract obstruction in scoliosis patients
Authors: Suzuki Shigeru , Kotani Toshiaki , Mori Kazuetsu , Kawamura Ken , Ohtake Akira
Published: August 2016

Background

While the association between scoliosis and cardiac and respiratory function impairments has been well characterized in clinical practice and research, the potential effect of scoliosis on urinary tract structure and renal function has received little attention. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the preoperative clinical characteristics of urinary tract structure and renal function in pediatric patients with idiopathic scoliosis, using a combination of blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging.

Methods

Preoperative measures of urinary tract structure and renal function were obtained for 16 patients, 13–17 years old, scheduled for corrective surgery for idiopathic scoliosis. Preoperative assessment included blood test and urinalysis, combined with structural imaging on ultrasound (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance urography (MRU), and radioisotope tracing (RI), using technetium‐99 m mercaptoacetyltriglycine (99mTc‐MAG3). Differences in blood and urine tests between patients with and without urinary tract obstruction (UTO) were evaluated for significance using Mann‐Whitney U test.

Results

For all 16 patients, blood tests and MRU were within normal limits. Dilatation of the renal pelvis was identified on US in eight patients (50.0%). UTO was identified on RI in six patients (37.5%). UTO was associated with elevated β2‐microglobulin concentration. Urinary β2‐microglobulin concentration >0.7 μg/mg Cr differentiated patients with UTO from those without UTO, with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 70%.

Conclusions

β2‐Microglobulin concentration may be a useful marker to screen for asymptomatic UTO in patients with idiopathic scoliosis.
M1 polarization and the effect of PGE2 on TNF‐α production by lymph node cells from dogs with visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Venturin G. L. , Chiku V. M. , Silva K. L. O. , de Almeida B. F. M. , de Lima V. M. F.
Published: August 2016

Canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is caused by the intracellular parasite Leishmania infantum. Increased levels of arginase, nitric oxide (NO2) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) can play a regulatory role regarding the immune response in CVL cases. This study aimed to evaluate the arginase activity in adherent macrophages cultured from the lymph nodes of healthy and naturally infected dogs and to examine the NO2 and PGE2 levels in the supernatant of these cultures. In addition, the regulatory effect of PGE2 on the production of tumour necrosis factor (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) in supernatants from the total lymph node was observed in leucocyte cultures. The arginase activity was lower in the adherent macrophages cultured from the lymph nodes of naturally infected dogs and there were higher concentrations of NO2 and PGE2 in the supernatants of these cultures. Higher TNF‐α and IL‐10 concentrations were observed in supernatants from total lymph node leucocytes cultures, from infected dogs, and the presence of indomethacin only decreased TNF‐α in the supernatant of these cultures. We conclude that the low arginase activity in macrophages suggested that M1 polarization and PGE2 were participating in the immune response and were increasing TNF‐α in CVL.
Electricity Time‐of‐Use Tariff with Stochastic Demand
Authors: Dong Ciwei , Ng Chi To , Cheng T. C. E.
Published: August 2016

In this article, we study the electricity time‐of‐use (TOU) tariff for an electricity company with stochastic demand. The electricity company offers the flat rate (FR) and TOU tariffs to customers. Under the FR tariff, the customer pays a flat price for electricity consumption in both the peak and non‐peak periods. Under the TOU tariff, the customer pays a high price for electricity consumption in the peak period and a low price for electricity consumption in the non‐peak period. The electricity company uses two technologies, namely the base‐load and peak‐load technologies, to generate electricity. We derive the optimal capacity investment and pricing decisions for the electricity company. Furthermore, we use real data from a case study to validate the results and derive insights for implementing the TOU tariff. We show that in almost all the cases, the electricity company needs less capacity for both technologies under the TOU tariff than under the FR tariff, even though the expected demand in the non‐peak period increases. In addition, except for some extreme cases, there is essentially no signicant reduction in the total demand of the two periods, although the TOU tariff can reduce the demand in the peak period. Under the price‐cap regulation, the customer may pay a lower price on average under the TOU tariff than under the FR tariff. We conduct an extensive numerical study to assess the impacts of the model parameters on the optimal solutions and the robustness of the analytical results, and generate managerial implications of the research findings.
Idea Generation and the Role of Feedback: Evidence from Field Experiments with Innovation Tournaments
Authors: Wooten Joel O. , Ulrich Karl T.
Published: August 2016

In many innovation settings, ideas are generated over time and managers face a decision about if and how to provide in‐process feedback to the idea generators about the quality of submissions. In this article, we use design contests allowing repeated entry to examine the effect of in‐process feedback on idea generation. We report on a set of field experiments using two online contest websites to compare the performance of three different feedback treatments— no feedback, random feedback, and directed feedback (i.e., in‐process feedback highly correlated with the final quality rating of the entry). We posted six logo design contests for consumer products and accepted submissions for 1 week. We provided daily feedback during the contest period using one of the three treatments. We then used a panel of target consumers to rate the quality of each idea. We find that directed feedback is associated positively with agent participation. For outcome, while directed feedback benefits the average quality of entries submitted, we don't find that relationship for the best entries—indeed, no feedback or random feedback may produce better top‐end entry quality. We also find that, under directed feedback, the variance in quality declines as the contest progresses.
Unexpected reductions in regional cerebral perfusion during prolonged hypoxia
Authors: Lawley Justin S. , Macdonald Jamie H. , Oliver Samuel J. , Mullins Paul G.
Published: August 2016

Key points

Cognitive performance is impaired by hypoxia despite global cerebral oxygen delivery and metabolism being maintained.

Using arterial spin labelled (ASL) magnetic resonance imaging, this is the first study to show regional reductions in cerebral blood flow (CBF) in response to decreased oxygen supply (hypoxia) at 2 h that increased in area and became more pronounced at 10 h.

Reductions in CBF were seen in brain regions typically associated with the ‘default mode’ or ‘task negative’ network.

Regional reductions in CBF, and associated vasoconstriction, within the default mode network in hypoxia is supported by increased vasodilatation in these regions to a subsequent hypercapnic (5% CO2) challenge.

These results suggest an anatomical mechanism through which hypoxia may cause previously reported deficits in cognitive performance.

Hypoxia causes an increase in global cerebral blood flow, which maintains global cerebral oxygen delivery and metabolism. However, neurological deficits are abundant under hypoxic conditions. We investigated regional cerebral microvascular responses to acute (2 h) and prolonged (10 h) poikilocapnic normobaric hypoxia. We found that 2 h of hypoxia caused an expected increase in frontal cortical grey matter perfusion but unexpected perfusion decreases in regions of the brain normally associated with the ‘default mode’ or ‘task negative’ network. After 10 h in hypoxia, decreased blood flow to the major nodes of the default mode network became more pronounced and widespread. The use of a hypercapnic challenge (5% CO2) confirmed that these reductions in cerebral blood flow from hypoxia were related to vasoconstriction. Our findings demonstrate steady‐state deactivation of the default network under acute hypoxia, which become more pronounced over time. Moreover, these data provide a unique insight into the nuanced localized cerebrovascular response to hypoxia that is not attainable through traditional methods. The observation of reduced perfusion in the posterior cingulate and cuneal cortex, which are regions assumed to play a role in declarative and procedural memory, provides an anatomical mechanism through which hypoxia may cause deficits in working memory.
New leak assembly based on fluidic nanochannels
Authors: Zhu Aiqing , Zhao Yongheng , Wang Xudi , Wang Yu , Wei Wei , Qiu Keqiang , Dong Dong
Published: August 2016

Fluidic nanochannels with a characteristic dimension of ∼280 nm were fabricated and designed as a leak assembly, where the nanochannels were formed on silicon wafers and enclosed with Pyrex® glass. The geometric dimensions were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, and the gas flow conductance of He and other heavy gases (N2, O2, and Ar) was measured, and its uncertainty estimated, by the difference method. The results indicated that the measured flow conductance values were 45% less than the calculated flow conductance values. For helium, molecular flow was shown to occur at pressures ranging from vacuum to atmospheric pressure. As a consequence of the well-defined geometry, the prediction of flow conductance could be achieved for various gas species.
Dispersible Eu3+-doped NaYF4 downshifting material for screen-printed monocrystalline silicon solar cells
Authors: Liu Chien-Wei , Yang Jung-Yen , Cheng Chin-Lung
Published: August 2016

Oleic acid-coated Eu3+-doped NaYF4 nanorods were hydrothermally synthesized using a modified liquid-solid-solution synthetic strategy. The Eu3+-doped NaYF4 nanorods constituted a downshifting material (DM). They were then spin-coated onto the front surface of a screen-printed monocrystalline silicon solar cell (SMSSC), to improve its photovoltaic performance. Intense and well-resolved photoluminescent lines in the wavelength range of 450–750 nm were exhibited by the Eu3+-doped NaYF4 DM, under ultraviolet excitation. The absolute conversion efficiency of the SMSSC improved by 0.6% from 15.5% to 16.1%, upon incorporating the Eu3+-doped NaYF4 DM.
Pilot Study of Novel Test Instrumentation to Evaluate Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Authors: Fox V. Marie , Lawlor Valorie A. , Luttges Marvin W.
Published: August 2016

A novel test instrument was designed to objectively quantify the progress of persons who participated in therapeutic horseback riding programs. Nineteen handicapped children, ages 7 to 14 years, with heterogeneous impairments were evaluated before and after riding. For measures of sitting balance and coordination, and hand, hip, knee, and ankle strength, marked improvements were noted for most children. Clinical impressions of therapists and parents suggested concomitant progress in characteristics such as self-confidence and interaction with others. Results from this pilot study appeared to support the use of the apparatus in that field setting.
Recent Advances Related to Special Physical Education and Sport
Authors: Winnick Joseph P.
Published: August 2016

This article synthesizes advances related to special physical education and sport from 1975 to the present. Generic advances are presented within the categories of legislation, sport programs and activities, testing and assessment, certification, and instructional and curricular materials. Subsequently, additional advances particularly relevant to individuals with orthopedic, educational, auditory, or visual handicapping conditions are presented.
Task-Specific Intervention with Children Reduces Movement Problems
Authors: Revie Gay , Larkin Dawne
Published: August 2016

This investigation examined the effects of eight sessions of intensive teaching of motor tasks on children with poor coordination. The 24 children, aged 5 to 9 years, were grouped by age and assigned to 1 of 10 teachers. These teachers were then randomly assigned to either Task Treatment Group 1 (TTG1) to teach both the overarm throw and hopping to their allocated children or Task Treatment Group 2 (TTG2) to teach target kicking and the volleyball bounce and catch. Each group acted as the other group’s control. Repeated measures ANOVA of pretest-posttest scores showed that intensive teaching of the overarm throw, target kicking, and the bounce-and-catch task resulted in significant gains for the respective groups.
Can Children with Mild Mental Retardation Perceive Affordances for Action?
Authors: Block Martin E.
Published: August 2016

Recent evidence utilizing an ecological approach to perception (Gibson, 1979; Warren, 1984) suggests that children acquire the ability to distinguish what movement an environment “affords” soon after they acquire motor skills (e.g., Gibson et al., 1987; Palmer, 1989; Ulrich, Thelen, & Niles, 1991). However, it is still unclear whether or not children with cognitive disabilities can accurately perceive affordances (see Burton, 1987, 1990). The purpose of this study was to determine if boys with mild mental retardation could perceive affordances for the skill of jumping distances (standing long jump). Boys with mild mental retardation were asked to judge whether or not various distances could be jumped across by use of a two-footed takeoff and landing. Perceptual judgment was then compared to actual maximum jumping distance. Results indicate that boys with mental retardation were able to accurately perceive the affordance for jumping distance. Results were explained via an ecological perspective.
Terminology Usage: A Case for Clarity
Authors: Porretta David L. , Nesbitt John , Labanowich Stan
Published: August 2016

This article addresses the issue of terminology by discussing the terms adapted physical education, adapted physical recreation, adapted sport, and adapted physical activity. Reasons are presented which suggest that these terms, taken collectively, may best describe movement of a gross motor nature that pertains to individuals with disabilities. A terminology framework is then proposed that is based on both conceptual and practical programmatic considerations within the context of service delivery. This context utilizes all four of the above terms, which are presented within the notion of inclusion. The terms adapted physical education, adapted physical recreation, and adapted sport are conceptualized within the context of adapted physical activity. Within this service delivery context, adapted physical education refers to all curriculum-based instructional settings in educationally oriented environments, adapted physical recreation refers to activity in nonschool contexts, and adapted sport refers to high-level competition by elite performers under the governance of formal sport organizations.