bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Farmer perception of soil erosion and investment in soil conservation measures: emerging evidence from northern Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf M. B. , Mustafa F. B. , Salleh K. O.
Published: February 2017

To combat soil erosion in the northern part of Taraba State, Nigeria, farmers are of major importance. Their perceptions vitally influence the levels of support and investment associated with solving problems of soil erosion through adoption of practices that are alternative to those in current use, including approaches focused on soil conservation. The objective of this study was to evaluate how farmer perceptions of soil erosion influence their investments in soil conservation, particularly soil or stone bunds, their applications of organic amendments and inorganic fertilizers and other soil conservation practices. In the study area, we undertook a field plot experiment and carried out a survey, using open‐ and closed‐ended questions. Water erosion and depletion of fertility were taken as the main indicators of soil erosion. The results of the experiment showed that farmers were aware of and perceived both indicators as having increased over the past decade. Farmer investments in water erosion control (3.7 US$/ha) and the prevention of soil fertility depletion (37.8 US$/ha) in the study area were found to be limited. The results also showed that awareness of water erosion was only marginally correlated with investment in water erosion control (χ2 = 4.906,P = 0.09) and not associated with investments in soil fertility control measures (χ2 = 0.175,P = 0.92). Those farmers who identified depletion of soil fertility as a problem, based on erosion, were not significantly more likely to make greater investments in soil conservation (χ2 = 0.947,P = 0.62) but did invest more in fertility measures (χ2 = 3.199,P = 0.20). Hence, further research is needed to determine other factors that may influence farmer investment in soil conservation, especially factors related to socio‐economic characteristics of farm households, institutional and technological innovations and field characteristics that were not addressed in this study.
Zika virus and blood transfusion: the experience of French Polynesia
Authors: Bierlaire Damien , Mauguin Sylvie , Broult Julien , Musso Didier
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Between October 2013 and March 2014, French Polynesia experienced the largest Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak ever described before the emergence of ZIKV in the Americas in 2015. As arbovirus transfusion‐transmitted (TT) infections have been previously reported, we hypothesized that transfusion of blood products could also transmit ZIKV.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Mitigation strategies to prevent ZIKV‐TT infections included nonspecific measures and the implementation of a laboratory developed ZIKV‐specific nucleic acid testing (NAT) assay. Donor sera were tested in pools of 3 and constitutive sera of ZIKV‐reactive pools were tested individually. Donor sera were tested prospectively and retrospectively. A posttransfusion follow‐up of a patient transfused with ZIKV RNA–reactive blood products was implemented.

RESULTS

NAT detected 42 blood donor sera as ZIKV RNA reactive of 1505 tested (2.8%). Thirty ZIKV RNA–reactive blood products collected before the implementation of NAT were transfused to 26 recipients. Posttransfusion investigations were conducted by the hemovigilance unit and data were available for 12 recipients. Symptomatic ZIKV‐TT infections were not reported.

CONCLUSION

Predonation screening of blood donors, postdonation information, products discard, and quarantine of blood products were not effective enough to prevent transfusion of ZIKV RNA–reactive blood products. ZIKV NAT was an effective measure once implemented to prevent transfusion of ZIKV RNA–reactive blood products but it is difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of this measure to prevent ZIKV‐TT infection, which is a rare event.
Progression of cutaneous plasmacytoma to plasma cell leukemia in a dog
Authors: Rout Emily D. , Shank Alba Maria M. , Waite Angharad H. K. , Siegel Andrea , Avery Anne C. , Avery Paul R.
Published: February 2017

A 5‐year‐old male neutered Bernese Mountain Dog was presented for cutaneous plasmacytoma, which was treated by surgical excision. Four months later, the dog developed multiple skin masses, hyphema, pericardial and mild bicavitary effusions, myocardial masses, and marked plasmacytosis in the peripheral blood. Circulating plasma cells expressed CD34 and MHC class II by flow cytometry. Immunocytochemistry demonstrated that these cells were strongly positive for multiple myeloma oncogene 1/interferon regulatory factor 4 (MUM‐1) and weakly to moderately positive for Pax5. The dog was hypoglobulinemic but had a monoclonal IgA gammopathy detected by serum immunofixation electrophoresis. The PCR analysis of antigen receptor gene rearrangements (PARR) by fragment analysis using GeneScan methodology revealed that plasmacytoid cells in the original cutaneous plasmacytoma and peripheral blood had an identical immunoglobulin heavy chain gene (IgH) rearrangement, indicating that both populations were derived from the same neoplastic clone. Canine cutaneous plasmacytoma rarely progresses to a malignant form and plasma cell leukemia is rarely diagnosed in the dog. This report describes a case of cutaneous plasmacytoma progressing to plasma cell leukemia with a rapid and aggressive clinical course. This report also highlights the utility of flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, immunofixation electrophoresis, and PARR by fragment analysis using GeneScan methodology in the diagnosis of this hematopoietic neoplasm.
A molecular phylogeny of the north‐east Atlantic species of the genus Idotea (Isopoda) with focus on the Baltic Sea
Authors: Panova Marina , Nygren Arne , Jonsson Per R. , Leidenberger Sonja
Published: February 2017

Today, the marine isopods of the genus Idotea Fabricius, 1798 consist of 26 accepted species. Most species can be found in the Northern Hemisphere. While some species have a cosmopolitan distribution, others are endemic to a few coastlines. In the Baltic Sea, Idotea species have a key role as important meso‐grazers. Only three species can be found in this brackish environment, I. balthica, I. chelipes and I. granulosa, while nine species are described from the whole European coast. The goal of the present study was to reconstruct the phylogeny of the genus Idotea and to test whether the Baltic low‐salinity tolerant species represent a single lineage within the genus. The phylogeny of north‐east Atlantic Idotea species was investigated based on a fragment of the nuclear gene 28S and the mitochondrial gene COI for eight Idotea species. The phylogenetic reconstructions showed that the genus Idotea might not be monophyletic. Neither I. linearis nor I. urotoma did belong to the separated and well‐supported Idotea clade of I. balthica, I. chelipes, I. emarginata, I. granulosa, I. metallica and I. pelagica. The three Idotea species found in the Baltic belonged to different lineages, with estimated COI‐based divergence time older than 7 Myr. This suggests that the tolerance to low salinity has likely evolved in the genus Idotea more than once.
Examining the Relationship between Self-rumination and Happiness: The Mediating and Moderating Role of Subjective Vitality
Authors: SARIÇAM Hakan
Published: February 2017

The basic purpose of this study is to examine the mediating and moderating role of subjective vitality in relationship between rumination and subjective happiness. The participants were 420 university students. In this research, the Self-rumination Scale-SRS, the Subjective Vitality Scale and the Short Form of Oxford Happiness Questionnaire were used. The relationships between rumination, subjective vitality, and happiness were examined using correlation analysis and hierarchical regression analysis. In correlation analysis, happiness and subjective vitality were found negatively related to self-rumination. On the other hand, happiness had positive
relation with subjective vitality. Hierarchical regression analysis showed that rumination levels in a decrease of subjective vitality on an unhappy person whereas enhances in subjective vitality leads to happiness; however, rumination also produces unhappiness. Results were debated in the light of the related literature.
Papel del control instruccional en el estudio de las tendencias de regulación verbal
Authors: Ruiz Castañeda Dyanne , Gómez Becerra Maria Inmaculada
Published: February 2017

La Regulación Verbal se ha estudiado ampliamente desde la Teoría de los Marcos Relacionales por encontrarse a la base de múltiples fenómenos psicológicos, entre ellos, los procesos de aprendizaje en la infancia. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo principal evaluar si es más efectivo un procedimiento de aprendizaje con control instruccional (análogo experimental de la regulación verbal tipo pliance) versus un procedimiento sin control instruccional, esto es, sólo fortaleciendo las consecuencias directas (análogo experimental de la regulación verbal tipo tracking). Como objetivos secundarios se pretende: evaluar la efectividad de los tratamientos de manera diferencial según la tendencia inicial a seguir o no las instrucciones y evaluar su relación con variables implicadas en las diferencias individuales. Se utilizó un diseño de caso único A-B-C-A con réplicas y análisis entre sujetos. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 9 participantes (5 chicos y 4 chicas) con edades comprendidas entre 12 y 15 años. Los participantes realizaban una tarea de ordenador, en la que se evaluaba su tendencia a seguir o no las instrucciones, posteriormente realizaban dos bloques de entrenamiento, uno basado en el control instruccional y otro en moldeamiento por contingencias directas; finalmente se valoraba de nuevo su tendencia inicial. Adicionalmente, los participantes debían responder un cuestionario relativo a sus hábitos diarios. Los resultados mostraron que los participantes responden más rápido y con menor tasa de errores en el primer entrenamiento (control instruccional) y que variables como la rigidez, el autocontrol y el seguimiento instruccional podrían estar relacionadas con la facilidad en el aprendizaje de las mismas.
¿Existe relación entre los optimismos estado y rasgo y la evaluación de la calidad de vida?
Authors: Urzúa Alfonso , Caqueo-Urízar Alejandra , Araya Claudio , Díaz Paula , Rocha Milenka , Valdivia Paulina
Published: February 2017

Using a non-experimental, transverse, co-relational design, we assess the relationship between optimism and quality of life (QoL) in adults aged between 18 and 65 years. Two questionnaires were administered: WHOQOLBREF, which assessed QoL, and an instrument that assessed trait–state optimism. A total of 1190 subjects from various public and private high schools, institutions and commercial centers in the city of Antofagasta, Chile participated. The mean sample age was 40.0 years and 50.0% of respondents were male. There is a relationship between QoL and state optimism, with males demonstrating a higher QoL. Differences in optimism were observed only in age groups in which younger persons scored less than older persons. The results obtained indicate that there is a partial relationship between QoL and optimism, with state optimism having a significant effect on QoL.
Using Content Maps to Measure Content Development in Physical Education: Validation and Application
Authors: Ward Phillip , Dervent Fatih , Lee Yun Soo , Ko Bomna , Kim Insook , Tao Wang
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

This study reports on our efforts toward extending the conceptual understanding of content development in physical education by validating content maps as a measurement tool, examining new categories of instructional tasks to describe content development and validating formulae that can be used to evaluate depth of content development.

Method:

The reliability, content, and concurrent validity of content maps and formulae were evaluated together with an application of the content maps and formulae. Descriptive statistics were used to report the data.

Results:

The reliability and validity of content maps was established. The new categories allowed for a finer analysis of content development. All formulae differentiated among different content expertise.

Discussion/Conclusion:

If depth of content knowledge is evidenced by tasks designed to refine, extend and apply student performance, then the content map, categories and formulae reported in this study provide tools that have utility for teachers, teacher educators and researchers.
Health-Related Fitness Knowledge Development Through Project-Based Learning
Authors: Hastie Peter A. , Chen Senlin , Guarino Anthony J.
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to examine the process and outcome of an intervention using the project-based learning (PBL) model to increase students’ health-related fitness (HRF) knowledge.

Method:

The participants were 185 fifth-grade students from three schools in Alabama (PBL group: n = 109; control group: n = 76). HRF knowledge was measured using a valid written test.

Results:

Using a two-level Hierarchical Linear Model (HLM) where students were nested within teachers’ classrooms, the results show that controlling for “Class” there was a statistically significant difference between the two group conditions with the PBL cohort scoring 18.85% greater than the control schools at posttest.

Discussion:

The findings have shown supportive evidence as to the efficacy of a PBL-themed fitness education unit.
Scalable-manufactured randomized glass-polymer hybrid metamaterial for daytime radiative cooling
Authors: Zhai Yao , Ma Yaoguang , David Sabrina N. , Zhao Dongliang , Lou Runnan , Tan Gang , Yang Ronggui , Yin Xiaobo
Published: February 2017

The lazy way to keep cool in the sun

Passive radiative cooling requires a material that radiates heat away while allowing solar radiation to pass through. Zhai
et al.
solve this riddle by constructing a metamaterial composed of a polymer layer embedded with microspheres, backed with a thin layer of silver (see the Perspective by Zhang). The result is an easy-to-manufacture material near the theoretical limit for daytime radiative cooling. The translucent and flexible film can be made in large quantities for a variety of energy technology applications.

Science
, this issue p.
1062
; see also p.
1023
Genome Sequences of Human and Livestock Isolates of Brucella melitensis and Brucella abortus from the Country of Georgia
Authors: Sidamonidze Ketevan , Hang Jun , Yang Yu , Dzavashvili George , Zhgenti Ekaterine , Trapaidze Nino , Imnadze Paata , Nikolich Mikeljon P.
Published: February 2017

Brucellosis, which is among the most widespread global zoonotic diseases, is endemic in the nation of Georgia and causes substantial human morbidity and economic loss. Here, we report whole-genome sequences of three
Brucella melitensis
and seven
Brucella abortus
isolates from cattle, sheep, and humans that represent genetic groups discovered in Georgia.
Complete Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus plantarum CGMCC 8198
Authors: Dong Qing-Qing , Hu Hai-Jie , Luo Xue-Gang , Wang Qiu-Tong , Gu Xiang-Chao , Zhou Hao , Zhou Wen-Juan , Ni Xiao-Meng , Zhang Tong-Cun
Published: February 2017

We report the complete genome sequence of
Lactobacillus plantarum
CGMCC 8198, a novel probiotic strain isolated from fermented herbage. We have determined the complete genome sequence of strain
L. plantarum
CGMCC 8198, which consists of genes that are likely to be involved in dairy fermentation and that have probiotic qualities.
First Full Draft Genome Sequence of
Plasmodium brasilianum
Authors: Talundzic Eldin , Ravishankar Shashidhar , Nayak Vishal , Patel Dhruviben S. , Olsen Christian , Sheth Mili , Batra Dhwani , Loparev Vladimir , Vannberg Fredrik O. , Udhayakumar Venkatachalam , Barnwell John W.
Published: February 2017

Plasmodium malariae
is a protozoan parasite that can cause human malaria. The simian parasite
Plasmodium brasilianum
infects New World monkeys from Latin America and is morphologically indistinguishable from
P. malariae
. Here, we report the first full draft genome sequence for
P. brasilianum
.
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Acetylene-Fermenting Pelobacter acetylenicus Strains
Authors: Sutton John M. , Baesman Shaun M. , Fierst Janna L. , Poret-Peterson Amisha T. , Oremland Ronald S. , Dunlap Darren S. , Akob Denise M.
Published: February 2017

Acetylene fermentation is a rare metabolism that was serendipitously discovered during C
2
H
2
-block assays of N
2
O reductase. Here, we report the genome sequences of two type strains of acetylene-fermenting
Pelobacter acetylenicus
, the freshwater bacterium DSM 3246 and the estuarine bacterium DSM 3247.
Complete Genome Sequence of Paenibacillus polymyxa YC0136, a Plant Growth–Promoting Rhizobacterium Isolated from Tobacco Rhizosphere
Authors: Liu Hu , Liu Kai , Li Yuhuan , Wang Chengqiang , Hou Qihui , Xu Wenfeng , Fan Lingchao , Zhao Jian , Gou Jianyu , Du Binghai , Ding Yanqin
Published: February 2017

Paenibacillus polymyxa
strain YC0136 is a plant growth–promoting rhizobacterium with antimicrobial activity, which was isolated from tobacco rhizosphere. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of
P. polymyxa
YC0136. Several genes with antifungal and antibacterial activity were discovered.
Mycobacterium kansasii
Authors: Johnston James C. , Chiang Leslie , Elwood Kevin
Published: February 2017

The incidence ofMycobacterium kansasiivaries widely over time and by region, but this organism remains one of the most clinically relevant isolated species of nontuberculous mycobacteria. In contrast to other common nontuberculous mycobacteria,M. kansasiiis infrequently isolated from natural water sources or soil. The major reservoir appears to be tap water. Infection is likely acquired through the aerosol route, with low infectivity in regions of endemicity. Human-to-human transmission is thought not to occur. Clinical syndromes and radiological findings ofM. kansasiiinfection are mostly indistinguishable from that ofMycobacterium tuberculosis, thus requiring microbiological confirmation. Disseminated disease is uncommon in HIV-negative patients and usually associated with severe immunosuppression. The majority of patients withM. kansasiipulmonary disease have underlying pulmonary comorbidities, such as smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, and prior or concurrentM. tuberculosisinfection. Surveys in Great Britain, however, noted higher rates, with 8 to 9% ofM. kansasiiinfections presenting with extrapulmonary disease. Common sites of extrapulmonary disease include the lymph nodes, skin, and musculoskeletal and genitourinary systems. The specificity of gamma interferon release assays (IGRAs) forM. tuberculosismay be reduced byM. kansasiiinfection, asM. kansasiiencodes CFP-10 and ESAT-6, two antigens targeted by IGRAs. A study conducted to evaluate the therapy in rifampin-resistant disease found that patients with acquired rifampin resistance were treated with daily high-dose ethambutol, isoniazid, sulfamethoxazole, and pyridoxine combined with aminoglycoside therapy. Given the potential toxicities, particularly with aminoglycoside therapy, clarithromycin and/or moxifloxacin therapy could be considered as alternatives.
Diagnosis of Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Lardizabal Alfred A. , Reichman Lee B.
Published: February 2017

For 2015, tuberculosis (TB) incidence in the United States has plateaued at 3.0 per 100,000. This remains the lowest case rate since recording started. On the global level, although the TB epidemic is larger than previously estimated, TB deaths and incidence rate continue to fall. For both low and high incidence countries, accelerating the decline in TB incidence towards elimination goals requires that more emphasis be placed on strengthening systems for detection and treatment of latent TB infection (LTBI) in addition to improving TB care globally. Here, we review the tuberculin skin test and gamma interferon release assays currently available for the detection of LTBI.
Tuberculosis—a World Health Organization Perspective
Authors: Sotgiu Giovanni , Sulis Giorgia , Matteelli Alberto
Published: February 2017

Tuberculosis (TB) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has implemented and scaled-up three important global public health strategies (i.e., DOTS, Stop TB, and End TB) to improve the international scenario. Their epidemiological impact was relevant, as they decreased the number of potential new cases of disease and death. However, the emergence and spread of TB/HIV coinfection and multidrug-resistant TB have hindered the progress towards the elimination of TB by 2050. More efforts are required to increase the global annual decline of the TB incidence rate. Political commitment is necessary, with global and national strategies oriented to the adoption and adaptation of the international, evidence-based recommendations on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Research and development activities should be planned to improve the current tools adopted to fight the disease. New rapid diagnostics, an updated and effective therapeutic armamentarium, and an effective preventive vaccine could represent the solution to address the current epidemiological threats.
Indomethacin therapy effective in a patient with depletion syndrome from secretory villous adenoma
Authors: Kagan Matthew David , Schmidt Kara , Sangha Gurtej
Published: February 2017

This paper details the case of a 26-year-old woman with depletion syndrome and the effectiveness of her treatment with indomethacin. Villous adenomas are benign neoplasms with a high incidence of becoming malignant. A small percentage of villous adenomas are known to cause depletion syndrome, also referred to as the McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome, a condition characterised by secretory diarrhoea, dehydration, hyponatremia, hypokalaemia, hypochloraemia, metabolic acidosis and acute renal failure. Prostaglandin-E2 mediates the hypersecretion mechanism observed in depletion syndrome, and can be inhibited by cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors. This case study measured the effectiveness of prostaglandin inhibition on a patient with oral and parenteral electrolyte replacement refractory depletion syndrome. Fluid loss and prostaglandin levels were measured before and after pharmacological treatment. This case demonstrates a 49% decrease in rectal effluent and a marked commensurate decrease in daily replenishment requirements within 48 hours of indomethacin treatment initiation, resulting in subsequent electrolyte stabilisation.
Commissioning through competition and cooperation in the English NHS under the Health and Social Care Act 2012: evidence from a qualitative study of four clinical commissioning groups
Authors: Allen Pauline , Osipovič Dorota , Shepherd Elizabeth , Coleman Anna , Perkins Neil , Garnett Emma , Williams Lorraine
Published: February 2017

Objective

The Health and Social Care Act 2012 (‘HSCA 2012’) introduced a new, statutory, form of regulation of competition into the National Health Service (NHS), while at the same time recognising that cooperation was necessary. NHS England's policy document, The Five Year Forward View (‘5YFV’) of 2014 placed less emphasis on competition without altering the legislation. We explored how commissioners and providers understand the complex regulatory framework, and how they behave in relation to competition and cooperation.

Design

We carried out detailed case studies in four clinical commissioning groups, using interviews and documentary analysis to explore the commissioners’ and providers’ understanding and experience of competition and cooperation.

Setting/participants

We conducted 42 interviews with senior managers in commissioning organisations and senior managers in NHS and independent provider organisations (acute and community services).

Results

Neither commissioners nor providers fully understand the regulatory regime in respect of competition in the NHS, and have not found that the regulatory authorities have provided adequate guidance. Despite the HSCA 2012 promoting competition, commissioners chose mainly to use collaborative strategies to effect major service reconfigurations, which is endorsed as a suitable approach by providers. Nevertheless, commissioners are using competitive tendering in respect of more peripheral services in order to improve quality of care and value for money.

Conclusions

Commissioners regard the use of competition and cooperation as appropriate in the NHS currently, although collaborative strategies appear more helpful in respect of large-scale changes. However, the current regulatory framework contained in the HSCA 2012, particularly since the publication of the 5YFV, is not clear. Better guidance should be issued by the regulatory authorities.
Small bowel endoluminal imaging (capsule and enteroscopy)
Authors: Murino Alberto , Despott Edward J
Published: February 2017

Over the last 16 years, the disruptive technologies of small bowel capsule endoscopy and device-assisted enteroscopy have revolutionised endoluminal imaging and minimally invasive therapy of the small bowel. Further technological developments continue to expand their indications and use. This brief review highlights the state-of-the-art in this arena and aims to summarise the current and potential future role of these technologies in clinical practice.
Therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound
Authors: Venkatachalapathy Suresh , Nayar Manu K
Published: February 2017

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is now firmly established as one of the essential tools for diagnosis in most gastrointestinal MDTs across the UK. However, the ability to provide therapy with EUS has resulted in a significant impact on the management of the patients. These include drainage of peripancreatic collections, EUS-guided endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram, EUS-guided coeliac plexus blocks, etc. The rapid development of this area in endoscopy is a combination of newer tools and increasing expertise by endosonographers to push the boundaries of intervention with EUS. However, the indications are limited and we are at the start of the learning curve for these high-risk procedures. These therapies should, therefore, be confined to centres with a robust multidisciplinary team, including interventional endoscopists, radiologists and surgeons.
Endoscopic approach to polyp recognition
Authors: Lahiff Conor , East James E
Published: February 2017

Identification and complete resection of colorectal polyps provide a significant mortality benefit from colorectal cancer. With improvements in colonoscopic techniques and advanced endoscopic imaging techniques, polyp detection has taken on greater complexity since the establishment of bowel cancer screening programmes internationally. All endoscopists operating within symptomatic and screening populations should be aware of endoscopic features associated with advanced neoplasia. Chromoendoscopy and advanced imaging techniques, such as narrow spectrum technologies (narrow band imaging, flexible spectral imaging colour enhancement (FICE) and i-Scan digital contrast (iSCAN)), have specific classification systems to support accurate lesion characterisation. This review summarises the evidence in relation to polyp detection, recognition and characterisation as well as the identification of features of invasion. Future areas of interest include optimal management of large polyps, incorporation of a ‘detect, resect and discard’ strategy for small and diminutive polyps, expected wider use of computer decision support tools (artificial intelligence and deep learning) and the use of fluorescently labelled molecular probes to improve detection and assessment of neoplasia.
Preventable injury deaths: identifying opportunities to improve timeliness and reach of emergency healthcare services in New Zealand
Authors: Lilley Rebbecca , Kool Bridget , Davie Gabrielle , de Graaf Brandon , Ameratunga Shanthi N , Reid Pararangi , Civil Ian , Dicker Bridget , Branas Charles C
Published: February 2017

Background

Traumatic injury is a leading cause of premature death and health loss in New Zealand. Outcomes following injury are very time sensitive, and timely access of critically injured patients to advanced hospital trauma care services can improve injury survival.

Objective

This cross-sectional study will investigate the epidemiology and geographic location of prehospital fatal injury deaths in relation to access to prehospital emergency services for the first time in New Zealand.

Design and study population

Electronic Coronial case files for the period 2008–2012 will be reviewed to identify cases of prehospital fatal injury across New Zealand.

Methods

The project will combine epidemiological and geospatial methods in three research phases: (1) identification, enumeration, description and geocoding of prehospital injury deaths using existing electronic injury data sets; (2) geocoding of advanced hospital-level care providers and emergency land and air ambulance services to determine the current theoretical service coverage in a specified time period and (3) synthesising of information from phases I and II using geospatial methods to determine the number of prehospital injury deaths located in areas without timely access to advanced-level hospital care.

Discussion

The findings of this research will identify opportunities to optimise access to advanced-level hospital care in New Zealand to increase the chances of survival from serious injury. The resulting epidemiological and geospatial analyses will represent an advancement of knowledge for injury prevention and health service quality improvement towards better patient outcomes following serious injury in New Zealand and similar countries.
Telomere maintenance in soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Eastley Nicholas , Ottolini Barbara , Garrido Carmen , Shaw Jacqueline A , McCulloch Thomas Alasdair , Ashford Robert U , Royle Nicola J
Published: February 2017

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a diverse group of heterogeneous malignant tumours derived from mesenchymal tissues. Over 50 different STS subtypes are recognised by WHO, which show a wide range of different biological behaviours and prognoses. At present, clinicians managing this complex group of tumours face several challenges. This is reflected by the relatively poor outcome of patients with STSs compared with many other solid malignant tumours. These include difficulties securing accurate diagnoses, a lack of effective systemic treatments and absence of any sensitive circulating biomarkers to monitor patients throughout their treatment and follow-up. In order to progress STS's cells must evade the usual cellular proliferative checkpoints, and then activate a telomere maintenance mechanism in order to achieve replicative immortality. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of STS genetics focusing particularly on these mechanisms. We will also highlight some of the key barriers to improving outcome for patients with STS, and hypothesise how a better understanding of these genetic characteristics may impact on future STS management.
Aligning the flow cytometric evaluation with the diagnostic need: an evidence-based approach
Authors: Williams-Voorbeijtel Dawn , Sanchez Francisco , Roth Christine G
Published: February 2017

Aims

Elimination of non-value added testing without compromising high-quality clinical care is an important mandate for laboratories in a value-based reimbursement system. The goal of this study was to determine the optimal combination of flow cytometric markers for a screening approach that balances efficiency and accuracy.

Methods

An audit over 9 months of flow cytometric testing was performed, including rereview of all dot plots from positive cases.

Results

Of the 807 cases in which leukaemia/lymphoma testing was performed, 23 were non-diagnostic and 189 represented bronchoalveolar lavage specimens. Of the remaining 595 cases, 137 (23%) were positive for an abnormal haematolymphoid population. Review of the positive cases identified minimum requirements for a screening tube as well as analysis strategies to overcome the diagnostic pitfalls noted. It is estimated that 38% fewer antibodies would be used in a screening approach, representing an opportunity for significant cost savings.

Conclusions

We provide a framework for developing an evidence-based screening combination for cost-effective characterisation of haematolymphoid malignancies, promoting adoption of ‘just-in-time’ testing systems that tailor the evaluation to the diagnostic need.
Republished: Renal cell carcinoma metastasis involving vertebral hemangioma: dual percutaneous treatment by navigational bipolar radiofrequency ablation and high viscosity cement vertebroplasty
Authors: Zerlauth Jean-Baptiste , Meuli Reto , Dunet Vincent
Published: February 2017

The case of a 70-year-old woman with progressive renal cell carcinoma (RCC) metastatic invasion of a L3 vertebral hemangioma treated by dual percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and vertebroplasty is reported. The patient was surgically treated for RCC in 2001. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy were introduced in 2013 for ovarian, bladder and cerebral metastatic disease. An asymptomatic L3 benign hemangioma was noticed at this time. One-year CT and MRI follow-up studies demonstrated a nodular isolated soft tissue lesion involving the anterior edge of the hemangioma. Percutaneous treatment consisted of a L3 vertebral body unipedicular approach to perform a biopsy, RFA with a navigational bipolar RFA device and vertebroplasty using high viscosity cement. Histopathological examination confirmed metastasis of RCC. The 5-month spinal MRI and CT examinations demonstrated complete disappearance of the tumor.
Symplectic analysis of the two-dimensional Palatini action
Authors: McKeon D.G.C.
Published: February 2017

The symplectic analysis, initiated by Faddeev and Jackiw, is applied to the first-order (Palatini) form of the Einstein–Hilbert action in 1 + 1 dimensions. The constraints that arise are shown to result in the same gauge transformations that follow from the first-class constraints occurring when the Dirac constraint formalism is applied to this action. Problems associated with gauge fixing are discussed.
Exact solutions of a full causal bulk viscous FRW cosmological model with variable G and Λ through factorization
Authors: Belinchón J.A. , Cornejo-Pérez O.
Published: February 2017

We study the classical flat full causal bulk viscous Friedmann–Robertson–Walker cosmological model with variable gravitational and cosmological constants through the factorization method. The method allows us to find some new exact parametric solutions. The assumptions made lead us to study two approaches. We find, in the studied cases, that the Universe ends in an accelerating era except in the case of a particular solution where the Universe could be noninflationary for all times. In both approaches the cosmological constant is a decreasing function of time, while the gravitational constant behaves as a growing or decreasing time function depending on the sign of Λ. By taking into account recent observations that indicate that Λ must be positive, we conclude that G increases with time except in the first solution where both “constants” tend asymptotically in the large time limit to a constant value. We also present a new factorization scheme that allows us to generate new solutions to a kind of variable-coefficient, nonlinear, second-order, ordinary differential equation.
Bianchi type-V modified holographic Ricci dark energy model in self-creation theory of gravitation
Authors: Rao V.U.M. , Prasanthi U.Y. Divya
Published: February 2017

Anisotropic and spatially homogeneous Bianchi type-V space–time is considered in the presence of matter and anisotropic dark energy in Barber’s (Gen. Relativ. Gravit. 14, 117. (1982)) second self-creation theory of gravitation. An anisotropic modified holographic Ricci dark energy model is presented using linearly varying deceleration parameter (Akarsu and Dereli. Int. J. Theor. Phys. 51, 612 (2012)), energy density of modified holographic Ricci dark energy, and the relation between the metric potentials. Some physical and kinematical properties of the model are discussed graphically by choosing suitable values of the parameters, which are found to be in good agreement with modern cosmological observational data.
Gastroprotective effects of montelukast andNigella sativaoil against corticosteroid-induced gastric damage: they are much more than antiasthmatic drugs
Authors: Rizk Fatma H. , Ibrahim Marwa A.A. , Abd-Elsalam Marwa M. , Soliman Nema A. , Abd-Elsalam Sherief M.
Published: February 2017

Corticosteroids are used to treat a variety of diseases like bronchial asthma. However, long-term corticosteroids have a gastric ulcerogenic potential. Montelukast (MTK) and Nigella sativa oil (NSO) are used in treatment of bronchial asthma. Previous studies showed that MTK and NSO had gastroprotective effects in other models of gastric ulcer. The present study assesses synergistic gastroprotective effects of both drugs in dexamethasone (DXM)-induced gastric damage. Fifty male rats were divided into 5 groups: normal control (I), DXM group (II), MTK + DXM group (III), NSO + DXM group (IV), MTK + NSO + DXM group (V). After 7 days, stomachs were removed for biochemical analysis and histological examinations. Significant increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive cells, with significant decreases in mucus secretion were detected in DXM-treated group compared with group I. Meanwhile, significant decreases of MDA level, MPO activity, and PCNA positive cells and significant increases in mucus secretion were detected in treated groups compared with group II. SOD activity significantly decreased in group V compared with group II. We could conclude that administration of either MTK or NSO or both with DXM counteracts DXM-induced gastric lesions.
Permutation Disalignment Index as an Indirect, EEG-Based, Measure of Brain Connectivity in MCI and AD Patients
Authors: Mammone Nadia , Bonanno Lilla , Salvo Simona De , Marino Silvia , Bramanti Placido , Bramanti Alessia , Morabito Francesco C.
Published: February 2017

Objective: In this work, we introduce Permutation Disalignment Index (PDI) as a novel nonlinear, amplitude independent, robust to noise metric of coupling strength between time series, with the aim of applying it to electroencephalographic (EEG) signals recorded longitudinally from Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impaired (MCI) patients. The goal is to indirectly estimate the connectivity between the cortical areas, through the quantification of the coupling strength between the corresponding EEG signals, in order to find a possible matching with the disease’s progression. Method: PDI is first defined and tested on simulated interacting dynamic systems. PDI is then applied to real EEG recorded from 8 amnestic MCI subjects and 7 AD patients, who were longitudinally evaluated at time [Formula: see text]0 and 3 months later (time [Formula: see text]1). At time [Formula: see text]1, 5 out of 8 MCI patients were still diagnosed MCI (stable MCI) whereas the remaining 3 exhibited a conversion from MCI to AD (prodromal AD). PDI was compared to the Spectral Coherence and the Dissimilarity Index. Results: Limited to the size of the analyzed dataset, both Coherence and PDI resulted sensitive to the conversion from MCI to AD, even though only PDI resulted specific. In particular, the intrasubject variability study showed that the three patients who converted to AD exhibited a significantly ([Formula: see text]) increased PDI (reduced coupling strength) in delta and theta bands. As regards Coherence, even though it significantly decreased in the three converted patients, in delta and theta bands, such a behavior was also detectable in one stable MCI patient, in delta band, thus making Coherence not specific. From the Dissimilarity Index point of view, the converted MCI showed no peculiar behavior. Conclusions: PDI significantly increased, in delta and theta bands, specifically in the MCI subjects who converted to AD. The increase of PDI reflects a reduced coupling strength among the brain areas, which is consistent with the expected connectivity reduction associated to AD progression.
Decomposing Numerically Controlled Oscillator in Parallel Digital Down Conversion Architecture
Authors: Guo Lianping , Tan Feng , Zhang Peng , Zeng Hao
Published: February 2017

The speed of digital signal processing device restricts the performance of the serial digital down conversion (DDC) architecture when the input of the DDC features a high sampling rate. As a result, the polyphase or parallel structure is adopted to relieve the speed pressure. This paper mainly studies the numerically controlled oscillator (NCO) decomposing in the parallel DDC structure, which can decompose the NCO’s output into several branch signals which then can lower the operating speed of the mixer and the low pass filter (LPF) significantly, making it easier to implement DDC with field programmable gate array (FPGA). The mathematical expressions of the branch NCO outputs applied to the parallel DDC are deduced and the selection principles of the correlated parameters are discussed. The simulation and the experimental results of MATLAB show the corrections of the NCO decomposing technique.
Experimental Tracking of Limit-Point Bifurcations and Backbone Curves Using Control-Based Continuation
Authors: Renson Ludovic , Barton David A. W. , Neild Simon A.
Published: February 2017

Control-based continuation (CBC) is a means of applying numerical continuation directly to a physical experiment for bifurcation analysis without the use of a mathematical model. CBC enables the detection and tracking of bifurcations directly, without the need for a post-processing stage as is often the case for more traditional experimental approaches. In this paper, we use CBC to directly locate limit-point bifurcations of a periodically forced oscillator and track them as forcing parameters are varied. Backbone curves, which capture the overall frequency-amplitude dependence of the system’s forced response, are also traced out directly. The proposed method is demonstrated on a single-degree-of-freedom mechanical system with a nonlinear stiffness characteristic. Results are presented for two configurations of the nonlinearity — one where it exhibits a hardening stiffness characteristic and one where it exhibits softening-hardening.
Selforganized Structure Formation in Organized Microstructuring by Laser-Jet Etching
Authors: Rabbow T. J. , Plath P. J. , Mora A. , Haase M.
Published: February 2017

Laser-jet induced wet etching of stainless steel in 5[Formula: see text]M H3PO4 has been investigated. By this method, it is possible to cut and microstructure metals and alloys that form passive layers in strong etchants. Due to the laser heating of the metal and the adjacent layers of the etchant, the passive layer is removed and an active dissolution of the base metal together with the formation of hydrogen is observed. The reactions are limited by the transport of fresh acid and the removal of dissolved metal. A jet of etchant reduces the transport limitations. For definite ranges of the laser power, the feed velocity and the etchant jet velocity, a regime of periodic structure formation of the kerf, often called ripples, has been found. The ripple length depends on all three parameters. The ripple formation can be brought into correlation with a periodic change of the intensity of the reflected light as well as oscillations of the potential workpiece. It could be shown that the periodic structure formation is connected to a spreading of an etching front from the laser activated area, that temporarily moves ahead to the laser. This leads to modulations of the interface for the laser absorption, which results, for example, in oscillations of the intensity of the reflected light. This means the laser induced etching reaction attracts a feedback based on the conditions of absorption for the laser. For those parameters of feed velocity, laser power and etchant jet velocity, without ripple formation the laser induced etching front is of a constant distance to the laser which results in steady conditions at the interface for the absorption of the laser.
A Note on the Bogdanov–Takens Bifurcation in the Romer Model with Learning by Doing
Authors: Bella Giovanni
Published: February 2017

This paper is aimed at describing the whole set of necessary and sufficient conditions for the emergence of multiple equilibria and global indeterminacy in the standard endogenous growth framework with learning by doing. The novelty of this paper relies on the application of the original Bogdanov–Takens bifurcation theorem, which allows us to characterize the full dynamics of the model, and determine the emergence of an unavoidable poverty trap.
Cryptanalysis of a Classical Chaos-Based Cryptosystem with Some Quantum Cryptography Features
Authors: Arroyo David , Hernandez Fernando , Orúe Amalia B.
Published: February 2017

The application of synchronization theory to build new cryptosystems has been a hot topic during the last two decades. In this paper, we analyze a recent proposal in this field. We pinpoint the main limitations of the software implementation of chaos-based systems designed on the grounds of synchronization theory. In addition, we show that the cryptosystem under evaluation possesses serious security problems that imply a clear reduction of the key space.
Threshold of Multiple Stick-Slip Chaos for an Archetypal Self-Excited SD Oscillator Driven by Moving Belt Friction
Authors: Li Z. X. , Cao Q. J. , Léger A.
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we investigate the multiple stick-slip chaotic motion of an archetypal self-excited smooth and discontinuous (SD) oscillator driven by moving belt friction, which is constructed with the SD oscillator and the classical moving belt. The friction force between the mass and the belt is modeled as a Coulomb friction for this system. The energy introduction or dissipation during the slip and stick modes in the system is analyzed. The analytical expressions of homoclinic orbits of the unperturbed SD oscillator are derived by using a special coordinate transformation without any pronominal truncation to retain the natural characteristics, which allows us to utilize the Melnikov’s method to obtain the chaotic thresholds of the self-excited SD oscillator in the presence of the damping and external excitation. Numerical simulations are carried out to demonstrate the multiple stick-slip dynamics of the system, which show the efficiency of the prediction for stick-slip chaos of the perturbed self-excited system. The results presented herein this paper demonstrate the complicated dynamics of stick-slip periodic solutions, multiple stick-slip chaotic solutions and also coexistence of multiple solutions for the perturbed self-excited SD oscillator.