bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological spectrum of renal cell carcinoma, unclassified: an analysis of 136 cases
Authors: Perrino Carmen M , Grignon David J , Williamson Sean R , Idrees Muhammad T , Eble John N , Cheng Liang
Published: August 2017

Aims

Renal cell carcinoma, unclassified (RCCU) is a category that includes a morphologically and biologically heterogeneous group of tumours that are unable to be diagnosed as other well‐defined entities. We aim to describe the morphological findings of tumours within this category and to determine the most frequent morphological features leading to classification difficulty.

Methods and results

One hundred and thirty‐six cases of RCCU were examined. Patients ranged in age from 23 to 87 years. Seventy‐seven patients were men and 59 were women. International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade was most commonly 3 (n = 66), followed by 2 (n = 42) and 4 (n = 28). Tumour size ranged from 0.6 to 24.9 cm. The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) pathological T categories included pT1a (n = 50), pT1b (n = 14), pT2a (n = 7), pT2b (n = 4), pT3a (n = 50) and pT4 (n = 9). Forty‐four cases included lymph node(s), 41% of which (n = 18) had metastases. Tumours were assessed for a variety of histological features and assigned to the following morphological groups: predominantly oncocytoma/chromophobe RCC‐like; clear cell RCC‐like; papillary RCC‐like; collecting duct‐like; and pure sarcomatoid differentiation. The majority of the oncocytoma/chromophobe and clear cell RCC‐like phenotypes were low stage (pT1 or pT2). The papillary RCC‐like, collecting duct‐like and pure sarcomatoid phenotypes were mainly high stage (pT3 or pT4).

Conclusions

Renal cell carcinoma, unclassified is a term that encompasses tumours with a variety of morphological features and a wide biological spectrum. The most common source of diagnostic difficulty was tumours composed of predominantly eosinophilic cells.
Factors associated with self-medication in Spain: a cross-sectional study in different age groups
Authors: Niclós Gracia , Olivar Teresa , Rodilla Vicent
Published: August 2017

Objective

The identification of factors which may influence a patient’s decision to self-medicate.

Methods

Descriptive, cross-sectional study of the adult population (at least 16 years old), using data from the 2009 European Health Interview Survey in Spain, which included 22 188 subjects. Logistic regression models enabled us to estimate the effect of each analysed variable on self-medication.

Key findings

In total, 14 863 (67%) individuals reported using medication (prescribed and non-prescribed) and 3274 (22.0%) of them self-medicated. Using logistic regression and stratifying by age, four different models have been constructed. Our results include different variables in each of the models to explain self-medication, but the one that appears on all four models is education level. Age is the other important factor which influences self-medication. Self-medication is strongly associated with factors related to socio-demographic, such as sex, educational level or age, as well as several health factors such as long-standing illness or physical activity.

Conclusions

When our data are compared to those from previous Spanish surveys carried out in 2003 and 2006, we can conclude that self-medication is increasing in Spain.
Integrating medication samples into the traditional community pharmacy supply chain: a feasibility study
Authors: McCarthy Lisa M , Brown Thomas E R , Crown Natalie , Jobanputra Neil , Lui Michelle , Laporte Leigha , Taylor Valerie H
Published: August 2017

Objective

To assess the feasibility of a medication sampling program involving community pharmacists.

Methods

A community pharmacy dispensed samples after receiving a voucher given to patients by prescribers. Surveys explored prescribers’ and patients’ views about sampling and patients’ experiences with the program.

Key findings

Half of prescribers reported providing samples, yet 15 patients redeemed 18 vouchers over 1 year. Patients expressed favourable views towards sampling and pharmacist involvement, despite more than half (n = 8/15, 53%) feeling that visiting the pharmacy was less convenient.

Conclusion

A voucher-based medication sampling program based in a community pharmacy is a model integrating pharmacist care.
Can rapid negative exclusion of blood cultures by a molecular method, enzyme template generation and amplification technique (Cognitor® Minus), aid antimicrobial stewardship?
Authors: Dryden Matthew , Sitjar Agnes , Gunning Zoe , Lewis Sophie , Healey Richard , Satchithananthan Praneeth , Parker Natalie , Keyser Taryn , Saeed Kordo , Bennett Helen V
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Antimicrobial review is an important part of antimicrobial stewardship. A novel enzyme template generation and amplification technique (ETGA), the Cognitor® Minus (Momentum Bioscience, Long Hanborough, UK) test, has a 99.5% negative predictive value for bacteraemia and fungaemia. This observational study asked two questions: (1) Does a negative ETGA, indicating no bacteraemia or fungaemia, aid antimicrobial review within 48 h of admission; (2) In this real-life clinical setting, does a negative ETGA mean no bacteraemia or fungaemia?

Methods

Consecutive blood cultures in patients with clinical infection were tested by ETGA. Negative results indicating an absence of bacteraemia or fungaemia were reviewed by the clinical infection team. Antibiotics were reviewed in these patients, and the role of the ETGA result in antibiotic change was recorded. Patients were followed up for a week.

Key findings

A total of 197 of 246 samples gave a negative result by ETGA. This led to a positive stewardship outcome (antimicrobials changed) in 145 (73.6%) and negative stewardship outcome (empirical antimicrobials continued) in 47 (23.9%). Of the positive stewardship outcomes, the ETGA result supported the decision not to start antimicrobials in 21 (10.7%) patients, to stop antimicrobials in 21 (10.7%), to switch from IV to oral antimicrobials in 103 (52.2%) or to discharge or leave the patient at home in 58 cases (29.4%).

Conclusions

Enzyme template generation and amplification supports antimicrobial stewardship decisions and may have cost advantages in reducing unnecessary empirical antibiotics and antifungal agents and in discharging patients from hospital earlier. ETGA result was consistent with blood culture findings and gave an earlier negative result.
The compliance model of employment standards enforcement: an evidence‐based assessment of its efficacy in instances of wage theft
Authors: Vosko Leah F. , Grundy John , Tucker Eric , Thomas Mark P. , Noack Andrea M. , Casey Rebecca , Gellatly Mary , Mussell Jennifer
Published: August 2017

This article critically assesses the compliance model of employment standards enforcement through a study of monetary employment standards violations in Ontario, Canada. The findings suggest that, in contexts where changes to the organisation of work deepen insecurity for employees, models of enforcement that emphasise compliance over deterrence are unlikely to effectively prevent or remedy employment standards violations.
Effect of point and planar defects on thermal conductivity of TiO2−x
Authors: Ok Kyung Min , Ohishi Yuji , Muta Hiroaki , Kurosaki Ken , Yamanaka Shinsuke
Published: August 2017

In this study, we have investigated the effect of planar defect on thermal and electron transport as compared to point defect in the rutile TiO2−x. Two series of bulk TiO2−x(2−x = 2.000, 1.992, 1.985, 1.972, and 1.934) samples were prepared using different heat‐treatment procedures to clearly identify the presence of point and planar defects via powder X‐ray diffraction. The charge carrier density and mobility were determined from the Hall effect measurements using the van der Pauw method. The elastic properties of the studied materials such as bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young's modulus, compressibility, and Debye temperature were evaluated from the measured sound velocities, while their thermal conductivities were determined from the thermal diffusivities, heat capacities, and densities measured in the temperature range between 300 and 1073 K. The theoretical calculation based on Klemens‐Callaway model has been performed to analyze the thermal conductivity. As a result, the effect of planar defects on the carrier mobility was almost equivalent to the effect produced by point defects. On the other hand, the presence of planar defects significantly reduced the thermal conductivity of TiO2−xas compared to point defect due to strong phonon scattering induced by planar defects.
Ionic occupation, structures, and microwave dielectric properties of Y3MgAl3SiO12 garnet‐type ceramics
Authors: Song Jianbing , Song Kaixin , Wei Jinsheng , Lin Huixin , Wu Jun , Xu Junming , Su Weitao , Cheng Zhiqun
Published: August 2017

The Y3MgAl3SiO12 ceramics with pure phase were successfully synthesized by solid‐state sintering reaction method for the first time. Their microwave dielectric properties were investigated as a function of sintering temperature. Their microstructure characteristics and ionic occupation sites of tetrahedral and octahedral units were characterized and analyzed by SEM& energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and Rietveld refinement of X‐ray powder diffraction data. Crystal structure of Y3MgAl3SiO12 is isostructural to Y3Al5O12 with a cubic garnet structure and space group of Ia‐3d, which contains YO8 dodecahedra, (Mg/Aloct)O6 octahedral, and (Si/Altet)O4 tetrahedral units. The Qf and εr values of different samples are strongly dependent on the distribution of grain sizes, grain sizes, and porosity. The samples sintered at 1550°C exhibit optimized microwave dielectric properties with relative permittivity (ɛr) of 10.1, Qf values of 57 340GHz (at 9.5 GHz), and τf values of −32 ppm/°C. Such properties indicate potential application of Y3MgAl3SiO12 as microwave substrates.
Simultaneously enhanced piezoelectric response and piezoelectric voltage coefficient in textured KNN‐based ceramics
Authors: Liu Baihui , Li Peng , Shen Bo , Zhai Jiwei , Zhang Yang , Li Feng , Liu Xing
Published: August 2017

<001> ‐textured 0.99(K0.49Na0.49Li0.02)(Nb0.97‐xSb0.03Tax)O3‐0.01CaZrO3 [abbreviated as 0.99KNLN0.97‐xSTx‐0.01CZ, x = 0.03, 0.07, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25] ceramics were prepared by templated grain growth (TGG) method and a two‐step sintering process. Giant longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient d33 (391 pC/N) and piezoelectric strain coefficient d33* (630 pm/V under an AC E‐field of 20 kV/cm) can be obtained in the textured ceramics with x = 0.25. All textured ceramics display superior kp (>54%) and g33 (>23 × 10−3 Vm/N) which are in an order of magnitude with PZT ceramics. The maximum value of kp (~63.3%) obtained in textured ceramics with x = 0.15 is higher than that of famous textured LF4 ceramics. Excellent comprehensive properties suggest that <001> ‐textured 0.99KNLN0.97‐xSTx‐0.01CZ ceramics are promising candidates in the field of lead‐free piezoelectric materials.
‘At the end of the day, it is more important that he stays happy’: an interpretative phenomenological analysis of people who have a sibling with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Goodwin J. , Alam S. , Campbell L. E.
Published: August 2017

Background

22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) is the most common microdeletion syndrome. However, there is little research examining the effect of this multisystem disorder on the family, particularly siblings. The current study was a phenomenological exploration of sense‐making in siblings of a person with 22q11.2DS.

Method

Interpretative phenomenological analysis informed a detailed and open examination of being a sibling of a person with 22q11.2DS. Using in‐depth semistructured interviews, five typically developing siblings (two men, three women) of people with 22q11.2DS were individually interviewed, providing the data set for transcription and thematic analysis.

Results

The theme ‘They are the priority’ overarched two subordinate themes that emerged from participants' descriptions of the struggle with acceptance and finding positive meaning. Participants oscillated between conflicting feelings about their sibling with 22q11.2DS always taking centre stage. For example, they felt anger, guilt and resentment; yet, they also embraced patience, empathy and gratitude.

Conclusions

This phenomenological study provides a foundation for future research relating to 22q11.2DS and fostering family wellbeing, particularly around acceptance and psychological growth. The siblings in this study actively withdrew from their family to allow prioritisation of their affected sibling. However, this does not mean that their needs should be overlooked. There are easily accessible resources to support siblings of individuals with disabilities, and it is important for health professionals and parents to consider these options.
Syndrome specific modules to enhance the Stepping Stones Triple P public health intervention
Authors: Bezzina L. A. , Rice L. J. , Howlin P. , Tonge B. J. , Einfeld S. L.
Published: August 2017

Background

Service responses to behaviour phenotypes include care by expert clinicians, syndrome‐specific clinics, disability‐specific mental health services and generic mental health services. While these services contribute to care, they are often of limited accessibility.

Methods

We describe a population‐wide public health intervention aimed at increasing the accessibility of services to the target population. Stepping Stones Triple P (SSTP) is a public health intervention of known efficacy in reducing behaviour problems when delivered to parents of children aged 0–12 with mixed developmental disabilities.

Results

The strategy we discuss involves enhancing SSTP with modules for specific causes of developmental disabilities including Down, Fetal Alcohol, Fragile X, Prader–Willi and Williams syndromes.

Conclusions

We propose that enhancing SSTP with syndrome specific modules will increase the accessibility of support to families who have a child with a specific behaviour phenotype. We suggest that future research should confirm the public health impact of the modified SSTP programme using the RE‐AIM framework.
Quasi‐experimental study on the effectiveness of a flipped classroom for teaching adult health nursing
Authors: Park Esther O. , Park Ji Hyun
Published: August 2017

Aim

The effectiveness of flipped learning as one of the teaching methods of active learning has been left unexamined in nursing majors, compared to the frequent attempts to uncover the effectiveness of it in other disciplines. The purpose of this study was to reveal the effectiveness of flipped learning pedagogy in an adult health nursing course, controlling for other variables.

Methods

The study applied a quasi‐experimental approach, comparing pre‐ and post‐test results in learning outcomes. Included in this analysis were the records of 81 junior nursing major students. The convenience sampling method was used to select the participants. Those in the experimental group were exposed to a flipped classroom experience that was given after the completion of their traditional class. The students’ learning outcomes and the level of critical thinking skills were evaluated before and after the intervention of the flipped classroom.

Results

After the flipped classroom experience, the scores of the students’ achievement in subject topics and critical thinking skills, specifically intellectual integrity and creativity, showed a greater level of increase than those of their controlled counterparts. This remained true even after controlling for previous academic performance and the level of creativity.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the effectiveness of the flipped classroom as a measure of active learning by applying a quantitative approach. But, regarding the significance of the initial contribution of flipped learning in the discipline of nursing science, carrying out a more authentic experimental study could justify the impact of flipped learning pedagogy.
Cardiorespiratory effects of epidural anesthesia using lidocaine with morphine or dexmedetomidine in capuchin monkeys (Sapajus sp.) undergoing bilateral tubal ligation surgery, anesthetized with isoflurane
Authors: Schäffer Débora Passos Hinojosa , de Araujo Nayone Lima Lantyer Cordeiro , Otero Ana Rosa , Dórea Neto Francisco de Assis , Barbosa Vivian Fernanda , Martins Filho Emanoel Ferreira , Oriá Arianne Pontes
Published: August 2017

Background

Epidural anesthesia is indicated to decrease other anesthetic requirements, prolong analgesia, and reduce side effects. In primates, its use has been scarcely described. The aim was to evaluate the cardiorespiratory effects of epidural anesthesia with lidocaine and dexmedetomidine (DEX) or morphine (MOR).

Methods

Ten female capuchin monkeys (Sapajus sp.) received epidural anesthesia with lidocaine and DEX or MOR under general anesthesia.

Results

There was a significant decrease in heart rate with DEX and in blood pressure in all groups, with no changes in SpO2. There was a significant reduction in rectal temperature over time. A stable cardiac rhythm was observed; however, there was a prolonged QT interval with DEX.

Conclusions

Epidural anesthesia with access to the lumbosacral space was safe and easy to perform. DEX decreased heart rate. All groups promoted a decrease in rectal temperature with respiratory and cardiac rhythm stability; however, hypotension should be considered.
Super pulse CO2 laser therapy for benign eyelid tumors
Authors: Zhang Jing , Duan Jueni , Gong Lan
Published: August 2017

Background

Benign eyelid tumors occur commonly in daily outpatient services.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment of benign eyelid lesions with a super pulse CO2 laser as an alternative to surgical excision.

Methods

This retrospective clinical study included 80 patients with 99 benign eyelid lesions treated with super pulse CO2 laser photocoagulation. The following areas were involved: the upper eyelid in 38 cases, the lower eyelid in 39 cases, and the angulus oculi in seven cases (the eyelid margin was included in 18 cases). The laser spot size ranged from 120 to 200 μm and the super pulse CO2 laser power density varied between 0.6 and 21.1 W/mm2. The mean follow‐up period was 14.0±7.1 months (range five to 30). Histological diagnoses were obtained in 62 of the 80 patients.

Results

The cosmetic outcomes of all of the patients were satisfactory after treatment, and the wounds formed dry scabs, with no infections. They were epithelialized within 2‐4 weeks with normal‐appearing epithelium. Temporarily, the treated area had less hyperpigmentation than the surrounding normal skin, showing no obvious scars or notches. No complications were observed, with no relapses during the follow‐up.

Conclusions

The super pulse CO2 laser therapy of the benign eyelid tumors provided satisfactory cosmetic results in this study. It is a convenient, cheap, accessible, and well‐tolerated alternative to traditional surgery, especially for diffuse tumors, or those positioned close to the lacrimal papillae.
Extraversion and life satisfaction: A cross‐cultural examination of student and nationally representative samples
Authors: Kim Hyunji , Schimmack Ulrich , Oishi Shigehiro , Tsutsui Yoshiro
Published: August 2017

Objective

Previous research on Extraversion and life satisfaction suggests that extraverted individuals are more satisfied with their lives. However, existing studies provide inflated effect sizes, as they were based on simple correlations. In five studies, the authors provide better estimates of the relationship between Extraversion and life satisfaction.

Method

The current study examined student and nationally representative samples from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Japan (Study 1,N = 1,460; Study 2,N = 5,882; Study 3,N = 18,683; Study 4,N = 13,443; Study 5, JapanN = 952 and U.S.N = 891). The relationship between Extraversion and life satisfaction was examined using structural equation modeling by regressing life satisfaction on the Big Five traits.

Results

Extraversion was a unique predictor of life satisfaction in the North American student and nationally representative samples (Study 1, β = .232; Study 2, β = .225; Study 5, β = .217), but the effect size was weaker or absent in other non–North American samples (Germany, United Kingdom, and Japan).

Conclusions

The findings attest to the moderating role of culture on Extraversion and life satisfaction and the importance of controlling for shared method variance.
Effect of dasatinib in a xenograft mouse model of canine histiocytic sarcoma and in vitro expression status of its potential target EPHA2
Authors: Ito K. , Miyamoto R. , Tani H. , Kurita S. , Kobayashi M. , Tamura K. , Bonkobara M.
Published: August 2017

Canine histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is an aggressive and highly metastatic tumor. Previously, the kinase inhibitor dasatinib was shown to have potent growth inhibitory activity against HS cells in vitro, possibly via targeting the EPHA2 receptor. Here, the in vivo effect of dasatinib in HS cells was investigated using a xenograft mouse model. Moreover, the expression status of EPHA2 was examined in six HS cell lines, ranging from insensitive to highly sensitive to dasatinib. In the HS xenograft mouse model, dasatinib significantly suppressed tumor growth, as illustrated by a decrease in mitotic and Ki67 indices and an increase in apoptotic index in tumor tissues. On Western blot analysis, EPHA2 was only weakly detected in all HS cell lines, regardless of sensitivity to dasatinib. Dasatinib likely results in the inhibition of xenograft tumor growth via a mechanism other than targeting EPHA2. The findings of this study suggest that dasatinib is a targeted therapy drug worthy of further exploration for the treatment of canine HS.
Review of triazine antiprotozoal drugs used in veterinary medicine
Authors: Stock M. L. , Elazab S. T. , Hsu W. H.
Published: August 2017

Triazines are relatively new antiprotozoal drugs that have successfully controlled coccidiosis and equine protozoal myeloencephalitis. These drugs have favorably treated other protozoal diseases such as neosporosis and toxoplasmosis. In this article, we discuss the pharmacological characteristics of five triazines, toltrazuril, ponazuril, clazuril, diclazuril, and nitromezuril which are used in veterinary medicine to control protozoal diseases which include coccidiosis, equine protozoal myeloencephalitis, neosporosis, and toxoplasmosis.
Heterogeneity in individual quality in birds: overall patterns and insights from a study on common terns
Authors: Vedder Oscar , Bouwhuis Sandra
Published: August 2017

While life‐history theory predicts a tradeoff between reproduction and survival, positive covariance, indicative of heterogeneity in individual quality, is often reported among individuals from natural populations. We review longitudinal studies of wild bird populations that test the relationship between annual reproductive success and lifespan and find the majority to report a positive correlation, while none reports a negative correlation. Heterogeneity in individual quality in resource acquisition, masking resource‐based tradeoffs, therefore appears to be common in birds. Considering that there is little evidence for heritable variation in fitness, heterogeneity in individual quality among adults may be due to life‐long effects of developmental conditions. In a 20‐year case study on common terns Sterna hirundo, we test for life‐long effects of cohort quality and within‐cohort nest quality, but find no significant effects on long‐term proxies of quality. Since other studies do find strong life‐long effects of developmental conditions, we suggest that the brood reduction strategy adopted by common terns, causing the majority of offspring to die rapidly after hatching, efficiently reduces variation in offspring quality at independence. As such, a brood reduction strategy may contribute to reduced heterogeneity in adult survival in stochastic environments, both suggested to be more common and adaptive in long‐lived species. Further study is required to assess heterogeneity in individual reproduction, especially in relation to environmental stochasticity and species’ life‐history strategies, in order to assess whether the relative strength of selection in early and late life may indeed affect the magnitude of heterogeneity in individual quality over life, and how this is mediated by parent–offspring conflict.
Evolutionary origins of teeth in jawed vertebrates: conflicting data from acanthothoracid dental plates (‘Placodermi’)
Authors: Meredith Smith Moya , Clark Brett , Goujet Daniel , Johanson Zerina
Published: August 2017

Placoderms (Devonian fossil fishes) are resolved phylogenetically to the base of jawed vertebrates and provide important evidence for evolutionary origins of teeth, particularly with respect to the Arthrodira. The arthrodires represent a derived group of placoderms; the dentition of other more primitive placoderms such as the acanthothoracids is less well known. Articulated acanthothoracid dental plates are rare; x‐ray computed tomography of a single, unique specimen, along with 3D segmentation of bone, oral denticles and vascular spaces, provides intrinsic developmental and topological information relevant to tooth origins. Recently, a disarticulated element was identified as a dental plate of the acanthothoracid Romundina stellina, with synchrotron microtomography providing characters to comment on ongoing debates regarding the evolution of teeth. We used segmental quantitative methods to re‐analyse this data, for comparison to the articulated and unquestionable acanthothoracid dental plates above. We demonstrate substantial differences between these, disputing the identity of the isolated plate of R. stellina as a dental plate, and thus its relevance to questions of tooth evolution.
Pragmatic Encroachment and Moral Encroachment
Authors: Fritz James
Published: August 2017

Subject‐sensitive invariantism posits surprising connections between a person's knowledge and features of her environment that are not paradigmatically epistemic features. But which features of a person's environment have this distinctive connection to knowledge? Traditional defenses of subject‐sensitive invariantism emphasize features that matter to the subject of the knowledge‐attribution. Call this pragmatic encroachment. A more radical thesis usually goes ignored: knowledge is sensitive to moral facts, whether or not those moral facts matter to the subject. Call this moral encroachment. This article argues that, insofar as there are good arguments for pragmatic encroachment, there are also good arguments for moral encroachment.
Impact of Bankruptcy Eligibility Requirements and Statutory Liens on Borrowing Costs
Authors: Moldogaziev Tima T. , Kioko Sharon N. , Hildreth W. Bartley
Published: August 2017

While bankruptcy protection remains an instrument of last resort, a recent wave of petitions has aroused the interest of key participants in the municipal bond market. To date, 12 states unconditionally authorize municipalities to file for bankruptcy protection, 15 states require that municipalities satisfy certain threshold requirements, while the remaining 23 states either explicitly prohibit or have not specifically provided this authority to municipal governments. As bankruptcy protection rules influence bondholder risk exposures, we empirically test the significance of the state‐specific bankruptcy eligibility requirements on borrowing costs. In a representative sample of general obligation bonds, empirical results suggest that municipalities eligible to file for bankruptcy protection pay a premium. The premium is higher if issuers are unconditionally authorized to file for bankruptcy protection, especially for debt with longer maturities. Findings also show that there are benefits associated with statutory liens; however, these benefits diminish with maturity.
Regional differences in infant 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D: Pilot study of the Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Ayabe Tadayuki , Yamamoto‐Hanada Kiwako , Mezawa Hidetoshi , Konishi Mizuho , Ishitsuka Kazue , Saito Mayako , Fukami Maki , Michikawa Takehiro , Yamazaki Shin , Senju Ayako , Kusuhara Koichi , Kawamoto Toshihiro , Sanefuji Masafumi , Kato Kiyoko , Oda Masako , Mitsubuchi Hiroshi , Katoh Takahiko , Monden Yukifumi , Mise Nathan , Kayama Fujio , Saito Hirohisa , Ohya Yukihiro
Published: August 2017

Background

In recent years, a resurgence in the number of infants with vitamin D deficiency has been noted. In addition to seasonal differences in exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, regional differences in dietary habits and lifestyles may affect susceptibility to vitamin D deficiency. No studies have been conducted, however, on infants in multiple regions of Japan to determine the extent of differences in vitamin D status.

Methods

25‐Hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) was measured on radioimmunoassay in 126 infants aged 2–4 years, who participated in the Pilot Study of the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS) by the Ministry of Environment of Japan. A multiple regression model with 25OHD level as the outcome variable, and season and region as explanatory variables, was generated.

Results

Both region and season during which infants participated in this study significantly affected 25OHD level (P = 0.0087 and <0.0001, respectively; Wald test). Reflecting decreased exposure to UV rays, infants who were examined in winter had lower 25OHD than those examined in summer. Infants from both Fukuoka Prefecture (33°N) and Kumamoto Prefecture (32°N), however, had lower 25OHD than those from Tochigi Prefecture (36°N), contrary to expectations given the extent of UV exposure.

Conclusions

Regional differences in daily habits and/or environmental factors affect 25OHD level in Japanese infants. The JECS is expected to identify those factors to provide guidance on preventing infantile vitamin D deficiency.
Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria testing in blood transfusion laboratories: do they go with the flow?
Authors: Whitby L. , White J. , Fletcher M. , Whitby A. , Milkins C. , Barnett D.
Published: August 2017

Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare stem cell disorder causing, in untreated patients, symptoms that include renal damage, thrombosis and increased mortality. When correctly diagnosed and treated, patients have reduced symptoms and normal life expectancies. Historically PNH testing resided within blood transfusion laboratories using techniques that were insensitive, for example, the Ham test. However, technology has evolved and flow cytometry is now regarded as the gold standard methodology. Given the clinical importance of diagnosing PNH correctly, we undertook a study to examine PNH testing procedures in blood transfusion laboratories within the UK and Ireland to determine implementation of best practices. An online survey was issued to 386 blood transfusion laboratories in the UK and Ireland requesting details of their current PNH testing practices and procedures. There were 143 responses, representing a 37% response rate. Of these, we identified seven laboratories undertaking PNH testing using obsolete methodologies. Furthermore, multiple centres did not refer samples for confirmatory testing by national PNH reference centres and inclusion on the national PNH disease registry. Staff handling requests for PNH testing should ensure that all samples are tested in accordance with current best practices using only flow cytometry.
The downside of globalisation: Why it matters and what can be done about it
Authors: Collier Sir Paul
Published: August 2017

Globalisation is currently facing populist opposition that may result in a costly increase in protectionism. However, these pressures arise because the adverse effects of globalisation have been ignored. Some of these effects follow directly from elementary economic theory yet have been dismissed by cavalier misunderstandings of welfare economics. An increase in international trade has the potential to make everyone better off, but if those who gain do not actually compensate those who lose, the mere fact that they could do so is not a basis for concluding that the change has enhanced welfare. Other adverse effects can only be understood from recent advances. The link between social interaction and generosity implies that there can be costs to greater trans‐national social connectivity. The interaction of trade with spatial agglomeration can produce powerful transfers, requiring new compensation mechanisms for those who lose. Economists would critique populist misunderstandings more effectively if they also addressed these genuine grievances.
Investigation of subclinical bacteriuria in cats with dermatological disease receiving long‐term glucocorticoids and/or ciclosporin
Authors: Lockwood Samantha L. , Schick Anthea E. , Lewis Thomas P. , Newton Heide
Published: August 2017

Background

Dogs receiving long‐term glucocorticoids or ciclosporin have an increased frequency of bacteriuria. No studies have investigated the frequency of bacteriuria in cats receiving long‐term glucocorticoids and/or ciclosporin.

Hypotheses/Objectives

To document whether subclinical bacteriuria occurs in cats receiving long‐term glucocorticoid and/or ciclosporin for management of chronic disease.

Animals

Thirty two cats treated with parenteral glucocorticoids and/or oral glucocorticoids and/or ciclosporin were included.

Methods

Thirty two cats receiving oral glucocorticoids and/or ciclosporin for at least three months or at least two injections of long‐acting glucocorticoids within the preceding six months were evaluated. Thirty four healthy cats were used as a control group. Urinalysis and urine culture was performed on urine samples collected by cystocentesis from each cat.

Results

In the glucocorticoid/ciclosporin group, none of 32 cats had a positive urine culture. In the control group, one of 34 cats had a positive urine culture. There were no statistically significant differences between the urinalyses from either group.

Conclusions and Clinical importance

There was no evidence to suggest that administration of long‐term glucocorticoids and/or ciclosporin is associated with bacteriuria in cats.
Hepatitis E virus RNA in Australian blood donors: prevalence and risk assessment
Authors: Hoad V. C. , Seed C. R. , Fryk J. J. , Harley R. , Flower R. L. P. , Hogema B. M. , Kiely P. , Faddy H. M.
Published: August 2017

Background and Objectives

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a known transfusion‐transmissible agent. HEV infection has increased in prevalence in many developed nations with RNA detection in donors as high as 1 in 600. A high proportion of HEV infections are asymptomatic and therefore not interdicted by donor exclusion criteria. To manage the HEV transfusion‐transmission (TT) risk some developed nations have implemented HEV RNA screening. In Australia, HEV is rarely notified; although locally acquired infections have been reported, and the burden of disease is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of HEV infection in Australian donors and associated TT risk.

Materials and Methods

Plasma samples (n = 74 131) were collected from whole blood donors during 2016 and screened for HEV RNA by transcription‐mediated amplification (TMA) in pools of six. Individual TMA reactive samples were confirmed by RT‐PCR and, if positive, viral load determined. Prevalence data from the study were used to model the HEV‐TT risk.

Results

One sample in 74 131 (95% CI: 1 in 1 481 781 to 1 in 15 031) was confirmed positive for HEV RNA, with an estimated viral load of 180 IU/ml, which is below that typically associated with TT. Using a transmission‐risk model, we estimated the risk of an adverse outcome associated with TT‐HEV of approximately 1 in 3·5 million components transfused.

Conclusion

Hepatitis E virus viremia is rare in Australia and lower than the published RNA prevalence estimates of other developed countries. The risk of TT‐HEV adverse outcomes is negligible, and HEV RNA donor screening is not currently indicated.
KNOWING OURSELVES BY TELLING STORIES TO OURSELVES
Authors: Teske John A.
Published: August 2017

Part of the epistemological crisis of the twentieth century was caused by empirically establishing that introspection provides little reliable self‐knowledge. While we all have full actual selves to which our self‐representations do not do full justice, we focus on the formation and existence of a narrative self, and on problematic reliability. We will explore the cognitive neuroscience behind its limitations, including pathological forms of confabulation, the generation of plausible but insufficiently grounded accounts of our actions, and the normal patterns of narrative creation and checking. The evolutionary logic of self‐deception may produce adaptive results, particularly in service of the “commitment strategies” that give our species results otherwise unobtainable. It is largely in our close relationships with other human beings, the relationships so well served by these very strategies, that we may find the powerful counterbalancing feedback which may provide positive change and self‐transcendence. Nevertheless, we will also warn about a shadow side for which religion can provide both acknowledgment and hope.
RIGHT‐WING POSTMODERNISM AND THE RATIONALITY OF TRADITIONS
Authors: Cary Phillip
Published: August 2017

Modern thought typically opposes the authority of tradition in the name of universal reason. Postmodernism begins with the insight that the sociohistorical context of tradition and its authority is inevitable, even in modernity. Modernity can no longer take itself for granted when it recognizes itself as a tradition that is opposed to traditions. The left‐wing postmodernist response to this insight (represented, e.g., by Jacques Derrida and Michel Foucault) is to conclude that because tradition is inevitable, irrationality is inevitable. The right‐wing postmodernist response (represented, e.g., by Hans‐Georg Gadamer and Alasdair MacIntyre) is to see traditions as the home of diverse forms of rationality. This requires an understanding of the Socratic, self‐critical aspect of intellectual traditions, which include both modern sciences and the great world religions.
CAN WE STILL TALK ABOUT “TRUTH” AND “PROGRESS” IN INTERDISCIPLINARY THINKING TODAY?
Authors: van Huyssteen J. Wentzel
Published: August 2017

On a cultural level, and for Christian theology as part of a long tradition in the evolution of religion, evolutionary epistemology “sets the stage,” as it were, for understanding the deep evolutionary impact of our ancestral history on the evolution of culture, and eventually on the evolution of disciplinary and interdisciplinary reflection. In the process of the evolution of human knowledge, our interpreted experiences and expectations of the world (and of the ultimate questions we humans typically pose to the world) have a central role to play. What evolutionary epistemology also shows us is that we humans can indeed take on cognitive goals and ideals that cannot be explained or justified in terms of survival‐promotion or reproductive advantage only. Therefore, once the capacities for rational knowledge, moral sensibility, aesthetic appreciation of beauty, and the propensity for religious belief have emerged in our biological history, they cannot be explained only in biological/evolutionary terms. Finally, in this way a door is opened for seeing problem solving as a central activity of our research traditions. As philosophers of science have argued, one of the most important shared rational resources between even widely divergent disciplines is problem solving as the most central and defining activity of all research traditions. As will become clear, the very diverse reasoning strategies of theology and the sciences clearly overlap in their shared quests for intelligible problem solving, including problem solving on an empirical, experiential, and conceptual level.
Maternal voluntary physical activity attenuates delayed neurodevelopment in malnourished rats
Authors: Fragoso Jéssica , Lira Allan de Oliveira , Chagas Guilherme Souza , Lucena Cavalcanti Carolina Cadete , Beserra Renata , de Santana‐Muniz Gisélia , Bento‐Santos Adriano , Martins Gerffeson , Pirola Luciano , da Silva Aragão Raquel , Leandro Carol Góis
Published: August 2017

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

In the present study, a reproducible model of maternal voluntary physical activity was developed to evaluate the adaptive response of physical activity by attenuating the effects of maternal undernutrition on physical features, reflex ontogeny and growth trajectory of offspring during development.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Maternal physical activity may induce neuronal maturation of sensorimotor connections impacting on the patterns of locomotor activity in malnourished offspring. Thus, physical activity should be considered as a therapeutic means of countering the effects of maternal undernutrition, by providing a useful strategy for enhancing the neuronal activity of children born to mothers who experience a restricted diet during pregnancy.

This study evaluated the effects of maternal voluntary physical activity during pregnancy and lactation on somatic growth (SG), reflex ontogeny (RO) and locomotor activity (LA) of rats whose mothers were protein restricted. Virgin female Wistar rats were divided into the following six groups: control, normal protein (C‐NP, n = 4); control, low protein (C‐LP, n = 4); inactive, normal protein (I‐NP, n = 8); inactive, low protein (I‐LP, n = 7); very active, normal protein (VA‐NP, n = 8); and very active, low protein (VA‐LP, n = 6). Voluntary physical activity was recorded daily in dams. The LP groups were fed an 8% casein diet, whereas control groups were fed a 17% casein diet during pregnancy and lactation. Offspring were evaluated in terms of SG (body weight and length, latero‐lateral skull axis and anteroposterior head axis) and RO (palmar grasp, righting, free‐fall righting, negative geotaxis, cliff avoidance, auditory startle response and vibrissa placing). The LA was evaluated at 23, 45 and 60 days old in the open field. Voluntary physical activity was reduced during pregnancy and lactation independent of the maternal diet. Pups from LP dams showed delayed SG, reflex maturation and patterns of LA when compared with control pups. The C‐LP and I‐LP pups showed a delayed SG, RO and LA. Pups from VA‐LP mothers showed no delay in SG and RO and presented a faster development of patterns of LA. Maternal voluntary physical activity attenuated the effects of LP diet on indicators of neurodevelopment and patterns of LA of offspring.
An Adaptive Centralized Approach to Control Chaotic and Hyperchaotic Dynamics of Smart Valves Network
Authors: Naseradinmousavi Peiman , Ashrafiuon Hashem , Ayoubi Mohammad A.
Published: August 2017

Catastrophic chaotic and hyperchaotic dynamical behaviors have been experimentally observed in the so-called “smart valves” network, given certain critical parameters and initial conditions. The centralized network-based control of these coupled systems may effectively mitigate the harmful dynamics of the valve-actuator configuration which can be potentially caused by a remote set and would gradually affect the whole network. In this work, we address the centralized control of two bi-directional solenoid actuated butterfly valves dynamically coupled in series subject to the chaotic and hyperchaotic dynamics. An interconnected adaptive scheme is developed and examined to vanish both the chaotic and hyperchaotic dynamics and return the coupled network to its safe domain of operation.
Rotations of Pendulum When Its Pivot Oscillates Chaotically
Authors: Teh Sze-Hong , Woo Ko-Choong , Demrdash Hazem
Published: August 2017

This paper investigates the possibility of energy generation via pendulum rotations when the source of vertical excitation is chaotic in nature. The investigations are conducted using an additional height-adjustable mechanism housing a secondary spring to optimize a configuration of experimental pendulum setup. Chaotic oscillations of the pendulum pivot are made possible at certain excitation conditions due to a piecewise-linear stiffness characteristic introduced by the modification. A velocity control method is applied to maintain the rotational motion of the pendulum as it interacts with the vertical oscillator. The control input is affected by a motor, and a generator is used to quantify the energy extraction. The experimental results imply the feasibility of employing a pendulum device in a chaotic vibratory environment for energy harvesting purpose.
Global Positioning System Denied Navigation of Autonomous Parafoil Systems Using Beacon Measurements From a Single Location
Authors: Cacan Martin R. , Costello Mark , Scheuermann Edward
Published: August 2017

Precision-guided airdrop systems have shown considerable accuracy improvements over more widely used unguided systems through high-quality position, velocity, and time feedback provided by global positioning system (GPS). These systems, like many autonomous vehicles, have become solely dependent on GPS to conduct mission operations. This necessity makes airdrop systems susceptible to GPS blackout in mountainous or urban terrain due to multipathing issues or from signal jamming in active military zones. This work overcomes loss of GPS through an analysis of guidance, navigation and control (GNC) capabilities using a single radio frequency (RF) beacon located at the target. Such a device can be deployed at the target by ground crew on site to retrieve package delivery. Two novel GNC algorithms are presented, which use either range from or direction to a RF beacon. Simulation and experimental flight testing results indicated that beacon-based methods can achieve similar results as GPS-based methods. This technology provides a simple and elegant solution to GPS blackout with best method studied showing only a 21% decrease in landing accuracy in comparison to GPS-based methods.
High Strain Rate Behavior of Carbon Nanotubes Reinforced Aluminum Foams
Authors: Aldoshan Abdelhakim , Mondal D. P. , Khanna Sanjeev
Published: August 2017

The mechanical behavior of closed-cell aluminum foam composites under different compressive loadings has been investigated. Closed-cell aluminum foam composites made using the liquid metallurgy route were reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with different concentrations, namely, 1%, 2%, and 3% by weight. The reinforced foams were experimentally tested under dynamic compression using the split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) system over a range of strain rates (up to 2200 s−1). For comparison, aluminum foams were also tested under quasi-static compression. It was observed that closed-cell aluminum foam composites are strain rate sensitive. The mechanical properties of CNT reinforced Al-foams, namely, yield stress, plateau stress, and energy absorption capacity are significantly higher than that of monolithic Al-foam under both low and high strain rates.