bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computer-Assisted Analysis of Qualitative Research
Authors: Silver Christina , Lewins Ann F.
Published: July 2014

This chapter looks at the current state of technological support for qualitative research. Technological developments have enabled new forms of data and other analyses to be incorporated into qualitative work. The chapter focuses on technology and how it assists three main aspects of qualitative research: data collection, preparation, and/or transcription; bibliographic management and systematic literature reviews; and data management and analysis. The main body of the chapter discusses the functionality, role, and implications of Computer Assisted Qualitative Data AnalysiS (CAQDAS) tools. Three recent trends in computer assistance are emphasized: support for visual analysis, support for mixed methods approaches, and online solutions.
Dreams and Visions in Early Jewish and Early Christian Apocalypses and Apocalypticism
Authors: Flannery Frances
Published: July 2014

This chapter focuses on the prevalence of dreams and visions in early Jewish and early Christian apocalypses and apocalypticism. Beginning with a discussion of dream and vision traditions in the ancient Near East and Mediterranean, it turns to dream and vision traditions in the early Jewish and Christian apocalyptic literature, noting the distinctive transformations of visionary traditions in the apocalypses. It concludes by sketching some trends in scholarship on dreams and visions in the apocalypses.
Apocalypticism and Christian Origins
Authors: Collins Adela Yarbro
Published: July 2014

The publication of previously little known ancient apocalyptic works, including the Ethiopic Book of Enoch or 1 Enoch, led to the scholarly rediscovery of apocalypticism in the nineteenth century. However, it took most of the nineteenth century before the full impact of the new perspective on Jewish apocalypticism on the interpretation of the New Testament could be felt. Apocalypticism provides the narratives and symbolic systems that inspired Jesus, John the Baptist, the apostle Paul, and the earliest community after Easter. This chapter explores the link between apocalypticism and the origins of Christianity.
Apocalypticism in Contemporary Christianity
Authors: Frykholm Amy Johnson
Published: July 2014

Apocalyptic culture in contemporary American encompasses a wide range of ideologies and preoccupations, from UFOs and comets to messiahs, Marian cults, and Mayan calendars. The story of Jesus Christ’s return to earth, which is a part of Christianity, has been central to American apocalypticism. The most common form of Christian apocalypticism in contemporary America is “dispensational premillennialism.” This chapter examines apocalypticism in contemporary Christianity in America. It first discusses the concept of dispensational premillennialism before turning to apocalyptic determinism. It then considers the structure of an apocalyptic worldview, prophecy belief as a lens through which the world is read, the role of mass media in communicating and disseminating apocalypticism, the promotion and protection of the “interests of Israel” on the world stage, and the complexities of Christian Zionism’s orientation to Israel.
Free Will
Authors: Proust Joëlle
Published: July 2014

Determinism—the idea that we have no power to do otherwise than we do— denies free will; therefore having the capacity to do otherwise means that determinism does not hold. However, the concept of responsibility creates a motivation for making determinism and free will compatible—for arguing, in an “incompatibilist” vein, that the human brain is not subject to deterministic laws. Libertarianism—the view that human agency allows exceptions to occur in mind-brain activity—is untenable in the light of current evidence about human cognition. Compatibilism holds that an agent with no power to do otherwise can still enjoy free will. Frankfurt’s theory of a layered will is discussed, as is neuroscientific evidence in favor of Frankfurt’s model. It allows for a form of compatibilism in which an agent may be somewhat in control of what she does, depending on her environment, and thereby have a will that is somewhat free.
The Role of Religion in the “Arab Spring”
Authors: Muedini Fait
Published: July 2014

This chapter examines the role of religion in the Arab uprisings as well as the influence of religion after the uprisings and in the first postrevolutionary elections. It begins by analyzing the role of the various Islamist parties, arguing that in many cases the Islamist parties played only a limited role in the revolutions. While the protesters themselves represented various social, political, and economic groups and were demonstrating against authoritarian governments, often for nonreligious reasons, the Islamist parties also understood that being the image of the uprisings would be risky for their respective organizations because their heavy involvement would upset non-Islamist protesters and also that a strong Islamist presence in the protests could spark government action against them. The chapter then briefly examines the level of influence and electoral success of Islamist parties in the politics of Tunisia, Egypt, and Morocco while also discussing the role of religion after the uprisings.
Integrated phenotypes: understanding trait covariation in plants and animals
Authors: Armbruster W. Scott , Pélabon Christophe , Bolstad Geir H. , Hansen Thomas F.
Published: July 2014

Integration and modularity refer to the patterns and processes of trait interaction and independence. Both terms have complex histories with respect to both conceptualization and quantification, resulting in a plethora of integration indices in use. We review briefly the divergent definitions, uses and measures of integration and modularity and make conceptual links to allometry. We also discuss how integration and modularity might evolve. Although integration is generally thought to be generated and maintained by correlational selection, theoretical considerations suggest the relationship is not straightforward. We caution here against uncontrolled comparisons of indices across studies. In the absence of controls for trait number, dimensionality, homology, development and function, it is difficult, or even impossible, to compare integration indices across organisms or traits. We suggest that care be invested in relating measurement to underlying theory or hypotheses, and that summative, theory-free descriptors of integration generally be avoided. The papers that follow in this Theme Issue illustrate the diversity of approaches to studying integration and modularity, highlighting strengths and pitfalls that await researchers investigating integration in plants and animals.
Studying morphological integration and modularity at multiple levels: concepts and analysis
Authors: Klingenberg Christian Peter
Published: July 2014

Although most studies on integration and modularity have focused on variation among individuals within populations or species, this is not the only level of variation for which integration and modularity exist. Multiple levels of biological variation originate from distinct sources: genetic variation, phenotypic plasticity resulting from environmental heterogeneity, fluctuating asymmetry from random developmental variation and, at the interpopulation or interspecific levels, evolutionary change. The processes that produce variation at all these levels can impart integration or modularity on the covariance structure among morphological traits. In turn, studies of the patterns of integration and modularity can inform about the underlying processes. In particular, the methods of geometric morphometrics offer many advantages for such studies because they can characterize the patterns of morphological variation in great detail and maintain the anatomical context of the structures under study. This paper reviews biological concepts and analytical methods for characterizing patterns of variation and for comparing across levels. Because research comparing patterns across level has only just begun, there are relatively few results, generalizations are difficult and many biological and statistical questions remain unanswered. Nevertheless, it is clear that research using this approach can take advantage of an abundance of new possibilities that are so far largely unexplored.
The macroevolutionary consequences of phenotypic integration: from development to deep time
Authors: Goswami A. , Smaers J. B. , Soligo C. , Polly P. D.
Published: July 2014

Phenotypic integration is a pervasive characteristic of organisms. Numerous analyses have demonstrated that patterns of phenotypic integration are conserved across large clades, but that significant variation also exists. For example, heterochronic shifts related to different mammalian reproductive strategies are reflected in postcranial skeletal integration and in coordination of bone ossification. Phenotypic integration and modularity have been hypothesized to shape morphological evolution, and we extended simulations to confirm that trait integration can influence both the trajectory and magnitude of response to selection. We further demonstrate that phenotypic integration can produce both more and less disparate organisms than would be expected under random walk models by repartitioning variance in preferred directions. This effect can also be expected to favour homoplasy and convergent evolution. New empirical analyses of the carnivoran cranium show that rates of evolution, in contrast, are not strongly influenced by phenotypic integration and show little relationship to morphological disparity, suggesting that phenotypic integration may shape the direction of evolutionary change, but not necessarily the speed of it. Nonetheless, phenotypic integration is problematic for morphological clocks and should be incorporated more widely into models that seek to accurately reconstruct both trait and organismal evolution.
Genetic constraints predict evolutionary divergence inDalechampiablossoms
Authors: Bolstad Geir H. , Hansen Thomas F. , Pélabon Christophe , Falahati-Anbaran Mohsen , Pérez-Barrales Rocío , Armbruster W. Scott
Published: July 2014

If genetic constraints are important, then rates and direction of evolution should be related to trait evolvability. Here we use recently developed measures of evolvability to test the genetic constraint hypothesis with quantitative genetic data on floral morphology from the Neotropical vineDalechampia scandens(Euphorbiaceae). These measures were compared against rates of evolution and patterns of divergence among 24 populations in two species in theD. scandensspecies complex. We found clear evidence for genetic constraints, particularly among traits that were tightly phenotypically integrated. This relationship between evolvability and evolutionary divergence is puzzling, because the estimated evolvabilities seem too large to constitute real constraints. We suggest that this paradox can be explained by a combination of weak stabilizing selection around moving adaptive optima and small realized evolvabilities relative to the observed additive genetic variance.
Inaugural: A Necessary Disenchantment: Myth, Agency and Injustice in a Digital World
Authors: Couldry Nick
Published: July 2014

This lecture reviews the history of how the status and authority of media institutions over the past century have been entangled with wider claims about social knowledge and the order of societies. It analyses those relations in terms of three successive and now overlapping myths: ‘the myth of the mediated centre’ which claims that media (traditional mass media institutions) are privileged access points to our centre of social values and social reality; the ‘myth of us’ which is now emerging around the supposedly natural collectivities that ‘we’ form on commercial social media platforms; and, from outside the media industries, the ‘myth of big data’ which proclaims big data techniques are generating an entirely new and better form of social knowledge. All these myths require deconstruction by a particular hermeneutic, but the case of the myth of big data is the most paradoxical, since its claims amount to an anti-hermeneutic, a refusal to interpret the social anymore as the resultant of processes of meaning-making. This third myth, it is argued, requires a hermeneutic of the anti-hermeneutic if it is to be deconstructed and previous conceptions of social knowledge (from Weber onwards), and the claims to possible justice and politics based upon them, are to be preserved.
In or out: job exits of older workers
Authors: Perera Sanjeewa , Sardeshmukh Shruti R , Kulik Carol T
Published: July 2014

As the proportion of older workers in the labour market increases, there is a greater need to identify ways to engage and retain mature age workers. In 2011, we interviewed 24 older workers who had recently left full‐time employment in Australia. We found that the exit decisions of older workers are more complex than the dichotomous choice between staying and retiring. We identified three distinct decision options: retire, change jobs or take a break from the labour market. Work intensification and discrete personal or work events influenced the decision to retire or take a break from the labour market. Work dissatisfaction influenced the decision to exit the organisation but not the labour market. Our findings point towards the importance of flexibility, job redesign and supportive work practices in retaining mature age talent that might otherwise be lost to dissatisfaction and work intensification.
The histone deacetylase inhibitor sodium butyrate decreases excessive ethanol intake in dependent animals
Authors: Simon‐O'Brien Emmanuelle , Alaux‐Cantin Stéphanie , Warnault Vincent , Buttolo Romain , Naassila Mickaël , Vilpoux Catherine
Published: July 2014

Converging evidence indicates that epigenetic mechanisms are involved in drug addiction, and that enzymes involved in chromatin remodeling may represent interesting targets in addiction treatment. No study has addressed whether histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (HDACi) can reduce excessive ethanol intake or prevent relapse in alcohol‐dependent animals. Here, we assessed the effects of two HDACi, sodium butyrate (NaB) and MS‐275, in the operant ethanol self‐administration paradigm in dependent and non‐dependent rats. To characterize some of the epigenetic mechanisms associated with alcohol dependence and NaB treatment, we measured the levels of histone H3 acetylation in different brain areas of dependent and non‐dependent rats, submitted or not to NaB treatment. Our results demonstrated that (1) NaB and MS‐275 strongly decreased excessive alcohol intake of dependent rats in the operant ethanol self‐administration paradigm but not of non‐dependent rats; (2) NaB reduced excessive drinking and prevented the escalation of ethanol intake in the intermittent access to 20% ethanol paradigm; and (3) NaB completely blocked the increase of ethanol consumption induced by an alcohol deprivation, thus demonstrating a preventive effect of NaB on relapse. The mapping of cerebral histone H3 acetylation revealed a hyperacetylation in the amygdala and cortical areas in dependent rats. Interestingly, NaB did not exacerbate the hyperacetylation observed in these regions, but instead restored it, specifically in cortical areas. Altogether, our results clearly demonstrated the efficacy of NaB in preventing excessive ethanol intake and relapse and support the hypothesis that HDACi may have a potential use in alcohol addiction treatment.
Effects of a selection of additives on in vitro ruminal methanogenesis and in situ and in vivo NDF digestibility
Authors: Pirondini Mario , Colombini Stefania , Malagutti Luca , Rapetti Luca , Galassi Gianluca , Zanchi Raffaella , Crovetto Gianni Matteo
Published: July 2014

The effects of 18 essential oils, yeast, Quebracho tannin and Quillaja saponin on ruminal methane and gas production (GP) were studied in vitro. A lactating cow diet was incubated with rumen inoculum. Doses of the additives (mg/L) were: essential oils = 500; tannin = 67; yeast = 8.35 and 16.7; and saponin = 300. Lemongrass, estragole, eugenol, geraniol, limonen, thyme oil and thymol produced less gas (overall mean 33.8 mL/200 mg dry matter (DM)) than control (43.6 mL/200 mg DM; P < 0.001). Methane produced (mL/200 mg DM) by guaiacol (10.7), lemongrass (9.6), limonene (11.4), thyme oil (10.9) and thymol (2.1) was lower than control (12.5) (P < 0.001). Methane percentage on total GP was lower (P < 0.001) for cinnamic alcohol (25.4), guaiacol (24.5), thymol (19.7) and vanillin (26.3) than control (28.8). In a second experiment, thymol, guaiacol and yeast were added to the diet of dry fistulated cows to determine in situ neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) of six forages and in vivo dietary NDFD. Thymol and yeast decreased in situ NDFD after 24 h (33.9% and 33.5% vs. 38.1%; P = 0.008). Thymol decreased in vivo total tract NDFD (40.8% vs. 51.4%; P = 0.02). Differences in GP and methane levels were registered within classes of additives. A careful selection of additives may allow for the manipulation of ruminal fermentation.
Associations of retinal oximetry in persons with diabetes
Authors: Man Ryan EK , Sasongko Muhammad B , Xie Jing , Kawasaki Ryo , Best William J , Noonan Jonathan E , Luu Chi D , Wang Jie Jin , Lamoureux Ecosse L
Published: July 2014

Background

There are limited data available on the variables that might affect retinal vessel oxygen saturation (SO2) in diabetes. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess factors associated with retinal oximetry values in persons with diabetes.

Design

Clinic‐based cross‐sectional study.

Participants

Fifty‐eight persons with diabetes aged 18+ years, recruited from the University of Melbourne, the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, and St. Vincent's Hospital (Melbourne), Australia.

Methods

Retinal oximetry was performed using the oximetry module of the Vesselmap system (Imedos UG, Jena, Germany) in 92 diabetic eyes. Generalized estimating equation models were used to estimate the associations between candidate variables (age; gender; retinal capillary flow; duration of diabetes; hypertension; smoking status; presence of diabetic retinopathy [DR]; glycated haemoglobin; triglyceride; total cholesterol; finger SO2 and ocular perfusion pressure) with retinal oximetry measures.

Main Outcome Measure

Arteriolar SO2, venular SO2 and the arterio‐venous (A‐V) difference.

Results

Of the candidate factors assessed, only the presence of DR was significantly associated with increased venular SO2 and decreased A‐V difference in unadjusted analyses. In models adjusting for age and gender and significant variables from unadjusted analyses, compared with no DR, the presence of DR was significantly associated with greater retinal venular SO2 values (β = 3.65%, 95% confidence interval: 0.67–6.63%) and decreased A‐V difference (β = −2.00%, 95% confidence interval: −3.46 to −0.53%).

Conclusion

In patients with diabetes, eyes with DR were associated with increased venular SO2 and decreased A‐V difference compared with eyes without DR, suggesting an altered metabolic state in DR.
The effect of implant diameter on osseointegration utilizing simplified drilling protocols
Authors: Jimbo Ryo , Janal Malvin N. , Marin Charles , Giro Gabriela , Tovar Nick , Coelho Paulo G.
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To observe and to compare histologically and histomorphometrically, the combined effect of drilling sequence and implant diameter in vivo.

Material and Methods

A total of 72 alumina‐blasted and acid‐etched Ti‐6Al‐4V implants with three different diameters (3.75, 4.2, and 5 mm, n = 24 for each group) were placed in the right and left tibiae of 12 beagle dogs. Within the same diameter group, half of the implants were inserted after a simplified drilling procedure (pilot drill + final diameter drill) on one tibia and the other half were placed using the conventional drilling procedure on the other tibia. After 1 week, half of the animals (n = 6) were sacrificed, and the other half was sacrificed after 5 weeks (n = 6). The retrieved bone‐implant samples were subjected to non‐decalcified histologic sectioning, and the bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) and the bone area fraction occupancy (BAFO) were analyzed. Primary statistical analysis used a mixed model analysis of variance with significance level set at P < 0.05.

Results

Histologic observation showed that at 1 week, immature woven bone formed in vicinity of the implant, whereas at 5 weeks, the woven bone was replaced by lamellar bone, which formed in proximity with the implant.

Histomorphometrically, the simplified technique was associated with significantly greater BIC and BAFO after 1 week. Differences between techniques were not longer apparent after 5 weeks, but BAFO was inversely and significantly associated with implant diameter at that time.

Conclusions

The simplified technique did not impair either early or late bone formation for any tested implant diameter; however, wider diameters were associated with less bone formation at longer healing times for both techniques.
Musical auditory stimulation at different intensities and its effects on the geometric indices of heart‐rate variability
Authors: do Amaral Joice AT , Guida Heraldo L , Nogueira Marcela L , Roque Adriano L , de Abreu Luiz Carlos , Raimundo Rodrigo D , Ferreira Celso , Valenti Vitor E
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Previous studies have shown that relaxation music increases the heart's parasympathetic modulation as well as reducing its sympathetic activity. However, what is lacking in the literature is information on the acute effects of different intensities of music on cardiac autonomic regulation. We aimed to evaluate the acute effects of baroque and heavy‐metal music on cardiac autonomic regulation at different intensities.

Method

The study was performed in 16 healthy men aged between 18 and 25 years. The main outcomes were the geometric indices of heart‐rate variability (HRV) [i.e. triangular index (RRtri); triangular interpolation of RR intervals (TINN) and Poincaré plot: SD1, SD2 and SD1/SD2 ratio]. First, HRV was recorded at rest for 10 min. The volunteers were then exposed to baroque or heavy‐metal music for 5 min through an earphone; subjects were exposed to each song at three different sound levels (60–70, 70–80 and 80–90 decibels). After the first song, subjects remained at rest for 5 min before being exposed to the next song. The sequence of songs and sound intensity were randomised for each individual.

Results

Musical auditory stimulation with baroque music did not influence the geometric indices of HRV. The same was observed with heavy‐metal musical auditory stimulation at the three sound‐level ranges.

Conclusion

Musical auditory stimulation at different sound intensities did not influence the geometric indices of HRV in men.
iPad Technology for Home Rehabilitation after Stroke (iHOME): A Proof-of-Concept Randomized Trial
Authors: Saposnik Gustavo , Chow Chi-Ming , Gladstone David , Cheung Donna , Brawer Edward , Thorpe Kevin E. , Saldanha Avon , Dang Alice , Bayley Mark , Schweizer Tom A. ,   on behalf of the iHOME Research Team for the Stroke Outcomes Research Canada Working Group
Published: July 2014

Background

Tablets are a novel line of computers controlled by a multitouch screen. Fine motor movements are captured on the tablet computer through electrical fields and can be qualitatively and quantitatively assessed. Evidence is limited on tablet use for stroke rehabilitation.

Methods

iHOME is an investigator-initiated randomized controlled pilot trial with a single-blinded outcome assessment. The intervention consists of iPad use (investigational group) vs. usual care (control group) among patients receiving conventional outpatient rehabilitation. Eligibility includes aged 18–85 years who experienced a mild ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke (as diagnosed on neuroimaging and determined by the Chedoke–McMaster score ⩾3. The STROKE REHAB® software for the iPad was specifically designed for patients with fine motor weakness and/or neglect. Of the total 30 patients, 20 will be in iHOME Acute (enrolled within three-months of stroke onset) and 10 patients in iHOME Chronic (enrolled more than six-months from onset).

Outcome measures

The primary feasibility outcome is the proportion of the scheduled iPad time used (more than 70% (⩾140 mins) of the total “dose’ of intervention intended will be considered successful). Efficacy in fine motor movements will be assessed using the nine-hole peg test; time to magnify and pop the balloons in the iPad software application, and improvement in Wolf Motor Function Test.

Conclusions

iHOME is a randomized controlled trial assessing the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of tablet technology for home use in stroke rehabilitation. The results of this study will serve as the basis for a larger multicenter trial.
Senescence marker protein‐30/gluconolactonase deficiency exacerbates diabetic nephropathy through tubular injury in a mouse model of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Okada Hiroshi , Senmaru Takafumi , Fukui Michiaki , Kondo Yoshitaka , Ishigami Akihito , Maruyama Naoki , Obayashi Hiroshi , Yamazaki Masahiro , Nakamura Naoto , Hasegawa Goji
Published: July 2014

Aims/Introduction

Senescence marker protein‐30 (SMP30) is abundantly expressed in renal proximal tubule cells, but its expression decreases with age. Previous studies have shown that reduced SMP30 expression could contribute to aging‐associated deterioration of cellular function and tissue injury. In the present study, we investigated the effects of SMP30 deficiency on the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.

Materials and Methods

Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin in male SMP30 knockout mice (KO) and wild‐type mice at 7 weeks‐of‐age. Vitamin C was added to the drinking water to prevent vitamin C deficiency in KO mice. The mice were killed 12 weeks after the induction of diabetes.

Results

Urinary biomarkers for proximal tubule damage were significantly increased in non‐diabetic KO mice compared with wild‐type mice. Furthermore, diabetes‐induced tubular damage was significantly exacerbated by SMP30 deletion. Morphological analysis showed a link between cortical tubulointerstitial fibrosis area and the degree of tubular damage. However, SMP30 deletion did not affect mesangial expansion. Tubular injury was associated with accumulation of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α and increased hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α targeted gene expression. SMP30 deletion initiated oxidative stress; however, it did not exacerbate the oxidative stress seen in diabetic mice. In contrast, tubular inflammation was associated with SMP30 deletion only in diabetic mice.

Conclusions

Based on this evidence, we concluded that SMP30 deficiency exacerbates proximal tubule injury in diabetic mice. Decreased SMP30 could contribute to the increased incidence of various chronic kidney diseases, including diabetic nephropathy, with age.
Relationship between genuine and pseudohalitosis and social anxiety disorder
Authors: Kursun S. , Acar B. , Atakan C. , Öztas B. , Paksoy C. S.
Published: July 2014

Halitosis is described as offensive breath caused by various factors such as periodontal diseases, bacterial coating of tongue, systemic disorders and different types of foods. Pseudohalitosis is a situation that patients complain of oral malodor even though they do not have offensive odour. The purpose of this study was to compare the relationships between social anxiety estimations and both pseudohalitosis and genuine halitosis cases. Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) and questionnaire regarding halitosis were applied to 100 participants. Halitosis was determined using organoleptic method, gas chromatography and portable sulphur monitor. anova test and 2‐tailed Spearman's rank‐order correlation coefficient were used to determine the differences and relations between groups. With reference to LSAS, 62% of participants had anxiety. Among these patients, 98% had genuine halitosis (P < 0·05). The mean measurements of VSC values were 248·65 ppm in halimeter, 298·02 ppm of H2S, 95·33 ppm of CH3SH and 47·00 ppm of (CH3)2S in gas chromatography. Halitosis was present in 90% of participants, and it was absent in 10% by organoleptic assessment. There was a significant correlation between organoleptic and halimeter measurements. Moreover, statistically significant relationship was detected between anxiety and halitosis. Genuine halitosis patients exhibit social anxiety, so it can be said that there is a causal relationship between halitosis and anxiety. Comparison of the results of objective measurements (sulphur monitor, gas chromatography, organoleptic method) was statistically significant; therefore, it can be said that these methods can be used in diagnosis of halitosis with high accuracy.
Diagnostic accuracy of portable instrumental devices to measure sleep bruxism: a systematic literature review of polysomnographic studies
Authors: Manfredini D. , Ahlberg J. , Castroflorio T. , Poggio C. E. , Guarda‐Nardini L. , Lobbezoo F.
Published: July 2014

This study systematically reviews the sleep bruxism (SB) literature published in the MEDLINE and Scopus databases to answer the following question: What is the validity of the different portable instrumental devices that have been proposed to measure SB if compared with polysomnographic (PSG) recordings assumed as the gold standard?

Four clinical studies on humans, assessing the diagnostic accuracy of portable instrumental approaches (i.e. Bitestrip, electromyography (EMG)‐telemetry recordings and Bruxoff) with respect to PSG, were included in the review. Methodological shortcomings were identified by QUADAS‐2 quality assessment. Findings showed contrasting results and supported only in part the validity of the described diagnostic devices with respect to PSG. The positive predictive value (PPV) of the Bitestrip device was 59–100%, with a sensitivity of 71–84·2%, whilst EMG‐telemetry recordings had an unacceptable rate of false‐positive findings (76·9%), counterbalanced by an almost perfect sensitivity (98·8%). The Bruxoff device had the highest accuracy values, showing an excellent agreement with PSG for both manual (area under ROC = 0·98) and automatic scoring (0·96) options as well as for the simultaneous recording of events with respect to PSG (0·89–0·91).

It can be concluded that the available information on the validity of portable instrumental diagnostic approaches with respect to PSG recordings is still scarce and not solid enough to support any non‐PSG technique's employ as a stand‐alone diagnostic method in the research setting, with the possible exception of the Bruxoff device that needs to be further confirmed with future investigations.
The effects of ADL on recovery of swallowing function in stroke patients after acute phase
Authors: Nakayama E. , Tohara H. , Hino T. , Sato M. , Hiraba H. , Abe K. , Ueda K.
Published: July 2014

This study aimed to examine the association between the degree of recovery from dysphagia and changes in functional independence measure (FIM) items in stroke patients after acute phase by conducting a historical cohort study, because none explains the effects of activities of daily living (ADL) on recovery of swallowing function. Study patients included hospitalised stroke patients after acute phase in whom dysphagia was confirmed (n = 72). Change in nutritional intake method score was examined for association with age, days from stroke onset to admission, length of hospital stay and change in FIM score. Moreover, to examine characteristics of patients who were removed from tube feeding, all patients who required tube feeding at the time of admission were divided into two groups comprising those who required tube feeding at discharge and those who did not. A significant and positive association was observed between change in nutritional intake method and FIM for all items other than self‐care of bathing, locomotion of stairs and problem solving. Patients who were removed from tube feeding were significantly younger than those who required tube feeding at the time of discharge (P < 0·041) and also showed significantly higher FIM scores for transfer and all cognitive FIM items at the time of admission (P < 0·05). This study demonstrated that nutritional intake methods improve in conjunction with FIM improvements in patients with dysphagia following the acute phase of stroke. Our results suggest that the age and cognitive function may influence the recovery of patient ability of oral intake.
Sexual Dysfunction at the Onset of Type 2 Diabetes: The Interplay of Depression, Hormonal and Cardiovascular Factors
Authors: Corona Giovanni , Giorda Carlo B. , Cucinotta Domenico , Guida Piero , Nada Elisa
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Several data have emphasized the importance of early diagnosis of erectile dysfunction (ED) and meticulous cardiovascular investigation in the type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) patients.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of ED and its associated determinants in a sample of male patients with new or recently diagnosed T2DM.

Methods

The SUBITO-DE study is an observational, multicenter, prospective study involving 27 Italian diabetes centers. Male patients recently diagnosed with T2DM were consecutively interviewed by their attending physician at the diabetes care centers and asked whether they had experienced a change in their sexual function or found it unsatisfactory. Those responding positively were then invited to participate in the study.

Main Outcome Measure

Several hormonal and biochemical parameters were studied.

Results

A nonselected series of 1,503 patients was interviewed, 499 of which (mean age, 58.8 ± 8.8 years) entered the study, yielding a final enrolment rate of 33.3%. ED was classified as mild in 19.4%, mild-to-moderate in 15.4%, moderate in 10.4%, and severe in 21.6% of patients, respectively. In addition, premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, and hypoactive sexual desire (HSD) were comorbid in 28.3%, 32.9%, and 58.4%, respectively. Finally, hypogonadism, showed an estimated prevalence of almost 20%. Both organic (at least one chronic DM-associated complication) and psychological factors (severe depressive symptoms) increased the risk of ED. Severe depressive symptoms were also associated with ejaculatory problems, HSD, and hypogonadism.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in men with recently diagnosed T2DM was detected. Early diagnosis of ED could help prevent emotional and physical discomfort in men and aid in identifying reversible cardiovascular risk factors. Screening of sexual dysfunction should become a part of routine care in the management of T2DM patients.
Natural products in Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) rhizome imaged at the cellular level by atmospheric pressure matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Li Bin , Bhandari Dhaka Ram , Janfelt Christian , Römpp Andreas , Spengler Bernhard
Published: July 2014

The rhizome of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) was analyzed by high‐resolution mass spectrometry imaging and tandem mass spectrometry imaging. An atmospheric pressure matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging ion source was combined with an orbital trapping mass spectrometer in order to obtain high‐resolution imaging in mass and space. Sections of the rhizome were imaged with a spatial resolution of 10 μm in the positive ion mode, and a large number of secondary metabolites were localized and identified based on their accurate mass and MS/MS fragmentation patterns. Major tissue‐specific metabolites, including free flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides and saponins, were successfully detected and visualized in images, showing their distributions at the cellular level. The analytical power of the technique was tested in the imaging of two isobaric licorice saponins with a mass difference of only 0.02 Da. With a mass resolving power of 140 000 and a bin width of 5 ppm in the image processing, the two compounds were well resolved in full‐scan mode, and appeared with different distributions in the tissue sections. The identities of the compounds and their distributions were validated in a subsequent MS/MS imaging experiment, thereby confirming their identities and excluding possible analyte interference. The use of high spatial resolution, high mass resolution and tandem mass spectrometry in imaging experiments provides significant information about the biosynthetic pathway of flavonoids and saponins in legume species, combing the spatially resolved chemical information with morphological details at the microscopic level. Furthermore, the technique offers a scheme capable of high‐throughput profiling of metabolites in plant tissues.
Multi‐gene silencing in Arabidopsis: a collection of artificial microRNAs targeting groups of paralogs encoding transcription factors
Authors: Jover‐Gil Sara , Paz‐Ares Javier , Micol José Luis , Ponce María Rosa
Published: July 2014

Functional redundancy often hampers the analysis of gene families. To overcome this difficulty, we constructed Arabidopsis thaliana lines that expressed artificial microRNAs designed to simultaneously target two to six paralogous genes encoding members of transcription factor families. Of the 576 genes that we chose as targets, only 122 had already been functionally studied at some level. As a simple indicator of the inhibitory effects of our amiRNAs on their targets, we examined the amiRNA‐expressing transgenic lines for morphological phenotypes at the rosette stage. Of 338 transgenes tested, 21 caused a visible morphological phenotype in leaves, a proportion that is much higher than that expected as a result of insertional mutagenesis. Also, our collection probably represents many other mutant phenotypes, not just those in leaves. This robust, versatile method enables functional examination of redundant transcription factor paralogs, and is particularly useful for genes that occur in tandem.
Semi‐xenotransplantation: the regenerative medicine‐based approach to immunosuppression‐free transplantation and to meet the organ demand
Authors: Salvatori Marcus , Peloso Andrea , Katari Ravi , Soker Shay , Lerut Jan P. , Stratta Robert J. , Orlando Giuseppe
Published: July 2014

Although xenografts have always held immeasurable potential as an inexhaustible source of donor organs, immunological barriers and physiological incompatibility have proved to be formidable obstacles to clinical utility. An exciting, new regenerative medicine‐based approach termed “semi‐xenotransplantation” (SX) seeks to overcome these obstacles by combining the availability and reproducibility of animal organs with the biocompatibility and functionality of human allografts. Compared to conventional xenotransplantation wherein the whole organ is animal‐derived, SX grafts are cleansed of their antigenic cellular compartment to produce whole‐organ extracellular matrix scaffolds that retain their innate structure and vascular channels. These scaffolds are then repopulated with recipient or donor human stem cells to generate biocompatible semi‐xenografts with the structure and function of native human organs. While numerous hurdles must be still overcome in order for SX to become a viable treatment option for end‐stage organ failure, the immense potential of SX for meeting the urgent needs for a new source of organs and immunosuppression‐free transplantation justifies the interest that the transplant community is committing to the field.
Risk Assessment in Securing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Systems: a Case Study on Petra Christian University Library
Authors: Puspa Dewi Lily , Gunawan Ibnu , Winoto Chris
Published: July 2014

Each library collection has an identification number which is unique number for each book. Identification numbers are used in searching process, and library’s circulation. Identification number is presented by barcode, and will be coupled with RFID, in order to facilitate collection information searching service, collection circulation service, and as a function of the collection security. The current barcode system problem lacks security features, the process of collection finding is very difficult, and the circulation process takes more time. This problem can result in losses of the library assets, and reduce library user satisfaction. Therefore, Petra Christian University Library plans to implement the RFID system as the solution of collection security. The RFID implementation process requires an analysis to be done to assess the risk factors that affect the library’s business processes and provide a response to those risks. This paper discusses the risk assessments for the RFID system to be implemented in the library. Risk assessments are based on the NIST SP800-98 standard Guidelines for Securing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) System and NIST SP800-30 Guide for Conducting Risk Assessments. Risk factors are categorized into two, namely business process risk and risk intelligence process. The results show most of the risk factors are related to the server system.
Lean Manufacturing Implementation Through Value Stream Mapping: A Case Study
Authors: Mojib Zahraee Seyed , Hashemi Ahmad , Ali Abdi Ahmed , Shahpanah Ataollah , Mohd Rohani Jafri
Published: July 2014

Lean Manufacturing (LM) is a business strategy that was developed in Japan. The main contribution of lean manufacturing is the identification and elimination of waste. Companies apply LM to sustain their competitiveness over their competitors by improving the manufacturing system’s productivity and quality enhancement of the product. The goal of this paper is to apply one of the most significant lean manufacturing techniques called Value Stream Mapping (VSM) to improve the production line of a company that produces several components for vehicle assembly line by decreasing the waste and non-value added activities.  First, the current value stream map of production line was developed using personal interviews, observations and secondary data of the company. Subsequently, the future value stream map was proposed based on the lean manufacturing principles to improve total production lead time and value added time. Based on the final result it can be concluded that VSM is a useful and applicable approach that can help managers conceptualize the different kind of wastes and defects. Final result showed that the production lead time and value added time improved up to nearly 80 % and 12 % respectively by eliminating the wastes based on lean principles and VMS method.
Benthic Macroinvertebrates Composition and Distribution at Sungai Dawai and Sungai Dekong in Lojing Highland, Gua Musang, Kelantan
Authors: Syed Omar Sharifah Aisyah , Eh Rak Aweng , Ahmad Sanusi Ahmad Fadli , Md Yusoff Azrinaaini
Published: July 2014

A preliminary study of benthic macroinvertebrate at two rivers in Lojing Highlands, Kelantan was conducted in January 2014 to study and describe the composition and distribution at upland area. Benthic macroinvertebrate samples were collected by using Surber net (0.3m X 0.3m) at six sites around Sungai Dawai and three sites at lower part of Sungai Dekong. A total of 182 individuals of phyla arthropoda with six orders namely Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera, Ordonata, Coleoptera and Hemiptera were found at Sungai Dawai. For station 4 which was located at Sungai Dawai, 14 families of benthic macroinvertebrate was found such as Scirtidae, Elmidae, Heptageniidae, Perlidae, Chironomidae, Simuliidae, Baetidae, Tipulidae, Emphididae, Ptilodactylidae, Psephenidae, Aphelocheiridae, Gomphidae and Aeshnidae. Reduction in richness, diversity and evenness was observed from Sungai Dawai to Sungai Dekong due to the changes of water condition and their habitat, such as canopy cover by logging and agricultural activities. The change distribution of benthic macroinvertebrates was useful to detect the impacted sites and the river health quality consequence.
The Influence of pH on the Removal of Ammonia from a Scheduled Waste Landfill Leachate
Authors: Sani A. , Rashid M. , Hanira N. , Hasfalina C. M.
Published: July 2014

Leachates are formed as the result of water or other liquid passing through the landfilled waste. These leachates contain high amounts of inorganic and organic matter such as ammonia which must be treated before being discharged into the environment. A pretreatment is required to increase the efficiency of the ammonia removal process. This paper presents the influence of pH on the removal of ammonia in leachate sample by lime precipitation. A raw leachate sample taken from a scheduled waste landfill was treated with different amount of lime (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 g/L) to investigate the removal or release of ammonia. The removal of ammonia of raw leachate (average pH=9.43) was 26% and increases to the optimum dosage of 4 g/L with 54% removal at pH=12.39. However, addition of lime of more than 6 g/L does not show any significant effect on ammonia removal due to restabilization of colloids and re-dispersion of the colloidal particulates. An appropriate dosage of lime is an important factor that could save cost and time for the downstream secondary treatment.
The Structural Properties of Trivalent Rare Earth Ions (Er3+) Doped Borotellurite Glass
Authors: Nurbaisyatul E. S. , Azman K. , Azhan H. , Razali W. A. W. , Noranizah A.
Published: July 2014

Six samples of borotellurite glasses with system (80-x)TeO2- 10B2O3 - 10PbO - xEr2O3 (x=0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 mol%) have been prepared by using the conventional melt-quenching method. Some basic physical parameters such as density and molar volume were measured. The result reveals that the density and molar volume increases with the increases of mol% of Er2O3. The amorphous nature of the glass has been characterized using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and all glasses are found to be amorphous in nature. The structure was analysed by FTIR spectroscopy. The FTIR spectra were recorded at room temperature in the frequency range from 650 to 4000  cm-1 using Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) method. From the IR results, the absorption bands were found to be in the range 667-669 cm-1, 710-712 cm-1, 880-887 cm-1, 981-997 cm-1 and 1190-1204 cm-1 which correspond to the stretching and bending vibrations mode. The absorption peaks around 1386-1388 cm-1 and 3741-3748 cm-1 which ascribed to the hydroxyl-metal bond and hydroxyl-hydrogen bond stretching vibration also have been observed. The FTIR results demonstrate that the existing of erbium in the composition leads to good structural properties thus creating potential for this glass in laser applications.
Isolated Core Training Improves Sprint Performance in National-Level Junior Swimmers
Authors: Weston Matthew , Hibbs Angela E. , Thompson Kevin G. , Spears Iain R.
Published: July 2014

Purpose:

To quantify the effects of a 12-wk isolated core-training program on 50-m front-crawl swim time and measures of core musculature functionally relevant to swimming.

Methods:

Twenty national-level junior swimmers (10 male and 10 female, 16 ± 1 y, 171 ± 5 cm, 63 ± 4 kg) participated in the study. Group allocation (intervention [n = 10], control [n = 10]) was based on 2 preexisting swim-training groups who were part of the same swimming club but trained in different groups. The intervention group completed the core training, incorporating exercises targeting the lumbopelvic complex and upper region extending to the scapula, 3 times/wk for 12 wk. While the training was performed in addition to the normal pool-based swimming program, the control group maintained their usual pool-based swimming program. The authors made probabilistic magnitude-based inferences about the effect of the core training on 50-m swim time and functionally relevant measures of core function.

Results:

Compared with the control group, the core-training intervention group had a possibly large beneficial effect on 50-m swim time (–2.0%; 90% confidence interval –3.8 to –0.2%). Moreover, it showed small to moderate improvements on a timed prone-bridge test (9.0%; 2.1–16.4%) and asymmetric straight-arm pull-down test (23.1%; 13.7–33.4%), and there were moderate to large increases in peak EMG activity of core musculature during isolated tests of maximal voluntary contraction.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to demonstrate a clear beneficial effect of isolated core training on 50-m front-crawl swim performance.