bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pain and structural alterations in knee joints in patients with haemophilia
Authors: Krüger S. , Hoffmeister M. , Hilberg T.
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Patients with haemophilia (PwH) suffer from haemophilic arthropathy which leads to an enhanced pain sensitivity. The aim of this study was to determine whether the individual pain condition in terms of pressure pain thresholds (PPT) at the knee joints is linked to changes of underlying anatomical structures in PwH.

Material and methods

Eleven landmarks at both knee joints of 36 PwH and 36 controls were examined in terms of PPT and ultrasound sonography (US). PPT were used to generate four groups: pain sensitive and insensitive knees of PwH and controls.

Results

PPT of the knee joints were significantly decreased at all landmarks in PwH when compared to controls (P ≤ .004). US findings revealed that especially osteophytes are more pronounced in pain‐sensitive knees of PwH in comparison with pain‐insensitive knees of PwH or pain‐(in)sensitive knees of controls. The synovia tissue was also thickened in PwH when PPT was altered. In contrast to findings in osteoarthritis‐related pain, no differences between the groups were found regarding effusion, whether assessed, for example on the distal edge of m. vastus lateralis (P = .893) or on the lateral joint space (P = .417).

Conclusion

Particular degenerative changes in terms of osteophytes and thickness of synovial tissue are associated with an enhanced pain sensitivity in PwH. Altered PPT which were not associated with structural findings may be an indicator for a complex peripheral and/or central sensitization of the affected joints in PwH. The role of this mechanism should be clarified in further studies.
Metastatic pulmonary calcification: Experience from a single center in Singapore
Authors: Teh Swee Ping , Ng Yuen Li , Yii Chau Ang Anthony , Choong Hui Lin Lina , Wong Jiunn
Published: April 2018

Metastatic pulmonary calcification (MPC) was seen in 79% of patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) during autopsy. However, it is not commonly diagnosed in vivo. Its pathogenesis is not fully understood. We report a retrospective series of 5 cases of MPC from a single center in Singapore. MPC were diagnosed using radiological or histological features. Mean onset of MPC from diagnosis of ESRD was 22.6 ± 3.1 years. One patient remains asymptomatic. Four patients died, one was related to MPC. All patients had calcifications at the lung apices on radiological studies. Three patients with MPC were diagnosed based on radiological features while 2 had histological features. Four patients underwent parathyroidectomy without radiological changes before parathyroidectomy. Median intact parathyroid hormone of this series was 5.6 pmol/L (IQR 1.3–139.4), alkaline phosphatase 74 U/L (IQR 62–461), calcium 2.10 mmol/L (IQR 1.85–2.40), and phosphate 1.30 mmol/L (IQR 0.87–1.63). The observed low iPTH suggests that MPC might occur in low iPTH. Our case series showed MPC might occur in low iPTH after parathyroidectomy, in contrast to existing literature that suggests MPC is diagnosed in patients with elevated iPTH. Parathyroidectomy does not prevent MPC.
What's in a Name? Causes and Consequences of Labelling Minorities as “National” or “Migrant”: Roma in Italy and Spain
Authors: Magazzini Tina
Published: April 2018

This article analyses how Roma are represented in official policy narratives in Italy and Spain by comparing the four cycles of the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities in the two countries. By tracing the representations that the Italian and Spanish governments hold (and make) about the Roma, I sketch out the different categories that EU‐ropean countries recur to as organizing principles to “other” underprivileged minorities. Based on the tailored‐approaches in which both Italy and Spain engage in framing Roma as either a “national” minority or not, I suggest that constructing or “producing” a minority in our imagined communities as characterized by national, cultural, social or migrant characteristics relies more on political expediency than on objective analytical categories.
Just Annexation
Authors: Lippert‐Rasmussen Kasper
Published: April 2018

Fabre defends a human rights‐focused cosmopolitan theory of peace. One would expect that, given this view, she would be in favour of human rights‐promoting annexations by liberal states. However, she distances herself from this view, adopting the common‐sense view that annexing states ‘act ultra vires’. I argue that her core cosmopolitan view motivates a different and, in principle, much more positive view of four types of annexations. In the course of defending this view, I take a critical look at her appeal to perverse moral incentives and the notion of a cosmopolitan ethos.
Do plant‐based biogeographical regions shape aphyllophoroid fungal communities in Europe?
Authors: Ordynets Alexander , Heilmann‐Clausen Jacob , Savchenko Anton , Bässler Claus , Volobuev Sergey , Akulov Olexander , Karadelev Mitko , Kotiranta Heikki , Saitta Alessandro , Langer Ewald , Abrego Nerea
Published: April 2018

Aim

Aphyllophoroid fungi are associated with plants, either using plants as a resource (as parasites or decomposers) or as symbionts (as mycorrhizal partners). In spite of their strong association with plants, it is unknown how much plant distributions determine their biogeographical patterns compared with environmental factors such as climate and human land use. In this study, our aims are to (1) describe the spatial diversity patterns of aphyllophoroid fungi in Europe and (2) identify the factors shaping these patterns.

Location

Europe, as well as the adjacent Subarctic to Arctic islands (Greenland, Faroe Islands, Iceland, Svalbard), Palestine and the south‐east coast of the Caspian Sea.

Methods

We compiled a dataset consisting of 14,030 fruitbody occurrences of 1,491 aphyllophoroid fungal species from 39 geographical areas (17 countries) belonging to eight biogeographical regions. We assessed the differences in fungal species richness and overall diversity and its nestedness and turnover components across biogeographical regions of Europe, as well as between southern and northern Europe (based on geographical latitude of 50° as threshold). We used cluster and ordination analyses to classify the European aphyllophoroid communities biogeographically and evaluated the importance of climate, host‐tree species, topography and human land‐use intensity in explaining biogeographical variation.

Results

The importance of biogeographical regions in determining European aphyllophoroid fungal communities varies for different diversity components. Species richness and nestedness are best explained by plant‐based biogeographical regions, whereas overall beta diversity and species turnover are driven mostly by variation in climate, and nestedness mostly by tree species occupancy. Beta‐diversity patterns of aphyllophoroid fungi do not differ between southern and northern Europe.

Main conclusions

At the continental scale, aphyllophoroid fungi are less shaped by historical legacies than vascular plant and animal communities, and trends of overall beta diversity in southern and northern Europe are similar to patterns found for bryophytes.
Ancient DNA tracks the mainland extinction and island survival of the Tasmanian devil
Authors: Brüniche–Olsen Anna , Jones Menna E. , Burridge Christopher P. , Murchison Elizabeth P. , Holland Barbara R. , Austin Jeremy J.
Published: April 2018

Aim

The Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii), currently restricted to the island of Tasmania, was found over most of the Australian mainland prior to its extinction ~3,000 years ago. Recent debate has focused on the roles of humans, climate change and dingoes as drivers of the mainland extinction. Determining past genetic diversity and population dynamics of both populations is a fundamental component to understand why the species went extinct on mainland Australia, but survived in Tasmania. Here, we investigate the phylogeography and demographic history of the Tasmanian devil across southern Australia over the last ~30k years.

Location

Australia.

Taxon

Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii).

Methods

We used complete and partial mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genomes from 202 devils representing the extinct mainland (n = 17) and the extant Tasmanian (n = 185) populations to investigate the population dynamics of southern mainland and Tasmanian devils. The samples were sub‐fossil bones, historical museum specimens and modern tissue samples, dating from the present to 17k years before present. Using summary statistics, frequentist inference and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis we explored whether levels of genetic diversity were similar, and if the southern mainland experienced a gradual rather than an abrupt decline prior to its extinction.

Results

MtDNA genomes from mainland devils suggest that this population was larger and had more genetic diversity than the Tasmanian population. Directly dated samples indicates that the southern mainland population expanded after the last glacial maximum and remained stable until its extinction. The Tasmanian population has much lower diversity and descends from a single mtDNA lineage ~3,000 years ago. The recent origin for all Tasmanian mtDNA diversity is concordant with a previously documented late‐Holocene population bottleneck and is broadly contemporaneous with the extinction of the southern mainland population.

Main conclusions

This pattern shows striking similarity to the demographic history of thylacines, suggesting that a shared factor initiated population declines in both species on the southern mainland and in Tasmania. El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO)‐related climate change is the only factor common to both mainland Australia and Tasmania. Additional, direct or indirect, pressures from humans and/or dingoes on the mainland may have ultimately resulted in their extinction.
Examining the role of computer‐supported knowledge‐building discourse in epistemic and conceptual understanding
Authors: Lin Feng , Chan Carol K.K.
Published: April 2018

This study characterized students' online collaborative discourse from a theory‐building perspective and examined its relation to epistemic and conceptual understanding. Fifty‐two fifth graders' Knowledge Forum discussions on electricity were analysed. Discourse moves were coded within the inquiry threads, and two key epistemic patterns were identified: problem‐centred uptake and theory‐building moves. Analysis showed that higher‐quality discourse threads included more problem‐centred uptake moves in which ideas were built more coherently on each other to address the central problem. There were also more theory‐building moves on explanation and sustain inquiry. We also examined the relationship between discourse moves and conceptual‐epistemic understanding. Regression analyses showed that problem‐centred uptake predicted epistemic cognition beyond prior epistemic cognition and that theory‐building moves on explanation predicted students' conceptual understanding beyond their prior science understanding. Implications for fostering more productive discourse and sophisticated epistemic cognitions using online discussion are discussed.
Wild‐type isolates of Porphyromonas gingivalis derived from periodontitis patients display major variability in platelet activation
Authors: Jockel‐Schneider Yvonne , Kobsar Anne , Stellzig‐Eisenhauer Angelika , Vogel Ulrich , Störk Stefan , Frantz Stefan , Schlagenhauf Ulrich , Eigenthaler Martin
Published: April 2018

In vitro studies revealed that Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), a pathogen intimately associated with the onset and progression of periodontitis, is able to activate platelets, thus linking periodontal inflammation with the endangerment of vascular health. As wild‐type Pg strains are characterized by major genetic heterogeneity, the commonness of platelet‐activating Pg strains in periodontitis patients is unknown as of yet. Therefore, this study evaluated the platelet activation capacity of wild‐type Pg isolates sampled from patients with aggressive periodontitis.

Methods

Extent and velocity of platelet aggregation were determined by light transmission aggregometry. Platelet surface expression of P‐selectin was measured by flow cytometry, activation of p38 MAP kinase, and protein kinase C by Western blot using phospho‐specific antibodies.

Results

Pg isolates displayed high variability regarding extent and velocity of platelet activation, as well as the involved activating pathways. Corresponding results were observed for platelet P‐selectin expression, activation of p38 MAP kinase, or protein kinase C. Inhibitors of platelet immune receptor FcγRIIA and protease‐activated receptors revealed several, diverging pathways of activation. Some isolates induced platelet aggregation even in the presence of potent therapeutical platelet inhibitors.

Conclusions

Chronic bacteremia involving specific, platelet‐activating Pg strains may constitute a substantial hazard for the integrity of cardiovascular health.
Effects of adhesive used as modeling liquid on the stability of the color and opacity of composites
Authors: Araujo Fernanda Santos , Barros Mellany Cristie Ramos , Santana Márcia Luciana Carregosa , de Jesus Oliveira Ludmila Smith , Silva Paula Fernanda Damasceno , Lima Giana da Silveira , Faria‐e‐Silva André Luis
Published: April 2018

Objective

This study evaluated the effects of adhesive type used as modeling liquid on the stability of the color and opacity of composites submitted to thermal cycling in staining solutions followed by a bleaching procedure.

Methods

Thirty cylinder‐shaped composite specimens (10 mm diameter × 1.5 mm thickness) were built using or not using (control) an adhesive (Adper Universal or Scotchbond Multipurpose) as the modeling liquid. After polishing procedures, the color and opacity were measured, and the specimens were submitted to 200 thermal cycles with 10 s of dwell time in baths of grape juice at 5°C, water at 37°C, and coffee at 55°C. Changes in opacity and color caused by the staining solutions were measured. Then, the specimens were bleached with 35% hydrogen peroxide for 45 minutes followed by color/opacity measurements. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

Results

The use of modeling liquids did not affect the initial color and opacity of composite. Reduced changes to color (E00 = 3.44) and opacity (+2.67%) were observed for specimens modeled using Adper Universal. Bleaching procedures reduced the color (E00 = 1.9‐3.8) and opacity (−2.3 to 3.1%) alterations caused by staining solutions but were unable to restore the values observed at baseline.

Conclusion

The use of universal adhesive as modeling liquid significantly reduced the color and opacity changes caused by staining solutions, and the bleaching procedure partially re‐established the opacity and color of the composites.

Clinical Significance

This study evaluates whether using adhesive systems for modeling a composite affects the color and opacity changes caused by staining solutions followed by a bleaching procedure. The findings suggest that the use of a universal adhesive as modeling liquid can reduce the alterations in optical properties caused by staining solutions, and the application of high‐concentrated hydrogen peroxide over the composite reduce the color changes without fully recover the initial color.
Why do couples seek relationship help online? Description and comparison to in‐person interventions
Authors: Roddy McKenzie K. , Rothman Karen , Cicila Larisa N. , Doss Brian D.
Published: April 2018

Couples are increasingly utilizing newly developed online adaptations of couple therapy; however, different presenting problems could drive couples to seek either online or in‐person services. This study compared the presenting problems of 151 couples seeking an online couple intervention for relationship distress (OurRelationship) with responses from 147 couples seeking in‐person couple therapy. Presenting problems were generally consistent across gender and whether or not the respondent was the initial help‐seeker. Online and in‐person samples frequently endorsed difficulties with communication and emotional intimacy; however, they differentially endorsed trust, time together, and child/parenting difficulties. Therefore, while basing online interventions on existing couple therapies is generally supported, efforts should be made to tailor online services to meet the unique needs of this population.
Turmeric tonic as a treatment in scalp psoriasis: A randomized placebo‐control clinical trial
Authors: Bahraini Parichehr , Rajabi Mehdi , Mansouri Parvin , Sarafian Golnaz , Chalangari Reza , Azizian Zahra
Published: April 2018

Background

Psoriasis is an autoimmune and recurrent chronic inflammatory skin disorder with a strong genetic basis. The characteristic features are hyperproliferation of keratinocytes, leading to redness, thickening, and scaling of the epidermis followed by itching and the appearance of lesions, which in most cases can affect the patients both medically and psychologically. The scalp is one of the most common sites for psoriasis. This condition is predominantly managed with steroids, which are associated with various side effects. Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), a spice commonly used throughout the world, has been shown to exhibit anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antineoplastic properties. It has been reported to exhibit inhibitory activity on potassium channels in T cells and plays a key role in psoriasis.

Aim

We were prompted to investigate the turmeric tonic as an immune modulation and anti‐inflammatory therapy on scalp psoriasis.

Method

Forty patients with mild‐to‐moderate scalp psoriasis who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were randomly allocated into two groups. The case group received turmeric tonic twice a day for 9 weeks, whereas the other group received a placebo applied in the same manner. Patients were evaluated at the following points: baseline, weeks 3, 6, and 9. The dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire and PASI (psoriasis area & severity index) scores, as well as medical photos before, during and after treatment were also evaluated. The probable adverse effects were also recorded and reported.

Results

Compared to the placebo, turmeric tonic significantly reduced the erythema, scaling and induration of lesions (PASI score), and also improved the patients' quality of life (P value < .05).

Conclusions

The clinical effects of turmeric tonic on scalp psoriasis were satisfactory overall. This formulation could be considered as a treatment for scalp psoriasis.
The use of bipolar electrosurgical forceps for haemostasis in open surgical ovariectomy of bitches and queens and castration of dogs
Authors: Watts J.
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To describe a technique using bipolar electrosurgical forceps for haemostasis during open ovariectomy of bitches and queens and for castration of dogs and to determine whether these forceps reduced surgical time compared to ligation with suture.

Materials and Methods

Bipolar electrosurgical forceps were used for haemostasis in 3744 open surgeries including ovariectomies in bitches (n=1406) and queens (n=859) and castrations in dogs (n=1335). The forceps were also used to assist with ovariohysterectomy in bitches (n=89) and queens (n=55). The effect of bipolar electrocoagulation and other likely factors influencing surgical time was examined using linear regression analysis of 367 surgeries.

Results

The use of the forceps reduced surgical time by 9·7 ±2·8 minutes in bitches and by 3·0 ±1·5 minutes in queens. The complications encountered initially were small superficial skin burns requiring topical treatment and one case of haemorrhage associated with surgical technique.

Clinical Significance

Bipolar electrosurgical forceps reduce surgical time in ovariectomies, and complications are rare. This technique has promise for widespread application in veterinary practice to assist with haemostasis in ovariectomy of bitches and queens.
Genome‐wide analysis of the regulation of Cu metabolism in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Garcia‐Santamarina Sarela , Festa Richard A. , Smith Aaron D. , Yu Chen‐Hsin , Probst Corinna , Ding Chen , Homer Christina M. , Yin Jun , Noonan James P. , Madhani Hiten , Perfect John R. , Thiele Dennis J.
Published: April 2018

The ability of the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans to adapt to variable copper (Cu) environments within the host is key for successful dissemination and colonization. During pulmonary infection, host alveolar macrophages compartmentalize Cu into the phagosome and C. neoformans Cu‐detoxifying metallothioneins, MT1 and MT2, are required for survival of the pathogen. In contrast, during brain colonization the C. neoformans Cu+ importers Ctr1 and Ctr4 are required for virulence. Central for the regulation and expression of both the Cu detoxifying MT1/2 and the Cu acquisition Ctr1/4 proteins is the Cu‐metalloregulatory transcription factor Cuf1, an established C. neoformans virulence factor. Due to the importance of the distinct C. neoformans Cu homeostasis mechanisms during host colonization and virulence, and to the central role of Cuf1 in regulating Cu homeostasis, we performed a combination of RNA‐Seq and ChIP‐Seq experiments to identify differentially transcribed genes between conditions of high and low Cu. We demonstrate that the transcriptional regulation exerted by Cuf1 is intrinsically complex and that Cuf1 also functions as a transcriptional repressor. The Cu‐ and Cuf1‐dependent regulon in C. neoformans reveals new adaptive mechanisms for Cu homeostasis in this pathogenic fungus and identifies potential new pathogen‐specific targets for therapeutic intervention in fungal infections.
Lithium and nephrotoxicity: Unravelling the complex pathophysiological threads of the lightest metal
Authors: Davis Justin , Desmond Michael , Berk Michael
Published: April 2018

Summary at a Glance

This paper elucidated the current evidence pertaining to the pathophysiology of lithium induced nephrotoxicity and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. The molecular mechanisms behind are the development of alterations in glycogen synthase kinase 3 signalling, G2 cell cycle progression arrest, alterations in inositol and prostaglandin signalling pathways, and dysregulated trafficking and transcription of aquaporin 2 water channels.
Antennal olfactory sensory neurones responsive to host and nonhost plant volatiles in gorse pod moth Cydia succedana
Authors: Park Kye Chung , Lee Jung‐Ah , Suckling David M.
Published: April 2018

We investigate the response profiles of the antennal olfactory sensory neurones (OSNs) in male and female gorse pod moth Cydia succedana to host and nonhost volatiles, using the single sensillum recording technique. Eight different classes of olfactory sensilla are identified in female C. succedana and five different classes of olfactory sensilla in males. Nineteen different classes of OSNs are identified from the sensilla in females, and nine different classes of OSNs in the male sensilla. All classes of sensilla, except class F7 and class M1 sensilla, co‐compartmentalize two or three OSNs in each sensillum, and the OSNs present in the same sensillum are specialized for different volatiles. Most plant‐volatile OSNs exhibit phasic‐tonic type of temporal responses, whereas the pheromone OSNs in male C. succedana show rather phasic responses. The majority of OSNs identified in C. succedana display highly specialized responses to a narrow range of volatiles, whereas only a small proportion of OSNs show broad response spectra. Two most abundant classes of OSNs exhibit highly specialized responses to β‐myrcene and (E)‐β‐ocimene, two major volatiles released by gorse (Ulex europaeus), the main host of C. succedana. By contrast, several other classes of OSNs exhibit highly specialized responses to geraniol, (Z)‐3‐hexen‐1‐ol, (±)‐α‐terpineol, citral and benzyl acetate, which are produced by various nonhost plants. Taking the results of the present study together, we suggest that C. succedana use the combinational input from a set of highly specialized OSNs for host plant volatiles and another set of highly specialized OSNs for nonhost volatiles to discriminate between hosts and nonhosts.
On the move through time – a historical review of plant clock research
Authors: Johansson M. , Köster T.
Published: April 2018

The circadian clock is an important regulator of growth and development that has evolved to help organisms to anticipate the predictably occurring events on the planet, such as light–dark transitions, and adapt growth and development to these. This review looks back in history on how knowledge about the endogenous biological clock has been acquired over the centuries, with a focus on discoveries in plants. Key findings at the physiological, genetic and molecular level are described and the role of the circadian clock in important molecular processes is reviewed.
Is home‐based HIV testing universally acceptable? Findings from a case–control study nested within the HPTN 071 (PopART) trial
Authors: Sabapathy K. , Mulubwa C. , Mathema H. , Mubekapi‐Musadaidzwa C. , Schaap A. , Hoddinott G. , Hargreaves J. , Floyd S. , Ayles H. , Hayes R. ,   the HPTN 071 (PopART) Study Team
Published: April 2018

Objective

The HPTN 071 (PopART) trial is examining the impact of a package including universal testing and treatment on community‐level HIV incidence in Zambia and South Africa. We conducted a nested case–control study to examine factors associated with acceptance of home‐based HIV testing and counselling (HB‐HTC) delivered by community HIV‐care providers (CHiPs) in PopART intervention communities.

Methods

Of 295 447 individuals who were offered testing, random samples of individuals who declined HB‐HTC (cases) and accepted HB‐HTC (controls), stratified by gender and community, were selected. Odds ratios comparing cases and controls were estimated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Data from 642 participants (313 cases, 329 controls) were analysed. There were no differences between cases and controls by demographic or behavioural characteristics including age, marital or socio‐economic position. Participants who felt they could be open with CHiPs (AOR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.30–0.71, P < 0.001); self‐reported as not previously tested (AOR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.43–0.95, P = 0.03); considered HTC at home to be convenient (AOR: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.27–0.54, P = 0.001); knowing others who had accepted HB‐HTC from the CHiPs (AOR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.31–0.77, P = 0.002); or were motivated to get treatment without delay (AOR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.43–0.85, P = 0.004) were less likely to decline the offer of HB‐HCT. Those who self‐reported high‐risk sexual behaviour were also less likely to decline HB‐HCT (AOR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.39–0.93, P = 0.02). Having stigmatising attitudes about HB‐HTC was not an important barrier to HB‐HCT uptake. Men who reported fear of HIV were more likely to decline HB‐HCT (AOR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.33–5.38, P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Acceptance of HB‐HTC was associated with lack of previous HIV testing, positive attitudes about HIV services/treatment and perception of high sexual risk. Uptake of HB‐HCT among those offered it was similar across a range of demographic and behavioural subgroups suggesting it was ‘universally’ acceptable.
Implementation of secondary bacterial culture testing of platelets to mitigate residual risk of septic transfusion reactions
Authors: Bloch Evan M. , Marshall Christi E. , Boyd Joan S. , Shifflett Lisa , Tobian Aaron A.R. , Gehrie Eric A. , Ness Paul M.
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

Bacterial contamination of platelets remains a major transfusion‐associated risk despite long‐standing safety measures in the United States. We evaluated an approach using secondary bacterial culture (SBC) to contend with residual risk of bacterial contamination.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Phased implementation of SBC was initiated in October 2016 for platelets (all apheresis collected) received at our institution from the blood donor center (Day 3 post collection). Platelet products were sampled aseptically (5 mL inoculated into an aerobic bottle [BacT/ALERT BPA, BioMerieux, Inc.]) by the blood bank staff upon receipt, using a sterile connection device and sampling kit. The platelet sample was inoculated into an aerobic blood culture bottle and incubated at 35°C for 3 days. The cost of SBC was calculated on the basis of consumables and labor costs at time of implementation.

RESULTS

In the 13 months following implementation (October 6, 2016, to November 30, 2017), 23,044/24,653 (93.47%) platelet products underwent SBC. A total of eight positive cultures were detected (incidence 1 in 2881 platelet products), seven of which were positive within 24 hours of SBC. Coagulase negative Staphyloccus spp. were identified in four cases. Five of the eight cases were probable true positive (repeat reactive) and interdicted (cost per averted case was US$77,935). The remaining three cases were indeterminate. No septic transfusion reactions were reported during the observation period.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate the feasibility of SBC of apheresis platelets to mitigate bacterial risk. SBC is lower cost than alternative measures (e.g., pathogen reduction and point‐of‐release testing) and can be integrated into workflow at hospital transfusion services.
The Effects of Biomechanical Factors to Teach Different Hook Punch Techniques in Boxing and Education Strategies
Authors: Bingul Bergun Meric , Bulgan Cigdem , Tore Ozlem , Bal Erdal , Aydin Mensure
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of biomechanic factors to teach different hook punches in boxing. Eight light middleweight boxing athletes (mean age±SD 19.00±2.00 yrs, mean height±SD 173.88±3.89 cm, mean weight±SD 64.25±4.66 kg) participated in this study. Athletes performed a trial using three different hook punch techniques on a sandbag. The techniques were recorded using eight cameras using a frequency of 120 Hz. Qualisys Track Manager was used to analysis on motion. Mean acceleration of the sandbag, stride length, angles of the knee, shoulder, and elbow were calculated. The forces of impact were also calculated. Hook punch data were compared with Friedman test using SPSS 20.0. The results indicated a significant difference was found only in stride length. Stride length using a southpaw stance was shorter than the other stances (p<0.05). Athletes need more practice increasing stride length and use a repeating method in Mitt workout, models, sandbag trainings, self- monitoring and regional trainings.
Gender and Perception of Profession
Authors: Ünal Fatma , Tarhan Sinem , Köksal Eda Çürükvelioğlu
Published: April 2018

There are negative impacts of gender stereotypes particularly on the education of girls and women. The purpose of this study is to examine pre-service teachers’ profession perceptions within the context of gender using word association test technique and to identify the definition of the concept of “profession” depending on sex. This study is designed as a qualitative research and involves 250 pre-service teachers. In analysing the data, descriptive analysis method is used. Findings are presented in frequency tables and concept networks. The results show that the first profession pre-service teachers mention in their sentences about the concepts of “women and profession” is “teacher”, whereas it is “worker” for the concept of “men and profession”. In the light of the findings, suggestions are made to overcome gender stereotypes and to help individuals to become aware of the acts and talks that reproduce gender inequality.
Examination of Grit Levels of Teachers According to Personal Variables
Authors: Argon Türkan , Kaya Ayça
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study is to determine whether or not the grit level of teachers varied according to their personal variables. The research, in the descriptive screening model, was conducted on 360 teachers who were chosen according to simple random sampling method and working in primary schools, secondary schools and high schools in Adapazarı district of Sakarya province. In the data collecting phase, “Grit Scale”, which is developed by Duckworth and Quinn (2009a) and adapted into Turkish culture by Argon and Kaya (2017), is used. Means, standard deviations and parametric analyzes of individual variables were used in the analysis of the research data. According to the results of the research, grit level of the teachers is at the level of agreeing in the dimension of total scale and consistency of interest while in the dimension of the perseverance of effort is at level of being fully agreeing. Teachers' views of their grit level according to their personal variables revealed a significant difference only in perseverance of effort dimension in terms of sex. Age, vocational seniority, school type, graduation status and branch variables are not influential variables in teacher opinions and teacher opinions are similar. It has emerged that female teachers are more gritty than male teachers in perseverance of effort dimension in which teachers’ views differ from one another Some of the suggestions developed according to the research results are as following: Although the grit levels of teachers are close to high, they are not at the desired level and qualitative studies can be used to determine the factors affecting teachers' wishes and expectations in order to increase this level and fulfil their needs. Since the grit levels of the teachers contribute to the improvement of the performance of the students, with the establishment of the environments where the teachers can use these potentials, with fund allocation for effective use of this qualified human power at the current level in the schools and with creating the conditions for teachers to take part in long-term projects, the motivation of the teachers can be increased. New and different researches can be carried to determine the organizational variables other than the personal variables that may affect the teachers’ grit.
The Evaluation of the Performed Activities According to ELVES Method
Authors: Erdem Aliye
Published: April 2018

Listening habit has an important share in the individual perceiving his/her environment and the world properly and complying with the social environment he/she lives. Because listening is an important skill which enables the individual to use the communication skills he/she learned both at school and out of school properly and to understand correctly what he/she listened. Listening which is one of the comprehension skills is the key to success besides expanding new horizons to humans. Listening which is the basic way of communication and learning is the first comprehension activity in the individual’s life. Thus the skills and habits related to listening activity which is seen in every field of life are acquired naturally. Nevertheless these skills and habits which are acquired naturally are not adequate for the individual to get prepared for life. Even though the listening is an inborn skill, the gaining and improving of listening skill requires an education process. One of the methods which is aimed at improving of listening skill which is the most used language skill in daily life is ELVES (Excite-Listen-Visualize-Extend-Savor) method. In this research, a lesson plan according to ELVES method was prepared and applied aimed at improving of listening skill in primary school 4. grade Turkish lesson. Applied lesson plan was evaluated based on the opinions of the students. In this direction, the purpose of this study is the evaluation of the activities in primary school 4. grade Turkish lesson according to ELVES method based on the opinions of the students. In this research, semi-structured interview which is among the qualitative research method was used. A total of 19 primary school 4. grade students consisting of 10 male and 9 female in a public school affiliated to Ministry of Education in Çankaya sub-province of Ankara province participated in the research conducted in the spring term of 2016-2017 school year. In the research, convenience sampling which is among purposive sampling methods was used. The data acquired in the study was analysed according to content analysis method and the data was analysed as tables. In the consequence of the study; it was determined that primary school 4. grade students liked the activities which were conducted according to ELVES method in Turkish lesson, comprehended what they listened, participated in lessons actively and enjoyed the lesson.
Nutritional Habits According to Human Chronotype and Nutritional Status of Morningness and Eveningness
Authors: Toktaş Neşe , Erman K. Alparslan , Mert Zekai
Published: April 2018

Sixty one female and eighty one male volunteers participated in the study that aims to assess the nutrition habits according to human chronotype and nutritional status of morningness and eveningness. Chronotype was assessed by Turkish version of the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire and the other questionnaire prepared to assess of nutritional habits of participants were used. Furthermore a three-day food record for assessment of nutritional status was completed by twelve male who were definite morning/moderate morning types and eleven male who were definite evening/moderate evening types. According to a three-day food record intake of daily total energy (kkal), fat (g) and carbohydrates (g) were higher and intake of protein (% energy) was lower in the evening types (p<0,05). In conclusion, evening chronotype was associated with inadequate dietary habits and status such as high daily energy (kkal), fat (g) and carbohydrates (g) intakes and low protein intake (% energy) and skipped meal.
An Analysis of Music Fan Towards Music Streaming Purchase Intention of Thailand's Music Industry
Authors: Sanitnarathorn Pannawit
Published: April 2018

Digital music streaming are climbing but overall music revenue is declining with digital music piracy being blamed as the culprit. In a 10 year period from 2003 to 2013, global music sales dropped from $US23.3 to $US15 billion dollars with Thailand’s music industry following the trend dropping from $US 304 million in 2010 to $US 279 million in 2014. The study therefore used a structural equation model to analyze the variables affecting digital music piracy and fan music streaming's purchase intention. From the seven point Likert scale questionnaire, 350 music fans were surveyed concerning their digital music streaming activities. The qualitative research was conducted with 10 executives in music industry by the use of purposive sampling. Partial Least Square Graph software was used for model verification with the results showing that fan idolatry has the highest influence on the overall decision to stream music digitally. The results showed that the results of quantitative research is practical and acceptable hypothesis significance at p ≤ 0.05 by factors that have a direct influence positive peak and overall influence is the highest passion to affect their willingness to stream music digitally to consumers. The findings of this study concluded that the artist's passion for their music fans is the key factor in music lover’s intent to stream and pay for digital music. Fans are ultimately the most important sector of the industry and unfortunately it is one which the industry forgets about. Labels or artists who focus on only ‘looking good’ while not engaging their fan audiences are destined for a continuing decline in their sales numbers.
Teachers' Personal Characteristics and Metaphorical Perceptions to Multicultural Education
Authors: Eskici Menekşe , Çayak Semih
Published: April 2018

The aim of this paper is to investigate teachers' personal characteristics and metaphorical perceptions to multicultural education. In this paper both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. "Multicultural Personality Questionnaire" was applied to the teachers (72 females, 47 males) working at Kırklareli in the 2016-2017 academic year to collect the quantitative data. The qualitative data of this research were collected by a space filled question (multiculturalism is similar to...;because...). The results show that teachers have high scors of “Multicultural Personality Questionaire”. The metaphorical images that teachers produce for the concept of multiculturalism are examined in terms of frequency. The results listed as rainbow, ashure, mosaic, rug, greenery, spice, garden, crayons, treasure, cake, music, forest, salad, table and meal. Also reasons for analogy of the metaphors that teachers use about the concept of multiculturalism arrenged as; the union of differences (n=81), which benefit (n=22), value-added (n=8), the parser (n=3) and unknown (n=2).
Locomotor Activity and Anxiety Changes With Acute and Chronic Exposure to Cigarette Smoke in Mice
Authors: Demirci Deniz , Dilbaz Emre , Akar Firuzan
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the locomotor activity and anxiety changes in acute and chronic exposure to cigarette smoke in mice. In the chronic exposure group, mice were exposed to the smoke of 10 cigarettes for 5 days a week, over 5 consecutiveweeks. In the acute group, the mice were exposed to the smoke of 10 cigarettes in one day. Locomotor activity tests and plus-maze tests were performed to determine the locomotor activity and anxiety levels of these mice. In the chronic exposure group, comparing with the both acute exposure and the control groups all parameters tested including distance travelled ( p<0.001), velocity of locomotor activity test (p<0.001), percentage of entrance through the open arm (p<0.001), and the duration of staying in the open arm of the plus-maze test (p<0.001) were significantly decreased .It has been concluded that the chronic cigarette smoke exposure resulted in decreased locomotor activity and increased anxiety levels in mice.
Organizational Commitment of High School Teachers
Authors: Gökyer Necmi
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study is to identify high school teachers’ commitment to school development, colleagues, the teaching profession and sense of duty. The population of this descriptive survey comprised 2,805 teachers working at 47 high schools in Elazığ during the 2016-2017 school year. The study sample was selected through stratified sampling, which aims to identify subgroups in a population and ensure that their size in the sample represents their proportion in the population. The data collection tool was then distributed to 461 teachers working in 12 schools selected randomly from these strata. The data collection tool had two sections. The first had conceptual questions and the second had questions about organizational commitment behaviors. The results showed that high school teachers felt full commitment only to the teaching profession, while they “often” felt committed in other subdimensions and the entire scale. More precisely, the commitment level of science teachers to school development was higher than that of social sciences teachers. Teachers working in the city center had higher commitment to colleagues and school development than those in small towns. Teacher candidates had higher commitment to sense of duty than teachers and specialist teachers. Teachers working at vocational and technical high schools had lower commitment to school development than teachers working at Anatolian high schools, social sciences and science high schools. There was a moderate, negative and meaningful relationship between teachers’ age, professional seniority, professional title and marital status. There was a high, positive and meaningful relationship between the subdimensions and the entire scale. Among the subdimensions, too, there was a moderate, positive and meaningful relationship.
A Qualitative Study: Evaluation of Formation Education by Teacher Candidates, Mentor Teachers and Coordinators: An Example of Karabuk University/Turkey
Authors: Çelebi Nurhayat , Aydoğdu Ömer , Yalçınkaya Münevver
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to learn the opinion of the teacher candidates who study pedagogical formation in Karabuk University in 2016-2017 teaching session, as well as mentor teachers and coordinators who lead them during the teaching practices at schools. This research study is mainly based on qualitative techniques. Working group of this study is composed of 155 teacher candidates, 56 mentor teachers and 16 coordinators. Three open-ended questions were given to the teacher candidates, mentors and coordinators for collection of data. The data were evaluated as in the mean of content analysis. According to the findings, teacher candidates expressed that “mentor teachers and coordinators at schools of implementation had a positive and supportive attitude towards them” while some of the candidates were expressing that “mentor teachers are not supportive.” Mentor teachers and coordinators found teacher candidates’ attitudes positive and refined. Mentor teachers and coordinators mentioned negative references about teacher candidates. They said that teacher candidates didn’t use proper teaching methods, techniques and materials when the teacher candidates are teaching, and failed to manage and maintain classroom atmosphere and the intended lesson time. It is considerable that teacher candidates had also mentioned that “they were doing the same mistakes what their coordinators and teachers determined.” As a result, teaching practice schedules should be well arranged in the way of cooperation between the University and the National Ministry of education, which was suggested to the authorities in the Turkish Higher Education Board.
Prediction of the Performance of Elite Male Trampolines Based on Body Composition Indices
Authors: Erciş Sertaç
Published: April 2018

Main purpose of this study was Prediction of the performance of elite male trampolines based on body composition indices. To this aim, 45 male athletes (age 14.17±2.86 yrs, athletic experience 7.22±3.64 yrs and competitive experience 3.31±2.44 yrs), who participated in the national trampoline team's preparation camps for participation at the 2014 Asian Games in four age categories included Children (ages 11 and 12 yrs), Juniors (ages 13 and 14 yrs), Adolescents (ages 15 to 17 yrs) and Seniors (ages 18 yrs <) were selected using targeted sampling. Variables of study included 24 body composition indices which were measured using standard procedures and instruments. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression models at the 0.05 significance level. Results of study showed that, among all relationships between variables, only the relationships of the shoulder belt muscle strength (r=0.294) with performance are statistically significant and in other cases, observed relationships were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Findings of this study suggest that, in the high competitive level of trampoline body composition indices have not predictive role in preparation programs of elite male trampolines.