bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zero‐viscosity‐capillarity limit to rarefaction waves for the 1D compressible Navier–Stokes–Korteweg equations
Authors: Li Yeping , Luo Zhen
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we study the zero viscosity and capillarity limit problem for the one‐dimensional compressible isentropic Navier–Stokes–Korteweg equations when the corresponding Euler equations have rarefaction wave solutions. In the case that either the effects of initial layer are ignored or the rarefaction waves are smooth, we prove that the solutions of the Navier–Stokes–Korteweg equation with centered rarefaction wave data exist for all time and converge to the centered rarefaction waves as the viscosity and capillarity number vanish, and we also obtain a rate of convergence, which is valid uniformly for all time. These results are showed by a scaling argument and elementary energy analysis. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An eco‐epidemiological predator–prey model where predators distinguish between susceptible and infected prey
Authors: Greenhalgh David , Khan Qamar J. A. , Pettigrew Joseph S.
Published: June 2016

A predator–prey model with disease amongst the prey and ratio‐dependent functional response for both infected and susceptible prey is proposed and its features analysed. This work is based on previous mathematical models to analyse the important ecosystem of the Salton Sea in Southern California and New Mexico where birds (particularly pelicans) prey on fish (particularly tilapia). The dynamics of the system around each of the ecologically meaningful equilibria are presented. Natural disease control is considered before studying the impact of the disease in the absence of predators and the interaction of predators and healthy prey and the disease effects on predators in the absence of healthy prey. Our theoretical results are confirmed by numerical simulation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the existence and uniqueness of time periodic solutions for a semilinear heat equation in the whole space
Authors: Deng Jian
Published: June 2016

This paper is concerned with the existence and uniqueness of time periodic solutions in the whole‐space
for a heat equation with nonlinear term. The nonlinear term we considered is of this type, |u|q − 1u + f(x,t), with
, N > 2. We show that there exists a unique time periodic solution when the source term f is small. In fact,
is a critical exponent; when
, there is no time periodic solution. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhanced M2 macrophage polarization in high n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid transgenic mice fed a high‐fat diet
Authors: Song Mi‐Young , Wang Jie , Lee Youngyi , Lee Juhyung , Kwon Keun‐Sang , Bae Eun Ju , Park Byung‐Hyun
Published: June 2016

Scope

Diet‐induced obesity and consequent insulin resistance are caused, in part, by macrophage polarization and accumulation in peripheral tissues. Here, we examined the effects of endogenously synthesized n‐3 PUFAs on macrophage chemotaxis and polarization.

Methods and results

Fat‐1 mice and wild‐type (WT) littermates were fed a 60% calorie high‐fat diet (HFD) for 10 weeks. Bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) from fat‐1 and WT mice were used in in vitro chemotaxis assays and macrophage polarization studies. WT mice fed a HFD exhibited glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and lipid accumulation and macrophage infiltration in liver and adipose tissue. However, these metabolic and inflammatory phenotypes were not observed in HFD‐fed fat‐1 mice. In flow cytometric analysis, M1 macrophage infiltration into adipose tissue was markedly attenuated in fat‐1 mice. Consistently, results from in vitro experiments indicated that n‐3 PUFAs prevented adipocyte conditioned medium‐mediated macrophage chemotaxis, stimulated M2 polarization, and suppressed M1 polarization. The inhibition of macrophage migration by n‐3 PUFAs was associated with suppression of multiple kinases, such as IκB kinase, AKT, and focal adhesion kinase.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that n‐3 PUFAs play a crucial role in macrophage polarization and chemotaxis, and thus regulate the development of HFD‐induced tissue inflammation and metabolic derangements.
Size‐exclusion chromatographic NMR under HR‐MAS
Authors: Lucena Alcalde Guillermo , Anderson Natalie , Day Iain J.
Published: June 2016

The addition of stationary phases or sample modifiers can be used to modify the separation achievable in the diffusion domain of diffusion NMR experiments or provide information on the nature of the analyte–sample modifier interaction. Unfortunately, the addition of insoluble chromatographic stationary phases can lead to line broadening and degradation in spectral resolution, largely because of differences in magnetic susceptibility between the sample and the stationary phase. High‐resolution magic angle spinning (HR‐MAS) techniques can be used to remove this broadening. Here, we attempt the application of HR‐MAS to size‐exclusion chromatographic NMR with limited success. Observed diffusion coefficients for polymer molecular weight reference standards are shown to be larger than those obtained on static samples. Further investigation reveals that under HR‐MAS it is possible to obtain reasonably accurate estimates of diffusion coefficients, using either full rotor synchronisation or sophisticated pulse sequences. The requirement for restricting the sample to the centre of the MAS rotor to ensure homogeneous magnetic and RF fields is also tested. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Field‐gradient partitioning for fracture and frictional contact in the material point method
Authors: Homel Michael A. , Herbold Eric B.
Published: June 2016

Contact and fracture in the material point method require grid‐scale enrichment or partitioning of material into distinct velocity fields to allow for displacement or velocity discontinuities at a material interface. A new method is presented in which a kernel‐based damage field is constructed from the particle data. The gradient of this field is used to dynamically repartition the material into contact pairs at each node. This approach avoids the need to construct and evolve explicit cracks or contact surfaces and is therefore well suited to problems involving complex 3‐D fracture with crack branching and coalescence. A straightforward extension of this approach permits frictional ‘self‐contact’ between surfaces that are initially part of a single velocity field, enabling more accurate simulation of granular flow, porous compaction, fragmentation, and comminution of brittle materials. Numerical simulations of self contact and dynamic crack propagation are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the approach. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inequalities in cancer screening participation: examining differences in perceived benefits and barriers
Authors: Smith S.G. , McGregor L.M. , Raine R. , Wardle J. , von Wagner C. , Robb K.A.
Published: June 2016

Objective

Inequalities exist in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening uptake, with people from lower socioeconomic status backgrounds less likely to participate. Identifying the facilitators and barriers to screening uptake is important to addressing screening disparities. We pooled data from 2 trials to examine educational differences in psychological constructs related to guaiac fecal occult blood testing.

Methods

Patients (n = 8576) registered at 7 general practices in England, within 15 years of the eligible age range for screening (45‐59.5 years), were invited to complete a questionnaire. Measures included perceived barriers (emotional and practical) and benefits of screening, screening intentions, and participant characteristics including education.

Results

After data pooling, 2181 responses were included. People with high school education or no formal education reported higher emotional and practical barriers and were less likely to definitely intend to participate in screening, compared with university graduates in analyses controlling for study arm and participant characteristics. The belief that one would worry more about CRC after screening and concerns about tempting fate were strongly negatively associated with education. In a model including education and participant characteristics, respondents with low emotional barriers, low practical barriers, and high perceived benefits were more likely to definitely intend to take part in screening.

Conclusions

In this analysis of adults approaching the CRC screening age, there was a consistent effect of education on perceived barriers toward guaiac fecal occult blood testing, which could affect screening decision making. Interventions should target specific barriers to reduce educational disparities in screening uptake and avoid exacerbating inequalities in CRC mortality.
Detecting depinning of polar nanoregions under dc external electric field in canonical relaxor ferroelectric Pb(Mg1/3Ta2/3)O3 via acoustic emission
Authors: Dul'kin Evgeniy , Kania Antoni , Roth Michael
Published: June 2016

Canonical relaxor ferroelectric Pb(Mg1/3Ta2/3)O3 single crystals were studied via acoustic emission in temperature range of 180–250 K covering their dielectric constant temperature maximum at Tm ≈ 202 K, and under dc external electric fields up to 1.2 kV cm−1. The dependence of Tm on dc external electric field exhibits a nonlinear behavior, characteristic of relaxors: it initially decreases, attains a sharp minimum at the threshold field of 0.25 kV cm−1 and then starts to increase, as the field enhances. The count rate of the accompanying acoustic emission exhibits two maxima: at 0.1 and 0.6 kV cm−1. The latter obviously corresponds to the end critical point, also characteristic of relaxors, while the former is attributed to a polar nanoregions depinning field at which the polar nanoregions start to be switched off from the intrinsic random electric fields to the dc external electric field. These data are discussed from the viewpoint of competition between random electric fields and an external electric field when affecting the polar nanoregions.
Bivariate Dispersion Control Charts for Monitoring Non‐Normal Processes
Authors: Osei‐Aning Richard , Abbasi Saddam Akber , Riaz Muhammad
Published: June 2016

Multivariate control charts are well known to be more sensitive to the occurrence of variation in processes with two or more correlated quality variables than univariate charts. The use of separate univariate control charts to monitor multivariate process can be misleading as it ignores the correlation between the quality characteristics. The application of multivariate control charts allows for the simultaneous monitoring of the quality characteristics by forming a single chart. The charts operate on the assumption that process observations are normally distributed, but in practice this is not always the case. In this study, we examine and present multivariate dispersion control charts for detecting shifts in the covariance matrix of normal and non‐normal bivariate processes. These control charts, referred to as SMAX, QMAX, MDMAX and MADMAX, rely on dispersion estimates, such as the sample standard deviation (S), interquartile range (Q), average absolute deviation from median (MD) and median absolute deviation (MAD), respectively. We compare the performances of these charts to the existing multivariate generalized variance |S| and RMAX charts for bivariate processes using normal and non‐normal parent distributions. The average run length (ARL) measure is used for the evaluation and comparison of the charts. A real life and simulated datasets are used to demonstrate the application of the charts. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Herpetic tracheitis in association with rituximab therapy
Authors: Thong Lorraine , Plant Barry J , McCarthy Julie , Murphy Desmond M
Published: June 2016

A 58‐year old lady under active follow‐up with the respiratory services at our institution for bronchiectasis secondary to hypogammaglobulinaemia presented with hoarseness and haemoptysis. She was also receiving rituximab maintenance therapy for follicular lymphoma. Bronchoscopy demonstrated vesicular lesions on her vocal cords and trachea, confirmed as herpes simplex virus (HSV) on cytological analysis of brushings. She responded well to intravenous valacyclovir. Rituximab is increasingly utilised in the treatment of haematological and auto‐immune disorders. This case highlights the potential of this drug to potentiate susceptibility to infection in an already immunocompromised individual.
Boerhaave's syndrome – tension hydropneumothorax and rapidly developing hydropneumothorax: two radiographic clues in one case
Authors: Nguyen Ho Lam , Tran Van Ngoc , Le Thuong Vu
Published: June 2016

Boerhaave's syndrome is a rare and severe condition with high mortality partly because of its atypical presentation resulting in delayed diagnosis and management. Diagnostic clues play an important role in the approach to this syndrome. Here, we report a 48 year‐old male patient hospitalized with fever and left chest pain radiating into the interscapular area. Two chest radiographs undertaken 22 h apart showed a rapidly developing tension hydropneumothorax. The amylase level in the pleural fluid was high. The fluid in the chest tube turned bluish after the patient drank methylene blue. The diagnosis of Boerhaave's syndrome was suspected based on the aforementioned clinical clues and confirmed at the operation. The patient recovered completely with the use of antibiotics and surgical treatment. In this case, we describe key findings on chest radiographs that are useful in diagnosing Boerhaave's syndrome.
Appendicitis complicated by appendiceal metastasis via peritoneal dissemination from lung cancer
Authors: Shiota Naoki , Furonaka Makoto , Kikutani Kazuya , Haji Keiko , Fujisaki Seiji , Nishida Toshihiro
Published: June 2016

Peritoneal disseminations from lung cancer are difficult to detect during the patient's clinical course. Therefore, complications of this condition are unclear. We report a case in which peritoneal dissemination from lung cancer complicated appendicitis.

A 74‐year‐old man with lung cancer who was receiving maintenance therapy presented at our hospital because of abdominal pain. It was the seventh day after the 14th cycle of maintenance therapy with bevacizumab. He was diagnosed with acute appendicitis. The resected appendix showed acute appendicitis complicated by appendiceal metastasis from lung cancer. Adenocarcinoma was observed predominantly in the serous membrane from the neck to the tail of the appendix. The distribution of the adenocarcinoma was diffuse. Peritoneal dissemination was considered the route of metastasis. He was admitted to the palliative care unit 10 months after appendectomy. Appendiceal metastasis via peritoneal dissemination from lung cancer complicated appendicitis in our patient who had been receiving bevacizumab.
Martingale residual‐based method to control for confounders measured only in a validation sample in time‐to‐event analysis
Authors: Burne Rebecca M. , Abrahamowicz Michal
Published: June 2016

Unmeasured confounding remains an important problem in observational studies, including pharmacoepidemiological studies of large administrative databases. Several recently developed methods utilize smaller validation samples, with information on additional confounders, to control for confounders unmeasured in the main, larger database. However, up‐to‐date applications of these methods to survival analyses seem to be limited to propensity score calibration, which relies on a strong surrogacy assumption. We propose a new method, specifically designed for time‐to‐event analyses, which uses martingale residuals, in addition to measured covariates, to enhance imputation of the unmeasured confounders in the main database. The method is applicable for analyses with both time‐invariant data and time‐varying exposure/confounders. In simulations, our method consistently eliminated bias because of unmeasured confounding, regardless of surrogacy violation and other relevant design parameters, and almost always yielded lower mean squared errors than other methods applicable for survival analyses, outperforming propensity score calibration in several scenarios. We apply the method to a real‐life pharmacoepidemiological database study of the association between glucocorticoid therapy and risk of type II diabetes mellitus in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, with additional potential confounders available in an external validation sample. Compared with conventional analyses, which adjust only for confounders measured in the main database, our estimates suggest a considerably weaker association. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distinctive Interactions of Cesium and Hexaniobate in Water
Authors: Sures Dylan J. , Sahu Sulata K. , Molina Pedro I. , Navrotsky Alexandra , Nyman May
Published: June 2016

The Cs‐effect states Cs+ has more covalent character in bonding interactions than the lighter alkalis. It is exploited in organic synthesis and influences behavior in water, most notably radioactive 137Cs in nuclear wastes or the environment. Niobium polyoxometalates (Nb‐POMs) provide a unique opportunity to probe aqueous phase ion‐pairing responsible for cesium's solution behavior, because Nb‐POMs are most soluble in conditions of maximum ion‐association. Moreover, POMs broadly resemble metal‐oxide surfaces representative of interfaces found in the environment and industrial processes. Aqueous dissolution calorimetry reveals that Cs−Nb‐POM exhibits greater concentration dependence in its endothermic dissolution, compared to the lighter alkali analogues. This phenomenon is attributed to persistent ion‐pairs upon dissolution, even in very dilute and otherwise ion‐free solutions. While dissociation of these cation‐anion interactions in the crystalline lattice is the dominant endothermic step of dissolution, deprotonation of the Nb‐POM is the most exothermic. These studies highlight the importance of the competing effects of aqueous ion association and acid‐base chemistry that control solubility of compounds from simple oxoanions to metal‐oxo clusters to supramolecular assemblies to solid metal oxides.
Experimental and Quantum Chemical Approaches to Develop Highly Selective Nanocatalysts for CO2‐free Power Circulation
Authors: Yamauchi Miho , Ozawa Nobuki , Kubo Momoji
Published: June 2016

Renewable electricity must be utilized to usefully suppress the atmospheric CO2 concentration and slow the progression of global warming. We have thus proposed a new concept involving CO2‐free electric power circulation systems via highly selective electrochemical reactions of alcohol/carboxylic acid redox couples. Design concepts for nanocatalysts able to catalyze highly selective electrochemical reactions are provided from both experimental and quantum mechanical perspectives.
Consider FERPA training practices, online tutorials
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: June 2016

The timing couldn't have been better. On February 3, American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers Director of Research Wendy Kilgore published the results of AACRAO's 60–second survey titled “FERPA Training Practices.” The key findings from the 878 usable responses to the questionnaire were.
Build an online hub around student enrollment needs for increased retention, completion
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: June 2016

PHOENIX — Hurdles created by admission and enrollment processes should never be a barrier to an education. Creating an online space that streamlines processes as much as possible for your students can help cut down on the frustration and attrition associated with dealing with bureaucracy. In a session from the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers annual conference, Sherry M. Phillips, director of registration and records; and Stephanie Prazenka, associate director of records and registration, both from the Montgomery County Community College System, shared best practices and lessons learned from their move to an online one‐stop shop for admissions, registration, and financial aid. The initiative uses Colleague® Student Self‐Service to improve student retention, progression toward degree, and completion.
Distributed trigger counting algorithms for arbitrary network topology
Authors: Chang Che‐Cheng , Tsai Jichiang
Published: June 2016

The distributed trigger counting (DTC) problem is a fundamental block for many distributed applications. Particularly, such a problem is to raise an alert while the number of triggers received by the whole system reaches a pre‐defined amount. There have been a few algorithms proposed to solve the DTC problem in the literature. However, these existing algorithms are all under the assumption that each process knows what kind of network topology the whole system forms as well as playing distinct kind of role in the system. The foregoing assumption is not practical for wireless sensor networks because the network topology of a wireless sensor network cannot be obtained in advance, and the roles of all processes are basically identical during the computation. In this paper, we propose a novel distributed algorithm to solve the DTC problem, free of any aforementioned global assumption. Moreover, in order to reduce the message complexity of our algorithm, we further propose a more message‐efficient version, only with one extra requirement that all processes have learned ahead the number of processes in the system. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Encoding individuals in language using syntax, words, and pragmatic inference
Authors: Srinivasan Mahesh , Barner David
Published: June 2016

How does linguistic structure relate to how we construe reality? In many languages, countable individuals like objects are typically labeled by count nouns (e.g.,tworabbits,everytruck, etc.), while unindividuated masses like substances are typically labeled by mass nouns (e.g.,muchmud,barrel ofoil, etc.) (Quine WVO.Word and Object. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press; 1960). These facts have led researchers to propose that learning mass–count syntax affects how speakers perceive objects and substances or alternatively that an understanding of this distinction—or one between individuals and nonindividuals—scaffolds the acquisition of mass and count nouns. Here, we evaluate these ideas and describe how recent developments in the literature have fundamentally changed our understanding of the mass–count distinction and how it relates to individuation. Across three sections, we show that a simple distinction between countable individuals and nonindividuals cannot provide a foundation for the mass–count distinction (e.g., because many mass nouns likefurnitureandluggagecan denote individuals). Furthermore, we show that mass–count syntax does not shape whether items are construed as individuals or not, but instead allows speakers to select from a set of universally available meanings (e.g., because speakers of all languages quantify objects and substances similarly). We argue that a complete understanding of how mass–count syntax encodes reality requires understanding how different aspects of language—syntax, lexical roots, word meanings, and pragmatic inference—interact to encode abstract, countable individuals.WIREs Cogn Sci2016, 7:341–353. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1396

This article is categorized under:

Linguistics > Language Acquisition

Linguistics > Linguistic Theory

Psychology > Language
Identification and evaluation of intervarietal substitution lines of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) with donor segments affecting the direct embryo to plant conversion rate of microspore-derived embryos
Authors: Kampouridis Anthimos , Ziese-Kubon Katharina , Nurhasanah  , Ecke Wolfgang
Published: June 2016

Microspore culture has become an important tool in many species, includingBrassicas, for the production of entirely homozygous lines, so called double haploid (DH) lines. The primary products of microspore culture are embryo-like structures, called microspore-derived embryos (MDEs). A major problem in the development of DH lines is the often low efficiency of Direct Embryo to Plant Conversion (DEPC). During the development of DH populations, favourable alleles of genes affecting the DEPC rate will be under selection. This selection should lead to skewed segregations at markers linked to these genes. By comparing skewed marker segregations in four populations, a population of doubled haploid plantlets, a haploid and a doubled haploid MDE population, and a BC1population, 20 genomic regions were identified, which showed patterns of skewed segregations across the populations, indicative of the segregation of genetic factors controlling DEPC rates. Four regions and eight intervarietal substitution lines (ISLs) with donor segments overlapping these regions were selected for further studies. Three ISLs, ER654, ER661 and ER653 with DEPC rates of 49.1, 54.5 and 57.2 %, showed significantly reduced DEPC rates compared to the rate of the recurrent parent of 76.5 %. By comparing donor segments between the significant and the non-significant lines, eight genomic regions were identified that may contain genetic factors controlling the DEPC rate in rapeseed. These regions range in size from 0 (represented by just one marker) to 16.5 cM and cover together just 1.33 % of the genetic map used to characterize the donor segments in the ISLs.
Predictors and outcomes of low birth weight in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Chibwesha Carla J. , Zanolini Arianna , Smid Marcela , Vwalika Bellington , Phiri Kasaro Margaret , Mwanahamuntu Mulindi , Stringer Jeffrey S.A. , Stringer Elizabeth M.
Published: June 2016

Objective

To determine factors associated with low birth weight (LBW) in an urban Zambian cohort and investigate risk of adverse outcomes for LBW neonates.

Methods

The present retrospective cohort analysis used data recorded between February 2006 and December 2012 for singletons and first‐born twins delivered in the public health system of Lusaka, Zambia. Routine clinical data and generalized estimating equations were used to examine covariates associated with LBW (< 2500 g) and describe outcomes of LBW.

Results

In total, 200 557 neonates were included, 21 125 (10.5%) of whom were LBW. Placental abruption, delivery before 37 weeks, and twin pregnancy were associated with LBW in multivariable analysis (P < 0.01 for all). Compared with neonates weighing more than 2500 g, LBW neonates were at higher risk of stillbirth (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 8.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.5–11.5), low Apgar score (AOR 5.7, 95% CI 4.6–7.2), admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (AOR 5.4, 95% CI 3.5–8.3), and very early neonatal death (AOR 6.2, 95% CI 3.7–10.3).

Conclusion

LBW neonates are at increased risk of adverse outcomes, including stillbirth and neonatal death, independent of pregnancy duration at delivery and multiple pregnancy. These findings underscore the need for early, comprehensive, and high‐quality prenatal care.
Standard reference values for the shock index during pregnancy
Authors: Borovac‐Pinheiro Anderson , Pacagnella Rodolfo C. , Morais Sirlei S. , Cecatti Jose G.
Published: June 2016

Objective

To assess variation in the shock index (SI; heart rate divided by systolic blood pressure) during pregnancy.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, data were assessed from the medical records of women with low‐risk pregnancies who attended a primary healthcare unit for prenatal care in Campinas, Brazil, between January 2012 and December 2013. The means, standard deviations, and percentiles of SI values were calculated for different pregnancy lengths, stratified by body mass index (BMI) and maternal age.

Results

In total, 192 pregnant women with 1097 measurements were included. The mean SI values ranged from 0.756 ± 0.127 at 12 weeks or fewer to 0.831 ± 0.144 at 28–32 weeks. There was an increase in values in the second trimester and beginning of the third, followed by a decrease at term. The percentile distribution ranged from 0.522 (2.5th percentile) to 1.190 (97.5th percentile). SI values showed a trend toward lower values with increasing BMI. Regression analysis showed that BMI was the factor that most influenced the data.

Conclusion

Reference ranges were established for SI values, which showed small variations throughout pregnancy and slightly higher values than the general population.
Catheter ablation for ventricular tachyarrhythmia in patients with channelopathies
Authors: Murakoshi Nobuyuki , Aonuma Kazutaka
Published: June 2016

Drug treatment and/or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation are the most widely accepted first‐line therapies for channelopathic patients who have recurrent syncope, sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT), or documented ventricular fibrillation (VF), or are survivors of cardiac arrest. In recent years, there have been significant advances in mapping techniques and ablation technology, coupled with better understanding of the mechanisms of ventricular tachyarrhythmia in channelopathies. Catheter ablation has provided important insights into the role of the Purkinje network and the right ventricular outflow tract in the initiation and perpetuation of VT/VF, and has evolved as a promising treatment modality for ventricular tachyarrhythmia even in channelopathies. When patients are exposed to a high risk of sudden cardiac death or deterioration of their quality of life due to episodes of tachycardia and frequent ICD discharges, catheter ablation may be an effective treatment option to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death and decrease the frequency of cardiac events. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of catheter ablation for VT/VF in patients with channelopathies including Brugada syndrome, idiopathic VF, long QT syndrome, and catecholaminergic polymorphic VT.
Total Phallic Reconstruction Using the Radial Artery Based Forearm Free Flap After Traumatic Penile Amputation
Authors: Falcone Marco , Garaffa Giulio , Raheem Amr , Christopher Nim A. , Ralph David J.
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Although genital injuries in civilian centers are rare, the scenario is completely different in the battlefield. If the penile distal stump is not adequate for primary reimplantation or it cannot be found, then delayed penile reconstruction needs to be considered.

Aim

To report a single-center experience with total phallic reconstruction using radial artery based forearm free flap (RAFFF) after penile traumatic loss.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 10 patients who underwent total phallic reconstruction with the use of the RAFFF from September 2001 through August 2015 after traumatic amputation of the penis.

Main Outcome Measures

Patients' baseline features, surgical outcomes, complications, and satisfaction are reported.

Results

The average age at the time of penile reconstruction was 36 years (range = 27–52 years). The causes of penile loss were self-amputation owing to an acute schizophrenic episode (n = 2), road traffic accident (n = 3), blast injury (n = 3), donkey bite (n = 1), and Fournier gangrene (n = 1). The average time from the trauma to reconstruction with the RAFFF was 7 years (range = 2–15 years). The urethral stump was adequate for primary anastomosis, with phallic neourethra construction in six patients. The remaining patients had complete avulsion of the penis and were voiding though a perineal urethrostomy. In consequence, they required a two-stage urethroplasty. An acute arterial thrombosis of the microsurgical anastomosis occurred in two patients and was managed successfully with immediate exploration. A neourethra stricture and fistula occurred in one patient, which needed revision. All patients who underwent complete urethral reconstruction could void and ejaculate from the tip of the phallus. After a median follow-up of 51 months (range = 1–114 months), all patients were satisfied with the size, cosmetic appearance, and sensation of the phallus. Six patients underwent inflatable penile prosthesis implantation and could engage in penetrative sex. However, revision surgery was needed in three patients (infection, n = 2; mechanical failure, n = 1).

Conclusion

Despite the high incidence of postoperative complications and the possible need for multiple operations, in expert hands and in large-volume centers, penile reconstruction with the RAFFF after traumatic loss of the penis yields excellent results and allows patients to regain sexual and urinary functions.
The “Near‐Peer” Approach to Teaching Musculoskeletal Physical Examination Skills Benefits Residents and Medical Students
Authors: Rosenberg Casandra J. , Nanos Katherine N. , Newcomer Karen L.
Published: June 2016

Background

The musculoskeletal physical examination (MSK PE) is an essential part of medical student training, and it is best taught in a hands‐on, longitudinal fashion. A barrier to this approach is faculty instructor availability. “Near‐peer” teaching refers to physicians‐in‐training teaching their junior colleagues. It is unknown whether near‐peer teaching is effective in teaching this important physical examination skill.

Objective

To investigate attitudes of medical students and physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) residents regarding near‐peer teaching in an MSK PE curriculum.

Design

Qualitative, anonymous paper and online surveys.

Setting

Tertiary academic center with a medical school and PM&R training program.

Participants

Ninety‐nine second‐ and third‐year medical students and 13 PM&R residents in their third or fourth postgraduate year.

Methods

Attitudes of second‐ and third‐year medical students were measured immediately after their MSK PE course. Resident attitudes were measured in a single cross‐sectional sample.

Main Outcome Measurements

Student attitudes were assessed via a questionnaire with 5‐point Likert scales and a free‐text comment section. The resident questionnaire included a combination of multiple‐choice questions, rankings, free‐text responses, and Likert scales.

Results

All 99 students completed the questionnaire. The majority of students (n = 79 [80%]) reported that resident involvement as hands‐on instructors of examination skills was “very useful,” and 87 (88%) indicated that resident‐led small discussion groups were “very helpful” or “somewhat helpful.” Fifty‐seven of 99 students (58%) reported that the resident‐facilitated course was “much better” than courses without resident involvement. Twelve of 13 eligible residents completed the survey, and of those, 8 found teaching “very helpful” to their MSK knowledge, and 11 became “somewhat” or “much more confident” in clinical examination skills.

Conclusions

Our study supports educational benefits to medical students and resident instructors in our MSK PE program. We recommend including near‐peer teaching in medical student education, particularly for hands‐on skills; we also recommend providing opportunities for PM&R residents to participate in formal near‐peer education.

Level of Evidence

Not applicable.
Paleoproterozoic high-Mg low-Ti gabbro-granite series in eastern Sarmatia: Geochemistry and formation conditions
Authors: Terentiev R.A. , Savko K.A.
Published: June 2016

We present nomenclature and geochemical classification of Paleoproterozoic LILE-enriched high-Mg low-Ti mafic-granitoid rocks of the eastern margin of the Sarmatia paleocontinent and substantiate their tectonic position. Two differentiated rock series are recognized: (1) biotite–orthopyroxene melanorite–quartz-meladiorite–melagranodiorite and (2) hornblende–biotite quartz-diorite–tonalite–granodiorite. Both series correspond in chemical composition to calc-alkalic gabbro-diorites, diorites, tonalites, and granodiorites. As follows from their mineralogical and geochemical compositions, these are norite-diorite rocks (intrusive analogs of boninites) (SiO2 = 52–65 wt.%, MgO = 5–20 wt.%, TiO2 = 0.2–0.8 wt.%) and high-Mg granitoids (SiO2 = 60–70 wt.%, Na2O/K2O = 0.65–1.33, MgO = 3.23–7.40 wt.%, K2O = 1.9–4.0 wt.%), respectively. Their high Mg# values (67–87) and Cr contents (> 100 ppm), on the one hand, and their isotope-geochemical characteristics similar to those of the host metaterrigenous rocks, the magma enrichment in LILE, and the presence of Ni sulfide ores with a predominance of light sulfur isotopes, on the other, testify to crustal contamination of mantle magmas. The rock series are nearly of the same age and belong to the same magmatic system, where high-Mg granitoids are differentiates of parental high-Mg (boninite-like) norite-dioritic magma. This is confirmed by a gradual increase in SiO2 and K2O contents and a decrease in Mg# and Ni, Co, V, and Cr contents in the sequence from norites to granodiorites and by the facies and phase relationships between the series. Intrusion of rocks took place at shallow depths following the low-temperature metamorphism and folding under postcollisional collapse of the East Sarmatian orogen.
New results of OSL dating of Quaternary sediments in the Upper Katun’ valley (Gorny Altai) and adjacent area
Authors: Zolnikov I.D. , Deev E.V. , Kotler S.A. , Rusanov G.G. , Nazarov D.V.
Published: June 2016

Several sections have been studied to understand the distribution and interrelation of basic genetic types of Quaternary deposits in the Uimon basin and adjacent area. The OSL date of 101 ± 10 ka from the glaciolacustrine terrace on the northeastern rim of the basin corresponds to the cool substage of MIS 5. The glaciolacustrine sediments of the northern rim are covered with widespread diamictic flows of the outburst draining of the ice-dammed lake. The diamicts are overlain by a subaerial complex of loesses and three fossil soils. From the OSL loess dates in the range of 43 to 49 ka we infer that the complex formed from the early MIS 3 through the Holocene. This is also supported by radiocarbon dates from alluvial deposits incised into the glaciolacustrine terrace and into megaflood sediments of the final draining of the last paleolake. The OSL dates in the range of 77 to 89 ka from alluvial sediments indicate that postglacial downcutting of the present-day Katun’ valley probably started just after MIS 5. The discrepancy between the beryllium dates from dropstones and Holocene TL-dates of the Katun’ valley floods ranging from 23 to 6 ka can be explained if the younger floods are related to the draining of moraine- and rock slide dammed rather than ice-dammed lakes. The younger floods, though being less voluminous than the glacial megafloods, were capable of producing giant ripple marks.
Thermophysical method for quantitative estimation of hydrate content in samples imitating bottom sediments
Authors: Fadeeva I.I. , Duchkov A.A. , Permyakov M.E.
Published: June 2016

Gas hydrates in sediments can dissociate on heating, which causes a characteristic change in temperature over time. This can be used to detect hydrates and estimate their content. The geothermal method for gas hydrate prospecting consists in obtaining thermograms and defining regularities related to the presence of gas hydrates in the medium. The aim of this study was a quantitative estimation of hydrate content in sediments, based on data from repeated measurements of the temperature of a linear heat source (needle probe). The power of the source is chosen so that hydrate does not decompose in the first measurement but decomposes in the second. Afterward, we solve the optimization inverse problem of determination of the model parameters, one of which is a hydrate content. Experimental data on heating of the laboratory samples are processed, and hydrate contents are obtained with an accuracy of 30%. These values agree with independent estimates. The analytical solution of the axially symmetric problem of gas hydrate dissociation, based on the solution of the Stefan problem, is applied as a mathematical model for hydrate heating and decomposition in the sample.
The mechanism of magma ascent through the solid lithosphere and relation between mantle and crustal diapirism: numerical modeling and natural examples
Authors: Polyansky O.P. , Reverdatto V.V. , Babichev A.V. , Sverdlova V.G.
Published: June 2016

Diapirism can be regarded as the main mechanism of transport through the lithosphere for both felsic and mafic/ultramafic magmas. However, the lack of field observations makes it difficult to identify the key mechanism responsible for the formation of dome-shaped structures. In this study, emplacement of natural diapirs is reconstructed by numerical experiments handling realistic rheological and petrological models for the crust and mantle lithosphere. Three different regimes of diapiric ascent were established depending on the chosen model rheology: (1) single-stage diapir ascent; (2) pulsating ascent of successive batches of mantle-derived magma to the base of the crust with a periodicity of 2–3 Myr; (3) emplacement of extensive magma bodies in the form of sills either beneath the base of the crust (underplating) or to deeper mantle levels. The timescale of 30 Myr for a heat source at the base of the lithosphere is sufficient to initiate the ascent of a diapir through the mantle and crust. The study provides the estimates of rheological properties of the lithosphere and partially molten material at which diapiric ascent through the mantle and crust can occur.
Active faults of the northern Tien Shan: tectonophysical zoning of seismic risk
Authors: Rebetsky Yu.L. , Kuzikov S.I.
Published: June 2016

This study continues the work by Mikhail Gzovsky on geological (tectonophysical) criteria for seismic risk. It is suggested to perform seismic-risk zoning according to parameters of normal and shear stresses on fault planes converted from results of tectonophysical stress reconstructions. The approach requires the knowledge of both dip and strike of the respective fault segments. Slip geometry is estimated from stress tensor, assuming that it is directed along shear stress. The suggested approach is applied to faults in the northern Tien Shan, and the current stress parameters are reconstructed using source mechanisms of catalogued earthquakes recorded by the KNET seismological network of the RAS Science Station in Bishkek. Stress modeling is performed by the method of cataclastic analysis providing constraints on stress ellipsoids, as well as on relations between the spherical and deviatoric components of the stress tensor. Plotted on the Mohr diagram, the fault stress points allow estimating whether the respective fault segments are close to the critical state (brittle failure). The suggested seismic-risk zoning of faults in the northern Tien Shan reveals up to 25 km long hazardous fault segments.
Using Timely Survey-Based Information Networks to Collect Data on Best Practices for Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response: Illustrative Case From the American College of Emergency Physicians’ Ebola Surveys
Authors: Abir Mahshid , Moore Melinda , Chamberlin Margaret , Koenig Kristi L. , Hirshon Jon Mark , Singh Cynthia , Schneider Sandra , Cantrill Stephen
Published: June 2016

Objective

Using the example of surveys conducted by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) regarding the management of Ebola cases in the United States, we aimed to demonstrate how survey-based information networks can provide timely data to inform best practices in responding to public health emergencies.

Methods

ACEP conducted 3 surveys among its members in October to November 2014 to assess the state of Ebola preparedness in emergency departments. We analyzed the surveys to illustrate the types of information that can be gleaned from such surveys. We analyzed qualitative data through theme extraction and collected quantitative results through cross-tabulations and logistic regression examining associations between outcomes and potential contributing factors.

Results

In the first survey, most respondents perceived their hospital as being reasonably prepared for Ebola. The second survey revealed significant associations between a hospital’s preparedness and its perceived ability to admit Ebola patients. The third survey identified 3 hospital characteristics that were significantly and independently associated with perceived ability to admit Ebola patients: large size, previous Ebola screening experience, and physician- and nurse-led hospital preparedness.

Conclusion

Professional associations can use their member networks to collect timely survey data to inform best practices during and immediately after public health emergencies. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:681–690)
Trace fossils of possible parasites inside the gut contents of a hadrosaurid dinosaur, Upper Cretaceous Judith River Formation, Montana
Authors: Tweet Justin , Chin Karen , Ekdale A. A.
Published: June 2016

Tiny sinuous trace fossils have been found within probable gut contents of an exceptionally preserved specimen of a hadrosaurid dinosaur,Brachylophosaurus canadensis, from the Judith River Formation of Montana. Approximately 280 examples of the trace fossils were observed in 19 samples of gut region material. The tubular structures typically are about 0.3 mm across. Many have thin calcareous linings or layers, and some exhibit fine surficial striae. At least two dozen of these trace fossils share walls with adjacent tubular traces, and this association can extend for several millimeters. While the trace fossils share some characteristics with fine rhizoliths, these features are most consistent with tiny burrows, or possibly body impressions, of worms (vermiform organisms) of uncertain biologic affinity. Such trace fossils have not been reported previously, and herein described asParvitubulites striatusn. gen. n. sp. Either autochthonous (parasites) or allochthonous (scavengers) worms may have created the trace fossils, but taphonomic factors suggest that autochthonous burrowers are more likely. Several lines of evidence, such as constant diameters and matching directional changes, suggest that the paired trace fossils were made by two individuals moving at the same time, which implies sustained intraspecific contact.Parvitubulites striatusprovides a rare record of interactions between terrestrial, meiofaunal-sized, soft-bodied invertebrates and a dinosaur carcass. The evidence that the worms may have parasitized a living hadrosaur and subsequently left traces of intraspecific behavior between individual worms adds unique information to our understanding of Mesozoic trophic interactions.
A large outbreak ofCampylobacter jejuniinfection in a university college caused by chicken liver pâté, Australia, 2013
Authors: MOFFATT C. R. M. , GREIG A. , VALCANIS M. , GAO W. , SEEMANN T. , HOWDEN B. P. , KIRK M. D.
Published: June 2016

In October 2013, public health authorities were notified of a suspected outbreak of gastroenteritis in students and guests following a catered function at a university residential college. A retrospective cohort study was undertaken to examine whether foods served at the function caused illness. A total of 56 cases of gastroenteritis, including seven laboratory-confirmed cases ofCampylobacter jejuniinfection, were identified in 235 eligible respondents. Univariate analysis showed a significant association with a chicken liver pâté entrée [relative risk (RR) 3·64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2·03–6·52,P< 0·001], which retained significance after adjustment for confounding via multivariable analysis (adjusted RR 2·80, 95% CI 1·26–6·19,P= 0·01).C. jejuniandC. coliwere also isolated in chicken liver pâté recovered from the college's kitchen. Subsequent whole genome multilocus sequence typing (wgMLST) of clinical and food-derivedC. jejuniisolates showed three genetically distinct sequence types (STs) comprising ST528, ST535 (both clinically derived) and ST991 (food derived). The study demonstrates the value of utilizing complementary sources of evidence, including genomic data, to support public health investigations. The use of wgMLST highlights the potential for significantC. jejunidiversity in epidemiologically related human and food isolates recovered during outbreaks linked to poultry liver.