bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating an Analytical Model to Predict Subsurface LNAPL Distributions and Transmissivity from Current and Historic Fluid Levels in Groundwater Wells: Comparing Results to Numerical Simulations
Authors: Lenhard Robert J. , Sookhak Lari Kaveh , Rayner John L. , Davis Greg B.
Published: March 2018

A recent analytical model predicts free, entrapped, and residual LNAPL saturations and the LNAPL transmissivity in the subsurface from current and historic fluid levels in groundwater wells. As such, the model accounts for effects of fluid level fluctuations in a well. The model was developed to predict LNAPL specific volumes and transmissivities from current fluid level measurements in wells and either recorded historic fluid level fluctuations in wells or estimates. An assumption is made in the model that the predictions are not dependent on whether the historic highest or lowest fluid level elevations in a well occur first. To test the assumption, we conduct two simulations with a modified multiphase flow numerical code TMVOC that incorporates relative permeability‐saturation‐capillary head relations employed in the model. In one simulation, the initial condition is for fluid levels in a well at the historic highest elevations. In the other simulation, the initial condition is for fluid levels in a well at the historic lowest elevations. We change the boundary conditions so both historical conditions occur followed by generating the current condition. Results from the numerical simulations are compared to model predictions and show the assumption in the analytical model is reasonable. The analytical model can be used to develop/refine conceptual site models and for assessing potential LNAPL recovery endpoints, especially on sites with fluctuating fluid levels in wells.
Gamma/alpha‐zein hydrolysates as oral delivery vehicles: Enhanced physicochemical stability and in vitro bioaccessibility of curcumin
Authors: Pan Runting , Zou Yuan , Wang Jinmei , Wan Zhili , Guo Jian , Yang Juan , Yang Xiaoquan
Published: March 2018

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential of the γ‐zein hydrolysate (γ‐ZH) as a new delivery system for hydrophobic bioactive molecules such as curcumin (Cur). γ‐ZH‐Cur complexes (γ‐ZH‐Cur) with a particle size of 50–60 nm were successfully formed via the hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Compared to α‐ZH, the complexation of Cur in γ‐ZH showed a better improvement in the water solubility and physicochemical stability of Cur and showed sustained release and greater potential for absorption of Cur. The differences in the loading capability, the physicochemical storage and the bioaccessibility of Cur between γ‐ZH and α‐ZH may be associated with the differences in the amino acid composition and typical sequence of peptides. These results indicate that γ‐ZH has a better ability to serve as a novel delivery for the hydrophobic bioactive molecules compared to α‐ZH.
The value of the Modified Early Warning Score for unplanned Intensive Care Unit admissions of patients treated in hospital general wards
Authors: Zografakis‐Sfakianakis Michail , De Bree Eelco , Linardakis Manolis , Messaritaki Argyri , Askitopoulou Helen , Papaioannou Alexandra , Aggouridakis Panagiotis
Published: March 2018

Aim

To determine the value of the Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS) for general ward patients and its potential use as an alarm tool for ward nurses.

Methods

A combined prospective‐retrospective observational study was conducted with 153 patients in a university hospital (2013‐2014). All patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) from general wards. Parameters retrospectively studied were 5 MEWS values at 4 hourly intervals, up to 20 hours before ICU admission. Parameters prospectively studied were ICU length of stay, ICU mortality, and mortality after ICU discharge.

Results

Most frequent severe adverse events were acute respiratory failure (39.9%) and septic shock (20.3%). Modified Early Warning Score increased gradually during the last 20 hours, and most patients remained in the wards, above a cut‐off point ≥7 recorded at 4 hours before admission. Significant associations between latest MEWS score and ICU mortality and ICU length of stay were found. MEWS score≥ 7 hours before admission was highly associated with increased ICU and hospital mortality.

Conclusion

Patient deterioration in general wards can result in severe adverse events. Modified Early Warning Score is a strong predictor of outcome and may be used as a monitoring tool for potentially avoidable deaths and unplanned admissions to ICU.
Poloxamer 407‐chitosan grafted thermoresponsive hydrogels achieve synchronous and sustained release of antigen and adjuvant from single‐shot vaccines
Authors: Bobbala Sharan , Gibson Blake , Gamble Allan B , McDowell Arlene , Hook Sarah
Published: March 2018

Sustained‐release vaccine delivery systems may enhance the immunogenicity of subunit vaccines and reduce the need for multiple vaccinations. The aim of this study was to develop a thermoresponsive hydrogel using poloxamer 407‐chitosan (CP) grafted copolymer as a delivery system for single‐shot sustained‐release vaccines. The CP copolymer was synthesized using 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)‐carbodiimide and N‐hydroxysuccinimide chemistry. The CP copolymer was a free flowing solution at ambient temperature and transformed rapidly into a gel at body temperature. The hydrogels were loaded with vaccine antigen and adjuvants or the vaccine components were encapsulated in poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanoparticles in order to ensure synchronous release. The CP hydrogels were stable for up to 18 days in vitro. Release of both nanoparticles and the individual components was complete, with release of the individual components being modulated by incorporation into nanoparticles. In vivo, a single dose of CP hydrogel vaccine induced strong, long lasting, cellular and humoral responses that could protect against the development of tumors in a murine melanoma model.
Perceived benefits and barriers of implementing nursing residency programs in Jordan
Authors: AbuAlRub R.F. , Abu Alhaija'a M.G.
Published: March 2018

Aims

To explore the challenges that face Jordanian nurses in the first year of employment; and understand the benefits and barriers of implementing a Nursing Residency Program from the perspectives of nurses and key informants.

Background

Many researchers reported that novice nurses do not have an adequate level of competence needed in the real clinical practice to meet the increasing demands of healthcare systems.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative approach using individual interviews and focus group discussions was utilized. The sample was a purposive one that consisted of 30 Jordanian nurses and six key informants. Data were recorded and then transcribed. Content analysis was used to analyze the data.

Findings

The results revealed several challenges that face nurses in their first year of experience such as reality shock, lack of self‐confidence, and burnout and intent to leave. Some of the perceived barriers of implementing the Program were issues concerned with the responsible regulatory body, payment, and monitoring and evaluation.

Conclusion

The findings asserted that the implementation of the Nursing Residency Program for new practicing nurses would enhance their competencies and self‐ confidence; and decrease the rate of reality shock and turnover within the first year of employment.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Policy makers, nurse educators, and nurse administrators and clinical nurses need to collaborate to develop a formal system with binding policies and regulations concerning the implementation of Nursing Residency Program. There is also a need to address and modify current orientation programmes offered by hospitals for novice nurses to enhance their transition into clinical practice.
Preliminary investigation of the variations in root canal morphology of hypomineralised second primary molars
Authors: Neboda Chaturi , Anthonappa Robert P. , King Nigel M.
Published: March 2018

Aim

To investigate the root canal morphology of hypomineralised second primary molars(HSPM) using micro‐CT(μCT) compared with non‐hypomineralised second primary molars (non‐HSPM).

Methodology

Ten HSPM and 10 non‐HSPM were divided into Group 1(maxillary HSPM), Group 2 (mandibular HSPM), Group 3(maxillary non‐HSPM), and Group 4 (mandibular non‐HSPM). All teeth were scanned using μCT to assess the following parameters: (i) root canal configuration, (ii) pulp volumes, and (iii) the influence of the root canal system landmarks on access cavity outline forms and canal curvature. Two‐way ANOVA was employed for descriptive analysis (P < 0.05).

Results

At the furcation level, there was minimal variation in the number of canals. In the mesiobuccal root, Group 1 showed higher frequency of multiple canals in the middle (85.7%) and apical (85.7%) thirds compared with Group 3. In the mesial root, Group 4 demonstrated multiple canals at the furcation (60%) compared with Group 2(33.3%). In the distal root, Group 2 demonstrated a higher percentage of multiple canals at the apical level (100%) compared with Group 4. The mean pulp volumes of Group 2 and Group 4 were 54.1 mm3(16.7) and 30 mm3(5.12), respectively, which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The canal curvature values did not differ significantly between HSPM and non‐HSPM groups.

Conclusions

HSPM exhibited greater variations in their root canal configuration when compared to non‐HSPM.
Heterogeneous estimates of influenza virus types A and B in the elderly: Results of a meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Panatto Donatella , Signori Alessio , Lai Piero L. , Gasparini Roberto , Amicizia Daniela
Published: March 2018

Influenza has many age‐dependent characteristics. A previous systematic review of randomized controlled trials showed that the detection rate of influenza B was higher in children than in non‐elderly adults. However, no comprehensive reviews have targeted the elderly, who carry the main burden of disease. We aimed to quantify the relative detection rates of virus types A and B among the elderly, to identify factors affecting these proportions, and to compare type distribution among seniors and younger age‐classes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify multiseason studies reporting A and B virus type distributions in the elderly. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was planned to quantify the prevalence of type B among elderly subjects with laboratory‐confirmed influenza. Meta‐regression was then applied to explain the sources of heterogeneity. Across 27 estimates identified, the type B detection rate among seniors varied from 5% to 37%. Meta‐analysis was not feasible owing to high heterogeneity (I2 = 98.5%). Meta‐regression analysis showed that study characteristics, such as number of seasons included, hemisphere, and setting, could have contributed to the heterogeneity observed. The final adjusted model showed that studies that included both outpatients and inpatients reported a significantly (P = .024) lower proportion than those involving outpatients only. The detection rate of type B among the elderly was generally lower than in children/adolescents, but not non‐elderly adults. Influenza virus type B has a relatively low detection rate in older adults, especially in settings covering both inpatients and outpatients. Public health implications are discussed.
Central sensitization and the biopsychosocial approach to understanding pain
Authors: Adams Leah M. , Turk Dennis C.
Published: March 2018

Medical interventions alone have been largely unsuccessful in treating and curing disorders characterized by chronic pain like central sensitivity syndromes (CSS; e.g., fibromyalgia, chronic migraine, temporomandibular disorders, irritable bowel syndrome). In this article, we discuss how a biopsychosocial perspective adds to understanding people's experiences with chronic pain. A biopsychosocial perspective examines how biological, psychological, social, and contextual factors work independently and jointly to influence the experience, maintenance, and exacerbation of CSS and their symptoms. We highlight several key psychological and social factors relevant to many people who live with CSS, while also emphasizing the heterogeneity in people's experiences, life courses, and symptoms. Furthermore, we emphasize that the psychological, social, and contextual factors that we include are best characterized as contributors to chronic pain experience rather than causes of it.
Association of impaired endothelial glycocalyx with arterial stiffness, coronary microcirculatory dysfunction, and abnormal myocardial deformation in untreated hypertensives
Authors: Ikonomidis Ignatios , Voumvourakis Astrinos , Makavos George , Triantafyllidi Helen , Pavlidis George , Katogiannis Konstantinos , Benas Dimitris , Vlastos Dimitris , Trivilou Paraskevi , Varoudi Maria , Parissis John , Iliodromitis Efstathios , Lekakis John
Published: March 2018

We investigated the association of endothelial glycocalyx damage with arterial stiffness, impairment of coronary microcirculatory function, and LV myocardial deformation in 320 untreated hypertensives and 160 controls. We measured perfused boundary region (PBR) of the sublingual microvessels, a marker inversely related with glycocalyx thickness, coronary flow reserve (CFR), and Global Longitudinal strain (GLS) by echocardiography, pulse wave velocity (PWV), and central systolic blood pressure (cSBP). Hypertensives had higher PBR, PWV cSBP, and lower CFR and GLS than controls (P < .05). In hypertensives, increased PBR was associated with increased cSBP, PWV, and decreased CFR and GLS after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, smoking LV mass, heart rate, hyperlipidemia, and office SBP (P < .05). PBR had an additive value to PWV, CFR, and office SBP for the prediction of abnormal GLS (x2 = 2.4‐3.8, P for change = .03). Endothelial glycocalyx is impaired in untreated hypertensives and is related to arterial stiffness, coronary, and myocardial dysfunction.
NOVA1 acts as an oncogene in melanoma via regulating FOXO3a expression
Authors: Yu Xin , Zheng Heyi , Chan Matthew T.V. , Wu William K.K.
Published: March 2018

Increasing studies have suggested that dysregulation of RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) contributes to cancer progression. Neuro‐oncological ventral antigen 1 (NOVA1) is a novel RBP and plays an important role in tumour development. However, the expression and role of NOVA1 in melanoma remain unknown. In this study, we indicated that NOVA1 expression was up‐regulated in melanoma samples and cell lines. Moreover, we demonstrated that knockdown of NOVA1 suppressed melanoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion in both A375 and A875 cell lines. In addition, we showed that suppressed expression of NOVA1 enhanced forkhead box O3a (FOXO3a) expression while inhibited AKT expression in melanoma cell. Furthermore, we demonstrated that inhibited expression of FoxO3A rescued NOVA1‐mediated cell proliferation, migration and invasion in melanoma cell line A375. These results suggested that NOVA1 acted as an oncogene in the development of melanoma partly through regulating FoxO3A expression.
New remarkable sexually dimorphic miniature species of Hyphessobrycon (Characiformes: Characidae) from the upper Rio Tapajós basin
Authors: Camelier P. , Dagosta F. C. P. , Marinho M. M. F.
Published: March 2018

A new miniature species of Hyphessobrycon is described from an affluent of the Rio Papagaio, tributary of the Rio Juruena, upper Rio Tapajós basin, Mato Grosso State, Brazil. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by having a remarkable secondary sexual dimorphism in its live colouration (males are red and females yellow), well‐defined and relatively narrow dark midlateral stripe extending from tip of snout to tip of middle caudal‐fin rays, absence of humeral blotch, 15–18 branched anal‐fin rays and five or six branched pelvic‐fin rays. The sexually dimorphic colouration of the new species is briefly discussed regarding its temporal variation.
From male to joint land ownership: Women's experiences of the land tenure reform programme in Rwanda
Authors: Bayisenge Jeannette
Published: March 2018

During the post‐genocide period, the Government of Rwanda embarked on a land tenure reform programme that culminated in a land registration and titling process in 2009. This paper intends to capture women's experiences in relation to this programme. The empirical data were collected in Musanze District using a household survey, semi‐structured interviews, and focus group discussions. The main findings reveal that there is support of the general idea that women should benefit from the land tenure reform in Rwanda. However, there is some criticism towards parts of the land laws, and women have limited actual knowledge about land‐related laws. With land titles, women mostly have a say on the land use decisions requiring each of the spounses' legal consents but not on the daily management of land and its produce. Finally, the paper reports the persistence of social norms and culturally biased gender ideologies affecting the effective implementation of land‐related laws and policies. Therefore, the paper underscores the need to build the implementation of new laws and policies on a good understanding of customary practices to strengthen women's land rights in Rwanda.
Haematinic deficiencies and patient clinical profiles in Polish patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS)
Authors: Ślebioda Zuzanna , Krawiecka Ewa , Szponar Elżbieta , Dorocka‐Bobkowska Barbara
Published: March 2018

Background

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is a common ulcerative disorder of the oral mucosa, where the immune impairment may develop in genetically predisposed subjects exposed to certain environmental factors. The aim of the study was to investigate the frequency of anaemia, iron and vitamin B12 deficiency in recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) and to explore its impact on the clinical presentation of RAS.

Methods

A total of 141 adults including the following: 71 subjects with RAS and 70 controls were enrolled in the study. A detailed dental and haematological assessment, including full blood count, serum iron and vitamin B12 evaluation, was performed in all study participants. The results were statistically analysed with Mann‐Whitney, Kruskal‐Wallis, χ2 and Fisher tests with P < .05 designated as a significance level.

Results

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis patients were found to suffer anaemia, iron and vitamin B12 deficiency more frequently than the controls. The mean serum iron levels were also significantly lower in RAS subjects than in controls, although still within the norm. The lowest mean serum iron levels were observed in patients with a mild course of RAS. No significant differences in mean serum iron and vitamin B12 levels were revealed as a function of stratification according to the number of lesions per single flare‐up.

Conclusions

The results of our study indicate an association between iron and vitamin B12 deficiency and RAS in a Polish population. However, as the haematinic deficiencies did not significantly modify the course and clinical phenotype of the disease, further studies to explore their role in RAS aetiology are required.
The Application of Optimal Defaults to Improve Elementary School Lunch Selections: Proof of Concept
Authors: Loeb Katharine L. , Radnitz Cynthia , Keller Kathleen L. , Schwartz Marlene B. , Zucker Nancy , Marcus Sue , Pierson Richard N. , Shannon Michael , DeLaurentis Danielle
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

In this study, we applied behavioral economics to optimize elementary school lunch choices via parent‐driven decisions. Specifically, this experiment tested an optimal defaults paradigm, examining whether strategically manipulating the health value of a default menu could be co‐opted to improve school‐based lunch selections.

METHODS

The design was a randomized comparison of optimal versus suboptimal (standard) default lunch menus for all first‐graders in a school district for a period of 1 week. We hypothesized that making the default lunch option healthier, while providing parents the opportunity to access and choose from the standard school menu for their child, would yield more frequent selection of healthier items than when the default option was suboptimal.

RESULTS

Overall, 127 (93%) first‐grade children's families participated. Among those families randomized to receive the nutritionally optimized default menu, all but one remained with these options; of those parents randomized to the standard menu (suboptimal default), all parents remained with these options (Χ2 = 123.06, df = 1, p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The mere positioning of choices, without restricting options, significantly affected which menu items the children received during the test period. Results are proof of concept for a strategy to increase health‐promoting school lunch content, procedures, and policies.
Non‐Parametric Spectral Density Estimation Under Long‐Range Dependence
Authors: Kim Young Min , Lahiri Soumendra N. , Nordman Daniel J.
Published: March 2018

One major aim of time series analysis, particularly in the physical and geo‐sciences, is the estimation of the spectral density function. With weakly dependent time processes, non‐parametric, kernel‐based methods are available for spectral density estimation, which involves smoothing the periodogram by a kernel function. However, a similar non‐parametric approach is presently unavailable for strongly, or long‐range, dependent processes. In particular, as the spectral density function under long‐range dependence commonly has a pole at the origin, kernel‐based methods developed for weakly dependent processes (i.e., with bounded spectral densities) do not apply readily for long‐range dependence without suitable modification. To address this, we propose a non‐parametric kernel‐based method for spectral density estimation, which is valid under both weak and strong dependence. Based on the initial or pilot estimator of the long‐memory parameter, the method involves a frequency domain transformation to dampen the dependence in periodogram ordinates and mimic kernel‐based estimation under weak dependence. Under mild assumptions, the proposed non‐parametric spectral density estimator is shown to be uniformly consistent, and general expressions are provided for rates of estimation error and optimal kernel bandwidths. The method is investigated through simulation and illustrated through data examples, which also consider bandwidth selection.
Asymptotic Theory of Test Statistic for Sphericity of High‐Dimensional Time Series
Authors: Liu Yan , Tamura Yurie , Taniguchi Masanobu
Published: March 2018

We consider the testing problem for the sphericity hypothesis regarding the covariance matrix based on high‐dimensional time series, under the assumption that the sample size n and the dimension p satisfy . Recently, several studies on test statistics for sphericity of independent and identically distributed p‐dimensional random variables have been carried out under the assumption that both n and p diverge to infinity. A test statistic for sphericity has been proved to be well behaved even when p>n. We investigate the test statistic under situations of high‐dimensional time series. The asymptotic null distribution of the test statistic is shown to be standard normal distribution when the observations come from Gaussian stationary processes. In the simulation study, we illustrate the properties of the test statistic for several time series models. We apply the test to a problem of portfolio selection in our empirical study.
A Frequency‐Domain Test to Check Equality in Spectral Densities of Multiple Time Series With Unequal Lengths
Authors: Jin Lei
Published: March 2018

In this paper, a new frequency‐domain test is proposed to check the equality of spectral densities of two or more stationary time series. The proposed test is able to deal with multiple independent time series of different lengths naturally, based on some regression models of log periodograms. The asymptotic null distribution of the proposed test is obtained. The consistency is shown under any fixed alternative and a sequence of local alternatives. A simulation study is conducted to examine the finite sample performance of the test. By jointly modeling all log periodograms, the test is empirically robust when multiple time series are mutually dependent to some extent. It also works well for non‐Gaussian time series. The proposed test is applied to compare several vibrational signals for damage detection of a mechanical system.
Computed Tomographic Angiography of the Pancreas in Cats with Chronic Diabetes Mellitus Compared to Normal Cats
Authors: Secrest S. , Sharma A. , Bugbee A.
Published: March 2018

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common endocrinopathy in cats. No known diagnostic test or patient characteristic at the time of diagnosis can predict likely disease course, unlike in people in whom computed tomographic angiography (CTA) is used. No published data exist regarding the CTA appearance of the pancreas in cats with DM, and thus, it is unknown what if any CTA variables should be further assessed for associations with pancreatic endocrine function.

Hypothesis/Objectives

A significant difference in pancreatic attenuation, volume, and size will be identified between normal cats and those with chronic DM on CTA.

Animals

Ten healthy control cats and 15 cats with naturally occurring DM present for >12 months.

Methods

Prospective cross‐sectional study comparing pancreatic attenuation, enhancement pattern, size, volume, pancreatic volume‐to‐body weight ratio (V:BW), pancreatic arterial: portal phase ratio (A:P), time‐to‐arterial enhancement, and time‐to‐peak portal enhancement on CTA between sedated healthy control cats and those with chronic DM.

Results

The pancreas in cats with chronic DM was significantly larger, had higher volume, higher V:BW, and shorter time‐to‐peak portal enhancement on CTA when compared to normal cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Peak portal enhancement time, pancreatic size, pancreatic volume, and V:BW can be used to differentiate normal sedated cats from those with chronic DM by CTA. These variables warrant further investigation to identify possible associations with endocrine function.
The forgotten prey of an iconic predator: a review of interactions between grey wolvesCanis lupusand beaversCastorspp.
Authors: Gable Thomas D. , Windels Steve K. , Romanski Mark C. , Rosell Frank
Published: March 2018

Predator–prey relationships can have wide‐ranging ecological and landscape‐level effects. Knowledge of these relationships is therefore crucial to understanding how these systems function and how changes in predator–prey communities affect these systems. Grey wolvesCanis lupuscan be significant predators of beaversCastorspp., and conversely, beavers can be important prey for wolves, but wolf‐beaver dynamics in North America, Europe, and Asia are poorly understood.

Our objectives were to synthesise current knowledge regarding wolf‐beaver interactions and to identify knowledge gaps that should be targeted for study to increase our understanding of wolf‐beaver dynamics.

During the ice‐free season, beavers are vulnerable to predation and can be the primary or secondary prey of wolves, but the factors that affect beaver consumption by wolves are complex and are likely dependent on biological and environmental factors.

High beaver abundance can increase wolf pup survival, and beavers may subsidise wolves during periods of reduced ungulate abundance. Thus, many researchers have suggested that beaver densities adversely affect ungulate populations through apparent competition, though this remains largely untested.

The effects of wolf predation on beaver population dynamics are poorly understood, as most assessments are lacking in quantitative rigor and are instead based on indirect methods (e.g. scat analysis), anecdotal evidence, or speculation. To understand the effect of predation on beaver populations fully, better estimates (e.g. from documented predation events) of wolf predation on beavers are necessary.

Given the complexities of wolf‐ungulate‐beaver systems, fully understanding wolf‐beaver dynamics will be challenging and is likely to require long‐term, intensive research of wolf, ungulate, and beaver population parameters. Understanding this dynamic has implications, not only for the conservation and management of wolves and beavers, but also for ungulate populations, which are affected by the numerical and functional responses of wolves in these same systems.
Iron–sulfur protein maturation in Helicobacter pylori: identifying a Nfu‐type cluster carrier protein and its iron–sulfur protein targets
Authors: Benoit Stéphane L. , Holland Ashley A. , Johnson Michael K. , Maier Robert J.
Published: March 2018

Helicobacter pylori is anomalous among non nitrogen‐fixing bacteria in containing an incomplete NIF system for Fe–S cluster assembly comprising two essential proteins, NifS (cysteine desulfurase) and NifU (scaffold protein). Although nifU deletion strains cannot be obtained via the conventional gene replacement, a NifU‐depleted strain was constructed and shown to be more sensitive to oxidative stress compared to wild‐type (WT) strains. The hp1492 gene, encoding a putative Nfu‐type Fe–S cluster carrier protein, was disrupted in three different H. pylori strains, indicating that it is not essential. However, Δnfu strains have growth deficiency, are more sensitive to oxidative stress and are unable to colonize mouse stomachs. Moreover, Δnfu strains have lower aconitase activity but higher hydrogenase activity than the WT. Recombinant Nfu was found to bind either one [2Fe–2S] or [4Fe–4S] cluster/dimer, based on analytical, UV–visible absorption/CD and resonance Raman studies. A bacterial two‐hybrid system was used to ascertain interactions between Nfu, NifS, NifU and each of 36 putative Fe–S‐containing target proteins. Nfu, NifS and NifU were found to interact with 15, 6 and 29 putative Fe–S proteins respectively. The results indicate that Nfu, NifS and NifU play a major role in the biosynthesis and/or delivery of Fe–S clusters in H. pylori.
Normal abdominal aorta diameter in infants, children and adolescents
Authors: Akturk Yeliz , Ozbal Gunes Serra
Published: March 2018

Background

The normal limits of arterial diameters must be known to diagnose pathologies such as dilatation, stenosis and hypoplasia. Thoracic aorta diameter in childhood has been measured in previous studies, but the number of studies in which normal aortic diameter is determined is very small. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the normal standard diameter of the aorta and iliac arteries in children according to gender and level.

Methods

Pediatric abdominal computed tomography carried out for various reasons was retrospectively re‐evaluated between January 2016 and February 2017. Patients were classified according to age into six groups. Vessel diameter, age, gender and vertebra diameter were evaluated.

Results

Mean proximal aorta diameter was 8.84 mm for 12–36 months, 10.02 mm for 37–84 months, 12.32 mm for 85–132 months, 14.45 mm for 133–180 months, and 16.51 mm for 181–204 months. Mean distal aorta diameter was 6.67 mm for 12–36 months, 8.07 mm for 37–84 months, 10.79 mm for 85–132 months, 12.14 mm for 133–180 months, and 14.01 mm for 181–204 months. The lumen diameter of the abdominal aorta, both proximally and distally, correlated linearly with age as an independent predictor. Similarly, the lumen diameter of the right and left common iliac artery correlated linearly with age as an independent predictor. There was no statistically significant difference in vascular diameter according to gender in any age groups.

Conclusions

Optimal evaluation of aortic diameter is possible on computed tomography. Measurement outside the normal range is a sign of aneurysm or hypoplasia.
Relational mechanisms in the goal pursuit process
Authors: GORE JONATHAN S. , HESTER RAVEN , SPEGAL LAUREN , KAVANAUGH KIMBERLEY , NAKAI YOSHIE
Published: March 2018

Four studies tested a model for goal pursuit, which proposed three relational mechanisms that yield motives for a goal. These motives, in turn, predict goal outcomes, but the association was expected to be stronger among women than among men. Study 1 (n = 116) tested the model for a short‐term, collaborative project between strangers; Study 2 (n = 186) examined parents being motivated by their children to be healthier; Study 3 (n = 124) examined nontraditional college students' career searches; and Study 4 (n = 181) examined young adults' progress toward a self‐improvement goal. Results showed support for the model in all four studies, with the exception that feeling accountable to others was not a consistent predictor of relational motives.
TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE OF TRYPTOPHAN PHOSPHORESCENCE IN PROTEINS
Authors: STRAMBINI GIOVANNI B. , GABELLIERI EDI
Published: March 2018

The phosphorescence yield and decay kinetics of tryptophan (Trp) in apoazurin from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, subtilisin Carlsberg, Staphylococcal nuclease and liver alcohol dehydrogenase were determined as a function of temperature from 150 K (glassy matrix) to 300 K (fluid solution). The constancy of the lifetime‐normalized phosphorescence yield with apoazurin and with Trp‐314 in alcohol dehydrogenase establishes that the intersystem crossing quantum yield is practically unaffected across the temperature range. Consequently, any decrease in phosphorescence intensity not accounted for by lifetime‐shortening is a signal either of the selective quenching of specific Trp residues in the same macromolecule or that the protein sample is heterogeneous in its emission properties. From an analysis of the thermal profile it is concluded that subtilisin Carlsberg and S. nuclease, as opposed to apoazurin, are not phosphorescent at ambient temperature, their residual emission probably arising from protein impurities. Criteria for distinguishing conformer emission from a contribution by protein impurities are discussed.
LASER (TWO‐QUANTUM) PHOTOLYSIS OF POLYNUCLEOTIDES AND NUCLEOPROTEINS: QUANTITATIVE PROCESSING OF RESULTS
Authors: KOVALSKY O. I. , BUDOWSKY E. I.
Published: March 2018

The paper offers and substantiates a technique for quantitative processing of the photochemical reactions in polynucleotides, nucleoproteins and their components caused by the action of powerful ultraviolet laser pulse radiation.
THE PEROXIDASE‐PROMOTED METABOLIC ACTIVATION OF ACETAMINOPHEN PRODUCES ELECTRONICALLY EXCITED SPECIES
Authors: SCHMITT KARIN , CILENTO GIUSEPPE
Published: March 2018

When the analgesic and antipyretic drug acetaminophen is exposed to the horseradish peroxidase/hydrogen peroxide system, light emission is observed. Both the rate of reaction and the emission intensity arc increased in the presence of the cationic detergent CTAB. The emission spectrum indicates the presence of at least three emitters. The peak at 445 nm is close to the position of the only band observed in the fluorescence spectrum of the spent reaction mixture and is ascribed to excited N‐acetyl‐p‐benzoquinoneimine. The other two emission bands (505 and 580 nm) must be due to transients. Total emission from the system increases in the presence of Triton X‐100 solubilized‐chlorophyll; the main donor to chlorophyll is the 445 nm emitter.

The generation of excited species in this model system of acetaminophen peroxidative metabolization expands the number of candidates responsible for the deleterious effects of the drug in high doses.
THE ISOLATED IRIDESCENT CORNEA OF THE SAND GOBY IS PHOTORESPONSIVE
Authors: SHAND JULIA , LYTHGOE JOHN N.
Published: March 2018

After a 2 h period of dark adaptation the iridescent cornea of the sand goby, Pomatoschistus minutus, responds to illumination by increasing the amplitude of iridescent reflexions and shifting the wavelength of maximum reflexion towards longer wavelengths. This characteristic response is found to occur in both the intact eye and in the isolated cornea, indicating that the light‐induced colour changes are mediated by extra‐retinal photoreceptors.
Blastocyst production after intracytoplasmic sperm injection with semen from a stallion with testicular degeneration
Authors: Roels K , Smits K , Ververs C , Govaere J , D'Herde K , Van Soom A
Published: March 2018

Contents

In horse breeding, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has gained interest to obtain offspring from subfertile individuals. This paper presents a case report of a stallion with severe testicular degeneration. Semen analysis showed very low motility and 83.5% of detached heads. Histology of a testicular biopsy showed severely decreased spermatogenesis, while transmission electron microscopy of the sperm cells revealed no significant abnormalities. A total of 39 oocytes were fertilized by ICSI with frozen‐thawed spermatozoa of this stallion: 25 oocytes with intact spermatozoa and 24 with detached heads. When using intact sperm cells, 8 out of the 25 oocytes cleaved, and 1 developed to the blastocyst stage 9 days after ICSI. None of the oocytes injected with a detached sperm head cleaved. Studies on the paternal influence on ICSI outcome are limited in the horse and further research is needed to define which stallion factors may influence ICSI results. Here, we report the possibility to produce a blastocyst by ICSI of a stallion suffering from testicular degeneration with a poor spermiogram, as long as an intact sperm cell containing a centriole is selected.
Predicting Suicide Ideation in the Military: The Independent Role of Aggression
Authors: Start Amanda R. , Allard Yvonne , Adler Amy , Toblin Robin
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the longitudinal relationship between aggression and suicide ideation when controlling for other externalizing (i.e., alcohol misuse and risk‐taking) and internalizing (i.e., depression and sleep problems) risk factors in an active duty, military sample. Preexisting data from a longitudinal study were analyzed to assess the wellness of service members across the deployment cycle. Participants were 944 active duty service members (95% male, 48% between 18 and 24 years old) who completed surveys upon initial return from deployment and approximately 3 months later. After controlling for other externalizing (alcohol misuse, risk‐taking) and internalizing (depression, sleep problems) risk factors, service members reporting aggression were significantly more likely to report suicide ideation than those reporting no aggression (OR = 3.19; OR 95% CI: 1.16–8.80). The independent nature of the relationship between anger and suicidality suggests aggression may be an important indicator of suicidality for service members. Understanding the role of aggression in suicidality may improve the ability to identify at‐risk service members and to develop effective interventions to reduce suicide risk.
The Making of the Informed Voter: A Split‐Ballot Survey on the Use of Scientific Evidence in Direct‐Democratic Campaigns
Authors: Stucki Iris , Pleger Lyn E. , Sager Fritz
Published: March 2018

Literature claims that scientific evidence makes better democracies. This paper analyses whether and which voters choose empirical evidence in the form of policy evaluation results when informing themselves about issue‐specific votes. The analysis is based on a split‐ballot survey where participants chose media items with different content to make a decision on a specific issue. Results show that voters do indeed choose evidence‐based information, especially if their involvement with the issue is high and if they are well educated and that they choose a higher amount of such information if they are also politically engaged. In a setting that fosters political engagement and provides policy‐relevant information, the findings imply that voters want to be informed when making a democratic issue choice. Involved and engaged voters might be a solution to sceptics against direct democracy out of fear of uninformed decisions and post‐factual populism.
A new technique for evaluating heel xerosis grade and the effects of moisturizer on heel skin dryness
Authors: Choi J. Y. , Kim E. J. , Jang S. I. , Kim A. R. , Lee T. J. , Lee H. K.
Published: March 2018

Background

Dryness‐related heel skin problems are common; however, there are very few studies about heel skin dryness. The objective of this study was to develop new assessment methods for evaluating heel skin dryness, to clarify the characteristics associated with heal skin dryness, and assess the effectiveness of moisturizer use according to dryness severity.

Materials and methods

We investigated the heel skin of 150 Korean women (aged 20‐78 years). Heel skin images were taken using a DSLR camera and the distribution or severity of flakes, scaling, cracking, and fissures were visually assessed. Skin properties such as hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), amount of dead skin cells, and efficacy of moisturizer were evaluated according to heel xerosis grade. Furthermore, as conventional evaluation methods for desquamation are not appropriate for heel skin, we developed new techniques using binarization of magnified images.

Results

Skin hydration tended to decrease and TEWL tended to increase as heel dryness grade increased. The amount of dead skin cells increased with increasing dryness grade using the new technique. Subjects in the severe dryness group achieved similar hydration levels as normal subjects at baseline after 3 hours of moisturizer application.

Conclusion

Our new methods of visually classifying heel dryness and quantifying dead skin cells using magnified images effectively evaluated heel skin properties. As heel skin is prone to dryness, daily repetitive application of moisturizer might be helpful for hydrating dry heel skin, and ultimately preventing complications.
Identification of the novel HLA‐B*27:103 allele in a Chinese bone marrow donor
Authors: Li G.‐Y. , Liu Y.‐Y. , Wu K.‐L. , Tang Z.‐H.
Published: March 2018

HLA‐B*27:103 has one nucleotide change from HLA‐B*27:04:01 at position 121C > T.
The digital turn in postcolonial urbanism: Smart citizenship in the making of India's 100 smart cities
Authors: Datta Ayona
Published: March 2018

The smart city as a “digital turn” in critical urban geography has gone largely unnoticed in postcolonial urbanism. This paper seeks to address this gap by examining the emergence of new forms of postcolonial citizenship at the intersection of digital and urban publics. In particular, I investigate the production of a “smart citizen” in India's 100 smart cities challenge – a state‐run inter‐urban competition that seeks to transform 100 existing cities through ICT‐driven urbanism. By examining the publicly available documents and online citizen consultations as well as observations of stakeholder workshops in four of the proposed smart cities, I illustrate how a global technocratic imaginary of “smart citizenship” exists alongside its vernacular translation of a “chatur citizen” – a politically engaged citizen rooted in multiple publics and spatialities. This takes place through three key processes – enumerations, performances and breaches. Enumerations are coercions by the state of an urban population that has so far been largely hidden from analogue technologies of governance and governmentality. Articulations are the performances of smart citizenship across digital and material domains that ironically extend historic social inequalities from the urban to the digital realm. Finally, breaches are the ruptures of the impenetrable technocratic walls around the global smart city, which provides a window into alternative and possible futures of postcolonial citizenship in India. Through these three processes, I argue that subaltern citizenship in the postcolony exists not in opposition, but across urban and digital citizenships. I conclude by offering the potential of a future postcolonial citizen who opens up entangled performances of compliance and connivance, authority and insecurity, visibility and indiscernibility across political, social, urban and digital publics.
Mechanical hemolysis in pediatric patients associated with rapid transfusion and one‐way valve
Authors: Gniadek Thomas J. , Richtsfeld Martina , Pulkrabek Shelley , Hansen Kayla R. , Barnett Susan L. , Joyner Nitasha , Kinney Stephanie , Zantek Nicole D. , Azakie Anthony , Cohn Claudia S.
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Four similar transfusion reactions involving infants were reported in less than 1 year. After transfusion of red blood cells (RBCs) via syringe in the operating room, each patient experienced discolored urine, laboratory evidence of hemolysis, and acute kidney injury. Clerical and serologic investigations were unremarkable. Mechanical hemolysis was considered.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Simulated syringe transfusions were performed. Measurements included hematocrit (Hct), free hemoglobin, and visual hemolysis index. Washed and unwashed RBCs were tested with or without a recently introduced one‐way valve, using a 24‐ or 16‐gauge intravenous catheter. Constant manual pressure (1.43 ± 0.49 mL/sec) or syringe pump (2 mL/min) was used and a subset was timed.

RESULTS

The valve increased hemolysis during manual transfusion using both catheters with washed and unwashed RBCs. With the 24‐gauge catheter, the change in Hct was –3.53 ± 0.69% with the valve and 0.22 ± 0.13% without (p < 0.00001). Comparing the individual valves tested, differences in hemolysis were observed (change in Hct, p < 0.0001). During manual transfusion with 24‐gauge catheter and unwashed RBCs, the degree of hemolysis was greater when it took longer to transfuse with a valve (change in Hct versus time, r = –0.75, p < 0.0001) compared to a slight increase in hemolysis for samples that took less time to transfuse without a valve (change in Hct versus time, r = 0.58, p = 0.23).

CONCLUSIONS

Mechanical hemolysis should be considered when investigating possible hemolytic transfusion reactions, especially with high rates of transfusion and use of a valve. During rapid manual transfusion with the valve, greater resistance was associated with increased hemolysis.
Evaluation of renal oxygen homeostasis in a preclinical animal model to elucidate difference in blood quality after transfusion
Authors: Baek Jin Hyen , Yalamanoglu Ayla , Moon So‐Eun , Gao Yamei , Buehler Paul W.
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Red blood cell (RBC) oxygen (O2) delivery may be impacted at the tissue, cellular, and molecular levels after storage duration, preservation strategies, and pathogen reduction. Collectively, the preclinical measurement of arterial and venous PO2, systemic blood flow, tissue hypoxia–inducible factors (HIFs), pimonidazole adduction, and erythropoietin (EPO) regulation can serve to elucidate differential RBC quality after storage and processing.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Donor guinea pig blood was collected, leukoreduced, and stored at 4°C in AS‐3 for 1 (fresh) or 14 (stored) days. RBC variables—2,3‐diphosphoglycerate, adenosine triphosphate, hemoglobin, morphology, deformability, and in vivo recovery at 24 hours—were measured at each storage duration. Recipient guinea pigs were exchange transfused until 80% volume replacement was achieved. Arterial and venous blood gases, systemic blood flow, renal HIF‐1α and HIF‐2α, renal EPO mRNA, plasma EPO, and renal tissue pimonidazole adduction were measured after transfusion.

RESULTS

RBC variables declined significantly with storage; however, hemolysis and in vivo recovery remained within the allowable limits for human blood storage. Posttransfusion arterial and venous PO2 and systemic blood flow decreased, and renal HIFs, EPO mRNA, and pimonidazole adducts increased. Subsequently, EPO accumulated in plasma indicating decreased O2 availability in the kidneys. Conversely, all variables remained at basal levels in the fresh blood group.

CONCLUSION

The evaluation of renal O2 homeostasis after transfusion represents an effective approach to defining RBC quality between predicate and novel processing. Methods are adapted from standardized techniques and ideal for preclinical evaluation.