bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Six‐Year Clinical Outcomes After Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Impaired Left Ventricular Function
Authors: RILLIG ANDREAS , MAKIMOTO HISAKI , WEGNER JASCHA , LIN TINA , HEEGER CHRISTIAN , LEMES CHRISTINE , FINK THOMAS , METZNER ANDREAS , WISSNER ERIK , MATHEW SHIBU , WOHLMUTH PETER , KUCK KARL‐HEINZ , TILZ ROLAND RICHARD , OUYANG FEIFAN
Published: July 2015

AF Ablation in Patients With Impaired LVEF

Introduction

Long‐term data after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with impaired systolic left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) are sparse.

This study assessed the outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and reduced LVEF treated with PVI after a median follow‐up period of 6 years.

Methods and Results

Eighty‐one patients with an LVEF≤45% were evaluated; however, 1 patient was lost to follow‐up. In the remaining 80 patients (male: n = 68 (85%), median age 61.6 (54.8–67.5) years) with paroxysmal (n = 16, 20%), persistent (n = 37, 46.2%), and longstanding‐persistent AF (LS‐AF), catheter ablation of AF using radiofrequency and 3D mapping was performed. Follow‐up included Holter monitoring or pacemaker/ICD interrogation to assess for arrhythmia recurrence and echocardiography to assess LVEF.

Median follow‐up was 72 (67–75) months. Death occurred in 21 patients. Single‐procedure success rate was 35.1% and multiple‐procedure success rate was 56.8% in the overall group. Baseline median LVEF (35% [28.5–40%]) significantly increased at 6‐year follow‐up (56.5% [40.0–60.0%], P < 0.01). In patients with single‐ or multiple‐procedure ablation success, there was a higher improvement of LVEF (single procedure: 25% [15.0–35] vs. 10.0% [–1.0–20.0], P < 0.01; multiple procedures: 20.0% [15–34] vs. 5.0% [5.00–15.0]; P < 0.01). The single (43.8% vs. 40%, P = 0.96) and multiple procedure success rates (62.5% vs. 60%, P = 0.47) were comparable between patients with PAF and persistent AF and lowest in patients with LS‐AF (single procedure success: 23.1%, multiple‐procedure success: 47.8%).

Conclusion

Single‐procedure success rates after PVI during 6 years of follow‐up were low. In patients with single‐ or multiple‐procedure ablation success, a higher improvement of LVEF was observed.
Ultrasound‐Assisted Detoxification of Free Gossypol from Cottonseed Meal
Authors: Dai Chunhua , Zhang Liuping , Ma Haile , Yin Xiulian , He Ronghai , Qian Jingya
Published: July 2015

To decrease NaOH consumption in the process of removal of free gossypol (FG) in cottonseed meal (CSM), ultrasound was applied in the detoxification experiments. The effects of various factors on the removal efficiency were studied by single‐factor experiments, and detoxification conditions were optimized by response surface methodology. The result indicated that removal ratio of FG increased with increasing NaOH concentration (0.5–1.5 g/L), ultrasonic power (0–1,000 W), treatment time (0–20 min) and pulse duration (1–5 s); however, further increase of pulse duration (6–7 s) resulted in a decrease. The removal ratio even reached 95.82 ± 2.75% (n = 3) under optimal conditions of NaOH concentration (1.5 g/L), sonication time (16 min) and pulse duration (5 s). The Box–Behnken design generated satisfactory mathematical models that accurately explained the behavior of the system, allowing one to predict the removal efficiency of FG in CSM.

Practical Applications

Cottonseed meal (CSM) has long been considered as a good source of protein for animals. However, a polyphenolic compound, particularly free gossypol (FG), that existed in CSM limits its application as feeding stuffs. The findings in the present study demonstrated the beneficial effects of ultrasound on the removal efficiency of FG in the detoxification experiments. The application of ultrasound can not only significantly decrease the NaOH consumption but also improve the detoxification effect compared with conventional detoxification method using only NaOH solution. Therefore, this study exhibits a new detoxification technique and is of practical significance.
NaCl Influences Thermal Resistance and Cell Morphology of Escherichia coli Strains
Authors: Lee Heeyoung , Lee Soomin , Kim Sejeong , Ha Jimyeong , Lee Jeeyeon , Choi Kyoung‐Hee , Yoon Yohan
Published: July 2015

This study elucidated the effect of NaCl on the thermal resistance and cell morphology of Escherichia coli strains. E. coli O157:H7 NCCP11142, E. coli O111 ATCC12795 and E. coli O26 ATCC43887 were incubated in tryptic soy broth formulated with 0% NaCl (nonhabituated) as well as broth formulated with 2% and 4% NaCl (NaCl‐habituated) at 35C. Nonhabituated, 2% NaCl‐habituated and 4% NaCl‐habituated E. coli O157:H7, E. coli O111 and E. coli O26 were heat‐challenged at 50C. The transcriptomes (osmotic stress‐related: betA, ompC, proV, proW and heat stress‐related: clpB, dksA, dnaJ, dnaK, grpE, msbB, rpoE) were analyzed using real‐time polymerase chain reaction and the morphology of E. coli strains was also observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy. The survival of E. coli O157:H7 was higher (P < 0.05) than those of other strains after the heat challenge. The expression levels of proV, proW and rpoE increased (P < 0.05) as NaCl concentration increased, but only proV expression levels were significantly different (P < 0.05) among E. coli strains. The results indicate that the effect of NaCl on the thermal resistance and the cell morphology depends on the E. coli strain, and increased proV expression level by NaCl may cause the increased thermal resistance of E. coli O157:H7.

Practical Applications

NaCl is widely used as an antimicrobial and a preservative agent in food processing. However, Escherichia coli O157:H7 exposed to 2% and 4% NaCl showed thermal resistance, upregulated gene expression on osmotic‐ and heat‐related genes and changed cell morphology. Thus, NaCl concentration should be limited in food not to increase E. coli O157:H7 tolerance to other stresses.
Forecasting National Recessions Using State‐Level Data
Authors: OWYANG MICHAEL T. , PIGER JEREMY , WALL HOWARD J.
Published: July 2015

We investigate whether there is information useful for identifying U.S. business cycle phases contained in subnational measures of economic activity. Using a probit model to forecast the National Bureau of Economic Research expansion and recession classification, we assess the incremental information content of state‐level employment growth over a commonly used set of national‐level predictors. As state‐level data adds a large number of predictors to the model, we employ a Bayesian model averaging procedure to construct forecasts. Based on a variety of forecast evaluation metrics, we find that including state‐level employment growth substantially improves nowcasts and very short‐horizon forecasts of the business cycle phase. The gains in forecast accuracy are concentrated during months of national recession.
Cross‐Listed Bonds, Information Asymmetry, and Conservatism in Credit Ratings
Authors: ATILGAN YIGIT , GHOSH ALOKE (AL) , YAN MENG , ZHANG JIEYING
Published: July 2015

We propose information asymmetry as an additional explanation for rating conservatism. Because information asymmetry is likely higher for cross‐listed bonds than for U.S. bonds, we expect and find that cross‐listed bonds are rated more conservatively than U.S. domestic bonds at issuance. Further, cross‐listed bonds receive less frequent upgrades and take longer to be upgraded after issuance. Because lower ratings might also reflect higher default risk based on agencies’ private information, we conduct additional tests to discriminate between the rating conservatism and private information explanations. The results are consistent with ratings conservatism and inconsistent with the private information explanation.
An enzootic outbreak of acute disease associated with pathogenic E. coli in Adler monkey colony
Authors: Lapin Boris A. , Yakovleva Lelita A. , Dzhikidze Eteri K. , Gvozdik Tatiana E. , Agumava Aslan A. , Stasilevich Zinaida K. , Danilova Irina G.
Published: July 2015

Background

In spring 2009 in Adler colony of the Institute of Medical Primatology, a large enzootic outbreak of acute intestine infection associated with pathogenic E. coli occurred and caused 5% mortality of population (209 animals).

Methods

The epidemiological analysis, bacteriological investigation, postmortem examination, histological analysis, and PCR were used to identify the infectious agent.

Results

Marked hemorrhagic diathesis, lethargy, dehydration, diarrhea with blood, wasting, and sometimes dystrophic changes in articular cartilages were noted. Morphologically, hemorrhagic enterocolitis and massive hemorrhages were found. PCR investigation of bacteriologically isolated E. coli characterized it as enteropathogenic and enteroinvasive E. coli.

Conclusions

The outbreak in Adler colony slightly differed from similar outbreak in Florida in 2014 by more marked hemorrhagic diathesis and articular changes in some monkeys caused by polyavitaminosis developed in the course of infection. Sensitive to infection were M. mulatta, M. fascicularis, Cercopithecus aethiops, P. hamadryas and anubis, and Cebus capucinus.
Making Visible a Theory‐Guided Advance Care Planning Intervention
Authors: Song Mi‐Kyung , Ward Sandra E.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

In reports of end‐of‐life communication interventions, it is difficult to find sufficient detail about the intervention to allow replication, extension, and translation into practice. The purpose of this article is to provide details about a theory‐guided advance care planning intervention, sharing the patient's illness representations to increase trust (SPIRIT), an intervention that has been shown to be efficacious for patients and their surrogates with respect to preparation for end‐of‐life decision making.

Methods and Design

The description of SPIRIT is based on an intervention description checklist by Conn (2012), the Intervention Taxonomy from Schulz, Czaja, McKay, Ory, and Belle (2010) and on relevant segments of Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials.

Discussion

The SPIRIT intervention was developed based on sound theoretical underpinnings and pilot tested with target patient populations and racial or ethnic groups. We describe details about the intervention's theoretical basis, requisite intervener training, implementation of each intervention component, and fidelity monitoring.

Clinical Relevance

The details about the components of a theory‐guided advance care planning intervention may facilitate translation of the intervention to practice settings.
Torn between dual roles: the experiences of nurse‐family members when a loved one is hospitalised in a critical condition
Authors: Giles Tracey M , Williamson Victoria
Published: July 2015

Aims and objectives

To understand and interpret the experiences of nurse‐family members when a family member or loved one is hospitalised in a critical condition.

Background

Having a family member hospitalised with a critical illness is a traumatic stressor, often with long‐term sequelae. Providing holistic care for family members who are also nurses makes the provision of care more complex because of their professional expertise; yet few studies have explored this issue.

Design

In this descriptive study, qualitative data were collected using a questionnaire and analysed using van Manen's (Researching Lived Experience: Human Science for an Action Sensitive Pedagogy, 1990, State University of New York Press, London, ON) six‐step approach.

Methods

Twenty nurse‐family members completed an online questionnaire in June 2013. Qualitative findings from 19 participants were included in the analysis. The phenomenological analysis approach described by van Manen (Researching Lived Experience: Human Science for an Action Sensitive Pedagogy, 1990, State University of New York Press, London, ON) was used to describe and interpret nurse‐family member experiences.

Results

Nurse‐family members experience significant dual role conflicts between their personal and professional personas due to their specialised knowledge, need for watchfulness and competing expectations. Our findings describe how dual role conflicts developed and were managed, and reveal the resultant emotional toll and psychological distress as nurse‐family members struggled to resolve these conflicts.

Conclusions

Nurse‐family members require a different type of care than general public family members, yet their unique needs are often unmet, leading to increased anxiety and distress that could potentially be minimised. An increased awareness and emphasis on the nurse‐family member experience can ensure health care professionals are better placed to provide appropriate and targeted care to minimise distressing dual role conflicts.

Relevance to clinical practice

There is a need for targeted and specialised communication appropriate to each nurse‐family members' needs and level of understanding, and to clarify expectations to ensure nurse‐family members' professional knowledge and skills are recognised and respected without being exploited.
Relationship between dialysis adequacy and sleep quality in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Tosun Nuran , Kalender Nurten , Cinar Fatma Ilknur , Bagcivan Gulcan , Yenicesu Mujdat , Dikici Dilek , Kaya Dilek
Published: July 2015

Aim and objectives

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between dialysis adequacy and sleep quality in haemodialysis patients.

Background

Sleep problems are common in haemodialysis patients. Dialysis adequacy is one of the factors associated with sleep quality. Studies evaluating the association between dialysis adequacy and sleep quality in haemodialysis patients present different results.

Design

Descriptive and cross‐sectional study.

Methods

This study was performed with a total of 119 patients who had applied to dialysis centres for haemodialysis treatment between January and March 2014. The data collection form consists of socio‐demographic and medical characteristics as well as laboratory parameters. A modified Post‐Sleep Inventory was used to examine sleep quality in the research.

Results

There were no statistically significant relationship between sleep quality and dialysis adequacy (p > 0·05). When the Post‐Sleep Inventory scores were evaluated according to sleep quality, 63·0% of patients had poor sleep quality, and 37·0% had good sleep quality. Sleep quality was worse in unemployed patients (X2 = 4·852; p = 0·025) and patients who smoked heavily (Z = 2·289; p = 0·022).

Conclusions

In this study, there is no statistically significant relationship between dialysis adequacy and sleep quality. However, it was found that the majority of haemodialysis patients had poor sleep quality.

Relevance to clinical practice

Even if the dialysis adequacy of patients is at the recommended level, their sleep qualities may be poor. Therefore, evaluations of the sleep quality of haemodialysis patients during the clinical practice must be taken into consideration.
The perspective of children on factors influencing their participation in perioperative care
Authors: Sjöberg Carina , Amhliden Helene , Nygren Jens M , Arvidsson Susann , Svedberg Petra
Published: July 2015

Aims and objectives

To describe the experiences of participation in perioperative care of 8‐ to 11‐year‐old children.

Background

All children have the right to participate in decisions that affect them and have the right to express their views in all matters that concern them. Allowing children to be involved in their perioperative care can make a major difference in terms of their well‐being by decreasing fear and anxiety and having more positive experiences. Taking the views of children into account and facilitating their participation could thus increase the quality of care.

Design

Descriptive qualitative design.

Methods

The study was conducted in 2013 and data were collected by narrative interviews with 10 children with experience from perioperative care in Sweden. Qualitative content analysis was chosen to describe the variations, differences and similarities in children's experiences of participation in perioperative care.

Results

The result showed that receiving preparatory information, lack of information regarding postoperative care and wanting to have detailed information are important factors for influencing children's participation. Interaction with healthcare professionals, in terms of being listened to, being a part of the decision‐making and feeling trust, is important for children's participation in the decision‐making process. Poor adaptation of the care environment to the children's needs, feeling uncomfortable while waiting and needs for distraction are examples of how the environment and the care in the operating theatre influence the children's experiences of participation.

Conclusions

Efforts should be made to improve children's opportunities for participation in the context of perioperative care and further research is needed to establish international standards for information strategies and care environment that promotes children's participation in perioperative care.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurse anaesthetists need to acquire knowledge and develop strategies for providing preparatory visits and information to children prior to surgery as well as reducing waiting times and creating environments with meaningful and tailored opportunities for distraction in perioperative care.
mHealth SMS text messaging interventions and to promote medication adherence: an integrative review
Authors: DeKoekkoek Tracy , Given Barbara , Given Charles W , Ridenour Kimberly , Schueller Monica , Spoelstra Sandra L
Published: July 2015

Aims and objectives

This article is an integrative review of the evidence for mobile health Short Message Service text messages as an innovative and emerging intervention to promote medication adherence. Authors completed this review to draw conclusions and implications towards establishing a scientific foundation for use of text messages to promote medication adherence, thus informing clinical practice.

Background

The World Health Organization has identified medication adherence as a priority global problem. Text messages are emerging as an effective means of improving health behaviours and in some diseases to promote medication adherence. However, a gap in the literature indicates lack of evidence in guiding theories and content of text messages, which should be synthesised prior to use in clinical practice.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Excerpta Medica dataBASE, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and PubMed were searched for relevant studies between 2004–2014. Inclusion criteria were (1) implementation of a text‐message intervention and (2) medication adherence to a prescribed oral medication as a primary outcome. Articles were assessed for quality of methodology and measures of adherence. An integrative review process was used to perform analysis.

Results

Thirteen articles meeting the inclusion criteria are included in this review. Nine of 13 studies found adherence rates improved between 15·3—17·8% when using text messages to promote medication adherence. Text messages that were standardised, tailored, one‐ or two‐way and timed either daily to medication regimen, weekly or monthly showed improvement in medication adherence.

Conclusions

This review established a scientific basis for text messages as an intervention to improve medication adherence across multiple diseases. Future large rigorous randomised trials are needed to further test text messaging interventions.

Relevance to clinical practice

This review provides clinicians with the state of the science with regard to text messaging interventions that promote medication adherence. A description of intervention components are provided to aid nurses in development of text messages and in translating evidence into practice.
Perspective: A Review of Marketing Research on Product Design with Directions for Future Research
Authors: Luchs Michael G. , Swan K. Scott , Creusen Mariëlle E. H.
Published: July 2015

The authors provide synthesized summaries of research on product design conducted over the 20‐year period from 1995 to 2014, as well as suggestions for future research. Building on the conceptual model of product design proposed by Luchs and Swan, the current project describes research findings based on a review of 252 articles drawn from eight of the academic journals most influential to marketing thought, and identified by their inclusion of the terms “product design” or “industrial design” within their abstracts, subject terms, and/or author supplied keywords. Specifically, the authors provide integrated summaries of 25 product design subtopics organized within Luchs and Swan's original 11 product design research topic categories, which, in turn, address the following three general product design research categories: context and strategy, product design process, and product design consequences. These summaries are followed by suggested future research opportunities to address gaps in the literature. In addition to seeking inspiration for future research based on a review of extant research, the authors illustrate an approach for exploring research opportunities based on current and emerging industry trends, such as sustainability, the sharing economy, and the emergence of consumer‐oriented health and performance management products. For each identified industry trend, the authors provide illustrative design implications with consequent illustrative research opportunities. This balanced approach to identifying near‐term research opportunities based on extant research and based on industry trends, i.e., looking forward and externally, may in turn improve the potential impact of future research on both knowledge development and on industry practice.
Subject‐Specific League Tables and Students' Application Decisions
Authors: Chevalier Arnaud , Jia Xiaoxuan
Published: July 2015

Do applicants to higher education rely on expert judgement about the quality of the course when applying? Using application data across UK universities over a period of 8 years, we investigate how league tables affect prospective students' application decisions. We use subject‐specific ranking rather than the commonly used institution‐level ranking. We find that a one standard deviation change in the subject‐level ranking score of an institution is associated with, on average, a 4.3 per cent increase in application numbers per faculty. This effect is particularly pronounced among faculties with the best scores, and overseas applicants. Limits to the number of choices per applicant have increased the preponderance of league tables.
Argumentation Text Construction by Japanese as a Foreign Language Writers: A Dynamic View of Transfer
Authors: RINNERT CAROL , KOBAYASHI HIROE , KATAYAMA AKEMI
Published: July 2015

This study takes a dynamic view of transfer as reusing and reshaping previous knowledge in new writing contexts to investigate how novice Japanese as a foreign language (JFL) writers draw on knowledge across languages to construct L1 and L2 texts. We analyzed L1 English and L2 Japanese argumentation essays by the same JFL writers (N= 19) and L1 Japanese essays by Japanese university students (N= 21), along with JFL writers’ reported reflections. The analysis identified both shared and contrasting L1/L2 text features, including argumentation subtypes (e.g.,justification,exploration) and essay introduction/conclusion components. The findings revealed that while constructing L2 essays, the JFL writers took an active role in assessing audience, selecting appropriate text features, and transforming/reshaping selected features, influenced by contextual factors (e.g., audience expectation, purpose, topic). For example, some writers reshaped their L1justificationsubtype by softening L2 assertions to meet perceived Japanese reader expectations. Results highlight the centrality of the writer's agency in deciding what previous writing knowledge to reuse or reshape when creating L2 text and also the importance of individual learning trajectories (e.g., L2 proficiency, L1/L2 writing experience) affecting writers’ decisions. The study affirms that a dynamic view of transfer provides insights into the L2 writers’ text construction process.
Enhancing Vocabulary Learning Through Captioned Video: An Eye‐Tracking Study
Authors: MONTERO PEREZ MARIBEL , PETERS ELKE , DESMET PIET
Published: July 2015

This study investigates the effect of two attention‐enhancing techniques on L2 students' learning and processing of novel French words (i.e., target words) through video with L2 subtitles or captions. A combination of eye‐movement data and vocabulary tests was gathered to study the effects of Type of Captioning (full or keyword captioning) and Test Announcement, realized by informing (intentional) or not informing (incidental) learners about upcoming vocabulary tests. The study adopted a between‐subjects design with two independent variables (Type of Captioning and Test Announcement) resulting in four experimental groups: full captioning, incidental; full captioning, intentional; keyword captioning, incidental; keyword captioning, intentional. Results indicated that learners in the keyword groups outperformed the other groups on the form recognition test. Analyses of learners' total fixation and second pass time on the target words revealed a significant interaction effect between Type of Captioning and Test Announcement. Results also suggest that second pass as well as total fixation duration and word learning positively correlated for learners in the full captioning, intentional group: The longer their fixations on a given word, the more likely correct recognition became. Results are discussed in relation to attention and word learning through video.
Schenker, Cube and Schubert's ‘Der Doppelgänger’
Authors: BRETHERTON DAVID
Published: July 2015

Schubert's ‘Der Doppelgänger’ is among the composer's most‐analysed works. Yet, in spite of numerous published Schenkerian readings, Schenker's own analytical sketches of the song remain largely neglected. His work on ‘Der Doppelgänger’ was prompted by a letter from Felix‐Eberhard von Cube of 8 May 1932, which enclosed a voice‐leading analysis. Although this analysis does not survive, the broad outline of Cube's reading can be reconstructed from the letter. Schenker's reply to Cube is not known to survive, but a diary entry of 17 July 1932 records work on the song and the sending of a ‘solution’ to his former pupil; sketches in the Oster Collection, also dating from 17 July 1932, further document the theorist's work on the song that day.

Schenker appears to settle on an Urlinie that descends from , in contrast to the primary tone of that features not only in Cube's original analysis but also in many recently published ones. In choosing a ‐line, Schenker places great weight on the relationship between the song's Urlinie and its four‐note ostinato motive, and the sketches illustrate how his concerns are similar to those of modern‐day theorists working three‐quarters of a century later.
Beyond “Dissatisfaction” and “Apology Fatigue”: Four Types of Japanese Official Apology
Authors: Chun Ja‐hyun
Published: July 2015

This study critically assesses whether Japan has fully and sincerely apologized to its neighbors for many of its actions during World War II. Existing studies frequently assume that Japan has not provided such an apology. As a result, studies have provided explanations for this, but have not considered the form required of such an apology. This article, therefore, provides a fourfold analytical categorization of Japan's diplomatic apologies. The article reveals that not only has the Japanese government made a number of apologies, but they have varied in their sincerity and political purpose. This was ascertained by evaluating whether an apology was specific – resulting in a sincere acknowledgment of an event – and whether there were specific consequences – such as an action or some form of reparation. The results provide useful insights into the form that sincere and insincere apologies have taken, with the aim of undermining the cyclical “apology debate.”
Neutralize or Die: ReshufflingSouthKorea's Grand Strategy Cards and the Neutralization ofSouthKorea Alone
Authors: Yoon Tae‐Ryong
Published: July 2015

The power struggle among the United States,China,Russia, andJapan surrounding theKorean peninsula has led some political leaders, scholars, pundits and government officials to get involved in debates on neutralization of theKorean peninsula since the late 19th century. This includes all the more complicated debates on the issue of the neutralized reunification of the two antagonisticKoreas raised intermittently since the forced division of theKorean peninsula in 1945. All the previous initiatives to neutralize theKorean peninsula, including the officialUSdecision to reunifyKorea via neutralization around the time ofArmistice of theKoreanWar in 1953, have failed due to: (i) the lack of external consensus among the neighbors; and/or (ii) the lack of internal consensus between the twoKoreas (or even amongSouthKoreans) by themselves. This article highlights the necessity of the initial neutralization ofSouthKorea alone (NSKA) absent in the previous discussions, and argues not only thatNSKAwould facilitate the process towards the peaceful reunification of the twoKoreas viaAustria‐like permanent neutrality, but also that it is necessary to achieveNSKAfirst and maintain it for a considerable time before hurriedly pursuing a simultaneously neutralized reunification of the twoKoreas. The permanent and upgradableNSKA(in a long‐term process of the neutralized reunification of theKorean peninsula) at the initial stage would greatly reduce tensions inNortheastAsia, and would heighten the probability of reunification. This article intends to form an “epistemic community” forNSKA, which can be a startup towards a long‐term process forKorean reunification and peaceful coexistence among the four major powers.
Seed degeneration in potato: the need for an integrated seed health strategy to mitigate the problem in developing countries
Authors: Thomas‐Sharma S. , Abdurahman A. , Ali S. , Andrade‐Piedra J. L. , Bao S. , Charkowski A. O. , Crook D. , Kadian M. , Kromann P. , Struik P. C. , Torrance L. , Garrett K. A. , Forbes G. A.
Published: July 2015

Seed potato degeneration, the reduction in yield or quality caused by an accumulation of pathogens and pests in planting material due to successive cycles of vegetative propagation, has been a long‐standing production challenge for potato growers around the world. In developed countries this problem has been overcome by general access to and frequent use of seed, produced by specialized growers, that has been certified to have pathogen and pest incidence below established thresholds, often referred to as certified seed. The success of certified seed in developed countries has concentrated the research and development agenda on the establishment of similar systems in developing countries. Despite these efforts, certified seed has had little penetration into the informal seed systems currently in place in most developing countries. Small‐scale farmers in these countries continue to plant seed tubers acquired through the informal seed system, i.e. produced on‐farm or acquired from neighbours or local markets. Informal seed tubers frequently have poor health status, leading to significant reductions in yield and/or market value. This review emphasizes the need to refocus management efforts in developing countries on improving the health status of seed tubers in the informal system by integrating disease resistance and on‐farm management tools with strategic seed replacement. This ‘integrated seed health strategy’ can also prolong the good health status of plants derived from certified seed, which would otherwise be diminished due to potential rapid infection from neighbouring fields. Knowledge gaps, development challenges and impacts of this integrated seed health strategy are discussed.
Atypical Leadership: The Role of the Presidency and Refugee Protection, 1932‐1952
Authors: Orchard Phil , Gillies Jamie
Published: July 2015

Within international relations theorizing, political leaders are rarely cast as norm entrepreneurs or change agents. As heads of government, they have their own sources of legitimacy and authority, but also significant constraints. This article, based on new archival research, adds nuance to this model by exploring the leadership roles of Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman on influencing global views on refugee protection. The role both presidents played at the international level was moderated by constraints at the domestic level within the congressional and executive branches. While both presidents demonstrated a strong commitment to refugees, only Truman was able to bring about change in U.S. policy by deploying the tools of norm entrepreneurship.
Agency Design, the Mass Media, and the Blame for Agency Scandals
Authors: Ruder Alex I.
Published: July 2015

I investigate whether formal presidential authority over agencies moderates attributions of responsibility for agency activity. Using a survey experiment that manipulates news coverage of a major agency scandal, I find that providing details about formal presidential control in news coverage significantly increases attributions of responsibility to the president. I then explore broader questions of accountability by assessing mass media attention to agencies. I use a unique data set of over 150,000 newspaper articles, matched to agency design and regulatory activity data sets, and find considerable variation in total coverage and coverage that mentions the president along with the agency. Combined, the results suggest that media coverage of agency design affects how voters allocate blame for agency actions and that political accountability is hindered by minimal media attention to a large number of agencies that wield significant regulatory powers.
The Contemporary Presidency: Powering Down the Presidency: The Rise and Fall of Recess Appointments
Authors: Ostrander Ian
Published: July 2015

While established in the Constitution as a means of filling key posts during long gaps between legislative sessions, recess appointments have recently become a common and essential tool for bypassing procedural hurdles in the Senate and maintaining adequate staffing in federal bureaucracies. Despite being ubiquitous in the past three decades, recess appointments may now be relegated to the status of constitutional relics. This development is due to the related trends of using pro forma congressional sessions to deny presidents an opportunity to issue recess appointments and the recent Senate precedent that all reduces the power of the filibuster on executive nominations. Now, depending on whether government is divided, presidents either cannot use or do not require recess appointments. This article explores the future prospects for recess appointments as well as the theoretical implications for the demise of this unilateral power.
The Historical Presidency: Competing Conceptions of the Separation of Powers: Washington's Request for an Advisory Opinion in the Crisis of 1793
Authors: Starr Nicholas C.
Published: July 2015

President Washington's request for a formal advisory opinion at the height of the neutrality crisis and the Supreme Court's refusal to grant his request have never received more than passing attention from political scientists. Yet these events bear directly on fundamental issues regarding the purpose and practice of the separation of powers and the relation between a republican government and the citizenry it serves. In this article, I argue that, properly understood, Washington's request and the Court's refusal shed new light on the underlying theoretical rationale for executive–judicial cooperation and the political dangers of this cooperation. Moreover, by attending to the actions of the Washington administration in the aftermath of the Court's refusal, I show that the manner in which presidents interact with the people cannot be neatly separated from the institutional relationships between the branches of government.
Dynamics of Vortex Rossby Waves in Tropical Cyclones, Part 2: Nonlinear Time‐Dependent Asymptotic Analysis on a β‐Plane
Authors: Nikitina L. V. , Campbell L. J.
Published: July 2015

Vortex Rossby waves in cyclones in the tropical atmosphere are believed to play a role in the observed eyewall replacement cycle, a phenomenon in which concentric rings of intense rainbands develop outside the wall of the cyclone eye, strengthen and then contract inward to replace the original eyewall. In this paper, we present a two‐dimensional configuration that represents the propagation of forced Rossby waves in a cyclonic vortex and use it to explore mechanisms by which critical layer interactions could contribute to the evolution of the secondary eyewall location. The equations studied include the nonlinear terms that describe wave‐mean‐flow interactions, as well as the terms arising from the latitudinal gradient of the Coriolis parameter. Asymptotic methods based on perturbation theory and weakly nonlinear analysis are used to obtain the solution as an expansion in powers of two small parameters that represent nonlinearity and the Coriolis effects. The asymptotic solutions obtained give us insight into the temporal evolution of the forced waves and their effects on the mean vortex. In particular, there is an inward displacement of the location of the critical radius with time which can be interpreted as part of the secondary eyewall cycle.
Identification of a naturally processed HLA‐Cw7‐binding peptide that cross‐reacts with HLA‐A24‐restricted ovarian cancer‐specific CTLs
Authors: Yamada E. , Demachi‐Okamura A. , Kondo S. , Akatsuka Y. , Suzuki S. , Shibata K. , Kikkawa F. , Kuzushima K.
Published: July 2015

Here, we describe an human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐A*24:02‐restricted cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte (CTL) clone, 1G3, established from naïve CD8+ T‐lymphocytes obtained from a healthy donor stimulated with HLA‐modified TOV21G, an ovarian cancer cell line. The 1G3 clone responds not only to ovarian cancer cells in the context of HLA‐A*24:02 but also to allogeneic HLA‐Cw*07:02 molecules through cross‐reactive T‐cell receptor recognition. Expression screening using a complementary DNA library constructed from TOV21G messenger RNA revealed that this alloreactivity was mediated through the nine‐mer peptide VRTPYTMSY, derived from RNA‐binding motif protein 4. To our knowledge, this study presents the first example of the allorecognition of an HLA‐Cw molecule by HLA‐A‐restricted T‐cells, thereby revealing a naturally processed epitope peptide. These findings provide the structural bases for the allorecognition of human T‐cells. In addition, this study suggests that unexpected alloresponses occur in certain HLA combinations, and further study is needed to understand the mechanisms of alloreactivity for better prediction of alloresponses in clinical settings.
A new HLA‐A allele, HLA‐A* 02:01:119, identified in a Chinese individual
Authors: Feng Z.‐H. , Chi X.‐Y. , Han B. , Jiao S.‐X. , Wang M.‐M.
Published: July 2015

The new allele A*02:01:119 was initially identified in a Chinese individual by sequence‐based typing.
Identification of a novel HLA‐B*40 variant allele, B*40:301, by sequence‐based typing
Authors: Yu S. , Kim J.‐S. , Choi R. , Kwon O.‐J. , Kang E.‐S.
Published: July 2015

The new allele, HLA‐B*40:301 differs from B*40:01:02 by one nucleotide substitution at codon 239 (AGA → AAA).
JC polyomavirus nephropathy confirmed by using an in‐house polymerase chain reaction method
Authors: Querido S. , Jorge C. , Sousa H. , Birne R. , Matias P. , Weigert A. , Adragão T. , Bruges M. , Ramos S. , Santos M. , Paixão P. , Curran M.D. , Machado D.
Published: July 2015

We report the case of an isolated JC virus (JCV) infection, without co‐infection by polyoma BK virus (BKV), associated with nephropathy 4 years after kidney transplantation. Clinical suspicion followed the observation of a decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and a renal allograft biopsy revealing polyomavirus‐associated tubulointerstitial nephritis and positivity for SV40. An in‐house real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay, targeting the presence of JCV and the absence of BKV in biopsy tissue, confirmed diagnosis. Thirteen months after diagnosis, and following therapeutic measures, eGFR remains stable.
Phototropins maintain robust circadian oscillation of PSII operating efficiency under blue light
Authors: Litthauer Suzanne , Battle Martin W. , Lawson Tracy , Jones Matthew A.
Published: July 2015

The circadian system allows plants to coordinate metabolic and physiological functions with predictable environmental variables such as dusk and dawn. This endogenous oscillator is comprised of biochemical and transcriptional rhythms that are synchronized with a plant's surroundings via environmental signals, including light and temperature. We have used chlorophyll fluorescence techniques to describe circadian rhythms of PSII operating efficiency () in the chloroplasts of Arabidopsis thaliana. These oscillations appear to be influenced by transcriptional feedback loops previously described in the nucleus, and are induced by rhythmic changes in photochemical quenching over circadian time. Our work reveals that a family of blue photoreceptors, phototropins, maintain robust rhythms of under constant blue light. As phototropins do not influence circadian gene expression in the nucleus our imaging methodology highlights differences between the modulation of circadian outputs in distinct subcellular compartments.
Estradiol‐induced alopecia in five dogs after contact with a transdermal gel used for the treatment of postmenopausal symptoms in women
Authors: Wiener Dominique J. , Rüfenacht Silvia , Koch Hans J. , Mauldin Elizabeth A. , Mayer Ursula , Welle Monika M.
Published: July 2015

Background

Noninflammatory alopecia is a frequent problem in dogs. Estrogen‐induced alopecia is well described in dogs, with estrogen producing testicular tumors and canine female hyperestrogenism.

Objectives

To increase awareness that extensive alopecia in dogs can be caused by exposure to estradiol gel used by owners to treat their postmenopausal symptoms.

Animals

Skin biopsies from five dogs with extensive alopecia were examined.

Methods

Owners were asked for a thorough case history, including possible exposure to an estradiol gel. Complete blood work and serum chemistry panel analysis were performed to investigate possible underlying causes. Formalin‐fixed skin biopsy samples were obtained from lesional skin and histopathology was performed.

Results

All owners confirmed the use of a transdermal estradiol gel and close contact with the affected dogs before development of alopecia. Histopathologic examination showed a similar picture in all five dogs. Most hair follicles were predominantly either in kenogen or telogen and hair follicle infundibula showed mild to moderate dilation. Hair regrowth was present in all five dogs after the exposure to the estradiol gel was stopped or minimized. Blood work and serum chemistry panel were within normal limits in all cases. One dog had elevated estradiol concentrations, whereas in another dog estradiol concentrations were within normal limits.

Conclusion and clinical importance

Alopecia can occur after contact with a transdermal gel used as treatment for postmenopausal symptoms in women. Estradiol gel used by female owners therefore represents a possible cause for noninflammatory alopecia in dogs. Estradiol concentrations are not necessarily elevated in affected dogs.
Effects of Yoga on Stress, Stress Adaption, and Heart Rate Variability Among Mental Health Professionals—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lin Shu‐Ling , Huang Ching‐Ya , Shiu Shau‐Ping , Yeh Shu‐Hui
Published: July 2015

Background

Mental health professionals experiencing work‐related stress may experience burn out, leading to a negative impact on their organization and patients.

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of yoga classes on work‐related stress, stress adaptation, and autonomic nerve activity among mental health professionals.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was used, which compared the outcomes between the experimental (e.g., yoga program) and the control groups (e.g., no yoga exercise) for 12 weeks. Work‐related stress and stress adaptation were assessed before and after the program. Heart rate variability (HRV) was measured at baseline, midpoint through the weekly yoga classes (6 weeks), and postintervention (after 12 weeks of yoga classes).

Results

The results showed that the mental health professionals in the yoga group experienced a significant reduction in work‐related stress (t = −6.225, p < .001), and a significant enhancement of stress adaptation (t = 2.128, p = .042). Participants in the control group revealed no significant changes. Comparing the mean differences in pre‐ and posttest scores between yoga and control groups, we found the yoga group significantly decreased work‐related stress (t = −3.216, p = .002), but there was no significant change in stress adaptation (p = .084). While controlling for the pretest scores of work‐related stress, participants in yoga, but not the control group, revealed a significant increase in autonomic nerve activity at midpoint (6 weeks) test (t = −2.799, p = .007), and at posttest (12 weeks; t = −2.099, p = .040).

Linking Evidence to Action

Because mental health professionals experienced a reduction in work‐related stress and an increase in autonomic nerve activity in a weekly yoga program for 12 weeks, clinicians, administrators, and educators should offer yoga classes as a strategy to help health professionals reduce their work‐related stress and balance autonomic nerve activities.
The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Acute Pain in Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Koç Tuba , Gözen Duygu
Published: July 2015

Aim

This study was a randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate the effect of foot reflexology applied on infants on acute pain that may arise after vaccine injection.

Methods

The sample consisted of 1‐ to 12‐month‐old infants registered in a family health center in Istanbul, Turkey, for healthcare follow‐up. A total of 60 infants who met the criteria of the sample group were included in the study; 30 infants constituted the reflexology group and the other 30 constituted the control group. Although questionnaire forms were used to determine the descriptive characteristics of infant‐mother pairs, the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) Pain Assessment Scale was used to evaluate pain level. Infants in the reflexology group received reflexology treatment for an average of 20–30 minutes before vaccination, depending on the physical size of the infant's foot. Pain, heart rate, oxygen saturation levels, and crying periods of infants in the reflexology and control groups were evaluated before and after vaccination.

Results

The FLACC pain score was observed to be statistically similar between groups. After reflexology was applied to infants in the reflexology group before vaccination, it was determined that the pain score was reduced to .50 ± 1.14. In the examination performed after vaccination, FLACC pain score was found to be 5.47 ± 2.11 in the reflexology group and 9.63 ± .85 in the control group. A statistically significant difference was observed between the mean FLACC pain scores of infants in the reflexology and control groups (p = .000). The infants in the reflexology group also had lower heart rates, higher oxygen saturation, and shorter crying periods than the infants in the control group (p <.001).

Linking Evidence to Actions

Reflexology before vaccine reduced the pain level experienced after vaccination. Future research needs to explore different interventional practices.