bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Invasive amphibians in southern Africa: A review of invasion pathways
Authors: Measey John , Davies Sarah J. , Vimercati Giovanni , Rebelo Alex , Schmidt Warren , Turner Andrew
Published: March 2017

Background: Globally, invasive amphibians are known for their environmental and social impacts that range from poisoning of local fauna and human populations to direct predation on other amphibians. Although several countries on most continents have had multiple introductions of many species, southern Africa appears to have escaped allochthonous introductions. Instead, it has a small number of domestic exotic species that have rapidly expanded their ranges and established invasive populations within South Africa. Objectives methods: We used the literature to provide a historical overview of dispersal by some of the world’s major invasive amphibians, give examples of species that are commonly moved as stowaways and discuss historical and current amphibian trade in the region. In addition, we give an overview of new South African legislation and how this is applied to amphibian invasions, as well as providing updates on the introduced populations of three domestic exotics: Hyperolius marmoratus, Sclerophrys gutturalis and Xenopus laevis. Results: We show that frogs are mainly moved around southern Africa through ‘jump’ dispersal, although there are a number of records of ‘cultivation’, ‘leading-edge’ and ‘extreme long-distance’ dispersal types. Important pathways include trade in fruit and vegetables, horticultural products and shipping containers. Conclusion: We suggest that southern Africa is becoming more vulnerable to amphibian invasions because of an increase in trade, agricultural and domestic impoundments as well as global climate change. Increasing propagule pressure suggests that preventing new introductions will become a key challenge for the future. Currently, trade in amphibians in the region is practically non-existent, suggesting potential for best practice to prevent importation of species with high invasion potential and to stop the spread of disease.
Promise and challenges of risk assessment as an approach for preventing the arrival of harmful alien species
Authors: Keller Reuben P. , Kumschick Sabrina
Published: March 2017

Background: Harmful alien species impose a growing environmental, economic and human well-being burden around the globe. A promising way to reduce the arrival of new species that may become harmful is to utilise pre-border risk assessment (RA) tools that relate the traits of introduced species to whether those species have become established and harmful. These tools can be applied to species proposed for intentional introduction so that informed decisions can be made about whether each species poses an acceptable risk and should be allowed for import. Objectives: A range of approaches to RA tool development have emerged, each relying on different assumptions about the relationships between traits and species impacts, and each requiring different levels and types of data. We set out to compare the qualities of each approach and make recommendations for their application in South Africa, a high biodiversity developing country that already has many invasive species. Method: We reviewed five approaches to pre-border RA and assessed the benefits and drawbacks of each. We focused on how pre-border RA could be applied in South Africa. Results: Recent legislation presents a framework for RA to evaluate species introductions to South Africa, but we find that this framework assumes an approach to RA that is relatively slow and costly and that does not leverage recent advances in RA tool development. Conclusion: There is potential for proven RA approaches to be applied in South Africa that would be less costly and that could more rapidly assess the suite of species currently being introduced.
A proposed national strategic framework for the management of Cactaceae in South Africa
Authors: Kaplan Haylee , Wilson John R.U. , Klein Hildegard , Henderson Lesley , Zimmermann Helmuth G. , Manyama Phetole , Ivey Philip , Richardson David M. , Novoa Ana
Published: March 2017

Background: South Africa has a long history of managing biological invasions. The rapid increase in the scale and complexity of problems associated with invasions calls for new, more strategic management approaches. This paper explores strategic management approaches for cactus invasions in South Africa. Cacti (Cactaceae) have had a long history of socio-economic benefits, considerable negative environmental and socio-economic impacts, and a wide range of management interventions in South Africa. Objectives: To guide the future management of cactus invasions, a national strategic framework was developed by the South African Cactus Working Group. The overarching aim of this framework is to reduce the negative impacts of cacti to a point where their benefits significantly outweigh the losses. Method: Four strategic objectives were proposed: (1) all invasive and potentially invasive cactus species should be prevented from entering the country, (2) new incursions of cactus species must be rapidly detected and eradicated, (3) the impacts of invasive cacti must be reduced and contained and (4) socio-economically useful cacti (both invasive and non-invasive species) must be utilised sustainably to minimise the risk of further negative impacts. Results: There are currently 35 listed invasive cactus species in the country; 10 species are targeted for eradication and 12 are under partial or complete biological control. We discuss approaches for the management of cactus species, their introduction and spread pathways and spatial prioritisation of control efforts. Conclusion: A thorough understanding of context-specific invasion processes and stakeholder support is needed when implementing strategies for a group of invasive species.
Grasses as invasive plants in South Africa revisited: Patterns, pathways and management
Authors: Visser Vernon , Wilson John R.U. , Canavan Kim , Canavan Susan , Fish Lyn , Le Maitre David , Nänni Ingrid , Mashau Caroline , O’Connor Tim , Ivey Philip , Kumschick Sabrina , Richardson David M.
Published: March 2017

Background: In many countries around the world, the most damaging invasive plant species are grasses. However, the status of grass invasions in South Africa has not been documented recently. Objectives: To update Sue Milton’s 2004 review of grasses as invasive alien plants in South Africa, provide the first detailed species level inventory of alien grasses in South Africa and assess the invasion dynamics and management of the group. Method: We compiled the most comprehensive inventory of alien grasses in South Africa to date using recorded occurrences of alien grasses in the country from various literature and database sources. Using historical literature, we reviewed past efforts to introduce alien grasses into South Africa. We sourced information on the origins, uses, distributions and minimum residence times to investigate pathways and patterns of spatial extent. We identified alien grasses in South Africa that are having environmental and economic impacts and determined whether management options have been identified, and legislation created, for these species. Results: There are at least 256 alien grass species in the country, 37 of which have become invasive. Alien grass species richness increased most dramatically from the late 1800s to about 1940. Alien grass species that are not naturalised or invasive have much shorter residence times than those that have naturalised or become invasive. Most grasses were probably introduced for forage purposes, and a large number of alien grass species were trialled at pasture research stations. A large number of alien grass species in South Africa are of Eurasian origin, although more recent introductions include species from elsewhere in Africa and from Australasia. Alien grasses are most prevalent in the south-west of the country, and the Fynbos Biome has the most alien grasses and the most widespread species. We identified 11 species that have recorded environmental and economic impacts in the country. Few alien grasses have prescribed or researched management techniques. Moreover, current legislation neither adequately covers invasive species nor reflects the impacts and geographical extent of these species. Conclusion: South Africa has few invasive grass species, but there is much uncertainty regarding the identity, numbers of species, distributions, abundances and impacts of alien grasses. Although introductions of alien grasses have declined in recent decades, South Africa has a potentially large invasion debt. This highlights the need for continued monitoring and much greater investment in alien grass management, research and legislation.
Contributions to the National Status Report on Biological Invasions in South Africa
Authors: Wilson John R.U. , Gaertner Mirijam , Richardson David M. , Van Wilgen Brian W.
Published: March 2017

South Africa has committed to producing a National Status Report on Biological Invasions by October 2017 and thereafter every three years. This will be the first status report at a national level specifically on biological invasions. As part of soliciting input, a workshop was held in May 2016 that led to this special issue of 19 papers in the journal Bothalia: African Biodiversity and Conservation. This editorial introduces the symposium, discusses the special issue and summarises how each contribution provides an estimate of ‘status’. Papers focus on key pathways, taxa, areas, and evaluations of interventions, specifically the movement of taxa between South Africa and neighbouring countries; the dispersal pathways of amphibians; a review of alien animals; a report on changes in the number and abundance of alien plants; in-depth reviews of the status of invasions for cacti, fishes, fungi and grasses; an assessment of the impact of widespread invasive plants on animals; reviews on invasions in municipalities, protected areas and subAntarctic Islands; assessments of the efficacy of biological control and other control programmes; and recommendations for how to deal with conflict species, to conduct scientific assessments and to improve risk assessments. The papers in this special issue confirm that South Africa is an excellent place to study invasions that can provide insights for understanding and managing invasions in other countries. Negative impacts seem to be largely precipitated by certain taxa (especially plants), whereas invasions by a number of other groups do not, yet, seem to have caused the widespread negative impacts felt in other countries. Although South Africa has effectively managed a few biological invasions (e.g. highly successful biological control of some invasive plants), the key challenge seems to be to establish and maintain a strong link between implementation, monitoring, reporting and planning.
#MisconstruedIdentitiesMustFall collective: Identity formation in the current South African context: A practical theological perspective
Authors: Brunsdon Alfred R.
Published: March 2017

In South Africa, 2015 was violently ushered out by several ‘must fall’ campaigns, of which the most prominent were the ‘fees’ and ‘Zuma must fall’ campaigns. These ‘must fall’ campaigns conveyed a new sense of urgency by the disgruntled masses towards certain institutions and individuals. Aligning with the ‘must fall’ analogy, the focus of this article is on combatting the notion of misconstrued identities in post-apartheid South Africa. Based on negative generalisation and perceptions of the ‘others’, misconstrued identities prohibit the formation of a collective identity that allows for peaceful co-existence. Consequently, the dynamics of collective identity formation and some of the possibilities for identity formation that reside within the Christian faith are investigated from a practical theological perspective. Given that a practical theological investigation takes both the context and theological reflection as points of departure, it is argued that it can contribute towards the dismantling of misconstrued identities to provide clues for the formation of a positive collective identity for South Africans.
First record of the invasive Australian redclaw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus (von Martens, 1868) in the Crocodile River, Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Petersen Robin M. , Hoffman Andries C. , Kotze Pieter , Marr Sean M.
Published: March 2017

The redclaw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus (von Martens, 1868), a robust freshwater crayfish native to Australia and Papua New Guinea, has now been recorded from the Kruger National Park (KNP). Previously absent from the Crocodile River, SAN Parks received a report in February 2016 of redclaw crayfish below the Van Graan Dam on the border of the KNP. Here, we provide evidence of the presence of redclaw crayfish in the Crocodile River. A better understanding of the redclaw crayfish distribution, habitat preferences, rate of spread and impacts on the local aquatic ecosystems in the Crocodile River is urgently required to develop mitigation strategies that minimise the spread of this invasive crayfish in the KNP and the Komati Catchment. The negative impacts of global crayfish introductions justify efforts to discourage further introductions and prevent their secondary spread.Conservation implications: A better understanding of the redclaw crayfish distribution, habitat preferences, rate of spread and impacts on the local aquatic ecosystems in the Crocodile River is urgently required to develop mitigation strategies that minimise the spread of this invasive crayfish in the Kruger National Park and the Komati Catchment.
Erotic fantasy, spirituality and Song of Songs
Authors: Van der Merwe Dirk G.
Published: March 2017

Fantasy plays an essential role in sexual activities. This article investigates (erotic) fantasy from a literary text perspective according to Song of Songs in the Christian Bible. The Song, according to many commentaries, starts with a reference to sex in Canticle 1:2, �Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is better than wine�. Although the word sex is not mentioned in the Song, it is referred to and implied a number of times in the deep structure of the text. The fantasies of this most beautiful woman (beauty, a secondary motif in the Song that is complementary to the main theme of love) are part of the rhetoric of the poet (probably a woman) to convince the reader about the enjoyment and beauty of erotic love. These could most likely stimulate erotic fantasies when reading the text. Part of the poet�s rhetoric is the way in which she describes this most beautiful woman and her most attractive lover using metaphors, allusions, symbols and similes to evoke all sorts of imaginations and fantasies in the mind of the reader to complement the erotic fantasies of the reader. The investigation of the composition and �lived experiences� (spiritualities) of erotic fantasies is approached from the perceptions of how the entanglement of the reader in the text augments fantasies, how the dynamic interaction between the text of Song of Songs and the reader involves the reader in the fantasies and spiritualities of the protagonists and the poet, how the lived experiences of the composed images and erotic fantasies in the text of the Song grip and involve the reader in the text and finally how the use or application of human senses in fantasies can intensify the lived experiences of fantasies. This research points out how God�s love and concern for his creatures are present as revealed in the relationship between two lovers. His love and concern are clearly visible in the enjoyment and pleasure given by God to humans in his creation which the lovers find in each other.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This research challenges the traditional discourse about sexuality for an enrichment of it. In the article the disciplines of theology, physiology, psychology and spirituality unite to include the entire person in sexual activities. The potential results would end up in a greater enjoyment of making love.
Comparative antinociceptive effect of arachidonylcyclopropylamide, a cannabinoid 1 receptor agonist & lignocaine, a local anaesthetic agent, following direct intrawound administration in rats
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Prasoon Pranav , Gautam Mayank , Ray Subrata Basu
Published: March 2017

Background & objectives:

Treatment of inflammatory pain with opioids is accompanied by unpleasant and, at times, life-threatening side effects. Cannabis produces antinociception as well as psychotropic effects. It was hypothesized that peripheral cannabinoid receptors outside the central nervous system could be selectively activated for relief of pain. This study was undertaken to measure the antinociceptive effect of type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1r) agonist arachidonylcyclopropylamide (ACPA) in a rat model of inflammatory pain after intrawound administration and the effects were compared with lignocaine.

Methods:

Wounds were produced under controlled conditions by an incision in the right hind paw in rats. ACPA (10, 30 or 100 μg/10 μl) was administered directly into the wound. Antinociception was evaluated by guarding, allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. This was compared to lignocaine (30 μg/10 μl). Reversal of ACPA (30 μg)-mediated antinociceptive effect was attempted by intrawound AM251 (100 μg), a CB1r antagonist. Antinociception was also evaluated after contralateral administration of ACPA (30 μg). Primary afferent nociceptive input to the spinal cord was investigated by c-Fos expression after ACPA treatment (100 μg).

Results:

ACPA, but not lignocaine, inhibited guarding behaviour, which was locally mediated. Conversely, lignocaine, but not ACPA, inhibited thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. ACPA-mediated inhibitory effect was reversible and dose dependent. It was associated with a decreased c-Fos expression. Locomotor activity was unaffected following ACPA (100 μg) treatment.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Lignocaine attenuated evoked pain behaviour whereas ACPA decreased guarding score. This difference was likely due to blockade of sodium ion channels and the activation of peripheral CB1r, respectively. Central side effects were absent after ACPA treatment. Further studies need to be done to assess the effect of ACPA treatment in clinical conditions.
Pioglitazone utilization, efficacy & safety in Indian type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Pai Sarayu A. , Kshirsagar Nilima A.
Published: March 2017

Background & objectives:

With pioglitazone ban and subsequent revoking in India along with varying regulatory decisions in other countries, it was decided to carry out a systematic review on its safety, efficacy and drug utilization in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in India and compare with the data from the European Medicines Agency Assessment Report (EMA-AR).

Methods:

Systematic review was performed as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, searching Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar and Science Direct databases using ‘pioglitazone AND India AND human’ and ‘pioglitazone AND India AND human AND patient’ and compared with EMA-AR. Spontaneous reports in World Health Organization VigiBase from India were compared with VigiBase data from other countries.

Results:

Sixty six publications, 26 (efficacy), 32 (drug utilization) and eight (safety), were retrieved. In India, pioglitazone was used at 15-30 mg/day mostly with metformin and sulphonylurea, being prescribed to 26.7 and 8.4 per cent patients in north and south, respectively. The efficacy in clinical trials (CTs) was similar to those in EMA-AR. Incidence of bladder cancer in pioglitazone exposed and non-exposed patients was not significantly different in an Indian retrospective cohort study. There were two cases and a series of eight cases of bladder cancer published but none reported in VigiBase.

Interpretation & conclusions:

In India, probably due to lower dose, lower background incidence of bladder cancer and smaller sample size in epidemiological studies, association of bladder cancer with pioglitazone was not found to be significant. Reporting of CTs and adverse drug reactions to Clinical Trials Registry of India and Pharmacovigilance Programme of India, respectively, along with compliance studies with warning given in package insert and epidemiological studies with larger sample size are needed.
Synergism in dual functionality of cryptdin-2 in conjunction with antibiotics against Salmonella
Authors: Singh Aman Preet , Prabha Vijay , Rishi Praveen
Published: March 2017

Background & objectives:

The emergence of multidrug-resistant Salmonella over the last two decades poses a major health risk. In this context, antimicrobial peptides have found a strategic place in the therapeutic armamentarium. Previously, we found that cryptdin-2 has the potential to augment the activity of conventional second- and third-generation anti-Salmonella antibiotics as evident by in vitro assays. In continuation to this, the present study was designed to evaluate the in vivo synergistic effects, if any, of cryptdin-2 in combination with ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone against murine salmonellosis.

Methods:

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies along with in vivo synergistic studies were performed using cryptdin- 2 and antibiotic combinations. In addition, peroxidative liver damage, levels of nitric oxide (NO) and antioxidant enzymes along with tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were also measured.

Results:

The SEM results revealed marked changes on the outer membrane of the bacterial cells treated with various combinations. Both the tested combinations demonstrated synergistic in vivo potency against S. Typhimurium as evident by reduction in the number of Salmonellae in the liver, spleen and intestine. Analysis of peroxidative liver damage, levels of NO and antioxidant enzymes along with TNF-α and nuclear factor-kappa B levels revealed that the tested combinations restored their levels to near normal. The most potent combination was found to be that of cryptdin-2 and ciprofloxacin in terms of direct killing and immunomodulatory potential.

Interpretation & conclusions:

These findings suggest that cryptdin-2 may act in conjunction with conventional antibiotics indicating the possibility of developing these combinations as additional therapeutic agents to combat Salmonella infections.
Occupational Performance Coaching for Stroke Survivors: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kessler Dorothy , Egan Mary , Dubouloz Claire-Jehanne , McEwen Sara , Graham Fiona P.
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE. We examined the feasibility of study procedures and explored the potential efficacy of Occupational Performance Coaching for stroke survivors (OPC–Stroke), an intervention designed to improve participation after stroke.

METHOD. In this pilot randomized controlled trial, 21 participants were randomized to receive the intervention or usual care. Recruitment, retention, and outcome completion rates were calculated. Direction of change and effect sizes were examined for the outcomes of participation, goal performance and satisfaction, goal self-efficacy, emotional well-being, and cognition.

RESULTS. Rates of recruitment (66%) and retention (81%) were satisfactory. Participation scores improved for both groups with different trajectories. Results showed a moderate effect of OPC–Stroke for goal performance (η2partial d = .075) and satisfaction (η2partial d = .078) and a large effect for cognition (η2partial d = .167). Other outcome measures did not change as expected.

CONCLUSION. Study procedures were generally feasible. Preliminary findings support testing to examine the efficacy of OPC–Stroke.
Development and Alternate Form Reliability of the Complex Task Performance Assessment (CTPA) for People With Mild Stroke
Authors: Saa Juan Pablo , Doherty Meghan , Young Alexis , Spiers Meredith , Leary Emily , Wolf Timothy J.
Published: March 2017

Cognitive impairment is a common consequence of mild stroke. Current performance-based assessments for mild stroke can detect mild impairments in executive function but lack alternate forms to be used as outcome measures. This study aimed to develop an alternate form of the Complex Task Performance Assessment (CTPA–Alt), a performance-based assessment of executive function, and to establish the alternate form reliability of the CTPA–Alt. A repeated-measures study was conducted with 26 community participants. Participants were screened for eligibility and administered both forms of the CTPA; administration order was alternated. Overall performance was significantly correlated (rs = .44, p = .03), but pattern of scoring differed by CTPA form and order of administration. Our results indicate that the CTPA forms were similar but that the specific tasks in each form were different. The CTPA may be used as an ecologically valid outcome assessment with further considerations.
Quality of Life Perspectives of People With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Their Caregivers
Authors: Johnson Stephanie , Alonso Bryant , Faulkner Katie , Roberts Haley , Monroe Britton , Lehman Leigh , Kearney Pamalyn
Published: March 2017

This study explored differences in perspectives on quality of life (QOL) between people affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their caregivers. QOL is often thought of as related to physical limitations, without consideration of other factors (e.g., cognitive, emotional) that may be stronger predictors of QOL in people with long-term degenerative diseases. Because QOL is complex and influenced by multiple factors, people with ALS and their caregivers may have different perspectives on what constitutes QOL. This study investigated potential discrepancies in QOL perspectives between people with ALS and their caregivers. Thirty dyads from the Augusta University Health ALS Clinic completed a measure of QOL, and we compared the results and identified patterns. The most prominent finding was that members of the dyads misunderstood the mental experiences of one another.
Do Neglect Assessments Detect Neglect Differently?
Authors: Grattan Emily S. , Woodbury Michelle L.
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE. We determined whether various assessment tools detect neglect differently by administering a battery of assessments to people with stroke.

METHOD. We conducted a case series study and administered five neglect assessments (paper-and-pencil, functional, virtual reality) to participants poststroke.

RESULTS. Twelve participants (6 men, 6 women) with stroke completed the assessment battery, which required approximately 2 hr to administer (over one to two sessions). All participants demonstrated neglect on three or more assessments. Functional assessments and the virtual reality assessment detected neglect more frequently than the paper-and-pencil assessments. Participants performed differently on the paper-and-pencil assessments and functional assessments.

CONCLUSION. Because neglect is complex, detection may depend largely on the assessment administered.
National Institutes of Health Research Plan on Rehabilitation
Authors:   National Institutes of Health Medical Rehabilitation Coordinating Committee
Published: March 2017

One in 5 Americans experiences disability that affects daily function because of impairments in mobility, impairments in cognitive function, sensory impairment, or communication impairment. The need for rehabilitation strategies to optimize function and reduce disability is a clear priority for research to address this public health challenge. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently published a Research Plan on Rehabilitation that provides a set of priorities to guide the field over the next 5 years. The plan was developed with input from multiple institutes and centers within the NIH, the National Advisory Board for Medical Rehabilitation Research, and the public. This article provides an overview of the need for this research plan, an outline of its development, and a listing of six priority areas for research.
Goleman-Boyatzis Model of Emotional Intelligence for Dealing with Problems in Project Management
Authors: Livesey Peter Vincent
Published: March 2017

As projects grow in size and complexity the sizes of teams needed to manage them also increases. This places greater emphasis on the need for the project manager to develop people management skills, commonly called soft skills, of which emotional intelligence (EI) has been recognised as an important component. The objective of this research was to investigate the relevance of the Goleman-Boyatzis model of EI in dealing with the problems in large projects identified via a literature review. To achieve this end, a Delphi study using project managers who had been involved in the management of projects in excess of $500 million was used. The responses from the Delphi panel were analysed and the results showed that the competencies contained in the Goleman-Boyatzis model had a relevance of 95% or greater to the problems presented to the panel. A ranking of the various competencies contained within the model was also developed, some competencies being found to be more important than others. By confirming the importance of emotional intelligence, as described by the model, this research adds to the understanding of the necessary skills needed by a project manager to successfully manage large projects.
The Socio-Economics of Women Inclusion in Green Construction
Authors: Afolabi Adedeji Olushola , Tunji-Olayeni Patience Fikiemo , Oyeyipo Opeyemi Olanrewaju , Ojelabi Rapheal Abiodun
Published: March 2017

The female population represents one of the greatest untapped resources for economic growth and revitalization in most sectors. The purpose of the study was to examine the socio-economics of women’s inclusion in green construction. The study utilized the use of questionnaires which were distributed to female professionals in the Nigerian construction industry. A total of 120 female construction professionals were used for this study. The data gathered was analysed using SPSS v17.0 with tests such as Frequencies, Percentages, Mean Score, ANOVA, and Factor Analysis. The result revealed a low level of participation by women in green construction. Women in construction exhibited moderate participation in Solar panel manufacturing, installation, and maintenance and in the enforcement of environmentally friendly practices on-site. The study revealed that the stressful nature of works, low interest from women, low career growth/progression and low investments in green works are significant barriers affecting women’s inclusion in green construction. In conclusion, the study identified three (3) socio-economic benefits of women’s inclusion in green construction. These are family/women related benefits, environment related benefits, and green energy market related benefits. The study suggested measures to increase women’s participation in green construction.
Influences of breed, sex and age on seasonal changes in haematological variables of tropical goat kids
Authors: Habibu Buhari , Kawu Mohammed , Makun Hussaina , Aluwong Tagang , Yaqub Lukman , Dzenda Tavershima , Buhari Hajarah
Published: March 2017

Abstract. The influences of breed, sex and age on seasonal changes in haematological variables of kids (1–4 months old) belonging to Red Sokoto (n  =  60) and Sahel (n  =  60) goats were studied at the peaks of the cold-dry, hot-dry and rainy seasons in a West Africa Guinea savanna climate. The results showed that, during the hot-dry season, Sahel goat kids had significantly higher (P  <  0.05) packed cell volume (PCV) and red blood cell (RBC) count but lower (P  <  0.05) mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and total leucocyte count than Red Sokoto kids. Similarly, younger kids of both breed had significantly higher (P  <  0.05) PCV and RBC but lower MCV, MCH and MCHC compared with the older kids during the hot-dry season. Younger kids (1–2 months) of both breeds exhibited significantly (P  <  0.05) high PCV and RBC but low MCH and MCHC during the hot-dry season as compared with the cold-dry and rainy seasons, with the magnitude of the change being greater in Sahel kids. More remarkable seasonal fluctuations in haematological parameters were observed in buck kids than doe kids of both breeds. Multivariate analysis revealed a clear distinction between the change in haematological parameters during the cold-dry as compared with the hot-dry and rainy seasons, with MCV having the strongest discriminating power (0.91*). In conclusion, breed, age and sex variations in haematological variables of goats were more pronounced in the hot-dry season, during which the seasonal changes were more dramatic in kids of Sahel goats, as well as in younger and male kids of both breeds. These findings may be useful in the management of tropical goat kids in different seasons.
Geochemical and microstructural characterisation of two species of cool-water bivalves (Fulvia tenuicostata and Soletellina biradiata) from Western Australia
Authors: Roger Liza M. , George Annette D. , Shaw Jeremy , Hart Robert D. , Roberts Malcolm , Becker Thomas , McDonald Bradley J. , Evans Noreen J.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. The shells of two marine bivalve species (Fulvia tenuicostata and Soletellina biradiata) endemic to south Western Australia have been characterised using a combined crystallographic, spectroscopic and geochemical approach. Both species have been described previously as purely aragonitic; however, this study identified the presence of three phases, namely aragonite, calcite and Mg-calcite, using XRD analysis. Data obtained via confocal Raman spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) show correlations between Mg ∕ S and Mg ∕ P in F. tenuicostata and between Sr ∕ S and S ∕ Ba in S. biradiata. The composition of the organic macromolecules that constitute the shell organic matrix (i.e. the soluble phosphorus-dominated and/or insoluble sulfur-dominated fraction) influences the incorporation of Mg, Sr and Ba into the crystal lattice. Ionic substitution, particularly Ca2+ by Mg2+ in calcite in F. tenuicostata, appears to have been promoted by the combination of both S- and P-dominated organic macromolecules. The elemental composition of these two marine bivalve shells is species specific and influenced by many factors, such as crystallographic structure, organic macromolecule composition and environmental setting. In order to reliably use bivalve shells as proxies for paleoenvironmental reconstructions, both the organic and inorganic crystalline material need to be characterised to account for all influencing factors and accurately describe the vital effect.
Climate variability in subarctic area for the last two millennia
Authors: Nicolle Marie , Debret Maxime , Massei Nicolas , Colin Christophe , deVernal Anne , Divine Dmitry , Werner Johannes P. , Hormes Anne , Korhola Atte , Linderholm Hans W.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. To put in perspective the recent climate change, it is necessary to extend the instrumental climate records with proxy data from palaeoclimate archives. Arctic climate variability for the last two millennia has been investigated using statistical and signal analyses from three regionally averaged records from the North Atlantic, Siberia and Alaska based on many sort of proxy data archived in the Arctic 2k database. In the North Atlantic and Alaska areas, the major climatic trend is characterized by long-term cooling interrupted by the recent warming that started at the beginning of the 19th century. This cooling trend is not clearly visible in the Siberian region. The Little Ice Age (LIA) was identified from the individual series and is characterized by an important spatial and temporal expression of climate variability. It started at the earliest by around 1200 AD and ended at the latest in the middle of the 20th century. The large spread temporal coverage of LIA did not show regional consistency or particular spatial distribution and did not show relationship with archive/proxy type either. A focus on the last two centuries shows a recent warming characterized by a well-marked warming trend paralleling with increasing greenhouse gas emissions. It also shows a multi-decadal variability likely due to natural processes acting on the internal climate system variability at regional scale. A 16–30 years cycle is found in Alaska and seems to be linked to the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) whereas ~ 20–30 and ~ 50–90 years periodicities characterize the North Atlantic climate regime, likely in relation with the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). These regional features are apparently linked to the sea-ice cover fluctuations through ice-temperature positive feedback.
One-chip analog circuits for a new type of plasma wave receiver on board space missions
Authors: Zushi Takahiro , Kojima Hirotsugu , Yamakawa Hiroshi
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Plasma waves are important observational targets for scientific missions investigating space plasma phenomena. Conventional fast Fourier transform (FFT)-based spectrum plasma wave receivers have the disadvantages of a large size and a narrow dynamic range. This paper proposes a new type of FFT-based spectrum plasma wave receiver that overcomes the disadvantages of conventional receivers. The receiver measures and calculates the whole spectrum by dividing the observation frequency range into three bands: bands 1, 2, and 3, which span 1 Hz to 1 kHz, 1 to 10 kHz, and 10 to 100 kHz, respectively. To reduce the size of the receiver, its analog section was realized using application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) technology, and an ASIC chip was successfully developed. The dimensions of the analog circuits were 4.21 mm  ×  1.16 mm. To confirm the performance of the ASIC, a test system for the receiver was developed using the ASIC, an analog-to-digital converter, and a personal computer. The frequency resolutions for bands 1, 2, and 3 were 3.2, 32, and 320 Hz, respectively, and the average time resolution was 384 ms. These frequency and time resolutions are superior to those of conventional FFT-based receivers.
Extreme heat in India and anthropogenic climate change
Authors: van Oldenborgh Geert Jan , Philip Sjoukje , Kew Sarah , van Weele Michiel , Uhe Peter , Otto Friederike , Singh Roop , Pal Indrani , AchutaRao Krishna
Published: March 2017

Abstract. On 19 May 2016 the afternoon temperature reached 51.0 ºC in Phalodi in the northwest of India, a new record for the highest observed maximum temperature in India. The previous year, a widely-reported very lethal heat wave occurred in the southeast, in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, killing thousands of people. In both cases it was widely assumed that the probability and severity of heat waves in India are increasing due to global warming, as they do in other parts of the world. However, we do not find positive trends in the highest maximum temperature of the year in most of India since the 1970s (except spurious trends due to missing data). Decadal variability cannot explain this, but both increased air pollution with aerosols blocking sunlight and increased irrigation leading to evaporative cooling have counteracted the effect of greenhouse gases up to now. Current climate models do not represent these processes well and hence cannot be used to attribute heat waves in this area. The health effects of heat are often described better by a combination of temperature and humidity, such as a heat index or wet bulb temperature. Due to the increase in humidity from irrigation and higher SSTs these indices have increased over the last decades even when extreme temperatures have not. The extreme air pollution also exacerbates the health impacts of heat. From a health impact point of view, the severity of heat waves has increased in India. For the next decades we expect the trend due to global warming to continue, but the cooling effect of aerosols to diminish as air quality controls are implemented. The expansion of irrigation will likely continue, though at a slower pace, mitigating this trend somewhat. Humidity will probably continue to rise. The combination will give a strong rise of the temperature of heat waves. The high humidity will make health effects worse, whereas decreased air pollution would decrease the impacts.
Comparison of Estimates of Resting Energy Expenditure Equations in Haemodialysis Patients
Authors: Hung Rachel , Sridharan Sivakumar , Farrington Ken , Davenport Andrew
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Waste products of metabolism accumulate in patients with chronic kidney disease, and require clearance by haemodialysis (HD). We wished to determine whether there was an association between resting energy expenditure (REE) and total energy expenditure (TEE) in HD patients and body composition.

Subjects/Methods

We determined REE by recently validated equations (CKD equation) and compared REE with that estimated by standard equations for REE, and TEE calculated from patient reported physical activity, in HD patients with corresponding body composition measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scanning.

Results

We studied 107 patients, 69 male (64.5%), mean age 62.7 ± 15.1 years. The CKD equation REE was 72.5 ± 13.3 watts (W) and TEE 83.2 ± 9.7 W There was a strong association between REE with body surface area (BSA) (r2 = 0.80), total soft lean and fat lean tissue mass (r2 = 0.69), body mass index (BMI) (r2 = 0.34), all p<0.001. REE estimated using the modified Harris Benedict, Mifflin St. Jeor, Katch McArdle, Bernstein and Robertson equations underestimated REE compared to the CKD equation. TEE was more strongly associated with BSA (r2 = 0.51), appendicular muscle mass (r2 = 0.42), than BMI (r2 = 0.15) all p<0.001. TEE was greater for those employed (104.9 ± 10.7 vs. 83.1 ± 12.3 W, p<0.001), and with no co-morbidity (88.7 ± 14.8 vs. 82.7 ± 12.3 W, P<0.05).

Conclusions

Standard equations underestimate REE in HD patients compared to the CKD equation. TEE was greater in those with more skeletal muscle mass, in those who were employed and in those with the least comorbidity. More metabolically active patients may well require greater dialytic clearances.
Alternating Air-Medium Exposure in Rotating Bioreactors Optimizes Cell Metabolism in 3D Novel Tubular Scaffold Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Tresoldi Claudia , Stefani Ilaria , Ferracci Gaia , Bertoldi Serena , Pellegata Alessandro F. , Farè Silvia , Mantero Sara
Published: March 2017

Background

In vitro dynamic culture conditions play a pivotal role in developing engineered tissue grafts, where the supply of oxygen and nutrients, and waste removal must be permitted within construct thickness. For tubular scaffolds, mass transfer is enhanced by introducing a convective flow through rotating bioreactors with positive effects on cell proliferation, scaffold colonization and extracellular matrix deposition. We characterized a novel polyurethane-based tubular scaffold and investigated the impact of 3 different culture configurations over cell behavior: dynamic (i) single-phase (medium) rotation and (ii) double-phase exposure (medium-air) rotation; static (iii) single-phase static culture as control.

Methods

A new mixture of polyol was tested to create polyurethane foams (PUFs) as 3D scaffold for tissue engineering. The structure obtained was morphologically and mechanically analyzed tested. Murine fibroblasts were externally seeded on the novel porous PUF scaffold, and cultured under different dynamic conditions. Viability assay, DNA quantification, SEM and histological analyses were performed at different time points.

Results

The PUF scaffold presented interesting mechanical properties and morphology adequate to promote cell adhesion, highlighting its potential for tissue engineering purposes. Results showed that constructs under dynamic conditions contain enhanced viability and cell number, exponentially increased for double-phase rotation; under this last configuration, cells uniformly covered both the external surface and the lumen.

Conclusions

The developed 3D structure combined with the alternated exposure to air and medium provided the optimal in vitro biochemical conditioning with adequate nutrient supply for cells. The results highlight a valuable combination of material and dynamic culture for tissue engineering applications.
Comparison of Post-Creation Procedures and Costs between Surgical and an Endovascular Approach to Arteriovenous Fistula Creation
Authors: Yang Shuo , Lok Charmaine , Arnold Renee , Rajan Dheeraj , Glickman Marc
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Due to early and late failures that may occur with surgically created hemodialysis arteriovenous fistulas (SAVF), post-creation procedures are commonly required to facilitate AVF maturation and maintain patency. This study compared AVF post-creation procedures and their associated costs in patients with SAVF to patients with a new endovascularly created AVF (endoAVF).

Methods

A 5% random sample from Medicare Standard Analytical Files was abstracted to determine post- creation procedures and associated costs for SAVF created from 2011 to 2013. Medicare enrollment during the 6 months prior to and after the AVF creation was required. Patients’ follow-up inpatient, outpatient, and physician claims were used to identify post-creation procedures and to estimate average procedure costs. Comparative procedural information on endoAVF was obtained from the Novel Endovascular Access Trial (NEAT).

Results

Of 3764 Medicare SAVF patients, 60 successfully matched to endoAVF patients using 1:1 propensity score matching of baseline demographic and clinical characteristics. The total post-creation procedural event rate within 1 year was lower for endoAVF patients (0.59 per patient-year) compared to the matched SAVF cohort (3.43 per patient-year; p<0.05). In the endoAVF cohort, event rates of angioplasty, thrombectomy, revision, catheter placement, subsequent arteriovenous graft (AVG), new SAVF, and vascular access-related infection were all significantly lower than in the SAVF cohort. The average first year cost per patient-year associated with post-creation procedures was estimated at US$11,240 USD lower for endoAVF than for SAVF.

Conclusions

Compared to patients with SAVF, patients with endoAVF required fewer post-creation procedures and had lower associated mean costs within the first year.
A questão do valor: uma reflexão sobre as fontes valorativas e sua relação com a tridimensionalidade jurídica de Reale
Authors: François Wahlbrinck Ilíria , Menuzzi Jean Mauro , Pacheco Luci Mary Duso
Published: March 2017

Refletir sobre a questão do valor a partir da convivência humana implica em abordá-la sob a perspectiva da ética considerando-se as dimensões de relacionalidade e interdependência, pois, na convivência, o ser humano é guiado pelo enfoque ou supremacia de determinado valor que se aprecia e que concerne sentido à sua concepção de vida e de convivência. O ser humano, guiado pelo primado do valor, age em conformidade e com vistas ao valor reconhecido e, para tal, requer-se empenho por uma formação humana que, muitas vezes, é orientada por princípios que estão além do plano histórico ou existencial. A consciência de que no ser humano reside o poder de valorar é afirmar uma consciência cuidadora que conduz ao compromisso, na construção de um mundo, uma sociedade, em que imperem valores éticos, em que a vida e a dignidade do ser sejam a premissa máxima. Isso equivale a engajar-se por (re)conhecer o cuidado no cuidador de modo a perpetuá-lo na existência como novidade de vida e que conduz à construção de uma sabedoria de vida ou biosofia cujo objetivo é a humanização.