bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Structure of Bioethics as a Pragmatic Discipline
Authors: Alvargonzález David
Published: July 2017

This article analyzes certain aspects of the structure of bioethics as a discipline. It begins by arguing that bioethics is an academic discipline of a pragmatic nature and then puts forward a classification of the main problems, issues, and concerns in bioethics, using this classification as a way to outline the limits and framework of the field. Pushing further, it contends that comprehensive treatment of any topic in bioethics requires that three normative dimensions (the ethical, the moral, and the political) be taken into account. It concludes that the classification of the issues and analysis of each issue's normative dimensions can provide valuable contributions toward understanding the sui generis structure of bioethics as a pragmatic discipline.
Does Philosophy Require a Weak Transcendental Approach?
Authors: Reider Patrick J.
Published: July 2017

Despite any shortcomings of Kant's transcendental philosophy, the spirit (rather than the letter) of Kant's approach is correct. In particular, Kant is correct to believe (1) an accurate account of the types of “access” humans possess to internal and empirical content should form the groundwork for epistemic and ethical investigation and (2) epistemic and ethical investigations cannot successfully circumvent this groundwork. In this context, the term “access” concerns the mental processes that render internal and external experience possible. In supporting the above claims, this article outlines and defends what can be considered a weak version of Kant's transcendental approach. This weaker approach does not require the achievement of synthetic a priori judgments, which permit deductive conclusions concerning possible experience (as opposed to a strong approach, which maintains these requirements).
High‐resolution manometry assessment of the lower esophageal sphincter after‐contraction: Normative values and clinical correlation
Authors: Carlson D. A. , Kahrilas P. J. , Tye M. , Listernick Z. , Ritter K. , Wong I. , Xiao Y. , Bul V. , Pandolfino J. E.
Published: July 2017

Background

The Chicago Classification v3.0 proposed extending the distal contractile integral (DCI) measurement domain to include the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to enhance the detection of esophageal hypercontractility. However, normative and clinical data for this approach are unreported. We aimed to describe the application of an extended DCI measurement in asymptomatic controls and patients.

Methods

High‐resolution manometry (HRM) of 65 asymptomatic controls and 72 patients with normal motility were evaluated retrospectively. Dysphagia and chest pain symptoms were assessed using the brief esophageal dysphagia questionnaire (BEDQ); ≥10 was considered abnormal. HRM studies of 10 supine swallows were evaluated via the standard DCI and an extended DCI measurement domain (DCI+) to include the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) during and after the peristaltic wave. The DCI‐increment was calculated as the DCI+ minus DCI.

Key Results

Among controls, the median (5‐95th percentile) DCI+ was 1915 (1359‐6921) mm Hg/cm/s and DCI‐increment was 534 (126‐1488) mm Hg/cm/s. Two patients (3%) had ≥2 swallows with DCI+ >8000 mm Hg/cm/s and seven (10%) patients had at least one swallow with DCI+ >8000 mm Hg/cm/s, ie, had potential motility reclassification by application of DCI+. Seven of these nine patients (78%) were evaluated for dysphagia or chest pain, but only 3/9 (33%) had an abnormal BEDQ.

Conclusions and Inferences

Extension of the DCI measurement domain may aid quantifying hypercontractility that involves the LES. However, adjusting management strategies based on reclassification of patients with otherwise normal motility should be cautiously considered.
On the brink: the highly reduced plastomes of nonphotosynthetic Ericaceae
Authors: Braukmann Thomas W. A. , Broe Michael B. , Stefanović Saša , Freudenstein John V.
Published: July 2017

Ericaceae (the heather family) is a large and diverse group of plants that forms elaborate symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi, and includes several nonphotosynthetic lineages. Using an extensive sample of fully mycoheterotrophic (MH) species, we explored inter‐ and intraspecific variation as well as selective constraints acting on the plastomes of these unusual plants.

The plastomes of seven MH genera were analysed in a phylogenetic context with two geographically disparate individuals sequenced for Allotropa, Monotropa, and Pityopus.

The plastomes of nonphotosynthetic Ericaceae are highly reduced in size (c. 33–41 kbp) and content, having lost all photosynthesis‐related genes, and are reduced to encoding housekeeping genes as well as a protease subunit (clpP)‐like and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase subunit D (accD)‐like open reading frames. Despite an increase in the rate of their nucleotide substitutions, the remaining protein‐coding genes are typically under purifying selection in full MHs. We also identified ribosomal proteins under relaxed or neutral selection. These plastomes also exhibit striking structural rearrangements.

Intraspecific variation within MH Ericaceae ranges from a few differences (Allotropa) to extensive population divergences (Monotropa, Hypopitys), which indicates that cryptic speciation may be occurring in several lineages. The pattern of gene loss within fully MH Ericaceae plastomes suggests an advanced state of degradation.
Dissecting functions of SEPALLATA‐like MADS box genes in patterning of the pseudanthial inflorescence of Gerbera hybrida
Authors: Zhang Teng , Zhao Yafei , Juntheikki Inka , Mouhu Katriina , Broholm Suvi K. , Rijpkema Anneke S. , Kins Lisa , Lan Tianying , Albert Victor A. , Teeri Teemu H. , Elomaa Paula
Published: July 2017

The pseudanthial inflorescences of the sunflower family, Asteraceae, mimic a solitary flower but are composed of multiple flowers. Our studies in Gerbera hybrida indicate functional diversification for SEPALLATA (SEP)‐like MADS box genes that often function redundantly in other core eudicots.

We conducted phylogenetic and expression analysis for eight SEP‐like GERBERA REGULATOR OF CAPITULUM DEVELOPMENT (GRCD) genes, including previously unstudied gene family members. Transgenic gerbera plants were used to infer gene functions.

Adding to the previously identified stamen and carpel functions for GRCD1 and GRCD2, two partially redundant genes, GRCD4 and GRCD5, were found to be indispensable for petal development. Stepwise conversion of floral organs into leaves in the most severe RNA interference lines suggest redundant and additive GRCD activities in organ identity regulation. We show conserved and redundant functions for several GRCD genes in regulation of flower meristem maintenance, while functional diversification for three SEP1/2/4 clade genes in regulation of inflorescence meristem patterning was observed.

GRCD genes show both specialized and pleiotropic functions contributing to organ differentiation and flower meristem fate, and uniquely, to patterning of the inflorescence meristem. Altogether, we provide an example of how plant reproductive evolution has used conserved genetic modules for regulating the elaborate inflorescence architecture in Asteraceae.
Overweight but unseen: a review of the underestimation of weight status and a visual normalization theory
Authors: Robinson E.
Published: July 2017

Although overweight and obesity are widespread across most of the developed world, a considerable body of research has now accumulated, which suggests that adiposity often goes undetected. A substantial proportion of individuals with overweight or obesity do not identify they are overweight, and large numbers of parents of children with overweight or obesity fail to identify their child as being overweight. Lay people and medical practitioners are also now poor at identifying overweight and obesity in others. A visual normalization theory of the under‐detection of overweight and obesity is proposed. This theory is based on the notion that weight status is judged relative to visual body size norms. Because larger body sizes are now common, this has caused a recalibration to the range of body sizes that are perceived as being ‘normal’ and increased the visual threshold for what constitutes ‘overweight’. Evidence is reviewed that indicates this process has played a significant role in the under‐detection of overweight and obesity. The public health relevance of the under‐detection of overweight and obesity is also discussed.
Weighing in on international growth standards: testing the case in Australian preschool children
Authors: Pattinson C.L. , Staton S.L. , Smith S.S. , Trost S.G. , Sawyer E.F. , Thorpe K.J.
Published: July 2017

Overweight and obesity in preschool‐aged children are major health concerns. Accurate and reliable estimates of prevalence are necessary to direct public health and clinical interventions. There are currently three international growth standards used to determine prevalence of overweight and obesity, each using different methodologies: Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and International Obesity Task Force (IOTF). Adoption and use of each method were examined through a systematic review of Australian population studies (2006–2017). For this period, systematically identified population studies (N = 20) reported prevalence of overweight and obesity ranging between 15 and 38% with most (n = 16) applying the IOTF standards. To demonstrate the differences in prevalence estimates yielded by the IOTF in comparison to the WHO and CDC standards, methods were applied to a sample ofN = 1,926 Australian children, aged 3–5 years. As expected, the three standards yielded significantly different estimates when applied to this single population. Prevalence of overweight/obesity was WHO – 9.3%, IOTF – 21.7% and CDC – 33.1%. Judicious selection of growth standards, taking account of their underpinning methodologies and provisions of access to study data sets to allow prevalence comparisons, is recommended.
Strategies to increase the efficacy of using gut microbiota for the modulation of obesity
Authors: Li J. , Riaz Rajoka M. S. , Shao D. , Jiang C. , Jin M. , Huang Q. , Yang H. , Shi J.
Published: July 2017

Obesity is one of the most serious global public health challenges of the 21st century. The adjustment of gut microbiota is often recommended as an efficient strategy to treat obesity. This modulation of gut microbiota can be performed by many methods, including dietary intervention, antibiotic application, the use of prebiotics and probiotics, bariatric surgery and faecal microbiota transplantation. In most cases, positive effects have been observed in response to treatment, but invalid and even contrary effects have also been observed in some cases due to factors that are unrelated to intervention methods, such as genetic factors, patient age or gender, environmental microbiota, climate, geography and lifestyle. These factors can cause variation of gut microbial populations and thus should also be taken into consideration when selecting modulation strategies.
The reduction in maize leaf growth under mild drought affects the transition between cell division and cell expansion and cannot be restored by elevated gibberellic acid levels
Authors: Nelissen Hilde , Sun Xiao‐Huan , Rymen Bart , Jikumaru Yusuke , Kojima Mikko , Takebayashi Yumiko , Abbeloos Rafael , Demuynck Kirin , Storme Veronique , Vuylsteke Marnik , De Block Jolien , Herman Dorota , Coppens Frederik , Maere Steven , Kamiya Yuji , Sakakibara Hitoshi , Beemster Gerrit T.S. , Inzé Dirk
Published: July 2017

Growth is characterized by the interplay between cell division and cell expansion, two processes that occur separated along the growth zone at the maize leaf. To gain further insight into the transition between cell division and cell expansion, conditions were investigated in which the position of this transition zone was positively or negatively affected. High levels of gibberellic acid (GA) in plants overexpressing the GA biosynthesis gene GA20‐OXIDASE (GA20OX‐1OE) shifted the transition zone more distally, whereas mild drought, which is associated with lowered GA biosynthesis, resulted in a more basal positioning. However, the increased levels of GA in the GA20OX‐1OE line were insufficient to convey tolerance to the mild drought treatment, indicating that another mechanism in addition to lowered GA levels is restricting growth during drought. Transcriptome analysis with high spatial resolution indicated that mild drought specifically induces a reprogramming of transcriptional regulation in the division zone. ‘Leaf Growth Viewer’ was developed as an online searchable tool containing the high‐resolution data.
Functional analysis of the pepper protein phosphatase, CaAIPP1, and its interacting partner CaAIRF1: Modulation of ABA signalling and the drought stress response
Authors: Baek Woonhee , Lim Chae Woo , Lee Sung Chul
Published: July 2017

Plant adaptive responses to abiotic stress are coordinated by restriction of plant growth and development. The plant hormone abscisic acid (ABA) is the key regulator of the response to abiotic stress, and its sensitivity determines abiotic stress tolerance levels. We previously showed that the E3 ubiquitin ligase CaAIRF1 functions as a positive regulator of ABA and drought stress via modulation of transcription and stability of the type 2C protein phosphatase CaADIP1. Here, we report the identification and functional analysis of a novel‐type 2C phosphatase, CaAIPP1 (Capsicum annuum CaAIRF1 Interacting Protein Phosphatase 1). CaAIPP1 interacted with and was ubiquitinated by CaAIRF1. CaAIPP1 gene expression in pepper leaves was induced by ABA and drought. CaAIPP1 degradation was faster in crude protein extracts from ABA‐treated pepper plants than in those from control plants. CaAIPP1‐overexpressing plants displayed an ABA‐hyposensitive phenotype during seed germination and seedling growth. Moreover, these plants exhibited a drought‐sensitive phenotype characterized by high levels of transpirational water loss via decreased stomatal closure and reduced leaf temperatures. Our data indicate that CaAIPP1 is a negative regulator of the drought stress response via ABA‐mediated signalling. Our findings provide a valuable insight into the plant defence mechanism that operates during drought stress.
EPHB4 Mutation Implicated in Capillary Malformation–Arteriovenous Malformation Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Yu JiaDe , Streicher Jenna L. , Medne Livija , Krantz Ian D. , Yan Albert C.
Published: July 2017

Capillary malformation–arteriovenous malformation (CM‐AVM) syndrome, due to inactivating mutations in RASA1 in 68% of cases, is characterized by the development of cutaneous capillary malformations and arteriovenous malformations or fistulas; no known genetic etiology has been identified in patients with CM‐AVM syndrome without RASA1 mutations. We present the case of a child with RASA1‐negative CM‐AVM syndrome with a de novo missense mutation in EPHB4, a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor essential for vasculogenesis. Inactivating the mutation in EPHB4 has been shown to upregulate the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway and the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1, possibly contributing to the development of vascular malformations.
Impact of the dynamic and static component of the sport practised for electrocardiogram analysis in screening athletes
Authors: Maillot N. , Guenancia C. , Yameogo N. V. , Gudjoncik A. , Garnier F. , Lorgis L. , Chagué F. , Cottin Y.
Published: July 2017

To interpret the electrocardiogram (ECG) of athletes, the recommendations of the ESC and the Seattle criteria define type 1 peculiarities, those induced by training, and type 2, those not induced by training, to rule out cardiomyopathy. The specificity of the screening was improved by Sheikh who defined “Refined Criteria,” which includes a group of intermediate peculiarities. The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of static and dynamic components on the prevalence of different types of abnormalities. The ECGs of 1030 athletes performed during preparticipation screening were interpreted using these three classifications. Our work revealed 62/16%, 69/13%, and 71/7% of type 1 peculiarities and type 2 abnormalities for the ESC, Seattle, and Refined Criteria algorithms, respectively(P<.001). For type 2 abnormalities, three independent factors were found for the ESC and Seattle criteria: age, Afro‐Caribbean origin, and the dynamic component with, for the latter, an OR[95% CI] of 2.35[1.28‐4.33] (P=.006) and 1.90[1.03‐3.51] (P=.041), respectively. In contrast, only the Afro‐Caribbean origin was associated with type 2 abnormalities using the Refined Criteria: OR[95% CI] 2.67[1.60‐4.46] (P<.0001). The Refined Criteria classified more athletes in the type 1 category and fewer in the type 2 category compared with the ESC and Seattle algorithms. Contrary to previous studies, a high dynamic component was not associated with type 2 abnormalities when the Refined Criteria were used; only the Afro‐Caribbean origin remained associated. Further research is necessary to better understand adaptations with regard to duration and thus improve the modern criteria for ECG screening in athletes.
The power of competence support: The impact of coaches and athlete leaders on intrinsic motivation and performance
Authors: Fransen K. , Boen F. , Vansteenkiste M. , Mertens N. , Vande Broek G.
Published: July 2017

Grounded in the Cognitive Evaluation Theory, a mini‐theory of Self‐Determination Theory, this experimental field study sought to examine the impact of competence support of both coaches and athlete leaders on athletes’ competence satisfaction, intrinsic motivation, and subjective as well as objective performance. Male basketball players (N = 120) were allocated to groups of 5 players. These groups were then randomly assigned to a control group or to 1 of 3 experimental conditions. In these experimental conditions, either the coach, the athlete leader, or both provided motivational feedback to their team. The provision of motivational feedback by either the coach or the athlete leader was sufficient to increase athletes’ competence satisfaction, intrinsic motivation, and objective performance (i.e., enhanced execution time without a decrease in scoring percentage) relative to the control group. Interestingly, when both the coach and the athlete leader provided competence support, a surplus effect was observed on objective performance compared with when only the coach provided competence support. Furthermore, structural equation modeling revealed that players’ competence satisfaction mediated the relationship between the provided competence support and players’ intrinsic motivation, while a direct effect was observed on objective performance. In conclusion, the study findings indicate that also athlete leaders can adopt a motivating role, and that by doing so, their impact is as strong as the impact of the coach. Both coaches and athlete leaders can thus boost athletes’ objective performance and foster competence satisfaction, with the latter resulting in increased intrinsic motivation.
Longitudinal associations between exercise identity and exercise motivation: A multilevel growth curve model approach
Authors: Ntoumanis N. , Stenling A. , Thøgersen‐Ntoumani C. , Vlachopoulos S. , Lindwall M. , Gucciardi D. F. , Tsakonitis C.
Published: July 2017

Past work linking exercise identity and exercise motivation has been cross‐sectional. This is the first study to model the relations between different types of exercise identity and exercise motivation longitudinally. Understanding the dynamic associations between these sets of variables has implications for theory development and applied research. This was a longitudinal survey study. Participants were 180 exercisers (79 men, 101 women) from Greece, who were recruited from fitness centers and were asked to complete questionnaires assessing exercise identity (exercise beliefs and role‐identity) and exercise motivation (intrinsic, identified, introjected, external motivation, and amotivation) three times within a 6 month period. Multilevel growth curve modeling examined the role of motivational regulations as within‐ and between‐level predictors of exercise identity, and a model in which exercise identity predicted exercise motivation at the within‐ and between‐person levels. Results showed that within‐person changes in intrinsic motivation, introjected, and identified regulations were positively and reciprocally related to within‐person changes in exercise beliefs; intrinsic motivation was also a positive predictor of within‐person changes in role‐identity but not vice versa. Between‐person differences in the means of predictor variables were predictive of initial levels and average rates of change in the outcome variables. The findings show support to the proposition that a strong exercise identity (particularly exercise beliefs) can foster motivation for behaviors that reinforce this identity. We also demonstrate that such relations can be reciprocal overtime and can depend on the type of motivation in question as well as between‐person differences in absolute levels of these variables.
Older Persons’ Views on Using Cash‐for‐Care Allowances at the Crossroads of Gender, Socio‐economic Status and Care Needs in Vienna
Authors: Schmidt Andrea E.
Published: July 2017

The article aims to contribute to understanding social inequalities resulting from familization (or de‐familization) tendencies among cash‐for‐care beneficiaries in a Conservative welfare state. It highlights justifications for choices in accessing and using care in a cash‐for‐care scheme from the perspective of care recipients aged 80 years and older in Vienna. Along key dimensions characterizing care recipients’ experiences, we identify four different user groups, which reflect recipients’ individual characteristics, particularly gender, socio‐economic status (SES), and care needs, and the respective care arrangement. The groups are dubbed: (1) the self‐confident; (2) the illiterate; (3) the dependent; and (4) the lonely. Narrative interviews with 15 frail older people were held in 2014 and analyzed using the framework analysis method. Results show that familiarity with support structures associates with higher SES, while those who depend on others for acquiring information or organizing care express ambivalence in choosing between formal and informal care. Engagement in deciding which care type to use is limited among people of lower SES or with complex care needs, but own experience as informal caregiver for a family member increases care recipients’ long‐term care (LTC) system literacy. Gender differences among care recipients were limited, yet middle‐class female recipients often expressed normative claims for family care from female relatives. We conclude that unconditional care allowance schemes may reinforce existing gender relations, particularly among informal caregivers, as well as underpin socio‐economic differences among LTC users in old‐age. Results also partly question the assumptions of choice and empowerment implicit in many cash‐for‐care schemes.
Detection of a novel allele, HLA‐A*24:198, by sequence‐based typing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Wang K. , Li X.‐F. , Zhang X. , Lin F.‐Q. , Li J.‐P.
Published: July 2017

HLA‐A*24:198 has one nucleotide change from HLA‐A*24:02:01 where aspartic acid (29) is changed to asparagine.
Human leukocyte antigen distribution and genomic ancestry in Brazilian patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: da Silva‐Malta M. C. F. , Rodrigues P. S. , Zuccherato L. W. , de Souza F. C. B. , Domingues E. M. F. L. , Souza V. R. , Tarazona‐Santos E. , Martins M. L.
Published: July 2017

Hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation (HSCT) is currently the only established curative treatment for sickle cell disease (SCD), but is limited by donor availability. Ethnicity is thought to have an impact on the complications experienced by patients that undergo HSCT and on the likelihood of identifying an human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matched donor. In the present study, we investigated the genomic ancestry and the distribution of HLA allele groups in Brazilian patients with SCD, compared these HLA profiles to worldwide populations and evaluate the availability of HLA‐matched donors. A broad intercontinental admixture of patients with SCD was observed, with African ancestry ranging from 6.7% to 93.4%. In a dendrogram based on HLA frequencies, Brazilian patients with SCD were included in a branch containing only populations with a significant African component. Among the 126 patients evaluated, 10 (8%) found a HLA‐matched unrelated donor in a database of 18 134 donors. Self‐reported white, brown and black matched donors were identified, and no significant difference in the percentage of compatible donors was observed between these ethnic groups. Our results show that Brazilian patients with SCD are very admixed, indicating that this group is a promising target for admixture mapping of genes involved in complications after HSCT. Additional studies may help to clarify the impact of the genetic diversity and admixture of these patients on the donor availability.
Improved dewaterability of sewage sludge by Fe(II)‐activated persulfate oxidation combined with polymers
Authors: Wang Huiliang , Liu Changgeng , Wu Zening , Yang Wanquan , Chen Cheng
Published: July 2017

The combination of Fe(II)‐activated persulfate oxidation with polymers potentially applied to enhance sludge dewaterability was investigated in this work. The experiments mainly concentrated on their efficacies and the optimization of the major operational parameters. The results showed that the combination was efficient, especially when polyaluminium chloride (PAC) and chitosan were used as polymers. The optimal conditions of this process under experimental conditions were at
 = 50 mg/g (dry solids),
 = 125 mg/g, reaction time = 20 min, PAC = 125 mg/g and chitosan = 100 mg/g, under which the specific resistance to filtration (SRF) with a reduction efficiency of 94.87% was achieved.
Agricultural sediment reduction using natural herbaceous buffer strips: a case study of the east African highland
Authors: Alemu Tibebu , Bahrndorff Simon , Alemayehu Esayas , Ambelu Argaw
Published: July 2017

Buffer strips are permanently vegetated areas situated immediately adjacent to streams and provide an efficient and economical way to reduce nutrient loads from agricultural areas, but no studies exist of their effectiveness from the East African highlands. We thus evaluated the sediment filtering capabilities of natural herbaceous buffer strips under tropical highland climatic conditions. Overland flow samples were collected at field edges and at various positions in herbaceous buffers and tested for total suspended sediment, nitrate‐nitrogen and total phosphorus. There was a significant effect (P < 0.05) of distance from field edge on the mean values of nutrients. On average, a 10.0 m herbaceous buffer reduced the total phosphorus by 99%, total suspended sediment by 94% and nitrate‐nitrogen by 85%. Altogether, the results suggest that herbaceous buffer strips are important to include in watershed management in agriculturally dominated tropical highlands in order to control sediment loss, stream siltation and the washout of nutrients.
Development of an independent hydrology audit methodology to support flood risk assessment in the planning process in Scotland
Authors: Meldrum Anita , Mickovski Slobodan B.
Published: July 2017

The recent flooding in the North–East of Scotland has highlighted issues around climate change due to significant changes in duration, severity and volume of precipitation events. The Planning (PA) and Flood Authorities (FA) often do not have the capacity or resources to review and check the accuracy and robustness of the SUD schemes nor the calculations submitted by developers. This study demonstrates the development and application of an Independent Hydrology Audit (IHA) service aimed at auditing and reviewing ‘in principle’ planning applications from the aspect of flooding risk to the wider community the development is located within. The output of this service is to establish a more accurate representation of surface water impact from developments through the use of adequate green/blue infrastructure, provide a greater assurance to the communities at risk of flooding, and help the PA and FA meet their statutory obligations at the initial stage of planning.
Performance Prediction for Ultrasonic Spot Welds of Short Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Composites Under Shear Loading
Authors: Wang Kaifeng , Shriver Daniel , Banu Mihaela , Jack Hu S. , Xiao Guoxian , Arinez Jorge , Fan Hua-Tzu
Published: July 2017

Ultrasonic welding is a well-known technique for joining thermoplastics and has recently been introduced to joining carbon fiber-reinforced composites (CFRC). However, suitable models for predicting joint performance have not yet been established. At present, most failure models for bonded composites are built based on uniform adhesive joints, which assume constant joint properties. Nevertheless, the joint properties of ultrasonic spot welds for CFRC are variable, which depend on the input welding parameters. In this paper, the effect of welding energy, which is the most important welding parameter, on the joint properties is investigated. Then, a surface-based cohesive performance model based on mode-II (in-plane) shear loading is developed to predict the joint performance, wherein the critical fracture parameters in the model are described via the functions of welding energy. After comparing the simulated results with experiments, the model is proven feasible in predicting the joint properties of the ultrasonic spot welds under shear loading condition, and hence, a mix-mode cohesive-zone model is practical to predict the joint performance under any loading conditions with the predicted fracture parameters.
Matched shadow processing
Authors: Virovlyansky A. L.
Published: July 2017

Traditional matched field processing is based on the comparison of the complex amplitudes of the measured and calculated wave fields at the aperture of the receiving antenna. This paper considers an alternative approach based on comparing the intensity distributions of these fields in the “depth – arrival angle” plane. To construct these intensities, the formalism of coherent states borrowed from quantum mechanics is used. The main advantage of the approach under consideration is its low sensitivity to the inevitable inaccuracy of an environmental model used in calculation.
Optical imaging of surface chemistry and dynamics in confinement
Authors: Macias-Romero Carlos , Nahalka Igor , Okur Halil I. , Roke Sylvie
Published: July 2017

Imaging surfaces with water

The surfaces of real materials are often highly chemically heterogeneous, and the reported values of even simple properties such as surface acidity can vary widely in many cases. Macias-Romero
et al.
developed a microscope that images surfaces on the basis of second-harmonic generation from the orientation of interfacial water (see the Perspective by Hunger and Parekh). They followed the deprotonation of silica along glass micropipettes by changing solution pH and found many regions where the surface acidity deviated strongly from the average for the entire micropipette.

Science
, this issue p.
784
; see also p.
755
Oxidative Stress Response Tips the Balance in Aspergillus terreus Amphotericin B Resistance
Authors: Jukic Emina , Blatzer Michael , Posch Wilfried , Steger Marion , Binder Ulrike , Lass-Flörl Cornelia , Wilflingseder Doris
Published: July 2017

In this study, we characterize the impact of antioxidative enzymes in amphotericin B (AmB)-resistant (ATR) and rare AmB-susceptible (ATS) clinical
Aspergillus terreus
isolates. We elucidate expression profiles of superoxide dismutase (SOD)- and catalase (CAT)-encoding genes, enzymatic activities of SODs, and superoxide anion production and signaling pathways involved in the oxidative stress response (OSR) in ATS and ATR strains under AmB treatment conditions. We show that ATR strains possess almost doubled basal SOD activity compared to that of ATS strains and that ATR strains exhibit an enhanced OSR, with significantly higher
sod2
mRNA levels and significantly increased
cat
transcripts in ATR strains upon AmB treatment. In particular, inhibition of SOD and CAT proteins renders resistant isolates considerably susceptible to the drug
in vitro
. In conclusion, this study shows that SODs and CATs are crucial for AmB resistance in
A. terreus
and that targeting the OSR might offer new treatment perspectives for resistant species.
Population Pharmacokinetics of AZD-5847 in Adults with Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Alsultan Abdullah , Furin Jennifer J. , Du Bois Jeannine , van Brakel Elana , Chheng Phalkun , Venter Amour , Thiel Bonnie , Debanne Sara A. , Boom W. Henry , Diacon Andreas H. , Johnson John L. , Peloquin Charles A.
Published: July 2017

AZD-5847 is a new oxazolidinone derivative under development for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). Here we describe the population pharmacokinetics (PK) of AZD-5847 in patients with tuberculosis based on a recently completed phase II study. The study included 60 patients with drug-susceptible TB. Patients were randomized to four dosages (500 mg once daily, 1,200 mg once daily, 500 mg twice daily, and 800 mg twice daily). Patients were intensively sampled on days 1 and 14. AZD-5847 pharmacokinetics were best described with a two-compartment model with lag time (
T
lag
) for absorption. AZD-5847 bioavailability was nonlinear and plateaued at 800 mg. We performed deterministic simulation to compare the PK/pharmacodynamics (PD) of AZD-5847, linezolid, and sutezolid. AZD-5847 PK/PD in terms of both area under the concentration-time curve for the free, unbound fraction (
f
AUC)/MIC and time the free concentration was above the MIC (
f
T>MIC) were less favorable than those for linezolid and sutezolid. This could help explain the poor bactericidal activity of AZD-5847 in the recent phase II study.
Genome Sequences of Two Listeria monocytogenes Strains from Nectarines Associated with Listeriosis in 2014
Authors: Lu Chunye , Marjanovic Olivera , Morales Christina , Kiang David
Published: July 2017

Listeria monocytogenes
is an important foodborne pathogen. Here, we present the annotated whole genome of
Listeria monocytogenes
strains F14M01297-C2 and F14M01297-C4, isolated from nectarines distributed by a packing facility in California during an investigation of listeriosis associated with stone fruit in 2014.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Highly Divergent Dengue Virus Type 2 Strain, Imported into Australia from Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Pyke Alyssa T. , Huang Bixing , Warrilow David , Moore Peter R. , McMahon Jamie , Harrower Bruce
Published: July 2017

In 2015, a female patient returning to Australia from Sabah, Malaysia, was diagnosed with a suspected sylvatic dengue virus type 2 (DENV-2) infection, becoming the second case of imported highly divergent dengue virus infection recorded in Australia. We describe here the complete genome sequencing of the DENV-2 strain isolated from this patient.
The Complete Genome Sequence of Trueperella pyogenes UFV1 Reveals a Processing System Involved in the Quorum-Sensing Signal Response
Authors: Duarte Vinícius da Silva , Treu Laura , Campanaro Stefano , Dias Roberto Sousa , Silva Cynthia Canedo da , Giacomini Alessio , Corich Viviana , de Paula Sérgio Oliveira
Published: July 2017

We present here the complete genome sequence of
Trueperella pyogenes
UFV1. The 2.3-Mbp genome contains an extremely interesting AI-2 transporter and processing system related to the quorum-sensing signal response. This specific feature is described in this species for the first time and might be responsible for a new pathogenic behavior.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three Lactobacillus paracasei Strains, Members of the Nonstarter Microbiota of Mature Cheddar Cheese
Authors: Stefanovic Ewelina , Fitzgerald Gerald , McAuliffe Olivia
Published: July 2017

Lactobacillus paracasei
strains are common members of the nonstarter microbiota present in various types of cheeses. The draft genome sequences of three strains isolated from mature cheddar cheeses are reported here.
Whole-Genome Sequences of 14 Strains of Bradyrhizobium canariense and 1 Strain of Bradyrhizobium japonicum Isolated from
Lupinus
spp. in Algeria
Authors: Chekireb Djamel , Crovadore Julien , Brachmann Andreas , Chablais Romain , Cochard Bastien , Lefort François
Published: July 2017

We report here the whole-genome sequences of 14 strains of
Bradyrhizobium canariense
, isolated from root nodules of
Lupinus microanthus
and
Lupinus angustifolius
, and 1 strain of
Bradyrhizobium japonicum
isolated from root nodules from
Lupinus angustifolius
in Algeria. These sequences add to the known diversity of this agronomically important genus.
Complete Genome Sequence of Campylobacter concisus ATCC 33237
T
and Draft Genome Sequences for an Additional Eight Well-Characterized
C. concisus
Strains
Authors: Cornelius Angela J. , Miller William G. , Lastovica Albert J. , On Stephen L. W. , French Nigel P. , Vandenberg Olivier , Biggs Patrick J.
Published: July 2017

We report the complete genome sequence of the
Campylobacter concisus
type strain ATCC 33237 and the draft genome sequences of eight additional well-characterized
C. concisus
strains.
C. concisus
has been shown to be a genetically heterogeneous species, and these nine genomes provide valuable information regarding the diversity within this taxon.
A MULTIDISCIPLINARY SPORTS MEDICINE PERFORMANCE MODEL IN ELITE WOMENS INTERNATIONAL SOCCER
Authors: Boyce Stephen , Davies Oliver , McKenna Michael , White Andrew , Dixon Mark , Elliott Niall
Published: July 2017

Background

The traditional sports medicine “backroom” team in elite women's international soccer was comprised of a doctor and physiotherapist(s).

Objective

To introduce a multidisciplinary sports medicine performance model into elite women's international soccer and assess its impact.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Scotland women's soccer national squad.

Participants

Elite women international soccer players.

Interventions

Introducing a sports science physiologist and strength and conditioning coach into the sports medicine team.

Main Outcome Measurements

To monitor objective measurements and subjective health and wellbeing data on a daily basis at international squad gatherings.

Results

All players reported to a health and wellbeing assessment in the medical area each morning. The following data was collected: Illness and injury surveillance, Urine hydration status, Body weight, Resting heart rate, Menstrual cycle, Physical objective tests (Sit and reach distance, Knee to wall distance, Thomas test, Counter movement jump height), Health and Wellbeing data (Fatigue status, Stress, Sleep quality, Motivation). The performance indicators were discussed amongst the sports medicine team and concerns regarding a player's health and fitness relayed to the coaching staff.

Conclusions

Changing a traditional approach to performance and incorporating other professionals skills by working in partnership in a new sports medicine performance model provided an efficient method of determining player's health, wellbeing and fitness on a daily basis allowing discussion within the sports medicine team with any concerns relayed to the coaching staff over performance indicators.
The effect of combined resistance exercise training and vitamin D3supplementation on musculoskeletal health and function in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Antoniak Anneka Elizabeth , Greig Carolyn A
Published: July 2017

Objectives

In older adults, there is a blunted responsiveness to resistance training and reduced muscle hypertrophy compared with younger adults. There is evidence that both exercise training and vitamin D supplementation may benefit musculoskeletal health in older adults, and it is plausible that in combination their effects may be additive. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of combined resistance exercise training and vitamin D3supplementation on musculoskeletal health in older adults.

Data sources

A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including Science Direct, Medline, PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Cochrane CENTRAL accessed by Wiley Science) was conducted. Eligible studies were randomised controlled trials including men and women (aged ≥65 years or mean age ≥65 years); enlisting resistance exercise training and vitamin D3supplementation; including outcomes of muscle strength, function, muscle power, body composition, serum vitamin D/calcium status or quality of life comparing results with a control group. The review was informed by a preregistered protocol (http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.asp?ID=CRD42015020157).

Results

Seven studies including a total of 792 participants were identified. Studies were categorised into two groups; group 1 compared vitamin D3supplementation and exercise training versus exercise alone (describing the additive effect of vitamin D3supplementation when combined with resistance exercise training) and group 2 compared vitamin D3supplementation and exercise training versus vitamin D3supplementation alone (describing the additive effect of resistance exercise training when combined with vitamin D3supplementation).

Meta-analyses for group 1 found muscle strength of the lower limb to be significantly improved within the intervention group (0.98, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.24, p<0.001); all other outcomes showed small but non-significant positive effects for the intervention group. The short physical performance battery (SPPB), timed up and go (TUG), muscle strength of the lower limb and femoral neck bone mineral density showed significantly greater improvements in the intervention group for group 2 comparisons.

Conclusions

This review provides tentative support for the additive effect of resistance exercise and vitamin D3supplementation for the improvement of muscle strength in older adults. For other functional variables, such as SPPB and TUG, no additional benefit beyond exercise was shown. Further evidence is required to draw firm conclusions or make explicit recommendations regarding combined exercise and vitamin D3supplementation.
The role of a decision-support smartphone application in enhancing community health volunteers’ effectiveness to improve maternal and newborn outcomes in Nairobi, Kenya: quasi-experimental research protocol
Authors: Bakibinga Pauline , Kamande Eva , Omuya Milka , Ziraba Abdhalah K , Kyobutungi Catherine
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Improving maternal and newborn survival remains major aspirations for many countries in the Global South. Slum settlements, a result of rapid urbanisation in many developing countries including Kenya, exhibit high levels of maternal and neonatal mortality. There are limited referral mechanisms for sick neonates and their mothers from the community to healthcare facilities with ability to provide adequate care. In this study, we specifically plan to develop and assess the added value of having community health volunteers (CHVs) use smartphones to identify and track mothers and children in a bid to reduce pregnancy-related complications and newborn deaths in the urban slums of Kamukunji subcounty in Nairobi, Kenya.

Methods and analysis

This is a quasi-experimental study. We are implementing an innovative, mHealth application known as mobile Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (mPAMANECH) which uses dynamic mobile phone and web-portal solutions to enable CHVs make timely decisions on the best course of action in their management of mothers and newborns at community level. The application is based on existing guidelines and protocols in use by CHVs. Currently, CHVs conduct weekly home visits and make decisions from memory or using unwieldy manual tools, and thus prone to making errors. mPAMANECH has an in-built algorithm that makes it easier, faster and more likely for CHVs to make the right management decision. We are working with a network of selected CHVs and maternity centres to pilot test the tool. To measure the impact of the intervention, baseline and end-line surveys will be conducted. Data will be obtained through qualitative and quantitative methods.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the African Medical Research Foundation. Key messages from the results will be packaged and disseminated through meetings, conference presentations, reports, fact sheets and academic publications to facilitate uptake by policy-makers.
Protocol: A grounded theory of ‘recovery’—perspectives of adolescent users of mental health services
Authors: Palmquist Lucianne , Patterson Sue , O'Donovan Analise , Bradley Graham
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Policies internationally endorse the recovery paradigm as the appropriate foundation for youth mental health services. However, given that this paradigm is grounded in the views of adults with severe mental illness, applicability to youth services and relevance to young people is uncertain, particularly as little is known about young people’s views. A comprehensive understanding of the experiences and expectations of young people is critical to developing youth mental health services that are acceptable, accessible, effective and relevant.

Aim

To inform development of policy and youth services, the study described in this protocol aims to develop a comprehensive account of the experiences and expectations of 12–17 year olds as they encounter mental disorders and transition through specialist mental health services. Data will be analysed to model recovery from the adolescents’ perspective.

Method and analysis

This grounded theory study will use quantitative and qualitative data collected in interviews with 12–17 year olds engaged with specialist Child/Youth Mental Health Service in Queensland, Australia. Interviews will explore adolescents’ expectations and experiences of mental disorder, and of services, as they transition through specialist mental health services, including the meaning of their experiences and ideas of ‘recovery’ and how their experiences and expectations are shaped. Data collection and analysis will use grounded theory methods.

Ethics and dissemination

Adolescents’ experiences will be presented as a mid-range theory. The research will provide tangible recommendations for youth-focused mental health policy and practice. Findings will be disseminated within academic literature and beyond to participants, health professionals, mental health advocacy groups and policy and decision makers via publications, research summaries, conferences and workshops targeting different audiences. Ethical and research governance approvals have been obtained from relevant Human Research Ethics committees and all sites involved.