bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is it worth it? Patient and public views on the impact of their involvement in health research and its assessment: a UK‐based qualitative interview study
Authors: Crocker Joanna C. , Boylan Anne‐Marie , Bostock Jennifer , Locock Louise
Published: June 2016

Background

There are mounting calls for robust, critical evaluation of the impact of patient and public involvement (PPI) in health research. However, questions remain about how to assess its impact, and whether it should be assessed at all. The debate has thus far been dominated by professionals.

Objective

To explore the views of PPI contributors involved in health research regarding the impact of PPI on research, whether and how it should be assessed.

Design

Qualitative interview study.

Setting and participants

Thirty‐eight PPI contributors involved in health research across the UK.

Results

Participants felt that PPI has a beneficial impact on health research. They described various impactful roles, which we conceptualize as the ‘expert in lived experience’, the ‘creative outsider’, the ‘free challenger’, the ‘bridger’, the ‘motivator’ and the ‘passive presence’. Participants generally supported assessing the impact of PPI, while acknowledging the challenges and concerns about the appropriateness and feasibility of measurement. They expressed a range of views about what impacts should be assessed, by whom and how. Individual feedback on impact was seen as an important driver of improved impact and motivation to stay involved.

Conclusions

While there appears to be widespread support for PPI impact assessment among PPI contributors, their views on what to assess and how are diverse. PPI contributors should be involved as equal partners in debates and decisions about these issues. Individual feedback on impact may increase PPI contributors’ potential impact and their motivation to stay involved.
Body mass index, new modes of TV viewing and active video games
Authors: Falbe J. , Willett W. C. , Rosner B. , Field A. E.
Published: June 2016

Background

Recent technologies have changed screen time. TV can be viewed anywhere, anytime. Content can be collected via digital recorders and online streaming and viewed on smartphones. Video games are no longer strictly sedentary.

Objectives

We sought to assess the unknown relations between new modes of TV viewing – recorded, online, downloaded and on hand‐held devices – and active video games with body mass index (BMI).

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis of the 2011 wave of the Growing Up Today Study 2 cohort. We used gender‐specific generalized estimating equations to examine screen time and BMI among 3071 women and 2050 men aged 16–24 years.

Results

Among women, each hour/day of online TV (0.47; confidence interval [CI]: 0.12, 0.82) and total non‐broadcast TV (0.37; CI: 0.14, 0.61) was associated with higher BMI, as was watching ≥ 1/2 h week−1 of TV on hand‐held devices (1.04; CI: 0.32–1.77). Active video games were associated with BMI among women, but not after restricting to those not trying to lose/maintain weight. Broadcast TV was associated with higher BMI (kg m−2) among women and men (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Among women, online TV, TV viewed on hand‐held devices and the sum of non‐broadcast TV time were associated with higher BMI. Broadcast TV was also associated with BMI in women and men.
Whole‐genome analysis of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses isolated in Uganda from 2009 to 2011
Authors: Byarugaba Denis K. , Erima Bernard , Millard Monica , Kibuuka Hannah , Lkwago Luswa , Bwogi Josephine , Mimbe Derrick , Kiconco Jocelyn B. , Tugume Titus , Mworozi Edison A. , Turner Jasmine , Mckenzie Pamela P. , Webby Richard R. J. , Webster Robert G. , Foret Charlotte , Ducatez Mariette F. , Coldren Rodney , Wabwire‐Mangen Fred , Krauss Scott
Published: June 2016

We report a whole‐genome analysis of 19 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 isolates from four Ugandan hospitals between 2009 and 2011. The isolates differed from the vaccine strain A/California/07/2009 by three amino acid substitutions P100S, S220T, and I338V in the hemagglutinin and by two amino acid substitutions V106I and N248D in the neuraminidase proteins with consistent mutations in all gene segments distinguishing isolates from the 2009/2010 to 2010/2011 seasons. Phylogenetic analysis showed low genetic evolution, with genetic distances of 0%–1.3% and 0.1%–1.6% for HA and NA genes, respectively. The amino acid substitutions did not lead to antigenic differences from the reference strains.
FRAGMENTA BRITANNICA V. AMPHORAS FROM TOP TO BOTTOM
Authors: JOHNSTON ALAN
Published: June 2016

The material published here contributes in differing ways to amphora and onomastic studies. The rare name Demonomos appears on some stamps and the various aspects of name and stamp are balanced up. An understandable misreading by Flinders Petrie of a Rhodian stamp of c. 210 BC is corrected and its bearer identified. An inscribed amphora lid from Naukratis, probably of c. 100 BC and of Adriatic origin, has no known parallel. Three graffiti on amphoras of Cyrenaic origin reflect official civic dating usage and may also be of the first century BC.
Micro‐Raman Spectroscopy Study of Glass‐Ceramics with Gradient of Volume Fraction of Crystalline Phase
Authors: Redkov Alexey V. , Lipovskii Andrey A. , Tagantsev Dmitry K.
Published: June 2016

A simple technique to characterize the structure of nonuniform glass‐ceramics is proposed. The technique is based in micro‐Raman spectroscopy. This technique allows determining the gradient of average size of crystalline grains in the subsurface layers of glass‐ceramics modified by ion exchange.
Multivariate selection and intersexual genetic constraints in a wild bird population
Authors: Poissant J. , Morrissey M. B. , Gosler A. G. , Slate J. , Sheldon B. C.
Published: June 2016

When selection differs between the sexes for traits that are genetically correlated between the sexes, there is potential for the effect of selection in one sex to be altered by indirect selection in the other sex, a situation commonly referred to as intralocus sexual conflict (ISC). While potentially common, ISC has rarely been studied in wild populations. Here, we studied ISC over a set of morphological traits (wing length, tarsus length, bill depth and bill length) in a wild population of great tits (Parus major) from Wytham Woods, UK. Specifically, we quantified the microevolutionary impacts of ISC by combining intra‐ and intersex additive genetic (co)variances and sex‐specific selection estimates in a multivariate framework. Large genetic correlations between homologous male and female traits combined with evidence for sex‐specific multivariate survival selection suggested that ISC could play an appreciable role in the evolution of this population. Together, multivariate sex‐specific selection and additive genetic (co)variance for the traits considered accounted for additive genetic variance in fitness that was uncorrelated between the sexes (cross‐sex genetic correlation = −0.003, 95% CI = −0.83, 0.83). Gender load, defined as the reduction in a population's rate of adaptation due to sex‐specific effects, was estimated at 50% (95% CI = 13%, 86%). This study provides novel insights into the evolution of sexual dimorphism in wild populations and illustrates how quantitative genetics and selection analyses can be combined in a multivariate framework to quantify the microevolutionary impacts of ISC.
Reliability and Validity of a Nepalese Version of the Oral Health Impact Profile for Edentulous Subjects
Authors: Shrestha Bidhan , Niraula Surya Raj , Parajuli Prakash K. , Suwal Pramita , Singh Raj Kumar
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To assess the reliability and to validate the translated Nepalese version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐EDENT‐N) in Nepalese edentulous subjects.

Materials and Methods

The international guidelines for translation and cross‐cultural adaption of OHIP‐EDENT were followed, and a Nepalese version of the questionnaire was adapted for this study. Eighty‐eight completely edentulous subjects were then selected for the study and completed their responses for the questionnaire. The reliability of the OHIP‐EDENT‐N was evaluated using internal consistency. Validity was assessed as construct and convergent validity. Construct validity was determined using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The correlation between OHIP‐EDENT‐N subscale scores and the global question was investigated to test the convergent validity.

Results

Cronbach's alpha for the total score of OHIP‐EDENT‐N was 0.78. Construct validity was assessed by factor analysis: 70.196% of the variance was accountable to five factors extracted from the factor analysis. Factor loadings above 0.40 were noted for all items. In terms of convergent validity, significant correlations could be established between OHIP‐EDENT‐N and global questions.

Conclusions

This study has been able to establish the reliability and validity of the OHIP‐EDENT‐N, and OHIP‐EDENT‐N can be a considered a reliable tool to assess the oral health related quality of life in the Nepalese edentulous population.
Developmental Trajectories of Nonsuicidal Self‐Injury in Adolescence and Intrapersonal/Interpersonal Risk Factors
Authors: Wang Biyao , You Jianing , Lin Min‐Pei , Xu Sian , Leung Freedom
Published: June 2016

This 3‐wave study investigated the developmental trajectories of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) and intrapersonal/interpersonal risk factors among 3,381 Chinese adolescents (56.2% females) aged from 13 to 17 years during a 1‐year period. Using an accelerated longitudinal design and latent class growth analysis, we identified four subgroups of NSSI trajectories: negligible (74.6%), experimental (12.8%), moderate decreasing (10.8%), and high fluctuating (1.9%). Adolescents reporting both intrapersonal (i.e., impulsive behaviors and depression) and interpersonal (i.e., unstable relationships and parental criticism) risk factors were significantly more likely to follow the latter three trajectories. The findings of this study suggest there is heterogeneity in NSSI development among adolescents and highlight the contributions of both intrapersonal and interpersonal risk factors in the engagement in NSSI.
Impact of information and communication technology on child health
Authors: Woo Eugenia HC , White Peter , Lai Christopher WK
Published: June 2016

This article provides a general framework for understanding the use of information and communication technology in education and discusses the impact of computer usage on students' health and development. Potential beneficial and harmful effects of computer use by children are discussed. Early epidemiological and laboratory studies have indicated that children are at least of similar risk of developing musculoskeletal and vision problems as adults, and musculoskeletal and visual health problems developed in childhood are likely to persist into adulthood. This article, therefore, aims to provide a reflection on the deficits of existing policy and recommendations for child‐specific guidelines in computer use.
Detection of major food allergens in amniotic fluid: initial allergenic encounter during pregnancy
Authors: Pastor‐Vargas Carlos , Maroto Aroa S. , Díaz‐Perales Araceli , Villalba Mayte , Esteban Vanesa , Ruiz‐Ramos Marta , de Alba Marta Rodriguez , Vivanco Fernando , Cuesta‐Herranz Javier
Published: June 2016

Background

Ingestion of food allergens present in maternal milk during breastfeeding has been hypothesized as a gateway to sensitization to food; however, this process could develop during pregnancy, as the maternal–fetal interface develops a Th2‐ and Treg‐mediated environment to protect the fetus. We hypothesized that in these surroundings, unborn children are exposed to food allergens contained in the mother's diet, possibly giving rise to first sensitization.

Methods

The presence of allergensin uterowas studied by analyzing amniotic fluid (AF) samples in two different stages of pregnancy: at 15–20 weeks and after delivery at term. An antibody microarray was developed to test for the most common food allergens. The array detects the presence of ten allergens from milk, fruit, egg, fish, nuts, and wheat.

Results

AFfrom 20 pregnant women was collected: eight after delivery at term and 12 from women who underwent diagnostic amniocentesis between weeks 15 and 20 of gestation. The presence of allergens was detected in all samples. Samples from amniocentesis had a higher allergen concentration than samples after delivery at term.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the presence of intact major food allergens inAFsamples. This early contact could explain subsequent sensitization to foods never eaten before.
Different cytokinin histidine kinase receptors regulate nodule initiation as well as later nodule developmental stages in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Boivin Stéphane , Kazmierczak Théophile , Brault Mathias , Wen Jiangqi , Gamas Pascal , Mysore Kirankumar S. , Frugier Florian
Published: June 2016

Legume plants adapt to low nitrogen by developing an endosymbiosis with nitrogen‐fixing soil bacteria to form a new specific organ: the nitrogen‐fixing nodule. In the Medicago truncatula model legume, the MtCRE1 cytokinin receptor is essential for this symbiotic interaction. As three other putative CHASE‐domain containing histidine kinase (CHK) cytokinin receptors exist in M. truncatula, we determined their potential contribution to this symbiotic interaction. The four CHKs have extensive redundant expression patterns at early nodulation stages but diverge in differentiated nodules, even though MtCHK1/MtCRE1 has the strongest expression at all stages. Mutant and knock‐down analyses revealed that other CHKs than MtCHK1/CRE1 are positively involved in nodule initiation, which explains the delayed nodulation phenotype of the chk1/cre1 mutant. In addition, cre1 nodules exhibit an increased growth, whereas other chk mutants have no detectable phenotype, and the maintained nitrogen fixation capacity in cre1 requires other CHK genes. Interestingly, an AHK4/CRE1 genomic locus from the aposymbiotic Arabidopsis plant rescues nodule initiation but not the nitrogen fixation capacity. This indicates that different CHK cytokinin signalling pathways regulate not only nodule initiation but also later developmental stages, and that legume‐specific determinants encoded by the MtCRE1 gene are required for later nodulation stages than initiation.
Vesicular Hand Dermatitis in a Child: Allergy to Methylisothiazolinone
Authors: Khanna Saira , Reeder Margo
Published: June 2016

A 7‐year‐old girl presented with a history of vesicular hand dermatitis that only partially improved with the use of steroids. Patch testing revealed a 1+ reaction to 0.2% aqueous methylisothiazolinone (MI) and 0.01% aqueous methylchloroisothazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI). Dyshidrosiform hand dermatitis is rare in children younger than 10 years of age, and this pattern has not been reported with MCI/MI allergy.
Long‐term follow up of pediatric immunoglobulin A nephropathy treated with tonsillectomy plus methylprednisolone pulse therapy
Authors: Kawasaki Yukihiko , Maeda Ryo , Kanno Shuto , Suzuki Yuichi , Ohara Shinichiro , Suyama Kazuhide , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: June 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to clarify the long‐term efficacy of tonsillectomy plus methylprednisolone pulse therapy (tonsillectomy pulse therapy [TMP]) for pediatric immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). The clinical and laboratory findings as well as the prognosis for IgAN treated with TMP at long‐term follow up were evaluated.

Methods

We collected data on 33 IgAN children treated with TMP. The children were retrospectively divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of 18 children treated with TMP as the initial therapy, and group 2 consisted of 15 children treated with TMP as rescue therapy for IgAN relapse. The clinical features, and laboratory and pathological findings, including those at first and second renal biopsy as well as at the latest follow up, were analyzed for both groups.

Results

Mean urinary protein excretion, incidence of hematuria, and serum creatinine in groups 1 and 2 were all decreased significantly after TMP compared with beforehand. The percentage of glomeruli showing crescents after TMP in groups 1 and 2 was significantly lower than before TMP. At the most recent follow up, 94% of patients in group 1 and 87% in group 2 had normal urine, 6% in group 1 and 13% in group 2 had minor urinary abnormalities, and no patients in either group had active renal disease or renal insufficiency.

Conclusions

TMP is effective in ameliorating urinary abnormalities and improving the long‐term outcome of pediatric IgAN both as an initial and as a rescue treatment.
S6 protein kinase activates Juvenile Hormone and vitellogenin production in the cockroach Blattella germanica
Authors: Abrisqueta Marc , Süren‐Castillo Songül , Maestro José L.
Published: June 2016

Nutritional status regulates different processes, such as growth and development, through TOR (target of rapamycin) and insulin receptor signalling pathways. The ribosomal S6 protein kinase (S6K) is a downstream element of both pathways. Using cDNA from the German cockroach Blattella germanica (L.), two S6K isoform sequences (BgS6K) are cloned. The long isoform differs from the short one by the insertion of a 22‐amino acid duplication, involving the key phosphorylation position Thr390. As a result of this, the long isoform presents a new, potentially regulatory phosphorylation site. RNA interference knockdown of both BgS6K isoforms induces an increase in the length of the last nymphal instar, together with a reduction in the mRNA levels of a number of enzymes of the Juvenile Hormone biosynthetic pathway in the corpora allata, vitellogenin mRNA levels in the fat body and basal oocyte length. Thus, BgS6K is important for nymphal development and is necessary for the full induction of Juvenile Hormone synthesis and vitellogenin production in adult females.
Polycentric Transformation in Kenyan Water Governance: A Dynamic Analysis of Institutional and Social‐Ecological Change
Authors: McCord Paul , Dell'Angelo Jampel , Baldwin Elizabeth , Evans Tom
Published: June 2016

Beginning in 2002, Kenyan water governance transitioned from a monocentric, top‐down system to one exhibiting traits of polycentricity. In this paper, we investigate the changes made to water policy following the 2002 reform, outcomes produced in a collection of community‐ and catchment‐level user groups in the Mount Kenya region, and the conformance of these changes and outcomes with principles of polycentricity. A new framework is used to capture the complex institutional arrangements and interactions existing before and after the polycentric transformation. Unlike many previous polycentricity studies, the present research focuses primarily on the outcomes of the polycentric shift and determines if these correspond to predictions from polycentricity theory. We utilize survey data collected in 2013 from water managers, as well as archival research to interrogate congruence with principles of polycentricity. This study contributes to the broader discussion on polycentricity in two fundamental ways: (i) It documents the functioning of a water management system following a top‐down imposed polycentric reform, and (ii) It empirically inspects whether these polycentric reforms have produced benefits predicted by polycentricity theorists, such as experimentation by local water users, increased collective action, and improved coordination between levels of management.
Observational study of quality of life of Parkinson's patients and their caregivers
Authors: Corallo Francesco , De Cola Maria Cristina , Lo Buono Viviana , Di Lorenzo Giuseppe , Bramanti Placido , Marino Silvia
Published: June 2016

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder that leads to a decrease in cognitive performance and affects patients’ quality of life (QoL). The purpose of this study was to investigate the
QoL
of PD patients and their caregivers in relation to each patient's cognitive impairment.

Methods

A total of 60 subjects with idiopathic PD were recruited; all had a primary caregiver. Patients’ cognitive abilities were evaluated by the Mini‐Mental State Examination, the Activities of Daily Living Scale, and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale. The 39‐item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire and the 36‐item Short Form Health Survey were used to assess the QoL of patients and caregivers, respectively.

Results

The Mini‐Mental State Examination was a significant predictor of most of the QoL subscales, including mobility, stigma, social support, cognition, and physical discomfort. The Activities of Daily Living Scale and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale were significant predictors of mobility, activities of daily living, and cognition. Patients’ clinical conditions also significantly affected all of the 36‐item Short Form Health Survey subscales; predicted physical functioning, bodily pain, vitality, and social role functioning on the Activities of Daily Living Scale; and predicted physical functioning, physical role functioning, and emotional role functioning on the Mini‐Mental State Examination.

Conclusions

Our results confirm a relationship between PD patients QoL and the perceived burden of their caregivers. Indeed, patients’ cognitive impairment strictly correlated to lower QoL scores in both patients and caregivers and is a strong predictor of caregiver stress and burden. These results emphasize the importance of implementing early interventions to prevent or ameliorate caregivers’ burnout.
The Central Effect of β‐Endorphin and Naloxone on The Biosynthesis of GnRH and GnRH Receptor (GnRHR) in The Hypothalamic‐Pituitary Unit of Follicular‐Phase Ewes
Authors: Ciechanowska M , Łapot M , Mateusiak K , Paruszewska E , Malewski T , Krawczyńska A , Przekop F
Published: June 2016

Contents

The effects of prolonged, intermittent infusion of β‐endorphin or naloxone into the third cerebral ventricle of follicular‐phase ewes on the expression of genes encoding GnRH and GnRHR in the hypothalamus and GnRHR in the anterior pituitary gland (AP) were examined by an enzyme‐linked immunoabsorbent assay. Activation or blockade of μ‐opioid receptors significantly decreased or increased the GnRH concentration and GnRHR abundance in the hypothalamus, respectively, and affected in the same way GnRHR quantity in the AP gland. The changes in the levels of GnRH and GnRHR after treatment with β‐endorphin as well as following action of naloxone were reflected in fluctuations of plasma LH concentrations. On the basis of these results, it is suggested that β‐endorphinergic system in the hypothalamus of follicular‐phase ewes affects directly or via β‐endorphin‐sensitive interneurons GnRH and GnRHR biosynthesis leading to suppression in secretory activity of the hypothalamic‐pituitary axis.
Changes in the Expression of the Prolactin Receptor (PRLR) Gene in Different Physiological Stages in the Mammary Gland of the Iranian Adani Goat
Authors: Morammazi S , Masoudi AA , Vaez Torshizi R , Pakdel A
Published: June 2016

Contents

The actions of prolactin hormone are mediated by prolactin receptor (PRLR), and proliferation and differentiation of secretory mammary epithelium are dependent on the presence of its receptors. To understand the PRLR expression pattern in mammary gland of dairy goat during different lactation stages, in this study, we first estimated the milk yield breeding value by multitrait random regression model and then compared the expression of the gene in different physiological stage of mammary gland between high‐ and low‐breeding value groups. We assayed the transcription level of the gene by quantitative real‐time PCR method, and its outcomes were analysed by a statistical model containing breeding value groups, sampling times and their interactions as fixed effects. The results indicated that the expression levels of PRLR gene were significantly upregulated in the drying stage (p < 0.01). The transcription pattern of the gene was significantly different between the two breeding value groups (p < 0.01), so that the amount of PRLR mRNA was significantly higher in the low‐breeding value groups of animals in the lactation stage (p < 0.01). Based on the results of this study, it could be suggested that the abundance of PRLR transcripts in mammary gland of goat might be changed by some physiological, environmental and genetic factors. Nucleotide variations in the promoter region might be resulted in various transcription activities of the gene which should be studied in a complementary research.
Associations of Leptin and Pituitary‐Specific Transcription Factor Genes’ Polymorphisms with Reproduction and Production Traits in Dairy Buffalo
Authors: Nasr MAF , Awad A , El Araby IE
Published: June 2016

Contents

This study aimed to detect the genetic variability in Leptin and Pit‐1 genes using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism and DNA sequencing also to explore their possible associations with reproductive and productive traits of Egyptian buffaloes. Regarding Leptin gene, three genotypes (AA, AG and GG) were identified with frequency of 0.54, 0.40 and 0.06, respectively, and the genotypes were distributed according to the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. Allele A was comparatively higher than G with frequency of 0.74 and 0.26, respectively. For Pit‐1 gene, the association could not be performed due to the monomorphism (BB). The results showed that AA genotypes were found to be superior in most of production and reproduction traits. AA genotypes yielded more milk (2332.34 kg, p = 0.04) with higher fat% (6.10, p = 0.004) and fat yield (155.75 kg, p = 0.06), reach peak milk production at 42.19 days and required 2.19 services for conception in comparison with GG genotypes. Birthweight of animals with AA genotype was lesser than with GG genotype (39.35 and 43.67 kg, p = 0.02, respectively). The days open is numerically better in AA genotype animals (99.35 days), but the difference between the three genotypes was non‐significant. The distinct significant associations reported in this study suggested that Leptin is reputable candidate genetic marker, which might be used to enhance animals’ genetic potential for milk production in conjunction with reproduction.
Investigating the Dynamic Interaction between Military Spending and Economic Growth
Authors: Desli E. , Gkoulgkoutsika A. , Katrakilidis C.
Published: June 2016

The relationship and interaction of military spending and economic growth have been theoretically and empirically investigated since the 1970s but it still cannot provide conclusive evidence towards the direction and the quantification of the impact between the two magnitudes. The use of different data sets in terms of time periods, and number and geographic location of countries, different theoretical background leading to different econometric specifications, and single type of econometric methodology, make any comparison impossible. This paper looks into the dynamic interaction between military spending and economic growth during the period 1988–2013 that includes the recent years of economic crisis covering 138 countries without making any prior assumptions about the theoretical channels of influence, while not limited to a single estimation method but employing a wide range of methodologies in order to form a complete picture of the long‐ and short‐run interaction. Furthermore, as such interaction might not be linear, we create three groups of countries based on the countries' income developmental stage. Overall we find no evidence of long‐ and short‐run causality from the military spending to economic growth except for the developing countries (positive in the long run). However, from economic growth to military spending we find a positive impact for all groups except the least developed countries. We also notice the interaction was more prominent prior to the start of the economic crisis.
High Dimensional Correlation Matrices: The Central Limit Theorem and Its Applications
Authors: Gao Jiti , Han Xiao , Pan Guangming , Yang Yanrong
Published: June 2016

Statistical inferences for sample correlation matrices are important in high dimensional data analysis. Motivated by this, the paper establishes a new central limit theorem for a linear spectral statistic of high dimensional sample correlation matrices for the case where the dimension p and the sample size n are comparable. This result is of independent interest in large dimensional random-matrix theory. We also further investigate the sample correlation matrices of a high dimensional vector whose elements have a special correlated structure and the corresponding central limit theorem is developed. Meanwhile, we apply the linear spectral statistic to an independence test for p random variables, and then an equivalence test for p factor loadings and n factors in a factor model. The finite sample performance of the test proposed shows its applicability and effectiveness in practice. An empirical application to test the independence of household incomes from various cities in China is also conducted.
Comparison of patient‐reported outcomes among those who chose ACL reconstruction or non‐surgical treatment
Authors: Ardern C. L. , Sonesson S. , Forssblad M. , Kvist J.
Published: June 2016

The aim of our study was to cross‐sectionally compare patient‐reported knee function outcomes between people who chose non‐surgical treatment for ACL injury and those who chose ACL reconstruction. We extracted Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and EuroQoL‐5D data entered into the Swedish National ACL Registry by patients with a non‐surgically treated ACL injury within 180 days of injury (n = 306), 1 (n = 350), 2 (n = 358), and 5 years (n = 114) after injury. These data were compared cross‐sectionally to data collected pre‐operatively (n = 306) and at 1 (n = 350), 2 (n = 358), and 5 years (n = 114) post‐operatively from age‐ and gender‐matched groups of patients with primary ACL reconstruction. At the 1 and 2 year comparisons, patients who chose surgical treatment reported superior quality of life and function in sports (1 year mean difference 12.4 and 13.2 points, respectively; 2 year mean difference 4.5 and 6.9 points, respectively) compared to those who chose non‐surgical treatment. Patients who chose ACL reconstruction reported superior outcomes for knee symptoms and function, and in knee‐specific and health‐related quality of life, compared to patients who chose non‐surgical treatment.
Rumor Communities: The Social Dimensions of Internet Political Misperceptions*
Authors: Edy Jill A. , Risley‐Baird Erin E.
Published: June 2016

Objective

This study illuminates the communicative and social qualities of naturally occurring public resistance to authoritative debunking of political misperceptions, rumors, and conspiracy theories. Developing the concept of a “rumor community,” it highlights aspects of rumoring processes overlooked by psychological approaches common in misperception research.

Methods

Over 2,000 user‐generated comments from the “vaccines cause autism” rumor community, produced as the medical study that had sparked the rumor was retracted and ultimately denounced as fraudulent, are examined for their contribution to the public conversation about vaccine safety.

Results

Rumor community members publicly counterargue debunking messages, which creates a communication environment offering argumentative resources to community members and reaffirming the community's solidarity. Members assert their credibility to gain authority to speak, countering science with personal experience. Highlighting their interconnection with more conventional social groups and venerable social truisms, members generate discourse that legitimates their beliefs.

Conclusions

The process of rumor debunking does not solely involve psychological persuasion but must also account for the social geography of rumor communities and their contributions to the communication environment.
Determinants of Networking Practices in the Chinese Transition Context: Empirical Insights from the Pearl River Delta
Authors: Fu Wenying , Revilla Diez Javier , Schiller Daniel
Published: June 2016

The underlying spatial forces of firm networking practices are understudied in the literature of economic geography. This paper aims to reveal patterns and mechanisms of networking practices and relates them to China's transitional context based on empirical data from a firm survey in the Pearl River Delta. It addresses the localisation effect as the primary factor in explaining the selection of networking partners. The results of this paper suggest a strong tendency towards networking with local government agencies vis‐à‐vis weak linkages with business partners. Furthermore, it reveals that the intent of bonding with local authorities through interpersonal relationships increases with the localisation of customers. Meanwhile, firms are more likely to pursue learning‐oriented networks with competitors as the number of suppliers in the same city increases. The findings add to the understanding of network relations in China, in particular to the rationales behind relations to local government officials.
The role of DNA (de)methylation in immune responsiveness of Arabidopsis
Authors: López Sánchez Ana , Stassen Joost H.M. , Furci Leonardo , Smith Lisa M. , Ton Jurriaan
Published: June 2016

DNA methylation is antagonistically controlled by DNA methyltransferases and DNA demethylases. The level of DNA methylation controls plant gene expression on a global level. We have examined impacts of global changes in DNA methylation on the Arabidopsis immune system. A range of hypo‐methylated mutants displayed enhanced resistance to the biotrophic pathogen Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis (Hpa), whereas two hyper‐methylated mutants were more susceptible to this pathogen. Subsequent characterization of the hypo‐methylated nrpe1 mutant, which is impaired in RNA‐directed DNA methylation, and the hyper‐methylated ros1 mutant, which is affected in DNA demethylation, revealed that their opposite resistance phenotypes are associated with changes in cell wall defence and salicylic acid (SA)‐dependent gene expression. Against infection by the necrotrophic pathogen Plectosphaerella cucumerina, nrpe1 showed enhanced susceptibility, which was associated with repressed sensitivity of jasmonic acid (JA)‐inducible gene expression. Conversely, ros1 displayed enhanced resistance to necrotrophic pathogens, which was not associated with increased responsiveness of JA‐inducible gene expression. Although nrpe1 and ros1 were unaffected in systemic acquired resistance to Hpa, they failed to develop transgenerational acquired resistance against this pathogen. Global transcriptome analysis of nrpe1 and ros1 at multiple time‐points after Hpa infection revealed that 49% of the pathogenesis‐related transcriptome is influenced by NRPE1‐ and ROS1‐controlled DNA methylation. Of the 166 defence‐related genes displaying augmented induction in nrpe1 and repressed induction in ros1, only 25 genes were associated with a nearby transposable element and NRPE1‐ and/or ROS1‐controlled DNA methylation. Accordingly, we propose that the majority of NRPE1‐ and ROS1‐dependent defence genes are regulated in trans by DNA methylation.
Characterization of posttransfusion Plasmodium falciparum infection in semi‐immune nonparasitemic patients
Authors: Allain Jean‐Pierre , Assennato Sonny Michael , Osei Eric N. , Owusu‐Ofori Alex K. , Marschner Susanne , Goodrich Raymond P. , Owusu‐Ofori Shirley
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Transfusion‐transmitted malaria (TTM) has not been studied with molecular means in hyperendemic areas where it is assumed to occur frequently. The African Investigation of the Mirasol System (AIMS) trial provided the opportunity to study TTM from standard whole blood (WB) units.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The Plasmodium genome in transfused WB units and patient samples both before transfusion and 1, 3, 7, and 28 days after transfusion was screened and quantified using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Parasitemic samples were confirmed, three alleles were sequenced, and the percentage homology was determined between paired WB units and patient samples. Anti‐Plasmodium titers were quantified by serial dilution. Clinical symptoms and microscopic detection of malaria were monitored.

RESULTS

Microscopy was negative below 3 × 106 genome copies/mL. Thirty‐seven patients who were nonparasitemic before transfusion were exposed to parasitemic WB. The amount of Plasmodium genome load transfused ranged between 0.1 × 106 and 2.0 × 109 copies. The parasite load received through transfusion by 13 patients with TTM was higher than that received by patients without TTM (p = 0.01). Patients with a single parasitemic posttransfusion sample were not considered to have TTM. Four elements critical to predict outcome emerged: parasite load, patient anti‐Plasmodium titer pretransfusion, percentage clearance of parasites at Day 1, and level of anti‐Plasmodium humoral immune response. Four patients with TTM became parasite‐free at Day 28 (effective control), four patients with TTM maintained relatively stable levels of parasitemia (uncertain control), and five patients reached high levels of parasitemia at Day 28 posttransfusion, indicating ineffective control of malarial infection by semi‐immune individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

TTM in endemic areas is relatively frequent (13 of 112 donations; 11.6%) and, although largely controlled by semi‐immunity in recipient patients, may require antimalarial treatment.
Free‐Roaming Dogs in Nepal: Demographics, Health and Public Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices
Authors: Massei G. , Fooks A. R. , Horton D. L. , Callaby R. , Sharma K. , Dhakal I. P. , Dahal U.
Published: June 2016

In Nepal, most dogs are free to roam and may transmit diseases to humans and animals. These dogs often suffer from malnutrition and lack basic health care. Minimal information is available about their demographics and about public attitudes concerning dogs and diseases. We carried out a study in Chitwan District (central Nepal), to collect baseline data on free‐roaming owned dog demographics, assess knowledge, attitudes and practices of dog owners concerning dogs and rabies, evaluate rabies vaccination coverage and anthelmintic treatment of dogs, measure dogs' response to rabies vaccination and assess dog health through body condition scores and parasites. We conducted household interviews with owners of free‐roaming female dogs (n = 60) and administered dogs with rabies vaccination and anthelmintics. Dog owners regularly fed free‐roaming dogs but provided minimal health care; 42% of respondents did not claim ownership of the dog for which they provided care. We collected skin, faecal and blood samples for parasite identification and for measuring rabies virus‐specific antibodies. Ninety‐two per cent of dog owners were aware of the routes of rabies virus transmission, but only 35% described the correct post‐exposure prophylaxis (PEP) following a dog bite. Twenty‐seven per cent of the dogs had measurable rabies virus‐specific antibody titres and 14% had received anthelmintics in the previous year. Following rabies vaccination, 97% of dogs maintained an adequate antibody titre for ≥6 months. Most dogs appeared healthy, although haemoprotozoans, endoparasites and ectoparasites were identified in 12%, 73% and 40% of the dogs, respectively. Poor skin condition and parasite load were associated. Seventy‐four per cent of the females had litters in 1 year (mean litter size = 4.5). Births occurred between September and February; we estimated 60% mortality in puppies. We concluded that vaccination coverage, PEP awareness and anthelmintic treatment should be emphasized in educational programmes focussed on animal welfare, veterinary and public health.
A novel mutant Na+/HCO3− cotransporter NBCe1 in a case of compound‐heterozygous inheritance of proximal renal tubular acidosis
Authors: Myers Evan J. , Yuan Lu , Felmlee Melanie A. , Lin Yuan‐Yuan , Jiang Yan , Pei Yu , Wang Ou , Li Mei , Xing Xiao‐Ping , Marshall Aniko , Xia Wei‐Bo , Parker Mark D.
Published: June 2016

Key points

The inheritance of two defective alleles of SLC4A4, the gene that encodes the widely‐expressed electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter NBCe1, results in the bicarbonate‐wasting disease proximal renal tubular acidosis (pRTA).

In the present study, we report the first case of compound‐heterozygous inheritance of pRTA (p.Arg510His/p.Gln913Arg) in an individual with low blood pH, blindness and neurological signs that resemble transient ischaemic attacks.

We employ fluorescence microscopy on non‐polarized (human embryonic kidney) and polarized (Madin–Darby canine kidney) renal cell lines and electrophysiology on Xenopus oocytes to characterize the mutant transporters (R510H and Q913R).

Both mutant transporters exhibit enhanced intracellular retention in renal cells, an observation that probably explains the HCO3− transport deficit in the individual.

Both mutants retain a close‐to‐normal per molecule Na+/HCO3− cotransport activity in Xenopus oocytes, suggesting that they are suitable candidates for folding‐correction therapy. However, Q913R expression is uniquely associated with a depolarizing, HCO3− independent, Cl−‐conductance in oocytes that could have pathological consequences if expressed in the cells of patients.

Proximal renal tubular acidosis (pRTA) is a rare, recessively‐inherited disease characterized by abnormally acidic blood, blindness, as well as below average height and weight. pRTA is typically associated with homozygous mutation of the solute carrier 4 family gene SLC4A4. SLC4A4 encodes the electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter NBCe1, a membrane protein that acts to maintain intracellular and plasma pH. We present the first description of a case of compound‐heterozygous inheritance of pRTA. The individual has inherited two mutations in NBCe1: p.Arg510His (R510H) and p.Gln913Arg (Q913R), one from each parent. In addition to the usual features of pRTA, the patient exhibits unusual signs, such as muscle spasms and fever. We have recreated these mutant transporters for expression in model systems. We find that both of the mutant proteins exhibit substantial intracellular retention when expressed in mammalian renal cell lines. When expressed in Xenopus oocytes, we find that the R510H and Q913R‐mutant NBCe1 molecules exhibit apparently normal Na+/HCO3− cotransport activity but that Q913R is associated with an unusual HCO3− independent anion‐leak. We conclude that a reduced accumulation of NBCe1 protein in the basolateral membrane of proximal‐tubule epithelia is the most probable cause of pRTA in this case. We further note that the Q913R‐associated anion‐leak could itself be pathogenic if expressed in the plasma membrane of mammalian cells, compromising the benefit of strategies aiming to enhance mutant NBCe1 accumulation in the plasma membrane.
Upper limits of the photon fluence rate on CT detectors: Case study on a commercial scanner
Authors: Persson Mats , Bujila Robert , Nowik Patrik , Andersson Henrik , Kull Love , Andersson Jonas , Bornefalk Hans , Danielsson Mats
Published: June 2016

Purpose:

The highest photon fluence rate that a computed tomography (CT) detector must be able to measure is an important parameter. The authors calculate the maximum transmitted fluence rate in a commercial CT scanner as a function of patient size for standard head, chest, and abdomen protocols.

Methods:

The authors scanned an anthropomorphic phantom (Kyoto Kagaku PBU‐60) with the reference CT protocols provided by AAPM on a GE LightSpeed VCT scanner and noted the tube current applied with the tube current modulation (TCM) system. By rescaling this tube current using published measurements on the tube current modulation of a GE scanner [N. Keat, “CT scanner automatic exposure control systems,” MHRA Evaluation Report 05016, ImPACT, London, UK, 2005], the authors could estimate the tube current that these protocols would have resulted in for other patient sizes. An ECG gated chest protocol was also simulated. Using measured dose rate profiles along the bowtie filters, the authors simulated imaging of anonymized patient images with a range of sizes on a GE VCT scanner and calculated the maximum transmitted fluence rate. In addition, the 99th and the 95th percentiles of the transmitted fluence rate distribution behind the patient are calculated and the effect of omitting projection lines passing just below the skin line is investigated.

Results:

The highest transmitted fluence rates on the detector for the AAPM reference protocols with centered patients are found for head images and for intermediate‐sized chest images, both with a maximum of 3.4 ⋅ 108 mm−2 s−1, at 949 mm distance from the source. Miscentering the head by 50 mm downward increases the maximum transmitted fluence rate to 5.7 ⋅ 108 mm−2 s−1. The ECG gated chest protocol gives fluence rates up to 2.3 ⋅ 108 − 3.6 ⋅ 108 mm−2 s−1 depending on miscentering.

Conclusions:

The fluence rate on a CT detector reaches 3 ⋅ 108 − 6 ⋅ 108 mm−2 s−1 in standard imaging protocols, with the highest rates occurring for ECG gated chest and miscentered head scans. These results will be useful to developers of CT detectors, in particular photon counting detectors.
Effectiveness of nonporous windscreens for infrasonic measurements
Authors: Dauchez Nicolas , Hayot Maxime , Denis Stéphane
Published: June 2016

This paper deals with nonporous windscreens used for reducing noise in infrasonic measurements. A model of sound transmission using a modal approach is derived. The system is a square plate coupled with a cavity. The model agrees with finite element simulations and measurements performed on two windscreens: a cubic windscreen using a material recommended by Shams, Zuckerwar, and Sealey [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 118, 1335–1340 (2005)] and an optimized flat windscreen made out of aluminum. Only the latter was found to couple acoustical waves below 10 Hz without any attenuation. Moreover, wind noise reduction measurements show that nonporous windscreens perform similarly as a pipe array by averaging the pressure fluctuations. These results question the assumptions of Shams et al. and Zuckerwar [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 127, 3327–3334 (2010)] about compact nonporous windscreens design and effectiveness.
Sex-Related Differences in Scapular Kinematics During Elevation of the Arm in Asymptomatic Children and Adults
Authors: Habechian Fernanda Assis Paes , Rosa Dayana Patricia , Haik Melina Nevoeiro , Camargo Paula Rezende
Published: June 2016

Recently, it has been suggested that sex may influence scapular kinematics. A more comprehensive analysis of the scapular kinematics in children and adults, including sex as a factor, will help to understand if differences between sexes are present since childhood. The purpose of this study was to compare scapular kinematics between sex in children and adults during elevation of the arm. One-hundred and sixteen asymptomatic adults (58 men and 58 women) and 53 children (28 boys and 25 girls) participated in the study. Three-dimensional scapular kinematics during elevation of the arm were obtained using an electromagnetic tracking device. Women had a more upwardly rotated scapula in the nondominant side (P < .05), with large effects and a more anteriorly tilted position at 60°, 90°, and 120° of arm elevation in the dominant side, and at 90° and 120° in the nondominant side (P < .05) with moderate effects when compared with men. Differences between sexes were not found in the children (P > .05). In conclusion, sex seems to influence scapular kinematics in adulthood, but not in childhood.
How a ‘Godzilla’ El Niño shook up weather forecasts
Authors: Kintisch Eli
Published: June 2016

Departing climate event left fires, drought, and questions.
Step aside,
E. coli
Authors: Panko Ben
Published: June 2016

Can a faster-growing microbe replace lab favorite?