bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Hypertension in Children With β Thalassemia Major, Are Splenectomy and High-Ferritin Levels Related or Not?
Authors: Dedeoglu Savas , Bornaun Helen
Published: February 2017

We evaluated the risk of pulmonary hypertension (PH) by measuring the velocity of the tricuspid regurgitation jet velocity (TRV) on echocardiography and the associations among the TRV, ferritin, and history of splenectomy in children with β thalassemia major (TM). In total, 85 children with TM were examined with continuous Doppler flow. Patients with an abnormal TRV (>2.5 m/s) were grouped into those with a TRV of 2.5 to 2.9 m/s and TRV>2.9 m/s. A TRV of >2.5 m/s was identified in 72; 31 (36%) of these patients had a TRV of >2.9 m/s, suggesting a risk for significant PH. The ferritin concentration was significantly higher in patients with a TRV of >2.9 m/s and showed a positive correlation with a TRV. The TRV was significantly correlated with markers of diastolic function: the tricuspid peak early diastolic wave (E) was higher in patients with a TRV of >2.9 m/s and showed a significant correlation with the TRV (R=0.315). The ratio of the TRV over the velocity-time integral (VTI) at the right ventricular outflow tract (TRV/VTI RVOT), which is correlated with the pulmonary vascular resistance, was higher in patients with a TRV of >2.9 m/s. In total, 27 patients had splenectomy. Splenectomized patients had a higher TRV and splenectomy was correlated with the TRV (R=−0.221). A risk of PH as defined by a TRV of >2.9 m/s was common in our patients with TM. Screening with Doppler flow indices on echocardiography can detect PH in early stages.
Concomitant Use of Panobinostat and Reirradiation in Progressive DIPG: Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Wang Zhihong J. , Ge Yubin , Altinok Deniz , Poulik Janet , Sood Sandeep , Taub Jeffrey W. , Edwards Holly , Kieran Mark W. , Steven Miller
Published: February 2017

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) remains a devastating disease. Panobinostat has been shown to have therapeutic efficacy both in vitro and in DIPG orthotopic xenograft models; however, clinical data in patients with DIPG are lacking. We present 2 cases of DIPG, who were treated with panobinostat at 22 to 25 mg/m2/dose, 3 times weekly for 2 weeks in 3-week cycles and concomitant reirradiation after disease progression. Two episodes of asymptomatic thrombocytopenia were observed in 1 patient. Hyperacetylation of histone H4 of peripheral blood mononuclear cells was evident following treatment. In our experience, panobinostat administered with reirradiation was well tolerated at a relatively higher dose than that used in adult studies.
Effects of Light Scatter and Blur on Low-Contrast Vision and Disk Halo Size
Authors: Puell María Cinta , Palomo-Álvarez Catalina
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To investigate the individual effects of forward light scatter (FLS) and refractive blur on low-contrast vision and the size of the disk halo produced in response to an external glare source.

Methods

Monocular disk halo radius, high- and low-contrast distance visual acuity (HCVA, LCVA), and contrast sensitivity (CS) were determined in 25 eyes of 25 healthy subjects under normal, FLS, and blur conditions. FLS was induced using the filter Black ProMist 2 to simulate an early cataract. Blur was induced using a +1.00 diopter lens to simulate an uncorrected refractive error.

Results

Similar significant mean increases in halo radius were observed for the FLS (0.32 ± 0.10 log arc min; P < .0001) and refractive blur (0.40 ± 0.18 log arc min; P < .0001). Under induced blur, 3 lines of HCVA (0.32 ± 0.15 logMAR; P < .0001) and 4 lines of LCVA (0.39 ± 0.16 logMAR; P < .0001) were lost. FLS had a minimal (but significant) effect on HCVA, but worsened mean LCVA by more than 1 line (0.13 ± 0.10 logMAR; P < .0001). Similar significant mean CS reductions of 0.17 ± 0.12 (P < .0001) and 0.14 ± 0.12 log units (P < .0001) were produced in response to FLS and refractive blur, respectively (approximately 1 triplet).

Conclusions

Forward light scatter and refractive blur contributed to an increased size of the disk halo produced by a glare source in similar proportion. Although defocus blur has a substantial effect on LCVA, a loss of more than 1 line of LCVA after best refractive correction would be indicative of FLS.
Of generators, networks and migraine attacks
Authors: Schulte Laura H. , May Arne
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

One of the most discussed topics in migraine pathophysiology is where migraine attacks originate. Although recent evidence suggests central attack generating loci, there is an ongoing debate about the involved centres of the brain and brainstem.

Recent findings

Recent neuroimaging studies focussing on the preictal stage of migraine attacks suggest a predominant role of the hypothalamus and its functional connectivity shortly before the beginning of migraine headaches. In interictal migraineurs, changes in resting state functional connectivity of the dorsal pons and the hypothalamus have been found.

Based on the clinical presentation of the premonitory phase of migraine, the hypothalamus and changes within the dopaminergic system have been discussed as likely candidates for attack generation. Neuroimaging studies however suggested the dorsal pons as attack generator. Taking into account the recent findings of hypothalamic involvement and changing connectivity in the preictal stage, the available evidence suggests that the idea of a single migraine generator within the human brain is probably too simplistic. More likely, spontaneous oscillations of complex networks lead to activity changes in certain subcortical and brainstem areas. This in turn might constitute functional changes of descending pain-modulating pathways, and thus the generation of migraine pain.
The changing landscape of IS project failure: an examination of the key factors
Authors: Hughes D. Laurie , Rana Nripendra P. , Simintiras Antonis C.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Information systems (IS) project failure has been a recurring problem for decades. The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to examine the key factors that influence project failure and an analysis of the major areas that can have a significant impact on success; and second, to explore some of the key aspects that have an impact on project management performance from the practitioner perspective and discusses the problems faced by organizations in the closer integration of change and project management.

Design/methodology/approach

This study critically reviews the IS failure literature developing a synthesized view of the key issues and common reasons for projects to fail. The approach taken in this study is one that focuses on a number of key questions that pull together the relevant themes in this genre of research whilst highlighting many of the implications for practitioners and organizations alike.

Findings

Key questions remain on the underlying causes of instances of poor project management as an IS failure factor. The literature has omitted to develop a deeper analysis of the associations between failure factors and the potential causal relationships between these factors. The realization of project benefits relies on the success of both change and project management yet the formal integration of these two disciplines is constrained by separate standards bodies and an immature body of research.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by its theoretical nature lacking an empirical element to provide a deeper analysis of IS failure factors and their interrelationships. This specific area is a recommendation for future research, where causal relationships between failure factors could be developed via a mathematic-based method such as interpretive structural modeling.

Practical implications

With failure rates of IS projects still unacceptably high after decades of attempts to significantly change outcomes, a deeper analysis of this topic is required. The research gaps and recommendations for practitioners highlighted in this study have the potential to provide valuable contributions to this topic of research.

Originality/value

The intent of this study is to present a new perspective of this genre of IS research that develops the main arguments and gaps in the literature from the practitioner viewpoint.
Swearing at work: the mixed outcomes of profanity
Authors: Baruch Yehuda , Prouska Rea , Ollier-Malaterre Ariane , Bunk Jennifer
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the use and misuse of swearing in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative methodology, the authors interviewed 52 lawyers, medical doctors and business executives in the UK, France and the USA.

Findings

In contrast to much of the incivility and social norms literatures, the authors find that male and female business executives, lawyers and doctors of all ages admit to swearing. Further, swearing can lead to positive outcomes at the individual, interpersonal and group levels, including stress-relief, communication-enrichment and socialization-enhancement.

Research limitations/implications

An implication for future scholarship is that “thinking out of the box” when exploring emotion-related issues can lead to new insights.

Practical implications

Practical implications include reconsidering and tolerating incivility under certain conditions.

Originality/value

The authors identified a case in which a negative phenomenon reveals counter-intuitive yet insightful results.
Mitigation of domestic indoor air pollution in a pristine rural area of India
Authors: Datta Arindam , Sharma Ved Prakash , Gaine Tanushree , Sehgal Meena
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Different pollutants emission due to the conventional energy consumption process is of major concern owed to its significant effect on human health vis-à-vis regional climate. The purpose of this paper is to develop mitigation strategies to reduce the pollutant concentrations in the rural households conducted in a pristine rural village of Indian Sunderban area.

Design/methodology/approach

During winter, 2014, 20 households which were using traditional biomass cookstove for cooking and kerosene-lamp for lighting (KIT-TRD) were randomly selected. Specific type of improved forced draft biomass cookstove and solar lantern were used in ten of the selected households (KIT-IMP). Real time concentrations of particulate matter (PM) (PM2.5, PM10) and carbon monoxide (CO) during day and evening time cooking period were measured in KIT-IMP and KIT-TRD. A simulation model was established to evaluate most potential factor to control the level of pollutants inside the kitchen.

Findings

Conventional processes of energy consumption in the households, along with the outdoor concentration of pollutants influence the indoor concentration of measured pollutants. The concentration of PM and CO was significantly lower in the KIT-IMP than the other. In the KIT-TRD households, the daytime concentration of PM and CO was significantly higher compared to the evening. The simulated output overestimated the concentration of PM10 and CO in the KIT-TRD.

Originality/value

The concentration of PM2.5, PM10 and CO significantly reduces in the indoor environment with the introduction of improved cookstove and solar lantern; however, further research is required to develop optimum sizes of window and door in the rural households to reduce the concentrations of different pollutants inside the kitchen.
Cross‐cultural supervision in international settings: experiences of foreign supervisors and native supervisees in Cambodia
Authors: Seponski Desiree M. , Jordan Lorien S.
Published: February 2017

With the global expansion of family therapy, it is vital to engage in culturally responsive methods of training and supervision. This is especially critical when international training involves Western‐based therapy models and supervision from non‐native supervisors. This study explores how native Cambodian therapists experience clinical supervision conducted by non‐native supervisors. In this responsive evaluation, data were triangulated across multiple stakeholders (N = 95) and collection methods, including focus groups, interviews, and live supervision observations. Emergent themes highlight the need for intentionally culturally responsive supervision and included challenges with non‐native supervisors, unresponsive methods of learning and power imbalances. Therapists emphasized that they were less likely to attend supervision and felt discouraged when it was not culturally responsive. Data‐driven suggestions for increasing cultural responsiveness in supervision are provided.

Practitioner points

Supervisors can challenge personal cultural assumptions and deepen contextual understanding by seeking local cultural knowledge

Supervision contracts created with input from stakeholders can attend to likely cultural differences

The supervisory relationship can be supported through open discussion and negotiation of cultural differences

In cultures with high regard for those in authority, supervisors can use a strengths‐based approach to feedback and demonstration
Is It Okay To Ask: Transgender Patient Perspectives on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Collection in Healthcare
Authors: Maragh‐Bass Allysha C. , Torain Maya , Adler Rachel , Ranjit Anju , Schneider Eric , Shields Ryan Y. , Kodadek Lisa M. , Snyder Claire F. , German Danielle , Peterson Susan , Schuur Jeremiah , Lau Brandyn D. , Haider Adil H.
Published: February 2017

Objective

The National Academy of Medicine and Joint Commission recommend routine documentation of sexual orientation (SO) and gender identity (GI) in healthcare to address lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) health disparities. We explored transgender patient–reported views on the importance on SO/GI collection, their willingness to disclose, and their perceived facilitators of SO/GI collection in primary care and emergency department (ED) settings.

Methods

We recruited a national sample of self‐identified transgender patients. Participants completed demographic questions, survey questions, and free‐response comments regarding their views on SO/GI collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; inductive content analysis was conducted with open‐ended responses.

Results

Patients mostly self‐identified as male gender (54.5%), white (58.4%), and SO other than heterosexual or LGB (33.7%; N = 101). Patients felt that it was more important for primary care providers to know their GI than SO (89.1% vs. 57%; p < 0.001); there was no difference among reported importance for ED providers to know the patients’ SO versus GI. Females were more likely than males to report medical relevance to chief complaint as a facilitator to SO disclosure (89.1% vs. 80%; p = 0.02) and less likely to identify routine collection from all patients as a facilitator to GI disclosure (67.4% vs. 78.2%; p = 0.09). Qualitatively, many patients reported that medical relevance to chief complaint and an LGBT‐friendly environment would increase willingness to disclose their SO/GI. Patients also reported need for educating providers in LGBT health prior to implementing routine SO/GI collection.

Conclusions

Patients see the importance of providing GI more than SO to providers; nonetheless they are willing to disclose SO/GI in general.. Findings also suggest that gender differences may exist in facilitators of SO/GI disclosure. Given the underrepresentation of transgender patients in healthcare, it is crucial for providers to address their concerns with SO/GI disclosure, which include LGBT education for medical staff and provision of a safe environment.
Restoration planning to guide Aichi targets in a megadiverse country
Authors: Tobón Wolke , Urquiza‐Haas Tania , Koleff Patricia , Schröter Matthias , Ortega‐Álvarez Rubén , Campo Julio , Lindig‐Cisneros Roberto , Sarukhán José , Bonn Aletta
Published: February 2017

Ecological restoration has become an important strategy to conserve biodiversity and ecosystems services. To restore 15% of degraded ecosystems as stipulated by the Convention on Biological Diversity Aichi target 15, we developed a prioritization framework to identify potential priority sites for restoration in Mexico, a megadiverse country. We used the most current biological and environmental data on Mexico to assess areas of biological importance and restoration feasibility at national scale and engaged stakeholders and experts throughout the process. We integrated 8 criteria into 2 components (i.e., biological importance and restoration feasibility) in a spatial multicriteria analysis and generated 11 scenarios to test the effect of assigning different component weights. The priority restoration sites were distributed across all terrestrial ecosystems of Mexico; 64.1% were in degraded natural vegetation and 6% were in protected areas. Our results provide a spatial guide to where restoration could enhance the persistence of species of conservation concern and vulnerable ecosystems while maximizing the likelihood of restoration success. Such spatial prioritization is a first step in informing policy makers and restoration planners where to focus local and large‐scale restoration efforts, which should additionally incorporate social and monetary cost–benefit considerations.
Career Patterns of Supply Chain Executives: An Optimal Matching Analysis
Authors: Flöthmann Christoph , Hoberg Kai
Published: February 2017

This exploratory study analyzes the careers of 307 supply chain executives (SCEs). Motivated by career theory, our findings create new knowledge about the educational backgrounds and career paths that lead to SCE positions. Based on an optimal matching analysis, we are able to distinguish among six career patterns for SCEs. They differ in terms of the individuals’ previous professional experience, educational background, and the time they needed to arrive in an executive position. By characterizing the backgrounds and career paths of SCEs, we show that supply chain management (SCM) is truly a cross‐functional profession. Our findings suggest that previous staff responsibility appears to be a more important hiring criterion than extensive SCM experience. While 56% of the executives had prior staff responsibility, only 12% of the cumulated careers were actually spent inside the SCM function.
Factors predicting recovery from suicide in attempted suicide patients
Authors: Sun Fan‐Ko , Lu Chu‐Yun , Tseng Yun Shan , Chiang Chun‐Ying
Published: February 2017

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the factors predicting suicide recovery and to provide guidance for healthcare professionals when caring for individuals who have attempted suicide.

Background

The high rate of suicide is a global health problem. Suicide prevention has become an important issue in contemporary mental health. Most suicide research has focused on suicidal prevention and care. There is a lack of research on the factors predicting suicidal recovery.

Design

A cross‐sectional design was adopted.

Methods

A correlational study with a purposive sample of 160 individuals from a suicide prevention centre in southern Taiwan was conducted. The questionnaires included the Brief Symptom Rating Scale‐5, Suicidal Recovery Assessment Scale and Beck Hopelessness Scale. Descriptive statistics and linear regressions were used for the analysis.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 40.2 years. Many participants were striving to make changes to create a more stable and fulfilling life, had an improved recovery from suicide and had a good ability to adapt or solve problems. The linear regression showed that the Beck Hopelessness Scale scores (ß = −.551, p < .001) and Brief Symptom Rating Scale‐5 (ß = −.218, p = .003) and past suicidal behaviour (ß = −.145, p = .008) were significant predictors of individuals’ recovery from suicide. They accounted for 57.1% of the variance.

Conclusions

Suicidal individuals who have a lower level of hopelessness, a better ability to cope with their mental condition and fewer past suicidal behaviours may better recover from suicide attempts.

Relevance to clinical practice

The nurses could use the results of this study to predict recovery from suicide in patients with attempted suicide.
He's a Chip Off the Old Block — The Persistence of Occupational Choices Across Generations
Authors: Knoll Bodo , Riedel Nadine , Schlenker Eva
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this paper is to assess intergenerational occupational mobility in Germany. Using data from the Socio‐Economic Panel, we find a high persistence of occupational choices across fathers and children. To separate effects related to parental advice and influence (nurture) from genetic factors (nature), we determine the persistence separately for children who grew up with their biological fathers and those who did not. The results suggest that nurture‐related effects explain a significant fraction of the observed correlation of fathers’ and children's occupational choices. We discuss policy implications that follow from the analysis.
Profit Sharing and the Firm‐Size Wage Premium
Authors: Pehkonen Jaakko , Pehkonen Sampo , Strifler Matthias , Maliranta Mika
Published: February 2017

This study analyzes the relationships among wages, firm size, and profit sharing schemes. We develop a simple theoretical model and explore the relationship empirically using high‐quality panel data. The theoretical model shows that the firm‐size wage premium decreases in the presence of profit sharing. The empirical results based on rich matched employee‐employer data for private sector wage earners in Finland show that the firm‐size wage premium is modest, and it becomes negligible when we account for profit sharing and covariates describing assortative matching and monopsony behavior. The analysis suggests that profit sharing schemes embody effects of firm‐specific unobservables that raise productivity, support rent sharing, and boost wages.
Cultural and communicative competence in the caring relationship with patients from another culture
Authors: Hemberg Jessica Anne Viveka , Vilander Susann
Published: February 2017

Background

The global and multicultural society of today creates challenges that require multicultural competence among individuals, especially within caring contexts.

Aims and objectives

This study assumes an intercultural perspective, and the aim is to uncover a new understanding of the caring community between nurses and patients when these do not speak the same language. The research question is: What is the significance of communication in a caring community when nurses and patients do not speak the same language?

Methodological design and method

This qualitative study uses a hermeneutical approach. The material was collected through questionnaires with eight nurses and two adults from another culture. The texts were analysed through latent content analysis.

Ethical issues and approval

Study participation, data storage and handling for research purposes were approved by the participants when they provided their informed consent. Permission to conduct the study was granted by an ethical committee of a hospital organisation.

Results

Human love is the basis for a caring relationship since it reaches beyond the limits of cultural differences. Integrity is vital for cultural respect and especially for the consideration of spiritual needs in the caring relationship. An affirming presence is essential for communion. Creative courage is fundamental for communication, and continuous information is vital for establishing trust within the caring relationship.

Study limitations

One limitation to this study might be the limited number of participants (ten).

Conclusions

Caring for a patient from another culture requires that nurses are open‐minded and have the courage to encounter new challenges. It is essential for nurses to respect the patient's integrity but also to acquire knowledge in order to improve their cultural competence. Further research within this area should focus on the role of next of kin in intercultural caring and on how leadership may contribute to improving cultural competence within health organisations.
Identification of the novel null allele, HLA‐C*01:109N, using polymerase chain reaction sequence‐based typing in a Chinese leukemia patient
Authors: Chen N.‐Y. , Han Z.‐D. , Zhang W. , He J. , Zhu F.‐M.
Published: February 2017

HLA‐C*01:109N differs from HLA‐C*01:02:01 by a single nucleotide substitution at position 683 G > A.
Modified acoustic transmission tube apparatus incorporating an active downstream termination
Authors: Machuca-Tzili F. Arturo , Orduña-Bustamante Felipe , Pérez-López Antonio , Pérez-Ruiz Santiago J. , Pérez-Matzumoto Andrés E.
Published: February 2017

Current techniques for measuring normal incidence sound transmission loss with a modified impedance tube, or transmission tube, require setting up two different absorbing termination loads at the end of the downstream tube [ASTM E2611-09, Standard Test Method for Measurement of Normal Incidence Sound Transmission of Acoustical Materials Based on the Transfer Matrix Method (American Society for Testing and Materials, West Conshohocken, 2009)]. The process of physically handling the two required passive absorbing loads is a possible source of measurement errors, which are mainly due to changes in sample test position, or in test setup re-assembly, between measurements. In this paper, a modified transmission tube apparatus is proposed for non-intrusively changing the downstream acoustic load by means of a combined passive-active termination. It provides a controlled variable sound absorption which simplifies the setup of standard two-load techniques, without the need of physically handling the apparatus during the tests. This virtually eliminates the risk of errors associated with the physical manipulation of the two passive terminations. Transmission loss measurements in some representative test conditions are reported, showing improvements over current implementations, in reducing by approximately 50% the measurement variations associated with the setup of the two required absorbing terminations. Measurement results agree within 0.4 dB (maximum difference in high resolution broadband), and 0.04 dB (mean difference in 1/3-octave bands), with those obtained using standard passive two-load methods.
Draft Genome Sequence of Marinobacter hydrocarbonoclasticus Strain STW2, a Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon-Degrading and Denitrifying Bacterium from the Rhizosphere of Seagrass
Enhalus acodoides
Authors: Ling Juan , Lin Liyun , Zhang Yanying , Lin Xiancheng , Ahamad Manzoor , Zhou Weiguo , Dong Junde
Published: February 2017

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Marinobacter hydrocarbonoclasticus
strain STW2, which was isolated from the rhizosphere of seagrass
Enhalus acodoides
. This study will facilitate future studies on the genetic pathways of marine microbes capable of both polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon degradation and nitrate reduction.
Draft Genome Sequence of Bradyrhizobium elkanii Tn
phoA
33, a Producer of Polyhydroxyalkanoates
Authors: Lopes Erica M. , Kishi Luciano T. , Fernandes Camila C. , Paganelli Fernanda Larozza , Alves Lucia M. C. , Lemos Eliana G. M. , de Souza Jackson A. Marcondes
Published: February 2017

The genus
Bradyrhizobium
comprises bacteria with the ability to form nitrogen-fixing symbioses with legumes. They are of great interest in agriculture, as well as for the production of biopolymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates. Here, we report the draft genome assembly of
Bradyrhizobium elkanii
Tn
phoA
33 comprising 9 Mb, 1,124 contigs, and 9,418 open reading frames.
Complete Genome Sequence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Type 2 Reference Strain FH Using Single-Molecule Real-Time Sequencing Technology
Authors: Desai Heta P. , Morrison Shatavia S. , Diaz Maureen H. , Benitez Alvaro J. , Wolff Bernard J. , Winchell Jonas M.
Published: February 2017

Mycoplasma pneumoniae
type 2 strain FH was previously sequenced with Illumina (FH-Illumina) and 454 (FH-454) technologies according to Xiao et al. (2015) and Krishnakumar et al. (2010). Comparative analyses revealed differences in genomic content between these sequences, including a 6-kb region absent from the FH-454 submission. Here, we present a complete genome sequence of FH sequenced with the Pacific Biosciences RSII platform.
Genome Sequence of Novel Human Parechovirus Type 17
Authors: Böttcher Sindy , Obermeier Patrick E. , Diedrich Sabine , Kaboré Yolande , D’Alfonso Rossella , Pfister Herbert , Kaiser Rolf , Di Cristanziano Veronica
Published: February 2017

Human parechoviruses (HPeV) circulate worldwide, causing a broad variety of symptoms, preferentially in early childhood. We report here the nearly complete genome sequence of a novel HPeV type, consisting of 7,062 nucleotides and encoding 2,179 amino acids. M36/CI/2014 was taxonomically classified as HPeV-17 by the picornavirus study group.
Draft Genome Sequencing of Ascomycetes Yeast
Pichia membranifaciens
KS47-1, Which Shows High Acetate Resistance in Lignocellulosic Feedstock Hydrolysate
Authors: Konishi Masaaki , Arakawa Tomoko , Kato Yuta , Ishida Masashi , Horiuchi Jun-ichi
Published: February 2017

Pichia membranifaciens
KS47-1 is capable of growing on hydrolysate containing high concentrations of acetate and other growth inhibitors. To reveal the acetate-resistant associate genes of strain KS47-1, we present the 11.4-Mb draft genome sequence.
Factors influencing medical students' motivation to practise in rural areas in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Budhathoki Shyam Sundar , Zwanikken Prisca A C , Pokharel Paras K , Scherpbier Albert J
Published: February 2017

Objectives

There is a shortage of doctors working in rural areas all over the world, especially in low-income and middle-income countries. The choice to practise medicine in a rural area is influenced by many factors. Motivation developed as a medical student is one key determinant of this choice. This study explores influences on medical students' motivation to practise in rural areas of low-income and middle-income countries following graduation.

Design

A systematic review was conducted to identify influences on medical students' motivation to work in rural areas in low-income and middle-income countries. Papers reporting influences on motivation were included, and content analysis was conducted to select the articles. Articles not published in English were excluded from this review.

Results

A rural background (ie, being brought up in a rural area), training in rural areas with a community-based curriculum, early exposure to the community during medical training and rural location of medical school motivate medical students to work in rural areas. Perceived lack of infrastructure, high workload, poor hospital management and isolation are among the health facility factors that demotivate medical students for medical practice in rural areas.

Conclusions

Medical school selection criteria focusing on a rural background factor and medical education curriculum focusing on rural area are more relevant factors in low-income and middle-income countries. The factors identified in this review may assist the planners, medical educators and policymakers in low-income and middle-income countries in designing relevant interventions to positively influence rural choices where the shortage of rural physicians is an ongoing and increasing concern.
Diversity of nodular bacteria ofScorpiurus muricatusin western Algeria and their impact on plant growth
Authors: Bouchiba Zoulikha , Boukhatem Zineb Faiza , Ighilhariz Zohra , Derkaoui Nouria , Kerdouh Benaissa , Abdelmoumen Hanaa , Abbas Younes , Missbah El Idrissi Mustapha , Bekki Abdelkader
Published: February 2017

A total of 51 bacterial strains were isolated from root nodules of Scorpiurus muricatus sampled from 6 regions of western Algeria. Strain diversity was assessed by rep-PCR amplification fingerprinting, which grouped the isolates into 28 different clusters. Partial nucleotide sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and BLAST analysis revealed that root nodules of S. muricatus were colonized by different species close to Rhizobium vignae, Rhizobium radiobacter, Rhizobium leguminosarum, Phyllobacterium ifriqiyense, Phyllobacterium endophyticum, Starkeya sp., and Pseudomonas sp. However, none of these strains was able to form nodules on its host plant; even nodC was present in a single strain (SMT8a). The inoculation test showed a great improvement in the growth of inoculated plants compared with noninoculated control plants. A significant amount of indole acetic acid was produced by some strains, but only 2 strains could solubilize phosphate. In this report we described for the first time the diversity of bacteria isolated from root nodules of S. muricatus growing in different regions in western Algeria and demonstrated their potential use in promoting plant growth.
Acupuncture and Traditional Herbal Medicine Therapy Prevent Deliriumin Patients with Cardiovascular Disease in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Matsumoto-Miyazaki Jun , Ushikoshi Hiroaki , Miyata Shusaku , Miyazaki Nagisa , Nawa Takahide , Okada Hideshi , Ojio Shinsuke , Ogura Shinji , Minatoguchi Shinya
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of combination therapy consisting of acupuncture and traditional herbal medicine (Kampo medicine) for reducing the incidence rate of delirium in patients with cardiovascular (CV) disease in ICUs. Twenty-nine patients who had been urgently admitted to the ICU in the control period were treated with conventional intensive care. Thirty patients in the treatment period received conventional therapy plus a combination therapy consisting of acupuncture and herbal medicine. Acupuncture treatment was performed once a day, and the herbal formula was administered orally three times a day during the first week of the ICU stay. The standard acupuncture points were GV20, Ex-HN3, HT7, LI4, Liv3, and KI3, and the main herbal preparation was Kamikihito. The incident rates of delirium, assessed using the confusion assessment method for ICU, in the treatment and control period were compared. The incidence rate of delirium was significantly lower in the treatment group than in the control group (6.6% vs. 37.9%, [Formula: see text]). Moreover, sedative drugs and non-pharmacological approaches against aggressive behavior of patients who were delirious were used less in the treatment group than in the control group. No serious adverse events were observed in the treatment group. Combination therapy consisting of acupuncture and herbal medicine was found to be effective in lowering the incidence of delirium in patients with CV disease in ICUs. Further studies with a large sample size and parallel randomized controlled design would be required to establish the effects of this therapy.
Stephania Tetrandra and Ginseng-Containing Chinese Herbal Formulation NSENL Reverses Cisplatin Resistance in Lung Cancer Xenografts
Authors: Jin Ling , Xu Meng , Luo Xue-Hua , Zhu Xiao-Feng
Published: February 2017

Chinese Herbal Formulation, supplement energy and nourish lung (SENL), effectively enhances chemotherapeutic efficacy in lung cancer treatment and reverses multi-drug resistance (MDR) in lung cancer cells in vitro. The present study is designed to assess the effect of a New SENL (NSENL, modification of SENL) formulation on resistance to chemotherapy of cisplatin (DDP)-resistant human lung cancer cell line (A549/DDP) xenografts in nude mice. We assessed six constituents in NSENL by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). BALB/c nude mice harboring A549/DDP cell xenografts were established to assess the antitumor effect of NSENL and its impact on the expression of MDR related genes. The six constituents in NSENL, including ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Rb1, ginsenoside Rg3, astragaloside IV, ophiopogonin D and tetrandrine were quantitated simultaneously by HPLC. The combination of NSENL with DDP significantly inhibited tumor growth at a rate of up to 66.8% ([Formula: see text]). In addition, NSENL as monotherapy or combined with DDP downregulated multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 (MRP1), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) at both the mRNA and protein levels ([Formula: see text]), reduced glutathione S-transferase π (GST-π) protein expression and tumor microvascular density as well as decreased phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) ([Formula: see text]). These findings demonstrated that NSENL can reverse MDR in A549/DDP cells in vivo, an effect possibly associated with downregulation of MDR-associated genes as well as inhibition of bFGF/FGFR and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways.
Random Subclasses Ensembles by Using 1-Nearest Neighbor Framework
Authors: Ahmad Amir , Abujabal Hamza , Aswani Kumar C.
Published: February 2017

A classifier ensemble is a combination of diverse and accurate classifiers. Generally, a classifier ensemble performs better than any single classifier in the ensemble. Naive Bayes classifiers are simple but popular classifiers for many applications. As it is difficult to create diverse naive Bayes classifiers, naive Bayes ensembles are not very successful. In this paper, we propose Random Subclasses (RS) ensembles for Naive Bayes classifiers. In the proposed method, new subclasses for each class are created by using 1-Nearest Neighbor (1-NN) framework that uses randomly selected points from the training data. A classifier considers each subclass as a class of its own. As the method to create subclasses is random, diverse datasets are generated. Each classifier in an ensemble learns on one dataset from the pool of diverse datasets. Diverse training datasets ensure diverse classifiers in the ensemble. New subclasses create easy to learn decision boundaries that in turn create accurate naive Bayes classifiers. We developed two variants of RS, in the first variant RS(2), two subclasses per class were created whereas in the second variant RS(4), four subclasses per class were created. We studied the performance of these methods against other popular ensemble methods by using naive Bayes as the base classifier. RS(4) outperformed other popular ensemble methods. A detailed study was carried out to understand the behavior of RS ensembles.
Effects of electromagnetic field on the motion of particles in dyonic Reissner–Nordström black hole
Authors: Sharif M. , Iftikhar Sehrish
Published: February 2017

This paper explores dynamics of particles in the combined gravitational and electromagnetic fields of the dyonic Reissner–Nordström background. We discuss possibilities for the particle escape to infinity at inner most stable circular orbit. We study the stability of orbit through Lyapunov exponent and the effective force on particle. The collision of particles is investigated through the center of mass energy near the horizon of black hole. Finally, we compare our results with the motion of particles around Schwarzschild and Reissner–Nordström black hole. We conclude that charge of the black hole has a strong effect on the motion of particles.
An Extension of the Solidarity Value for Environments with Externalities
Authors: Rodríguez-Segura Julio , Sánchez-Pérez Joss
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we propose an axiomatic extension for the Solidarity value of Nowak and Radzik [1994] A solidarity value for [Formula: see text]-person transferable utility games, Int. J. Game Theor. 23, 43–48] to the class of games with externalities. This value is characterized as the unique function that satisfies linearity, symmetry, efficiency and average nullity. In this context, we discuss a key subject of how to extend the concept of average marginal contribution to settings where externalities are present.
Computational study on transfer of L-ascorbic acid by UlaA throughEscherichia colimembrane
Authors: Faghih-Mirzaee Ehsan , Dehestani Maryam , Zeidabadinejad Leila
Published: February 2017

In this study, the transfer of L-ascorbic acid by UlaA through Escherichia coli (E. coli) membrane was evaluated using density functional theory (DFT), molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation methods. DFT calculations at the B3lyp/6[Formula: see text]311[Formula: see text]G(p,d) level were performed to investigate the interaction properties and molecular descriptors. The physical properties, such as chemical potential, chemical hardness, and chemical electrophilicity of all studied molecules, were investigated. Natural population analysis was employed to describe the state of charge transfer between interactions using the natural bond orbital (NBO). The atoms in molecules (AIM) theory was used to examine the properties of the bond critical points such as their electron densities and Laplacians. Molecular docking studies showed that L-ascorbic acid was bounded to the internal cavity of UlaA. It was found that there were some hydrogen bond interactions between L-ascorbic acid and active sites of UlaA. The results of the MD simulation showed that the root mean square deviation (RMSD) of UlaA and L-ascorbic acid bound-UlaA reached equilibrium after 3.7[Formula: see text]ns. An evaluation of the radius of gyration ([Formula: see text]) revealed that UlaA and L-ascorbic acid bound-UlaA were stabilized around 10,000[Formula: see text]ns. Finally, analysis of the RMS fluctuations suggested that the structure of the L-ascorbic acid binding site remained approximately rigid during simulation. All obtained results shed light on the special manner of L-ascorbic acid transfer through E. coli membrane, and confirmed the results of previous studies on this issue.
Cosmic space and Pauli exclusion principle in a system of M0-branes
Authors: Capozziello Salvatore , Saridakis Emmanuel N. , Bamba Kazuharu , Sepehri Alireza , Rahaman Farook , Ali Ahmed Farag , Pincak Richard , Pradhan Anirudh
Published: February 2017

An emergence of cosmic space has been suggested by Padmanabhan [Emergence and expansion of cosmic space as due to the quest for holographic equipartition, arXiv:hep-th/1206.4916] where he proposed that the expansion of the universe originates from a difference between the number of degrees of freedom on a holographic surface and the one in the emerged bulk. Now, a natural question that arises is how this proposal would explain the production of fermions and an emergence of the Pauli exclusion principle during the evolution of the universe? We try to address this issue in a system of [Formula: see text]-branes. In this model, there is a high symmetry and the system is composed of [Formula: see text]-branes to which only scalar fields are attached that represent scalar modes of the graviton. Then, when [Formula: see text]-branes join each other and hence form [Formula: see text]-branes, this symmetry is broken and gauge fields are formed. Therefore, these [Formula: see text]-branes interact with the anti-[Formula: see text]-branes and the force between them leads to a break of a symmetry such as the lower and upper parts of these branes are not the same. In these conditions, gauge fields which are localized on [Formula: see text]-branes and scalars which are attached to them symmetrically, decay to fermions with upper and lower spins which attach to the upper and lower parts of the [Formula: see text]-branes anti-symmetrically. The curvature produced by the coupling of identical spins has the opposite sign of the curvature produced by non-identical spins which lead to an attractive force between anti-parallel spins and a repelling force between parallel spins and hence an emergence of the Pauli exclusion principle. By approaching [Formula: see text]-branes to each other, the difference between curvatures of parallel spins and curvatures of anti-parallel spins increases, which leads to an inequality between the number of degrees of freedom on the surface and the one in the emerged bulk and hence lead to an occurrence of the cosmic expansion. By approaching [Formula: see text]-branes to each other, the square of the energy of the system becomes negative and hence tachyonic states arise. To remove these states, [Formula: see text]-branes compactify, the sign of gravity changes and anti-gravity emerges which leads to the branes moving away from each other. By joining [Formula: see text]-branes, [Formula: see text]-branes are produced which are similar to an initial system that oscillates between compacting and opening branches. Our universe is placed on one of these [Formula: see text]-branes and by changing the difference between the amount of couplings between identical and non-identical spins, it contracts or expands.
A Porphyrin Molecularly Imprinted Biomimetic Electrochemical Sensor Based on Gold Nanoparticles and Carboxyl Graphene Composite for the Highly Efficient Detection of Methyl Parathion
Authors: He Bin , Mao Ya-Li , Zhang Ya , Yin Wei , Hou Chang-Jun , Huo Dan-Qun , Fa Huan-Bao
Published: February 2017

A highly sensitive and selective biomimetic sensor based on zinc porphyrin molecularly imprinted Polymer microspheres (MIPMs), gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and carboxyl graphene (CG) nanomaterials was successfully developed for direct electrochemical detection of methyl parathion (MP). The novel strategy emphasized the fabrication of a porphyrin zinc-based sensor via attaching MIPMs on AuNPs/CG nanocomposites. MIPMs was prepared by free radical polymerization using MP as the template, Zinc porphyrin as the functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as the cross-linking reagent and azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as the initiator. The introduction of AuNPs/CG significantly increased the effective electrode area, and amplified the sensor signal. The modified electrode was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The parameters of the detection process were also optimized. The biomimetic sensor exhibits a much wider linear dynamic range between 1.0[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mol L[Formula: see text] and 8.0[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mol L[Formula: see text] and the limit of detection (LOD) down to 3.16[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mol L[Formula: see text] based on S/N [Formula: see text] 3. The sensor had good reproducibility, stability and selectivity for MP detection. The developed sensor was successfully employed for the detection of MP in real samples.
Modeling of a distillation column based on NARMAX and Hammerstein models
Authors: Aggoune Lakhdar , Chetouani Yahya
Published: February 2017

The modeling of distillation column process is a very challenging problem because of the complex dynamic behavior. This paper investigates a Nonlinear Autoregressive Moving Average with eXogenous input (NARMAX) model, and a Hammerstein model to approximate the evolution of the overhead temperature in a separation system. The model development and validation are studied through experiments carried out on a distillation plant of laboratory scale. Three model order selection criteria such as Aikeke’s Information Criterion (AIC), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) are used to evaluate the prediction performance of the process behavior. The results illustrate that both models produce acceptable predictions but the NARMAX model outperforms the Hammerstein model.