bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apparent [O iii] variability in the narrow line Seyfert I Mrk142
Authors: Zhang Xue-Guang , Feng Long-Long
Published: January 2016

In this Letter, we checked spectral properties of the well-known narrow line Seyfert I Mrk142, in order to try to find effects of narrow line variability on BLR radius of Mrk142 which is an outlier in the R–L plane. Although, no improvement can be found on BLR radius, apparent narrow line variability can be confirmed in Mrk142. Using the public spectra collected from the Lick AGN Monitoring Project, the spectral scaling method based on assumption of constant [O iii] line is first checked by examining broad and narrow emission line properties. We find that with the application of the spectral scaling method, there is a strong correlation between the [O iii] line flux and the [O iii] line width, but weaker correlations between the broad Hα flux and the broad Hβ flux, and between the broad Hα flux and the continuum emission at 5100 Å. The results indicate that the assumption of constant [O iii] line is not preferred, and caution should be exercised when applying the spectral scaling calibration method. And then, we can find a strong correlation between the [O iii] line flux and the continuum emission at 5100 Å, which indicates apparent short-term variability of the [O iii] line in Mrk142 over about two months.
Great Northern Bean Could Improve the Nutritional Value of Instant Noodles
Authors: Wang Hui , Ratnayake Wajira S.
Published: January 2016

Instant noodles were prepared by substituting hard red winter (HRW) wheat flour with Great Northern bean powder (GNBP) at selected levels (0–60%) using a pilot‐scale noodle processing machine. The functional properties, water absorption, water solubility, and pasting profiles of flour mixtures were tested to verify the process tolerances of ingredients. Prepared noodle samples were evaluated for color, cooking quality, texture, and sensory properties. Slight color differences, an increased cooking loss, and reduced chewiness, cohesiveness, and hardness were observed in cooked noodles that were prepared with GNBP up to 25% of HRW wheat flour weight. The results suggest that HRW wheat flour could be replaced up to 20% (w/w) with GNBP, while still using the conventional processing conditions, to improve the product nutritional value (i.e., increased protein and fiber contents and reduced fat content) (P < 0.05).
Effectiveness of Selective Thoracic Fusion in the Surgical Treatment of Syringomyelia-associated Scoliosis
Authors: Qin Xiaodong , Sun Weixiang , Xu Leilei , Qiu Yong , Zhu Zezhang
Published: January 2016

Study Design.

A retrospective case-control study

Objective.

The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of selective thoracic fusion in the surgical treatment of patients with syringomyelia-associated scoliosis.

Summary of Background Data.

Selective thoracic fusion technique was introduced to treat idiopathic scoliosis patients with major thoracic curve. Theoretically, such therapeutic philosophy could be applied to syringomyelia patients. There is no previous study that specifically addresses the effectiveness of selective thoracic fusion in patients with syringomyelia-associated scoliosis.

Methods.

Two groups of scoliosis patients were enrolled, including 52 patients with syringomyelia-associated scoliosis and 52 patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Selective thoracic fusion was performed for both groups. Radiographic parameters including Cobb angle, apical vertebral translation, trunk shift, thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis, and sagittal vertical axis were measured on the standing posteroanterior and lateral radiographs before surgery, 1 week postoperatively and at the final follow-up, respectively. Inter- and intragroup comparisons were performed for each variable.

Results.

Patients of the two groups were matched in terms of age, sex, fusion levels, duration of follow-up, and all preoperative radiographic parameters except for TK. At the final follow-up, the coronal correction of the thoracic curve was comparable between the two groups (58.8 ± 10.2% vs. 61.3 ± 8.7%, P = 0.25). Moreover, the two groups were observed to have a similar improvement of lumbar curve (62.4 ± 7.3% vs. 64.9 ± 6.9%, P = 0.33). The mean correction loss of thoracic curve and lumbar curve in syringomyelia group were 3.6 ± 3.2% and 5.3 ± 1.8% respectively, showing no statistical difference when compared with those of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis group. The sagittal spinal alignments of the two groups, including TK and lumbar lordosis, were similarly maintained during the follow-up.

Conclusion.

Syringomyelia-associated scoliosis can be successfully corrected through selective thoracic fusion surgery with a promising long-term surgical outcome.

Level of Evidence: 3
Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Intraocular Pressure in Men and Women: A Population-based Study
Authors: Cohen Eytan , Kramer Michal , Shochat Tzippy , Goldberg Elad , Garty Moshe , Krause Ilan
Published: January 2016

Purpose:

To assess the possibility of a relationship between body mass index (BMI) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in both men and women.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of a database from a screening center in Israel which assessed 18,575 subjects, within an age range 20 to 80 years.

Results:

The mean (±SD) age of the study sample was 46 (±10) years, 68% were men. A positive linear correlation was found between BMI and IOP for both men and women (r=0.166, P<0.0001 in men and r=0.202, P<0.0001 in women). Mean (95% confidence interval) IOP in subjects with BMI<25 kg/m2 was 12.8 mm Hg (range, 12.7 to 12.9 mm Hg) and increased significantly to 13.4 (range, 13.3 to 13.5 mm Hg); 13.9 mm Hg (range, 13.8 to14.0 mm Hg), and 14.3 mm Hg (range, 14.1 to 14.5 mm Hg) for BMI subcategories 25 to 29.9, 30 to 35, and >35 kg/m2, respectively (P<0.0001). These differences remained significant after multivariate adjustment for age, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus (P<0.0001). Similar multivariate adjustments showed that the coefficient factors for BMI (95% confidence interval) affecting IOP were 0.087 (range, 0.076 to 0.098) P<0.0001 and 0.070 (range, 0.058 to 0.082) P<0.0001 for men and women respectively, indicating that in men and women, the changes in IOP associated with a 10 kg/m2 increase in BMI were 0.9 and 0.7 mm Hg, respectively. Subjects with abnormal BMI compared with subjects with normal BMI had increased odds ratio of having IOP≥18 mm Hg after adjusting for confounding factors (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

This study shows that obesity is an independent risk factor for increasing IOP in both men and women. We consider this finding particularly pertinent in the context of the current obesity epidemic.
Influence of Morbid Obesity on the Clinical Pharmacokinetics of Various Anti-Infective Drugs: Reappraisal Using Recent Case Studies—Issues, Dosing Implications, and Considerations
Authors: Srinivas Nuggehally R.
Published: January 2016

Owing to availability of scanty pharmacokinetic data, dosing decisions in morbid obesity is increasingly challenging in the field of anti-infective drugs. However, in recent years data are emerging that describe the pharmacokinetics of anti-infective drugs in morbidly obese subjects. The objectives of the present work were: (1) to collate the recent reports pertaining to the pharmacokinetics in morbidly obese subjects for several anti-infective drugs and provide an overview of the pharmacokinetic data along with the applicable pharmacodynamics and/or clinical outcome; (2) to perform regression analysis on limited dataset for a few drugs to verify the existence of relationships between Cmax/Ctrough versus steady-state volume of distribution (Vss)/clearance to enable data prediction in morbid obesity subjects; (3) to provide a general discussion on issues and dosing implications. The key findings of this review were: (a) drugs such as vancomycin, ethambutol, and fluconazole, where the VSS is substantially greater in morbidly obese patients, need a dosing strategy with the appropriate body mass descriptors; (b) other drugs such as moxifloxacin, linezolid, doripenem, meropenem, voriconazole, oseltamivir, tigecycline, levofloxacin may not ordinarily need dosing adjustments; (c) using regression analysis of limited data, it seemed that drugs such as vancomycin, voriconazole, oseltamivir, and oseltamivir carboxylate may be amenable for the prediction of VSS and/or clearance in morbid obesity patients.
Comparison of Dual-ISH (DISH) With Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) and Correlation With Immunohistochemical Findings for HER2/Neu Status in Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Layfield Lester J. , Wallander Michelle L. , Tripp Sheryl R. , Redpath Stella , Banks Peter M.
Published: January 2016

Introduction:

The most widely used methods for determination of HER2/neu status in breast carcinoma are immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Both techniques are associated with technical and interpretive difficulties. Alternative methods exist including quantitative PCR and the newly developed chromogenic dual in situ hybridization (DISH).

Methods:

We evaluated HER2 DISH as an alternative to FISH and report our findings from 101 cases. In addition, we correlated HER2 DISH and FISH results with HercepTest and 4B5 immunohistochemistry.

Results:

Eight cases failed FISH analysis and none failed DISH analysis. A 95% (88/93) concordance was found between DISH and FISH for all cases in the series. When only 2+ IHC cases were evaluated, the concordance was 94% for DISH and FISH. Using the 2013 ASCO/CAP recommendations, none of the tested cases were equivocal by FISH or DISH despite 66% of cases being 2+ by HercepTest and 32% by the 4B5 antibody.

Comment:

Our study, which utilizes a majority of IHC equivocal cases, demonstrates that HER2 FISH and DISH are concordant methodologies. HER2 DISH is therefore an acceptable alternative to FISH.
An Androgen Receptor–positive Carcinoma of the Lacrimal Drainage System Resembling Salivary Duct Carcinoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Rahimi Siavash , Lambiase Alessandro , Brennan Peter A. , Abdolrahimzadeh Solmaz
Published: January 2016

Carcinomas of the lacrimal drainage apparatus are rare and due to their aggressive behavior, they usually require extensive surgical treatment. We report a unique case of a 60-year-old man presenting with proptosis found to have a mass in the lacrimal drainage system on magnetic resonance imaging. Histology revealed a high-grade carcinoma with morphologic features of salivary gland duct carcinoma. Immunohistochemistry showed an extensive positive staining to androgen receptor. This is the first report of salivary gland–like duct carcinoma of the lacrimal drainage apparatus. Androgen receptor should be included in the immunohistochemical panel for the diagnostic work-up of lacrimal drainage system carcinomas, which resemble salivary gland duct carcinoma. This finding could have important diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
High-resolution neutron and X-ray diffraction room-temperature studies of an H-FABP–oleic acid complex: study of the internal water cluster and ligand binding by a transferred multipolar electron-density distribution
Authors: Howard E. I. , Guillot B. , Blakeley M. P. , Haertlein M. , Moulin M. , Mitschler A. , Cousido-Siah A. , Fadel F. , Valsecchi W. M. , Tomizaki Takashi , Petrova T. , Claudot J. , Podjarny A.
Published: January 2016

Crystal diffraction data of heart fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP) in complex with oleic acid were measured at room temperature with high-resolution X-ray and neutron protein crystallography (0.98 and 1.90 Å resolution, respectively). These data provided very detailed information about the cluster of water molecules and the bound oleic acid in the H-FABP large internal cavity. The jointly refined X-ray/neutron structure of H-FABP was complemented by a transferred multipolar electron-density distribution using the parameters of the ELMAMII library. The resulting electron density allowed a precise determination of the electrostatic potential in the fatty acid (FA) binding pocket. Bader's quantum theory of atoms in molecules was then used to study interactions involving the internal water molecules, the FA and the protein. This approach showed H...H contacts of the FA with highly conserved hydrophobic residues known to play a role in the stabilization of long-chain FAs in the binding cavity. The determination of water hydrogen (deuterium) positions allowed the analysis of the orientation and electrostatic properties of the water molecules in the very ordered cluster. As a result, a significant alignment of the permanent dipoles of the water molecules with the protein electrostatic field was observed. This can be related to the dielectric properties of hydration layers around proteins, where the shielding of electrostatic interactions depends directly on the rotational degrees of freedom of the water molecules in the interface.
Crystal structures of (S)-(+)-5-(3-bromo/chloro-4-isopropoxyphenyl)-5-methylimidazolidine-2,4-dione
Authors: Ohba Shigeru , Koura Minoru , Sumida Hisashi , Shibuya Kimiyuki
Published: January 2016

In (S)-(+)-5-(3-bromo-4-isopropoxyphenyl)-5-methylimidazolidine-2,4-dione, C13H15BrN2O3, (I), the hydantoin groups are connectedviaintermolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming a terraced sheet structure. In the chloro analogue, (S)-(+)-5-(3-chloro-4-isopropoxyphenyl)-5-methylimidazolidine-2,4-dione, C13H15ClN2O3, (II), the intermolecular N—H...O hydrogen-bonding network forms a flat sheet. Comparison of the crystal structures reveals that (II) is more loosely packed than (I).
Two mixed-ligand lanthanide–hydrazone complexes: [Pr(NCS)3(pbh)2]·H2O and [Nd(NCS)(NO3)(pbh)2(H2O)]NO3·2.33H2O [pbh isN′-(pyridin-2-ylmethylidene)benzohydrazide, C13H11N3O]
Authors: Paschalidis Damianos G. , Harrison William T. A.
Published: January 2016

The gel-mediated syntheses and crystal structures of [N′-(pyridin-2-ylmethylidene-κN)benzohydrazide-κ2N′,O]tris(thiocyanato-κN)praseodymium(III) monohydrate, [Pr(NCS)3(C13H11N3O)2]·H2O, (I), and aqua(nitrato-κ2O,O′)[N′-(pyridin-2-ylmethylidene-κN)benzohydrazide-κ2N′,O](thiocyanato-κN)neodymium(III) nitrate 2.33-hydrate, [Nd(NCS)(NO3)(C13H11N3O)2(H2O)]NO3·2.33H2O, (II), are reported. The Pr3+ion in (I) is coordinated by twoN,N,O-tridentateN′-(pyridin-2-ylmethylidene)benzohydrazide (pbh) ligands and threeN-bonded thiocyanate ions to generate an irregular PrN7O2coordination polyhedron. The Nd3+ion in (II) is coordinated by twoN,N,O-tridentate pbh ligands, anN-bonded thiocyanate ion, a bidentate nitrate ion and a water molecule to generate a distorted NdN5O5bicapped square antiprism. The crystal structures of (I) and (II) feature numerous hydrogen bonds, which lead to the formation of three-dimensional networks in each case.
9-(5-Bromo-2-hydroxyphenyl)-10-(2-hydroxyethyl)-3,4,6,7-tetrahydroacridine-1,8(2H,5H,9H,10H)-dione
Authors: Abdelhamid Antar A. , Mohamed Shaaban K. , Simpson Jim
Published: January 2016

In the title compound, C21H22BrNO4, the tetrahydroacridine-1,8-dione unit has a bromohydroxyphenyl-substituent on the central carbon atom of the dihydropyridine ring and a 2-hydroxyethyl substituent on the nitrogen atom. An intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond forms between the hydroxyl substituent on the benzene ring and a carbonyl oxygen from the acridinedione, forming anS(8) ring. The hydroxyl group of the 2-hydroxyethyl residue is disordered over two sites with an occupancy ratio of 0.572 (6):0.428 (6). In the crystal structure O—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds together with Br...O halogen bonds stack the molecules along theb-axis direction.
1-Anilino-5-methyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carbaldehyde
Authors: Cunha Anna C. , Jordão Alessandro K. , Souza Maria C. B. V. de , Ferreira Vitor F. , Almeida Maria C. B. de , Wardell James L. , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: January 2016

The title compound, C10H10N4O, is twisted about the Nring—Naminebond with the dihedral angle between the 1,2,3-triazolyl and N-bound phenyl rings being 79.14 (9)°. The C-bound aldehyde group is coplanar with the triazolyl ring, with the N—C—C—O torsion angle being 3.5 (3)°. While coplanar, the aldehyde O atom is orientated in the opposite direction to the triazolyl-bound methyl group. The most prominent feature of the molecular packing is the formation of zigzag chains (glide symmetry) along thebaxis and mediated by amine-N—H...N(triazolyl) hydrogen bonds. The chains are connected into supramolecular layers by phenyl- and methyl-C—H...O(aldehyde) interactions, with phenyl groups projecting to either side. Layers stack along thecaxis with no directional interactions between them.
Polymeric structure of disodiump-terphenyl-4,4′′-disulfonate [Na2(O3S-C6H4-C6H4-C6H4-SO3]
Authors: Albat Martin , Stock Norbert
Published: January 2016

In the title compound, 2Na+·C18H12O6S22−, the sodium ion is sevenfold coordinated by O atoms of five sulfonate groups (two in a chelating and three in a monodentate binding mode). They form (100) layers of edge-, corner- and face-sharing [NaO7] polyherdra which are interconnected by the terphenyl moieties. The asymmetric unit contains one sodium cation and onep-terphenyl-4,4′′-disulfonate anion on a centre of inversion.
N-Benzyl-N-[2-(N-benzyl-N′,N′,N′′,N′′-tetramethylguanidiniumyl)ethyl]-N′,N′,N′′,N′′-tetramethylguanidinium dibromide 1.5-hydrate
Authors: Tiritiris Ioannis , Kantlehner Willi
Published: January 2016

The asymmetric unit of the hydrated title compound, C26H42N62+·2Br−·1.5H2O, comprises one cation, two bromide anions and one and a half water molecules, as one water molecule is fully occupied and the other is only half occupied [0.500 (6)]. Both bromide ions are disordered over two sites with refined occupancies of 0.938 (3):0.062 (3) and 0.520 (9):0.480 (9). The C—N bond lengths in both central C3N units of the bisguanidinium ion range between 1.336 (3) and 1.349 (3) Å, indicating a degree of double-bond character. The central C atoms are bonded to the three N atoms in a nearly ideal trigonal–planar geometry and the positive charges are delocalized in both CN3planes. The crystal structure is stabilized by a three-dimensional network of O—H...O, O—H...Br and C—H...Br hydrogen bonds.
Local accounting firms’ pricing responses to entry of the Big Four accounting firms into China
Authors: Desai Vikram , Xu Bixia , Zeng Tao
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The historical development and size of China’s audit market provides an opportunity to investigate important questions regarding the functioning of the market for audit services that are difficult, if not impossible, to test in other globally established markets. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of the market entry of the Big Four accounting firms into China on the audit fees charged by its local accounting firms.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this paper the authors rely primarily on the incumbent pricing literature (Simon, 2005; Geroski, 1995) to assist them in developing the specific hypotheses and empirical tests. This paper is an empirical study, which examines whether local incumbent accounting firms cut prices in response to the Big Four’s entry by using data from annual reports and audit reports for China’s listed companies from the 1994 to 2008 period.

Findings

– This study shows that local incumbent firms cut prices post-entry. This study also finds that it was local large-sized accounting firms as well as accounting firms located in regions with highly developed- and competitive markets that cut prices in response to the Big Four’s entry.

Practical implications

– This study has important implications for the Big Four accounting firms as it provides useful information about pricing strategies that would likely be used by local accounting firms in a new market. Local accounting firms in emerging markets can also gain useful insights about the pricing strategies adopted by the Big Four accounting firms when they enter a market.

Originality/value

– Audit market research has little to offer on how local accounting firms respond in their pricing to the entry of Big Four accounting firms into their market, mainly because in western countries such as Canada, England, and the USA, the Big Four accounting firms are the oldest firms operating in those markets. This paper is the first study that examines the effect of the market entry of the Big Four accounting firms into China.
Should I stay or should I go? Customers’ reactions faced with the deterioration of a business relationship
Authors: Vidal David , Fenneteau Hervé , Paché Gilles
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– This paper aims to develop a framework helping managers to understand reactions, adopting the supplier perspective, and starting from the idea that the outcome of the degradation process is mainly determined by customers’ reactions. Inter-organisational relationships are sometimes subject to degradation. When incidents arise, and relationship attractiveness decreases, its evolution becomes uncertain.

Design/methodology/approach

– A case study carried out with a large French industrial company (FabIndus) specialised in the production of supplies destined to a large variety of business sectors. In all, 26 semi-structured interviews were conducted with staff members of FabIndus and clients’ representatives identified as having recently been confronted with deterioration in their relationship.

Findings

– The paper finds that customers’ reactions vary according to the nature of the business relationship and the customer commitment when degradation begins. Using two types of commitment and the exit–voice–loyalty–neglect model, it is possible to identify four types of reactions in the situation of the deterioration of a relationship. For each one of the reactions, the paper defines the response strategy that suppliers may take on.

Originality/value

– The paper underlines the importance of a segmented view of business behaviours faced with the deterioration of a relationship. This can be helpful to elaborate differentiated response strategies, to avoid mutual misunderstandings.
Perceptions of time at work
Authors: Ferreira Aristides Isidoro , Esteves Joana Diniz
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– Activities such as making personal phone calls, surfing on the internet, booking personal appointments or chatting with colleagues may or may not deviate attentions from work. With this in mind, the purpose of this paper is to examine gender differences and motivations behind personal activities employees do at work, as well as individuals’ perception of the time they spend doing these activities.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were obtained from 35 individuals (Mage=37.06 years; SD=7.80) from a Portuguese information technology company through an ethnographic method including a five-day non-participant direct observation (n=175 observations) and a questionnaire with open-ended questions.

Findings

– Results revealed that during a five-working-day period of eight hours per day, individuals spent around 58 minutes doing personal activities. During this time, individuals engaged mainly in socializing through conversation, internet use, smoking and taking coffee breaks. Results revealed that employees did not perceive the time they spent on non-work realted activities accurately, as the values of these perceptions were lower than the actual time. Moreover, through HLM, the findings showed that the time spent on conversation and internet use was moderated by the relationship between gender and the leisure vs home-related motivations associated with each personal activity developed at work.

Originality/value

– This study contributes to the literature on human resource management because it reveals how employees often perceive the time they spend on non-work related activities performed at work inaccurately. This study highlights the importance of including individual motivations when studying gender differences and personal activities performed at work. The current research discusses implications for practitioners and outlines suggestions for future studies.
Computer access and use: understanding the expectations of Indian rural students
Authors: Sampath Kumar B T , Basavaraja M T
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– This study aims to understand the expectations of rural students with respect to their computer access and use. It also made an attempt to learn the expectations of rural students from their schools and local government in providing the information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure.

Design/methodology/approach

– Interview schedules were used to collect the necessary data from the rural students. The interview schedules consisted of various questions that were designed to elicit the expectations of rural students in terms of their usage of computers. A total of 300 interview schedules were collected from the students, and data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (Windows 19.0 version) to test the formulated hypothesis.

Findings

– This study clearly showed that 72 per cent of female and 63.33 per cent of male students have not used a computer. Most of the students opined that lack of support from teachers (91.57 per cent = Male, 94.25 per cent = Female) and non-availability of computers at home and schools (82.10 per cent = Male, 80.55 per cent = Female) were the main reasons for not using the computer. A notable finding of the study was that 93.68 per cent of male and 95.37 per cent of female students were interested in using a computer. Most of the students opined that the state/local government should establish computer laboratories and provide Internet facilities in rural schools.

Originality/value

– This paper has provided useful empirical data regarding the expectations of rural students with respect to their access and use of computers. The results of this study will be more helpful to school authority and government in providing necessary ICT infrastructure to rural schools.
Differences in soil micro‐eukaryotic communities over soil pH gradients are strongly driven by parasites and saprotrophs
Authors: Dupont A. Ö. C. , Griffiths R. I. , Bell T. , Bass D.
Published: January 2016

A recent large‐scale assessment of bacterial communities across a range of UK soil types showed that bacterial community structure was strongly determined by soil pH. We analysed a data set of eukaryotic 454 sequencing 18S rDNA from the surveyed samples and showed significant differences in eukaryotic assemblages according to pH class, mostly between low pH and higher pH soils. Soil eukaryote communities (per sample) differed most at the taxonomic rank approximating to order level. Taxonomies assigned with the Protist Ribosomal Reference and the Silva 119 databases were taxonomically inconsistent, mostly due to differing 18S annotations, although general structure and composition according to pH were coherent. A relatively small number of lineages, mostly putative parasitic protists and fungi, drive most differences between pH classes, with weaker contributions from bacterivores and autotrophs. Overall, soil parasites included a large diversity of alveolates, in particular apicomplexans. Phylogenetic analysis of alveolate lineages demonstrates a large diversity of unknown gregarines, novel perkinsids, coccidians, colpodellids and uncharacterized alveolates. Other novel and/or divergent lineages were revealed across the eukaryote tree of life. Our study provides an in‐depth taxonomic evaluation of micro‐eukaryotic diversity, and reveals novel lineages and insights into their relationships with environmental variables across soil gradients.
How Helicobacter pylori senses, targets and interacts with the gastric epithelium
Authors: Keilberg Daniela , Ottemann Karen M.
Published: January 2016

Helicobacter pylori is a human‐specific pathogen that chronically infects about 50% of the world's population. After travelling through the harsh environment of the stomach lumen, H. pylori colonizes the mucosal surface and within the glands of the human stomach. During colonization, H. pylori uses motility and its chemotaxis signalling system to sense the environment to reach the gastric epithelium for colonization, where it is able to attach to the epithelial surface. The H. pylori population inside the stomach contains a subgroup of bacteria that are attached to the gastric epithelium and a larger subgroup of non‐attached bacteria that are freely swimming. To establish a tight interaction between H. pylori and epithelial cells, the bacterium produces a variety of adhesins and delivers virulence factors. These lead to alterations in the host signalling pathways, inducing pro‐inflammatory responses, apoptosis, uncontrolled cell proliferation, and eventually peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. To prevent disease and find a vaccine or better treatments, it is crucial to understand how H. pylori is able to sense its niche for chronic infection inside the stomach and how its virulence factors interact with the epithelial target cells.
Environmental drivers of microbial community shifts in the giant barrel sponge, Xestospongia muta, over a shallow to mesophotic depth gradient
Authors: Morrow Kathleen M. , Fiore Cara L. , Lesser Michael P.
Published: January 2016

The giant barrel sponge, Xestospongia muta, is a high microbial abundance sponge found on Caribbean coral reefs along shallow to mesophotic depth gradients where multiple abiotic factors change with depth. Sponges were collected along a depth gradient at Little Cayman (LC) and Lee Stocking Island (LSI), and the microbiome of these samples was analysed using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Statistically significant shifts in community structure and dissimilarity (∼ 40%) were detected from 10 to 90 m in LC sponges, but a similar shift was not identified in sponges from 10 to 60 m at LSI (only 17% dissimilar). Additionally, inorganic nutrient levels steadily increased with depth at LSI but not at LC. Based on bulk stable isotopic variability, sponges collected from LC were generally more enriched in 15N and less enriched in 13C as depth increased, suggesting a transition from dependency on photoautotrophy to heterotrophy as depth increased. Patterns of stable isotopic enrichment were largely invariant at LSI, which is also reflected in the more stable microbial community along the depth gradient. It appears that environmental factors that change with depth may contribute to differences in X. muta microbial assemblages, demonstrating the importance of contemporaneous environmental sampling in studies of the microbiome of sponges.
Uses of Macro Social Theory: A Social Housing Case Study
Authors: Bevan Chris , Cowan Dave
Published: January 2016

This article reflects on the use of macro social theoretical perspectives to explain micro social issues, using social housing allocations as a case study. In contrast to a number of social theoretical examinations of social housing allocation schemes in recent years, spanning socio‐legal studies, we argue that ‘cookie‐cutter’ theories may overlook other positions and counter‐factual scenarios. We draw on a sample of local authority allocation schemes to reflect on the growing category of households (commonly termed ‘unhouseables’ by housing officers) which are excluded from appearing on such schemes because of their former housing deviance or some other disqualification. We offer a set of reflections grounded in our data, which focus on sustainability. Thus, rather than point to particular rationalities or the like, we offer particular housing issues as explanatory factors – including the declining stock and financial ‘competitiveness’ of social housing management – as well as a rise in punitiveness.
Ventilator‐assisted preoxygenation: Protocol for combining non‐invasive ventilation and apnoeic oxygenation using a portable ventilator
Authors: Grant Steven , Khan Faisal , Keijzers Gerben , Shirran Mark , Marneros Leo
Published: January 2016

Objective

To describe a simple protocol for ventilator‐assisted preoxygenation (VAPOX) prior to rapid sequence intubation in the ED using a Hamilton T1 ventilator in an effort to further reduce the incidence of transient and critical hypoxaemia.

Methods

Ventilator‐assisted preoxygenation includes the following steps; preparation for rapid sequence intubation as per institutional protocols, including departmental checklists. Hamilton T1 ventilator is setup in non‐invasive spontaneous/timed mode with settings as described. The patient is optimally positioned and nasal cannula applied with an oxygen flow rate of 15 L/min. A face mask is applied with the jaw pulled forward using a two‐handed thenar eminence grip and the ventilator is started. Preoxygenation occurs for 3 min. Drugs including neuromuscular blockers are administered, while the operator ensures the airway remains patent. The ventilator transitions into Pressure Controlled Ventilation once apnoea ensues. Nasal oxygen continues until endotracheal tube is successfully secured.

Results

We describe a case series of the first eight consecutive adult patients on who VAPOX was applied. All eight patients were clinically deemed at high risk of oxygen desaturation. No clinically significant hypoxia occurred, and the lowest oxyhaemoglobin desaturation was 92%.

Conclusion

Preoxygenation using a ventilator with an open valve system may allow safe combination of non‐invasive ventilation, pressure controlled ventilation and apnoeic oxygenation using nasal cannula. VAPOX may be the technique of choice to preoxygenate and apnoeic oxygenate many patients who undergo rapid sequence intubation in the ED equipped with these ventilators.
Assessing Fluid Responsiveness in Spontaneously Breathing Patients
Authors: Miller Joseph , Ho Chuan‐Xing , Tang Joy , Thompson Richard , Goldberg Jared , Amer Ahmed , Nahab Bashar
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to test if fasting volunteers exhibit fluid responsiveness using noninvasive hemodynamic measurements. The secondary objective was to test a passive leg raise (PLR) maneuver as a diagnostic predictor of fluid responsiveness.

Methods

This was a quasi‐experimental design involving healthy volunteers. Subjects were excluded for pregnancy and congestive heart failure. Following a 12‐hour fast, subjects had baseline hemodynamic monitoring recorded using noninvasive, continuous pulse contour analysis. Subjects then had a PLR maneuver performed, followed by an intravenous bolus of crystalloid. A rise in stroke volume ≥ 10% from baseline with the bolus was considered consistent with fluid responsiveness, and the same rise with a PLR was consistent with a positive PLR maneuver. The primary outcome was the change in stroke volume with a fluid bolus. Univariate analysis assessed changes in hemodynamic parameters. Logistic regression analysis determined the test characteristics of the PLR in predicting subjects who were ultimately fluid responsive.

Results

Forty subjects completed the study. The mean change in stroke volume with a crystalloid bolus was 19% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 16% to 21%). Thirty‐six (90%) subjects were fluid responsive. The mean PLR response for the overall cohort was 16% (95% CI = 12% to 19%), and 26 (65%) subjects had a positive PLR maneuver. The PLR was 72% sensitive (95% CI = 55% to 85%) and 100% specific (95% CI = 40% to 100%) for predicting the presence of fluid responsiveness.

Conclusions

Noninvasive assessment of fluid responsiveness in healthy volunteers and prediction of this response with a PLR maneuver is achievable. Further work is indicated to test these methods in acutely ill patients.
Brain reactivity to alcohol and cannabis marketing during sobriety and intoxication
Authors: de Sousa Fernandes Perna Elizabeth B. , Theunissen Eef L. , Kuypers Kim P. C. , Evers Elisabeth A. , Stiers Peter , Toennes Stefan W. , Witteman Jurriaan , van Dalen Wim , Ramaekers Johannes G.
Published: January 2016

Drugs of abuse stimulate striatal dopamine release and activate reward pathways. This study examined the impact of alcohol and cannabis marketing on the reward circuit in alcohol and cannabis users while sober and intoxicated. It was predicted that alcohol and cannabis marketing would increase striatal activation when sober and that reward sensitivity would be less during alcohol and cannabis intoxication. Heavy alcohol (n = 20) and regular cannabis users (n = 21) participated in a mixed factorial study involving administration of alcohol and placebo in the alcohol group and cannabis and placebo in the cannabis group. Non‐drug users (n = 20) served as between group reference. Brain activation after exposure to alcohol and cannabis marketing movies was measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging and compared between groups while sober and compared with placebo while intoxicated. Implicit alcohol and cannabis cognitions were assessed by means of a single‐category implicit association test. Alcohol and cannabis marketing significantly increased striatal BOLD activation across all groups while sober. Striatal activation however decreased during intoxication with alcohol and cannabis. Implicit associations with cannabis marketing cues were significantly more positive in alcohol and cannabis users as compared with non‐drug using controls. Public advertising of alcohol or cannabis use elicits striatal activation in the brain's reward circuit. Reduction of marketing would reduce brain exposure to reward cues that motivate substance use. Conversely, elevated dopamine levels protect against the reinforcing potential of marketing.
Granulomatous skin involvement in a patient with an unusual NOD2 mutation
Authors: Kuye Ifedayo O , Adisa Morayo , Nazarian Rosalynn M , Arvikar Sheila L , Smith Gideon P
Published: January 2016

Blau syndrome is a rare disorder that is classically characterised by granulomatous arthritis, skin eruptions and uveitis, which occur in the absence of lung involvement. Blau syndrome has been linked to encoding mutations in the NOD‐2 gene and is inherited in an autosomal dominant form. The most commonly observed mutations are missense substitutions affecting the arginine residue at position 334. The rare E600A mutation has been described as causing uveitis without skin involvement. Our patient is a 54‐year‐old man with an unusual heterozygous c.1799A>C(E600A) mutation, who was seen for bilateral lower extremity swelling and pain. On physical examination, he was found to have lower leg oedema with decreased hair growth on the affected area. Biopsy showed non‐caseating micro‐granulomas consistent with a diagnosis of Blau syndrome. The patient had excellent response to colchicine, but this was stopped because he developed elevated transaminases. Thus, we present an unusual genetic form of a rare condition and we demonstrate skin involvement in a subtype where cutaneous involvement has not hitherto been reported. In addition, the type and presentation of the skin involvement is different from that normally found in classic Blau syndrome. Finally, we report his response to colchicine, although it was ultimately not tolerated by this patient.
The role of STK 11 gene testing in individuals with oral pigmentation
Authors: Duong Bich‐Thu , Winship Ingrid
Published: January 2016

Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare, autosomal dominant condition characterised by mucocutaneous pigmented lesions, gastrointestinal polyposis and a significant risk of cancer. Laugier–Hunziker syndrome (LHS) is a benign condition with similar dermatological features, but with no systemic complications. STK 11 gene testing allows clinicians to differentiate between these two disorders. This case report compares the dermatological similarities in four individuals with PJS or LHS and illustrates the potential benefit of genetic testing. There is > 90% likelihood of identifying a mutation in STK 11 if a patient fulfils the diagnostic criteria for PJS. Lifelong risk management is advised for these individuals with confirmed PJS. Diagnostic confirmation is important to provide rational management, in particular, endoscopic cancer surveillance, and psychological support. STK 11 testing can confirm those at risk of PJS, who require lifelong surveillance, and possibly release those with a simple dermatosis, such as LHS, from invasive and thus potentially harmful surveillance.
Associations of non‐symbolic and symbolic numerical magnitude processing with mathematical competence: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Schneider Michael , Beeres Kassandra , Coban Leyla , Merz Simon , Susan Schmidt S. , Stricker Johannes , De Smedt Bert
Published: January 2016

Many studies have investigated the association between numerical magnitude processing skills, as assessed by the numerical magnitude comparison task, and broader mathematical competence, e.g. counting, arithmetic, or algebra. Most correlations were positive but varied considerably in their strengths. It remains unclear whether and to what extent the strength of these associations differs systematically between non‐symbolic and symbolic magnitude comparison tasks and whether age, magnitude comparison measures or mathematical competence measures are additional moderators. We investigated these questions by means of a meta‐analysis. The literature search yielded 45 articles reporting 284 effect sizes found with 17,201 participants. Effect sizes were combined by means of a two‐level random‐effects regression model. The effect size was significantly higher for the symbolic (r = .302, 95% CI [.243, .361]) than for the non‐symbolic (r = .241, 95% CI [.198, .284]) magnitude comparison task and decreased very slightly with age. The correlation was higher for solution rates and Weber fractions than for alternative measures of comparison proficiency. It was higher for mathematical competencies that rely more heavily on the processing of magnitudes (i.e. mental arithmetic and early mathematical abilities) than for others. The results support the view that magnitude processing is reliably associated with mathematical competence over the lifespan in a wide range of tasks, measures and mathematical subdomains. The association is stronger for symbolic than for non‐symbolic numerical magnitude processing. So symbolic magnitude processing might be a more eligible candidate to be targeted by diagnostic screening instruments and interventions for school‐aged children and for adults.
Evaluation of undergraduate nursing students’ clinical confidence following a mental health recovery camp
Authors: Cowley Thomas , Sumskis Sue , Moxham Lorna , Taylor Ellie , Brighton Renee , Patterson Chris , Halcomb Elizabeth
Published: January 2016

In the present study, we evaluate the impact of participation in a mental health recovery camp on the clinical confidence of undergraduate nursing students in dealing with individuals with mental illness. Twenty undergraduate nursing students who participated in the recovery camp completed the Mental Health Nursing Clinical Confidence Scale both before and directly after attending the camp. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Participation in the recovery camp was associated with a statistically‐significant increase in students’ level of overall confidence between the pretest and post‐test data (P < 0.005). The results also demonstrated that students over the age of 25 years and who do not have a family history of mental illness are more likely to self‐report a higher level of confidence in both the pre‐ and post‐results. The clinical confidence of undergraduate nursing students improved through participation in an immersive clinical experience within the recovery camp.
A randomized controlled pilot study feasibility of a tablet‐based guided audio‐visual relaxation intervention for reducing stress and pain in adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Ezenwa Miriam O. , Yao Yingwei , Engeland Christopher G. , Molokie Robert E. , Wang Zaijie Jim , Suarez Marie L. , Wilkie Diana J.
Published: January 2016

Aim

To test feasibility of a guided audio‐visual relaxation intervention protocol for reducing stress and pain in adults with sickle cell disease.

Background

Sickle cell pain is inadequately controlled using opioids, necessitating further intervention such as guided relaxation to reduce stress and pain.

Design

Attention‐control, randomized clinical feasibility pilot study with repeated measures.

Methods

Randomized to guided relaxation or control groups, all patients recruited between 2013–2014 during clinical visits, completed stress and pain measures via a Galaxy Internet‐enabled Android tablet at the Baseline visit (pre/post intervention), 2‐week posttest visit and also daily at home between the two visits. Experimental group patients were asked to use a guided relaxation intervention at the Baseline visit and at least once daily for 2 weeks. Control group patients engaged in a recorded sickle cell discussion at the Baseline visit. Data were analysed using linear regression with bootstrapping.

Results

At baseline, 27/28 of consented patients completed the study protocol. Group comparison showed that guided relaxation significantly reduced current stress and pain. At the 2‐week posttest, 24/27 of patients completed the study, all of whom reported liking the study. Patients completed tablet‐based measures on 71% of study days (69% in control group, 72% in experiment group). At the 2‐week posttest, the experimental group had significantly lower composite pain index scores, but the two groups did not differ significantly on stress intensity.

Conclusion

This study protocol appears feasible. The tablet‐based guided relaxation intervention shows promise for reducing sickle cell pain and warrants a larger efficacy trial.

Trial registration

The ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier is: NCT02501447.
Using Common Boundaries to Assess Methane Emissions: A Life Cycle Evaluation of Natural Gas and Coal Power Systems
Authors: Littlefield James A. , Marriott Joe , Schivley Greg A. , Cooney Gregory , Skone Timothy J.
Published: January 2016

There is consensus on the importance of upstream methane (CH4) emissions to the life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint of natural gas systems, but inconsistencies among recent studies explain why some researchers calculate a CH4 emission rate of less than 1% whereas others calculate a CH4 emission rate as high as 10%. These inconsistencies arise from differences in data collection methods, data collection time frames, and system boundaries. This analysis focuses on system boundary inconsistencies. Our results show that the calculated CH4 emission rate can increase nearly fourfold not by changing the magnitude of any particular emission source, but by merely changing the portions of the supply chain that are included within the system boundary. Our calculated CH4 emission rate for extraction through pipeline transmission is 1.2% for current practices. Our model allows us to identify GHG contributors in the upstream supply chain, but also allows us to tie upstream findings to complete life cycle scenarios. If applied to the life cycles of power systems and assessed in terms of cumulative radiative forcing, the upstream CH4 emission rate can be as high as 3.2% before the GHG impacts from natural gas power exceed those from coal power at any point during a 100‐year time frame.