bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptualization of Karstic Aquifer with Multiple Outlets Using a Dual Porosity Model
Authors: Hosseini Seiyed Mossa , Ataie‐Ashtiani Behzad
Published: February 2017

In this study, two conceptual models, the classic reservoir (CR) model and exchange reservoirs model embedded by dual porosity approach (DPR) are developed for simulation of karst aquifer functioning drained by multiple outlets. The performances of two developed models are demonstrated at a less developed karstic aquifer with three spring outlets located in Zagros Mountain in the south‐west of Iran using 22‐years of daily data. During the surface recharge, a production function based on water mass balance is implemented for computing the time series of surface recharge to the karst formations. The efficiency of both models has been assessed for simulation of daily spring discharge during the recession and also surface recharge periods. Results indicate that both CR and DPR models are capable of simulating the ordinates of spring hydrographs which drainage less developed karstic aquifer. However, the goodness of fit criteria indicates outperformance of DPR model for simulation of total hydrograph ordinates. In addition, the DPR model is capable of quantifying hydraulic properties of two hydrologically connected overlapping continua conduits network and fissure matrix which lays important foundations for the mining operation and water resource management whereas homogeneous model representations of the karstic subsurface (e.g., the CR) do not work accurately in the karstic environment.
Regression of cutaneous xerosis with emollient treatment in sub‐Saharan African patients
Authors: Boralevi Franck , Meledie N'Djong Alain‐Patrice , Yao Yoboue Pauline , Faye Ousmane , Dieng Mame Thierno , Coniquet Sophie , Atadokpede Félix , Niamba Pascal Antoine , Delarue Alain , Cazeau Christine
Published: February 2017

Emollients have proven effective in improving cutaneous xerosis in various populations; however, no clinical data are available for African patients. The observational study “Xerafrica” was conducted by dermatologists in seven sub‐Saharan countries to assess the evolution of xerosis after an 8‐week treatment with an emollient. Patients were children above 3 years or adults. Secondary objectives were to assess pruritus, improvement in symptoms, quality of life, satisfaction, and tolerance. An analysis of 185 patients was made. After 8 weeks of emollient treatment, the relative reduction of the “Scaling Roughness Redness Cracks” (SRRC) score was −83.9% and −80.4% in children and adults, respectively. The effect was significantly stronger when topical steroids were co‐prescribed with the emollient and in patients with co‐dermatosis. To a lesser extent, the effect of emollient was also observed at week 4. Similarly, pruritus and quality of life strongly improved during follow‐up. Skin lesions improved in almost all patients, with a high level of satisfaction noted by both dermatologists and patients. The “Xerafrica” study addressed, for the first time, the treatment of xerosis by emollients in an African population. In this specific context, the emollient markedly reduced xerosis as soon as 4 weeks and resolved it almost totally by 8 weeks. The study confirms, under real‐life conditions, the efficacy and tolerability of an emollient in improving xerosis.
Prolongation of prothrombin time in the presence of rivaroxaban: is this the only cause?
Authors: Sagheer Safoorah , McRae Simon
Published: February 2017

Rivaroxaban is an oral direct Xa inhibitor that can lead to prolongation of prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time. However, these basic coagulation tests are not specific for the anticoagulant effect of rivaroxaban and other confounding factors should be considered while interpreting the test results. We report a case of a patient on rivaroxaban, where underlying factor VII deficiency led to confusion in the interpretation of prothrombin time results and delayed her surgery.
A framework for transition to specialty practice programmes
Authors: Morphet Julia , Plummer Virginia , Kent Bridie , Considine Julie
Published: February 2017

Aim

To develop a framework for emergency nursing transition to specialty practice programmes.

Background

Transition to Specialty Practice programmes were introduced to fill workforce shortages and facilitate the transition of nurses to specialty nursing practice. These programmes are recognized as an essential preparation for emergency nurses. Emergency nursing Transition to Specialty Practice programmes have developed in an ad hoc manner and as a result, programme characteristics vary. Variability in programme characteristics may result in inconsistent preparation of emergency nurses.

Design

Donabedian's Structure‐Process‐Outcome model was used to integrate results of an Australian study of emergency nursing Transition to Specialty Practice programmes with key education, nursing practice and safety and quality standards to develop the Transition to Specialty Practice (Emergency Nursing) Framework.

Methods

An explanatory sequential design was used. Data were collected from 118 emergency departments over 10 months in 2013 using surveys. Thirteen interviews were also conducted. Comparisons were made using Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis and Chi‐square tests. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis.

Results

Transition to Specialty Practice programmes were offered in 80 (72·1%) emergency departments surveyed, to improve safe delivery of patient care. Better professional development outcomes were achieved in emergency departments which employed participants in small groups (Median = 4 participants) and offered programmes of 6 months duration. Written assessments were significantly associated with articulation to postgraduate study (Chi‐square Fisher's exact P = <0·001).

Conclusion

The Transition to Specialty Practice (Emergency Nursing) Framework has been developed based on best available evidence to enable a standardized approach to the preparation of novice emergency nurses.
Professional values and competencies as explanatory factors for the use of evidence‐based practice in nursing
Authors: Skela‐Savič Brigita , Hvalič‐Touzery Simona , Pesjak Katja
Published: February 2017

Aim

To establish the connection between values, competencies, selected job characteristics and evidence‐based practice use.

Background

Nurses rarely apply evidence‐based practice in everyday work. A recent body of research has looked at various variables explaining the use of evidence‐based practice, but not values and competencies.

Design

A cross‐sectional, non‐experimental quantitative explorative research design.

Methods

Standardized instruments were used (Nurse Professional Values Scale‐R, Nurse Competence Scale, Evidence‐Based Practice Beliefs and Implementation Scale). The sample included 780 nurses from 20 Slovenian hospitals. The data were collected in 2015.

Results

The study identifies two new variables contributing to a better understanding of beliefs on and implementation of evidence‐based practice, thus broadening the existing research evidence. These are the values of activism and professionalism and competencies aimed at the development and professionalization of nursing. Values of caring, trust and justice and competencies expected in everyday practice do not influence the beliefs and implementation of evidence‐based practice. Respondents ascribed less importance to values connected with activism and professionalism and competencies connected with the development of professionalism. Nurses agree that evidence‐based practice is useful in their clinical work, but they lack the knowledge to implement it in practice. Evidence‐based practice implementation in nursing practice is low.

Conclusions

Study results stress the importance of increasing the knowledge and skills on professional values of activism and professionalism and competencies connected to nursing development. The study expands the current understanding of evidence‐based practice use and provides invaluable insight for nursing managers, higher education managers and the national nursing association.
Effects of mindfulness‐based intervention to improve task performance for children with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Kim Jeongil , Kwon Miyoung
Published: February 2017

Background

Task performance is a critical factor for learning in individuals with intellectual disabilities. This study aimed to examine mindfulness‐based intervention (MBI) to improve task performance for children with intellectual disability (ID).

Methods

Three elementary school children with ID participated in the study. A multiple baseline design across subjects was used. The intervention was consisted of “understanding the necessary concept of mindfulness, practice of awareness and attention, and practice focusing on mindful behaviours.” Mediating materials including expressive arts supplies were used to help each subject to understand the content and the progress of the intervention programme.

Results

The results showed that all of the three subjects showed an improvement in task performance and a decrease in task‐avoidance behaviours. The mothers reported that her children's daily life behaviours were distinctively improved as he/she participated in the intervention.

Conclusion

The finding suggests that MBI would be a valuable adjunct to a wide range of applications to support individuals with ID to learn a variety of adaptive behaviour.
Milk fat globule epidermal growth factor 8 inhibits periodontitis in non‐human primates and its gingival crevicular fluid levels can differentiate periodontal health from disease in humans
Authors: Kajikawa Tetsuhiro , Meshikhes Fatimah , Maekawa Tomoki , Hajishengallis Evlambia , Hosur Kavita B. , Abe Toshiharu , Moss Kevin , Chavakis Triantafyllos , Hajishengallis George
Published: February 2017

Aim

We have previously shown that the secreted glycoprotein milk fat globule epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG‐E8) has anti‐inflammatory and anti‐osteoclastogenic properties. Our objective was to investigate the potential of MFG‐E8 as a diagnostic or therapeutic agent in periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

Periodontitis was induced in non‐human primates (NHPs) by placing ligatures around posterior teeth on both halves of the mandible for a split‐mouth design: one side was treated with MFG‐E8‐Fc and the other with Fc control. Disease was assessed by clinical periodontal examinations, radiographic analysis of bone loss, and analysis of cytokine mRNA expression in gingival biopsy samples. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was collected from human healthy volunteers or subjects with gingivitis, chronic moderate periodontitis, or chronic severe periodontitis. Additionally, GCF was collected from a subset of severe periodontitis patients following scaling and root planing (SRP) and after pocket reduction surgery. GCF was analysed to quantify MFG‐E8 and periodontitis‐relevant cytokines using multiplex assays.

Results

In NHPs, sites treated with MFG‐E8‐Fc exhibited significantly less ligature‐induced periodontal inflammation and bone loss than Fc control‐treated sites. In humans, the GCF levels of MFG‐E8 were significantly higher in health than in periodontitis, whereas the reverse was true for the proinflammatory cytokines tested. Consistently, MFG‐E8 was elevated in GCF after both non‐surgical (SRP) and surgical periodontal treatment of periodontitis patients.

Conclusion

MFG‐E8 is, in principle, a novel therapeutic agent and biomarker of periodontitis.
Mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the aggravation of periodontitis by diabetes
Authors: Sun Xiaoyu , Mao Yixin , Dai Panpan , Li Xumin , Gu Weiyan , Wang Huining , Wu Gang , Ma Jianfeng , Huang Shengbin
Published: February 2017

Aim

To elucidate whether mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to aggravated periodontitis in diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Sixty‐four wistar rats were randomly assigned into four groups: control, periodontitis, diabetes, and diabetic periodontitis. Two weeks after induction of diabetes, periodontitis was induced by silk ligation for 2 weeks and thereafter evaluated by assessing alveolar bone loss and apoptosis of periodontium cells. Mitochondrial oxidative stress was detected by MitoSOX staining. Mitochondrial function was determined by measuring ATP production, and by assessing mitochondrial DNA copy number, activities of electron transport chain complexes, and biogenesis with real‐time PCR.

Results

Significantly severer bone loss, enhanced periodontium cell apoptosis, and mitochondrial oxidative stress were found in the rats with diabetic periodontitis than the others. Furthermore, diabetic rats with periodontitis presented severer mitochondrial dysfunction than lean rats with periodontitis, as reflected by compromised ATP production, decreased mitochondrial DNA copy number, reduced gene expression of electron transport chain complex I subunits, and impaired mitochondrial biogenesis (p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis further indicated a close correlation between these mitochondrial events and bone loss in diabetic periodontitis.

Conclusions

Mitochondrial dysfunction was positive correlated to aggravated periodontitis in diabetes and might represent a therapeutic target for diabetic periodontitis.
Advanced serious illness, multimorbidity, and multibeneficence: The role of communication
Authors: Cohn Jeffrey
Published: February 2017

Sturmberg et al write about multimorbidity as “several diagnosable diseases within the same individual.” They posit that this syndrome is the result of multiple interconnected disturbances reflecting scale‐free, fractal signs of pathology ranging from biochemical/hormonal alterations at one end of a spectrum to community and societal ills at the other. In this commentary, I will be focusing on 3 perspectives: 1) a preterminal phase of multimorbidity that is indicative of that loss of reparative or even homeokinetic properties, known by some as “advanced serious illness”; 2) the manifestations of advanced serious illness multimorbidity that, using the same networks that connect into the patient, are signs of this syndrome at the levels of the immediate family/friend social network, the broader community, and society at large; and 3) the potential for these same networks that transmit pathological forces to convey the positive effects of therapeutic interventions in a scale‐free manner, with a focus on how conversation can lead to what I'm calling “multibeneficence.”
The Effect of Treatment of Anemia with Blood Transfusion on Delirium: A Systematic Review
Authors: van der Zanden Vera , Beishuizen Sara J. , Swart Lieke M. , de Rooij Sophia E. , van Munster Barbara C.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

Treating the precipitating factors of delirium is the mainstay of the prevention and treatment of delirium. We aim to investigate the role of anemia and blood transfusion within the multicomponent prevention and treatment strategy of delirium.

Design

Systematic review.

Setting

We included cohort studies or Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) that considered blood transfusion as treatment for delirium or risk factor, and had delirium as outcome.

Participants

Hospitalized patients above 55 years old.

Measurements

We searched MEDLINE from 1946 through November 2014. Quality assessment and data extraction were performed systematically.

Results

We included 23 studies (n = 29,471). The majority of the studies (n = 22) had a limited quality and for one study quality was uncertain. Two studies evaluated the association between transfusion strategy and postoperative delirium and found no association. Twenty‐one studies investigated blood transfusion as a risk factor for delirium. In four of the 21 studies it could be assumed that delirium occurred after transfusion. One of these studies stated that transfusion was a significant risk factor for subsequent delirium (odds ratio (OR) = 3.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.32–10.94). The other three studies found no association between transfusion and delirium. In the remaining 17 studies, it was not clear whether delirium occurred before or after transfusion, so no conclusion could be drawn on the role of transfusion in delirium development.

Conclusion

The majority of the included studies was not suited to answer the research question properly as the time course of the beginning of delirium as to transfusion was lacking. Our review shows that there is no good quality evidence available for blood transfusion to be a risk factor for delirium or to be a preventive or treatment option.
Anatomy, histology, and ultrasonography of the normal adrenal gland in brown lemur: Eulemur fulvus
Authors: Raharison Fidiniaina , Bourges Abella Nathalie , Sautet Jean , Deviers Alexandra , Mogicato Giovanni
Published: February 2017

Background

The medical care currently to brown lemurs (Eulemur fulvus) is limited by a lack of knowledge of their anatomy. The aim of this study was to describe the anatomy and histology and obtain ultrasonographic measurements of normal adrenal glands in these animals.

Methods

The adrenal glands of four lemurs cadavers were used for the anatomical and histological studies, and those of 15 anesthetized lemurs were examined by ultrasonography.

Results

Anatomically, the adrenal glands of brown lemurs are comparable to those of other species. The histological findings showed that the cortex is organized into three distinct layers, whereas most domestic mammals have an additional zone. The surface area of the adrenal glands increased with body weight, and the area of the right adrenal was slightly larger than the left.

Conclusions

We suggest using ultrasonography to aid the etiological diagnosis of behavioral abnormalities that might be due to dysfunctions of the adrenal gland.
Prognostic Value and Development of a Scoring System in Horses With Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Authors: Roy M.‐F. , Kwong G.P.S. , Lambert J. , Massie S. , Lockhart S.
Published: February 2017

Background

Despite its widespread use in equine medicine, the clinical value of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) concept in horses remains unknown.

Objectives

To study the prognostic value of measures of SIRS in horses and identify the best model of severe SIRS to predict outcome.

Animals

A total of 479 consecutive adult horse emergency admissions to a private primary referral practice.

Methods

Prospective observational study. All adult horses admitted for emergency treatment over the study period were included. Multivariate logistic regression and stepwise model selection were used.

Results

Each of the 4 SIRS criteria was associated with outcome in this population. Thirty‐one percent of emergency cases had 2 or more abnormal SIRS criteria on admission and were defined as SIRS cases. SIRS was associated with increased odds of death (odds ratio [OR] = 8.22; 95% CI, 4.61–15.18;P< .001), an effect mainly found for acute gastrointestinal cases. SIRS cases were assigned a SIRS score of 2, 3, or 4, according to the number of abnormal SIRS criteria fulfilled on admission, and SIRS3 and SIRS4 cases had increased odds of death compared to SIRS2 cases (OR = 4.45; 95% CI, 1.78–11.15;P= .002). A model of severe SIRS including the SIRS score, blood lactate concentration, and color of the mucous membranes best predicted outcome in this population of horses.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome is associated with an increased risk of death in adult horses presenting with acute gastrointestinal illnesses. The model of severe SIRS proposed in this study could be used to assess the status and prognosis of adult equine emergency admissions.
Pharmacokinetics of valnemulin after intravenous, intramuscular, and oral administration in layer chickens
Authors: Sun F. , Fan R. , Wang J. , Xiong L. , Shen J. , Zhang S. , Cao X.
Published: February 2017

The pharmacokinetic characteristics of valnemulin in layer chickens were studied after single intravenous, intramuscular, and oral administration at a dose of 15 mg/kg body weight. Plasma samples at certain time points were collected and the drug concentrations in them by ultra high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS). The concentration–time data for each individual were plotted by noncompartmental analysis for the whole three routes. Following intravenous administration, the plasma concentration showed tiny fluctuation. The elimination half‐life (), total body clearance (Cl), and area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) were 1.85 ± 0.43 h, 2.2 ± 0.9 L/h, and 7.52 ± 2.46 μg·h/mL, respectively. Following intramuscular administration, the peak concentration (Cmax, 1.40 ± 0.43 μg/mL) was achieved at the time of 0.34 h. A multiple‐peak phenomenon existed after oral administration, and the first peak and secondary peak were at 10 min and during 2–4 h, respectively, while the tertiary peak appeared during 5–15 h. The bioavailability (F %) for intramuscular and oral administration was 68.60% and 52.64%, respectively. In present study, the detailed pharmacokinetic profiles showed that this drug is widely distributed and rapidly eliminated, however has a low bioavailability, indicating that valnemulin is likely to be a favorable choice in the clinical practice.
Plasmid and clonal interference during post horizontal gene transfer evolution
Authors: Bedhomme S. , Perez Pantoja D. , Bravo I. G.
Published: February 2017

Plasmids are nucleic acid molecules that can drive their own replication in a living cell. They can be transmitted horizontally and can thrive in the host cell to high‐copy numbers. Plasmid replication and gene expression consume cellular resources and cells carrying plasmids incur fitness costs. But many plasmids carry genes that can be beneficial under certain conditions, allowing the cell to endure in the presence of antibiotics, toxins, competitors or parasites. Horizontal transfer of plasmid‐encoded genes can thus instantaneously confer differential adaptation to local or transient selection conditions. This conflict between cellular fitness and plasmid spread sets the scene for multilevel selection processes. We have engineered a system to study the short‐term evolutionary impact of different synonymous versions of a plasmid‐encoded antibiotic resistance gene. Applying experimental evolution under different selection conditions and deep sequencing allowed us to show rapid local adaptation to the presence of antibiotic and to the specific version of the resistance gene transferred. We describe the presence of clonal interference at two different levels: at the within‐cell level, because a single cell can carry several plasmids, and at the between‐cell level, because a bacterial population may contain several clones carrying different plasmids and displaying different fitness in the presence/absence of antibiotic. Understanding the within‐cell and between‐cell dynamics of plasmids after horizontal gene transfer is essential to unravel the dense network of mobile elements underlying the worldwide threat to public health of antibiotic resistance.
Assembly of the outermost spore layer: pieces of the puzzle are coming together
Authors: Stewart George C.
Published: February 2017

Certain endospore‐forming soil dwelling bacteria are important human, animal or insect pathogens. These organisms produce spores containing an outer layer, the exosporium. The exosporium is the site of interactions between the spore and the soil environment and between the spore and the infected host during the initial stages of infection. The composition and assembly process of the exosporium are poorly understood. This is partly due to the extreme stability of the exosporium that has proven to be refractive to existing methods to deconstruct the intact structure into its component parts. Although more than 20 proteins have been identified as exosporium‐associated, their abundance, relationship to other proteins and the processes by which they are assembled to create the exosporium are largely unknown. In this issue of Molecular Microbiology, Terry, Jiang, and colleagues in Per Bullough's laboratory show that the ExsY protein is a major structural protein of the exosporium basal layer of B. cereus family spores and that it can self‐assemble into complex structures that possess many of the structural features characteristic of the exosporium basal layer. The authors refined a model for exosporium assembly. Their findings may have implications for exosporium formation in other spore forming bacteria, including Clostridium species.
Trametes polyzona, an emerging filamentous basidiomycete in Réunion Island
Authors: Gauthier Alexandre , Jaubert Julien , Traversier Nicolas , Lemant Jérôme , Balu Laurent , Garcia‐Hermoso Dea , Welti Stephane , Favel Anne , Picot Sandrine , Hoarau Gautier
Published: February 2017

We describe two serious Trametes polyzona pulmonary infections, which occurred in Réunion Island, in critically ill patients. The identification was performed using sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA and D1/D2 region of 28S rDNA. In one case, the significance of T. polyzona in the pathological process was certain, proven by histopathological evidence of fungal lung infection. T. polyzona, an emerging filamentous basidiomycete, prevalent in tropical areas, has not been described so far in human infections.
Identity formation through national calendar: holidays and commemorations in Pakistan
Authors: Qasmi Ali Usman
Published: February 2017

This article contributes to academic literature on the project of identity formation in a postcolonial nation‐state. The article argues that a nation‐state emphasising certain aspects of the past for commemorative or celebratory purposes, while suppressing or ignoring the memories of some other event or historical figure, are both parts of the same process. Both these processes, in different ways, seek to give a certain direction to the narrative about the history of the nation and the nation‐state. These aspects of national memory and amnesia have been explained through the prism of national/public holidays while foregrounding the case study of Pakistan. The article argues that although this process of shaping a specific narrative (referred to as commemorative narrative in this article by using Yael Zerubavel's work) is common to every project of identity formation, its peculiarity is more pronounced in a postcolonial state like Pakistan, which has certain cut‐off dates and ruptures but is, simultaneously, eager to emphasise continuities in its trajectory and antiquity in historical tradition. The study of the process of developing a national calendar in case of Pakistan will show that identity formation is a transient process in which various identarian values, political considerations and social processes play an important part. In particular, it requires an attempt on the part of the state to try impose a homogenising historical narrative by envisaging a national calendar, i.e. by announcing a national or public holiday. This helps accord prestige to persons credited as founding fathers or ideologues, ascribe solemnity to days remembering wars and festivity to mark independence or religious occasions. By discussing these themes in detail, this exploratory study of the history of national calendar will lend an alternative lens through which to look into the processes of identity formation in postcolonial nation‐states in general.
An unusual presentation of a Unicystic ameloblastoma in a child: a case report and literature review
Authors: Besi E. , O'Connor N. , Conn B. , Handley T. , Ulhaq A.
Published: February 2017

An ameloblastoma is a benign but locally aggressive epithelial odontogenic neoplasm. It represents 10% of all tumours of the jawbone. In 80% of cases it is localised to the mandibular molar region and ascending ramus area, and is frequently associated with an unerupted tooth. It presents most commonly in the 3rd and 4th decades of life. This article reports an unusual presentation and management of a unicystic ameloblastoma in a child orthodontic patient with a literature review.
Effects of Spinal Cord Stimulation on Cardiac Sympathetic Nerve Activity in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: NAAR JAN , JAYE DEBORAH , LINDE CECILIA , NEUŽIL PETR , DOŠKÁŘ PETR , MÁLEK FILIP , BRAUNSCHWEIG FRIEDER , LUND LARS H. , MORTENSEN LARS , LINDEROTH BENGT , LIND GÖRAN , BONE DIANNA , SCHOLTE ARTHUR J. , KUEFFER FRED , KOEHLER JODI , SHAHGALDI KAMBIZ , LANG OTTO , STÅHLBERG MARCUS
Published: February 2017

Background

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) reduces sympathetic activity in animal models of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HF) but limited data exist of SCS in patients with HF. The aim of the present study was to test the primary hypothesis that SCS reduces cardiac sympathetic nerve activity in HF patients. Secondary hypotheses were that SCS improves left ventricular function and dimension, exercise capacity, and clinical variables relevant to HF.

Methods

HF patients with a SCS device previously participating in the DEFEAT‐HF trial were included in this crossover study with 6‐week intervention periods (SCS‐ON and SCS‐OFF). SCS (50 Hz, 210‐μs pulse duration, aiming at T2–T4 segments) was delivered for 12 hours daily. Indices of myocardial sympathetic neuronal function (heart‐to‐mediastinum ratio, HMR) and activity (washout rate, WR) were assessed using 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scintigraphy. Echocardiography, exercise testing, and clinical data collection were also performed.

Results

We included 13 patients (65.3 ± 8.0 years, nine males) and MIBG scintigraphy data were available in 10. HMR was not different comparing SCS‐ON (1.37 ± 0.16) and SCS‐OFF (1.41 ± 0.21, P = 0.46). WR was also unchanged comparing SCS‐ON (41.5 ± 5.3) and SCS‐OFF (39.1 ± 5.8, P = 0.30). Similarly, average New York Heart Association class (2.4 ± 0.5 vs 2.3 ± 0.6, P = 0.34), quality of life score (24 ± 16 vs 24 ± 16, P = 0.94), and left ventricular dimension and function as well as exercise capacity were all unchanged comparing SCS‐ON and SCS‐OFF.

Conclusion

In patients with HF, SCS (12 hours daily, targeting the T2–T4 segments of the spinal cord) does not appear to influence cardiac sympathetic neuronal activity or function as assessed by MIBG scintigraphy.
Impaired nephrogenesis in neonatal rats with oxygen‐induced retinopathy
Authors: Nakagawa Mayu , Nishizaki Naoto , Endo Amane , Someya Tomonosuke , Saito Yuta , Mizutani Akira , Hara Taichi , Murano Yayoi , Sakuraya Koji , Hara Satoshi , Umino Daisuke , Hirano Daishi , Fujinaga Shuichiro , Ohtomo Yoshiyuki , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: February 2017

Background

Preterm neonates are born while nephrogenesis is ongoing, and are commonly exposed to factors in a hyperoxic environment that can impair renal development. Oxidative stress has also been implicated in the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The rat model of oxygen‐induced retinopathy (OIR) is the most clinically relevant model of ROP because its biologic features closely resemble those of ROP in preterm infants. We investigated impaired renal development in a rat model of OIR.

Methods

Newborn Sprague–Dawley rats were maintained in either a normoxic (room air, 21% O2; control group) or a controlled hyperoxic (80% O2; OIR group) environment from birth to postnatal day (P) 12. All pups were then raised in room air from P12 to P19.

Results

The hyperoxic environment led to significantly higher urinary excretion of 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine, a marker of oxidative DNA damage, and a reduction in nephrogenic zone width at P5 in OIR pups. Additionally, glomerular count was significantly reduced by 20% in the OIR group, and avascular and neovascular changes in the retina were observed only in the OIR group at P19. Messenger RNA levels of vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGF‐A) and platelet‐derived growth factor‐β, essential angiogenic cytokines for glomerulogenesis, in the renal cortex were significantly lower at P5 and significantly higher at P19 in the OIR group compared with controls.

Conclusion

Renal impairment was caused by exposure to a hyperoxic environment during nephrogenesis, and the pathology of the impaired nephrogenesis in this OIR model reflects the characteristics of ROP observed in preterm infants.
New biomarkers in community‐acquired pneumonia: Another step in improving outcome prediction
Authors: Faverio Paola , Sibila Oriol
Published: February 2017

See article, page 542
Regional effects of export tax rebate on exporting firms: Evidence from China
Authors: An L. , Hu C. , Tan Yong
Published: February 2017

This paper extends a model from 2003 to separate the direct and indirect impact of an export tax rebate on the intensive margin of firm‐level export sales at the subnational level. The direct impact of the rebate is associated with a reduction of an exporting firm's variable costs, while the indirect impact manifests itself through higher regional wages as a result of increased demand for local labor. First, the empirical results imply that a 1 percent rise in the export tax rebate rate increases the export sales among continuing exporters by 0.2 percent through the direct channel. Second, through the indirect channel, a 1 percent difference in the regional rebate causes a 0.02 percent difference in exporters' sales growth. Both effects are statistically significant, and are consistent with the model's predictions.
Multiple factors explain injury risk in adolescent elite athletes: Applying a biopsychosocial perspective
Authors: von Rosen P. , Frohm A. , Kottorp A. , Fridén C. , Heijne A.
Published: February 2017

Many risk factors for injury are presented in the literature, few of those are however consistent and the majority is associated with adult and not adolescent elite athletes. The aim was to identify risk factors for injury in adolescent elite athletes, by applying a biopsychosocial approach. A total of 496 adolescent elite athletes (age range 15‐19), participating in 16 different sports, were monitored repeatedly over 52 weeks using a valid questionnaire about injuries, training exposure, sleep, stress, nutrition, and competence‐based self‐esteem. Univariate and multiple Cox regression analyses were used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) for risk factors for first reported injury. The main finding was that an increase in training load, training intensity, and at the same time decreasing the sleep volume resulted in a higher risk for injury compared to no change in these variables (HR 2.25, 95% CI, 1.46‐3.45, P<.01), which was the strongest risk factor identified. In addition, an increase by one score of competence‐based self‐esteem increased the hazard for injury with 1.02 (HR 95% CI, 1.00‐1.04, P=.01). Based on the multiple Cox regression analysis, an athlete having the identified risk factors (Risk Index, competence‐based self‐esteem), with an average competence‐based self‐esteem score, had more than a threefold increased risk for injury (HR 3.35), compared to an athlete with a low competence‐based self‐esteem and no change in sleep or training volume. Our findings confirm injury occurrence as a result of multiple risk factors interacting in complex ways.
Emotivational psychology: How distinct emotions facilitate fundamental motives
Authors: Beall Alec T. , Tracy Jessica L.
Published: February 2017

Fundamental motivational systems and distinct emotions have both been suggested to be critically involved in the orchestration of adaptive responses to recurrent challenges in humans' evolutionary history. Research on motivation has, however, proceeded largely independently from research on emotions. Here, we contend that distinct emotions are what motivate behavior, and that these emotions may have evolved in tandem with fundamental motivational systems because they play a critical role in the functioning of those systems. Specifically, once a threat or opportunity has been identified, a distinct emotion is elicited, automatically galvanizing and guiding physiological, cognitive, and behavioral responses toward an adaptive outcome; this entire process occurs via a motivational system. We map six characteristic distinct emotions to six fundamental motivational systems and review evidence supporting each hypothesized link. In doing so, we propose a novel framework for understanding human motivation and the corresponding emergence of distinct emotions.
A study of HLA‐B*15:02 in 9 different Chinese ethnics: Implications for carbamazepine related SJS/TEN
Authors: Ou G. J. , Wang J. , Ji X. , Yu H. , Jiang L. , Li L. , Chen Q. , Su P. C. , Liu Z.
Published: February 2017

Background

HLA‐B*15:02 is a known biomarker for carbamazepine (CBZ)‐induced Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) in some ethnic populations. The US FDA recommends B*15:02 screening for Asian and other populations with a high prevalence of B*15:02 prior to treatment with CBZ to prevent drug‐related SJS/TEN.

Materials and Methods

A total of 1607 blood samples were collected from volunteer blood donors who were ethnic minorities living in the Yunnan province of southwestern China, including 153 Yi, 193 Naxi, 167 Miao, 156 Lisu, 166 Derung, 211 Bai, 184 Hani, 198 Dai, and 179 Zhuang. The genetic diversity of the
HLA‐B*15:02 genes in the ethnic minority samples was examined using sequence based typing at high resolution.

Results

The allele frequencies of
HLA‐B*15:02 in the Yi, Naxi, Miao, Lisu, Derung, Bai, Hani, Dai, and Zhuang populations were 4.25%, 4.4%, 5.09%, 5.77%, 6.33%, 7.82%, 8.15%, 9.6%, and 15.36%, respectively. The frequencies of
HLA‐B*15:02 carriers in the Yi, Naxi, Miao, Lisu, Derung, Bai, Hani, Dai, and Zhuang populations were 8.5%, 8.8%, 9.58%, 10.9%, 12.65%, 15.64%, 16.3%, 18.69%, and 28.49%, respectively.

Conclusion

The
HLA‐B*15:02 allele frequencies indicated that the prevalence of B*15:02 was different among the different ethnic populations. Because the number of carriers of B*15:02 was high in some ethnic populations, larger studies are required to confirm these findings. The Zhuang population had the highest frequency of B*15:02 in this study. More attention should be paid to CBZ‐induced SJS/TEN in Chinese minority populations.
Cancer as a contagious disease
Authors: Siddle H. V.
Published: February 2017

Contagious cancers are malignant cells that are physically transferred between individuals as a natural allograft, forming new clonal tumours. These cancers are highly unusual, but have emerged in 2 mammalian species, the dog and the Tasmanian devil, as well as 4 species of bivalve. The transfer of malignant cells in mammals should initiate a robust immune response and although invertebrates have a less complex immune system, these species still have mechanisms that should prevent engraftment and protect against cellular parasitism. Here the naturally occurring contagious cancers are reviewed to determine what features are important and necessary for the emergence and spread of these types of cancer, with a focus on the mammalian contagious cancers and how they successfully cross histocompatibility barriers.
Spheroidal equal angular DEMs: The specificity of morphometric treatment
Authors: Florinsky Igor V.
Published: February 2017

Digital elevation models (DEMs) are commonly constructed using two main types of regular grids: plane square grids and spheroidal equal angular grids. Methods and algorithms intended for plane square‐gridded DEMs should not be directly applied to spheroidal equal angular DEMs. This is because these grids have fundamentally different geometry. However, some researchers continue to apply square‐grid algorithms to spheroidal equal angular DEMs. It seems appropriate to consider once again the specifity of morphometric treatment of spheroidal equal angular DEMs. This article, first, demonstrates possibilities of direct calculation of local, nonlocal, and combined morphometric variables from spheroidal equal angular DEMs exemplified by slope gradient, catchment area, and topographic index. Second, the article shows computational errors when algorithms for plane square‐gridded DEMs are unreasonably applied to spheroidal equal angular DEMs. The study is exemplified by two DEMs. A medium‐resolution DEM of a relatively small, high‐mountainous area (Mount Elbrus) was extracted from the SRTM1 DEM. A low‐resolution DEM of a vast region with the diverse topography (the central and western regions of Kenya) was extracted from the SRTM30_PLUS DEM. The results show that application of square‐grid methods to spheroidal equal angular DEMs leads to substantial computational errors in models of morphometric variables.
Comparison of jugular and transverse facial venous sinus blood analytes in healthy and critically ill adult horses
Authors: Lascola Kara M. , Vander Werf Karie , Freese Stephanie , Morgera Alison , Schaeffer David J. , Wilkins Pamela
Published: February 2017

Objective

To compare blood gas, electrolyte, and metabolic analysis results between blood obtained by jugular and transverse facial venous sinus (TFVS) venipuncture in healthy adult horses and sick adult horses presented for emergency evaluation.

Design

Prospective, experimental study, from June 2012 to October 2013.

Setting

Large animal university teaching hospital.

Animals

Ten healthy adult University‐owned horses and 48 client‐owned adult horses (≥2 years old) presenting to the large animal hospital emergency service for medical or surgical evaluation of systemic illness.

Interventions

Venipunctures (jugular vein [JV] and TFVS) were performed using preheparinized syringes and obtained prior to institution of medical therapy. Samples were analyzed in random order within a 10‐minute interval using a point‐of‐care blood gas analyzer (NOVA Critical Care Xpress) that also reports electrolyte and metabolite results. Comparisons between venipuncture sites were analyzed using the Student's paired t‐test for normally distributed data and the Wilcoxon paired test for nonnormally distributed data. Bland–Altman analysis was used to assess agreement between venipuncture sites.

Measurements and Main Results

There were no statistically significant differences found between variables for JV and TFVS in healthy horses. In sick horses, JV measurements were greater than TFVS for ionized calcium (P = 0.002) and glucose (P = 0.001), and less than TFVS for hematocrit (P = 0.015). Bland–Altman plots demonstrated small biases but overall agreement between sites.

Conclusions

The TFVS can be used interchangeably with JV for venous blood gas analysis in healthy horses. In sick horses, identified differences were small and likely not clinically important. The reliability of this point‐of‐care blood gas analyzer for measurement of hematocrit remains to be determined.
A Comprehensive Study on Rechargeable Energy Storage Technologies
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Rahul , Goutam Shovon , Miguel Oliveira Luis , Timmermans Jean-Marc , Omar Noshin , Messagie Maarten , Van den Bossche Peter , van Mierlo Joeri
Published: February 2017

This paper provides an extended overview of the existing electrode materials and electrolytes for energy storage systems that can be used in environmentally friendly hybrid and electric vehicles from the literature based on lithium-ion and nonlithium technologies. The performed analysis illustrates the current and future evolution in the field of electrode materials development (2015–2040). The investigated characteristics are specific energy, specific power, cycle life, and safety. Furthermore, the proposed study describes the cost and life cycle assessment of the proposed technologies and the availability of these materials.
A Novel Compliant Actuator With Load-Dependent Variable Stiffness: Design Concept and Control
Authors: Lu Lu , Li Jiawei , Wang Cong , Strassberg Dan
Published: February 2017

To develop the next generation of high-performance robots capable of working in human environments, it is required that the joint actuators have variable stiffness to achieve both precision motion control and ability of reaction under unexpectedly huge impact caused by collision with obstacles or human. Variable stiffness actuators (VSA) partially realize such objectives by employing an auxiliary input to change the joint stiffness. However, it requires prior information of external load condition. Load sensors or online load estimation techniques need to be implemented to detect sudden unexpected load for stiffness adjustment, adding complexity to the system with bandwidth issues. In this paper, we propose a new design of compliant actuator in which the stiffness automatically varies depending on the unexpected external load. A novel doubly-clamped box structure is used to connect the load inertia to the motor inertia. Specifically, the load inertia is confined inside a box clamped by two stoppers on two opposite sides with two pre-compressed springs. A secondary motor connects to the load inertia through another spring, compensating for known unbalanced forces such as gravity, Coriolis force and inertia force. It is shown that if the unexpected external load force is below the pre-compression force of the springs, the load inertia will be confined exactly within the box and the system behaves like a rigid actuator, otherwise one of the springs will be further compressed and the system behaves like a compliant actuator. Such a mechanical structure has the ability of achieving both precision motion control and automatic reaction under unexpectedly huge external impact, without the need of additional load sensing/estimation. Control algorithms for accurate position tracking under potentially huge unexpected load is developed for this new type of actuator. Simulations are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the design concept and control.
Approximate Solution for Optimal Control of Continuous-Time Switched Systems
Authors: Sardarmehni Tohid , Heydari Ali
Published: February 2017

Two approximate solutions for optimal control of switched systems with autonomous subsystems and continuous-time dynamics are developed. The proposed solutions consist of online training algorithms with recursive least squares training laws. The first solution is the classic policy iteration algorithm which imposes heavy computational burden (full back-up). In order to relax the computational burden in the policy iteration algorithm, the second algorithm is presented. The convergence of the proposed algorithms to the optimal solution in online training is investigated. Simulation results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the discussed algorithms.
Experimental Validation of Graph-Based Modeling for Thermal Fluid Power Flow Systems
Authors: Koeln Justin P. , Williams Matthew A. , Pangborn Herschel C. , Alleyne Andrew G.
Published: February 2017

Model-based control design has the ability to meet the strict closed-loop control requirements imposed by the rising performance and efficiency demands on modern engineering systems. While many modeling frameworks develop control-oriented models based on the underlying physics of the system, most are energy domain specific and do not facilitate the integration of models across energy domains or dynamic time-scales. This paper presents a graph-based modeling framework, derived from the conservation of mass and energy, which captures the structure and interconnections in the system. Subsequently, these models can be used in model-based control frameworks for thermal management. This framework is energy-domain independent and inherently captures the exchange of power among different energy domains. A thermal fluid experimental system demonstrates the formulation of the graph-based models and the ability to capture the hydrodynamic and thermodynamic behaviors of a physical system.