bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A taxonomic investigation of Hordeum arizonicum (Poaceae: Triticeae) with reference to related species
Authors: Baum Bernard R. , Bailey L. Grant
Published: June 2017

The perennial, hexaploid, wild barley, Hordeum arizonicum Covas, which is confined to southern Arizona, southeastern California near Airzona, and probably in adjacent parts of Mexico, has been investigated. Since some recent barley workers stated that H. arizonicum is threatened with extinction, its morphology, distribution, and habitats are documented. A key to H. arizonicum and related species is presented. Earlier reports on putative parentage of H. arizonicum are reconsidered in view of refined taxonomic knowledge of H. pusillum and H. jubatum. Possible parental species include the diploids H. pusillum or H. intercedens as one parent and the tetraploids H. brachyantherum, H. caespitosum, or H. jubatum as the other parent. Inference of parentage is based on canonical discriminant analysis and on cladistic analysis "in reverse," i.e., taking H. arizonicum, a hexaploid, as the root of an upside-down monophyletic group leading to a tetraploid branch and a diploid branch. Strategies for further exploration of H. arizonicum and its conservation are briefly discussed.
The neutralisation of acid rain by the leaves of four boreal forest species
Authors: Gaber B. A. , Hutchinson T. C.
Published: June 2017

A field study was carried out in the boreal forest of Ontario to measure the neutralisation response of the leaves of Cornus canadensis, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense, and Acer spicatum to simulated acid rain. Plots of each species were sprayed with pH 5.6, 3.8, or 3.2 rain, and the pH of the raindrops on the leaves and on Parafilm (control) was measured with a microelectrode at 15-min intervals until the leaves dried. Species differed in their ability to neutralise the rain, with C. canadensis consistently neutralising acidic raindrops the most. The neutralisation response varied greatly between pH treatments, with greatest neutralisation occurring at the most acidic pH treatment. Raindrop neutralisation primarily took place within the first few minutes following the spray. For this reason, the dissolution of basic particulates on the leaf surface was probably responsible for the rapid changes in raindrop pH, while slower changes may reflect cation exchange processes with the cell walls. Weather conditions determined the rate of evaporation of the raindrops, and this affected their acidity. High rates of evaporation reduced the time available for leaf surface – raindrop interactions and are probably responsible for the acidification observed in some plots.
Variation in phytoliths from corn leaves
Authors: Mulholland Susan C. , Rapp Jr. George , Ollendorf Amy L.
Published: June 2017

This paper examines variation of phytoliths in leaves of corn (Zea mays L.) as part of an ongoing project to establish accurate, reliable, phytolith "signatures." Factors investigated include leaf part, individual plant, leaf node, geographic location, and corn variety. Counts of 100 phytoliths were made on 24 separate samples, classifying shapes into dumbbell, cross, and irregular categories. Resulting assemblages were compared using chi-square and NANOVA test statistics. Results indicate that different leaf parts and corn varieties significantly affect phytolith assemblages. Base, midsection, and tip of leaf blades consistently produce different assemblages; two North Dakota native corn varieties also produce different assemblages (when part variation is eliminated). Variation due to leaf node and individual plant is not consistent; variation due to geographic location is generally not significant. It is suggested that researchers use entire leaf blade sections as samples in phytolith analysis. This sampling design will incorporate variation exhibited within the leaf blade and avoid characterization of plants by inaccurate phytolith assemblages.
Cytochemistry of the wall of infected cells in Casuarina actinorhizae
Authors: Berg R. Howard , McDowell Lorraine
Published: June 2017

Development of the wall of infected cells in Casuarina actinorhizae differs from that of many actinorhizae. After the endophyte penetrates the wall of a cortical cell, that (primary) cell wall becomes lignified, based on histochemical (autofluorescence, phloroglucinol staining) and cytochemical (permanganate staining, enzyme etching) evidence. Subsequently, the remaining walls of the infected cell become lignified. Adjacent noninfected cells somehow are stimulated to deposit a lignified secondary wall only on those walls bordering the infected cell. This remarkable participation of all adjacent noninfected cells in the development of a given infected cell results in an increased thickness and strength of the wall material surrounding infected cells. When they mature, there is a further modification of some of the wall layers surrounding infected cells, manifested in a relative impermeability to en bloc staining with permanganate. Unlike lignified walls, the permanganate-impermeable region is selectively stained by osmium or ferricyanide-reduced osmium and is relatively resistant to concentrated chromic acid digestion. A region that remains permeable to (and stained by) permanganate (part of the secondary wall of bordering noninfected cells) may be developmentally related to phi thickenings. An earlier contention that the permanganate-impermeable region contains suberin is unconfirmed. This region is most likely an unusual lignin modification or results from unidentified material impregnated in its ligninlike matrix.
Studies on ectomycorrhizae. XIV. Mycorrhizae formed by Cortinarius hercyniens and C. variecolor on Picea abies
Authors: Agerer R.
Published: June 2017

The ectomycorrhizae of Cortinarius hercynicus and C. variecolor on spruce are comprehensively described and compared. These species differ in some anatomical, morphological, and chemical characteristics. The literature on anatomical and morphological features of the ectomycorrhizae of species of Cortinarius subg. Phlegmacium so far described is reviewed. Cortinarius hercynicus is the first species of Cortinarius subg. Cortinarius for which the mycorrhizae are extensively characterized.
Interactions between photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen assimilation in microalgae
Authors: Turpin David H. , Elrifi Ivor R. , Birch Douglas G. , Weger Harold G. , Holmes Jody J.
Published: June 2017

The assimilation of nitrogen by N-limited microalgae has profound effects on respiratory and photosynthetic metabolism. The addition of inorganic nitrogen causes a rapid increase in the rate of amino acid synthesis, which increases the requirements for keto-acids. This results in a large increase in the demand for tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates. To meet this demand, tricarboxylic acid cycle activity increases, resulting in high rates of respiratory CO2 release during photosynthesis. Tricarboxylic acid cycle reductant, produced during ammonium assimilation, is oxidized via the mitochondrial electron-transport chain, resulting in a substantial increase in the rate of O2 consumption during photosynthesis. When [Formula: see text] is assimilated, tricarboxylic acid cycle activity increases, but there is little effect on mitochondrial O2 consumption. This implies that the tricarboxylic acid cycle reductant produced during [Formula: see text] assimilation is oxidized by some mechanism other than the mitochondrial electron-transport chain, possibly through the reduction of [Formula: see text].These results show that both the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the mitochondrial electron-transport chain are capable of operation during photosynthesis and that a major role of mitochondrial respiration during photosynthesis is the provision of carbon skeletons for biosynthetic reactions. The increase in tricarboxylic acid cycle activity during nitrogen assimilation is supported by anaplerotic reactions. The requirement for substrates by these reactions causes a redirection of recent photosynthate from the synthesis of starch to glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. This corresponds with a decrease in the concentration of ribulose bisphosphate in the chloroplast. Under some conditions the concentration of ribulose bisphosphate drops below the ribulose bisphosphate binding site density of ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase:oxygenase resulting in ribulose bisphosphate limitation of photosynthetic carbon fixation. When ammonium is the added N source, there is a corresponding decrease in gross photosynthetic oxygen evolution. When [Formula: see text] is added, the decreased demand for photogenerated reductant brought about by a decrease in Calvin cycle activity is offset by an increase in electron flow to [Formula: see text].
Morphologie pollinique des Caryophyllaceae du Québec nordique, des territoires adjacents et de l'archipel Arctique canadien
Authors: Parent Johanne , Richard Pierre J. H.
Published: June 2017

Pollen grains of 38 species (12 genera) of Caryophyllaceae from nordic Quebec, adjacent territories, and from the Canadian Arctic archipelago were studied in light microscopy. Thirteen pollen forms have been recognized, of which 11 are pantoporate (Cerastium – Stellaria type, Lychnis alpina, Melandrium affine type, Melandrium apetalum, Minuartia groenlandica, Minuartia rubella type, Sagina caespitosa – Sagina nivalis, Sagina nodosa, Sagina procumbens – Sagina saginoides, Silene acaulis, and Silene vulgaris) and 2 others colpate (Spergula arvensis and Spergularia canadensis). The data confirm the taxonomic value of the ratio (distance between two adjacent pores)/(grain diameter). A more precised identification of pollen grains of Caryophyllaceae, which is considered a rather uniform family, will allow a better pollen data interpretation whichever the samples studied. Key words: pollen, morphology, Caryophyllaceae, Quebec, Arctic, Canada.
The effect of seed dispersal limitations on the spatial distribution of a gap species, seaside goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens)
Authors: Lee Philip C.
Published: June 2017

This study examined the seed ecology of seaside goldenrod, Solidago sempervirens L., a gap species, on coastal dunes dominated by American beachgrass, Ammophila breviligulata. A test was done to determine whether lower densities of S. sempervirens on undisturbed primary dune grasslands were due to limited seed dispersal or barriers to seedling establishment. Seed rain was greater within blowouts and transition areas than in immature and mature grasslands. Blowouts and transition areas produced prominent seed shadows and served as primary seed sources. Both seed shadow measurements and inflorescence removal experiments suggested that the majority of seeds fell to the ground within 10 m outside blowouts. Experiments involving the hand broadcasting of seeds increased densities of seedlings in undisturbed areas. Plots with hand-drilled seeds showed no differences in percent emergence between transition and undisturbed areas; however, both were significantly greater than blowouts. Persistent seed storage in the soil was probably negligible. Seed bank densities at 5 m depth did not accurately reflect temporal or spatial patterns of seed rain. Often very low densities or no seeds were found in collected samples within an area. Furthermore, emergence percentages of field-buried seeds showed a significant drop-off after a single year. Thus, this study concluded that lower densities of plants in undisturbed areas were, in part, due to lack of seed dispersal from blowouts. Key words: seed dispersal, gap species, patchy disturbances, dune ecology, grassland ecology.
Characters and origin of vessels with heterogenous structure in leaf and flower abscission zones
Authors: André JP , Catesson A M , Liberman M
Published: June 2017

The lifetime of many plant organs does not exceed a few weeks or a few months. These organs separate from the plant at the level of specialized abscission zones. The observation of xylem vasculature in abscission zones, a largely neglected subject, revealed original features when a vessel casting method was used. In all species of dicotyledons examined so far, flower and leaf abscission zones possessed heterogenous metaxylem vessels adjoining protoxylem and secondary xylem vessels with homogenous patterns of lignified thickenings. Heterogenous metaxylem vessel thickenings were helical, reticulate, or scalariform elements when in the abscission zone and pitted elements on the proximal and the distal sides. The origin and possible role of these vessels are considered. Data obtained on the flower abscission zone of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) suggest that formation of heterogenous vessels results from localized changes in the rhythm of cell differentiation and cell maturation inside the procambium-cambium continuum.Key words: abscission zone, cambium, differentiation, heterogenous vessels, procambium, vessel cast.
Preformation and neoformation of growth units on 3-year-old seedlings of Quercus petraea
Authors: Fontaine Florence , Chaar Hatem , Colin Francis , Clément Christophe , Burrus Monique , Druelle Jean-Louis
Published: June 2017

The objective of this work was to determine the preformed or neoformed nature of the three successive growth units occurring in 1 year on the leader shoot of 3-year-old Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl. seedlings in 1997 and 1998. We compared the number of foliar organs between the first, second, and third growth units and their respective terminal buds. The foliar organs counted on the growth units were basal scales or scaly leaves and photosynthetic leaves, and the foliar organs counted within the buds were future photosynthetic leaves, undetermined foliar organs, and internal scales that indicated a period of rest. The results were (i) the winter terminal bud enclosed internal scales, and it possessed more foliar organs than the first growth unit; (ii) the terminal bud of the first growth unit did not contain any internal scales, and it possessed fewer foliar organs than the second growth unit; and (iii) the terminal bud of the second growth unit sometimes contained one or more internal scales, and it possessed fewer or the same number of foliar organs than the third growth unit. These results showed that (i) the first growth unit is entirely preformed in the winter bud, (ii) the second growth unit possesses both preformed and neoformed portions, and (iii) the third growth unit could be either totally preformed, or partially preformed and partially neoformed. Neoformation is more prevalent in the second growth unit than in the third. The difference between the total number of foliar organs in the bud and on the growth unit is more pronounced in the second growth unit than in the third.
Economic optimization for the rehabilitation of co-located mixed assets
Authors: Saad Dina A. , Hegazy Tarek
Published: June 2017

Managing the rehabilitation of co-located infrastructure assets (pavements, pipelines, culverts, etc.) has become a major challenge for municipalities due to the varying rehabilitation requirements of these assets and the need for better coordination of rehabilitation works. Yet, most of the existing fund-allocation methods are not structured to address co-located infrastructure rehabilitation work in a systematic manner. This paper, therefore, extends the enhanced benefit-cost analysis (EBCA) optimization method that was developed earlier for a single asset type, to the case of co-located assets. The extended EBCA approach arrives at near-optimum funding decisions by achieving an equilibrium state at which fair and equitable allocations are made among all asset categories. Using a real case study consisting of bridges and culverts co-located in the right of way of a pavement network along with two different implementation strategies, EBCA proved to be able to arrive at near-optimum fund-allocations supported with a credible economic justification.
Interacting Chaplygin gas revisited
Authors: Saha Subhajit , Ghosh Saumya , Gangopadhyay Sunandan
Published: June 2017

In this paper, the implications of considering interaction between Chaplygin gas and a barotropic fluid with constant equation of state have been explored. The unique feature of this work is that assuming an interaction [Formula: see text], analytic expressions for the energy density and pressure have been derived in terms of the hypergeometric [Formula: see text] function. It is worthwhile to mention that an interacting Chaplygin gas model was considered in 2006 by Zhang and Zhu, nevertheless, analytic solutions for the continuity equations could not be determined assuming an interaction proportional to [Formula: see text] times the sum of the energy densities of Chaplygin gas and dust. Our model can successfully explain the transition from the early decelerating phase to the present phase of cosmic acceleration. Arbitrary choice of the free parameters of our model through trial and error shows that recent observational data strongly favors [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] over the [Formula: see text] case. Interestingly, the present model also incorporates the transition of dark energy into the phantom domain, however, future deceleration is forbidden.
On gravitational energy in conformal teleparallel gravity
Authors: da Silva J. G. , Ulhoa S. C.
Published: June 2017

The paper deals with the definition of gravitational energy in conformal teleparallel gravity. The total energy is defined by means of the field equations which allow a local conservation law. Then such an expression is analyzed for a homogeneous and isotropic Universe. This model is implemented by the Friedmann–Robertson–Walker (FRW) line element. The energy of the Universe in the absence of matter is identified with the dark energy, however it can be expanded for curved models defining such an energy as the difference between the total energy and the energy of the perfect fluid which is the matter field in the FRW model.
FIRST-PRINCIPLES STUDY ON PHOTOSWITCHING BEHAVIOR IN SINGLE MOLECULE JUNCTION
Authors: BIAN BAO-AN , ZHENG YA-PENG , YUAN PEI-PEI , LIAO BIN , DING YU-QIANG
Published: June 2017

We carry out first-principles calculations based on density functional theory and non-equilibrium Green’s function to investigate the electronic transport properties of a diarylethene-based molecule sandwiched between two Au electrodes. This molecular switch can be reversed between open and close forms by using light stimulation. We analyze the switch behavior of these two forms through the current–voltage curves, transmission spectra and molecular projected self-consistent Hamiltonian. It has been found that the current of the close form is significantly larger than the open form, and there is a large and stable switch ratio in a wide bias window. This result indicates that this molecule can become one of the good candidates for optical molecular switch in the future.
Soil-Structure Interaction in Transversely Isotropic Layered Media Subjected to Incident Plane SH Waves
Authors: Ba Zhenning , Gao Xi
Published: June 2017

The dynamic soil-structure interaction (SSI) for incident plane SH waves is analyzed for a two-dimensional (2D) model of a shear wall on a rigid foundation by using the indirect boundary element method (IBEM). The rigid foundation utilized in this study is embedded in transversely isotropic (TI) soil layers over bedrock. The accuracy of the IBEM method is verified and analyzed by setting a semicylindrical, rigid foundation-shear wall structure system in the single TI soil layer and multiple TI soil layers over bedrock. This study shows that the TI characteristics of the site have a significant impact on the effective input motion and the superstructure response. In a single soil layer, the increase in the shear modulus ratio in the vertical and horizontal directions has a certain degree of amplified action on the effective input motion and the superstructure response. Simultaneously, the corresponding peak frequency of the response increases. In multiple soil layers, the changes in the effective input motion and the superstructure response are also affected by the TI characteristics of the soil layers, and the impact of this effect is related to the sequence of the layers.
Intracardiac Hemostasis and Fibrinolysis Parameters in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Tóth Noémi Klára , Csanádi Zoltán , Hajas Orsolya , Kiss Alexandra , Nagy-Baló Edina , Kovács Kitti Bernadett , Sarkady Ferenc , Muszbek László , Bereczky Zsuzsanna , Csiba László , Bagoly Zsuzsa
Published: June 2017

Aims. To identify intracardiac hemostasis or fibrinolysis abnormalities, which are associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) and increase the risk of thromboembolism.Patients and Methods. Patient group consisted of 24 patients with AF and control group included 14 individuals with other supraventricular tachycardia undergoing transcatheter radiofrequency ablation. Blood samples were drawn from the femoral vein (FV), left atrium (LA), and left atrial appendage (LAA) before the ablation procedure. Fibrinogen, factor VIII (FVIII) and factor XIII activity, von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen, thrombin-antithrombin (TAT) complex, quantitative fibrin monomer (FM), plasminogen,α2-plasmin inhibitor, plasmin-α2-antiplasmin (PAP) complex, PAI-1 activity, and D-dimer were measured from all samples.Results. Levels of FVIII and VWF were significantly elevated in the FV and LA of AF patients as compared to controls. TAT complex, FM, PAP complex, and D-dimer levels were significantly elevated in the LA as compared to FV samples in case of both groups, indicating a temporary thrombotic risk associated with the catheterization procedure.Conclusions. None of the investigated hemostasis or fibrinolysis parameters showed significant intracardiac alterations in AF patients as compared to non-AF controls. AF patients have elevated FVIII and VWF levels, most likely due to endothelial damage, presenting at both intracardiac and systemic level.
The Serum Analysis of Dampness Syndrome in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease and Chronic Renal Failure Based on the Theory of “Same Syndromes in Different Diseases”
Authors: Hao Yiming , Yuan Xue , Qian Peng , Bai Guanfeng , Wang Yiqin
Published: June 2017

Aim. To analyze the serum metabolites in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) showing dampness syndrome and patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) showing dampness syndrome and to seek the substance that serves as the underlying basis of dampness syndrome in “same syndromes in different diseases.” Methods. Metabolic spectrum by GC-MS was performed using serum samples from 29 patients with CHD showing dampness syndrome and 32 patients with CRF showing dampness syndrome. The principal component analysis and statistical analysis of partial least squares were performed to detect the metabolites with different levels of expression in patients with CHD and CRF. Furthermore, by comparing the VIP value and data mining in METLIN and HMDB, we identified the common metabolites in both patient groups. Results. (1) Ten differential metabolites were found in patients with CHD showing dampness syndrome when compared to healthy subjects. Meanwhile, nine differential metabolites were found in patients with CRF showing dampness syndrome when compared to healthy subjects. (2) There were 9 differential metabolites identified when the serum metabolites of the CHD patients with dampness syndrome were compared to those of CRF patients with dampness syndrome. There were 4 common metabolites found in the serums of both patient groups.
Rapid Detection of the mt3243A > G Mutation Using Urine Sediment in Elderly Chinese Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Zhang Yinan , Du Xiujuan , Geng Xinqian , Chu Chen , Lu Huijuan , Shen Yixie , Chen Ruihua , Fang Pingyan , Feng Yanmei , Zhang Xiaojie , Chen Yan , Zhou Yanping , Wang Congrong , Jia Weiping
Published: June 2017

Objective. In this study, we aimed to identify mt3243A > G mutation carriers in a group of Chinese elderly type 2 diabetic patients by a rapid and noninvasive diagnostic system. Methods. DNA was extracted from blood, saliva, and urine sediment samples. The mutation screening and quantitation of heteroplasmy were performed by high-resolution melting (HRM) curve and pyrosequencing, respectively. Patients with mt3243A > G mutation underwent a detailed audiometric, ophthalmologic, neurological, and cardiac examination. Results. Two patients (2/1041) carrying the mt3243A > G mutation were detected among all type 2 diabetic patients. In patient 1, the heteroplasmy was 0.8%, 2.8%, and 14.7% in peripheral blood leukocytes, saliva, and urine sediment, respectively. In patient 2, the heteroplasmy was 5.3%, 8.4%, and 37.7% in peripheral blood leukocytes, saliva, and urine sediment, respectively. Both of the two patients showed hearing impairment. Abnormal ophthalmologic conditions and hyperintensity on T2-weighted magnetic resonance images were showed in patient 1. Conclusion. The occurrence of mt3243 A > G mutation was 0.2% in Chinese elderly type 2 diabetic patients. Moreover, detection of mt3243 A > G mutation in urine sediment with high-resolution melting (HRM) curve and pyrosequencing is feasible in molecular genetic diagnosis.
Hardy-Sobolev Spaces Associated with Twisted Convolution
Authors: Huang Jizheng , Li Weiwei , Wang Yaqiong
Published: June 2017

We first define the Hardy-Sobolev spaces associated with twisted convolution; then we give the atomic decomposition. As an application, we consider the endpoint version of the div-curl theorem for the twisted convolution.
Development of Multiple Big Data Analytics Platforms with Rapid Response
Authors: Chang Bao Rong , Lee Yun-Da , Liao Po-Hao
Published: June 2017

The crucial problem of the integration of multiple platforms is how to adapt for their own computing features so as to execute the assignments most efficiently and gain the best outcome. This paper introduced the new approaches to big data platform, RHhadoop and SparkR, and integrated them to form a high-performance big data analytics with multiple platforms as part of business intelligence (BI) to carry out rapid data retrieval and analytics with R programming. This paper aims to develop the optimization for job scheduling using MSHEFT algorithm and implement the optimized platform selection based on computing features for improving the system throughput significantly. In addition, users would simply give R commands rather than run Java or Scala program to perform the data retrieval and analytics in the proposed platforms. As a result, according to performance index calculated for various methods, although the optimized platform selection can reduce the execution time for the data retrieval and analytics significantly, furthermore scheduling optimization definitely increases the system efficiency a lot.
The Predictive Role of Tooth Extractions, Oral Infections, and hs-C-Reactive Protein for Mortality in Individuals with and without Diabetes: A Prospective Cohort Study of a 12 1/2-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Lund Håheim Lise , Rønningen Kjersti S. , Enersen Morten , Olsen Ingar
Published: June 2017

The predictive role of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), number of tooth extractions, and oral infections for mortality in people with and without diabetes is unclear. This prospective cohort study is a 12 1/2-year follow-up of the Oslo II study, a health survey in 2000. In all, 12,764 men were invited. Health information was retrieved from 6434 elderly men through questionnaire information, serum measurements, and anthropometric and blood pressure measurements. Diabetes was reported by 425 men. Distinct differences were observed in baseline characteristics in individuals with and without diabetes. In the diabetes group, age and hs-CRP were statistically significant whereas in the nondiabetes group, age, hs-CRP, number of tooth extractions, tooth extractions for infections and oral infections combined, nonfasting glucose, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, regular alcohol drinking, daily smoking, and level of education were independent risk factors. The number of tooth extractions <5 was inversely related whereas more extractions increased the risk. Multivariate analyses showed that hs-CRP was a significant predictor in persons with diabetes and tooth extractions and oral infections combined; the number of teeth extracted and hs-CRP were for persons without diabetes. Infection and inflammation were associated with mortality in individuals both with and without diabetes.
Use of Light Therapy by Office-Based Physicians
Authors: Winkler-Pjrek Edda , Spies Marie , Baldinger-Melich Pia , Perkmann Lisa , Kasper Siegfried , Winkler Dietmar
Published: June 2017

Background: Light therapy (LT) is a non-pharmacological biological treatment that has been used in psychiatry since the 1980s. Previous research has investigated the usage of LT in hospitals. The aim of this study was to examine the pattern of use of LT by office-based physicians. Methods: A questionnaire was sent by mail to 400 randomly selected doctors in Austria. We made sure that the sample was equally representative of general practitioners (GPs) and psychiatrists, public health service doctors and private doctors, physicians in cities and in the country as well as male and female doctors. Non-responders were asked by phone and e-mail to answer the questionnaire. We achieved a response rate of 27.7%. Results: LT was generally recommended by 67.3% of all physicians (91.6% of the psychiatrists but only 46.6% of the GPs). The recommended location of treatment was patients' homes in 90%. Physicians were asked whether they considered LT to be an appropriate treatment for various disorders. There were affirmative answers from: 94.2% for seasonal affective disorder (SAD), 93.3% for sub-syndromal SAD, 60.6% for non-seasonal recurrent major depressive disorder, 35.6% for jet lag syndrome, 35.6% for chronobiological problems with shift work, 22.1% for insomnia, 13.5% for premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and 10.6% for behavioural problems with Alzheimer's disease. Conclusions: Our results indicate that LT is regularly recommended by office-based physicians, especially psychiatrists. However, there is potential for greater application of LT in indications other than depressive disorder. The results found here are comparable to previous findings in psychiatric hospitals.
Patency Capsule Tolerability in School-Aged Children
Authors: Tokuhara Daisuke , Watanabe Kenji , Cho Yuki , Shintaku Haruo
Published: June 2017

Background: A patency capsule (PC) can help predict capsule endoscope (CE) retention; however, PC tolerability is unknown in children. We retrospectively evaluated PC tolerability in school-aged children. Methods: Sixty-one patients (median age, 12.9 years; range 7.4-17.3 years) who underwent PC examination were analyzed for occurrence and determinants of ingestion difficulty and relationships between ingestion of the 2 capsules. We defined ingestion difficulty as taking 30 min or more, or failure, to ingest the PC. Results: Thirty-nine patients (64%) successfully ingested the PC without ingestion difficulty. The other 22 had ingestion difficulty and were significantly younger (11.7 ± 2.2 vs. 13.0 ± 1.8 years; p = 0.04) and shorter (143.3 ± 14.0 vs. 154.6 ± 12.5 cm; p = 0.003) than those without ingestion difficulty. Multivariate analysis showed that the most significant factor for predicting PC ingestion difficulty was height (cutoff value, 152 cm). Time to ingest the CE was significantly shorter than that for PC ingestion (8 ± 32 vs. 20 ± 58 min; p = 0.01). All patients indicated that ingestion of the CE was easier because of its smooth surface compared with the PC. Conclusions: PC ingestion is not guaranteed in school-aged children. PC ingestion ability should be evaluated by considering the child's height and lack of experience ingesting capsules prior to PC examination.
Different Impacts of Preoperative Radiotherapy and Chemoradiotherapy on Oncological Outcomes in Patients with Stages II and III Lower Rectal Cancer: A Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Takiyama Hirotoshi , Kawai Kazushige , Ishihara Soichiro , Yasuda Koji , Otani Kensuke , Nishikawa Takeshi , Tanaka Toshiaki , Kiyomatsu Tomomichi , Hata Keisuke , Nozawa Hiroaki , Morikawa Teppei , Watanabe Toshiaki
Published: June 2017

Background/Aims: The neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced rectal cancer has been changed from radiotherapy (RT) to chemoradiotherapy (CRT). This study is aimed at evaluating the benefit of CRT in patients with stage II or III lower rectal cancer, with regard to the impact on recurrence. Methods: A total of 474 patients with clinical stage II or III lower rectal cancer who received either preoperative RT (n = 221) or CRT (n = 253) followed by total mesorectal excision were identified from our institutional database. Propensity score analysis was performed to mitigate selection biases. Results: Among stage II patients, the CRT group showed a significantly lower 5-year local recurrence rate than the RT group (3.0 vs. 14.8%, p = 0.002). In contrast, among stage III patients, the CRT group showed a significantly lower 5-year distant recurrence rate than the RT group (27.8 vs. 42.6%, p = 0.04) and also a better 5-year recurrence-free survival (64.2 vs. 48.3%, p = 0.03). Conclusions: Addition of concurrent chemotherapy to preoperative RT significantly enhanced the local control in stage II patients and decreased distant recurrence in stage III patients. The oncological benefit of CRT may differ between patients with stage II or III rectal cancer.
Synergic Impact of Vascular Calcification and Low Autonomic Tone in Mortality of Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Ng Hwee-Yeong , Hsueh Shu-Kai , Lee Yueh-Ting , Chiou Terry Ting-Yu , Huang Pei-Chen , Lee Chien-Te
Published: June 2017

Background: Both cardiovascular calcification and autonomic dysfunction are frequently encountered in hemodialysis patients. We aimed to investigate the relationship between cardiovascular calcification and heart rate variability (HRV) and their influence on long-term outcome. Methods: Seventy-eight hemodialysis patients underwent echocardiogram and radiography of the pelvis and hands to identify valvular and vascular calcification. HRV was evaluated using a commercial machine. Results: Based on the average, the patients were divided into higher and lower subgroups of high frequency (HF) and low frequency (LF) respectively. Patients with higher LF were younger and were found to have a lower proportion of diabetes. Their hemoglobin, albumin, and bone morphogenic protein (BMP)-7 levels were significantly higher and both high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and osteoprotegerin levels were lower (all p < 0.05). In patients of the higher HF group, the proportion of diabetes was lower but they were found to have higher levels of BMP-7 and lower levels of hs-CRP, interleukin-6 (all p < 0.05). Significantly higher LF and HF were noted in patients without vascular calcification, but only hand artery (HA) calcification was negatively correlated with both LF and HF in multivariate analysis. Low LF and high hs-CRP were the independent predictors of mortality. Coexistence of low LF band and HA calcification was associated with the worse outcome. Conclusions: Abnormal autonomic nervous function was closely related to inflammation and mortality in hemodialysis patients. Calcification of HA was associated with autonomic dysfunction and patients with lower autonomic tone and HA calcification had the highest mortality rate in this population.
Do European Parliament Elections Impact National Party System Fragmentation?
Authors: Dinas Elias , Riera Pedro
Published: June 2017

Why have European large parties lost electoral ground in recent decades? Whereas most explanations draw on theories of dealignment, this article advances a novel, institutional, argument by focusing on the introduction of direct elections to the European Parliament (EP) in 1979. Archetypes of second-order elections, EP elections are characterized by lower vote shares for (a) large and (b) incumbent parties. Bridging the second-order elections theory with theories of political socialization, we posit that voting patterns in EP elections spill over onto national elections, especially among voters not yet socialized into patterns of habitual voting. In so doing, they increase the national vote shares of small parties. This proposition is examined using an instrumental variables approach. We also derive a set of testable propositions to shed light on the underlying mechanisms of this pattern. Our findings show that EP elections decrease support for big parties at the national arena by inculcating voting habits.
Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is: An Experimental Test of Pro-Environmental Spillover From Reducing Meat Consumption to Monetary Donations
Authors: Carrico Amanda R. , Raimi Kaitlin T. , Truelove Heather Barnes , Eby Brianne
Published: June 2017

Psychological studies testing behavioral spillover—the notion that behavior change resulting from an intervention affects subsequent similar behaviors—has resulted in conflicting findings in the environmental domain. This study sought to further demarcate the spillover process by asking participants to engage in a difficult first pro-environmental behavior, reducing red meat consumption, for either health or environmental reasons. Evidence of spillover was tested via a subsequent monetary donation to an environmental organization. While there was no evidence of spillover for those in the green behavior condition, those in the health behavior condition were less likely to donate relative to controls. There was evidence that pro-environmental behavior led to an increase in environmental concern. In turn, environmental concern was associated with an increased likelihood of donating. Environmental concern may, thus, be one route to positive spillover in some subsets of the population.
The mechanical properties of flax fibre reinforced poly(lactic acid) bio-composites exposed to wet, freezing and humid environments
Authors: Mohammad Khanlou Hossein , Hall Wayne , Woodfield Peter , Summerscales John , Francucci Gaston
Published: June 2017

Bio-composites are increasingly being perceived as a green alternative to synthetic composites in many applications. However, the overall long-term durability of bio-composites is a major concern, particularly their ability for sustained performance under harsh and changing environmental conditions. This paper reports a detailed study on the effect of environmental conditions on the performance of flax/poly(lactic acid) bio-composites. Neat poly(lactic acid) and bio-composite samples were exposed to environments similar to those found outdoors: wet, freezing and humid. Moisture absorption and physical changes of specimens were periodically examined. Flexural and tensile properties were evaluated periodically to determine the detrimental effect of each exposure condition on the mechanical performance of bio-composites. Direct contact with liquid water is the most deteriorating environment for bio-composites. A drying process can partially restore the mechanical performance of these materials. Bio-composites can survive reliably in warm humid environments and in those that could create freeze and thaw cycles for short-term outdoor applications. The mechanisms and reasons involved in the degradation of the properties of green composites are discussed.
Big government sentiment and support for protectionism in East Asia
Authors: Wu Wen-Chin
Published: June 2017

While previous studies find that individual preferences for trade policies are shaped by economic and non-economic factors, it is still unclear whether people’s perception of their government’s role in citizens’ lives affects their attitudes toward free trade. In view of the “developmental state” legacy in East Asia, I investigate how the “big government sentiment” in East Asians’ mindset is associated with their support for protectionism. Based on the data of the third-wave Asian Barometer Survey conducted during 2010 and 2012, I find that when people think that government should bear a major responsibility for the wellbeing of its people, they are more supportive of protectionist policies. This finding contributes to studies of East Asian political economy as well as the formation of individual trade policy preference.
Dopamine and light: effects on facial emotion recognition
Authors: Cawley Elizabeth , Tippler Maria , Coupland Nicholas J , Benkelfat Chawki , Boivin Diane B , aan het Rot Marije , Leyton Marco
Published: June 2017

Bright light can affect mood states and social behaviours. Here, we tested potential interacting effects of light and dopamine on facial emotion recognition. Participants were 32 women with subsyndromal seasonal affective disorder tested in either a bright (3000 lux) or dim light (10 lux) environment. Each participant completed two test days, one following the ingestion of a phenylalanine/tyrosine-deficient mixture and one with a nutritionally balanced control mixture, both administered double blind in a randomised order. Approximately four hours post-ingestion participants completed a self-report measure of mood followed by a facial emotion recognition task. All testing took place between November and March when seasonal symptoms would be present. Following acute phenylalanine/tyrosine depletion (APTD), compared to the nutritionally balanced control mixture, participants in the dim light condition were more accurate at recognising sad faces, less likely to misclassify them, and faster at responding to them, effects that were independent of changes in mood. Effects of APTD on responses to sad faces in the bright light group were less consistent. There were no APTD effects on responses to other emotions, with one exception: a significant light × mixture interaction was seen for the reaction time to fear, but the pattern of effect was not predicted a priori or seen on other measures. Together, the results suggest that the processing of sad emotional stimuli might be greater when dopamine transmission is low. Bright light exposure, used for the treatment of both seasonal and non-seasonal mood disorders, might produce some of its benefits by preventing this effect.
The association between apolipoprotein A1-C3-A5 gene cluster promoter polymorphisms and risk of ischemic stroke in the northern Chinese Han population
Authors: Wang Yanzhe , Liu Fang , Li Lei , Deng Shumin , He Zhiyi
Published: June 2017

Objective

Given its effects on lipid metabolism, the apolipoprotein A1-C3-A5 ( APOA1-C3-A5) gene cluster is thought to play an important role in ischemic stroke pathogenesis. Here, we evaluated whether the APOA1-C3-A5 cluster is associated with ischemic stroke in the northern Chinese Han population.

Methods

This case–control study analyzed 812 patients with ischemic stroke and 844 healthy controls with regard to four APOA1-C3-A5 cluster promoter single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs670, rs2854116, rs2854117, and rs662799, using the SNaPshot Multiplex sequencing assay. Potential associations among ischemic stroke, genotyping, and allele frequencies were assessed.

Results

APOA1 rs670 CT/TT genotypes, APOA5 rs662799 AG/GG genotypes, and the APOC3 rs2854116 CC genotype were associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke according to multivariate logistic analysis after adjusting for confounding factors. A significantly increased risk for ischemic stroke was also identified among high-risk haplotypes (C-C-T-A and T-T-C-A) for rs670–rs2854116–rs2854117–rs662799.

Conclusion

This study showed that rs670, rs2854116, and rs662799 SNPs of the APOA1-C3-A5 cluster are associated with ischemic stroke in the northern Chinese Han population.
Barriers and facilitators of participation in intervention research by mental health occupational therapists
Authors: Birken Mary , Couch Elyse , Morley Mary
Published: June 2017

Statement of context

Occupational therapists in clinical practice are required to deliver interventions within clinical trials to demonstrate the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions. Challenges to participation in intervention research by occupational therapists working in community mental health have been identified and require further investigation.

Critical reflection on practice

A cross-sectional online survey of occupational therapists working in mental health was used, and obtained a 50% ( n = 144) response rate. Limited time, large generic caseloads, and lack of skills and experience in research were identified barriers to participation in occupational therapy intervention research. Occupational therapists had limited dedicated time to carry out occupational therapy interventions and outcome measurement was limited.

Implications for practice

Occupational therapy roles need to be regained in adult community mental health alongside routine outcome measurement. This will enable occupational therapy interventions to contribute to community mental health services and support participation in clinical trials of occupational therapy interventions.
Women’s Status, Family Systems, and Marriage in a Time of Economic Crisis
Authors: Nalle Sara T.
Published: June 2017

Using a variety of archival sources, this article traces the transition in Cuenca, Spain, from the bilateral family system that predominated in late medieval Castile to the final triumph of the patrilineal, agnatic family system in the seventeenth century. The central measure of this transition is the interlocking fates of the dowry and the arras (bride price). As the patriarchal, patrilineal family became entrenched during a period of demographic crisis, the price of dowries skyrocketed while the bride price declined in value and ultimately disappeared. The article includes a discussion of funding strategies for the dowry, inheritance law, and the degree of homogamy in marriages which relied on the dowry system.
Graduate Students’ Reflections on Elder and End-of-Life Care for Prisoners
Authors: Baumann Steven L. , Todaro-Franceschi Vidette
Published: June 2017

The focus of this report was graduate nursing students’ reflections on elder and end-of-life care for prisoners. The personal reflections of 21 graduate nursing students who attended a presentation by Susan J. Loeb on October 26, 2016 were included in this report. The title of the presentation was “Enhancing End-of-Life Care for Prisoners Through Partnering With the Prison Community.” The student essays were synthesized to construct a summary essay, from which four themes were identified: aging in prison, dying in prison, ethical and professional issues in the elder and end-of-life care of prisoners, and ethical and professional issues in research involving elderly and end-of-life care of prisoners. These findings were interpreted from a global perspective in light of two different nursing perspectives: the humanbecoming tradition and the science of unitary human beings.
Enhancing Telehealth Education in Nursing: Applying King’s Conceptual Framework and Theory of Goal Attainment
Authors: Fronczek Ann E. , Rouhana Nicole A. , Kitchin Judy M.
Published: June 2017

Telehealth technologies are increasingly used in the provision of nursing care to clients and populations. The education of nurses must include content and practice with telehealth technologies. The authors of this article discuss how one school of nursing has infused telehealth content and resources into undergraduate and graduate curricula using King’s conceptual system and theory of goal attainment as a guide.
Persistent Bias on Wikipedia
Authors: Martin Brian
Published: June 2017

Systematically biased editing, persistently maintained, can occur on Wikipedia while nominally following guidelines. Techniques for biasing an entry include deleting positive material, adding negative material, using a one-sided selection of sources, and exaggerating the significance of particular topics. To maintain bias in an entry in the face of resistance, key techniques are reverting edits, selectively invoking Wikipedia rules, and overruling resistant editors. Options for dealing with sustained biased editing include making complaints, mobilizing counterediting, and exposing the bias. To illustrate these techniques and responses, the rewriting of my own Wikipedia entry serves as a case study. It is worthwhile becoming aware of persistent bias and developing ways to counter it in order for Wikipedia to move closer to its goal of providing accurate and balanced information.