bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paternity analysis of wild‐caught females shows that sperm package size and placement influence fertilization success in the bushcricket Pholidoptera griseoaptera
Authors: Parker Darren James , Zaborowska Julia , Ritchie Michael Gordon , Vahed Karim
Published: April 2017

In species where females store sperm, males may try to influence paternity by the strategic placement of sperm within the female's sperm storage organ. Sperm may be mixed or layered in storage organs, and this can influence sperm use beyond a ‘fair raffle’. In some insects, sperm from different matings is packaged into discrete packets (spermatodoses), which retain their integrity in the female's sperm storage organ (spermatheca), but little is known about how these may influence patterns of sperm use under natural mating conditions in wild populations. We examined the effect of the size and position of spermatodoses within the spermatheca and number of competing ejaculates on sperm use in female dark bushcrickets (Pholidoptera griseoaptera) that had mated under unmanipulated field conditions. Females were collected near the end of the mating season, and seven hypervariable microsatellite loci were used to assign paternity of eggs laid in the laboratory. Females contained a median of three spermatodoses (range 1–6), and only six of the 36 females contained more than one spermatodose of the same genotype. Both the size and relative placement of the spermatodoses within the spermatheca had a significant effect on paternity, with a bias against smaller spermatodoses and those further from the single entrance/exit of the spermatheca. A higher number of competing males reduced the chances of siring offspring for each male. Hence, both spermatodose size and relative placement in the spermatheca influence paternity success.
A new proteinaceous pathogen‐associated molecular pattern (PAMP) identified in Ascomycete fungi induces cell death in Solanaceae
Authors: Franco‐Orozco Barbara , Berepiki Adokiye , Ruiz Olaya , Gamble Louise , Griffe Lucie L. , Wang Shumei , Birch Paul R. J. , Kanyuka Kostya , Avrova Anna
Published: April 2017

Pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) are detected by plant pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which gives rise to PAMP‐triggered immunity (PTI). We characterized a novel fungal PAMP, Cell Death Inducing 1 (RcCDI1), identified in the Rhynchosporium commune transcriptome sampled at an early stage of barley (Hordeum vulgare) infection.

The ability of RcCDI1 and its homologues from different fungal species to induce cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana was tested following agroinfiltration or infiltration of recombinant proteins produced by Pichia pastoris. Virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) and transient expression of Phytophthora infestans effectors PiAVR3a and PexRD2 were used to assess the involvement of known components of PTI in N. benthamiana responses to RcCDI1.

RcCDI1 was highly upregulated early during barley colonization with R. commune. RcCDI1 and its homologues from different fungal species, including Zymoseptoria tritici, Magnaporthe oryzae and Neurospora crassa, exhibited PAMP activity, inducing cell death in Solanaceae but not in other families of dicots or monocots. RcCDI1‐triggered cell death was shown to require N. benthamiana Brassinosteroid insensitive 1‐Associated Kinase 1 (NbBAK1), N. benthamiana suppressor of BIR1‐1 (NbSOBIR1) and N. benthamiana SGT1 (NbSGT1), but was not suppressed by PiAVR3a or PexRD2.

We report the identification of a novel Ascomycete PAMP, RcCDI1, recognized by Solanaceae but not by monocots, which activates cell death through a pathway that is distinct from that triggered by the oomycete PAMP INF1.
Overcompensation of herbivore reproduction through hyper‐suppression of plant defenses in response to competition
Authors: Schimmel Bernardus C. J. , Ataide Livia M. S. , Chafi Rachid , Villarroel Carlos A. , Alba Juan M. , Schuurink Robert C. , Kant Merijn R.
Published: April 2017

Spider mites are destructive arthropod pests on many crops. The generalist herbivorous mite Tetranychus urticae induces defenses in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and this constrains its fitness. By contrast, the Solanaceae‐specialist Tetranychus evansi maintains a high reproductive performance by suppressing tomato defenses. Tetranychus evansi outcompetes T. urticae when infesting the same plant, but it is unknown whether this is facilitated by the defenses of the plant.

We assessed the extent to which a secondary infestation by a competitor affects local plant defense responses (phytohormones and defense genes), mite gene expression and mite performance.

We observed that T. evansi switches to hyper‐suppression of defenses after its tomato host is also invaded by its natural competitor T. urticae. Jasmonate (JA) and salicylate (SA) defenses were suppressed more strongly, albeit only locally at the feeding site of T. evansi, upon introduction of T. urticae to the infested leaflet. The hyper‐suppression of defenses coincided with increased expression of T. evansi genes coding for salivary defense‐suppressing effector proteins and was paralleled by an increased reproductive performance.

Together, these observations suggest that T. evansi overcompensates its reproduction through hyper‐suppression of plant defenses in response to nearby competitors. We hypothesize that the competitor‐induced overcompensation promotes competitive population growth of T. evansi on tomato.
Epidemiologic features of Kawasaki disease: Winter versus summer
Authors: Ozeki Yukie , Yamada Fumiya , Kishimoto Tsuyoshi , Yashiro Mayumi , Nakamura Yosikazu
Published: April 2017

Background

The epidemiology of Kawasaki disease (KD) shows seasonal variations, although the etiology of KD is unknown. In this study, we compared the clinical epidemiology of KD onset in winter versus that in summer to identify its etiology, that is, infectious agents.

Methods

Epidemiologic features of KD were compared between two seasons with high incidence (January [winter] and July [summer]) using a dataset of the 22nd nationwide survey in Japan. Data on patients who visited hospital during 2011–2012 in Japan were analyzed after adjusting for age differences. Subgroup analysis was carried out for day of illness at the day of first hospital visit.

Results

The total number of KD patients reported in the survey was 26 691. The number of patients who visited hospital with KD for the first time in January and July was 2,812 and 2,302, respectively. The proportion of patients in the age group 15 months–3 years was 38.8% in January and 33.5% in July. Mean serum albumin was significantly lower in January than in July (at days 2–5 of illness, P < 0.05). There were no between‐group differences with respect to treatment, incidence of cardiac lesions, recurrence, or history of KD among the patients' siblings and parents.

Conclusion

No significant differences were observed between KD with onset in January and July, although minor differences with respect to age distribution and serum albumin were observed.
Validation and determination of a reference interval for canine HbA1c using an immunoturbidimetric assay
Authors: Goemans Anne F. , Spence Susanna J. , Ramsey Ian K.
Published: April 2017

Background

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) provides a reliable measure of glycemic control over 2–3 months in human diabetes mellitus. In dogs, presence of HbA1c has been demonstrated, but there are no validated commercial assays.

Objective

The purpose of the study was to validate a commercially available automated immunoturbidimetric assay for canine HbA1c and determine an RI in a hospital population.

Methods

The specificity of the assay was assessed by inducing glycosylation in vitro using isolated canine hemoglobin, repeatability by measuring canine samples 5 times in succession, long term inter‐assay imprecision by measuring supplied control materials, stability using samples stored at 4°C over 5 days and −20°C over 8 weeks, linearity by mixing samples of known HbA1c in differing proportions, and the effect of anticoagulants with paired samples. An RI was determined using EDTA‐anticoagulated blood samples from 60 nondiabetic hospitalized animals of various ages and breeds. Hemoglobin A1c was also measured in 10 diabetic dogs.

Results

The concentration of HbA1c increased proportionally with glucose concentration in vitro. For repeat measurements, the CV was 4.08% (range 1.16–6.10%). Samples were stable for 5 days at 4°C. The assay was linear within the assessed range. Heparin‐ and EDTA‐anticoagulated blood provided comparable results. The RI for HbA1c was 9–18.5 mmol/mol. There was no apparent effect of age or breed on HbA1c. In diabetic dogs, HbA1c ranged from 14 to 48 mmol/mol.

Conclusions

The assay provides a reliable method for canine HbA1c measurement with good analytic performance.
Dampened activity of ryanodine receptor channels in mutant skeletal muscle lacking TRIC‐A
Authors: El‐Ajouz Sam , Venturi Elisa , Witschas Katja , Beech Matthew , Wilson Abigail D. , Lindsay Chris , Eberhardt David , O'Brien Fiona , Iida Tsunaki , Nishi Miyuki , Takeshima Hiroshi , Sitsapesan Rebecca
Published: April 2017

Key points

The role of trimeric intracellular cation (TRIC) channels is not known, although evidence suggests they may regulate ryanodine receptors (RyR) via multiple mechanisms. We therefore investigated whether Tric‐a gene knockout (KO) alters the single‐channel function of skeletal RyR (RyR1).

We find that RyR1 from Tric‐a KO mice are more sensitive to inhibition by divalent cations, although they respond normally to cytosolic Ca2+, ATP, caffeine and luminal Ca2+.

In the presence of Mg2+, ATP cannot effectively activate RyR1 from Tric‐a KO mice.

Additionally, RyR1 from Tric‐a KO mice are not activated by protein kinase A phosphorylation, demonstrating a defect in the ability of β‐adrenergic stimulation to regulate sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+‐release.

The defective RyR1 gating that we describe probably contributes significantly to the impaired SR Ca2+‐release observed in skeletal muscle from Tric‐a KO mice, further highlighting the importance of TRIC‐A for normal physiological regulation of SR Ca2+‐release in skeletal muscle.

The type A trimeric intracellular cation channel (TRIC‐A) is a major component of the nuclear and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) membranes of cardiac and skeletal muscle, and is localized closely with ryanodine receptor (RyR) channels in the SR terminal cisternae. The skeletal muscle of Tric‐a knockout (KO) mice is characterized by Ca2+ overloaded and swollen SR and by changes in the properties of SR Ca2+ release. We therefore investigated whether RyR1 gating behaviour is modified in the SR from Tric‐a KO mice by incorporating native RyR1 into planar phospholipid bilayers under voltage‐clamp conditions. We find that RyR1 channels from Tric‐a KO mice respond normally to cytosolic Ca2+, ATP, adenine, caffeine and to luminal Ca2+. However, the channels are more sensitive to the inactivating effects of divalent cations, thus, in the presence of Mg2+, ATP is inadequate as an activator. Additionally, channels are not characteristically activated by protein kinase A even though the phosphorylation levels of Ser2844 are similar to controls. The results of the present study suggest that TRIC‐A functions as an excitatory modulator of RyR1 channels within the SR terminal cisternae. Importantly, this regulatory action of TRIC‐A appears to be independent of (although additive to) any indirect consequences to RyR1 activity that arise as a result of K+ fluxes across the SR via TRIC‐A.
A New Holistic Approach for Subsea Pipeline Upheaval Buckling Design
Authors: Liu M. , Cross C.
Published: April 2017

For a trenched and buried pipeline, the propensity to upheaval buckling (UHB) is a major design concern. Predictive UHB design is typically required at the outset to determine both trenching and backfilling requirements. Additional rockdump schedule can be established by analyzing post pipelay out of straightness (OOS) survey data incorporating appropriate safety factors based on a structural reliability analysis (SRA). The normal approach is to examine the as-laid pipeline imperfection survey statistics and data accuracy. The structural reliability analysis and load factor calculation are typically performed a priori based on the assumed initial imperfections using the universal design curve methodology. A new pseudo-energy method for UHB and OOS is proposed and discussed in this paper based on the variational principle and modal analysis. The approach takes into account the effects of varying effective axial force, trench imperfections, and vertical uplift resistance, by combining both axial friction and lateral resistance methods into a unified model. A new concept, effective uplift resistance and associated load, is also introduced to deal with nonuniform backfill cover. Adjacent imperfections and backfill profiles are considered in detail. A finite element (FE) model is developed to consist of three-noded quadratic pipe elements using abaqus Ver 6.12, and iterations of FE analyses are performed to demonstrate the tangible benefits of the approach specifically for UHB OOS design in relation to target trenching and backfilling, leading to improved reliability and potential cost saving in UHB OOS design and rockdump installation.
A Combined EFEM–Discrete Element Method Dynamic Model of Rotor–Bearing–Housing System
Authors: Cao Lijun , Sadeghi Farshid , Stacke Lars-Erik
Published: April 2017

In this paper, a model was developed to study the effects of rotor and support flexibilities on the performance of rotor–bearing–housing system. The system is composed of a flexible rotor and two supporting deep-groove ball bearings mounted in flexible bearing housings. The dynamics of the ball bearings were simulated using an existing dynamic bearing model, which was developed using the discrete element method (DEM). The explicit finite element method (EFEM) was used to model the flexibilities of the rotor and bearing support. In order to combine the dynamic bearing model with finite element rotor and support system, new contact algorithms were developed for the interactions between the various components in the system. The total Lagrangian formulation approach was applied to decrease the computational effort needed for modeling the rotor–bearing–housing system. The combined model was then used to investigate the effects of bearing clearances and housing clearances. And it was found that, as the rotor is deformed due to external loading, the clearances have a significant impact on the bearing varying compliance motion and reaction moments. Results also show that deformation of the flexible housing depends on the total force and moment generated within the bearing due to rotor deformation. The first critical speed of rotor was simulated to investigate the unbalance response of the rotor–bearing system. It was demonstrated that rotor critical speed has a significant effect on inner race displacement and reaction moment generated at bearing location.
Parametric Analysis and Comparison of Ejector Expansion Refrigeration Cycles With Constant Area and Constant Pressure Ejectors
Authors: Seckin Candeniz
Published: April 2017

In this work, parametric analysis of ejector expansion refrigeration cycles (EERC) with two different types of ejectors (constant area (CA) ejector and constant pressure (CP) ejector) is performed, and comparison of the results is presented. Effects of variation in operational parameters (condenser temperature, evaporator temperature, and cooling capacity) on coefficient of performance (COP), entrainment ratio (w), and pressure lift factor (Plf) are investigated. The range of variation for evaporator temperature, condenser temperature, and cooling capacity are −5 to 15 °C, 50–70 °C, and 10–80 kW, respectively. The ejector refrigeration cycle is simulated by ees software. The obtained results are validated by the experimental data available in the literature. The refrigerant R134a is selected based on the merit of its environmental and performance characteristics. The results show that the effect of evaporator temperature is much higher than that of condenser temperature on Plf. In contrast, the influence of condenser temperature on COP is much stronger than that of evaporator temperature. It is seen that COP and Plf of ejector expansion refrigeration cycle with constant pressure ejector (CP-EERC) are higher than those of refrigeration cycle with constant area ejector.
Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Characteristics in a Sessile Droplet on Oil-Impregnated Surface Under Thermal Disturbance
Authors: Al-Sharafi Abdullah , Yilbas Bekir S. , Ali Haider
Published: April 2017

The present study examines the flow field and heat transfer inside a sessile droplet on oil-impregnated surface when subjected to a small temperature difference at the droplet–oil interface. Temperature and flow fields inside the droplet are predicted and the flow velocities predicted are validated through the data obtained from a particle image velocimetry (PIV). Several images of droplets in varying sizes are analyzed and the droplet geometric features and experimental conditions are incorporated in the simulations. A polycarbonate wafer is used to texture the surface via incorporating a solvent-induced crystallization method. Silicon oil is used for impregnation of the textured surfaces. It is found that two counter-rotating circulation cells are formed in the droplet because of the combined effect of the Marangoni and buoyant currents on the flow field. A new dimensionless number (Merve number (MN)) is introduced to assess the behavior of the Nusselt and the Bond numbers with the droplet size. The Merve number represents the ratio of the gravitational force over the surface tension force associated with the sessile droplet and it differs from the Weber number. The Nusselt number demonstrates three distinct behaviors with the Merve number; in which case, the Nusselt number increases sharply for the range 0.8 ≤ MN ≤ 1. The Bond number increases with increasing the Merve number, provided that its values remain less than unity, which indicates the Marangoni current is dominant in the flow field.
Finite Element Analysis of the Implantation Process of Overlapping Stents
Authors: Xu Jiang , Yang Jie , Sohrabi Salman , Zhou Yihua , Liu Yaling
Published: April 2017

Overlapping stents are widely used in vascular stent surgeries. However, the rate of stent fractures (SF) and in-stent restenosis (ISR) after using overlapping stents is higher than that of single stent implantations. Published studies investigating the nature of overlapping stents rely primarily on medical images, which can only reveal the effect of the surgery without providing insights into how stent overlap influences the implantation process. In this paper, a finite element analysis of the overlapping stent implantation process was performed to study the interaction between overlapping stents. Four different cases, based on three typical stent overlap modes and two classical balloons, were investigated. The results showed that overlapping contact patterns among struts were edge-to-edge, edge-to-surface, and noncontact. These were mainly induced by the nonuniform deformation of the stent in the radial direction and stent tubular structures. Meanwhile, the results also revealed that the contact pressure was concentrated in the edge of overlapping struts. During the stent overlap process, the contact pattern was primarily edge-to-edge contact at the beginning and edge-to-surface contact as the contact pressure increased. The interactions between overlapping stents suggest that the failure of overlapping stents frequently occurs along stent edges, which agrees with the previous experimental research regarding the safety of overlapping stents. This paper also provides a fundamental understanding of the mechanical properties of overlapping stents.
Characterizing the Viscoelastic Properties of Hydrogel Thin Films by Bulge Test
Authors: Yanfei Chen , Shigang Ai , Jingda Tang , Yongmao Pei , Liqun Tang , Daining Fang
Published: April 2017

In this work, we carried out bulge test for quantifying the viscoelastic properties of poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) thin films with custom-developed apparatus. A viscoelastic bulge deformation (VBD) model based on the elasticity–viscoelasticity correspondence principle and spherical cap equation is established to describe the bulge deformation of polymeric thin films. The VBD model can be used to determine the time-dependent modulus by bulge test for polymeric films. Uniaxial compressive relaxation test and PRONY series fitting method are used to define the constitutive parameters of the VBD equations. We presented two types of VBD models in frequency domain under linear loading and step loading conditions. Through inverse Laplace transformation, the proposed VBD model can effectively predict the bulge deformation of PVA hydrogel thin film. Numerical simulations are also conducted to validate the VBD model under step loading conditions. This work provides a methodology to characterize the viscoelastic properties of polymeric films by bulge test.
The Effects of Initial Rise and Axial Loads on MEMS Arches
Authors: Tella S. A. , Hajjaj A. Z. , Younis M. I.
Published: April 2017

Arch microbeams have been utilized and proposed for many uses over the past few years due to their large tunability and bistability. However, recent experimental data have shown different mechanical behaviors of arches when subjected to axial loads, i.e., their stiffness may increase or decrease with applied axial loads. This paper aims to investigate in depth, the influence of the competing effects of initial rise and axial loads on the mechanical behavior of micromachined arches; mainly their static deflection and resonant frequencies. Based on analytical solutions, the static response and eigenvalue problems are analyzed for various values of initial rises and axial loads. Universal curves showing the variation of the first three resonance frequencies of the arch are generated for various values of initial rise under both tensile and compressive axial loads. This study shows that increasing the tensile or compressive axial loads for different values of initial rise may lead to either increase in the stiffness of the beam or initial decrease in the stiffness, which later increases as the axial load is increased depending on the dominant effect of the initial rise of the arch and the axial load. The obtained universal curves represent useful design tools to predict the tunability of arches under axial loads for various values of initial rises. The use of the universal curves is demonstrated with an experimental case study. Analytical formulation is developed to predict the point of minimum where the trend of the resonance frequency versus axial loads changes qualitatively due to the competing effects of axial loads and initial curvature.
Thermal Performance of a Light Emitting Diode Light Engine for a Multipurpose Automotive Exterior Lighting System With Competing Board Technologies
Authors: Zeynep Uras Umut , Arık Mehmet , Tamdoğan Enes
Published: April 2017

In recent years, light emitting diodes (LEDs) have become an attractive technology for general and automotive illumination systems replacing old-fashioned incandescent and halogen systems. LEDs are preferable for automobile lighting applications due to its numerous advantages such as low power consumption and precise optical control. Although these solid state lighting (SSL) products offer unique advantages, thermal management is one of the main issues due to severe ambient conditions and compact volume. Conventionally, tightly packaged double-sided FR4-based printed circuit boards (PCBs) are utilized for both driver electronic components and LEDs. In fact, this approach will be a leading trend for advanced internet of things applications embedded LED systems in the near future. Therefore, automotive lighting systems are already facing with tight-packaging issues. To evaluate thermal issues, a hybrid study of experimental and computational models is developed to determine the local temperature distribution on both sides of a three-purpose automotive light engine for three different PCB approaches having different materials but the same geometry. Both results showed that FR4 PCB has a temperature gradient (TMaxBoard to TAmbient) of over 63 °C. Moreover, a number of local hotspots occurred over FR4 PCB due to low thermal conductivity. Later, a metal core PCB is investigated to abate local hot spots. A further study has been performed with an advanced heat spreader board based on vapor chamber technology. Results showed that a thermal enhancement of 7.4% and 25.8% over Al metal core and FR4-based boards with the advanced vapor chamber substrate is observed. In addition to superior thermal performance, a significant amount of lumen extraction in excess of 15% is measured, and a higher reliability rate is expected.
SiC emitters for nanoscale vacuum electronics: A systematic study of cathode–anode gap by focused ion beam etching
Authors: Liu Meng , Li Tie , Wang Yuelin
Published: April 2017

Nanoscale vacuum electronics has been receiving much attention recently with the design and fabrication of vacuum field emission transistors and other devices. The performance and lifetime of these devices depend on the material choice for the emitters. Silicon carbide is a robust material with appealing work function and established fabrication processes. Field emission properties of SiC nanoemitters under different cathode–anode gaps are studied in this work with the aid of focused ion beam etching to control the gap precisely. When the electrode gap is as small as 20 nm, a considerable decrease in voltage and increase in field emission current are seen. When the electrode gap is decreased progressively, the emission current increases exponentially at a fixed collector voltage, and the absence of current saturation is ideal for device scaling. Simulations and Fowler–Nordheim equation are used to analyze the field emission characteristics. The emission is enhanced for both extremely short gaps and sharp emitter tips as expected. The present results for the diode-based system are useful for the design of future gated three terminal devices such as vacuum field emission transistors and field emission displays using SiC.
Energy Expenditure in Playground Games in Primary School Children Measured by Accelerometer and Heart Rate Monitors
Authors: García-Prieto Jorge Cañete , Martinez-Vizcaino Vicente , García-Hermoso Antonio , Sánchez-López Mairena , Arias-Palencia Natalia , Fonseca Juan Fernando Ortega , Mora-Rodriguez Ricardo
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to examine the energy expenditure (EE) measured using indirect calorimetry (IC) during playground games and to assess the validity of heart rate (HR) and accelerometry counts as indirect indicators of EE in children´s physical activity games. 32 primary school children (9.9 ± 0.6 years old, 19.8 ± 4.9 kg · m-2 BMI and 37.6 ± 7.2 ml · kg-1 · min-1 VO2max). Indirect calorimetry (IC), accelerometry and HR data were simultaneously collected for each child during a 90 min session of 30 playground games. Thirty-eight sessions were recorded in 32 different children. Each game was recorded at least in three occasions in other three children. The intersubject coefficient of variation within a game was 27% for IC, 37% for accelerometry and 13% for HR. The overall mean EE in the games was 4.2 ± 1.4 kcals · min-1 per game, totaling to 375 ± 122 kcals/per 90 min/session. The correlation coefficient between indirect calorimetry and accelerometer counts was 0.48 (p = .026) for endurance games and 0.21 (p = .574) for strength games. The correlation coefficient between indirect calorimetry and HR was 0.71 (p = .032) for endurance games and 0.48 (p = .026) for strength games. Our data indicate that both accelerometer and HR monitors are useful devices for estimating EE during endurance games, but only HR monitors estimates are accurate for endurance games.
Association Between Perceived and Actual Motor Competence in Portuguese Children
Authors: Lopes Vítor Pires , Saraiva Linda , Gonçalves Celina , Rodrigues Luis P.
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between actual (AMC) and perceived (PMC) motor competence in Portuguese children. A total of 200 children (111 [0.55%] girls) aged 5–9 years old participated in the study. The Pictorial Scale of Perceived Movement Skill Competence (PMSC) and the Test of Gross Motor Development-2 (TGMD2) were used to assess PMC and AMC, respectively. Mann-Whiney U was used to test the differences between sexes and age groups. The association between TGMD2 and PMSC scores was analyzed through Spearman correlation. Boys and girls of all ages showed to have high PMC. Independent of sex, mean values for each TGMD2 subtest increased throughout the age groups with older children having significantly higher mean scores than younger ones. In general, boys and girls showed similar PMC and AMC, independent of age. Weak to moderate and some negative correlations (0.24 < r < −0.40) were found between PMC and AMC scores for all age and sex groups. In conclusion, there appears to be little relationship between actual and perceived motor competence in Portuguese young children.
Why Do Marketing Relationships End? Findings From an Integrated Model of Sport Sponsorship Decision-Making
Authors: Jensen Jonathan A. , Cornwell T. Bettina
Published: April 2017

With firms spending $60 billion on sponsorship annually, it has become an integral part of the marketing mix and is necessary for the survival of many sport organizations. Despite the importance of these partnerships, conditions that may jeopardize what can be a long-term relationship for both sides are underresearched. Utilizing survival analysis modeling to examine a longitudinal dataset of 69 global sponsorships, the purpose of this research is to isolate factors that predict the dissolution of such partnerships and test a dynamic, integrated model of sponsorship decision-making. From the perspective of the sponsoring firm, congruence and high levels of brand equity were found to reduce the hazard of dissolution. Results indicate that economic conditions, such as an inflationary economy, are a statistically significant predictor of sponsorship dissolution. Increased clutter was also detrimental, with every one sponsor added increasing the hazard of dissolution, demonstrating the importance of exclusivity in global sponsorships.
A Systematic Methodology for Preserving the Whole in Large-Scale Qualitative-Temporal Research
Authors: Hoeber Orland , Snelgrove Ryan , Hoeber Larena , Wood Laura
Published: April 2017

Large-scale qualitative-temporal research faces significant data management and analysis challenges due to the size and the textual and temporal nature of the datasets. We propose a systematic methodology that employs visual exploration to produce a purposive sample of a much larger collection of data, followed by a combination of thematic analysis and visualization. This method allows for the preservation of the whole, producing thematic timelines that can be used to elucidate a narrative of incidents or issues as they unfold. We present a step-by-step guide for this methodology and a comprehensive example from the domain of social media analysis to illustrate how it can be used to reveal interesting temporal patterns among tweets relevant to a noteworthy incident. The approach is useful in sport management, particularly for research related to fan behavior, critical incident management, and media framing.
Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior and the Risk of Overweight and Obesity in School-Aged Children
Authors: Keane Eimear , Li Xia , Harrington Janas M. , Fitzgerald Anthony P. , Perry Ivan J. , Kearney Patricia M.
Published: April 2017

Purpose:

Globally, public health policies are targeting modifiable lifestyle behaviors. We explore the independent association of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behavior on the risk of childhood overweight/obesity.

Method:

A cross-sectional survey of children aged 8–11 years (N = 826). Objective body mass index was used to classify children as normal weight or overweight/obese. Children wore wrist-worn Geneactiv accelerometers for 7-days and thresholds were applied to categorize MVPA and sedentary time. Screen time (ST) was parent reported. Poisson regression examined the independent association of (1) MVPA (2), objective sedentary time and (3) ST on the risk of overweight/obesity.

Results:

Overall, 23.7% (95% CI, 20.8–26.6%) of children were overweight/obese. On average, children spent 10.8% of waking time at MVPA and 61.3% sedentary. One-fifth (22.1%, 95% CI, 19.3–25.0%) of children achieved MVPA recommendations (≥ 60 min each day) and 17.5% (95% CI, 14.9–20.1%) met ST recommendations (<2 hr per day). Time spent at MVPA was inversely associated with the risk of overweight/obese independent of total sedentary time. Total time spent sedentary was not associated with overweight/obese independent of MVPA. ST was associated with an increased risk of overweight/obese independent of physical activity.

Conclusion:

Few schoolchildren met physical activity and screen time recommendations suggesting population based measures are needed.
A Closer Look at How Self-Talk Influences Skilled Basketball Performance
Authors: Abdoli Behrouz , Hardy James , Riyahi Javad F. , Farsi Alireza
Published: April 2017

Empirical literature addressing the effectiveness of self-talk for expert performers is lacking. We addressed this shortcoming within the existent literature and examined the comparative effects of instructional and motivational self-talk on basketball free throw shooting accuracy and salient movement kinematics. We recruited 20 professional basketball players to participate in a 2 × 2 pre/post-test experiment. Free throw accuracy and movement patterns were recorded, with the latter subsequently used to calculate elbow–wrist coordination variability. Results indicated superior shooting accuracy and reduced movement coordination variability for instructional self-talk compared to baseline conditions, whereas no differences emerged for motivational self-talk. Findings from the study help practitioners to better guide skilled performers how best to use self-talk; an area in urgent need of further research.
Control of muscle formation by the fusogenic micropeptide myomixer
Authors: Bi Pengpeng , Ramirez-Martinez Andres , Li Hui , Cannavino Jessica , McAnally John R. , Shelton John M. , Sánchez-Ortiz Efrain , Bassel-Duby Rhonda , Olson Eric N.
Published: April 2017

Micromanaging muscle cell fusion

Adult skeletal muscles are characterized by long, multinucleated cells called myofibers. Myofibers form when muscle precursor cells, or myoblasts, differentiate and fuse together during embryogenesis. The fusion process is not fully understood. Studying cell culture and mouse models, Bi
et al.
identified an 84–amino acid peptide that promotes myoblast fusion. This small peptide, called Myomixer, physically interacts with and stimulates the activity of a fusogenic membrane protein called Myomaker. Notably, the Myomaker-Myomixer pair can also promote the fusion of nonmuscle cells, such as fibroblasts.

Science
, this issue p.
323
Whole-Genome Sequences of Burkholderia pseudomallei Isolates Exhibiting Decreased Meropenem Susceptibility
Authors: Price Erin P. , Smith Melissa Laird , Paxinos Ellen E. , Tallon Luke J. , Sadzewicz Lisa , Sengamalay Naomi , Baird Robert W. , Currie Bart J. , Sarovich Derek S.
Published: April 2017

We report here paired isogenic
Burkholderia pseudomallei
genomes obtained from three patients receiving intravenous meropenem for melioidosis treatment, with post-meropenem isolates developing decreased susceptibility. Two genomes were finished, and four were drafted to improved high-quality standard. These genomes will be used to identify meropenem resistance mechanisms in
B. pseudomallei
.
Genome Sequences of
Cyberlindnera fabianii
65,
Pichia kudriavzevii
129, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae 131 Isolated from Fermented Masau Fruits in Zimbabwe
Authors: van Rijswijck Irma M. H. , Derks Martijn F. L. , Abee Tjakko , de Ridder Dick , Smid Eddy J.
Published: April 2017

Cyberlindnera fabianii
65,
Pichia kudriavzevii
129, and
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
131 have been isolated from the microbiota of fermented masau fruits.
C. fabianii
and
P. kudriavzevii
especially harbor promising features for biotechnology and food applications. Here, we present the draft annotated genome sequences of these isolates.
First Complete Genome Sequences of Porcine Bocavirus Strains from East Africa
Authors: Amimo J. O. , Njuguna J. , Machuka E. , Okoth E. , Djikeng A.
Published: April 2017

Here, we report the first complete genome sequences of two strains of porcine bocavirus (JOA_011 and JOA_015) detected in Uganda and Kenya, respectively. These data will help in understanding the molecular and evolutionary characteristics of the porcine bocaviruses in this region and the development of appropriate diagnostic and control tools.
Draft Genome Sequences of Six Strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae from Serotypes 5, 6A, 6B, 18C, 19A, and 23F
Authors: Jakobsson Hedvig E. , Salvà-Serra Francisco , Thorell Kaisa , Karlsson Roger , Gonzales-Silès Lucia , Boulund Fredrik , Engstrand Lars , Kristiansson Erik , Moore Edward R. B.
Published: April 2017

Streptococcus pneumoniae
is a pathogenic bacterium found most commonly in the respiratory tract of humans and is a common cause of pneumonia and bacterial meningitis. Here, we report the draft genome sequences of six
S. pneumoniae
strains: CCUG 1350, CCUG 7206, CCUG 11780, CCUG 33774, CCUG 35180, and CCUG 35272.
Whole-Genome Sequences of Two Closely Related Bacteria,
Actinomyces
sp. Strain Chiba101 and Actinomyces denticolens DSM 20671
T
Authors: Kanesaki Yu , Ishige Taichiro , Sekigawa Yuriko , Kobayashi Tomoko , Torii Yasushi , Yokoyama Eiji , Ishiwata Hiroyuki , Hamada Moriyuki , Tamura Tomohiko , Azuma Ryozo , Murakami Satoshi
Published: April 2017

Actinomyces
sp. strain Chiba101, isolated from an arthritic leg joint of a pig raised in Japan, is a bacterium closely related to
Actinomyces denticolens
. Here, we deciphered the complete genome sequence of
Actinomyces
sp. Chiba101 and the high-quality draft genome sequence of
A. denticolens
DSM 20671
T
.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Rhizobacterium Pseudomonas chlororaphis PCL1601, Displaying Biocontrol against Soilborne Phytopathogens
Authors: Vida Carmen , de Vicente Antonio , Cazorla Francisco M.
Published: April 2017

In this study, we present the draft genome sequence of the bacterial strain
Pseudomonas chlororaphis
PCL1601. This bacterium was isolated from the rhizosphere of healthy avocado trees and displayed antagonistic and biological control activities against different soilborne phytopathogenic fungi and oomycetes.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas pachastrellae Strain CCUG 46540
T
, a Deep-Sea Bacterium
Authors: Gomila Margarita , Mulet Magdalena , Lalucat Jorge , García-Valdés Elena
Published: April 2017

Pseudomonas pachastrellae
strain CCUG 46540
T
(KMM 330
T
) was isolated from a deep-sea sponge specimen collected in the Philippine Sea at a depth of 750 m. The draft genome has an estimated size of 4.0 Mb, exhibits a G+C content of 61.2 mol%, and is predicted to encode 3,592 proteins, including pathways for the degradation of aromatic compounds.
Complete Genome Sequences of the Xylose-Fermenting Candida intermedia Strains CBS 141442 and PYCC 4715
Authors: Moreno Antonio D. , Tellgren-Roth Christian , Soler Lucile , Dainat Jacques , Olsson Lisbeth , Geijer Cecilia
Published: April 2017

Sustainable biofuel production from lignocellulosic materials requires efficient and complete use of all abundant sugars in the biomass, including xylose. Here, we report on the
de novo
genome assemblies of two strains of the xylose-fermenting yeast
Candida intermedia
: CBS 141442 and PYCC 4715.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Salmacisia buchloëana
(Basidiomycota), Which Induces Hermaphroditism in Dioecious Buffalograss
Authors: Huff David R. , Hsiang Tom , Chandra Ambika , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2017

Here, we report the draft genome of
Salmacisia buchloëana
type strain OK1, a monotypic species of fungi that induces ovary development in genetic male plants and increases reproductive biomass allocation in its host buffalograss. This research will enhance our understanding of fungal manipulation of host development at the genomic level.
Complete Genome Sequence of Actinomyces hongkongensis HKU8
T
Isolated from Human Blood
Authors: Gao Yan-xia , Zhou Yu-yan , Xie Ying , Wang Man , Wang Shu-juan , Shen Shi-gang
Published: April 2017

Members of the genus
Actinomyces
are strongly associated with human diseases. We present here the complete genome sequence of
Actinomyces hongkongensis
HKU8
T
, which consists of one circular chromosome. The strain characteristically contains various genes encoding for enzymes involved in arylamidase utilization.
Genome Sequence of a Spontaneous Nonhemolytic Mutant of Mannheimia haemolytica 16041065 GH
Authors: Ayalew Sahlu , Confer Anthony W. , Hansen Richard D. , Couger Matthew Brian
Published: April 2017

We report here the draft genome sequence of a spontaneous nonhemolytic mutant of
Mannheimia haemolytica
16041065 GH. This mutant arose during routine passage and was devoid of hemolytic activity on standard blood agars. This genome sequence had a total size of 2.7 Mb with an
N
50
of 117 kb.
Risk factors associated with current intimate partner violence at individual and relationship levels: a cross-sectional study among married rural migrant women in Shanghai, China
Authors: Tu Xiaowen , Lou Chaohua
Published: April 2017

Objective

To identify individual and relationship risk factors associated with current intimate partner violence (IPV) against married rural migrant women in Shanghai, China.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Two subdistricts of one administrative district, Shanghai, China.

Participants

A total of 958 married rural migrant women of reproductive age were selected using a community-based two-stage cluster sampling method in April and May of 2010.

Outcome measures

Data were collected using a modified questionnaire based on an instrument from the WHO Multi-country Study on Women’s Health and Domestic Violence against Women. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% CI from a multivariable logistic regression model were estimated to identify individual and relationship risk factors associated with different types of violence in the past 12 months.

Results

Women’s low financial autonomy was associated with all types of violence (AORs ranged from 1.98 to 7.89, p<0.05). Quarrelling with husband was a very strong risk factor (AORs >6, p<0.05) for both emotional violence and any violence. Experience of job change in the past year (AOR=4.03, 95% CI 1.57 to 10.35) and history of husband being abused (AOR=4.67, 95% CI 2.17 to 7.69) were strongly associated with physical or sexual violence.

Conclusion

Women’s low financial autonomy and unstable employment status at an individual level, quarrelling with husband and history of husband beaten by family members at a relationship level were identified as the most robust risk factors for IPV among married rural migrant women. Efforts to prevent IPV among this population should be made to involve both women and their husbands, with a focus on improving financial autonomy and employment status of women, promoting problem-solving and interaction skills of the couples and changing their knowledge and attitudes towards gender norms and IPV.
Translating concerns into action: a detailed qualitative evaluation of an interdisciplinary intervention on medical wards
Authors: Pannick Samuel , Archer Stephanie , Johnston Maximillian J , Beveridge Iain , Long Susannah Jane , Athanasiou Thanos , Sevdalis Nick
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To understand how frontline reports of day-to-day care failings might be better translated into improvement.

Design

Qualitative evaluation of an interdisciplinary team intervention capitalising on the frontline experience of care delivery. Prospective clinical team surveillance (PCTS) involved structured interdisciplinary briefings to capture challenges in care delivery, facilitated organisational escalation of the issues they identified, and feedback. Eighteen months of ethnography and two focus groups were conducted with staff taking part in a trial of PCTS.

Results

PCTS fostered psychological safety—a confidence that the team would not embarrass or punish those who speak up. This was complemented by a hard edge of accountability, whereby team members would regulate their own behaviour in anticipation of future briefings. Frontline concerns were triaged to managers, or resolved autonomously by ward teams, reversing what had been well-established normalisations of deviance. Junior clinicians found a degree of catharsis in airing their concerns, and their teams became more proactive in addressing improvement opportunities. PCTS generated tangible organisational changes, and enabled managers to make a convincing case for investment. However, briefings were constrained by the need to preserve professional credibility, and staff found some comfort in avoiding accountability . At higher organisational levels, frontline concerns were subject to competition with other priorities, and their resolution was limited by the scale of the challenges they described.

Conclusions

Prospective safety strategies relying on staff-volunteered data produce acceptable, negotiated accounts, subject to the many interdisciplinary tensions that characterise ward work. Nonetheless, these strategies give managers access to the realities of frontline cares, and support frontline staff to make incremental changes in their daily work. These are goals for learning healthcare organisations.

Trial registration

ISRCTN 34806867.
Improving Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infection Rates in the Medical Units
Authors: Taha Haytham , Raji Salama J. , Khallaf Abeer , Abu Hija Seham , Mathew Raji , Rashed Hanan , Du Plessis Christelle , Allie Zaytoen , Ellahham Samer
Published: April 2017

Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) in Abu Dhabi is the main tertiary care referral hospital in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with 560 bed capacity with a high occupancy rate. SKMC senior management has made a commitment to make quality and patient safety a top priority. Preventing health care associated infections, including Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI), is a high priority for our hospital.

In order to improve CAUTI rates a multidisciplinary task force team was formed and led this performance improvement project. The purpose of this publication is to indicate the quality improvement interventions implemented to reduce CAUTI rates and the outcome of those interventions.

We chose to conduct the pilot study in General Medicine as it is the busiest department in the hospital, with an average of 390 patients admitted per month during the study period. The study period was from March 2015 till April 2016. Our aim was to reduce CAUTI rates per 1000 device days in the medical units. Implemented interventions resulted in a reduction of CAUTI from 6.8 per 1000 device days in March 2015 to zero CAUTI in February through April 2016.