bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building the capacity of nursing professionals in Cambodia: Insights from a bridging programme for faculty development
Authors: Koto‐Shimada Kyoko , Yanagisawa, Satoko , Boonyanurak Puangrat , Fujita Noriko
Published: May 2016

To upgrade nursing instruction capacity in Cambodia, two bridging programmes were opened for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing simultaneously in‐country and out‐of‐country (Thailand). A descriptive qualitative study was conducted to assess effectiveness of both programmes jointly and to explore needs concerning the further development of nursing education. This study included interviews with 34 current or previous programme participants (nursing instructors or hospital preceptors) and 10 managers of collaborating institutions. New learning content, personal outcomes, challenges and obstacles and future needs were qualitatively coded to create categories and subcategories of data. Findings show that programme participants were most influenced by the new content areas (e.g. nursing theory and professionalism), active teaching–learning strategies and the full‐time educational immersion afforded by the out‐of‐country programme. Programme participants who had returned to their workplaces also identified on‐going needs for employing new active teaching–learning approaches, curriculum revision, national standardization of nursing curricula and improvements in the teaching–learning infrastructure. Another outcome of this study is the development of a theoretical model for Nursing Capacity Building in Developing Countries that describes the need for intermediate and long‐term planning as well as using both Bottom‐Up and Edge‐Pulling strategies.
Cardiac assessment prior to non‐cardiac surgery
Authors: Mooney J. F. , Hillis G. S. , Lee V. W. , Halliwell R. , Vicaretti M. , Moncrieff C. , Chow C. K.
Published: May 2016

Background

Increasingly, patients undergoing non‐cardiac surgery are older and have more comorbidities yet preoperative cardiac assessment appears haphazard and unsystematic. We hypothesised that patients at high cardiac risk were not receiving adequate cardiac assessment, and patients with low‐cardiac risk were being over‐investigated.

Aims

To compare in a representative sample of patients undergoing non‐cardiac surgery the use of cardiac investigations in patients at high and low preoperative cardiac risk.

Methods

We examined cardiac assessment patterns prior to elective non‐cardiac surgery in a representative sample of patients. Cardiac risk was calculated using the Revised Cardiac Risk Index.

Results

Of 671 patients, 589 (88%) were low risk and 82 (12%) were high risk. We found that nearly 14% of low‐risk and 45% of high‐risk patients had investigations for coronary ischaemia prior to surgery. Vascular surgery had the highest rate of investigation (38%) and thoracic patients the lowest rate (14%). Whilst 78% of high‐risk patients had coronary disease, only 46% were on beta‐blockers, 49% on aspirin and 77% on statins. For current smokers (17.3% of cohort, n = 98), 60% were advised to quit pre‐op.

Conclusions

Practice patterns varied across surgical sub‐types with low‐risk patients tending to be over‐investigated and high‐risk patients under‐investigated. A more systemised approach to this large group of patients could improve clinical outcomes, and more judicious use of investigations could lower healthcare costs and increase efficiency in managing this cohort.
Synthesis and Characterization of Al‐Doped ZnO as a Prospective High Adsorption Material
Authors: Wu Haoyang , Qin Mingli , Zhang Dezhi , Chu Aimin , Cao Zhiqin , Jia Baorui , Chen Pengqi , Yang Shidi , Li Xiaoli , Qu Xuanhui , Volinsky Alex A.
Published: May 2016

This work demonstrates Al‐doped ZnO adsorbents successfully synthesized by glucose‐assisted solution combustion. The addition of glucose results in nanocomposite powders with highly fluffy network, mesoporous structure, high specific surface area, and physical properties, which in turn improve the adsorption properties. The adsorption performance of the material was studied, and the influence of Al doping concentration, adsorbents and methyl orange concentration in the solution were investigated. The addition of glucose increased the adsorption capacity of methyl orange onto Al‐doped ZnO by over 2 times. The adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm, was spontaneous and exothermic. Kinetic calculations show that the adsorption followed the pseudo‐second‐order model with a multistep diffusion process. Thermodynamic parameters indicate that the adsorption is a feasible, spontaneous, and exothermic process.
Hepatitis C may enhance key amplifiers of psoriasis
Authors: Chun K. , Afshar M. , Audish D. , Kabigting F. , Paik A. , Gallo R. , Hata T.
Published: May 2016

Background

Multiple studies have noted an association between hepatitis C and psoriasis, but it is not known whether psoriasis is a result of treatment modalities for hepatitis C or a result of hepatitis C alone.

Objective

To examine the relationship between psoriasis and hepatitis C by measuring the expression of cathelicidin, TLR9 and IFNγ in psoriatic lesional and non‐lesional skin in HCV‐positive and negative psoriatic patients.

Methods

Two 2 mm punch biopsies of lesional and non‐lesional skin in 10 patients who were HCV‐negative psoriatics and seven HCV‐positive psoriatics were used to measure cathelicidin, TLR9 and IFNγ mRNA expression by quantitative reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR).

Results

The mRNA levels of cathelicidin, TLR9 and IFNγ were significantly higher in both non‐lesional and lesional skin of HCV‐positive patients with psoriasis as compared to HCV‐negative psoriatic patients. Additionally, the IFNγ level in lesional skin of HCV‐positive psoriatic patients was higher than the IFNγ level seen in non‐lesional skin of those same patients.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that HCV infection upregulates these inflammatory cytokines, possibly increasing susceptibility to developing psoriasis.
Clinical and safety outcomes of laparoscopic nephrectomy with renal autotransplantation for the loin pain‐hematuria syndrome: a 14‐year longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Zubair Adeel S , Cheungpasitporn Wisit , Erickson Stephen B , Prieto Mikel
Published: May 2016

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess clinical and safety outcomes after laparoscopic nephrectomy with autotransplantation for loin pain‐hematuria syndrome (LPHS).

Methods

We conducted telephone interviews using structured questionnaires and retrospectively reviewed data on all patients who underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy with autotransplantation for LPHS between January 2000 and May 2014.

Results

A total of 24 laparoscopic nephrectomies with renal autotransplantation of 21 patients with LPHS were reviewed. Eighty‐three per cent were female with a mean age of 31 years. Postoperatively, graft loss resulting in subsequent nephrectomy occurred in two patients; However, no patients died (median follow‐up = 22 months, range 5 to 78 months) or required dialysis (median follow‐up = 10 months, range 0.2 to 178 months). There was no significant difference in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) before and after surgery (100 ± 22 vs. 97 ± 23 mL/min/1.73 m2; P = 0.37). Among 14 patients (16 autotransplantation) with telephone follow‐up, 14 (88%) resulted in pain relief and no operation resulted in worsening pain. All procedures resulted in immediate pain relief; pain recurrence was reported after two procedures. However, those patients had pain‐free period up to 36 months. The quality of life was better after 15 (94%) autotransplantation with higher employment rate (44% vs. 69%; P = 0.04). Two patients with graft loss reported better pain control and quality of life.

Conclusions

Renal autotransplantation is a possible treatment option for LPHS refractory to conservative medical treatment. It can offer pain relief and better quality of life. Despite postoperative risk, it seems to be safe for survival and renal outcomes.
Congress and the Federal Reserve
Authors: HESS GREGORY D. , SHELTON CAMERON A.
Published: May 2016

We examine legislative activity to determine when Congress threatens the Fed and whether this pressure affects monetary policy. By the late‐1980s Congress shifted from threatening when unemployment was high to threatening when inflation was high. We use the Romer and Romer monetary shocks to isolate changes in the federal funds rate that cannot be explained by economic conditions and ask whether these shocks respond to pressure. In the 1970s, the Fed responded to bills credibly threatening Fed powers by lowering the federal funds target below that prescribed by current and forecast economic conditions. However, this accommodation ceased in the mid‐1980s.
Bremsstrahlung enhancement in electron probe microanalysis for homogeneous samples using Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: PETACCIA M. , SEGUI S. , CASTELLANO G.
Published: May 2016

Fluorescence enhancement in samples irradiated in a scanning electron microscope or an electron microprobe should be appropriately assessed in order not to distort quantitative analyses. Several models have been proposed to take into account this effect and current quantification routines are based on them, many of which have been developed under the assumption that bremsstrahlung fluorescence correction is negligible when compared to characteristic enhancement; however, no concluding arguments have been provided in order to support this assumption. As detectors are unable to discriminate primary from secondary characteristic X‐rays, Monte Carlo simulation of radiation transport becomes a determinant tool in the study of this fluorescence enhancement. In this work, bremsstrahlung fluorescence enhancement in electron probe microanalysis has been studied by using the interaction forcing routine offered by penelope 2008 as a variance reduction alternative. The developed software allowed us to show that bremsstrahlung and characteristic fluorescence corrections are in fact comparable in the studied cases. As an extra result, the interaction forcing approach appears as a most efficient method, not only in the computation of the continuum enhancement but also for the assessment of the characteristic fluorescence correction.
The University Experiences of Students with Learning Disabilities
Authors: McGregor Karla K. , Langenfeld Natalie , Van Horne Sam , Oleson Jacob , Anson Matthew , Jacobson Wayne
Published: May 2016

To explore the university experiences of students with learning disabilities (LD), 63,802 responses to the 2014 Student Experience in the Research University Survey were analyzed. Compared to other students, those with self‐reported LD (5.96 percent) had difficulty with assignments and had more obstacles caused by nonacademic responsibilities and imposed by their skill levels. Students with self‐reported LD sensed more bias toward people with disabilities on campus, and they were less satisfied with their overall experience. Interactions between disability status and age suggested even more challenges for older students who self‐reported LD. Approximately one‐third of students who self‐reported LD received accommodations. The rate of accommodations was higher among individuals who were wealthy, who lived alone, and who were out‐of‐state students. Compared to students who self‐reported LD but reported no accommodations, those with accommodations had more contact with faculty and less difficulty with assignments.
Resection vs. ablation for alpha‐fetoprotein positive hepatocellular carcinoma within the Milan criteria: a propensity score analysis
Authors: He Wei , Li Binkui , Zheng Yun , Zou Ruhai , Shen Jingxian , Cheng Donghui , Tao Qiang , Liu Wenwu , Li Qijiong , Chen Guihua , Yuan Yunfei
Published: May 2016

Background & Aims

The lack of histopathological confirmation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnosis for patients receiving ablation may result in misdiagnosis of benign liver nodule as HCC occasionally, contributing to false treatment efficacy. This underestimated issue is one reason why the ablation efficacy remains undetermined compared with hepatic resection. Our aim is to compare the efficacy of ablation and resection for HCC within the Milan criteria after excluding the impact of misdiagnosis.

Methods

Alpha‐fetoprotein > 200 ng/ml was introduced as an inclusion criterion to improve diagnosis accuracy. A total of 435 (resection, 310; ablation, 125) HCC patients within the Milan criteria and without portal hypertension were enrolled. Propensity score matching analysis identified 259 (resection, 150; ablation, 109) patients to compare treatment efficacy.

Results

Before matching, the survival of resection group were superior to ablation group with 5‐year overall survival (OS) rate of 77.6% vs. 53.8% (P < 0.001), respectively, and 5‐year recurrence–free survival (RFS) rate of 57.2% vs. 29.1% (P < 0.001) respectively. After matching, the baseline was well‐balanced between the two groups. The 5‐year OS rates were 71.5% vs. 51.3% (P < 0.001), and 5‐year RFS rates were 56.1% vs. 25.6% (P < 0.001) for the resection and ablation groups respectively. Cox regression analysis identified ablation as an independent predictor for mortality and tumour recurrence (HR: 2.123 and 2.308, respectively; both P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Hepatic resection provides better OS and RFS than ablation for alpha‐fetoprotein positive HCC patients within the Milan criteria and without portal hypertension.
Understanding the null‐to‐small association between increased macroeconomic growth and reducing child undernutrition in India: role of development expenditures and poverty alleviation
Authors: Joe William , Rajaram Ramaprasad , Subramanian S. V.
Published: May 2016

Empirical evidence suggests that macroeconomic growth in India is not correlated with any substantial reductions in the prevalence of child undernutrition over time. This study investigates the two commonly hypothesized pathways through which macroeconomic growth is expected to reduce child undernutrition: (1) an increase in public developmental expenditure and (2) a reduction in aggregate income‐poverty levels. For the anthropometric data on children, we draw on the data from two cross‐sectional waves of National Family Health Survey conducted in 1992–1993 and 2005–2006, while the data for per capita net state domestic product and per capita public spending on developmental expenditure and headcount ratio of poverty were obtained from the Reserve Bank of India and the Government of India expert committee reports. We find that between 1992–1993 and 2005–2006, state‐level macroeconomic growth was not associated with any substantial increases in public development expenditure or substantial reductions in poverty at the aggregate level. Furthermore, the association between changes in public development expenditure or aggregate poverty and changes in undernutrition was small. In summary, it appears that the inability of macroeconomic growth to translate into reductions in child undernutrition in India is likely a consequence of the macroeconomic growth not translating into substantial investments in development expenditure that could matter for children's nutritional status and neither did it substantially improve incomes of the poor, a group where undernutrition is also the highest. The findings here build a case to advocate a ‘support‐led’ strategy for reducing undernutrition rather than simply relying on a ‘growth‐mediated’ strategy.

Key messages

Increases in macroeconomic growth have not been accompanied by substantial increases in public developmental spending or reduction in aggregate poverty headcount ratio in India.

Association between increases in public development expenditure or poverty headcount ratios and changes in child undernutrition, in particular, child stunting, is small to null.

Reducing the burden of undernutrition in India cannot be accomplished solely relying on a growth‐mediated strategy, and a concerted support‐led strategy is required.
Can water, sanitation and hygiene help eliminate stunting? Current evidence and policy implications
Authors: Cumming Oliver , Cairncross Sandy
Published: May 2016

Stunting is a complex and enduring challenge with far‐reaching consequences for those affected and society as a whole. To accelerate progress in eliminating stunting, broader efforts are needed that reach beyond the nutrition sector to tackle the underlying determinants of undernutrition. There is growing interest in how water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions might support strategies to reduce stunting in high‐burden settings, such as South Asia and sub‐Saharan Africa. This review article considers two broad questions: (1) can WASH interventions make a significant contribution to reducing the global prevalence of childhood stunting, and (2) how can WASH interventions be delivered to optimize their effect on stunting and accelerate progress? The evidence reviewed suggests that poor WASH conditions have a significant detrimental effect on child growth and development resulting from sustained exposure to enteric pathogens but also due to wider social and economic mechanisms. Realizing the potential of WASH to reduce stunting requires a redoubling of efforts to achieve universal access to these services as envisaged under the Sustainable Development Goals. It may also require new or modified WASH strategies that go beyond the scope of traditional interventions to specifically address exposure pathways in the first 2 years of life when the process of stunting is concentrated.
Drivers of nutritional change in four South Asian countries: a dynamic observational analysis
Authors: Headey Derek , Hoddinott John , Park Seollee
Published: May 2016

This paper quantifies the factors explaining long‐term improvements in child height for age z‐scores in Bangladesh (1996/1997–2011), India (1992/1993–2005/2006), Nepal (1997–2011) and Pakistan (1991–2013). We apply the same statistical techniques to data from a common data source from which we have extracted a set of common explanatory variables that capture ‘nutrition‐sensitive’ factors. Three are particularly important in explaining height for age z‐score changes over these timeframes: improvements in material well‐being; increases in female education; and improvements in sanitation. These factors have comparable associations across all four countries.
A Condition‐Based Deterioration Model for the Stochastic Dependency of Corrosion Rate and Crack Propagation in Corroded Concrete Structures
Authors: El Hajj Boutros , Schoefs Franck , Castanier Bruno , Yeung Thomas
Published: May 2016

Physics‐based models are intensively studied in mechanical and civil engineering but their constant increase in complexity makes them harder to use in a maintenance context, especially when degradation model can/should be updated from new inspection data. On the other hand, Markovian cumulative damage approaches such as Gamma processes seem promising; however, they suffer from lack of acceptability by the civil engineering community due to poor physics considerations. In this article, we want to promote an approach for modeling the degradation of structures and infrastructures for maintenance purposes which can be seen as an intermediate approach between physical models and probabilistic models. A new statistical, data‐driven state‐dependent model is proposed. The construction of the degradation model will be discussed within an application to the cracking of concrete due to chloride‐induced corrosion. Numerical experiments will later be conducted to identify preliminary properties of the model in terms of statistical inferences. An estimation algorithm is proposed to estimate the parameters of the model in cases where databases suffer from irregularities.
Transcriptional reprogramming underpins enhanced plant growth promotion by the biocontrol fungus Trichoderma hamatum GD12 during antagonistic interactions with Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in soil
Authors: Shaw Sophie , Le Cocq Kate , Paszkiewicz Konrad , Moore Karen , Winsbury Rebecca , de Torres Zabala Marta , Studholme David J. , Salmon Deborah , Thornton Christopher R. , Grant Murray R.
Published: May 2016

The free‐living soil fungus Trichoderma hamatum strain GD12 is notable amongst Trichoderma strains in both controlling plant diseases and stimulating plant growth, a property enhanced during its antagonistic interactions with pathogens in soil. These attributes, alongside its markedly expanded genome and proteome compared with other biocontrol and plant growth‐promoting Trichoderma strains, imply a rich potential for sustainable alternatives to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers for the control of plant disease and for increasing yields. The purpose of this study was to investigate the transcriptional responses of GD12 underpinning its biocontrol and plant growth promotion capabilities during antagonistic interactions with the pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in soil. Using an extensive mRNA‐seq study capturing different time points during the pathogen–antagonist interaction in soil, we show that dynamic and biphasic signatures in the GD12 transcriptome underpin its biocontrol and plant (lettuce) growth‐promoting activities. Functional predictions of differentially expressed genes demonstrate the enrichment of transcripts encoding proteins involved in transportation and oxidation–reduction reactions during both processes and an over‐representation of siderophores. We identify a biphasic response during biocontrol characterized by a significant induction of transcripts encoding small‐secreted cysteine‐rich proteins, secondary metabolite‐producing gene clusters and genes unique to GD12. These data support the hypothesis that Sclerotinia biocontrol is mediated by the synthesis and secretion of antifungal compounds and that GD12's unique reservoir of uncharacterized genes is actively recruited during the effective biological control of a plurivorous plant pathogen.
Mysterious unilateral midfacial destruction – a diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Hong B. , Adcock SD
Published: May 2016

We describe a case of progressive, significant, bony destruction of right midface over approximately 27 months from an unknown aetiology. A 58‐year‐old male patient originally presented with a white lesion in the upper right buccal sulcus, which a biopsy confirmed to be a benign hyperplastic inflammatory lesion. However, 16 months later, the patient returned with signs and symptoms suspicious of a malignant aetiology. A series of computed tomography scans over 27‐month period revealed progression of extensive permeative right midfacial bony destruction now with intracranial involvement. Contrary to the clinical and radiological findings, the histology results could not confirm malignancy and have been inconclusive on various occasions. We describe the clinical journey to date of this patient and discuss differential diagnoses: actinomycosis osteomyelitis; avascular necrosis of infective cause, such as mucormycosis; verrucous carcinoma; and Gorham's disease (massive osteolysis). We highlight the importance of a collaborative, multicentre, multidisciplinary approach to explore the results of investigations that conflict with the clinical picture of a complex case like this.
The effect of continuous wound infusion of ropivacaine on postoperative pain after median sternotomy and mediastinal drain in children
Authors: Mattila Ilkka , Pätilä Tommi , Rautiainen Paula , Korpela Reijo , Nikander Satu , Puntila Juha , Salminen Jukka , Suominen Pertti K. , Tynkkynen Paula , Hiller Arja
Published: May 2016

Background

Postoperative pain after median sternotomy is usually treated with i.v. opioids. We hypothesized that continuous wound infusion of ropivacaine decreases postoperative morphine consumption and improves analgesia in children who undergo cardiac surgery.

Methods

This randomized, double‐blind study comprised 49 children aged 1–9 years who underwent atrial septal defect (ASD) closure. Patients received continuous local anesthetic wound infiltration either with 0.2% ropivacaine, 0.3–0.4 mg·kg−1·h−1 (Group R) or with saline (Group C). Rescue morphine consumption, Objective Pain Scale (OPS), time to mobilization, time to enteral food intake, and time to discharge were recorded.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in morphine consumption at 24, 48, and 72 h postsurgery between R and C groups. There was a weak evidence for a difference in the time to the first morphine administration after tracheal extubation to be longer for Group R than Group C (186.2 vs 81.0 min; 95% CI (−236.5, 26.2), P = 0.114). The incidence of nausea and vomiting were comparable between the groups. No signs or symptoms of local anesthetic toxicity were registered.

Conclusions

Contrary to our hypothesis, continuous ropivacaine wound infusion did not reduce morphine consumption, pain score values, or nausea and vomiting in children who underwent ASD closure with median sternotomy and mediastinal drain.
Long‐term effects of vegetational restoration on soil microbial communities on the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Xiao Lie , Liu Guo‐bin , Zhang Jiao‐yang , Xue Sha
Published: May 2016

Soil microbial communities are important indicators for evaluating the effectiveness of vegetational restoration. The ability of soil microbial communities to recover under six types of restoration was examined using Biolog, phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA), and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Soil samples were collected from eroded loessial soils that had been restored for 30 years on the Loess Plateau with natural grass, black locust, korshinsk peashrub, Chinese pine, and mixed forest of Chinese pine‐indigo and black locust‐indigo. Part of sloped farmland that had not been restored represented pre‐restoration conditions. An 80‐year‐old forest of Chinese arborvitae represented the end point of restoration. Soils that were originally farmed but have been under restoration treatments for the past 30 years had significantly higher average well‐color development, total PLFAs, bacterial PLFAs, fungal PLFAs, and Shannon indices of catabolic diversity, structural diversity, and bacterial phylogenetic diversity. These indicators, though, were lower than those for the native forest. Principal component analysis significantly separated the sloped farmland, Chinese arborvitae, and the six types of restoration. Redundancy analysis indicated that pH, total organic carbon, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, and available phosphorus were the most important environment factors in affecting soil functional diversity, and C/N ratio and available nutrients were the main properties in determining microbial community structure. Vegetational restoration substantially increased microbial biomass and microbial physiological activity, and shifted microbial community structure, but the community structures and compositions did not recover to the status of the natural forest during the early stage (<30 years) of vegetational restoration.
Restoring big sagebrush after controlling encroaching western juniper with fire: aspect and subspecies effects
Authors: Davies Kirk W. , Bates Jon D.
Published: May 2016

The need for restoration of shrubs is increasingly recognized around the world. In the western United States, restoration of mountain big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata Nutt. ssp. vaseyana [Rydb.] Beetle) after controlling encroaching conifers is a priority to improve sagebrush‐associated wildlife habitat. Conifers can be cost effectively removed with prescribed burning when sagebrush is codominant; however, burning removes sagebrush and natural recovery may be slow. We evaluated seeding mountain and Wyoming big sagebrush (A. tridentata Nutt. ssp. wyomingensis Beetle & Young) on north and south aspects after western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis ssp. occidentalis Hook) control with prescribed burning. We included seeding Wyoming big sagebrush, a more drought tolerant subspecies of big sagebrush, because it might grow better than mountain big sagebrush on hot, dry south slopes, during drought, or after juniper encroachment. Seeding mountain big sagebrush increased sagebrush cover and density compared to unseeded controls. In mountain big sagebrush‐seeded plots, sagebrush cover was 19 times greater on north compared to south aspects in the fourth year after seeding. At this time, sagebrush cover was also greater on mountain compared to Wyoming big sagebrush‐seeded plots. Natural recovery (i.e. unseeded) of sagebrush was occurring on north aspects with sagebrush cover averaging 3% 4 years after fire. Sagebrush was not detected on unseeded south aspects at the end of the study. These results suggest that postfire sagebrush recovery, with and without seeding, will be variable across the landscape based on topography. This study suggests seeding sagebrush after controlling junipers with burning may accelerate sagebrush recovery.
The time course of endogenous erythropoietin, IL‐6, and TNFα in response to acute hypoxic exposures
Authors: Turner G. , Gibson O. R. , Watt P. W. , Pringle J. S. M. , Richardson A. J. , Maxwell N. S.
Published: May 2016

Erythropoietin (EPO) rapidly decreases on return to sea level (SL) after chronic altitude exposure. Acute hypoxia may provide an additional stimulus to prevent the decline in EPO. Proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) have been shown to inhibit EPO production. Optimal normobaric hypoxic exposure has not been established; therefore, investigation of methods eliciting the greatest response in EPO to limit physiological stress is required. Eight men (age 27 ± 4 years, body mass 77.5 ± 9.0 kg, height 179 ± 6 cm) performed four passive exposures to different normobaric hypoxic severities [FiO2: 0.209 (SL), FiO2: ~0.135 (3600 m), FiO2: ~0.125 (4200 m) and FiO2: ~0.115 (4800 m)] in a hypoxic chamber for 2 h. Venous blood was drawn pre‐exposure and then at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h to determine EPO concentration ([EPO]), IL‐6, and TNFα. During 4200 and 4800 m, [EPO] increased from 5.9 ± 1.5 to 8.1 ± 1.5 mU/mL (P = 0.009) and 6.0 ± 1.4 to 8.9 ± 2.0 mU/mL (P = 0.037), respectively, with [EPO] increase peaking at 4 h (2 h post‐exposure). There were no differences in IL‐6 or TNFα during or post‐exposure. Increased [EPO] was found 2 h post hypoxic exposure as result of 2 h of normobaric hypoxia ≥4200 m. There was no dose–response relationship in [EPO] between simulated hypoxia severities.
The relationship between water‐soluble P and modified Morgan P: results based on data and chemical modelling.
Authors: Lumsdon D. G. , Shand C. A. , Wendler R. , Edwards A. C. , Stutter M. I. , Richards S. , Sinclair A. H.
Published: May 2016

An improved understanding of potential soluble phosphorus (P) loss in run‐off and leachate from agriculturally managed soils presents practical and theoretical challenges. Our study aimed to discover whether modified Morgan extractable P (MMP) can be used to predict water‐soluble P (WSP). We first addressed the relationship between MMP and WSP, and whether MMP is useful for predicting the WSP concentrations demanded by water quality regulations. Secondly, we applied novel soil chemical models to explain why the relationship between MMP and WSP depends upon soil properties. Thirdly, we explain how soil properties relate to potential soluble P loss in situations in which soil is subjected to a wide liquid‐to‐soil ratio (e.g. run‐off and rivers) compared with those with a narrow ratio (e.g. soil porewater). To address these P loss scenarios, 60 agricultural topsoils (0–10 cm) were collected from a mixed‐farming catchment (Lunan catchment, northeast Scotland) and chemically characterized. Theoretical understanding of P solubility was obtained with a P sorption model. The data showed variability in the relationship between MMP and WSP. Modelling shows the MMP versus WSP relationship is nonlinear, depending on several confounding factors (P sorption capacity (PSC), Ca, pH) and the liquid‐to‐soil ratio (L:S) employed for WSP determination. Consequently, the slope of the relationship is not unique but depends subjectively on the set of soils surveyed. MMP versus WSP at large L:S (e.g. in run‐off or rivers) is positively correlated to PSC, whereas at narrow L:S (e.g. porewater) there is a negative correlation with PSC. The study provides new ideas for the interpretation and extrapolation of agronomic soil test data for soils of varied properties and highlights the need to utilize insights from soil chemistry.
Use of BODIPY‐Cholesterol (TF‐Chol) for Visualizing Lysosomal Cholesterol Accumulation
Authors: Hölttä‐Vuori Maarit , Sezgin Erdinc , Eggeling Christian , Ikonen Elina
Published: May 2016

Dipyrromethene difluoride‐cholesterol (TopFluor‐Cholesterol, TF‐Chol) is a widely used cholesterol analogue due to its excellent fluorescence properties and considerable similarity with natural cholesterol in terms of membrane partitioning. However, the suitability of TF‐Chol for detecting lysosomal cholesterol deposition has recently been questioned. Here, we highlight the fact that the method of lipid delivery and the analysis of time‐point both affect the membrane distribution and labeling pattern of TF‐Chol, similarly as with radiolabeled cholesterol. Lysosomal sterol accumulation characteristic to a lysosomal storage disease is most readily detected when the probe is introduced via the physiological route, i.e. as a sterol fatty acid ester in low‐density lipoprotein particles. When administered to cells from solvent, lysosomal sterol sequestration becomes evident after an overnight equilibration between membranes.
A novel, bedside technique to rapidly identify umbilical cord blood units with high total nucleated cell numbers
Authors: Wagner Anna Margareta , Krenger Werner , Stettler Shamsiya , Beutler Elke , Herbst Judith , Surbek Daniel V. , Baerlocher Gabriela M.
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

With increasing demand for umbilical cord blood units (CBUs) with total nucleated cell (TNC) counts of more than 150 × 107, preshipping assessment is mandatory. Umbilical cord blood processing requires aseptic techniques and laboratories with specific air quality and cleanliness. Our aim was to establish a fast and efficient method for determining TNC counts at the obstetric ward without exposing the CBU to the environment.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Data from a total of 151 cord blood donations at a single procurement site were included in this prospective study. We measured TNC counts in cord blood aliquots taken from the umbilical cord (TNCCord), from placenta (TNCPlac), and from a tubing segment of the sterile collection system (TNCTS). TNC counts were compared to reference TNC counts in the CBU which were ascertained at the cord blood bank (TNCCBU).

RESULTS

TNCTS counts (173 ± 33 × 107 cells; calculated for 1 unit) correlated fully with the TNCCBU reference counts (166 ± 33 × 107 cells, Pearson's r = 0.97, p < 0.0001). In contrast, TNCCord and TNCPlac counts were more disparate from the reference (r = 0.92 and r = 0.87, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

A novel method of measuring TNC counts in tubing segments from the sterile cord blood collection system allows rapid and correct identification of CBUs with high cell numbers at the obstetric ward without exposing cells to the environment. This approach may contribute to cost efficacy as only CBUs with satisfactory TNC counts need to be shipped to the cord blood bank.
The HLA‐DRB1*15 phenotype is associated with multiple red blood cell and HLA antibody responsiveness
Authors: Verduin Esther P. , Brand Anneke , van de Watering Leo M.G. , Roelen Dave L. , Kanhai Humphrey H.H. , Doxiadis Ilias I.N. , Claas Frans H.J. , Schonewille Henk
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Once a patient has produced a red blood cell (RBC) antibody, there is an increased risk of additional antibody formation after subsequent RBC exposure. Recently, we observed that HLA‐DRB1*15 was overrepresented in 379 multiple RBC antibody responders compared to controls or 562 patients with a single RBC antibody (odds ratio [OR], 1.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3‐2.3). In this study we evaluated whether the HLA‐DRB1*15 represents a responder phenotype against HLA and/or RBC antigens.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

HLA‐DRB1*15 frequencies in single and multiple antibody responders were compared between three groups of individuals: 1) those with HLA antibodies, 2) those with RBC antibodies, and 3) those with both RBC and HLA antibodies.

RESULTS

A total of 3959 immunized patients (female‐to‐male ratio, 2.3) had been HLA‐DRB1 typed. Among the 3275 individuals with HLA antibodies, the frequency of the DRB1*15 phenotype differed significantly from 19.7% in patients with a panel reactivity (PRA) of not more than 20% to 26.9% in patients with PRA of more than 80% (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2‐1.9). This association between DRB1*15 and multiresponsiveness was mainly due to pregnancy‐induced HLA immunization. In the 257 individuals with RBC and HLA antibodies, the frequency of DRB1*15 was 4.2 times (95% CI, 1.1‐16) higher in those with multiple RBC antibodies and HLA‐PRA of more than 50% compared to only single RBC responders with PRA of less than 20%.

CONCLUSION

The HLA‐DRB1*15 phenotype is associated with broad RBC and HLA immunization.
Investigation of bacterial inactivation in apheresis platelets with 24 or 30 hours between inoculation and inactivation
Authors: Wagner S. J. , Benjamin R. J. , Hapip C. A. , Kaelber N. S. , Turgeon A. M. , Skripchenko A. , Stassinopoulos A.
Published: May 2016

Background and Objectives

Blood Centre logistics, staffing and donor scheduling may be optimized if pathogen inactivation (PI) of platelets can be delayed until Day 1, but bacteria may rapidly grow during this time. This study evaluates bacterial PI performed 24 and 30 h after collection.

Materials and Methods

PAS‐3 platelet units were collected on the Amicus and subsequently inoculated (3–53 CFU/unit) with 1of 5 transfusion relevant bacterial species (n = 3/organism). Units were then stored for either 24 ± 0·3 or 30 ± 0·3 h at 20–24°C with agitation, subsequently treated with amotosalen and UVA, and stored for 7 days. Samples were taken before and after inactivation, on Days 2, 5 and 7 for BacT/ALERT testing, and on Days 5 and 7 for plate counts.

Results

All samples from units taken prior to inactivation either demonstrated positive plate culture counts, or, in untreated positive controls, were culture‐positive during storage. All contaminated units treated with amotosalen and UVA 24 after inoculation were culture‐negative on all days tested. With inactivation performed 30 h following inoculation, one of 15 units (1‐of‐3 replicates) was culture‐positive with Klebsiella pneumonia (1 × 109 CFU/ml) by Day 5.

Conclusion

Photochemical treatment did not inactivate 1 of 15 units to sterility in apheresis platelets stored in PAS with a 30‐h delay between contamination and treatment, but did inactivate 15 of 15 units with a 24‐h delay.
Evaluation of the role of the GPIb‐IX‐V receptor complex in development of the platelet storage lesion
Authors: Rijkers M. , van der Meer P. F. , Bontekoe I. J. , Daal B. B. , de Korte D. , Leebeek F. W. G. , Voorberg J. , Jansen A. J. G.
Published: May 2016

Background and Objectives

In mice, loss of sialic acid resulting in shedding of glycoprotein (GP) Ibα and GPV has been linked to platelet survival. The aim of this study was to determine whether loss of sialic acid and the GPIb‐IX‐V complex contributes to development of the platelet storage lesion (PSL) in human platelet concentrates (PCs).

Materials and methods

PCs (stored in plasma (with or without Mirasol treatment); PAS‐C or PAS‐E) were stored at room temperature. Flow cytometry was used to monitor membrane expression of the GPIb‐IX‐V complex, CD62P, surface glycans and PS exposure. The functionality of stored platelets was determined employing aggregometry and ristocetin‐induced VWF binding.

Results

Storage time of PCs in blood banks is limited to 7 days. During this time period, a minor but gradually increasing subpopulation of GPIbα‐negative platelets was observed. Also, ristocetin‐induced VWF binding was impaired in a small population of platelets. Mean surface expression of GPIbα and GPV remained stable until day 9, whereas CD62P expression increased; also a rapid decrease in ADP‐induced aggregation was observed for PAS‐C, PAS‐E and Mirasol‐treated PCs. Upon prolonged storage (>9 days), a slow decline in surface expression of GPIbα and GPV was observed; no major changes were observed in surface sialylation with the exception of Mirasol‐treated platelets.

Conclusion

In a small population of stored platelets, changes in GPIbα occur from day 2 onwards. Loss of sialic acid and subsequent shedding of GPIbα and GPV is not an early event during the development of the PSL.
DURABILITY PERFORMANCE OF OIL PALM SHELL LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE FOR INSULATION BUILDING MATERIAL
Authors: Serri Eravan , Suleiman Mohd Zailan , Talib Roslan , Ramli Mahyuddin
Published: May 2016

The advantage of oil palm shell (OPS) as coarse aggregate in concrete can be extended to insulation concrete capacity. Thus, this paper will explain the durability of oil palm shell lightweight concrete (OPSLC) for insulation concrete capacity in building. Nine mix designs were developed containing high volume of OPS, which is 30, 32 and 34% from total volume of concrete with three different OPS shapes (raw, crushed and partly crushed). The water absorption and drying shrinkage were examined; besides, thermal conductivity testing that was conducted for confirmation as insulation concrete category.  The observation of all the specimens lasted one year for durability performance test and 28 days for thermal conductivity value. The highest water absorption value is 43% from previous study that was designed for structural concrete. Higher OPS volume fraction produced higher air void content and caused water loss and increase of the hydration effects on OPSLC shrinkage. It also affected the microstructure conditions, especially specimens that used 34% of OPS volume fraction which show weak interface bond in cement matrix.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION LENGTH OF CENTELLA ASIATICA (L.) URBAN DECREASE THE LEVEL OF SOD AND MDA AND IMPROVE BRAIN HISTOLOGICAL CONDITION OF RATS
Authors: Muchtaromah Bayyinatul , Ahmad Mujahidin , Suyono Suyono , Romaidi Romaidi , Bahri Samsul , Prinha Kumalasari Hasnia
Published: May 2016

Medicinal plants have been used for treating many kinds of illness due to their safety, cheap and easy to be accessed by all level of society. This study was aimed to determine the effect of the dosage forms (fresh, boiled and ethanol extracted) and the duration (24 and 42 days) of medicinal plant Centella asiatica to the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and the histopathology of diabetic rat brain. The results showed that administration of various dosage forms of C. asiatica were able to increase the number of pyramid cells and neuroglia in the cerebrum significantly (P <0.01) but had no significant effect (P>0.01) at the administration length and the interaction between both treatments. This finding resulted in the new traditional herbal medicine that can be used for treating degenerative disorders on nervous system.
COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THEORETICAL MODELS AND DESIGN CODES FOR THE SHEAR CONTRIBUTION OF NSM FRP BARS IN RC BEAMS
Authors: Abdul Samad Abdul Aziz , Mohamad Noridah , Hadipramana Josef , Ashaari Amiruddin Mohamad Razi
Published: May 2016

This paper presents a comparative study on various theoretical models and design codes for the shear contribution of Near-Surface Mounted (NSM) using Fibre Reinforced Polymer bars to reinforced concrete (RC) beams. Theoretical models from De Lorenzis and A. Nanni, Anwarul Islam and Diaz and Barros, and ACI440.1R-06 and CSA-S806 design codes were selected. All the equations were compared by integrating experimental parameters from Rizzo and De Lorenzis, and Cisneros D. et al. From analysis, it was observed that the theoretical models shows substantial differences by underestimating the experimental findings of Rizzo and De Lorenzis from -68% to -38%. Similarly with Cisneros experimental work, the three theoretical models also produces large differences ranging from -73% to +41%. The analysis from the two design codes from ACI440.1R-06 and CSA-S806 also resulted with both design codes having significant differences ranging from -60% to +48%. However, from close observation, Dias and Barros theoretical model showed more accuracy by having a difference of just -4% with ACI440.1R-06 design code giving a much higher but acceptable difference of +26% compared to CSA-S806 at -60%.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF SHARIAH-COMPLIANT LISTED CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES INDEX
Authors: Osmadi Atasya , Zainuddin Nor Mazni
Published: May 2016

It is paramount to choose the appropriate index which coordinates with the composition of a particular portfolio amid examining the performance. The purpose of this study is to examine the performance of Shariah-compliant construction sector involving construction companies listed inBursaMalaysia. The objective of this study is to develop Shariah-compliant indices comprising of construction sector and other Shariah-compliant sectors inBursaMalaysiafrom 2004 to 2014. These indices are intended to be used to assist investors to compare the performance of listed construction companies (35 Shariah compliant companies as in November 2014) with other asset classes. The data collected reflects a full year annual return of the companies in the sample for the period regardless of each company’s financial year. The findings are expected to show portfolio diversification benefits of investing in Shariah-compliant listed construction companies. This will encourage more investors, locally and internationally, to invest in Shariah-compliant construction companies.
BIOMORPHIC ARCHITECTURE APPROACH IN BUILDING FORM BASED ON ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN
Authors: M. Aulia Fikriarini , Ishomuddin M.
Published: May 2016

Nature is an excellent learning resource for humans, especially for nature as a source of inspiration in the architectural design. Biomorphic is one of the themes in the architectural approach that has a principle concern for the environment (nature), in which this approach was born from the idea of the importance of nature and oriented to the environment, including climate. The shape, material, structure and mechanisms in the universe, can be used as the basic idea formed in the design of architecture through a process of collaboration between humans and nature itself. The method used in this study is a qualitative design method, through analysis approach biomorphic design theme Architecture. Sea World is the main object in the design, which is a vehicle for recreational and educative to showcase marine life and its beauty in a large aquarium. Sea World that use biomorphic theme, designed by using the analogy of a stingray wing motion transformation into shape, hoping to bring the dynamic character of Sea World and attract visitors as well as having the characteristics of the natural inspiration.
DETERMINE THE COEFFICIENT OF STATIC WIND ON BRIDGE STRUCTURE
Authors: Suangga Made , Yanti Yanti , Hidayat Irpan
Published: May 2016

A bridge structure should have a resistance to wind loads. The purpose of research is determine the coefficient of static wind load using computational calculations with FLUENT. The objects were modeled into a square 1x1 m, rectangle 2x1 m and circle diameter of 1 m with velocity of wind 10 m/s, 20 m/s and 30 m/s. The results described the value of the coefficient of drag force (CD) for square shape larger than rectangle. The coefficient of drag force (CD) for rectangular shape larger than circle. The value of coefficient of static wind do not depend on dimensional and wind speed. The coefficient value of wind static for Suramadu bridge which calculated by FLUENT Program and wind tunnel test have a similar chart patterns.