bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic performance of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging for the assessment of complex renal cysts: A prospective study
Authors: Defortescu Guillaume , Cornu Jean‐Nicolas , Béjar Sofiane , Giwerc Anthony , Gobet Françoise , Werquin Claire , Pfister Christian , Nouhaud François‐Xavier
Published: February 2017

Objectives

To compare the diagnostic performance of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and contrast enhanced ultrasonography for the assessment of complex renal cysts.

Methods

We carried out a prospective single‐center study from January 2012 to December 2013. We included patients with Bosniak category 2F or 3 renal cysts found on computed tomography and reviewed by two expert radiologists. Magnetic resonance imaging and contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography were then carried out. Patients with a Bosniak ≥3 cyst on magnetic resonance imaging, as well as those upgraded as appearing malignant on contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography, were surgically managed. Imaging results were compared with histological data. For patients without surgery, imaging examinations were compared with follow‐up data. For each imaging examination, diagnostic performance and Cohen's kappa coefficient were assessed.

Results

A total of 47 patients were included. The median follow up was 36 months (range 17–48 months). At initial computed tomography, cysts were classified as Bosniak 2F and Bosniak ≥3 in 34 and 13 patients, respectively. Magnetic resonance imaging found 13 Bosniak ≥3 cysts, and contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography upgraded six more patients with cysts that appeared malignant. A total of 19 patients had surgery. Histological analysis reported 14 malignant tumors. No tumor progression was found in followed‐up patients. Computed tomography showed poor sensitivity (36%) and specificity (76%; κ = 0.11). Magnetic resonance imaging showed 71% sensitivity and 91% specificity (κ = 0.64). Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography showed high sensitivity (100%) and specificity (97%), and a negative predictive value at 100% (κ = 0.95).

Conclusions

The present results suggested that contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography could be useful in improving the assessment of complex renal cysts. Indeed, computed tomography accuracy might be limited in this indication requiring further investigations to determine the best treatment strategy.
Indian nurses in Italy: a qualitative study of their professional and social integration
Authors: Stievano Alessandro , Olsen Douglas , Tolentino Diaz Ymelda , Sabatino Laura , Rocco Gennaro
Published: February 2017

Aims and objectives

To investigate the lived subjective experiences of immigrant Indian nurses in Italy and specifically their professional and social integration.

Background

To study the worldwide, nursing flux is a health priority in the globalised world. The growth in migration trends among nurses, not only from Philippines or India, has proliferated in recent years. The research on nurses’ mobility for Southern European countries is underexplored, and in Italy, the out‐migration flows of Indian nurses were never analysed.

Design

Qualitative methodological approach.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews (n = 20) were completed with Indian clinical nurses working in Italy for more than one year mainly in private organisations. A purposive sampling technique was used for recruitment. The data were then content‐analysed using an inductive method.

Results

The findings were categorised into four themes: (1) aspects of professional integration and working experience, (2) intra‐ and interprofessional relationships and perceptions of the IPASVI Regulatory Nursing Board, (3) initial nursing education and continuous professional development and (4) perceptions of social integration.

Conclusion

The results show that for Indian nurses in Italy emigration is important to gain opportunities to expand economic and social privileges as well as escape from historical assumptions of stigma associated with nursing work, especially for women. However, these conclusions have to be seen in wider socio‐cultural complexities that are at the basis of transnational fluxes (Prescott & Nichter ).

Relevance to clinical practice

The research offers an insight into the complicated reasons for Indian nurses out‐migration to Italy. Without comprehending the interwoven textures of the political and social relations that are continually constructed and re‐constructed among different nations, it is difficult to understand nurses out‐migration and consequently have a better and safer collaborative teamwork in the host countries.
Correlation between umbilical resistance index and fetal growth: Pilot study
Authors: Kehila Mehdi , Touhami Omar , Hmid Rim Ben , Abouda Hassine Saber , Abdeljelil Khlifi , Ayachi Amira , Mourali Mechaal , Khairi Hédi , Chanoufi Mohamed Badis
Published: February 2017

Aim

To investigate normal pregnancies to determine whether there is a relationship between umbilical resistance and fetal growth.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted in three academic departments. Third trimester routine prenatal ultrasonography was used to estimate fetal weight and measure umbilical resistance index (RI). After delivery the birthweight was noted, along with the time interval between the ultrasound and the delivery, and then the weekly weight gain was calculated. These data were then used to determine the relationship between fetal growth and umbilical artery RI.

Results

Mean patient age was 32 ± 4.8 years; mean RI was 0.62 ± 0.07, and mean weight gain was 186.4 ± 63.9 g/week. Mean percentage weight gain relative to the estimated weight on third trimester ultrasound was 8.86 ± 3.8% per week. There was an inverse linear relationship between umbilical artery RI and fetal growth: percentage of weight gained per week relative to the estimated weight during third trimester ultrasound (%/week) = [31.3 – (36.1 × RI)] × 100.

Conclusion

In normal pregnancies there seems to be a linear relationship between umbilical RI measured at 31–34 weeks of gestation and average fetal growth in the third trimester. The greater the resistance index, the lower the weight gain.
Religion‐Related Hate Crimes: Data, Trends, and Limitations
Authors: Scheitle Christopher P. , Hansmann Michelle
Published: February 2017

Both police report and victim survey data estimate that between 10 and 20 percent of all hate crimes are motivated by a religion bias. Yet, the volume of research on religion‐related hate crimes pales in comparison to research examining race‐based or sexuality‐based hate crimes. We examine two data sources, the Uniform Crime Report (UCR) and the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), to assess trends and patterns in hate crimes involving religion. The UCR, which is based on police reports, suggests a downward trend in the number of religion‐related hate crimes that mirrors the overall downward trend for all hate crimes. The NCVS, which is based on victim reports, suggests that religion‐related hate crimes have been relatively stable in both number and as a proportion of all hate crimes. We conclude by suggesting potential directions for future research and data collection.
A new aspect of grassland vegetation dynamics: cyanobacterium colonies affect establishment success of plants
Authors: Sonkoly Judit , Valkó Orsolya , Deák Balázs , Miglécz Tamás , Tóth Katalin , Radócz Szilvia , Kelemen András , Riba Milán , Vasas Gábor , Tóthmérész Béla , Török Péter
Published: February 2017

Aims

Cyanobacteria may have considerable effects on community functioning, mostly because they produce various metabolites that adversely affect other organisms. Here we synthesized existing knowledge about the effects of toxic cyanobacteria on the germination and growth of terrestrial plants. We also aimed to test the chemical effects of a Nostoc (Cyanobacteria) extract on the germination and growth of species of alkali habitats to investigate whether cyanobacteria can alter community structure and diversity via affecting the establishment success of plants.

Location

Cyanobacterium colonies from the Hortobágy National Park, east Hungary; indoor experiments at the University of Debrecen, Hungary.

Methods

To review the effects of toxic cyanobacteria on terrestrial plants, we conducted a literature search. To test these effects on native plants, field‐collected Nostoc colonies were used to prepare a cell‐free water extract, and treatments (watering with Nostoc extract and watering with tap water) were tested on 3 × 100 seeds of nine alkali grassland species. After 5 wk, seedling number, seedling length and fresh and dry weights were measured.

Results

We collected data on the effects of cyanobacteria on 27 species, but they were mostly focused on crops irrigated with cyanobacteria‐containing water, not on floras native to natural ecosystems. In the germination experiment species identity and treatment had a significant effect on almost all variables, but their interaction only affected germination rate and fresh weight. Fresh weight decreased significantly only in the invasive Hordeum jubatum, but germination rate decreased significantly in five species.

Conclusions

Based on our findings, terrestrial cyanobacterium colonies can affect the establishment success of grassland plants, through which they may be important in determining which species can be incorporated into the community. Thus, cyanobacteria might play an important role in shaping diversity, species composition and the structure of natural plant communities.
Explaining Strike Outcomes in Chile: Associational Power, Structural Power, and Spatial Strategies
Authors: Stillerman Joel
Published: February 2017

Research on strikes has traditionally focused on how economic, institutional, and political variables shape strike patterns. Recent work examines how workers' structural, associational, and symbolic power facilitate strikes. Building on this research, this article asks, what factors determine strike outcomes? It analyzes four strikes at MADECO, Chile's largest copper manufacturer, across democratic, authoritarian, and postauthoritarian regimes. Using qualitative and documentary evidence, it argues that strike outcomes reflect workers' capacity to halt or disrupt production and to access government allies who can pressure management to settle strikes in workers' favor. Outcomes vary based on the political composition of government, workers' capacity to halt production, and industry's and government's dependence on foreign investment. MADECO workers' location in Santiago, near national officials, allowed them to mobilize at the local, national, and international scales to pressure management. Comparisons with other strikes in Chile, Argentina, and Peru identify similar mobilization patterns.
Reconceptualising specialist environment courts and tribunals
Authors: Warnock Ceri
Published: February 2017

Specialist environment courts and tribunals (SECs) are, in the main, reflective of highly dynamic forms of adjudication, mixing judicial forms with powers more traditionally found in the executive. However, despite their novel legal nature the literature on SECs is predominantly promotional and it fails to address the challenges to legitimacy and governance engendered by these institutions. Nor does it evince a robust theory of environmental adjudication. These omissions not only impoverish the discourse but practice unsupported by theory is creating an unstable edifice. To illustrate this point the difficulties experienced in New Zealand are examined. The argument is made that only by confronting the challenges created by SECs can we begin to lay the foundations for a new theoretical model capable of explaining and accommodating environmental adjudication.
Shifts in the ecological niche of Lutzomyia peruensis under climate change scenarios in Peru
Authors: MOO‐LLANES D. A. , ARQUE‐CHUNGA W. , CARMONA‐CASTRO O. , YAÑEZ‐ARENAS C. , YAÑEZ‐TRUJILLANO H. H. , CHEVERRÍA‐PACHECO L. , BAAK‐BAAK C. M. , CÁCERES A. G.
Published: February 2017

The Peruvian Andes presents a climate suitable for many species of sandfly that are known vectors of leishmaniasis or bartonellosis, including Lutzomyia peruensis (Diptera: Psychodidae), among others. In the present study, occurrences data for Lu. peruensis were compiled from several items in the scientific literature from Peru published between 1927 and 2015. Based on these data, ecological niche models were constructed to predict spatial distributions using three algorithms [Support vector machine (SVM), the Genetic Algorithm for Rule‐set Prediction (GARP) and Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt)]. In addition, the environmental requirements of Lu. peruensis and three niche characteristics were modelled in the context of future climate change scenarios: (a) potential changes in niche breadth; (b) shifts in the direction and magnitude of niche centroids, and (c) shifts in elevation range. The model identified areas that included environments suitable for Lu. peruensis in most regions of Peru (45.77%) and an average altitude of 3289 m a.s.l. Under climate change scenarios, a decrease in the distribution areas of Lu. peruensis was observed for all representative concentration pathways. However, the centroid of the species' ecological niche showed a northwest direction in all climate change scenarios. The information generated in this study may help health authorities responsible for the supervision of strategies to control leishmaniasis to coordinate, plan and implement appropriate strategies for each area of risk, taking into account the geographic distribution and potential dispersal of Lu. peruensis.
Healthcare Utilization and Quality of Life Improvement after Ablation for Paroxysmal AF in Younger and Older Patients
Authors: BIVIANO ANGELO B. , HUNTER TINA D. , DANDAMUDI GOPI , FISHEL ROBERT S. , GIDNEY BRETT , HERWEG BENGT , OZA SAUMIL R. , PATEL ANSHUL MAHENDRA , WANG HUIJIAN , POLLAK SCOTT J.
Published: February 2017

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) prevalence increases significantly with age. Little is known about the effect of AF ablation on quality of life and healthcare utilization in the elderly. The objective of this study was to quantify the healthcare utilization and quality of life benefits of catheter ablation for AF, for patients ≥65 years compared to patients <65 years.

Methods

Two multicenter U.S. registry studies enrolled patients with paroxysmal AF. Baseline characteristics and acute outcomes were collected for 736 patients receiving catheter ablation with the Navistar® ThermoCool® SF Catheter (Biosense Webster, Inc., Diamond Bar, CA, USA). Healthcare utilization and quality of life outcomes were collected through 1 year postablation for 508 patients.

Results

The rates of acute pulmonary vein isolation were high and similar between patients ≥65 years and <65 years (97.5% vs 95.8%, P = 0.2130). Length of stay for the index procedure was similar between age groups with 82.2% of the older group and 83.2% of the younger group having one‐day hospitalization. Disease‐specific quality of life instrument scores improved significantly and similarly for older and younger patients at 1 year postablation, compared to baseline. AF‐related hospitalizations and emergency department visits were similar or lower in older patients compared to younger patients, as reported at 1 year postablation.

Conclusion

For older patients undergoing catheter ablation for paroxysmal AF, healthcare utilization parameters were lower or not significantly different than for younger patients, and quality of life outcomes were similarly improved. These findings support the use of catheter ablation as a treatment option in older patients with paroxysmal AF.
Whose Voice? The Role of Charities in the Rise of Hyper‐Policing of Their Clients
Authors: Mead Joseph
Published: February 2017

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Editor's Introduction
Authors: Balfour Danny L.
Published: February 2017

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Race, Class, and Gender: An Intersectional Framework
Authors: Middlemass Keesha M.
Published: February 2017

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Progress in fish gastrointestinal microbiota research
Authors: Wang An R. , Ran Chao , Ringø Einar , Zhou Zhi G.
Published: February 2017

The gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota of vertebrates plays critical roles in nutrition, development, immunity and resistance against invasive pathogens. In the past decade, research of the GI microbiota of mammals has drastically increased our knowledge on the microbiota and their relationship with health and disease. However, our understanding of fish intestinal microbiota is limited. This review provides an overview of research on fish gut microbiota, including microbial composition, formation, factors that affect the GI microbes and characteristics of fish intestinal microbiota compared with human and mice. Further, the updated research on gnotobiotic zebrafish is elaborated and the insights gained on functions of the fish intestinal microbiota are discussed. Understanding the intestinal microbiota of fish will guide the development of probiotics, prebiotics and hopefully probiotic effectors as novel additives to improve the health of fish.
Determining Probability of Importance of Features in a
Sketch
Authors: Cruz-Lozano Ricardo , Alemayehu Fisseha M. , Ekwaro-Osire Stephen , Endeshaw Haileyesus B.
Published: February 2017

Sketches can be categorized as personal, shared, persuasive, and handover sketches. Depending on each category, their level of ambiguity also varies. The applications of sketches include conceptual design, eliciting user preferences, shape retrieval, and sketch-based modeling (SBM). There is a need for quantification of uncertainty in sketches in mapping of sketches to three-dimensional (3D) models in sketch-based modeling, in eliciting user preferences, and in tuning the level of uncertainty in sketches at the conceptual design stage. This paper investigates the role of probability of importance in quantifying the level of uncertainty in sketches by raising the following three research questions: How are the features in a sketch ranked? What is the probability of importance of features in a sketch? What is the level of uncertainty in a sketch? This paper presents an improved framework for uncertainty quantification in sketches. The framework is capable of identifying and ranking the features in the sketch, determining their probability of importance, and finally quantifying the level of uncertainty in the sketch. Ranking the features of a sketch is performed by a hierarchical approach, whereas probability of importance is determined by assessing the probability of likeliness using a shape matching approach and a probability transformation. Quantification of uncertainty is accomplished by using the principle of normalization of entropy. A case study of a bicycle sketch is used to demonstrate that the framework eliminates the need of expert input in assessment of uncertainty in sketches and, hence, can be used by design practitioners with limited experience.
On-Line Parameter Identification of an Induction Motor With Closed-Loop Speed Control Using the Least Square Method
Authors: Campos Rafael de Farias , Couto Eduardo , de Oliveira Jose , Nied Ademir
Published: February 2017

The control system of induction motors is designed to achieve dynamic stability, allowing accurate tracking of flux and speed. However, changes in electrical parameters, due to temperature rise or saturation level, can lead to undesirable errors of speed and position, eventually resulting in instability. This paper presents two modes for parametric identification of the induction motor based on the least squares method: batch estimator and recursive estimator. The objective is to update the electrical parameters during operation when the motor is driven by a vector control system. A drawback related to the batch estimator is the need for high quantity of available memory to make the process of identification robust enough. The proposed algorithm allows the batch estimator to be viewed as a single matrix problem reducing the need for processing memory. The identification procedure is based on the stator currents measurement and stator fluxes estimation. Basically, both modes of identification will be analyzed. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate the theoretical approach.
GPS satellites yield space weather data
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: February 2017

Newly released radiation measurements fill gap.
Prediction and explanation in social systems
Authors: Hofman Jake M. , Sharma Amit , Watts Duncan J.
Published: February 2017

Historically, social scientists have sought out explanations of human and social phenomena that provide interpretable causal mechanisms, while often ignoring their predictive accuracy. We argue that the increasingly computational nature of social science is beginning to reverse this traditional bias against prediction; however, it has also highlighted three important issues that require resolution. First, current practices for evaluating predictions must be better standardized. Second, theoretical limits to predictive accuracy in complex social systems must be better characterized, thereby setting expectations for what can be predicted or explained. Third, predictive accuracy and interpretability must be recognized as complements, not substitutes, when evaluating explanations. Resolving these three issues will lead to better, more replicable, and more useful social science.
Restoring tropical forests from the bottom up
Authors: Holl Karen D.
Published: February 2017

How can ambitious forest restoration targets be implemented on the ground?
European Multicenter Study on Analytical Performance of DxN Veris System HCV Assay
Authors: Braun Patrick , Delgado Rafael , Drago Monica , Fanti Diana , Fleury Hervé , Gismondo Maria Rita , Hofmann Jörg , Izopet Jacques , Kühn Sebastian , Lombardi Alessandra , Marcos Maria Angeles , Sauné Karine , O'Shea Siobhan , Pérez-Rivilla Alfredo , Ramble John , Trimoulet Pascale , Vila Jordi , Whittaker Duncan , Artus Alain , Rhodes Daniel W.
Published: February 2017

The analytical performance of the Veris HCV Assay for use on the new and fully automated Beckman Coulter DxN Veris Molecular Diagnostics System (DxN Veris System) was evaluated at 10 European virology laboratories. Precision, analytical sensitivity, specificity, and performance with negative samples, linearity, and performance with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes were evaluated. Precision for all sites showed a standard deviation (SD) of 0.22 log
10
IU/ml or lower for each level tested. Analytical sensitivity determined by probit analysis was between 6.2 and 9.0 IU/ml. Specificity on 94 unique patient samples was 100%, and performance with 1,089 negative samples demonstrated 100% not-detected results. Linearity using patient samples was shown from 1.34 to 6.94 log
10
IU/ml. The assay demonstrated linearity upon dilution with all HCV genotypes. The Veris HCV Assay demonstrated an analytical performance comparable to that of currently marketed HCV assays when tested across multiple European sites.
Replication Capacity of Viruses from Acute Infection Drives HIV-1 Disease Progression
Authors: Selhorst Philippe , Combrinck Carina , Ndabambi Nonkululeko , Ismail Sherazaan D. , Abrahams Melissa-Rose , Lacerda Miguel , Samsunder Natasha , Garrett Nigel , Abdool Karim Quarraisha , Abdool Karim Salim S. , Williamson Carolyn
Published: February 2017

The viral genotype has been shown to play an important role in HIV pathogenesis following transmission. However, the viral phenotypic properties that contribute to disease progression remain unclear. Most studies have been limited to the evaluation of Gag function in the context of a recombinant virus backbone. Using this approach, important biological information may be lost, making the evaluation of viruses obtained during acute infection, representing the transmitted virus, a more biologically relevant model. Here, we evaluate the roles of viral infectivity and the replication capacity of viruses from acute infection in disease progression in women who seroconverted in the CAPRISA 004 tenofovir microbicide trial. We show that viral replication capacity, but not viral infectivity, correlates with the set point viral load (Spearman
r
= 0.346;
P
= 0.045) and that replication capacity (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.52;
P
= 0.01) can predict CD4 decline independently of the viral load (HR = 2.9;
P
= 0.004) or protective HLA alleles (HR = 0.61;
P
= 0.36). We further demonstrate that Gag-Pro is not the main driver of this association, suggesting that additional properties of the transmitted virus play a role in disease progression. Finally, we find that although viruses from the tenofovir arm were 2-fold less infectious, they replicated at rates similar to those of viruses from the placebo arm. This indicates that the use of tenofovir gel did not select for viral variants with higher replication capacity. Overall, this study supports a strong influence of the replication capacity in acute infection on disease progression, potentially driven by interaction of multiple genes rather than a dominant role of the major structural gene
gag
.

IMPORTANCE
HIV disease progression is known to differ between individuals, and defining which fraction of this variation can be attributed to the virus is important both clinically and epidemiologically. In this study, we show that the replication capacity of viruses isolated during acute infection predicts subsequent disease progression and drives CD4 decline independently of the viral load. This provides further support for the hypothesis that the replication capacity of the transmitted virus determines the initial damage to the immune system, setting the pace for later disease progression. However, we did not find evidence that the major structural gene
gag
drives this correlation, highlighting the importance of other genes in determining disease progression.
Effects of Organic Amendments on Microbiota Associated with the Culex nigripalpus Mosquito Vector of the Saint Louis Encephalitis and West Nile Viruses
Authors: Duguma Dagne , Hall Michael W. , Smartt Chelsea T. , Neufeld Josh D.
Published: February 2017

Mosquito microbiota provide important physiological and ecological attributes to mosquitoes, including an impact on their susceptibility to pathogens, fitness, and sensitivity to mosquito control agents.
Culex nigripalpus
mosquito populations transmit various pathogens, including the Saint Louis and West Nile viruses, and proliferate in nutrient-rich environments, such as in wastewater treatment wetlands. Our study examined whether increases in nutrients within larval mosquito developmental habitats impact microbial communities associated with
C. nigripalpus
mosquitoes. We characterized the effects of organic enrichments on microbiomes associated with
C. nigripalpus
mosquitoes and identified potential bacterial microbiota that will be further investigated for whether they alter mosquito life history traits and for their potential role in the development of microbial-based control strategies.
Primary healthcare usage and use of medications among immigrant children according to age of arrival to Norway: a population-based study
Authors: Fadnes Lars T , Diaz Esperanza
Published: February 2017

Background

Morbidity, use of healthcare and medication use have been reported to vary across groups of migrants and according to the different phases of migration, but little is known about children with immigrant background. In this study, we investigate whether the immigrant children's age of arrival predicts differences in usage of primary healthcare (PHC) and in use of prescribed medication.

Methods

This nationwide, population-based study used information for children under 18 years of age in 2008 from three linked registers in Norway. Use of medication was assessed with logistic regression analyses presented with ORs with 95% CIs.

Results

Of 1 168 365 children, 119 251 had immigrant background. The mean number of PHC visits among children aged 10–18 years, was 1.19 for non-immigrants, 1.17 among second generation immigrants, 1.12, 1.05 and 0.83 among first immigrant children who were <5, 5–9 and ≥10 years at arrival in Norway, respectively. Patterns were similar for younger immigrants, and were confirmed with regression models adjusting for age and sex. First generation immigrant children used less of nearly all groups of prescribed medication compared to non-immigrants when adjusting for age and sex (overall OR 0.48 (0.47 to 0.49)), and medication was also generally less used among second generation immigrant children (overall OR 0.92 (0.91 to 0.94)).

Conclusions

Age of arrival predicted PHC usage among children among first-generation children. First-generation immigrant children, particularly those arriving later in adolescence, used PHC less than age corresponding non-immigrant children. Immigrant children used less prescribed medication compared to non-immigrants after adjustment for age and sex.
Is frailty a relevant concept in SLE?
Authors: Katz Patricia P , Andrews James , Yazdany Jinoos , Schmajuk Gabriela , Trupin Laura , Yelin Edward
Published: February 2017

Objective

In geriatric populations, frailty is associated with poor health outcomes, including mortality. Frailty has not been examined in lupus, although components of the phenotype seem relevant.

Methods

Women with lupus (n=152) participated in research visits in 2008–2009. Frailty was assessed by Fried's frailty phenotype criteria: low weight/unintentional weight loss, slow gait (4-m walk using sex and height criteria), weakness (grip strength using gender and body mass index criteria), exhaustion (2 specific questions) and inactivity (from physical activity questionnaire). Women accumulating 3+ components were classified as ‘frail’, one or two components as ‘prefrail’, and none as ‘robust’. Physical function (36-item Short Form (SF-36) Physical Functioning subscale and Valued Life Activities disability scale), cognitive function (from a 12-test battery) and mortality were examined as outcomes. Mortality was determined as of December 2015. Multiple regression analyses examined concurrent and 2-year function controlling for age, lupus duration, race/ethnicity, glucocorticoid use, obesity, self-reported disease activity and damage and, for longitudinal analyses, baseline function. Mortality analyses controlled for age, lupus duration and baseline disease damage scores.

Results

Mean age was 48 (±12) years, mean lupus duration was 16 (±9) years. 20% of the sample was classified as frail and 50% as prefrail. Frail women had significantly worse physical functioning than both robust and prefrail women and were more likely to have cognitive impairment. Frail women were also more likely to experience declines in functioning and onset of cognitive impairment. Mortality rates were significantly higher in the frail group (frail 19.4%; prefrail 3.9%; robust 2.3%). Odds (95% CI) of death for frail women were elevated, even after adjusting for age, lupus duration and baseline disease damage (5.9 (0.6 to 57.1)).

Conclusions

Prevalence of frailty in this sample of women with lupus was higher than in samples of older adults. Frailty was associated with poor physical and cognitive function, functional declines and mortality.
The gastropod foregut — evolution viewed through a developmental lens
Authors: Page Louise R. , Hookham Brenda
Published: February 2017

Comparative data on the developing gastropod foregut suggest that this multicomponent feeding complex consists of two developmental modules. Modularity is revealed by delayed development of the buccal cavity and radular sac (“ventral module”) relative to the dorsal food channel (“dorsal module”) in gastropods with feeding larvae compared with those that may have never had a feeding larval stage. If nonfeeding larvae like those of extant patellogastropods and vetigastropods are ancestral for gastropods, then the uncoupling and heterochronic offset of dorsal and ventral foregut modules allowed the post-metamorphic dorsal food channel to be co-opted as a simple but functional esophagus for feeding larvae. Furthermore, by reducing energy cost per ovum, the heterochronic offset may have given mothers the evolutionary option of increasing fecundity or investing in protective egg encapsulation material. A second developmental innovation was spatial separation of the dorsal and ventral foregut modules, as illustrated by distal foregut development in buccinid neogastropods and venom gland development in cone snails. Spatial uncoupling may have enhanced the evolvability of gastropod foreguts by allowing phenotypic variants of ventral module components to be selected within post-metamorphic ecological settings, without needing to be first tested for compatibility with larval feeding. Finally, we describe a case in which foregut modularity has helped facilitate a highly derived life history in which encapsulated embryos ingest nurse eggs.
A New Interleaved Bidirectional Zero Voltage Switching DC/DC Converter with High Conversion Ratio
Authors: Babaei Ebrahim , Saadatizadeh Zahra , Ivatloo Behnam Mohammadi
Published: February 2017

In this paper, a new interleaved nonisolated bidirectional zero voltage switching (ZVS) dc–dc converter by using one three-windings coupled inductor is proposed. The proposed topology can provide high step-up and high step-down conversion ratios for boost and buck operations, respectively. Moreover, because of interleaving, the proposed converter has low input current ripple at low voltage side in both buck and boost operations. The proposed converter uses lower number of switches to have bidirectional power flow in comparison with other interleaved bidirectional converters. All used switches in the proposed converter are turned on under ZVS. The advantages of the proposed converter in comparison with the conventional interleaved converters are included in the capability of bidirectional power flow, ZVS operation for all switches and high step-up and high step-down voltage gain for boost and buck operations. In this paper, the proposed converter is analyzed completely and all equations of components are extracted as well as the ZVS conditions of all switches. Moreover, a comprehensive comparison between the proposed converter and conventional topologies is presented. To verify the accuracy performance of the proposed converter, the experimental results are given.
Chapter 14 Seismicity of the Andaman–Nicobar Islands and Andaman Sea
Authors: Carter A. , Bandopadhyay P. C.
Published: February 2017

This chapter examines the history and distribution of seismicity across the Andaman–Nicobar island arc and Andaman Sea. Fundamental differences between the Andaman section of the subduction zone and the Sumatra–Java section to the south help to explain the nature of the deformation. Magnitudes of displacements varied along-strike from uniform dip-slip on the southern (Sumatran) segment to dip-slip and strike-slip components on the Andaman and Nicobar segment. The Andaman section has a more steeply dipping slab and a thicker sediment cover compared to the Sumatra region where coupling with the overlying plate is stronger. Temporal and spatial patterns of seismicity in the Andaman Sea spreading centre are consistent with normal faulting and
c.
25 year cycles of dyke injection are considered responsible for the bulk of the spreading.
Chapter 3 Regional context of the geology of the Andaman–Nicobar accretionary ridge
Authors: Clift Peter D.
Published: February 2017

The Andaman–Nicobar accretionary ridge forms the eastern boundary of the Bay of Bengal and is presently being constructed by accretion and underplating of sediments off-scraped from the obliquely colliding Bengal Fan. Net accretion is relatively low (
c.
28%) with the rest subducted mostly into the upper mantle. Although subduction initiated along the margin at
c.
95 Ma, large-scale subduction accretion likely accelerated during the Early Miocene by which time wedge top basins had formed. Prior to that time, sediment off-scraped during the Eocene against the ophiolitic backstop was probably derived from the adjacent magmatic arc of Burma. There was also some erosion of continental sources at that time, probably from the Sibumasu Block which forms the western edge of Sundaland. The scale of this accretion was small and potentially interrupted by times of tectonic erosion during the Palaeogene. The influence of continental erosion increased into the Oligocene, potentially accompanied by modest flux from the Indus–Yarlung Suture via the Irrawaddy River. Drainage capture in eastern Tibet in the Early Miocene and opening of the Andaman Sea, probably in the Late Miocene, has removed these source areas to the Andaman Trench.
USP40 gene knockdown disrupts glomerular permeability in zebrafish
Authors: Takagi Hisashi , Nishibori Yukino , Katayama Kan , Katada Tomohisa , Takahashi Shohei , Kiuchi Zentaro , Takahashi Shin-Ichiro , Kamei Hiroyasu , Kawakami Hayato , Akimoto Yoshihiro , Kudo Akihiko , Asanuma Katsuhiko , Takematsu Hiromu , Yan Kunimasa
Published: February 2017

Unbiased transcriptome profiling and functional genomics approaches have identified ubiquitin-specific protease 40 (USP40) as a highly specific glomerular transcript. This gene product remains uncharacterized, and its biological function is completely unknown. Here, we showed that mouse and rat glomeruli exhibit specific expression of the USP40 protein, which migrated at 150 kDa and was exclusively localized in the podocyte cytoplasm of the adult kidney. Double-labeling immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy analysis of fetal and neonate kidney samples revealed that USP40 was also expressed in the vasculature, including in glomerular endothelial cells at the premature stage. USP40 in cultured glomerular endothelial cells and podocytes was specifically localized to the intermediate filament protein nestin. In glomerular endothelial cells, immunoprecipitation confirmed actual protein-protein binding of USP40 with nestin, and USP40-small-interfering RNA transfection revealed significant reduction of nestin. In a rat model of minimal-change nephrotic syndrome, USP40 expression was apparently reduced, which was also associated with the reduction of nestin. Zebrafish morphants lacking Usp40 exhibited disorganized glomeruli with the reduction of the cell junction in the endothelium and foot process effacement in the podocytes. Permeability studies in these zebrafish morphants demonstrated a disruption of the selective glomerular permeability filter. These data indicate that USP40/Usp40 is a novel protein that might play a crucial role in glomerulogenesis and the glomerular integrity after birth through the modulation of intermediate filament protein homeostasis.
Exploring the Potential of Anticipated Regret as an Emotional Cue to Improve Bowel Cancer Screening Uptake
Authors: Zajac Ian T. , Duncan Amy , Freegard Suzana , Wilson Carlene , Flight Ingrid , Turnbull Deborah
Published: February 2017

Objective. Bowel cancer is currently the second leading cause of cancer-related death in Australia and screening participation is suboptimal. This study examined the role of emotion in the form of anticipated regret (AR) and its relationship to screening intentions.Methods.N=173persons aged 45 to 80 years completed a survey measuring demographic variables, readiness to screen, relative importance of health by comparison to other life priorities, satisfaction with current health, and AR if not participating in future bowel cancer screening.Results. AR was a significant predictor of future screening intentions. Those with higher levels of AR were seven times more likely (OR = 7.18) to intend to screen in the future compared to those with lower AR. This relationship was not compromised when controlling for other variables including gender and satisfaction with one’s health. AR levels were significantly lower in people who had been screened previously and in those with full health insurance.Conclusions. These results demonstrate that AR is uniquely related to future bowel cancer screening intentions. Future studies should continue to consider this as a useful target for behavioural interventions and identify new ways of delivering these interventions to improve their reach.
Keraring Intrastromal Segment Depth Measured by Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography in Eyes with Keratoconus
Authors: de Sanctis Ugo , Lavia Carlo , Nassisi Marco , D’Amelio Savino
Published: February 2017

Purpose. To evaluate agreement between measured and intended distance of Keraring (Mediphacos, Belo Horizonte, Brazil) intracorneal ring segments from the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces.Methods. Twenty-six Keraring ICRS implanted in 24 keratoconic eyes were examined. The distance from the Keraring apex to the anterior corneal surface and the distance from the inner and the outer corners to the posterior corneal surface were measured 3 months postoperatively using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Agreement between measured distance and intended distance was assessed by calculating the absolute differences and 95% limits of agreement (95% LoA).Results. The mean absolute difference was significantly lower (p<0.001) for the measurements taken at the inner corner (23.54±15.90 μm) than that for those taken at the apex (108.92±62.72 μm) and the outer corner (108.35±56.99 μm). The measurements taken at the inner corner were within ±25 and ±50 μm of the intended distance in 15/26 (57.7%) and 24/26 (92.3%) cases, respectively, and showed the narrowest 95% LoA with the intended distance (−57.61 to 55.15 μm).Conclusions. The distance of the inner corner from the posterior corneal surface showed the best agreement with the intended distance. This measurement is suitable for determining whether the actual Keraring depth matches the intended depth.
Integrated Approaches for the Management of Staple Line Leaks following Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Montuori Mauro , Benavoli Domenico , D’Ugo Stefano , Di Benedetto Luca , Bianciardi Emanuela , Gaspari Achille L. , Gentileschi Paolo
Published: February 2017

Introduction. Aim of the study was trying to draw a final flow chart for the management of gastric leaks after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, based on the review of our cases over 10 years’ experience. Material and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent LSG as a primary operation at the Bariatric Unit of Tor Vergata University Hospital in Rome from 2007 to 2015. Results. Patients included in the study were 418. There were 6 staple line leaks (1.44%). All patients with diagnosis of a leak were initially discharged home in good clinical conditions and then returned to A&E because of the complication. The mean interval between surgery and readmission for leak was 13,4 days (range 6–34 days, SD ± 11.85). We recorded one death (16.67%) due to sepsis. The remaining five cases were successfully treated with a mean healing time of the gastric leak of 55,5 days (range 26–83 days; SD ± 25.44). Conclusion. Choosing the proper treatment depends on clinical stability and on the presence or not of collected abscess. Our treatment protocol showed being associated with low complication rate and minor discomfort to the patients, reducing the need for more invasive procedures.
Validation of the French Version of the “Patterns of Activity Measure” in Patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
Authors: Benaim Charles , Léger Bertrand , Vuistiner Philippe , Luthi François
Published: February 2017

Background. The “Patterns of Activity Measure” (POAM-P) is a self-administered questionnaire that assesses “avoidance”, “pacing” and “overdoing” activity patterns in chronic pain patients.Objectives. To adapt the POAM-P to French (“POAM-P/F”) and test its validity and reliability in Chronic Musculo-Skeletal Pain patients (CMSP).Methods. We followed the recommended procedure for translation of questionnaires. Five hundred and ninety five inpatients, admitted to a tertiary rehab center in the French-speaking part of Switzerland for chronic pain after orthopedic trauma, were included (sex ratio M/F = 4.36, mean age43±12). Face, content and criterion validities, internal consistency and reliability were assessed. Data included: TAMPA Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), Chronic Pain Coping Inventory (CPCI), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).Results. Face and content validities were checked during the translation process. Correlations between POAM-P/F-avoidance and TSK, POAM-P/F-pacing and CPCI-pacing, POAM-P/F-overdoing and CPCI-task persistence were highly significant (r>0.3,p<10-2). The three subscales demonstrated excellent homogeneity (Cronbach’s alpha coefficients > 0.8) and test-retest reliability (Intraclass Correlation Coefficients > 0.8). They correlated very differently with the other scales.Discussion and Conclusion. The three POAM-P/F subscales clearly assess different behaviors in CMSP. The POAM-P/F is a suitable questionnaire for classifying French speaking CMSP into avoiders, pacers or overdoers.
Passive Shock Isolation Utilising Dry Friction
Authors: Ismail Mohd Ikmal , Ferguson Neil Stuart
Published: February 2017

A novel shock isolation strategy for base excited system is presented by introducing a two-degree-of-freedom model with passive friction, where the friction is applied to an attached mass instead of directly to the primary isolated mass. The model is evaluated against the benchmark case of single-degree-of-freedom system with friction applied directly to the primary isolated mass. The performances of the models are compared in terms of the maximum displacement response and the acceleration during the application of the shock input for the case when the shock input duration is approximately equal to the natural period of the system (amplification region). From the results, the two-degree-of-freedom model can produce both maximum displacement reduction and smoother acceleration at the point of motion transition. An experimental rig was built to validate the theoretical results against the experimental results; it is found that the experimental results closely match the theoretical predictions.