bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agromyces iriomotensis sp. nov. and Agromyces subtropicus sp. nov., isolated from soil
Authors: Hamada Moriyuki , Shibata Chiyo , Ishida Yuumi , Tamura Tomohiko , Yamamura Hideki , Hayakawa Masayuki , Suzuki Ken-ichiro
Published: November 2013

Three novel Gram-stain-positive bacteria, designated IY07-20T, IY07-56T and IY07-113, were isolated from soil samples from Iriomote Island, Okinawa, Japan, and their taxonomic positions were investigated by a polyphasic approach. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons showed that the three isolates were closely related to the members of the genus

Agromyces

, with similarity range of 95.6–98.7 %. The isolates contained l-2,4-diaminobutylic acid, d-alanine, d-glutamic acid and glycine in their peptidoglycans. The predominant menaquinone was MK-12 and the major fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0. The DNA G+C contents were 70.9–72.9 mol%. The chemotaxonomic characteristics of the isolates matched those described for members of the genus

Agromyces

. The results of phylogenetic analysis and DNA–DNA hybridization, along with differences in phenotypic characteristics between strains IY07-20T, IY07-56T and IY07-113 and the species of the genus

Agromyces

with validly published names, indicate that the three isolates merit classification as representatives of two novel species of the genus

Agromyces

, for which the names Agromyces iriomotensis sp. nov. and Agromyces subtropica sp. nov. are proposed; the type strains are IY07-20T ( = NBRC 106452T = DSM 26155T) and IY07-56T ( = NBRC 106454T = DSM 26153T), respectively.
Direct visualization of hepatitis C virus-infected Huh7.5 cells with a high titre of infectious chimeric JFH1-EGFP reporter virus in three-dimensional Matrigel cell cultures
Authors: Liu Shuanghu , Chen Ren , Hagedorn Curt H.
Published: November 2013

Identification of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) JFH1 isolate enabled the development of infectious HCV cell culture systems. However, the relatively low virus titres and instability of some chimeric JFH1 reporter viruses restricts some uses of this system. We describe a higher-titre JFH1-EGFP reporter virus where the NS5A V3 region was replaced with the EGFP gene and adapted by serial passage in Huh7.5 cells. Six adaptive mutants were identified: one each in E2, P7 and NS4B, plus three in the NS5A region. These adaptive mutants increased the reporter virus titres to 1×106 immunofluorescent focus-forming units ml−1, which is the highest titre of JFH1-EGFP reporter virus reported to our knowledge. This chimeric virus did not lose EGFP expression following 40 days of passage and it can be used to test the activity of HCV antivirals by measuring EGFP fluorescence in 96-well plates. Moreover, this reporter virus allows living infected Huh7.5 cells in Matrigel three-dimensional (3D) cultures to be visualized and produces infectious viral particles in these 3D cultures. The chimeric NS5A-EGFP infectious JFH1 reporter virus described should enable new studies of the HCV life cycle in 3D cell cultures and will be useful in identifying antivirals that interfere with HCV release or entry.
High prevalence and genetic diversity of porcine bocaviruses in pigs in the USA, and identification of multiple novel porcine bocaviruses
Authors: Jiang Yong-Hou , Xiao Chao-Ting , Yin Shuang-Hui , Gerber Priscilla F. , Halbur Patrick G. , Opriessnig Tanja
Published: November 2013

Viruses in the genus Bocavirus are associated with respiratory and enteric disease in dogs and cattle. In addition, novel porcine bocaviruses (PBoVs) have been identified in domestic and wild pigs in recent years, but are of unknown relevance to date. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence ra

tes and genetic diversity of PBoVs in pigs in the USA. Using newly established multiplex real-time PCR assays, 385 lung, lymph node, serum and faecal samples from pigs with various disease conditions were investigated. A high PBoV prevalence rate ranging from 21.3 to 50.8 % was identified in the investigated samples and often two or more PBoV species were detected in the same sample. Cloning and sequencing analysis of the partial non-structural protein NS1 and the capsid proteins VP1 and VP2 of DNA samples positive for PBoV groups 1 (n = 6), 2 (n = 16) and 3 (n = 42), including subgroups 3A, 3B or 3C, revealed a high genetic diversity especially for the PBoV G3 VP2 gene, whereas the PBoV group 1 VP1 gene displayed a low nucleotide polymorphism. Using primer walking, 18 partial or nearly complete genomes of PBoVs were obtained and six of the 18 nearly complete genomes represented novel PBoV species. Recombination analysis using partial NS1, VP1 and VP2 genes and the nearly complete genomes indicated possible recombination events within and between PBoVs. Further studies will be required to reveal the possible pathogenic role of these diverse PBoVs.
Characterization of innate responses to influenza virus infection in a novel lung type I epithelial cell model
Authors: Rosenberger Carrie M. , Podyminogin Rebecca L. , Askovich Peter S. , Navarro Garnet , Kaiser Shari M. , Sanders Catherine J. , McClaren Jennifer L. , Tam Vincent C. , Dash Pradyot , Noonan Jhoanna G. , Jones Bart G. , Surman Sherri L. , Peschon Jacques J. , Diercks Alan H. , Hurwitz Julia L. , Doherty Peter C. , Thomas Paul G. , Aderem Alan
Published: November 2013

Type I alveolar epithelial cells are a replicative niche for influenza in vivo, yet their response to infection is not fully understood. To better characterize their cellular responses, we have created an immortalized murine lung epithelial type I cell line (LET1). These cells support spreading influenza virus infection in the absence of exogenous protease and thus permit simultaneous analysis of viral replication dynamics and host cell responses. LET1 cells can be productively infected with human, swine and mouse-adapted strains of influenza virus and exhibit expression of an antiviral transcriptional programme and robust cytokine secretion. We characterized influenza virus replication dynamics and host responses of lung type I epithelial cells and identified the capacity of epithelial cell-derived type I IFN to regulate specific modules of antiviral effectors to establish an effective antiviral state. Together, our results indicate that the type I epithelial cell can play a major role in restricting influenza virus infection without contribution from the haematopoietic compartment.
Norovirus gene expression and replication
Authors: Thorne Lucy G. , Goodfellow Ian G.
Published: November 2013

Noroviruses are small, positive-sense RNA viruses within the family Caliciviridae, and are now accepted widely as a major cause of acute gastroenteritis in both developed and developing countries. Despite their impact, our understanding of the life cycle of noroviruses has lagged behind that of other RNA viruses due to the inability to culture human noroviruses (HuNVs). Our knowledge of norovirus biology has improved significantly over the past decade as a result of numerous technological advances. The use of a HuNV replicon, improved biochemical and cell-based assays, combined with the discovery of a murine norovirus capable of replication in cell culture, has improved greatly our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of norovirus genome translation and replication, as well as the interaction with host cell processes. In this review, the current state of knowledge of the intracellular life of noroviruses is discussed with particular emphasis on the mechanisms of viral gene expression and viral genome replication.
The nature of the game
Authors: McMullen Anthony
Published: November 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into issues encountered in maintaining library technologies and electronic collections on a limited budget and with limited personnel.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses real world experiences and data to report on collection development decisions as they relate to electronic journals in an era of shrinking budgets and changing user expectations.

Findings

Efficient and ubiquitous access to information has altered user expectations and needs, which in turn have altered the methods and means by which libraries provide services to users. Yet many academic libraries continue to use outmoded models and suffer as a consequence.

Originality/value

This paper examines the cost and usage of an individual journal title and the disparities between return on investment for the electronic and printed form of that journal. The author employs real‐world cost and usage statistics to make a case for shifting the focus of collection development from print to electronic subscriptions even if the online access is more costly.
Model for the centralized acquisition of collections in times of crisis
Authors: Lloret Romero Nuria
Published: November 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how, in many cases, the conversion of analog collections to digital collections is still a paradigm shift with regard to the ownership, use and enjoyment of the collections.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses how the inclusion of digital collections has led to a new licensing model that has changed the financial management and administration of budgets for the purchase of collections, starting with the acquisition of scientific journals for specialized centers and extending to all types of resource materials.

Findings

In the traditional library collection management model, the documents deemed to be most suitable for the libraries were chosen title by title, and the amounts paid were based on the volume of titles chosen. In the analog model, this resulted in a large investment in similar collections in libraries located in close proximity to one another. In research centers and related universities, attempts were made to make coordinated purchases. However, in most cases purchases were made individually, meaning that costs, and specifically direct costs relating to usage, were very high for a usage of journals in the collection which in many cases was very sporadic. The introduction of purchasing consortia in the electronic environment has led to an increase in the collections of all entities, as well as the rationalization of spending on collections, which is more closely related to the needs of the entities' users. However, the use of such consortia should be more extended and rather than being limited to large libraries or institutions, they should be made available to medium‐sized groups of entities which can benefit from these instruments.

Originality/value

If the possibility of accessing resources were to be increased through these consortia, the author suggests that it would be of great interest to include diverse materials such as films and music, etc. that may be of interest to other type of institutions, such as those serving the general public.
Sources for the silver screen
Authors: Fielding Jennifer A.
Published: November 2013

Purpose– ‐‐ This article's aim is to locate and describe print and electronic reference sources pertaining to film studies for scholars studying this field and librarians collecting in this area.Design/methodology/approach ‐‐ This article surveys current reference sources to provide an overview of publications relating to modern film studies focusing primarily on performance (versus production methods), and serves as an aid in understanding film for the serious film student as well as providing perspective for an introductory survey of cinema.Findings ‐‐ Reference sources in film studies encompass cinema both broadly and quite specifically, with more recent reference works often focusing on film genres, countries of origin, or the work of specific directors. Cinema “ready reference” has moved almost entirely online, but essays with scholarly perspective and critical reviews are accessible via long‐established reference series.Originality/value ‐‐ The works and publishers covered in this article survey both long‐standing resources in film as well as newer contenders in the field. While not comprehensive, it provides scholars, researchers, and librarians with a survey of useful resources with factual information as well as critical perspective in the discipline.
The determinants of frequency and severity of operational losses in Tunisian insurance industry
Authors: Hemrit Wael , Ben Arab Mounira
Published: November 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the determinants of operational losses in insurance companies.

Design/methodology/approach

By using most common estimates of frequency and severity of losses that affected business‐lines during 2009, the paper integrates a quantitative aspect that reflects the mode of organization in the insurance company. In this paper, it would be more appropriate to focus on the frequency and severity of losses estimated by insurers and which are related to each category of operational risk events that took place in 2009.

Findings

The paper finds that the frequency of operational losses is positively related to the Market Share (MARKSHARE) and the Rate of Geographic Location (RAGELOC). However, the occurrence of loss is negatively related to the Variety of Insurance Activities (VARIACT). The paper also found a decrease in the frequency of losses associated with a large number of employees. Therefore, there is a significant relationship between the Human Factor (HF) and the occurrence of operational losses. In terms of severity, the empirical study has shown that the probability of zero intensity of operational losses is negatively influenced by the Market Share (MARKSHARE) and the Rate of Geographic Location (RAGELOC). In the same framework, the Variety of Insurance Activities (VARIACT) has a negative effect on the probability of high operational loss severity.

Originality/value

Despite the absence of the quantitative data of operational risk, this article will discover a new research perspective to estimate the frequency and severity of operational losses in the insurance sector in Tunisia.
Zero‐modified discrete distributions for operational risk modelling
Authors: Mouatassim Younès
Published: November 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the zero‐modified distributions in the calculation of operational value‐at‐risk.

Design/methodology/approach

This kind of distributions is preferred when excess of zeroes is observed. In operational risk, this phenomenon may be due to the scarcity of data, the existence of extreme values and/or the threshold from which banks start to collect losses. In this article, the paper focuses on the analysis of damage to physical assets.

Findings

The results show that basic Poisson distribution underestimates the dispersion, and then leads to the underestimation of the capital charge. However, zero‐modified Poisson distributions perform well the frequency. In addition, basic negative binomial and its related zero‐modified distributions, in their turn, offer a good prediction of count events. To choose the distribution that suits better the frequency, the paper uses the Vuong's test. Its results indicate that zero‐modified Poisson distributions, basic negative binomial and its related zero‐modified distributions are equivalent. This conclusion is confirmed by the capital charge calculated since the differences between the six aggregations are not significant except that of basic Poisson distribution.

Originality/value

Recently, the zero‐modified formulations are widely used in many fields because of the low frequency of the events. This article aims to describe the frequency of operational risk using zero‐modified distributions.
Brief Assessment of Supine Heart Rate Variability in Normal Weight, Overweight, and Obese Females
Authors: Alrefaie Zienab
Published: November 2013

Background

Little research has been conducted on the heart rate variability (HRV) parameters in late adolescent females. The present study aimed to assess HRV time and frequency domain parameters in overweight and obese late adolescent females. Also to assess any possible correlation between HRV parameters and obesity indices in that particular age group.

Subjects and Methods

Fifteen‐minute period of standardized ECG recording was implemented to record HRV time and frequency parameters in 42 normotensive euglycemic female medical students aged (18–21 years); lean (n = 13), overweight (n = 13), and obese (n = 16). For the analysis of results, 2.5‐minute data were used.

Results

Root mean squares of successive differences between adjacent RR intervals (rMSSD) and high‐frequency (HF) power were significantly decreased in overweight and obese late adolescent females. Parameters reflecting sympathetic activity which include low‐frequency (LF) power and LF/HF ratio showed significant increase in overweight group. Interestingly, LF power was significantly reduced in obese group while the LF/HF ratio was insignificantly different. No significant correlations were observed between HRV indices and parameters of total or visceral obesity in the study groups.

Conclusion

HRV indices showed sympathetic hyperactivity in overweight late adolescent females and diminished sympathetic response in matching obese group. Both overweight and obese females showed decreased protective vagal influence on the heart.
Dermoscopic nevus patterns in skin of colour: a prospective, cross‐sectional, morphological study in individuals with skin type V and VI
Authors: Lallas A. , Reggiani C. , Argenziano G. , Kyrgidis A. , Bakos R. , Masiero N.C.M.S. , Scheibe A.B. , Cabo H. , Ozdemir F. , Sortino‐Rachou A.M. , Turk B. Gerceker , Moscarella E. , Longo C. , Zalaudek I.
Published: November 2013

Background

Most of the knowledge on the prevailing dermoscopic patterns of acquired melanocytic nevi (AMV) is based on studies in Caucasians, while little research focuses on the dermoscopic variability in nevi in skin of colour.

Objective

To analyse the prevalent dermoscopic nevus patterns in subjects with a skin type (ST) V and VI.

Methods

Prospective, cross‐sectional, morphological study was conducted in six clinics with enrolment of consecutive individuals with a ST V or VI. Digital dermoscopic images of selected representative AMN were assessed for dermoscopic colours, morphological patterns and pigment distribution.

Results

Analysis of 300 nevi from subjects with ST V and VI revealed significant differences in the nevus pattern between these two groups. The majority of nevi in ST V revealed a reticular pattern, whereas persons with ST VI more frequently exhibited a structureless pattern. Black, blue and grey were more frequent in ST VI, whereas the vast majority of nevi in ST V individuals showed dark brown colour.

Conclusions

Our study provides new insights into the nevus pattern in individuals with a dark pigmentary trait, which may aid the diagnosis and management of nevi in this patients group.
When genes move farther than offspring: gene flow by male gamete dispersal in the highly philopatric bat species Thyroptera tricolor
Authors: Buchalski M. R. , Chaverri G. , Vonhof M. J.
Published: November 2013

For species characterized by philopatry of both sexes, mate selection represents an important behaviour for inbreeding avoidance, yet the implications for gene flow are rarely quantified. Here, we present evidence of male gamete‐mediated gene flow resulting from extra‐group mating in Spix's disc‐winged bat, Thyroptera tricolor, a species which demonstrates all‐offspring philopatry. We used microsatellite and capture–recapture data to characterize social group structure and the distribution of mated pairs at two sites in southwestern Costa Rica over four breeding seasons. Relatedness and genetic spatial autocorrelation analyses indicated strong kinship within groups and over short distances (<50 m), resulting from matrilineal group structure and small roosting home ranges (~0.2 ha). Despite high relatedness among‐group members, observed inbreeding coefficients were low (FIS = 0.010 and 0.037). Parentage analysis indicated mothers and offspring belonged to the same social group, while fathers belonged to different groups, separated by large distances (~500 m) when compared to roosting home ranges. Simulated random mating indicated mate choice was not based on intermediate levels of relatedness, and mated pairs were less related than adults within social groups on average. Isolation‐by‐distance (IBD) models of genetic neighbourhood area based on father–offspring distances provided direct estimates of mean gamete dispersal distances () > 10 roosting home range equivalents. Indirect estimates based on genetic distance provided even larger estimates of , indicating direct estimates were biased low. These results suggest extra‐group mating reduces the incidence of inbreeding in T. tricolor, and male gamete dispersal facilitates gene flow in lieu of natal dispersal of young.
GouR, a TetR Family Transcriptional Regulator, Coordinates the Biosynthesis and Export of Gougerotin in Streptomyces graminearus
Authors: Wei Junhong , Tian Yuqing , Niu Guoqing , Tan Huarong
Published: November 2013

Gougerotin is a peptidyl nucleoside antibiotic. It functions as a specific inhibitor of protein synthesis by binding ribosomal peptidyl transferase and exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities.
gouR
, situated in the gougerotin biosynthetic gene cluster, encodes a TetR family transcriptional regulatory protein. Gene disruption and genetic complementation revealed that
gouR
plays an important role in the biosynthesis of gougerotin. Transcriptional analysis suggested that GouR represses the transcription of the
gouL
-to-
gouB
operon consisting of 11 structural genes and activates the transcription of the major facilitator superfamily (MFS) transporter gene (
gouM
). Electrophoresis mobility shift assays (EMSAs) and DNase I footprinting experiments showed that GouR has specific DNA-binding activity for the promoter regions of
gouL
,
gouM
, and
gouR
. Our data suggested that GouR modulates gougerotin production by coordinating its biosynthesis and export in
Streptomyces graminearus
.
Suffering in silence: a qualitative study of second victims of adverse events
Authors: Ullström Susanne , Andreen Sachs Magna , Hansson Johan , Øvretveit John , Brommels Mats
Published: November 2013

Introduction

The term ‘second victim’ refers to the healthcare professional who experiences emotional distress following an adverse event. This distress has been shown to be similar to that of the patient—the ‘first victim’. The aim of this study was to investigate how healthcare professionals are affected by their involvement in adverse events with emphasis on the organisational support they need and how well the organisation meets those needs.

Methods

21 healthcare professionals at a Swedish university hospital who each had experienced an adverse event were interviewed. Data from semi-structured interviews were analysed by qualitative content analysis using QSR NVivo software for coding and categorisation.

Results

Our findings confirm earlier studies showing that emotional distress, often long-lasting, follows from adverse events. In addition, we report that the impact on the healthcare professional was related to the organisation’s response to the event. Most informants lacked organisational support or they received support that was unstructured and unsystematic. Further, the formal investigation seldom provided adequate and timely feedback to those involved. The insufficient support and lack of feedback made it more difficult to emotionally process the event and reach closure.

Discussion

This article addresses the gap between the second victim's need for organisational support and the organisational support provided. It also highlights the need for more transparency in the investigation of adverse events. Future research should address how advanced support structures can meet these needs and provide learning opportunities for the organisation. These issues are central for all hospital managers and policy makers who wish to prevent and manage adverse events and to promote a positive safety culture.
Exploration of the impact of a voice activated decision support system (VADSS) with video on resuscitation performance by lay rescuers during simulated cardiopulmonary arrest
Authors: Hunt Elizabeth A , Heine Margaret , Shilkofski Nicole S , Bradshaw Jamie Haggerty , Nelson-McMillan Kristen , Duval-Arnould Jordan , Elfenbein Ron
Published: November 2013

Aim

To assess whether access to a voice activated decision support system (VADSS) containing video clips demonstrating resuscitation manoeuvres was associated with increased compliance with American Heart Association Basic Life Support (AHA BLS) guidelines.

Methods

This was a prospective, randomised controlled trial. Subjects with no recent clinical experience were randomised to the VADSS or control group and participated in a 5-min simulated out-of-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest with another ‘bystander’. Data on performance for predefined outcome measures based on the AHA BLS guidelines were abstracted from videos and the simulator log.

Results

31 subjects were enrolled (VADSS 16 vs control 15), with no significant differences in baseline characteristics. Study subjects in the VADSS were more likely to direct the bystander to: (1) perform compressions to ventilations at the correct ratio of 30:2 (VADSS 15/16 (94%) vs control 4/15 (27%), p=<0.001) and (2) insist the bystander switch compressor versus ventilator roles after 2 min (VADSS 12/16 (75%) vs control 2/15 (13%), p=0.001). The VADSS group took longer to initiate chest compressions than the control group: VADSS 159.5 (±53) s versus control 78.2 (±20) s, p<0.001. Mean no-flow fractions were very high in both groups: VADSS 72.2% (±0.1) versus control 75.4 (±8.0), p=0.35.

Conclusions

The use of an audio and video assisted decision support system during a simulated out-of-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest prompted lay rescuers to follow cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines but was also associated with an unacceptable delay to starting chest compressions. Future studies should explore: (1) if video is synergistic to audio prompts, (2) how mobile technologies may be leveraged to spread CPR decision support and (3) usability testing to avoid unintended consequences.
Comparative audit of oxygen use in the prehospital setting in acute COPD exacerbation over 5 years
Authors: Pilcher Janine , Cameron Laird , Braithwaite Irene , Bowles Darren , Swain Andrew , Bailey Mark , Weatherall Mark , Beasley Richard , Perrin Kyle
Published: November 2013

Background

In 2009 the Wellington Free Ambulance implemented an education programme to reduce high concentration oxygen delivery to patients with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). The aim of this audit was to compare pre-hospital oxygen delivery to patients with AECOPD before and after the programme.

Methods

An audit of patients who presented to Wellington Regional Hospital by ambulance with an AECOPD in 2005 and then in 2010, after implementation of the education programme. Oxygen therapy was categorised as: HIGH, supplemental high concentration oxygen therapy ≥3 L/min and/or delivery via high concentration mask; NEB, high concentration oxygen only during nebuliser use; or LOW, neither of these.

Results

In 2005 those in the HIGH, NEB and LOW categories were 81 (75.0%), 18 (16.7%) and 9 (8.3%) of 108 identified patients. In 2010 those in the HIGH, NEB and LOW categories were 80 (44.0%), 61 (33.5%) and 41 (22.5%) of 182 identified patients. The proportions of patients in the three oxygen groups were significantly different between 2005 and 2010 (p<0.001).

Conclusions

The proportion of patients administered supplemental high concentration oxygen therapy markedly decreased between 2005 and 2010 following implementation of the education programme. However, in 2010 more than half of the patients not managed with high concentration oxygen therapy were still exposed to high concentration oxygen through the use of oxygen-driven nebulisers. To reduce exposure to high concentration oxygen in AECOPD the use of air-driven nebulisers or metered dose inhalers with spacers is required.
Acute pesticide poisoning outcomes: a nationwide study in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Chieh-Fan , Lin Hsing-Lin , Chou Huei-Yin , Hsu Wen-Chi , Shi Hon-Yi
Published: November 2013

Background

This study presents the findings of a nationwide study of acute pesticide poisoning (APP) outcomes, including outcome predictors such as physician and hospital volume and associated factors.

Methods

This study of data contained in the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database analysed 27 046 patients who had been hospitalised for APP from January 1996 to December 2007. Patient characteristics were then compared among quartiles. The primary outcome measures were length of stay (LOS) and hospital treatment cost. Effect size (ES) was compared among three equally divided periods, and multiple regression models were used to identify outcome predictors.

Results

The overall prevalence of APP per 100 000 patients decreased from 12.43 in 1996 to 6.87 in 2007. The LOS for APP treatment was negatively associated with physician volume during the study period. Both LOS and hospital treatment cost were lowest in the high hospital volume subgroup. Comparisons of LOS and hospital treatment cost among the three periods showed that high-volume hospitals and high-volume physicians had better ESs compared to low-volume hospitals and low-volume physicians. Age and number of co-morbidities had significant positive associations with LOS, while admission year, male gender, hospital level, hospital volume and physician volume had significant negative associations with LOS (p<0.05). Hospital treatment cost and hospital level correlated positively with admission year, number of co-morbidities and LOS but correlated negatively with hospital volume and physician volume (p<0.05).

Conclusions

In APP patients, treatment by a high-volume physician can reduce LOS and treatment cost.
Do changes in socioeconomic factors lead to changes in mental health? Findings from three waves of a population based panel study
Authors: Mckenzie Sarah K , Imlach Gunasekara Fiona , Richardson Ken , Carter Kristie
Published: November 2013

Background

There has been little investigation of changes in socioeconomic measuresandmental health (MH)/illness over time within individuals using methods that control for time-invariant unobserved confounders. We investigate whether changes in multiple socioeconomic measures are associated with self-reported MH using fixed effects methods to control for unobserved time-invariant confounding.

Methods

Data from three waves of a panel study with information on MH, psychological distress, labour force status, household income, area and individual deprivation. Fixed effects regression modelling was used to explore whether changes in socioeconomic exposures were associated with changes in MH. We also compared increases and decreases in exposure with changes in MH using first difference models.

Results

Respondents who moved into inactive labour force status experienced a 1.34 unit (95% CI −1.85 to −0.82) decline in SF-36 MH score and a 0.50 unit (95% CI 0.34 to 0.67) increase in psychological distress score. An increase in individual deprivation was associated with a 1.47 unit (95% CI −1.67 to −1.28) decline in MH score and a 0.57 unit (95% CI 0.51 to 0.63) increase in psychological distress. Increasing and decreasing levels of individual deprivation were associated with significant changes in both outcomes.

Conclusions

This paper suggests that moving from employment to inactivity and changes in levels of individual deprivation may be more important for short-term MH outcomes than changes in household income or area deprivation. Providing short-term social and economic support for those experiencing financial/material hardship should be considered in interventions to reduce inequalities in MH.
Till sampling and geochemical analytical protocols used by the Geological Survey of Canada
Authors: McClenaghan M.B. , Plouffe A. , McMartin I. , Campbell J.E. , Spirito W.A. , Paulen R.C. , Garrett R.G. , Hall G.E.M.
Published: November 2013

The Geological Survey of Canada (GSC) has developed field and lab methods protocols to guide till sample collection, processing, geochemical analysis of the till matrix, monitoring of quality assurance/quality control, and archiving procedures for reconnaissance- to local-scale geochemical surveys. The most significant concepts and procedures are described in this paper. Continued and long-term use of these protocols will ultimately allow GSC researchers to integrate and contrast multiple datasets and ensure minimum levels of quality assurance and control for all till geochemical data. This set of protocols is the first established for Canadian till sampling and analysis and represents a contribution to the GSC’s Geo-mapping for Energy and Minerals (GEM) Program. Sharing the GSC’s knowledge on till sampling and analysis with the international community will allow other researchers and explorationists to adopt similar procedures. This sharing of knowledge will ultimately allow comparison of till geochemical datasets from various parts of Canada and internationally as well as ensuring a minimum level of quality assurance and control for all till geochemical data.
Study of Possible Mechanisms Involved in the Inhibitory Effects of Coumarin Derivatives on Neutrophil Activity
Authors: Drábiková Katarína , Perečko Tomáš , Nosál’ Radomír , Harmatha Juraj , Šmidrkal Jan , Jančinová Viera
Published: November 2013

To specify the site of action of the synthetic coumarin derivatives 7-hydroxy-3-(4′-hydroxyphenyl) coumarin (HHC) and 7-hydroxy-3-(4′-hydroxyphenyl) dihydrocoumarin (HHDC), we evaluated their effects on extra- and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in phorbol-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) stimulated human neutrophils. We studied also the effects of HHC and HHDC on possible molecular mechanisms which participate in the activation of NADPH oxidase, that is, on PKC activity, on phosphorylation of some PKC isoforms (α,βII, andδ), and on phosphorylation of the NADPH oxidase subunit p40phox. Without affecting cytotoxicity, both coumarines tested were effective inhibitors/scavengers of ROS produced by neutrophils on extracellular level. HHC markedly diminished oxidant production and also, intracellularly, decreased PKC activity and partly phosphorylation of PKCα,βII. On the other hand, we did not observe any effect of coumarin derivatives on phosphorylation of PKCδand on phosphorylation of the NADPH oxidase subunit p40phox, which were suggested to be involved in the PMA-dependent intracellular activation process. In agreement with our previous findings, we assume that the different molecular structures of HHC and HHDC with their different physicochemical and free radical scavenging characteristics are responsible for their diverse effects on the parameters tested.
Acetaldehyde Content and Oxidative Stress in the Deleterious Effects of Alcohol Drinking on Rat Uterine Horn
Authors: Buthet Lara Romina , Maciel María Eugenia , Quintans Leandro Néstor , Rodríguez de Castro Carmen , Costantini Martín Hernán , Fanelli Silvia Laura , Castro José Alberto , Castro Gerardo Daniel
Published: November 2013

After alcohol exposure through a standard Lieber and De Carli diet for 28 days, a severe atrophy in the rat uteirne horn was observed, accompanied by significant alterations in its epithelial cells. Microsomal pathway of acetaldehyde production was slightly increased. Hydroxyl radicals were detected in the cytosolic fraction, and this was attributed to participation of xanthine oxidoreductase. They were also observed in the microsomal fraction in the presence of NADPH generating system. No generation of 1-hydroxyethyl was evidenced. Thet-butylhydroperoxide-induced chemiluminescence analysis of uterine horn homogenates revealed a significant increase in the chemiluminiscence emission due to ethanol exposure. In the animals repeatedly exposed to alcohol, sulfhydryl content from uterine horn proteins was decreased, but no significant changes were observed in the protein carbonyl content from the same samples. Minor but significant decreasing changes were observed in the GSH content accompanied by a tendency to decrease in the GSH/GSSG ratio. A highly significant finding was the diminished activity content of glutathione peroxidase. Results suggest that acetaldehyde accumulation plus the oxidative stress may play an additional effect to the alcohol-promoted hormonal changes in the uterus reported by others after chronic exposure to alcohol.
Distributed Voronoi-Based Self-Redeployment for Coverage Enhancement in a Mobile Directional Sensor Network
Authors: Sung Tien-Wen , Yang Chu-Sing
Published: November 2013

A directional sensor network is different from conventional wireless sensor networks. It uses directional sensors instead of omnidirectional ones in the network for different applications, and the effective sensing range is characterized by directionality and size-specific sensing angle. Therefore, conditions of directional sensor networks are dissimilar to those of generic wireless sensor networks for researches, especially on the sensing coverage. This study proposed a distributed approach to enhance the overall field coverage by utilizing mobile and direction-rotatable sensors in a directional sensor network. The algorithm makes sensors self-redeploy to the new location and new direction without global information by utilizing the features of geometrical Voronoi cells. Simulations were used to evaluate and prove the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. The results show that the approach contributes to significant field coverage improvement in directional sensor networks.
Segmental Dynamic Duty Cycle Control for Sampling Scheduling in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Mo Lufeng , Jiang Yujia , Wang Guoying , Zhao Jizhong
Published: November 2013

Wireless sensor networks for environment monitoring are usually deployed in the fields where electric or manual intervention cannot be accessed easily. Therefore, we hope to minimize the times of sampling to reduce energy consuming. Energy-efficient sampling scheduling can be realized using compressive sensing theory on the basis of temporal correlation of the physical process. However, the degree of correlation of neighboring data varies over time, which may lead to different reconstructive quality for different parts of data if constant duty cycle is used. We proposed SDDC, a segmental dynamic duty cycle control method, for sampling scheduling in wireless sensor networks based on compressive sensing. Using a priori knowledge obtained by means of analysis on earlier sensing data, dynamic duty cycle is determined according to the linear degree of data in each segment. The experimental results using data from soil respiration monitoring sensor networks show that the proposed SDDC method can lead to better reconstructive quality compared to constant duty cycle of the same average sampling rate. That is to say, the SDDC method needs smaller sampling rate if the reconstructive error threshold is given and consequently saves more energy.
Constituent Quark Scaling of Strangeness Enhancement in Heavy-Ion Collisions
Authors: Behera Nirbhay K. , Sahoo Raghunath , Nandi Basanta K.
Published: November 2013

In the framework of a nuclear overlap model, we estimate the number of nucleons and quark participants in proton-proton, proton-nucleus, and nucleus-nucleus collisions. We observe the number of nucleon- (NN-part-) normalized enhancement of multistrange particles, which shows a monotonic increase with centrality and turns out to be a centrality-independent scaling behavior when normalized to number of constituent quarks participating in the collision (Nq-part). In addition, we observe that theNq-part-normalized enhancement, when further normalized to the strangeness content, shows a strangeness-independent scaling behavior. This holds good at top RHIC energy. However, the corresponding SPS data show a weakNq-part-scaling. Moreover, the strangeness scaling seems to be violated at top SPS energy. This scaling at RHIC indicates that the partonic degrees of freedom play an important role in the production of multistrange particles. Top SPS energy, in view of the above observations, shows a coexistence of hadronic and partonic phases. Therefore we give a comparison of data with HIJING, AMPT, and UrQMD models to understand the particle production dynamics at different energies.
Assessment of Nerve Injuries after Surgical Removal of Mandibular Third Molar: A Prospective Study
Authors: Meshram Vikas Sukhadeo , Meshram Priyatama Vikas , Lambade Pravin
Published: November 2013

Although third molar extraction is a routinely carried out procedure in a dental set-up, yet it is feared both by the patient and the dentist due to an invariable set of complications associated with it, especially in the form of nerve injuries. Hence, prior to performing such procedures, it would be wise if the clinician thoroughly evaluates the case for any anticipated complications so that adequate preventive measures can be taken to minimize the traumatic outcomes of the procedure and provide maximum patient care, which would further save the clinician from any sort of litigation.
The Attitudes and Intention to Participate in Hemoglobinopathy Carrier Screening in The Netherlands among Individuals from Turkish, Moroccan, and Surinamese Descent
Authors: van der Pal Sylvia M. , van Kesteren Nicole M. C. , van Wouwe Jacobus P. , van Dommelen Paula , Detmar Symone B.
Published: November 2013

Objective. To explore factors that influence intention to participate in hemoglobinopathy (HbP) carrier screening under Dutch subjects at risk, since HbP became more common in The Netherlands.Method. Structured interviews with 301 subjects from Turkish, Moroccan, or Surinamese ethnicity.Results. Half of the participants were familiar with HbP, 27% with carrier screening. Only 55% correctly answered basic knowledge items. After balanced information, 83% percent of subjects express intention to participate in HbP carrier screening. Intention to participate was correlated with (1) anticipated negative feelings, (2) valuing a physician's advice, and (3) beliefs on significance of carrier screening. Risk perception was a significant determinant, while respondents were unaware of HbP as endemic in their country of birth. Respondents preferred screening before pregnancy and at cost < 50€.Conclusion. These findings show the importance of informing those at risk by tailored health education. We propose easy access at no costs for those willing to participate in HbP carrier screening.
Vitamin D Predicts All-Cause and Cardiac Mortality in Females with Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Comparison with Brain Natriuretic Peptide and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Naesgaard Patrycja A. , León de la Fuente Ricardo A. , Nilsen Stein Tore , Woie Leik , Aarsland Torbjoern , Staines Harry , Nilsen Dennis W. T.
Published: November 2013

Vitamin D may not only reflect disease but may also serve as a prognostic indicator. Our aim was to assess the gender-specific utility of vitamin D measured as 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [25(OH)D] to predict all-cause and cardiac death in patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and to compare its prognostic utility to brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP). Blood samples were harvested on admission in 982 patients. Forty percent were women (65.9 ± 12.6 years). Mortality was evaluated in quartiles of 25(OH)D, BNP, and hsCRP, respectively, during a 5-year follow-up, applying univariate and multivariate analyses. One hundred and seventy-three patients died; 78 were women. In 92 patients (37 women), death was defined as cardiac. In women, the univariate hazard ratio (HR) for total death of 25(OH)D in Quartile (Q) 2 versus Q1, Q3 versus Q1, and Q4 versus Q1 was 0.55 (95% CI 0.33–0.93), 0.29 (95% CI 0.15–0.55), and 0.13 (95% CI 0.06–0.32), respectively. In females, it was an independent predictor of total and cardiac death, whereas BNP and hsCRP were less gender-specific. No gender differences in 25(OH)D were noted in a reference material. Accordingly, vitamin D independently predicts mortality in females with suspected ACS.
Distributed Sensor Network-Based Virtual FDR System
Authors: Seok Kwang-Ho , Ko Junho , Park Chul-Won , Kim Chul-Hwan , Kim Yoon Sang
Published: November 2013

We propose an application for power facility monitoring using distributed sensor networks. The proposed application is a virtual frequency disturbance recorder (FDR) system that estimates the frequency of a power grid using the data from a modeled grid and sends the information to the server for monitoring via wireless communication. To verify the validity of the proposed application, we conducted experiments using actual system data. The functionality of the proposed system was also verified by establishing a ZigBee-based wireless network for power monitoring and diagnosis of disturbances.
Subacute and Reproductive Oral Toxicity Assessment of the Hydroethanolic Extract ofJacaranda decurrensRoots in Adult Male Rats
Authors: Santos Joyce Alencar , Arruda Aline , Cardoso Claudia Andrea Lima , Vieira Maria do Carmo , Piccinelli Ana Cláudia , Figueiredo de Santana Aquino Diana , Kassuya Cândida Aparecida Leite , Arena Arielle Cristina
Published: November 2013

Jacaranda decurrenssubsp.symmetrifoliolataFarias & Proença (Bignoniaceae) is a species traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory and infectious diseases. Previous findings from our group reported scientifically thatJ. decurrenshas anti-inflammatory efficacy. However, more toxicological studies are needed to support and ensure its safe use. The present study was carried out to evaluate the toxic effects of a prolonged treatment with hydroethanolic root extract ofJ. decurrens(EJD) on hematological, biochemical, and reproductive parameters in adult male rats. The animals received by oral gavage 0; 250; 500; or 1000 mg/kg body weight of EJD for 28 days. After the treatment, biochemical, hematological, histopathological, and reproductive parameters were analyzed. The EJD treatment did not cause adverse effects on body weight gain, feed and water consumption, hematological and biochemical profiles, or histopathological analysis of liver and kidney. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences in reproductive parameters, such as sperm production, number of sperm in the epididymis, and sperm morphology. These results demonstrate the absence of subacute toxicity as a result of the oral treatment with EJD for 28 days in adult male rats. However, other studies should be performed to evaluate the total safety of this plant.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy and Suicide: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wortzel Hal S. , Shura Robert D. , Brenner Lisa A.
Published: November 2013

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a global health concern, and the recent literature reports that a single mild TBI can result in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). It has been suggested that CTE may lead to death by suicide, raising important prevention, treatment, and policy implications. Thus, we conducted a systematic review of the medical literature to answer the key question:What is the existing evidence in support of a relationship between CTE and suicide?Systematic searches of CTE and suicide yielded 85 unique abstracts. Seven articles were identified for full text review. Only two case series met inclusion criteria and included autopsies from 17 unique cases, 5 of whom died by suicide. Neither studies used blinding, control cases, or systematic data collection regarding TBI exposure and/or medical/neuropsychiatric history. The identified CTE literature revealed divergent opinions regarding neuropathological elements of CTE and heterogeneity regarding clinical manifestations. Overall quality of evidence regarding a relationship between CTE and suicide was rated as very low using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Working Group (GRADE) criteria. Further studies of higher quality and methodological rigor are needed to determine the existence and nature of any relationship between CTE and suicide.