bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactions of homocysteine and conventional predisposing factors on hypertension in Chinese adults
Authors: Yang Boyi , Fan Shujun , Zhi Xueyuan , He Jing , Ma Ping , Yu Luyang , Zheng Quanmei , Sun Guifan
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to investigate whether conventional predisposing factors modify the associations of homocysteine with blood pressure levels and hypertension. A total of 2615 adults were recruited from Liaoning province. An elevated homocysteine level was significantly associated with increased hypertension risk and blood pressure (all P<.05). Interaction analyses showed that homocysteine acted synergistically with age, overweight/obesity, dyslipidemia, and family history of hypertension to affect hypertension risk, and the relative excess risk due to interaction was 1.21 (95% confidence interval, 0.07–2.35), 0.72 (95% confidence interval, 0.07–1.36), 0.45 (95% confidence interval, 0.06–0.85), and 1.87 (95% confidence interval, 0.77–2.97), respectively. Increases in blood pressure were higher in patients who were overweight/obese or had a family history of hypertension than in their counterparts (all Pinteraction <.05). This study provides some strong evidence for interactions of homocysteine with conventional predisposing factors on hypertension.
The Relationship between the School Breakfast Program and Food Insecurity
Authors: Fletcher Jason M. , Frisvold David E.
Published: September 2017

Food insecurity rates have risen significantly in the United States, beginning with the recent recession, and remained high. The implications of these high rates are severe in that food insecurity has been associated with a wide range of health, behavioral, social, and cognitive difficulties. This article examines the relationship between the School Breakfast Program (SBP) and food insecurity outcomes. The SBP has the potential to reduce food insecurity because of the direct provision of breakfast to students and the implied income transfer to households. We use state‐level cutoffs tied to school‐level poverty rates that mandate the provision of the SBP to compare the food security outcomes of students in similar schools, but with different requirements to provide breakfast. Our estimates suggest that state policies requiring schools to offer the SBP have reduced food insecurity for young children.
Tocotrienol‐rich fraction attenuates UV‐induced inflammaging: A bench to bedside study
Authors: Yap Wei Ney
Published: September 2017

Background

UV radiation from the sun is the most common environmental stressor to damage the skin. It is now well established that photodamaged skin manifests signs of mild but chronic inflammation, termed as “inflammaging.” Thus, there is an urgent need for anti‐inflammatory regimes that can limit the damage caused by inflammation.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the possible palliative effects of a new topical nanoemulsion formulation containing tocotrienol‐rich fraction (TRF) on UV‐induced inflammation (erythema) of human skin.

Methods

An in vitro model was used to demonstrate the ability of TRF to alleviate photodamage via attenuation of UV‐induced oxidative stress and inflammation. Two ex vivo models (skin antioxidative potential and radical sun protection factor) were used to determine the efficacy of different formulations of TRF on the skin. A UV‐induced erythema protection test in 20 subjects was conducted.

Results

In vitro studies involving HaCaT keratinocytes revealed that TRF possesses marked anti‐inflammatory properties, as indicated by the attenuation of UV‐induced upregulation of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. A 1% TRF formulation was found to be more effective in enhancing the endogenous antioxidative protection of skin compared to 1% TRF in medium chain triglycerides because of its higher penetration kinetic profile. The clinical study showed that formulated TRF was effective in reducing skin redness after UV irradiation as early as after 6 hours of application. A significant depigmentation was also observed in TRF treatment subjects.

Conclusion

TRF may serve as an anti‐inflammatory compound that is safe to be applied daily to protect the skin from UV‐induced inflammaging.
Sonographic assessment of volaemia: development and validation of a new method in dogs
Authors: Cambournac M. , Goy‐Thollot I. , Violé A. , Boisvineau C. , Pouzot‐Nevoret C. , Barthélemy A.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The aims of this study were to describe a method for the sonographic assessment of volaemia, to determinate inter‐ and intra‐operator variability and to assess the ability to detect blood loss after blood donation in healthy dogs.

Materials and Methods

The left kidney was identified in a spleno‐renal view, and transverse views of the caudal vena cava and aorta were obtained in 12 dogs. Vessel diameters were measured in B‐mode, in duplicate by two operators, and the caudal vena cava:aorta ratio was calculated. Intra‐ and inter‐operator variabilities were assessed using a Bland–Altman method by plotting the differences between the repeated measurements obtained from the same subject by the same operator and by the two operators against their means. Before and after blood donation measurements were compared using paired t‐tests or one‐sample t‐tests, if appropriate.

Results

Intra‐ and inter‐operator variability was within the limit of agreement for the vast majority of measurements. After a blood donation of 9·8 ±2·2 mL/kg, the mean aorta measurements were not significantly different from those obtained before blood donation (1·11 versus 1·10, P=0·28), whereas the mean caudal vena cava measurements and caudal vena cava:aorta ratios were significantly lower (1·28 versus 1·01, P<0·0001; 1·17 versus 1·01, P=0·0001, respectively).

Clinical Significance

The low intra‐ and inter‐operator variabilities in the caudal vena cava, aorta and caudal vena cava:aorta ratio measurements support their reliability and operator independency. The sonographic assessment of volaemia appears to be a promising non‐invasive, repeatable point‐of‐care ultrasound protocol for assessment and monitoring of blood loss. Further studies are needed to assess the sonographic assessment of volaemia protocol in spontaneously bleeding dogs.
Comparison of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity during non‐rapid eye movement sleep in guinea pigs and humans
Authors: Kato Takafumi , Toyota Risa , Haraki Shingo , Yano Hiroyuki , Higashiyama Makoto , Ueno Yoshio , Yano Hiroshi , Sato Fumihiko , Yatani Hirofumi , Yoshida Atsushi
Published: September 2017

Rhythmic masticatory muscle activity can be a normal variant of oromotor activity, which can be exaggerated in patients with sleep bruxism. However, few studies have tested the possibility in naturally sleeping animals to study the neurophysiological mechanisms of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity. This study aimed to investigate the similarity of cortical, cardiac and electromyographic manifestations of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity occurring during non‐rapid eye movement sleep between guinea pigs and human subjects. Polysomnographic recordings were made in 30 freely moving guinea pigs and in eight healthy human subjects. Burst cycle length, duration and activity of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity were compared with those for chewing. The time between R‐waves in the electrocardiogram (RR interval) and electroencephalogram power spectrum were calculated to assess time‐course changes in cardiac and cortical activities in relation to rhythmic masticatory muscle activity. In animals, in comparison with chewing, rhythmic masticatory muscle activity had a lower burst activity, longer burst duration and longer cycle length (P < 0.05), and greater variabilities were observed (P < 0.05). Rhythmic masticatory muscle activity occurring during non‐rapid eye movement sleep [median (interquartile range): 5.2 (2.6–8.9) times per h] was preceded by a transient decrease in RR intervals, and was accompanied by a transient decrease in delta elelctroencephalogram power. In humans, masseter bursts of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity were characterized by a lower activity, longer duration and longer cycle length than those of chewing (P < 0.05). Rhythmic masticatory muscle activity during non‐rapid eye movement sleep [1.4 (1.18–2.11) times per h] was preceded by a transient decrease in RR intervals and an increase in cortical activity. Rhythmic masticatory muscle activity in animals had common physiological components representing transient arousal‐related rhythmic jaw motor activation in comparison to human subjects.
Employment Protection Legislation and Cooperation
Authors: Eguchi Kyota
Published: September 2017

I argue how cooperative behaviors are influenced by employment protection legislation (EPL), which is viewed in terms of two types of firing costs: administrative costs (such as notification procedures) and monetary transfers (such as severance pay). I focus on the minimum discount factor for mutual cooperation under trigger strategies in a relational contract model, where a firm has two payment options: a formal wage and an informal bonus. It will be shown that administrative costs enhance cooperation when they are low, whereas monetary transfers dampen cooperation when they are high. In addition, I show under what wage scheme cooperation is most likely self‐enforced.
Neural Processing of Congruent and Incongruent Audiovisual Speech in School‐Age Children and Adults
Authors: Heikkilä Jenni , Tiippana Kaisa , Loberg Otto , Leppänen Paavo H. T.
Published: September 2017

Seeing articulatory gestures enhances speech perception. Perception of auditory speech can even be changed by incongruent visual gestures, which is known as the McGurk effect (e.g., dubbing a voice saying /mi/ onto a face articulating /ni/, observers often hear /ni/). In children, the McGurk effect is weaker than in adults, but no previous knowledge exists about the neural‐level correlates of the McGurk effect in school‐age children. Using brain event‐related potentials, we investigated change detection responses to congruent and incongruent audiovisual speech in school‐age children and adults. We used an oddball paradigm with a congruent audiovisual /mi/ as the standard stimulus and a congruent audiovisual /ni/ or McGurk A/mi/V/ni/ as the deviant stimulus. In adults, a similar change detection response was elicited by both deviant stimuli. In children, change detection responses differed between the congruent and the McGurk stimulus. This reflects a maturational difference in the influence of visual stimuli on auditory processing.
DNA METHYLTRANSFERASE1‐mediated shoot regeneration is regulated by cytokinin‐induced cell cycle in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Hui , Zhang Hui , Dong Yu Xiu , Hao Yu Jin , Zhang Xian Sheng
Published: September 2017

DNA methylation plays a critical role in diverse biological processes of plants. Arabidopsis DNA METHYLTRANSFERASE1 (MET1) represses shoot regeneration by inhibiting WUSCHEL (WUS) expression, which is essential for shoot initiation. However, the upstream signals regulating MET1 expression during this process are unclear.

We analyzed the signals regulating MET1 expression using a number of established strategies, such as genetic analysis, confocal microscopy, quantitative real‐time PCR and chromatin immunoprecipitation.

MET1 expression patterns underwent dynamic changes with the initiation of WUS during shoot regeneration. The cell cycle regulator E2FA was characterized as an upstream factor directly promoting MET1 expression. Moreover, cytokinin promoted MET1 expression partially by enhancing CYCD3 expression.

Our findings reveal that MET1‐mediated shoot regeneration is regulated by the cytokinin‐induced cell cycle, and provide new insights into the regulation of DNA methylation in shoot regeneration.
Accuracy and reliability of landmark‐based, surface‐based and voxel‐based 3D cone‐beam computed tomography superimposition methods
Authors: Ghoneima A. , Cho H. , Farouk K. , Kula K.
Published: September 2017

Structured Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate and compare the accuracy and reliability of 3 different methods of three‐dimensional cone‐beam computed tomography scans (3D CBCTs) superimpositions: landmark‐based, surface‐based and voxel‐based.

Materials and Methods

Pre‐ and post‐orthodontic treatment CBCTs (T1 and T2) of 20 subjects with a mean age of 11 years were obtained. Seven points on the zygomatic arch and supraorbital region were selected to perform landmark‐based superimposition. Surface‐based and voxel‐based superimpositions were performed using the anterior cranial base as a reference. Each superimposition method of T1 and T2 scans was repeated twice to assess the reliability. Accuracy of each technique was tested by superimposing duplicated sets of T1 scans. A total of 11 landmarks on the anterior cranial base, maxilla and mandible were located, and deviations of these landmarks on superimposed data were quantified to assess reliability and accuracy of all superimpositions.

Results

There were no significant differences from zero when duplicated sets of T1 scans were superimposed using surface‐based and voxel‐based methods. Statistical significant differences were detected in several parameters when evaluating the accuracy of the landmark superimposition. Superimposition of T1 and T2 scans for testing the reliability revealed intraclass correlation coefficients greater than 0.90 for all measurements except for ACP‐x and PNS‐y of landmark‐based method as well as ANS‐x of voxel‐based method.

Conclusions

Surface‐based and voxel‐based superimposition methods using the anterior cranial base as a reference structure were accurate and reliable in detecting changes in landmark positions when superimposing. Landmark‐based superimposition method was reliable but less accurate than the other methods.
Effect of oestrous synchrony between embryo donors and recipients, embryo quality and state on the pregnancy rate in beef cattle
Authors: Rodrigues MCC , Bonotto ALM , Acosta DAV , Boligon AA , Corrêa MN , Brauner CC
Published: September 2017

Contents

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of oestrous synchrony between donors and recipients and the embryo quality on the pregnancy rate in beef cow recipients. The experiment was performed over two years at an embryo transfer (ET) centre in Southern Brazil. Ninety Aberdeen Angus cows were subjected to superovulation (SOV) protocols, resulting in the recovery of 1,048 transferable embryos. Eleven groups were formed with intervals of 6 hr, from −30 to +30 hr, with respect to recipient versus donor oestrous detection. Evaluation of embryo quality was according to the IETS guidelines. The overall pregnancy rate was 52%. Effects related to donor and recipient oestrous synchronization on pregnancy rate were observed (p = .01), ranging from 36% to 50%. The embryo quality rate affected the pregnancy rate, where Grade I resulted in 57% and Grade III in 43% of pregnancy (p < .001). The embryonic state (frozen or fresh) showed no (p > .05) effect on pregnancy rate: 53% for fresh embryos and 44% for frozen embryos. The odds ratio for explanatory variables causing pregnancy indicated that Grade III embryos had 31% less chance of conception compared to Grade I. Thus, oestrous synchrony between donor and recipient, considering ±30 hr apart, can affect the pregnancy rate along with embryo quality.
Multiproduct oligopoly and trade between asymmetric countries
Authors: Cheng Yi‐Ling , Tabuchi Takatoshi
Published: September 2017

This paper develops a general equilibrium model of oligopolistic multiproduct firms conducting trade between asymmetric countries, in which heterogeneous entrants choose their product ranges and outputs. We show that there are fewer exporters in the larger country, and each produces a wider range of products but exports fewer varieties. We also show that while trade liberalization increases the total number of consumed varieties, it decreases the total number of firms and may reduce the product range of each firm.
The dynamic effects of fiscal reforms and tax competition on tax compliance and migration
Authors: Lamantia Fabio , Pezzino Mario
Published: September 2017

We study the dynamic effects of fiscal reforms on migration and tax evasion in an international context with two asymmetric countries. Given an initial international distribution of honest and dishonest taxpayers, the tax system (e.g., tax rates and degrees of progressivity) and the salary in each country, individuals decide where to reside and how much time to spend working. The model allows us to study in a dynamic setting how the distribution of honest and dishonest earners is geographically affected by fiscal reforms (e.g., variations in tax rates) and auditing efforts (e.g., probability of auditing and fines) of different countries. We show that various dynamic long term scenarios can be generated. The particular convergence of the model depends crucially on the initial geographic distribution of dishonest agents. This implies that tax reforms that have been successful in reducing tax evasion in one country may produce very different results in others, if initial conditions are significantly different. Chaotic cyclical behavior may also arise if individual propensity to migrate is sufficiently high.
Using imported intermediate goods: Selection and technology effects
Authors: Gibson Mark J. , Graciano Tim A.
Published: September 2017

Producers that use imported intermediate goods tend to be much larger and more productive than others. Some of this is due to a selection effect: the most productive producers self‐select into importing because only they can overcome the fixed costs of developing trade relationships with foreign input suppliers. Some of this is due to a technology effect: any given producer would have higher variable profits from operating the technology using imported intermediate goods. To account for the roles of these theoretical mechanisms, we develop a simple model of a competitive small open economy in which heterogeneous firms endogenously decide whether to use imported intermediate goods. The technology that uses imported intermediate goods is superior but requires a higher fixed cost of operating. The calibrated model captures the large performance advantage of importers and quantifies the selection and technology effects.
Sampling from a Max‐Stable Process Conditional on a Homogeneous Functional with an Application for Downscaling Climate Data
Authors: Oesting Marco , Bel Liliane , Lantuéjoul Christian
Published: September 2017

Conditional simulation of max‐stable processes allows for the analysis of spatial extremes taking into account additional information provided by the conditions. Instead of observations at given sites as usually done, we consider a single condition given by a more general functional of the process as may occur in the context of climate models. As the problem turns out to be intractable analytically, we make use of Markov chain Monte Carlo methods to sample from the conditional distribution. Simulation studies indicate fast convergence of the Markov chains involved. In an application to precipitation data, the utility of the procedure as a tool to downscale climate data is demonstrated.
Successful treatment of bleeding with tranexamic acid in a series of 12 patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Mayer Beate , Salama Abdulgabar
Published: September 2017

Background and Objectives

The clinical significance of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is mainly reflected by bleeding and/or bleeding risks, which, in some cases, cannot be adequately controlled by standard therapy. Tranexamic acid (TA) is increasingly used in preventing and reducing bleeding in several medical settings. There is little information on whether TA may also be useful in the management of ITP.

Materials and Methods

Twelve patients with ITP were treated with TA (0·5–3 g/day) due to recognizable bleeding. Ten of the 12 patients were under regular treatment for ITP. The remaining two patients did not require additional therapy.

Results

Cessation or, at least, significant improvement of bleeding was achieved shortly after the initiation of TA in all cases. TA was well tolerated and discontinued after cessation of bleeding.

Conclusions

We recommend the use of TA in ITP patients with bleeding and/or an increased bleeding risk. Ultimately, cessation of bleeding plays a key role in the management of such affected patients. However, future studies are required to optimize dose and administration routes (intravenous or oral).
What is the evidence for platelet transfusion in perioperative settings?
Authors: Levy J. H. , Rossaint R. , Zacharowski K. , Spahn D. R.
Published: September 2017

Background and Objectives

Platelet transfusions are widely administered to restore perioperative haemostasis in haemorrhagic patients; however, the role of platelet transfusion is not well understood and administration is often based on empiric data. This review aims to explore consensus regarding platelet transfusion trigger, dose and how the haemostatic efficacy of platelet transfusion was assessed for the treatment of perioperative bleeding.

Materials and Methods

A literature search was carried out using MEDLINE (PubMed) on 28 February 2017, to identify publications reporting the effect of platelet transfusion in relation to triggers, dose and assessment of haemostatic efficacy in bleeding patients in a perioperative setting.

Results

Eight publications were identified across a variety of settings, covering both prophylactic and therapeutic platelet transfusion in adult patients; the majority of the reports were in cardiac surgery. A high degree of variability was observed in the published studies, with only 50% of articles specifying a trigger for platelet transfusion. The most commonly used trigger was platelet count (25% of publications), with no consensus identified regarding the platelet count values used as triggers. Doses reported per transfusion varied from 1 to 12 units, and outcome measures were mixed, although the majority of publications (63%) assessed the requirement for transfusion with other blood products.

Conclusion

The lack of consensus in published studies hinders our ability to draw conclusions regarding platelet transfusion and highlights the need for further studies to assess the appropriate dose and triggers for use in perioperative patients.
Prospective quality control study of a novel gravity‐driven whole blood separation system suitable for humanitarian crises
Authors: Hackstein H. , Möller A. , Gerlach M. , Sachs U. , Bein G.
Published: September 2017

Centrifugation‐based whole blood (WB) separation represents the worldwide standard but it depends on electricity and infrastructure. We have prospectively evaluated a novel hollow‐fibre WB separation system that does not require manual priming or blood flow regulation (n = 29). RBC units contained sufficient Hb (50·4 g ± 4·3), low leucocytes (90 000 ± 0·008), exhibited low haemolysis (0·57% ± 0·49) and robust ATP content (51·47% ± 8·2) after 43 days storage. Plasma units contained low leucocytes and mean coagulation factor activities for FV, FVIII and FXI were 47%, 90% and 68%, respectively. RBC met quality specifications but plasma units exhibited reduced FV and FXI activity.
Making transfusion decisions in critical care
Authors: Aubron C.
Published: September 2017

Transfusion triggers and parameters to consider in the decision to transfuse depend on the setting. In cases of massive bleeding, transfusion decision is made on haemodynamic parameters, vital signs and when possible on bleeding volume estimation. In anaemic haemodynamically stable patients, haemoglobin remains the primary trigger for transfusion. In the less severe or in the youngest critically ill patients, transfusion for a haemoglobin threshold of 7 g/dl has been shown to be associated with higher survival in comparison with a haemoglobin threshold of 10 g/dl. This lower threshold of 7 g/dl appears to be also safe in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. In patients with acute ischaemic heart disease, where anaemia may worsen myocardial ischaemia, pathophysiology and findings from large observational studies support the benefit of a higher haemoglobin threshold (between 9 and 10 g/dl). Elderly and cardiovascular patients should be monitored for cardiac tolerance of anaemia and transfused accordingly. In haematology–oncology patients and in neuro critically ill patients, the optimal strategy for red blood cell (RBC) transfusion remains unknown.

Transfusion practices have shifted from liberal towards restrictive strategy, making the monitoring of anaemia tolerance an important element in the decision to transfuse. Substantial comorbidities and conditions that influence anaemia tolerance should be integrated into clinicians’ transfusion decision‐making process. Research evaluating the benefit to consider additional triggers in the decision to transfuse RBC in critically ill patients is warranted.
Flow cytometry in transfusion medicine: an overview
Authors: Hult A. K.
Published: September 2017

Background

Flow cytometry has been used in many different settings to, for example, analyse subpopulations of leucocytes in quality control of stem cell grafts and in the diagnosis of lymphoma and leukaemia. In transfusion medicine, it has mainly been utilized for detection and semiquantification of various blood group antigens as a complement to traditional serology, for quality control of blood components and detection of fetomaternal haemorrhage. Today, when flow cytometers are becoming smaller, cheaper and more user friendly and are available in many routine laboratories, the method should be considered as a valuable tool to use in addition to serology and genomic typing.

Objectives

To give an overview of how flow cytometry can be useful in a transfusion medicine setting as a complement to both traditional serology and molecular testing.

Conclusion

Flow cytometry has the advantages of a higher sensitivity for some antigens than in traditional serology and the ability to easily distinguish between two or more populations of cells, which makes it a useful tool in many clinical settings, for example in defining chimeras and in detection of fetomaternal bleeding. The combination of molecular testing and the detection of surface antigens by flow cytometry are found useful. When resolving clinically relevant ABO discrepancies we have found the combination of genetic testing and semiquantification of ABO antigens by flow cytometry very helpful. Taken together flow cytometry is a handy tool in clinical routine analysis as well as in research focusing on transfusion medicine.
Blood transfusion: one unit too much or one unit too few – which strategy poses the smallest risk to the patient?
Authors: Seifried E. , Mueller M. M.
Published: September 2017

The last decades saw numerous prospective clinical trials using different haemoglobin levels as transfusion triggers for packed red blood cell transfusion. In most studies, a restrictive strategy with a lower haemoglobin value as transfusion trigger and a lower haemoglobin target range was compared to a more liberal strategy with higher patient haemoglobin values already triggering transfusion. While such studies answered some important clinical questions in well‐defined study patient populations, many more questions in this field are still open. Studies in patients suffering from acute or chronic neurological disorders, whether traumatic or not, trials in haematological or gynaecological patients are still very scarce or were performed in extremely small cohorts. In addition, the haemoglobin measurement in daily clinical routine suffers from methodological, technical and operational shortcomings. This might impair clinical decisions regarding transfusion triggers. Preoperative anaemia poses a risk for the perioperative outcome of the patient. Thus, it is worthwhile to explore a potential causal relationship between the extent of preoperative anaemia and perioperative mortality. From the existing retrospective trial data comparing preoperative anaemia and perioperative outcome, no such decision can be taken. The best transfusion strategy and the optimal dosing for packed red blood cells are still missing in most indications. Sufficiently powered, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical transfusion trials for packed red blood cells in most clinical settings are urgently needed to reduce ill‐founded clinical decisions and to base transfusion strategies on clinical evidence and scientific study results.
The accumulation of La, Ce and Y by Lemna minor and Lemna gibba in the Keban gallery water, Elazig Turkey
Authors: Sasmaz Merve , Obek Erdal , Sasmaz Ahmet
Published: September 2017

This study investigated the phytoremediation ability of Lemna minor and Lemna gibba to accumulate lanthanum, cerium and yttrium from gallery water polluted by metals. L. minor and L. gibba were settled in the mining water and adapted to separate reactors. During the experiment, the water and plant samples were daily taken and the temperature, electric conductivity and pH of the water were daily measured in situ. These plants were firstly washed, dried in and then ashed at 300°C for 24 h in an oven. Both water and ashed plant samples were measured by ICP‐MS to detect the concentrations of lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce) and yttrium (Y). Although these elements are at low concentrations in gallery water, they were accumulated at the highest levels in L. gibba and in L. minor. This study showed that both plants have high ability to remove lanthanum, cerium and yttrium in gallery water polluted by different elements.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Young James
Published: September 2017

International Journal of Social Science Studies (IJSSS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether IJSSS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 5, Number 10 Abdul Azim Akhtar, Independent Academic & Researcher, Delhi, IndiaAgboola O. Paul, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, MalaysiaAhmet Yıkmış, Abant Izzet Baysal Univeersity, TurkeyAnna Bluszcz, Silesian University of Technology, PolandAnna Maria Mouza, Technological Educational Institution of Serres, GreeceAntónio Calha, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, PortugalHenry Poduthas, West Texas A&M University, USAHyejin Lee, Tufts University, MA, USA and Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea, USAJadranka Svarc, Institute of Social Sciences Ivo Pilar, Zagreb, CroatiaJehu Onyekwere Nnaji, University of Naples II, Italy and Globe Visions Network Italy, ItalyJulia M. Mack, Gannon University, USAMiriam Parise, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, ItalyMohammad Naji Shah Mohammadi, Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaQingzhi Huan, Peking University, ChinaRachita Shrivastava Roy, Department of Higher Education, Chhatisgarh-India, IndiaRasa Poceviciene, Siauliai University, LithuaniaRemigiusz Kijak, Pedagogical University In Cracow, PolandRumana Hashem, University of East London, UKSandro Serpa, University of the Azores, Portugal
The Metaphorical Perceptions of Prospective Turkish Teachers’ Related to the Concept of “Language”
Authors: Derman Serdar
Published: September 2017

The purpose of the present study is to reveal the metaphorical perceptions of prospective Turkish teachers’ related to the concept of “language”. The study was carried out with 158 prospective Turkish teachers’ ongoing Gaziantep University, Faculty of Education, Department of Turkish Language Teaching in 2014-2015 academic year. To reveal the perceptions of the prospective teachers related to “language” concepts  through metaphors they were asked to complete one of the following prompt “Language likes …..; because….” and “Language likes to ….; because….” within about a course period (45 minutes). Metaphor eliciation method was employed in the present study and content analysis was used for data analysis. Prospective Turkish Teachers produced seventy five different metaphors for the concept of "language". Seventy five metaphors were categorized according to the common features presented in the justifications. Six categories that were structured in this way are as follows “1.Multiple manners, Flexibility, Layering 2. Origin and oldness 3. Being alive, development, change 4. Culture Carrying, Cultural Transporter 5. Communication and Socialization Tool 6. Tool of Expressing Status and Accumulations”. The findings were compared with related studies and suggestions were made for effective use of metaphors in language teaching.
Cortical thickness is associated with altered autonomic function in cognitively impaired and non‐impaired older adults
Authors: Lin Feng , Ren Ping , Wang Xixi , Anthony Mia , Tadin Duje , Heffner Kathi L.
Published: September 2017

Key points

The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) is critical for adaptation to environment demands.

Alzheimer's disease (AD), via frontal compensatory processes, may affect PNS regulation, thereby compromising older adults’ capacity for adaptation, and increasing morbidity and mortality risk.

Here we found that AD‐associated neurodegeneration accompanied an overactive anterior cingulate cortex, which in turn resulted in a high level of PNS activity at rest, as well as strong PNS activity withdrawal in response to the mental effort.

This discovery provides the first line of evidence to suggest that AD‐associated neurodegeneration links to altered PNS regulation during mental effort in older adults, and that the compensatory processes accompanying frontal hyperactivation appear to be responsible for these alterations.

The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) is critical for adaptation to environment demands. PNS can reflect an individual's regulatory capacity of frontal brain regions and has been linked to cognitive capacity. Yet, the relationship of PNS function to cognitive decline and abnormal frontal function that characterize preclinical progression toward Alzheimer's disease (AD) is unclear. Here, we aimed to elucidate the relationship between PNS function and AD‐associated neurodegeneration by testing two competing hypotheses involving frontal regions’ activity (neurodegeneration vs. compensation). In 38 older human adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) or normative cognition, we measured AD‐associated neurodegeneration (AD signature cortical thickness; ADSCT), resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging of frontal regions’ spontaneous activation, and an electrocardiography measure of PNS (high frequency heart rate variability; HF‐HRV). HF‐HRV was assessed at rest and during a cognitive task protocol designed to capture HF‐HRV reactivity. Higher HF‐HRV at rest was significantly related to both more severe AD‐associated neurodegeneration (lower ADSCT scores) and worse cognitive ability. Cognitive impairments were also related to greater suppression of HF‐HRV reactivity. High activities of the anterior cingulate cortex significantly mediated relationships between ADSCT and both HF‐HRV at rest and HF‐HRV reactivity. Notably, these relationships were not affected by the clinical phenotype. We show that AD‐associated neurodegeneration is associated with altered PNS regulation and that compensatory processes linked to frontal overactivation might be responsible for those alterations. This finding provides the first line of evidence in a new framework for understanding how early‐stage AD‐associated neurodegeneration affects autonomic regulation.
Sensorimotor control of breathing in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Burns David P. , Roy Arijit , Lucking Eric F. , McDonald Fiona B. , Gray Sam , Wilson Richard J. , Edge Deirdre , O'Halloran Ken D.
Published: September 2017

Key points

Respiratory failure is a leading cause of mortality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), but little is known about the control of breathing in DMD and animal models.

We show that young (8 weeks of age) mdx mice hypoventilate during basal breathing due to reduced tidal volume. Basal CO2 production is equivalent in wild‐type and mdx mice.

We show that carotid bodies from mdx mice have blunted responses to hyperoxia, revealing hypoactivity in normoxia. However, carotid body, ventilatory and metabolic responses to hypoxia are equivalent in wild‐type and mdx mice.

Our study revealed profound muscle weakness and muscle fibre remodelling in young mdx diaphragm, suggesting severe mechanical disadvantage in mdx mice at an early age.

Our novel finding of potentiated neural motor drive to breathe in mdx mice during maximal chemoactivation suggests compensatory neuroplasticity enhancing respiratory motor output to the diaphragm and probably other accessory muscles.

Patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) hypoventilate with consequential arterial blood gas derangement relevant to disease progression. Whereas deficits in DMD diaphragm are recognized, there is a paucity of knowledge in respect of the neural control of breathing in dystrophinopathies. We sought to perform an analysis of respiratory control in a model of DMD, the mdx mouse. In 8‐week‐old male wild‐type and mdx mice, ventilation and metabolism, carotid body afferent activity, diaphragm muscle force‐generating capacity, and muscle fibre size, distribution and centronucleation were determined. Diaphragm EMG activity and responsiveness to chemostimulation was determined. During normoxia, mdx mice hypoventilated, owing to a reduction in tidal volume. Basal CO2 production was not different between wild‐type and mdx mice. Carotid sinus nerve responses to hyperoxia were blunted in mdx, suggesting hypoactivity. However, carotid body, ventilatory and metabolic responses to hypoxia were equivalent in wild‐type and mdx mice. Diaphragm force was severely depressed in mdx mice, with evidence of fibre remodelling and damage. Diaphragm EMG responses to chemoactivation were enhanced in mdx mice. We conclude that there is evidence of chronic hypoventilation in young mdx mice. Diaphragm dysfunction confers mechanical deficiency in mdx resulting in impaired capacity to generate normal tidal volume at rest and decreased absolute ventilation during chemoactivation. Enhanced mdx diaphragm EMG responsiveness suggests compensatory neuroplasticity facilitating respiratory motor output, which may extend to accessory muscles of breathing. Our results may have relevance to emerging treatments for human DMD aiming to preserve ventilatory capacity.
Health Belief Model and Theory of Planned Behavior: A Theoretical Approach for Enhancing Lower Extremity Injury Prevention Program Participation
Authors: Hartley Emily M. , Hoch Matthew C. , Cramer Robert J.
Published: September 2017

The integration of theoretical models into exercise-related injury prevention research may advance our understanding of the reasons why adoption and compliance of exercise-related injury prevention programs (ERIPPs) is low. A new model which integrates the Health Belief Model and Theory of Planned Behavior has been developed to provide insights into the behavioral determinants of ERIPP participation. There are several steps which must be taken to begin utilizing these theoretical models within ERIPP research, including creating an effective assessment tool, assessing the behavioral determinants of ERIPP participation within the target population, and developing and testing interventions based on these theoretical models.
Driving Performance Deficits Despite Concussion Symptom Resolution: A Case Report
Authors: Hoffman Nicole L. , Devos Hannes , Schmidt Julianne D.
Published: September 2017

Driving performance prior to concussion is not commonly available to help clinicians identify when deficits return to a preinjury status. This case report examines driving performance prior to and following concussion in a 20-year-old male college student. He initially volunteered as a control for a separate driving performance study. He sustained a concussion 18 months later, and was asked to complete the same driving tasks as previous testing once he was asymptomatic. Poor driving simulator performance and subtle cognitive deficits in complex attention and processing speed were evident despite being symptom-free. Our findings may be useful when considering readiness to drive postconcussion.
Athletic Trainers’ Perceived Challenges Toward Comprehensive Concussion Management in the Secondary School Setting
Authors: Welch Bacon Cailee E. , Cohen Gary W. , Kay Melissa C. , Tierney Dayna K. , Valovich McLeod Tamara C.
Published: September 2017

Available financial and personnel resources often dictate the specifics of concussion policies and procedures in the secondary school setting. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore athletic trainers’ perceived challenges toward comprehensive concussion management in the secondary school setting. The findings indicate several challenges exist toward concussion management in the secondary school, including facility, personnel, and community resources, education levels of various stakeholders, and general perceptions of concussion and athletic trainers. It is important to identify challenges athletic trainers may face in order to develop strategies to align current concussion management procedures with current best practices.
Locomotor and Heart Rate Responses of Floaters During Small-Sided Games in Elite Soccer Players: Effect of Pitch Size and Inclusion of Goalkeepers
Authors: Lacome Mathieu , Simpson Ben M. , Cholley Yannick , Buchheit Martin
Published: September 2017

Purpose: To (1) compare the locomotor and heart rate responses between floaters and regular players during both small and large small-sided games (SSGs) and (2) examine whether the type of game (ie, game simulation [GS] vs possession game [PO]) affects the magnitude of the difference between floaters and regular players. Methods: Data were collected in 41 players belonging to an elite French football team during 3 consecutive seasons (2014–2017). A 5-Hz global positionning system was used to collect all training data, with the Athletic Data Innovation analyzer (v5.4.1.514) used to derive total distance (m), high-speed distance (>14.4 km·h−1, m), and external mechanical load (MechL, a.u.). All SSGs included exclusively 1 floater and were divided into 2 main categories, according to the participation of goalkeepers (GS) or not (PO) and then further divided into small and large (>100 m2per player) SSGs based on the area per player ratio. Results: Locomotor activity and MechL performed were likely-to-most likely lower (moderate to large magnitude) in floaters compared with regular players, whereas differences in heart rate responses were unclear to possibly higher (small) in floaters. The magnitude of the difference in locomotor activity and MechL between floaters and regular players was substantially greater during GS compared with PO. Conclusions: Compared with regular players, floaters present decreased external load (both locomotor and MechL) despite unclear to possibly slightly higher heart rate responses during SSGs. Moreover, the responses of floaters compared with regular players are not consistent across different sizes of SSGs, with greater differences during GS than PO.
Variability in Individual Response to Aerobic Exercise Interventions Among Older Adults
Authors: Whipple Mary O. , Schorr Erica N. , Talley Kristine M.C. , Lindquist Ruth , Bronas Ulf G. , Treat-Jacobson Diane
Published: September 2017

Although a plethora of evidence supports the benefits of exercise among older adults, a majority of studies have emphasized group differences, while giving little, if any, attention to individual differences. Given the lack of data on variability in response, the present review examined how nonresponse to aerobic exercise has been defined in older adult populations and characteristics associated with nonresponse among older adults. The results of this review suggest that interindividual variability in response of maximal oxygen consumption to aerobic exercise interventions is prevalent among older adults (1.4–63.4%); age, sex, race, and body mass index may not be critical determinants of nonresponse; whereas health status, baseline fitness, and exercise dose appear important. Future intervention studies should evaluate and report the variability in individual response of older adults to exercise; investigators should develop programs that allow for modification of components to assist older adults in achieving optimal benefit from exercise programs.
Physical Activity Among Foreign-Born Older Adults in Canada: A Mixed-Method Study Conducted in Five Languages
Authors: Tong Catherine E. , Sims Gould Joanie , McKay Heather A.
Published: September 2017

Foreign-born older adults (FBOAs) are at risk for negative health transitions in Canada. Physical activity (PA) enhances health, yet we know very little about the PA habits of FBOAs in Canada. We conducted a mixed-method study in English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Punjabi, and Hindi, with 49 South Asian and Chinese FBOAs in Vancouver, Canada. In total, 49 participants completed surveys; of these 49, 46 wore accelerometers and 18 completed in-depth interviews. Participants’ mean daily step count was 7,876 (women: 8,172, men: 7,164, Chinese: 8,291, and South Asian: 7,196). The bulk of their time is spent in light and sedentary activities. PA is principally acquired through walking for errands and work performed in and around the home. This study challenges the assumption that FBOAs are less active than their nonimmigrant peers and confirms the key role of “nonexercise” and low activity, rather than moderate to vigorous, in older adults’ PA acquisition.
Gait Coordination Deteriorates in Independent Old-Old Adults
Authors: Gimmon Yoav , Rashad Hisham , Kurz Ilan , Plotnik Meir , Riemer Raziel , Debi Ronen , Shapiro Amir , Melzer Itshak
Published: September 2017

Human gait is symmetric and bilaterally coordinated in young healthy persons. In this study, we aimed to explore the differences in bilateral coordination of gait as measured by the phase coordination index (PCI), gait asymmetry, and stride time variability of gait between four age groups. A total of 44 older adults were recruited: nine young-old (age 70–74 years), 26 old (age 75–84 years), nine old-old (>85 years and older), and 13 young adults (age 20–30 years). Subjects walked on a treadmill; walking speed was systematically increased from 0.5 to 0.9 m/s in steps of 0.1 m/s. There were marginal effects of age on PCI, significant main effects of walking speeds without interaction between walking speeds and age group. A difference in PCI could distinguish between young’s and late aging group, and only during their preferred treadmills walking speed. This study explicitly shows that bilateral coordination of walking is modified by gait speed, and deteriorates only at a very old age.