bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic composition of host plant communities drives plant‐herbivore food web structure
Authors: Volf Martin , Pyszko Petr , Abe Tomokazu , Libra Martin , Kotásková Nela , Šigut Martin , Kumar Rajesh , Kaman Ondřej , Butterill Philip T. , Šipoš Jan , Abe Haruka , Fukushima Hiroaki , Drozd Pavel , Kamata Naoto , Murakami Masashi , Novotny Vojtech
Published: February 2017

Insects tend to feed on related hosts. The phylogenetic composition of host plant communities thus plays a prominent role in determining insect specialization, food web structure, and diversity. Previous studies showed a high preference of insect herbivores for congeneric and confamilial hosts suggesting that some levels of host plant relationships may play more prominent role that others.

We aim to quantify the effects of host phylogeny on the structure of quantitative plant‐herbivore food webs. Further, we identify specific patterns in three insect guilds with different life histories and discuss the role of host plant phylogeny in maintaining their diversity.

We studied herbivore assemblages in three temperate forests in Japan and the Czech Republic. Sampling from a canopy crane, a cherry picker and felled trees allowed a complete census of plant‐herbivore interactions within three 0·1 ha plots for leaf chewing larvae, miners, and gallers. We analyzed the effects of host phylogeny by comparing the observed food webs with randomized models of host selection.

Larval leaf chewers exhibited high generality at all three sites, whereas gallers and miners were almost exclusively monophagous. Leaf chewer generality dropped rapidly when older host lineages (5–80 myr) were collated into a single lineage but only decreased slightly when the most closely related congeneric hosts were collated. This shows that leaf chewer generality has been maintained by feeding on confamilial hosts while only a few herbivores were shared between more distant plant lineages and, surprisingly, between some congeneric hosts. In contrast, miner and galler generality was maintained mainly by the terminal nodes of the host phylogeny and dropped immediately after collating congeneric hosts into single lineages.

We show that not all levels of host plant phylogeny are equal in their effect on structuring plant‐herbivore food webs. In the case of generalist guilds, it is the phylogeny of deeper plant lineages that drives the food web structure whereas the terminal relationships play minor roles. In contrast, the specialization and abundance of monophagous guilds are affected mainly by the terminal parts of the plant phylogeny and do not generally reflect deeper host phylogeny.
Teaching Assistants managing behaviour – who knows how they do it? A review of literature
Authors: Clarke Emma , Visser John
Published: February 2017

This article reflects on the specific challenges facing teaching assistants (TAs) when managing behaviour. It considers the variety of existing research into this area, and why the paucity of specific research is problematic. It discusses how difficulties in access to training, its availability, the levels of preparation for lessons, the lack of guidance on teacher and TA working relationships, all impact on the way TAs manage behaviour. The article also highlights some of the conflicts inherent within broader issues which impact, either positively or negatively, on TAs ability to manage behaviour, including TA role definition, deployment and the wider pedagogical aspects of their evolving role.
Differentiated Curriculum Design: Responding to the Individual and Group Needs of Students with Learning Difficulties with Self‐regulated Learning Strategies
Authors: Pui Winnie Sin Wai
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore special educational curriculum design at senior secondary school level and whether this helps to enhance the academic attainment and self‐confidence of students with learning difficulties. An in‐depth discussion focuses on lesson planning for the individual needs and group needs of students by implementation of self‐regulated learning strategies, based on a case study in a special school in Hong Kong. A multiple methods research design was envisaged for the implementation phase of this participatory action research. Lesson observations, video recordings, teachers’ diaries and students’ interviews were collected during one academic year in a form 5 (equal to year 12 in the UK) classroom. It is suggested that curriculum design should include various elements: learning knowledge, values and attitudes, and generic skills. This differentiated curriculum design showed how subject learning targets could be responsive to both the individual and the group needs of students with learning difficulties. Conclusions also indicate that assisting students to become aware of their individual needs is beneficial both for learning and for curriculum design.
Differences between skilled and less‐skilled young readers in the retrieval of semantic, phonological, and shape information
Authors: Cortés‐Monter Diana R. , Angulo‐Chavira Armando Q. , Arias‐Trejo Natalia
Published: February 2017

This study aimed to determine whether the reading skills of third‐grade schoolchildren are associated with their preferences for semantic, phonological, and shape competitors (images or printed words) after being exposed to a spoken critical word. Two groups of children participated: skilled readers and less‐skilled readers. Through a language‐mediated visual search, children's fixations on the three competitors and a distractor were measured. When looking at images, both groups of readers preferred to look at the semantic competitor. When reading words, both groups showed a preference for the phonological competitor, but only skilled readers were sensitive to semantic information. These results suggest that early reading skills influence access to different types of representations in response to hearing a word, and they confirm the existence of a cascaded activation of information retrieval in childhood.
Organization and Decision‐Making in Enforced Networks: The River Groups in Northern Sweden
Authors: Olausson Pär M. , Nyhlén Jon
Published: February 2017

This article examines the Swedish experience of network governance in managing flooding and high water flows. The aim was to study the regional responsibility for coordinating risk awareness and risk analysis in terms of information, prevention and actions. The focus was on differences between the Swedish river groups from the coordinators perspective, including their organization and approaches to decision‐making. The conclusions reached here are based on interviews with the coordinators of county administrative boards. We argue that the absence of central guidelines in the organization of the river groups and the fact that they are enforced by the government rather than spontaneously formed have had implications for the networks’ effectiveness and for exchanges of experience among the networks.
A Comparative Taphonomic Analysis of 24 Trophy Skulls from Modern Forensic Cases,
Authors: Yucha Josephine M. , Pokines James T. , Bartelink Eric J.
Published: February 2017

Cranial remains retained from fallen enemies are commonly referred to as “trophy skulls,” and many such crania were acquired as souvenirs by U.S. servicemembers during WWII and the Vietnam conflict. These remains increasingly have become the subject of forensic anthropological analysis as their possessors, typically veterans or their relatives, try to discard or repatriate them. The present research uses a qualitative analytical approach to review 24 cases of reported trophy skulls (14 previously unpublished cases and 10 from the literature) to determine which perimortem and postmortem characteristics are most useful for generating a taphonomic profile. Overall, the taphonomic signature of trophy remains includes traits relating to acquisition and preparation, ornamental display, and subsequent curation. Contextual evidence and the biological profile also are considered when determining the possible origin of human cranial remains as a trophy skull. Thorough taphonomic analysis will aid in identifying these types of remains as trophy skulls.
Assessment of the Effects Exerted by Acid and Alkaline Solutions on Bone: Is Chemistry the Answer?
Authors: Amadasi Alberto , Camici Arianna , Porta Davide , Cucca Lucia , Merli Daniele , Milanese Chiara , Profumo Antonella , Rassifi Nabila , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: February 2017

The treatment of corpses with extremely acid or basic liquids is sometimes performed in criminal contexts. A thorough characterization by chemical analysis may provide further help to macroscopic and microscopic analysis; 63 porcine bone samples were treated with solutions at different pH (1–14) for immersion periods up to 70 days, as well as in extremely acidic sulfuric acid solutions (9 M/18 M) and extremely basic sodium hydroxide. Inductively coupled optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES)/plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), X‐ray powder diffraction (XRPD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that only the sulfuric acid solution 18 M was able to completely dissolve the sample. In addition, chemical analysis allowed to recognize the contact between bone and substances. Hydrated calcium sulfate arose from extreme pH. The possibility of detecting the presence of human material within the residual solution was demonstrated, especially with FT‐IR, ICP‐OES, and EDX.
Low T3 syndrome is a strong prognostic predictor in diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Gao Rui , Liang Jin‐Hua , Wang Li , Zhu Hua‐Yuan , Wu Wei , Wu Jia‐Zhu , Xia Yi , Cao Lei , Fan Lei , Yang Tao , Li Jian‐Yong , Xu Wei
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic effect of low triiodothyronine (T3) syndrome on patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). A hundred and eighty‐eight patients with detailed thyroid hormone levels at diagnosis of DLBCL were enrolled. Low T3 syndrome was defined as a low serum free T3 (FT3) level with low or normal serum free tetraiodothyronine (FT4) and thyroid stimulating hormone levels. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to screen prognostic factors associated with progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Receiver‐operator characteristic curves and the corresponding areas under the curve were calculated to assess the predictive accuracy of International Prognostic Index (IPI) and low T3 syndrome. Twenty‐four patients were diagnosed with low T3 syndrome, which was associated with worse PFS and OS in the rituximab era. It was an independent prognostic factor for PFS and OS, especially for those with IPI 0−2, extranodal sites ≤1 and stage III−IV. Synchronously low FT3 and FT4 had poorer survival outcome compared to only low FT3 and adding criterion of low T3 syndrome improved the prognostic capacity of IPI for predicting PFS and OS in DLBCL. Low T3 syndrome was found to be a strong prognostic predictor in DLBCL.
Cost‐effectiveness of diabetes screening initiated through a dental visit
Authors: Neidell Matthew , Lamster Ira B. , Shearer Barbara
Published: February 2017

Objective

To analyse the cost‐effectiveness of a screening programme and follow‐up interventions for persons with dysglycemia who are identified during a dental visit.

Methods

This study is a secondary analysis utilizing data from two relevant publications. Those studies identified persons with dysglycemia who were seen in a dental school clinic for routine dental care and determined compliance with a recommendation to seek medical care. The response site was 59.4%. The Archimedes disease simulation model was utilized to simulate the effect of a weight loss programme for identified subjects on several outcomes.

Results

Two scenarios for weight loss programmes were considered: a 10% permanent loss in body weight and a 10% loss that decays over time. Both diabetes and prediabetes were analysed. The decay path costs $21 243 per quality adjusted life year (QALY) with 3 years required to achieve the weight reduction. This cost decreases to $6655 if only 1 year is needed to achieve the weight goal. Without decay, the cost per QALY is $15 873 with 20 years of intervention, vs $647 per QALY with 10 years of intervention. For individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the cost per QALY is $48 604 to $56 207 depending on adherence. With the addition of oral medication (a sulfonylurea), the cost is three times higher.

Conclusions

Under the conditions described here, identification of persons with dysglycemia in the dental office for initiating prediabetic care is a cost‐effective means of identifying and treating affected individuals.
Neurological manifestations of 2q31 microdeletion syndrome
Authors: Okamoto Nobuhiko , Kimura Sadami , Shimojima Keiko , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: February 2017

Microdeletion of 2q31 involving the HOXD gene cluster is a rare syndrome. The deletion of the HOXD gene cluster is thought to result in skeletal anomalies in these patients. HOX genes encode highly conserved transcription factors that control cell fate and the regional identities along the primary body and limb axes. We experienced a new patient with 2q31 microdeletion encompassing the HOXD gene cluster and some neighboring genes including the ZNF385B. The patient showed digital anomalies, growth failure, epileptic seizures, and intellectual disability. Magnetic resonance imaging showed delayed myelination and low signal intensity in the basal ganglia. The ZNF385B is a zinc finger protein expressed in brain. Disruption of ZNF385B was suspected to be responsible for the neurological features of this syndrome.
Erythrocyte‐bound apolipoprotein B in atherosclerosis and mortality
Authors: de Vries Marijke A. , van Santen Selvetta S. , Klop Boudewijn , van der Meulen Noëlle , van Vliet Marjolein , van de Geijn Gert‐Jan M. , van der Zwan‐van Beek Ellen M. , Birnie Erwin , Liem Anho H. , de Herder Wouter W. , Castro Cabezas Manuel
Published: February 2017

Background

The binding of apolipoprotein (apo) B‐containing lipoproteins to circulating erythrocytes (ery‐apoB) is associated with a decreased prevalence of atherosclerosis. In this study, we evaluated ery‐apoB as a possible prognostic factor in cardiovascular events and all‐cause mortality, in a prospective cohort study.

Materials and methods

Ery‐apoB was measured by flow cytometry in subjects with and without cardiovascular disease (CVD). The primary endpoint was the cardiovascular event rate. Secondary endpoints were all‐cause mortality and the combined endpoint of all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular events (any event rate). A Cox regression analysis with univariate and multivariate analyses and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed.

Results

Follow‐up data were available of 384 subjects. Subjects were divided according to high (> 2·0 au, n = 60), intermediate (0·2–2·0 au, n = 274) or low (< 0·2 au, n = 50) ery‐apoB. Median follow‐up was 1767 days (IQR 1564–2001). In univariate analysis, low ery‐apoB was associated with increased all‐cause mortality [HR 9·9 (1·2–79·0), P = 0·031] and any event rate [HR 3·4 (95% CI 1·3–8·7), P = 0·012]. In a Cox regression analysis, only a history of CVD was significantly associated with any event rate [HR 3·6 (1·6–8·0), P = 0·002], while low ery‐apoB showed a trend [HR 2·4 (0·9–6·4), P = 0·07]. In a subgroup analysis, in subjects with a history of CVD, ery‐apoB was significantly associated with all‐cause mortality (log rank P = 0·021) and any event rate (log rank P = 0·009).

Conclusions

Low ery‐apoB is associated with increased mortality and cardiovascular risk, especially in patients with a prior history of CVD. These subjects may benefit from more aggressive secondary prevention treatment.
Predictability in community dynamics
Authors: Blonder Benjamin , Moulton Derek E. , Blois Jessica , Enquist Brian J. , Graae Bente J. , Macias‐Fauria Marc , McGill Brian , Nogué Sandra , Ordonez Alejandro , Sandel Brody , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: February 2017

The coupling between community composition and climate change spans a gradient from no lags to strong lags. The no‐lag hypothesis is the foundation of many ecophysiological models, correlative species distribution modelling and climate reconstruction approaches. Simple lag hypotheses have become prominent in disequilibrium ecology, proposing that communities track climate change following a fixed function or with a time delay. However, more complex dynamics are possible and may lead to memory effects and alternate unstable states. We develop graphical and analytic methods for assessing these scenarios and show that these dynamics can appear in even simple models. The overall implications are that (1) complex community dynamics may be common and (2) detailed knowledge of past climate change and community states will often be necessary yet sometimes insufficient to make predictions of a community's future state.
LOCAL LABOR MARKETS AND NATURAL RESOURCES: A SYNTHESIS OF THE LITERATURE
Authors: Marchand Joseph , Weber Jeremy
Published: February 2017

A primary way that natural resources affect a locality is through the demand for labor, with greater extraction requiring more workers. Shifts in labor demand can be measured through changes in employment and earnings, the main labor market outcomes, or through changes in the population and income, more generally. These changes may spillover into the nonresource economy, leading to greater overall effects or possibly crowd out; be spread unequally across the population, thereby altering the distribution of income and the poverty rate; or influence educational attainment, as people choose between additional schooling and work. In this review, the literature linking natural resources to local labor markets is synthesized by organizing existing studies according to their resource measurement and the outcomes that they consider. This synthesis provides an accessible guide to a literature that has boomed in recent years. It also identifies promising avenues for future research and lays a foundation to further generalize the evidence through an eventual meta‐analysis.
Treatment with the natural FXR agonist chenodeoxycholic acid reduces clearance of plasma LDL whilst decreasing circulating PCSK9, lipoprotein(a) and apolipoprotein C‐III
Authors: Ghosh Laskar M. , Eriksson M. , Rudling M. , Angelin B.
Published: February 2017

Background

The natural farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) suppresses hepatic cholesterol and bile acid synthesis and reduces biliary cholesterol secretion and triglyceride production. Animal studies have shown that bile acids downregulate hepatic LDL receptors (LDLRs); however, information on LDL metabolism in humans is limited.

Methods

Kinetics of autologous 125I‐LDL were determined in 12 male subjects at baseline and during treatment with CDCA (15 mg kg−1 day−1). In seven patients with gallstones treated with CDCA for 3 weeks before cholecystectomy, liver biopsies were collected and analysed for enzyme activities and for specific LDLR binding. Serum samples obtained before treatment and at surgery were analysed for markers of lipid metabolism, lipoproteins and the LDLR modulator proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9).

Results

Chenodeoxycholic acid treatment increased plasma LDL cholesterol by ~10% as a result of reduced clearance of plasma LDL‐apolipoprotein (apo)B; LDL production was somewhat reduced. The reduction in LDL clearance occurred within 1 day after initiation of treatment. In CDCA‐treated patients with gallstones, hepatic microsomal cholesterol 7α‐hydroxylase and HMG‐CoA reductase activities were reduced by 83% and 54%, respectively, and specific LDLR binding was reduced by 20%. During treatment, serum levels of fibroblast growth factor 19 and total and LDL cholesterol increased, whereas levels of 7α‐hydroxy‐4‐cholesten‐3‐one, lathosterol, PCSK9, apoA‐I, apoC‐III, lipoprotein(a), triglycerides and insulin were reduced.

Conclusions

Chenodeoxycholic acid has a broad influence on lipid metabolism, including reducing plasma clearance of LDL. The reduction in circulating PCSK9 may dampen its effect on hepatic LDLRs and plasma LDL cholesterol. Further studies of the effects of other FXR agonists on cholesterol metabolism in humans seem warranted, considering the renewed interest for such therapy in liver disease and diabetes.
Frequency of Guns in the Households of High School Seniors
Authors: Coker Ann L. , Bush Heather M. , Follingstad Diane R. , Brancato Candace J.
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

In 2013, President Obama lifted the federal ban on gun violence research. The current study provides one of the first reports to estimate household gun ownership as reported by youth.

METHODS

In this cohort study of 3006 high school seniors from 24 schools, we examined the frequency of household guns ownership.

RESULTS

About 65% reported having at least 1 gun in their household. White males were more likely to have a gun and to have more guns than other demographically characterized groups. After adjustment for race and sex, those of higher income, who lived in suburban or rural areas, identified as being exclusively attracted to the opposite sex, and in a romantic relationship, were more likely to have a gun in their household. Having a gun was not associated with increasing symptoms of depression or current poor physical or mental health.

CONCLUSIONS

Whereas we cannot determine gun types or reasons for having a gun, this research indicates that high school seniors are aware of and may have access to guns for use other than their intended purpose. Household gun ownership among students at higher risk for violence may pose safety challenges for communities and schools.
Combined Patterns of Risk for Problem and Obesogenic Behaviors in Adolescents: A Latent Class Analysis Approach
Authors: Fleary Sasha A.
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Several studies have used latent class analyses to explore obesogenic behaviors and substance use in adolescents independently. We explored a variety of health risks jointly to identify distinct patterns of risk behaviors among adolescents.

METHODS

Latent class models were estimated using Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) 2011 data. Behaviors in the models included substance use, physical fights, physical activity (PA), sedentary activity, sleep, fruit and vegetables (F&V) consumption, and weight‐related variables. Models were estimated separately by sex. Constrained and unconstrained models were computed for race. Age and perceived and calculated weight status were compared among emergent latent classes using latent multinomial logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Four and 5 latent class solutions emerged for boys and girls, respectively. Healthy, sedentary, and physically active (PA) groups were common in both boys and girls. The sample of boys also included a health risk behavior (HRB)/PA group and the sample of girls included HRB and HRB/F&V groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results confirm that obesogenic and HRBs should be conceptualized as combined patterns of risk. Health education programming in schools should adopt a multiple health behavior approach to target the continuum of risks adolescents engage in simultaneously.
Dietary guidance for pulses: the challenge and opportunity to be part of both the vegetable and protein food groups
Authors: Havemeier Stefanie , Erickson Jennifer , Slavin Joanne
Published: February 2017

Pulses are a dry, edible variety of beans, peas, and lentils that have been consumed for 10,000 years. Pulses are rich in plant‐based protein and fiber, as well as micronutrients such as iron and potassium. The satiating effect of both fiber and protein assists in managing weight and combating obesity. The high fiber content and low glycemic index of pulses aid people with diabetes in maintaining blood glucose and insulin levels. Pulse consumption may improve serum lipid levels to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Pulses developed as a member of both the protein and vegetable food groups as a result of its high content of plant‐based protein and dietary fiber. The last two revisions of the Dietary Guidelines saw the transformation from the MyPyramid “meat and beans group” to the MyPlate “protein foods group,” a nutrient name rather than a food source. Research suggests that consumers better identify with food source examples rather than nutrient names. The 2015 Dietary Guidelines also came with a new area: sustainable diets. Encouraging the consumption of sustainable food sources, like pulses, is imperative to ensuring a secure, healthy food supply for the U.S. population over time and for future generations.
Differential effects of the combination of tyrosol with chlorhexidine gluconate on oral biofilms
Authors: do Vale LR , Delbem ACB , Arias LS , Fernandes RA , Vieira APM , Barbosa DB , Monteiro DR
Published: February 2017

Objective

This study assessed the effect of tyrosol and chlorhexidine gluconate in combination against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Streptococcus mutans in the planktonic state or forming biofilms in vitro.

Materials and Methods

Checkerboard assays were performed for determination of minimum inhibitory concentration. Biofilms were cultivated during 24 h on specimens of acrylic resin and hydroxyapatite and treated with the drugs alone or in combination twice a day for 1 min, during 3 days. The antibiofilm effect was determined by quantification of the metabolic activity and cultivable cells. The drug combination was also applied on C. albicans to investigate its action on the number of hyphae. Data were statistically examined by two‐way ANOVA and Holm–Sidak test (P < 0.05).

Results

The effect of drug combination on planktonic cells was classified as antagonistic for C. albicans and indifferent for the other strains. Also, the drugs were ineffective against the tested biofilms. However, the drug combination showed a synergistic effect in reducing the number of hyphae by C. albicans.

Conclusion

The combination of tyrosol with chlorhexidine gluconate was only effective in reducing the number of hyphae by C. albicans, a relevant virulence factor of this species.
Flagellar filament structural protein induces Sjögren's syndrome‐like sialadenitis in mice
Authors: Higuchi T , Haruta I , Shibata N , Yanagisawa N , Yagi J
Published: February 2017

Objective

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disease that primarily affects lacrimal and salivary glands. We previously reported that FliC derived from Escherichia coli could induce autoimmune pancreatitis‐like lesions. From these results, we speculated that FliC could also induce SS‐like exocrinopathy. In this study, we investigated the effects of chronic exposure to FliC on lacrimal and salivary glands and the possibility that it might lead to an autoimmune response.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were repeatedly injected with FliC and histological changes, serum levels of cytokine/chemokines and autoantibodies were evaluated at different time points after the final injection. The presence of sialadenitis was diagnosed by histological methods.

Results

In FliC‐treated groups, 57% of subjects developed inflammatory cell infiltrates around ducts in mandibular salivary glands, but not lacrimal glands. In addition, serum levels of total IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a were significantly higher in FliC‐treated groups. Intriguingly, serum anti‐SSA/Ro levels were also significantly higher in FliC‐treated groups. Cytokine analysis revealed that serum levels of IL‐1β, IL‐12p70, IL‐13, IFN‐γ, IL‐15, and IL‐23 seemed to be higher in FliC‐treated mice.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that FliC‐treated mice develop an SS‐like phenotype. Our model may elucidate the relationship between commensal bacteria and SS.
Pediatric renal transplant practices in India
Authors: Sethi Sidharth Kumar , Sinha Rajiv , Rohatgi Smriti , Kher Vijay , Iyengar Arpana , Bagga Arvind
Published: February 2017

Limited access to tertiary‐level health care, limited trained pediatric nephrologists and transplant physicians, lack of facilities for dialysis, lack of an effective deceased donor program, non‐affordability, and non‐adherence to immunosuppressant drugs poses a major challenge to universal availability of pediatric transplantation in developing countries. We present the results of a survey which, to the best of our knowledge, is the first such published attempt at understanding the current state of pediatric renal transplantation in India. A designed questionnaire formulated by a group of pediatric nephrologists with the aim of understanding the current practice of pediatric renal transplantation was circulated to all adult and pediatric nephrologists of the country. Of 26 adult nephrologists who responded, 16 (61.5%) were involved in pediatric transplantation, and 10 of 15 (66.6%) pediatric nephrologists were involved in pediatric transplantation. Most of the centers doing transplants were private/trust institution with only three government institutions undertaking it. Induction therapy was varied among pediatric and adult nephrologists. There were only a few centers (n=5) in the country routinely doing >5 transplants per year. Preemptive transplants and protocol biopsies were a rarity. The results demonstrate lower incidence of undertaking pediatric transplants in children below 6 years, paucity of active cadaveric programs and lack of availability of trained pediatric nephrologists and staff. In contrast to these dissimilarities, the immunosuppressant use seems to be quite similar to Western registry data with majority favoring induction agent and triple immunosuppressant (steroid, mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus) for maintenance. The survey also identifies major concerns in availability of this service to all regions of India as well as to all economic segments.
Unmet Need and Sex: Investigating the Role of Coital Frequency in Fertility Control
Authors: Bell Suzanne O. , Bishai David
Published: February 2017

We estimate the relationship between unmet need for contraception and coital frequency using data from the most recent Standard Demographic and Health Surveys conducted from 2005 to 2015. Individual‐level analyses include 55 countries (n=245,732 women). The dependent variable is women's report of any sex in the last four weeks; the independent variable is current unmet need. Bivariate ecological results using country averages indicate that prevalence of unmet need is significantly negatively correlated with the proportion reporting recent sexual activity. Multivariate regression of individual‐level data show that the overall odds ratio of having had sex in the last four weeks is 3.23 and 2.97 for women with met contraceptive need for spacing and limiting fertility, respectively, compared with women with unmet contraceptive need. These results suggest that current estimates of unmet need exaggerate the risk of unintended pregnancy because coital frequency is not uniform with respect to unmet need. Findings also suggest that, despite being categorized as having unmet need, many women may still be taking measures to control their fertility through regulating the tempo of marital coitus, thus reducing their risk of unintended pregnancy.
Storage medium of platelet transfusions and the risk of transfusion‐transmitted bacterial infections
Authors: Kreuger Aukje L. , Middelburg Rutger A. , Kerkhoffs Jean‐Louis H. , Schipperus Martin R. , Wiersum‐Osselton Johanna C. , van der Bom Johanna G.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Transfusion‐transmitted bacterial infections (TTBIs) are among the most concerning risks of transfusion of platelet (PLT) concentrates. Storage medium influences bacterial growth dynamics and thereby the sensitivity of screening tests for bacterial contamination.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The aim of this study was to quantify the association of storage media with the incidence of TTBIs after transfusion of PLT concentrates. In the Netherlands, the choice of storage medium is determined solely by geographic location of the hospital. We compared types of storage medium of all reported cases of TTBIs after transfusion of a PLT concentrate with types of storage medium of all produced PLT concentrates in the Netherlands from 2003 to 2014.

RESULTS

Fourteen cases of TTBIs were reported, of which 57.1% received a PLT concentrate stored in PLT additive solution (PAS) and 42.9% a PLT concentrate stored in plasma. Of all produced PLT concentrates 22.3% were stored in PAS and 77.7% in plasma. The relative risk of TTBI after transfusion of a PAS‐stored PLT concentrate was 4.63 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4‐16.2) compared to transfusion of a plasma‐stored PLT concentrate. The incidence of TTBIs was 22.2 per million (95% CI, 12.1‐37.2 per million) transfused buffy coat PLT concentrates.

CONCLUSION

Transfusion of PAS‐stored PLT concentrates is associated with a fourfold increased incidence of TTBIs, compared to plasma‐stored PLT concentrates.
Cost‐effectiveness of the screening of blood donations for hepatitis E virus in the Netherlands
Authors: de Vos Anneke S. , Janssen Mart P. , Zaaijer Hans L. , Hogema Boris M.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

The incidence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) has increased substantially in Europe recently, thereby threatening blood safety. A cost‐effectiveness analysis for HEV screening of blood donations in the Netherlands was performed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A simulation model was developed to mimic the process of donation, infections in the donor population, donation testing, and transmission to transfusion recipients. The variability of viral loads among donors was modeled using observed loads. The number of (incurable) chronic HEV infections among organ and stem cell transplant patients and the costs avoided by implementing blood screening were estimated.

RESULTS

HEV screening of whole blood donations in pools of 24 would prevent 4.52 of the 4.94 transfusion‐associated chronic HEV infections expected annually, at approximately €310,000 per prevented chronic case. Per case not curable by ribavirin prevention, costs are approximately 10 times higher. Selective screening, if logistically feasible, could reduce screening costs by 85%. Sensitivity analyses show that uncertainty in the HEV transmissibility and the frequency of HEV clearing greatly impact the estimated cost‐effectiveness. Of all HEV infections nationwide one in 700 is estimated to be due to blood transfusion, while for chronic infections this is one in 3.5.

CONCLUSION

Despite uncertainties in our estimates, preventing HEV transmission by screening of blood donations appears not excessively expensive compared to other blood‐screening measures in the Netherlands. However, the impact on HEV disease burden may be relatively small as only a minority of all HEV cases is transmitted by blood transfusion.
Duodenojejunal mesenteric rents: Survival and complications after surgical correction in 38 broodmares (2006‐2014)
Authors: Lawless Shauna P. , Werner Laura A. , Baker W. True , Hunt Robert J. , Cohen Noah D.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

To describe short‐term and long‐term survival of horses with duodenojejunal mesenteric rents, and to examine the association of selected preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors with survival or colic after discharge, in horses with duodenojejunal mesenteric rents.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Horses undergoing surgery for correction of small intestinal lesions secondary to duodenojejunal mesenteric rents (n = 38).

Methods

Medical records (2006‐2014) of horses admitted to a referral hospital in Kentucky were reviewed. Data for preoperative and intraoperative findings, postoperative complications, and short‐term survival to discharge were recorded Long‐term (>12 months) survival was determined by follow‐up telephone query. Association of factors with survival and colic after discharge was determined using logistic regression.

Results

All 38 horses were Thoroughbred broodmares. Short‐term survival was 76% overall and 88% among horses that recovered from general anesthesia. Long‐term survival was 74% overall and 97% for mares that survived to discharge. All long‐term survivors and 85% of mares that recovered from general anesthesia returned to use for breeding. The odds of survival were significantly higher for horses ≤10 years of age (OR = 6.2; 95% CI, 1.1‐34.4). Failure to close the rent was associated with increased odds of colic after discharge, but had no effect on survival.

Conclusion

Short‐term and long‐term survival was high relative to prior reports and mares surviving to discharge following mesenteric rent surgery had an excellent prognosis for long‐term survival. Based on our data, closure of rents is recommended to prevent recurrence of colic, but may be unnecessary for survival.
Vesicopreputial anastomosis for the treatment of obstructive urolithiasis in goats
Authors: Cypher Elizabeth Erin , van Amstel Sarel R. , Videla Ricardo , Force Clark Kyle , Anderson David E.
Published: February 2017

Objective

To describe a novel surgical technique for the correction of recurrent obstructive urolithiasis in male goats.

Study Design

Clinical case series.

Animals

Castrated male goats (n = 4).

Methods

Medical records of male goats having undergone vesicopreputial anastomosis (VPA) as a treatment for obstructive urolithiasis were reviewed for history, signalment, clinical signs, and intraoperative and postoperative complications. Long‐term follow‐up (≥12 months) was obtained by telephone interview with owners or by clinical examination.

Results

All goats had undergone at least one surgical procedure (median, 2.5, range 2‐4) to correct obstructive urolithiasis before undergoing VPA. Postoperative complications included premature removal of the tube from the bladder (1 goat), bacterial cystitis (2), and abscess formation (1). One goat suffered stricture of the anastomosis site 3 months following the original procedure and underwent a second VPA and 1 goat died 7 months after surgery due to severe, acute hydronephrosis and renal failure. Long‐term survival ≥12 months was good with 3/4 goats (75%) or 3/5 VPA procedures (60%) having unobstructed urine flow at 12 months.

Conclusion

Vesicopreputial anastomosis is a feasible surgical procedure for the correction of recurrent obstructive urolithiasis in male goats and one that can result in a favorable clinical outcome. Further investigation in a larger population of goats is warranted for the evaluation of the suitability of VPA in male goats with obstructive urolithiasis.
Perspektif Ibu Bapa Terhadap Permasalahan dan Cabaran dalam Pembentukan Nilai Murni Pelajar
Authors: Haji Othman Mohamad Khairi , Mohd Yusoff Mohd Zailani , Abdul Rahim Fauziah , Puteh Alis , Kasa Muhamad Dzahir , Roslan NurFasihah
Published: February 2017

This study aims to examine parents’ perspective towards issues and challenges in developing good values among secondary school students. This descriptive-survey study was conducted on a few respondents comprised of parents, through interviews, in one the states in Malaysia.  This study found that the issue faced by parents is related to family relationship factors such as limited time spent with children, preference of children to share problems or stories with other people, parents’ attitudes and children’s own attitudes.  Meanwhile, challenges faced by parents are children’s peer influence and excessive use of technology.  In conclusion, issues and challenges presented in this study are significant and should be made aware so that children can be molded at early stages to become future successors.  Parenting skill is vital to ensure peace and harmony in the family.  Good tutelage and support should be provided to the children according to their age so that there will be positive reception and feedback.
Pre-Filtering Mechanism Integrating Gis for Sewer Pipes
Authors: C. Nkwodinma Iheanyichukwu , Abdul Rahim Mohd Kamarul Irwan , Osman Wan Nadzri , Taib Che Azlan
Published: February 2017

Sewage system which is considered as a way of managing and transporting wastewater from its unhealthy and unhygienic state, treated and recycled to be used for the daily water source activities. It has always been considered that sewer pipe blockage, being a serious problem when it comes to sewage system therefore creating series of backdrop in the form of mosquitoes breeding which causes various diseases, unhealthy environment, and issues of backups in domestic, commercial and industrial buildings. Looking at the rise in population growth, it will prove more hectic and problematic if the sewer pipe blockages are not fully prioritized thereby finding proper ways of mitigating this unwanted catastrophe. In response to this situation, a new concept for mitigating, monitoring and observing the condition within and outside the sewer pipe is being introduced to systematically reduce the problem to a zero minimal tendencies of obstacles that can create a blockage or crack in sewer pipes. A lot of researches have made impacts in mitigating and locating these problems, but this research will be mainly focused on achieving a minimal to zero blockages. Within this context of study, the research is aimed at actualizing the systematic way at which sewer pipe blockage can be avoided or monitored by the use of an effective and efficient wastewater pre-filtering mechanism which the model will be tested to separate wastewater debris and at the same time reduce the FOG (Fat, Oil and Grease) sediments that can cause clogging and then blockage on the long run. The model will function in a way as to automatically deviate or move the waste water debris to a depositing space while the waste water liquid substance is transported via sewer pipe to the central waste water treatment zone integrating geographic information system (GIS) which is the use of spatial analysis in tracking and locating any form of roots or tree growth along the sewer pipe therefore minimising the issues of cracks due to root obstruction etc. Results of the study will be based on Malaysia as a case study.
Revisiting Student Attrition Studies: A New Conceptual Perspective
Authors: Had Sabtu Helminiry , Mohd Noor Wan Shakizah Wan , Mohd Isa Mohd Faizal
Published: February 2017

This article focuses on the overview of the student attrition model as well as related theory that are pertinent to student attrition studies. It comprises an investigation into the prominent student attrition models, such as the Undergraduate Dropout Process Model presented by Spady, and Tinto’s Model of Institutional Departure. Then, the focus is on the work by Bean that resulted in the Student Attrition Model, and the Pascarella produced the Conceptual Model for Research on Student-Faculty Informal Contact, as well as an exploration of attrition studies in Malaysian Higher Education. In addition, an initial conceptual research model derived from existing prominent student attrition models was proposed by the researchers for investigation in Malaysian Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) student attrition studies, as well as for academic student attrition studies.
Learning Trigonometry Using GeoGebra Learning Module: Are Under Achiever Pupils Motivated?
Authors: Abdul Rahman Muhammad Hafizhuddin , Puteh Marzita
Published: February 2017

Under achiever pupils were found to have low motivation level in learning mathematics. Pupils avoid Trigonometry and consider this topic as tough for them to master. The objective of this research is to measure under achiever motivation level towards Teaching and Learning (T&L) Trigonometry II topic using GeoGebra Learning Module (GLM). This research has used explanatory mixed methods which is survey and interview to answer the research questions. Pupils were exposed to GLM in Trigonometry II topics for a duration of two weeks. Motivation level are measured using questionnaire adapted from Instructional Material Motivational Scale (IMMS). Five pupils then were interviewed by the researcher to gauge pupils motivation towards GLM. Respondents are from 21 under achiever pupils from one intact class in Muar, Johor. Data analysis showed overall pupils’ motivation level are high (M = 4.16, SD = .279). The level of motivation of pupils for each subscale in ascending order is the Confidence (M = 3.92, SD = .268), Relevant (M = 4.07, SD = .357), Attention (M = 4.25, SD = .320), and Satisfaction (M = 4.50, SD = .436). Girls are significantly motivated [t (19) = 2,401, p <0.05, r = 1.07] compared to boys in using GLM. Result from the interviews were found similar to the surveys result. Pupils were found to be attracted to self access learning concept and slider function in the learning process. It is recommended that mathematics teachers should use GeoGebra by developing learning module that combine mathematics dynamic software and written module to help under achiever pupils further improve their motivation in T&L.
Enhancing Students’ Deep Approaches to Learning Among Industrial Mechatronics Engineering Technology Students
Authors: Shahri Norsyarizan , Abdul Rahman Roselainy , Hussain Noor Hamizah
Published: February 2017

Identification of students learning approaches and its characteristics that contribute to learning success are so important in achieving learning outcomes. A previous study has shown that most of the students use more of surface learning approach instead of deep learning approach in their studies. The study uses a questionnaire, R-SPQ-2F to evaluate students’ surface and deep learning approach. This paper will present findings from a study that was carried out to compare the effect of using cooperative learning and the traditional method among students in Industrial Mechatronics Engineering Technology Program at MARA High Skill College Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia. The aim is to investigate the effectiveness of each method. Using a quantitative approach, two groups of students, one group from each respective teaching method, were studied. Analysis of the findings found that using cooperative learning has a more positive effect when compared to the traditional learning.
Features Selection For Efficient Data Center Disaster Management Approach
Authors: Mohd Zain Noor Hayati , Ithnin Norafida
Published: February 2017

Data center is a place where a lot of data and information stored together. Pooling all data in one large place called data center will make management work become complex and hard to be manage. Threats become one major problem which can cause disaster to data center. Disaster management is one important step that need to be done in reducing disaster impact and disaster loss when threats attacked or strike to data center. This paper presents on features selection for efficient Data Center Disaster Management (DCDM) approach as one propose solution. The features of disaster management is listed and compared in evaluating the suitable DCDM mechanism to improve the previous disaster management processes. Based on all selected features, a comparison of features from existing DCDM approach are analyzed and the selected features was identified toward a better development of the new DCDM approach.