bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The knock‐down of the expression of MdMLO19 reduces susceptibility to powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha) in apple (Malus domestica)
Authors: Pessina Stefano , Angeli Dario , Martens Stefan , Visser Richard G.F. , Bai Yuling , Salamini Francesco , Velasco Riccardo , Schouten Henk J. , Malnoy Mickael
Published: March 2016

Varieties resistant to powdery mildew (PM; caused by Podosphaera leucotricha) are a major component of sustainable apple production. Resistance can be achieved by knocking‐out susceptibility S‐genes to be singled out among members of the MLO (Mildew Locus O) gene family. Candidates are MLO S‐genes of phylogenetic clade V up‐regulated upon PM inoculation, such as MdMLO11 and 19 (clade V) and MdMLO18 (clade VII). We report the knock‐down through RNA interference of MdMLO11 and 19, as well as the complementation of resistance with MdMLO18 in the Arabidopsis thaliana triple mlo mutant Atmlo2/6/12. The knock‐down of MdMLO19 reduced PM disease severity by 75%, whereas the knock‐down of MdMLO11, alone or in combination with MdMLO19, did not result in any reduction or additional reduction of susceptibility compared with MdMLO19 alone. The test in A. thaliana excluded a role for MdMLO18 in PM susceptibility. Cell wall appositions (papillae) were present in both PM‐resistant and PM‐susceptible plants, but were larger in resistant lines. No obvious negative phenotype was observed in plants with mlo genes knocked down. Apparently, MdMLO19 plays the pivotal role in apple PM susceptibility and its knock‐down induces a very significant level of resistance.
Oosorption in the stink bug Plautia stali: role of Juvenile hormone in the induction of oosorption
Authors: Kotaki Toyomi , Kaihara Kanako , Ando Yumi , Misaki Kumi , Shinada Tetsuro
Published: March 2016

To clarify the role of Juvenile hormone (JH) in the induction of oosorption in females of the stink bug Plautia stali Scott (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), the effects of extirpation and implantation of the corpus cardiac‐corpus allatum complex (CC‐CA) are examined in fed and starved adults, respectively. Removal of CC‐CA induces oosorption in fed females, whereas CC‐CA implantation stimulates ovary development in starved females. Transection of the nervous connections between the brain and CC‐CA also exerts a stimulatory effect on ovary development. Uptake of yolk protein by the oocytes, assessed in terms of incorporation of a fluorescence dye, occurs on the day after food deprivation but ceases within 1 day after allatectomy. When females are deprived of food, beginning on day 3 of adult life, and treated with JH III skipped bisepoxide (JHSB3) on the same day, their ovaries develop in a dose‐dependent fashion. Approximately half of the starved females that received JHSB3 application on day 5 undergo oosorption in the terminal oocytes. This indicates that the critical starvation period for oosorption induction is approximately 2 days, and the earlier half of this period may reflect the time required for the brain to detect poor nutritional condition. During the latter half, in response to food deprivation, the brain inhibits JH biosynthesis by the corpus allatum through nervous connections, resulting in a low JH titre, which in turn induces oosorption.
Regression Models on Riemannian Symmetric Spaces
Authors: Cornea Emil , Zhu Hongtu , Kim Peter , Ibrahim Joseph G.
Published: March 2016

The paper develops a general regression framework for the analysis of manifold-valued response in a Riemannian symmetric space (RSS) and its association with multiple covariates of interest, such as age or gender, in Euclidean space. Such RSS-valued data arise frequently in medical imaging, surface modelling and computer vision, among many other fields. We develop an intrinsic regression model solely based on an intrinsic conditional moment assumption, avoiding specifying any parametric distribution in RSS. We propose various link functions to map from the Euclidean space of multiple covariates to the RSS of responses. We develop a two-stage procedure to calculate the parameter estimates and determine their asymptotic distributions. We construct the Wald and geodesic test statistics to test hypotheses of unknown parameters. We systematically investigate the geometric invariant property of these estimates and test statistics. Simulation studies and a real data analysis are used to evaluate the finite sample properties of our methods.
Optimal Screening and Discovery of Sparse Signals with Applications to Multistage High Throughput Studies
Authors: Tony Cai T. , Sun Wenguang
Published: March 2016

A common feature in large-scale scientific studies is that signals are sparse and it is desirable to narrow down significantly the focus to a much smaller subset in a sequential manner. We consider two related data screening problems: one is to find the smallest subset such that it virtually contains all signals and another is to find the largest subset such that it essentially contains only signals. These screening problems are closely connected to but distinct from the more conventional signal detection or multiple-testing problems. We develop phase transition diagrams to characterize the fundamental limits in simultaneous inference and derive data-driven screening procedures which control the error rates with near optimality properties. Applications in the context of multistage high throughput studies are discussed.
Incremental cost of implementing residual insecticide treatment with delthametrine on top of intensive routineAedes aegypticontrol
Authors: Baly Alberto , Gonzalez Karelia , Cabrera Pedro , Popa Julio C. , Toledo Maria E. , Hernandez Claudia , Montada Domingo , Vanlerberghe Veerle , Van der Stuyft Patrick
Published: March 2016

Objective

Information on the cost of implementing residual insecticide treatment (RIT) forAedescontrol is scarce. We evaluated the incremental cost on top of intensive conventional routine activities of theAedescontrol programme (ACP) in the city of Santiago de Cuba, Cuba.

Methods

We conducted the cost analysis study in 2011–2012, from the perspective of theACP. Data sources were bookkeeping records, activity registers of the ProvincialACPCentre and the accounts of anRITimplementation study in 21 clusters of on average four house blocks comprising 5180 premises.

Results

The annual cost of the routineACPactivities was 19.66US$ per household.RITapplications in rounds at 4‐month intervals covering, on average, 97.2% and using 8.5 g of delthametrine annually per household, cost 3.06US$ per household per year. Delthametrine comprised 66.5% of this cost; the additional cost for deployingRITcomprised 15.6% of the totalACProutine cost and 27% of the cost related to routine adult stageAedescontrol.

Conclusions

The incremental cost of implementingRITis high. It should be weighed against the incremental effect on the burden caused by the array of pathogens transmitted byAedes. The cost could be reduced if the insecticide became cheaper, by limiting the number of yearly applications or by targeting transmission hot spots.
Evaluating facility‐based antiretroviral therapy programme effectiveness: a pilot study comparing viral load suppression and retention rates
Authors: Duber Herbert C. , Roberts D. Allen , Ikilezi Gloria , Fullman Nancy , Gasasira Anne , Gakidou Emmanuela , Haakenstad Annie , J. Levine Aubrey , Achan Jane
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Increased demand for antiretroviral therapy (ART) services combined with plateaued levels of development assistance for HIV/AIDS requires that national ART programmes monitor programme effectiveness. In this pilot study, we compared commonly utilised performance metrics of 12‐ and 24‐month retention with rates of viral load (VL) suppression at 15 health facilities in Uganda.

Methods

Retrospective chart review from which 12‐ and 24‐month retention rates were estimated, and parallel HIV RNA VL testing on consecutive adult patients who presented to clinics and had been on ART for a minimum of six months. Rates of VL suppression were then calculated at each facility and compared to retention rates to assess the correlation between performance metrics. Multilevel logistic regression models predicting VL suppression and 12‐ and 24‐month retention were constructed to estimate facility effects.

Results

We collected VL samples from 2961 patients and found that 88% had a VL ≤1000 copies/ml. Facility rates of VL suppression varied between 77% and 96%. When controlling for patient mix, a significant variation in facility performance persisted. Retention rates at 12 and 24 months were 91% and 79%, respectively, with a comparable facility‐level variation. However, neither 12‐month (ρ = 0.16) nor 24‐month (ρ = −0.19) retention rates were correlated with facility rates of VL suppression.

Conclusions

Retaining patients in care and suppressing VL are both critical outcomes. Given the lack of correlation noted in this study, the utilisation of VL monitoring may be necessary to truly assess the effectiveness of health facilities delivering ART services.
Anti‐Mur as the most likely cause of mild hemolytic disease of the newborn
Authors: Bakhtary Sara , Gikas Anastasia , Glader Bertil , Andrews Jennifer
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND

Although rare in the United States, anti‐Mur is relatively common in Southeast Asia and has been reported to have clinical significance in Chinese and Taiwanese populations.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The infant was full term and the second child of a Chinese mother and Vietnamese father, presenting with jaundice. He was clinically diagnosed with immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia.

RESULTS

The direct antiglobulin test indicated that the infant's red blood cells were coated only with anti‐IgG. Anti‐Mur was identified in the maternal serum and the neonate's plasma. The father was found to be positive for the Mur antigen. The cause of the infant's hemolytic anemia was determined to be most likely anti‐Mur.

CONCLUSION

Since anti‐Mur is implicated in causing hemolytic disease of the newborn, it is important to recognize this antibody more commonly found in Asian patients in the United States as the Mur+ phenotype has a higher prevalence in this population.
Discriminating complement‐mediated acute transfusion reaction for type O+ red blood cells transfused into a B+ recipient with the complement hemolysis using human erythrocytes (CHUHE) assay
Authors: Cunnion Kenji M. , Hair Pamela S. , Krishna Neel K. , Whitley Pamela H. , Goldberg Corinne L. , Fadeyi Emmanuel A. , Maes Lanne Y.
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND

A patient with B+ sickle cell disease received 3 units of red blood cells (RBCs) from two O+ donors and developed fever and hypotension after the first unit, consistent with an acute transfusion reaction (ATR). Anti‐B titers in plasma from each O+ donor were markedly elevated and nondiscriminatory. In order to evaluate the potential for the transfused units to produce complement‐mediated hemolysis of B+ RBCs, hemolytic complement testing was performed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Plasma from each donor was diluted in veronal buffer and incubated with B+ RBCs, and free hemoglobin was measured by spectrophotometer in the complement hemolysis using human erythrocytes (CHUHE) assay. Peptide inhibitor of complement C1 (PIC1) was used to confirm antibody‐initiated complement pathway activation.

RESULTS

A 96‐fold difference (p = 0.014) in hemolysis was measured between plasma samples from the two O+ donors using the CHUHE assay. The extremely high degree of hemolysis produced by the one plasma was inhibited by PIC1 in a dose‐dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that hemolytic complement testing with the CHUHE assay can be used to assess the risk of antibody‐initiated, complement‐mediated hemolysis from a transfusion beyond what can be achieved with antibody titers alone.
Identifying the Development State of Sintered Silver (Ag) as a Bonding Material in the Microelectronic Packaging Via a Patent Landscape Study
Authors: Siow K. S. , Lin Y. T.
Published: March 2016

Sintered silver joint is a porous silver that bonds a semiconductor die to the substrate as part of the packaging process. Sintered Ag is one of the few possible bonding methods to fulfill the operating conditions of wide band-gap (WBG) power device technologies. We review the current technology development of sintered Ag as a bonding material from the perspective of patents filed by various stakeholders since late 1980s. This review addresses the formulation of sintered pastes (i.e., nano-Ag, hybrid Ag, and micron Ag fillers), innovations in the process and equipment to form this Ag joint. This review will provide the insights and confidence to engineers, scientists from universities and industry as well as investors who are developing and commercializing the sintered Ag as a bonding material for microelectronic packaging.
Layout Optimization of a Floating Liquefied Natural Gas Facility Using Inherent Safety Principles
Authors: Xin Peiwei , Khan Faisal , Ahmed Salim
Published: March 2016

This paper presents a layout optimization methodology for the topside deck of a floating liquefied natural gas facility (FLNG) using inherent safety principles. Natural gas is emerging as a clean energy, and a large amount of natural gas exists in the proven offshore area, thus making it an energy source with huge potential in today's and the future market. FLNG facilities tap natural gas from an offshore well by floating, compressing it into liquefied natural gas (LNG), and offloading it to LNG carriers after temporary storage. In addition, FLNG facilities enable long-distance as well as multilocation transportation. The FLNG facility requires compact design due to limited space and high construction costs and thus faces a more challenging situation where the design has to concurrently guarantee economic profits and a safe operational environment. Therefore, the layout of the topside deck, which includes production, storage, and other functions, plays a paramount role in designing an FLNG facility. This paper optimizes the layout of an FLNG topside deck by implementing inherent safety principles. The objective is to design a topside deck layout which achieves the largest extent of inherent safety with optimal costs. The details of the principles and their application for layout optimization are also provided.
Quantification of matrix and impurity elements in AlxGa1−xN compounds by secondary ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Jörchel Peter , Helm Peter , Brunner Frank , Thies Andreas , Krüger Olaf , Weyers Markus
Published: March 2016

The authors describe a comprehensive secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) calibration procedure for the quantification of matrix and impurity elements of epitaxially grown AlxGa1−xN layers over the full compositional range of 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. For that a set of eight samples was grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy, characterized with respect to AlN mole fraction and implanted with impurity and dopant elements (H, C, O, and Si). The compositional analysis using various techniques yielded consistent Al contents x with an accuracy of ±1%. For the quantitative characterization of impurities by SIMS, calibration curves were generated using a 14.5 keV Cs+ primary beam at an angle of incidence of 25°. Measured sputter rates decrease with a nearly linear slope as a function of Al content in the range of 0 ≤ x < 0.48. At higher Al concentrations the sputter rates show only a weak dependence on AlN mole fraction. Matrix ion intensity ratios of AlCs+/GaCs+ change linearly with direct and inverse proportionality as a function of x/(1−x). The absolute sensitivity factors for H, C, and Si follow an exponential reduction with increasing AlN mole fraction only for lower Al concentrations (0 ≤ x < 0.48). The calculated relative sensitivity factors are determined by the respective reference intensities depending on the AlN mole fraction.
Structural characterization of AlGaAs:Si/GaAs (631) heterostructures as a function of As pressure
Authors: Espinosa-Vega Leticia Ithsmel , Vidal-Borbolla Miguel Ángel , Rodríguez-Vázquez Ángel Gabriel , Cortes-Mestizo Irving Eduardo , Cruz-Hernández Esteban , Méndez-García Víctor Hugo , Shimomura Satoshi , Vázquez-Cortés David
Published: March 2016

AlGaAs:Si/GaAs heterostructures were grown on (631) and (100) GaAs substrates and studied as a function of the As cell beam equivalent pressure. High-resolution x-ray diffraction patterns showed that the highest quality AlGaAs epitaxial layers were grown at PAs = 1.9 × 10−5 for (100)- and PAs = 4 × 10−5 mbar for (631)-oriented substrates. Raman spectroscopy revealed higher crystalline quality for films grown on (631) oriented substrates. The GaAs- and AlAs-like modes of the AlGaAs(631) films exhibited increased intensity ratios between the transverse optical phonons and longitudinal optical phonons with increasing PAs, whereas the ratios were decreased for the (100) plane. This is in agreement with the selection rules for (631) and high-resolution x-ray diffraction observations. Anisotropy and surface corrugation of the AlGaAs(631) films also were characterized using atomic force microscopy and Raman spectroscopy.
Biophysical measurements of cells, microtubules, and DNA with an atomic force microscope
Authors: Devenica Luka M. , Contee Clay , Cabrejo Raysa , Kurek Matthew , Deveney Edward F. , Carter Ashley R.
Published: March 2016

Atomic force microscopes (AFMs) are ubiquitous in research laboratories and have recently been priced for use in teaching laboratories. Here, we review several AFM platforms and describe various biophysical experiments that could be done in the teaching laboratory using these instruments. In particular, we focus on experiments that image biological materials (cells, microtubules, and DNA) and quantify biophysical parameters including membrane tension, persistence length, contour length, and the drag force.
Electromagnetic braking revisited with a magnetic point dipole model
Authors: Land Sara , McGuire Patrick , Bumb Nikhil , Mann Brian P. , Yellen Benjamin B.
Published: March 2016

A theoretical model is developed to predict the trajectory of magnetized spheres falling through a copper pipe. The derive magnetic point dipole model agrees well with the experimental trajectories for NdFeB spherical magnets of varying diameter, which are embedded inside 3D printed shells with fixed outer dimensions. This demonstration of electrodynamic phenomena and Lenz's law serves as a good laboratory exercise for physics, electromagnetics, and dynamics classes at the undergraduate level.
Measure of 1/f noise using the sound card of a PC
Authors: Carlà Marcello
Published: March 2016

An experimental setup is described to measure 1/f noise (pink noise) in conductors using a PC equipped with a sound card functioning as a spectrum analyzer. A simple auxiliary analog electronic circuit with three operational amplifiers has been assembled to yield the required amplification, to match the sound card signal levels, and to implement a bridge configuration to improve dynamical range. Test experiments and data analysis have been conducted using commonly available software, together with some custom scripts and C code. The whole setup is technically accessible and economical for both the high school and undergraduate levels. Results are reported for pink noise of vintage carbon resistors spanning seven frequency decades, from 1 mHz to 10 kHz.
Concert halls with strong and lateral sound increase the emotional impact of orchestra music
Authors: Pätynen Jukka , Lokki Tapio
Published: March 2016

An audience's auditory experience during a thrilling and emotive live symphony concert is an intertwined combination of the music and the acoustic response of the concert hall. Music in itself is known to elicit emotional pleasure, and at best, listening to music may evoke concrete psychophysiological responses. Certain concert halls have gained a reputation for superior acoustics, but despite the continuous research by a multitude of objective and subjective studies on room acoustics, the fundamental reason for the appreciation of some concert halls remains elusive. This study demonstrates that room acoustic effects contribute to the overall emotional experience of a musical performance. In two listening tests, the subjects listen to identical orchestra performances rendered in the acoustics of several concert halls. The emotional excitation during listening is measured in the first experiment, and in the second test, the subjects assess the experienced subjective impact by paired comparisons. The results showed that the sound of some traditional rectangular halls provides greater psychophysiological responses and subjective impact. These findings provide a quintessential explanation for these halls' success and reveal the overall significance of room acoustics for emotional experience in music performance.
How Mediated Sporting Events Constitute Nationalism: Chinese Newspapers Covering the 2014 Incheon Asian Games
Authors: Li Bo , Stokowski Sarah , Dittmore Stephen W. , Scott Olan K. M.
Published: March 2016

Informed by framing theory, the study strove to investigate nationalism by examining Chinese newspaper coverage of the 2014 Incheon Asian Games. Through document and textual analysis of 324 articles from 5 mainstream newspapers, the study indicated that Chinese newspapers always portrayed Chinese athletes as “dominating the competition” and “lacking opponents in Asia” while portraying other countries’ athletes as “less competitive” and not at the “level of Chinese athletes.” The results also suggested that Chinese newspapers tried to positively spin the story when reporting the failure of Chinese athletes at the Asian Games. However, to increase readership and enhance public awareness of the Asian Games,Chinese newspapers also attempted to created rivalries between Chinese athletes and competing nations and, at times, emphasized national failures.
Inoculating Against a Losing Season: Can Inoculation-Informed Public Relations Strategies Protect Fan Loyalty?
Authors: Compton Josh
Published: March 2016

Inoculation theory is a classic theory of resistance to influence, modeling a way to confer resistance to challenges based on biological inoculation processes. This commentary explores inoculation’s efficacy in the applied context of sport communication, with special consideration of how inoculation may guide sportmarketing strategies to preemptively bolster existing support for a team in the face of challenges (e.g., a losing season).
Metabolic Power Method: Underestimation of Energy Expenditure in Field-Sport Movements Using a Global Positioning System Tracking System
Authors: Brown Darcy M. , Dwyer Dan B. , Robertson Samuel J. , Gastin Paul B.
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of a global positioning system (GPS) tracking system to estimate energy expenditure (EE) during exercise and field-sport locomotor movements. Twenty-seven participants each completed a 90-min exercise session on an outdoor synthetic futsal pitch. During the exercise session, they wore a 5-Hz GPS unit interpolated to 15 Hz and a portable gas analyzer that acted as the criterion measure of EE. The exercise session was composed of alternating 5-minute exercise bouts of randomized walking, jogging, running, or a field-sport circuit (×3) followed by 10 min of recovery. One-way analysis of variance showed significant (P < .01) and very large underestimations between GPS metabolic power– derived EE and oxygen-consumption (VO2) -derived EE for all field-sport circuits (% difference ≈ –44%). No differences in EE were observed for the jog (7.8%) and run (4.8%), whereas very large overestimations were found for the walk (43.0%). The GPS metabolic power EE over the entire 90-min session was significantly lower (P < .01) than the VO2 EE, resulting in a moderate underestimation overall (–19%). The results of this study suggest that a GPS tracking system using the metabolic power model of EE does not accurately estimate EE in field-sport movements or over an exercise session consisting of mixed locomotor activities interspersed with recovery periods; however, is it able to provide a reasonably accurate estimation of EE during continuous jogging and running.
Maternal Leisure-time Physical Activity and Risk of Preterm Birth: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Kahn Mira , Robien Kim , DiPietro Loretta
Published: March 2016

Background:

Preterm birth is a leading cause of infant death and the role of maternal physical activity on this risk remains unclear. This systematic review examined low, moderate and vigorous leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) during pregnancy and the outcome of preterm birth.

Methods:

Key words related to preterm birth and physical activity were used to search relevant databases (Medline, Cochrane, CINAHL, Sports Discuss and Scopus). Studies were excluded if they did not measure physical activity as an exposure in pregnant women, did not provide information on gestational age at delivery, and were not published in English. All study designs and sample sizes were considered.

Results:

The search generated 1472 studies. There were 27 studies included in this review of which 23 received high quality reporting scores. Eleven studies reported a lower risk of preterm birth for women who performed LTPA during pregnancy, while 14 studies reported null findings. Only 2 studies detected a significantly higher risk of preterm birth with LTPA during pregnancy.

Conclusion

This review of literature up to 2014 provides additional evidence to support the assertion that healthy pregnant women can engage in low, moderate, and even some vigorous levels of LTPA without risk for preterm birth.
Analysis of Patterns of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in an Urban Slum Setting in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Haregu Tilahun Nigatu , Khayeka-Wandabwa Christopher , Ngomi Nicholas , Oti Samuel , Egondi Thaddaeus , Kyobutungi Catherine
Published: March 2016

Background:

Insufficient physical activity and sedentary behavior are key risk factors for the emergence of noncommunicable diseases in the sub-Saharan African setting. Given the limited evidence base, research is required to understand the trends.

Objectives:

This study describes the patterns of physical activity and sedentary behavior in a large sample of urban slum residents in Nairobi, Kenya.

Methods:

We used data collected from 5190 study participants as part of cardiovascular disease risk assessment. Data were collected about work-, transport-, and recreation-related physical activity as well as sitting and sleeping time. Using time spent on each type of physical activity and respective metabolic equivalents (METs), patterns of physical activity and associated factors were evaluated using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and logistic regression.

Results:

Nearly 50% of the study population was involved in work-related physical activities, whereas only 6.3% was involved in recreation-related physical activities. Involvement in physical activities decreased with age, and 17.4% had <600 MET-minutes per week. Higher sitting time was associated with insufficient physical activity. There were substantial gender differences in the time spent for physical activity.

Conclusions:

Given the positive relationship between insufficient physical activity and sedentary behavior, complementary interventions that improve physical activity and at the same time reduce sitting time are needed.
Structural housing elements associated with home injuries in children
Authors: Shields Wendy , McDonald Eileen , Frattaroli Shannon , Bishai David , Ma Xia , Gielen Andrea
Published: March 2016

Objective

To quantify unintentional injuries associated with housing elements among children less than 18 years old treated in US hospital emergency departments.

Methods

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) coding manual was reviewed, and all product codes that identified products permanently affixed to a home (housing elements) were identified. A query of the 2008 NEISS data for children under 18 determined the numbers of cases by severity code for each identified housing element. Housing elements were then tabulated by the number of cases for each severity code. The top 10 cases by severity code, (1) hospitalised or (2) treated in emergency departments, were included in a case review. Ten per cent of all cases or a minimum of 100 cases were randomly selected for review for each of the identified housing elements to assess if the case description could inform prevention efforts.

Results

Twelve housing elements (bathtub, cabinet, carpet, ceiling/wall, counter, door, fence, floor, nail, porch, stairs and window) were identified as the leading causes of injuries resulting in hospitalisations or emergency department visits. A list of potential interventions was generated based on the review of the case histories. Suggested changes for NEISS coding are also offered to enhance future prevention research.

Conclusions

NEISS is a valuable tool to identify home injury risks and inform design decisions for housing elements. Improved understanding of housing elements associated with injuries has the potential to enhance home inspection forms. However, interpretation of NEISS results is limited by lack of clarity about how the housing element was involved in the injury event.
Acute effects of nandrolone decanoate on cardiodynamic parameters in isolated rat heart
Authors: Nikolic Tamara R. , Zivkovic Vladimir I. , Srejovic Ivan M. , Radovanovic Dragan S. , Jeremic Nevena S. , Jevdjevic Maja D. , Djuric Dragan M. , Jakovljevic Vladimir Lj.
Published: March 2016

Despite worldwide use of anabolic steroids in last decades, there is still contradictory information about their acute influence on myocardium. The aim of this study was to examine the acute effects of nandrolone decanoate (ND) on cardiodynamics and coronary flow in isolated rat heart. The hearts of male Wistar albino rats (n = 48, 12 per group, age 8 weeks, body mass 180–200 g) were excised and perfused according to the Langendorff technique at gradually increased coronary perfusion pressures (40–120 cmH2O). After the control sets of experiments, the hearts in different groups were perfused with different doses of ND (1, 10, or 100 μmol/L separately). Using a sensor placed in the left ventricle, we registered maximum and minimum rate of pressure development in the left ventricle (dP/dtmax and dP/dtmin), systolic and diastolic left ventricular pressure (SLVP and DLVP), and heart rate (HR). Coronary flow (CF) was measured flowmetrically. The results clearly show the depression in cardiac function caused by higher doses of ND. The highest concentration of ND (100 μmol/L) induced the most deleterious impact on the myocardial function and perfusion of the heart (coronary circulation), which could be of clinical significance.
A coupled-channel formalism for three-body final state interaction
Authors: Guo Peng
Published: March 2016

From dispersion relation approach, a formalism that describes final state interaction among three particles in a coupled-channel system is presented. Different representations of coupled-channel three-body formalism for spinless particles in both initial and final states are derived.
Tenaga Nasional Berhad
Authors: Xavier John Antony , Islahudin Yazmin
Published: March 2016

This case study deals with strategic management issues. Based on documentary sources, the case examines the dilemma confronting the CEO of Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) as he explores options to revive the flagging fortunes of the company. The case ends with Dato’ Sri Che Khalib contemplating going nuclear to meet the burgeoning power needs of the country. Given its monopoly position, TNB cannot raise its tariffs without government approval and the government had always been conservative in approving such increases in tariffs. TNB has to contend with purchasing power from the independent power producers (IPPs) at high prices. It also had to contend with fluctuating supplies of gas, albeit at subsidized prices, to fire its power plants. The case study highlights factors from which strategies could be formulated to ensure the sustainability of TNB’s operations. It also highlights the issues pertaining to industry regulations and how TNB seeks to overcome such policy constraints to ensure its sustainability.
Gastric Motility Dysfunction in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Assessed by Gastric Emptying Scintigraphy
Authors: El-Maghraby Tarek AF , Shalby Neveen M , Al-Tawdy Mohammed H , Salem Seyam S
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal tract symptoms are common in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), especially constipation and/or fecal incontinence. AIMS: To assess gastric emptying in patients with MS to detect the severity of autonomic disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract, and to find the relationship between lower bowel disturbances and the rate of gastric emptying.

METHODS: Forty-nine patients with definite MS and 20 control subjects were included in the study. All patients underwent full neurological examination and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spinal cord. The labelled meal for gastric emptying scintigraphy consisted of cooked eggs mixed with 3 mCi of technetium-99m colloid, and was followed by serial images at 15 min intervals for 2 h.

RESULTS: Five studies were excluded due to technical artifacts. Twenty-one patients (47.7%) demonstrated slow emptying, 15 (34.1%) demonstrated normal and eight (18.2%) demonstrated fast clearance curves. The mean half-time of gastric emptying in MS patients was 96.6±22.4 min and the controls showed a mean half-time of 41.3±18.7 min ( P<0.05). The half-time was longer in patients with constipation; nevertheless, it showed no significant difference compared with patients without constipation (P=0.197). Moreover, although half-time was shorter in patients with fecal incontinence, there was not a significant difference compared with those without fecal incontinence (P=0.654).

CONCLUSIONS: The gastric emptying rate is slow in MS patients. As for lower bowel disturbances, the gastric emptying rate was obviously affected in patients complaining of constipation and fecal incontinence, although statistical significance was not reached.
Gastrodudenal Intussusception Secondary to a Gastric Lipoma
Authors: Vinces Fausto Y , Ciacci Joseph , Sperling David C , Epstein Steven
Published: March 2016

Gastroduodenal intussusception caused by a gastric lipoma is an uncommon condition, and only a few cases have been reported in the medical literature. A case of a 72-year-old man who complained of weight loss and intermittent episodes of nausea and vomiting is presented. Diagnostic workup demonstrated a mass in the second portion of the duodenum. The patient underwent a diagnostic laparoscopy followed by an exploratory laparotomy that confirmed the gastroduodenal intussusception by a gastric lipoma. In addition, the anatomical and clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of this entity are discussed.
Noninvasive Diagnostic Tests for Helicobacter Pylori Infection in Children
Authors: Koletzko Sibylle
Published: March 2016

Noninvasive tests can be used for the initial diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection and to monitor the success of eradication therapy. In populations with a low prevalence of H pylori infection (children living in North America and Europe), a high sensitivity is required to make the test valuable for clinical practice. The13C-urea breath test has been validated in children of different age groups in a significant number of infected and noninfected children in several countries and, thus far, is the only noninvasive test that fulfills sensitivity and specificity quality standards. In studies to date, enzyme immunoassays using monoclonal antibodies to detect H pylori antigen in stool provide excellent results, but the number of children tested, particularly post-treatment, is not sufficient to recommend the test. All other noninvasive stool tests or methods based on the detection of specific antibodies in serum, whole blood, urine or saliva have limited accuracy in comparison with the13C-urea breath test. Therefore, these tests cannot be recommended for clinical decision making in pediatric patients.
Interferon-Alpha-Induced Changes in Metallothionein Expression in Liver Biopsies from Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Nagamine Takeaki , Suzuki Keiji , Kondo T , Nakazato Kyoumi , Kakizaki Satoru , Takagi Hitoshi , Nakajima Katsuyuki
Published: March 2016

An association between reactive oxygen species and liver damage has been postulated in the course of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Metallothionein (MT), induced by HCV core protein and interferon (IFN), plays a role in scavenging free radicals. MT expression in liver biopsies obtained from 21 patients with chronic HCV infection before and after IFN-alpha therapy was investigated. Changes in Knodell histological activity index (HAI) scores, MT protein levels (immunohistochemistry), MT-I and MT-II messenger (m)RNA expression levels (in situ hybridization) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) labelling index were determined and compared in serial liver specimens. MT staining was clustered around the portal tracts with inflammatory cells and fibrosis. The pattern of MT protein before IFN-alpha therapy was similar in all patients, but was higher in IFN-sustained responders than in nonresponders after IFN-alpha therapy. HAI scores and PCNA labelling indexes were significantly reduced after IFN-alpha therapy. MT-II mRNA expression correlated positively with PCNA index before therapy and with HAI scores after therapy ( P<0.05). No correlation was found between MT-I mRNA and HAI scores or PCNA index. The findings indicate that IFN-alpha-induced hepatic MT may participate in the therapeutic effects of IFN-alpha for HCV. In addition, MT-II mRNA expression may be involved in cell proliferation in the livers of patients with chronic HCV infection.
Demyelination-Like Syndrome In Crohn’s Disease After Infliximab Therapy
Authors: Freeman Hugh J , Flak Borys
Published: March 2016

An 18-year-old female patient with Crohn's disease involving the ileum and colon developed ankylosing spondylitis. After treatment of her spondylitis with multiple infliximab infusions, new onset of neurological symptoms developed, accompanied by detection of an abnormal white matter signal change on magnetic resonance imaging examination. Although infliximab treatment was terminated, the neurological symptoms and the magnetic resonance imaging changes persisted. Development of new neuropsychiatric changes in Crohn's disease should be thoroughly evaluated to exclude a concomitant demyelinating process. Infliximab infusions should be terminated if demyelination is suspected.
Lamivudine for the Treatment of Membranous Glomerulopathy Secondary to Chronic Hepatitis B Infection
Authors: Gan SI , Devlin SM , Scott-Douglas NW , Burak KW
Published: March 2016

Membranous glomerulopathy is a well-recognized extrahepatic manifestation of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The authors report two cases of HBV-related nephrotic syndrome treated with lamivudine. A 46-year-old Chinese man had a hepatitis B e antigen seroconversion along with improvement in his nephrotic syndrome after lamivudine therapy. Two years after treatment was discontinued, a reactivation of HBV was successfully treated again with lamivudine. A 44-year-old Chinese woman, who was intolerant of interferon, was treated with lamivudine for 15 months without a virological response. However, two years after completing lamivudine, her nephrotic syndrome resolved. Implications for the treatment of HBV-related glomerulopathy and a review of the literature are presented.
Canadian Helicobacter Study Group Consensus Conference: Update on the Approach to Helicobacter Pylori Infection in Children and Adolescents – an Evidence-Based Evaluation
Authors: Jones Nicola L , Sherman Philip , Fallone Carlo A , Flook Nigel , Smaill Fiona , Veldhuyzen van Zanten Sander , Hunt Richard , Thomson Alan , Canadian Helicobacter Study Group
Published: March 2016

As an update to previously published recommendations for the management of Helicobacter pylori infection, an evidence-based appraisal of 14 topics was undertaken in a consensus conference sponsored by the Canadian Helicobacter Study Group. The goal was to update guidelines based on the best available evidence using an established and uniform methodology to address and formulate recommendations for each topic. The degree of consensus for each recommendation is also presented. The clinical issues addressed and recommendations made were: population-based screening for H pylori in asymptomatic children to prevent gastric cancer is not warranted; testing for H pylori in children should be considered if there is a family history of gastric cancer; the goal of diagnostic interventions should be to determine the cause of presenting gastrointestinal symptoms and not the presence of H pylori infection; recurrent abdominal pain of childhood is not an indication to test for H pylori infection; H pylori testing is not required in patients with newly diagnosed gastroesophageal reflux disease; H pylori testing may be considered before the use of long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy; testing for H pylori infection should be considered in children with refractory iron deficiency anemia when no other cause has been found; when investigation of pediatric patients with persistent or severe upper abdominal symptoms is indicated, upper endoscopy with biopsy is the investigation of choice; the 13C-urea breath test is currently the best noninvasive diagnostic test for H pylori infection in children; there is currently insufficient evidence to recommend stool antigen tests as acceptable diagnostic tools for H pylori infection; serological antibody tests are not recommended as diagnostic tools for H pylori infection in children; first-line therapy for H pylori infection in children is a twice-daily, triple-drug regimen comprised of a proton pump inhibitor plus two antibiotics (clarithromycin plus amoxicillin or metronidazole); the optimal treatment period for H pylori infection in children is 14 days; and H pylori culture and antibiotic sensitivity testing should be made available to monitor population antibiotic resistance and manage treatment failures.
Thiopurine Methyltransferase Enzyme Activity Determination before Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Azathioprine: Effect on Cost and Adverse Events
Authors: Sayani Farzana A , Prosser Connie , Bailey Robert J , Jacobs Philip , Fedorak Richard N
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND: Azathioprine (AZA), used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is metabolized by thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT). The accumulation of individual metabolites varies because humans display genetic polymorphism for TPMT expression. Deficiencies in TPMT result in accumulation of toxic metabolites, followed by neutropenia and hepatic inflammation. Concern over acute toxicity frequently leads to under dosing and frequent monitoring tests and visits.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether assessment of TPMT activity before the administration of AZA would predict acute toxicity and, thus, allow for reductions in health care costs related to biochemical screening for, and management of, AZA-induced adverse events.

METHODS: Before AZA treatment, 29 patients with IBD were prospectivelyrandomized to one of two groups: group 1, in which no TPMT assay was performed, was started on AZA at 1 mg/kg/day and then titrated every two weeks to a target dose of 2.5 mg/kg/day; and group 2, in which TPMT assays were performed, was started on AZA at the target dose of 2.5 mg/kg/day. For both groups, complete blood count and liver enzymes were monitored weekly for six weeks and at monthly intervals thereafter. Additional tests and health care interventions were undertaken at the discretion of the attending physicians.

RESULTS: Of the 29 patients in the study, 15 were randomly assigned to group 1 and 14 to group 2. Demographics and disease activity were similar for both groups. Mean follow-up time was 7.1 months (range 3.5 to 10.7 months). Eight patients from group 1 and six patients from group 2 withdrew as a result of AZA-induced adverse events. There was no correlation between the TPMT activity and the development of AZA-induced adverse events. The direct health care costs for group 1 ($300.11 per patient) were lower than in group 2 ($348.87 per patient).

CONCLUSION: The prospective assessment of TPMT enzyme activity before initiating AZA therapy in IBD patients incurred additional cost and did not predict AZA-induced toxicity.
The Role of Gemcitabine in the Treatment of Cholangiocarcinoma and Gallbladder Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dingle Brian H , Rumble R Bryan , Brouwers Melissa C
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND: Cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer are difficult to treat curatively. The treatment of choice is surgery, dependent on detection at a resectable stage. No chemotherapy or radiotherapy options have shown substantial activity. Gemcitabine has demonstrated response in similar cancers. Considering the lack of treatment options for cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer, a systematic review of the evidence on gemcitabine use for these indications was performed.

OBJECTIVE: To perform a systematic review to evaluate the role of gemcitabine in the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer.

METHODS: The MEDLINE database was searched (1996 to March 2005) using the medical subject headings 'gemcitabine' and 'gallbladder neoplasms' with results limited to English only. Proceedings from the 1998 to 2004 meetings of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, including the 2004 Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium, were searched for relevant abstracts. The Canadian Medical Association infobase and the National Guidelines Clearinghouse were also searched for practice guideline reports. Reports were selected and reviewed by two reviewers, and the reference lists from those were searched for additional trials.

RESULTS: A total of 13 single-arm phase II trial reports were obtained.

CONCLUSIONS: In appropriate patients with gallbladder cancer or cholangiocarcinoma, surgery offers the best chance for survival and should remain the first treatment of choice. For patients not considered candidates for surgery, but willing and able to tolerate chemotherapy alone or in combination with a fluoropyrimidine (such as 5-fluorouracil or capecitabine), gemcitabine appears to be a reasonable alternative to best supportive care, although this conclusion has not been confirmed with a randomized controlled trial.