bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The male of the species: a profile of men in nursing
Authors: Stanley David , Beament Tania , Falconer Darren , Haigh Margaret , Saunders Rosemary , Stanley Karen , Wall Peter , Nielson Sharon
Published: January 2016

Aim

To establish a profile of men in nursing in Western Australia and explore the perception of men in nursing from the perspective of male and female nurses.

Background

A project team, including some of the current authors, produced a YouTube video and DVD about men in nursing which led to further enquiry on this topic.

Design

The study employed a non‐experimental, comparative, descriptive research design focused on a quantitative methodology, using an online survey in early 2014.

Method

A convenience sample incorporated registered and enrolled nurses and midwives in Western Australia.

Findings

The range of data included demographic information and the respondents' perceptions of men in nursing were collected. Findings indicated that the main reasons for choosing a career in nursing or midwifery were similar for both genders. Common mis‐perceptions of men in nursing included: most male nurses are gay; men are not suited to nursing and men are less caring and compassionate than women. Suggestions to promote nursing to men included: nurses are highly skilled professionals; there is the potential to make a difference for patients; nursing offers stable employment, professional diversity and opportunities for team work. There is a diminished awareness of opportunities for men in nursing and negative stereotypes related to men in nursing persist.

Conclusion

The study produced recommendations which included: using the right message to target the recruitment for men and promoting a more realistic understanding of the profile and perception of men in nursing.
The Volatility of Return Revisions and Financial Statement Literacy in Emerging Markets: The Case of Cross‐listed Chinese Firms
Authors: Callen Jeffrey L. , Lai Karen M.Y. , Wei Steven X.
Published: January 2016

Are foreign investors in emerging markets more financial statement literate than domestic investors? If so, this conjecture implies that foreign (domestic) investors are more likely to revise their return expectations to cash flow (discount rate) news. It also implies that cash flow news and discount rate news are likely to be uncorrelated when evaluating return revisions by domestic investors, whereas cash flow news and discount rate news are likely to be negatively correlated when evaluating return revisions by foreign investors. The Chinese equity markets yield robust empirical results that are consistent with both hypotheses.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics of QRS Complexes Enable the Diagnosis of Brugada Syndrome Regardless of the Appearance of a Type 1 ECG
Authors: GUILLEM MARIA S. , CLIMENT ANDREU M. , MILLET JOSÉ , BERNE PAOLA , RAMOS RAFAEL , BRUGADA JOSEP , BRUGADA RAMON
Published: January 2016

QRS Spatiotemporal Characteristics in Brugada Syndrome

Introduction

The diagnosis of Brugada syndrome based on the ECG is hampered by the dynamic nature of its ECG manifestations. Brugada syndrome patients are only 25% likely to present a type 1 ECG. The objective of this study is to provide an ECG diagnostic criterion for Brugada syndrome patients that can be applied consistently even in the absence of a type 1 ECG.

Methods and Results

We recorded 67‐lead body surface potential maps from 94 Brugada syndrome patients and 82 controls (including right bundle branch block patients and healthy individuals). The spatial propagation direction during the last r’ wave and the slope at the end of the QRS complex were measured and compared between patients groups. Receiver‐operating characteristic curves were constructed for half of the database to identify optimal cutoff values; sensitivity and specificity for these cutoff values were measured in the other half of the database. A spontaneous type 1 ECG was present in only 30% of BrS patients. An orientation in the sagittal plane < 101º during the last r’ wave and a descending slope < 9.65 mV/s enables the diagnosis of the syndrome with a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 97% in non‐type 1 Brugada syndrome patients.

Conclusion

Spatiotemporal characteristics of surface ECG recordings can enable a robust identification of BrS even without the presence of a type 1 ECG.
PAC1R agonist maxadilan enhances hADSC viability and neural differentiation potential
Authors: Guo Xiaoling , Yu Rongjie , Xu Ying , Lian Ruiling , Yu Yankun , Cui Zekai , Ji Qingshan , Chen Junhe , Li Zhijie , Liu Hongwei , Chen Jiansu
Published: January 2016

Pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a structurally endogenous peptide with many biological roles. However, little is known about its presence or effects in human adipose‐derived stem cells (hADSCs). In this study, the expression of PACAP type I receptor (PAC1R) was first confirmed in hADSCs. Maxadilan, a specific agonist of PAC1R, could increase hADSC proliferation as determined by Cell Counting Kit‐8 and cell cycle analysis and promote migration as shown in wound‐healing assays. Maxadilan also showed anti‐apoptotic activity in hADSCs against serum withdrawal‐induced apoptosis based on Annexin V/propidium iodide analysis and mitochondrial membrane potential assays. The anti‐apoptotic effects of maxadilan correlated with the down‐regulation of Cleaved Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 as well as up‐regulation of Bcl‐2. The chemical neural differentiation potential could be enhanced by maxadilan as indicated through quantitative PCR, Western blot and cell morphology analysis. Moreover, cytokine neural redifferentiation of hADSCs treated with maxadilan acquired stronger neuron‐like functions with higher voltage‐dependent tetrodotoxin‐sensitive sodium currents, higher outward potassium currents and partial electrical impulses as determined using whole‐cell patch clamp recordings. Maxadilan up‐regulated the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway associated with dimer‐dependent activity of PAC1R, promoting cell viability that was inhibited by XAV939, and it also activated the protein kinase A (PKA) signalling pathway associated with ligand‐dependent activity of PAC1R, enhancing cell viability and neural differentiation potential that was inhibited by H‐89. In summary, these results demonstrated that PAC1R is present in hADSCs, and maxadilan could enhance hADSC viability and neural differentiation potential in neural differentiation medium.
Discoloration and Adsorption of Acaricides from Beeswax
Authors: Bonvehi Josep Serra , Orantes‐Bermejo Fco. Jose
Published: January 2016

The bleaching effect of solid adsorbent material was evaluated on acaricides residues during the recycling of old wax combs process. The effect of parameters such as initial concentration, moisture level, clay dosing, temperature, particle size, agitation time, Freundlich isotherm and kinetic adsorption were investigated and simulated in pilot plant following industry guidelines. The efficiency capacity of sorbent was assayed in optimal conditions on different levels of chlorfenvinphos, tau‐fluvalinate and coumaphos residues from 0.015 to 88.6 mg/kg, identified in 66 samples of commercial beeswaxes analyzed before and after the process of refination. Experimental results indicated that the use of a dough formed by active carbon (Norit SA4 PAH) and bleaching earth (Tonsil Supreme 114 FF) in the proportion (0.04/4.0 wt % beeswax) under bleaching conditions [agitation (250 rpm) for 45 min working at 90°C under atmospheric pression] was very efficient to reduce color (>80%) and amount of chlorfenvinphos (93.4 ± 7.40%) and coumaphos (93.1 ± 3.90%). But, lower affinity was identified in tau‐fluvalinate pyrethroid (average, 35%) with large variations (13.7–73.9%). The Lagergen pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model was appropriate to organophosphorus acaricides sorption with coefficients of correlation R2 = 0.95 for all initial concentrations studied.

Practical Applications

Beeswax is a complex mixture of paraffinic hydrocarbons, esters of fatty acids and alcohols, diesters, free fatty acids and alcohols produced by the worker bee. An important aspect is the recycling of beeswax after the extraction of honey. At first, its color is white, but after the bees’ manipulation, it changes from yellow to brownish originated from propolis and pollen pigments. If beeswax is dark its value is much lower. Thus, bleaching is one the most important steps in recycled beeswax. Furthermore, in the last ten years, the accumulated acaricides residues used in the fight against Varroa destructor are clearly detected in commercial beeswaxes limiting its use as an authorised food additive in the EU (code E901). The idea of simultaneous bleaching and decontamination process was introduced in this work to recycle beeswax. The results indicated that the adsorption was very effective in a beeswax melting solution with a simple and economical application.
Influence of the Thermal Processing on the Physico‐Chemical Properties and the Antioxidant Activity of A Solanaceae Vegetable: Eggplant
Authors: Arkoub‐Djermoune Lynda , Boulekbache‐Makhlouf Lila , Zeghichi‐Hamri Sabrina , Bellili Salima , Boukhalfa Farid , Madani Khodir
Published: January 2016

Physico‐chemical parameters, antioxidants and antioxidant activity were evaluated in eggplant fruit (Solanum melongena) before and after domestic cooking methods (frying, griddling and baking). The results showed large differences among the three treatments. After the cooking process, total phenolics and flavonols increased significantly, whereas vitamin C, carotenoid, lycopene and anthocynin contents decreased significantly. The thermal treated samples showed significant increase in their chemical composition (pH, total soluble solids, ash and non enzymatic browning) along with a significant loss in their water and total sugar contents. Results showed that eggplant improved its antioxidant capacity in all cooking methods. Taken together, our results suggest that the various thermal treatments can increase some phytonutrients and antioxidant activity of eggplant.

Practical Applications

Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an important source of phytochemicals in the Algerian diet, which can be consumed after three cooking processes: frying, griddling and baking. However, few data are available on the effect of these domestic cooking methods on its nutritional quality. The purpose of this study is to offer to the consumers the best cooking way that enhances phytonutrients and antioxidant activity of eggplant fruit.
Mitochondrial GPX1 silencing triggers differential photosynthesis impairment in response to salinity in rice plants
Authors: Lima‐Melo Yugo , Carvalho Fabricio E. L. , Martins Márcio O. , Passaia Gisele , Sousa Rachel H. V. , Neto Milton C. Lima , Margis‐Pinheiro Márcia , Silveira Joaquim A. G.
Published: January 2016

The physiological role of plant mitochondrial glutathione peroxidases is scarcely known. This study attempted to elucidate the role of a rice mitochondrial isoform (GPX1) in photosynthesis under normal growth and salinity conditions. GPX1 knockdown rice lines (GPX1s) were tested in absence and presence of 100 mM NaCl for 6 d. Growth reduction of GPX1s line under non‐stressful conditions, compared with non‐transformed (NT) plants occurred in parallel to increased H2O2 and decreased GSH contents. These changes occurred concurrently with photosynthesis impairment, particularly in Calvin cycle's reactions, since photochemical efficiency did not change. Thus, GPX1 silencing and downstream molecular/metabolic changes modulated photosynthesis differentially. In contrast, salinity induced reduction in both phases of photosynthesis, which were more impaired in silenced plants. These changes were associated with root morphology alterations but not shoot growth. Both studied lines displayed increased GPX activity but H2O2 content did not change in response to salinity. Transformed plants exhibited lower photorespiration, water use efficiency and root growth, indicating that GPX1 could be important to salt tolerance. Growth reduction of GPX1s line might be related to photosynthesis impairment, which in turn could have involved a cross talk mechanism between mitochondria and chloroplast originated from redox changes due to GPX1 deficiency.
Role of Vasopressin in the Regulation of Renal Sodium Excretion: Interaction with Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1
Authors: Kutina A. V. , Golosova D. V. , Marina A. S. , Shakhmatova E. I. , Natochin Y. V.
Published: January 2016

The present study aimed to investigate the potential physiological role of vasopressin and the incretin hormone of the gastrointestinal tract (glucagon‐like peptide‐1; GLP‐1) in the regulation of the water–salt balance in a hyperosmolar state as a result of sodium loadings. In rats, the administration of hypertonic NaCl solution resulted in a significant increase in natriuresis, which correlated with the vasopressin excretion rate. Natriuresis following an i.p. NaCl load (23.2 ± 1.4 μmol/min/kg) was enhanced by inhibition of V2 receptors (51.6 ± 3.7 μmol/min/kg, P < 0.05) and was reduced by a V1a antagonist injection (6.3 ± 1.1 μmol/min/kg, P < 0.05). Compared to i.p. salt administration, oral NaCl loading induced a significant increase in the plasma GLP‐1 level within 5 min and resulted in more prominent natriuresis and a smaller increase in blood sodium concentration. It was hypothesised that the basis for the fast elimination of excess sodium following an oral NaCl load could be the involvement of GLP‐1 in osmoregulation combined with vasopressin. It was demonstrated that GLP‐1 mimetic exenatide (1.5 nmol/kg) produced a significant decrease in proximal reabsorption and an increase in fractional sodium excretion (from 0.15 ± 0.04% to 9 ± 1%). It was also shown that vasopressin at doses of 1–10 μg/kg and the selective V1a agonist (1 μg/kg) induced an increase in sodium fractional excretion to 10 ± 2% and 8 ± 2%, respectively. Combined administration of exenatide and V1a agonist revealed their cumulative natriuretic effect, and sodium fractional excretion increased by up to 18 ± 2%. These data suggest that GLP‐1 combined with vasopressin could be involved in the regulation of sodium balance in the hyperosmolar state as a result of NaCl loading. Vasopressin regulates the reabsorption of a significant portion of filtered sodium in the distal segment of the nephron and modulates the natriuretic effect of GLP‐1.
Clinical data, clinicopathologic findings and outcome in dogs with amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia and primary immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia
Authors: Cooper S. A. , Huang A. A. , Raskin R. E. , Weng H.‐Y. , Scott‐Moncrieff J. C.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to identify distinguishing characteristics between dogs diagnosed with amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia and those diagnosed with presumed primary peripheral immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia. Presenting clinical and clinicopathologic data and outcomes were compared between the two groups.

METHODS

Retrospective study performed on seven client‐owned dogs diagnosed with amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia and 34 client‐owned dogs with primary peripheral immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia.

RESULTS

All dogs in the amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia group were anaemic on presentation with a median haematocrit of 23% (range 9·4 to 36), while the primary peripheral immune‐mediated thrombocytopoenia group had a median presenting haematocrit of 35% (range 10 to 53). Dogs with amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia had a median of five (range 4 to 7) clinical signs of bleeding compared to a median of three (range 0 to 6) in the primary peripheral immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia group with 86% (6 of 7) of amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia dogs requiring a blood transfusion compared to 41% (14 of 34) of primary peripheral immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia dogs. Six of the seven amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia dogs did not survive to discharge, while only five of the 34 primary peripheral immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia dogs did not survive to discharge.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The clinical presentation of dogs with amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia and primary peripheral immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia is similar, but dogs with amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia had a more severe clinical course compared to primary peripheral immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia dogs. The prognosis for dogs with amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia is poor.
Manihot allemii sp. nov. (Euphorbiaceae s.s.) with entire and unlobed leaves from northern Brazil, with notes about foliar anatomy
Authors: da Silva Marcos José , de Souza Inocencio Laís , Alonso Alexandre Antonio
Published: January 2016

Manihot allemii M. J. Silva is described and illustrated as a new species, and its morphological affinities and conservation status is discussed. It is most similar to M. salicifolia Pohl in having a subshrubby and erect habit and in the general aspect of its unlobed leaves, but differs from it in having leaves that are conspicuously petiolate, an inflorescence that is a congested spike‐like thyrse, entire and diminute bracts and bracteoles subtending flowers of both sexes, pistillate calyx that is deeply lobed with oblong lobes, and staminate flowers with 8 or 10 stamens. Both species belong to a group of 14 species recognized by their possession of entire and unlobed leaves, which are the subject of taxonomic studies by the second author. Some notes on the leaf anatomy of species of Manihot that have entire and unlobed leaves are also presented.
Juggling jobs: roles and mechanisms of multifunctional protease inhibitors in plants
Authors: Grosse‐Holz Friederike M. , van der Hoorn Renier A. L.
Published: January 2016

Multifunctional protease inhibitors juggle jobs by targeting different enzymes and thereby often controlling more than one biological process. Here, we discuss the biological functions, mechanisms and evolution of three types of multifunctional protease inhibitors in plants. The first type is double‐headed inhibitors, which feature two inhibitory sites targeting proteases with different specificities (e.g. Bowman–Birk inhibitors) or even different hydrolases (e.g. α‐amylase/protease inhibitors preventing both early germination and seed predation). The second type consists of multidomain inhibitors which evolved by intragenic duplication and are released by processing (e.g. multicystatins and potato inhibitor II, implicated in tuber dormancy and defence, respectively). The third type consists of promiscuous inhibitory folds which resemble mouse traps that can inhibit different proteases cleaving the bait they offer (e.g. serpins, regulating cell death, and α‐macroglobulins). Understanding how multifunctional inhibitors juggle biological jobs increases our knowledge of the connections between the networks they regulate. These examples show that multifunctionality evolved independently from a remarkable diversity of molecular mechanisms that can be exploited for crop improvement and provide concepts for protein design.

Contents

Summary
794

I.
Introduction
794

II.
Three types of multifunctionality
795

III.
Significance of multifunctional protease inhibitors in the plant research arena
803

Acknowledgements
805

References
805
Haemorrhage following coronectomy of an impacted third molar associated with a bifid mandibular canal: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Verea Linares C. , Mohindra A. , Evans M.
Published: January 2016

A bifid mandibular canal is a rare anatomical variant believed to result from failure in fusion of multiple embryonic canals. Although the anatomical variations have been well described, clinical sequelae from this anatomical variant have, to our knowledge, never been described before. We describe a case in which a partially erupted third molar closely associated with a bifid mandibular canal was treated with a coronectomy. The patient subsequently attended as an emergency with haemorrhage necessitating exploration under general anaesthesia due to failure of local measures to arrest it. Should such an anatomical variant be suspected, we would recommend cross‐sectional imaging such as cone beam computed tomography be mandatory to adequately plan the third molar extraction. Extraction and not coronectomy may provide greater access to any potential source of bleeding such that direct pressure might be directly applied to the area.
Caregiver reasons for tertiary health‐care seeking for children aged ≤12 years
Authors: Yaprak Seval , Bulut Ulku , Okudan Yunus Emre , Gokdemir Ozden , Colak Muhteber , Yıldırım Ediz , Guldal Dilek
Published: January 2016

Background

In Turkey, a mandatory referral system is not used. Caregivers, for their children, present directly to health‐care providers at all levels. This allows patients to present directly to university hospitals. In this study, reasons for university hospital‐treatment seeking by caregivers for child health problems is discussed.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional descriptive study at Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey, of 235 caregivers whose children were admitted to the outpatient clinic of the General Pediatrics Department between 4 and 11 April 2013. They completed a questionnaire on demographic data and reasons for presentation to the university hospital. Mann–Whitney U‐test was used to compare group means, and Pearson chi‐squared test for ratios between groups. P <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

A total of 54.5% of participants lived far from the hospital. The most frequent complaints involved the respiratory tract, among which the most frequent complaint was cough. Time from symptom onset to presentation was ≥7 days in 58.3% of patients, and 48.9% had never presented to another institution. The most common reason for choosing the university hospital was the availability of the necessary tests (88.1%).

Conclusions

Despite common use of primary health‐care systems, with regard to tertiary hospital presentation, the most important factors for preferring tertiary hospital presentation were caregiver trust in tertiary hospital resources for diagnosis and treatment.
Refined method to study the posttranslational regulation of alternative oxidases from Arabidopsis thaliana in vitro
Authors: Selinski Jennifer , Hartmann Andreas , Höfler Saskia , Deckers‐Hebestreit Gabriele , Scheibe Renate
Published: January 2016

In isolated membranes, posttranslational regulation of quinol oxidase activities can only be determined simultaneously for all oxidases – quinol oxidases as well as cytochrome c oxidases – because of their identical localization. In this study, a refined method to determine the specific activity of a single quinol oxidase is exemplarily described for the alternative oxidase (AOX) isoform AOX1A from Arabidopsis thaliana and its corresponding mutants, using the respiratory chain of an Escherichia coli cytochrome bo and bd‐I oxidase double mutant as a source to provide electrons necessary for O2 reduction via quinol oxidases. A highly sensitive and reproducible experimental set‐up with prolonged linear time intervals of up to 60 s is presented, which enables the determination of constant activity rates in E. coli membrane vesicles enriched in the quinol oxidase of interest by heterologous expression, using a Clark‐type oxygen electrode to continuously follow O2 consumption. For the calculation of specific quinol oxidase activity, activity rates were correlated with quantitative signal intensity determinations of AOX1A present in a membrane‐bound state by immunoblot analyses, simultaneously enabling normalization of specific activities between different AOX proteins. In summary, the method presented is a powerful tool to study specific activities of individual quinol oxidases, like the different AOX isoforms, and their corresponding mutants upon modification by addition of effectors/inhibitors, and thus to characterize their individual mode of posttranslational regulation in a membranous environment.
Association of sleep apnoea with chronic kidney disease in a large cohort from Taiwan
Authors: Chu Hsi , Shih Chia‐Jen , Ou Shuo‐Ming , Chou Kun‐Ta , Lo Yuan‐Hao , Chen Yung‐Tai
Published: January 2016

Background and objective

Recent observational studies have shown that sleep apnoea (SA) is associated with increased risk of incident CKD. However, the contribution of SA relative to common traditional CKD risk factors remains unknown. The aims of this study were to investigate the long‐term risk of incident CKD events following SA diagnosis and compare the relative contributions of SA, diabetes and hypertension.

Methods

Data were retrieved from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database during the period between 2000 and 2010 for this retrospective cohort study. The cohorts are composed of patients (age ≥ 20 years) newly diagnosed with SA and matched subjects without SA. The two cohorts were followed until the occurrence of CKD, death or the end of 2010.

Results

The sample is composed of 43 434 individuals (8687 patients with SA and 34 747 matched non‐SA subjects). A total of 157 new CKD events in patients with SA and 298 events in the matched non‐SA cohort were recorded during a mean follow‐up period of 3.9 years (incidence rates, 4.5 and 2.2/per 1000 person‐years). The risk of CKD development was greater among patients with SA than in the matched non‐SA cohort (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.58, 95% confidence interval ( CI): 1.29–1.94). The contribution of SA to the CKD hazard was similar to that of hypertension (aHR 1.17, 95% CI: 0.68–2.01, P = 0.56), whereas that of diabetes remained significantly higher (aHR 2.17, 95% CI: 1.21–3.90, P = 0.01).

Conclusion

SA was associated with an increase in the risk of CKD incidence similar to that of hypertension.

See Editorial, page 578
Big is Beautiful when Exporting
Authors: Forslid Rikard , Okubo Toshihiro
Published: January 2016

This paper starts out from the observation that the export ratios of firms (export to sales ratios) vary greatly among firms and that they are systematically higher for larger exporters. We relate the difference in export ratios to firm‐level differences in transport costs. In accordance with the data, we assume that freight rates are a function of firm‐level export volumes. We test our model using Japanese manufacturing firm‐level data. We first estimate the elasticity of the freight rate with respect to firm‐level export volumes at the sector level. When feeding these estimates back into the model, it can explain more than 50% of the variation in firm‐level export ratios.
Small Area Estimation with State Space Common Factor Models for Rotating Panels
Authors: Brakel Jan A. , Krieg Sabine
Published: January 2016

Macroeconomic indicators about the labour force, published by national statistical institutes, are predominantly based on rotating panels. Sample sizes of most labour force surveys in combination with the design-based or model-assisted mode of inference obstruct the publication of such indicators on a monthly frequency. Previous research proposed a multivariate structural time series model to obtain more precise model-based estimates by taking advantage of sample information observed in previous periods. In the paper this model is extended to use sample information from other domains or strongly correlated auxiliary series. A relatively parsimonious version of these models is currently used by Statistics Netherlands to produce official monthly figures about the labour force.
The neuromuscular fatigue induced by repeated scrums generates instability that can be limited by appropriate recovery
Authors: Morel B. , Hautier C. A.
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the fatigue on the machine scrum pushing sagittal forces during repeated scrums and to determine the origin of the knee extensor fatigue. Twelve elite U23 rugby union front row players performed six 6‐s scrums every 30 s against a dynamic scrum machine with passive or active recovery. The peak, average, and the standard deviation of the force were measured. A neuromuscular testing procedure of the knee extensors was carried out before and immediately after the repeated scrum protocol including maximal voluntary force, evoked force, and voluntary activation. The average and peak forces did not decrease after six scrums with passive recovery. The standard deviation of the force increased by 70.2 ± 42.7% (P < 0.001). Maximal voluntary/evoked force and voluntary activation decreased (respectively 25.1 ± 7.0%, 14.6 ± 5.5%, and 24 ± 9.9%; P < 0.001). The standard deviation of the force did not increase with active recovery and was associated with lower decrease of maximal voluntary/evoked force and voluntary activation (respectively 12.8 ± 7.9%, 4.9 ± 6.5%, and 7.6 ± 4.1%; all P < 0.01). As a conclusion repeated scrummaging induced an increased machine scrum pushing instability associated with central and peripheral fatigue of the knee extensors. Active recovery seems to limit all these manifestations of fatigue.
Effect of Type of Maternal Control onAmerican andChinese Children's Evaluations of Personal Domain Events
Authors: Smetana Judith G. , Ball Courtney , Yau Jenny , Wong Mun
Published: January 2016

We examined 261 5‐, 7‐, and 10‐year‐olds’ (147 in Hong Kong, 114 in the USA) evaluations of hypothetical scenarios where mothers sought to control personal domain events by prohibiting, persuading, or shaming the child. The scenarios also varied in their description of personal events as either essential or peripheral to the self. Compliance was endorsed least (and emotions attributed to actors were most positive) when mothers gently persuaded and endorsed most (with emotion attributions most negative) when mothers prohibited personal choices. Evaluations of compliance and associated emotions for shaming fell in‐between. When mothers were described as gently persuading, young children (and Chinese children) gave priority to personal choices more when acts were described as essential rather than peripheral to the self, based on personal reasons. When mothers were described as shaming, noncompliance increased with age, along with pragmatic justifications for choices, particularly when events were essentialized. Positive emotions in response to shaming also increased with age, but differentially for Chinese and American children.
Testing Concrete E‐modulus at Very Early Ages Through Several Techniques: An Inter‐laboratory Comparison
Authors: Delsaute B. , Boulay C. , Granja J. , Carette J. , Azenha M. , Dumoulin C. , Karaiskos G. , Deraemaeker A. , Staquet S.
Published: January 2016

The design of concrete structures is based on calculation rules, which often do not take into account the very early age behaviour of the material. However, during this period, structural concrete is subjected to strains due to the hydration process of cement. If these strains are restrained by concrete itself or surrounding boundaries, stresses start to build up that can lead to the formation of cracks. Among the parameters involved in the stress build up, the stiffness evolution is of major importance. This paper reports the use of eight different techniques aimed at stiffness evolution assessment, applied on the same concrete mix, in a round robin experimental test within three laboratories. The observations are compared after having expressed the results at the same equivalent age. Both the loading stress rate and amplitude are observed to have an effect of limited importance on the determination of the quasi‐static elastic modulus, which might be explained by very short term creep. Ultrasonic measurements provide values of E‐modulus that are higher than the values provided by the quasi‐static tests at the time of the concrete setting. Similar mechanisms associated to very short term creep could explain the difference between the quasi‐static and high‐frequency elastic modulus.
Anaemia in HIV‐infected pregnant women receiving triple antiretroviral combination therapy for prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission: a secondary analysis of the Kisumu breastfeeding study (KiBS)
Authors: Odhiambo Collins , Zeh Clement , Angira Frank , Opollo Valarie , Akinyi Brenda , Masaba Rose , Williamson John M. , Otieno Juliana , Mills Lisa A. , Lecher Shirley Lee , Thomas Timothy K.
Published: January 2016

Objective

The prevalence of anaemia during pregnancy is estimated to be 35–75% in sub‐Saharan Africa and is associated with an increased risk of maternal mortality. We evaluated the frequency and factors associated with anaemia in HIV‐infected women undergoing antiretroviral (ARV) therapy for prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission (PMTCT) enrolled in The Kisumu Breastfeeding Study 2003–2009.

Methods

Maternal haematological parameters were monitored from 32 to 34 weeks of gestation to 2 years post‐delivery among 522 enrolled women. Clinical and laboratory assessments for causes of anaemia were performed, and appropriate management was initiated. Anaemia was graded using the National Institutes of Health Division of AIDS 1994 Adult Toxicity Tables. Data were analysed using SAS software, v 9.2. The Wilcoxon two‐sample rank test was used to compare groups. A logistic regression model was fitted to describe the trend in anaemia over time.

Results

At enrolment, the prevalence of any grade anaemia (Hb < 9.4 g/dl) was 61.8%, but fell during ARV therapy, reaching a nadir (7.4%) by 6 months post‐partum. A total of 41 women (8%) developed severe anaemia (Hb < 7 g/dl) during follow‐up; 2 (4.9%) were hospitalised for blood transfusion, whereas 3 (7.3%) were transfused while hospitalised (for delivery). The greatest proportion of severe anaemia events occurred around delivery (48.8%; n = 20). Anaemia (Hb ≥ 7 and < 9.4 g/dl) at enrolment was associated with severe anaemia at delivery (OR 5.87; 95% CI: 4.48, 7.68, P < 0.01). Few cases of severe anaemia coincided with clinical malaria (24.4%; n = 10) and helminth (7.3%; n = 3) infections.

Conclusion

Resolution of anaemia among most participants during study follow‐up was likely related to receipt of ARV therapy. Efforts should be geared towards addressing common causes of anaemia in HIV‐infected pregnant women, prioritising initiation of ARV therapy and management of peripartum blood loss.
Characterization of primary pulmonary adenosquamous carcinoma‐associated pleural effusion
Authors: Stewart Jennifer , Holloway Andrew , Rasotto Roberta , Bowlt Kelly
Published: January 2016

A 10‐year‐old, female spayed Shih Tzu was presented due to weight loss, increased respiratory effort and lethargy, determined to be secondary to a congenital para‐esophageal diaphragmatic defect with partial herniation of the stomach and spleen. Four days following reduction surgery of the displaced abdominal organs thoracic effusion developed. Thoracic fluid evaluation revealed a cell‐rich, protein‐poor modified transudate with neutrophils, reactive mesothelial cells, and atypical epitheloid cells which occasionally appeared to be keratinizing, consistent with neoplastic exfoliation. Thoracic effusion recurred 2 days later, with similar characteristics as the initial sample. Computed tomography (CT) indicated consolidation and displacement of the right middle and accessory lung lobes. Exploratory thoracic surgery demonstrated a thickened, hyperemic right middle lung lobe, and thickened pericardial diaphragmatic ligament. Histologic evaluation of these tissues identified a primary pulmonary adenosquamous carcinoma with intravascular and pleural invasion. Based on these cytologic, histologic, and clinical findings, we conclude that primary pulmonary carcinomas may involve superficial thoracic structures and exfoliate into a thoracic effusion.
Image segmentation for uranium isotopic analysis by SIMS: Combined adaptive thresholding and marker controlled watershed approach
Authors: Willingham David , Naes Benjamin E. , Heasler Patrick G. , Zimmer Mindy M. , Barrett Christopher A. , Shane Addleman R.
Published: January 2016

A novel approach to particle identification and particle isotope ratio determination has been developed for nuclear safeguard applications. This particle search approach combines an adaptive thresholding algorithm and marker-controlled watershed segmentation (MCWS) transform, which improves the secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) isotopic analysis of uranium containing particle populations for nuclear safeguards applications. The Niblack assisted MCWS approach (a.k.a. Seeker) developed for this work has improved the identification of isotopically unique uranium particles under conditions that have historically presented significant challenges for SIMS image data processing techniques. Particles obtained from five National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) uranium certified reference materials (CRM U129A, U015, U150, U500, and U850) were successfully identified in regions of SIMS image data (1) where a high variability in image intensity existed, (2) where particles were touching or were in close proximity to one another, and/or (3) where the magnitude of ion signal for a given region was count limited. Analysis of the isotopic distributions of uranium containing particles identified by Seeker showed four distinct, accurately identified 235U enrichment distributions, corresponding to the NIST certified 235U/238U isotope ratios for CRM U129A/U015 (not statistically differentiated), U150, U500, and U850. Additionally, comparison of the minor uranium isotope (234U, 235U, and 236U) atom percent values verified that, even in the absence of high precision isotope ratio measurements, Seeker could be used to segment isotopically unique uranium particles from SIMS image data. Although demonstrated specifically for SIMS analysis of uranium containing particles for nuclear safeguards, Seeker has application in addressing a broad set of image processing challenges.
Evaluation of a commercial MRI Linac based Monte Carlo dose calculation algorithm with geant 4
Authors: Ahmad Syed Bilal , Sarfehnia Arman , Paudel Moti Raj , Kim Anthony , Hissoiny Sami , Sahgal Arjun , Keller Brian
Published: January 2016

Purpose:

This paper provides a comparison between a fast, commercial, in‐patient Monte Carlo dose calculation algorithm (GPUMCD) and geant4. It also evaluates the dosimetric impact of the application of an external 1.5 T magnetic field.

Methods:

A stand‐alone version of the Elekta™ GPUMCD algorithm, to be used within the Monaco treatment planning system to model dose for the Elekta™ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Linac, was compared against geant4 (v10.1). This was done in the presence or absence of a 1.5 T static magnetic field directed orthogonally to the radiation beam axis. Phantoms with material compositions of water, ICRU lung, ICRU compact‐bone, and titanium were used for this purpose. Beams with 2 MeV monoenergetic photons as well as a 7 MV histogrammed spectrum representing the MRI Linac spectrum were emitted from a point source using a nominal source‐to‐surface distance of 142.5 cm. Field sizes ranged from 1.5 × 1.5 to 10 × 10 cm2. Dose scoring was performed using a 3D grid comprising 1 mm3 voxels. The production thresholds were equivalent for both codes. Results were analyzed based upon a voxel by voxel dose difference between the two codes and also using a volumetric gamma analysis.

Results:

Comparisons were drawn from central axis depth doses, cross beam profiles, and isodose contours. Both in the presence and absence of a 1.5 T static magnetic field the relative differences in doses scored along the beam central axis were less than 1% for the homogeneous water phantom and all results matched within a maximum of ±2% for heterogeneous phantoms. Volumetric gamma analysis indicated that more than 99% of the examined volume passed gamma criteria of 2%—2 mm (dose difference and distance to agreement, respectively). These criteria were chosen because the minimum primary statistical uncertainty in dose scoring voxels was 0.5%. The presence of the magnetic field affects the dose at the interface depending upon the density of the material on either sides of the interface. This effect varies with the field size. For example, at the water‐lung interface a 33.94% increase in dose was observed (relative to the Dmax), by both GPUMCD and geant4 for the field size of 2 × 2 cm2 (compared to no B‐field case), which increased to 47.83% for the field size of 5 × 5 cm2 in the presence of the magnetic field. Similarly, at the lung‐water interface, the dose decreased by 19.21% (relative to Dmax) for a field size of 2 × 2 cm2 and by 30.01% for 5 × 5 cm2 field size. For more complex combinations of materials the dose deposition also becomes more complex.

Conclusions:

The GPUMCD algorithm showed good agreement against geant4 both in the presence and absence of a 1.5 T external magnetic field. The application of 1.5 T magnetic field significantly alters the dose at the interfaces by either increasing or decreasing the dose depending upon the density of the material on either side of the interfaces.
Automatic detection of Parkinson's disease in running speech spoken in three different languages
Authors: Orozco-Arroyave J. R. , Hönig F. , Arias-Londoño J. D. , Vargas-Bonilla J. F. , Daqrouq K. , Skodda S. , Rusz J. , Nöth E.
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study is the analysis of continuous speech signals of people with Parkinson's disease (PD) considering recordings in different languages (Spanish, German, and Czech). A method for the characterization of the speech signals, based on the automatic segmentation of utterances into voiced and unvoiced frames, is addressed here. The energy content of the unvoiced sounds is modeled using 12 Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients and 25 bands scaled according to the Bark scale. Four speech tasks comprising isolated words, rapid repetition of the syllables /pa/-/ta/-/ka/, sentences, and read texts are evaluated. The method proves to be more accurate than classical approaches in the automatic classification of speech of people with PD and healthy controls. The accuracies range from 85% to 99% depending on the language and the speech task. Cross-language experiments are also performed confirming the robustness and generalization capability of the method, with accuracies ranging from 60% to 99%. This work comprises a step forward for the development of computer aided tools for the automatic assessment of dysarthric speech signals in multiple languages.
Patterns and Determinants of Physical Inactivity in Rural and Urban Areas in Peru: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Miranda J. Jaime , Carrillo-Larco Rodrigo M. , Gilman Robert H , Avilez Jose L. , Smeeth Liam , Checkley William , Bernabe-Ortiz Antonio , _ _
Published: January 2016

Background:

Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors have been linked with impaired health outcomes. Establishing the physical inactivity profiles of a given population is needed to establish program targets and to contribute to international monitoring efforts. We report the prevalence of, and explore sociodemographical and built environment factors associated with physical inactivity in 4 resource-limited settings in Peru: rural Puno, urban Puno, Pampas de San Juan de Miraflores (urban), and Tumbes (semiurban).

Methods:

Cross-sectional analysis of the CRONICAS Cohort Study’s baseline assessment. Outcomes of interest were physical inactivity of leisure time (<600 MET-min/week) and transport-related physical activity (not reporting walking or cycling trips) domains of the IPAQ, as well as watching TV, as a proxy of sedentarism (≥2 hours per day). Exposures included demographic factors and perceptions about neighborhood’s safety. Associations were explored using Poisson regression models with robust standard errors. Prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) are presented.

Results:

Data from 3593 individuals were included: 48.5% males, mean age 55.1 (SD: 12.7) years. Physical inactivity was present at rates of 93.7% (95% CI 93.0%–94.5%) and 9.3% (95% CI 8.3%–10.2%) within the leisure time and transport domains, respectively. In addition, 41.7% (95% CI 40.1%–43.3%) of participants reported watching TV for more than 2 hours per day. Rates varied according to study settings (P < .001). In multivariable analysis, being from rural settings was associated with 3% higher prevalence of leisure time physical inactivity relative to highly urban Lima. The pattern was different for transport-related physical inactivity: both Puno sites had around 75% to 50% lower prevalence of physical inactivity. Too much traffic was associated with higher levels of transport-related physical inactivity (PR = 1.24; 95% CI 1.01–1.54).

Conclusions:

Our study showed high levels of inactivity and marked contrasting patterns by rural/urban sites. These findings highlight the need to generate synergies to expand nationwide physical activity surveillance systems.
Middle School Physical Education Teachers’ Perspectives on Overweight Students
Authors: Doolittle Sarah A. , Rukavina Paul B. , Li Weidong , Manson Mara , Beale Angela
Published: January 2016

Using the Social Ecological Constraints model, a qualitative multiple case study design was used to explore experienced and committed middle school physical education teachers’ perspectives on overweight and obese students (OWS), and how and why they acted to include OWS in physical education and physical activity opportunities in their school environments. Three themes emerged. 1) OWS are “the same, but different.” Teachers attempted to treat all students the same, but perceived variations among OWS’ participation in PE and related individual constraints. 2) Teachers’ concerns lead to individual goals and specific actions. Teachers identified specific goals and approaches to help individual OWS who needed extra attention. 3) OWS are a responsibility and challenge. Many of these teachers felt a responsibility to devote extra time and effort to help struggling OWS to succeed. These teachers avoided obesity bias, and exhibited beliefs and actions similar to a caring perspective.
Complete Genome Sequence of Serratia marcescens SmUNAM836, a Nonpigmented Multidrug-Resistant Strain Isolated from a Mexican Patient with Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Sandner-Miranda Luisa , Vinuesa Pablo , Soberón-Chávez Gloria , Morales-Espinosa Rosario
Published: January 2016

Serratia marcescens
SmUNAM836 is a multidrug-resistant clinical strain isolated in Mexico City from a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Its complete genome sequence was determined using PacBio RS II SMRT technology, consisting of a 5.2-Mb chromosome and a 26.3-kb plasmid, encoding multiple resistance determinants and virulence factors.
Genome Sequence of a
Clostridium neonatale
Strain Isolated in a Canadian Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Benamar Samia , Cassir Nadim , La Scola Bernard
Published: January 2016

Clostridium neonatale
is a Gram-positive endospore-forming obligate anaerobe first isolated from the feces of premature neonates during an intensive care unit outbreak of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in a Canadian neonatal intensive care unit. Here, we announce the genome draft sequence of this bacterium. It is composed of 4,710,818 bp and contains 4,169 protein-coding genes and 80 RNA genes, including 11 rRNA genes.
Revised Genome Sequence of the Purple Photosynthetic Bacterium
Blastochloris viridis
Authors: Liu Lu-Ning , Faulkner Matthew , Liu Xuan , Huang Fang , Darby Alistair C. , Hall Neil
Published: January 2016

Blastochloris viridis
is a unique anaerobic, phototrophic purple bacterium that produces bacteriochlorophyll
b
. Here we report an improved genome sequence of
Blastochloris viridis
DSM133, which is instrumental to the studies of photosynthesis, metabolic versatility, and genetic engineering of this microorganism.
Genome Sequences of Murine Pneumotropic Virus (
Polyomaviridae
) Detected in Wild House Mice (Mus musculus)
Authors: Ben Salem Nicole , Moens Ugo , Ehlers Bernhard
Published: January 2016

Using generic PCR, we identified a variant of murine pneumotropic virus (MptV) (family
Polyomaviridae
) in 3 wild house mice (
Mus musculus
). The fully amplified and sequenced genomes display considerable differences from the MptV genomes published previously and enlighten us on the natural diversity of rodent polyomaviruses.