bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved porcine model for Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli infection by deprivation of colostrum feeding in newborn piglets
Authors: Sato Toshio , Hamabata Takashi , Takita Eiji , Matsui Takeshi , Sawada Kazutoshi , Imaoka Taishi , Nakanishi Nobuo , Nakayama Keizo , Tsukahara Takamitsu
Published: February 2017

Porcine edema disease (ED) is a toxemia caused by enteric infection with Shiga toxin 2e (Stx2e)‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC). ED occurs most frequently during the weaning period and is manifested as emaciation associated with high mortality. In our experimental infection with a specific STEC strain, we failed to cause the suppression of weight gain in piglets, which is a typical symptom of ED, in two consecutive experiments. Therefore, we examined the effects of deprivation of colostrum on the sensitivity of newborn piglets to STEC infection. Neonatal pigs were categorized into two groups: one fed artificial milk instead of colostrum in the first 24 h after birth and then returned to the care of their mother, the other breastfed by a surrogate mother until weaning. The oral challenge with 1011 colony‐forming units of virulent STEC strain on days 25, 26 and 27 caused suppression of weight gain and other ED symptoms in both groups, suggesting that colostrum deprivation from piglets was effective in enhancing susceptibility to STEC. Two successive STEC infection experiments using colostrum‐deprived piglets reproduced this result, leading us to conclude that this improved ED piglet model is more sensitive to STEC infection than the previously established models.
Using electronic medical record data to report laboratory adverse events
Authors: Miller Tamara P. , Li Yimei , Getz Kelly D. , Dudley Jesse , Burrows Evanette , Pennington Jeffrey , Ibrahimova Azada , Fisher Brian T. , Bagatell Rochelle , Seif Alix E. , Grundmeier Robert , Aplenc Richard
Published: February 2017

Despite the importance of adverse event (AE) reporting, AEs are under‐reported on clinical trials. We hypothesized that electronic medical record (EMR) data can ascertain laboratory‐based AEs more accurately than those ascertained manually. EMR data on 12 AEs for patients enrolled on two Children's Oncology Group (COG) trials at one institution were extracted, processed and graded. When compared to gold standard chart data, COG AE report sensitivity and positive predictive values (PPV) were 0–21·1% and 20–100%, respectively. EMR sensitivity and PPV were >98·2% for all AEs. These results demonstrate that EMR‐based AE ascertainment and grading substantially improves laboratory AE reporting accuracy.
Pharmacological characterization of the excitatory ‘Cys‐loop’ GABA receptor family in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Nicholl Georgina C B , Jawad Ali K , Weymouth Robert , Zhang Haoming , Beg Asim A
Published: February 2017

Background and Purpose

Ionotropic GABA receptors are evolutionarily conserved proteins that mediate cellular and network inhibition in both vertebrates and invertebrates. A unique class of excitatory GABA receptors has been identified in several nematode species. Despite well‐characterized functions in Caenorhabditis elegans, little is known about the pharmacology of the excitatory GABA receptors EXP‐1 and LGC‐35. Using a panel of compounds that differentially activate and modulate ionotropic GABA receptors, we investigated the agonist binding site and allosteric modulation of EXP‐1 and LGC‐35.

Experimental Approach

We used two‐electrode voltage clamp recordings to characterize the pharmacological profile of EXP‐1 and LGC‐35 receptors expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes.

Key Results

The pharmacology of EXP‐1 and LGC‐35 is different from that of GABAA and GABAA‐ρ receptors. Both nematode receptors are resistant to the competitive orthosteric antagonist bicuculline and to classical ionotropic receptor pore blockers. The GABAA‐ρ specific antagonist, TPMPA, was the only compound tested that potently inhibited EXP‐1 and LGC‐35. Neurosteroids have minimal effects on GABA‐induced currents, but ethanol selectively potentiates LGC‐35.

Conclusions and Implications

The pharmacological properties of EXP‐1 and LGC‐35 more closely resemble the ionotropic GABAA‐ρ family. However, EXP‐1 and LGC‐35 exhibit a unique profile that differs from vertebrate GABAA and GABAA‐ρ receptors, insect GABA receptors and nematode GABA receptors. As a pair, EXP‐1 and LGC‐35 may be utilized to further understand the differential molecular mechanisms of agonist, antagonist and allosteric modulation at ionotropic GABA receptors and may aid in the design of new and more specific anthelmintics that target GABA neurotransmission.
Reciprocal Relations Between Harsh Discipline and Children's Externalizing Behavior in China: A 5‐Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Wang Meifang , Liu Li
Published: February 2017

This research examined the overtime reciprocal relations between maternal and paternal harsh discipline and children's externalizing behavior. Seven hundred two father–mother dyads of children (6–9 years of age at baseline) completed measures of parental harsh discipline and children's externalizing behavior at five time points, 1 year apart. Autoregressive latent trajectory models revealed that maternal and paternal corporal punishment predicted subsequent children's externalizing behavior (parent‐driven effects), whereas children's externalizing behavior predicted subsequent maternal and paternal psychological aggression (child‐driven effects). The parent‐driven effects became stronger, whereas the child‐driven effects were equally strong across time. Furthermore, the parent‐driven effects for corporal punishment were found for both boys and girls, whereas the child‐driven effects for psychological aggression were found only for boys.
Association between grip strength and diabetes prevalence in black, South‐Asian, and white European ethnic groups: a cross‐sectional analysis of 418 656 participants in the UK Biobank study
Authors: Ntuk U. E. , Celis‐Morales C. A. , Mackay D. F. , Sattar N. , Pell J. P. , Gill J. M. R.
Published: February 2017

Aims

To quantify the extent to which ethnic differences in muscular strength might account for the substantially higher prevalence of diabetes in black and South‐Asian compared with white European adults.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used baseline data from the UK Biobank study on 418 656 white European, black and South‐Asian participants, aged 40–69 years, who had complete data on diabetes status and hand‐grip strength. Associations between hand‐grip strength and diabetes were assessed using logistic regression and were adjusted for potential confounding factors.

Results

Lower grip strength was associated with higher prevalence of diabetes, independent of confounding factors, across all ethnicities in both men and women. Diabetes prevalence was approximately three‐ to fourfold higher in South‐Asian and two‐ to threefold higher in black participants compared with white European participants across all levels of grip strength, but grip strength in South‐Asian men and women was ~ 5–6 kg lower than in the other ethnic groups. Thus, the attributable risk for diabetes associated with low grip strength was substantially higher in South‐Asian participants (3.9 and 4.2 cases per 100 men and women, respectively) than in white participants (2.0 and 0.6 cases per 100 men and women, respectively). Attributable risk associated with low grip strength was also high in black men (4.3 cases) but not in black women (0.4 cases).

Conclusions

Low strength is associated with a disproportionately large number of diabetes cases in South‐Asian men and women and in black men. Trials are needed to determine whether interventions to improve strength in these groups could help reduce ethnic inequalities in diabetes prevalence.
Low agreement between fresh and frozen‐thawed platelet‐rich plasma in the calibrated automated thrombogram assay
Authors: Ljungkvist M. , Lövdahl S. , Zetterberg E. , Berntorp E.
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Thrombin generation tests (TGTs) are considered to give more detailed information of the overall coagulation capability of a patient than clotting‐based routine assays. The TGT thrombin generation assay‐calibrated automated thrombogram (TGA‐CAT) uses both platelet‐poor plasma (PPP) and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP). Assessing PRP gives more physiological test conditions and is of great interest considering the important role platelets play in haemostasis. However, PRP needs to be assessed close after blood draw/preparation as freezing fragments the platelets. In several previous publications, the utility of frozen‐thawed PRP (ft‐PRP) has been promoted, and in one article, no significant difference between fresh PRP (f‐PRP) and ft‐PRP was reported.

Aim

The aim of our study was to investigate the level of agreement between f‐PRP and ft‐PRP to further validate these results.

Methods

Our test population contained 41 persons with haemophilia and 45 healthy subjects. We used the TGA‐CAT method with a set‐up according to the manufacturer of the method.

Results

The measurements showed a poor level of agreement between f‐PRP and ft‐PRP and differences were not systematic.

Conclusion

Fresh and ft‐PRP cannot be assumed to show equal results in the TGA‐CAT assay.
Epidemiology of long‐stay patients in a university teaching hospital
Authors: O'Sullivan Kim , Martensson Johan , Robbins Raymond , Farley KJ , Johnson Doug , Jones Daryl
Published: February 2017

Background

Patients admitted to acute care hospitals may have multiple comorbidities, and a small proportion may stay for a protracted period.

Aims

To assess the proportion of hospital patients who are long stay (≥14 days) and evaluate associations with baseline variables and subsequent inpatient morbidity and mortality.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study of patients aged ≥18 years staying in hospital for at least 24 h between 1 July 2013 and 30 June 2014.

Results

There were 22 094 admissions in 15 623 patients. The median (interquartile range (IQR)) length of stay (LOS) was 4 (2–8) days, and 10% had a LOS >16 days. Long‐stay admissions comprised 13.1% of admissions but used 49.1% of bed days. Long‐stay admissions were more likely to be associated with intensive care unit admission (21.2 vs 6.0%), medical emergency team review (20.5 vs 4.3%) and a longer duration of mechanical ventilation (P < 0.0001 all comparisons). Long‐stay patients were more likely to develop in‐hospital complications, were more likely to die in hospital (8.2 vs 3.1%) and were less likely to be discharged home (P < 0.001 all comparisons). Multiple variable analysis revealed several associations with prolonged stay, including multiple admissions in the study period, the nature of the admitting unit, the Charlson comorbidity index at admission, admission from another hospital and any history of smoking.

Conclusions

Patients staying at least 14 days comprised one seventh of hospital admissions but used half of bed days and suffered increased in‐hospital morbidity and mortality. Several pre‐admission associations with prolonged stay were identified.
Adalimumab is a safe option for psoriasis patients with concomitant hepatitis B or C infection: a multicentre cohort study of 37 patients and review of the literature
Authors: Piaserico S. , Dapavo P. , Conti A. , Gisondi P. , Russo F.P.
Published: February 2017

Background

Little data are available about the safety of TNF‐α inhibitors in patients with HCV and HBV infection. In particular, data concerning the use of adalimumab in patients with psoriasis and concomitant viral hepatitis are lacking and little is known about the drug's real safety in this context.

Objective

To assess the long‐term safety of adalimumab in a group of 17 consecutive psoriatic patients affected by chronic HBV infection and 20 consecutive psoriatic patients affected by chronic HCV infection.

Methods

Thirty‐seven consecutive patients with psoriasis and concomitant HBV or HCV infection being treated with adalimumab at four Italian referral centres (Modena, Padova, Verona and Turin) were assessed before the treatment and at the end of follow‐up. Viral load and radiological studies (echography, Fibroscan) were also carried out in some of the patients.

Results

The patients responded well to treatment and did not show any HBV or HCV reactivation in a mean follow‐up period of 27 and 40 months, respectively. The fibrosis score in eight HCV patients showed a slight reduction: pretreatment mean value 5.83 and post‐treatment mean value 5.65.

Conclusion

The use of adalimumab seems to be safe in patients with severe psoriasis and HBV or HCV infection. Nevertheless, large‐scale prospective studies will be able to provide vital information on the impact of anti‐TNF treatment on hepatic function in patients with psoriasis and concomitant chronic HCV or HBV infection and appropriate monitoring scheduling.
P2Y12 receptors in primary microglia activate nuclear factor of activated T‐cell signaling to induce C–C chemokine 3 expression
Authors: Tozaki‐Saitoh Hidetoshi , Miyata Hiroyuki , Yamashita Tomohiro , Matsushita Katsuyuki , Tsuda Makoto , Inoue Kazuhide
Published: February 2017

Microglia are widely accepted as surveillants in the central nervous system that are continually searching the local environment for signs of injury. Following an inflammatory situation, microglia alter their morphology, extend ramified processes, and undergo cell body hypertrophy. Extracellular nucleotides are recognized as a danger signal by microglia. ADP acting on P2Y12 receptors induce process extension of microglia thereby attracting microglia to the site of adenosine tri‐phosphate/ADP leaking or release. However, the question whether ADP/P2Y12 receptor signaling directly stimulates the production or release of inducible factors such as cytokines remains unclear. In this study, we found that CC chemokine ligand 3 (CCL3) is induced by ADP‐treated primary microglia. Pharmacological characterization using pertussis toxin, a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor, and a calcium chelator revealed that CCL3 induction was caused by P2Y12 receptor‐mediated intracellular calcium elevation. Next, nuclear factor of activated T‐cell dephosphorylation and nuclear translocalization were observed. Calcineurin, an inhibitor for nuclear factor of activated T cell, suppressed CCL3 induction. These data indicate that microglial P2Y12 receptors are utilized to trigger an acute inflammatory response in microglia via rapid CCL3 induction after ADP stimulation.

image
Women's and Healthcare Workers’ Beliefs and Experiences Surrounding Abortion: The Case of Haiti
Authors: Albuja Laura Dean , Cianelli Rosina , Anglade Debbie , Owusu Brenda , Joseph Laly , Sailsman Sonique , Ferrer Lilian
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Women in developing countries usually encounter serious inequities in terms of women's health. To date, there is limited understanding of abortion from the perspective of Haitian women. As a limited‐resource country, Haiti faces complex social issues and healthcare challenges. With abortion being illegal, many adult and teenage women seek clandestine abortions. The aim of this study was to explore and gain a greater understanding of women's and healthcare workers’ beliefs and experiences about abortion in Haiti.

Methods

Descriptive qualitative design was used to elicit information for the study. Eight focus groups were conducted with Haitian women and healthcare workers in five communities in the south of Haiti: Les Cayes, Aquin, St. Louis du Sud, Cavaillon, Maniche, and Ile a Vache. Participants were purposively selected and consented to participate and to be tape recorded. Content analysis followed using the verbatim transcripts, with triangulation of four researchers; saturation was reached with this number of focus groups.

Findings

The transcripts revealed six main themes regarding beliefs and experiences about abortion in Haiti: cultural aspects, consumers, perils of care, and legal concerns. Both women and healthcare workers discussed the repercussions of illegal abortion and the role of the government and hospitals. Participants identified similar perils and complications of unsafe abortions, such as postpartum hemorrhage and infection.

Conclusions

Results showed an urgent need to create a public health response that addresses different dimensions of abortion by engaging women and healthcare providers in rapid and concrete actions that promote access and safe care of women. It is imperative to conduct more research related to abortion in order to examine other associated factors to better understand the links between abortion and sexual health disparities among Haitian women. These results highlight the need for a rapid response to the need of this vulnerable group, who are experiencing high rates of mortality. This can also serve as a directive to approach this issue in other developing countries in the Caribbean region, particularly from its clinical relevance.

Clinical Relevance

Unsafe abortions are prevalent in developing countries; yet limited research exists on the topic. It is paramount to gain an understanding of the women's and healthcare workers’ beliefs and experiences surrounding abortion, in order to develop interventions that prevent abortion complications in Haitian women.
School and Parent Factors Associated With Steroid Use Among Adolescents
Authors: Elkins Rebecca L. , King Keith , Nabors Laura , Vidourek Rebecca
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Steroid use among adolescents is an increasing health concern. Literature examining factors related to steroid use is limited.

METHODS

We investigated steroid use among 9th through 12th grade adolescents in the Greater Cincinnati area. A total of 38,414 adolescents completed the PRIDE Questionnaire. Associations between demographics, school factors, parent factors, sport participation, and steroid use were examined.

RESULTS

A total of 2.6% of adolescents reported using steroids in the past year. Most prevalent was steroid use among male, Junior/Senior, African‐American, and Hispanic adolescents. Rates of steroid use differed significantly based on school and parent factors, but not sport participation. Adolescents who reported attendance at schools that frequently set and enforced rules for drug use or whose parents frequently set rules for drug use were at decreased odds for steroid use. School communication about drug use was negatively associated with steroid use.

CONCLUSIONS

School administration and staff, as well as parents, are uniquely positioned to deter steroid use among adolescents. Findings suggest that limiting steroid screening to student athletes might miss a substantial proportion of the population at risk. Thus, broad‐based screening and prevention programs may be more effective than programs targeting student athletes alone.
Preschool Daily Patterns of Physical Activity Driven by Location and Social Context
Authors: Schlechter Chelsey R. , Rosenkranz Richard R. , Fees Bronwyn S. , Dzewaltowski David A.
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Preschool children are recommended to spend at least 15 minutes/hour (25% time) in light‐to‐vigorous physical activity (total physical activity, TPA). Preschool provider practices, such as whether children are put in small group or whole‐group activities, are likely to affect children's TPA levels during preschool. The current study characterized the pattern of physical activity across the preschool day, and examined the relationship of location and social arrangement to TPA.

METHODS

Fifteen days from 8 preschool classrooms in 2 preschool centers were video‐recorded, and children (N = 73, age = 3‐6 years, M = 4.36 ± 0.85, Boys = 47%) wore accelerometers for the duration of the preschool day. We observed contextual variables of time (ie, morning or afternoon), location (ie, indoor or outdoor), and for a subsample, social arrangement (ie, activity centers, small group, whole group).

RESULTS

Across the whole day, children spent 69.5 ± 12.4% time sedentary/inactive and 30.5 ± 13.5% time in TPA. Children spent a significantly greater percentage of time in TPA outdoors, compared to indoors (t = 10.00, p < .001), and while in small groups compared to whole groups (t = 3.35, p = .009).

CONCLUSION

Children spent approximately 30% of the preschool day in TPA. Providing more time outdoors and restructuring preschool activities from whole group to small group could increase the amount of TPA that children accumulate during preschool.
“Baba Has Come to Civilize Us”: Developmental Idealism and Framing the Strict Demands of the Brahma Kumaris
Authors: McKendry‐Smith Emily
Published: February 2017

This article extends and complicates the theory that “strict churches are strong” based on the strict demands that were followed and not followed by the Brahma Kumaris in Nepal. To be successful, strict religious groups must not only be strict, but also frame their strictness in ways that resonate with the everyday experiences and commonly held beliefs of their members. Nepali women involved with the Brahma Kumaris tend to accept and follow the group's demands when those demands have been framed as modern, and that framing is resonant with the prevailing definitions of modernity offered by Western development agencies. When the modern framing is not resonant, as with the case of framing celibacy as “spiritual birth control,” the strict demand is not followed, and the frame itself is rejected in favor of the practice being defined in different terms.
Pasireotide Long‐Acting Release Treatment for Diabetic Cats with Underlying Hypersomatotropism
Authors: Gostelow R. , Scudder C. , Keyte S. , Forcada Y. , Fowkes R.C. , Schmid H.A. , Church D.B. , Niessen S.J.M.
Published: February 2017

Background

Long‐term medical management of hypersomatotropism (HS) in cats has proved unrewarding. Pasireotide, a novel somatostatin analogue, decreases serum insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) and improves insulin sensitivity in cats with HS when administered as a short‐acting preparation.

Objectives

Assess once‐monthly administration of long‐acting pasireotide (pasireotide LAR) for treatment of cats with HS.

Animals

Fourteen cats with HS, diagnosed based on diabetes mellitus, pituitary enlargement, and serum IGF‐1 > 1000 ng/mL.

Methods

Uncontrolled, prospective cohort study. Cats received pasireotide LAR (6–8 mg/kg SC) once monthly for 6 months. Fructosamine and IGF‐1 concentrations, and 12‐hour blood glucose curves (BGCs) were assessed at baseline and then monthly. Product of fructosamine concentration and insulin dose was calculated as an indicator of insulin resistance (Insulin Resistance Index). Linear mixed‐effects modeling assessed for significant change in fructosamine, IGF‐1, mean blood glucose (MBG) of BGCs, insulin dose (U/kg) and Insulin Resistance Index.

Results

Eight cats completed the trial. Three cats entered diabetic remission. Median IGF‐1 (baseline: 1962 ng/mL [range 1051–2000 ng/mL]; month 6: 1253 ng/mL [524–1987 ng/mL]; P < .001) and median Insulin Resistance Index (baseline: 812 μmolU/L kg [173–3565 μmolU/L kg]; month 6: 135 μmolU/L kg [0–443 μmolU/L kg]; P = .001) decreased significantly. No significant change was found in mean fructosamine (baseline: 494 ± 127 μmol/L; month 6: 319 ± 113.3 μmol/L; P = .07) or MBG (baseline: 347.7 ± 111.0 mg/dL; month 6: 319.5 ± 113.3 mg/dL; P = .11), despite a significant decrease in median insulin dose (baseline: 1.5 [0.4–5.2] U/kg; 6 months: 0.3 [0.0–1.4] U/kg; P < .001). Adverse events included diarrhea (n = 11), hypoglycemia (n = 5), and worsening polyphagia (n = 2).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Pasireotide LAR is the first drug to show potential as a long‐term management option for cats with HS.
Reproductive biology and pollination ecology of Triplaris gardneriana (Polygonaceae): a case of ambophily in the Brazilian Chaco
Authors: Custodio T. , Comtois P. , Araujo A. C.
Published: February 2017

Triplaris gardneriana (Polygonaceae) is a dioecious pioneer tree reported as insect‐pollinated, despite possessing traits related to anemophily. Here, we analyse the possible roles of insects and wind on the pollination of this species to establish whether the species is ambophilous.

We carried out observations of floral biology, as well as on the frequency and behaviour of pollinators visiting flowers in a population of T. gardneriana in the Chaco vegetation of Brazil. We conducted experimental pollinations to determine the maternal fertility of female plants and whether they were pollen‐limited, and we also conducted aerobiological experiments to provide evidence of how environmental factors influence atmospheric pollen dispersal.

The population comprised an area of approximately 152.000 m2 and was composed of 603 female and 426 male plants (sex ratio = 0.59:0.41). We observed 48 species of insects visiting flowers of T. gardneriana, of which the bees Scaptotrigona depilis and Apis mellifera scutellata were the most effective pollinators. We recorded pollen grains dispersed by wind on 74% of the glass slides placed on females, located at different distances (1–10 m) from male plants.

Airborne pollen concentration was negatively correlated with relative humidity and positively correlated with temperature. Our observations and experimental results provide the first evidence that T. gardneriana is an ambophilous species, with pollen dispersal resulting from both animal and wind pollination. This mixed pollination strategy may be adaptive in T. gardneriana providing reproductive assurance during colonisation of sites with different biotic and abiotic conditions.
Typing and copy number determination for HLA‐DRB3, ‐DRB4 and ‐DRB5 from next‐generation sequencing data
Authors: Zhang Y. , Song Y. , Cao H. , Mo X. , Yang H. , Wang J. , Lu Z. , Zhang T.
Published: February 2017

Background

HLA‐DRB3, DRB4 and DRB5 (DRB3/4/5) are paralogues of HLA‐DRB1. They have important roles in transplantation and have been reported to be related to many diseases. HLA typing methods for DRB3/4/5 based on NGS data have many limitations now, such as need of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or low accuracy.

Materials and Methods

We present a HLA typing method for DRB3/4/5 based on read mapping and haplotype assembly from NGS data. Also, copy number of DRB3/4/5 is determined by a k‐means clustering method according to ratio of sequencing depth between DRB3/4/5 and DRB1.

Results

We achieved 100%, 100%, 100% accuracy on simulated data and 95.88%, 98.89%, 99.34% accuracy on MHC capture Illumina sequencing data at 4‐digit resolution with 30‐fold coverage for DRB3/4/5 separately. We also explored the DRB3/4/5 profiles in five continental populations through low coverage WGS data generated by the 1000 Genome Project. We found that frequency of DRB4 in African were significantly lower than that in all other populations.

Conclusion

Our method for DRB3/4/5 typing has high accuracy. It is a good supplement to regular HLA typing and could help in disease studies, medical applications and human population diversity studies.
Shunt tube placement for amelioration of cerebrospinal fluid flow obstruction caused by spinal cord subarachnoid fibrosis in dogs
Authors: Meren Ilyssa L. , Chavera Jessica A. , Alcott Cody J. , Barker Andrew K. , Jeffery Nick D.
Published: February 2017

Objective

To describe a novel technique for ameliorating cerebrospinal fluid flow obstruction secondary to pia‐arachnoid fibrosis in dogs and report outcome.

Study Design

Descriptive report and retrospective case series.

Animals

Dogs with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow obstruction (n = 7).

Methods

Medical records were searched for dogs that had a subarachnoid‐subarachnoid shunt placed for treatment of CSF flow obstruction. Data collected included age, sex, breed, clinical signs and duration of signs prior to examination, neurologic status and localization prior to surgery, pre‐surgical diagnostics, surgical technique, histopathology, postoperative neurologic examination, time to discharge from hospital, and outcome.

Results

All dogs were diagnosed at surgery with a fibrotic adhesion between the arachnoid and pia mater. A subarachnoid shunting tube was implanted to allow CSF flow across the lesion site. Five dogs showed improvement of clinical signs, 3 of which showed complete recovery and 2 of which showed improvement without resolution of all clinical signs. Two dogs showed no change at 7 and 24 months postoperatively.

Conclusion

Bridging a region of pia‐arachnoid fibrosis with a tube placed in the subarachnoid space can ameliorate or prevent progression of associated clinical signs.
Integrating Mathematical Thinking and Creative Problem Solving in Engineering Mathematics Blended Learning
Authors: Kashefi Hamidreza , Ismail Zaleha , Mohamad Yusof Yudariah
Published: February 2017

Engineering students often find their first university multivariable calculus experience very challenging. While moving from single variable function to multivariable function with procedural aspects of the subject, solving limit, derivation, and integral problems, they may struggle with crucial conceptual ideas underpinning them, making it very difficult to progress in more advanced courses. The main objective of this research is to establish a model of teaching and learning by integrating mathematical thinking and creative problem solving to support students in the learning of multivariable calculus through a blended learning environment. The results revealed that blended learning proved a valuable support and adjunct to students’ learning.
Project Practitioners’ Competency in Malaysian Construction Industry
Authors: Zainal Abidin Noor’Ain , Fathi Mohamad Syazli , Md Daud Mohd Yusof , Baharum Harmi Izzuan
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study is to investigate which competencies are perceived importance by the project practitioners in order for them to perform accordingly towards achieving project objectives. At the same time, the study also allows the opportunity to evaluate their keenness on self-learning which is important for project practitioners to continuously enhancing their skills. Questionnaires are distributed at one of Malaysian Government Department, which is responsible for the construction of government infrastructure projects in the country. Total of 179 respondents gave their feedbacks during a training, a workshop and talk events. Six (6) types of competencies were measured. The findings indicate that three most important competencies perceived by project practitioners are Behavioral, Technical Generic and Generic competencies. On top of that, feedbacks on self learning elements shows that the project practitioners are agreeable and aware on the importance of learning and are willing to take up their own time to learn by themselves. This study revealed the behavioral competency is the most importance competency perceived by the project practitioners. With this information, the Department could plan the project practitioners’ development programs more effectively and drive the motivation to learn continuously. Effective learning creates skilled human resources who could withstand the competitive environment in the construction industry.
Theoretical and DSMC Studies on Heat Conduction of Gas Confined in a Cuboid Nanopore
Authors: Zhu Chuan-Yong , Li Zeng-Yao , Tao Wen-Quan
Published: February 2017

This paper presents a theoretical and numerical study on the heat conduction of gas confined in a cuboid nanopore, in which there exists a temperature difference between the top and bottom walls and the side walls are adiabatic. A modified gas mean free path in confined space is proposed by considering the impact of collisions between molecules and solid surfaces, with which an effective thermal conductivity model of gas in the transition regime is derived. A direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) study on the heat conduction of argon and helium in a cuboid nanopore is carried out to validate the present model. The influences of the Knudsen number and the treatments of boundary conditions on the heat conduction and effective thermal conductivity of gas in nanopores are studied. The temperature jumps and the reduction of heat flux near side walls are analyzed.
Time-Dependent Reliability Analysis Through Response Surface Method
Authors: Zhang Dequan , Han Xu , Jiang Chao , Liu Jie , Li Qing
Published: February 2017

In time-dependent reliability analysis, the first-passage method has been extensively used to evaluate structural reliability under time-variant service circumstances. To avoid computing the outcrossing rate in this method, surrogate modeling may provide an effective alternative for calculating the time-dependent reliability indices in structural analysis. A novel approach, namely time-dependent reliability analysis with response surface (TRARS), is thus introduced in this paper to estimate the time-dependent reliability for nondeterministic structures under stochastic loads. A Gaussian stochastic process is generated by using the expansion optimal linear estimation (EOLE) method which has proven to be more accurate and efficient than some series expansion discretization techniques. The random variables and maximum responses of uncertain structures are treated as the input and output parameters, respectively. Through introducing the response surface (RS) model, a novel iterative procedure is proposed in this study. A Bucher strategy is adopted to generate the initial sample points, and a gradient projection technique is used to generate new sampling points for updating the RS model in each iteration. The time-dependent reliability indices and probabilities of failure are thus obtained efficiently using the first-order reliability method (FORM) over a certain design lifetime. In this study, four demonstrative examples are provided for illustrating the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.
Applicability and technical aspects of two-dimensional ultrasonography for assessment of fetal heart function
Authors: Bravo-valenzuela Nathalie Jeanne , Peixoto Alberto Borges , Nardozza Luciano Marcondes , Souza Alex Sandro , Araujo Júnior Edward
Published: February 2017

In recent years, fetal echocardiography has been used for the screening and diagnosis of anatomical heart defects and for the detailed study of fetal cardiac function. This method is characterized by its easy implementation and good reproducibility, allowing the diagnosis of myocardial dysfunction even in its subclinical phase. The functional assessment of the fetal heart should be routinely performed in fetuses with congenital heart disease and those without anatomical malformation. Several extra-cardiac conditions may alter fetal cardiac function, by increased placental resistance, volume overload or hyperdynamic circulation, compression, or maternal systemic disease with involvement of the fetal myocardium. This review addresses the main ultrasound techniques and various Doppler echocardiographic parameters available for the analysis of fetal heart function, and correlates them with clinical applicability. Various parameters available for the assessment of fetal myocardium, including those that evaluate atrial dynamics, can be used in this analysis and should be selected considering specific conditions.
Speaker-dependent multipitch tracking using deep neural networks
Authors: Liu Yuzhou , Wang DeLiang
Published: February 2017

Multipitch tracking is important for speech and signal processing. However, it is challenging to design an algorithm that achieves accurate pitch estimation and correct speaker assignment at the same time. In this paper, deep neural networks (DNNs) are used to model the probabilistic pitch states of two simultaneous speakers. To capture speaker-dependent information, two types of DNN with different training strategies are proposed. The first is trained for each speaker enrolled in the system (speaker-dependent DNN), and the second is trained for each speaker pair (speaker-pair-dependent DNN). Several extensions, including gender-pair-dependent DNNs, speaker adaptation of gender-pair-dependent DNNs and training with multiple energy ratios, are introduced later to relax constraints. A factorial hidden Markov model (FHMM) then integrates pitch probabilities and generates the most likely pitch tracks with a junction tree algorithm. Experiments show that the proposed methods substantially outperform other speaker-independent and speaker-dependent multipitch trackers on two-speaker mixtures. With multi-ratio training, the proposed methods achieve consistent performance at various energies ratios of the two speakers in a mixture.
Possibility-Based ELECTRE II Method with Uncertain Linguistic Fuzzy Variables
Authors: Wang Lidong , Liao Binquan , Liu Xiaodong , Liu Jingxia
Published: February 2017

Linguistic variables can better approximate the fuzziness of man’s thinking, which are important tools for multiple attribute decision-making problems. This paper establishes the possibility-based ELECTRE II model under the environment of uncertain linguistic fuzzy variables and uncertain weight information. By introducing the degree of possibility to ELECTRE II model, the concordance set, the discordance set and the indifferent set are obtained, respectively. Furthermore, the concordance index is redefined by considering deviation index under the same attribute, by which the strong and weak relationships are constructed, and then the rank of alternatives is obtained. A numerical example about the evaluation of socio-economic systems is employed to illustrate the convenience and applicability of the proposed method.
Novel propagation regimes for TE waves guided by a waveguide filled with Kerr medium
Authors: Valovik Dmitry
Published: February 2017

A fully analytical approach to the problem of TE wave propagation in an open lossless waveguide filled with Kerr medium is suggested. It is shown that the waveguide supports two physically interesting guided regimes in the focusing case. In each of the regimes, there exists an infinite number of guided waves that do not have linear counterparts. It is also shown that in the defocusing case only one regime arises with a finite number of guided waves; all these solutions have linear counterparts. Numerical illustrations and discussion of the found results are presented.
Sensitivity of Hurwitz stability of linear differential equation systems with constant coefficients
Authors: Duman Ahmet , Aydin Kemal
Published: February 2017

For Hurwitz stable linear differential equation system with constant coefficients, we have proved continuity theorems which show how much change is permissible without disturbing the Hurwitz stability and the [Formula: see text]-Hurwitz stability. The results have been applied to the scalar–linear differential equations with order [Formula: see text] and some examples illustrating the efficiency of the theorems have been given.
Geometric aspects of extensions of hom-Lie superalgebras
Authors: Armakan A. R. , Farhangdoost M. R.
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we deal with (non-abelian) extensions of a given hom-Lie superalgebra and find a cohomological obstacle to the existence of extensions of hom-Lie superalgebras. Moreover, the setting of covariant exterior derivatives, super connection, curvature and the Bianchi identity in differential geometry has been studied.
Fuzzy End Nodes in Fuzzy Incidence Graphs
Authors: Mordeson John N. , Mathew Sunil
Published: February 2017

The notion of a fuzzy end node in fuzzy incidence graphs is developed in this article. The concept of a fuzzy incidence graph is new and should be very useful in applications in fuzzy graphs and fuzzy networks. Relationships between weak incidence pairs and fuzzy incidence end nodes and fuzzy incidence cut vertices are developed.
Twisting of Siegel paramodular forms
Authors: Johnson-Leung Jennifer , Roberts Brooks
Published: February 2017

Let Sk(Γpara(N)) be the space of Siegel paramodular forms of level N and weight k. Fix an odd prime p ∤ N and let χ be a nontrivial quadratic Dirichlet character mod p. Based on [Twisting of paramodular vectors, Int. J. Number Theory 10 (2014) 1043–1065], we define a linear twisting map 𝒯χ : Sk(Γpara(N)) → Sk(Γpara(Np4)). We calculate an explicit expression for this twist, give the commutation relations of this map with the Hecke operators and Atkin–Lehner involution for primes ℓ ≠p, and prove that the L-function of the twist has the expected form.
3D Game Model and Texture Generation Using Interactive Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Yoon Dumim , Kim Kyung-Joong
Published: February 2017

Recently, the production of big games is expensive, and it is very difficult to gain attention from players. Although gamers' expectations are very high, game companies' resources are limited to maximize the quality of the games. Mod (game content editing) can be one of the solutions to this problem. It allows gamers satisfy themselves by creating and sharing their Mod. It increases the gamers' playing time and sales. However, few users have the knowledge and special ability to create Mods, so most gamers just use a Mod made by someone else. In this article, we propose a method to generate contents for 3D game objects and textures. Our method enables the construction of a three-dimensional object using the grown building footprints by the L-system or the combination of polygons, and it also provides a web-based interactive genetic algorithm interface to users for changing shapes. Furthermore, it also provides a function to evolve various texture images from an original texture file. We demonstrated the possibility of our systems using The Open Racing Car Simulator (TORCS). These results reveal that three-dimensional objects and textures can be created from our method by amateur users.
A Conversation with Kurt and Rochelle Hirschhorn
Authors: Hirschhorn Kurt , Hirschhorn Rochelle , Hirschhorn Joel N.
Published: February 2017

In this interview, Kurt and Rochelle Hirschhorn talk with their son, Joel, about their research and collaborations, the early years of medical genetics, the development of genetic counseling, the challenges of being a woman in science, and new challenges and directions for the study of human genetics.
Cardiac electrophysiology: normal and ischemic ionic currents and the ECG
Authors: Klabunde Richard E.
Published: February 2017

Basic cardiac electrophysiology is foundational to understanding normal cardiac function in terms of rate and rhythm and initiation of cardiac muscle contraction. The primary clinical tool for assessing cardiac electrical events is the electrocardiogram (ECG), which provides global and regional information on rate, rhythm, and electrical conduction as well as changes in electrical activity associated with cardiac disease, particularly ischemic heart disease. This teaching review is written at a level appropriate for first- and second-year medical students. Specific concepts discussed include ion equilibrium potentials, electrochemical forces driving ion movements across membranes, the role of ion channels in determining membrane resting potentials and action potentials, and the conduction of action potentials within the heart. The electrophysiological basis for the ECG is then described, followed by discussion on how ischemia alters cellular electrophysiology and ECG recordings, with particular emphasis on changes in T waves and ST segments of the ECG.
Superhero physiology: the case for Captain America
Authors: Brown Stanley P. , Smith JohnEric W. , McAllister Matthew , Joe LeeAnn
Published: February 2017

Using pop icons in the science classroom represents a creative way to engage often-distracted students in a relevant and, perhaps more importantly, fun way. When the pop icon is as universally known as Captain America, the pedagogical stage is set. However, when the movies can also be employed to link dramatic references to the science concepts at hand, we may have a very powerful tool by which linkages between fiction and science can be forged. In this regard, Captain America’s performances in several movies to date can be used to explain actual science. Granted, script writers and movie directors may or may not be interested in whether the physical performances they depict can be explained, but that is irrelevant. The point is to make a connection using science to explain how the superhero can run faster, jump higher, or lift more than is humanly possible. If a teachable moment has occurred and an important concept has been communicated, the educator has accomplished his or her job well.
An Advanced Process of Condensation Performance Evaluation by BIM Application
Authors: Hong Jooyung , Kim Daegil , Lee Myungdo , Eom Jinup , Choi Chang-Ho
Published: February 2017

There is increasing interest in sustainable design for saving energy and improving living conditions. In particular, condensation performance evaluation is a major part of the design phase in which condensation defects in apartment housing are considered. The aim of this work is to propose an advanced process for improving the efficiency and accuracy of evaluations of condensation performance. For this aim, an analysis of the traditional process was performed. The results support a proposed advanced evaluation process, which was then applied to develop a building information modeling (BIM) application. The proposed process can be an alternative to the current evaluation process through the use of a BIM application for the automatic process. A case study showed that the advanced process of condensation performance evaluation could save 75.8% of the time compared with the current process. Additionally, from interviews with professionals, it is expected that the proposed process offers a practical means of increasing the efficiency and accuracy of the whole evaluation process.
A Detailed and High‐Resolution Land Use and Land Cover Change Analysis over the Past 16 Years in the Horqin Sandy Land, Inner Mongolia
Authors: Bai Xiulian , Sharma Ram C. , Tateishi Ryutaro , Kondoh Akihiko , Wuliangha Bayaer , Tana Gegen
Published: February 2017

Land use and land cover (LULC) change plays a key role in the process of land degradation and desertification in the Horqin Sandy Land, Inner Mongolia. This research presents a detailed and high‐resolution (30 m) LULC change analysis over the past 16 years in Ongniud Banner, western part of the Horqin Sandy Land. The LULC classification was performed by combining multiple features calculated from the Landsat Archive products using the Support Vector Machine (SVM) based supervised classification approach. LULC maps with 17 secondary classes were produced for the year of 2000, 2009, and 2015 in the study area. The results showed that the multifeatures combination approach is crucial for improving the accuracy of the secondary‐level LULC classification. The LULC change analyses over three different periods, 2000–2009, 2009–2015, and 2000–2015, identified significant changes as well as different trends of the secondary‐level LULC in study area. Over the past 16 years, irrigated farming lands and salinized areas were expanded, whereas the waterbodies and sandy lands decreased. This implies increasing demand of water and indicates that the conservation of water resources is crucial for protecting the sensitive ecological zones in the Horqin Sandy Land.