bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of ozone, ultrasound and coating with shellac and lysozyme–chitosan on fresh egg during storage at ambient temperature. Part II: microbial quality, eggshell breaking strength and FT‐NIR spectral analysis
Authors: Yüceer Muhammed , Caner Cengiz
Published: October 2019

This research aims to investigate and compare the effect of different treatments, including gaseous ozone (6‐ppm/4‐min), ultrasound (450 W/4‐min), and coatings of shellac and lysozyme–chitosan (L–C), on fresh eggs during the storage for six weeks at ambient temperature. The internal quality analysis was performed in Part I. In Part II, the bacterial qualities, Fourier transform near‐infrared (FT‐NIR) spectral image and eggshell breaking strength were monitored. Ozone and ultrasound helped to maintain bacterial quality, but had an adverse effect on shell strength. Coated eggs had the highest value of strength (shellac: 3.63 ± 0.54 kgf; L–C: 3.56 ± 0.54 kgf) and ultrasound‐treated eggs had the lowest strength (3.13 ± 0.78 kgf) in egg top. FT‐NIR measurement showed that all treatments resulted in a decrease in absorption bands throughout storage. Overall, among the treatments investigated, the coatings were the best for enhancing shelf life with higher strength in eggshell breakage, while the ozone and ultrasound only helped to keep the microbial quality and enhance the shelf life.
T cell addiction: can pathogenic T cells be controlled using dopamine receptors?
Authors: Bain Kym A. , Milling Simon
Published: October 2019

Crosstalk between the immune system and the nervous system, via neurotransmitters such as dopamine, is increasingly of interest as we begin to learn how lymphocytes in peripheral tissues can both produce and respond to these molecules. This crosstalk can modulate immune responses by influencing the local tissue environment and can, for instance, influence the activation status and migration of T cells. Immune cells also use neurotransmitters to communicate with each other. Understanding how neurotransmitters influence the immune system may provide novel approaches for targeting diseases associated with tissue‐specific inflammation, such as psoriasis.
Heightened risk of intensive rate control in patients with atrial fibrillation who are obese or have type 2 diabetes: A critical review and re‐evaluation
Authors: Packer Milton
Published: October 2019

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in patients with obesity and diabetes; the arrhythmia (if long‐standing) is typically managed by rate control and anticoagulation. However, the coexistence of these two metabolic disorders complicates therapeutic options for rate control. The likely pathogenesis of AF in these patients is an expansion of epicardial adipose tissue whose inflammation is transmitted to the left atrium causing electromechanical remodeling. However, this same process is also transmitted to the left ventricle (LV), impairing its distensibility and its ability to tolerate volume, leading to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Unfortunately, the latter diagnosis (although commonly present in patients with AF and a coexistent metabolic disorder) is often ignored. To achieve rate control, physicians prescribe intensive treatment with atrioventricular (AV) nodal–blocking drugs, often at doses that are titrated to blunt exercise as well as resting heart rate responses. However, strict rate control (target rate, <80/min) is associated with somewhat worse outcomes than lenient rate control (target rate, <110/min). Furthermore, any rate slowing that facilitates diastolic filling may aggravate filling pressures that are already disproportionately increased because the LV is stiff and overfilled as a result of cardiac inflammation. Rate slowing in AF with beta blockers may not achieve the benefit expected from the blockade of adrenergically mediated cardiotoxicity, and some AV nodal–blocking drugs (digoxin and dronedarone) can increase the risk of death in patients with AF. Finally, cardiac fibrosis in obesity and diabetes may affect the conduction system, which can predispose to serious bradyarrhythmias if patients are prescribed AV nodal–blocking drugs.
Approach and strategy for repeat catheter ablation of recurrent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Tomaiko Emrie , Tseng Andrew , Reichert William B. , Su Wilber W.
Published: October 2019

Patients with atrial fibrillation often undergo repeat catheter ablation for the recurrence of tachyarrhythmia. If the pulmonary veins were isolated in prior procedure, the operator should focus on substrate homogenization with identification and ablation of only arrhythmogenic areas.
Hands on: How to approach patients undergoing lead extraction
Authors: Lewis Robert K. , Pokorney Sean D. , Hegland Donald D. , Piccini Jonathan P.
Published: October 2019

Due to the growing number of patients treated with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) there is an increased need for lead management, evaluation, and extraction. While CIED lead extraction has many indications, a consistent approach to preprocedural planning should be applied in all cases, including a thorough consultation with careful review of the patient's medical and device history, as well as a discussion of informed consent and shared decision‐making with the patient and their loved ones. The use of chest X‐ray, echocardiography, and computed tomography (CT) scan can further help with risk stratification and procedural planning. Intraprocedural echocardiography (transesophageal or intracardiac) is recommended and allows early recognition of cardiothoracic injury. Establishing an extraction team with cardiology/electrophysiology, anesthesiology, and CT surgery is is crucial to a successful and safe CIED extraction practice, including immediately available surgical backup. This hands‐on review will address how to approach patients who are undergoing lead extraction, as well as several innovations in preprocedure and intraprocedural risk assessment.
Comparative evaluation of experimental challenge by intraperitoneal injection and cohabitation of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L) after vaccination against Piscirickettsia salmonis (EM90‐like)
Authors: Meza Karla , Inami Makoto , Dalum Alf S. , Lund Hege , Bjelland Ane M. , Sørum Henning , Løvoll Marie
Published: October 2019

The Chilean aquaculture has been challenged for years by piscirickettsiosis. A common prophylactic measurement to try to reduce the impact from this disease is vaccination, but the development of vaccines that induce satisfactory protection of the fish in the field has so far not been successful. Experimental challenge models are used to test vaccine efficacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of experimental vaccines after challenge by the two most widely used challenge routes, intraperitoneal injection and cohabitation. A total of 1,120 Atlantic salmon were vaccinated with non‐commercial experimental vaccines with increasing amounts of an inactivated Piscirickettsia salmonis EM90‐like isolate. Differences in mortality, macroscopic and microscopic pathological changes, bacterial load and immune gene expression were compared after challenge by different routes. The results revealed a similar progression of the diseases after challenge by both routes and no gross differences reflecting the efficacy of the vaccines could be identified. The analysis of the immune genes suggests a possible suppression of the cellular immunity by CD8 T cell and with this stimulation of bacterial survival and replication. Comparative studies of experimental challenge models are valuable with regard to identifying the best model to mimic real‐life conditions and vaccines’ performance.
Perspectives on Implementing a Multidomain Approach to Caring for Older Adults With Heart Failure
Authors: Goyal Parag , Gorodeski Eiran Z. , Flint Kelsey M. , Goldwater Deena S. , Dodson John A. , Afilalo Jonathan , Maurer Mathew S. , Rich Michael W. , Alexander Karen P. , Hummel Scott L.
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) Geriatric Cardiology Section Leadership Council recently outlined 4 key domains (which are composed of 14 subdomains) that are important to assess in older adults with heart failure (HF). We sought to determine which geriatric domains/subdomains are routinely assessed, how they are assessed, and how they impact clinical management in the care of ambulatory older adults with HF.

DESIGN

Survey.

SETTING

Ambulatory.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifteen active ACC member physicians from the geriatric cardiology community.

MEASUREMENTS

Electronic survey assessing which domains/subdomains are currently assessed in these selected real‐world practices, how they are assessed, and how they are incorporated into clinical management.

RESULTS

Of 15 clinicians, 14 responded to the survey. The majority routinely assess 3 to 4 domains (median, 3; interquartile range, 3‐4) and a range of 4 to 12 subdomains (median, 8; interquartile range, 6‐11). All respondents routinely assess the medical and physical function domains, 71% routinely assess the mind/emotion domain, and 50% routinely assess the social domain. The most common subdomains included comorbidity burden (100%), polypharmacy (100%), basic function (93%), mobility (86%), falls risk (71%), frailty (64%), and cognition (57%). Sensory impairment (50%), social isolation (50%), nutritional status (43%), loneliness (7%), and financial means (7%) were least frequently assessed. There was significant heterogeneity with regard to the tools used to assess subdomains. Common themes for how the subdomains influenced clinical care included informing prognosis, informing risk‐benefit of pharmacologic therapy and invasive procedures, and consideration for palliative care.

CONCLUSIONS

While respondents routinely assess multiple domains and subdomains and view these as important to clinical care, there is substantial heterogeneity regarding which subdomains are assessed and the tools used to assess them. These observations provide a foundation that inform a research agenda with regard to providing holistic and patient‐centered care to older adults with HF. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:2593–2599, 2019
Proteomics: techniques and applications in neuroscience
Authors: Cookson Mark R.
Published: October 2019

This Preface introduces the articles of the special issue on ‘Proteomics’ where we survey these powerful techniques specifically in the context of applications in neurosciences. Proteomics as used here is a catch‐all term for approaches where a broad survey of all protein content of a cell or tissue is performed in parallel. In the special issue, various experts outline applications as diverse as finding disease biomarkers in human samples, including living participants or post‐mortem brain, as well as application of protein technologies to model systems such as animals and cells. Collectively, these articles outline the utility of current technologies for proteome interrogation and identify enhancements that will shape applications to future studies.

image

This is the Preface for the special issue "Proteomics".

Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14530.
Caregivers experiences in symptom management for their children who require medical technology at home
Authors: Spratling Regena , Lee Jiwon
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the daily care experiences of caregivers of children who require medical technology. Specific aims were to gain an understanding of their perceptions of (a) how caregivers manage symptoms for their children who require medical technology at home, (b) why the caregivers seek emergency department (ED) and hospital care, and (c) what the caregivers need to manage their child's symptoms at home. The research question was asked, what are the education, skills, and support caregivers report needing to effectively manage their child's symptoms and prevent avoidable ED visits and hospitalizations?

Design and Methods

Interpretive phenomenology was used to examine how caregivers manage their children's symptoms and technology at home, and their reasons for seeking emergency care through ED visits and/or hospitalizations. Self‐identified nine primary caregivers of children who required medical technology participated in this study. Semi‐structured interviews explored the caregiver's perceptions of the child's needs for symptom and technology management, and needs for education, skills, and support.

Results

Three themes were found in the participant interviews. Theme 1 was Knowing my child's normal and having confidence with daily caregiving. Theme 1 included a subtheme of Caregivers are proactive and advocates for their child. Theme 2 was This is much different from my child's normal…this is an emergency. Theme 3 was We cannot sleep and we are exhausted. In regard to education, skills, and support, caregivers described their preparation and training in the hospital before their child's discharge from the hospital with a tracheostomy and feeding tube, but lacked knowledge of new situations and symptoms at home with medical technology.

Practice Implications

This study confirms the need for interventions for these caregivers to enhance education, skills, and support caregivers need to effectively manage their child's symptoms and prevent avoidable ED visits and hospitalizations, specifically enhancement of care at home. More education for caregivers of children who require medical technology is recommended to facilitate quality care for the child; few interventions have addressed care for these children, and none address education and management of symptoms and medical technology.
Sexual and gender minority sleep: A narrative review and suggestions for future research
Authors: Butler Eliana S. , McGlinchey Eleanor , Juster Robert‐Paul
Published: October 2019

This article reviews a growing body of research that examines sleep among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) populations. An extensive search of the literature was conducted using multiple medical and psychological search engine platforms. In total, this search yielded 31 reports that included sleep data collected from sexual and gender minority participants. Overall, research findings are mixed and include several publications of studies conducted in the same sample. Our review suggests that sleep health among LGBT individuals may be an unmet health need. Critically, sleep disturbances affected LGBT subgroups differently based on sex/gender and diverse sexual orientations (e.g., bisexual women). Although not directly tested, evidence from parallel LGBT health research suggests that minority stress may contribute to these observed sleep disparities and will need to be directly assessed in future studies. In sum, continued investigation of sleep disparities among sexual and gender minority communities is needed, as is the inclusion of sleep health in theoretical models of LGBT health disparities. Given the importance of sleep in overall mental and physical health, addressing sleep health may serve to promote and protect healthy functioning among LGBT individuals.
Evaluation of a Histoplasma antigen lateral flow assay for the rapid diagnosis of progressive disseminated histoplasmosis in Colombian patients with AIDS
Authors: Cáceres Diego H. , Gómez Beatriz L. , Tobón Angela M. , Chiller Tom M. , Lindsley Mark D.
Published: October 2019

Background

Progressive disseminated histoplasmosis (PDH) is an important cause of mortality in persons living with HIV (PLHIV), especially in countries where patients have limited access to antiretroviral therapies and diagnostic testing.

Objective

A lateral flow assay (LFA) to detect Histoplasma capsulatum antigen in serum developed by MiraVista® was evaluated.

Methods

We tested 75 serum samples: 24 from PLHIV and culture‐proven PDH and 51 from PLHIV with other fungal and bacterial infections as well as people without HIV. LFA devices were read manually (read by eye) and by an automated reader.

Results

When the LFA was read manually, sensitivity was 96% and specificity was 90%. When an automated reader was used, sensitivity was 92% and specificity was 94%. The Kappa index comparing manual and automated reader was 0.90. Cross‐reactions were observed principally in samples from patients with proven diagnosis of paracoccidioidomycosis.

Conclusions

The MiraVista® Diagnostics Histoplasma antigen LFA had high analytical performance and good agreement between manual and automated reader. This LFA allows Histoplasma antigen testing with minimal laboratory equipment and infrastructure requirements.
Analysis of PD‐L1 expression and T cell infiltration in different molecular subgroups of diffuse midline gliomas
Authors: Jha Prerana , Manjunath Niveditha , Singh Jyotsna , Mani Kalaivani , Garg Ajay , Kaur Kavneet , Sharma Mehar C. , Raheja Amol , Suri Ashish , Sarkar Chitra , Suri Vaishali
Published: October 2019

Diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) are rare and devastating tumors with limited therapeutic options. Programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression represents a potential predictive biomarker for immunotherapy. One hundred and twenty‐six DMGs (89 adult and 37 pediatric) were assessed for immune profile (PD‐L1, cluster of differentiation (CD3, CD8) and genetic markers (mutation in 27th amino acid of histone H3 (H3K27M), alpha thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome X‐linked (ATRX), isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), p53) by immunohistochemistry. Sanger sequencing was done for IDH1 and H3K27M. The thalamus was the commonest site. Four molecular subgroups of DMGs were identified. H3K27M mutation was more frequent in children (P= 0.0001). The difference in median overall survival (OS) was not significant in any of the four molecular subgroups (P> 0.05). PD‐L1 expression was significantly higher in H3K27M/IDH1 double‐negative adult glioblastomas (GBMs) (P= 0.002). Strong PD‐L1 expression was more frequent in grade IV tumors and thalamic location, although the difference was not significant (P= 0.14 andP= 0.19 respectively). Positive PD‐L1 expression was significantly associated with high tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes count (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in median OS in PD‐L1‐positive versus negative cases among four genetic subgroups (P> 0.05). On univariate analysis, there was no direct correlation of PD‐L1 with any genetic alteration, except H3K27M mutation (P= 0.01). CD3 infiltration was similar in both adults and pediatric ages (84.3% and 78.4%, respectively) while CD8 expression was significantly greater in adults compared to children (74.1% vs 37.8%,P= 0.0001). This is the first comprehensive analysis highlighting molecular and immune profiles of DMGs. Despite molecular and clinicopathological diversity, overall survival in DMGs remains dismal. Multicentric studies with larger numbers of cases should be undertaken for stratifying DMGs according to their age, immune and molecular profiles, to develop effective immunotherapies.
Antibiotic sensitivity and clinical outcomes in staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome
Authors: Wang Zixiao , Feig Jessica L. , Mannschreck Diana B. , Cohen Bernard A.
Published: October 2019

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome causes widespread skin denudation primarily in infants < 1 year old. Selection of empiric therapy is complicated by rising rates of antibiotic resistance in community‐acquired staphylococcal infections. Consistent with a previous study, this retrospective review found that SSSS‐associated isolates were more likely to be clindamycin‐resistant and less likely to be methicillin‐resistant compared to overall staphylococcal infections. We favor cephalosporins and penicillinase‐resistant penicillins (eg, oxacillin) for empiric management of SSSS, with consideration of adding MRSA coverage in communities with high MRSA prevalence or failure to improve following several days of treatment.
Linking vein properties to leaf biomechanics across 58 woody species from a subtropical forest
Authors: Hua L. , He P. , Goldstein G. , Liu H. , Yin D. , Zhu S. , Ye Q.
Published: October 2019

Leaf venations have elements with relatively lower elasticity than other leaf tissue components, which are thought to contribute to leaf biomechanics. A better mechanistic understanding of relationships between vein traits and leaf mechanical properties is essential for ecologically relevant interpretation of leaf structural variations.

We investigated 13 major (first to third order) and minor (>third order) vein traits, six leaf mechanical properties and other structural traits across 58 woody species from a subtropical forest to elucidate how vein traits contribute to leaf biomechanics.

Across species, vein dry mass density (ρv), total vein dry mass per leaf area (VMA) and minor vein diameter (VDmin), but not the lower‐order vein density (VLA1•2), were positively correlated with leaf force to punch (Fp) and force to tear (Ft). Structural equation models showed that ρv and VDmin not only contribute to leaf mechanical properties directly (direct pathway), but also had impacts on leaf biomechanics by influencing leaf thickness and leaf dry mass per area (indirect pathway).

Our study demonstrated that vein dry mass density and minor vein diameter are the key vein properties for leaf biomechanics. We also suggest that the mechanical characteristics of venations are potential factors influencing leaf mechanical resistance, structure and leaf economics spectrum.
The serine protease inhibitors and SERPINE1/2 disrupt prostaglandin E2 production and hyaluronic acid retention in FSH‐stimulated pig cumulus–oocyte complexes
Authors: Blaha Milan , Nevoral Jan , Prochazka Radek
Published: October 2019

Contents

The serine proteases, tissue‐ and urokinase‐type plasminogen activators (PLAT and PLAU) and their inhibitors SERPINE1/2 are regulators of plasminogen to plasmin conversion. They are widely expressed in ovarian tissues, including granulosa and cumulus cells, and their expression is regulated by gonadotropins. The aim of this work was to assess the effect of serine protease inhibitors (aprotinin and AEBSF) and SERPINE1/2 on FSH‐induced cumulus cell expansion, the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and retention of hyaluronic acid (HA) in expanding cumulus. The serine protease activity proved to be essential for the production of PGE2 and also for the retention of HA; the inhibition of plasminogen activators by SERPINE1/2 had the same effect. Collectively, these data indicate that plasmin is required for proper function of expanding cumulus cells in vitro and presumably also in vivo in the pre‐ovulatory follicles.
Prevalence of chromosomal aberrations in breeding pigs in Spain
Authors: Sánchez‐Sánchez Raúl , Gómez‐Fidalgo Ernesto , Pérez‐Garnelo Sonia , Martín‐Lluch Mercedes , De la Cruz‐Vigo Paloma
Published: October 2019

Contents

The main aim of this study was to document the prevalence of chromosomal aberrations found to date on the pig population in Spain, a country in which this production sector has a critical role, being the fourth country in the world in pig production and the second one within the European Union. The total number of animals studied was 849, and the founded frequency of carrier pigs with chromosomal alterations was 3.8%. When only the structural alterations were considered, the prevalence in males was 3.3%. This percentage is far from the 0.5% of carrier boars that has been estimated in France, a country where there is a systematic cytogenetic screening of future breeding pigs since 1992. In order to avoid the productive and economic losses caused by karyotype alterations in breeding pigs, it would be important to establish a cytogenetic screening of breeding animals at artificial insemination centres and genetic selection farms.
Effect of chelating and antioxidant agents on morphology and DNA methylation in freeze‐drying rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) spermatozoa
Authors: Mercati Francesca , Domingo Paula , Pasquariello Rolando , Dall'Aglio Cecilia , Di Michele Alessandro , Forti Katia , Cocci Paolo , Boiti Cristiano , Gil Lidia , Zerani Massimo , Maranesi Margherita
Published: October 2019

Freeze‐drying (FD) has been exhaustively tried in several mammalian species as an alternative technique to sperm cryopreservation, but few studies have been done in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The main objective of this study was to compare the protective effect of various antioxidants added to EDTA medium on structural and functional components of FD rabbit spermatozoa and on their status of global DNA methylation. FD media used were composed of basic FD medium (10 mM Tris‐HCl buffer and 50 mM NaCl) supplemented with either 50 mM EDTA alone (EDTA) or added with 105 µM of rosmarinic acid (RA, EDTA‐RA) or 10 µM of melatonin (MLT, EDTA‐MLT). The effect of each medium on the preservation of FD spermatozoon structure was evaluated with light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Global DNA methylation was quantified in all FD sperm samples as well as in fresh spermatozoa. Morphologically, fracture points were evidenced in the neck, mid and principal piece of the spermatozoon tail. No differences in spermatozoon fracture points were evidenced among FD treatments: intact spermatozoa were the largest (p < .01) category, whereas the most frequent (p < .01) injury was the neck fracture, resulting in tailless heads. At SEM, the head of spermatozoa showed a well‐conserved shape and intact membrane in all treatments. DNA methylation status was the same in all FD treatments. In conclusion, supplementation of EDTA, EDTA‐RA and EDTA‐MLT during FD preserved rabbit sperm morphological integrity and methylation status as well. Therefore, the difficulty of getting viable offspring using FD semen is likely unrelated to the impact of the lyophilization process on DNA methylation and morphology of lyophilized spermatozoa.
Architecture of a distal pre‐vegetation braidplain: Cambrian middle member of the Wood Canyon Formation, southern Marble Mountains, California, USA
Authors: Muhlbauer Jason G. , Fedo Christopher M. , Moersch Jeffrey E.
Published: October 2019

Architectural element analysis and detailed mapping of a 300 m along‐strike exposure of the middle member Wood Canyon Formation, southern Marble Mountains, California, USA, provides new evidence for extensive braided–fluvial channel‐belt deposits with adjacent overbank environments. Three‐dimensional models constructed using ‘Structure from Motion’ techniques, combined with field‐based observations, allowed interpretation of outcrop‐scale trends, barforms, channel fills and fine‐scale features. The ca 80 m thick member is divisible into five distinct units, including units M1 to M3 that form the bulk of the stratigraphy. Units are defined by stacking patterns of three facies associations (Facies Association 1 to Facies Association 3), each representing the product of a subenvironment within the fluvial system. In Facies Association 1, stacked cosets, interpreted as low‐relief fluvial bars and channel fills, preserve vertical‐accretion and downstream‐accretion elements under unimodal north‐north‐west palaeoflow, with minor lateral accretion near bar edges. Deposits of Facies Association 2 to Facies Association 3, linked to overbank environments, are found only in unit M2, in the middle 27 m of the middle member. Floodplains, represented by Facies Association 2, include crumbly red‐orange intervals of fine to medium‐grained sandstone and thinner sets of cross‐bedding than Facies Association 1, interbedded with thicker cross‐stratification indicative of overbank splay or overland flow aggradation from adjacent channel belts during flood stage. Possible aeolian beds of Facies Association 3 preserve broad festooned trough cross‐strata that average 23 cm in thickness; their small size, medium‐grained sandstone and iron oxide cement suggest a high water table. The diverse assemblage of interpreted subenvironments, paired with bedform and facies patterns, implies a perennial fluvial system that gradually built large sand bars as the channel belt migrated and avulsed across an unconfined braided–fluvial reach, leaving the overbank area on its flanks subject to weathering and aeolian transport. Despite the occurrence of strata deposited in low‐energy and ponded settings, and a marine influence proposed for nearby sections of middle member, no ichnofossils were encountered.
Facts, Opinions, and Scientific Memes: Reflections of and Recommendations for the March for Science in Germany
Authors: Guenther Lars , Ruhrmann Georg , Weigelt Natalie , Zaremba Mercedes C.
Published: October 2019

Germany ranked second in number of March for Science participants. The current essay is based on a focus group discussion with six participants of a march in a German university town and elucidates their motives for attending, their perceptions of how politically active scientists should be, the goals they think the march should aim to achieve, and their recommendations for future marches. Motives in Germany differed slightly from those mentioned in the United States. Discussants placed importance on the difference between facts and opinions, which is translated into recommendations for issue‐specific future marches.
Non‐conformities in tissue typing laboratory: Croatian experience
Authors: Katalinić N. , Starčević A. , Mavrinac M. , Vuk T. , Balen S.
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Our study aimed to determine the frequency and type of non‐conformities that occurred in the tissue typing laboratory (TTL), Rijeka, Croatia, in order to evaluate the quality of testing and compliance with the requirements of the quality management system (QMS).

Background

The QMS in a TTL should lead to improvements in the accuracy and timeliness of results. One of its essential elements is non‐conformity management.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of non‐conformities recorded in the TTL Rijeka from 2006 to 2017 revealed the overall frequency of 0·43%. Classification was performed according to the examination phase, employee characteristics, relation to the field of work, part of laboratory and priority of testing.

Results

The most reported non‐conformities occurred during the examination phase (54·0%), followed by the pre‐ and post‐examination phase (31·2 and 14·8%, respectively). Inadequate competency and less experience were associated with the number of reported non‐conformities while no difference was observed in relation to the profession or position in the laboratory. Non‐conformities were equally distributed between organ transplantation and HLA‐associated disease diagnostic processes, mostly referring to the entire laboratory work.

Conclusion

Intensifying training and education, implementation of information technology into laboratory processes, more rigorous error detection and reporting are fundamental steps in improving quality of laboratory services.
High prevalence of norovirus and rotavirus co‐infection in children with acute gastroenteritis hospitalised in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
Authors: Mikounou Louya Vivaldie , Nguekeng Tsague Boris , Ntoumi Francine , Vouvoungui Christevy , Kobawila Simon Charles
Published: October 2019

Objective

To evaluate the clinical severity of diarrhoea associated to viral co‐infection in children with acute gastroenteritis.

Methods

About 461 children under five years hospitalised with acute diarrhoea (266 males and 187 females) were enrolled in the study. Using stool samples, rotavirus and adenovirus infections were investigated by ELISA, and norovirus infections by nested duplex RT‐PCR. We assessed social, demographic, clinical and behavioural conditions that might influence the occurrence of rotavirus, adenovirus and norovirus infections.

Results

Mono‐viral infection was detected in 49% and mixed viral infection in 12% of patients. The prevalence of mixed infection was neither dependent on age nor sex. Three samples were infected with all three viruses. A significant association was found between fever (axillary temperature> 37.5 °C) and rotavirus–norovirus dual infection (aOR (CI 95%) = 2.1 (1.14–3.84), P = 0.016; aOR (CI 95%) = 0.37 (0.19–0.73), P = 0.004). Mixed infection was the most common during the dry season from June to October (71.4% versus 54.7%, P = 0.023).

Conclusion

Co‐infection with both rotavirus and norovirus is common in under‐five hospitalised children but does not contribute to the severity of the disease.
A matched‐pair analysis reveals marginally reduced CD34+ cell mobilization on second occasion in 27 related donors who underwent peripheral blood stem cell collection twice at the same institution
Authors: Velier Melanie , Granata Angela , Bramanti Stefania , Calmels Boris , Furst Sabine , Legrand Faewzeh , Harbi Samia , Faucher Catherine , Devillier Raynier , Blaise Didier , Mfarrej Bechara , Lemarie Claude , Chabannon Christian
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

In a small proportion of cases, hematopoietic function is insufficient after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, as a result of poor graft function or graft failure. These complications are common indications of re‐mobilization of the initial donor, either for a second allograft or for an infusion of CD34+ Selected stem Cell Boost (SCB).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We retrospectively reviewed the results of two cycles of CD34+ cell mobilization and collection. CD34+ cells mobilized and collected at each cycle were compared. When CD34+ cell selection from the collected allogeneic mononuclear cells was indicated, it was performed with the Clinimacs Plus® medical device, and results from in‐process and final quality checks were analyzed. To assess the efficacy of CD34+ SCB, transfusion needs before and after the infusion of selected CD34+ cells were calculated.

RESULTS

The median peripheral blood concentration of CD34+ cells/μL was marginally reduced during the second cycle (35.6 vs 33.8, p < 0.05); results revealed a strong correlation between paired values (r = 0.85). The cumulative number of collected CD34+ cells were similar for both cycles; the total processed blood volume was higher during the second cycle (p = 0.023). For CD34+ immune‐selection procedures, CD34+ cell recovery and purity were respectively 57% and 95%, with a median T‐cell depletion of 6.7 log. Recipients' needs for platelet and red blood cell transfusions were significantly reduced after CD34+ SCB.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms the feasibility of a second cycle of mobilization in healthy related donors and the benefits of CD34+ SCB on hematopoietic reconstitution.
Inter‐firm R&D collaboration within and across national borders
Authors: Edwards T. Huw , Ferrett Ben , Gravino Daniel
Published: October 2019

We set up a model to investigate the strategic aspect of a firm's incentive to collaborate in cost‐reducing R&D with either a local or a foreign partner. We argue that collaboration with a foreign firm is preferred to collaboration with a local firm if the extra profits generated by a foreign collaboration exceed the additional cost of coordinating collaboration across national borders. We show that foreign collaboration is more likely the bigger the home market size of the foreign firm and, given certain conditions, the higher the international trade cost. We also show that whenever a foreign collaboration arises in equilibrium, it is efficient (i.e., world‐welfare‐maximising) and that there are cases where (a) a foreign collaboration would be efficient but a local collaboration emerges in equilibrium, and (b) an efficient foreign collaboration emerges in equilibrium, but one of the countries would prefer a local collaboration. We briefly consider the policy implications of these findings.
Personalised Content in Mobile Applications and Purchase Intentions: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Konstantoulaki Kleopatra , Rizomyliotis Ioannis , Papangelopoulou Antigoni
Published: October 2019

This study aims to examine how personalised content affects consumers’ purchase intentions in the mobile beauty shopping applications within the UK. Based on previous studies personalised content on mobile beauty applications influences consumer behaviour in terms of mobile application convenience, m-loyalty and emotions. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 females between the ages of 18-35 who live in the UK. According to the results, personalised content has a positive influence on both mobile convenience and m-loyalty while for emotions the influence is both positive and negative. Moreover, findings also suggested that the personalisation-privacy paradox can prevent consumers from making a purchase. The study provides suggestions towards m-retailers and managers in relation to m-commerce and beauty mobile applications. Findings also offer an insight with regards to how m-retailers can successfully incorporate personalised content to increase consumers’ retention and eventually their profitability.
Examining the Relation between Purpose in Life and Self-Reported Health in Community and Inpatient Populations
Authors: Escura Alba , Valdivia-Salas Sonsoles , Martín-Albo José , Zaldívar Pablo J. L. , López-Crespo Ginesa
Published: October 2019

The goal of the present study was to examine whether the relation commonly found between purpose in life and well-being occurs regardless of the population being assessed (community vs. inpatient) when the presence of somatic symptoms is used as a proxy for well-being. A total of 145 adults participated in the study (psychiatric patients, N = 28; healthy community adults, N = 117). Statistical analyses were first conducted to control for the effects of the observed differences in age and gender between samples. Results showed a significant relation between purpose in life and perceived health even after controlling for population. In both community and inpatient populations, purpose in life correlated with fewer somatic concerns. We discuss the benefits of incorporating a sense of directedness with prevention and treatment purposes.
Parental Support, Self-Efficacy Beliefs, Outcome Expectations and Interests in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
Authors: Fernández García Carmen María , Torío-López Susana , García-Pérez Omar , Inda-Caro Mercedes
Published: October 2019

The main objective of the paper will be to analyze the influence of parental academic expectations and gender stereotypes in secondary education students’ self-efficacy beliefs, outcome expectations, and interests. 2364 students in their final year of Lower Secondary Education participated in the study in Spain. Data have been analyzed combining three procedures: descriptive analysis, comparison of means and structural equation modeling. The results indicate that boys perceive higher parental support than girls in technology and computing. Regarding gender stereotypes, boys perceive higher parental gender stereotypes than girls in technology/computing and science. In our sample, perceived parental support and gender stereotypes do not have a direct influence on outcome expectations and interest, however, self-efficacy beliefs do influence outcome expectations and interest.
El Análisis Cognitivo de Tareas como estrategia metodológica para comprender y explicar la cognición humana
Authors: Otálora Yenny
Published: October 2019

El objetivo del estudio es describir e ilustrar el Análisis Cognitivo de Tareas (ACT) como un método que agrupa variadas técnicas de análisis cualitativo de datos para caracterizar la actividad cognitiva subyacente al desempeño de individuos cuando resuelven una tarea, así como la tarea misma. El abordaje metodológico incluyó inicialmente una revisión documental de modelos reconocidos de ACT desde enfoques de la psicología y la educación. Estos modelos han sido utilizados para analizar procesos cognitivos, de pensamiento y de toma de decisiones en situaciones de resolución de problemas. Se realizó una adaptación y aplicación del ACT para analizar tareas en psicología y educación, específicamente en la evaluación de habilidades matemáticas tempranas en ambientes de aprendizaje escolar. Los resultados ilustran tres niveles metodológicos del ACT: a) análisis de la estructura de la tarea, b) análisis de la exigencia cognitiva en niveles potenciales de desempeño y, c) análisis de desempeños a profundidad. Se concluye que la adaptación realizada hace el método ACT accesible a psicólogos y educadores en escenarios de evaluación educativa.
Análisis factorial confirmatorio de la Escala de Mandatos de Género
Authors: F. Galán Jaime Sebastián , Macías Valadéz Márquez Gerardo
Published: October 2019

En México hay 30.6 millones de jóvenes de 15 a 29 años (25.7 % de la población total). El 49.4 % de las mujeres no empleó anticonceptivo o condón en su primera relación sexual. Las conformaciones de género y las formas de socialización se transforman en los mandatos de género. Éstos, como categorías psicosociales, pueden ser entendidos como estereotipos prescriptivos que condicionan los procesos de socialización: nociones que determinan la masculinidad o feminidad desde una postura heteronormativa. Método: Se realizó un diseño no experimental analítico transeccional para obtener las propiedades psicométricas del instrumento mediante el análisis factorial confirmatorio. Con 446 jóvenes con una media de edad de 25.68 años (DE 16.8). Se aplicó la escala de mandatos de género a una muestra que presentara similar cantidad en hombres y mujeres. Se logró obtener una escala de cuatro factores, dos de mandatos clasificados como femeninos y dos masculinos. El instrumento logra un modelo factorial confirmatorio con los elementos psicométricos apropiados. Si bien uno de los factores aparece ligeramente bajo en confiabilidad, la escala resulta idónea para aproximaciones a las sexualidades heteronormativas.
Mapping Young Indians’ Views Regarding the Acceptability of Surrogate Motherhood: A Pilot Survey
Authors: Kamble Shanmukh , Mane Sangeetha P. , Petitfils Charlotte , Muñoz Sastre Maria Teresa , Sorum Paul Clay
Published: October 2019

The objective was to map young Indians’ views regarding the acceptability of surrogacy, and to delineate the circumstances under which surrogacy is considered as especially problematic. In India, the number of fertility clinics currently operating in the whole country is estimated at over 3,000, making India the international leader in surrogacy. Very recently, however, surrogacy has become controversial. Participants (N = 430) were presented with scenarios depicting the circumstances in which a couple has contracted with a surrogate mother, and they were asked to indicate the extent to which such a contract may pose a moral problem. The scenarios involved four factors: the type of surrogacy (traditional or gestational), the mother’s level of autonomy, the family context, and whether surrogacy was of the commercial or the altruistic kind. Four different personal positions were found: a group for which (a) surrogacy always posed a moral problem (22%), (b) traditional surrogacy but not gestational surrogacy always posed a moral problem (15%), (c) surrogacy did not pose a problem each time the husband agrees with the procedure (40%), and (d) a group that chose not to express any position (23%). Although surrogacy is legal and big business, young people’s opinion seems to be divided on this issue. Even those who consider that surrogacy is not within itself an unacceptable procedure disagree regarding the conditions of its acceptability. This complex set of diverging attitudes, if replicated on large, representative samples, may explain the current government wavering on this issue and its recent decision that surrogacy services are forbidden for foreigners.
Fatigue Life Prediction of Serpentine Interconnects on Soft Elastomers for Stretchable Electronics
Authors: Nie Shuang , Cai Min , Wang Chengjun , Song Jizhou
Published: October 2019

Serpentine interconnects on soft elastomers have been widely used to develop high-performance stretchable electronics. A number of applications demand the system to sustain repetitive loadings, which lead to fatigue failure of serpentine interconnects. In this paper, the fatigue behavior of serpentine interconnects on an elastomeric substrate is investigated experimentally and theoretically. It is shown that the fatigue failure of serpentine interconnects is governed by the failure of the encapsulation layer with the fatigue life determined by the strain level. A fatigue life prediction model, validated by experiments, based on the fatigue modulus concept is established to predict the fatigue life of serpentine interconnects. These results provide physical insights into the fatigue failure of serpentine interconnects and paves the theoretical foundation to predict the fatigue life, thus to study the reliability of stretchable electronics.
A Mathematical Model for Grinding a Stick Blade Profile to Cut Hypoid Gears
Authors: Lee Yi-Hui , Fong Zhang-Hua
Published: October 2019

Cutter head with multiple stick blades is widely used in the mass production of hypoid and spiral bevel gears because they allow more blades per revolution of the head cutter. However, the stick blade geometry for a head cutter that is used in face-milling and face-hobbing methods to produce hypoid and spiral bevel gears is complicated and difficult to describe. The geometry of a stick blade is defined in terms of cutting parameters such as the rake angle, the hook angle, and the side relief angle that are required to perform cutting and the theoretical cutter profile in the offset plane or the neutral cutter profile in the normal plane of an imaginary generating crown gear. This study uses a 5-axis profile grinder to grind the stick blade. The machine settings for the profile grinder and the corresponding grinding wheel geometry are derived for the grinding of each face of the stick blade. A sensitivity analysis for the machine settings is conducted to determine the accuracy of the profile grinder. The numerical example shows that the proposed mathematical model is sufficiently accurate for industrial applications.
Curvature Theory on Contact and Transfer Characteristics of Enveloping Curves
Authors: Chan Cody Leeheng , Ting Kwun-Lon
Published: October 2019

In differential geometry, a curve is characterized by the curvature properties and so is a point trajectory in curvature theory. However, due to the rolling and sliding between contact curves, the characterization of enveloping curves embedded on rigid bodies in relative motion is not complete without the transfer rate of the contact point. This paper presents the new perspectives on not only the curvature characteristics but also the transfer characteristics between enveloping curves embedded on rigid bodies. The paper contains three parts. First, a pair of enveloping curves can be described by a point trajectory which traces two curves simultaneously. Second, the paper treated instant center as a tracing point, which traces the moving centrode and the fixed centrode on each of the bodies. This characterizes the rolling between centrodes and the transfer rate of the instant center on each of centrodes. The treatment can extend the instant center transfer velocity to any higher order. The third part is about the rolling and sliding between enveloping curves embedded on rigid bodies motion. A kinematic model to describe the transfer rate of contact point based on the motion of the instant center is proposed. The detailed curvature and transfer properties of line- and circle-envelopes are presented. Due to the simple treatment, this might be the first paper that successfully achieved the curvature properties of circle-envelopes. The method offers the vital kinematic aspect of enveloping curves distinctly different from the conventional curvature theory and enveloping theory.