bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate on Blood Pressure
Authors: Black Henry R. , Leppert Phyllis , DeCherney Alan
Published: January 2017

Twenty‐four women (21 normotensive and 3 hypertensive) aged 16–35 years received 150‐mg injections of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for contraception. Their blood pressure (BP) was measured under basal conditions by the same nurse before treatment and at 1‐, 2‐ and 3‐month intervals. Their mean BP fell from 124.1/79.4 to 119.8/74.6 mm Hg at one month (p < 0.05 for diastolic pressure) to 117.0/74.9 mm Hg at two months and to 115.6/73.2 mm Hg at three months. When the normotensive patients were analyzed separately, their BP fell, but not significantly. Only one patient had a rise of 20 mm Hg systolic, but she remained normotensive. We conclude that medroxyprogesterone acetate does not raise BP.
The Royal College of Midwives: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Ashton R. M.
Published: January 2017

The history of the British Royal College of Midwives is reviewed. Present and future activities and goals are also highlighted.
Community Health and the Midwife
Authors: Emelife A. D.
Published: January 2017

The place of the midwife in Nigeria is presented with special emphasis on her role within the community.
Loss of Beat‐to‐Beat Variability and a Negative Oxytocin Challenge Test: an Ominous Prognostic Sign
Authors: Homburg Roy , Insler Vaclav
Published: January 2017

The reputation of the predictive accuracy of a negative oxytocin challenge test (OCT) has been somewhat tarnished by recent sporadic reports of intrauterine fetal death relatively soon after a negative OCT. We have analyzed probable causes and the possibilities of reducing to a minimum “false‐negative” results of the OCT. In particular, several of these reports did not lake into account the loss of baseline fetal heart rate (FHR) variability recorded during the OCT and, in the absence of late decelerations, the OCT was interpreted as negative. We suggest that recordings showing a loss of baseline beat‐to‐beat FHR variability and a negative OCT illustrate a complete inability of the fetus to react to any stimulus and that, in these cases, a negative OCT should in no way be reassuring, but rather a warning sign of severe fetal compromise. Two cases are presented to illustrate this phenomenon.
A Comparative Study of Labor Induced by Oral Prostaglandin E2 and Buccal Tablets of Demoxytocin
Authors: Ulstein Magnar , Sagen Norvald , Eikhom i Nome
Published: January 2017

A comparative study of the efficacy of oral prostaglandin E2 and buccal tablets of demoxytocin for induction of labor in overdue pregnancies was made in groups of randomly selected patients. Labor was successfully induced in 95.7% of the women in the prostaglandin group and 92.1% of the women in the demoxytocin group. Although the operative delivery rate was low in both groups, it was significantly higher for the demoxytocin group. A low rate of perinatal distress was recorded and there were no serious side effects in either group. The time from start of induction until delivery, as well as the time from amniotomy until delivery, were compared for primiparae and multiparae separately. No significant differences were found. The blood loss during the third stage of labor was lower in the prostaglandin group. We find oral induction of labor in overdue pregnancies effective, safe and convenient.
A New Technique for Minilaparotomy
Authors: Palaniappan B.
Published: January 2017

Female sterilization by minilaparotomy was performed on 500 patients at Kilpauk Medical College Hospital, Madras, India. Access to the Fallopian tubes was achieved by elevating the uterus with the gloved hand of a medical or paramedical assistant. The effectiveness of the fingers for this maneuver in place of various uterine elevators is discussed and its usefulness pointed out in relation to practice in developing countries. The role of paramedical personnel and the hospital's medical staff, in this technique is described.
The Outcome of Pregnancies Subsequent to Induced and Spontaneous Abortion
Authors: Oronsaye A. U.
Published: January 2017

A study was made of 8982 women who were admitted for delivery over a four‐year period to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria. Of the 5682 women who had had more than one pregnancy, 14.5% admitted a history of one or more abortions (spontaneous or induced). Of the whole series, 8.8% admitted having had one or more induced abortions. Patients with prior abortions were compared with selected controls, and maternal characteristics were standardized between the two groups. Undesirable outcomes of subsequent pregnancy, such as low birth weight, premature delivery, stillbirth, neonatal death, miscarriage or congenital malformation, did not seem to increase in patients with histories of abortions.
A Program of IUD Insertions by Paraprofessionals and Physicians in the Philippines
Authors: Ramos Rebecca , Apelo Ruben A.
Published: January 2017

A program of IUD insertions by paramedics and physicians was undertaken at the José Fabella Memorial Hospital. Both Lippes C and D were inserted in the postpartum and interval periods. Results show that paramedics can safely and effectively perform IUD insertions, although there are indications of a need to periodically monitor, and perhaps retrain, personnel, be they paramedic or physician, in the techniques of IUD insertion.
Sarcoma Botryoides in a Nigerian Female Infant
Authors: Laditan A. A. O. , Adeniyi A. , Aimakhu V. E.
Published: January 2017

A case of sarcoma botryoides has been reported in a 10‐month‐old Nigerian female infant. The tumor has behaved true to form by its location and histologic appearance. The prognosis in this child is still guarded, as chemotherapy has been the only form of treatment. Although she has been under observation for one year now, there has been no local recurrence of the tumor.
Studies on Liver Function Under the Influence of Oral Contraceptives
Authors: Brügmann E. , Göretzlehner G. , Dabels J. , Töwe J.
Published: January 2017

The effects of two sequential therapies using mestranol as an estrogen and chlormadinone acetate and norethisterone acetate, respectively, as a gestagen on the aminotransferase (GOT and GPT), alkaline phosphatase and α‐amylase activities, the cholesterol, total bilirubin and total protein contents and the indocyanine green (Ujoviridin, VEB Chemiekombinat Bitterfeld) half‐life were studied in two groups, each comprising 12 women of fertile age. The serum protein was separated by paper electrophoresis and both the thymol turbidity and zinc sulphate tests were performed during the first treatment cycle. An estrogen‐induced rise in alanine aminotransferase (GPT) activity from 6.31 U/liter to 12.14 U/liter was observed during application of the mestranol/chlormadinone acetate therapy. The value dropped to 5.34 U/liter when chlormadinone acetate was administered as a gestagen in addition to the estrogen. No significant changes were noted in the other biochemical parameters.

Sequential therapy involving application of mestranol and norethisterone acetate produced only statistically secured rises in the α1‐globulin content and the GPT activity. All other changes in the different parameters remained within the normal range and were statistically insignificant.
Postpartum and Postabortion Use of the TCu‐220C and Lippes Loop: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sobrevilla Luis A. , Quintero Alirio Gomez , Bailey Jerald
Published: January 2017

The postinsertion experience of 274 women with the TCu‐220C and 522 women with the Lippes Loop in a university hospital family planning program in Bogotá, Colombia, has been studied by a life‐table method. Pregnancy and continuation rates are similar for both devices. Although the expulsion rate of the TCu‐220C is significantly lower than that of the Loop up to 12 months, higher removal rates for the TCu‐220C account for the similarity in overall continuation.
Abortion with Sulprostone, a Prostaglandin E2 Derivative
Authors: Pulkkinen M. O. , Kajanoja P. , Kivikoski A. , Saastamoinen J. , Selander K. , Tuimala R.
Published: January 2017

Sulprostone, a prostaglandin E2 derivative, was used in a multicenter trial to terminate 478 pregnancies of 8–21 weeks' gestation. The compound was clinically well accepted without premedication in extraovular, intravenous and intramuscular routes of administration. At 24 hours after treatment, 67%–88% of the patients had aborted, with a low average incidence of side effects. Sulprostone is preferred clinically to primary prostaglandins. Intravenous infusion was found to be the safest route, but intramuscular injection proved to be the most practical.
Susceptibility of Abortion Patients to Infection: Correlation to Cervical Flora
Authors: Paavonen J. , Kajanoja P. , Larinkari U. , Purola E.
Published: January 2017

Cervical bacterial microflora was studied with a semiquantitative method in 29 women both before and after the termination of their pregnancy. The main findings were high prevalence of anaerobic bacteria (in 72%–79% of the specimens) consisting predominantly of Bacteroides species and anaerobic Gram‐positive cocci, and low prevalence of aerobic bacteria (in 24%–38% of the specimens). Among the other microbes studied, the prevalence of Chlamydia excretors was high (24%), probably reflecting a promiscuous study population. Seventeen percent of the women developed febrile postabortion endometritis or salpingitis. However, the cervical culture results predicted neither the patient prone to infection nor her response to antimicrobial treatment, suggesting the need for more data concerning the virulence properties of the bacteria, together with isolation of the organism from an infected site.
Correlation of Optical Density, Lecithin and Lecithin/Sphingomyelin Ratio in Amniotic Fluid
Authors: Fonseca M. E. , Forsbach G. , Ganales E. S. , Zárate A.
Published: January 2017

The correlation between optical density at 650 nm, lecithin and lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio was investigated in 94 amniotic fluid samples obtained from 90 patients between 28 and 40 weeks of pregnancy. All samples were processed immediately and those contaminated with blood or meconium were discarded. The correlation coefficient between lecithin and absorbance was high (0.926). The lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio also had a good correlation coefficient with the optical density (0.768). We conclude that absorbance at 650 nm is a reliable test for assessing fetal lung maturation.
Maternal Mortality in Nigeria Compared with Earlier International Experience
Authors: Hartfield V.J.
Published: January 2017

Of 175 women dying at a nonteaching hospital, 133 succumbed for obstetric reasons after the 20th week of pregnancy, a mortality of 9.18 per 1000 live births, most commonly caused by obstructed labor, postpartum hemorrhage and eclampsia. There was a marked difference in the death rate between women who attended the antenatal clinic at least three times and those who did not, 2.85 and 27.06 per 1000, respectively, although 75% of the antenatal patients were delivered at home without medical or nursing attendants. The difference is attributed to greater use of hospital facilities by scheduled patients when trouble arose. Positive personal relationships between staff and patients in the antenatal and pediatric clinics, combined with good teaching, are essential for prevention of maternal death. Clinical research, accurate collection of data and staff experienced in local patterns of disease were major factors in lowering mortality. A review of deaths in other parts of the world is presented. Causes and incidence in developing countries are found to be similar, paralleling rates in the United States and the United Kingdom 50 and 100 years ago. The priority for world obstetric research should be general communication of scientific insights for preventing maternal death.
The Significance of Baseline Tachycardia in the Postterm Fetus
Authors: Ron M. , Adoni A. , Hochner‐Celnikier D. , Palti Z.
Published: January 2017

Two cases of uncomplicated fetal baseline tachycardia in postterm pregnancies that resulted in fetal death are reported. The tachycardia was the only sign of fetal distress in both cases. Although the condition is not usually considered an ominous sign of fetal outcome, the authors recommend immediate cesarian section in postterm cases of severe fetal baseline tachycardia occurring before or during labor.
A Unilateral Functioning Uterine Anlage with Müllerian Duct Agenesis
Authors: Rock John A. , Baramki Theodore A. , Parmley Tim H. , Jones Howard W.
Published: January 2017

The case reports of two female adolescents with congenital absence of the Müllerian ducts and a unilaterally enlarged uterine anlage containing functioning endometrial tissue are presented. The clinical manifestations may vary depending upon the delay in diagnosis after the onset of endometrial shedding within the anlage. A high index of suspicion and proper diagnostic evaluation may prevent unnecessary hospitalization. In our experience, prompt removal of the functioning uterine anlage affords complete relief of the symptoms.
A Study of Postpill Amenorrhea
Authors: Chatterjee Ratna , Banerjee Sreemanta , Ghosh K. K. , Chaudhuri N.
Published: January 2017

Levels of follicle‐stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and prolactin were evaluated in 52 cases of postpill amenorrhea at the Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, Calcutta, India. All 52 patients had experienced amenorrhea for one year since discontinuation of oral contraceptive therapy. The incidence of postpill amenorrhea was much higher in patients with histories of oligomenorrhea or irregular menstrual periods. No relationship was seen between the number of cycles of pills used and the incidence of postpill amenorrhea. The ratio of luteinizing hormone to follicle‐stimulating hormone in all cases exceeded unity, indicating that postpill amenorrhea is a type of functional secondary amenorrhea.
Complications of Pulmonary Artery Catheterization in Obstetric Patients
Authors: Rafferty Terence D. , Berkowitz Richard L.
Published: January 2017

Twenty‐one obstetric patients in whom pulmonary artery catheters had been inserted were studied. Complications were minor in nature and unassociated with adverse sequelae. They included transient premature ventricular contractions on insertion of the catheter in two cases and a ruptured balloon and a positive culture of the catheter tip in one case.
Prostaglandin F2α for Interrupting Pregnancy, Managing Intrauterine Death and Molar Pregnancy and Inducing Labor
Authors: de Gezelle Herman , Thiery Michel , Parewijck Walter , Decoster Jean‐Marie
Published: January 2017

Serial intramuscular injections of 250 μg of 15(S), 15‐methyl‐prostaglandin F2α were given to 105 women every 1‐3 hours in an attempt to induce second‐trimester abortion (N = 80) or labor (N = 25), the latter because of late intrauterine death or anencephaly. The treatment was highly successful; the cumulative expulsion rates at 12 and 24 hours were 69% and 95%, respectively. There were no serious complications, and significant alterations in the mother's vital signs were uncommon. Gastrointestinal side effects are tolerable if the woman is properly premedicated and maintained on the antiemetic, antidiarrheic and analgesic treatments.
Impact of Fetal Scalp Blood pH on the Incidence of Cesarean Section Performed for Fetal Distress
Authors: Ayromlooi Jahangir , Garfinkel Richard
Published: January 2017

To determine the impact of fetal scalp blood pH sampling (FSBpH) on the incidence of cesarean section performed for fetal distress, a retrospective clinical study was designed to compare rates of surgical intervention before and after the introduction of FSBpH in 1977. The use of the FSBpH sampling has been shown to decrease the rate of cesarean section as a means of dealing with fetal distress from 78.0% to 57.5% without a significant change in the Apgar score.
Uretero‐urinary Fistulae in Obstetrics: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Oumachigui Asha , Sen S. B. , Nayak P. Nirupama
Published: January 2017

Most urinary fistulae of obstetric origin involve the bladder. The ureter is rarely injured. The authors report three cases of uretero‐uterine fistulae, an entity accounting for 1.6% of all urinary fistulae resulting from obstetric trauma. Diagnosis and management are discussed with reference to 19 cases of uretero‐uterine fistulae reported in the literature.
Infection Theory of Eclampsia Reevaluated
Authors: Ekwempu Christopher C.
Published: January 2017

One hundred eclamptic patients and an equal number of carefully observed parturient controls were investigated clinically, radiologically, hematological!)) and bacteriologically for evidence of infection on admission. At that time, 77% of the eclamptics, but none of the other group, were febrile (temperature > 38 C). Sepsis was evidently greater among the eclamptics than the controls. Significantly more eclamptic patients with fever had infections as well, compared to those who were nonfebrile. The association of fever and infection with eclampsia was so striking that the author speculates on the possibility of a cause‐and‐effect relationship.
Double‐Blind Comparison of Intravenously Injected Butorphanol and Meperidine in Parturients
Authors: Quilligan Edward J. , Keegan Kirk A. , Donahue Mary Jo
Published: January 2017

One hundred women with moderate‐to‐very‐severe prepartum pain participated in a double‐blind study of intravenously injected butorphanol and meperidine that compared the analgesic properties, effect on the process of labor, condition of the newborn and the incidence of side effects associated with the two drugs. Cervical dilation, infant birth weight and Apgar scores were not significantly different between the test groups. The mean fetal heart rate for the butorphanol group was significantly faster than that of the meperidine group. Butorphanol provided significantly more analgesia than meperidine at 30 minutes and one hour after administration, based on pain intensity and pain relief scores. Some side effects, including sedation, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting and pain at the injection site, were reported for both drugs.
Child Spacing and Child Mortality Among Nigerian Igbos
Authors: Ebigbo P. O. , Chukudebelu W. O.
Published: January 2017

Until recently, a birth interval of at least two years was the norm in the Nigerian Igbo culture, a practice necessary for infant health and survival. A study of antenatal patients of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria, shows that this cultural pattern has been disrupted by Westernization, urbanization and consumerism. The patients studied had an average of four pregnancies in five years. Roughly half of those conceived did not survive: 41% of the patients reported having lost at least one child. Modern family planning methods are urged as replacements for the abandoned traditional methods of child spacing.
Controlled release of clarithromycin from PLGA microspheres enhances bone regeneration in rabbit calvaria defects
Authors: Alenezi Ali , Naito Yoshihito , Terukina Takayuki , Prananingrum Widyasri , Jinno Yohei , Tagami Tatsuaki , Ozeki Tetsuya , Galli Silvia , Jimbo Ryo
Published: January 2017

This study evaluated the sustained release effect of clarithromycin‐loaded in PLGA microspheres in a rabbit calvaria defect model. Four bone defects (ø5.0) were created in the calvaria of New Zealand White rabbits (n = 21, n = 7/time point). The defects were randomly designated to four groups. Group 1: No augmentation (sham), Group 2: beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP), Group 3: β‐TCP with 0.12 µg clarithromycin, and Group 4: β‐TCP with 6.12 µg PLGA microspheres loaded with 0.12 µg Clarithromycin. After 2, 4, and 12 weeks of healing, bone regeneration was evaluated using micro‐computed tomography (µCT) and histology. Clarithromycin release from PLGA microspheres revealed sustained release for around 4 weeks with ∼50% release during the first week. Histologically, new bone formation was evident at 2 and 4 weeks of healing in all groups and bone formation increased as a function of healing time. At 12 weeks, Group 4 showed significantly higher amount of newly formed bone compared to Group 1. The µCT showed that Group 4 expressed significantly higher bone formation compared to Group 1 at all time points. The in vivo findings showed that β‐TCP with clarithromycin‐loaded microspheres can enhance bone formation in bone defects. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 201–208, 2018.
Two‐dimensional shifted Legendre polynomial collocation method for electromagnetic waves in dielectric media via almost operational matrices
Authors: Patel Vijay Kumar , Singh Somveer , Singh Vineet Kumar
Published: January 2017

In this paper, a numerical solution of fractional partial differential equations (FPDEs) for electromagnetic waves in dielectric media will be discussed. For the solution of FPDEs, we developed a numerical collocation method using an algorithm based on two‐dimensional shifted Legendre polynomials approximation, which is proposed for electromagnetic waves in dielectric media. By implementing the partial Riemann–Liouville fractional derivative operators, two‐dimensional shifted Legendre polynomials approximation and its operational matrix along with collocation method are used to convert FPDEs first into weakly singular fractional partial integro‐differential equations and then converted weakly singular fractional partial integro‐differential equations into system of algebraic equation. Some results concerning the convergence analysis and error analysis are obtained. Illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the technique. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three rapidly convergent parareal solvers with application to time‐dependent PDEs with fractional Laplacian
Authors: Wu Shu‐Lin
Published: January 2017

Time‐dependent PDEs with fractional Laplacian ( − Δ)α play a fundamental role in many fields and approximating ( − Δ)α usually leads to ODEs' system like u′(t) + Au(t) = g(t) with A = Qα, where
is a sparse symmetric positive definite matrix and α > 0 denotes the fractional order. The parareal algorithm is an ideal solver for this kind of problems, which is iterative and is characterized by two propagators
and
. The propagators
and
are respectively associated with large step size ΔT and small step size Δt, where ΔT = JΔt and J⩾2 is an integer. If we fix the
‐propagator to the Implicit‐Euler method and choose for
some proper Runge–Kutta (RK) methods, such as the second‐order and third‐order singly diagonally implicit RK methods, previous studies show that the convergence factors of the corresponding parareal solvers can satisfy
and
, where σ(A) is the spectrum of the matrix A. In this paper, we show that by choosing these two RK methods as the
‐propagator, the convergence factors can reach
, provided the one‐stage complex Rosenbrock method is used as the
‐propagator. If we choose for both
and
, the complex Rosenbrock method, we show that the convergence factor of the resulting parareal solver can also reach
. Numerical results are given to support our theoretical conclusions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Homogenization of a fully coupled thermoelasticity problem for a highly heterogeneous medium with a priori known phase transformations
Authors: Eden Michael , Muntean Adrian
Published: January 2017

We investigate a linear, fully coupled thermoelasticity problem for a highly heterogeneous, two‐phase medium. The medium in question consists of a connected matrix with disconnected, initially periodically distributed inclusions separated by a sharp interface undergoing an a priori known interface movement because of phase transformations. After transforming the moving geometry to an ϵ‐periodic, fixed reference domain, we establish the well‐posedness of the model and derive a number of ϵ‐independent a priori estimates. Via a two‐scale convergence argument, we then show that the ϵ‐dependent solutions converge to solutions of a corresponding upscaled model with distributed time‐dependent microstructures. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Importance of eIF2α phosphorylation as a protective mechanism against heat stress in mouse male germ cells
Authors: Yoon Jungbin , Park Kyosun , Hwang Deog Su , Rhee Kunsoo
Published: January 2017

Mammalian male germ cells are exceptionally labile to heat stress. A temporal arrest of translation is one immediate response to heat, which involves heat‐induced phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α) to block the formation of the translational initiation complex. Here, we investigated the protective mechanisms against heat stress in mouse male germ cells. All known eIF2α kinases were expressed in lineage‐ and developmental stage‐specific manners in the testis; noteworthy was the presence of Gcn2 (General control nonderepressible 2 kinase) in spermatocytes of all seminiferous tubules. Multiple eIF2α kinases are likely activated upon heat stress in male germ cells. ISRIB (Integrated stress response inhibitor) was then used to determine the events downstream of eIF2α phosphorylation. ISRIB significantly reduced the rate of stress granule formation in spermatocytes at early‐stage (III‐IV) seminiferous tubules, and induced a number of apoptotic germ cells at late‐stage (XI‐XII) seminiferous tubules near the onset of meiosis. Thus, stress granule formation is a downstream event of eIF2α phosphorylation that may not directly protect cells from apoptosis, at least in spermatocytes of seminiferous tubules in early stages. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 84: 265–274, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
What does individual strength say about resistance training status?
Authors: Buckner Samuel L. , Mouser J. Grant , Jessee Matthew B. , Dankel Scott J. , Mattocks Kevin T. , Loenneke Jeremy P.
Published: January 2017

The point at which an individual becomes resistance “trained” is not well defined in the literature. Some studies have defined training status as having engaged in consistent resistance training activities for a given period of time, whereas others base inclusion criteria on strength levels alone, or levels of strength in combination with training age/time. If the primary focus of a study is to examine adaptations in individuals with high levels of strength, then it may be appropriate to exclude the individuals who do not meet strength requirements. However, given the heterogeneity of the strength response to resistance training, strength cannot separate those who are “trained” from those who are “untrained.” We suggest that, when determining resistance training status, training age (time) and the modality of training (specificity) should be the primary criteria considered. Muscle Nerve 55: 455–457, 2017
Social Anxiety and Social Surrogacy in College Roommate Relationships
Authors: Boucher Eliane M. , Cummings Jorden A.
Published: January 2017

The social surrogate hypothesis proposes that people with higher social anxiety (HSA) recruit others to accompany them into social situations. We tested this hypothesis with college roommates using both hypothetical (Study 1) and retrospective (Study 2) measures, while assessing roommate's perceptions of recruitment and how social surrogacy might influence liking between roommates. Across two studies, we found that HSA participants were less likely to enter social situations alone (i.e. higher conditional entry); however, HSA was related to recruitment only when participants considered hypothetical scenarios, not when recruitment was assessed globally or retrospectively. There was little evidence that HSA participants’ roommates were aware of these behaviours, although there was preliminary evidence that less social anxiety might increase liking when roommates perceived more conditional entry. We also found preliminary evidence that social anxiety may be negatively related to liking when participants were less likely to recruit an alternate surrogate if their roommate was unavailable. Taken together, these preliminary findings emphasize the importance of studying the surrogacy process from an interpersonal/dyadic perspective and using methods that will differentiate between anticipated (which may be assessed by hypothetical scenarios) and enacted recruitment behaviours. Copyright © 2017 European Association of Personality Psychology
Combining Trait Models of Impulsivity to Improve Explanation of Substance Use Behaviour
Authors: Stautz Kaidy , Dinc Linda , Cooper Andrew J.
Published: January 2017

The UPPS–P model of impulsivity is gaining popularity among personality and substance use researchers, but questions remain as to whether its five facets have incremental validity in explaining substance use over a more parsimonious model specifying only two facets: reward drive and rash impulsiveness. In three cross–sectional studies (total N = 486), we investigated whether the novel components of the UPPS–P model (negative Urgency, Premeditation, Perseverance, Sensation seeking, Positive urgency) predicted typical and problematic alcohol and cannabis use after accounting for reward drive, rash impulsiveness and trait neuroticism (assessed with the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire). Reward drive and rash impulsiveness scores were calculated using principal components analysis of multiple scales, including UPPS–P premeditation and sensation seeking. Results showed that rash impulsiveness was a robust predictor of typical and problematic substance use. The novel facets of the UPPS–P did not improve prediction of typical substance use. The urgency scales inconsistently predicted problematic use. Specifically, negative urgency predicted one of three measures of negative consequences from alcohol use, and positive urgency only predicted negative consequences from cannabis use. Results suggest that the three novel facets of the UPPS–P model add little over a two component model in explaining substance use, although may provide preliminary evidence for the utility of a revised global urgency construct in explaining problematic substance use. Copyright © 2017 European Association of Personality Psychology
Lateral Magnetically Modulated Multilayers by Combining Ion Implantation and Lithography
Authors: Menéndez Enric , Modarresi Hiwa , Petermann Claire , Nogués Josep , Domingo Neus , Liu Haoliang , Kirby Brian J. , Mohd Amir Syed , Salhi Zahir , Babcock Earl , Mattauch Stefan , Van Haesendonck Chris , Vantomme André , Temst Kristiaan
Published: January 2017

The combination of lithography and ion implantation is demonstrated to be a suitable method to prepare lateral multilayers. A laterally, compositionally, and magnetically modulated microscale pattern consisting of alternating Co (1.6 µm wide) and Co‐CoO (2.4 µm wide) lines has been obtained by oxygen ion implantation into a lithographically masked Au‐sandwiched Co thin film. Magnetoresistance along the lines (i.e., current and applied magnetic field are parallel to the lines) reveals an effective positive giant magnetoresistance (GMR) behavior at room temperature. Conversely, anisotropic magnetoresistance and GMR contributions are distinguished at low temperature (i.e., 10 K) since the O‐implanted areas become exchange coupled. This planar GMR is principally ascribed to the spatial modulation of coercivity in a spring‐magnet‐type configuration, which results in 180° Néel extrinsic domain walls at the Co/Co‐CoO interfaces. The versatility, in terms of pattern size, morphology, and composition adjustment, of this method offers a unique route to fabricate planar systems for, among others, spintronic research and applications.
Accuracy of competing‐risks model in screening for pre‐eclampsia by maternal factors and biomarkers at 11–13 weeks' gestation
Authors: O'Gorman N. , Wright D. , Poon L. C. , Rolnik D. L. , Syngelaki A. , Wright A. , Akolekar R. , Cicero S. , Janga D. , Jani J. , Molina F. S. , de Paco Matallana C. , Papantoniou N. , Persico N. , Plasencia W. , Singh M. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To examine the diagnostic accuracy of a previously developed model for prediction of pre‐eclampsia (PE) by a combination of maternal factors and biomarkers at 11–13 weeks' gestation.

Methods

This was a prospective first‐trimester multicenter study of screening for PE in 8775 singleton pregnancies. A previously published algorithm was used for the calculation of patient‐specific risk of PE in each individual. The detection rates (DRs) and false‐positive rates (FPRs) for delivery with PE < 32, < 37 and ≥ 37 weeks were estimated and compared with those for the dataset used for development of the algorithm.

Results

In the study population, 239 (2.7%) cases developed PE, of which 17 (0.2%), 59 (0.7%) and 180 (2.1%) developed PE < 32, < 37 and ≥ 37 weeks, respectively. With combined screening by maternal factors, mean arterial pressure, uterine artery pulsatility index and serum placental growth factor, the DR was 100% (95% CI, 80–100%) for PE < 32 weeks, 75% (95% CI, 62–85%) for PE < 37 weeks and 43% (95% CI, 35–50%) for PE ≥ 37 weeks, at a 10% FPR. These DRs were similar to the estimated rates for the dataset used for development of the model: 89% (95% CI, 79–96%) for PE < 32 weeks, 75% (95% CI, 70–80%) for PE < 37 weeks and 47% (95% CI, 44–51%) for PE ≥ 37 weeks.

Conclusion

Assessment of a combination of maternal factors and biomarkers at 11–13 weeks provides effective first‐trimester screening for preterm PE. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Selective disturbance by elephants (Loxodonta africana) on eight tree species in a West African savannah
Authors: Hema Emmanuel M. , Barnes Richard F. W. , Di Vittorio Massimiliano , Luiselli Luca , Guenda Wendengoudi
Published: January 2017

African elephants (Loxodonta africana) are ecosystem engineers in African savannahs, but their role in the modifications of the populations of trees by means of their browsing activities has been poorly studied so far in West Africa. We studied the disturbance of elephants to eight selected species of trees in the Nazinga Game Ranch (Burkina Faso), in 54 transects at the end of dry season 2008. We fitted simple models describing the number of dead individuals for each tree species in relation to their initial population density, and in relation to dung‐pile density, in the assumption that there should be a positive relationship between elephant density and dung‐pile density. Generalized Linear Model analyses and regression analyses showed that the more dense the woodland cover, the least the percentage of damaged plants by elephants. For each plant species, the initial density and density of elephant dung‐piles explained a high proportion of the variance in the density of dead individuals. Stochastic models, generated by a purposely created simple computer program written in GW‐BASIC programming language, predicted changes in tree and shrub abundance under different assumptions about elephant numbers. The models suggested that elephant browsing may cause considerable change in the selected plant populations, especially with regard to such species as Acacia gourmaensis, Vitellaria paradoxa and Maytenus senegalensis. These changes may possibly increase the meat harvest from controlled hunting activities, thus improving the income for surrounding communities.
Evaluation of Simple and Inexpensive High‐Throughput Methods for Phytic Acid Determination
Authors: Raboy Victor , Johnson Amy , Bilyeu Kristin , Brinch‐Pedersen Henrik , Cichy Karen , Hurrell Richard F. , Zeder Christophe , Rasmussen Søren K. , Warkentin Tom D. , Thavarajah Pushparajah , Shi Jinrui , Zhou Lan , Shu Qingyao
Published: January 2017

High‐throughput/low‐cost/low‐tech methods for phytic acid determination that are sufficiently accurate and reproducible would be of value in plant genetics, crop breeding and in the food and feed industries. Variants of two candidate methods, those described by Vaintraub and Lapteva (Anal Biochem 175:227–24, 1988; “VL” methods) and Huang and Lantzsch (J Sci Food Agric 34:1423–1426, 1983; “HL” methods), were evaluated. The primary concern with these methods is that, due to interference of matrix constituents including inorganic P, they can overestimate phytic acid and are ineffective at low levels of phytic acid. Twelve seed flours, representing lines of soybean, maize, barley and dry bean, containing a wide range of phytic acid levels, were analyzed by a minimum of eight cooperating laboratories using three variants of the VL method and two variants of the HL method. No method had consistently acceptable (˂2.0”) “Horwitz ratios”, a measure of reproducibility, although some treatments approached that. For example, one variant of the VL method when used to assay a soybean flour with a “standard” level of phytic acid had a Horwitz ratio of 2.15. Some variants of the VL method were adequate for analyses of cereal grains regardless of phytic acid level but none accurately measured phytic acid when at low levels in soybean flours. One variant of the HL method in which the 0.2 N HCl extraction media is modified to contain 10% Na2SO4, did accurately measure phytic acid levels in both cereal and legume flours regardless of endogenous phytic acid levels or matrix constituents.
Is the Association Between Education and Fertility Postponement Causal? The Role of Family Background Factors
Authors: Tropf Felix C. , Mandemakers Jornt J.
Published: January 2017

A large body of literature has demonstrated a positive relationship between education and age at first birth. However, this relationship may be partly spurious because of family background factors that cannot be controlled for in most research designs. We investigate the extent to which education is causally related to later age at first birth in a large sample of female twins from the United Kingdom (N = 2,752). We present novel estimates using within–identical twin and biometric models. Our findings show that one year of additional schooling is associated with about one-half year later age at first birth in ordinary least squares (OLS) models. This estimate reduced to only a 1.5-month later age at first birth for the within–identical twin model controlling for all shared family background factors (genetic and family environmental). Biometric analyses reveal that it is mainly influences of the family environment—not genetic factors—that cause spurious associations between education and age at first birth. Last, using data from the Office for National Statistics, we demonstrate that only 1.9 months of the 2.74 years of fertility postponement for birth cohorts 1944–1967 could be attributed to educational expansion based on these estimates. We conclude that the rise in educational attainment alone cannot explain differences in fertility timing between cohorts.
Damping of particles interacting with a vibrating medium
Authors: Goudon Thierry , Vavasseur Arthur , Alonso Ricardo
Published: January 2017

We investigate the large time behavior of the solutions of a Vlasov–Fokker–Planck equation where particles are subjected to a confining external potential and a self-consistent potential intended to describe the interaction of the particles with their environment. The environment is seen as a medium vibrating in a direction transverse to particles' motion. We identify equilibrium states of the model and justify the asymptotic trend to equilibrium. The analysis relies on hypocoercivity techniques.
Representations of Elementary Abelian p-Groups and Vector Bundles
Authors: Benson David J.
Published: January 2017

Questions about modular representation theory of finite groups can often be reduced to elementary abelian subgroups. This is the first book to offer a detailed study of the representation theory of elementary abelian groups, bringing together information from many papers and journals, as well as unpublished research. Special attention is given to recent work on modules of constant Jordan type, and the methods involve producing and examining vector bundles on projective space and their Chern classes. Extensive background material is provided, which will help the reader to understand vector bundles and their Chern classes from an algebraic point of view, and to apply this to modular representation theory of elementary abelian groups. The final section, addressing problems and directions for future research, will also help to stimulate further developments in the subject. With no similar books on the market, this will be an invaluable resource for graduate students and researchers working in representation theory.
Effects of a healthier snack on snacking habits and glycated Hb (HbA1c): a 6-week intervention study
Authors: Yan Mary R. , Parsons Andrew , Whalley Gillian A. , Rush Elaine C.
Published: January 2017

Dietary behaviour modification may change eating habits and reduce the impact of poor nutrition. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of daily consumption of a healthier snack bar on snacking habits and glycated Hb (HbA1c) within a 6-week intervention. In all, twenty-eight participants were randomly allocated to two groups to either consume the bars as the main snack for 6 weeks (n 14) or receipt of the bars was delayed for 6 weeks (n 14) following a stepped-wedge design. All participants had HbA1c concentrations measured at weeks −1, 0, 4, 6, 10 and 12. A short dietary habits questionnaire was self-completed at weeks 0, 6 and 12. Participants consumed the bars they received instead of other snacks, and found that the healthier snack bar was acceptable as part of their daily dietary pattern. Over the 12 weeks, there was a significant reduction in intake of biscuits, cakes and pies (approximately 2 servings/week, P<0·05) in both groups. Fruit juice intake was reduced (approximately 1 serving/week, P=0·029) in the first group. In all, twenty participants (71·4 %) experienced a decrease (n 15) or no change (n 5) in HbA1c (range 0–4 mmol/mol), whereas eight participants experienced an increase in HbA1c (range 0·5–2·5 mmol/mol). There was high compliance with the healthier snack intervention and a trend towards a favourable effect on glucose homoeostasis. Habitual snacking behaviour has the potential to be improved through changes in the food supply, and in the longer term may reduce the impact of poor nutrition on public health.
ACloudina-like fossil with evidence of asexual reproduction from the lowest Cambrian, South China
Authors: HAN JIAN , CAI YAOPING , SCHIFFBAUER JAMES D. , HUA HONG , WANG XING , YANG XIAOGUANG , UESUGI KENTARO , KOMIYA TSUYOSHI , SUN JIE
Published: January 2017

The earliest fossil record of animal biomineralization occurs in the latest Ediacaran Period (c. 550 Ma).CloudinaandSinotubulitesare two important tubular taxa among these earliest skeletal fossils. The evolutionary fate ofCloudina-type fossils across the Ediacaran–Cambrian transition, however, remains poorly understood. Here we report a multi-layered tubular microfossilFeiyanella manicagen. et sp. nov. from a phosphorite interval of the lowest Cambrian Kuanchuanpu Formation, southern Shaanxi Province, South China. This newly discovered fossil is a conical tube with a ‘funnel-in-funnel’ construction, showing profound morphological similarities toCloudinaandConotubus. On the other hand, the outer few layers, and particularly the outermost layer, ofFeiyanellatubes are regularly to irregularly corrugated, a feature strikingly similar to the variably folded/wrinkled tube walls ofSinotubulites. TheFeiyanellatubes additionally exhibit two orders of dichotomous branching, similar to branching structures reported occasionally inCloudinaand possibly indicative of asexual reproduction. Owing to broad similarities in tube morphology, tube wall construction and features presumably indicative of asexual reproduction,Cloudina, Conotubus, Sinotubulitesand the here describedFeiyanellamay thus constitute a monophyletic group traversing the Ediacaran–Cambrian boundary. The tube construction and palaeoecological strategy ofFeiyanellaputatively indicate evolutionary continuity in morphology and palaeoecology of benthic metazoan communities across the Ediacaran–Cambrian transition.
Lost Boys, Found Church: Dinka Refugees and Religious Change in Sudan's Second Civil War
Authors: ZINK JESSE
Published: January 2017

The experience of young male Dinka refugees during Sudan's second civil war (1983–2005) illustrates the connections between religious change, violence and displacement. Many of the ‘unaccompanied minors’ who fled to camps in Ethiopia and then Kenya moved decisively towards Christianity in the years during which they were displaced. Key variables were the connection between education and Christianity, the need for new structures of community, and the way in which the Church offered a way to make sense of the destruction of civil war. As the war ended, many former refugees returned to their home regions as Christian evangelists, leading to further religious change. Their case parallels other mass conversion movements in African Christian history but takes place in a post-colonial context of civil war.
Democratic Theory, the Boundary Problem, and Global Reform
Authors: Nili Shmuel
Published: January 2017

One of the enduring problems in democratic theory is its inability to specify who should belong to the demos. In recent years, several scholars have been arguing that democratic theory should try to overcome this “boundary problem” through different kinds of global reform. I argue, however, that the boundary problem is an analytical distraction in thinking about global reform. I begin with general doubts as to whether the boundary problem can ground global reform. I then join the developing conversation on Arash Abizadeh's and Robert Goodin's boundary problem arguments. I offer new reasons for why both arguments encounter fundamental difficulties. I conclude by anticipating the concern that my argument does not take the need for global reform seriously enough.
OSTEOPOROSIS DRUGS MARKETED IN THE UNITED STATES: GENERIC COMPETITION, PRICING STRUCTURE, AND DISPERSION AMONG PAYERS
Authors: Balkhi Bander , Seoane-Vazquez Enrique , Rodriguez-Monguio Rosa
Published: January 2017

Background:Despite the cost of pharmaceuticals, studies assessing prices of osteoporosis drugs are lacking. This study examined trends in prices of osteoporosis drugs in the United States in the period 1988–2014, assessed pricing structure of osteoporosis drugs, and evaluated price trends before and after generic drugs market entry.

Methods:Data were derived from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the RedBook, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS). Descriptive statistics and segmented linear regression analyses were performed.

Results:In the period 1988–2014, osteoporosis drug prices increased faster than the inflation. The average wholesale price (AWP) of generic products at market entry represented 90 percent of the AWP for the corresponding brand. Prices of brand products continued to increase after generic entry. Drug prices showed a significant variation when compared with the brand AWP. The brand wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) was typically set at 83.3 percent of the AWP. Community pharmacies acquired osteoporosis brand drugs at a median of 80.5 percent of the brand AWP. Significant reductions in brand AWP were observed for Medicare Part B (78.5 percent of the brand AWP), generic National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (33.7 percent), and FSS (22.5 percent).

Conclusions:There are significant differences in the manufacturer prices, pharmacy acquisition costs and reimbursement rates of osteoporosis drugs. Pharmaceutical companies listed prices are higher than the pharmacy actual estimated acquisitions costs, and the prices used for reimbursement to providers. Generic drugs entry significantly drives down prices; still, prices of branded drugs facing generic competition continued to increase after generic market entry.