bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dapagliflozin Added to Usual Care in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Preexisting Cardiovascular Disease: A 24‐Week, Multicenter, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Study with a 28‐Week Extension
Authors: Leiter Lawrence A. , Cefalu William T. , de Bruin Tjerk W. A. , Gause‐Nilsson Ingrid , Sugg Jennifer , Parikh Shamik J.
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To assess the efficacy of dapagliflozin, a sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, for the treatment of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and preexisting cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Design

Randomized, double‐blind, age‐stratified (<65 and ≥65), 24‐week clinical trial with a 28‐week extension.

Setting

One hundred seventy‐three centers in 10 countries.

Participants

Individuals (N = 964) with T2DM, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.0% to 10.0%, and documented CVD.

Intervention

Dapagliflozin 10 mg/d or placebo was added to usual care. Participants receiving insulin had their total daily insulin dose reduced by 25% at randomization.

Measurements

Two equal primary end points: change from baseline in HbA1c and proportion of participants achieving a three‐item end point (reduction of ≥0.5% in HbA1c, ≥3% in body weight, and ≥3 mmHg in systolic blood pressure) at 24 weeks.

Results

Forty‐seven percent were aged 65 and older, 7.7% were aged 75 and older, mean duration of T2DM was 13 years, mean baseline HbA1c was 8.1%, and approximately 60% were taking insulin. The placebo‐corrected change in HbA1c with dapagliflozin was −0.4% at 24 weeks. Significantly more participants achieved the three‐item end point with dapagliflozin (10.0%) than with placebo (1.9%). The placebo‐corrected percentage change in body weight for dapagliflozin was −1.9% (−1.8 kg). Similar results were observed in both age strata, and changes were maintained over 52 weeks. More than one‐quarter (28.2%) of participants receiving dapagliflozin and 25.3% of those receiving placebo experienced hypoglycemia. More participants receiving dapagliflozin had vulvovaginitis, balanitis, or urinary tract infection.

Conclusion

When added to a usual background regimen in an older population with advanced T2DM and preexisting comorbid CVD, dapagliflozin improved glycemic control without an increase in hypoglycemic risk, promoted weight loss, and was well tolerated.
Distance to seed sources and land‐use history affect forest development over a long‐term heathland to forest succession
Authors: Kepfer‐Rojas S. , Schmidt I. K. , Ransijn J. , Riis‐Nielsen T. , Verheyen K.
Published: June 2014

Questions

Is there a spatial pattern in the community structure (stem densities, species richness and species composition) of trees and shrubs during more than 100 yr of heathland to forest succession? To what extent is community structure influenced by land‐use history and distance to seed sources? Do these effects change in time?

Location

A 350‐ha heathland (Nørholm) in southwest Denmark was abandoned in 1895 and left for free succession. Prior to abandonment the heathland was under traditional management for centuries.

Method

Trees and shrubs were recorded and measured in ten surveys spanning 91 yr (1921–2012). In the first nine surveys, complete censuses were used, whereas 116 randomly placed plots (10‐m radius) were used in the most recent survey. We used mixed models and different multivariate techniques (non‐metric multidimensional scaling and permutational multivariate ANOVA) to analyse spatio‐temporal patterns in stem densities, species richness and species composition and the effects of land‐use history and distance to seed sources.

Results

Tree and shrub densities increased exponentially over time and were consistently lower at longer distance from seed sources. Land‐use history affected the rate of increase in tree densities, with lower encroachment rates at previously cultivated soils. Initially, species richness increased rapidly but leveled off in later successional stages. Richness was marginally higher at areas closer to seed sources, whereas it was not affected by land‐use history. The succession showed a shift from early to mid‐successional species over time; but distance to seed source determined which species were colonizing at early stages.

Conclusion

Distance to seed source and land‐use history can differentially affect the structure and spatial patterns of developing forest communities. Although both factors had long‐lasting effects on rates of colonization, the spatial patterns of colonization and species composition were mainly determined by distance to seed sources. The importance of distance to seed sources became less over time, suggesting that dispersal is a stronger driver at early stages. After more than a century since abandonment, forest covers <30% of the area, indicating that lack of heathland management did not strongly promote tree colonization at this site.
Water and substrate control of cliff communities: patterns among species and phyla
Authors: Aho Ken , Weaver T. , Eversman Sharon
Published: June 2014

Aims

Cliff communities tend to be compositionally simple but taxonomically diverse at the phylum/division level. As a result, they provide a setting for examining the responses of distinct phyla (e.g. Anthophyta, Bryophyta and lichens), species within these phyla and communities comprised of these phyla, to the same environmental gradients. Our aims were both descriptive and hypothesis‐driven. We sought to identify major community shifts across water–substrate gradients in a poorly studied system (inland North American cliffs), while considering extant hypotheses concerning the relationships of organisms to environments at different taxonomic scales.

Location

Sub‐alpine cliffs in northeastern Yellowstone National Park.

Methods

Cliff faces on two mountains were blocked at nine waterfalls. At each block, community composition was recorded from random samples obtained for three levels of water availability (xeric, mesic and hygric) on two substrates (limestone and andesite). Patterns of cover and richness were compared using Friedman's Rank F‐tests. Community patterns were discerned using permutation MANOVAs, ordinations, and cluster analyses.

Results

Phyletic composition varied in response to water availability. In general, lichens dominated dry sites, while vascular plants dominated wet sites. Anthophyta was the most narrowly specialized phylum, and Bryophyta was the most generalized. Beta diversity was higher at drier sites, due to the dominance of the diverse lichen group. As a result, communities on lime and andesitic substrates were indistinguishable in hygric environments, but significantly different at drier sites. This may have occurred because, while water is limiting for neither substrate in hygric environments, andesites are more likely to absorb and store atmospheric water in drier environments. Indicator species analyses identified 27 distinct species distinguishing water and substrate conditions, or their interactions.

Conclusions

Our experimental design uniquely accounted for extraneous variables in its examination of water and substrate effects on cliff communities. Water strongly controlled community composition both among and within phyla through both direct effects and interactions with substrate.
L‐lysine dose dependently delays gastric emptying and increases intestinal fluid volume in humans and rats
Authors: Baruffol C. , Jordi J. , Camargo S. , Radovic T. , Herzog B. , Fried M. , Schwizer W. , Verrey F. , Lutz T. A. , Steingoetter A.
Published: June 2014

Background

Novel sensory inputs for the control of food intake and gastrointestinal (GI) function are of increasing interest due to the rapid increase in nutrition‐related diseases. The essential amino acid L‐lysine was demonstrated to have a selective impact on food intake, gastric emptying, and intestinal transit in rats, thus indicating a potential novel direct sensory input to assess dietary protein content and quality. The aim of this study was to assess translational aspects of this finding and to investigate the dose‐dependent effect of L‐lysine on human and rat GI function.

Methods

L‐lysine doses from 0–800 mg in rats and 0.5–7.5 g in humans were analyzed for their effect on gastric emptying and GI secretion. Human GI function was assessed non‐invasively using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), rat data were acquired using standard lethal measurement methods. L‐lysine dose dependently delayed gastric emptying and stimulated GI secretion in rats as reflected by residual phenol red content and increased gastric wet weight.

Key Results

The dose‐dependent delay in gastric emptying observed in rats was confirmed in humans with an increase in halftime of gastric emptying of 4 min/g L‐lysine, p < 0.01. Moreover, a dose‐dependent increase in intestinal fluid accumulation was observed (0.4 mL/min/g L‐lysine, p < 0.0001). No effect on alkaline tide, glucose concentration, hematocrit, or visceral sensations was detected.

Conclusions & Inferences

This translational study demonstrates comparable dose‐dependent effects of intragastric L‐lysine on GI function in humans and rats and suggests a broader role for individual amino acids in the control of GI motility and secretion in vivo.
Correlation between the human fecal microbiota and depression
Authors: Naseribafrouei A. , Hestad K. , Avershina E. , Sekelja M. , Linløkken A. , Wilson R. , Rudi K.
Published: June 2014

Background

Depression is a chronic syndrome with a pathogenesis linked to various genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Several links between gut microbiota and depression have been established in animal models. In humans, however, few correlations have yet been demonstrated. The aim of our work was therefore to identify potential correlations between human fecal microbiota (as a proxy for gut microbiota) and depression.

Methods

We analyzed fecal samples from 55 people, 37 patients, and 18 non‐depressed controls. Our analyses were based on data generated by Illumina deep sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons.

Key Results

We found several correlations between depression and fecal microbiota. The correlations, however, showed opposite directions even for closely related Operational Taxonomic Units (OTU's), but were still associated with certain higher order phylogroups. The order Bacteroidales showed an overrepresentation (p = 0.05), while the family Lachnospiraceae showed an underrepresentation (p = 0.02) of OTU's associated with depression. At low taxonomic levels, there was one clade consisting of five OTU's within the genus Oscillibacter, and one clade within Alistipes (consisting of four OTU's) that showed a significant association with depression (p = 0.03 and 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions & Inferences

The Oscillibacter type strain has valeric acid as its main metabolic end product, a homolog of neurotransmitter GABA, while Alistipes has previously been shown to be associated with induced stress in mice. In conclusion, the taxonomic correlations detected here may therefore correspond to mechanistic models.
Stepping accuracy and visuomotor control among older adults: effect of target contrast and refractive blur
Authors: Black Alex A. , Kimlin Janessa A. , Wood Joanne M.
Published: June 2014

Purpose

Older adults have increased visual impairment, including refractive blur from presbyopic multifocal spectacle corrections, and are less able to extract visual information from the environment to plan and execute appropriate stepping actions; these factors may collectively contribute to their higher risk of falls. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of refractive blur and target visibility on the stepping accuracy and visuomotor stepping strategies of older adults during a precision stepping task.

Methods

Ten healthy, visually normal older adults (mean age 69.4 ± 5.2 years) walked up and down a 20 m indoor corridor stepping onto selected high and low contrast targets while viewing under three visual conditions: best‐corrected vision, +2.00 DS and +3.00 DS blur; the order of blur conditions was randomised between participants. Stepping accuracy and gaze behaviours were recorded using an eyetracker and a secondary hand‐held camera.

Results

Older adults made significantly more stepping errors with increasing levels of blur, particularly exhibiting under‐stepping (stepping more posteriorly) onto the targets (p < 0.05), while visuomotor stepping strategies did not significantly alter. Stepping errors were also significantly greater for the low compared to the high contrast targets and differences in visuomotor stepping strategies were found, including increased duration of gaze and increased interval between gaze onset and initiation of the leg swing when stepping onto the low contrast targets.

Conclusions

These findings highlight that stepping accuracy is reduced for low visibility targets, and for high levels of refractive blur at levels typically present in multifocal spectacle corrections, despite significant changes in some of the visuomotor stepping strategies. These findings highlight the importance of maximising the contrast of objects in the environment, and may help explain why older adults wearing multifocal spectacle corrections exhibit an increased risk of falling.
THE MEDIATIZATION OF NETWORK GOVERNANCE: THE IMPACT OF COMMERCIALIZED NEWS AND MEDIATIZED POLITICS ON TRUST AND PERCEIVED NETWORK PERFORMANCE
Authors: KORTHAGEN IRIS , KLIJN ERIK‐HANS
Published: June 2014

Despite the importance of news media and their commercial logic for society at large and politics in particular, the impact of media and media logic on network governance processes is often disregarded. In this article we examine the effects of commercialized news and mediatized politics on trust between network actors and perceived network performance. Our study draws on a survey of project managers involved in urban spatial projects in the four largest cities in the Netherlands (N = 141). The results show that commercialized news and mediatized politics negatively affect trust relations between network actors. Commercialized news has a direct effect on the perceived network performance.
Wuchereria bancrofti 20/22 a homologue of abundant larval transcript L3 stage filarial antigen: molecular and immunological characterization
Authors: Aparnaa Ramanathan , Mahalakshmi Natarajan , Harini Asai , Jeyaprita Parasurama Jawaharlal , Anugraha Gandhirajan , Amdare N. P. , Khatri V. K. , Reddy M. V. R. , Kaliraj P.
Published: June 2014

The chromadorea abundant larval transcript (ALT) family of proteins contains ALT one of the most studied putative vaccine candidate in experimental filariasis. This study reports the characterization of Wuchereria bancrofti 20/22 (Wb20/22) as a member of chromadorea, the ALT family of proteins from the L3 stage of W. bancrofti. The high reactivity with serum from the endemic normal (EN) population suggests that Wb20/22 could be a target of elicit protective immunity. The glutamic acid‐rich region of Wb20/22 was predicted to harbour the longest linear B‐cell epitope by insilico prediction tools. The significance of this region was revealed by studying the mutant form of Wb20/22, without acidic domain (WOAD) which was cloned, and the immune response was compared with Wb20/22. The signal sequence of Wb20/22 was also an immunodominant region, and mutant construct without signal sequence (WOSS) was cloned and characterized. The peak antibody titre elicited by WOAD was higher than Wb20/22 or WOSS, which pointed to the immunomodulatory role of glutamic acid‐rich region. Wb20/22 elicited very high levels of IL‐10 and diminished levels of IL‐4 and IL‐5 which could be the reason for low antibody titre. The prophylactic efficacy of WOAD conferred protection (62·26%) which was higher than Wb20/22 (49·82%) and WOSS (54·78%).
Evaluation of Oestrous Detection in Dairy Cattle Comparing an Automated Activity Monitoring System to Visual Observation
Authors: Michaelis I , Burfeind O , Heuwieser W
Published: June 2014

Contents

The objective of the study was to evaluate an automated activity monitoring (AAM) system for oestrous detection in dairy cows. Specifically, we set out to determine the oestrous detection efficiency and accuracy of the AAM system and to compare reproductive performance of cows detected either by AAM, by visual observation (VO) or by at least 1 of the 2 methods (EOM). A total of 1004 potential cow‐periods from 348 cows were analysed. Oestrous detection rates (EDR) were calculated for 21 day (VWP+21), 42 day (VWP+42), and 63 day (VWP+63) after voluntary waiting period (VWP). Oestrous detection rate did not differ between AAM (42.1%) and VO (37.3%) during VWP+21 (p > 0.05) but was significantly higher in EOM (56.3%, p < 0.05). Oestrous detection by AAM achieved an efficiency (number of correctly detected oestruses/total number of cow‐periods*100) of 35.6% and an accuracy (number of correctly detected oestruses/(number of true+ false oestruses)*100) of 83.8%. Visual observation resulted in an efficiency of 34.3% and accuracy of 75.1%. Pregnancy rate at 200 DIM was higher in AAM (66.8%) and EOM (68.8%) than in VO (57.1%, p < 0.05). Cows detected by AAM (p < 0.05) showed a 1.37 times greater risk to conceive than cows detected by VO as the reference (p < 0.05). The results show that an automated activity monitoring system can support oestrous detection in dairy cattle. The exclusive use of such a system, however, cannot be recommended.
Diagnostic yield of transbronchial cryobiopsy in interstitial lung disease: A randomized trial
Authors: Pajares Virginia , Puzo Carmen , Castillo Diego , Lerma Enrique , Montero M. Angeles , Ramos‐Barbón David , Amor‐Carro Oscar , Gil de Bernabé Angels , Franquet Tomás , Plaza Vicente , Hetzel Jürgen , Sanchis Joaquin , Torrego Alfons
Published: June 2014

Background and objective

Transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB) is required for evaluation in selected patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD). The diagnostic yield of histopathologic assessment is variable and is influenced by factors such as the size of samples and the presence of crush artefacts left by conventional biopsy forceps. We compared the diagnostic yield and safety of TBLB with cryoprobe sampling versus conventional forceps sampling.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial analysed data for 77 patients undergoing TBLB for evaluation of ILD; patients were assigned to either a conventional‐forceps group or a cryoprobe group. Two pathologists assessed the tissue samples and agreed on histopathologic diagnoses. We also compared the duration of procedures, complications and sample‐quality variables.

Results

The most frequent diagnosis observed in the cryoprobe group was non‐specific interstitial pneumonia. Histopathologic diagnoses were identified in more cases in the cryoprobe group (74.4%) than in the conventional‐forceps group (34.1%) (P < 0.001), and the diagnostic yield was higher in the cryoprobe group (51.3% vs 29.1% in the conventional forceps group; P = 0.038). A larger mean area of tissue was harvested by cryoprobe (14.7 ± 11 mm2) than by conventional forceps (3.3 ± 4.1 mm2) (P < 0.001). More grade 2 bleeding (not statistically significant) occurred in the cryoprobe group (56.4%) than in the conventional‐forceps group (34.2%). No differences in other complications were observed.

Conclusions

TBLB by cryoprobe is safe and potentially useful in the diagnosis of ILD. Larger multisite randomized trials are required to confirm the potential benefits of this procedure.

Clinical trial registration at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01064609.
Interactive Hazards Education Program for Youth in a Low SES Community: A Quasi‐Experimental Pilot Study
Authors: Webb Michelle , Ronan Kevin R.
Published: June 2014

A pilot study of an interactive hazards education program was carried out in Canberra (Australia), with direct input from youth participants. Effects were evaluated in relation to youths’ interest in disasters, motivation to prepare, risk awareness, knowledge indicators, perceived preparedness levels, planning and practice for emergencies, and fear and anxiety indicators. Parents also provided ratings, including of actual home‐based preparedness activities. Using a single group pretest‐posttest with benchmarking design, a sample of 20 youths and their parents from a low SES community participated. Findings indicated beneficial changes on a number of indicators. Preparedness indicators increased significantly from pre‐ to posttest on both youth (p < 0.01) and parent ratings (p < 0.01). Parent ratings reflected an increase of just under six home‐based preparedness activities. Youth knowledge about disaster mitigation also was seen to increase significantly (p < 0.001), increasing 39% from pretest levels. While personalized risk perceptions significantly increased (p < 0.01), anxiety and worry levels were seen either not to change (generalized anxiety, p > 0.05) or to reduce between pre‐ and posttest (hazards‐specific fears, worry, and distress, ps ranged from p < 0.05 to < 0.001). In terms of predictors of preparedness, a number of variables were found to predict posttest preparedness levels, including information searching done by participants between education sessions. These pilot findings are the first to reflect quasi‐experimental outcomes for a youth hazards education program carried out in a setting other than a school that focused on a sample of youth from a low SES community.
Quality Controlled: An Ethnographic Account of Tea Party Messaging and Action
Authors: Prior Francis B.
Published: June 2014

What strategies do Tea Party movement organizers use to achieve frame alignment, that is, uniformity of grievance, purpose, and action, with their participants? Evidence to answer this question is gathered from a year‐length participant‐observation case study of one city‐based Tea Party organization, primarily through the meetings of its localized grassroots chapters. Principal findings are that Tea Party organizers employ quality control of off‐message grievances, for example, abortion, as well as any action or communication that would or could be perceived as racially prejudicial, or otherwise inflammatory. Formally, these findings demonstrate the influence of organizational hierarchy on grassroots practice. Substantively, they demonstrate the complex relationship between a broader conservative ideological repertoire as empirically deployed by participants, and the more focused frame alignment attempts of a particular social movement organization. In short, the findings elucidate the importance of interaction and organizational structure as they influence social movement messaging and action.
Why Did the Communists Win or Lose? A Comparative Analysis of the Revolutionary Civil Wars in Russia, Finland, Spain, and China
Authors: Osinsky Pavel , Eloranta Jari
Published: June 2014

According to classic interpretations of the communist revolutions, political mobilization of peasantry was critical for the success of the revolutionary forces. This article, which reexamines the experience of civil wars in Russia, Finland, Spain, and China, argues that peasants’ contribution to the revolutions in Russia and later in China became possible under two historical conditions: breakdown of state authorities during the mass mobilization wars and existence of an unresolved agrarian problem in the countryside. Neither of these conditions alone, as the experience of other countries has shown, was sufficient for a success of the revolutionaries. The Spanish civil war of 1936–1939, for instance, was not preceded by a major international war. Because institutions of the traditional social order had not been undermined by war, Franco was able to defeat the Popular Front government, despite the peasants’ support of the revolution. In the Finnish civil war of 1918, which broke out in the wake of World War I and the Russian Revolution, state institutions did not collapse completely and the peasantry was divided in their responses to the revolution; the rural smallholders, for example, aligned with the Mannerheim's White army, not with the urban revolutionaries.
Social Heterogeneity and Volunteering in U.S. Cities
Authors: Rotolo Thomas , Wilson John
Published: June 2014

In this research we explore the relationship between social heterogeneity and volunteering across U.S. metropolitan areas testing a theory that race heterogeneity, racial segregation, and income inequality are negatively associated with the rate of volunteering. Theorizing that social heterogeneity will have different effects for religious and secular volunteering rates, we analyze them separately. We use nonlinear multilevel models to analyze nearly 200,000 individuals across 248 cities, controlling for nonprofits per capita, religious congregations per capita, proportion of the population with college degrees, and the family poverty rate. While much of the intercity variation in volunteering is due to the composition of the population living in each city, we find general support for the predicted negative effect of social heterogeneity on volunteering. However, the effects vary by volunteering type. Race heterogeneity is negatively related only to secular volunteering, racial segregation is negatively related to both general volunteering and secular volunteering, and income inequality is negatively related to all types of volunteering.
Communication technology and social life: Transformation and continuity, order and disorder
Authors: Marshall Jonathan Paul , Notley Tanya
Published: June 2014

Anthropology is now developing and using ethnography to research uses and experiences of digital communication technology (including mobile phones, the internet and software), in and across many different cultures and societies. Ethnography enables a focus on the complex intertwining of society, culture and technology allowing us to see how technologies are being transformed by existing modes of life, while simultaneously having a ‘messy’ influence over those lives, resulting in what are often unexpected consequences. This special issue discusses the use of mobile phones in Papua New Guinea and along the borders of Haiti and the Dominican Republic; the mixture of phone and internet usage in Central Australia and among the Tongan diaspora in Melbourne; the use of internet based video translation practices focused on West Papuan politics; and the disorder produced by software in work environments in Australia. Collectively, these papers help us to reimagine ethnography and challenge conventional theorising of technology by allowing us to discuss the relationships between communication and power in diverse contexts, opening up opportunities for us to engage with and explore the significance of both order and disorder in technologically mediated social processes.
The pattern of xylan acetylation suggests xylan may interact with cellulose microfibrils as a twofold helical screw in the secondary plant cell wall of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Busse‐Wicher Marta , Gomes Thiago C. F. , Tryfona Theodora , Nikolovski Nino , Stott Katherine , Grantham Nicholas J. , Bolam David N. , Skaf Munir S. , Dupree Paul
Published: June 2014

The interaction between xylan and cellulose microfibrils is important for secondary cell wall properties in vascular plants; however, the molecular arrangement of xylan in the cell wall and the nature of the molecular bonding between the polysaccharides are unknown. In dicots, the xylan backbone of β‐(1,4)‐linked xylosyl residues is decorated by occasional glucuronic acid, and approximately one‐half of the xylosyl residues are O‐acetylated at C‐2 or C‐3. We recently proposed that the even, periodic spacing of GlcA residues in the major domain of dicot xylan might allow the xylan backbone to fold as a twofold helical screw to facilitate alignment along, and stable interaction with, cellulose fibrils; however, such an interaction might be adversely impacted by random acetylation of the xylan backbone. Here, we investigated the arrangement of acetyl residues in Arabidopsis xylan using mass spectrometry and NMR. Alternate xylosyl residues along the backbone are acetylated. Using molecular dynamics simulation, we found that a twofold helical screw conformation of xylan is stable in interactions with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic cellulose faces. Tight docking of xylan on the hydrophilic faces is feasible only for xylan decorated on alternate residues and folded as a twofold helical screw. The findings suggest an explanation for the importance of acetylation for xylan–cellulose interactions, and also have implications for our understanding of cell wall molecular architecture and properties, and biological degradation by pathogens and fungi. They will also impact strategies to improve lignocellulose processing for biorefining and bioenergy.
The Post-Activation Potentiation Effect on Squat Jump Performance: Age and Sex Effect
Authors: Arabatzi Fotini , Patikas Dimitrios , Zafeiridis Andreas , Giavroudis Konstantinos , Kannas Theodoros , Gourgoulis Vassilios , Kotzamanidis Christos M.
Published: June 2014

This study examined the post-activation potentiation (PAP) effects on squat jump (SJ) performance and on peak rate of force development (RFDpeak) in preadolescent (10–12 y), adolescents (14–15 y) and adults (20–25 y) males and females. All participants performed a SJ with and without prior conditioning stimulus (PAP and control protocol, respectively), consisting of 3 × 3-second maximal isometric squats. Jump height and RFDpeak of the vertical ground reaction force during SJ were assessed before, and at 20 seconds and at 4 minutes following the conditioning stimulus. The results revealed a different pattern of age-effect on SJ performance within males and females. The RFDpeak significantly increased as a factor of age in both males and females (P < .05). Increase in SJ performance after conditioning stimulus occurred only in men (P < .05), with no effects in teen-males, boys, and female groups. There was a significant PAP effect on RFDpeak in both adult groups (P < .05) and teen-males, with no effects in children. In conclusion, the PAP effects on SJ performance and RFDpeak are age- and sex-dependent; that is PAP appears as a viable method for acutely enhancing SJ performance in men but not in pediatric population.
Acute Exercise and Postprandial Lipemia in Young People
Authors: Tolfrey Keith , Thackray Alice Emily , Barrett Laura Ann
Published: June 2014

Exaggerated postprandial triacylglycerol concentrations (TAG) independently predict future cardiovascular events. Acute exercise and diet interventions attenuate postprandial TAG in adults. This paper aims to examine the exercise postprandial lipemia studies published to date in young people. Nine studies satisfied the inclusion criteria adopted for this summary. The majority of studies are in boys (22% girls) and have shown a single ~60-min session of moderate-intensity exercise, performed 12-18 hours before a standardized meal, reduces postprandial TAG. Manipulations of exercise duration and intensity suggest an exercise energy expenditure dose-dependent response is not supported directly in healthy young people. Studies investigating alternative exercise bouts have reported lower postprandial TAG after simulated intermittent games activity, high-intensity interval running and cumulative 10-min blocks over several hours, which may appeal to the spontaneous physical activity habits of young people. Although extension of these initial findings is warranted, exercise may be an effective strategy to promote regular benefits in TAG metabolism in children and adolescents; this may contribute to an improved cardiovascular disease risk profile early in life.
Caffeine Supplementation and Reactive Agility in Elite Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Jordan J. Bradley , Korgaokar Ajit , Farley Richard S. , Coons John M. , Caputo Jennifer L.
Published: June 2014

This study examined the effects of caffeine supplementation (6 mg·kg−1) on performance of a reactive agility test (RAT) in 17 elite, male, youth (M = 14 y) soccer players. Using a double-blind, repeated-measures design, players completed 4 days of testing on the RAT after a standardized warm-up. On day 1, anthropometric measurements were taken and players were accommodated to the RAT. On day 2, baseline performance was established. Caffeine or placebo conditions were randomly assigned on day 3 and the condition was reversed on day 4. Players completed 3 randomized trials of the RAT on days 2, 3, and 4 with at least 1 trial to the players’ dominant and nondominant sides. There were no significant differences among conditions in reaction time (RT) to the dominant side, heart rates at any point of measurement, or ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) after completion of the warm-up. Caffeine produced faster RT to the nondominant side (P = .041) and higher RPE at the conclusion of the RAT (P = .013). The effect on the total time (TT) to complete the agility test to the nondominant side approached significance (P = .051). Sprint time and TT to either side did not differ. Caffeine supplementation may provide ergogenic benefit to elite, male, youth soccer players.
Misinterpreting risk and test results delays diagnosis in a patient with pulmonary embolism
Authors: Babak Sam , Sriram Krishna B
Published: June 2014

We report the case of a middle-aged man where a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) was delayed due to initial underestimation of risk and over-reliance on D-dimer testing. The patient presented with pleuritic chest pain after a 5 h domestic flight. The treating clinicians presumed that this duration of immobilisation was insufficient to cause a PE, D-dimer was not measured and the patient was discharged home. One week later, the patient re-presented due to persistence of chest pain. On this occasion, D-dimer was measured and it was normal, which was interpreted as excluding a PE. Subsequently, a CT pulmonary angiogram was performed, which demonstrated a subsegmental PE. This case highlights the importance of accurate assessment of PE-risk factors and following clinical guidelines, since a delayed diagnosis of PE is associated with increased mortality.
Hunting mimics and chameleons: diagnostic difficulties in atypical acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Plummer Nicholas Russell , Hari-Bhaskar Kemparaju
Published: June 2014

The seemingly straightforward diagnosis of acute ischaemic stroke can be complicated by the presence of conditions presenting similarly to stroke, and atypical strokes presenting with confusing and non-classical signs. We present a diagnostic quest to disentangle the effects of a number of stroke mimics from those of an underlying bilateral cerebrovascular phenomena, where with appropriate treatment of the non-stroke conditions the patient was able to make a near complete neurological recovery.
Unilateral Warthin's tumour in a patient of Afro-Caribbean descent
Authors: Quintyne KI , Wallis F , Healy V , Shine N
Published: June 2014

Warthin's tumours are the second most common benign tumours of the parotid gland. The authors report the case of a 40-year-old man of Afro-Caribbean decent who presented with a painless mass at the angle of the right mandible. It was an incidental finding while shaving and was not associated with any symptoms. Arrangements were made for him to undergo an ear, nose and throat (ENT) evaluation. Axial contrast-enhanced CT of head and neck region revealed a well-defined cystic lesion. Fine-needle aspiration cytology was inconclusive. Right superficial partial parotidectomy was performed to remove the lesion. Histological examination confirmed a diagnosis of a Warthin's tumour.
Pneumocystis jirovecipneumonitis complicating ruxolitinib therapy
Authors: Lee Samantha C , Feenstra John , Georghiou Paul R
Published: June 2014

Ruxolitinib is a novel inhibitor of the Janus kinase (JAK) pathway that has become available for the treatment of myelofibrosis. There are increasing reports of opportunistic infections associated with ruxolitinib therapy. We present a case ofPneumocystis jirovecipneumonitis complicating ruxolitinib therapy. Clinicians should consider the use of pneumocystis prophylaxis when using ruxolitinib.
Gradient-based design robustness measure for robust geotechnical design
Authors: Gong Wenping , Khoshnevisan Sara , Juang C. Hsein
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a gradient-based robustness measure for robust geotechnical design (RGD) that considers safety, design robustness, and cost efficiency simultaneously. In the context of robust design, a design is deemed robust if the system response of concern is insensitive, to a certain degree, to the variation of noise factors (i.e., uncertain geotechnical parameters, loading parameters, construction variation, and model biases or errors). The key to a robust design is a quantifiable robustness measure with which the robust design optimization can be effectively and efficiently implemented. Based on the developed gradient-based robustness measure, a robust design optimization framework is proposed. In this framework, the design (safety) constraint is analyzed using advanced first-order second-moment (AFOSM) method, considering the variation in the noise factors. The design robustness, in terms of sensitivity index (SI), is evaluated using the normalized gradient of the system response to the noise factors, which can be efficiently computed from the by-product of AFOSM analysis. Within the proposed framework, robust design optimization is performed with two objectives, design robustness and cost efficiency, while the design (safety) constraint is satisfied by meeting a target reliability index. Generally, cost efficiency and design robustness are conflicting objectives and the robust design optimization yields a Pareto front, which reveals a tradeoff between the two objectives. Through an illustrative example of a shallow foundation design, the effectiveness and significance of this new robust design approach is demonstrated.
Logarithmic corrections of charged hairy black holes in (2 + 1) dimensions
Authors: Sadeghi J. , Pourhassan B. , Rahimi F.
Published: June 2014

We consider a charged black hole with a scalar field that is coupled to gravity in (2 + 1)-dimensions. We compute the logarithmic corrections to the corresponding system using two approaches. In the first method we take advantage of thermodynamic properties. In the second method we use the metric function that is suggested by conformal field theory. Finally, we compare the results of the two approaches.
Relativistic mass and modern physics
Authors: Silagadze Z.K.
Published: June 2014

At first sight, arguments for and against the notion of relativistic mass look like a notorious intra-Lilliputian quarrel between Big-Endians (those who broke their eggs at the larger end) and Little-Endians. However, upon closer inspection we discover that the relativistic mass notion is alien to the spirit of modern physics to a much greater extent than it seems. To demonstrate an abyss between the modern approach and archaic notions, in this paper we explore how the concept of mass is introduced in modern physics. This modern approach reveals a deep cohomological origin of mass.
First-principles study of structural, electronic and optical properties of the KCaX3 (X = F and Cl) compounds
Authors: Mousa Ahmad A.
Published: June 2014

Structural and electronic properties of perovskite KCaX 3  (X = F and Cl ) compounds are investigated using the full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method as implemented in the Wien2k code. The exchange-correlation potential is treated by the generalized gradient approximation within the scheme of Perdew, Burke and Ernzerhof (GGA-PBE). Based on these calculations, it has been concluded that KCaX 3 compounds have indirect energy band-gap (Γ-R). Moreover, the theoretical investigation which has been carried out on the highly hydrostatic pressure dependence of the KCaX 3 electronic properties revealed a linear relationship between both the hydrostatic pressure and the energy band-gap. In addition, the electronic and bonding properties of the band structure, density of states (DOS) and electron charge density have been calculated and presented. Besides that, the dielectric function, refractive index and extinction coefficient are calculated. The origin of some of the peaks in the optical spectra is discussed in terms of the calculated electronic structure. Finally, the calculated structural properties are found to agree well with the available experimental and theoretical data.
FEASIBILITY OF ULTRASOUND-GUIDED ULNAR NERVE INJECTIONS AT THE CUBITAL TUNNEL USING A LATERAL-TO-MEDIAL APPROACH
Authors: Plessl Daniel , Summey Robert , Joseph Oliver , Uryasev Oleg , McNamara John P. , Dallas Apostolos Paul
Published: June 2014

Purpose: Describe an alternative approach to perform ultrasound-guided injections into the cubital tunnel as a pilot study for cubital tunnel syndrome (CTS) treatment feasibility. Methods: The ulnar nerve was visualized bilaterally on four non-embalmed cadaveric models which were placed in a supine position. To image the cubital tunnel, the subject's elbow was examined in external rotation with the elbow angle at approximately 40° flexion (full elbow extension is considered 0°). The ultrasound transducer was placed transverse to the condylar groove along the medial epicondyle-olecranon axis and the ulnar nerve was identified. Methylene blue 0.35 mL was injected into the ulnar nerve perineural space under ultrasound guidance in a lateral-to-medial approach. Post-injection incisions were made to expose the underlying ulnar nerve and examine the injection sites. Injections were considered accurate if the ulnar nerve perineural space was dyed, and were considered precise if the injection was localized without damaging the ulnar collateral artery. Results: Dissection revealed that the ulnar nerves were covered with dye from the cubital tunnel inlet to outlet. 8-of-8 (100%) injections were accurate; 8-of-8 (100%) injections were precise. Conclusion: This pilot study shows that a lateral-to-medial approach to injecting the cubital tunnel under ultrasound guidance is accurate and precise. The clinical efficacy of such a procedure using corticosteroids should be examined through clinical trials and the results should be compared to other techniques used for treating CTS.
Relationship Between Market Orders and Stock Returns: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Chang Chiao Yi , Chien Andy , Hsu Ya-Ting
Published: June 2014

Unlike previous studies that adopted price as the reference point in this paper we employ the adjusted order imbalance that relates to volume as a reference. We examine the relationship between a firm's characteristics and stock returns. Adjusted order imbalance, including trading direction of stock index and trading volume of individual stock and stock index, is freely and easily obtained by investors in Taiwan. Employing the panel regression model, this paper found prior adjusted order imbalance has a significantly positive relationship with individual stock returns. Additionally, empirical results show that adjusted order imbalance enhances the impacts of the value and size variables.
Induced transformations of recurrent a.m.s. dynamical systems
Authors: Huang Sheng , Skoglund Mikael
Published: June 2014

This note proves that an induced transformation with respect to a finite measure set of a recurrent asymptotically mean stationary dynamical system with a sigma-finite measure is asymptotically mean stationary. Consequently, the Shannon–McMillan–Breiman theorem, as well as the Shannon–McMillan theorem, holds for all reduced processes of any finite-state recurrent asymptotically mean stationary random process.

As a by-product, a ratio ergodic theorem for asymptotically mean stationary dynamical systems is presented.
RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN KINETIC VARIABLES AND SMOOTHNESS OF KNEE JOINT MOVEMENT IN THE STANCE PHASE
Authors: FUKAYA TAKASHI , MUTSUZAKI HIROTAKA , ITO HAJIME , WADANO YASUYOSHI
Published: June 2014

The purposes of this study were to clarify which period of the stance phase shows the greatest decrease in the smoothness of the knee joint movement and to analyze the relationships between kinetic variables and the smoothness of the knee joint movement during the stance phase using the angular jerk cost (AJC). The study subjects were 11 healthy adults. To clarify the relationships between the kinetic variables and the AJC, Pearson's product correlation coefficients were calculated for the AJC and three kinetic variables. The AJC in the early stance phase was significantly larger than those in the other three phases, and it was confirmed that the early stance phase showed the greatest decrease in smoothness of the knee joint movement. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the AJC and the vertical component of the ground reaction force in the early stance phase. Correlations between the AJC and the kinetic variables were also found in the other three phases. Regarding evaluation of the smoothness of the knee joint movement using the AJC based on the present results, the AJC may be an important index for understanding the dynamics of the knee joint in the early stance phase.
Quantum-Inspired Bidirectional Associative Memory for Human–Robot Communication
Authors: Masuyama Naoki , Loo Chu Kiong , Kubota Naoyuki
Published: June 2014

The emerging research area of a quantum-inspired computing has been applied to various field such as computational intelligence, and showed its superior abilities. However, most existing researches are focused on theoretical simulations, and have not been implemented in systems under practical environment. For human–robot communication, associative memory becomes essential for multi-modal communication. However, it always suffers from low memory capacity and recall reliability. In this paper, we propose a quantum-inspired bidirectional associative memory with fuzzy inference. We show that fuzzy inference satisfies basic postulates of quantum mechanics, but also learning algorithm for weight matrix in associative memory. In addition, we construct a communication system with robot partner using proposed model. This is the first successful attempt to overcome conventional problems in associative memory model with a robot application.
INTERNATIONAL ROLES OF FOREIGN-OWNED SUBSIDIARIES IN NEW ZEALAND: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY
Authors: RAZIQ MUHAMMAD MUSTAFA , PERRY MARTIN , BATTISTI MARTINA
Published: June 2014

Advances in the capacity to manage overseas operations have been linked to foreign-owned subsidiaries of multinational enterprises performing more varied roles for their parent organisations than they did in the past. Drawing on evidence from an original large-scale survey, this study explores the international roles performed by 429 foreign-owned subsidiaries in New Zealand. Traditionally, subsidiaries in New Zealand have predominantly been established to service the local market which although comparatively small is remote from major sources of foreign investment. The study finds that many subsidiaries have some form of international role and that subsidiaries frequently perform a variety of roles for their organisations. Investigation of subsidiary characteristics associated with an international role finds that those managed independently, and those managed by a network of reporting channels have most propensity and potential to engage in international roles. This evidence justifies greater recognition that subsidiary operations may make multiple contributions to their organisation rather than have a single purpose.
Exponential sums twisted by Fourier coefficients of automorphic cusp forms for SL(2, ℤ)
Authors: Wei Bin
Published: June 2014

Let f be a holomorphic cusp form of weight k for SL(2, ℤ) with Fourier coefficients λf(n). We study the sum ∑n>0λf(n)ϕ(n/X)e(αn), where [Formula: see text]. It is proved that the sum is rapidly decaying for α close to a rational number a/q where q2 < X1-ε. The main techniques used in this paper include Dirichlet's rational approximation of real numbers, a Voronoi summation formula for SL(2, ℤ) and the asymptotic expansion for Bessel functions.