bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Great tits responding to territorial intrusions sing less but alarm more on colder days
Authors: Strauß Aurelia F. T. , Hutfluss Alexander , Dingemanse Niels J.
Published: November 2019

Bird song transmits information required to defend territories and attract mates. These functions contribute to fitness by affecting survival and reproductive success. Singing is also costly due to physiological costs. We used observational data to evaluate support for the hypothesis that lower temperatures result in decreased singing behaviour in wild great tits due to increased energy consumption during cold conditions required for thermoregulation. More than 6,500 simulated territorial intrusions were performed over an 8‐year period in twelve nest box populations of great tits Parus major south of Munich, Germany. We measured song rate as well as the number of alarm calls and the aggressive response of territorial males to a simulated territorial intrusion. We found a decrease in song rate with decreasing current temperature, but also a concurrent increase in the number of alarm calls. Night temperature did not affect these acoustic traits. We conclude that warmer conditions allow birds to choose more energetically expensive (yet functionally superior) activities during territorial intrusions, thereby facilitating avoidance of physical aggressiveness during territorial intrusions.
Fatigue behaviour of fastener holes in high‐strength aluminium plates repaired by cold spray deposition
Authors: White Benjamin , Story William , Brewer Luke , Jordon James Brian
Published: November 2019

This work examines the fatigue behaviour of additive cold spray (CS) repairs of AA7075 and AA2024 fastener holes. Structural ring repairs around fastener holes were made by machining blend‐outs ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 the thickness of the plate, then refilling the section of removed material with CS deposition. The repairs were then tested in a lap shear geometry with the repair on both the free (outside) and the mating (inside) surfaces, as well as in remote uniaxial tension. CS repairs for the inside lap shear AA7075 repair configuration and the outside lap shear AA2024 repair configuration were found to have significantly increased fatigue lives even exceeding the number of cycles to failure of the undamaged, unrepaired control plates. Further, none of the CS repairs caused any detrimental impact on fatigue life, and microhardness results indicate that no thermal damage to the substrate occurred. Some interface cracking was seen in the CS repairs; however, no separation of the repair from the substrate was observed.
Effect of vitamin D on cognitive function and white matter hyperintensity in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Shih En‐Jie , Lee Wei‐Ju , Hsu Jung‐Lung , Wang Shuu‐Jiun , Fuh Jong‐Ling
Published: November 2019

Aim

To examine the effect of vitamin D level on cognitive function and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

We recruited patients with mild AD, and carried out clinical interviews, neuropsychological assessments, laboratory tests and brain magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

In total, 146 patients with mild AD (68 men, 78 women; mean age 79.1 ± 7.0 years; mean education 10.2 ± 4.3 years) were enlisted. The mean Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score was 21.0 ± 3.8. The 25‐hydroxy vitamin D (25[OH]D) level was correlated negatively with the WMH volume (β = −0.219, P = 0.004) after adjusting for age, sex, years of education, apolipoprotein ε4 allele status, seasons of blood sampling, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, coronary heart disease and total brain volume. The 25(OH)D level was correlated positively with the MMSE score (β = 0.309, P < 0.001) after adjusting for the same covariates. Multivariate regression analysis with the MMSE score serving as the dependent variable and adjustment for covariates showed that the 25(OH)D level was an independent predictor of the MMSE score (β = 0.322, P < 0.001), but the WMH volume was not (β = 0.056, P = 0.587). These findings suggest that WMH has no mediation effect between the 25(OH)D level and the MMSE score.

Conclusions

Reduced plasma 25(OH)D levels were associated with low MMSE scores in patients with mild AD, but the underlying mechanism is not attributable to WMH. Thus, it suggested that the presence of another pathomechanism exists. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 52–58.
Correlation of microstructure and mechanical properties of Al2O3‐C bodies containing Nano‐Al2O3 and Nano‐TiO2 additives
Authors: Baghaei Ali , Nourbakhsh Amir A. , Ebrahimi Kahrizsangi Reza , Salvini Vânia R.
Published: November 2019

Al2O3‐C foam filters have been successfully used for steel and aluminum melts filtration. Improving the high‐temperature mechanical properties enhances the capability and application of these filters for the filtration of large steel casting parts along with ingot casting or continuous casting of steel for long periods of time. In this study, adding nano‐Al2O3 and/or nano‐TiO2 to the composition of Al2O3‐C filters was investigated. Uniaxially pressed Al2O3‐C samples containing additives in the range from 0 to 1.0 wt% of nano‐oxides were prepared. The physical and mechanical properties, as well as microstructural analysis, were measured after sintering at 1600°C for 5 hours under a petroleum coke bed. The results showed that the presence of nano‐Al2O3 particles in the composition led to an increase in the cold crushing strength (CCS) due to the formation of the Al3CON phase which acts as a chemical bonding between Al2O3 particles and the carbonaceous matrix. On the other hand, the addition of 1.0 wt% of nano‐TiO2 in the composition caused an increase of 50% in the hot modulus of rupture (HMOR), attributed to the formation of columnar Al2O3 grains in the microstructure.
Young adults’ borrowing to purchases of desired consumer products related to present‐biased temporal discounting, attitude towards borrowing and financial involvement and knowledge
Authors: Gärling Tommy , Michaelsen Patrik , Gamble Amelie
Published: November 2019

The aim is to investigate how present‐biased temporal discounting caused by feelings of financial deficit, attitude towards borrowing and financial involvement and knowledge determine young adults’ likelihood of borrowing to purchases of desired consumer products. A sample of 273 young adults aged 18–30 years answered an online questionnaire including experimental treatments to induce present‐biased temporal discounting, followed by questions about attitude towards borrowing, financial involvement/knowledge and financial resources. In different treatment conditions, participants rated the likelihood of borrowing to purchases of desired consumer products at prices judged to be unaffordable or to replace purchases of equally expensive products in the future but not immediately. In a control condition, participants rated the likelihood of borrowing to an equally expensive, already purchased product to be paid immediately. A higher likelihood of borrowing to purchases of the desired and already purchased unpaid products was observed, but the difference to the needed products was not statistically significant. Likelihood of borrowing was strongly suppressed by a negative attitude, in all between‐group conditions equally influenced by self‐assessed financial resources but unaffected by financial involvement/knowledge. Both financial involvement/knowledge and a negative attitude decreased choices of months of instalment payments with the consequence that the monthly repayment cost increased.
Back to the future: A continuity of dialogue on work and technology at the ILO
Authors: CHERRY Miriam A.
Published: November 2019

Concerns about technological unemployment are not new. Specifically, policy debates surrounding automation processes in the 1960s reflected both optimism and concerns about the job‐destroying potential of technology. Studying the archives, and in particular the information collected by the Bureau of Automation, shows that many of today's policy proposals were originally raised at the ILO during that period, even though they were never translated into regulatory policy. This article thus suggests that reopening this past dialogue may reveal useful insights for addressing current challenges, and enable us to achieve the world of work we wish to see in the future.
Faculty incivility: lived experiences of nursing graduates in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: El Hachi M.
Published: November 2019

Aim

This study explored the lived experiences of baccalaureate nursing graduates with faculty incivility in nursing education in the United Arab Emirates.

Background

Despite the consistent results regarding the prevalence of incivility in nursing education worldwide, less focus has been placed on faculty incivility and little is known about this phenomenon in the Arab world.

Introduction

Incivility in nursing education is correlated with a negative learning–teaching environment contributing to faculty and students’ attrition. Incivility can be transferred to clinical settings interfering with safe clinical practice.

Methods

Applying the descriptive phenomenological approach and guided by Clark’s conceptual model for fostering civility in nursing education, the experiences of nine nursing graduates with faculty incivility were examined through semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews. Data were analysed following Colaizzi’s seven‐step process.

Findings

Data analysis yielded six major themes: an emotionally traumatic experience, unengaged faculty, decreased motivation to learn, displaying favouritism, displaying culturally and sexually inappropriate behaviour, and coping behaviours.

Discussion

Faculty incivility results in tribulations and sabotages open and constructive communication between students and faculty. Faculty poor teaching skills, lack of preparation and teaching competence were also considered as acts of incivility towards students.

Conclusion

The findings illuminated the faculty incivility phenomenon in nursing education from the informants’ perspective which may assist in generating strategies to promote a positive learning environment as endorsed by the local nursing and midwifery council.

Implications for nursing education and policy

In addition to adopting a civility policy, incorporating civility in the curriculum and crafting a procedure to report faculty incivility anonymously, clear educational qualifications that align with the World Health Organization requirements for nurse educators must be enacted by the local regulatory bodies.
Retirement planning: the perceptions of pre‐retirement nurses within different hospitals in China
Authors: Li H. , Xing Z. , Li Y. , Wan Z. , Sun D. , Zhao M. , Sun J.
Published: November 2019

Aim

This study explored the perceptions of senior Chinese nurses working in different hospital types, about retirement planning; and compared the results from two hospitals.

Background

A recent review indicates that nurses with inadequate retirement planning could be faced with a retirement crisis. In China, hospitals are classified into different levels, and salaries, job satisfaction and the turnover of nurses varies among these levels. These factors may also influence nurses' perceptions of retirement planning.

Methods

In a descriptive, qualitative design, 27 semi‐structured individual interviews were conducted with nurses who were between 50 and 60 years old and recruited from two hospitals in China from April to September 2018. The interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically.

Findings

Four main themes emerged from the interviews, namely, the understanding of pre‐retirement nurses of retirement planning, the attitudes of pre‐retirement nurses towards retirement planning, factors influencing nurses' retirement planning and the retirement planning activity of nurses. Most nurses participating in this study did not know much about retirement planning, but they all agreed on its importance. We identified the influencing factors of retirement planning and several differences regarding the perceptions of nurses about retirement planning in different hospitals.

Conclusion

In this cohort of nurses, planning for a good retirement was thought to be important; however, their readiness for retirement and the influences around planning for retirement were varied in type and scope.

Implications for Policy

Governments and employing hospitals should develop reasonable measures and policies to support nurses in their understanding of the benefits of retirement planning and help them to prepare for retirement. Information about retirement planning should be made available and options for planning explained. Any systematic hurdles to retirement planning should be mitigated or eliminated.
The Microeconomic Impacts of Employee Representatives: Evidence from Membership Thresholds
Authors: Silva Martins Pedro
Published: November 2019

Employee representatives in firms are a potentially key but not yet studied source of the impact of unions and works councils. Their actions can shape multiple drivers of firm performance, including collective bargaining, strikes, and training. This article examines the impact of union representative mandates by exploiting legal membership thresholds present in many countries. In the case of Portugal, which we examine here, while firms employing up to forty‐nine union members are required to have one union representative; this increases to two (three) union reps for firms with fifty to ninety‐nine (100–199) union members. Drawing on matched employer–employee data on the unionized sector and regression discontinuity methods, we find that a one percentage point increase in the legal union representative/members ratio leads to an increase in firm performance of at least 7 percent. This result generally holds across multiple dimensions of firm performance and appears to be driven by increased training. However, we find no effects of union representatives on firm‐level wages, given the predominance of sectoral collective bargaining.
Hot‐pressing platelet alumina to transparency
Authors: Schlup Andrew P. , Costakis William J. , Rheinheimer Wolfgang , Trice Rodney W. , Youngblood Jeffrey P.
Published: November 2019

Alumina powder with a platelet morphology was hot‐pressed to transparency with preload pressures of 0‐8 MPa, maximum temperatures of 1750‐1825°C, maximum pressures of 2.5‐80 MPa, and isothermal hold times of 1‐7 hours. Optical transmission (in‐line and total), as well as optical losses (backward/forward scattering and absorption), of the hot‐pressed samples were measured and related to the microstructure. Higher hot‐pressing temperatures increase the in‐line transmission. A gray discoloration of the samples (indicative of high absorption) was minimized by heat treating the powder in air prior to hot pressing and reducing the preload pressure. Maximum pressures above/below 10 MPa increased porosity, which decreased in‐line transmission and increased backward/forward scattering. Lower densities at higher pressures are attributed to a pore‐swelling phenomenon. Increasing isothermal hold time decreased porosity, which increased in‐line transmission and reduced backward/forward scattering. Best optical properties with an in‐line transmission of 65.3% at 645 nm (0.8 mm thick) were achieved by hot‐pressing heat‐treated platelet alumina powder with a preload pressure of 0 MPa, maximum temperature of 1800°C, maximum pressure of 10 MPa, and an isothermal hold time of 7 hours. This high in‐line transmission, despite its large grain size (65 µm), is attributed to crystallographic orientation of the platelets during hot pressing.
Safe sexual behaviors intention among female youth: The construction on extended theory of planned behavior
Authors: Tseng Ying‐Hua , Cheng Chung‐Ping , Kuo Shih‐Hsien , Hou Wen‐Li , Chan Te‐Fu , Chou Fan‐Hao
Published: November 2019

Aim

To examine female youth's intentions for safe sex with the relationship partners based on the extended theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model and explore the direct and indirect impact of parent–child communication about sex, peer interaction related to sexual issues, and exposure to sexually explicit materials on female youth's safe sexual behaviour intentions.

Design

A non‐experimental, cross‐sectional research design.

Methods

A convenience sampling was employed for data collection and 731 female youth aged 15–24 years old were recruited in 2013–2014. An anonymous, self‐report structured questionnaire was used as a research instrument to collect participants' basic information and measure the internal and additional variables in the extended TPB model.

Results

The extended TPB model explained 42–45% of the total variance. Perceived behavioural control (PBC) and subjective norms had a positive effect on female youth's intentions for contraceptive use, condom use, and dual use with relationship partner; PBC was found to have the greatest influence. Among the additional variables in the extended TPB model, more parent–child communication about sex was found to lead to more positive dual use intentions. More peer interaction related to sexual issues was found to lead to less dual use intentions.

Conclusions

To improve female youth's sexual health, the priorities are to reinforce their PBC and subjective norms and enhance parent–child communication about sex. Future efforts should strengthen sex education in families and schools and shape a social environment that facilitates safe sex.

Impact

The extended TPB model can successfully predict female youth's safe sexual behaviour intentions. Empowering female youth to establish a sense of subjectivity and awareness of being a mature individual with physical autonomy, is importance for their sexual health.
An illustrative case for addressing infant mental health referrals
Authors: Gordon Jessica M. , Gaffney Kathy , Smith Sharlene , Lauerer Joy A.
Published: November 2019

Problem

Despite knowing the importance of the early detection of adverse experiences, mental health disorders beginning or occurring during early childhood can be difficult to recognize. To address this gap, this manuscript describes the care of a parent–child dyad utilizing the nursing process in an illustrative case.

Methods

This illustrative case provides a scenario that includes the early detection of infant mental health (IMH) in primary care with referral to a psychiatric mental health advanced practice nurse (PMHNP) and highlights how integrative care with PMHNP can facilitate the use of the nursing process to promote optimal early childhood growth and development and prevent long‐term mental health problems.

Findings

The collaboration between the primary care provider and PMHNP in addressing a common diagnosis observed in IMH (i.e., feeding disorder) where a 6‐month‐old infant presented with poor weight gain due to detached parenting, secondary to maternal depression, resulted in early infant–parent intervention that reduced maternal depression and normalized infant growth.

Conclusions

The screening of IMH in pediatric primary care promotes early referral and collaboration with the PMHNP to address IMH problems to promote optimal growth and social‐emotional development in early childhood.
Diversity of and initiatives for hypertension management in Asia—Why we need the HOPE Asia Network
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Chia Yook‐Chin , Sukonthasarn Apichard , Turana Yuda , Shin Jinho , Chen Chen‐Huan , Buranakitjaroen Peera , Nailes Jennifer , Hoshide Satoshi , Siddique Saulat , Sison Jorge , Soenarta Arieska Ann , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Tay Jam Chin , Teo Boon Wee , Zhang Yu‐Qing , Park Sungha , Minh Huynh Van , Tomitani Naoko , Kabutoya Tomoyuki , Verma Narsingh , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Wang Ji‐Guang
Published: November 2019

The Hypertension Cardiovascular Outcome Prevention and Evidence in Asia (HOPE Asia) Network was set up to improve the management of hypertension in Asia with the ultimate goal of achieving “zero” cardiovascular events. Asia is a diverse continent, and the prevalence of hypertension has increased over the last 30 years. There are a number of Asia‐specific features of hypertension and hypertension‐related cardiovascular complications, which means that a region‐specific approach is needed. White‐coat hypertension will become more of an issue over time as Asian populations age, and masked hypertension is more prevalent in Asian than in Western countries. Identifying and treating masked hypertension is important to reduce cardiovascular risk. Abnormal patterns of blood pressure (BP) variability common in Asia include exaggerated early morning BP surge and nocturnal hypertension. These are also important cardiovascular risk factors that need to be managed. Home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) is an important tool for detecting white‐coat and masked hypertension, and monitoring BP variability, and practices in Asia are variable. Use of HBPM is important given the Asia‐specific features of hypertension, and strategies are needed to improve and standardize HBPM usage. Development of HBPM devices capable of measuring nocturnal BP along with other information and communication technology‐based strategies are key developments in the widespread implementation of anticipation medicine strategies to detect and prevent cardiovascular events in patients with hypertension. Region‐wide differences in hypertension prevalence, control, and management practices in Asia highlight the importance of information sharing to facilitate best practices.
Occurrence and genetic diversity of ESBL producing Klebsiella species isolated from livestock and livestock products
Authors: Bobbadi Suresh , Kiranmayi Chinnam Bindu , Nelapati Subhashini , Tumati Srinivasa R. , Kandhan Srinivas , Gottapu Chaitanya , Boddu Swathi V.
Published: November 2019

Klebsiella species have been at the center of attention over the recent years due to its role in the evolution of antimicrobial resistance and is not only associated with nosocomial but also with food related infections worldwide. In this study, out of 336 samples of animal intestinal and foods of animal origin screened, 99 samples were found to harbor Klebsiella spp. Out of 99 isolates, 89 were Klebsiella pneumoniae and 10 were found to be Klebsiella oxytoca by mPCR. The isolates were subjected to antibiotic sensitivity test including ESBL detection by genotypic (PCR) and phenotypic (disc diffusion) methods. β‐Lactamase genes were identified in 32 isolates of K. pneumoniae and an isolate of K. oxytoca, blaSHV being the predominant gene detected (31) followed by blaTEM, blaCTX‐M1, and blaCTX‐M9 (one each), whereas single K. oxytoca isolate harbored blaCTX‐M2 gene. Genetic fingerprinting of β‐lactamase producing K. pneumoniae using ERIC‐PCR and REP‐PCR differentiated all the 32 strains with discriminatory power of 1.
Physical Activity Opportunities and Academic Outcomes of Fourth Grade Elementary School Students in Georgia
Authors: Shore Erin , Cheung Patricia C. , Hyde Eric , Gazmararian Julie A.
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Physical activity at schools is an important component in combatting childhood obesity. Studies have shown that physical activity at school is positively associated with academic outcomes. The purpose of this study is to examine associations between opportunity of physical activity time at school and academic outcomes.

METHODS

This statewide, cross‐sectional study utilized 2 data sources from the Georgia Department of Education and Georgia Shape in 860 schools. Multivariable linear regression analysis assessed the impact of the amount of physical activity time at school and standardized test scores, controlling for aerobic capacity, BMI, race, gender, school size, geographic category, and SES.

RESULTS

Time of physical activity opportunity at school was not significantly associated with Mathematics or Reading CRCT scores (p = .94, p = .31, respectively). SES had the greatest impact on test scores, where higher SES schools had higher standardized test scores (p < .01 for all tests scores).

CONCLUSION

Time of physical activity opportunities at school was not significantly associated with standardized test scores. SES appears to be the most important factor in academic outcomes. Time spent in PA at school does not negatively affect academic outcomes and should be utilized to prevent/reduce childhood overweight and obesity.
Stressors of parents of infants undergoing neonatal surgery for major non‐cardiac congenital anomalies in a surgical neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Govindaswamy Priya , Laing Sharon , Waters Donna , Walker Karen , Spence Kaye , Badawi Nadia
Published: November 2019

Aim

As more babies survive major neonatal surgery, the quality of life of the whole family is a major focus of health care. While there is evidence suggesting that parents of babies admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) experience high levels of stress, little is known about stressors in parents whose infants also require neonatal surgery. This study identified fathers' and mothers' stressors in a surgical NICU.

Methods

Parents of infants admitted for general surgery to the NICU at a tertiary children's hospital from February 2014 to September 2015 were eligible for enrolment. Parents completed the Parental Stressor Scale: NICU to measure levels of stress related to three subscales: sights and sounds, infant appearance and parental role alteration, using a 5‐point Likert scale.

Results

Data for 111 parents (57% mothers) showed parental role alteration as the greatest stressor for parents (M = 2.98, standard deviation (SD) = 0.89), particularly for mothers, followed by infant appearance (M = 2.84, SD = 0.95). Both fathers and mothers rated feeling helpless (M = 4.1, SD = 1.0), unable to protect their baby (M = 4.1, SD = 0.9) and seeing their baby in pain (M = 3.9, SD = 1.2) the most common, most stressful experiences and highest contributors to overall stress in the surgical NICU environment.

Conclusion

Parental role alteration is the greatest stressor for parents in the surgical NICU. Reducing stress for parents of infants undergoing neonatal surgery requires management of the infant's pain and strategies to support parents in their role in the NICU.
Melatonin enhances mitochondrial biogenesis and protects against rotenone‐induced mitochondrial deficiency in early porcine embryos
Authors: Niu Ying‐Jie , Zhou Wenjun , Nie Zheng‐Wen , Shin Kyung‐Tae , Cui Xiang‐Shun
Published: November 2019

Melatonin, a major hormone of the pineal gland, exerts many beneficial effects on mitochondria. Several studies have shown that melatonin can protect against toxin‐induced oocyte quality impairment during maturation. However, there is little information regarding the beneficial effects of melatonin on toxin‐exposed early embryos, and the mechanisms underlying such effects have not been determined. Rotenone, a chemical widely used in agriculture, induces mitochondrial toxicity, therefore, damaging the reproductive system, impairing oocyte maturation, ovulation, and fertilization. We investigated whether melatonin attenuated rotenone exposure‐induced impairment of embryo development by its mitochondrial protection effect. Activated oocytes were randomly assigned to four groups: the control, melatonin treatment, rotenone‐exposed, and “rotenone + melatonin” groups. Treatment with melatonin abrogated rotenone‐induced impairment of embryo development, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ATP deficiency, and significantly decreased oxidative stress and apoptosis. Melatonin also increased SIRT1 and PGC‐1α expression, which promoted mitochondrial biogenesis. SIRT1 knockdown or pharmacological inhibition abolished melatonin's ability to revert rotenone‐induced impairment. Thus, melatonin rescued rotenone‐induced impairment of embryo development by reducing ROS production and promoting mitochondrial biogenesis. This study shows that melatonin rescues toxin‐induced impairment of early porcine embryo development by promoting mitochondrial biogenesis.
Impact of lactation on pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in goats
Authors: Kim Tae‐Won , Sartini Irene , Łebkowska‐Wieruszewska Beata , Lisowski Andrzej , Poapolathep Amnart , Giorgi Mario
Published: November 2019

Use of drug in lactating animal should be carefully considered due to its possibility of changes in pharmacokinetics as well as drug penetration in milk. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of lactation on pharmacokinetics of meloxicam after IV and IM administrations in goats. A crossover design (2 × 2) was used for each lactating and nonlactating group of goats with a 3‐week washout period. Meloxicam (0.5 mg/kg) was administered into the jugular vein and upper gluteal muscle by IV and IM routes, respectively. The plasma and milk drug concentrations were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector, and the pharmacokinetic analysis was carried out by noncompartmental analysis. The pharmacokinetic parameters of meloxicam in lactating and nonlactating goats were not significantly different. The IM bioavailability of meloxicam was relatively lower in lactating (75.3 ± 18.6%) than nonlactating goats (103.8 ± 34.7%); however, the difference was not statistically significant. Moreover, AUC ratio between milk and plasma, which represent drug milk penetration, for both IV and IM administrations was less than 1 (about 0.3). In conclusion, pharmacokinetic parameters of meloxicam are not significantly altered by lactation for either the IV or IM routes of administration and this drug does not require a different dosage regimen for lactating animals.
Hypoganglionosis in the gastric antrum causes delayed gastric emptying
Authors: Baker Corey , Ahmed Minhal , Cheng Katarina , Arciero Emily , Bhave Sukhada , Ho Wing Lam N. , Goldstein Allan M. , Hotta Ryo
Published: November 2019

Background

Enteric nervous system (ENS) abnormalities have been implicated in delayed gastric emptying but studies exploring potential treatment options are limited by the lack of an experimental animal model. We examined the ENS abnormalities in the mouse stomach associated with aging, developed a novel model of gastroparesis, and established a new approach to measure gastric emptying.

Methods

A modified gastric emptying assay was developed, validated in nNOS −/− mice, and tested in mice at multiple ages. Age‐related changes in ENS structure were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Gastric aganglionosis was generated in Wnt1‐iDTR mice using focal administration of diphtheria toxin (DT) into the anterior antral wall.

Key Results

Older mice (>5 months) exhibit hypoganglionosis in the gastric antrum and a decreased proportion of nNOS neurons as compared to younger mice (age 5‐7 weeks). This was associated with a significant age‐dependent decrease in liquid and solid gastric emptying. A novel model of gastric antrum hypoganglionosis was established using neural crest‐specific expression of diphtheria toxin receptor. In this model, a significant reduction in liquid and solid gastric emptying is observed.

Conclusions & Inferences

Older mice exhibit delayed gastric emptying associated with hypoganglionosis and a reduction in nNOS‐expressing neurons in the antrum. The causal relationship between antral hypoganglionosis and delayed gastric emptying was verified using a novel experimental model of ENS ablation. This study provides new information regarding the pathogenesis of delayed gastric emptying and provides a robust model system to study this disease and develop novel treatments.
The developmental relationship between stomata and mesophyll airspace
Authors: Baillie Alice L. , Fleming Andrew J.
Published: November 2019

The quantitative and spatial coordination of stomatal pores in the epidermis and airspaces in the underlying mesophyll tissue is vital for efficient gas exchange in the leaf. The mechanisms that determine the distribution of stomata in the epidermis have been studied extensively, but how this relates to the regulation of mesophyll airspace configuration is poorly understood. Recent studies have investigated how development is coordinated between these tissue layers. The evidence suggests that multiple mechanisms are likely to work concurrently to coordinate stomatal and mesophyll development for optimal leaf gas exchange, and that both genetic and physiological factors contribute to this regulation. Such advances in our understanding of leaf development have important implications for potential improvement of crop water use efficiency.
Progressive refinement of the karyotyping of Brachypodium genomes
Authors: Hasterok Robert , Wang Kai , Jenkins Glyn
Published: November 2019

Brachypodium distachyon is a weedy grass species that is firmly established as a model for the comparative and functional genomics of temperate cereals and grasses. Its simple, nuclear genome of five chromosomes contrasts it with other relatives of the genus with different, and usually higher, basic chromosome numbers and ploidy levels. This variation in karyotypic structure affords the possibility of reconstructing evolutionary pathways that have shaped the genome structure of extant species. This Tansley insight documents how key refinements in molecular cytogenetic approaches, from simple fluorescence in situ hybridization to comparative chromosome barcoding, have enabled genome structure studies and yielded valuable information about the drivers of karyotypic reorganization and evolution in the model grass genus Brachypodium.
Typical BBB morphology and implantation depth of 3830 electrode predict QRS correction by left bundle branch area pacing
Authors: Jiang Zhixin , Chang Qin , Wu Yucheng , Ji Ling , Zhou Xiujuan , Shan Qijun
Published: November 2019

Aim

Strict criteria of typical left bundle branch block (LBBB) can help with the prediction for cardiac resynchronization therapy response. The aim of this study is to determine whether the use of strict criteria for both LBBB and right bundle branch block (RBBB) predicts successful QRS correction (≤130 ms) by left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP).

Methods

Consecutive patients with pacemaker indications according to the present guideline who also underwent LBBAP implantation were retrospectively assessed. Inclusion criteria were patients with BBB and the baseline QRSd > 130 ms. Baseline characteristics and pacing parameters were compared between typical and atypical BBB groups. Multivariate logistic regression was used to adjust for covariates that were found in univariate analyses for successful QRS correction by LBBAP.

Results

Seventy‐three patients were enrolled. Among them, 10 (13.6%) had atypical BBB (5 LBBB and 5 RBBB) and 63 (86.4%) had typical BBB (30 LBBB and 33 RBBB). The rate of successful QRS correction was higher in typical‐BBB patients (52/63; 82.5%) than that in atypical‐BBB patients (3/10; 30%), P < .001. Paced QRSd was obviously narrower in patients with typical BBB than that in patients with atypical‐BBB (118 ± 14 vs 133 ± 14 ms, P = .003). In multivariate logistic regression, only typical BBB morphology and the implantation depth of 3830 pacing electrode in the ventricular septum were independent predictors for successful QRS correction.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that patients with typical‐BBB morphology benefit more from LBBAP for QRS correction. Typical BBB morphology together with deep penetration of 3830 ventricular electrode in the interventricular septum predicts the success of QRS correction by LBBAP.
The longitudinal effects of alexithymia on romantic relationships
Authors: Hesse Colin , Gibbons Stephanie
Published: November 2019

Using the tenets of Affection Exchange Theory, the study predicted longitudinal effects of alexithymia on both romantic relational outcomes (satisfaction and commitment) and relational communication (affectionate communication and relational maintenance behaviors). The study also predicted that Time 2 levels of relational communication would mediate the longitudinal effects of alexithymia on the relational outcomes. The results largely supported the predictions, with Time 1 alexithymia significantly negatively related to both relational outcome measures, affectionate communication, and two types of relational maintenance behaviors (understanding and assurances) at Time 2. Alternate models predicting alexithymia at Time 2 using the relational variables were nonsignificant. Finally, mediation was shown for both affectionate communication and understanding. Implications and possible directions for future research are explored.
Submaximal field testing validity for aerobic fitness assessment in recreational football
Authors: Póvoas Susana , Krustrup Peter , Castagna Carlo
Published: November 2019

Submaximal field tests are especially recommended when repeated testing is warranted. This study aimed at assessing the validity of the submaximal versions of the Yo‐Yo intermittent tests in male recreational football players in untrained and trained status. The participants’ (n = 66; age 39.3 ± 5.8 years, VO2max 41.2 ± 6.2 mL·kg−1·min−1, body mass 81.9 ± 10.8 kg, height 173.2 ± 6.4 cm) heart rate after 2 minutes (HR2min) during the level 1 (YYIE1HR2min) and 2 (YYIE2HR2min) versions of the Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test and the level 1 version of the Yo‐Yo intermittent recovery test (YYIR1HR2min) was plotted against individual VO2max values. Thirty‐two participants performed all the tests after a 12‐week recreational football intervention for test responsiveness. Associations between VO2max and YYIE1HR2min were large to small (P = .0001). Large to trivial associations were found between YYIE2HR2min, YYIR1HR2min, and VO2max (P < .01). Maximal Yo‐Yo performances were large, significant, and inversely related to HR2min (−0.68 to −0.49, P < .0001). Pre‐ to post‐intervention ICC values were good for YYIE1HR2min and YYIE2HR2min, and excellent for YYIR1HR2min. Post‐intervention associations between HR2min and Yo‐Yo maximal performances were large to very large (−0.55 to −0.72; P < .002, n = 32). Training‐induced changes in VO2max moderately correlated with YYIR1HR2min (−0.48; P = .007; n = 32). HR2min lower than 89%, 98%, and 91% HRmax for YYIE1HR2min, YYIE2HR2min, and YYIR1HR2min, respectively, may be considered as signs of good to excellent VO2max levels. Since in the YYIE1HR2min, the participants attained 84% HRmax and test specificity increased for HR2min values <89%, this test may be the preferred choice when repeated assessment of aerobic fitness, using submaximal intermittent Yo‐Yo tests, is considered in recreational football.
Ophthalmic findings in cinereous vultures (Aegypius monachus)
Authors: Hwang Jaemin , Kang Seonmi , Seok Seonghoon , Ahmed Sohail , Yeon Seongchan
Published: November 2019

Objective

The aim of the present study was to provide ophthalmic reference values under normal physiological conditions forAegypius monachus(cinereous vulture).

Procedures

Thirty‐two eyes of sixteen adult captive cinereous vultures were used for this study. Tear tests and tonometry in conscious and anesthetized states, neuro‐ophthalmic tests, measurement of corneal diameter, slit‐lamp biomicroscopy, ophthalmoscopy, and funduscopy were performed.

Results

Schirmer tear test (STT) value was 11.4 ± 2.6 and 11.5 ± 2.8 mm/min in the right (OD) and left eye (OS), respectively. Phenol red thread test (PRT) values were 22.3 ± 2.1 mm/15 s OD and 22.8 ± 3.0 mm/15 s OS. The results showed a strong correlation between STT and PRT in both eyes. Intraocular pressure (IOP) values were 32.8 ± 6.9 mm Hg OD and 31.9 ± 7.1 mm Hg OS with TonoVet and 20.7 ± 4.5 mm Hg OD and 19.5 ± 4.1 mm Hg OS with Tono‐Pen. There were significant differences in IOPs between rebound and applanation tonometry in both OD and OS. Tear production and IOP values showed significant reductions with general anesthesia in both tear tests and both tonometry (P < .001). Horizontal corneal diameter (mm) was 15.56 ± 0.96 OD and 15.56 ± 0.96 OS. Vertical diameter (mm) was 14.13 ± 0.96 OD and 14.06 ± 1.06 OS. The horizontal diameter was significantly longer than vertical diameter (P < .001).

Conclusions

Ocular morphologic information and normal reference range values for various ophthalmic measurements were obtained in clinically healthy cinereous vultures, which can facilitate accurate diagnosis and better management of ophthalmic diseases in cinereous vultures.
Digital communication, social media, and Englishes
Authors: Lee Jamie Shinhee
Published: November 2019

Scholarship in world Englishes has long been interested in the impact of digital media on the spread of English worldwide. This special issue on ‘World Englishes and digital media’ examines how English(es) are positioned and used in relation to other languages in digital communication, what pragmatic functions English and other languages serve, and how various linguistic choices affect identity work in the context of digital communication. It is hoped that this special issue will make an important contribution to research in this field.
Principles for Successful Cognitive Interventions
Authors: Pasnak Robert
Published: November 2019

This essay is a distillations of decades of efforts at cognitive intervention by many educators. Three likely outcomes for cognitive interventions are described. Recommendations for when interventions scan most effectively be conducted, and what children are most likely to respond most favorably are also advanced. Finally, the general nature of the subject matter of successful cognitive interventions, and parameters that are most likely to produce good internalization and application of whatever is conveyed by the intervention are also described.
Retroerosion in a TBG Gas Pipeline Crossing and its Rehabilitation
Authors: Costa Cesar Augusto , Schultz Neto Walter , Zozula Thiago Wichrestink
Published: November 2019

This Paper presents a case study of the Jardim Novo Maracanã stream situated in Campinas, São Paulo, in which recent streambed modifications were characterized, aiming to define the rates and the potential erosions along the channel alignment of which have Bolivia-Brazil Gas Pipeline crossing.

Its presents the erosion process analysis and mitigation concepts aimed at the pipeline and fiber optic cables facilities integrity, as well as to indicate the design issues, considering the streambed deepening in this watershed. For this, satellite images and aerial photographs were collected in different periods, soil and subsoil surveys were performed, information on rainfall and watershed characteristics was analyzed, as well as hydrological and hydrotechnical studies were developed. These studies included geotechnical channel and banks analyzes, the spatial and temporal trends of the fluvial geomorphology evolution and the infrastructures safety conditions analysis.

It was concluded that a new channel erosion process occurred after the streambed was filled by recent sediments. This process is associated with an increase floods magnitude, the slopes occupation intensification with the county urbanization and the streambed conditions changes, from an alignment sinuous to rectilinear and from a shallow to deeper channel. Once initiated, the channel erosion process maintained its retroerosion, i.e. its “headcutting” trend, deepening its equilibrium profile to its stratigraphic base level, located about 5.0 m below the 2014 stream bottom, in the pipeline cross section. Alternative concepts for the infrastructure integrity rehabilitation in these new morphological-fluvial conditions were also developed and dimensioned. Among these, the rectangular culverts alternative was adopted. They support a landfill at the crossing with the buried pipe and have to 100-year return period peak flows capacity.
Interferences by Third Parties: The Challenge of the Construction of Highways on the Right of Way of Oil Pipelines — Case of Autopistas Del Nordeste-Ocensa
Authors: Corrales Cobos Julian Javier
Published: November 2019

The development of third world countries is surrounded by a thousand challenges, one of them is to increase and modernize the transport infrastructure to improve competitiveness in an increasingly interconnected world. Colombia in recent years has undertaken a titanic task of construction of highways to meet this purpose, have hired more than 8170 km of roads, however, this task generates a major challenge for the oil industry since the construction of these roads generates an unplanned interference with the hydrocarbon transport infrastructure that, if not handled correctly, can cause ruptures or damage in the pipelines and the consequent economic and environmental losses.

In 2015 the design of the highway that interconnects the municipalities of Remedios and Caucasia in the department of Antioquia began. This project was called Autopistas del Nordeste. The road was designed to pass through the Pocune river valley, however, the environmental licensing of this type of project requires the revision of the interference with other networks. It was found that the new road crossed the Ocensa pipeline at 26 points. The geographical conditions require the use of this small corridor by many lines, 2 pipelines (Ocensa and ODC), a 500 KV power line and, of course, the current tertiary route and the projected highway that connects these municipalities. The challenge is huge, in this article the project is described, the negotiation stages that have been necessary to carry out with the way to make compatible the projects and the threats that have been overcome in the constructive stage.
River Crossings: Developing a Mobile GIS Approach to Monitoring Activities
Authors: Carnicero Martin , Vázquez Maureen
Published: November 2019

TGN operates a system of 9,000 kilometers of natural gas pipelines with numerous river crossings. According to the mandatory monitoring program, river crossings are visited at least once a year with additional visits for major rivers during the rainy season. Basic data such as depth of cover for each line, photographs and descriptions are surveyed in the field. Later on, this information is manually entered in an electronic form for its use in risk analysis, to evaluate the need of remediation works. This task has two main problems: first, it is very time consuming for surveyors, and second, it is difficult to know the location within the river crossing where data was taken. At the end, monitoring forms came late in the year and its information is difficult to understand. To cope with this problem, a new approach was developed. A GIS mobile application was developed and installed in tablets used in the field, guiding the surveyor through the completion of an electronic form along each pipeline, having a satellite image in the background, as a global reference of where he is standing. All the information is geo-referenced using a built-in GPS. Once it is finished, by means of a simple WIFI/4G connection, information is sent to GIS servers, without the need to be typed at the office. Later on, it is captured and placed into the monitoring form format. Specialists can access and evaluate this information from the database visualizing it in the corporate GIS with minimum delay. This improvement has resulted in a significant decrease in time for the entire data flow process and a better quality of the information gathered, which results in a more realistic risk analysis.