bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of complete and partial removable dentures on chewing movements
Authors: Gonçalves T. M. S. V. , Vilanova L. S. R. , Gonçalves L. M. , Rodrigues Garcia R. C. M.
Published: December 2013

Partial or complete edentulism impairs mastication. However, it is unclear how the chewing cycle is affected by prosthetics. We evaluated the chewing movements of patients fitted with complete (CD) or removable partial denture (RPD). A total of 29 subjects were kinesiographically evaluated during chewing of peanuts and Optocal portions in a random sequence. The subjects were divided into two groups according to prosthesis type. Group RPD was composed of 14 partially edentulous patients using a lower distal extension RPD (mean age 61 ± 8 years), and group CD contained 15 completely edentulous patients using CD (mean age 65·9 ± 7·9 years) in both jaws. Opening, closing, occlusal and masticatory cycle times, movement angle (opening and closing), maximum velocity (opening and closing), total area and chewing cycle amplitudes were evaluated. The results were subjected to anova and Tukey's HSD test at a significance level of 5%. The RPD group exhibited shorter opening and closing phases and masticatory cycle time (P < 0·05). Maximum velocities were also higher in the RPD group, irrespective of the test material (P < 0·05). The area and amplitude of the chewing envelope was smaller in the CD group (P < 0·0001). The test material did not influence chewing cycles in any of the parameters evaluated (P > 0·05). RPD wearers use a faster chewing sequence with greater vertical and lateral jaw excursions compared with CD wearers.
LAND SUPPLY AND CAPITALIZATION OF PUBLIC GOODS IN HOUSING PRICES: EVIDENCE FROM BEIJING
Authors: Zheng Siqi , Sun Weizeng , Wang Rui
Published: December 2013

This paper studies the extent to which spatial heterogeneity in housing prices is affected by housing supply in Beijing's specific context of centralized metropolitan government without local property tax. Taking data sets of residential land leases and private housing sales records from 2006 to 2008 within Beijing's metropolitan area, this paper examines how the capitalization of school quality and subway accessibility in housing prices varies with land availability instrumented by the employment density of state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) at the beginning of SOE reform. Results confirm that the capitalization of school quality and subway accessibility is larger in supply‐constrained locations.
Multiple Time‐Intensity Analysis: Sweetness, Bitterness, Chocolate Flavor and Melting Rate of Chocolate with Sucralose, Rebaudioside and Neotame
Authors: Palazzo A.B. , Bolini H.M.A.
Published: December 2013

The objective of this research was to compare the dynamic sensory profile (multiple time‐intensity analysis) of milk chocolate formulated with different sweeteners. Eight different milk chocolates were formulated as follows: four milk chocolates (sweetened with sucrose, sucralose, rebaudioside and neotame) and four soy‐based chocolates, using soy extract as milk replacement. The multiple time‐intensity analysis tested the following four attributes by evaluating them in separate instances with an intensity reference for each attribute: sweetness, bitterness, chocolate flavor and melting rate. Twelve assessors evaluated the samples with four repetitions according to the time required to evaluate each attribute. The collected curve parameters were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance, Tukey's test and principal components analysis. The samples and attributes were evaluated individually, and their results were simultaneously represented graphically by an overlay of curves to visualize the results. The neotame formulation of milk chocolate and sucralose soy‐based chocolate presented multiple time‐intensity results with parameter curves that were not significantly different (P > 0.05) from those of the sucrose control. The other sweeteners may also be interesting alternatives in product development, especially in chocolate formulation for dietetic purposes.

Practical Applications

Time‐intensity analysis is different from conventional descriptive analysis because it allows one to verify changes in the perception of an attribute over time. The sensory results obtained in this study are useful for researchers and product developers working with different sweeteners in food, especially in chocolate products. The time‐intensity method was an important tool used to determine the concentrations of sweeteners providing the same sweetness as the sucrose sample. This study considered the multiple perceptions, analyzed by temporal characteristics, involved in producing quality diet and light milk chocolates. Multiple time‐intensity analysis graphically represents dynamic profiles by overlaying curves of collected attributes (register of intensity of one determined sensory characteristic during the consumption of a product) on two or more sensory attributes of a specific sample.
Acute haemorrhagic oedema of infancy in a 5‐week‐old boy referred to the Child Protection Unit
Authors: Hawkrigg Sharon , Johnson Alice , Flynn James , Thom Graham , Wright Helen
Published: December 2013

We describe the case of a 5‐week‐old infant boy presenting with purpura and oedema to both hands and torso. He was otherwise well, with no antecedent history of illness or trauma. Laboratory investigations were within normal limits. A review by the Child Protection Unit was organised during his admission for consideration of inflicted trauma as a cause of the lesions; this was felt most unlikely. A clinical diagnosis, following a dermatology consultation, of acute haemorrhagic oedema of infancy (AHO) was made.
Varicella in a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit: 10‐year review from Starship Children's Hospital, New Zealand
Authors: Wen Sophie Chien‐Hui , Miles Fiona , McSharry Brent , Wilson Elizabeth
Published: December 2013

Aims

Varicella is now a vaccine‐preventable disease but is generally considered benign, making it a low priority for a funded universal immunisation scheme. We aimed to increase the knowledge of the severity, morbidity and mortality caused by varicella, by a review of cases requiring paediatric intensive care in New Zealand where vaccine is available but not funded.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review of children admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) over a 10‐year period (July 2001–July 2011) identified from the PICU database with a primary or secondary code for varicella.

Results

Thirty‐four cases were identified and 26 cases were included. Of the 26 cases, 84.6% were Maori or Pacific Island ethnicity, 54% had no preceding medical condition and 23% were immunocompromised. Main PICU admission reasons were neurologic (38.5%), secondary bacterial sepsis or shock (26.9%), respiratory (15.4%), disseminated varicella (11.5%), or other causes (7.7%). Fifty per cent of children required inotropic support and 81% invasive ventilation. Four children died (15%), three of whom were immunocompromised. A further eight children (31%) had ongoing disability at hospital discharge.

Conclusion

Varicella, or its secondary complications, requiring paediatric intensive care, carries high mortality, particularly for immunocompromised patients, and long‐term morbidities, mostly affecting previously healthy children.
Xiaochaihutang prevents depressive-like behaviour in rodents by enhancing the serotonergic system
Authors: Su Guang Yue , Yang Jing Yu , Wang Fang , Xiong Zhi Li , Hou Yue , Zhang Kuo , Song Cui , Ma Jie , Song Shao Jiang , Teng Huai Feng , Wu Chun Fu
Published: December 2013

Objectives

Xiaochaihutang (XCHT) has been used in China for thousands of years to treat ‘Shaoyang syndrome’, which involves depressive-like symptoms. However, no studies were conducted to demonstrate its antidepressant effect and mechanism. This study was designed to confirm the antidepressant effect of XCHT and explore its mechanism using the pharmacological methods.

Methods

Ultra-HPLC and mass spectrometry was used to identify the chemical constituents of XCHT. Forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) were used to determine the antidepressant-like activity of XCHT in mice and rats. The possible mechanism of XCHT was elucidated by the reserpine-induced hypothermia and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)-induced head-twitch in mice. The levels of serotonin (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were measured in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus tissue of both mice and rats. Moreover, the extracellular 5-HT in rat hippocampus was assessed by using microdialysis coupled to HPLC with electrochemical detection.

Key findings

Forty-four components were detected in XCHT. XCHT significantly reduced immobility time in the TST and the FST, antagonized reserpine-induced depressive-like behaviours, increased 5-HTP-induced head-twitches, elevated 5-HT and 5-HIAA levels, and increased 5-HT turnover at doses that did not affect general activity.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that XCHT has therapeutic effects in animal models of depression by enhancing the serotoninergic system in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.
Treating HCV in HIV 2013: on the cusp of change
Authors: Martel‐Laferrière Valérie , Dieterich Douglas T.
Published: December 2013

Treating hepatitis C virus (HCV) in HIV/HCV co‐infected patients is a challenge. Even if the benefits of achieving a sustained virological response are clear, the rates achieved with the combination of pegylated‐interferon and ribavirin are disappointing. The addition of direct acting antiviral agents (DAAs) to the treatment of hepatitis C is revolutionizing the treatment of HCV in mono‐infected patients. Even if there have not been any agents approved for the treatment of co‐infected patients, many studies specifically designed for this population are ongoing. This article reviews available data on the use of DAAs in co‐infected patients and the challenges associated with these new drugs.
How to optimize current treatment of genotype 2 hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Marciano Sebastián , Gadano Adrián C.
Published: December 2013

The standard of care (SOC) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 2 is pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV). Even though most patients can be cured with this therapy after 24 weeks, tailoring treatment can improve its safety and efficacy in special populations. Thus, shortening treatment together with a weight‐based RBV dosing approach has been considered satisfactory in patients with positive predictors of response. With the development of the direct antiviral agents (DAAs), shorter, better tolerated and more efficient treatments for HCV genotype 2 will become available, including interferon‐free regimens. Until these new treatments are released, the decision to treat patients with HCV genotype 2 with currently approved drugs or to wait for future options must be made, taking into account the stage of fibrosis.
HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B: why do I treat my patients with nucleos(t)ide analogues?
Authors: Viganò Mauro , Mangia Giampaolo , Lampertico Pietro
Published: December 2013

The aim of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) antiviral therapy is to persistently suppress HBV and improve survival by preventing the progression of liver damage to cirrhosis, end‐stage liver disease or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), thus preventing early liver‐related death. In HBeAg‐negative patients who do not or will not respond to or be treated with pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN), the administration of third generation nucleot(s)ide analogues (NAs), i.e. entecavir (ETV) and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), is the treatment of choice. Long‐term administration of ETV or TDF suppresses HBV replication in >95% of patients after 5 years of treatment with high rates of biochemical normalization, regression of fibrosis and cirrhosis at histology as well as preventing clinical decompensation but not HCC, in compensated cirrhosis and improving survival. No major safety issues have been recorded with either drug. The need for long‐term, perhaps indefinite, treatment is the main limitation of NA therapy with possible associated costs, unknown long‐term safety and the low rates of HBsAg seroclearance. The latter is important since HBsAg seroclearance is still the best stopping rule for HBeAg‐negative NA‐treated patients, including those with cirrhosis. For this reason new trials based upon a combination of PEG‐IFN and third generation NAs in both naïve and NA‐responder HBeAg‐negative patients are ongoing.
Alternative interferons and immunomodulators in the treatment of hepatitis C
Authors: Alao Hawwa , Jake Liang T.
Published: December 2013

Interferon‐α (IFN‐α) has been the mainstay of therapy for hepatitis C and is currently being combined with other drugs to improve the response rate. Newer therapeutic regimens are being developed to spare the use of IFN because of the important side effects associated with IFN‐based therapy. However, there may still be a need for the use of IFN in certain populations. In addition, agents that mimic the actions of IFN but with fewer side effects may still be of major value. This review focuses on the development of alternative and new forms of IFNs and other immunomodulatory agents that may supplant IFN‐α in combination therapy for hepatitis C.
HCV F1/F2 patients: treat now or continue to wait
Authors: Shiffman Mitchell L. , Benhamou Yves
Published: December 2013

The treatment of chronic HCV is evolving rapidly. In 2014, three new oral antiviral agents, simeprevir, faldeprevir and sofosbuvir will become available for patients with HCV genotype 1. These agents have far less side effects than the first generation protease inhibitors telaprevir and boceprevir. Treatment will therefore be easier for patients to tolerate but still require peginterferon and ribavirin (PEGINF/RBV). The first IFN free therapy, sofosbuvir (SOF) and ribavirin (RBV), will also become available in 2014. This treatment is highly effective for patients with HCV genotype 2. However, SVR rates with SOF/RBV appear to be similar to that achieved with PEGINF/RBV in patients with HCV genotype 3. The first IFN‐free all oral antiviral therapy combination for patients with HCV genotype 1 may be available late in 2014 or early 2015. The factors which should be considered when deciding whether to treat a patient with HCV now or to delay treatment until IFN free therapies are available is discussed.
Second‐wave IFN‐based triple therapy for HCV genotype 1 infection: simeprevir, faldaprevir and sofosbuvir
Authors: Asselah Tarik , Marcellin Patrick
Published: December 2013

With the approval of second‐wave direct‐acting antivirals simeprevir, sofosbuvir and faldaprevir in 2014–2015, for genotype 1 hepatitis C, patients and doctors will have more treatment options. During a first period, these treatments will still be used with peginterferon and ribavirin. The second wave of IFN‐based triple therapy will have benefits and risk. These treatments have the following advantages: higher efficacy with more patient candidates for a shorten treatment duration (12–24 weeks, instead of 48 weeks). These new treatments appear to have a better safety profile than first generation, with no additional increase in anaemia over peginterferon/ribavirin. Then, these treatments are to take for patients with a decrease in pill burden (these three direct‐acting antivirals are given orally one pill a day). Simeprevir and sofosbuvir may be approved in the US and Europe, in 2014, at the time this manuscript will be released. Approval of faldaprevir will follow. These direct‐acting antivirals with many others will hopefully be combined in future interferon‐free regimens. The goal of this review to summarize the results and safety of simeprevir, faldaprevir and sofosbuvir, to advise physicians and to inform patients on the benefits and risks of these second‐wave IFN‐based regimens for HCV genotype infection.
The bacterial effector HopM1 suppresses PAMP‐triggered oxidative burst and stomatal immunity
Authors: Lozano‐Durán Rosa , Bourdais Gildas , He Sheng Yang , Robatzek Silke
Published: December 2013

Successful pathogens counter immunity at multiple levels, mostly through the action of effectors. Pseudomonas syringae secretes c. 30 effectors, some of which have been shown to inhibit plant immunity triggered upon perception of conserved pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). One of these is HopM1, which impairs late immune responses through targeting the vesicle trafficking‐related AtMIN7 for degradation.

Here, we report that in planta expressed HopM1 suppresses two early PAMP‐triggered responses, the oxidative burst and stomatal immunity, both of which seem to require proteasomal function but are independent of AtMIN7. Notably, a 14‐3‐3 protein, GRF8/AtMIN10, was found previously to be a target of HopM1 in vivo, and expression of HopM1 mimics the effect of chemically and genetically disrupting 14‐3‐3 function.

Our data further show that the function of 14‐3‐3 proteins is required for PAMP‐triggered oxidative burst and stomatal immunity, and chemical‐mediated disruption of the 14‐3‐3 interactions with their client proteins restores virulence of a HopM1‐deficient P. syringae mutant, providing a link between HopM1 and the involvement of 14‐3‐3 proteins in plant immunity.

Taken together, these results unveil the impact of HopM1 on the PAMP‐triggered oxidative burst and stomatal immunity in an AtMIN7‐independent manner, most likely acting at the function of (a) 14‐3‐3 protein(s).
Do Elections Matter for Economic Performance?
Authors: Collier Paul , Hoeffler Anke
Published: December 2013

In mature democracies, elections discipline leaders to deliver good economic performance. Since the fall of the Soviet Union, most developing countries also hold elections, but these are often marred by illicit tactics. Using a new global data set, this article investigates whether these illicit tactics are merely blemishes or substantially undermine the economic efficacy of elections. We show that illicit tactics are widespread, and that they reduce the incentive for governments to deliver good economic performance. Our analysis also suggests that in societies with regular free and fair elections, leaders do not matter for economic growth.
Accumulation of secreted antibodies in plant cell cultures varies according to the isotype, host species and culture conditions
Authors: Magy Bertrand , Tollet Jérémie , Laterre Raphaëlle , Boutry Marc , Navarre Catherine
Published: December 2013

Nicotiana tabacum suspension cells have been widely used to produce monoclonal antibodies, but the yield of secreted antibodies is usually low probably because of proteolytic degradation. Most IgGs that have been expressed in suspension cells have been of the human IgG1 isotype. In this study, we examined whether other isotypes displayed the same sensitivity to proteolytic degradation and whether the choice of plant host species mattered. Human serum IgG displayed different degradation profiles when incubated in spent culture medium from N. tabacum, Nicotiana benthamiana or Arabidopsis thaliana suspension cells. Zymography showed that the protease profile was host species dependent. Three human isotypes, IgG1, IgG2 and IgG4, and a mouse IgG2a were provided with the same heavy‐ and light‐chain variable regions from an anti‐human IgM antibody and expressed in N. tabacum cv. BY‐2 and A. thaliana cv. Col‐0 cells. Although all tested isotypes were detected in the extracellular medium using SDS‐PAGE and a functional ELISA, up to 10‐fold differences in the level of intact antibody were found according to the isotype expressed, to the host species and to the culture conditions. In the best combination (BY‐2 cells secreting human IgG1), we reported accumulation of more than 30 mg/L of intact antibody in culture medium. The possibility of using IgG constant regions as a scaffold to allow stable accumulation of antibodies with different variable regions was demonstrated for human IgG2 and mouse IgG2a.
Identification of early Al‐responsive genes in rice bean (Vigna umbellata) roots provides new clues to molecular mechanisms of Al toxicity and tolerance
Authors: FAN W. , LOU H. Q. , GONG Y. L. , LIU M. Y. , WANG Z. Q. , YANG J. L. , ZHENG S. J.
Published: December 2013

Significant secretion of citrate from root apex of rice bean (Vigna umbellata) is delayed by several hours under aluminium (Al) stress. However, the molecular basis of regulation of VuMATE1, a gene encoding an Al‐activated citrate transporter, remains unclear. In this study, we used suppression subtractive hybridization together with reverse northern blot analysis and qRT‐PCR to identify genes with altered transcript levels in the root apex after treatment with low (5 μm) or high (25 μm) concentration of AlCl3 for a short time (4 h). We found that in addition to VuMATE1, 393 genes showed an early response to Al. Among functionally annotated genes, those related to ‘metabolism and energy’, ‘signal transduction and transcription’ and ‘transport’ was predominantly up‐regulated, whereas those associated with ‘protein translation, processing and degradation’ was predominantly down‐regulated. Comparative analysis of transcriptional profiles highlighted candidate genes associated with citrate secretion and revealed several new aspects of the molecular processes underlying Al toxicity and tolerance. Based on the data, it is proposed that metabolic changes represent adaptive mechanisms to Al stress, whereas inhibition of both cell elongation and cell division underlies Al‐induced root growth inhibition.
ARP2/3 complex‐mediated actin dynamics is required for hydrogen peroxide‐induced stomatal closure in Arabidopsis
Authors: LI XIN , LI JIAN‐HUA , WANG WEI , CHEN NAI‐ZHI , MA TONG‐SUO , XI YA‐NAN , ZHANG XIAO‐LU , LIN HAI‐FEI , BAI YANG , HUANG SHAN‐JIN , CHEN YU‐LING
Published: December 2013

Multiple cellular events like dynamic actin reorganization and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production were demonstrated to be involved in abscisic acid (ABA)‐induced stomatal closure. However, the relationship between them as well as the underlying mechanisms remains poorly understood. Here, we showed that H2O2 generation is indispensable for ABA induction of actin reorganization in guard cells of Arabidopsis that requires the presence of ARP2/3 complex. H2O2‐induced stomatal closure was delayed in the mutants of arpc4 and arpc5, and the rate of actin reorganization was slowed down in arpc4 and arpc5 in response to H2O2, suggesting that ARP2/3‐mediated actin nucleation is required for H2O2‐induced actin cytoskeleton remodelling. Furthermore, the expression of H2O2 biosynthetic related gene AtrbohD and the accumulation of H2O2 was delayed in response to ABA in arpc4 and arpc5, demonstrating that misregulated actin dynamics affects H2O2 production upon ABA treatment. These results support a possible causal relation between the production of H2O2 and actin dynamics in ABA‐mediated guard cell signalling: ABA triggers H2O2 generation that causes the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton partially mediated by ARP2/3 complex, and ARP2/3 complex‐mediated actin dynamics may feedback regulate H2O2 production.
Effect of narrow band‐ultraviolet B on CD4+CD25highFoxP3+T‐lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of vitiligo patients
Authors: Moftah Nayera H. , El‐Barbary Rasha A. H. , Ismail Mona A. , Ali Nancy A. M.
Published: December 2013

Background

It is widely believed that an imbalance between activated CD8+T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs) exists in patients with vitiligo. Although there is evidence that narrow band ultraviolet (NB‐UVB) irradiation can induce Tregs' number and activity, but up to our knowledge, none of the published studies involved the possible effect of NB‐UVB on Tregs in vitiligo.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of NB‐UVB on circulating CD4+CD25highFoxP3+regulatory T cells (FoxP3+Tregs) in vitiligo.

Methods

This prospective analytic study included 20 patients with active non‐segmental vitiligo and 20 healthy controls. The patients were exposed to NB‐UVB therapy three times per week for 30 sessions. Blood sampling before and after NB‐UVB phototherapy was done to evaluate circulating CD4+CD25highTregs and Foxp3+Tregs.

Results

The CD4+CD25highTregs% and FoxP3+Tregs% were significantly higher in vitiligo patients compared with controls. NB‐UVB therapy decreased both of them in patients, but they did not reach those of controls. Each of circulating CD4+CD25highTregs% and FoxP3+Tregs% didn't correlate with either extent or activity of vitiligo before or after NB‐UVB.

Conclusion

Tregs functional defect is probably having an impact on NSV. NB‐UVB may improve the function of Tregs. Understanding the mechanisms through which NB‐UVB exert its effect on reducing the number of circulating Tregs would help open up the paths for future therapeutic options.
Sputum colour in non‐CF bronchiectasis: The original neutrophil biomarker
Authors: Chalmers James D , Finch Simon
Published: December 2013

See article, page 203
Intercomparison of Long-Term Performance Prediction Methods for a Flat-Plate Domestic Solar Water Heating System
Authors: Xue Huai S.
Published: December 2013

Long-term performance estimations were performed on a nonstandard domestic solar water heating system by f-Chart, interactive F-Chart software, and φ¯,f-Chart methods. Results of estimations were compared to gain insight of their applicability. Results from F-Chart software and f-Chart agree well and are greater than those from the φ¯,f-Chart method. Energy dumping should be given thorough reconsideration for the refinement of f-Chart and F-Chart software.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow Impedance is Elevated in Type I Chiari Malformation
Authors: Shaffer Nicholas , Martin Bryn A. , Rocque Brandon , Madura Casey , Wieben Oliver , Iskandar Bermans J. , Dombrowski Stephen , Luciano Mark , Oshinski John N. , Loth Francis
Published: December 2013

Diagnosis of Type I Chiari malformation (CMI) is difficult because the most commonly used diagnostic criterion, cerebellar tonsillar herniation (CTH) greater than 3–5 mm past the foramen magnum, has been found to have little correlation with patient symptom severity. Thus, there is a need to identify new objective measurement(s) to help quantify CMI severity. This study investigated longitudinal impedance (LI) as a parameter to assess CMI in terms of impedance to cerebrospinal fluid motion near the craniovertebral junction. LI was assessed in CMI patients (N = 15) and age-matched healthy controls (N = 8) using computational fluid dynamics based on subject-specific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements of the cervical spinal subarachnoid space. In addition, CTH was measured for each subject. Mean LI in the CMI group (551 ± 66 dyn/cm5) was significantly higher than in controls (220 ± 17 dyn/cm5, p < 0.001). Mean CTH in the CMI group was 9.0 ± 1.1 mm compared to −0.4 ± 0.5 mm in controls. Regression analysis of LI versus CTH found a weak relationship (R2 = 0.46, p < 0.001), demonstrating that CTH was not a good indicator of the impedance to CSF motion caused by cerebellar herniation. These results showed that CSF flow impedance was elevated in CMI patients and that LI provides different information than a standard CTH measurement. Further research is necessary to determine if LI can be useful in CMI patient diagnosis.
Strategies for Developing and Delivering a Parental Physical Activity Intervention: Answers to the What and How
Authors: Hamilton Kyra , White Katherine M.
Published: December 2013

Background:

Parents are at risk for physical inactivity; however, few studies have designed physical activity (PA) interventions specifically applied to individuals with young children. To ensure the effectiveness of interventions, it may be useful to first elicit the needs from the target population and incorporate salient strategies identified to the design and delivery of a resultant intervention. We aimed to explore strategies for what to include in and how to best deliver a program designed to increase parental PA.

Methods:

Twelve parents (6 mothers, 6 fathers) of children younger than 5 years participated in focus group discussions exploring strategies for an intervention program designed to increase parental PA.

Results:

A range of themes such as Focus on the Children and Flexible Life/Family Plans imbedded in strategies such as persuasion and information, problem-solving, skill building, and environmental approaches were identified. In addition, a range of strategies for how to best deliver a parental PA intervention evidenced in emerging themes such as Diverse and Brief and Individualized Approach was discussed.

Conclusions:

Future research should continue to adopt a ground up, community-based approach to the development and implementation of interventions for this at-risk group to ensure sustained involvement in regular PA.
Physical Inactivity Among Older Canadian Adults
Authors: Azagba Sunday , Sharaf Mesbah Fathy
Published: December 2013

Background:

In spite of the substantial benefits of physical activity for healthy aging, older adults are considered the most physically inactive segment of the Canadian population. This paper examines leisure-time physical inactivity (LTPA) and its correlates among older Canadian adults.

Methods:

We use data from the Canadian Community Health Survey with 45,265 individuals aged 50–79 years. A logistic regression is estimated and separate regressions are performed for males and females.

Results:

About 50% of older Canadian adults are physically inactive. Higher odds of physical inactivity are found among current smokers (OR = 1.52, CI = 1.37–1.69), those who binge-drink (OR = 1.24, CI = 1.11–1.39), visible minorities (OR = 1.60, CI = 1.39–1.85), immigrants (OR = 1.13, CI = 1.02–1.25), individuals with high perceived life stress (OR = 1.48, CI = 1.31–1.66). We also find lower odds of physical inactivity among: males (OR = 0.89, CI = 0.83 to 0.96), those with strong social interaction (OR = 0.71, CI = 0.66–0.77), with general life satisfaction (OR = 0.66, CI = 0.58–0.76) and individuals with more education. Similar results are obtained from separate regressions for males and females.

Conclusions:

Identifying the correlates of LTPA among older adults can inform useful intervention measures.
Physical Activity in High School Physical Education: Impact of Lesson Context and Class Gender Composition
Authors: Smith Nicole J. , Lounsbery Monica A.F. , McKenzie Thomas L.
Published: December 2013

Background:

Physical education (PE) is recommended as a source for physical activity (PA) and learning generalizable PA skills. Few studies have objectively examined high school PE, specifically its delivery, including PA, lesson contexts, and class gender composition.

Methods:

We used the System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time (SOFIT) to assess PA during 6 lesson contexts in 47 boys-only, 54 girls-only, and 63 coed lessons from 7 high schools. MANOVA assessed differences based on class gender composition.

Results:

Actual lesson length was 27.7 min, only 65% of the scheduled length of class periods. Students engaged in moderate-vigorous PA (MVPA) 54% of the time, with boys being more active than girls. Game play was the most dominant context (47%), and little time was allocated to knowledge and skill development. Class size, lesson length, PA, and lesson contexts all differed by class gender composition (P < .001).

Conclusions:

Many differences in the conduct of high school PE are related to class gender composition. Boys accumulated more MVPA than girls. When held, PE lessons contributed about 25% of recommended daily PA minutes; improvements could be made by increasing allocations to fitness and skill practice and reducing transition and management time. Teacher professional development is warranted.
The Added Value of a Brief Self-Efficacy Coaching on the Effectiveness of a 12-Week Physical Activity Program
Authors: Seghers Jan , Van Hoecke Ann-Sophie , Schotte Astrid , Opdenacker Joke , Boen Filip
Published: December 2013

Background:

Self-efficacy has been found to be an important precondition for behavioral change in sedentary people. The current study examined the effectiveness and added value of including a 15-minute selfefficacy coaching at the start of a 12-week lifestyle physical activity (PA) program.

Methods:

Participants were randomly assigned to a standard-intervention group (without additional self-efficacy coaching, N = 116) or extra-intervention group (with additional self-efficacy coaching, N = 111). Body mass index (BMI), cardiovascular fitness, self-reported PA, and self-efficacy beliefs were assessed at baseline and immediately after the intervention period. Perceived adherence to the PA program was assessed postintervention.

Results:

At posttest, a significant increase in cardiovascular fitness and decrease in BMI were found in both groups. Significant intervention effects emerged on PA behavior, self-efficacy, and program adherence, in favor of the extra-intervention group. Self-efficacy mediated the intervention effect on program adherence whereas no evidence was found for its role as mediator of PA change.

Conclusions:

Adding a 15-minute self-efficacy coaching at the start of a lifestyle PA program is a promising strategy to enhance the intervention effects on PA behavior, self-efficacy beliefs, and program adherence. However, the role of self-efficacy as mediator of the intervention effect on in PA was not fully supported.
Laefstael Jenses: An Investigation of Barriers and Facilitators for Healthy Lifestyles of Women in an Urban Pacific Island Context
Authors: Siefken Katja , Schofield Grant , Schulenkorf Nico
Published: December 2013

Background:

The Pacific region has experienced rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes, which lead to high rates of noncommunicable disease (NCD) prevalence. There is no information on barriers and facilitators for healthy lifestyles in this region. In response, we present the first stage of a rigorous development of an urban Pacific health intervention program. This paper describes formative work conducted in Port Vila, Vanuatu. The objective of this paper was to understand cultural barriers and facilitators in Pacific women to lifestyle change and use the findings to inform future health interventions.

Methods:

Semistructured focus groups with 37 female civil servants divided into 6 groups were held verbally to understand barriers and facilitators for healthy lifestyles.

Results:

Several perceived barriers and facilitators were identified. Inter alia, barriers include financial limitations, time issues, family commitments, environmental aspects, and motivational hindrances that limit time and opportunities for healthy lifestyle behavior. Facilitators include more supportive environments, social support mechanisms, and the implementation of rigorous health policies.

Conclusions:

Formative work is essential in designing health intervention programs. Uncovered barriers and facilitators help inform the development of culturally relevant health interventions.
Correlates of Adiposity Among Latino Preschool Children
Authors: Mendoza Jason A. , McLeod Jessica , Chen Tzu-An , Nicklas Theresa A. , Baranowski Tom
Published: December 2013

Background:

Childhood obesity is at record high levels in the US and disproportionately affects Latino children; however, studies examining Latino preschool children’s obesity-related risk factors are sparse. This study determined correlates of Latino preschoolers’ (ages 3–5 years) adiposity to inform future obesity interventions and policies.

Methods:

Latino preschoolers (n = 96) from 4 Head Start centers in Houston, Texas were recruited. Parents reported acculturation and neighborhood safety. Children’s and parents’ height and weight were measured. Children’s television (TV) viewing was measured by TV diaries and physical activity by accelerometers. Linear regression was used with body mass index (BMI) z-score as the dependent variable and covariates sequentially added and retained in 4 blocks: 1) child age, gender, parent education, and BMI; 2) neighborhood safety and parent and child acculturation; 3) TV viewing; and 4) moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).

Results:

In the final model (n = 96), only neighborhood disorder (β = 0.30, P = .005) and MVPA (β = –0.21, P = .049) were significantly associated with BMI z-score.

Conclusions:

Among Latino preschoolers, higher neighborhood disorder and lower MVPA were associated with greater children’s BMI z-scores.
A Community Survey on Neighborhood Violence, Park Use, and Physical Activity Among Urban Youth
Authors: Echeverria Sandra E. , Kang Amiee Luan , Isasi Carmen R. , Johnson-Dias Janice , Pacquiao Dula
Published: December 2013

Background:

Neighborhoods can be an important feature of the built environment influencing physical activity; however, neighborhood poverty and violence may pose significant barriers for youth physical activity. We conducted a community survey of 107 households with youth 3–12 years of age in select neighborhoods of the city of Newark, New Jersey, a highly impoverished and racially/ethnically segregated city of the United States.

Results:

The majority of sampled households did not have access to a park, and nearly 60% of youth were not engaged in a team or organized physical activity program. Hearing gunshots and seeing drug deals in the neighborhood were reported by 74% and 56%, respectively, of study participants. In adjusted regression models, a 1-unit increase in self-reported neighborhood safety was associated with perceptions that parks were safe for youth to use (OR = 1.7, CI = 1.3, 2.3) and increased odds of youth using parks (OR = 1.3, CI = 1.0, 1.6). Self-reported neighborhood violence was marginally associated with lower levels of Metabolic Equivalent (MET)-min/week of moderate PA (β = –54.25, P = .05).

Conclusion:

To ensure national goals of increased physical activity and use of outdoor spaces, addressing the neighborhood contexts under which the most vulnerable of our youth live will be required.
A simple method of dating marine growth circuli on scales of wild one sea-winter and two sea-winter Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Todd Christopher D. , Whyte Bryce D.M. , MacLean Julian C. , Revie Crawford W. , Lonergan Michael E. , Hanson Nora N.
Published: December 2013

A method of dating the marine growth circuli on Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) scales is presented. Data were available for 54 salmon, intercepted as smolts at the completion of their downstream migration in the River North Esk, Scotland. Smolts were tagged, released, and recaptured as return adults after either one (1SW) or two (2SW) winters at sea. Dating of circuli was achieved by fitting a simple quadratic model to the circuli pertaining to fixed points on the scale. For 1SW fish, the latter were the dates of river emigration and completion of marine migration, and the midpoint circulus (equal to the winter solstice) of the winter annulus. For 2SW salmon, these were the date of emigration and the two winter annulus midpoints. A key assumption is that winter annulus formation arises from constraints of light availability on foraging, and hence, reduced growth rate. Comparative analyses indicate the method to be robust and effectively transferable to salmon of known capture date — but of unknown smolt emigration date — by assuming a fixed date of emigration; in such cases, circuli could still be allocated with confidence to a calendar month.
CHINA'S EXPORT MARGINS AND THEIR GROWTH SOURCES: AN ANALYSIS OF EXTENSIVE MARGIN AND INTENSIVE MARGIN
Authors: ZHAO YONG-LIANG , LIU DE-XUE , PU HUA-LIN , YANG ZI-HUI
Published: December 2013

Based on the theoretical methods by Feenstra and others, this paper applies the empirical panel data of years 2000–2007 to measure the growth of China's provincial import and export for both extensive and intensive margins. Extensive margin reflecting the level of variety becomes a significant factor for China's export and is slightly higher than intensive margin. The empirical results indicate that emerging industrial countries have gradually become the important new markets for China's export variety. As for the variables affecting variety growth, trade barriers are found to play a dominant role as invisible constraints, and small and medium enterprises contribute significantly to variety growth, while foreign investment and market-oriented reforms have become the driving force. Moreover, trade variety has been identified as the third factor of economic growth, in addition to the two traditional factors (capital and labor).
EXACT S-MATRICES FOR AdS3/CFT2
Authors: AHN CHANGRIM , BOMBARDELLI DIEGO
Published: December 2013

We propose exact S-matrices for the AdS 3/ CFT 2 duality between type IIB strings on AdS 3×S3×M4 with M4 = S3×S1 or T4 and the corresponding two-dimensional conformal field theories. We fix the two-particle S-matrices on the basis of the symmetries su(1|1) and su(1|1)×su(1|1). A crucial justification comes from the derivation of the all-loop Bethe ansatz matching exactly the recent conjecture proposed by Babichenko et al. [J. High Energy Phys.1003, 058 (2010), arXiv:0912.1723 [hep-th]] and Ohlsson Sax and Stefanski, Jr. [J. High Energy Phys.1108, 029 (2011), arXiv:1106.2558 [hep-th]].
Modified Poisson–Boltzmann equations for characterizing biomolecular solvation
Authors: Koehl Patrice , Poitevin Frederic , Orland Henri , Delarue Marc
Published: December 2013

Methods for computing electrostatic interactions often account implicitly for the solvent, due to the much smaller number of degrees of freedom involved. In the Poisson–Boltzmann (PB) approach the electrostatic potential is obtained by solving the Poisson–Boltzmann equation (PBE), where the solvent region is modeled as a homogeneous medium with a high dielectric constant. PB however is not exempt of problems. It does not take into account for example the sizes of the ions in the atmosphere surrounding the solute, nor does it take into account the inhomogeneous dielectric response of water due to the presence of a highly charged surface. In this paper we review two major modifications of PB that circumvent these problems, namely the size-modified PB (SMPB) equation and the Dipolar Poisson–Boltzmann Langevin (DPBL) model. In SMPB, steric effects between ions are accounted for with a lattice gas model. In DPBL, the solvent region is no longer modeled as a homogeneous dielectric media but rather as an assembly of self-orienting interacting dipoles of variable density. This model results in a dielectric profile that transits smoothly from the solute to the solvent region as well as in a variable solvent density that depends on the charges of the solute. We show successful applications of the DPBL formalism to computing the solvation free energies of isolated ions in water. Further developments of more accurately modified PB models are discussed.
Spacetimes admitting W2-curvature tensor
Authors: Mallick Sahanous , De Uday Chand
Published: December 2013

The object of this paper is to study spacetimes admitting W2-curvature tensor. At first we prove that a W2-flat spacetime is conformally flat and hence it is of Petrov type O. Next, we prove that if the perfect fluid spacetime with vanishing W2-curvature tensor obeys Einstein's field equation without cosmological constant, then the spacetime has vanishing acceleration vector and expansion scalar and the perfect fluid always behaves as a cosmological constant. It is also shown that in a perfect fluid spacetime of constant scalar curvature with divergence-free W2-curvature tensor, the energy-momentum tensor is of Codazzi type and the possible local cosmological structure of such a spacetime is of type I, D or O.
The backbone stereochemistry influences the intracellular distribution and uptake mechanism of oligoarginines
Authors: Ma Yan , Gong Cheng , Ma Yilong , Zhang Yu-Hui
Published: December 2013

D-arginine oligomers have been widely used as intracellular delivery vectors both in in vitro and in vivo application. Nevertheless, their internalization pathway is obscure and conflicting results have been obtained concerning their intracellular distribution. In this study, we demonstrate that octa-D-arginine (r8) undergoes diffuse localization throughout the cytoplasm and nucleus even at low concentrations and that r8(r: D-arginine) enters the cells via direct membrane translocation, unlike R8(R: L-arginine), of which endocytosis is the major internalization pathway. The observation that R8and r8enter the cells through two clearly distinct internalization pathways suggests that the backbone stereochemistry affects the uptake mechanism of oligoarginines.
PROOF OF A CONJECTURE OF FARHI
Authors: Károlyi Gyula
Published: December 2013

We verify a conjecture of Farhi concerning the growth of a curious arithmetic function defined by 2-adic valuation. We also prove a stronger version suggested by Zhong and Tan.
Simulation and optimization in marketing: Optimal control of consumer goodwill, price and investment
Authors: Raczynski Stanislaw
Published: December 2013

Dynamic market optimization with respect to price, advertisement and investment is presented. The market model is nonlinear. Its main parameters are the elasticities with respect to price, advertisement and consumer income. Dynamic elements has been added to the static model based on the market elasticities. The parameters like seasonal index and consumer income are functions of time, and the whole market can grow due to the investment. The tools of the optimal control theory are applied to calculate optimal policy for product price, advertisement and investment, controlled simultaneously. The total revenue at the end of a fixed time interval is maximized.
Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Synthesis Using Arc Discharge with Hydrocarbon as Feedstock
Authors: Chaudhary K. T. , Rizvi Z. H. , Bhatti K. A. , Ali J. , Yupapin P. P.
Published: December 2013

Synthesis of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) by arc discharge process is investigated with methane (CH4) as background and feedstock gas. The arc discharge is carried out between two graphite electrodes for ambient pressures 100, 300, and 500 torr and arc currents 50, 70, and 90 A. Plasma kinetics such as the density and temperature for arc discharge carbon plasma is determined to find out the contribution of physical parameters as arc current and ambient pressure on the plasma dynamics and growth of MWCNT. With increase in applied arc current and ambient pressure, an increase in plasma temperature and density is observed. The synthesized samples of MWCNT at different experimental conditions are characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. A decrease in the diameter and improvement in structure quality and growth of MWCNT are observed with increase in CH4 ambient pressure and arc current. For CH4 ambient pressure 500 torr and arc current 90 A, the well‐aligned and straight MWCNT along with graphene stakes are detected.