bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promoting Statewide Quality Improvement in Tobacco Use Prevention Through Longitudinal Health Promotion Training for Tennessee County Health Departments
Authors: Behringer Bruce , Roberts Micky , Ridley Chelsea J.
Published: April 2018

Professional development in health promotion is fundamental to conduct effective multiyear community-based health promotion programs to address tobacco use. Provided with $15 million over 3 years in new resources from the United States’ Master Tobacco Settlement Agreement, the Tennessee Department of Health organized a longitudinal staff development effort for 95 county health departments using an experiential pedagogy. Through statewide WORKshops, standardized plans, electronic reporting, use of logic modeling, social and behavior theory, and public health terminology were introduced and emphasized. A summative county evaluation document, entitled the Community Health Improvement Plan Against Tobacco Use (CHIPATU), was part of the experiential approach. The report was completed by health department officials from these 95 counites. This report documented tobacco use problem statements, county investments of Tobacco Settlement funds, strategy and project descriptions, and local changes in statewide outcome measures in three focused areas: reducing pregnancy smoking, reducing secondhand smoke exposure for young children, and reducing youth tobacco use initiation. The CHIPATU became a capstone evaluation document that reinforced county-based responsibility for assessment, goal setting, intervention planning, implementation, application of continuous improvement tools, and results. A statewide summary of 3 years’ efforts and outcomes from the 95 county CHIPATUs was included in the state Health Commissioner’s annual budget presentation for the Governor and General Assembly. The results documented the efficacy of the Department’s primary prevention programs, supported by staff development in use of health promotion approaches, to address long-standing public health issues.
Firms as drivers of integrative adaptive regional development in the context of environmental hazards in developing countries and emerging economies – A conceptual framework
Authors: Neise Thomas , Revilla Diez Javier , Garschagen Matthias
Published: April 2018

Many industrial sites in developing countries and emerging economies face increasing exposure to environmental hazards, e.g. in coastal locations, while being situated within the territory of state authorities which lack in capacity to provide adaptation solutions. It is therefore relevant to ask, whether and how firms engage in adaptation, both individually and collectively, in order to reduce business disruptions, enhance their competitiveness and shape regional development. However, the literature has made little efforts to address these questions conceptually and empirically. The paper therefore develops a heuristic conceptual framework for deciphering the decision-making of firms exposed to environmental hazards and the role that they might play for shaping larger risk governance and eventually regional adaptation. In doing so, the paper builds on both an explorative empirical study in Jakarta and Semarang and the assessment of different literatures of relevance to the topic. The proposed framework argues that firms potentially fulfill a twofold role in shaping integrative adaptive regional development when exposed to environmental hazards. First, firms seek to enhance their own competitiveness through adjustments which are determined by their routines, risk behavior and the institutional setting. Second, firms act as stakeholders within broader collective adaptation. In conclusion, the framework suggests that firms’ (in-)actions can shift the trajectories of regional development into different directions, along a gradient from collapse, resistance, resilience to transformation. The framework can be used to guide empirical analysis and inspire policy making and practice of integrated adaptation governance, especially in rapidly changing developing countries and emerging economies.
Seismic velocity estimation using time-reversal focusing
Authors: Lellouch Ariel , Landa Evgeny
Published: April 2018

Seismic velocity estimation is a challenging task, especially when no initial model is present. In most cases, a traveltime tomography approach is used as a significant part of the workflow. However, it requires noise-sensitive, time-consuming picking and uses a ray approximation of the wave equation. Time reversal (TR) is a fundamental physical concept, based on the wave equation’s invariance under TR operation. If the recorded wavefield is reversed and back-propagated into the medium, it will focus at its original source location regardless of the complexity of the medium. We use this property for seismic velocity analysis, formulated as an inversion problem with focusing at the known source location and onset time as the objective function. It is globally solved using competitive particle swarm optimization and an adequate model parameterization. This approach has the advantages of using the wave equation, being picking-free, handling low signal-to-noise ratio and requiring neither information on the source wavelet nor an initial velocity model. Although the method is discussed in the framework of direct source-receiver path acquisition, the foundations for its use with conventional reflection data are laid. We have determined the method’s usefulness and limitations using synthetic and field crosshole acquisition examples. In both cases, inversion results are compared with a standard traveltime tomography approach and illustrate the advantages of using TR focusing.
Direct-SV radiation produced by land-based P-sources — Part 1: Surface sources
Authors: Hardage Bob A. , Wagner Donald
Published: April 2018

We use finite-difference modeling to illustrate direct-P and direct-SV radiation produced by land-based, vertical-displacement sources such as vertical vibrators and vertical impacts, sources that reflection seismologists have used for decades to image subsurface targets. We are particularly interested in understanding the nature of SV radiation that these sources create. Such insight will be important for those in the seismic interpretation community who are interested in S-wave reflection seismology. One distinction between our work and that of earlier investigators is that we go beyond traditional assumptions that a propagation medium has a flat surface and is isotropic and homogeneous throughout the model space. Instead, we use models composed of small finite-difference cells that allow earth anomalies with dimensions of only a few feet to be near a source station. These small irregularities are expressed as variations in propagation velocities in a small population of model cells, or as slight changes in surface elevation. These small, realistic, near-source irregularities cause robust direct-SV illumination to travel in near-vertical takeoff angles from a surface-based source station and to often travel in true-vertical takeoff angles. We also depart from the conventional practice of calculating direct-P and direct-SV radiation produced by only a single vertical vibrator. Instead, we model direct-P and direct-SV illumination produced by arrays of 2, 3, and 4 inline vertical vibrators. We find that vibrator arrays create SV-mode beam forming that causes a rich amount of direct-SV radiation to occur inside the critical takeoff-angle cone below a source station that extends from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] from vertical. We consider our source-radiation models to be more realistic representations of conditions encountered in actual seismic field practice than previous models that use oversimplified earth conditions. Our purpose is to provide interpreters information that will let them decide if common, surface-based, land sources such as vertical vibrators can be used to illuminate geologic targets with direct-P and direct-SV illuminating wavefields rather than limiting the use of these sources to P-wave imaging only, as has been standard practice for several decades. Our results indicate that vertical vibrators and vertical impacts produce illuminating wavefields that are appropriate for imaging deep geologic targets. Our models apply to the total family of surface-based, vertical-displacement sources, which includes vertical vibrators and accelerated weight drops.
Cost-effectiveness of cognitive–behavioural therapy for sleep disorder added to usual care in patients with schizophrenia: the BEST study
Authors: Tsiachristas Apostolos , Waite Felicity , Freeman Daniel , Luengo-Fernandez Ramon
Published: April 2018

Background

Sleep problems are pervasive in people with schizophrenia, but there are no clinical guidelines for their treatment. The Better Sleep Trial (BEST) concluded that suitably adapted cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) is likely to be highly effective, although its cost-effectiveness is unknown.

Aims

To assess the potential cost-effectiveness of CBT for sleep disorders in patients with schizophrenia.

Method

An economic evaluation of the BEST study with a 6-month time horizon was used to establish the cost-effectiveness of CBT plus usual care in terms of costs per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Uncertainty was displayed on cost-effectiveness planes and acceptability curves. Value of information analysis was performed to estimate the benefits of obtaining further evidence.

Results

On average, the treatment led to a 0.035 QALY gain (95% CI −0.016 to 0.084), and £1524 (95% CI −10 529 to 4736) and £1227 (95% CI −10 395 to 5361) lower costs from National Health Service and societal perspectives, respectively. The estimated value of collecting more information about the effects of the CBT on costs and QALYs was approximately £87 million.

Conclusions

CBT for insomnia in people with schizophrenia is effective and potentially cost-effective. A larger trial is needed to provide clear evidence about its cost-effectiveness.

Relevance

Patients with schizophrenia have multiple complex health needs, as well as very high rates of depression, suicidal ideation and poor physical health. The results of this study showed that treating pervasive sleep problems in this patient group with cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) is very likely to improve patient quality of life in the short term. Clinicians most commonly use hypnotic medication to treat sleeping disorders. This study indicates that CBT may be an effective and cost-effective intervention in this patient group. This alternative would also be aligned with patient preferences for psychological and behavioural-type therapy.

Declaration of interest

None.
Spindly is required for rapid migration of human cells
Authors: Conte Claudia , Baird Michelle A. , Davidson Michael W. , Griffis Eric R.
Published: April 2018

Dynein is the sole processive minus-end directed microtubule motor found in animals. It has roles in cell division, membrane trafficking, and cell migration. Together with dynactin, dynein regulates centrosomal orientation to establish and maintain cell polarity, controls focal adhesion turnover and anchors microtubules at the leading edge. In higher eukaryotes, dynein/dynactin requires additional components such as Bicaudal D to form an active motor complex and for regulating its cellular localization. Spindly is a protein that targets dynein/dynactin to kinetochores in mitosis and can activate its motility in vitro. However, no role for Spindly in interphase dynein/dynactin function has been found. We show that Spindly binds to the cell cortex and microtubule tips and colocalizes with dynein/dynactin at the leading edge of migrating U2OS cells and primary fibroblasts. U2OS cells that lack Spindly migrated slower in 2D than control cells, although centrosome polarization appeared to happen properly in the absence of Spindly. Re-expression of Spindly rescues migration, but the expression of a mutant, which is defective for dynactin binding, failed to rescue this defect. Taken together, these data demonstrate that Spindly plays an important role in mediating a subset of dynein/dynactin's function in cell migration.
1α,25(OH)2D3-glycosides fromSolanum glaucophyllumleaves extract induce myoblasts differentiation through p38 MAPK and AKT activation
Authors: Irazoqui Ana Paula , De Genaro Pablo , Buitrago Claudia , Bachmann Heinrich , González-Pardo Verónica , Russo de Boland Ana
Published: April 2018

We have previously shown that Solanum glaucophyllum leaves extract (SGE) increases VDR protein levels and promotes myoblast differentiation. Here, we investigated whether p38 MAPK and AKT are involved in SGE actions. Cell cycle studies showed that SGE prompted a peak of S-phase followed by an arrest in the G0/G1-phase through p38 MAPK. Time course studies showed that p38 MAPK and AKT phosphorylation statically increased by SGE (10 nM) or synthetic 1α,25(OH)2D3 (1 nM) treatment. Furthermore, p38 MAPK and AKT inhibitors, SB203580 and LY294002, respectively, suppressed myoblasts fusion induced by SGE or synthetic 1α,25(OH)2D3. We have also studied differentiation genes by qRT-PCR. myoD1 mRNA increased significantly by SGE (24-72 h) or 1α,25(OH)2D3 (24 h) treatment. mRNA expression of myogenin also increased upon SGE or 1α,25(OH)2D3 treatment. Finally, MHC2b mRNA expression, a late differentiation marker, increased significantly by both compounds at 72 h compared to control. Taken together, these results suggest that SGE, as synthetic 1α,25(OH)2D3, promotes myotube formation through p38 MAPK and AKT activation.
Animal models for bone tissue engineering and modelling disease
Authors: McGovern Jacqui Anne , Griffin Michelle , Hutmacher Dietmar Werner
Published: April 2018

Tissue engineering and its clinical application, regenerative medicine, are instructing multiple approaches to aid in replacing bone loss after defects caused by trauma or cancer. In such cases, bone formation can be guided by engineered biodegradable and nonbiodegradable scaffolds with clearly defined architectural and mechanical properties informed by evidence-based research. With the ever-increasing expansion of bone tissue engineering and the pioneering research conducted to date, preclinical models are becoming a necessity to allow the engineered products to be translated to the clinic. In addition to creating smart bone scaffolds to mitigate bone loss, the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine is exploring methods to treat primary and secondary bone malignancies by creating models that mimic the clinical disease manifestation. This Review gives an overview of the preclinical testing in animal models used to evaluate bone regeneration concepts. Immunosuppressed rodent models have shown to be successful in mimicking bone malignancy via the implantation of human-derived cancer cells, whereas large animal models, including pigs, sheep and goats, are being used to provide an insight into bone formation and the effectiveness of scaffolds in induced tibial or femoral defects, providing clinically relevant similarity to human cases. Despite the recent progress, the successful translation of bone regeneration concepts from the bench to the bedside is rooted in the efforts of different research groups to standardise and validate the preclinical models for bone tissue engineering approaches.
BAMBI is a novel HIF1-dependent modulator of TGFβ-mediated disruption of cell polarity during hypoxia
Authors: Raykhel Irina , Moafi Fazeh , Myllymäki Satu M. , Greciano Patricia G. , Matlin Karl S. , Moyano Jose V. , Manninen Aki , Myllyharju Johanna
Published: April 2018

Hypoxia and loss of cell polarity are common features of malignant carcinomas. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) is the major regulator of cellular hypoxia response and mediates the activation of ∼300 genes. Increased HIF1 signaling is known to be associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transformation. Here, we report that hypoxia disrupts polarized epithelial morphogenesis of MDCK cells in a HIF1α-dependent manner by modulating the transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling pathway. Analysis of potential HIF1 targets in the TGFβ pathway identified the bone morphogenetic protein and activin membrane-bound inhibitor (BAMBI), a transmembrane glycoprotein related to the type I receptors of the TGFβ family, whose expression was essentially lost in HIF1-depleted cells. Similar to what was observed in HIF1-deficient cells, BAMBI-depleted cells failed to efficiently activate TGFβ signaling and retained epithelial polarity during hypoxia. Taken together, we show that hypoxic conditions promote TGFβ signaling in a HIF1-dependent manner and BAMBI is identified in this pathway as a novel HIF1-regulated gene that contributes to hypoxia-induced loss of epithelial polarity.
Detection of Persisting Concussion Effects on Neuromechanical Responsiveness
Authors: WILKERSON GARY B. , NABHAN DUSTIN C. , PRUSMACK CHAD J. , MOREAU WILLIAM J.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Assessment of various indices of neuromechanical responsiveness for association with concussion history.

Methods

An observational cohort study included 48 elite athletes (34 males: 23.8 ± 4.4 yr; 14 females: 25.4 ± 4.5 yr) who performed visuomotor reaction time (VMRT) tests involving rapid manual contact with illuminated target buttons that included two dual-task conditions: 1) simultaneous oral recitation of scrolling text (VMRT+ST) and 2) simultaneous verbal responses to identify the right or left direction indicated by the center arrow of the Eriksen flanker test (VMRT+FT). A whole-body reactive agility (WBRA) test requiring side-shuffle movements in response to visual targets was used to assess reaction time, speed, acceleration, and deceleration.

Results

Concussion occurrence at 2.0 ± 2.3 yr before testing was reported by 21 athletes. Strong univariable associations were found for VMRT+FT left minus right difference ≥15 ms (odds ratio [OR], 7.14), VMRT+ST outer two-ring to inner three-ring ratio ≥1.28 (OR, 4.58), and WBRA speed asymmetry ≥7.7% (OR, 4.67). A large VMRT+FT by VMRT+ST interaction effect was identified (OR, 25.00). Recursive partitioning identified a three-way VMRT+FT by VMRT+ST by WBRA interaction that had 100% positive predictive value for identification of athletes with concussion history, whereas negative status on all three factors had 90% negative predictive value.

Conclusions

Performance on dual-task VMRT tests and the WBRA test identified neuromechanical responsiveness deficiencies among elite athletes who reported a history of concussion.
7SL RNA in vertebrate red blood cells
Authors: Talhouarne Gaëlle J.S. , Gall Joseph G.
Published: April 2018

We report that 7SL, the RNA component of the signal recognition particle (SRP), is an abundant noncoding RNA (ncRNA) in mature red blood cells (RBCs) of human, mouse, and the frog Xenopus. 7SL RNA in RBCs is not associated with the canonical proteins of the SRP. Instead, it coimmunoprecipitates from a lysate of RBCs with a number of membrane-binding proteins. Human and mouse RBCs also contain a previously undescribed 68 nt RNA, sRN7SL, derived from the “S domain” of 7SL RNA. We discuss the possibility that 7SL RNA is selectively protected from nucleases by association with the RBC membrane. Because 7SL is not associated with the canonical proteins of the SRP, it could represent a nonfunctional remnant of the protein synthetic machinery. Alternatively, it could play a new, as yet undefined role in RBC metabolism.
Case Report: Cerebral leukodystrophy and the gonadal endocrinopathy: a rare but real association
Authors: Humayun Mohammad , Khan Abidullah
Published: April 2018

A 30 year old married Pakistani woman presented in January 2018 with an eight month history of progressive left sided weakness, ataxia, spasticity, underdeveloped secondary sexual characteristics and primary infertility. She was the elder sister of a 19 year old bed bound woman who was diagnosed with vanishing white matter (VWM) disease 12 months previously. The MRI scan of the brain  demonstrated diffuse leukodystrophy and her hormonal assays were significant for premature ovarian insufficiency. Results from her genetic tests demonstrated a point mutation in eukaryotic initiation factor 2B (EIF2B). Thus, she was the second confirmed case of  VWM from her  family of 12 siblings with normal parents.
Complete assembly of a dengue virus type 3 genome from a recent genotype III clade by metagenomic sequencing of serum
Authors: Dias Mary , Pattabiraman Chitra , Siddappa Shilpa , Gowda Malali , Shet Anita , Smith Derek , Muehlemann Barbara , Tamma Krishnapriya , Solomon Tom , Jones Terry , Krishna Sudhir
Published: April 2018

Background:Mosquito-borne flaviviruses, such as dengue and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), cause life-threatening diseases, particularly in the tropics.

Methods:Here we performed unbiased metagenomic sequencing of RNA extracted from the serum of four patients and the plasma of one patient, all hospitalized at a tertiary care centre in South India with severe or prolonged febrile illness, together with the serum from one healthy control, in 2014.

Results:We identified and assembled a complete dengue virus type 3 sequence from a case of severe dengue fever. We also identified a small number of JEV sequences in the serum of two adults with febrile illness, including one with severe dengue. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the dengue sequence belonged to genotype III. It has an estimated divergence time of 13.86 years from the most highly related Indian strains. In total, 11 amino acid substitutions were predicted for this strain in the antigenic envelope protein, when compared to the parent strain used for development of the first commercial dengue vaccine. 

Conclusions:We demonstrate that both genome assembly and detection of a low number of viral sequences are possible through the unbiased sequencing of clinical material. These methods may help ascertain causal agents for febrile illnesses with no known cause.
Damage in fruits of mahogany caused by Hypsipyla grandella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Brasília, Brazil
Authors: De Castro Marcelo Tavares , Montalvão Sandro Coelho Linhares , Monnerat Rose Gomes
Published: April 2018

Abstract. This study aimed to evaluate qualitatively and quantitatively the Hypsipyla grandella (Zeller) damage in fruits of mahogany in Brasilia, Brazil. For this, fruits were collected and the analysis of each fruit was carried out by assessing the following parameters: fruit weight, fruit length and height, number of holes in fruits characteristic of H. grandella attack, size of the holes, number of larvae and pupae of H. grandella, number of seeds damaged and presence of other insects within the fruit. As a result, 190 (95%) had holes made by the larvae, used primarily for their entry and for exit later as an adult. Most of the fruits showed only a single hole (81%), but up to 5 holes were found in a single fruit. A single caterpillar can feed on various seeds, causing major damage when they attack together. Seventy-two (36%) fruits had all the seeds damaged by H. grandella, especially those containing pupae. 183 larvae in different instars and 45 pupae were found. Only five caterpillars were found dead inside of fruit, representing 2.78% of the caterpillars.Danos em frutos de mogno causados pela Hypsipyla grandella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) em Brasília, BrasilResumo. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar qualitativamente e quantitativamente os danos provocados por Hypsipyla grandella (Zeller) em frutos de mogno em Brasília, Brasil. Para isso, frutos foram coletados e os seguintes parâmetros foram analisados: peso, comprimento, número de orifícios causados pela H. grandella, número de sementes danificadas e presença de outros insetos no interior dos frutos. Como resultado, 190 (95%) frutos apresentaram orifícios feitos pela lagarta, usados primordialmente para sua entrada e posteriormente para a saída, quando adulto. A maioria dos frutos apresentou apenas um orifício (81%), mas até cinco furos foram encontrados em um único fruto. Uma única lagarta pode se alimentar de várias sementes, causando grandes danos. Setenta e dois frutos (36%) tinham todas as sementes danificadas por H. grandella, especialmente aqueles que apresentaram pupas. 183 lagartas em diferentes estádios e 45 pupas foram encontradas. Apenas cinco lagartas foram encontradas mortas dentro dos frutos, representando 2,78% do total.
Parasitism of Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) by Strongygaster brasiliensis (Towsend) (Diptera: Tachinidae)
Authors: Castro-Guedes Camila Fediuk de , Dios Rodrigo de Vilhena Perez , Almeida Lúcia Massutti de
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) is a Coccinellidae species originating from northeast Asia and used in biological control of aphids. As an exotic species is very important to know its natural enemies. Thus, this paper provides the first record of Strongygaster brasiliensis (Towsend)(Diptera: Tachinidae) parasitizing H. axyridis in Southern Brazil.Parasitismo de Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) por Strongygaster brasiliensis (Towsend)(Diptera: Tachinidae)Resumo. Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) é uma espécie de Coccinellidae originária do Nordeste da Ásia e utilizada como agente de controle biológico de afídeos. Como é uma espécie invasora é muito importante conhecer seus inimigos naturais. Dessa forma, este trabalho fornece o primeiro registro de Strongygaster brasiliensis (Towsend)(Diptera: Tachinidae) parasitando H. axyridis no sul do Brasil.
First record of Ophionyssus natricis (Gervais) (Acari: Macronyssidae) on Python reticulatus (Schneider) (Pythonidae) in Brazil
Authors: Da Silva Ademar Ferreira , Pinto Zeneida Teixeira , Teixeira Rodrigo Hidalgo , Cunha Rodolfo Armando , Carriço Cesar , Caetano Rebecca Leal , Gazeta Gilberto Salles , Amorim Marinete
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Ophionyssus natricis (Gervais) frequently parasitizes snakes kept under human care. This mite is known to mechanically transmit the bacteria Proteus hydrophilus, which can cause hemorrhagic sepsis in snakes. This is the first record of O. natricis mite in Python reticulatus (Schneider) collected in captivity, in Brazil. The micrographs and drawings generated in this study, based on optical light microscopy and SEM observations, highlight an important identifying characteristic of O. natricis: The dorsal surface has two shields, consisting of propodosomal and pygidial, and the ventral surface has only the sternal shield trapezoidal with two pairs of setae, and pores on the edge. The identification of adults female of O. natricis mites in P. reticulatus collected in wild animals kept under human care, in Brazil, provides additional anatomical information to help identify the species by providing more necessary information to understand the morphology of snake mites.Primeiro registro de Ophionyssus natricis (Gervais) (Acari: Macronyssidae) em Python reticulatus (Schneider) (Pythonidae) no BrasilResumo. Ophionyssus natricis (Gervais) frequentemente parasita cobras mantidas sob cuidados humanos. Este ácaro é conhecido por transmitir mecanicamente a bactéria Proteus hydrophilus, que pode causar sepse hemorrágica em cobras. Este é o primeiro registro O. natricis em Python reticulatus (Schneider) coletados em cativeiro, no Brasil. O estudo foi realizado com o auxílio de microscopia óptica e observações de MEV, gerando desenhos e micrografias, o que permitiu observar importantes características de identificação da fêmea de O. natricis: superfície dorsal com dois escudos, consistindo em propodossoma e pigidial, já a superfície ventral possui apenas o escudo esternal com forma trapezoidal, com dois pares de cerdas e poros na borda. A identificação das fêmeas adultas de O. natricis coletados em P. reticulatus mantidas sob cuidados humanos no Brasil, fornece informações anatômicas adicionais para ajudar na identificação da espécie fornecendo mais informações necessárias na compreensão da morfologia dos ácaros das cobras.
Managing atrial fibrillation to prevent stroke
Authors: Ward Louise
Published: April 2018

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an important risk factor of stroke and contributes to 20% of strokes in the UK; however, with appropriate intervention, the risk can be reversed. For patients with a diagnosis of non-valvular atrial fibrillation, therapeutic anticoagulation is the treatment of choice. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence AF guidelines recommend that every patient should receive appropriate treatment and a personalised package of care; empowering them to take ownership of their healthcare needs and make informed and educated decisions about their health. However, there are still a significant proportion of patients that are not receiving effective therapeutic treatment. This article explores the current best practice requirements for AF stroke prevention, considering clinical need for diagnosis; individualised risk assessment for appropriate treatment; progress in anticoagulation options; and delivery of a patient-centred package of care in today's practice.
Intensive somatosensory stimulation to improve upper limb recovery and reduce unilateral neglect after stroke
Authors: Hunter Susan
Published: April 2018

Case description:

A 64-year-old male with sub-acute right anterior circulation stroke resulting in severe upper limb (UL) dysfunction and left unilateral neglect (UN).

Method/design:

Single system (n=1) study (A-B-A).

Intervention:

Daily intensive mobilisation and tactile stimulation (MTS) involving massage, sensory stimulation, and joint and soft tissue mobilisation techniques for 6 weeks.

Outcome measures:

Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Motricity Index (MI arm), and Semmes–Weinstein Monofilaments (SWM) measured function, muscle weakness and sensation daily.

Data analysis:

Visual analysis of plotted data.

Findings:

Immediate improvements in MI and SWM after just one MTS treatment session; ARAT improved after three sessions. UN behaviour also improved immediately after one MTS session.

Discussion:

In addition to improving UL recovery, MTS appeared to immediately reduce UN behaviour in this participant. Massage and sensory stimulation components of MTS could potentially be delivered by nurses and carers.

Conclusion:

The optimum way of delivering MTS and its potential to reduce unilateral neglect warrants further study.
Helping nurses help PIVCs: decision aids for daily assessment and maintenance
Authors: Ray-Barruel Gillian , Rickard Claire M
Published: April 2018

Improving the safety and quality of health care relies on implementing evidence-based findings into every-day clinical practice. Numerous clinical decision aids have been developed to guide nursing care of the patient with a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC), including standards, guidelines, decision frameworks, bundles, policies, procedures, algorithms, pathways, checklists and scoring tools. While all are created with the intention of facilitating the delivery of safe, effective nursing care and improving patient outcomes, there are distinct differences in methodology and design between them, and many are based on expert opinion and historical practice rather than high-quality evidence. This paper reviews the types of decision aids for daily PIVC assessment and management, explores the evidence base underpinning them, and considers the implications for their use in clinical practice. A consistent, systematic and evidence-based approach to PIVC care will provide the optimal environment for achieving quality patient outcomes.
Remember the risks of intravenous therapy and know how to reduce them
Authors: Brooks Nicola
Published: April 2018

Nicola Brooks, Associate Dean, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, reflects on the potential problems that can occur with the administration of intravenous therapy
Effects of prolonged flushing interval in totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs)
Authors: Rasero Laura , Golin Lisa , Ditta Serena , Massimo Dino Stefano Di , Molin Alberto Dal , Piemonte Guya
Published: April 2018

Totally implantable venous access device (TIVAD) lumen occlusion is a long-term complication of central venous catheters, associated with risks of infection, therapy interruptions and increased healthcare costs. The role of flushing and locking in maintaining TIVAD patency is paramount. Most flushing protocols are based on manufacturers' recommendations, which indicate that 4 weeks is the safest interval between two consecutive flushing procedures during periods when TIVADs are not in use. Conversely, results of several studies suggest that extended flushing intervals (FIs) do not increase the rate of obstructive or infective complications. The study aimed to describe the effects of prolonged FIs in a cohort of 317 patients with cancer. The authors found no significant difference in terms of TIVAD problems between long (>45 days) and short (≤45 days) FI groups, which raises questions over the validity of current practice.
Numerical Solutions of Stochastic Volterra–Fredholm Integral Equations by Hybrid Legendre Block-Pulse Functions
Authors: Saha Ray S. , Singh S.
Published: April 2018

In this article, the numerical solutions of stochastic Volterra–Fredholm integral equations have been obtained by hybrid Legendre block-pulse functions (BPFs) and stochastic operational matrix. The hybrid Legendre BPFs are orthonormal and have compact support on

[
0
,
1
)

$[0, 1)$

. The numerical results obtained by the above functions have been compared with those obtained by second kind Chebyshev wavelets. Furthermore, the results of the proposed computational method establish its accuracy and efficiency.
Unpacking Legal Pluralism in Commonwealth Africa – Towards Strengthening Methods for Rule of Law Programming for Development
Authors: Bakibinga-Gaswaga Elizabeth
Published: April 2018

Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development has brought the rule of law to the forefront in the quest for sustainable development, with emphasis on Africa and the rest of the developing world. To ensure that law contributes to sustainable development, it is critical to address the mismanagement of legal pluralism in Commonwealth member countries in Africa, demonstrated by the conflict of legal systems and the stagnant evolution of institutions of governance in the aftermath of independence after colonial rule, and the current neoliberal economics-oriented/institutional approach based on the Washington Consensus. The current approaches to rule of law reform and development have resulted in the status quo in Africa, where the role of law and legal systems for sustainable development is not explicitly evident. The law is not applied consciously for development and the role of legal practitioners in development is undermined. An understanding of the impact of colonialism and post-colonial legal systems and the impact of the Washington Consensus; the influence of intergovernmental organizations and international non-governmental actors in providing rule of law reform assistance; and the methodology through which the technical assistance for law and development has been implemented to date is critical to developing new methods/approaches to the rule of law and development.
New trophic link and potential feeding area of dwarf minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata subsp.) in mid latitude waters of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Milmann Lucas , Machado Rodrigo , Sucunza Federico , Oliveira Larissa Rosa de , Santos Roberta Aguiar dos , Di Beneditto Ana Paula Madeira , Rezende Carlos Eduardo de , Baumgarten Julio , Ott Paulo Henrique
Published: April 2018

The stomach content of a male, immature dwarf minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata subsp.) stranded in September of 2008 in southern Brazil revealed a large consumption of the Argentine shortfin squid (Illex argentinus), probably in multiple feeding events. Stable isotopes signals from kidney and liver samples of the whale are consistent with values for this squid species, and prey size indicates consumption over spawning aggregations near the continental slope off southern Brazil. The present record adds a new prey species for dwarf minke whale and reinforces the hypothesis that some baleen whales could feed in middle latitudes of the Brazilian coast.
Subthreshold Amyloid Predicts Tau Deposition in Aging
Authors: Leal Stephanie L. , Lockhart Samuel N. , Maass Anne , Bell Rachel K. , Jagust William J.
Published: April 2018

Current approaches to the early detection of Alzheimer's disease (AD) rely upon classifying individuals as “positive” or “negative” for biomarkers related to the core pathology of β-amyloid (Aβ). However, the accumulation of Aβ begins slowly, years before biomarkers become abnormal. We used longitudinal [11C] Pittsburgh Compound B PET scanning and neuropsychological assessment to investigate the earliest changes in AD pathology and how it affects memory in cognitively normal older humans (N= 71; mean age 75 years; 35% male). We used [18F] AV-1451 PET scanning at the end of the observation period to measure subsequent tau deposition in a subset of our sample (N= 37). We found evidence for an inverted-U relationship between baseline Aβ levels and Aβ slope in asymptomatic older adults, suggesting a slowing of Aβ accumulation even in cognitively normal adults. In participants who were nominally amyloid negative, both the rate of amyloid accumulation and the baseline levels of Aβ predicted early tau deposition in cortical Braak regions associated with AD. Amyloid measures were only sensitive to memory decline as baseline levels of Aβ increased, suggesting that pathological accumulation occurs before impacting memory. These findings support the necessity of early intervention with amyloid-lowering therapies even in those who are amyloid negative.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe progressive nature of Alzheimer's disease (AD) necessitates the earliest possible detection of pathological or cognitive change if disease progression is to be slowed. We examined cognitively normal older adults in whom AD pathology is starting to develop, with the goal of early detection of AD pathology or cognitive changes. We found amyloid measures to be sensitive early on in predicting subsequent early tau deposition. Further, it appears that rates of amyloid accumulation already begin to slow in preclinical AD, suggesting that it is a relatively late stage of AD progression. Thus, it is crucial to examine older adults early, before amyloid levels have saturated, to intervene to slow disease progression.
Fear Memory Recall Potentiates Opiate Reward Sensitivity through Dissociable Dopamine D1 versus D4 Receptor-Dependent Memory Mechanisms in the Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Jing Li Jing , Szkudlarek Hanna , Renard Justine , Hudson Roger , Rushlow Walter , Laviolette Steven R.
Published: April 2018

Disturbances in prefrontal cortical (PFC) dopamine (DA) transmission are well established features of psychiatric disorders involving pathological memory processing, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid addiction. Transmission through PFC DA D4 receptors (D4Rs) has been shown to potentiate the emotional salience of normally nonsalient emotional memories, whereas transmission through PFC DA D1 receptors (D1Rs) has been demonstrated to selectively block recall of reward- or aversion-related associative memories. In the present study, using a combination of fear conditioning and opiate reward conditioning in male rats, we examined the role of PFC D4/D1R signaling during the processing of fear-related memory acquisition and recall and subsequent sensitivity to opiate reward memory formation. We report that PFC D4R activation potentiates the salience of normally subthreshold fear conditioning memory cues and simultaneously potentiates the rewarding effects of systemic or intra-ventral tegmental area (VTA) morphine conditioning cues. In contrast, blocking the recall of salient fear memories with intra-PFC D1R activation, blocks the ability of fear memory recall to potentiate systemic or intra-VTA morphine place preference. These effects were dependent upon dissociable PFC phosphorylation states involving calcium-calmodulin-kinase II or extracellular signal-related kinase 1–2, following intra-PFC D4 or D1R activation, respectively. Together, these findings reveal new insights into how aberrant PFC DAergic transmission and associated downstream molecular signaling pathways may modulate fear-related emotional memory processing and concomitantly increase opioid addiction vulnerability.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTPost-traumatic stress disorder is highly comorbid with addiction. In this study, we use a translational model of fear memory conditioning to examine how transmission through dopamine D1 or D4 receptors, in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), may differentially control acquisition or recall of fear memories and how these mechanisms might regulate sensitivity to the rewarding effects of opioids. We demonstrate that PFC D4 activation not only controls the salience of fear memory acquisition, but potentiates the rewarding effects of opioids. In contrast, PFC D1 receptor activation blocks recall of fear memories and prevents potentiation of opioid reward effects. Together, these findings demonstrate novel PFC mechanisms that may account for how emotional memory disturbances might increase the addictive liability of opioid-class drugs.
The influence of mesoscale and submesoscale circulation on sinking particles in the northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Liu Guangpeng , Bracco Annalisa , Passow Uta
Published: April 2018

Mesoscale eddies and fronts in the ocean greatly impact lateral transport and in turn the trajectories of sinking particles. Such influence was explored for April and October 2012 in the Gulf of Mexico using numerical simulations performed with a regional model at 1-km horizontal resolution. Results are compared qualitatively to field samples from two sediment traps located at GC600 (27°22.5 N, 90°30.7 W) and AT357 (27°31.5 N, 89°42.6 W), 81 km apart. In April the traps collected a comparable amount of material, while in October the flux at GC600 greatly exceeded that at AT357. Through inverse calculations, several thousand particle trajectories were reconstructed multiple times from the ocean surface to the depth of the traps (approximately 1,000 m) using a range of sinking velocities, 20–100 m d–1. Taken together, model results and trap data indicate that cross-shore transport of riverine input induced by mesoscale eddies, and convergence and divergence processes at the scale of a few kilometers, significantly impact the trajectory of sinking particles. The large majority of modeled particles reach the bottom faster than would be expected by their sinking speeds alone. This finding is associated with submesoscale-induced horizontal convergence in the mixed layer that aggregates particles preferentially in downwelling regions, accelerating their descent. Furthermore, this study confirms that the cone of influence of vertical fluxes is highly variable in both space and time in the presence of an energetic eddy field, especially for particles with sinking velocity of 50 m d–1 or less. It also demonstrates that the variability of vertical fluxes in the Gulf of Mexico is highly complex and can be understood only by considering the mesoscale circulation and seasonal cycle of primary productivity, which in turn are linked to riverine inputs, wind forcing and the seasonal cycle of the mixed-layer depth.
Think Pair Share (TPS) as Method to Improve Student’s Learning Motivation and Learning Achievement
Authors: Hetika Hetika , Farida Ida , Sari Yeni Priatna
Published: April 2018

This research aims to find out the application of Think Pair Share (TPS) learning method in improving learning motivation and learning achievement in the subject of Introduction to Accounting I of the Accounting Study Program students of Politeknik Harapan Bersama. The Method of data collection in this study used observation method, test method, and documentation method. The research instruments used observation sheet, questionnaire and test question. This research used Class Action Research Design which is an action implementation oriented research, with the aim of improving quality or problem solving in a group by carefully and observing the success rate due to the action. The method of analysis used descriptive qualitative and quantitative analysis method. The results showed that the application of Think Pair Share Learning (TPS) Method can improve the Learning Motivation and Achievement. Before the implementation of the action, the obtained score is 67% then in the first cycle increases to 72%, and in the second cycle increasws to 80%. In addition, based on questionnaires distributed to students, it also increases the score of Accounting Learning Motivation where the score in the first cycle of 76% increases to 79%. In addition, in the first cycle, the score of pre test and post test of the students has increased from 68.86 to 76.71 while in the second cycle the score of pre test and post test of students has increased from 79.86 to 84.86.
Motivation, Creativity, and Self-Confidence as Forming Factors of Economic Learning Autonomy
Authors: Nafiati Dewi Amaliah
Published: April 2018

This research aims to determine the influence of both partial and simultaneous motivation, creativity, and confidence of students in studying to economic subject learning autonomy of the students of Senior High School 4 Tegal. The population in this study was the whole class X Social Education Science which consists of 126 students. The data collection in this research was taken through several methods, whicha are observation, questionnaire, and documentation. The result of this study shows that 77.7% of learning motivation, learning creativity, and self-confidence simultaneously affect the learning autonomy of economics subject of Senior High School 4 Tegal. The results of this study are expected to enable teachers to foster learning motivation, learning creativity and self-confidence of the students in order to form the character of independence. Students are expected to not only rely on the subject matter given by the teachers, but they must be more active and independent in learning to expand a broad insight about economy.
Development of E-Book Multimedia Model to Increase Critical Thinking of Senior High School Students
Authors: Suparno Suparno
Published: April 2018

This study aims to develop the interactive e-book multimedia model to improve the students' critical thinking ability (KBK). Critical thinking is very important to develop because it provides a high level of reasoning thinking that provides permanent experience to students through conscious and controlled decision making in a rational, reflective, responsible manner with the optimization of potential. Flash-based e-book media is capable of interactively loading videos, pictures, practice questions and learning with directed directions from the teacher. The research method developed is research and development. The output products are learning plan, KBK evaluation question, flash-based interactive e-book multimedia, and quasi experiment to see media effectiveness to KBK. The results showed that e-book multimedia is able to significantly increase the KBK of high school students in economic learning.