bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disability Experiences and Perspectives Regarding Reproductive Decisions, Parenting, and the Utility of Genetic Services: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Roadhouse C. , Shuman C. , Anstey K. , Sappleton K. , Chitayat D. , Ignagni E.
Published: June 2018

Genetic counselors adopt seemingly contradictory roles: advocating for individuals with genetic conditions while offering prenatal diagnosis and the option of selective termination to prevent the birth of a child with a disability. This duality contributes to the tension between the disability and clinical genetics communities. Varying opinions exist amongst the disability community: some value genetic services while others are opposed. However, there is limited research exploring the opinions of individuals with a disability regarding issues related to reproduction and genetic services in the context of personal experience. This exploratory qualitative study involved interviews with seven women and three men who self‐identify as having a disability. We sought to gain their perspectives on experiences with disability, thoughts about reproduction and parenting, and perceptions of genetic services. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed thematically using qualitative content analysis. Data analysis showed that societal views of disability affected the lived experience and impacted reproductive decision‐making for those with a disability. It also showed differing interest in genetic services. Concerns about the perceived collective implications of genetic services were also raised. These findings contribute to the understanding of the disability perspective toward reproductive decision‐making and genetic services. A further goal is to promote a meaningful dialogue between the genetics and disability communities, with the potential to enhance the genetic and reproductive care provided to individuals with disabilities.
A pyrene-involved luminescent MOF for monitoring 1-hydroxypyrene, a biomarker for human intoxication of PAH carcinogens
Authors: Zhou You , Yang Qian , Cuan Jing , Wang Yanan , Gan Ning , Cao Yuting , Li Tianhua
Published: June 2018

A robust pyrene-involved MOF is developed as a luminescent platform for sensitive detection of 1-hydroxypyrene, a human intoxication biomarker of PAH carcinogens, by utilizing the efficient host–guest π–π charge transfer interactions.
Improved hydrothermal stability of Pd nanoparticles on nitrogen-doped carbon supports
Authors: Huo Jiajie , Duan Pu , Pham Hien N. , Chan Yee Jher , Datye Abhaya K. , Schmidt-Rohr Klaus , Shanks Brent H.
Published: June 2018

Carbon supports have been shown to provide better hydrothermal stability than alumina or silica supports, thus attracting more attention for aqueous-phase biomass conversion reactions.
Towards a reliable Li-metal-free LiNO3-free Li-ion polysulphide full cell via parallel interface engineering
Authors: Sun Ju , Liang Jiaxing , Liu Junnan , Shi Wenyan , Sharma Neeraj , Lv Wei , Lv Ruitao , Yang Quan-Hong , Amal Rose , Wang Da-Wei
Published: June 2018

Synchronously engineering the interface compatibility of the anode and the cathode in a Li–polysulfide electrolyte enables a full cell design with improved safety, durability and performance.
Design of an intermediate carbon layer between bimetallic sulfide and a carbon-based substrate for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Hua Mengnan , Chen Ting , Ma Houyi
Published: June 2018

A strategy for enhancing the electrochemical performance of ASCsviaconstructing an intermediate carbon layer onto a carbon-based substrate.
An organocatalyst bound α-aminoalkyl radical intermediate for controlled aerobic oxidation of iminium ions
Authors: Motaleb Abdul , Bera Asish , Maity Pradip
Published: June 2018

A nucleophilic catalyst is introduced for facile radical formation and its catalyst controlled aerobic oxidation.
Construction of hierarchical FeP/Ni2P hollow nanospindles for efficient oxygen evolution
Authors: Feng Yafei , Xu Chunyang , Hu Enlai , Xia Binbin , Ning Jiqiang , Zheng Changcheng , Zhong Yijun , Zhang Ziyang , Hu Yong
Published: June 2018

We demonstrate the rational design and construction of hierarchical FeP@Ni2P hybrid hollow nanospindles (HNSs) as an active and stable electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction.
Laser-irradiation induced synthesis of spongy AuAgPt alloy nanospheres with high-index facets, rich grain boundaries and subtle lattice distortion for enhanced electrocatalytic activity
Authors: Zhang Tao , Bai Yu , Sun Yiqiang , Hang Lifeng , Li Xinyang , Liu Dilong , Lyu Xianjun , Li Cuncheng , Cai Weiping , Li Yue
Published: June 2018

Novel spongy AuAgPt alloy nanospheres with high-index facets, grain boundaries and lattice distortion were developed as highly active electrooxidation catalysts.
Case Reports of Five Cancer Patients with Unusual Course
Authors: Payrhuber Dietmar , Thieves Karin , Sangaletti Piero , Muehlmann Josef , Frass Michael
Published: June 2018

Introduction The analysis of the periodic table of elements by Jan Scholten opened the way for a new kind of classification and repertorisation of homeopathic remedies. Thereby, group analysis (resorting to series and stages) makes precise prescriptions possible. This approach appears to yield striking results, even in severe cases. Whereas Hahnemann stressed the emotional state (‘Gemüthssymptome’, Organon § 210) when choosing a remedy, Scholten 200 years later investigated the mental picture that represents a life conflict or even a life theme that may maintain the disease process. The person's environment, emotional traumas or a conflict drives him or her to suppress and dissect painful emotions. Such compensations can become subconscious and so strong that they can no longer be controlled; they then influence the patient with a highly destructive energy.

Methods We present five case reports, each dealing with an unusual clinical course of severe cancer associated with homeopathic treatment using the Scholten method.

Results By presenting these cases, we consider how the constitution (lifelong signs and symptoms of the patient) and the mental state are interwoven and, as a complex mechanism, might provoke disease.

Conclusion The appropriate homeopathic remedy, reflecting the Scholten approach, seemed to have beneficial impact on the disease process of the five individuals presented.
Morphogen-Lineage Selector Interactions During Surface Epithelial Commitment
Authors: Melo Sandra P. , Pattison Jillian M. , Piekos Samantha N. , Torkelson Jessica L. , Bashkirova Elizaveta , Mumbach Maxwell R. , Rajasingh Charlotte , Hui Zhen Hanson , Li Lingjie , Liaw Eric , Alber Daniel , Rubin Adam J. , Shankar Gautam , Chang Howard Y. , Khavari Paul A. , Oro Anthony E.
Published: June 2018

Human embryonic stem cell (hESC) differentiation promises advances in regenerative medicine1–3, yet conversion of hESCs into tissues such as keratinocytes requires a better understanding of epigenetic interactions between the inductive morphogens retinoic acid (RA) and bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP), and the master regulator p634,5. Here we develop a robust, defined, keratinocyte differentiation system, and use a multi-dimensional genomics approach to interrogate the contributions of the morphogens and lineage selector to chromatin dynamics during early surface ectoderm commitment. In stark contrast to other master regulators6–9, we find using p63 gain and loss of function hESC lines, that p63 effects major transcriptional changes only after morphogenetic action. Morphogens alter chromatin accessibility and histone modifications, establishing an epigenetic landscape for p63 to modify. In turn, p63 closes chromatin accessibility and promotes the accumulation of repressive H3K27me3 histone modifications at sites distal to where it binds. Surprisingly, cohesin HiChIP10 visualization of genome-wide chromosome conformation reveals that both p63 and the morphogens contribute to dynamic long-range genomic interactions that increase the probability of negative transcriptional regulation at p63 target loci. p63-regulated accessibility, not H3K27me3 deposition, appears to drive early transcriptional changes. We illustrate morphogen-selector interactions by studying p63 negative feedback regulation of TFAP2Ci11, whereby disruption of the single p63 binding site results in a loss of p63-mediated transcriptional control and dramatic increases in TFAP2C and p63 expression. Our study reveals the unexpected dependency of p63 on morphogenetic signaling to control long-range chromatin interactions during tissue specification and provides novel insights into how master regulators specify diverse morphological outcomes.
Cardiac and Skeletal Actin Substrates Uniquely Tune Cardiac Myosin Strain-Dependent Mechanics
Authors: Wang Yihua , Ajtai Katalin , Burghardt Thomas P.
Published: June 2018

Native cardiac ventricular myosin (βmys) translates actin under load by transducing ATP free energy into mechanical work on actin during muscle contraction. Unitary βmys translation of actin is the myosin step-size. In vitro and in vivo βmys regulates contractile force and velocity by remixing 3 different step-sizes with stepping frequencies autonomously adapted to workload. Cardiac and skeletal actin isoforms have a specific 1:4 stoichiometry in normal adult human ventriculum. Human adults with inheritable hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) up-regulate skeletal actin in ventriculum suggesting that increasing skeletal/cardiac actin stoichiometry also adapts myosin force-velocity to respond to the muscle’s inability to meet demand.

Nanometer scale displacement of quantum dot (Qdot) labeled actin under resistive load when impelled by βmys measures single myosin force-velocity in vitro in the Qdot assay. Unitary displacement classification constraints introduced here better separates myosin based signal from background upgrading step-size spatial resolution to the sub-nanometer range. Single βmys force-velocity for skeletal vs cardiac actin substrates was compared using the Qdot assay.

Two competing myosin strain-sensitive mechanisms regulate step-size choices dividing mechanical characteristics into low- and high-force regimes. The actin isoforms alter myosin strain-sensitive regulation such that onset of the high-force regime, where a short step-size is a large or major contributor, is offset to higher loads by a unique cardiac ELC N-terminus/cardiac-actin contact at Glu6/Ser358. It modifies βmys force-velocity by stabilizing the ELC N-terminus/cardiac-actin association. Uneven onset of the high-force regime for skeletal vs cardiac actin dynamically changes force-velocity characteristics as skeletal/cardiac actin fractional content increases in diseased muscle.
Dynamism and context dependency in the diversification of the megadiverse plant genusSolanumL. (Solanaceae)
Authors: Echeverrĩa-Londoño Susy , Särkinen Tiina , Fenton Isabel S , Knapp Sandra , Purvis Andy
Published: June 2018

Explosive radiations have been considered one of the most intriguing diversification patterns across the Tree of Life, but the subsequent change, movement and extinction of the constituent species makes radiations hard to discern or understand as geological time passes.

We synthesised phylogenetic and distributional data for an ongoing radiation — the mega-diverse plant genusSolanumL. — to show how dispersal events and past climatic changes have interacted to shape diversification.

We found that despite the vast diversity ofSolanumlineages in the Neotropics, lineages in the Old World are diversifying more rapidly. This recent explosive diversification coincides with a long-distance dispersal event from the Neotropics, at the time when, and to places where, major climatic changes took place. Two different groups ofSolanumhave migrated and established in Australia, but only the arid-adapted lineages experienced significant increases in their diversification, which is consistent with adaptation to the continent’s long-term climatic trend and the diversification of other arid-adapted groups.

Our findings provide a clear example of how successful colonisation of new areas and niches can – but do not always – drive explosive radiations.
Sex‐related differences in muscle size explained by amplitudes of higher‐threshold motor unit action potentials and muscle fibre typing
Authors: Trevino M. A. , Sterczala A. J. , Miller J. D. , Wray M. E. , Dimmick H. L. , Ciccone A. B. , Weir J. P. , Gallagher P. M. , Fry A. C. , Herda T. J.
Published: June 2018

Aim

To investigate the relationships between motor unit action potential amplitudes (MUAPAMP), muscle cross‐sectional area (mCSA) and composition (mEI), per cent myosin heavy chain (%MHC) areas and sex in the vastus lateralis (VL).

Methods

Ten males and 10 females performed a submaximal isometric trapezoid muscle action that included a linearly increasing, steady torque at 40% maximal voluntary contraction, and linearly decreasing segments. Surface electromyographic decomposition techniques were utilized to determine MUAPAMPS in relation to recruitment thresholds (RT). Ultrasound images were taken to quantify muscle mCSA and mEI. Muscle biopsies were collected to calculate %MHC areas. Y‐intercepts and slopes were calculated for the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships for each subject. Independent‐samples t tests and ANOVA models examined sex‐related differences in mCSA, mEI, slopes and y‐intercepts for the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships and %MHC areas. Correlations were performed among type IIA and total type II %MHC area, mCSA and the slopes and y‐intercepts for the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships.

Results

Males exhibited greater slopes for the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships (P = .003), mCSA (P < .001) and type IIA %MHC (P = .011), whereas females had greater type I %MHC area (P = .010) and mEI (P = .024). The mCSA, type IIA and total II %MHC area variables were correlated (P < .001‐.015, r = .596‐.836) with the slopes from the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships.

Conclusion

Sex‐related differences in mCSA and MUAPAMPS of the higher‐threshold MUs were likely the result of larger muscle fibres expressing type II characteristics for males.
Can surgical reconstruction of vaginal and ligamentous laxity cure overactive bladder symptoms in women with pelvic organ prolapse?
Authors: Liedl Bernhard , Goeschen Klaus , Sutherland Suzette E. , Roovers Jan‐Paul , Yassouridis Alexander
Published: June 2018

Objective

To examine the extent and intensity of the coexistence of overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and to evaluate the likelihood of OAB symptom improvement after surgical POP reconstruction over a period of 2 years.

Patients and Methods

The effectiveness of the transvaginal, single‐incision ‘Elevate’ technique for anatomical cure of anterior/apical and posterior/apical vaginal prolapse has been previously reported in a prospective, multicentre study. This technique uses mesh arms attached to the sacrospinous ligaments to recreate apical ligamentous support. Using the same sample population as that used in the multicentre study (n = 281), we conducted the present sub‐analysis focusing on estimating the extent of comorbidity between POP and OAB symptoms, as well as the effects of subsequent pelvic floor reconstruction on OAB symptoms over a long period. Assessments of POP and OAB symptom severity before and after surgery at 6, 12 and 24 months were obtained using the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI) questionnaire.

Results

Preoperatively, 70% of all POP patients reported moderate to severe OAB symptoms, with almost half (49.5%) noting severe OAB bother (‘quite a bit bothersome’) for one or more of the classic OAB symptom domains on the PFDI: ‘daytime urinary frequency’; ‘urinary urgency’; ‘urinary urgency incontinence’; and/or ‘nocturia’. In fact, across all four OAB symptom domains evaluated, there were significantly more severe symptoms (‘quite a bit bothersome’) than moderate (‘moderately bothersome’) or mild (‘somewhat bothersome’): 26–31%, 13–21%, and 17–19% of patients, respectively. In patients with symptomatic POP >stage 2, there was no relationship between further degree of prolapse and presence of severity of OAB symptoms; however, patients with POP stage 2 had significantly more complaints regarding the items ‘daytime urinary frequency’ and ‘urinary urgency incontinence’ compared with those with stage 3–4 POP. Pelvic floor reconstructive surgery resulted in significant improvement in all OAB symptoms, which seemed to be stable over time. The cure rate of moderate‐to‐severe OAB complaints ranged between 60% and 80%, which was a durable improvement noted throughout 24 months.

Conclusion

Results showed that POP was to a high degree accompanied by moderate‐to‐severe OAB complaints. Significant long‐lasting improvements in bothersome OAB symptoms occurred after adequate surgical reconstruction of anterior/apical and posterior/apical vaginal support.
Dual‐energy computed tomography for non‐invasive staging of liver fibrosis: Accuracy of iodine density measurements from contrast‐enhanced data
Authors: Sofue Keitaro , Tsurusaki Masakatsu , Mileto Achille , Hyodo Tomoko , Sasaki Kosuke , Nishii Tatsuya , Chikugo Takaaki , Yada Norihisa , Kudo Masatoshi , Sugimura Kazuro , Murakami Takamichi
Published: June 2018

Aim

To investigate whether iodine density measurements from contrast‐enhanced dual‐energy computed tomography (CT) data can non‐invasively stage liver fibrosis.

Methods

This single‐center, prospective study was approved by our IRB with written informed consent. Forty‐seven consecutive patients (26 men and 21 women; mean age, 63.1 years) with chronic liver disease underwent contrast‐enhanced dual‐energy CT of the liver (non‐contrast, arterial, portal venous, and equilibrium phase images), followed by liver biopsy. Iodine density of liver and aorta were obtained by two independent observers. Iodine uptake of the liver (Δ Liver), representing the difference in iodine density between equilibrium phase and non‐contrast images, was calculated and normalized by aorta (Δ Liver/Aorta). We accounted for contrast agent distribution volume by using hematocrit level. Accuracy of iodine density measurements for staging liver fibrosis was assessed by using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to assess the impact of independent variables (liver fibrosis stage and patient‐related confounders) on iodine uptake.

Results

The Δ Liver/Aorta significantly increased and moderately correlated with METAVIR liver fibrosis stage (ρ = 0.645, P < 0.001). Areas under the ROC curve ranged from 0.795 to 0.855 for discriminating each liver fibrosis score (≥F1–F4). METAVIR fibrosis stage was the most significant independent factor associated with Δ Liver (P = 0.005) and Δ Liver/Aorta (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Hepatic extracellular volume fraction with contrast‐enhanced dual‐energy CT can non‐invasively stage liver fibrosis in chronic liver diseases. This technique could prove useful for monitoring disease progression and treatment response, potentially reducing the need for liver biopsy.
Modelling the population effectiveness of the national seasonal influenza vaccination programme in Scotland: The impact of targeting all individuals aged 65 years and over
Authors: Corson Stephen , Robertson Chris , Reynolds Arlene , McMenamin Jim
Published: June 2018

Background

For the last 17 years, theUKhas employed a routine influenza vaccination programme with the aim of reducing the spread of seasonal influenza. In mid‐2000, the programme moved from a purely risk‐based approach to a risk and age group‐targeted approach with all those aged 65+ years being included. To date, there has been no assessment of the population effectiveness of this age‐targeted policy in Scotland.

Objectives

Statistical modelling techniques were used to determine what impact the routine vaccination of those aged 65+ years has had on influenza‐related morbidity and mortality in Scotland.

Methods

Two Poisson regression models were developed using weekly counts of all‐cause mortality, cause‐specific mortality and emergency hospitalisations for the period 1981‐2012, one using week‐in‐year and the other using temperature to capture the seasonal variability in mortality/hospitalisations. These models were used to determine the number of excess deaths/hospitalisations associated with the introduction of the local risk and age‐based vaccination programme in 2000.

Results

Routinely vaccinating those aged 65+ years is associated with a reduction in excess all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular andCOPD‐related mortality andCOPD‐related hospitalisations. Our analysis suggests that using the week‐in‐year model, on average, 732 (95%CI66‐1398) deaths from all causes, 248 (95%CI10‐486) cardiovascular‐related deaths, 123 (95%CI28‐218)COPD‐related deaths and 425 (95%CI258‐592)COPD‐related hospitalisations have been prevented each flu season among the those aged 65+. Similar results were found using the temperature model. There was no evidence to suggest that the change in policy was associated with reductions in influenza/pneumonia‐related mortality or influenza/cardiovascular‐related hospitalisations.

Conclusions

Routinely vaccinating those aged 65+ years appears to have reduced influenza‐related morbidity and mortality in Scotland. With the childhood vaccination programme well underway, these data provide an importance benchmark which can be used to accurately assess the impact of this new seasonal influenza vaccination programme.
Prevalence of human respiratory syncytial virus infection in people with acute respiratory tract infections in Africa: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kenmoe Sebastien , Bigna Jean Joel , Well Estelle Amandine , Simo Fredy Brice N. , Penlap Véronique B. , Vabret Astrid , Njouom Richard
Published: June 2018

Aim

The epidemiology of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) infection has not yet been systematically investigated in Africa. This systematic review and meta‐analysis are to estimate the prevalence of HRSV infections in people with acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) in Africa.

Method

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Africa Journal Online, and Global Index Medicus to identify observational studies published from January 1, 2000, to August 1, 2017. We used a random‐effects model to estimate the prevalence across studies. Heterogeneity (I2) was assessed via the chi‐square test on Cochran's Q statistic. Review registration: PROSPERO CRD42017076352.

Results

A total of 67 studies (154 000 participants) were included. Sixty (90%), seven (10%), and no studies had low, moderate, and high risk of bias, respectively. The prevalence of HRSV infection varied widely (range 0.4%‐60.4%). The pooled prevalence was 14.6% (95% CI 13.0‐16.4, I2 = 98.8%). The prevalence was higher in children (18.5%; 95% CI 15.8‐21.5) compared to adults (4.0%; 95% CI 2.2‐6.1) and in people with severe respiratory tract infections (17.9%; 95% CI 15.8‐20.1) compared to those with benign forms (9.4%; 95% CI 7.4‐11.5); P‐values <0.0001. The HRSV prevalence was not associated with sex, subregion in Africa, setting, altitude, latitude, longitude, and seasonality.

Conclusion

This study suggests a high prevalence of HRSV in people with ARTI in Africa, particularly among children and people with severe clinical form. All innovative strategies to curb the burden should first focus on children which present the highest HRSV‐related burden.
Regional and species specific sexual reproductive patterns of three zooxanthellate scleractinian corals across the Eastern Tropical Pacific
Authors: Santiago‐Valentín Jeimy D. , Colley Susan B. , Glynn Peter W. , Cupul‐Magaña Amilcar L. , López‐Pérez Ramon A. , Rodríguez‐Zaragoza Fabián A. , Benítez‐Villalobos Francisco , Bautista‐Guerrero Eric , Zavala‐Casas Denisse A. , Rodríguez‐Troncoso Alma P.
Published: June 2018

Sexual reproduction of zooxanthellate scleractinian corals in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP) is influenced by the interactive effects of regional and local oceanographic conditions, as well as a variety of other environmental factors. Differences in spatial and temporal gamete development and reproductive patterns of three widespread scleractinian corals of this region—Pocillopora damicornis (branching colony morphology, characterized as hermaphrodite broadcaster), Pavona gigantea (massive colonies, characterized as gonochoric broadcaster/sequential co‐sexually hermaphroditic) and Porites panamensis (encrusting colonies, characterized as gonochoric brooder)—were evaluated at local and regional scales across the ETP. This area extended from the Gulf of California (24°N) to the southern coast of Ecuador (–1°S), including offshore islands, using existing data pooled from prior studies. Predictive models were employed based on environmental variables: sea surface temperature, daylight hours, diffuse attenuation co‐efficient at 490 nm and photosynthetically active radiation. Datasets were extracted from satellite images (https://oceancolor.gsfc.nasa.gov) and analysed using WAM_STATIST ver. 6.33® software to obtain monthly average data from each site. The spatial (region, sub‐region and site) and seasonal (wet, dry) variation in reproductive activity (% colonies with gametes) differed among the three species; significant interactions were season × sub‐region for P. damicornis, season × site (sub‐region) for P. gigantea, and season × site for P. panamensis, for which sub‐region was not considered as a factor. The predictive models also suggest that gamete production/maturation of P. damicornis and P. gigantea is influenced by local differences in sea surface temperature and daylight hours. Porites panamensis was not correlated with any environmental variable examined. Variations in local and regional reproductive developmental patterns are likely an acclimatization response by each species imposed by the timing and duration of local stressor events. This analysis has provided insights into the diverse local and regional physical drivers that affect species responses and acclimatization in sexual reproduction across the ETP.
Automated quantification of microvascular perfusion
Authors: McClatchey Penn Mason , Mignemi Nicholas A. , Xu Zhengang , Williams Ian M. , Reusch Jane E. B. , McGuinness Owen P. , Wasserman David H.
Published: June 2018

Objective

Changes in microvascular perfusion have been reported in many diseases, yet the functional significance of altered perfusion is often difficult to determine. This is partly because commonly used techniques for perfusion measurement often rely on either indirect or by‐hand approaches.

Methods

We developed and validated a fully automated software technique to measure microvascular perfusion in videos acquired by fluorescence microscopy in the mouse gastrocnemius. Acute perfusion responses were recorded following intravenous injections with phenylephrine,SNP, or saline.

Results

Software‐measured capillary flow velocity closely correlated with by‐hand measured flow velocity (R2 = 0.91,P < 0.0001). Software estimates of capillary hematocrit also generally agreed with by‐hand measurements (R2 = 0.64,P < 0.0001). Detection limits range from 0 to 2000 μm/s, as compared to an average flow velocity of 326 ± 102 μm/s (mean ± SD) at rest.SNPinjection transiently increased capillary flow velocity and hematocrit and made capillary perfusion more steady and homogenous. Phenylephrine injection had the opposite effect in all metrics. Saline injection transiently decreased capillary flow velocity and hematocrit without influencing flow distribution or stability. All perfusion metrics were temporally stable without intervention.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate a novel and sensitive technique for reproducible, user‐independent quantification of microvascular perfusion.
Effects of Electroacupuncture on Bladder and Bowel Function in Patients with Transverse Myelitis: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Wu Jiani , Cheng Yanjun , Qin Zongshi , Liu Xiaoxu , Liu Zhishun
Published: June 2018

Objective

To preliminarily explore the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on bladder and bowel dysfunction in patients with transverse myelitis.

Methods

Sixteen participants were treated with EA at bilateral BL32, BL33, and BL35 once a day, five times a week for the first 4 weeks, and once every other day, three times a week for the following 4 weeks. Patients were then followed up for 6 months. Bladder and bowel function, and the safety of EA, were assessed.

Results

After 8 weeks of treatment, five (5/16, 31%) patients resumed normal voiding, three (6/16, 38%) regained partially normal voiding, and five (5/16, 31%) had no change. After treatment, the residual urine volume decreased by 100 mL (IQR 53–393 mL; P<0.05) in nine patients with bladder voiding dysfunction; in 11 patients with urinary incontinence, the number of weekly urinary incontinence episodes, 24-hour urinary episodes, and nocturia episodes per night diminished by 14 (95% CI 5 to 22), 5 (95% CI 1 to 9), and 4 (95% CI 0 to 7) episodes, respectively (all P<0.05). After 8 weeks of treatment in eight patients with faecal retention, four (4/8, 50%) resumed normal bowel movements, three (3/8, 38%) regained partially normal bowel movements, and one (1/8, 13%) had no change.

Conclusions

EA might be a promising alternative for the management of bladder and bowel dysfunction in patients with transverse myelitis. Randomised controlled trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of EA for this condition.
Roles of the nucleotide exchange factor and chaperone Hsp110 in cellular proteostasis and diseases of protein misfolding
Authors: Yakubu Unekwu M. , Morano Kevin A.
Published: June 2018

Cellular protein homeostasis (proteostasis) is maintained by a broad network of proteins involved in synthesis, folding, triage, repair and degradation. Chief among these are molecular chaperones and their cofactors that act as powerful protein remodelers. The growing realization that many human pathologies are fundamentally diseases of protein misfolding (proteopathies) has generated interest in understanding how the proteostasis network impacts onset and progression of these diseases. In this minireview, we highlight recent progress in understanding the enigmatic Hsp110 class of heat shock protein that acts as both a potent nucleotide exchange factor to regulate activity of the foldase Hsp70, and as a passive chaperone capable of recognizing and binding cellular substrates on its own, and its integration into the proteostasis network.
Upper bounds for the Euclidean distances between the BLUPs
Authors: Markiewicz Augustyn , Puntanen Simo
Published: June 2018

In this article we consider the general linear model {y, X ß, V} where y is the observable random vector with expectation X ß and covariance matrix V. Our interest is on predicting the unobservable random vector y* which comes from y* = X* ß + ƹ* where the expectation of y* isX* ß and the covariance matrix of y* is known aswell as the cross-covariance matrix between y* and y. The random vector y* can be considered as a kind of unknown future value.We introduce upper bounds for the Euclidean distances between the BLUPs, the best linear unbiased predictors, when the prediction is based on the original model and when it is based on the transformed model { Fy, FX ß, FVF’}. We also show how the upper bounds are related to the concept of linear sufficiency, and we apply our results into the mixed linear model.
The study of essential oil on antimicrobial activity and their composition towards microorganism
Authors: Kovalenko V.L. , Napnenko O.O. , Chornyi I. , Zagrebelnyi A.V.
Published: June 2018

In the course of the research, the microorganisms that often caused disease for animals were used, according to the literature, were genetically predisposed to resistance to traditional antibiotics and needed to find new effective means to combat them. It was used different antibiotic substances benzalkonium chloride, silver nanoparticles, and promising in this direction, essential oils of plants: fir, eucalyptus. The article provides information on the selection and study of the efficacy of substances, components with essential oils necessary for the development of complex bactericidal agents and the study of their antimicrobial activity against microorganisms. In determining the antimicrobial activity of essential oils, test cultures were used: Microccoccus luteus ATCC9341, Microccoccus lisogenicus, B. subtilis AATCC6633, B.cereus ATCC6633, S. aureus 209-P, S. zooepidemicus, Clebsiella spp, Salmonella cholerae suis, Pasterella multocida from the museum of State Scientific and Control Institute of Biotechnology and strains of microorganisms. The determination of fungicidal acity was performed on microscopic molds of Penicillium citrinum, Penicillium urticae, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus ochraceus. In experiments with Staphilococcus aureus, Streptococcus zooepidemicus, Pasteurella multocida, the antibiotic action of essential oils of eucalyptus and puff was confirmed and the possibility of its enhancement by the addition of quaternary ammonium compounds was confirmed. According to the results, the use as an alternative to antibiotics and disinfectants of preparations based on vegetable essential oils in the form of aerosols not only improves the number of animals from respiratory infections of bacterial origin, but also significantly improves the ecological conditions of the work of personnel in livestock buildings, promotes treatment and prevention respiratory diseases. The investigations have proved the expediency of using vegetable essential oils for the design of highly effective drugs and the possibility of enhancing their antimicrobial activity by quaternary ammonium compounds and silver nanoparticles, as well as a complex preparation «Asept» for aerosol application in the presence of animals.
Investigating Cross-Cultural Differences in the Privacy Regulation and Perception of Crowding: Northern and Yazdi Women in Iran
Authors: Mohammad Niay Gharaei Fatemeh , Rafieian Mojtaba
Published: June 2018

This study investigated cross-cultural differences in the privacy regulation and perception of crowding among two Iranian sub-cultures (Yazdi and Northern women). The research methodology was designed on interview and questionnaire. A random size of 100 Yazdi and Northern women was selected in Yazd and Sari cities. Moreover, to examine the survey Chi-Square Test, Independent Sample Test and Analysis of variance (ANOVA) were conducted. The results show that Yazdi women desired more privacy in public spaces than Northern women. Regardless of culture, women's desired and achieved privacy levels have associations with the level of perceived crowding in public spaces. These findings assist environmental designers to present strategies for achieving privacy in relation to Iranian sub-cultures.
The Professional Figure in the Relation to the Family of Special Need Children
Authors: Zhapaj Arbana , Birce Gazmira
Published: June 2018

Most of the professionals that work in the field of special needs help in development of the healthy relations with the families that have a child with special needs. Others continue to hide their profession behind the analyses conducted through medical diagnoses, and further more others judge the families, laws, conditions and what we normally have, a family of growing problems. The professionals should be active partners together with the families for the future of the children with special needs, by creating a relation based on respect and empathy. The attitudes of the professionals towards the families of the special need children make the relation to head to positivity or negativity. Normally these attitudes come from the perception that the professionals have for the feelings that parents experience, the impact of the child on the family, what they consider important to construct a collaboration and to assess when and how the parents need the professionals, or the characteristics that the relation present with these parents. The aim of the study is to point out the opinions that the professionals have in relation to the family; these opinions will help us to evaluate the attitudes of the professionals and their impact in the development of the collaboration with the families.
The Use of Immunity Doctrine in Commercial Activities in Mesopotamia and Ancient Greece
Authors: Nur Heriyanto Dodik Setiawan
Published: June 2018

This study traces the history of the formation of immunities concept and its application in commercial activities in ancient Mesopotamia and Greece. The doctrine of immunity is discussed based on the historical process starting from the myth, concept, and its implementation in the commercial/trade activities. By using historical approach, this study shows that in Mesopotamia and Greece, traders or merchants enjoyed absolute immunity due to their position as the representative of their King or polis in which their commercial acts and diplomatic mission were combined. In Mesopotamia, merchants enjoyed the full confidence of the King, and one would not be wrong to suppose that in such enterprises commercial activity and diplomatic mission were combined. Compared to the Mesopotamian practices that granted all traders with the status of immunity from public obligations, in ancient Greece only traders with honorific conditions could enjoy the status of proxenos.
Central Bank Independence and economic crises: how both the fed and ECB managed to rely on unconventional monetary policies
Authors: Doroftei Mădălina , Pătruți Alexandru
Published: June 2018

The Central bank independence was viewed in the last decades as an essential prerequisite for ensuring good monetary policies. However, the global crisis of 2009 has shown that this concept was of little practical importance. The European Central Bank, which was built as one of the most independent central banks in the world, and the Federal Reserve System, a not so independent central bank from the point of view of legal independence, reacted in almost the same manner to the looming crises. Both of them used unconventional monetary policies, for which there was little theoretical support, to safeguard their economies. Quantitative easing, forward guidance and negative interest rate are now considered common instruments in the monetary authority’s arsenal. Moreover, central banks now have an extended goal, i.e. to provide financial stability. This means that they are expected to take action to prevent future economic crises by using monetary policy as a counter-cycle instrument. Given this important modification regarding the expected actions which must come from the monetary authorities, we argue that central bank independence becomes irrelevant in times of economic downturn, when they will use whatever means necessary to ensure financial stability. Political short run need will surpass long run stability as a priority for monetary decision makers.
Job satisfaction from leadership perspective
Authors: Haleem Fazal , Jehangir Muhammad , Khalil-Ur-Rahman Muhammad
Published: June 2018

Transformational leaders encourage their subordinates to achieve organizational goals and objectives and to reach their full potential by providing the needed resources. This increasing influence of transformational leaders on employees instigated us to find out the impact of transformational leadership on employees’ job satisfaction. The study was conducted in the public sectors universities of KPK, Pakistan. A sample size of 130 employees was selected using convenient sampling techniques. The data was collected from grade 16 and upper level of employees in the universities. Initially, 130 questionnaires were sent out to the target population for their participation in the survey; out of which 100 filled questionnaires were received forming percentage of 76.92%. These 100 properly filled questionnaires were used for statistical analysis. Both descriptive and advance multivariate statistical, correlation and regression analysis, were conducted to get a feel for the data and to test the postulated hypothesis respectively. Findings of the study revealed that there was non-significant influence of transformational leadership in terms of idealized influence, individualized consideration, and inspirational motivation on employees’ job satisfaction in the public sectors universities of KPK, Pakistan. However, the intellectual stimulation type of leadership had positive and significant impact on employees’ job satisfaction. The paper contributes to the literature review in context of non-forprofit organizations in a developing country and provides implications for universities’ executives to pay more attention to intellectual stimulation type of leadership to increase employees’ satisfaction and thus help achieve the universities goals and objectives.
Industry 4.0 and the digital society: concepts, dimensions and envisioned benefits
Authors: Fonseca Luis Miguel
Published: June 2018

There is a considerable amount of interest in Industry 4.0, the so-called 4fh industrial revolution, however, the concept is not clear in the literature. This research by performing a literature review on Industry 4.0, aims to present an overview of the several industrial revolutions with emphasis on Industry 4.0 and its underlined dimensions. Industry 4.0 is characterized by the advanced digitalization and integration of industrial manufacturing and logistics processes, and the use of internet and “smart” objects (machines and products) and merging the physical and the virtual worlds by the adoption of information and communications technology (ICT). Industry 4.0 fosters novel human and production organization systems and new organizational business models, impacting the overall value chain, society and the environment. Contributions for such new business models that can support Industry 4.0 are proposed with envisioned potential benefits such as shorter operations cycle times, quick delivery times, faster time to market of new products and services, improved quality, and product/service customization, stronger consumer involvement and loyalty. Industry 4.0 can help organizations to address new and emerging markets by a differentiation strategy, or even create new disruptive business models. However, it is still in the early stages for most companies and the digital transformation will require a strong leadership, the right human competences and to overcome several barriers, for its successful implementation. And while this will lead to a significant improvement in job creation, there will be also considerable job losses for Employees with low skill levels. Considering that in 2015, only 14% of Small and Medium Enterprises were using internet channel and 40% of the European Union companies still had not adopted any of the new advanced digital technologies, there is a great need to further research Industry 4.0 drivers and success factors.
The cultural heritage circulation in a globalized world: Should we build stronger borders or stronger bridges?
Authors: Jora Octavian-Dragomir , Apăvăloaei Matei-Alexandru , Iacob Mihaela
Published: June 2018

The scope of this paper is to explore if the free market and its corollaries - private property and the freedom to trade both nationally and internationally - are compatible with the conservation, search and optimal use of heritage goods. Our argument starts from the fact that culture is not a free-floating wraith but a set of tangible and intangible elements that are attributed special spiritual signification by the present generation and that are dependent on scarce material means to be expressed and passed on to our heirs. By taking scarcity as our starting point, we will provide an economic analysis of the implications that follow from the alternative approaches that can be employed to manage heritage goods, namely, a private property order coordinated through prices or a public property form of organisation coordinated through orders and interdictions. After tracing the implications of these two general principles of allocating resources, we will briefly look at how heritage goods are regulated, both on a national and international level, to gain a better understanding of the spirit that permeates the "rules of the game." Finally, we are going to see how the two general principles (market vs command and control) apply to the debate raging between the cosmopolites and the nationalists regarding the international trade in heritage goods. After carefully scrutinising some of the arguments put forward in this dispute over the appropriate means to be used, we conclude that free markets and free trade are the only adequate ways for reaching the objective sought by those on both sides of the debate.
Economic Considerations for the Evolution of Cooperation
Authors: Hartwick John M.
Published: June 2018

We contend that a tendency toward cooperative behavior in humans was magnifed by humans dealing with one another in trade and in joint activity such as big game hunting. Relative specialization by task (division of labor) provided a setting for trade to be gainful to all traders. Humans agglomerated to take advantage of specialization and trade. We also reflect on situations in which only some sort of negotiation or bargaining will allow joint-tasks to get carried out.
Gender Differences Related to the Types of Sexually Abusive Incidents Encountered by Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Authors: Young M. Scott
Published: June 2018

Prior studies have suggested that specific characteristics of sexually abusive experiences, including the presence of force and penetration, have been proposed to account for much of the harm caused by childhood sexual abuse. Though many studies have documented gender differences in the prevalence and sequelae of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), few have examined gender differences related to the types of abusive incidents that victims have encountered, and all have been limited to clinical samples. Illuminating gender differences in the nature of sexually abusive experiences may help to account for gender disparities related to the sequelae of CSA. Extending this line of research to nonclinical samples will help to estimate the overall prevalence of CSA and assess the generalizability of previous study findings.  This study examined gender differences in the types of sexually abusive incidents self-reported by 155 victims of CSA who were students enrolled in an undergraduate psychology course at a large southeastern university. Although Chi square analyses failed to reveal any significant gender differences related to the involvement of force in CSA incidents, results did indicate that males were significantly more likely to report being victimized by incidents involving penetration (41.0% vs. 24.1%). Additional statistically significant gender differences included findings that a greater proportion of males (61.5%) than females (37.1%) reported touching the genitals of someone at least five years older before the age of 16, and that males were more likely to report having engaged in anal intercourse before the age of 16 with someone at least five years older (12.8% vs. 2.6%).