bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigations on the vibrational and acoustic characteristics of a submarine-like system by experiments and simulations
Authors: Wang Jian , Yang Haosen , Hua Hongxing
Published: May 2017

An experimental study aiming at investigating the vibrational and acoustic characteristics of a submarine-like system is implemented in this article. For comparison purpose, a finite element model is used to calculate the dynamic behaviors and sound radiation of the system. With consideration of the interaction between the shaft and hull structure, the dynamic response and the radiated sound pressure of the system are presented. Associated with the finite element model, the modes that correspond to the main peaks in the radiated sound pressure are identified. The results indicate that the forces transmitted to the hull could be amplified at the natural frequencies of the shaft, and a relative high radiated sound pressure level can be observed if the hull is also resonating simultaneously. Due to the non-uniformity of the structure and external excitation, the bending modes ( n = 1) and the longitudinal modes ( n = 0) are coupled with each other and result in a more complex dynamic response of the system. Moreover, considering the foundation is critical to supporting the axial force transmitted from the propeller, and a lower foundation model is constructed to investigate its influence on the acoustic response of the system. The comparison results show that lower foundation would lead to a rise of the natural frequency of the mode that relates to the axial impedance of the foundation. And, a slight decrease in the radiated sound pressure can be achieved in the frequency range below these natural frequencies.
Comparative life cycle assessment of LED lighting products
Authors: Casamayor JL , Su D , Ren Z
Published: May 2017

The use of LED lighting products is growing rapidly. However, there are no in-depth, updated studies that show how to assess and compare these products for eco-design purposes. This research aims to inform eco-design by assessing and comparing the environmental impact of a new LED eco-lighting product with an existing LED lighting product. A cradle to grave life cycle assessment is conducted. The system boundaries include all product life cycle stages, except the maintenance of the luminaires and the manufacturing of the packaging. A novel functional unit is defined for the assessment, which is more suitable for LED lighting products. Six scenarios are considered, including three probable useful lives of the luminaires (1000, 15,000 and 40,000 hours) and two end of life options (domestic bin and recycling centre). The life cycle assessment results reveal that the new eco-lighting product has about 60% less environmental impact than the existing lighting product in all scenarios. The life cycle stages with the biggest impacts are, in decreasing order: (1) use, (2) manufacturing, (3) end of life and (4) transport. Recommendations for the eco-design of LED lighting products are proposed, and the challenges in applying life cycle assessment for eco-design are discussed.
Mathematics Motivation, Anxiety, and Performance in Female Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing and Hearing Students
Authors: Ariapooran Saeed
Published: May 2017

Hearing loss can be a major detriment to academic achievement among students. The present comparative study examines the differences in mathematics motivation, anxiety, and performance in female students with hearing loss and their hearing peers. A total of 63 female students with hearing loss (deaf and hard-of-hearing) and 63 hearing female students were selected to participate in the study. The two groups of students were matched in terms of the city of residence, academic year, academic grade, and age. The Mathematics Motivation Scale and the Mathematics Anxiety Survey were used for data collection. The students’ mathematics scores in the first and second semesters of school were used as indicators of their mathematics performance. The data obtained were analyzed using the MANOVA. The results of the study showed a higher intrinsic goal orientation in both hard-of-hearing and hearing students than in the deaf students; extrinsic goal orientation was higher in the deaf and hard-of-hearing students than in the hearing students; and task value, control belief, and mathematics self-efficacy were lower in the deaf and hard-of-hearing students than in the hearing students. The findings of the study also showed that mathematics test anxiety and mathematics anxiety were higher in the hard-of-hearing and deaf students than in their hearing peers. Moreover, mathematics performance was higher in the hearing students than in their deaf and hard-of-hearing peers.
Communication and Language Development of Young Children With Autism: A Review of Research in Music
Authors: Vaiouli Potheini , Andreou Georgia
Published: May 2017

Research demonstrates connections among children’s music actions, their engagement abilities, and their language development. Although the link between music and the engagement abilities of young children with autism is well established, there is not enough evidence on the effectiveness of music strategies and music therapy interventions to promote language development of young children with autism. The purpose of this review is to examine and analyze current literature on the systematic use of music and music therapy interventions as effective strategies for the development of language and preverbal and verbal communication abilities in young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Findings align with previous reviews on the positive effects of music as an age-appropriate, communicative medium. Also, the review pinpoints to the collaboration of music therapists and speech and language pathologists for the design and implementation of interventions that embed music and target language development of young children with autism.
Sensitivity of postnatal fasting plasma glucose in identifying impaired glucose tolerance in women with gestational diabetes – 25 Years’ data
Authors: Kapaya Habiba , May Lucy , Jacques Richard , Madhuvrata Priya
Published: May 2017

Objective

To assess the uptake of postnatal oral glucose tolerance test and to determine the sensitivity of fasting postnatal blood sugar in predicting 2-h impaired glucose tolerance.

Methods

Retrospective study of 1961 women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus. All women were offered oral glucose tolerance test six weeks post-delivery.

Results

Of 1961 women, 1090 (56%) returned for postpartum oral glucose tolerance test. A fasting plasma glucose of ≥6.1 mmol/l identified only 76 of 167 women with impaired glucose tolerance detected by a 2-h oral glucose tolerance test (sensitivity of 45.5%; 95%CI: 38.1–53.1). We observed a normal fasting glucose but an impaired 2-h glucose tolerance in 91 out of 968 (9.4%) women. Asian ethnicity, admission on special care baby unit and antenatal insulin therapy strongly predicted 2-h impaired postnatal blood glucose levels (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Although fasting plasma glucose is a convenient method, it lacks sensitivity in identifying women with impaired glucose tolerance postnatally.
Does Enactive Teaching Improve Inclusion of Immigrant Pupils? A Research in Northern Italy’s Schools
Authors: Coin Francesca
Published: May 2017

Immigration in recent years has dramatically increased, especially in Europe. Countries have been coping with it in different ways, and this suggests that certain policies and approaches may work better than others. As a fact, a successful integration starts with the education system. This study investigates how the teacher’s approach toward his or her class influences the development of different ways of thinking in the students. Thirty-four primary school teachers were interviewed to identify which teaching approach they uphold among transmissive, constructivist, and enactive teaching. Then, a connection was searched between teachers’ beliefs and the average scores obtained by their 659 students in critical, creative, metacognitive, emotional, and contemplative thinking tests. The hypothesis argues that a more inclusive approach, such as enactivism can be an efficient strategy, as it views diversity as an asset rather than as a problem. Hence, this study attempts to demonstrate that enactive teaching is an effective approach that everyone should consider as it can help both native and immigrant students.
Hybrid rank-sparsity constraint model for simultaneous reconstruction and denoising of 3D seismic data
Authors: Zhang Dong , Zhou Yatong , Chen Hanming , Chen Wei , Zu Shaohuan , Chen Yangkang
Published: May 2017

We have determined an approach for simultaneous reconstruction and denoising of 3D seismic data with randomly missing traces. The core in simultaneous reconstruction and denoising of 3D seismic data is the choice of constraint method. Recently, there have been two types of popular approaches to choose such a constraint: sparsity-promoting transforms using a sparsity constraint and rank reduction methods using a rank constraint. Although the sparsity-promoting transform enjoys the direct advantage of high efficiency, it lacks adaptivity to a variety of data patterns. On the other hand, the rank reduction method can be adaptively applied to different data sets, but its computational cost is quite high. We investigate multiple constraints for simultaneous seismic data reconstruction and denoising based on a novel hybrid rank-sparsity constraint (HRSC) model, which aims at combining the benefits of the sparsity-promoting transforms and rank reduction methods. Also, we design the corresponding HRSC algorithmic framework to effectively solve our new model via tightly combining a sparsity-promoting transform and a rank reduction method, which is more powerful in simultaneous reconstruction and denoising of 3D seismic data. Our HRSC framework aims at providing an extra level of constraint and, thus, can significantly improve the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of the reconstructed results with higher efficiency. Application of the HRSC framework on synthetic and field 3D seismic data demonstrates superior performance in terms of S/N and visual observation compared with the well-known rank reduction method, known as multichannel singular spectrum analysis.
The impact of magnetic viscosity on time-domain electromagnetic data from iron oxide minerals embedded in rocks at Opemiska, Québec, Canada
Authors: Gaucher Frédéric E. S. , Smith Richard S.
Published: May 2017

The magnetic viscosity (MV) effects observed at time scales between 0.01 and 10 ms at Opemiska are associated with magnetic grains of variable size in rocks. Recent observations made during a ground time-domain electromagnetic (TDEM) survey at Opemiska are consistent with four aspects of the spatial and amplitude characteristics of a MV response: (1) the [Formula: see text] decay rate is roughly proportional to [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], (2) the anomalies are mainly visible on the [Formula: see text]-component, when the EM receiver sensor is located inside or just outside the transmitter loop, (3) there is no obvious [Formula: see text]- or [Formula: see text]-component response, and (4) the sites where MV effects are seen in the TDEM data are coincident with an airborne magnetic anomaly. Previous studies have demonstrated that MV could be caused by (1) fine-grained particles of maghemite or magnetite in the overburden, regolith, or soil that were formed through lateritic weathering processes, (2) volcanic glass shards from tuff containing approximately 1% by weight magnetite, which occur as grains approximately [Formula: see text] in size precipitated in a spatially uniform way, or (3) from the Gallionella bacterium that precipitates ferrihydrite that oxidizes to nanocrystalline maghemite aggregates. The sites investigated at Opemiska are outcropping and well-exposed with relatively little or no overburden, and they are unfavorable for the formation of maghemite; hence, it is assumed that the source of MV seen at Opemiska cannot be the maghemite, or the other aforementioned causes. Hand samples were collected from Opemiska to identify the minerals present. Polished thin sections observed under an optical reflecting microscope identified the accessory minerals magnetite, ilmenite, and pyrrhotite, all known for their relatively high magnetic susceptibility. The use of the scanning electron microscope confirmed fine-grained magnetite grains as small as [Formula: see text]. An electromagnetic induction spectrometer confirmed the viscous nature of the susceptibility of the Opemiska samples. This suggests that MV could originate not only from fine-grained magnetite and maghemite particles located in the weathered regolith but also from other iron oxides and magnetic minerals embedded in the rock itself.
Trends in Perioperative Practice and Resource Utilization in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Undergoing Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Cozowicz Crispiana , Poeran Jashvant , Olson Ashley , Mazumdar Madhu , Mörwald Eva E. , Memtsoudis Stavros G.
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND:

Emerging evidence associating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with adverse perioperative outcomes has recently heightened the level of awareness among perioperative physicians. In particular, estimates projecting the high prevalence of this condition in the surgical population highlight the necessity of the development and adherence to “best clinical practices.” In this context, a number of expert panels have generated recommendations in an effort to provide guidance for perioperative decision-making. However, given the paucity of insights into the status of the implementation of recommended practices on a national level, we sought to investigate current utilization, trends, and the penetration of OSA care-related interventions in the perioperative management of patients undergoing lower joint arthroplasties.

METHODS:

In this population-based analysis, we identified 1,107,438 (Premier Perspective database; 2006–2013) cases of total hip and knee arthroplasties and investigated utilization and temporal trends in the perioperative use of regional anesthetic techniques, blood oxygen saturation monitoring (oximetry), supplemental oxygen administration, positive airway pressure therapy, advanced monitoring environments, and opioid prescription among patients with and without OSA.

RESULTS:

The utilization of regional anesthetic techniques did not differ by OSA status and overall <25% and 15% received neuraxial anesthesia and peripheral nerve blocks, respectively. Trend analysis showed a significant increase in peripheral nerve block use by >50% and a concurrent decrease in opioid prescription. Interestingly, while the absolute number of patients with OSA receiving perioperative oximetry, supplemental oxygen, and positive airway pressure therapy significantly increased over time, the proportional use significantly decreased by approximately 28%, 36%, and 14%, respectively. A shift from utilization of intensive care to telemetry and stepdown units was seen.

CONCLUSIONS:

On a population-based level, the implementation of OSA-targeted interventions seems to be limited with some of the current trends virtually in contrast to practice guidelines. Reasons for these findings need to be further elucidated, but observations of a dramatic increase in absolute utilization with a proportional decrease may suggest possible resource constraints as a contributor.
Preoperative Low-Dose Aspirin Exposure and Outcomes After Emergency Neurosurgery for Traumatic Intracranial Hemorrhage in Elderly Patients
Authors: Lee Alex T. , Gagnidze Arni , Pan Sharon R. , Sookplung Pimwan , Nair Bala , Newman Shu-Fang , Ben-Ari Alon , Zaky Ahmed , Cain Kevin , Vavilala Monica S. , Rozet Irene
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND:

Antiplatelet medications are usually discontinued before elective neurosurgery, but this is not an option for emergent neurosurgery. We performed a retrospective cohort study to examine whether preoperative aspirin use was associated with worse outcomes after emergency neurosurgery in elderly patients.

METHODS:

We analyzed all cases of emergency neurosurgical procedures for traumatic intracranial hemorrhage from 2008 to 2012 at a level 1 trauma center. Demographics, comorbidities, and outcomes were compared for patients ≥65 years by preoperative aspirin exposure. Exclusion criteria were: (1) polytrauma, (2) concomitant use of other preoperative anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents, (3) surgical indication other than subdural, extradural, or intraparenchymal hemorrhage, and (4) repeat neurosurgical procedures within a single admission. Estimated intraoperative blood loss, postprocedural intracranial bleeding requiring reoperation, death in hospital, intensive care unit, and hospital lengths of stay and perioperative blood product transfusion from 48 hours before 48 hours after surgery were the study outcomes. We also examined whether platelet transfusion had an impact on outcomes for patients on aspirin.

RESULTS:

The cohort included 171 patients. Patients receiving preoperative aspirin (n = 87, 95% taking 81 mg/day) were the same age as patients not receiving aspirin (n = 84; 78.3 ± 7.8 vs 75.9 ± 7.9 years, P > .05), had slightly higher admission Glasgow Coma Scale scores (12.8 ± 3.4 vs 11.4 ± 4, P = .02) and tended to have more coronary artery disease (P< .05). Adjusted for Glasgow Coma Scale and coronary artery disease, patients receiving preoperative aspirin had a higher odds of perioperative platelet transfusion (adjusted odds ratio 9.89, 95% confidence interval, 4.24–26.25). There were no other differences in outcomes between the 2 groups. Preoperative or intraoperative platelet transfusion was not associated with better outcomes among aspirin patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

In patients age ≥65 years undergoing emergency neurosurgery for traumatic intracranial hemorrhage, preoperative low-dose aspirin treatment was not associated with increased perioperative bleeding, hospital lengths of stay, or in-hospital mortality.
The Labor Analgesia Requirements in Nulliparous Women Randomized to Epidural Catheter Placement in a High or Low Intervertebral Space
Authors: Moore Albert , Villeneuve Valerie , Bravim Bruno , el-Bahrawy Aly , el-Mouallem Eva , Kaufman Ian , Hatzakorzian Roupen , Li Pi Shan William
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND:

We hypothesized that an epidural catheter placed in a lower vertebral interspace will require less medication for labor analgesia.

METHODS:

Nulliparous women requesting neuraxial labor analgesia were randomized to epidural catheter placement at the ultrasound-confirmed L1-2 or L4-5 interspace. Patient-controlled epidural analgesia and breakthrough manual epidural boluses of 10 mL of 0.125% bupivacaine with 50 µg of fentanyl or 8 mL of 2% lidocaine were utilized. Abdominal and perineal pain scores were assessed at 30 and 60 minutes after standardized initiation of epidural analgesia. Pain scores during pushing were assessed after delivery. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients requiring manual boluses and was compared using a χ2 test. Secondarily, we analyzed the number of boluses given in early (up to 4 hours before delivery) versus late labor using χ2 tests and the pain scores using Mann-Whitney U tests, with adjustment of P values for multiple testing.

RESULTS:

We analyzed 148 patients. Overall, the percentage of patients in the low versus high groups who required manual boluses was 46% vs 51% (P = 1.0). For the 56 patients in each group who delivered vaginally, 22 (52%) vs 20 (48%) manual boluses were given to the low epidural group in early versus late labor, compared to 9 (20%) vs 36 (80%) in the high epidural group (P = .014). There was no statistical difference in patient-controlled epidural analgesia requirements or patient satisfaction. Comparing the low versus high groups, the median (interquartile range) pain scores were: 3 (1, 6) vs 0 (0, 2) (P = .013) at 30 minutes and 1 (1, 3) vs 0 (0, 1) (P = .013) at 60 minutes for abdominal pain; 0 (0, 2) vs 1 (1, 3) (P = .36) and 0 (0, 1) vs 1 (1, 3) (P = .014) at these same time points for perineal pain; and 1 (0, 5) vs 0 (0, 3) (P = .9) for abdominal and 2 (0, 5) vs 4 (1, 8) (P = .025) for perineal pain during pushing. The percentage of patients who underwent instrumental delivery was 15% vs 5% (P = .06) for the low versus high group.

CONCLUSIONS:

An L4-5 epidural catheter initially provides less relief of abdominal pain but more relief of perineal labor pain. Patients with an L4-5 catheter require more manual boluses during early labor but less during late labor. The possible association of low epidural catheters with instrumental delivery merits further investigation.
Red Blood Cell Transfusion and Surgical Site Infection After Colon Resection Surgery: A Cohort Study
Authors: Mazzeffi Michael , Tanaka Kenichi , Galvagno Samuel
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND:

Surgical site infections (SSIs) after colon surgery remain a critical safety issue. Patients with an SSI have an increased risk of death, prolonged hospitalization, and increased costs of care. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is given during the perioperative period to increase blood oxygen delivery, but it is associated with complications, including infection. We hypothesized that RBC transfusion would be associated with increased SSI risk in patients undergoing colon resection surgery.

METHODS:

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the 2014 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program participant use file. Patients who had colon resection surgery were identified using current procedural terminology codes. The association between perioperative RBC transfusion and superficial and deep incisional SSIs, organ space SSIs, and postoperative septic shock was modeled using logistic regression with propensity score analysis.

RESULTS:

Of 23,388 patients who had colon resection surgery, 1845 (7.9%) received perioperative RBC transfusion. After controlling for confounders with propensity score analysis and inverse probability of treatment weighting, RBC transfusion had no apparent association with superficial incisional SSI (odds ratio [OR], 1.18; 99% confidence interval [CI], 0.48–2.88) or deep incisional SSI (OR, 1.47; 99% CI, 0.23–9.43). However, RBC transfusion appeared to be associated with increased risk of organ space SSI (OR, 2.93; 99% CI, 1.43–6.01) and septic shock (OR, 9.23; 99% CI, 3.53–24.09).

CONCLUSIONS:

RBC transfusion has no apparent association with increased risk for incisional SSIs, but may be associated with increased risk for organ space SSI and septic shock after colon resection surgery.
Senescence gives insights into the morphogenetic evolution of anamniotes
Authors: Villiard Éric , Denis Jean-François , Hashemi Faranak Sadat , Igelmann Sebastian , Ferbeyre Gerardo , Roy Stéphane
Published: May 2017

Senescence represents a mechanism to avoid undesired cell proliferation that plays a role in tumor suppression, wound healing and embryonic development. In order to gain insight on the evolution of senescence, we looked at its presence in developing axolotls (urodele amphibians) and in zebrafish (teleost fish), which are both anamniotes. Our data indicate that cellular senescence is present in various developing structures in axolotls (pronephros, olfactory epithelium of nerve fascicles, lateral organs, gums) and in zebrafish (epithelium of the yolk sac and in the lower part of the gut). Senescence was particularly associated with transient structures (pronephros in axolotls & yolk sac in zebrafish) suggesting that it may play a role in the elimination of these tissues. Our data supports the notion that cellular senescence evolved early in vertebrate evolution to influence embryonic development.
Rehabilitation and Prevention of Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy
Authors: Beatty Nicholas R. , Félix Ioonna , Hettler Jessica , Moley Peter J. , Wyss James F.
Published: May 2017

Proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT) comprises a small but significant portion of hamstring injuries in athletes, especially runners. PHT is a chronic condition that is clinically diagnosed but can be supported with imaging. The main presenting complaint is pain in the lower gluteal or ischial region that may or may not radiate along the hamstrings in the posterior thigh. There is little scientific evidence on which to base the rehabilitation management of PHT. Treatment is almost always conservative, with a focus on activity modification, addressing contributing biomechanical deficiencies, effective tendon loading including eccentric training, and ultrasound-guided interventional procedures which may facilitate rehabilitation. Surgery is limited to recalcitrant cases or those involving concomitant high-grade musculotendinous pathology. The keys to PHT management include early and accurate diagnosis, optimal rehabilitation to allow for a safe return to preinjury activity level, and preventative strategies to reduce risk of reinjury.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: Return to Play, Function and Long-Term Considerations
Authors: Sepúlveda Fernando , Sánchez Luis , Amy Eduardo , Micheo William
Published: May 2017

Anterior cruciate ligament tears are common and affect young individuals who participate in jumping and pivoting sports. After injury many individuals undergo ligament reconstruction (ACLR) but do not return to play, suffer recurrent injury and osteoarthritis. Outcome studies show that after ACLR, 81% of individuals return to sports, 65% return to their preinjury level and 55% return to competitive sports. Systematic reviews place the risk of ipsilateral retears at 5.8% and contralateral injuries at 11.8%, with recent reports of over 20% failure rate. Approximately 20% to 50% of patients will have evidence of OA within 10 to 20 yr. Factors important in reducing complications include timing of surgery, individualized return to play protocols, and prevention programs for injury. Further understanding of the factors that increase return to play percentages, reduce the risk of recurrent injury and improve long-term outcomes after ACL injury is needed to reduce the burden of these injuries on society.
Mechanisms and Treatments for Shoulder Injuries in Overhead Throwing Athletes
Authors: Zaremski Jason L. , Wasser Joseph G. , Vincent Heather K.
Published: May 2017

Shoulder injuries in overhead throwing athletes are very common. Throwing volume and mechanical forces that are placed on the glenohumeral joint and associated soft tissue structures are contributors. Poor biomechanics and weak links in the kinetic chain place this athletic population at increased risk for shoulder injuries. Common biomechanical deficiencies in overhead throwing athletes typically involve poor sequential timing of muscle activity and insufficient coordination also presented in shoulder elevation and other functional tasks. Kinetic chain deficits will lead to injury due to poor transference of energy from the lower extremities to the dominant upper extremity. Correction of these deficits involves effective treatment and prevention strategies. These include core and hip strengthening, balance training, optimize timing of biomechanical phases and events for each throwing movement, and following recommended rest guidelines. This article will synopsize current evidence of sport-specific injury mechanisms, injury treatment, and prevention of the shoulder in overhead throwing athletes.
Core Training in Low Back Disorders: Role of the Pilates Method
Authors: Joyce Andrew A. , Kotler Dana H.
Published: May 2017

The Pilates method is a system of exercises developed by Joseph Pilates, which emphasizes recruitment and strengthening of the core muscles, flexibility, and breathing, to promote stability and control of movement. Its focus bears similarity to current evidence-based exercise programs for low back disorders. Spinal stability is a function of three interdependent systems, osseoligamentous, muscular, and neural control; exercise addresses both the muscular and neural function. The “core” typically refers to the muscular control required to maintain functional stability. Prior research has highlighted the importance of muscular strength and recruitment, with debate over the importance of individual muscles in the wider context of core control. Though developed long before the current evidence, the Pilates method is relevant in this setting and clearly relates to current evidence-based exercise interventions. Current literature supports the Pilates method as a treatment for low back disorders, but its benefit when compared with other exercise is less clear.
Expression of distinct maternal and somatic 5.8S, 18S, and 28S rRNA types during zebrafish development
Authors: Locati Mauro D. , Pagano Johanna F.B. , Girard Geneviève , Ensink Wim A. , van Olst Marina , van Leeuwen Selina , Nehrdich Ulrike , Spaink Herman P. , Rauwerda Han , Jonker Martijs J. , Dekker Rob J. , Breit Timo M.
Published: May 2017

There is mounting evidence that the ribosome is not a static translation machinery, but a cell-specific, adaptive system. Ribosomal variations have mostly been studied at the protein level, even though the essential transcriptional functions are primarily performed by rRNAs. At the RNA level, oocyte-specific 5S rRNAs are long known for Xenopus. Recently, we described for zebrafish a similar system in which the sole maternal-type 5S rRNA present in eggs is replaced completely during embryonic development by a somatic-type. Here, we report the discovery of an analogous system for the 45S rDNA elements: 5.8S, 18S, and 28S. The maternal-type 5.8S, 18S, and 28S rRNA sequences differ substantially from those of the somatic-type, plus the maternal-type rRNAs are also replaced by the somatic-type rRNAs during embryogenesis. We discuss the structural and functional implications of the observed sequence differences with respect to the translational functions of the 5.8S, 18S, and 28S rRNA elements. Finally, in silico evidence suggests that expansion segments (ES) in 18S rRNA, previously implicated in ribosome–mRNA interaction, may have a preference for interacting with specific mRNA genes. Taken together, our findings indicate that two distinct types of ribosomes exist in zebrafish during development, each likely conducting the translation machinery in a unique way.
Shoeing with regard to soundness and welfare
Authors: Rainger Clive Meers
Published: May 2017

Clive Meers Rainger, RSS BII CLS examines how shoeing and trimming impact soundness
Community paramedics: need of legal education specific to the pre-hospital non-emergency environment (discussion based on Texas)
Authors: Gresens Andrea
Published: May 2017

Emergency medical services (EMS) have responded to the Affordable Care Act's target to reduce healthcare spending and focus on preventative health by developing community paramedicine programmes in the USA. Currently in their infancy, these community paramedicine programmes aim to utilise existing skills and knowledge to combat patient readmission to the emergency department, and empower the public to take control of their healthcare path. Paramedics are taken out of the pre-hospital emergency environment and placed into a new undefined prehospital non-emergency preventative health care territory. As EMS morphs into a preventative healthcare realm in Texas, questions of community paramedicine healthcare designation and legal ramifications arise. Community paramedic knowledge of these healthcare designations and legal ramifications is indispensible to the success of such a programme.
Patient confidentiality and safety: a classic conundrum
Authors: Vigar Paul
Published: May 2017

Paramedics frequently have to balance patient confidentiality and patient safety. Patient information is subject to legal, ethical and professional obligations of confidentiality and should not be disclosed to a third party for reasons other than healthcare, without consent. Whilst there is an imperative to preserve the professional/patient relationship, there are occasions where this is not possible. This article considers circumstances when confidential patient information may be disclosed without the consent of the patient and discusses the legal, ethical and professional aspects of decision making in this context. A clinical example from practice is presented where an ambulance crew was called to a 50-year-old man with type I diabetes, which is normally well controlled with insulin. He is employed as a van driver, but has experienced two sudden hypoglycaemic episodes in 3 weeks rendering him unconscious. Once treated, he declines transport to hospital, any onward referral or to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) through fear of having his driving licence suspended.
Asthma, infection and the World Anti-Doping Agency: a case study
Authors: Thom David
Published: May 2017

Paramedics are now encountering ever more complex medical situations, and are expected to formulate holistic management plans. This case provides an interesting scenario whereby management was considered not only in conjunction with current evidence and guidelines but also with patient preference. This article will explore the assessment and management of a patient presenting with asthma and a chest infection whilst considering legal, ethical and professional factors.
Fertility in the face of stress in dairy cattle
Authors: Whitfield LK
Published: May 2017

Recognition that production animals experience stress is growing and the attitudes of those involved in the management of production animals toward the alleviation of stressful conditions is slowly changing. In the dairy industry, compromised fertility is an important economic driver of attitude changes due to the necessity of pregnancy for milk production. This article examines what we know about how stress may affect fertility in cattle and some of the challenges faced with studying this interaction.
Faecal egg counts in cattle: how do they stack up?
Authors: Forbes Andrew
Published: May 2017

Faecal egg counts (FECs) are commonly promulgated as a means of determining the status and impact of parasitic gastroenteritis (PGE) in cattle, yet there is little scientific evidence for consistent, quantitative associations between FECs, worm burdens or the effects of PGE on the hosts. Examples are provided of applications of FEC in cattle that do have an evidence base and also of alternative aids to anthelmintic treatment decisions, such as growth rates in young cattle. The potential value of FECs in veterinary/farmer interactions is also addressed as is the need to justify diagnostics through demonstration of favourable cost–benefit ratios.
Approaching energy-related metabolic disease in dairy herds
Authors: Cooper Richard
Published: May 2017

Energy-related metabolic disease is considered relatively common in UK dairy herds, and has significant implication for cattle health, fertility and productivity. Diagnosing a herd metabolic issue is often not straightforward, however, and there is a significant risk of both classifying herds with acceptable incidence as having a problem and missing other herds which are currently experiencing issues. Correct application of herd-level diagnostic testing is extremely important in helping to determine herd status, but is often not robustly applied in practice. This article discusses some of the challenges in assessing energy-related metabolic disease, and briefly provides an overview of key intervention areas in cattle nutrition and management.
Risk assessment and risk management of poisoning in farm animals
Authors: Bates Nicola , Payne Jo
Published: May 2017

Poisoning in farm animals is relatively uncommon but may involve multiple animals, and have animal welfare, food safety, economic, environmental and medicolegal implications. Risk assessment of incidents of poisoning in farm animals will require determination of the source and cause of poisoning and exposure pathway, identification and management of poisoned animals, and risk management to prevent further cases and manage food safety and other potential issues. This may involve clinical examination and history taking, field investigations, sample collection and analysis and discussion with owners, manufacturers and authorities. Advice from the relevant authorities should be sought early in the risk management process to ensure appropriate and effective handling of incidents.
Acute poisoning in horses: part 2
Authors: Bates Nicola
Published: May 2017

Horses are at risk of poisoning from plants in their environment or from contaminants in their feed. Well recognised toxic plants in horses include oleander, yew, false acacia, bracken, sycamore, oak and ragwort. Some plants are unpalatable but are eaten when mixed with hay, the plant is dried or when grazing is poor. Poisoning may also be seasonal depending on the plant involved. Specific treatment will depend on the clinical signs and the plant involved, but should include identification and removal of the plant and symptomatic care.
Equine Review
Authors: Parker Russell
Published: May 2017

Introduction:

This edition of Equine Review considers papers on laminitis, storage conditions for synovial and mesothelial fluid analysis, imaging techniques for stifle pathology, and bacteraemia during dental extraction.
Disease modifying therapies for the treatment of relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Brimelow Rachel E
Published: May 2017

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory condition, which is believed to be autoimmune in nature. It frequently presents in a relapse-remitting course. Treatment to minimise relapses and prevent progression of the disease are the primary motivating factors for the use of disease modifying therapies. These therapies aim to perturb the patient's inflammatory immune responses and subsequently improve symptomatology and clinical outcomes. In this article, an overview of currently available medications are reviewed, in addition clinically relevant monitoring activities are suggested. Currently there are 11 medications available in the UK under the NHS, of injectable, oral or infusion routes of administration.
Safe administration of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants
Authors: Catangui Elmer J
Published: May 2017

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. More than 1 million people in the UK have AF, and it is more prevalent in older people. It increases the risk of stroke fivefold ( Stroke Association, 2016a ). In 2009, non-vitamin K antagonist anticoagulants (NOACs) were integrated into clinical practice for the treatment of stroke patients with AF. This article uses a case study approach to explore evidence of NOACs, and describes the role of the nurse in their safe administration.
The effect of structured education on inhaler technique
Authors: Hickey Steven , Beeson Paul , Furniss Sally , Mulligan-Evans Frances , Ryan Emma , Keech Jenny
Published: May 2017

With inhaled medication the primary treatment choice for the UK's chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, Steven Hickey, Paul Beeson and colleagues evaluate the efficacy of two different education strategies on inhaler technique in older patients
Overview of mosquito-borne diseases and prevention strategies
Authors: Graham Sharon
Published: May 2017

Most travellers will be aware of malaria, yet many other diseases can be spread through insect bites. Sharon Graham describes the main diseases and their geographical spread, and advises on the best protection behaviours nurses can recommend to travelling patients

The focus of mosquito-borne disease generally centres on the biggest killer – malaria – but the public has recently become aware of other diseases that the small biting insect can transmit to travellers. One that has drawn much media attention is the Zita virus, with last year's outbreak in South America resulting in the World Health Organization declaring a global public health emergency. This article aims to raise awareness of other carriers and diseases, and to enable nurses advising patients on travel health to provide up-to-date information on prevention and avoidance strategies.
Die Produktion der Katastrophe
Authors: Nitzke Solvejg
Published: May 2017

Die gigantische Explosion, die am 30. Juni 1908 weite Teile der sibirischen Tunguska-Region verwüstete, ist eine der verheerendsten Katastrophen des 20. Jahrhunderts. Ihre Zerstörungskraft lässt sich jedoch nicht in Zahlen ausdrücken. Das katastrophische Potenzial des Tunguska-Ereignisses liegt vielmehr in seiner beharrlichen Rätselhaftigkeit. Das Fehlen einer haltbaren Erklärung erschüttert die moderne Wissensproduktion in ihren Grundfesten. Solvejg Nitzkes Analyse des Tunguska-Diskurses, der wissenschaftliche, parawissenschaftliche und literarische Texte umfasst, zeigt nicht nur die Grenzen zentraler Programme der Moderne auf, sondern öffnet nicht zuletzt auch den Blick für die Möglichkeiten kulturwissenschaftlicher Forschung.
The splitting of cohomology of p-groups with rank 2
Authors: Hida Akihiko , Yagita Nobuaki
Published: May 2017

Let p be an odd prime and BP the classifying space of a p-group P
with

rank
p

⁢

(
P
)

=
2

{\mathrm{rank}_{p}(P)=2}

. Using stable homotopy splitting of BP, we study the decomposition of cohomology

H
even

⁢

(
P
;
ℤ
)

/
p

{H^{\mathrm{even}}(P;{\mathbb{Z}})/p}

.
Numerical and Experimental Study on a Microfluidic Concentration Gradient Generator for Arbitrary Approximate Linear and Quadratic Concentration Curve Output
Authors: Chen Xueye , Hu Zengliang , Zhang Lei , Yao Zhen , Chen Xiaodong , Zheng Yue , Liu Yanlin , Wang Qing , Liu Yang , Cui Xuemiao , Song Hongxu
Published: May 2017

This work introduces a simple and versatile method for researching the concentration gradient generator (CGG) which can present the arbitrary approximate linear and quadratic concentration gradient curves output. The concentration gradients of arbitrary approximate linear curves with two inlets and arbitrary quadratic curves in the CGG with three inlets are obtained with the corresponding flow velocities. The CGG was simulated basing on the finite element method (FEM). The fluid-dynamic and mass-transport about the CGG was studied. Moreover, the feasibility of simulation was clearly verified by an experiment which two microfluidic chips of CGG on the PMMA substrate were processed using CNC engraving and milling machine. The paper successfully demonstrates the controllability of concentration gradient profiles in CGG with two inlets and three inlets. The study on the CGG can help the trends study of cell and molecule in different samples in the biochemical engineering.
CFD Simulation of Gas Dispersion in a Stirred Tank of Dual Rushton Turbines
Authors: Li Xinju , Guan Xiaoping , Zhou Rongtao , Yang Ning , Liu Mingyan
Published: May 2017

3D Eulerian-Eulerian model was applied to simulate the gas-liquid two-phase flow in a stirred tank of dual Rushton turbines using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The effects of two different bubble treatment methods (constant bubble sizevs. population balance model, PBM) and two different coalescence models (Luo modelvs. Zaichik model) on the prediction of liquid flow field, local gas holdup or bubble size distribution were studied. The results indicate that there is less difference between the predictions of liquid flow field and gas holdup using the above models, and the use of PBM did not show any advantage over the constant bubble size model under lower gas holdup. However, bubble treatment methods have great influence on the local gas holdup under larger gas flow rate. All the models could reasonably predict the gas holdup distribution in the tank operated at a low aeration rate except the region far from the shaft. Different coalescence models have great influence on the prediction of bubble size distribution (BSD). Both the Luo model and Zaichik model could qualitatively estimate the BSD, showing the turning points near the impellers along the height, but the quantitative agreement with experiments is not achieved. The former over-predicts the BSD and the latter under-predicts, showing that the existing PBM models need to be further developed to incorporate more physics.
Active Power Control of Grid Tied SPV System with DSTATCOM Capabilities
Authors: Hussain Ikhlaq
Published: May 2017

This paper presents an active power control of SPV (Solar Photovoltaic) grid tied system with the DSTATCOM (Distribution Static Compensator) capabilities using recursive least square (RLS) control algorithm with IC (Incremental Conductance) maximum power point tracking. The system serves dual purpose of working as a SPV-DSTATCOM and DSTATCOM in presence and absence of solar power, respectively. The SPV-DSTACOM provides compensating currents along with active current component thus fulfilling active power demand of connected load and feeds active power to the grid along with improving the power quality. Moreover, when the solar power is not available during night or low solar irradiation conditions, the system works as a DSTATCOM providing compensating current which improves the power quality of the system during load unbalance, harmonics and reactive power. A RLS based adaptive algorithm is used to do these functions at good convergence than conventional LMS (Least Mean Square) algorithm. Thus, the proposed system is capable to meet peak power demand when the solar energy is available and it improves the system power quality during day and night. The system responses under varying conditions is demonstrated on s developed prototype.
A Comparative Study of Combined Microwave Techniques for Longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) Drying with Hot Air or Vacuum
Authors: Apinyavisit Krit , Nathakaranakule Adisak , Soponronnarit Somchart , Mittal Gauri S.
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study is to find a better drying method to replace conventional hot air drying (HAD) in terms of faster, energy efficient and better product quality. Two alternative drying techniques, microwave combined with hot air drying (MHD) and microwave vacuum drying (MVD), are compared in this study to dry peeled and destoned longan fruit. Both MHD and MVD reduced the drying time up to 48 % and energy consumption as compared to HAD. These techniques provided lower product redness, yellowness and shrinkage but higher lightness and porous structure as compared to HAD. MVD reduced hardness and toughness of the dried product. MHD provided the highest preference score in terms of colour and shape and was as acceptable as the commercial product dried by HAD. MHD is the most suitable method for longan drying.
Chemical Characterization and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Polysaccharides from Zizyphus jujube cv. Muzao
Authors: Ji Xiaolong , Peng Qiang , Li Huanyu , Liu Fang , Wang Min
Published: May 2017

Polysaccharides from Zizyphus jujube cv. Muzao (ZMP) were extracted by ultrasonic-assisted extraction with acidic buffer. The chemical composition and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of ZMP were evaluated. The results revealed that ZMP had a molecular weight of 89.90 kDa and consisted of arabinose, galactose, glucose, rhamnose, and mannose, with molar percentages of 4.52 %, 2.64 %, 1.04 %, 0.49 %, and 0.41 %, respectively. Based on Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, ZMP belonged to the type I rhamnogalacturonans family. In vitro antioxidants assays revealed that ZMP had remarkable antioxidant activity in a dose-dependent manner. Proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha, were suppressed by ZMP in lipopolysaccharide-treated RAW264.7 cells. Overall, the results revealed that ZMP has potential applications as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.