bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowering farmers for increased resilience in uncertain times
Authors: Nettle R. , Ayre M. , Beilin R. , Waller S. , Turner L. , Hall A. , Irvine L. , Taylor G.
Published: June 2015

As farmers continue to face increasingly uncertain and often rapidly changing conditions related to markets, climate or the policy environment, people involved in agricultural research, development and extension (RD&E) are also challenged to consider how their work can contribute to supporting farmer resilience. Research from the social sciences conducted in the past decade has focussed on adaptability or adaptive capacity as a key attribute for individuals and groups to possess for managing resilience. It is, therefore, timely to ask the following: do current ways of doing and organising RD&E in the dairy sector in New Zealand and Australia contribute to supporting farm adaptability? This paper reports on results from an examination of case studies of challenges to resilience in the dairy sector in Australia and New Zealand (i.e. dairy farm conversion, climate-change adaptation, consent to farm) and the contribution of dairy RD&E in enhancing resilience of farmers, their farms and the broader industry. Drawing on concepts from resilience studies and considering an empowerment perspective, the analysis of these cases suggest that, currently, agricultural RD&E supports adaptability in general, but varies in the strength of its presence and level of activity in the areas known to enhance adaptability. This analysis is used to generate principles for dairy scientists and others in the RD&E system to consider in (1) research designs, (2) engaging different farmers in research and (3) presenting research results differently. This represents a significant shift for the science and advisory communities to move to methods that acknowledge uncertainty and facilitate learning.
MUC5B mucin production is upregulated by fibronectin and laminin in human lung epithelial cells via the integrin and ERK dependent pathway
Authors: Ito Yuho , Iwashita Jun , Kudoh Arisa , Kuramata Chika , Murata Jun
Published: June 2015

MUC5B mucin is a principal component of airway mucus and plays a key role in biodefense. We investigated the regulation of MUC5B production using the signals from extracellular matrix (ECM) components in NCI-H292 human lung epithelial cells. We found that MUC5B production in NCI-H292 cells cultured on fibronectin or laminin increased by 4–5-fold, with the increase occurring in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In contrast, MUC5B production was unchanged on type-IV collagen. Inhibition of integrin β1 induced upregulation of MUC5B and MUC5AC; however, inhibition of p38 MAPK did not show any remarkable change in overproduced MUC5B. Inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway or the transcription factor NF-κB induced the recovery of overproduced MUC5B on fibronectin and laminin. These results suggest that MUC5B production can be regulated by ECM components and that MUC5B is upregulated by fibronectin and laminin via the integrin, ERK, and NF-κB dependent pathway.
Energy intake and expenditure assessed ‘in‐season’ in an elite European rugby union squad
Authors: Bradley Warren J. , Cavanagh Bryce , Douglas William , Donovan Timothy F. , Twist Craig , Morton James P. , Close Graeme L.
Published: June 2015

Rugby union (RU) is a complex high‐intensity intermittent collision sport with emphasis placed on players possessing high lean body mass and low body fat. After an 8 to 12‐week pre‐season focused on physiological adaptations, emphasis shifts towards competitive performance. However, there are no objective data on the physiological demands or energy intake (EI) and energy expenditure (EE) for elite players during this period. Accordingly, in‐season training load using global positioning system and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE), alongside six‐day assessments of EE and EI were measured in 44 elite RU players. Mean weekly distance covered was 7827 ± 954 m and 9572 ± 1233 m with a total mean weekly sRPE of 1776 ± 355 and 1523 ± 434 AU for forwards and backs, respectively. Mean weekly EI was 16.6 ± 1.5 and 14.2 ± 1.2 megajoules (MJ) and EE was 15.9 ± 0.5 and 14 ± 0.5 MJ. Mean carbohydrate (CHO) intake was 3.5 ± 0.8 and 3.4 ± 0.7 g.kg−1 body mass, protein intake was 2.7 ± 0.3 and 2.7 ± 0.5 g.kg−1 body mass, and fat intake was 1.4 ± 0.2 and 1.4 ± 0.3 g.kg−1 body mass. All players who completed the food diary self‐selected a ‘low’ CHO ‘high’ protein diet during the early part of the week, with CHO intake increasing in the days leading up to a match, resulting in the mean EI matching EE. Based on EE and training load data, the EI and composition seems appropriate, although further research is required to evaluate if this diet is optimal for match day performance
Persistence of the Host-Selective Toxin Ptr ToxB in the Apoplast
Authors: Figueroa Melania , Manning Viola A. , Pandelova Iovanna , Ciuffetti Lynda M.
Published: June 2015

The necrotrophic fungus Pyrenophora tritici-repentis is responsible for the disease tan spot of wheat. Ptr ToxB (ToxB), a proteinaceous host-selective toxin, is one of the effectors secreted by P. tritici-repentis. ToxB induces chlorosis in toxin-sensitive wheat cultivars and displays characteristics common to apoplastic effectors. We addressed the hypothesis that ToxB exerts its activity extracellularly. Our data indicate that hydraulic pressure applied in the apoplast following ToxB infiltration can displace ToxB-induced symptoms. In addition, treatment with a proteolytic cocktail following toxin infiltration results in reduction of symptom development and indicates that ToxB requires at least 8 h in planta to induce maximum symptom development. In vitro assays demonstrate that apoplastic fluids extracted from toxin-sensitive and -insensitive wheat cultivars cannot degrade ToxB. Additionally, ToxB can be reisolated from apoplastic fluid after toxin infiltration. Furthermore, localization studies of fluorescently labeled ToxB indicate that the toxin remains in the apoplast in toxin-sensitive and -insensitive wheat cultivars. Our findings support the hypothesis that ToxB acts as an extracellular effector.
Ability of PROMIS Pediatric Measures to Detect Change in Children With Cerebral Palsy Undergoing Musculoskeletal Surgery
Authors: Mulcahey Mary J. , Haley Stephen M. , Slavin Mary D. , Kisala Pamela A. , Ni Pengsheng , Tulsky David S. , Jette Alan M.
Published: June 2015

Background:

The Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) was developed to provide patient-reported outcome measures that are designed as being universally relevant across health conditions, low burden, and precise. A major problem for research and clinical practice in cerebral palsy (CP) is the void of outcomes instruments that are capable of evaluating the wide range of abilities and broad age spectrum inherent in this clinical population. Given the tremendous potential of PROMIS, the research questions for this study were “How do PROMIS pediatric computer adaptive tests and short forms detect change in children with CP following elective musculoskeletal surgery?” and “How do PROMIS instruments compare to the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Cerebral Palsy Module Version 3.0 (PedsQL CP), Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI), the Timed Up and Go (TUG), and the Gross Motor Functional Measure (GMFM).”

Methods:

PROMIS Pediatric computer adaptive tests and short forms and the PedsQL, PODCI, TUG, and GMFM were administered before and after surgery. Effect size (ES) and standardized response mean (SRM) were calculated. Floor and ceiling effects were evaluated and, exposure rates for the PROMIS item banks were examined.

Results:

ES and SRM for all PROMIS Pediatric Measures were nonsignificant. PedsQL CP detected significant, positive change in mobility at 6 (ES=0.26; SRM=0.31) and 12 (ES=0.36; SRM=0.36) months; pain at 12 months (ES=0.29; SRM=0.34); and fatigue at 6 (ES=0.24; SRM=0.22) and 12 (ES=0.36; SRM=0.41) months. Significant negative changes were detected by the PODCI (ES=−0.20; SRM=−0.26), GMFM (ES=−0.13; SRM=−0.24), and TUG (ES=−0.29; SRM=−0.25). Ceiling effects were high. Exposure to an appropriate range of the PROMIS Mobility item bank was limited.

Conclusions:

PROMIS measures were less able to detect change than other measures. PROMIS measures may be improved by tailoring start/stop rules or by adding items to include content appropriate for children with mobility impairments.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—diagnostic study.
A Reliable and Valid Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill for the Application of a Pavlik Harness Based on International Expert Consensus
Authors: Bradley Catharine S. , Moktar Joel , Maxwell Alexandra , Wedge John H. , Murnaghan Michael L. , Kelley Simon P.
Published: June 2015

Background:

The use of competency-based training is increasing in medical education as it offers individualized learning opportunities to master required skills. Inherent to this method of teaching is the need for standardized and objective assessments of skill mastery. In orthopaedic surgery, educational programs have focused on surgical skills with lesser emphasis on nonoperative techniques. Accordingly, formal evaluation tools specific to Pavlik Harness application do not exist, despite its widespread use and potential complications from inappropriate application. This study sought to develop a reliable and valid evaluation tool based on international expert consensus to standardize and evaluate Pavlik Harness application for developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Methods:

Consensus was sought from 10 content experts using Delphi methodology. Resulting items formed the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill (OSATS). Thirty-five participants were selected into 3 a priori groups (expert, intermediate and novice) based on Pavlik Harness experience. On 2 occasions, 3 content experts assessed randomized and deidentified videotapes of each participant applying a Pavlik Harness to an infant model using the OSATS and global rating scales (GRS). The reliability and validity of the OSATS was determined with intraclass (ICC) and Pearson correlations and analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results:

Consensus was obtained after 2 rounds of structured surveying and resulted in a 25-item OSATS. The reliability of the OSATS was excellent with an ICC of 0.96 for interrater and 0.98 for test-retest reliability. Construct validity was excellent with high correlations between OSATS and GRS (>0.90). In addition, the OSATS discriminated between expert, intermediate, and novice users.

Conclusions:

We have developed a competency-based evaluation tool for Pavlik Harness application based on consensus from international experts. The OSATS has been shown to be a reliable and valid method for assessing Pavlik Harness application that can discriminate between expert, intermediate, and novice users.

Level of Evidence:

Level II.
When Does Pre‐IPO Financial Reporting Trigger Post‐IPO Legal Consequences?
Authors: Billings Mary Brooke , Lewis‐Western Melissa Fay
Published: June 2015

Prior research suggests that the fear of litigation precludes most managers from manipulating earnings in the initial public offering (IPO) setting. Yet, managers' restraint is perhaps unwarranted: research has not yet linked instances of aggressive pre‐IPO reporting to increased litigation risk. This paper investigates when aggressive IPO reporting triggers legal consequences. Examining 2,037 IPOs, we find that even when ex post evidence indicates the presence of earnings inflation, litigation is more likely to occur when investors have relied on the suspect earnings during the pricing process. Why might investors rely on some firms' abnormal accruals when valuing the IPO and yet discount the abnormal accruals of other firms? Our analyses suggest that IPO investors incorporate abnormal accrual information into IPO prices in situations where accruals are more likely to reflect information and where other sources of information to help investors make pricing decisions are lacking or are less reliable. In these situations, we find that abnormal accruals do positively correlate with future performance, validating investors' use of this information when pricing these offerings. Yet, when ex post performance reveals that these pre‐IPO abnormal accruals were in fact inflated, we find that litigation emerges to allow harmed shareholders to recover losses incurred dating back to the pricing process—importantly, investors are only harmed if they used those abnormal accruals in pricing the IPO. Collectively, our evidence indicates that litigation in response to earnings inflation does indeed surface in the IPO setting—but only when investors need it to settle the score.
Beyond stress: describing the experiences of families during neonatal intensive care
Authors: Wraight Catherine L. , McCoy Jennifer , Meadow William
Published: June 2015

Aim

To determine whether parents of critically ill premature infants feel that neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) therapy is worthwhile, independent of their infant's outcome.

Methods

The parent(s) of ventilated infants in the NICU were interviewed. Prominent themes were identified within the text of transcribed interviews and the frequency of each theme tabulated.

Results

The parents of 10 infants were interviewed. All parents experienced stress and understood the uncertain future of their infants. Parents remained optimistic and uniformly expressed that NICU intervention was ‘worth it’. No parent described concern about ‘torture’, ‘cruelty’ or ‘futile care’.

Conclusion

Although parents experience significant stress while their infant is in the NICU, their emotional experiences are much more broad. They feel confident in their decision to give their child a chance, a responsibility to be informed and to make the best decisions they can and remain hopeful for a good outcome regardless of their child's condition.
Cannabinoid–dopamine interactions in the physiology and physiopathology of the basal ganglia
Authors: García Concepción , Palomo‐Garo Cristina , Gómez‐Gálvez Yolanda , Fernández‐Ruiz Javier
Published: June 2015

Endocannabinoids and their receptors play a modulatory role in the control of dopamine transmission in the basal ganglia. However, this influence is generally indirect and exerted through the modulation of GABA and glutamate inputs received by nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, which lack cannabinoid CB1 receptors although they may produce endocannabinoids. Additional evidence suggests that CB2 receptors may be located in nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, and that certain eicosanoid‐related cannabinoids may directly activate TRPV1 receptors, which have been found in nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, thus allowing in both cases a direct regulation of dopamine transmission by specific cannabinoids. In addition, CB1 receptors form heteromers with dopaminergic receptors which provide another pathway to direct interactions between both systems, in this case at the postsynaptic level. Through these direct mechanisms or through indirect mechanisms involving GABA or glutamate neurons, cannabinoids may interact with dopaminergic transmission in the basal ganglia and this is likely to have important effects on dopamine‐related functions in these structures (i.e. control of movement) and, particularly, on different pathologies affecting these processes, in particular, Parkinson's disease, but also dyskinesia, dystonia and other pathological conditions. The present review will address the current literature supporting these cannabinoid–dopamine interactions at the basal ganglia, with emphasis on aspects dealing with the physiopathological consequences of these interactions.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Updating Neuropathology and Neuropharmacology of Monoaminergic Systems. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v173.13/issuetoc
Luminal 5‐HT stimulates colonic bicarbonate secretion in rats
Authors: Kaji I , Akiba Y , Said H , Narimatsu K , Kaunitz J D
Published: June 2015

Background and Purpose

The bioactive monoamine 5‐HT, implicated in the pathogenesis of functional gastrointestinal disorders, is abundantly synthesized and stored in rat proximal colonic mucosa and released to the gut lumen and subepithelial space. Despite much data regarding its expression and function, the effects of luminal 5‐HT on colonic anion secretion have not been fully investigated.

Experimental Approach

We measured short‐circuit current (Isc) as an indicator of ion transport in mucosa‐submucosa or mucosa‐only preparations of rat proximal colon. Total CO2 output was measured in vitro and in vivo. Immunohistochemistry was performed to investigate the localization of 5‐HT4, NOS1 and NOS2.

Key Results

Luminal 5‐HT gradually increased the amplitude and sustained the elevation of Isc. Luminal 5‐HT‐evoked ΔIsc was acetazolamide sensitive and HCO3− dependent, consistent with cytosolic carbonic anhydrase‐dependent electrogenic HCO3− secretion, while not affected by tetrodotoxin (TTX), atropine or indomethacin. Pretreatment with the selective 5‐HT4 antagonist GR113808, but not antagonists for 5‐HT3, 5‐HT6 or 5‐HT7, inhibited luminal 5‐HT‐evoked ΔIsc. Furthermore, luminal cisapride and tegaserod increased Isc to the same extent as did 5‐HT in the presence of indomethacin and TTX. Removal of the submucosa or pretreatment with NOS inhibitors enhanced luminal 5‐HT‐evoked ΔIsc, suggesting that NO synthesized in the submucosa suppresses mucosal anion secretion. NOS1 and NOS2 were immunostained in the submucosal neurons and glial cells respectively. Luminal 5‐HT‐evoked HCO3− secretion was confirmed in vivo, inhibited by co‐perfusion of GR113808, but not by ondansetron.

Conclusions and Implications

A novel apical 5‐HT4‐mediated HCO3− secretory pathway and an NO‐dependent inhibitory mechanism are present in the proximal colon. Luminal 5‐HT‐evoked HCO3− secretion may be important for the maintenance of mucosal integrity by regulating luminal pH.
The thymoprotective function of leptin is indirectly mediated via suppression of obesity
Authors: Sreenivasan Jayasree , Schlenner Susan , Franckaert Dean , Dooley James , Liston Adrian
Published: June 2015

Leptin is an adipokine that regulates metabolism and plays an important role as a neuroendocrine hormone. Leptin mediates these functions via the leptin receptor, and deficiency in either leptin or its receptor leads to obesity in humans and mice. Leptin has far reaching effects on the immune system, as observed in obese mice, which display decreased thymic function and increased inflammatory responses. With expression of the leptin receptor on T cells and supporting thymic epithelium, aberrant signalling through the leptin receptor has been thought to be the direct cause of thymic involution in obese mice. Here, we demonstrate that the absence of leptin receptor on either thymic epithelial cells or T cells does not lead to the loss of thymic function, demonstrating that the thymoprotective effect of leptin is mediated by obesity suppression rather than direct signalling to the cellular components of the thymus.
A novel pathway for outer membrane protein biogenesis in Gram‐negative bacteria
Authors: Jeeves Mark , Knowles Timothy J.
Published: June 2015

The understanding of the biogenesis of the outer membrane of Gram‐negative bacteria is of critical importance due to the emergence of bacteria that are becoming resistant to available antibiotics. A problem that is most serious for Gram‐negative bacteria, with essentially few antibiotics under development or likely to be available for clinical use in the near future. The understanding of the Gram‐negative bacterial outer membrane is therefore critical to developing new antimicrobial agents, as this membrane makes direct contact with the external milieu, and the proteins present within this membrane are the instruments of microbial warfare, playing key roles in microbial pathogenesis, virulence and multidrug resistance. To date, a single outer membrane complex has been identified as essential for the folding and insertion of proteins into the outer membrane, this is the β‐barrel assembly machine (BAM) complex, which in some cases is supplemented by the Translocation and Assembly Module (TAM). In this issue of Molecular Microbiology, Dunstan et al. have identified a novel pathway for the insertion of a subset of integral membrane proteins into the Gram‐negative outer membrane that is independent of the BAM complex and TAM.
Development of a grower‐conducted inoculum detection assay for management of grape powdery mildew
Authors: Thiessen L. D. , Keune J. A. , Neill T. M. , Turechek W. W. , Grove G. G. , Mahaffee W. F.
Published: June 2015

Management of grape powdery mildew (Erysiphe necator) and other polycyclic diseases often relies on calendar‐based pesticide application schedules that assume the presence of inoculum. An inexpensive, loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay was designed to quickly detect airborne inoculum of E. necator to determine when to initiate a fungicide application programme. Field efficacy was tested in 2010 and 2011 in several commercial and research vineyards in the Willamette Valley of Oregon from pre‐bud break to véraison. In each vineyard, three impaction spore traps were placed adjacent to the trunk. One trap was maintained and used by the grower to conduct the LAMP assay (G‐LAMP) on‐site and the other two traps were used for laboratory‐conducted LAMP (L‐LAMP) and quantitative PCR assay (qPCR). Using the qPCR as a gold standard, L‐LAMP was comparable with qPCR in both years, and G‐LAMP was comparable to qPCR in 2011. Latent class analysis indicated that qPCR had a true positive proportion of 98% in 2010 and 89% in 2011 and true negative proportion of 96% in 2010 and 64% in 2011. An average of 3·3 fewer fungicide applications were used when they were initiated based on spore detection relative to the grower standard practice. There were no significant differences in berry or leaf incidence between plots with fungicides initiated at detection or grower standard practice plots, suggesting that growers using LAMP to initiate fungicide applications can use fewer fungicide applications to manage powdery mildew compared to standard practices.
The Bernoulli Integral for a Certain Class of Non‐Stationary Viscous Vortical Flows of Incompressible Fluid
Authors: Stepanyants Y.A. , Yakubovich E.I.
Published: June 2015

It has been shown in our paper [1] that there is a wide class of 3D motions of incompressible viscous fluid which can be described by one scalar function dabbed the quasi‐potential. This class of fluid flows is characterized by three‐component velocity field having two‐component vorticity field; both these fields can depend of all three spatial variables and time, in general. Governing equations for the quasi‐potential have been derived and simple illustrative example of 3D flow has been presented. Here, we derive the Bernoulli integral for that class of flows and compare it against the known Bernoulli integrals for the potential flows or 2D stationary vortical flows of inviscid fluid. We show that the Bernoulli integral for this class of fluid motion possesses unusual features: it is valid for the vortical nonstationary motions of a viscous incompressible fluid. We present a new very nontrivial analytical example of 3D flow with two‐component vorticity which hardly can be obtained by any of known methods. In the last section, we suggest a generalization of the developed concept which allows one to describe a certain class of 3D flows with the 3D vorticity.
Exhumation patterns along shallow low‐angle normal faults: an example from the Altotiberina active fault system (Northern Apennines, Italy)
Authors: Caricchi Chiara , Aldega Luca , Barchi Massimiliano R. , Corrado Sveva , Grigo Domenico , Mirabella Francesco , Zattin Massimiliano
Published: June 2015

A multi‐method approach (palaeothermal and thermochronological analyses; thermal modelling) is applied to reconstruct the exhumation history of the Altotiberina Fault (ATF), a representative example of crustal‐scale active low‐angle normal faulting in the Northern Apennines (Italy). Thermal maturity and thermochronological data yield similar burial histories but different exhumation patterns for the sedimentary successions in the hangingwall and the footwall of the ATF. Since 3.8 Ma, the ATF footwall has exhumed at rates of 0.90 mm a−1. Exhumation led to bending and deactivation of the ATF uppermost portion as a result of tectonic unloading and isostatic adjustment, followed by migration of extension and the development of a set of domino‐like, east‐dipping normal faults, rooting on the buried portion of the ATF. ATF activity and isostatic rebound exhumed Triassic rock units from depths of about 4 km. We suggest that isostatic instability is accommodated at shallow crustal levels, in a similar way to what is observed on larger structures at mid‐low crustal levels.
Hilbert series of residual intersections
Authors: Chardin Marc , Eisenbud David , Ulrich Bernd
Published: June 2015

We give explicit formulas for the Hilbert series of residual intersections of a scheme in terms of the Hilbert series of its conormal modules. In a previous paper, we proved that such formulas should exist. We give applications to the number of equations defining projective varieties and to the dimension of secant varieties of surfaces and three-folds.
Case Study: Symptomatic Exercise-Associated Hyponatremia in an Endurance Runner Despite Sodium Supplementation
Authors: Hoffman Martin D. , Myers Thomas M.
Published: June 2015

Symptomatic exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH) is known to be a potential complication from overhydration during exercise, but there remains a general belief that sodium supplementation will prevent EAH. We present a case in which a runner with a prior history of EAH consulted a sports nutritionist who advised him to consume considerable supplemental sodium, which did not prevent him from developing symptomatic EAH during a subsequent long run. Emergency medical services were requested for this runner shortly after he finished a 17-hr, 72-km run and hike in Grand Canyon National Park during which he reported having consumed 9.2–10.6 L of water and >6,500 mg of sodium. First responders determined his serum sodium concentration with point-of-care testing was 122 mEq/L. His hyponatremia was documented to have improved from field treatment with an oral hypertonic solution of 800 mg of sodium in 200 ml of water, and it improved further after significant aquaresis despite in-hospital treatment with isotonic fluids (lactated Ringer’s). He was discharged about 5 hr after admission in good condition. This case demonstrates that while oral sodium supplementation does not necessarily prevent symptomatic EAH associated with overhydration, early recognition and field management with oral hypertonic saline in combination with fluid restriction can be effective treatment for mild EAH. There continues to be a lack of universal understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and appropriate hospital management of EAH.
Cumulative risks and cessation of exclusive breast feeding: Australian cross-sectional survey
Authors: Ayton Jennifer , van der Mei Ingrid , Wills Karen , Hansen Emily , Nelson Mark
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of cessation of exclusive breast feeding at each month up to 6 months and document key factors and cumulative risks associated with exclusive breastfeeding cessation for children aged from 0 to 6 months.

Methods

Secondary analysis using a national representative sample of 22 202 mother and infant pairs derived from the 2010 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare cross-sectional survey, the Australian Infant Feeding Survey.

Results

Among breastfed infants, 49% had ceased exclusive breast feeding before they had reached 2 months of age. In the final Cox proportional hazards model, cessation of exclusive breast feeding was most strongly associated with partners preferring bottle feeding (HR 1.86, 95% CI 1.69 to 20.6) or having no preference (HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.33 to 1.42), regular dummy use (HR 1.35, 95% CI 1.31 to 1.39) and maternal obesity (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.35). Living within the most disadvantaged areas of Australia (quintile 1) was not strongly associated with cessation (HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.14) compared with least disadvantaged areas. Having three risk factors significantly increased the risk of cessation by 31% (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.6).

Conclusions

The prevalence of early cessation of exclusive breast feeding is alarmingly high with 50% of infants no longer exclusively breast fed by age 2 months. Given that not one factor is associated with cessation of exclusive breast feeding, the greatest public health impact is likely to be achieved when multiple risk factors are modified or prevented.
Are plasma cell-rich inflammatory conditions of the oral mucosa manifestations of IgG4-related disease?
Authors: Cottom Hannah , Mighell Alan J , High Alec , Bateman Adrian C
Published: June 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to characterise plasma cell infiltrates, in terms of IgG4 positivity, in specific and non-specific plasma cell-rich chronic inflammatory conditions of the oral mucosa. Exploring the possibility that specific plasma cell-rich oral inflammatory conditions have association with or represent an oral manifestation of immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD).

Methods

Ten patients with plasma cell-rich chronic inflammatory conditions of the oral mucosa were identified (seven—plasma cell mucositis and three—non-specific diffuse oral mucosal inflammation with ulceration). For each patient, the clinical record and H&E-stained sections were reviewed. Immunohistochemistry for IgG and IgG4 antibodies was performed on sections from the corresponding paraffin block, permitting calculation of the mean number of IgG4+ plasma cells per high-power field (HPF) and the IgG4+/IgG+ plasma cell ratio.

Results

In all the cases, only one histological hallmark of IgG4-RD—a dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate—was seen. Review of the medical histories did not reveal any features representing other manifestations of IgG4-RD. The number of IgG4+ plasma cells exceeded 100 per HPF in half of the cases. Only two cases had an IgG4+/IgG+ plasma cell ratio of >40%; both of which were in the non-specific oral inflammatory group.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that plasma cell mucositis does not meet microscopic criteria for IgG4-RD. It importantly reinforces the opinion that IgG4+ plasma cells are major components of chronic inflammation in the oral cavity and the pertinence of correct contextual interpretation of histopathological features with clinical findings.
The use of whole-genome sequencing for molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial surveillance: identifying the role of IncX3 plasmids and the spread ofblaNDM-4-like genes in the Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Espedido Björn A , Dimitrijovski Borce , van Hal Sebastiaan J , Jensen Slade O
Published: June 2015

Aims

To characterise the resistome of a multi-drug resistantKlebsiella pneumoniae(Kp0003) isolated from an Australian traveller who was repatriated to a Sydney Metropolitan Hospital from Myanmar with possible prosthetic aortic valve infective endocarditis.

Methods

Kp0003 was recovered from a blood culture of the patient and whole genome sequencing was performed. Read mapping andde novoassembly of reads facilitatedin silicomulti-locus sequence and plasmid replicon typing as well as the characterisation of antibiotic resistance genes and their genetic context. Conjugation experiments were also performed to assess the plasmid (and resistance gene) transferability and the effect on the antibiotic resistance phenotype.

Results

Importantly, and of particular concern, the carbapenem-hydrolysing β-lactamase geneblaNDM-4 was identified on a conjugative IncX3 plasmid (pJEG027). In this respect, theblaNDM-4 genetic context is similar (at least to some extent) to what has previously been identified forblaNDM-1 andblaNDM-4-like variants.

Conclusions

This study highlights the potential role that IncX3 plasmids have played in the emergence and dissemination ofblaNDM-4-like variants worldwide and emphasises the importance of resistance gene surveillance.
Implementation of a rigorous least-squares modification of Stokes’ formula to compute a gravimetric geoid model over Saudi Arabia (SAGEO13)
Authors: Abdalla Ahmed , Mogren Saad
Published: June 2015

A gravimetric geoid model (SAGEO13) is computed for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia using a rigorous stochastic computational method. The computational methodology is based on a combination of least-squares (LS) modification of Stokes’ formula and the additive corrections for topographic, ellipsoidal, atmospheric, and downward continuation effects on the geoid solution. In this study, we used terrestrial gravity data, a digital elevation model (SRTM3), and seven global geopotential models (GGMs) to compute a new geoid model for Saudi Arabia. The least-squares coefficients are derived based on the optimisation of the input modification parameters. The gravimetric solution and its additive corrections are computed based on the optimum LS coefficients. Compared to GPS-levelling data, SAGEO13 shows a fit of 18 cm (RMS) after using a 4-parameter fitting model.
Literal Decomposition for LUT-Oriented Asynchronous Dual-Rail Logic Synthesis
Authors: Lemberski Igor
Published: June 2015

In the case of the reconfigurable module, the popular logic function implementation is based on the look-up-table (LUT) structure. Once a Boolean network of single-rail n-variable node functions is transformed into a dual-rail one, each variable is represented as two literals: x and its inversion x′ and implemented using two separate signals. As a result, (2n + 1)-input LUTs are required for mapping node functions. To reduce the capacity of required LUTs, the literal decomposition method is proposed. It is applied to implement a dual-rail node function using k-input LUTs, n < k < (2n + 1). The literal decomposition over the chosen variable is based on creating two clusters where one of the clusters contains minterms with the literal x of the chosen variable, the other one contains minterms with the literal x′. Functions created based on each cluster minterms depend on less literals number than the original one. The procedure is repeated until the required number of literals is reached. The literal decomposition is used as a post processing of the conventional decomposition procedure. Depending on the logic architecture, different implementations are considered and discussed. The implementation complexity (in terms of LUTs number) for different values n, k is given.
The rapid determination of volatile fatty acid number in para rubber latex using fourier transform-near infrared spectroscopy based on quantification and discrimination model
Authors: Narongwongwattana Sureeporn , Rittiron Ronnarit , Lim Chin Hock
Published: June 2015

Volatile Fatty Acid number (VFA no.) is one of the parameters indicating the state of quality of Para rubber latex at that particular time. Most factories analyze this parameter using standard analytical method as in ISO 506:1992(E). Nevertheless, this procedure is complicated, chemical and time consuming, as well as skilled analyst required. Therefore, near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy which is rapid, accurate and nonchemicals method was applied to determine the VFA no. in field latex and concentrated latex based on quantification and discriminant model. The best calibration equation was obtained from standard normal variate (SNV) spectra in the region of 6109.7–5770.3, 4613.1–4242.9 cm-1 with R = 0.832, SECV = 0.036 and no bias. From the performance check, statistically it was found that SECV and bias were low enough for practical acceptance and the predicted VFA no. was not different significantly from actual VFA no. at 95% confidence intervals. In addition, discriminant model was developed to separate good quality latex from the deteriorated latex using VFA no. at 0.06 as standard as in ISO 2004:2010(E). The discriminant model can be used to screen the latex with overall accuracy of 91.86% in validation set.
Effect of Fiber Waviness on Tensile Strength of a Flax-Sliver-Reinforced Composite Material
Authors: Piyatuchsananon Taweesak , Furuya Akira , Ren Baosheng , Goda Koichi
Published: June 2015

Recently, a composite material made from natural fibers and biodegradable resin, “green composite,” is attracting attention as an alternative composite material for the replacement of glass fiber-reinforced plastics. Plant-based natural fibers such as kenaf and flax have already been used as composite reinforcement materials because they are more environmentally friendly and costless fibers than artificial fibers. A problem of using natural fibers is the fiber waviness, which affects the tensile properties. Fiber waviness is fluctuation in the fiber orientation that is inherent in the sliver morphology of plant-based natural fibers. This study was conducted to clarify the relation between quantified parameters of fiber waviness and a composite’s tensile strength. First, the fiber orientation angles on a flax-sliver-reinforced composite were measured. Then the angle distribution was quantified through spatial autocorrelation analysis methods: Local Moran’sIand Local Geary’sc. Finally, the relation between the resultant tensile strength and quantified parameters was discussed.
Peloruside A Inhibits Growth of Human Lung and Breast Tumor Xenografts in an Athymic nu/nu Mouse Model
Authors: Meyer Colin J. , Krauth Melissa , Wick Michael J. , Shay Jerry W. , Gellert Ginelle , De Brabander Jef K. , Northcote Peter T. , Miller John H.
Published: June 2015

Peloruside A is a microtubule-stabilizing agent isolated from a New Zealand marine sponge. Peloruside prevents growth of a panel of cancer cell lines at low nanomolar concentrations, including cell lines that are resistant to paclitaxel. Three xenograft studies in athymic nu/nu mice were performed to assess the efficacy of peloruside compared with standard anticancer agents such as paclitaxel, docetaxel, and doxorubicin. The first study examined the effect of 5 and 10 mg/kg peloruside (QD×5) on the growth of H460 non–small cell lung cancer xenografts. Peloruside caused tumor growth inhibition (%TGI) of 84% and 95%, respectively, whereas standard treatments with paclitaxel (8 mg/kg, QD×5) and docetaxel (6.3 mg/kg, Q2D×3) were much less effective (%TGI of 50% and 18%, respectively). In a second xenograft study using A549 lung cancer cells and varied schedules of dosing, activity of peloruside was again superior compared with the taxanes with inhibitions ranging from 51% to 74%, compared with 44% and 50% for the two taxanes. A third xenograft study in a P-glycoprotein–overexpressing NCI/ADR-RES breast tumor model showed that peloruside was better tolerated than either doxorubicin or paclitaxel. We conclude that peloruside is highly effective in preventing the growth of lung and P-glycoprotein–overexpressing breast tumors in vivo and that further therapeutic development is warranted. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(8); 1816–23. ©2015 AACR.
Metastatic Small-Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma Simulating Circumscribed Choroidal Hemangioma
Authors: Leahy Kate E. , Karaconji Tanya , Thanni Valli , Achan Anita , Fung Adrian T.
Published: June 2015

Aim: To report a case of metastatic small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma presenting as an isolated choroidal mass and initially misdiagnosed as a circumscribed choroidal hemangioma. Methods: The clinical history, fundus findings, imaging, cytology and immunohistochemical features are described. Results: An otherwise healthy 66-year-old man was referred for a left nasal scotoma and a diagnosis of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma. Cytology showed cohesive clusters of small-to-intermediate malignant cells. The atypical cells stained positively for chromogranin, thyroid transcription factor-1 and synaptophysin consistent with small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Conclusion: Small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma metastatic to the choroid is extremely rare; however, it is particularly aggressive and should be included in the differential diagnosis of isolated choroidal lesions, even in otherwise healthy patients.
ІНФОРМАЦІЙНА СИСТЕМА ДЛ Я РЕЄСТРУ ПАЦІЄНТІВ ІЗ МЕТАБОЛІЧНИМИ ЗАХВОРЮВАННЯМИ
Authors: Horovenko N. H. , Stetsyuk V. Z. , Olhovych N. V. , Savytskyi A. Yo. , Malyei A. V.
Published: June 2015

This article describes the problems encountered in the management of medical records of patients with metabolic diseases, and also provides a general solution to these problems through the introduction of a software product.

Objective was to reduce the burden on the healthcare registrars and medical genetics center, improving the speed and quality of patient care. In the software implementation the main features of the complex design problems are described: the programming language Java, IDE NetBeans, MySQL database server and web application to work with database server phpMyAdmin and put forward requirements. Also, medical receptionist is able to keep track of patients to form an extract, view statistics.

During development were numerous consultations with experienced doctors, medical registrars. With the convenient architecture in the future will be easy to add custom modules in the program. Development of the program management of electronic medical records of patients the center of metabolic diseases is essential, because today in Ukraine all the software that can keep track of patients who did not drawn enough attention to patients with metabolic diseases. Currently the software is installed in the center of metabolic diseases NCSH “OKHMATDYT.”
Spatiotemporal Ideation & Generation with Interactive Evolutionary Design
Authors: Eisenmann Jonathan , Lewis Matthew , Parent Rick
Published: June 2015

Interactive evolutionary design tools enable human intuition and creative decision-making in high-dimensional design domains while leaving technical busywork to the computer. Current evolutionary algorithms for interactive design tools accept only feedback about entire design candidates, not their parts, which can lead to user fatigue. This article describes several case studies in which designers used an enhanced interactive evolutionary design tool with region-of-interest feedback for character animation tasks. This enhanced interactive evolutionary design tool is called the Interactive Design with Evolutionary Algorithms and Sensitivity (IDEAS) tool. Designers’ feedback and narratives about their experiences with the tool show that interactive evolutionary algorithms can be made suitable for the ideation and generation of digital assets, even in time-varying domains.
Beyond Interactive Evolution: Expressing Intentions Through Fitness Functions
Authors: Machado Penousal , Martins Tiago , Amaro Hugo , Abreu Pedro H.
Published: June 2015

Photogrowth is a creativity support tool for the creation of nonphotorealistic renderings of images. The authors discuss its evolution from a generative art application to an interactive evolutionary art tool and finally into a meta-level interactive art system in which users express their artistic intentions through the design of a fitness function. The authors explore the impact of these changes on the sense of authorship, highlighting the range of imagery that can be produced by the system.
Modélisation et tests des effets d’une stratégie d’enrichissement expérientiel : application au contexte touristique
Authors: Bonnefoy-Claudet Lydie , Mencarelli Rémi , Lombart Cindy
Published: June 2015

Cette recherche questionne l’efficacité des stratégies d’enrichissement des offres d’expérience. Un modèle intégrant différents effets de ces stratégies sur le consommateur : émotions positives élémentaires – enchantement – satisfaction – valeur de consommation – intentions comportementales est proposé. Une étude dans le secteur touristique valide empiriquement le modèle mais conduit à rejeter l’hypothèse d’un effet des contextes expérientiels différenciés sur ce modèle.
Muslims and Islamic Fundamentalism in Macedonia
Authors: Babić Marko
Published: June 2015

Despite the fact that Macedonia achieved independence in a peaceful manner in 1991, its position has been continuously challenged in political, economic and security dimensions ever since. One of them is Islamic fundamentalism. In a country with over 1/3 of the population being Muslims (and still growing) this issue becomes a potential danger in the security dimension. Using a descriptive analysis method, the Author aims to highlight the specificity of Islam in Macedonia and to define the potential or real danger of Islamic fundamentalism in the country.
The experience of PTSD following childbirth
Authors: Poote Aimee , McKenzie-McHarg Kirstie
Published: June 2015

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health problem which can develop following childbirth (PTSD FC). Partners and staff are also at risk and a larger group of women develop sub-clinical trauma symptoms. PTSD can impact on future childbearing, the wider family, intimate sexual relationships and bonding. The relationship between mothers and health professionals is crucial. Health professionals can
Evaluating service user community groups in forensic and neurodevelopmental units
Authors: Chaplin Eddie , Douglas Jamie , O'Hara Jean , Wellington Sharon , Lyons Jane
Published: June 2015

Introduction:

Often service user involvement in forensic mental health settings can fail to address service users' views in a systematic way and is more likely to be designed around organisational priorities.

Method:

Community meetings in six forensic medium–secure units and three neurodevelopmental (ND) units were compared. Using framework analysis, the study evaluated practice, in particular how staff and service users interacted and the issues raised at meetings. Data was collected from interviews, questionnaires and minutes of the meetings.

Results:

On average, meetings were more frequent in ND than in forensic units. Difficulties were reported in resolving issues due to factors including shift patterns, staff who could make decisions being unavailable, and policy and budget constraints. Forensic unit groups tended to focus on information and ND groups on activities and the ward environment. Complaints were more likely to be raised in forensic units than in ND units.

Discussion:

This study provides an insight into community groups and offers an insight into the realities of user engagement in community meetings.
How do parents choose a school?
Authors: Wespieser Karen
Published: June 2015

What do parents look for and prioritise when it comes to choosing a school for their children? A research project has sought to answer this question. Karen Wespieser reports