bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Soil Fertility and Crops Yield through Maize-Legumes (Common bean and Dolichos lablab) Intercropping Systems
Authors: Massawe Prosper I. , Mtei Kelvin M. , Munishi Linus K. , Ndakidemi Patrick A.
Published: November 2016

Declining crops yield in the smallholder farmers cropping systems of sub-Saharan African (SSA) present the need to develop more sustainable production systems. Depletion of essential plant nutrients from the soils have been cited as the main contributing factors due to continues cultivation of cereal crops without application of organic/ inorganic fertilizers. Of all the plant nutrients, reports showed that nitrogen is among the most limiting plant nutrient as it plays crucial roles in the plant growth and physiological processes. The most efficient way of adding nitrogen to the soils is through inorganic amendments. However, this is an expensive method and creates bottleneck to smallholder farmers in most countries of sub-Saharan Africa. Legumes are potential sources of plant nutrients that complement/supplement inorganic fertilizers for cereal crops because of their ability to fix biological nitrogen (N) when included to the cropping systems. By fixing atmospheric N2, legumes offer the most effective way of increasing the productivity of poor soils either in monoculture, intercropping, crop rotations, or mixed cropping systems. This review paper discuses the role of cereal legume intercropping systems on soil fertility improvement, its impact on weeds, pests, diseases and water use efficiency, the biological nitrogen fixation, the amounts of N transferred to associated cereal crops, nutrients uptake and partition, legume biomass decomposition and mineralization, grain yields, land equivalent ratio and economic benefits.
Taro (Colocasia esculenta)-An Important Staple Food for the General Population of Fiji Islands
Authors: Sundar Laurence Shiva
Published: November 2016

Taro production in Fiji is fluctuating in a yearly basis due to presence of devastating pests and diseases. Lack of knowledge in controlling these pests and diseases and the availability of controlling resources is another problem, which farmers in Fiji are currently facing. Taveuni being the largest supplier of taro in Fiji, is experiencing problems related to mono-cropping which in cooperates problems like soil degradation, unwanted weeds and minor pests and diseases. This research article mainly focuses on pests and diseases associated with taro production in Fiji and possible control measures to help farmers in Fiji to enhance their knowledge in controlling these pests and diseases. A thorough survey of taro farmers and exporting companies in Fiji was done to evaluate the problems that have directly or indirectly affected taro production in Fiji in previous years. As shown in figure 2, Fiji has experienced the shortages of taro in the year 2010, 2012 and 2014 as a result of increasing pest and diseases. This shortage not only has affected the demand from overseas market but also farmers in terms of earning for their livelihood. If these problems are not solved at an earliest, the taro industry in Fiji may collapse resulting in greater number of problems in future.
Using Rare Breeds in Animal-Assisted Activities: A New Model Proposed at the “Animal Farm” in Ladispoli (Rome, Italy)
Authors: Piccoli Antonio Pizzuti , Kaczmarczyk Agnieszka Lidia
Published: November 2016

In Europe many indigenous local breeds of domestic animals are at risk of extinction; the European Union supports multi-functionality activities (as the growth of Social Farms) in agriculture, also with the aim of save the biodiversity. In Italy, Social Farms are still in a pioneering phase; there are no pre-established models and the different realities of social farming, in recent years, have tried to put together some good practices referring to a personal field experience rather than coded models. The Animal Farm, social farm in Ladispoli (Rome, Italy), has developed a functional model, which is proposed in the present work, which consists in realizing together reproduction of rare breeds, educational activities and social farm activities. The innovative idea is to employ rare domestic animals in rehabilitative activities (AAA animal-assisted activities), encouraging their dissemination and preservation. The workshops are organized in daily activities where the various institutions of the territory (rehabilitation centers for disables, hospitals, etc.) bring their users (individual assets or groups) to carry out animal-assisted activities and practical workshops. The processed path type is aimed at people with medium and severe mental disabilities. The workshop is structured in two levels of activity: routine works and creative work. The experiments implemented within the AAA paths in the Animal Farm of Ladispoli (Rome, Italy) confirm the key role of animals as a facilitator in rehabilitation programs for the disabled. The Animal Farm proposes a model, repeatable in other realities, that allows the realization of animal-assisted activities with rare domestic breeds, preserving them from extinction. It is reported a preliminary study about the positive effects of using endangered races for AAA laboratories.
Farmer Perception and Adaptation Strategies on Climate Change in Lower Eastern Kenya: A Case of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) Production
Authors: Yvonne Madegwa , Richard Onwonga , Solomon Shibairo , George Karuku
Published: November 2016

Eastern Kenya, a semi-arid region, is characterized by low and erratic rainfall, high temperatures, and low soil fertility. Climate change has further worsened the situation leading to frequent droughts and hence increased food insecurity. Traditional crops like finger millet are possible solutions to combating changing climate due to their drought resistance nature, ability to produce high yields with little inputs and high nutritional content. It is against this backdrop that a survey was carried out in Mwala and Katangi divisions of Machakos and Kitui counties, respectively, to assess farmer’s perception on climate change, coping and adaptation mechanisms in finger millet production systems in smallholder farming systems of lower eastern Kenya. Data was collected, using semi-structured questionnaire, from 120 farmers i.e. 60 in each division. A stratified random sampling procedure, with location as a stratum was used to select respondent’s households. A computer random number generator was used to select number of households in each stratum. Maize and beans were the most popular crops grown by over 98% of the farmers in both sub-counties. Farmers also grew drought tolerant legumes; cow peas, green grams pigeon peas and cereals; sorghum and finger millet. Temperature rise was ranked highest with 88% and 98%, followed by prolonged drought with 70% and 72%, irregular rainfall at 69% and 81% and increased wind intensity at 22% and 28% at Machakos and Kitui, respectively, as aspects of climate change perceived by farmers. Farmers had taken up early planting at 88.6% and 93.7%, use of organic inputs at 89% and 92%, introduced new tillage practices, by applying ridges and furrows and tied ridges at 45% and 54%, and by adopting irrigation at 13%, and 9%, as coping strategies to climate change in Machakos and Kitui, respectively.It can be concluded that farmers in Machakos and Kitui are aware of climate change and its negative effects on crop production. In a bid to minimize crop loss and food insecurity, they have taken up various soil moisture conservation and soil fertility enhancement technologies.
Genetic Variations in the Bovine Fatty Acid Desaturase 6 (FADS6) Are Associated with Fatty Acid Composition in Hanwoo Cattle
Authors: Srikanth Krishnamoorthy , Lee Eunjin , Kwan Anam , Lim Youngjo , Chung Hoyoung
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study was to discover genetic variants in the bovine fatty acid desaturase domain family member 6 (FADS6) gene and to test for associations with fatty acid composition (FAC) as well as carcass traits such as backfat thickness (BFT) and marbling scores (MAR). 90 Hanwoo steers were used in the study, and sequence analyses detected 4 genetic variants in intron 2 (approximately 10,890 bp) of FADS6. The FADS6 SNPs showed no significant departures from HWE (Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium) except g.57772511C > T that did not have heterozygous genotypes. Genotypes of g.57770744A > G and g.57772511C > T were significantly associated with Vaccenic (C18:ln7), Palmitoleic (C16:ln7), and Stearic (C18:0) acids. The analysis confirmed dominance and additive effects for the g.57770744A > G and g.57772511C > T segments, respectively. A positive correlation (31.1%, P = 0.003) between BFT and Linolenic acid (C18:3n3) and a negative (-36.5%, P < 0.001) correlation between MAR and Eicosenoic acids (C20:1n9) were observed.
Influence of Water Management and Silica Application on Rice Growth and Productivity in Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Siregar Adha Fatmah , Sipahutar Ibrahim Adamy , Husnain Husnain , Wibowo Heri , Sato Kuniaki , Wakatsuki Toshiyuki , Masunaga Tsugiyuki
Published: November 2016

Rice cultivation in our study site at Central Java, Indonesia, is constrained by water scarcity and blast disease problems. A field experiment was thus conducted to evaluate the effect of water management and silicon (Si) application (with 500 kg ha-1 of silica gel) on improving rice growth and productivity and blast disease infection in Jakenan, Central Java. Split plot in randomized complete block design with 4 replications was used. The results showed that two water saving methods, intermittent (IT) and aerobic rice (AR) increased rice yield compared to conventional flooding water management. Further, IT showed better root growth and hence lodging resistance and decreased blast disease infection. IT had higher yield potential compared to AR although the yield of IT and AR were not statistically different. Si application gave significant effect on reducing leaf and neck blast infection and also increased stomata density (p < 0.01) in all water treatments. Si application did not result in increased yield but exhibited potential towards improving rice plant growth and production. Since Si fertilizer was never used in rice cultivation in Indonesia, the study reveals that IT combine with Si application was a suitable management for rice production in dry season in water limited Central Java region.
Co-Granulated and Blended Zinc Fertilizer Comparison for Corn and Soybean
Authors: Caldwell Matthew , Nelson Kelly A. , Nathan Manjula
Published: November 2016

A new co-granulated formulation of monoammonium phosphate (MAP) including S and Zn could allow for more uniform nutrient distribution. A six site-year study evaluated the effects of blended phosphorus (P) sources [MAP and diammonium phosphate (DAP)] and zinc amounts (0, 2.2, and 5.6 kg Zn ha-1) compared to co-granulated fertilizer, MicroEssentials® Sulfur-10 (MES10™) (12-40-0-10S) and MicroEssentials Sulfur and Zinc (MESZ™) (12-40-0-10S-1Zn), on corn and soybean response. Fertilizers were broadcast applied for corn and the carry-over effect on soybean was determined. Ear leaf P, S, and Zn concentrations at Novelty in 2013 and 2014 were within the sufficiency range regardless of treatment, even though initial soil test values were low-medium. Yields were similar to the N only control for all site-years except at Novelty in 2013, where MAP+ZnSO4 at 2.2 kg Zn ha-1, MAP+Super Zn at 5.5 kg Zn ha-1, and DAP+AMS were 540 to 570 kg/ha greater. The amount of Zn fertilizer (2.2 vs. 5.6 kg Zn ha-1) also showed no significant effect on yield. Applications of P or Zn generally increased their concentrations in post-harvest soil samples. Fertilizer applied for corn indicated some differences in soybean plant nutrient concentrations, but it had no effect on total plant nutrient uptake, grain yield or quality. At Novelty, soybean plant Zn concentration was greater at 5.6 kg Zn ha-1 compared to 2.2 kg Zn ha-1, while Albany showed an increase in whole soybean plant Zn concentration with SuperZn compared to ZnSO4. Carry-over fertilizer from corn showed limited effects on soybean response the following year.
A Formação Docente Inicial e Continuada Prepara os Professores para o Uso das Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação (TICs) em Sala de Aula?
Authors: Beira Diovane , Nakamoto Paula
Published: November 2016

Esta pesquisa busca verificar se a formação docente, inicial ou continuada, prepara, efetivamente, os professores para o uso adequado das TICs (Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação) em sala de aula, considerando-se que várias escolas públicas brasileiras já estão informatizadas com computadores e rede de internet. O procedimento metodológico utilizado foi a pesquisa qualitativa de natureza descritiva e explicativa, fazendo considerações sobre a importância da formação docente sobre a relação da cultura digital com a educação em um mundo globalizado e a formação docente para a prática pedagógica utilizando tais ferramentas como recursos didático-pedagógicos, como forma de qualificar o processo ensino-aprendizagem. O resultado é que a informatização das escolas públicas brasileiras é aparente, pois a formação ofertada aos professores para o uso destas, é ineficaz e é provado no cotidiano dessas instituições.
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of major constituents from Dazhu Hongjingtian capsule by UPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS/MS combined with UPLC/QQQ‐MS/MS
Authors: Liu Guang‐Da , Zhao Yi‐Wu , Li Yan‐Jing , Wang Xue‐Jing , Si Hai‐Hong , Huang Wen‐Zhe , Wang Zhen‐Zhong , Ma Shi‐Ping , Xiao Wei
Published: November 2016

In this work, a sensitive and efficient method was established and validated for qualitative and quantitative analysis of major bioactive constituents in Dazhu Hongjingtian capsule by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 32 compounds were tentatively identified using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Furthermore, 12 constituents, namely gallic acid, 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid, salidroside, p‐coumaric acid‐4‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside, bergeninum, 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid, 4‐hydroxyphenylacetic acid, syringate, 6′′‐O‐galloylsalidroside, rhodiosin, rhodionin and kaempferol‐7‐O‐α‐l‐rhamnoside, were simultaneously quantified by the developed ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method in 9 min. All of them were analyzed on an Agilent ZorBax SB‐C18 column (3.0 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) with linear gradient elution of methanol–0.1% formic acid water. The proposed method was applied to analyze three batches of samples with acceptable linearity (R, 0.9979–0.9997), precision (RSD, 1.3–4.7%), repeatability (RSD, 1.7–4.9%), stability (RSD, 2.2–4.9%) and recovery (RSD, 0.6–4.4%) of the 12 compounds. As a result, the analytical method possessing high throughput and sensitivity is suitable for the quality control of Dazhu Hongjingtian capsule.
Effects of preoperative statin use on perioperative outcomes of carotid endarterectomy
Authors: Ballotta Enzo , Toniato Antonio , Farina Filippo , Baracchini Claudio
Published: November 2016

Objectives

Several studies have shown the beneficial role of statins in reducing the risk of major perioperative complications and death associated with noncardiac vascular surgery, but few have focused on their effects in the event of carotid endarterectomy (CEA). This study analyzes the effects of preoperative statin use on perioperative outcomes in patients undergoing CEA.

Materials and Methods

Data from all consecutive patients who underwent primary CEA for symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid disease between 2002 and 2014 at a single institution were prospectively stored in a vascular surgery registry, recording risk factors, medication, and indication for surgery. Endpoints of the study were perioperative (30‐day) stroke and death.

Results

Overall, 784 patients were on statins (825 CEAs, Group I), while 494 were not (545 CEAs, Group II). There were two perioperative strokes in Group I (0.24%) and four in Group II (0.73%; p = .22), and no deaths. The only nonfatal cardiac complication occurred in Group II (0.18%, p = .39). A neurologist assessed patients at 1, 6, and 12 months after CEA, and every 2 years thereafter. Follow‐up (range: 0.1–13 years; mean, 6.3 ± 3.7 years) was obtained for 1,239 patients (1,326 CEAs). Because 165 patients (166 CEAs) crossed over from Group II to Group I during the follow‐up time, long‐term data were stratified by postoperative statin treatment rather than by preoperative statin use. The 5‐ and 10‐year restenosis/occlusion and survival rates did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusions

Taking statins prior to CEA did not seem to affect the risk of major perioperative ischemic events and death, most likely due to the extremely low overall incidence of perioperative complications.
Extensive intracranial arterial stenoses in conjunction with the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitor Nilotinib
Authors: Alshiekh‐Nasany Ruham , Zidan Awss , Martinez Carmen
Published: November 2016

Key Clinical Message

New‐generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) are promising agents for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), but the linkage to vascular diseases warrants a special attention from treating physicians, as it may carry major morbidity and mortality.
Spatial patterns of an endemic Mediterranean palm recolonizing old fields
Authors: Jácome‐Flores Miguel E. , Delibes Miguel , Wiegand Thorsten , Fedriani José M.
Published: November 2016

Throughout Europe, increased levels of land abandonment lead to (re)colonization of old lands by forests and shrublands. Very little is known about the spatial pattern of plants recolonizing such old fields. We mapped in two 21–22‐ha plots, located in the Doñana National Park (Spain), all adult individuals of the endozoochorous dwarf palm Chamaerops humilis L. and determined their sex and sizes. We used techniques of spatial point pattern analysis (SPPA) to precisely quantify the spatial structure of these C. humilis populations. The objective was to identify potential processes generating the patterns and their likely consequences on palm reproductive success. We used (1) Thomas point process models to describe the clustering of the populations, (2) random labeling to test the sexual spatial segregation, and (3) mark correlation functions to assess spatial structure in plant sizes. Plants in both plots showed two critical scales of clustering, with small clusters of a radius of 2.8–4 m nested within large clusters with 38–44 m radius. Additional to the clustered individuals, 11% and 27% of all C. humilis individuals belonged to a random pattern that was independently superimposed to the clustered pattern. The complex spatial pattern of C. humilis could be explained by the effect of different seed‐dispersers and predators' behavior and their relative abundances. Plant sexes had no spatial segregation. Plant sizes showed a spatial aggregation inside the clusters, with a decreasing correlation with distance. Clustering of C. humilis is strongly reliant on its seed dispersers and stressful environmental conditions. However, it seems that the spatial patterns and dispersal strategies of the dwarf palm make it a successful plant for new habitat colonization. Our results provide new information on the colonization ability of C. humilis and can help to develop management strategies to recover plant populations.
Effect of genioglossus, geniohyoid, and digastric advancement on tongue base and hyoid position
Authors: Kutzner Emily A. , Miot Christelle , Liu Yuan , Renk Elizabeth , Park Joshua S. , Inman Jared C.
Published: November 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To assess the effect of genioglossus, geniohyoid, and anterior digastric muscle advancement on base of tongue and hyoid position.

Study Design

Cadaver experiments.

Methods

In fresh cadavers, the mandibular attachments of the genioglossus, geniohyoid, and anterior digastric muscles were advanced anteriorly by 6, 10, or 14 mm, and the anterior displacement of the base of tongue and hyoid was measured. The degrees of displacement of the tongue base and hyoid by the individual muscles and combinations of muscles were compared to one another.

Results

In 11 cadavers, 462 measurements were taken. Genioglossus advancement alone produced significantly greater tongue base advancement than any other muscle (P < .001). No combination of muscles produced significantly more tongue base advancement than the genioglossus alone. Geniohyoid (P < .001) and anterior digastric muscle (P < .001) advancement both produced significantly greater hyoid advancement than the genioglossus, but there was no difference between the two (p = .615). No combination of muscles produced significantly more hyoid advancement than the geniohyoid or anterior digastric alone.

Conclusions

Genioglossus muscle advancement produces the greatest base of tongue advancement. Geniohyoid or anterior digastric muscle advancement produces the greatest hyoid advancement. Advancement of neither base of tongue nor hyoid was superior when combinations of muscles were moved.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 127:1938–1942, 2017
An inventory model for ameliorating/deteriorating items with trapezoidal demand and complete backlogging under inflation and time discounting
Authors:   Vandana, Srivastava H. M.
Published: November 2016

Recently, numerous inventory models were developed for ameliorating items (say, fish, ducklings, chicken, etc.) considering the constant demand rate. However, such types of problems are not useful in the real market. The demand rate of ameliorating items is fluctuates in their life‐period. The consumption and demand of ameliorating items are not generally steady. In a few seasons, the demand rate increases; ordinarily, it is static, and sometimes, it declines. With the outcome that their demand rate can be properly portrayed by a trapezoidal‐type. In the proposed model, an inventory model for ameliorating/deteriorating items are considered with inflationary condition and time discounting rate. Additionally, having shortages that is completely backlogged. The demand rate is taken as the continuous trapezoidal‐type function of time. The amelioration and deterioration rate are considered as Weibull distribution. To obtain the minimum cost, mathematical formulation of the proposed model with solution procedure is talked about. Numerical cases are given to be checked the optimal solution. Additionally, we have talked about the convexity of the proposed model through graphically. Conclusion with future worked are clarified appropriately. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic updating atlas for heart segmentation with a nonlinear field‐based model
Authors: Cai Ken , Yang Rongqian , Yue Hongwei , Li Lihua , Ou Shanxing , Liu Feng
Published: November 2016

Background

Segmentation of cardiac computed tomography (CT) images is an effective method for assessing the dynamic function of the heart and lungs. In the atlas‐based heart segmentation approach, the quality of segmentation usually relies upon atlas images, and the selection of those reference images is a key step. The optimal goal in this selection process is to have the reference images as close to the target image as possible.

Methods

This study proposes an atlas dynamic update algorithm using a scheme of nonlinear deformation field. The proposed method is based on the features among double‐source CT (DSCT) slices. The extraction of these features will form a base to construct an average model and the created reference atlas image is updated during the registration process. A nonlinear field‐based model was used to effectively implement a 4D cardiac segmentation.

Results

The proposed segmentation framework was validated with 14 4D cardiac CT sequences. The algorithm achieved an acceptable accuracy (1.0–2.8 mm).

Conclusion

Our proposed method that combines a nonlinear field‐based model and dynamic updating atlas strategies can provide an effective and accurate way for whole heart segmentation. The success of the proposed method largely relies on the effective use of the prior knowledge of the atlas and the similarity explored among the to‐be‐segmented DSCT sequences.
trans Fatty Acids in Colostrum, Mature Milk and Diet of Lactating Adolescents
Authors: de Souza Santos da Costa Roseli , da Silva Santos Flavia , de Barros Mucci Daniela , de Souza Tânia Vignuda , de Carvalho Sardinha Fátima Lucia , Moutinho de Miranda Chaves Célia Regina , das Graças Tavares do Carmo Maria
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the trans fatty acids (TFA) content and distribution in colostrum, mature milk, and diet of adolescent mothers, after TFA declaration in food labels became mandatory in Brazil. Participants were healthy adolescents (n 54, 15–19 years, 1–90 days postpartum) practicing exclusive breastfeeding. Milk samples were collected 3 days after delivery (colostrum) and in the third month postpartum (mature milk) by hand expression. The fatty acid composition of the milk samples was determined by gas chromatography. TFA intake corresponded to 1.23 % of total energy value. Total 18:2 TFA accounted for less than 0.5 % of the energy intake. The amount of total 18:1 TFA (mean ± SEM) was 1.9 % ± 0.14 in colostrum and 1.5 % ± 0.2 in mature milk. The total content of n‐3 PUFA was inversely correlated with the total content of 18:1 TFA in colostrum. Both in colostrum and in mature milk, vaccenic acid (11t‐18:1) was found to be the most abundant 18:1 trans isomer, followed by elaidic acid (9t‐18:1), whereas rumenic acid (9c,11t‐18:2 CLA) was the predominant 18:2 trans isomer. In conclusion, the levels of TFA of industrial sources found in the mother's diet and breast milk (colostrum and mature milk) showed a decrease in relation to those observed in studies conducted prior to the TFA labeling resolution in Brazil. However, the current low intake levels of n‐3 LCPUFA and DHA content in the milk of lactating adolescents may be insufficient for supporting adequate neurological development of the infants.
LRRK2 enhances Nod1/2-mediated inflammatory cytokine production by promoting Rip2 phosphorylation
Authors: Yan Ruiqing , Liu Zhihua
Published: November 2016

The innate immune system is critical for clearing infection, and is tightly regulated to avert excessive tissue damage. Nod1/2-Rip2 signaling, which is essential for initiating the innate immune response to bacterial infection and ER stress, is subject to many regulatory mechanisms. In this study, we found that LRRK2, encoded by a gene implicated in Crohn’s disease, leprosy and familial Parkinson’s disease, modulates the strength of Nod1/2-Rip2 signaling by enhancing Rip2 phosphorylation. LRRK2 deficiency markedly reduces cytokine production in macrophages upon Nod2 activation by muramyl dipeptide (MDP), Nod1 activation by D-gamma-Glu-meso-diaminopimelic acid (iE-DAP) or ER stress. Our biochemical study shows that the presence of LRRK2 is necessary for optimal phosphorylation of Rip2 upon Nod2 activation. Therefore, this study reveals that LRRK2 is a new positive regulator of Rip2 and promotes inflammatory cytokine induction through the Nod1/2-Rip2 pathway.
Stem cell transplantation dose in patients with acute myocardial infarction: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu Jia‐Ying , Cai Wen‐Yuan , Tian Ming , Liu Dai , Huang Rong‐Chong
Published: November 2016

Objective

To evaluate whether stem cell transplantation improves global left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and to determine the appropriate stem cell therapy dose as well as the effective period after stem cell transplantation for therapy.

Methods

A systematic literature search included Pubmed, MEDLINE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), and Cochrane Evidence‐Based Medicine databases. The retrieval time limit ranged from January 1990 to June 2016. We also obtained full texts through manual retrieval, interlibrary loan and document delivery service, or by contacting the authors directly. According to our inclusion and exclusion criteria, data were extracted independently by two evaluators. In case of disagreement, a joint discussion occurred and a third researcher was utilized. Data were analyzed quantitatively using Revman 5.2. Summary results are presented as the weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We collected individual trial data and conducted a meta‐analysis to compare changes in global left ventricular ejection fraction (ΔLVEF) after stem cell therapy. In this study, four subgroups were based on stem cell dose (≤1 × 107 cells, ≤1 × 108 cells, ≤1 × 109 cells, and ≤1 × 1010 cells) and three subgroups were based on follow‐up time (<6 months, 6–12 months, and ≥12 months).

Results

Thirty‐four studies, which included 40 randomized controlled trials, were included in this meta‐analysis, and 1927 patients were evaluated. Changes in global LVEF were significantly higher in the stem cell transplantation group than in the control group (95% CI: 2.35–4.26%, P < 0.01). We found no significant differences in ΔLVEF between the bone marrow stem cells (BMCs) group and control group when the dose of BMCs was ≤1 × 107 [ΔLVEF 95% CI: 0.12–3.96%, P = 0.04]. The ΔLVEF in the BMCs groups was significantly higher than in the control groups when the dose of BMCs was ≤1 × 108 [ΔLVEF 95% CI: 0.95–4.25%, P = 0.002] and ≤1 × 109 [ΔLVEF 95% CI: 2.31–4.20%, P < 0.01]. In addition, when the dose of BMCs was between 109 and 1010 cells, we did not observe any significant differences [ΔLVEF 95% CI: −0.99–11.82%, P = 0.10]. Our data suggest stem cell therapy improves cardiac function in AMI patients when treated with an appropriate dose of BMCs.

Conclusion

Stem cell transplantation after AMI could improve global LVEF. Stem cells may be effectively administered to patients with AMI doses between 108 and 109 cells.
Differential Activation of the Dorsal Neck Muscles During a Light Arm‐Elevation Task in Patients With Chronic Nonspecific Neck Pain and Asymptomatic Controls: An Ultrasonographic Study
Authors: Baghi Raziyeh , Rahnama Leila , Karimi Noureddin , Goodarzi Fereshte , Rezasoltani Asghar , Jaberzadeh Shapour
Published: November 2016

Background

Disturbance in neck muscle function is a well‐known complication of chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNNP). It is, however, unclear which muscles are more susceptible to functional impairment in patients with CNNP during upper limb tasks.

Objectives

To compare ultrasonographic changes in dorsal neck muscles thickness in patients with CNNP and asymptomatic controls while they performed a light load upper‐limb movement.

Design

Case control.

Setting

University research laboratory.

Participants

Twenty individuals with CNNP with a mean age of 23.35 ± 2.94 and 20 asymptomatic controls with a mean age of 22.30 ± 2.86, without any history of cervical diskopathy, fracture, trauma, inflammation, and spinal deformity were recruited for this study.

Methods

Ultrasonographic measurement of dorsal neck muscles thickness was performed during a light load 3‐second arm‐elevation task (shoulder scaption to 120°) in the 2 groups. Associations between pain intensity and patients' perceived disability and between pain intensity and muscle thickness also were evaluated at the state of rest.

Main Outcome Measurements

The thickness changes of the dorsal neck muscles throughout the arm elevation were calculated. The pain intensity and the patient's perceived disability also were measured.

Results

A significant main effect of muscle activity status was revealed for the multifidus and semispinalis cervicis and the splenius capitis, indicating an increase in their thickness throughout the arm elevation (P < .001). The only muscle that showed a difference between groups was the multifidus (P = .007). Direct associations between pain and disability (r = .48, P = .03) and between pain and multifidus thickness (r = −.49, P = .03) also were observed.

Conclusion

The deteriorating effect of CNNP on the neck muscles targets the deep layer of the dorsal neck muscles (ie, the multifidus) more than the superficial muscles during light upper‐limb tasks.

Level of Evidence

III
Vivencias y experiencias de médicos residentes mexicanos durante su primer año de formación académica
Authors: Acosta-Fernández Martín , Aguilera-Velasco María De los Ángeles , Pozos-Radillo Blanca Elizabeth , Torres-López Teresa Margarita , Parra Osorio Liliana
Published: November 2016

Introducción: La investigación sobre la formación académica de médicos residentes en México ha crecido de manera progresiva. Sin embargo, existen muy pocos estudios de corte cualitativo sobre las vivencias y experiencias de los futuros médicos especialistas. Y es durante el primer año de formación académica donde se pueden presentar una variedad de situaciones que retan la capacidad de adaptación de los estudiantes.
Objetivo: Conocer, describir e interpretar las vivencias y experiencias de médicos residentes durante su primer año de formación y la influencia en su bienestar y su salud.
Método: Estudio fenomenológico en el que se realizaron 18 entrevistas en profundidad a 13 médicos residentes de primer año. La recolección de datos se finalizó al obtener la saturación. Se utilizó el programa Atlas.ti® para el análisis cualitativo de datos.
Resultados: La formación de los médicos residentes se caracterizó por sobrecarga de trabajo, ausencia de control y ambigüedad en los roles a desempeñar, falta de apoyo y escasez de recursos. Relaciones impositivas, amenazantes, humillantes y de poder con sus superiores jerárquicos. Desacreditación por parte de médicos de base, afectaciones a la vida personal, estrés y agotamiento físico y mental.
Conclusiones: El impacto que puede tener la formación académica en la salud de los médicos residentes se manifestó de manera distinta si se tiene que emigrar a otra ciudad. Es deseable que se les ofrezca apoyo o acompañamiento psicológico durante su formación y que se priorice su condición como personas merecedoras de apoyo y respeto.
Compressible integral representation of rotational and axisymmetric rocket flow
Authors: Akiki M. , Majdalani J.
Published: November 2016

This work focuses on the development of a semi-analytical model that is appropriate for the rotational, steady, inviscid, and compressible motion of an ideal gas, which is accelerated uniformly along the length of a right-cylindrical rocket chamber. By overcoming some of the difficulties encountered in previous work on the subject, the present analysis leads to an improved mathematical formulation, which enables us to retrieve an exact solution for the pressure field. Considering a slender porous chamber of circular cross-section, the method that we follow reduces the problem’s mass, momentum, energy, ideal gas, and isentropic relations to a single integral equation that is amenable to a direct numerical evaluation. Then, using an Abel transformation, exact closed-form representations of the pressure distribution are obtained for particular values of the specific heat ratio. Throughout this effort, Saint-Robert’s power law is used to link the pressure to the mass injection rate at the wall. This allows us to compare the results associated with the axisymmetric chamber configuration to two closed-form analytical solutions developed under either one- or two-dimensional, isentropic flow conditions. The comparison is carried out assuming, first, a uniformly distributed mass flux and, second, a constant radial injection speed along the simulated propellant grain. Our amended formulation is consequently shown to agree with a one-dimensional solution obtained for the case of uniform wall mass flux, as well as numerical simulations and asymptotic approximations for a constant wall injection speed. The numerical simulations include three particular models: a strictly inviscid solver, which closely agrees with the present formulation, and both $k$–$\unicode[STIX]{x1D714}$ and Spalart–Allmaras computations.
Three-dimensional vorticity, momentum and heat transport in a turbulent cylinder wake
Authors: Chen J. G. , Zhou Y. , Zhou T. M. , Antonia R. A.
Published: November 2016

The transport of momentum and heat in the turbulent intermediate wake of a circular cylinder is inherently three-dimensional (3-D). This work aims to gain new insight into the 3-D vorticity structure, momentum and heat transport in this flow. All three components of the velocity and vorticity vectors, along with the fluctuating temperature, are measured simultaneously, at nominally the same point in the flow, with a probe consisting of four X-wires and four cold wires. Measurements are made in the ($x$,$y$) or mean shear plane at$x/d=10$, 20 and 40 at a Reynolds number of$2.5\times 10^{3}$based on the cylinder diameter$d$and the free-stream velocity. A phase-averaging technique is developed to separate the large-scale coherent structures from the remainder of the flow. It is found that the effects of vorticity on heat transport at$x/d=10$and$x/d=20{-}40$are distinctly different. At$x/d=10$, both spanwise and streamwise vorticity components account significantly for the heat flux. At$x/d=20$and 40, the spanwise vortex rollers play a major role in inducing the coherent components of the heat flux vector, while the ribs are responsible for the small-scale heat diffusion out of the spanwise vortex rollers. The present data indicate that, if the spanwise-velocity-related terms are ignored, the estimated values of the production can have errors of approximately 22 % and 13 % respectively for the turbulent energy and temperature variance at$x/d=40$, and the errors are expected to further increase downstream. A conceptual model summarizing the 3-D features of the heat and momentum transports at$x/d=10$is proposed. Compared with the previous two-dimensional model of Matsumura & Antonia (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 250, 1993, pp. 651–668) or MA, the new model provides a more detailed description of the role the rib-like structures undertake in transporting heat and momentum, and also underlines the importance of the upstream half of the spanwise vortex rollers, instead of only one quadrant of these rollers, as in the MA model, in diffusing heat out of the vortex.
Ethical communication to guide climate policy decisions in the Arctic
Authors: Behl Mona
Published: November 2016

Recent records of increasing temperature, melting of sea-ice, retreating glaciers, thawing permafrost, increasing sea levels, and increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events provide clear evidence of global climate change, particularly in the Arctic. The impacts of climate change are not only environmental, but also influence social, economic, psychological, and political conditions in the region. The confluence of these conditions emphasises the need for improved communication of climate information and formulation of ethical responses to address changes in the Arctic. This review explores the meaning of ethical communication followed by an overview of the barriers to ethical communication including uncertainties related to climate change, and constructions of varying interpretations of climate change due to discipline-specific perspectives of science, journalism, and law, in the Arctic. The final section of this paper summarises key elements of ethical communication, and integration of ethical principles in formulating decision-making strategies to address climate change in the Arctic.
Shared atypical brain anatomy and intrinsic functional architecture in male youth with autism spectrum disorder and their unaffected brothers
Authors: Lin H.-Y. , Tseng W.-Y. I. , Lai M.-C. , Chang Y.-T. , Gau S. S.-F.
Published: November 2016

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heritable neurodevelopmental disorder, yet the search for definite genetic etiologies remains elusive. Delineating ASD endophenotypes can boost the statistical power to identify the genetic etiologies and pathophysiology of ASD. We aimed to test for endophenotypes of neuroanatomy and associated intrinsic functional connectivity (iFC) via contrasting male youth with ASD, their unaffected brothers and typically developing (TD) males.

Method

The 94 participants (aged 9–19 years) – 20 male youth with ASD, 20 unaffected brothers and 54 TD males – received clinical assessments, and undertook structural and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans. Voxel-based morphometry was performed to obtain regional gray and white matter volumes. A seed-based approach, with seeds defined by the regions demonstrating atypical neuroanatomy shared by youth with ASD and unaffected brothers, was implemented to derive iFC. General linear models were used to compare brain structures and iFC among the three groups. Assessment of familiality was investigated by permutation tests for variance of the within-family pair difference.

Results

We found that atypical gray matter volume in the mid-cingulate cortex was shared between male youth with ASD and their unaffected brothers as compared with TD males. Moreover, reduced iFC between the mid-cingulate cortex and the right inferior frontal gyrus, and increased iFC between the mid-cingulate cortex and bilateral middle occipital gyrus were the shared features of male ASD youth and unaffected brothers.

Conclusions

Atypical neuroanatomy and iFC surrounding the mid-cingulate cortex may be a potential endophenotypic marker for ASD in males.
INTEREST RATES AND THE VOLATILITY AND CORRELATION OF COMMODITY PRICES
Authors: Gruber Joseph W. , Vigfusson Robert J.
Published: November 2016

We propose a novel explanation for the observed increase in the correlation of commodity prices over the past decade. In contrast to theories that rely on the increased influence of financial speculators, we examine the effect of interest rates on the volatility and correlation of commodity prices via a panel GARCH model. In theory, lower interest rates decrease the volatility of prices, as lower inventory costs promote the smoothing of transient shocks, and increase price correlation if common shocks are more persistent than idiosyncratic shocks. Empirically, we find that price volatility attributable to transitory shocks declines with interest rates, whereas particularly for metals prices, price correlation increases as interest rates decline.
From pains-taking to pains-giving comparisons
Authors: Nelken David
Published: November 2016

This paper distinguishes three ideal-type contexts in which comparisons are used: comparison as a contribution to disciplinary enquiry, as part of deliberately trying to learn lessons and as an essential element of a new form of governmentality concerned with ranking places in terms of social indicators. After offering examples of the way comparisons are employed (and criticised) in each of these exercises, the paper ends by discussing the overlap and feedback between them.
What do we expect from an ombudsman? Narratives of everyday engagement with the informal justice system in Germany and the UK
Authors: Creutzfeldt Naomi
Published: November 2016

This paper looks at expectations people have of informal justice mechanisms through a rich empirical dataset of 2,775 recent ombudsman users in Germany and the UK. In a cross-cultural comparison, the ombudsman as a model of justice is explored. Not much is known about people's expectations of the ombudsman model; this paper starts to fill the gap. Four roles became apparent in cross-cultural narratives in the dataset: people who interact with ombudsmen expect them to be interpreters, advocates, allies and instruments. The identified roles are largely common to both countries, but in some aspects they show national specificities. These national specificities are seen mainly in the use of language; in Germany, it is more legalistic in comparison to the UK. I argue that this might be related to what has been described as the general legal culture of each country and the institutional set-up.
Bringing Biogeochemistry into the Argo Age
Authors: Johnson Kenneth , Claustre Hervé
Published: November 2016

Plans are underway to integrate and augment a collection of regional programs to form a global biogeochemical monitoring network.
Vasculogenic mimicry in small cell lung cancer
Authors: Williamson Stuart C. , Metcalf Robert L. , Trapani Francesca , Mohan Sumitra , Antonello Jenny , Abbott Benjamin , Leong Hui Sun , Chester Christopher P. E. , Simms Nicole , Polanski Radoslaw , Nonaka Daisuke , Priest Lynsey , Fusi Alberto , Carlsson Fredrika , Carlsson Anders , Hendrix Mary J. C. , Seftor Richard E. B. , Seftor Elisabeth A. , Rothwell Dominic G. , Hughes Andrew , Hicks James , Miller Crispin , Kuhn Peter , Brady Ged , Simpson Kathryn L. , Blackhall Fiona H. , Dive Caroline
Published: November 2016

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is characterized by prevalent circulating tumour cells (CTCs), early metastasis and poor prognosis. We show that SCLC patients (37/38) have rare CTC subpopulations co-expressing vascular endothelial-cadherin (VE-cadherin) and cytokeratins consistent with vasculogenic mimicry (VM), a process whereby tumour cells form ‘endothelial-like’ vessels. Single-cell genomic analysis reveals characteristic SCLC genomic changes in both VE-cadherin-positive and -negative CTCs. Higher levels of VM are associated with worse overall survival in 41 limited-stage patients’ biopsies (P<0.025). VM vessels are also observed in 9/10 CTC patient-derived explants (CDX), where molecular analysis of fractionated VE-cadherin-positive cells uncovered copy-number alterations and mutated TP53, confirming human tumour origin. VE-cadherin is required for VM in NCI-H446 SCLC xenografts, where VM decreases tumour latency and, despite increased cisplatin intra-tumour delivery, decreases cisplatin efficacy. The functional significance of VM in SCLC suggests VM regulation may provide new targets for therapeutic intervention.
Role of the interface between distributed fibre optic strain sensor and soil in ground deformation measurement
Authors: Zhang Cheng-Cheng , Zhu Hong-Hu , Shi Bin
Published: November 2016

Recently the distributed fibre optic strain sensing (DFOSS) technique has been applied to monitor deformations of various earth structures. However, the reliability of soil deformation measurements remains unclear. Here we present an integrated DFOSS- and photogrammetry-based test study on the deformation behaviour of a soil foundation model to highlight the role of strain sensing fibre–soil interface in DFOSS-based geotechnical monitoring. Then we investigate how the fibre–soil interfacial behaviour is influenced by environmental changes, and how the strain distribution along the fibre evolves during progressive interface failure. We observe that the fibre–soil interfacial bond is tightened and the measurement range of the fibre is extended under high densities or low water contents of soil. The plastic zone gradually occupies the whole fibre length when the soil deformation accumulates. Consequently, we derive a theoretical model to simulate the fibre–soil interfacial behaviour throughout the progressive failure process, which accords well with the experimental results. On this basis, we further propose that the reliability of measured strain can be determined by estimating the stress state of the fibre–soil interface. These findings may have important implications for interpreting and evaluating fibre optic strain measurements, and implementing reliable DFOSS-based geotechnical instrumentation.