bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal cardiac function at 35–37 weeks' gestation: relationship with birth weight
Authors: Guy G. P. , Ling H. Z. , Machuca M. , Poon L. C. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between maternal cardiovascular parameters and neonatal birth weight and examine the potential value of these parameters in improving the prediction of small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) and large‐for‐gestational‐age (LGA) neonates provided by maternal characteristics and medical history.

Methods

In 2835 singleton pregnancies maternal characteristics and medical history were recorded and maternal cardiovascular parameters were measured. The observed measurements of cardiovascular parameters were expressed as multiples of the normal median (MoM) values after adjustment for those characteristics found to provide a substantial contribution to their measurement. Regression analysis was used to determine the significance of association between the normalized values of the cardiovascular parameters with birth‐weight Z‐score. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was then used to determine if the maternal factors, fetal biometry and maternal cardiovascular parameters had a significant contribution to predicting SGA and LGA neonates. The performance of screening was determined by the area under receiver–operating characteristics curves (AUC).

Results

In the study population there were significant positive associations between maternal cardiac output and heart rate with neonatal birth‐weight Z‐score, and significant negative associations between total peripheral resistance and mean arterial pressure (MAP) with neonatal birth‐weight Z‐score. In pregnancies delivering SGA neonates (n = 249 (8.8%)), cardiac output and heart rate were lower and total peripheral resistance and MAP were higher, whereas in pregnancies delivering LGA neonates (n = 292 (10.3%)) cardiac output and heart rate were higher and total peripheral resistance and MAP were lower. The performance of screening for delivery of SGA neonates achieved by maternal characteristics and fetal biometry was not improved by the measurement of maternal cardiovascular parameters. There was a small but significant improvement in the performance of screening for delivery of LGA neonates by maternal factors and fetal biometry with the addition of maternal heart rate (comparison of AUC, P = 0.0095).

Conclusions

There are significant associations between maternal cardiac output, heart rate, total peripheral resistance and MAP and neonatal birth‐weight Z‐score; such findings reflect the close relationship between maternal cardiac function and fetal demands. However, assessment of these parameters at 35–37 weeks' gestation is unlikely to improve substantially the performance of screening for SGA or LGA neonates provided by a combination of maternal factors and fetal biometry. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Performance of third‐trimester combined screening model for prediction of adverse perinatal outcome
Authors: Miranda J. , Triunfo S. , Rodriguez‐Lopez M. , Sairanen M. , Kouru H. , Parra‐Saavedra M. , Crovetto F. , Figueras F. , Crispi F. , Gratacós E.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To explore the potential value of third‐trimester combined screening for the prediction of adverse perinatal outcome (APO) in the general population and among small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) fetuses.

Methods

This was a nested case–control study within a prospective cohort of 1590 singleton gestations undergoing third‐trimester evaluation (32 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation). Maternal baseline characteristics, mean arterial blood pressure, fetoplacental ultrasound and circulating biochemical markers (placental growth factor (PlGF), lipocalin‐2, unconjugated estriol and inhibin A) were assessed in all women who subsequently had an APO (n = 148) and in a control group without perinatal complications (n = 902). APO was defined as the occurrence of stillbirth, umbilical artery cord blood pH < 7.15, 5‐min Apgar score < 7 or emergency operative delivery for fetal distress. Logistic regression models were developed for the prediction of APO in the general population and among SGA cases (defined as customized birth weight < 10th centile).

Results

The prevalence of APO was 9.3% in the general population and 27.4% among SGA cases. In the general population, a combined screening model including a‐priori risk (maternal characteristics), estimated fetal weight (EFW) centile, umbilical artery pulsatility index (UA‐PI), estriol and PlGF achieved a detection rate for APO of 26% (area under receiver–operating characteristics curve (AUC), 0.59 (95% CI, 0.54–0.65)), at a 10% false‐positive rate (FPR). Among SGA cases, a model including a‐priori risk, EFW centile, UA‐PI, cerebroplacental ratio, estriol and PlGF predicted 62% of APO (AUC, 0.86 (95% CI, 0.80–0.92)) at a FPR of 10%.

Conclusions

The use of fetal ultrasound and maternal biochemical markers at 32–36 weeks provides a poor prediction of APO in the general population. Although it remains limited, the performance of the screening model is improved when applied to fetuses with suboptimal fetal growth. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the fetal brain in intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Arthurs O. J. , Rega A. , Guimiot F. , Belarbi N. , Rosenblatt J. , Biran V. , Elmaleh M. , Sebag G. , Alison M.
Published: October 2016

Objective

Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) is a sensitive method for assessing brain maturation and detecting brain lesions, providing apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values as a measure of water diffusion. Abnormal ADC values are seen in ischemic brain lesions, such as those associated with acute or chronic hypoxia. The aim of this study was to assess whether ADC values in the fetal brain were different in fetuses with severe intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) compared with normal controls.

Methods

Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with single‐shot axial DWI (b = 0 and b = 700 s/mm2) was performed in 30 fetuses with severe IUGR (estimated fetal weight < 3rd centile with absent or reversed umbilical artery Doppler flow) and in 24 normal controls of similar gestational age. Brain morphology and biometry were analyzed. ADC values were measured in frontal and occipital white matter, centrum semiovale, thalami, cerebellar hemisphere and pons. Frontal–occipital and frontal–cerebellar ADC ratios were calculated, and values were compared between IUGR fetuses and controls.

Results

There was no difference in gestational age at MRI between IUGR and control fetuses (IUGR, 30.2 ± 1.6 weeks vs controls, 30.7 ± 1.4 weeks). Fetal brain morphology and signals were normal in all fetuses. Brain dimensions (supratentorial ± infratentorial) were decreased (Z‐score, < –2) in 20 (66.7%) IUGR fetuses. Compared with controls, IUGR fetuses had significantly lower ADC values in frontal white matter (1.97 ± 0.23 vs 2.17 ± 0.22 × 10–3 mm2/s; P < 0.0001), thalami (1.04 ± 0.15 vs 1.13 ± 0.10 ×10–3 mm2/s; P = 0.0002), centrum semiovale (1.86 ± 0.22 vs 1.97 ± 0.23 ×10–3 mm2/s; P = 0.01) and pons (0.85 ± 0.19 vs 0.94 ± 0.12 ×10–3 mm2/s; P = 0.043). IUGR fetuses had a lower frontal–occipital ADC ratio than did normal fetuses (1.00 ± 0.11 vs 1.08 ± 0.05; P = 0.003).

Conclusions

ADC values in IUGR fetuses were significantly lower than in normal controls in the frontal white matter, thalami, centrum semiovale and pons, suggesting abnormal maturation in these regions. However, the prognostic value of these ADC changes is still unknown. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Complications of intrauterine intravascular blood transfusion: lessons learned after 1678 procedures
Authors: Zwiers C. , Lindenburg I. T. M. , Klumper F. J. , de Haas M. , Oepkes D. , Van Kamp I. L.
Published: October 2016

Objective

Maternal alloimmunization to fetal red‐blood‐cell antigens is a major cause of fetal anemia, which can lead to hydrops and perinatal death if untreated. The cornerstone of management during pregnancy is intrauterine intravascular blood transfusion (IUT). Although this procedure is considered relatively safe, complications continue to occur. The aim of this study was to evaluate rates of procedure‐related complications and perinatal loss following IUT, and their change over time, in order to identify factors leading to improved outcome.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of all IUTs for red‐cell alloimmunization performed at the national referral center for fetal therapy in The Netherlands, from 1988 to 2015. Differences in complication rates and their associations with alterations in transfusion technique after 2001 were assessed.

Results

Between 1988 and 2015, 1678 IUTs were performed in 589 fetuses. For IUTs performed in 2001 and onwards, there was significant improvement in survival (88.6% vs 97.0%, P < 0.001) and a decline in procedure‐related complications per fetus (9.8% vs 3.3%, P = 0.001) and per procedure (3.4% vs 1.2%, P = 0.003) compared with those performed before 2001. Procedure‐related perinatal loss declined from 4.7% to 1.8% per fetus (P = 0.053). Beneficial changes in transfusion technique were routine use of fetal paralysis, increased use of intrahepatic transfusion and avoidance of arterial puncture.

Conclusions

IUT has become an increasingly safe procedure in recent years when performed by experienced hands. The chosen technique should be fine‐tuned according to the patient's individual situation. The declining complication rates are most likely related to center volume: this rare procedure is best performed in experienced fetal therapy centers. © 2016 Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Capacity value assessments of wind power
Authors: Milligan Michael , Frew Bethany , Ibanez Eduardo , Kiviluoma Juha , Holttinen Hannele , Söder Lennart
Published: October 2016

This article describes some of the recent research into the capacity value of wind power. With the worldwide increase in wind power during the past several years, there is increasing interest and significance regarding its capacity value because this has a direct influence on the amount of other (nonwind) capacity that is needed. We build on previous reviews from IEEE and IEA Wind Task 25a and examine recent work that evaluates the impact of multiple‐year data sets and the impact of interconnected systems on resource adequacy. We also provide examples that explore the use of alternative reliability metrics for wind capacity value calculations. We show how multiple‐year data sets significantly increase the robustness of results compared to single‐year assessments. Assumptions regarding the transmission interconnections play a significant role. To date, results regarding which reliability metric to use for probabilistic capacity valuation show little sensitivity to the metric. WIREs Energy Environ 2017, 6:e226. doi: 10.1002/wene.226

This article is categorized under:

Wind Power > Economics and Policy

Wind Power > Systems and Infrastructure

Energy Infrastructure > Economics and Policy
Enteric Duplication Cysts in Children: A Single‐Institution Series with Forty Patients in Twenty‐Six Years
Authors: Erginel Basak , Soysal Feryal Gun , Ozbey Huseyin , Keskin Erbug , Celik Alaattin , Karadag Aslıhan , Salman Tansu
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to evaluate our experience with enteric duplication cysts in 40 children during the past 26 years, while assessing the variability of their presentations and to propose an algorithm for surgical management.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed sex, age, clinical presentations, duplication site, surgical treatment, presence of ectopic tissue, complications, associated anomalies, and prognosis of 40 patients with gastrointestinal tract duplications who were surgically treated in our clinic.

Results

Overall, there was a predominance of boys (28 males, 70 %; 12 females, 30 %). The presenting symptom was vomiting in 23 patients, rectal bleeding in 11 patients, abdominal mass in 10 patients, abdominal pain in 9 patients, constipation in 6 patients, cough in 2 patients, and respiratory distress in 2 patients. In 30 patients, a complete excision of the cyst with additional segmental intestinal resection and anastomosis was performed. Cystectomy was performed in seven patients, while complete excision of the cyst with additional wedge resection was performed in two. A Wrenn procedure (mucosectomy) was performed in one patient.

Conclusion

Due to the variability in the site of enteric duplications, a wide range of presenting symptoms can exist, which is challenging for diagnosis. In children with a diagnosis of acute abdomen, enteric duplication cysts should be considered, and these children should be further investigated for additional skeletal, urogenital, and gastrointestinal system pathologies. Surgical treatment depends on the site and type of the cyst.
Biosynthesis, regulation, and engineering of a linear polyketide tautomycetin: a novel immunosuppressant in Streptomyces sp. CK4412
Authors: Choi Si-Sun , Nah Hee-Ju , Pyeon Hye-rim , Kim Eung-Soo
Published: October 2016

Tautomycetin (TMC) is a natural product with a linear structure that includes an ester bond connecting a dialkylmaleic moiety to a type I polyketide chain. Although TMC was originally identified as an antifungal antibiotic in the late 1980s, follow-up studies revealed its novel immunosuppressant activity. Specifically, TMC exhibited a mechanistically unique immunosuppressant activity about 100 times higher than that of cyclosporine A, a widely used immunosuppressant drug. Interestingly, a structurally close relative, tautomycin (TTM), was reported to not possess TMC-like immunosuppressant activity, suggesting that a distinctive polyketide moiety of TMC plays a critical role in immunosuppressant activity. Cloning and engineering of a TMC polyketide biosynthetic gene cluster generated several derivatives showing different biological activities. TMC was also found to be biosynthesized as a linear structure without forming a lactone ring, unlike the most polyketide-based compounds, implying the presence of a unique polyketide thioesterase in the cluster. Although TMC biosynthesis was limited due to its tight regulation by two pathway-specific regulatory genes located in the cluster, its production was significantly stimulated through homologous and heterologous expression of its entire biosynthetic gene cluster using a Streptomyces artificial chromosome vector system. In this mini-review, we summarize recent advances in the biosynthesis, regulation, and pathway engineering of a linear polyketide, TMC, in Streptomyces sp. CK4412.
Educational and Psychosocial Support Needs in Lynch Syndrome: Implementation and Assessment of an Educational Workshop and Support Group
Authors: Corines Marina J. , Hamilton Jada G. , Glogowski Emily , Anrig Chris A. , Goldberg Rachael , Niehaus Kate , Salo‐Mullen Erin , Harlan Megan , Sheehan Margaret R. , Trottier Magan , Ahsraf Asad , Tran Christina , Jacobs Lauren , Rau‐Murthy Rohini , Lincoln Anne G. , Robson Mark E. , Guillem Jose G. , Markowitz Arnold J. , Offit Kenneth , Stadler Zsofia K.
Published: October 2016

Few reports of educational and counseling support resources exist for Lynch syndrome (LS), a disorder requiring multi‐organ cancer screening and specialized medical care throughout adult life. Here we describe the development and efficacy of two resources designed to address this need, the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Clinical Genetics Service annual Lynch Syndrome Educational Workshop (LSEW), and a quarterly Lynch Syndrome Patient Advocacy Network (LSPAN) support group. The LSEW and LSPAN were implemented beginning in 2012. Participant survey data evaluating satisfaction, clarity, and unmet needs for each event were retrospectively analyzed and summarized using descriptive statistics. Annual LSEW attendance ranged from 53 to 75 total participants. LSEW year 1 participants indicated a need for a support group, and preferred in‐person meetings at a frequency of every 3–6 months. For LSEW year 2–5 participants, >96 % reported satisfaction with the LSEW, and >82 % expressed interest in secure online support. Common themes for improvement included increased time for question and answer sessions and additional introductory genetics education. Responding LSPAN participants (n = 57 total survey responses in 11 meetings) found the meetings helpful (100 %), information clear (91 %), and presence of a genetic counselor useful (67 %). Desired discussion topics included coping with stress and anxiety, development of a support network, family communication about LS, genetic testing decisions, and bereavement. Following genetic counseling, a need exists for ongoing educational and emotional support in LS. Implementation of resources such as the LSEW and LSPAN is feasible and perceived as helpful by participants.
GINDCLUS: Generalized INDCLUS with External Information
Authors: Bocci Laura , Vicari Donatella
Published: October 2016

A Generalized INDCLUS model, termed GINDCLUS, is presented for clustering three-way two-mode proximity data. In order to account for the heterogeneity of the data, both a partition of the subjects into homogeneous classes and a covering of the objects into groups are simultaneously determined. Furthermore, the availability of information which is external to the three-way data is exploited to better account for such heterogeneity: the weights of both classifications are linearly linked to external variables allowing for the identification of meaningful classes of subjects and groups of objects. The model is fitted in a least-squares framework, and an efficient Alternating Least-Squares algorithm is provided. An extensive simulation study and an application on benchmark data are also presented.
Direct cloning and transplanting of large DNA fragments from Escherichia coli chromosome
Authors: Zhu Ying , Yang Yan , Den Pingping , Huang Yong , Ni Mengxiang , Fang Hongqing
Published: October 2016

We applied a resistance split-fusion strategy to increase thein vivodirect cloning efficiency mediated by Red recombination. The cat cassette was divided into two parts:cma(which has a homologous sequence withcmb) andcmb, each of which has no resistance separately unless the two parts are fused together. Thecmbsequence was integrated into one flank of a target cloning region in the chromosome, and a linear vector containing thecmasequence was electroporated into the cells to directly capture the target region. Based on this strategy, we successfully cloned an approximately 48 kb DNA fragment from theE. coliDH1-Z chromosome with a positive frequency of approximately 80%. Combined with double-strand breakage-stimulated homologous recombination, we applied this strategy to successfully replace the corresponding region of theE. coliDH36 chromosome and knock out four non-essential genomic regions in one step. This strategy could provide a powerful tool for the heterologous expression of microbial natural product biosynthetic pathways for genome assembly and for the functional study of DNA sequences dozens of kilobases in length.
Evaluation of functional outcomes and preliminary results in a case series of 15 children treated with arthroscopic release for internal rotation contracture of the shoulder joint after Erb's palsy
Authors: Elzohairy Mohamed Mansour , Salama Adel Mohamed
Published: October 2016

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate shoulder function following minimally invasive subtotal subscapularis muscle and periarticular capsuloligamentous arthroscopic release in children with Erb's palsy.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted on 15 consecutive children who underwent subtotal subscapularis muscle and periarticular capsuloligamentous arthroscopic release to treat internal rotation contracture of the shoulder joint after Erb's palsy. Age at surgery ranged from 24 to 38 months (average 28.3) (2.4 years). All of the patients were assessed clinically and radiologically preoperatively and postoperatively at regular intervals. The Mallet scoring system was used to analyze the results.

Results

The mean external rotation improved from –24° to +46° ( p = 0.001) at the last follow-up. Active internal rotation was preserved in all cases. At the final follow-up, there had been no loss of the external rotation gained and no recurrence of internal rotation contracture of the shoulder, and the mean Mallet score (total) had improved from 11 to 17 points ( p = 0.001).

Conclusions

In children aged from 1 to 3 years, an arthroscopic release procedure alone may successfully restore function and yield a centered glenohumeral joint, which has a beneficial effect on glenoid remodeling.

Level of evidence

Level IV.
Is head–shaft angle a valuable continuous risk factor for hip migration in cerebral palsy?
Authors: Chougule Sanjay , Dabis John , Petrie Aviva , Daly Karen , Gelfer Yael
Published: October 2016

Background

Reimer's migration percentage (MP) is the most established radiographic risk factor for hip migration in cerebral palsy (CP), and it assists surgical decision-making. The head–shaft angle (HSA) measures the valgus of the head and neck in relation to the shaft and may also be a useful predictor of hip migration at a young age. This study first defined normal values and investigated whether the head–shaft angle (HSA) is a continuous risk factor for hip migration in CP.

Methods

Three hundred and fifty AP pelvic radiographs of 100 consecutive children comprising the hip surveillance programme in our region were analysed for MP and HSA. Inclusion criteria were children with spastic CP and Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels of III–V, along with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. The mean age was 8.8 (range 3–18) years and the mean follow-up time was 7.5 (range 5–10) years. Radiographs of 103 typically developing children (TDC) were selected for the control group. The reliability of the measurements was determined. A random effects analysis was used to assess the relationship between MP and HSA for all data and for MP > 40 %.

Results

The TDC cohort had a mean HSA of 157.7° whilst that for the CP cohort was 161.7°. The value declined with age in both groups but remained consistently higher in the CP group. A random effects analysis considering the longitudinal data showed that there was no significant effect of HSA on MP. Similarly, when excluding CP patients with MP < 40 %, there was no significant effect of HSA on MP.

Conclusions

This study found no correlation between HSA and hip migration in children with CP in this age group. Using the HSA as a routine radiographic measure in the management pathway across childhood does not offer any added value. Early enrolment onto the hip surveillance programme could offer a better prediction of hip migration using the HSA at a very young age.

Level of evidence

II retrospective prognostic study.
Blood Glucagon Levels Predict the Hemoglobin A1c Response to Saxagliptin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled with Metformin
Authors: Liu Hao , Hu Yun , Li Feng-fei , Liu Bing-li , Su Xiao-fei , Ma Jian-hua
Published: October 2016

Background

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are widely used as second-option medications when metformin fails. Variance of the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) response to DPP-4 inhibitions in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
(T2DM) has been observed, but the characteristics which predict the response to DPP-4 inhibitor therapy are unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of α- and β-cell functions which might predict the efficacy of saxagliptin and facilitate personalization of treatment.

Methods

We studied 60 patients with T2DM who had inadequate glycemic control [HbA1c7.0–13.0% (53–119 mmol/mol)) with metformin alone. The patients were treated with saxagliptin (5 mg, daily) and metformin (1000–2000 mg as former) for 12 weeks. Oral glucose tolerance tests were carried out at baseline and endpoint to evaluate α- and β-cell functions, and blood C-peptide, insulin, glucagon levels were tested. Blood glucose, HbA1c and weight were also observed.

Results

Significant reduction of weight, HbA1c and glucagon was observed after 12-week treatment, while C-peptide, insulin and homeostasis model assessment-β increased (P < 0.05). Linear regression and receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that baseline HbA1c and 30 min-glucagon were correlated with the HbA1c response to saxagliptin, while the weight loss was correlated with gender, age and fasting-insulin level. Further analysis showed the 30 min-glucagon of 49.1 pmol/L was the optimal cutoff value to predict the efficacy of saxagliptin.

Conclusions

Saxagliptin added to metformin significantly improved glycemic control and α- and β-cell function. Blood glucagon level was a good predicting factor for the HbA1c response to saxagliptin, and it will help appropriate patient selection.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Register identifier, ChiCTR-PPR-15007045.
Predicting Functional Capacity From Measures of Muscle Mass in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Orsatti Fábio Lera , Nunes Paulo Ricardo Prado , Souza Aletéia de Paula , Martins Fernanda Maria , de Oliveira Anselmo Alves , Nomelini Rosekeila Simões , Michelin Márcia Antoniazi , Murta Eddie Fernando Cândido
Published: October 2016

Background

Menopause increases body fat and decreases muscle mass and strength, which contribute to sarcopenia. The amount of appendicular muscle mass has been frequently used to diagnose sarcopenia. Different measures of appendicular muscle mass have been proposed. However, no studies have compared the most salient measure (appendicular muscle mass corrected by body fat) of the appendicular muscle mass to physical function in postmenopausal women.

Objective

To examine the association of 3 different measurements of appendicular muscle mass (absolute, corrected by stature, and corrected by body fat) with physical function in postmenopausal women.

Design

Cross‐sectional descriptive study.

Setting

Outpatient geriatric and gynecological clinic.

Participants

Forty‐eight postmenopausal women with a mean age (standard deviation [SD]) of 62.1 ± 8.2 years, with mean (SD) length of menopause of 15.7 ± 9.8 years and mean (SD) body fat of 43.6% ± 9.8%.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Appendicular muscle mass measure was measured with dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry. Physical function was measured by a functional capacity questionnaire, a short physical performance battery, and a 6 minute‐walk test. Muscle quality (leg extensor strength to lower‐body mineral‐free lean mass ratio) and sum of z scores (sum of each physical function tests z score) were performed to provide a global index of physical function.

Results

The regression analysis showed that appendicular muscle mass corrected by body fat was the strongest predictor of physical function. Each increase in the standard deviation of appendicular muscle mass corrected by body fat was associated with a mean sum of z score increase of 59% (standard deviation), whereas each increase in absolute appendicular muscle mass and appendicular muscle mass corrected by stature were associated with a mean sum of z scores decrease of 23% and 36%, respectively. Muscle quality was associated with appendicular muscle mass corrected by body fat.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that appendicular muscle mass corrected by body fat is a better predictor of physical function than the other measures of appendicular muscle mass in postmenopausal women.

Level of Evidence

I
Macroscopic and kinetic modelling of rarefied polyatomic gases
Authors: Rahimi Behnam , Struchtrup Henning
Published: October 2016

A kinetic model and corresponding high-order macroscopic model for the accurate description of rarefied polyatomic gas flows are introduced. The different energy exchange processes are accounted for with a two term collision model. The proposed kinetic model, which is an extension of the S-model, predicts correct relaxation of higher moments and delivers the accurate Prandtl ($Pr$) number. Also, the model has a proven linear H-theorem. The order of magnitude method is applied to the primary moment equations to acquire the optimized moment definitions and the final scaled set of Grad’s 36 moment equations for polyatomic gases. At the first order, a modification of the Navier–Stokes–Fourier (NSF) equations is obtained. At third order of accuracy, a set of 19 regularized partial differential equations (R19) is obtained. Furthermore, the terms associated with the internal degrees of freedom yield various intermediate orders of accuracy, a total of 13 different orders. Thereafter, boundary conditions for the proposed macroscopic model are introduced. The unsteady heat conduction of a gas at rest is studied numerically and analytically as an example of a boundary value problem. The results for different gases are given and effects of Knudsen numbers, degrees of freedom, accommodation coefficients and temperature-dependent properties are investigated. For some cases, the higher-order effects are very dominant and the widely used first-order set of the NSF equations fails to accurately capture the gas behaviour and should be replaced by the proposed higher-order set of equations.
New material of the marsupial (Mammalia, Metatheria)Herpetotherium merriami(Stock and Furlong, ) from the John Day Formation, late Oligocene, Oregon, USA
Authors: Korth William W. , Cavin Jennifer
Published: October 2016

Recently discovered specimens of the marsupialHerpetotherium merriami(Stock and Furlong, 1922) from the John Day Formation, Oregon, are described. The species was previously known only from a single (type) specimen. These additional specimens have allowed for a revised diagnosis of the species based on the presence of an additional stylar cusp on the upper molars, as well as the relative size of the stylar cusps. This new material also allows for an examination of the variability within the species and establishes a time range for the species, which extends through most of the Arikareean (late Oligocene: Ar1–Ar3: late Rupelian-Aquitanian).Herpetotherium merriamiis distinct within the genus because it is among the larger of the species, but one of the latest occurring, whereas the general pattern of the genus is a reduction in size through time.
Diet misreporting can be corrected: confirmation of the association between energy intake and fat-free mass in adolescents
Authors: Vainik Uku , Konstabel Kenn , Lätt Evelin , Mäestu Jarek , Purge Priit , Jürimäe Jaak
Published: October 2016

Subjective energy intake (sEI) is often misreported, providing unreliable estimates of energy consumed. Therefore, relating sEI data to health outcomes is difficult. Recently, Börnhorstet al. compared various methods to correct sEI-based energy intake estimates. They criticised approaches that categorise participants as under-reporters, plausible reporters and over-reporters based on the sEI:total energy expenditure (TEE) ratio, and thereafter use these categories as statistical covariates or exclusion criteria. Instead, they recommended using external predictors of sEI misreporting as statistical covariates. We sought to confirm and extend these findings. Using a sample of 190 adolescent boys (mean age=14), we demonstrated that dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-measured fat-free mass is strongly associated with objective energy intake data (onsite weighted breakfast), but the association with sEI (previous 3-d dietary interview) is weak. Comparing sEI with TEE revealed that sEI was mostly under-reported (74 %). Interestingly, statistically controlling for dietary reporting groups or restricting samples to plausible reporters created a stronger-than-expected association between fat-free mass and sEI. However, the association was an artifact caused by selection bias – that is, data re-sampling and simulations showed that these methods overestimated the effect size because fat-free mass was related to sEI both directly and indirectly via TEE. A more realistic association between sEI and fat-free mass was obtained when the model included common predictors of misreporting (e.g. BMI, restraint). To conclude, restricting sEI data only to plausible reporters can cause selection bias and inflated associations in later analyses. Therefore, we further support statistically correcting sEI data in nutritional analyses. The script for running simulations is provided.
Dietary sodium and potassium intake in relation to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Choi Yuni , Lee Jung Eun , Chang Yoosoo , Kim Mi Kyung , Sung Eunju , Shin Hocheol , Ryu Seungho
Published: October 2016

A few epidemiological data are available assessing the associations of intakes of sodium (Na) and potassium (K) with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to examine the associations of dietary intake of Na and K with the prevalence of ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD. We performed a cross-sectional study of 100 177 participants (46 596 men and 53 581 women) who underwent a health screening examination and completed a FFQ at the Kangbuk Samsung Hospital Total Healthcare Centers, South Korea, between 2011 and 2013. NAFLD was defined by ultrasonographic detection of fatty liver in the absence of excessive alcohol intake or other known causes of liver disease. The proportion of NAFLD was 35·6 % for men and 9·8 % for women. Increasing prevalence of NAFLD was observed with increasing Na intake. The multivariable-adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) of NAFLD comparing the highest with the lowest quintile of energy-adjusted Na intake were 1·25 (95 % CI 1·18, 1·32; Ptrend<0·001) in men and 1·32 (95 % CI 1·18, 1·47; Ptrend <0·001) in women. However, when we additionally adjusted for body fat percentage, the association became attenuated; the corresponding PR of NAFLD were 1·15 (95 % CI 1·09, 1·21) in men and 1·06 (95 % CI 0·95, 1·17) in women. No inverse association was observed for energy-adjusted K intake. Our findings suggest that higher Na intake is associated with a greater prevalence of NAFLD in young and middle-aged asymptomatic adults, which might be partly mediated by adiposity.
Rice endosperm protein slows progression of fatty liver and diabetic nephropathy in Zucker diabetic fatty rats
Authors: Kubota Masatoshi , Watanabe Reiko , Yamaguchi Miki , Hosojima Michihiro , Saito Akihiko , Fujii Mikio , Fujimura Shinobu , Kadowaki Motoni
Published: October 2016

We previously reported that rice endosperm protein (REP) has renoprotective effects in Goto–Kakizaki rats, a non-obese diabetic model. However, whether these effects occur in obese diabetes remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the effects of REP on obese diabetes, especially on fatty liver and diabetic nephropathy, using the obese diabetic model Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. In total, 7-week-old male ZDF rats were fed diets containing 20 % REP or casein (C) for 8 weeks. Changes in fasting blood glucose levels and urinary markers were monitored during the experimental period. Hepatic lipids and metabolites were measured and renal glomeruli were observed morphologically. HbA1c levels were significantly lower in rats fed REP, compared with C (P<0·05). Compared with C in the liver, REP prevented lipid accumulation (total lipid, TAG and total cholesterol,P<0·01). Liver metabolome analysis indicated that levels of metabolites associated with glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway and carnitine metabolism were significantly greater in the REP group than in the C group (P<0·05), suggesting activation of both glucose catabolism and fatty acid oxidation. The metabolite increases promoted by REP may contribute to suppression of liver lipid accumulation. Urinary excretion of albumin andN-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase was significantly reduced in rats fed REP for 8 weeks (P<0·01). In addition, there was a distinct suppression of mesangial matrix expansion and glomerular hypertrophy in response to REP (P<0·01). Thus, REP had preventive effects on obese diabetes, fatty liver and diabetic nephropathy.
EXAMINING THE DRIVERS OF AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENTATION AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN MALAWI
Authors: HOCKETT MICHELE , RICHARDSON ROBERT B.
Published: October 2016

Smallholder farmers in Malawi are faced with the challenge of managing complex and dynamic farming systems while also adapting to change within volatile agroecological conditions. Moreover, management decisions are influenced by a combination of local knowledge, expert recommendations and on-farm experimentation. Although many smallholder farmers actively experiment with new crops and technologies, little is known about the prevalence of experimentation or the types of experiments farmers conduct. This study examined the decision-making processes of experimenting farmers to explore the drivers of on-farm experimentation. Using a mixed-methods design that incorporated field observations, survey data and in-depth interviews, we identified numerous examples of experiments with new crops, varieties and techniques that had been executed either independently or through participation in an agricultural development project. Results of quantitative and qualitative analysis reveal that smallholder farmers in Malawi across a range of socioeconomic characteristics are inclined to experiment, and gender roles in agricultural experimentation vary widely. While experimental methods differ between farmers, there are commonalities in the drivers of experimentation, including adapting to climate change, improving soil health, improving nutrition and generating income. Smallholders have a great capacity for experimentation, and their knowledge, experience, preferences and priorities – if properly understood and incorporated – could ultimately benefit both future agricultural development projects and their participants.
Identification of FBN1 gene mutations in Ukrainian Marfan syndrome patients
Authors: ZHURAYEV RUSTAM , PROOST DORIEN , ZERBINO DMYTRO , FEDORENKO VIKTOR , MEESTER JOSEPHINA A. N. , VAN LAER LUT , LOEYS BART L.
Published: October 2016

Marfan syndrome is an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder, predominantly affecting the ocular, skeletal and cardiovascular systems. Here, we present the results of the first genetic testing in 40 Ukrainian Marfan (-like) patients and 10 relatives. We applied a targeted next generation sequencing panel comprising FBN1 and 13 thoracic aortic aneurysm genes. We identified 27 causal mutations in FBN1, obtaining a mutation yield of 67·5%. A significant difference in age at aortic surgery between mutation positive and negative patients was observed. Thus, we conclude that genetic testing is important to identify patients at higher risk for developing life-threatening cardiovascular complications.
Performance of crossbred dairy Friesian calves fed two levels ofSaccharomyces cerevisiae: intake, digestion, ruminal fermentation, blood parameters and faecal pathogenic bacteria
Authors: HASSAN A. A. , SALEM A. Z. M. , KHOLIF A. E. , SAMIR M. , YACOUT M. H. , HAFSA S. H. ABU , MENDOZA G. D. , ELGHANDOUR M. M. Y. , AYALA M. , LOPEZ S.
Published: October 2016

The effect of feeding two levels ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeon the performance of crossbred Friesian calves was investigated. Twenty-four neonatal male Friesian × Baladi calves (35·5 ± 0·25 kg of initial body weight) were randomly assigned in a completely randomized design into three experimental groups for 90 days (eight calves per group). Calves fed their diets without yeast (S. cerevisiae) were considered as Control, while the diets of other calves were supplemented daily either with 2·5 g (YL diet) or with 5 g (YH diet) of yeast per calf. Calves fed the YH diet showed increased feed intake, while dry matter and fibre digestibilities were increased in calves fed YH and YL diets. Calves fed YL and YH diets showed lower ruminal ammonia-N and higher total volatile fatty acids, acetate and propionate concentrations than Control calves. Both YH and YL calves showed increased plasma concentrations of total protein, globulin and glucose and decreased cholesterol and triglycerides concentrations. Calves’ final weight and daily gain were increased withS. cerevisiaeyeast supplemented diets. After 42 days of experiment,Clostridiumspp.,Escherichia coliandEnterobacteriaspp. counts were down to undetectable levels in the faeces of calves fedS. cerevisiaeadditive. It could be concluded that addingS. cerevisiaeto milk-fed calves increased feed utilization and improved pre-weaned calf performance and health status, reducing faecal pathogenic bacteria.
Age, growth and reproduction of the protandrous hermaphrodite fish, Sarpa salpa, from the Portuguese continental coast
Authors: Paiva Rafaela Barros , Neves Ana , Sequeira Vera , Vieira Ana Rita , Costa Maria José , Gordo Leonel Serrano
Published: October 2016

Salema, Sarpa salpa is a commercial exploited species in the Atlantic Ocean with little available information for the essential population parameters, such as age, growth and reproduction. The present study aims to describe these parameters for S. salpa obtained off the coast of Portugal. Ages were estimated from the whole otolith readings; the minimum and the maximum ages observed were 0 and 14 years, respectively, corresponding to 5.2 and 41.4 cm of total length (TL). Whole otolith readings and back-calculation approaches were used to estimate the parameters of the von Bertalanffy growth function and the Akaike's information criterion value suggested that the second approach was the best one to describe the growth of salema: L∞ = 45.07 cm, k = 0.14 year−1 and t0 = −1.43 year. The species is a protandric hermaphrodite and the sex change process occurred between 28.6 and 40.9 cm TL. A short spawning season was identified, extending from September to November. The estimated length at first maturity for males was 24.5 cm TL, corresponding to an age of 2 years at first maturity. This species exhibited a determinate fecundity type and the relative annual fecundity varied between 462 and 2662 oocytes per gram of gutted weight.
Listening comprehension of academic and everyday language in first language and second language students
Authors: MARX ALEXANDRA , HEPPT BIRGIT , HENSCHEL SOFIE
Published: October 2016

Listening comprehension in academic contexts is an important prerequisite for the acquisition of school-related skills. However, the concept of academic language is generally the subject of much debate, and there is no consensus yet on what constitutes academic listening comprehension. To date, it remains unclear whether listening comprehension of academic language may be regarded as a distinct construct. The present study investigates the distinction of academic and everyday listening comprehension in 459 ninth-grade students speaking German as a first language or as a second language. Empirical results provide preliminary evidence that academic listening forms a separate facet of listening comprehension. Contrary to theoretical assumptions, second language students were not particularly disadvantaged in terms of academic listening comprehension.
The Archaeology of Purity and Impurity: A Case-Study from Tel ʿEton, Israel
Authors: Faust Avraham , Katz Hayah
Published: October 2016

The distinction between clean and unclean, often associated with bodily functions, is a common feature of human societies. Consequently, diverse groups developed different ways of maintaining separation between the realms. Despite its prominence in many ethnographies and in anthropology at large, and although the spatial expression of this separation is susceptible to archaeological enquiry, the concept of purity had received less attention by archaeologists. The completion of the excavation of a large house at Tel ʿEton supplied us with detailed information on household life and practices in Iron Age Israel. The finds from this house, along with a very large archaeological dataset about Iron Age Israelite society at large and the wealth of textual data from this period, give us insights into the practices associated with purity/impurity. The article reconstructs how Iron Age Israelite society coped with the implications of impurity (mainly women during menstruation) in its daily life, how impurity was contained, and offers a reconstruction of the ritual that accompanied the change of status from impure to pure.
The case for an oral architecture: carpentry and communal assembly among the Dong of Southwest China
Authors: Jones Peter Blundell , Kong Derong
Published: October 2016

Chinese architecture was for a long time ignored because it was not produced by architects and because it did not follow Western classical expectations, and vernacular architecture was little discussed until the 1960s, and only recently embraced by its own encyclopaedia. Yet the division of labour between drawing architect and practical builder was never wholly advantageous or inevitable, for specialisation of roles can lead to differentiation, inequality, and division, as well as constructional efficiency. Only in the last century has the division between office work and construction site become so complete, resulting in losses as well as gains. Most obviously it has removed design from making, the person with the drawing pen no longer obliged to experience the materials in their weight and texture, or to discover by handling them the best ways to work them. The designer who has never picked up a brick or wielded a chisel can possess little sensibility for the material, but as long as their duties are fulfilled on paper with apparent competence, the process is carried through. On the receiving end, bricklayer or carpenter must produce what drawings demand even when good sense seems lacking, so they carry the work through grumpily without conviction instead of participating in the creative process. This paper looks at oral architecture in the Dong culture, and the way in which buildings have traditionally been produced by carpenters along with the local community, accompanied by shared rituals which reinforce their significance.
Inhabited lobbies: The social life of space in the work of Brady Mallalieu Architects
Authors: Carr Andrew
Published: October 2016

The inhabited lobby is a recurring device in the work of Brady Mallalieu Architects based. It is characterised by a central space in a building which connects different activities physically, visually, acoustically and socially. Notionally a circulation space, it assumes an expanded role, becoming an inhabitable entity in itself and the social focus of a building.

The device has been deployed and developed across a series of built and un-built projects by Brady Mallalieu from 1996 to 2016, ranging in scale from a private family home through various community and educational buildings to a high-density housing complex and city centre masterplan. These projects are reviewed in order to identify the various spatial connections and physical props which constitute the inhabited lobby and its role in enriching the potential for occupation, not only of the lobby itself but also the network of places which it connects together. Its underlying purpose is to make the building more habitable and engage with the unanticipated potential which a more deterministic approach might overlook.

The explorations in this paper inform a discussion on the role of the architect in designing for predicted and unanticipated uses and, specifically, on the potential of the ‘inhabited lobby’ as an architectural device. As much as it is a connecting, in-between space, it is a space in itself.