bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refining the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory–Patient‐Reported Outcome (PEDI‐PRO) item candidates: interpretation of a self‐reported outcome measure of functional performance by young people with neurodevelopmental disabilities
Authors: Kramer Jessica M , Schwartz Ariel
Published: June 2017

Aim

This study examined the item interpretability and rating scale use of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory–Patient‐Reported Outcome (PEDI‐PRO) by young people with developmental disabilities. The PEDI‐PRO assesses the functional performance of discrete functional tasks in the context of everyday life situations.

Method

A two‐phase cognitive interview design was implemented with a convenience sample of 37 young people (mean age 19y, SD 2y 5mo; 13 males and 24 females; 68% with intellectual disability) with developmental disabilities. In phase I, 182 item candidates were each reviewed by an average of four young people. In phase II, 103 items were carried forward or revised and each reviewed by an average of seven additional young people. Two raters coded responses for intended item interpretation and performance quality; codes were analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative analysis explored young people's self‐evaluation process.

Results

Items were interpreted as intended by most young people (mean 86%). Young people can use PEDI‐PRO response categories appropriately to describe their performance: 94% of positive performance descriptions coincided with a positive response category choice; 73% of negative descriptions coincided with a negative response category choice. Young people interpreted items in a literal manner, and their self‐evaluation incorporated the use of supports that facilitate functional performance.

Interpretation

The PEDI‐PRO's measurement framework appears to support the self‐evaluation of functional performance of young people with developmental disabilities.
Effect of continuous exenatide infusion on cardiac function and peri‐operative glucose control in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: A single‐blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lipš Michal , Mráz Miloš , Kloučková Jana , Kopecký Petr , Dobiáš Miloš , Křížová Jarmila , Lindner Jaroslav , Diamant Michaela , Haluzík Martin
Published: June 2017

We performed a randomized controlled trial with the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonist exenatide as add‐on to standard peri‐operative insulin therapy in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. The aims of the study were to intensify peri‐operative glucose control while minimizing the risk of hypoglycaemia and to evaluate the suggested cardioprotective effects of GLP‐1‐based treatments. A total of 38 patients with decreased left ventricular systolic function (ejection fraction ≤50%) scheduled for elective coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were randomized to receive either exenatide or placebo in a continuous 72‐hour intravenous (i.v.) infusion on top of standard peri‐operative insulin therapy. While no significant difference in postoperative echocardiographic variables was found between the groups, participants receiving exenatide showed improved peri‐operative glucose control as compared with the placebo group (average glycaemia 6.4 ± 0.5 vs 7.3 ± 0.8 mmol/L; P < .001; percentage of time in target range of 4.5–6.5 mmol/L 54.8% ± 14.5% vs 38.6% ± 14.4%; P = .001; percentage of time above target range 39.7% ± 13.9% vs 52.8% ± 15.2%; P = .009) without an increased risk of hypoglycaemia (glycaemia <3.3 mmol/L: 0.10 ± 0.32 vs 0.21 ± 0.42 episodes per participant; P = .586). Continuous administration of i.v. exenatide in patients undergoing elective CABG could provide a safe option for intensifying the peri‐operative glucose management of such patients.
Severe hypoglycaemia among patients with type 2 diabetes requiring emergency hospital admission: The Hypoglycaemia In Portugal Observational Study–Emergency Room (HIPOS–ER)
Authors: Conceição João , Dores Jorge , Araújo Francisco , Laires Pedro A. , Carr Richard D. , Brodovicz Kimberly , Radican Larry , Nogueira Ana M.
Published: June 2017

Aims

To analyse the prevalence of severe hypoglycaemia in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) treated with antihyperglycaemic agents (AHA) and requiring emergency room (ER) assistance, and to analyse the prevalence according to type of AHA therapy.

Methods

The present study, the Hypoglycaemia In Portugal Observational Study–Emergency Room (HIPOS–ER), was a cross‐sectional, observational, multicentre, nationwide study, with specific hypoglycaemia source data collection.

Results

Within the study period, a total of 425 706 admissions were recorded in the ERs of participating hospitals. The prevalence of severe hypoglycaemic episodes in patients with T2DM was 0.074%. In all, 238 patients were included, more than half of whom were on insulin‐based therapy (55.0%) and a third of whom (31.5%) were on oral secretagogue‐based therapy. In 61.2% of patients primary care was the main diabetes care setting. The median patient age was 77.5 years and the mean duration of diabetes was 19 years. Missing a meal or low carbohydrate meal content was the most frequent cause of hypoglycaemia (55.9%) and the most frequent triggers for seeking emergency assistance were pre‐syncope (19.2%) and transient loss of consciousness (17.4%). A total of 44.1% of patients were hospitalized for a median of 5.1 days. Patients in the secretagogue group were admitted to hospital more often than patients in the insulin group (70.7% vs 29.0%; P < .001). Nine patients died.

Conclusions

These findings confirm that severe hypoglycaemia in patients with T2DM requiring ER assistance occurs mainly in those on insulin‐ and secretagogue‐based therapies and is associated with a significant medical burden. Antidiabetic therapy should be individualized to minimize the risk of severe iatrogenic hypoglycaemia, and any intervention to this end should always involve primary care stakeholders.
Darker where cold and wet: Australian birds follow their own version of Gloger's rule
Authors: Delhey Kaspar
Published: June 2017

Gloger's rule is usually interpreted as predicting darker coloured animals in warmer and more humid/vegetated regions. The relative importance of temperature and rainfall or vegetation is however unclear, and often only one variable is tested at a time, mainly through proxies. Here, I assess the predictions of Gloger's rule for interspecific achromatic plumage variation (dark to light variation) for an entire avifauna (551 species of Australian landbirds). I tested the effects of climatic variables (temperature and rainfall) and vegetation structure on plumage reflectance at species and assemblage level (100 × 100 km cells), controlling for phylogenetic relatedness and spatial autocorrelation. To assess the robustness of these results I compared observed results with those of a null distribution of effects obtained from repeatedly simulating random plumage reflectance evolution on the phylogeny. At both the species and assemblage level, darker coloured birds were found in wetter and colder regions and in more densely vegetated habitats. Simulations confirm results at the species level and the effect of temperature at the assemblage level, but rainfall and vegetation effects at the assemblage level fall within the distribution of simulated effects and should be interpreted with care. Interspecific colour variation in Australian birds supports Gloger's rule for rainfall/vegetation, but shows the opposite pattern for temperature. Darker colours in wet and vegetated environments are consistent with the role of melanin pigmentation in preventing feather degradation by bacteria, but also with background‐matching for camouflage. Darker plumage might be beneficial in colder regions or detrimental in warmer regions if it affects thermoregulation, a selective force often only assumed to be of importance for ectotherms. The data highlight the need to test the generality of biogeographic rules across levels and at broad scale. Experimental work is needed to confirm the mechanisms linking plumage achromatic variation to climate.
Evolutionary processes, dispersal limitation and climatic history shape current diversity patterns of European dragonflies
Authors: Pinkert Stefan , Dijkstra Klaas‐Douwe B. , Zeuss Dirk , Reudenbach Christoph , Brandl Roland , Hof Christian
Published: June 2017

We investigated the effects of contemporary and historical factors on the spatial variation of European dragonfly diversity. Specifically, we tested to what extent patterns of endemism and phylogenetic diversity of European dragonfly assemblages are structured by 1) phylogenetic conservatism of thermal adaptations and 2) differences in the ability of post‐glacial recolonization by species adapted to running waters (lotic) and still waters (lentic). We investigated patterns of dragonfly diversity using digital distribution maps and a phylogeny of 122 European dragonfly species, which we constructed by combining taxonomic and molecular data. We calculated total taxonomic distinctiveness and mean pairwise distances across 4192 50 × 50 km equal‐area grid cells as measures of phylogenetic diversity. We compared species richness with corrected weighted endemism and standardized effect sizes of mean pairwise distances or residuals of total taxonomic distinctiveness to identify areas with higher or lower phylogenetic diversity than expected by chance. Broken‐line regression was used to detect breakpoints in diversity–latitude relationships. Dragonfly species richness peaked in central Europe, whereas endemism and phylogenetic diversity decreased from warm areas in the south‐west to cold areas in the north‐east and with an increasing proportion of lentic species. Except for species richness, all measures of diversity were consistently higher in formerly unglaciated areas south of the 0°C isotherm during the Last Glacial Maximum than in formerly glaciated areas. These results indicate that the distributions of dragonfly species in Europe were shaped by both phylogenetic conservatism of thermal adaptations and differences between lentic and lotic species in the ability of post‐glacial recolonization/dispersal in concert with the climatic history of the continent. The complex diversity patterns of European dragonflies provide an example of how integrating climatic and evolutionary history with contemporary ecological data can improve our understanding of the processes driving the geographical variation of biological diversity.
The human guanylate‐binding proteins hGBP‐1 and hGBP‐5 cycle between monomers and dimers only
Authors: Ince Semra , Kutsch Miriam , Shydlovskyi Sergii , Herrmann Christian
Published: June 2017

Belonging to the dynamin superfamily of large GTPases, human guanylate‐binding proteins (hGBPs) comprise a family of seven isoforms (hGBP‐1 to hGBP‐7) that are strongly upregulated in response to interferon‐γ and other cytokines. Accordingly, several hGBPs are found to exhibit various cellular functions encompassing inhibitory effects on cell proliferation, tumor suppression as well as antiviral and antibacterial activity; however, their mechanism of action is only poorly understood. Often, cellular functions of dynamin‐related proteins are closely linked to their ability to form nucleotide‐dependent oligomers, a feature that also applies to hGBP‐1 and hGBP‐5. hGBPs are described as monomers, dimers, tetramers, and higher oligomeric species, the function of which is not clearly established. Therefore, this work focused on the oligomerization capability of hGBP‐1 and hGBP‐5, which are reported to assemble to homodimers and homotetramers. Employing independent methods such as size‐exclusion chromatography, which relies on the hydrodynamic radius, and multiangle light scattering, which relies on the mass of the protein, revealed that previous interpretations regarding the size of the proteins and their complexes have to be revised. Additional studies using inter‐ and intramolecular Förster resonance energy transfer demonstrated that nucleotide‐triggered intramolecular structural changes lead to a more extended shape of hGBP‐1 being responsible for the appearance of larger oligomeric species. Thus, previously reported tetrameric and dimeric species of hGBP‐1 and hGBP‐5 were unmasked as dimers and monomers, respectively, with their shapes depending on both the bound nucleotide and the ionic strength of the solution.
Combating multidrug‐resistant Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Authors: Thu Aung Myint , Phyo Aung Pyae , Landier Jordi , Parker Daniel M. , Nosten François H.
Published: June 2017

Over the past 50 years, Plasmodium falciparum has developed resistance against all antimalarial drugs used against it: chloroquine, sulphadoxine–pyrimethamine, quinine, piperaquine and mefloquine. More recently, resistance to the artemisinin derivatives and the resulting failure of artemisinin‐based combination therapy (ACT) are threatening all major gains made in malaria control. Each time resistance has developed progressively, with delayed clearance of parasites first emerging only in a few regions, increasing in prevalence and geographic range, and then ultimately resulting in the complete failure of that antimalarial. Drawing from this repeated historical chain of events, this article presents context‐specific approaches for combating drug‐resistant P. falciparum malaria. The approaches begin with a context of drug‐sensitive parasites and focus on the prevention of the emergence of drug resistance. Next, the approaches address a scenario in which resistance has emerged and is increasing in prevalence and geographic extent, with interventions focused on disrupting transmission through vector control, early diagnosis and treatment, and the use of new combination therapies. Elimination is also presented as an approach for addressing the imminent failure of all available antimalarials. The final drug resistance context presented is one in which all available antimalarials have failed; leaving only personal protection and the use of new antimalarials (or new combinations of antimalarials) as a viable strategy for dealing with complete resistance. All effective strategies and contexts require a multipronged, holistic approach.
Clinical Characteristics and Treatment Patterns Among Patients Diagnosed With Cluster Headache in U.S. Healthcare Claims Data
Authors: Choong Casey K. , Ford Janet H. , Nyhuis Allen W. , Joshi Shivang G. , Robinson Rebecca L. , Aurora Sheena K. , Martinez James M.
Published: June 2017

Objective

To characterize demographics, clinical characteristics, and treatment patterns of patients with cluster headache (CH).

Background

CH is an uncommon trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia with limited evidence‐based treatment options. Patients suffer from extremely painful unilateral headache attacks and autonomic symptoms with episodic and chronic cycles.

Design/Methods

This retrospective analysis used insurance claims from Truven Health Analytics MarketScan® research databases from 2009 to 2014. Two cohorts were compared: CH patients (with ≥2 CH claims) were propensity score matched with 4 non‐headache controls, all with continuous enrollment for 12 months before and after the date of first CH claim or matched period among controls.

Results

CH patients (N = 7589) were mainly male (57.4%) and 35‐64 years old (73.2%), with significantly more claims for comorbid conditions vs controls (N = 30,341), including depressive disorders (19.8% vs 10.0%), sleep disturbances (19.7% vs 9.1%), anxiety disorders (19.2% vs 8.7%), and tobacco use disorders (12.8% vs 5.3%), with 2.5 times greater odds of suicidal ideation (all P < .0001). Odds of drug dependence were 3‐fold greater among CH patients (OR = 2.8 [95% CI 2.3‐3.4, P < .0001]). CH patients reported significantly greater use of prescription medications compared with controls; 25% of CH patients had >12 unique prescription drug claims. Most commonly prescribed drug classes for CH patients included: opiate agonists (41%), corticosteroids (34%), 5HT‐1 agonists (32%), antidepressants (31%), NSAIDs (29%), anticonvulsants (28%), calcium antagonists (27%), and benzodiazepines (22%). Only 30.4% of CH patients received recognized CH treatments without opioids during the 12‐month post‐index period. These patients were less likely to visit emergency departments or need hospitalizations (26.8%) as compared to CH patients with no pharmacy claims for recognized CH treatments or opioids (33.6%; P < .0001).

Conclusions

The burden of CH is associated with significant co‐morbidity, including substance use disorders and suicidal ideation, and treatment patterns indicating low use of recognized CH treatments.
ZBTB16 is a sensitive and specific marker in detection of metastatic and extragonadal yolk sac tumour
Authors: Xiao Guang‐Qian , Priemer David S , Wei Christina , Aron Manju , Yang Qi , Idrees Muhammad T
Published: June 2017

Aims

Accurate histological diagnosis and classification of germ cell tumours (GCTs) is key to informing successful therapeutic and surveillance strategy. The modern therapeutic approach for yolk sac tumour (YST) is highly curative. Because YST takes on a large morphological spectrum, it can be confused for other GCT subtypes as well as somatic carcinomas, particularly when YST presents in an extragonadal or a metastatic setting. Currently available immunohistochemical markers are limited by suboptimal sensitivity and specificity. We reported recently that ZBTB16 is a sensitive and specific marker for testicular YST. ZBTB16 is absent in other GCTs and in most common somatic carcinomas, including those of gastrointestinal, pancreatobillary, respiratory, genitourinary and gynaecological tracts. The purpose of this study is to investigate the diagnostic utility of ZBTB16 in the settings of metastatic and extragonadal YST.

Methods and results

We studied 32 archived metastatic and four extragonadal primary YSTs as well as 51 somatic malignancies for their immunohistochemical expression of ZBTB16. For comparison, α‐fetoprotein (AFP) and glypican‐3 were also studied in parallel. Our results demonstrated an overall sensitivity of 91.6% for ZBTB16 in detecting metastatic and extragonadal YSTs. The non‐YST elements (teratoma and embryonal carcinoma) in 15 YST‐containing metastatic mixed GCTs were non‐reactive. With the exception of occasional myoepithelial cells of salivary gland carcinoma, all the 51 somatic malignancies were negative for ZBTB16.

Conclusions

ZBTB16 is a sensitive and specific marker for YST and is diagnostically superior to AFP and glypican‐3 in metastatic and extragonadal settings.
Demographic consequences of nestbox use for Red‐footed FalconsFalco vespertinusin Central Asia
Authors: Bragin Evgeny A. , Bragin Alexander E. , Katzner Todd E.
Published: June 2017

Nestbox programmes are frequently implemented for the conservation of cavity‐nesting birds, but their effectiveness is rarely evaluated in comparison with birds not using nestboxes. In the European Palaearctic, Red‐footed FalconFalco vespertinuspopulations are both of high conservation concern and are strongly associated with nestbox programmes in heavily managed landscapes. We used a 21‐year monitoring dataset collected on 753 nesting attempts by Red‐footed Falcons in unmanaged natural or semi‐natural habitats to provide basic information on this poorly known species; to evaluate long‐term demographic trends within this population; and to evaluate response of demographic parameters of Red‐footed Falcons to environmental factors including use of nestboxes. We observed significant differences among years in laying date, offspring loss and numbers of fledglings produced, but not in egg production. Of these four parameters, offspring loss and, to a lesser extent, number of fledglings exhibited directional trends over time. Variation in laying date and in numbers of eggs were not well explained by any one model of environmental factors, but instead by combinations of models, each with informative terms for nest type. Nevertheless, laying in nestboxes occurred 2.10 ± 0.70 days earlier than in natural nests. In contrast, variation in both offspring loss and numbers of fledglings produced were fairly well explained by a single model including terms for nest type, nest location and an interaction between the two parameters (65 and 81% model weights, respectively), with highest offspring loss in nestboxes on forest edges. Because, for other species, earlier laying dates are associated with more fit individuals, this interaction highlighted a possible ecological trap, whereby birds using nestboxes on forest edges lay eggs earlier but suffer greater offspring loss and produce lower numbers of fledglings than do those in other nesting settings. If nestboxes increase offspring loss for Red‐footed Falcons in heavily managed landscapes where populations are at greater risk, or for the many other species of rare or endangered birds supported by nestbox programmes, these processes could have important demographic and conservation consequences.
Specialised generalists? Food web structure of a tropical tachinid‐caterpillar community
Authors: Stireman John O. , Dyer Lee A. , Greeney Harold F.
Published: June 2017

Most insect species remain unknown and for most described species, we know nothing about their ecology and interactions. Understanding the structure of species interaction webs can provide insight into geographic patterns and ecological drivers of diversity, the stability of communities, and energy flow through ecological systems.

We analysed a tachinid parasitoid‐caterpillar food web from the Ecuadorian Andes based on >70 000 caterpillar collections. Our goals were to assess how host taxon and feeding niche affects parasitism by flies and wasps, evaluate perceptions of broad diet breadth in tachinids, characterise the structure of the food web, and assess how sample size affects inferences about community structure.

We found high levels of parasitism (>28%) by tachinid and wasp parasitoids and a rich tachinid community (279 spp.). Concealed caterpillars experienced low parasitism by tachinids and were more likely to be attacked by species with indirect oviposition. Indirect ovipositing tachinids had greater host ranges, but this is confounded with tachinid phylogeny. Caterpillar families exhibited nearly opposite patterns of susceptibility to parasitism by tachinids and wasps. Network metrics indicate that this tachinid‐host community is relatively compartmentalised and nested, and though some taxa display broad host ranges, the network as a whole is moderately specialised due to constrained host ranges of many tachinid species.

This study establishes an exemplar tropical tachinid‐host food web, providing insight into the diversity and interactions of these important parasitoids. Additional studies are needed to determine how these interactions vary across environmental and geographic gradients.
Remittances and Calorie Consumption Nexus in Algeria
Authors: Akçay Selçuk , Karasoy Alper
Published: June 2017

This study investigates the cointegration and causal relationships between remittances and calorie consumption as an indicator of food security in Algeria. We estimate the calorie demand function for the period 1970‐2008, using two different cointegration tests Johansen and Juselius () and autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach proposed by Pesaran et al. () and Granger causality test based on Vector Error Correction Model. We find that: (1) GDP per capita affects calorie consumption positively and significantly; (2) income elasticity of calorie consumption is 0.16 in the short run and 0.60 in the long run; (3) remittances positively and significantly influence calorie consumption in the long run; (4) remittance elasticity of calorie consumption is 0.05 in the long run; (5) based on the causality test remittances influence calorie consumption directly and indirectly via GDP per capita in the long run.
Great big meta‐analysis of everything: follow‐up complete and known, the ultimate paean
Authors: Gabb Genevieve M.
Published: June 2017

Historically, selected patients or populations have been at the centre of meta‐analysis, with consideration of a particular patient, or population group as central to defining the question addressed. More recently, meta‐analysis with studies included based on the intervention provided have been published. This paper explores the implications of extending this methodology beyond selected interventions for limited periods of time.
Management of severe asthma: targeting the airways, comorbidities and risk factors
Authors: Gibson Peter G. , McDonald Vanessa M.
Published: June 2017

Severe asthma is a complex heterogeneous disease that is refractory to standard treatment and is complicated by multiple comorbidities and risk factors. In mild to moderate asthma, the burden of disease can be minimised by inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators and self‐management education. In severe asthma, however, management is more complex. When patients with asthma continue to experience symptoms and exacerbations despite optimal management, severe refractory asthma (SRA) should be suspected and confirmed, and other aetiologies ruled out. Once a diagnosis of SRA is established, patients should undergo a systematic and multidimensional assessment to identify inflammatory endotypes, risk factors and comorbidities, with targeted and individualised management initiated. We describe a practical approach to assessment and management of patients with SRA.
Medical certificates attesting fitness to drive
Authors: Beran Roy G. , Devereux John A.
Published: June 2017

Few if any sanctions have been imposed on doctors for inappropriate certification of fitness to drive. This paper reviews a recent Tribunal decision on inappropriate certification of fitness to drive. This paper reviews the facts of the case of Medical Board of Australia v Andrew and discusses the legal implications for doctors who certify patients as fit to drive. The paper offers a necessary and timely warning that the Medical Board sought harsh sanctions, more severe than were imposed by the Tribunal, but that the Tribunal also felt compelled to impose ‘general deterrence’ to prevent inappropriate certification. The paper emphasises the need for scrupulous attention to detail and an absolute need for circumspection when assessing patients who claim to be seizure free, or who minimise impairment from a range of other conditions, insisting on clearance to be able to drive
Structure and properties of clay ceramics for thermal energy storage
Authors: Nigay Pierre‐Marie , Nzihou Ange , White Claire E. , Soboyejo Winston O.
Published: June 2017

In this paper, the structure‐property relationships of a clay ceramic with organic additives (biomass and biochar) are investigated to develop an alternative material for thermal energy storage. The firing transformations were elucidated using X‐ray pair distribution function analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the biomass increased the porosity, which resulted in a decrease of the specific heat capacity. On the other hand, the biochar remained in the clay ceramic without any interaction with the clay matrix up to 950°C. The specific heat capacity of the clay ceramic increased from 1.20 to 1.49 kJ/kg·K for a 30 wt% addition of biochar. The clay ceramic with a 30 wt% addition of biochar also conserved a high flexural strength of 11.1 MPa compared to that of the clay ceramic without organic additives (i.e., 18.9 MPa). Furthermore, the flexural strength only decreased by 23% after 100 thermal cycles. The crack growth associated with the thermal fatigue was limited by crack bridging and crack trapping. Hence, the current results suggest that clay/biochar ceramics can be as efficient as molten salts in thermal energy storage with the added benefit of an ease of use in the physical form of bricks.
Effect of A‐ or B‐site doping of perovskite calcium manganite on structure, resistivity, and thermoelectric properties
Authors: Mishra Avinna , Bhattacharjee Sarama
Published: June 2017

Bismuth‐, lanthanum‐, and molybdenum‐doped calcium manganite (CaMnO3, abbreviated Mn113) are synthesized by solid‐state synthesis route from their respective oxide precursors at a same doping level (x=0.05). Depending on the ionic sizes, trivalent dopants (Bi3+ and La3+) replace Ca2+(A site), while penta/hexavalent dopant Mo5+/Mo6+ replaces Mn4+ (B site) in the Mn113 structure. XRD of all three doped samples confirm formation of single phase. In all three samples, doping causes unit cell volume to expand, while volume expansion is maximum for the Mo‐Mn113. The transport behavior of the doped samples follows small polaron hopping mechanism. Resistivity of the doped samples depends not only on the carrier concentration but also on the effective bandwidth determined by the structural distortion introduced by the dopant ions. Bi‐Mn113 has highest resistivity at the both temperature end, while La‐Mn113 has the lowest. Thermopower is determined by the carrier concentration only and does not depend on dopant type, having value ~260 μV/K at 1000 K. At high (>800 K), S reaches a saturation value and becomes independent of T. La‐Mn113 is having highest figure of merit (zT) 0.19 at 1000 K.
Thermodynamics of the CaO–SiO2–VOx system at 1873 K under the oxygen partial pressure of 6.9×10−11 atm
Authors: Wang Daya , Shu Qifeng , Yan Baijun , Wu Liushun , Wang Jue , Dong Yuanchi
Published: June 2017

Based on the phase equilibria of the CaO–SiO2–VOx system determined experimentally at 1873 K and the oxygen partial pressure of 6.9×10−11 atm, the isothermal section diagram of the system was constructed. Aside from the simple oxides SiO2 and V2O3, three complex crystal phases CaV2O4, Ca2SiO4 dissolving V2O3, and CaVO3 dissolving SiO2 were found in the present investigated composition range. The solubility of V2O3 in Ca2SiO4 phase can reach 5 mass %, and the CaVO3 phase dissolves about 5% mass SiO2. Furthermore, the thermodynamic activities of VOx and SiO2 in the determined single liquid region were measured by equilibrating the melts with liquid copper. The activity coefficient of SiO2 decreases linearly with the increase in the basicity of the melts and is almost irrelevant to the total content of vanadium oxides. The activities of vanadium oxides increase slightly with the increase in the basicity but are mainly determined by the total content of vanadium oxides in the melts. With the increase in the basicity, the activity coefficient of VO1.5 increases almost linearly, whereas those of VO2 and VO2.5 decrease gradually.
Direct and template‐free synthesis of one‐dimensional nanostructures of sodium trititanate and sodium hexatitanate
Authors: Bumajdad Ali
Published: June 2017

One‐dimensional (1D), pure phases of sodium trititanate and sodium hexatitanate (Na2Ti3O7 and Na2Ti6O13) nanowires (Na‐TNW) were synthesized via a direct hydrothermal approach. The effect of the variation in growth parameters (NaOH concentration and reaction duration) on the morphology and structure of the Na‐TNW has been investigated using bulk (RAMAN and XRD) and surface (TEM, SEM and N2 sorptiometry) techniques. By varying the NaOH concentration, the particle size decreases without variation in the obtained trititanate structure. Also by varying the growth duration, the nanowires were elongated with reduced aggregation accompanied by structural conversion from trititanate to hexatitanate. Therefore, this study provides a full concept for the direct preparation of Na‐TNW with controlled characteristics.
The relationship between blood parasites and ornamentation depends on the level of analysis in the common yellowthroat
Authors: Henschen Amberleigh E. , Whittingham Linda A. , Dunn Peter O.
Published: June 2017

The Hamilton–Zuk hypothesis predicts that ornament expression is a signal of the ability of individuals to resist parasite infection. Thus, across a population (i.e. between‐individuals) more ornamented individuals should have lower levels of parasitism. Numerous studies have tested this prediction and the results are mixed. One reason for these conflicting results may be that many studies have examined this relationship at the between‐individual level, which may be affected by confounding factors such as selective mortality. Using within‐subject centering we examined the relationship between male ornamentation and avian blood parasites at both the between‐ and within‐individual levels. These relationships focus on differences in genetically‐based resistance to parasites and the trade‐off in resource allocation between parasite resistance and ornament expression within an individual, respectively. We studied male common yellowthroats Geothlypis trichas, which have two plumage ornaments, a yellow, carotenoid‐based bib (throat and chest) and a black, melanin‐based facial mask. Surprisingly, within‐individuals, an increase in parasitism between years was associated with an increase in mask size and, potentially, greater concentration of carotenoids in the yellow feathers. This suggests that males may be able to tolerate an increase in parasitism and still increase ornament expression. In contrast, ornamentation was not related to parasitism at the between‐individual level. Thus, our study revealed relationships between ornaments and parasitism at the within‐individual level that were not present at the between‐individual level. Our results highlight the importance of examining both within‐ and between‐individual relationships as correlations between variables, such as ornaments and parasites, may depend on the level of analysis (i.e. within‐ or between‐individuals).
Persistent distention of colon damages interstitial cells of Cajal through Ca2+‐ERK‐AP‐1‐miR‐34c‐SCF deregulation
Authors: Yang Shu , Dong Fang , Li Dandan , Sun Haimei , Wu Bo , Sun Tingyi , Wang Yaxi , Shen Ping , Ji Fengqing , Zhou Deshan
Published: June 2017

Gastrointestinal motility disorders (GMDs) are attributed to loss of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), whose survival and function are deeply dependent on the activation of KIT/SCF signalling. Based on the facts that gastrointestinal distention is common in GMD patients and SCF produced by smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is usually decreased before ICC loss, we considered a possible contribution of persistent gastrointestinal distention/stretch to SCF deficiency. In this study, chronic colonic distention mouse model, diabetic gastrointestinal paresis mouse model, cultured mouse colonic SMCs and colon specimens from Hirschsprung's disease patients were used. The results showed that SCF was clearly decreased in distent colon of mice and patients, and microRNA array and real‐time PCR indicated a concomitant increase of miR‐34c in distent colon. A negative regulation of miR‐34c on SCF expression was confirmed by luciferase reporter assays together with knock‐down and overexpression of miR‐34c in cultured colonic SMCs. Using EMSA and ChIP assays, we further consolidated that in response to persistent stretch, the transcription factor AP‐1/c‐Jun was highly activated in colonic SMCs and significantly promoted miR‐34c transcription by binding to miR‐34c promoter. Knock‐down or overexpression of AP‐1/c‐Jun in cultured colonic SMCs leads to down‐ or up‐regulation of miR‐34c, respectively. In addition, the activation of AP‐1/c‐Jun was through ERK1/2 signalling provoked by Ca2+ overload in colonic SMCs that were subject to persistent stretch. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that persistent distention/stretch on colonic SMCs could suppress SCF production probably through Ca2+‐ERK‐AP‐1‐miR‐34c deregulation, resulting in ICC loss or impairment and GMD progress.
Age‐related modulation of angiogenesis‐regulating factors in the swine meniscus
Authors: Di Giancamillo Alessia , Deponti Daniela , Modina Silvia , Tessaro Irene , Domeneghini Cinzia , Peretti Giuseppe Maria
Published: June 2017

An in‐depth knowledge of the native meniscus morphology and biomechanics in its different areas is essential to develop an engineered tissue. Meniscus is characterized by a great regional variation in extracellular matrix components and in vascularization. Then, the aim of this work was to characterize the expression of factors involved in angiogenesis in different areas during meniscus maturation in pigs. The menisci were removed from the knee joints of neonatal, young and adult pigs, and they were divided into the inner, intermediate and outer areas. Vascular characterization and meniscal maturation were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. In particular, expression of the angiogenic factor Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and the anti‐angiogenic marker Endostatin (ENDO) was analysed, as well as the vascular endothelial cadherin (Ve‐CAD). In addition, expression of Collagen II (COLL II) and SOX9 was examined, as markers of the fibro‐cartilaginous differentiation. Expression of VEGF and Ve‐CAD had a similar pattern in all animals, with a significant increase from the inner to the outer part of the meniscus. Pooling the zones, expression of both proteins was significantly higher in the neonatal meniscus than in young and adult menisci. Conversely, the young meniscus revealed a significantly higher expression of ENDO compared to the neonatal and adult ones. Analysis of tissue maturation markers showed an increase in COLL II and a decrease in SOX9 expression with age. These preliminary data highlight some of the changes that occur in the swine meniscus during growth, in particular the ensemble of regulatory factors involved in angiogenesis.
Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine functions in colitis via IL17A regulation in mucosal CD4+ T cells
Authors: Tanaka Makoto , Takagi Tomohisa , Naito Yuji , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Hotta Yuma , Toyokawa Yuki , Ushiroda Chihiro , Hirai Yasuko , Aoi Wataru , Higashimura Yasuki , Mizushima Katsura , Okayama Tetsuya , Katada Kazuhiro , Kamada Kazuhiro , Ishikawa Takeshi , Handa Osamu , Itoh Yoshito
Published: June 2017

Background and Aim

Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a matricellular glycol that regulates cell proliferation, tissue repair, and tumorigenesis. Despite evidence linking SPARC to inflammation, the mechanisms are unclear. Accordingly, the role of SPARC in intestinal inflammation was investigated.

Methods

Colitis was induced in wild‐type (WT) and SPARC knockout (KO) mice using trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). Colons were assessed for damage; leukocyte infiltration; Tnf, Ifng, Il17a, and Il10 mRNA expression; and histology. Cytokine profiling of colonic lamina propria mononuclear cells (LPMCs) was performed by flow cytometry. Naïve CD4+ T cells were isolated from WT and SPARC KO mouse spleens, and the effect of SPARC on Th17 cell differentiation was examined. Recombination activating gene 1 knockout (RAG1 KO) mice reconstituted with T cells from either WT or SPARC KO mice were investigated.

Results

Trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid exposure significantly reduced bodyweight and increased mucosal inflammation, leukocyte infiltration, and Il17a mRNA expression in WT relative to SPARC KO mice. The percentage of IL17A‐producing CD4+ T cells among LPMCs from KO mice was lower than that in WT mice when both groups were exposed to TNBS. Th17 cell differentiation was suppressed in cells from SPARC KO mice. In the T cell transfer colitis model, RAG1 KO mice receiving T cells from WT mice were more severely affected than those reconstituted with cells from SPARC KO mice.

Conclusions

Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine accelerates colonic mucosal inflammation via modulation of IL17A‐producing CD4+ T cells. SPARC is a potential therapeutic target for conditions involving intestinal inflammation.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind? Middle‐Class Households, Waste, Consumption, and Environmental Awareness in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Machado‐Borges Thaïs
Published: June 2017

O presente artigo examina como domicílios de classe média na cidade de Belo Horizonte, sudeste do Brasil, lidam com o lixo que permeia o seu dia‐a‐dia. Examinam‐se como processos de classificação e eliminação estão relacionados ao consumo, à divisão do trabalho e às questões ambientais. Mais especificamente, o presente artigo investiga como o lixo está implicado no trabalho de manter e afirmar um status de classe média através de noções sobre moral, normas e códigos separando o que tem valor daquilo que não tem. Conclui‐se que os participantes da amostra etnográfica parecem se preocupar muito mais com hierarquias sociais e pertencimento de classe do que com aspectos ambientais do consumo e gestão do lixo. Dentro de um contexto explícito de desigualdade social, o comportamento em relação ao lixo passa primeiro pela lente da classe social.
Food Availability in School Stores in Seoul, South Korea After Implementation of Food‐ and Nutrient‐Based Policies
Authors: Choi Seul Ki , Frongillo Edward A. , Blake Christine E. , Thrasher James F.
Published: June 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

To improve school store food environments, the South Korean government implemented 2 policies restricting unhealthy food sales in school stores. A food‐based policy enacted in 2007 restricts specific food sales (soft drinks); and a nutrient‐based policy enacted in 2009 restricts energy‐dense and nutrient‐poor (EDNP) food sales. The purpose of the study was to assess how the 2 policies have changed the school store food environment.

METHODS

Foods sold in school stores in Seoul, South Korea were observed before (2006, 15 stores) and after (2013, 12 stores) implementation of the school store policies. Food availability in school stores in 2006 and 2013 was compared and EDNP food availability in 2013 was examined.

RESULTS

When controlling the total number of foods sold in school stores and school characteristics, the mean number of soft drinks sold in a school store in 2013 (0.3 items) was significantly lower than in 2006 (1.9 items, p = .032). Soft drinks were still available in 50% of school stores observed in 2013, with all school stores selling EDNP foods in 2013.

CONCLUSIONS

South Korean policies have had a modest influence on availability of unhealthy school store foods. Alternative strategies to improve school store food environments are needed.
Student Voices: Perspectives on Peer‐to‐Peer Sexual Health Education
Authors: Layzer Carolyn , Rosapep Lauren , Barr Sherry
Published: June 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

This process study is a companion to a randomized evaluation of a school‐based, peer‐led comprehensive sexual health education program, Teen Prevention Education Program (Teen PEP), in which 11th‐ and 12th‐grade students are trained by school health educators to conduct informative workshops with ninth‐grade peers in schools in North Carolina. The process study was designed to understand youth participants' perspectives on the program in order to gain insight into program effectiveness.

METHODS

This is a mixed‐methods study in 7 schools, with online surveys (N = 88) and 8 focus groups with peer educators (N = 116), end‐of‐program surveys (N = 1122), 8 focus groups with ninth‐grade workshop participants (N = 89), and observations of the Teen PEP class and workshops during the semester of implementation in each school, 2012‐2014.

RESULTS

Both peer educators and ninth graders perceived benefits of participating in Teen PEP across a range of domains, including intentions, skills, and knowledge and that the peer education modality was important in their valuation of the experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the peer‐led comprehensive sexual health education approach embodied in Teen PEP can be an important educational mechanism for teaching students information and skills to promote sexual health.
School Nurse‐Delivered Adolescent Relationship Abuse Prevention
Authors: Raible Claire A. , Dick Rebecca , Gilkerson Fern , Mattern Cheryl S. , James Lisa , Miller Elizabeth
Published: June 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Project Connect is a national program to build partnerships among public health agencies and domestic violence services to improve the health care sector response to partner and sexual violence. Pennsylvania piloted the first school nurse‐delivered adolescent relationship abuse intervention in the certified school nurses' office setting. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of implementing this prevention intervention.

METHODS

In 5 schools in Pennsylvania, school nurses completed a survey before and 1 year after receiving training on implementing the intervention as well as a phone interview. Students seeking care at the nurses' offices completed a brief anonymous feedback survey after their nurse visit.

RESULTS

The school nurses adopted the intervention readily, finding ways to incorporate healthy relationship discussions into interactions with students. School nurses and students found the intervention to be acceptable. Students were positive in their feedback. Barriers included difficulty with school buy‐in and finding time and private spaces to deliver the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

A school nurse healthy relationships intervention was feasible to implement and acceptable to the students as well as the implementing nurses. While challenges arose with the initial uptake of the program, school nurses identified strategies to achieve school and student support for this intervention.
Changes in Physical Activity in the School, Afterschool, and Evening Periods During the Transition From Elementary to Middle School
Authors: Lau Erica Y. , Dowda Marsha , McIver Kerry L. , Pate Russell R.
Published: June 2017

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

We examined longitudinal changes in children's physical activity during the school day, afterschool, and evening across fifth, sixth, and seventh grades.

METHODS

The analytical sample included children who had valid accelerometer data in fifth grade and at least one other time‐point, and provided complete sociodemographic information (N = 768, 751, and 612 for the 3 time‐periods studied). Accelerometer‐derived total physical activity (TPA) and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were expressed in minutes per hour for the school day (∼7:45 am to 3:30 pm), afterschool (∼2:25 to 6:00 pm), and evening (6:00 to 10:00 pm) periods. We used growth curve analyses to examine changes in TPA and MVPA.

RESULTS

School day TPA and MVPA declined significantly; we observed a greater decrease from fifth to sixth grades than from sixth to seventh grades. Afterschool TPA declined significantly, but MVPA increased significantly among girls and remained stable for boys. Evening TPA decreased significantly and MVPA declined significantly in girls and remained stable among boys.

CONCLUSIONS

To inform the development of effective intervention strategies, research should focus on examining factors associated with the decline in physical activity during the transition from elementary to middle school, particularly during the hours when children are in school.