bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adherence to Breastfeeding Guidelines and Maternal Weight 6 Years After Delivery
Authors: Sharma Andrea J. , Dee Deborah L. , Harden Samantha M.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES:

There is a dearth of information on the long-term maternal effects of breastfeeding. The objective of this study was to examine adherence to breastfeeding recommendations of exclusive breastfeeding for ≥4 months and continuation of breastfeeding for ≥1 year and maternal weight retention 6 years after delivery.

METHODS:

Using data from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II (IFPS II), we categorized women by the degree to which they met breastfeeding recommendations. Mothers’ self-reported weight 6 years after delivery (IFPS Year 6 Follow-Up) was compared with self-reported prepregnancy weight from IFPS II. Using linear regression models, adjusting for covariates, we examined associations between breastfeeding recommendation adherence and weight retention.

RESULTS:

Of the 726 women in our study, 17.9% never breastfed. Among those who initiated breastfeeding, 29.0% breastfed exclusively for ≥4 months, and 20.3% breastfed exclusively for ≥4 months and continued breastfeeding for ≥12 months. Prepregnancy BMI modified the association between breastfeeding recommendation adherence and weight retention. Adjusting for covariates, we found no association between breastfeeding recommendations adherence and weight retention among normal and overweight mothers. Among obese mothers, there was a significant linear trend (P = .03), suggesting that those who fully adhered to breastfeeding recommendations retained less weight (−8.0 kg) than obese women who never breastfed.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests that improving adherence to breastfeeding recommendations may help reduce long-term maternal weight retention among obese mothers. Larger studies, with diverse populations and similar longitudinal designs, are needed to explore this relationship.
The Association of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Intake During Infancy With Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Intake at 6 Years of Age
Authors: Park Sohyun , Pan Liping , Sherry Bettylou , Li Ruowei
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To examine whether sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake during infancy predicts SSB intake at 6 years of age.

METHODS:

A longitudinal cohort analysis of 1333 US children was conducted by using data from the 2005–2007 Infant Feeding Practices Study II and the 2012 Follow-Up Study at 6 years of age. The exposure variables were maternal-reported SSB intakes during infancy. The outcome variable was maternal-reported SSB intake at age 6 years. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for associations of SSB intake during infancy with consuming SSBs ≥1 time/day at 6 years old after controlling for baseline child’s and parent’s characteristics.

RESULTS:

Based on maternal recall, approximately one-fifth of children consumed SSBs at least 1 time/day at age 6 years. Adjusted odds of consuming SSBs at age 6 years ≥1 time/day was significantly associated with any SSB intake during infancy (aOR, 2.22 vs none), age at SSB introduction (aOR, 2.33 for age ≥6 months and 2.01 for age <6 months vs never), and mean SSB intake during age 10 to 12 months (aOR, 2.72 for 1 to <2 times/week and 2.57 for ≥3 times/week vs none).

CONCLUSIONS:

SSB intake during infancy significantly increased the likelihood of consuming SSBs ≥1 time/day at 6 years of age. Our findings suggest that infancy may be an important time for mothers to establish healthy beverage practices for their children and these findings can be used to inform intervention efforts to reduce SSB intake among children.
Bottle-Feeding Practices During Early Infancy and Eating Behaviors at 6 Years of Age
Authors: Li Ruowei , Scanlon Kelley S. , May Ashleigh , Rose Chelsea , Birch Leann
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND:

Evidence suggests an association of breastfeeding with a maternal feeding style (MFS) that is less controlling than formula feeding, which, in turn, may improve a child’s self-regulation of eating. This study examines associations of bottle-feeding practices during infancy with MFS and children’s eating behavior (CEB) at 6 years old.

METHODS:

We linked data from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II to the Year 6 Follow-Up, which include 8 MFS and CEB measures adapted from previous validated instruments. Bottle-feeding practices during the first 6 months estimated by using the Infant Feeding Practices Study II were bottle-feeding intensity (BFI), mother’s encouragement of infant to finish milk in the bottle, and infant finishing all milk in the bottle. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for associations of bottle-feeding practices with MFS and CEB at 6 years old were calculated by using multivariable logistic regressions controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and other feeding practices (N = 1117).

RESULTS:

Frequent bottle emptying encouraged by mothers during infancy increased odds of mothers encouraging their child to eat all the food on their plate (aOR: 2.37; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.65–3.41] and making sure their child eats enough (aOR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.14–2.31) and of children eating all the food on their plate at 6 years old (aOR: 2.01; 95% CI: 1.05–3.83). High BFI during early infancy also increased the odds of mothers being especially careful to ensure their 6-year-old eats enough.

CONCLUSIONS:

Bottle-feeding practices during infancy may have long-term effects on MFS and CEB. Frequent bottle emptying encouraged by mothers and/or high BFI during early infancy increased the likelihood of mothers pressuring their 6-year-old child to eat and children’s low satiety responsiveness.
Birth Size and Brain Function 75 Years Later
Authors: Muller Majon , Sigurdsson Sigurdur , Kjartansson Olafur , Jonsson Palmi V. , Garcia Melissa , von Bonsdorff Mikaela B. , Gunnarsdottir Ingibjorg , Thorsdottir Inga , Harris Tamara B. , van Buchem Mark , Gudnason Vilmundur , Launer Lenore J.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND:

There are several lines of evidence pointing to fetal and other early origins of diseases of the aging brain, but there are no data directly addressing the hypotheses in an older population. We investigated the association of fetal size to late-age measures of brain structure and function in a large cohort of older men and women and explored the modifying effect of education on these associations.

METHODS:

Within the AGES (Age Gene/Environment Susceptibility)-Reykjavik population-based cohort (born between 1907 and 1935), archived birth records were abstracted for 1254 men and women who ∼75 years later underwent an examination that included brain MRI and extensive cognitive assessment.

RESULTS:

Adjustment for intracranial volume, demographic and medical history characteristics, and lower Ponderal index at birth (per kg/m3), an indicator of third-trimester fetal wasting, was significantly associated with smaller volumes of total brain and white matter; βs (95% confidence intervals) were −1.0 (−1.9 to −0.0) and −0.5 (−1.0 to −0.0) mL. Furthermore, lower Ponderal index was associated with slower processing speed and reduced executive functioning but only in those with low education (β [95% confidence interval]: −0.136 [−0.235 to −0.036] and −0.077 [−0.153 to −0.001]).

CONCLUSIONS:

This first study of its kind provides clinical measures suggesting that smaller birth size, as an indicator of a suboptimal intrauterine environment, is associated with late-life alterations in brain tissue volume and function. In addition, it shows that the effects of a suboptimal intrauterine environment on late-life cognitive function were present only in those with lower educational levels.
Thermal insulation and setting property of inorganic solidified foam
Authors: Lu Yi , Qin Botao , Jia Yuwei , Shi Quanlin , Li Fanglei
Published: September 2014

Thermal insulation and setting properties are considered to be two significant parameters when inorganic solidified foam (ISF) is applied to control and extinguish coal fires. Based on studies concerning the thermal properties of porous media and experimental research on the relationship between porosity and the addition of aqueous foam, an equation describing the change in thermal conductivity with aqueous foam volume is deduced and then amended. Microscopic analysis of the process of setting is conducted by scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the coagulation of a single bubble wall and bubbles connecting with each other lead the ISF to lose fluidity gradually. A loss of fluidity time (LFT) index is then proposed on the basis of field process requirements and the aforementioned microscopic analysis, and a home-made instrument to test LFT is developed. Effects of aqueous foam volume and accelerator type, along with its addition quantity, on the LFT of ISF are investigated. The relationship equation provides a theoretical foundation for steerable adjustment of the LFT. Furthermore, under the restriction of cost, thermal conductivity threshold and LFT, the parameters of the feasible construction state areas of four different accelerators were compared; in this study AC3 was found to be the most appropriate accelerator.
Plausible megathrust tsunamis in the eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Valle Brett L. , Kalligeris Nikos , Findikakis Angelos N. , Okal Emile A. , Melilla Lavinia , Synolakis Costas E.
Published: September 2014

Tsunamis have occurred at rates of about one to two per century in the Mediterranean Sea, on average, over the past 2000 years. However, most of these events have been of small amplitude and quantification of tsunami hazards in the eastern Mediterranean Sea remains difficult. Simulations were performed for a series of plausible Mw ≥ 8 seismic events originating along the Hellenic subduction zone and NW Cyprian Arc. Their locations and source characteristics represent events that are similar to the largest historical events, including the AD 365 and AD 1303 events, and in consideration of potential future events. The hydrodynamic simulations used the numerical model are known as the method of splitting tsunami (Most). Reported results include simulated wave amplitudes in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, specifically in the western Nile Delta region near the Rosetta promontory and Egypt's largest coastal city, Alexandria.
LDFE study of bottom boundary effect in foundation model tests
Authors: Ullah Shah Neyamat , Hu Yuxia , White David , Stanier Samuel
Published: September 2014

Centrifuge model tests of deeply penetrating foundations have been widely used to assess the vertical bearing response, particularly in relation to the installation of spudcan foundations that support offshore drilling rigs. The potential influence of boundary effects owing to the proximity of these large foundations to the rigid base of the model container has not been previously addressed. In this study, large deformation finite-element (LDFE) analyses were conducted to assess the extent of the bottom boundary influence zone. Various foundation diameters were considered, with soil samples of sand overlying clay and uniform clay. The sand plug developed beneath the foundation is a major contributary factor to the boundary effect problem. The boundary effect is increased for sand over clay conditions, where a sand plug is entrapped beneath the foundation. The LDFE results were utilised to predict the thickness of the entrapped sand plug for different geometry and soil strength conditions. The results are distilled into a simple relationship that can be used to ascertain the bottom boundary influence zone when planning physical model tests and reinterpreting previous studies. The boundary influence zone predicted by the LDFE analysis agreed well with a corresponding centrifuge test.
Spatiotemporal variation in resource selection: insights from the American marten (Martes americana)
Authors: Shirk Andrew J. , Raphael Martin G. , Cushman Samuel A.
Published: September 2014

Behavioral and genetic adaptations to spatiotemporal variation in habitat conditions allow species to maximize their biogeographic range and persist over time in dynamic environments. An understanding of these local adaptations can be used to guide management and conservation of populations over broad extents encompassing diverse habitats. This understanding is often achieved by identifying covariates related to species' occurrence in multiple independent studies conducted in relevant habitats and seasons. However, synthesis across studies is made difficult by differences in the model covariates evaluated and analytical frameworks employed. Furthermore, inferences may be confounded by spatiotemporal variation in which habitat attributes are limiting to the species' ecological requirements. In this study, we sought to quantify spatiotemporal variation in resource selection by the American marten (Martes americana) in forest ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest, USA. We developed resource selection functions for both summer and winter based on occurrence data collected in mesic and xeric forest habitats. Use of a consistent analytical framework facilitated comparisons. Habitat attributes predicting marten occurrence differed strongly between the two study areas, but not between seasons. Moreover, the spatial scale over which covariates were calculated greatly influenced their predictive power. In the mesic environment, marten resource selection was strongly tied to riparian habitats, whereas in the xeric environment, marten responded primarily to canopy cover and forest fragmentation. These differences in covariates associated with marten occurrence reflect differences in which factors were limiting to marten ecology in each study area, as well as local adaptations to habitat variability. Our results highlight the benefit of controlled meta‐replication studies in which analyses of multiple study areas and seasons at varying spatial scales are integrated into a single framework.
Microtopographic controls on lowland Amazonian canopy diversity from imaging spectroscopy
Authors: Féret Jean-Baptiste , Asner Gregory P.
Published: September 2014

Microtopographic variation is ubiquitous throughout lowland Amazonia, and it may impart patterns of species richness and abundance, and perhaps community compositional changes. To date, no studies have determined the degree to which lowland microtopography influences forest canopy diversity. We developed the first high‐resolution maps of forest canopy diversity in Amazonia, focusing on four landscapes on two river systems in Peru. Spectroscopic images were acquired using the Carnegie Airborne Observatory combined with a new method based on spectral species to map α‐ and β‐diversity. We analyzed spatial patterns in diversity with respect to floodplain and terrace (terra firme) surfaces and in upriver and downriver locations with contrasting landscape morphologies. We found slightly lower average α‐diversity in floodplains, but with greater variance than in terrace communities caused by the floodplain mix of swamp forests, anoxic low‐diversity ecosystems, and high‐diversity areas. β‐diversity estimated with the Bray‐Curtis dissimilarity (BC) was strongly related to microtopography, with floodplains showing higher internal compositional dissimilarity than terraces. Throughout all landscapes, remotely mapped BC within terrace environments ranged from 0.25 to 0.43, but these values increased 30–77% on floodplains. Upriver landscapes characterized by higher terraces showed more distinct community turnover than did their downstream counterparts. We conclude that microtopography strongly influences β‐diversity throughout the study landscapes, but terrain is weakly associated with variation in α‐diversity. We uncover the importance of microtopography in determining species composition in lowland Amazonia and highlight the value of imaging spectroscopy for biodiversity research and conservation.
Ocean acidification through the lens of ecological theory
Authors: Gaylord Brian , Kroeker Kristy J. , Sunday Jennifer M. , Anderson Kathryn M. , Barry James P. , Brown Norah E. , Connell Sean D , Dupont Sam , Fabricius Katharina E. , Hall-Spencer Jason M. , Klinger Terrie , Milazzo Marco , Munday Philip L. , Russell Bayden D. , Sanford Eric , Schreiber Sebastian J. , Thiyagarajan Vengatesen , Vaughan Megan L. H. , Widdicombe Steven , Harley Christopher D. G.
Published: September 2014

Ocean acidification, chemical changes to the carbonate system of seawater, is emerging as a key environmental challenge accompanying global warming and other human‐induced perturbations. Considerable research seeks to define the scope and character of potential outcomes from this phenomenon, but a crucial impediment persists. Ecological theory, despite its power and utility, has been only peripherally applied to the problem. Here we sketch in broad strokes several areas where fundamental principles of ecology have the capacity to generate insight into ocean acidification's consequences. We focus on conceptual models that, when considered in the context of acidification, yield explicit predictions regarding a spectrum of population‐ and community‐level effects, from narrowing of species ranges and shifts in patterns of demographic connectivity, to modified consumer–resource relationships, to ascendance of weedy taxa and loss of species diversity. Although our coverage represents only a small fraction of the breadth of possible insights achievable from the application of theory, our hope is that this initial foray will spur expanded efforts to blend experiments with theoretical approaches. The result promises to be a deeper and more nuanced understanding of ocean acidification and the ecological changes it portends.
Disruption of a protective ant–plant mutualism by an invasive ant increases elephant damage to savanna trees
Authors: Riginos Corinna , Karande Megan A. , Rubenstein Daniel I. , Palmer Todd M.
Published: September 2014

Invasive species can indirectly affect ecosystem processes via the disruption of mutualisms. The mutualism between the whistling thorn acacia (Acacia drepanolobium) and four species of symbiotic ants is an ecologically important one; ants strongly defend trees against elephants, which can otherwise have dramatic impacts on tree cover. In Laikipia, Kenya, the invasive big‐headed ant (Pheidole megacephala) has established itself at numerous locations within the last 10–15 years. In invaded areas on five properties, we found that three species of symbiotic Crematogaster ants were virtually extirpated, whereas Tetraponera penzigi co‐occurred with P. megacephala. T. penzigi appears to persist because of its nonaggressive behavior; in a whole‐tree translocation experiment, Crematogaster defended host trees against P. megacephala, but were extirpated from trees within hours. In contrast, T. penzigi retreated into domatia and withstood invading ants for >30 days. In the field, the loss of defensive Crematogaster ants in invaded areas led to a five‐ to sevenfold increase in the number of trees catastrophically damaged by elephants compared to un‐invaded areas. In savannas, tree cover drives many ecosystem processes and provides essential forage for many large mammal species; thus, the invasion of big‐headed ants may strongly alter the dynamics and diversity of East Africa's whistling thorn savannas by disrupting this system's keystone acacia–ant mutualism.
Spinal Cord is the Primary Site of Action of the Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor Agonist JWH133 that Suppresses Neuropathic Pain: Possible Involvement of Microglia
Authors: Shimoyama Hiroshi , Tsuda Makoto , Masuda Takahiro , Yoshinaga Ryohei , Tsukamoto Keiko , Tozaki-Saitoh Hidetoshi , Inoue Kazuhide
Published: September 2014

Neuropathic pain, a highly debilitating condition that commonly occurs after damage to the nervous system, is often resistant to commonly used analgesic agents such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and even opioids.Several studies using rodent models reported that cannabinoid CB2 receptor (CB2R) agonists are effective for treating chronic pain. However, the analgesic mechanism of CB2R agonists in neuropathic pain states is not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the role of CB2Rs in the development and maintenance phases of neuropathic pain, and the mechanism of the CB2R-mediated analgesic effect on neuropathic pain. In a rat model of neuropathic pain, systemic administration of JWH133, a CB2R agonist, markedly improved tactile allodynia, and this effect was prevented by intrathecal pretreatment with AM630, a CB2R antagonist. The antiallodynic effect of intrathecally administered JWH133 was inhibited by intrathecal pretreatment with pertussis toxin or forskolin. In the spinal cord, CB2R expression was
significantly increased on post-operative day 3, and persisted for 2 weeks. Furthermore, repeated intrathecal administration of JWH133 notably attenuated the development of tactile allodynia after peripheral nerve injury. In a culture of microglia activated by overexpressing interferon regulatory factor 8, a transcription factor crucial for neuropathic pain, JWH133 treatment suppressed the increased expression of interleukin-1β. Our findings suggest that activation of CB2Rs upregulated in the spinal cord after nerve injury alleviates existing tactile allodynia through the Gi/oadenylate cyclase signaling pathway and suppresses the development of allodynia. This process may reduce the inflammatory response of microglia. Therefore, spinal CB2Rs may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
Investigation of the spraying mechanism and combustion of the suspended coal fuel
Authors: Murko Vasiliy , Fedyaev Vladimir , Karpenok Viktor , Zasypkin Ivan , Senchurova Yulia , Riesterer Aleksandr
Published: September 2014

This paper continues the earlier one [1]. It presents the results of the
suspended coal fuel spraying with pneumo-mechanical sprayers followed by the
fuel combustion in a vortex furnace. It is shown that, during the spraying,
two qualitatively different systems of drops are forming. The first one with
the ?drops? diameter above 80 - 100 mm is presented by coal particles, the
other - by water-coal drops. Different dynamics of temperature variation of
the coal particle and WCF drops during their combustion is founded. The
residence time of the burning particles and WCF drops in the vortex furnace
is proportional to their diameter, which permits to provide their effective
burn-off.
Experimental study of developing turbulent flow and heat transfer in ribbed convergent/divergent rectangular ducts
Authors: Karthikeyan Sivakumar , Elumalai Natarajan , Narasingamurthi Kulasekharan
Published: September 2014

The article represents an experimental investigation of friction and heat transfer characteristics of divergent / convergent rectangular ducts with an inclination angle of 1? in the y-axis. Measurements were taken for a convergent / divergent rectangular duct of aspect ratio AR at inlet1.25 and outlet in convergent channel 1.35; but in case of divergent duct it can be reversed. The four uniform rib heights, e = 3, 6, 9 and 12 mm the ratio between rib height to hydraulic mean diameter (e/Dm) are 34.8, 69.7, 104.6 and 138.7 a constant rib pitch distance, P = 60 mm has been used. The flow rate in terms of average Reynolds number based on the hydraulic mean diameter (Dm) is 86 mm of the channel was in a range of 20,000 to 50,000. The two ceramic heating strip of 10 mm thickness is used as a heating element have attached on top and bottom surfaces for the test sections. The heat transfer performance of the divergent / convergent ducts for 3, 6, 9 and 12 mm ribs was conducted under identical mass flow rate based on the Reynolds number. In our experiments has totally 8 different ducts were used. In addition, the acceleration / deceleration caused by the cross section area, the divergent duct generally shows enhanced heat transfer behavior for four different rib sizes, while the convergent duct has an appreciable reduction in heat transfer performance. From result point view divergent duct with 3 mm height ribbed square duct gets maximum heat transfer coefficient with minimum friction loss over the other convergent / divergent ducts.
Correlations to predict thermal performance affected by working fluid’s properties of vertical and horizontal closed-loop pulsating heat pipe
Authors: Sakulchangsatjatai Phrut , Kammuang-Lue Niti , On-Ai Kritsada , Terdtoon Pradit
Published: September 2014

Objectives of this paper are to investigate the effects of dimensionless
numbers on the thermal performance, and to establish correlations to predict
the thermal performance of the vertical and a horizontal closed-loop
pulsating heat pipe. The heat pipes were made of long copper capillary tubes
with 26 meandering turns and both the ends were connected together to form a
loop. R123, R141b, acetone, ethanol, and water were chosen as variable
working fluids with a constant filling ratio of 50% by total volume. The
inlet temperature of the heating medium and the adiabatic section temperature
were constantly controlled and maintained at 80?C and 50?C, respectively. The
thermal performance was represented in terms of the Kutateladze number. It
can be concluded that when the Prandtl number of the liquid working fluid, as
well as the Karman number, increases, the thermal performance increases. On
the other hand, when the Bond number, the Jacob number, and the Aspect ratio
increase, the thermal performance decreases. These effects of the
dimensionless numbers on the thermal performance are valid for both the heat
pipes, except in the case of Bond number which has no effect on the thermal
performance as far as the horizontal heat pipe is concerned. Moreover,
correlations to predict thermal performance have been successfully
established.
Experimental determination of tunnel ventilation axial ducted fan performance
Authors: Sekularac Milan
Published: September 2014

To investigate traffic tunnel ventilation flows, a scaled model of a traffic
tunnel with longitudinal ventilation system based on ducted fans is used.
Flows in tunnels are influenced by tunnel geometry, fan characteristics,
ventilation operation scenario, vehicle traffic, atmospheric factors, etc. To
analyze flow fields of tunnels in detail, knowledge of tunnel jet-fan
properties and turbulent flow characteristics at the fan exit are required,
and can be used as input data for CFD boundary conditions of tunnel flow
computation. For this purpose experimental measurements were done using the
hot wire anemometry technique. The obtained results, trough ensemble-averaged
and time averaged profiles of all velocity components, turbulence intensity,
turbulent kinetic energy, integral flow length scales, available Reynolds
stresses, Turbulent kinetic energy production rates and the fan thrust
performance, are presented. These data allow us to analyze in more detail the
influence of fan flow on energy and pollutant removal efficiencies of the
tunnel ventilation and to evaluate accuracy of CFD studies on fan
improvements.
Initial force systems during bodily tooth movement with plastic aligners and composite attachments: A three-dimensional finite element analysis
Authors: Gomez Juan Pablo , Peña Fabio Marcelo , Martínez Valentina , Giraldo Diana C. , Cardona Carlos Iván
Published: September 2014

Objective: 

To describe, using a three-dimensional finite element (FE) model, the initial force system generated during bodily movement of upper canines with plastic aligners with and without composite attachments.

Materials and Methods: 

A CAD model of an upper right canine, its alveolar bone and periodontal ligament, thermoformed plastic aligner, and two light-cured composite attachments were constructed. A FE model was used to analyze the effects of imposing a distal movement condition of 0.15 mm on the aligner (simulating the mechanics used to produce a distal bodily movement) with and without composite attachments.

Results: 

In terms of tension and compression stress distribution, without composite attachments a compression area in the cervical third of the distal root surface and a tension area in the apical third of the mesial surface were observed. With composite attachments, uniform compression areas in the distal root surface and uniform tension area in the mesial root surface were observed. Compression areas in the active surfaces of the composite attachments were also observed. In terms of movement patterns, an uncontrolled distal inclination, with rotation axis between the middle and cervical root thirds, was observed without composite attachment. Distal bodily movement (translation) was observed with composite attachment.

Conclusions:

In a three-dimensional FE analysis of a plastic aligner system biomechanically supplementary composite attachments generate the force system required to produce bodily tooth movement; the absence of biomechanically supplementary composite attachments favors the undesired inclination of the tooth during the translation movements.
Proportion of and risk factors for open fractures of the appendicular skeleton in dogs and cats
Authors: Millard Ralph P. , Weng Hsin-Yi
Published: September 2014

Objective—To evaluate the proportion of and risk factors for open fractures of the appendicular skeleton in dogs and cats that were a result of acute trauma.

Design—Cross-sectional and case-control study.

Animals—84,629 dogs and 26,675 cats.

Procedures—Dogs and cats examined at Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital from January 1993 through February 2013 were identified; the proportion of open fractures was estimated from the medical records. Additionally, all incident cases of open (77 dogs and 33 cats) and closed (469 dogs and 80 cats) fractures between January 1993 and February 2013 and a random sample of nonfracture patients (722 dogs and 330 cats) in 2010 were used to assess risk factors for open appendicular fractures.

Results—Proportion of open fractures for the 20-year period was 0.09% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.07% to 0.11%) in dogs and 0.12% (95% CI, 0.09% to 0.17%) in cats. Seventy-seven of 546 (14.1%) and 33 of 113 (29.2%) traumatic fractures were classified as open in dogs and cats, respectively. Comminuted fractures were more likely than other configurations to be open in dogs (OR, 5.9; 95% CI, 2.9 to 12.2) and cats (OR, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.0 to 12.0). Vehicle-related trauma was a significant risk factor for open fractures in dogs (OR, 13.8; 95% CI, 3.1 to 61.8).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The proportion of incident open fractures in dogs and cats was low. Age, body weight, affected bone or bone segment, fracture configuration, and method of trauma were associated with an open fracture.
Feeding practices of dog breeders in the United States and Canada
Authors: Connolly Kevin M. , Heinze Cailin R. , Freeman Lisa M.
Published: September 2014

Objective—To determine the proportion of dog breeders who fed diets meeting the Association of American Feed Control Officials regulations for nutritional adequacy for reproduction and growth and to investigate factors that influenced feeding practices of breeders.

Design—Web-based cross-sectional survey.

Sample—2,067 dog breeders from the United States and Canada.

Procedures—A self-administered, anonymous, Web-based questionnaire was used to collect information on breeder demographics and feeding practices during 3 life stages of dogs: adult maintenance for nonpregnant dogs, gestation-lactation, and puppy growth. Appropriateness of commercial diets for each life stage was determined by respondent-reported nutritional adequacy statements on product labels. Data were also collected regarding breeder criteria for diet selection and sources of nutrition information.

Results—A substantial number of breeders reported feeding commercial diets not intended for that life stage during gestation-lactation (126/746 [16.9%]) and puppy growth (57/652 [8.7%]). Additionally, approximately one-seventh of breeders reported feeding home-prepared diets for ≥ 1 life stage. Unsubstantiated health and marketing information influenced diet selection of many breeders. Veterinarians, although generally viewed as a trusted source of nutrition information, were consulted by only 823 of 1,669 (49.3%) breeders and were viewed less favorably by breeders feeding home-prepared diets, compared with the opinion of breeders feeding commercial diets.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Veterinarians should consider taking a more proactive role in directing dog breeders and other pet owners toward scientifically substantiated sources of diet information and in explaining the importance of current nutritional standards for reproduction and early development of dogs.
Complications and outcomes following rectal pull-through surgery in dogs with rectal masses: 74 cases (2000–2013)
Authors: Nucci Daniel J. , Liptak Julius M. , Selmic Laura E. , Culp William T. N. , Durant April M. , Worley Deanna , Maritato Karl C. , Thomson Maurine , Annoni Maurizio , Singh Ameet , Matz Brad , Benson John , Buracco Paolo
Published: September 2014

Objective—To evaluate the incidence of and factors associated with complications following rectal pull-through (RPT) surgery and the outcome for dogs with rectal tumors.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—74 dogs with rectal masses.

Procedures—Information regarding signalment, history, diagnostic testing, type of rectal disease, surgical details, and postoperative complications, treatments, and outcomes was obtained from medical records and follow-up communications. Survival times were calculated. Descriptive statistics were generated. Regression analyses were used to evaluate the effect of various variables on the development of postsurgical complications and survival time.

Results—58 (78.4%) dogs developed postsurgical complications, the most common of which was fecal incontinence with 42 (56.8%) dogs affected, of which 23 (54.8%) developed permanent incontinence. Other complications included diarrhea (n = 32), tenesmus (23), stricture formation (16), rectal bleeding (8), constipation (7), dehiscence (6), and infection (4). The rectal tumor recurred in 10 dogs. The median survival time was 1,150 days for all dogs and 726 days for dogs with malignant tumors. The 2 most common rectal masses were rectal carcinoma and rectal carcinoma in situ, and the dogs with these tumors had median survival times of 696 and 1,006 days, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dogs with rectal diseases that underwent RPT surgery had a high incidence of complications; however, those dogs had good local tumor control and survival times. The risk and impact of postsurgical complications on the quality of life and oncological outcomes should be discussed with owners before RPT surgery is performed in dogs with rectal masses.
Seroprevalence of bovine viral diarrhea virus in alpacas in the United States and assessment of risk factors for exposure, 2006–2007
Authors: Jarvinen Julie Ann C. , O'Connor Annette M.
Published: September 2014

Objective—To estimate seroprevalence of antibodies against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and incidence of seroconversion in alpacas in the United States during 2006 to 2007 and to evaluate associations between BVDV seropositive status and potential risk factors for exposure to BVDV.

Design—Cross-sectional and longitudinal cohort study.

Sample—Blood samples from 192 alpacas > 6 months old in 39 herds from 20 states; 40 owners who completed questionnaires.

Procedures—550 US alpaca owners, stratified by state and randomly selected from a list of approximately 4,300 owners, were mailed a study description, voluntary participation request, and questionnaire. Thirty-nine owners submitted blood samples from up to 6 alpacas > 6 months old; 27 of 39 owners submitted another blood sample from the same alpacas > 1 month later. Samples were tested for serum virus-neutralizing antibodies against BVDV. Seropositive status was used to indicate BVDV exposure. Associations between seropositive status and potential risk factors for BVDV exposure described in questionnaires were evaluated by use of a Fisher exact test.

Results—8 of 192 (4.2%) alpacas in 3 of 39 (7.7%) herds were seropositive. Larger herds had a greater percentage of seropositive alpacas than did smaller herds. No alpaca from which a second blood sample was obtained seroconverted during 292 to 1,460 alpaca-days (mean, 740 alpaca-days) of potential exposure.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results contributed to information on assessment of BVDV prevalence, risk factors for exposure, and alpaca industry practices in 2006 to 2007 during the emergence of BVDV as a major disease in alpacas.
Foreign Policy Making and the U.S. Vision of European Integration in the Nixon Era
Authors: Nguyen Hang
Published: September 2014

This paper offers an insight into Washington’s foreign policy establishment and its vision of European integration under the Nixon administration. It argues that President Nixon and his National Security Advisor, Henry Kissinger, managed to formulate many important aspects of foreign policy at the White House. From a realist perspective, the Nixon-Kissinger team saw the emergence of a new world order and in it the evolvement of European integration in a way different from previous U.S. administrations. The paper begins by discussing the Nixon administration’s realist approach to foreign policy before analyzing President Nixon’s determination to make decisions on foreign relations at the White House. Next, the paper examines the main features of the Nixon-Kissinger team’s vision of European integration. It concludes that, as realists, the Nixon administration supported integration in Western Europe, yet Washington was ambivalent if a united Europe with increasing self-confidence and self-assertiveness would be in the U.S. national interest. Henceforth, the European integration process had to be, in the Nixon-Kissinger view, taking place under U.S. control in the form of the consultative mechanism and the U.S. military umbrella.
Luminescence dating of bricks from the gothic Saint James Church in Toruń
Authors: Chruścińska Alicja , Cicha Anna , Kijek Natalia , Palczewski Piotr , Przegiętka Krzysztof , Sulkowska-Tuszyńska Krystyna
Published: September 2014

Saint James Church in Toruń is one of the most important gothic monuments in Poland. The date of the beginning of its construction is known from historical reports but the earlier history of the site remains undiscovered. During the archaeological excavations in years 2010 and 2011 five brick samples were collected for luminescence dating as well as four additional samples from the brick surroundings for the dose rate estimation. The equivalent dose was determined by TL and OSL methods. The TL results differ significantly from the OSL results but the last ones are verified by historical knowledge and radiocarbon dating. Establishing the dose rate from gamma rays needs a special attention because of the complex course of the foundations of the church. The details of the applied approach are presented in the current work. The results obtained indicate that a solid brick construction existed at the site of the presbytery of the Saint James Church before it was build.
Structural elastic and thermal properties of SrxCd1−x
O mixed compounds — a theoretical approach
Authors: Bhardwaj Purvee
Published: September 2014

In the present paper, the structural and mechanical properties of alkaline earth oxides mixed compound SrxCd1−x
O (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) under high pressure have been reported. An extended interaction potential (EIP) model, including the zero point vibrational energy effect, has been developed for this study. Phase transition pressures are associated with a sudden collapse in volume. Phase transition pressure and associated volume collapses [ΔV (Pt)/V(0)] calculated from this approach are in good agreement with the experimental values for the parent compounds (x = 0 and x = 1). The results for the mixed crystal counterparts are also in fair agreement with experimental data generated from the application of Vegard’s law to the data for the parent compounds.
Studies of CdI2-Bi3 microstructures with optical methods, atomic force microscopy and positron annihilation spectroscopy
Authors: Karbovnyk Ivan , Bolesta Ivan , Rovetskii Ivan , Velgosh Sergiy , Klym Halyna
Published: September 2014

Results of the comprehensive morphological study of CdI2-BiI3 layered crystals are presented. Direct AFM observations of micro- and nanostructures formed in the volume of the crystals confirm the predictions made on the basis of positron annihilation spectroscopy studies. The model explaining the possible pores formation mechanism is proposed and validated by the results of luminescence measurements at 8 K.
Men in Early Childhood: A Moral Panic? A research report from a UK University
Authors: Cronin Mark
Published: September 2014

Significant changes in the role fathers play in their children’s care alongside the increased interest shown by teenage boys in working with young children has so far resulted in no noticeable increase in the numbers of men working in Early Childhood in the UK. Previous research has identified how the gendered nature of this workforce presents significant barriers to men’s involvement combined with an increasingly dogmatic media discourse which represents men solely as a threat to young children. The research reported in this paper explored the experiences of a group of undergraduate male students in their pursuit of a career working with young children and to what degree the dynamics of being othered had impacted them. It also sought to consider the rhetoric and reality of recent UK government attempts to address the imbalance in the Early Childhood workforce. Thirteen male students from two undergraduate programmes at a UK University were interviewed for this study. The research data identified a number of risk factors which present barriers to men’s involvement in Early Childhood such as gender stereotyping, marginalisation or ‘othering’ of men and negative media discourses. It also identified potential protective factors which enable men’s involvement such as supportive family and friends, male role-models and a sense of social responsibility. Broader reflections also identified the significant difference between the UK government rhetoric in support of increasing men’s participation in Early Childhood and the reality of the active indifference shown to challenging the barriers to participation driven by political motives which has effectively generated a new ‘moral panic’ around men working with young children.
How Do High School Seniors See Their Future? Parental and Peer Influences on Their Personal and Professional Plans
Authors: Iovu Mihai-Bogdan
Published: September 2014

Statement of problem: Future orientation is a multidimensional and multistage phenomenon. Studies have indicated that how adolescents anticipate and plan for their future is greatly influenced by the particular context in which they are placed, but most of the research in this area has been conducted with adolescents from western cultures. Aim: This study examined the personal (getting married, moving with the partner, having a child) and professional (having a job, starting a business) future planning of adolescents in contemporary Romania and its relation with adolescents’ background and with parents and friends support. Method: We administered a questionnaire measuring their future orientation and support from parents and friends to 3524 high school seniors from Romania. Results: Adolescents’ personal future planning varies across different life domains. Females were more likely to plan moving with the partner and getting married, while males were more likely to plan a career option. Family had an effect on professional plans, but the effect is negative, while friends were positive associated with all the future planning
A Variational McShane Characterization of Locally Convex Spaces Possessing the Radon-Nikodym Property
Authors: Bush Kaliaj Sokol
Published: September 2014

Abstract We present a characterization of complete locally convex topological vector spaces possessing the Radon-Nikodym property in terms of additive interval functions whose McShane variational measures are absolutely continuous with respect to the Lebesgue measure.
On the Existence of Radial Limits
Authors: Guzmán-Partida Martha , Robles-Corbala Carlos
Published: September 2014

We discuss conditions that ensure the existence of radial limits a.e. for harmonic functions defined on the unit disc D. We give an example of a Banach-valued harmonic function without radial limits at almost every point on the boundary of D.
On some Problem of Sierpiński and Ruziewicz Concerning the Superposition of Measurable Functions. Microscopic Hamel Basis
Authors: Karasińska Aleksandra , Wagner-Bojakowska Elżbieta
Published: September 2014

S. Ruziewicz and W. Sierpiński proved that each function f : ℝ → ℝ can be represented as a superposition of two measurable functions. Here, a strengthening of this theorem is given. The properties of Lusin set and microscopic Hamel bases are considered
On some Modification of Świtąkowski Property
Authors: Ivanova Gertruda , Wagner-Bojakowska Elzbieta
Published: September 2014

We introduce some families of functions ƒ : ℝ → ℝ modifying the Darboux property analogously as it was done by [Maliszewski, A.: On the limits of strong Świątkowski functions, Zeszyty Nauk. Politech. Łódź. Mat. 27 (1995), 87-93], replacing continuity with A-continuity, i.e., the continuity with respect to some family A of subsets in the domain. We prove that if A has (*)-property then the family DA of functions having A-Darboux property is contained and dense in the family DQ of Darboux quasi-continuous functions.
A Note on the [0]-Lower Continuous Functions
Authors: Kowalczyk S. , Nowakowska K.
Published: September 2014

We present some properties of [0]-lower continuous functions. We give an equivalent condition of [0]-lower continuity and find maximal additive family and maximal multiplicative family for the class of [0]-lower continuous functions.
Vestibular dysfunction in Apert Syndrome
Authors: Mills Heide , Perera Mark , Veness John , Raglan Ewa
Published: September 2014

Objectives:

Apert syndrome affects the craniofacial structures resulting in craniosynostosis, craniofacial anomalies and syndactyly. Although many characteristic features are recognized, vestibular dysfunction is a little known feature that can often be present. This can cause a delay in the attainment of gross motor milestones and impair motor function. We aimed to examine this cohort to review the incidence of vestibular hypofunction and to assess the effect on motor function.

Study design:

We performed a retrospective analysis of 55 Apert syndrome patients who had undergone audiological review at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children.

Results:

50.9% of patients experienced balance difficulties; 18.1% of patients (all of whom had delayed motor milestones) underwent clinical examination and vestibular assessment. Results showed only 20% of patients had bilateral vestibular function present; 30% of patients had unilateral and 50% bilateral vestibular hypofunction. Two patients who initially presented with imbalance and vestibular hypofunction experienced significant improvement in symptoms on re-examination following vestibular physiotherapy.

Conclusion:

Vestibular dysfunction is a feature of Apert syndrome. Although the imbalance may be attributable to mechanical problems arising from syndactyly, it is important to recognize that a vestibular component can coexist. This is not well recognized, poorly understood and scarcely treated. We aim to increase awareness of vestibular dysfunction in Apert syndrome and advocate a high index of suspicion, particularly in the presence of motor milestone delay. Early detection, thorough vestibular assessment and prompt initiation of vestibular physiotherapy can aid vestibular compensation, rehabilitating patients and maximizing their functional attainment.
The Gromov–Wasserstein Distance: A Brief Overview
Authors: Mémoli Facundo
Published: September 2014

We recall the construction of the Gromov–Wasserstein distance and concentrate on quantitative aspects of the definition.